Sobertown Podcast

Sobertown Podcast host Michal interviews keynote speaker, author, and substance abuse counselor Martin Lockett, who served 17.5 years in prison after a New Year’s Eve 2003 DUI crash in Portland that killed two women in long-term recovery and severely injured a third individual. In this podcast, Martin describes early alcohol dependence, the crash, and the newspaper article about the victims that inspired him to honor their legacies through prevention and addiction work. In prison he pursued higher education, earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a master’s degree in psychology, completed substance abuse treatment, learned the difference between sobriety and recovery, and began sharing his story through DUI victim impact panels. Upon release in 2021, he became a counselor and later a director focused on prevention and equity. Martin helped launch a “custody to counseling pipeline,” and now speaks nationally on DUI prevention, recovery, guilt vs. shame, and self-forgiveness. You can find more information on Martin Lockett's website, including links to his books Prison to Purpose Pipeline and My Prison Life: A Blogger's Insights from the Inside. https://www.martinlockett.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martinllockett?igsh=eWsyNGxqbHhsb3Nt Martin Lockett is a highly sought-after keynote speaker, substance abuse counselor, author, and nationally recognized advocate for reducing DUI fatalities. He served 17½ years in prison following a DUI-related crash that claimed two lives and permanently injured another. At his sentencing, Lockett made a solemn vow to the victims’ families and friends to devote the rest of his life to honoring their legacies by helping others confront substance use disorders and speaking candidly about the devastating consequences of impaired driving. During his incarceration, Lockett earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and a Master of Science in Psychology, obtained state certification as a substance abuse counselor, and served as a mentor and role model to fellow inmates. He is the author of two books, Prison to Purpose Pipeline and My Prison Life, and began sharing his story through DUI victim impact panels—work he initiated while still incarcerated. Since his release in 2021, Lockett continues this mission by providing counseling support for individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges and sharing his powerful message of accountability, redemption, and hope at DUI victim impact panels, alcohol highway safety classes, high schools, colleges, and conferences nationwide, using his lived experience to inspire change and save lives. About Michal: Michal is an American podcaster and sober warrior who believes every recovery journey is as unique as the individual traveling it. With over a decade of sobriety garnered through various recovery systems, programs, and support networks, she's passionate about breaking down stereotypes and smashing through the shame that can keep those suffering with addiction in the dark. Michal is an animal lover, rescue advocate, and tattooed motorcycle chick who has dedicated her life to helping others, whether in her personal or professional life. Nothing makes her happier than hearing from her podcast listeners, so if you’re so inspired, drop an email with a suggestion for an Early Days podcast episode, feedback, or just to say hello! Contact Michal at: [email protected] Other Sober Resources: I Am Sober App Sobertown Podcast Zoom Discussion Groups Sobertown Podcast Resource Center Recovery Online Meetings

In this episode of Sobertown Podcast, host Michal aka MMC13 welcomes Dr. Amy Albright, a human potential expert and CEO of Holon, to discuss the science and transformative power of neurofeedback therapy in addiction recovery. Dr. Amy explains how neurofeedback works, its benefits for mental health and personal growth, and the importance of addressing both the physical and emotional roots of addiction. The conversation explores the role of spirituality, community, and connection in healing, as well as the challenges of overcoming shame and stigma. Dr. Amy shares insights from her clinical experience, including real-life success stories, and offers practical advice for listeners seeking transformation and support on their recovery journey. https://www.holonexperience.com/

Join the Sobertown Podcast as host Peanut talks with author and meditation teacher Adrian van der Valk about her journey to sobriety. Adrian shares honest insights on overcoming addiction, the power of mindfulness, and building a life of purpose and “Big Sober Energy.” Discover practical tips for navigating challenges, setting boundaries, and finding hope on the path to recovery.

Adi Jaffe, who shares his journey from addiction to recovery and discusses the founding of Ignited Recovery. Dr. Jaffe talks about his books, "The Abstinence Myth" and "Unhooked," and offers insights on alternative recovery paths, harm reduction, and the importance of honesty in healing.

This Sober Town Podcast episode features Gary Menkes (19 years sober) discussing spirituality in recovery. Both Gary and host Peanut, raised Catholic, explore how surrendering to a higher power became essential to their sobriety. Gary emphasizes there's no single "right way" to approach spirituality in recovery and advocates for unity among different recovery methods. He shares his daily prayer practice and describes his transformation from expecting an early death to having more dreams and ambitions at 51 than ever before, crediting his spiritual growth and recovery work for opening doors to personal development and a purpose-driven life focused on helping others.

Host: Michal Charles aka MMC13 Guest: Jonathan Schwartz In this episode of Sobertown Podcast, host Michal interviews Jonathan Schwartz, former Hollywood financial advisor turned addiction advocate and sober warrior. Jonathan shares his journey from managing the wealth of celebrities like Beyoncé, Linkin Park and Alanis Morissette to battling his own addictions with gambling and drugs, which led to embezzlement of millions of dollars and eventual imprisonment. He discusses his childhood trauma, the impact of addiction on his life, and his path to redemption through recovery. Now a licensed therapist, Jonathan focuses on helping others overcome addiction by connecting with their emotions and resolving past traumas. He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, accountability, and community support in achieving and maintaining sobriety. Jonathan Todd Schwartz, once a towering figure in Hollywood's elite financial circles, lived a life that many could only dream of. As a power entertainment business manager at GSO Business Management, Schwartz was entrusted with managing the wealth of some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry, including Beyoncé, Mariah Carey, Alanis Morissette, Linkin Park, Halsey, and Gwyneth Paltrow. His reputation as one of Hollywood's most "trusted" financial advisors earned him the moniker "diva whisperer," a reflection of his ability to cater to the unique needs of his high-profile clients. However, beneath the surface of this seemingly perfect life, Schwartz was hiding a dark secret. Consumed by a monstrous drug habit and an uncontrollable gambling addiction, Schwartz began to embezzle millions from his clients to fund his destructive lifestyle. His double life was a carefully constructed house of cards, built on lies and deceit, which ultimately came crashing down in 2016 when Alanis Morissette discovered that Schwartz had stolen over $4.7 million from her accounts. The fallout was swift and brutal. Schwartz's crimes were exposed, leading to his arrest and subsequent conviction. The once-celebrated financial guru was now a disgraced criminal, reviled by the very industry that once revered him. His actions not only ruined his own life but also brought significant financial losses and reputational damage to GSO Business Management. But Schwartz's story doesn't end with his fall from grace. Since his release from prison in 2020, Schwartz has embarked on a journey of redemption. Sober and a co-chair of his local Gambler's Anonymous, he is determined to make amends for his past wrongdoings. Schwartz is now dedicated to proving that he is no longer the "defrauding monster" he once was, and is desperate to clear his name, particularly with his ex-wife and children, who continue to harbor doubts about his sincerity. Schwartz's life is a tale of extremes— from the heights of Hollywood success to the depths of criminal infamy. It raises the question: Can Jonathan truly change, or is this just another act in a long-running con? Schwartz's story is a compelling exploration of human nature, redemption, and the thin line between good and evil. In his own words, Schwartz acknowledges his flaws and the damage he has caused, but he remains committed to telling his story, hoping that it will serve as a cautionary tale for others and perhaps, one day, lead to his own redemption. His story is a modern-day parable, echoing the themes of the latest viral scammer tales like Inventing Anna, Tinder Swindler, and Bad Vegan—a once-in-a-lifetime narrative that promises to captivate and dominate public consciousness. Altus Rehab Instagram: @therealjonathanschwartz About Michal: Michal is an American podcaster and sober warrior who believes every recovery journey is as unique as the individual traveling it. With over a decade of sobriety garnered through various systems, programs, and support networks, she's passionate about breaking down stereotypes and smashing through the guilt and shame that can