Learn From People Who Lived it

Reclaiming Your Life After Addiction with Lindsay Proulx

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From Rock Bottom to Redemption: Lindsay Proulx's Journey Through Addiction and Recovery
In this powerful episode of "Learn from People who Lived It," host Mathew Blades and co-host Dr. Dave sit down with Lindsay Proulx, a former addict who's now seven years sober and working at New Freedom Project. Lindsay's story is a raw and honest account of her descent into addiction, her experiences with incarceration, and her inspiring path to recovery.
You'll hear:
• How childhood trauma and family dynamics can contribute to addiction
• The harsh realities of jail and prison for those battling substance abuse
• The pivotal role of faith and support systems in the recovery process
• Practical strategies for forgiveness and healing from past traumas
Lindsay shares deeply personal moments, from using drugs with her mother to her first terrifying night in jail. She recounts the turning point in her life when she realized she was "created for greatness" and how this shift in perspective changed everything.
Dr. Dave offers expert insights throughout, explaining the psychological aspects of addiction, recovery, and forgiveness. He emphasizes the importance of daily decisions that reflect self-value, providing listeners with actionable advice for their own journeys.
This episode doesn't shy away from the dark realities of addiction but ultimately delivers a message of hope and transformation. Lindsay's story proves that no matter how far you've fallen, redemption is possible.
"Forgiveness first. For forgiveness, I had to forgive myself before I could forgive anybody else." - Lindsay Proulx
Whether you're struggling with addiction, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking inspiration, this conversation offers valuable insights into the human capacity for change and the power of second chances.
 
 

Becoming a Transitional Character with Cordero Holmes

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Breaking the Cycle: From Incarceration to Inspiration with Cordero Holmes, recorded live from the New Freedom Project, learn more about them here.
In this powerful episode, Mathew Blades and Dr. Dave sit down with Cordero Holmes, who transformed his life from behind bars to become a beacon of hope and change. Cordero's journey from incarceration to earning multiple degrees is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the power of education. He is the transitional character we talk about all the time.
You'll hear:
• How Cordero became a "transitional character," breaking cycles of dysfunction
• The unexpected gifts of solitary confinement and deep self-reflection
• Strategies for making amends and rebuilding relationships after incarceration
• The crucial role of community service in personal growth and healing
Cordero Holmes, now an advocate and educator, shares raw and honest insights about his past, his transformation, and his mission to create a better future for his children and community. His story challenges us to reconsider our preconceptions about those who've been incarcerated and inspires hope for second chances.
"No history, no self. Know history, know self." - Cordero Holmes
From the depths of isolation to the heights of academic achievement, Cordero's journey reminds us that it's never too late to change your life's trajectory. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration, understanding the power of education, or looking to make a positive change in their life or community.
Find Cordero here.
 

Coming Monday, Transformative Stories from the New Freedom Project

Breaking Free: Transformative Stories from the New Freedom Project
This Monday, Mathew Blades brings us face-to-face with the raw reality of addiction, incarceration, and the journey to redemption. Through intimate conversations with Lindsey Proulx and Cordero Holmes, we explore the depths of human struggle and the heights of personal transformation.
You'll hear:
• Lindsey's harrowing tale of addiction-fueled crime and her path to forgiveness
• Cordero's pivotal moment of mentorship in county jail, inspired by an unlikely source
• How the New Freedom Project is changing lives and breaking cycles of addiction
These stories of struggle, hope, and redemption offer a rare glimpse into the transformative power of second chances. As Mathew puts it, "I can't even begin to tell you how incredible both nights were and you will be able to experience them with me."
Join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of human resilience and the life-changing work of the New Freedom Project this Monday.

How To Have Healthier Relationships with Jennifer Nurick

How To Have Healthier Relationships with Jennifer Nurick
In this episode, you'll hear: 
How negative cycles show up in relationships and why we get stuck in them 
Practical tools to break negative cycles, set boundaries, and communicate more effectively with your partner
How hidden attachment patterns, like anxious or avoidant styles, might be driving conflict in your relationship
Tips to stay grounded when emotional triggers act like time machines and pull on old wounds
Jennifer Nurick is a licensed clinical psychotherapist, trauma specialist, and the founder of Psychotherapy Central. With over 20 years of experience in counseling, she specializes in attachment theory, relationship healing, and trauma recovery. Jennifer is also a certified energetic healer and author of Heal Your Anxious Attachment, where she blends evidence-based psychological tools with compassion and real-world strategies to help individuals and couples transform painful relationship patterns. Through her clinical work, writing, and workshops, Jennifer empowers people to break free from negative cycles and build secure, authentic connections.
In this episode, Mathew, Dr. Dave Leicken, and Jennifer Nurick dive deep into the emotional dynamics that shape our relationships, especially when we feel stuck in patterns that seem impossible to break. Drawing from Jennifer’s book Heal Your Anxious Attachment, they explore what negative cycles are, how to recognize when you’re in one, and, most importantly, how to begin shifting out of them. The conversation unpacks the ways attachment styles, like anxious or avoidant, show up in adult relationships, how triggers can feel like emotional time travel, and what it takes to approach your partner from a grounded, regulated place. You’ll hear actionable tools to interrupt conflict spirals, including boundary-setting, effective communication strategies, and reflective practices for personal healing and growth. Whether you're navigating conflict or seeking deeper connection, this episode offers insight, empathy, and guidance for transforming the way you relate.
“We have to have awareness around the cycles. So, what are my repetitive thoughts, what are my repetitive experiences…What cycles run through my family?” - Jennifer Nurick
“First we have to discover, we have to know what cycles am I working with, what comes through that generational lineage…then there is healing.” - Jennifer Nurick
“It’s not just the emotions that they felt, but it’s the narrative that they are telling themselves. Each side has a different narrative and the narratives don't always match up.” - Dr. Dave Leicken
Follow the podcast: 
Listen on Apple Podcasts (link: https://apple.co/3s1YH7h) 
Listen on iHeart (link: https://ihr.fm/3MEY7FM) 
Listen on Spotify (Link: https://spoti.fi/3yMmQCE) 
 
Resources:
Jennifer Nurick’s Website
Psychotherapy Central Website
Heal Your Anxious Attachment by Jennifer Nurick
How To Talk To People You Don’t Like Talking To by Mathew Blades
Dr. David Leicken, MD
 
Connect with Mathew Blades: 
Twitter - twitter.com/MathewBlades
Instagram - instagram.com/MathewBladesmedia/ 
Facebook - facebook.com/mathewbladesmedia/ 
Website - learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/
 
Additional Credits:
LFPWLI is managed by IMS LLC
 
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