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What if the emotional baggage we carry plays a role in the habits we struggle to break?

On this episode of the 3-21 No Kiddin’ Gambling Addiction Recovery Podcast, Bobbie Malatesta welcomes Dr. Bradley Nelson, a former chiropractic physician and author of The Emotion Code, for a fascinating conversation about trauma, unresolved emotions, addiction, and the possibility of emotional healing.

Dr. Nelson introduces his concept of “trapped emotions” and explains why he believes difficult emotional experiences can influence how we feel, how we relate to others, and how we cope with life's challenges.

Bobbie brings the conversation directly into the world of recovery, asking whether addictive behaviors might sometimes become a way to numb uncomfortable emotions — and whether different addictions can share underlying emotional patterns.

In this episode:

• What Dr. Nelson means by emotional baggage and trapped emotions
• His theory of the “emotional loop”
• Trauma, emotional avoidance, and addictive behaviors
• Why people may turn to gambling, alcohol, food, or other coping mechanisms
• How Dr. Nelson describes muscle testing and the Emotion Code process
• The concept of a “Heart-Wall” and its proposed relationship to emotional connection
• Whether releasing emotions could change the beliefs we hold about ourselves
• Bobbie's reflections on emotional walls and her own recovery journey

The conversation includes personal stories and testimonials shared by Dr. Nelson about his approach, alongside Bobbie's thoughtful questions about how these ideas might relate to addiction recovery.

Explore Dr. Nelson's work: https://discoverhealing.com

Connect with 3-21 No Kiddin’: https://321nokiddin.com

The Emotion Code is an alternative energy-healing approach. Claims that it can eliminate addiction, treat mental health conditions, or relieve physical illness have not been established by high-quality clinical evidence. This episode is an exploration of a guest's perspective, not a substitute for evidence-based medical or addiction treatment.

We are all recovering from something.

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🎙️ 3-21 No Kiddin’ | Gambling Addiction Recovery Podcast

Real conversations about gambling addiction, recovery, mental health, trauma, resilience, and finding purpose. Sharing stories of hope, healing, and life beyond addiction with listeners in approximately 140 countries.

💜 Connect with 3-21 No Kiddin’
Explore our podcast, nonalcoholic beverages, sober community, and upcoming events: https://321nokiddin.com

🎵 Special thanks to Justin Furstenfeld & UPDOWN for permission to use his music on the show.

Share Your Thoughts! Text Bobbie here!

What if some of the biggest improvements in our relationships come from the smallest changes in how we treat each other?

We often show patience, courtesy, and kindness to strangers, yet bring our worst moods home to the people we love most. Why does that happen, and what can we do differently?

In this episode of the 3-21 No Kiddin’ Gambling Addiction Recovery Podcast, Bobbie Malatesta welcomes Susan McKeown, retired pediatric nurse practitioner, Certified Prevention Specialist, author, and advocate for healthy relationships and mental wellness.

Susan brings more than 40 years of experience working with families, 55 years of marriage, and decades of helping engaged couples prepare for life together.

Her latest book, Beyond the Tango: A Guide to a Thriving Marriage While Juggling Careers, Kids, and Chaos, explores practical ways couples can strengthen their relationships amid the demands of everyday life.

But this conversation goes well beyond marriage.

In this episode, we explore:

• Communication starts at the door. How the attitude and tone we bring home can change the entire evening.
• Unspoken expectations. Why assuming someone should read our mind creates unnecessary frustration.
• The three H's: Hugged, Heard, or Helped. A simple way to ask what someone actually needs instead of immediately offering advice.
• Knowing yourself before committing. Why shared values, friendship, and understanding yourself matter when choosing a partner.
• Making time for connection. Susan's recommendation to spend 20 uninterrupted minutes together each day.
• Mental health and addiction. How emotional pain, unhealthy coping mechanisms, and substance use can affect individuals and families.
• Real self-care. Why counseling, movement, time outdoors, and meaningful connections matter more than occasional pampering.
• Appreciation and gratitude. How acknowledging everyday acts of kindness helps relationships thrive.

One particularly meaningful part of the conversation comes when Susan shares that her family lost a son to substance use disorder. She and her husband have spent more than two decades supporting adults whose loved ones struggle with substance use.

Bobbie also brings her own experiences with addiction, marriage, recovery, and building a community where people can connect without alcohol or gambling.

Whether you're married, dating, single, in recovery, or supporting someone you love, this episode offers practical ideas for becoming more intentional about your relationships.

Because we are all recovering from something, and healthy relationships begin with how we care for ourselves and one another.

Connect with Susan McKeown

Website, books, and biweekly blog:
https://beyondthefirstdance.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/swmckeown4859/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/susanmckeownauthor/about

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-mckeown-04b9044a

Featured book:
Beyond the Tango: A Guide to a Thriving Marriage While Juggling Careers, Kids, and Chaos

Content note: This episode discusses addiction, substance use disorder, the loss of a family member, and mental health challenges.

Support the show

🎙️ 3-21 No Kiddin’ | Gambling Addiction Recovery Podcast

Real conversations about gambling addiction, recovery, mental health, trauma, resilience, and finding purpose. Sharing stories of hope, healing, and life beyond addiction with listeners in approximately 140 countries.

💜 Connect with 3-21 No Kiddin’
Explore our podcast, nonalcoholic beverages, sober community, and upcoming events: https://321nokiddin.com

🎵 Special thanks to Justin Furstenfeld & UPDOWN for permission to use his music on the show.

Share Your Thoughts! Text Bobbie here!

What if the biggest obstacle to finding peace isn't what's happening around you, but the noise happening inside your own mind?

In this episode of the 3-21 No Kiddin’ Gambling Addiction Recovery Podcast, Bobbie Malatesta sits down with Michael J. Riso, author of Finding Joy in Daily Living, for a thought-provoking conversation about meditation, intuition, limiting beliefs, spirituality, and learning to live from the heart rather than the mind.

Mike shares how a chance encounter more than 25 years ago introduced him to meditation and transformed the direction of his life. Today, he practices meditation for approximately three hours a day and challenges us to consider how much of our behavior is driven by conditioning, outside influences, and the need to be right.

Bobbie brings her own recovery journey into the conversation, asking the questions many of us struggle with: How do you tell the difference between intuition and an ordinary thought? How do you recognize anger before reacting? How do you protect your peace without disconnecting from the world?

Together, they explore:

• The difference between listening to your mind and trusting your intuition
• How limiting beliefs develop through our experiences
• Why awareness and introspection are essential to personal growth
• Managing negativity, anger, and other people's expectations
• Questioning religious conditioning while exploring spirituality
• Mike's personal experience navigating mesothelioma and his views on alternative treatments
• The importance of simplicity, service, and making conscious choices

One particularly meaningful moment comes when Bobbie reflects on how podcasting itself has become a form of meditation and healing throughout her recovery.

Mike also introduces his book, Finding Joy in Daily Living: 72 Simple Ways to Create Lasting Peace in Your Life, and shares his plans for its January launch.

Connect with Michael J. Riso

Website, sample chapters, and book information: https://findingjoydaily.com

Connect with 3-21 No Kiddin’

Website: https://321nokiddin.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@321NOKIDDIN

We are all recovering from something.

If this conversation makes you question an old belief, recognize a familiar pattern, or listen more closely to your own intuition, share it with someone who might benefit.

This episode includes personal experiences and claims about cancer treatments and supplements that have not been independently verified. These discussions are not medical advice. Do not replace or delay evidence-based medical treatment based on statements made in this episode.

Support the show

🎙️ 3-21 No Kiddin’ | Gambling Addiction Recovery Podcast

Real conversations about gambling addiction, recovery, mental health, trauma, resilience, and finding purpose. Sharing stories of hope, healing, and life beyond addiction with listeners in approximately 140 countries.

💜 Connect with 3-21 No Kiddin’
Explore our podcast, nonalcoholic beverages, sober community, and upcoming events: https://321nokiddin.com

🎵 Special thanks to Justin Furstenfeld & UPDOWN for permission to use his music on the show.

Share Your Thoughts! Text Bobbie here!

What happens when someone who loves wine begins questioning what alcohol is really doing to their mind and body?

In this episode of the 3-21 No Kiddin’ Gambling Addiction Recovery Podcast, Bobbie Malatesta welcomes Amy Fox, founder of the Food and Mood Lab, for a conversation about alcohol, nutrition, mental health, and the small choices that can change how we feel.

Amy shares how studying nutrition led her to reconsider her own relationship with wine. After years of enjoying wine culture, she began researching alcohol's effects on physical and emotional well-being and decided it was time to make a change.

The conversation goes beyond alcohol. Bobbie and Amy explore the connection between food, mood, stress, and the habits we develop to cope with everyday life.

In this episode:

• Why Amy decided to “break up with wine”
• How nutrition, movement, and mindset work together
• Why restrictive diets can create cycles of guilt and shame
• Bobbie's experience with sugar cravings after giving up alcohol
• Healthy eating on a realistic budget
• Frozen vegetables, affordable proteins, and everyday food choices
• Blood sugar, gut health, and their potential connections to mood
• Small, sustainable changes instead of another all-or-nothing diet

Amy also shares how her mother's experience with diabetes helped inspire her work, and why she believes healthy living should be practical rather than overwhelming.

Whether you're navigating recovery, questioning your relationship with alcohol, or simply looking for ways to feel better, this conversation offers a reminder that meaningful change doesn't always require a dramatic overhaul.

Connect with Amy Fox

Food and Mood Lab — website and blog Keep It Real Talk

Instagram: Keep It Real with Amy

Facebook: Food and Mood with Amy

Connect with 3-21 No Kiddin’

https://321nokiddin.com

https://www.youtube.com/@321NOKIDDIN

We are all recovering from something.

This conversation is for educational purposes and is not individualized medical or nutritional advice.

Support the show

🎙️ 3-21 No Kiddin’ | Gambling Addiction Recovery Podcast

Real conversations about gambling addiction, recovery, mental health, trauma, resilience, and finding purpose. Sharing stories of hope, healing, and life beyond addiction with listeners in approximately 140 countries.

💜 Connect with 3-21 No Kiddin’
Explore our podcast, nonalcoholic beverages, sober community, and upcoming events: https://321nokiddin.com

🎵 Special thanks to Justin Furstenfeld & UPDOWN for permission to use his music on the show.

Share Your Thoughts! Text Bobbie here!

What if understanding your anxiety was the first step toward changing your relationship with it?

Our brains carry experiences that shape how we respond to stress, fear, relationships, and uncertainty. But our past doesn't have to be the only influence on our future.

In this episode of the 3-21 No Kiddin’ Gambling Addiction Recovery Podcast, host Bobbie Malatesta welcomes Nicole Thompson, Ed.S., founder of GOAT Educators, author, speaker, and former school psychologist.

Nicole's work centers on trauma-informed approaches, emotional well-being, and helping people understand the impact of adverse experiences.

This conversation explores an important question: What does it really mean to rewire the anxious brain?

Topics at the Heart of This Conversation

• Understanding anxiety and the effects of trauma
• Recognizing how earlier experiences can influence emotional responses
• The importance of compassion instead of judgment
• Trauma-informed approaches to supporting others
• Emotional wellness, connection, and the possibility of growth
• Why understanding someone's behavior requires looking beyond the surface

Meet Nicole Thompson

Nicole Thompson, Ed.S., is the founder of GOAT Educators and the author of Reach to Teach: 7 Simple Trauma-Informed Steps to Help Urban Students Engage, Improve Grades and Decrease Disruptive Behaviors Overnight.

Her professional work focuses on helping educators, families, and communities better understand trauma and create supportive environments where people can thrive.

Connect with Nicole

Website: https://www.nicolethompsonspeaks.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-thompson-ed-s-b27b50144

About 3-21 No Kiddin’

At 3-21 No Kiddin’, we believe we are all recovering from something.

Whether it's gambling addiction, substance use, anxiety, trauma, grief, or the challenges of everyday life, we believe people deserve opportunities for connection, encouragement, growth, and joy.

Our podcast shares conversations that challenge stigma, open minds, and remind listeners that no one should have to navigate life's challenges alone.

💜 If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to the podcast and share it with someone who might benefit from hearing it.

Explore 3-21 No Kiddin’, our non-alcoholic destination and Recovery Playground in Naugatuck, Connecticut:

https://321nokiddin.com

Positivity Is No Gamble.

Content note: This episode addresses anxiety and trauma. The conversation is educational and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care.

Support the show

🎙️ 3-21 No Kiddin’ | Gambling Addiction Recovery Podcast

Real conversations about gambling addiction, recovery, mental health, trauma, resilience, and finding purpose. Sharing stories of hope, healing, and life beyond addiction with listeners in approximately 140 countries.

💜 Connect with 3-21 No Kiddin’
Explore our podcast, nonalcoholic beverages, sober community, and upcoming events: https://321nokiddin.com

🎵 Special thanks to Justin Furstenfeld & UPDOWN for permission to use his music on the show.

Share Your Thoughts! Text Bobbie here!

Episode Summary: From Darkness to Light – A Journey of Resilience with Lena Sibula

In this deeply moving episode of "Three, Two, One. No Kidden," host Bobbi the Awesome sits down with Lena Sibula, a survivor of human trafficking and extreme adversity, whose life story is a testament to the power of hope, faith, and the capacity to thrive after trauma.

Born in Ukraine during a period of intense societal transition and chaos, Lena’s early life was marked by poverty, family instability, and systemic abuse. Lena opens up about the harrowing reality of her teenage years, including surviving sexual violence, the loss of her child, and the descent into heroin addiction—a cycle she escaped only to be lured into the international sex trade.

After enduring two years of trafficking across Egypt and Israel, and facing further betrayal upon returning home, Lena eventually found her way to Canada. There, she discovered the concept of human rights for the first time, began her journey of healing, and built a new life as a hairstylist and salon owner. Today, Lena is a published author, podcaster, and life coach-in-training, dedicated to helping other survivors break the silence of shame and guilt.

Key Highlights

• The Reality of Systemic Collapse: Lena shares her unique perspective on growing up in Ukraine during the fall of the USSR, reflecting on the stark transition from structure and community order to widespread chaos.
• Overcoming Trauma: An honest discussion about the "pain points" of addiction—guilt, shame, and condemnation—and how Lena transformed these into a foundation for empathy and advocacy.
• Surviving Human Trafficking: Lena recounts her abduction, the brutal reality of being enslaved, and the miraculous sequence of events that led to her eventual freedom and recovery.
• The Power of One: Lena emphasizes that survivors do not need an "army" to start their journey; often, it takes just one person or one act of courage to save a life.
• Message of Hope: Encouragement for anyone currently in a dark place, urging them to "do it scared," seek help, and realize that healing is possible regardless of their past.

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Lena Sibula’s Website: www.linacebula.ca – Visit for resources on human trafficking prevention, her podcast, and her book, Miraculous.
• Addicts to Athletes: A resource for those in recovery.
• Nurses Against Human Trafficking: Advocacy and support group.
• Zonta International: A global organization working to build a better world for women and girls.
• Call to Action: If you are a survivor of human trafficking or domestic abuse, remember that you are not alone. Please reach out to anonymous hotlines or local organizations—the first step is the hardest, but it is the most vital.

Notable Quote

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure... We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us." — Marianne Williamson (Shared by Lena Sibula)

Support the show

🎙️ 3-21 No Kiddin’ | Gambling Addiction Recovery Podcast

Real conversations about gambling addiction, recovery, mental health, trauma, resilience, and finding purpose. Sharing stories of hope, healing, and life beyond addiction with listeners in approximately 140 countries.

💜 Connect with 3-21 No Kiddin’
Explore our podcast, nonalcoholic beverages, sober community, and upcoming events: https://321nokiddin.com

🎵 Special thanks to Justin Furstenfeld & UPDOWN for permission to use his music on the show.

Share Your Thoughts! Text Bobbie here!

Podcast Show Notes

Episode Title: Understanding Kratom: Myths, Facts, and Personal Journeys

Host: Bobbie Malatesta

Guest: Jordan Richard

Overview:
In this episode, Jordan Richard, a seasoned expert in the Kratom industry, shares his insights and personal journey with Kratom. The discussion delves into the complexities of Kratom use, its benefits, misconceptions, and the challenges faced by the industry.

Key Discussions:

1. Introduction to Kratom:
   • Jordan introduces himself and his background, including his past struggles with heroin addiction and how Kratom played a role in his recovery.
2. Misconceptions and Facts:
   • The episode addresses common misconceptions about Kratom, emphasizing the difference between Kratom and other substances like 7-hydroxy, which can cause respiratory depression.
   • Jordan discusses the importance of understanding that correlation does not imply causation, especially in cases labeled as Kratom-related deaths.
3. Kratom's Role in Addiction Recovery:
   • Jordan shares personal anecdotes and stories of others who have found Kratom to be a life-saving alternative to opioids.
4. Challenges in the Kratom Industry:
   • The episode highlights the challenges faced by the Kratom industry, including public perception and regulatory hurdles.
5. Resources and Advocacy:
   • Jordan recommends resources such as the American Kratom Association and Kratomanswers.org for reliable information.
   • He also mentions his book, "The Truth About Kratom: Life Saving Plant or Botanical Menace," as a comprehensive guide on the subject.
6. Personal Reflections and Future Directions:
   • The conversation concludes with Jordan reflecting on the future of Kratom and its potential to help others, emphasizing the need for proper education and advocacy.

Takeaways:

• Kratom can be a beneficial tool for those struggling with addiction, but it is crucial to approach it with informed caution.
• Misunderstandings and misinformation about Kratom are prevalent, and it's important to rely on credible sources for information.
• Advocacy and education are key to changing public perception and ensuring the safe use of Kratom.

Resources Mentioned:

• American Kratom Association
• Kratomanswers.org
• "The Truth About Kratom: Life Saving Plant or Botanical Menace" by Jordan Richard

Contact Information:

• Tiktok- Kr8tomninja

Listener Engagement:

Subscribe to our podcast for more expert information.

This episode provides a nuanced look at Kratom, offering listeners a blend of personal stories, expert insights, and practical advice.

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#gambling #addiction #recovery #bestlife #healthy #nonalcoholicdrinks #kava #mentalhealth #recoveryispossible

**A super special thanks to Justin Furstenfeld & UPDOWN for granting us permission to use his music on the show!

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Introducing Max Suprenant, the Director of National Accounts and co-founder of Odyssey Elixirs. They discuss the innovative approach Odyssey is taking in the energy drink market, focusing on health-conscious ingredients and unique flavors. Max shares the journey of Odyssey, the importance of community engagement, and the brand's commitment to providing better options for consumers.

• Introduction to Odyssey Elixirs:
  • Max's background and role at Odyssey.
  • The inspiration behind creating Odyssey Mushroom Elixirs.
• The Evolution of Energy Drinks:
  • The shift from traditional energy drinks to healthier alternatives.
  • The unique ingredients used in Odyssey products, including lion's mane and cordyceps.
• Product Development:
  • The decision-making process behind caffeine levels in their drinks.
  • The importance of flavor profiles and customer feedback.
• Health Benefits:
  • The contrast between taurine and natural ingredients like lion's mane and ginseng.
  • The role of erythritol and monk fruit as healthier sweetening options for diabetics.
• Community Engagement:
  • Odyssey's initiatives during natural disasters and partnerships with local organizations.
  • The brand's commitment to educating consumers about better health choices.
• Future Plans:
  • Upcoming flavors and product launches.
  • The growing trend of health-conscious consumption and its impact on the market.

Quotes:

• "We want to educate everyone on better options for better lifestyles." - Max Suprenant
• "This year is going to be something very special, especially with the movement towards better for you options." - Max Suprenant

Resources Mentioned:

• Odyssey Elixirs Website: https://odysseyelixir.com/
• Social Media Links:https://www.instagram.com/odysseyelixir/

Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Share your thoughts on social media and tag us!

Follow us

• https://linktr.ee/BobbietheAwesome

Support the show

FOLLOW ALONG ON YOUR FAVORITE SOCIALS!
Tiktok 💜 Facebook 💜 Instagram 💜 Pinterest 💜 LinkedIn 💜 YouTube 💜 Website

#gambling #addiction #recovery #bestlife #healthy #nonalcoholicdrinks #kava #mentalhealth #recoveryispossible

**A super special thanks to Justin Furstenfeld & UPDOWN for granting us permission to use his music on the show!

Support the show