Positive Recovery MD

About Positive Recovery MD

Positive Recovery MD inspires and motivates its listeners by providing the tools and foundation needed to thrive and flourish on their addiction recovery journey. Addiction Medicine Specialist and Creator of Positive Recovery, Dr. Jason Powers, is redefining the recovery industry through the lens of Positive Psychology. From best practices for a successful recovery journey and the power of gratitude to the importance of accountability and community, each episode focuses on what truly matters - growth and progress, not perfection. What role does positive psychology play in overcoming addiction? How does practicing gratitude impact addiction recovery? What does it mean to be "Sober Curious"? How does accountability contribute to successful addiction recovery? What are the signs of relapse, and how do I prevent it? And the biggest question of all, what are the first steps to take for addiction recovery? Whether you're in active recovery, have a loved one fighting the disease of addiction, are a recovery advocate wanting to learn more about the latest news in addiction treatment, or simply want to utilize positive psychology to live your best life, then this is the show for you. Host Dr. Powers guides you on a transformative journey to help you create positive habits, develop your character, and live the best life possible in recovery - full of positivity, engagement, fulfillment, relationships, and meaning & purpose. Along with sharing his own experiences and insights, he interviews industry-leading experts as well as recovery advocates, actors, comedians, and professional athletes who will share their own inspirational stories of choosing life beyond substance use. As the Positive Recovery MD community continues to grow and flourish, WE INVITE YOU to join us on the transformative journey towards living your best life possible!

Publisher

Dr. Jason Powers, MD

Category

health & fitness · science

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

20 May 2020

Latest episode

10 Mar 2026

Latest episodes

1 of 116 episodes have a transcript.

1. 

   10 Mar 2026TRANSCRIPT

   Turning Pain into Purpose: How M-COPE is Fighting Against Substance Use Disorder and Overdose Through Education, Awareness, Prevention, and Remembrance

   In this conversation, host Julie DeNofa sits down with Kathy Posey, Paige Butler, and Kim Robbins, three inspiring women serving on the Montgomery County Overdose Prevention Endeavor Board (M-COPE) Kathy and Kim, Co-Founders of M-COPE, share their personal stories of losing a child to addiction and how, after four moms met through the GRASP grief group ( Grief Recovery After Substance Passing) after losing their children to accidental overdose, they realized the need for spreading awareness around the disease of addiction. Paige also shares her journey through a different perspective of loving a child who is now in recovery from substance use disorder. With their stories, Kathy, Paige, and Kim are now turning their pain into purpose in helping other families heal. The mission at M-COPE is to collaborate with individuals, communities, schools, and organizations to raise awareness about substance use disorder and the alarming rise in overdose and drug-related deaths in Montgomery County and surrounding areas. Their efforts are grounded in four key pillars: education, awareness, prevention, and remembrance. Through this approach, they shine a light on the growing drug crisis, work to end the stigma surrounding substance use, and advocate for those currently in need of support as well as for those who can no longer speak for themselves. Topics Discussed: Advice for parents and families learning to navigate grief after overdose loss The importance of remembering loved ones beyond their addiction Recognizing that everyone grieves differently and giving others more grace Understanding emotional triggers and grief waves after loss Why volunteer-driven organizations play a critical role in community recovery How overdose awareness and prevention efforts are helping communities — CHAPTERS: 00:00 Purpose From Pain - Introduction to MCOPE 03:33 Meet Kathy Posey, Kim Robbins, and Paige Bulter 08:04 What M-Cope is and the Four Pillars: Awareness, Prevention, Education, and Rememberance 11:06 Volunteering, Community Partners, and Supporting Newly Bereaved 15:39 Grief Advice For Families: Connection, Caregiving, Healing, and Support 23:10 Recognizing Grief Waves and Triggers and Finding Joy Again 28:47 Honoring Loved Ones Who Lost Their Lives to Addiction 30:39 The Hope of Recovery 33:52 M-COPE Outreach through Blessing Bags, Narcan Outreach, Scholarships And Community Impact 39:11 Recovery Community Resources — Connect with M-Cope online: Website: https://mcope.org/ Scholarship: https://mcope.org/scholarship/ Volunteer Opportunities: https://mcope.org/support/#volunteer Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mocope/?ref=share&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=SDyLMs2NFChqDsne&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2Fg%2F1DCtwm4WSp%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr — Connect with PRC on Social: IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter About Positive Recovery Centers: Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network. Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame. If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help! Call: 877-476-2743 Website: https://positiverecovery.com Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/

2. 

   14 Oct 2025

   Understanding Emotional Sobriety and the Science of Healing with Dr. Andrew Krieger

   Dr. Andrew Krieger, DSW, MBA, LCSW-S, LCDC, is a private practice psychotherapist with extensive experience in direct practice social work, clinical program design and development, addiction treatment, and group psychotherapy. He received his Doctor of Social Work from the University of Southern California and holds both a Master of Clinical Social Work and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Houston. Over the past 20 years, Dr. Krieger has worked with individuals and families as a private practice and group psychotherapist, specializing in addictive disorders, family therapy, group psychotherapy, and process addictions. He’s also held clinical positions at some of the leading addiction treatment programs in Texas. As Chief Executive Officer of Contemporary Medicine Associates (CMA) — the primary practice of Dr. Bo Allaire and Dr. Andrew Krieger — he leads a team specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of substance use disorders. CMA also provides third-party medical services for psychiatric and addiction treatment facilities, as well as clinical and business consulting services for mental health providers. Originally founded over 20 years ago by Dr. Eugene Degner, one of the first board-certified addiction medicine doctors in Texas and a pioneer in the medical treatment of alcohol and drug addiction, CMA continues to honor Dr. Degner’s legacy through compassionate, expert care. Today, their doctors, nurses, and mental health professionals serve patients and families at every stage of addiction and recovery — providing a caring, non-judgmental environment where healing can truly begin. They also offer comprehensive support for individuals with mental health conditions such as depression, trauma, and anxiety. In this conversation, Dr. Jason Powers and Dr. Andrew Krieger discuss the different phases of recovery, the science behind post-acute withdrawal syndrome, and the meaning of emotional sobriety. Together, they explore how long-term recovery is less about counting the years and more about integrity, emotional growth, and learning to live a life that’s genuinely fulfilling. Topics Discussed: Defining Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) The difference between co-occurring disorders & substance use disorder Breaking down emotional sobriety into 3 main categories Understanding the phases of recovery and personal growth How perspective and integrity define Long-Term Sobriety, not just time Finding fulfillment beyond survival in recovery — CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Positive Recovery MD 01:09 Meet Our Guest: Andrew Krieger 01:40 Andrew's Journey to Sobriety 03:45 Career Transition and Professional Growth 06:36 Phases of Recovery 09:57 Understanding Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome & Co-Occurring Disorders 15:48 Emotional Sobriety Explained 20:00 Why Length of Abstinence Doesn’t Equate to Emotional Maturity 21:40 Personal Stories in Early Recovery 23:55 The Importance of Supportive Relationships and Accountability 27:55 Finding a Balance in Sobriety and New Experiences in Recovery 31:58 Reflections on Personal Journey and Finding Peace — Connect with Dr. Andrew Krieger: Website: www.cmamed.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-krieger-6864745 — Connect with PRC on Social: IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter About Positive Recovery Centers: Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network. Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame. If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help! Call: 877-476-2743 Website: https://positiverecovery.com Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/

3. 

   26 Aug 2025

   The Road to Recovery Tour: Skyler Ray’s Journey Through Music and Sobriety

   There’s something about music that cuts deeper than words alone. A single lyric, a familiar melody, or even the rhythm of a beat can stir memories we thought were long forgotten and awaken parts of ourselves we may have buried. It reminds us of who we were before the chaos, before the pain, before substances clouded our vision. Pursuing our favorite hobbies before substance use can be a lifeline back to our core, a way of reclaiming the truest version of ourselves. Listen in as our guest this week shares how he turned his lifelong passion into purpose and found a way back home to himself. Skyler Ray was born on November 28, 1990, in San Jose, California. He grew up in foster homes and spent multiple years homeless—going from being locked up to sleeping on the sidewalks of downtown Portland. His music is deeply rooted in his life experiences, including addiction, incarceration, and homelessness. He is a firm believer in spreading hope and giving back to the community he once helped destroy. Since being released from prison on November 30, 2018, Skyler has refocused on his music and is determined to share his message with the world. He continues to live in Portland, Oregon, and remains clean and sober. In this conversation, Jamie Demeris and Skyler Ray discuss what it really takes to rebuild a life after addiction. Together, they explore the mindset shifts that turn relapse into resilience, why consistency and small steps matter more than giant leaps, and how reconnecting with your passions can anchor you in sobriety. Skyler shares how music became both his therapy and his message, and why vulnerability and self-respect are the foundation of lasting recovery. Whether you’re in recovery, supporting a loved one, or just searching for hope, this conversation will remind you that transformation is always possible. Topics Discussed: The importance of continuously working on yourself Why relapse isn’t a step back and how you can stand up stronger Pursuing your passions and who you are at your core in sobriety Why small, consistent steps make the most impact Reconnecting with your why & remembering who you were before substances Learning to love and respect yourself — CHAPTERS: 0:00 Introduction to Positive Recovery MD 01:10 Meet Skylar Ray: From Addiction to Recovery 02:16 Skylar's Battle with Addiction 03:56 Turning Point: Embracing Music and Sobriety 12:50 The Road to Recovery Tour 19:35 Overcoming Disbelief and Embracing Change 22:54 Climbing the Corporate Ladder 23:43 A Humbling Demotion 24:17 Prison Reflections and Personal Growth 26:22 Musical Journey and Personal Transformation 29:14 The Power of Sound and Recovery 33:23 Chasing Dreams and Overcoming Challenges 40:33 Tour Dates and Final Thoughts — Connect with Skyler Ray: Road to Recovery Tour: https://www.officialskylerray.com/road-to-recovery-tour Website: www.officialskylerray.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therealSkylerRay — Connect with PRC on Social: IG: https://www.instagram.com/positiverecoverycenters FB: https://www.facebook.com/PositiveRecoveryCenters TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiverecoverycenter LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positiverecoverycenters YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JcDF1gjlYch4V4iBbCgZg Want even more expert insights and support on the recovery journey? Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiration, mental health tips, and community updates—straight to your inbox! 💙📩 https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/wg6vK39/monthlynewsletter About Positive Recovery Centers Positive Recovery is a strengths-based addiction treatment program with locations across Texas. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to sober living, all supported by an ever-growing alumni community network. Our evidence-based curriculum blends the best of the old with the new, supporting our mission: Recovery is best pursued when meaningful, intentional, positive habits are formed through empowerment and resilience instead of negativity and shame. If you or someone you know needs addiction treatment, please visit the website or call the number below to schedule an assessment. We are here to help! Call: 877-476-2743 Website: https://positiverecovery.com Locations: https://positiverecovery.com/locations/

Inside a recent episode

Turning Pain into Purpose: How M-COPE is Fighting Against Substance Use Disorder and Overdose Through Education, Awareness, Prevention, and Remembrance

Published 10 Mar 2026 · Transcript excerpt

[…] And so we started this group. We did an awareness event in 2021 and brought a lot of the community out and resources and things to be able to share that. I know personally, when I first found out about Josh's substance use and how bad it was, I had one phone number in my phone to call. And luckily, the person was still at it. And so he was able to guide me to the first treatment center, and we went from there. But I really didn't know anything about it. People weren't talking about it. There was a lot of stigma, a lot of shame, and so on. And so we decided that we had to find some type of purpose in the pain that we were feeling and try to keep other families from having to deal with that. […]

Who has been a guest on Positive Recovery MD

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Lauren Demeris
• Dean Demeris
• Millie
• Sandy
• Carol

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

147,996

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

4.9 / 5

48 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 58 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

49

Social presence

0

YouTube

82

Engagement

85

Contact Positive Recovery MD

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.

Questions about Positive Recovery MD