The Battle Within: Ben Schwartz’s Journey from Addiction to Faith

In this heartfelt and intense episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett sits down with Ben Schwartz for a deep dive into his journey of addiction, self-destruction, and ultimate redemption. Ben’s path is one of raw honesty, relentless struggle, and the life-changing power of surrendering to God.

Ben opens up about his early struggles with family instability, feelings of inadequacy, and the damaging choices he made as he tried to find purpose and escape pain. From battles with alcoholism, pornography, and bulimia, to the hollow chase of temporary highs, he recounts how these addictions filled his life with shame and broke down his relationships. Through his compelling story, listeners will hear how Ben’s life began to change after a surprising encounter with a pastor who would lead him toward a path of faith and redemption.

Nick and Ben discuss the importance of having accountability, breaking the cycle of self-deception, and learning to find worth through a relationship with God. Ben shares the profound realizations that changed him, the steps he took to rebuild trust with his family, and the power of being present for his children—a precious gift that sobriety has given him.

With incredible vulnerability, Ben reveals the ongoing daily struggle of maintaining sobriety, the power of seeking forgiveness, and the transformative impact of turning his life over to a higher power. This episode is a testament to the healing found in faith and the courage it takes to confront one’s own darkness.

Episode Highlights:

•00:00 Introduction: Confronting Addiction with Faith

•01:15 Guest Introduction: Ben Schwartz’s Struggle and Redemption

•04:00 The Impact of Family and Early Childhood on Identity

•09:00 Hidden Battles: Addiction to Alcohol, Pornography, and Control

•19:10 Losing Control: College and the Spiral into Self-Destruction

•30:45 Faith as a Turning Point: Finding Hope Through a Pastor’s Guidance

•37:00 Embracing God’s Grace and Letting Go of Shame

•43:20 Surrendering the “Ring” of Addiction: Learning from Lord of the Rings

•54:00 Fatherhood and Sobriety: Reclaiming Purpose and Presence in Family

•59:30 Building Accountability: Why Strong Men Need Real Support

•1:07:45 Advice for Those Struggling: The Power of Surrender

•1:12:00 Final Thoughts: Embracing Life’s Second Chances

Key Themes:

•The roots of addiction and the journey to acknowledging a problem

•How faith provides strength and direction in the darkest hours

•Fatherhood, accountability, and rebuilding trust with family

•The ongoing struggle and daily commitment to sobriety

Ben’s story will resonate with anyone facing their own battles and seeking the strength to move forward. His message is one of redemption, the resilience found in faith, and the incredible healing that comes from being authentically vulnerable.

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Breaking Free from Addiction and Reclaiming Family: The Story of Jared Reuter

In this powerful episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett welcomes Jared Ryder, a dedicated father, fitness enthusiast, and YouTuber, as he shares his raw and inspiring story of overcoming addiction and rediscovering purpose.

Jared opens up about his struggles with alcohol and prescription drugs, recounting how his journey of self-destruction cost him trust, relationships, and nearly his family. Through honesty, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to change, he found the strength to rebuild his life, piece by piece.

Nick and Jared explore the impact of addiction on family dynamics, the vital role of fitness in Jared’s recovery, and how his experiences have fueled his passion to help others break free from the cycle of addiction. Listeners will be moved by Jared’s humility, resilience, and his determination to create a better life for himself and his loved ones.

Episode Highlights:

•00:00 – Introduction: The Power of Change

•00:40 – Welcome to the Domestic Dad Podcast

•01:25 – Guest Introduction: Jared Ryder’s Journey

•02:30 – Childhood Memories and Family Struggles

•07:15 – Early Experiences with Alcohol

•14:00 – The Role of Family Support in Recovery

•18:52 – Party Lifestyle and High School Challenges

•26:14 – Escalating Addiction: From Alcohol to Opioids

•33:00 – The Consequences of Addiction

•39:20 – The Turning Point: Losing Trust and Seeking Help

•47:05 – Discovering Fitness as a Path to Sobriety

•52:45 – Rebuilding Relationships and Regaining Trust

•56:30 – Advice for Others Facing Addiction

•59:40 – Final Thoughts: The Importance of Purpose and Family

Listeners will leave this episode with a renewed sense of hope, learning that even the most challenging battles can lead to a fulfilling and purposeful life.

KEEP FLEXING ON EM YOUTUBE CHANNEL: www.youtube.com/@JaredR2427

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Overcoming Addiction and Embracing Faith: The Story of Christopher Tims

In this heartfelt episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett sits down with Christopher Tims, a dedicated educator, coach, and minister, to discuss his incredible journey from addiction to redemption through faith and perseverance.

Christopher shares candidly about his struggles with alcoholism, the toll it took on his self-esteem and relationships, and how he turned his life around by embracing sobriety and his calling to serve as a pastor. His story is one of transformation, resilience, and the power of faith in overcoming life’s toughest challenges.

Nick and Christopher dive into the importance of community, accountability, and the role of faith in healing. The conversation covers the critical moments that led Christopher to sobriety, his experiences in the teaching and coaching fields, and how his faith has shaped his journey as a father and husband.

Listeners will be inspired by Christopher’s vulnerability, the wisdom he’s gained through his recovery, and his passion for helping others find their own path to healing.

Episode Highlights:

• 00:00 Introduction: The Power of Transformation

• 00:40 Welcome to the Domestic Dad Podcast

•01:25 Guest Introduction: Christopher Tims’ Journey

• 02:20 Growing Up as an Identical Twin

• 04:15 The Role of Sports in Shaping Discipline

• 07:50 Struggles with Low Self-Esteem and Addiction

• 16:08 Turning to Alcohol for Confidence

• 23:14 Impact of Addiction on Family and Career

• 30:52 The Turning Point: Seeking Sobriety

• 33:10 Rediscovering Faith and Walking in Ministry

• 42:25 Becoming a Better Husband and Father

• 46:20 Embracing the Journey of Sobriety

• 50:10 Lessons in Patience and Vulnerability

• 54:00 Advice for Those Seeking Sobriety

• 59:00 Final Thoughts: The Power of Faith and Community

Listeners will hear an inspiring message of hope, healing, and the journey to becoming a better version of oneself through faith and sobriety.

Website: www.domesticdadproject.com

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In this enlightening episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett sits down with Dr. Kettman, a leading expert in integrative medicine and hormone health. This engaging conversation explores Dr. Kettman's personal and professional journey, highlighting the profound impact of testosterone therapy, exercise, diet, and spiritual wellness on overall health.

Dr. Kettman shares valuable insights into the benefits and considerations of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of this treatment option. The episode delves into how natural methods—such as sun exposure, exercise, and diet—can naturally boost testosterone levels and improve well-being.

Nick and Dr. Kettman also discuss the critical role of exercise in mental health, with a focus on recent studies that show how weight lifting can be more effective than antidepressants for managing anxiety and depression. They cover the importance of diet and sleep, and how processed foods and lack of rest can undermine health.

The conversation doesn't stop there. Dr. Kettman offers practical advice on incorporating biohacks like creatine, sauna, and cold plunges into your routine, and emphasizes the role of spirituality and faith in achieving holistic wellness. He advocates for proactive health management and encourages listeners to educate themselves and their healthcare providers about new advancements.

Listeners will gain actionable strategies to enhance their physical and mental health, learn about the potential benefits of hormone therapy, and understand the significance of a balanced lifestyle that includes spiritual growth.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introd

00:00 Introduction: Finding Inspiration as a Dad

00:35 Welcome to the Domestic Dad Podcast

01:38 Guest Introduction: Dr. Matt Kettman

01:52 Dr. Kettman's Childhood and Family Background

02:37 Academic Journey and Career Path

07:20 Faith and Personal Beliefs

13:49 Health and Nutrition Discussion

34:57 The Influence of Big Pharma and Big Food on Nutrition

37:36 Personal Experiences with the Keto Diet

39:20 Exploring the Carnivore Diet

41:03 The Concept of Incremental Improvement

43:54 Understanding Addiction and Sobriety

50:02 Introduction to Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

01:05:03 Impact of Diet on Testosterone and Marital Health

01:05:26 Christian Perspective on Divorce and Testosterone

01:05:56 Testosterone's Role in Marital Relationships

01:07:44 Testosterone and Health Benefits

01:12:12 Testosterone for Women

01:14:06 Myths and Misconceptions about Testosterone

01:26:59 Natural Ways to Boost Testosterone

01:31:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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In this compelling episode of "Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess," Nick Barnett engages in a profound dialogue with Dean Feltes, Executive Director of One City United. They delve into their life's adversities, recounting their transitions from tumultuous pasts marked by alcoholism to discovering profound faith. This episode traverses their unique journeys towards sobriety, the daunting impact of incarceration on fathers, and the deep-seated effects of addiction on family structures.

Nick and Dean discuss the significance of purposeful living, especially for their children, emphasizing the need for fathers to act as beacons of strength and stability. They also unpack the inception and mission of One City United, which strives to bridge the gap between individuals in crisis and supportive resources aimed at tackling poverty, addiction, and societal disconnects.

Throughout the conversation, Dean imparts wisdom on setting realistic expectations and fostering accountability within families, advocating for personal growth and understanding. This episode not only sheds light on the challenges faced by fathers but also offers hope and guidance for those on a similar path, highlighting the transformative power of support, resilience, and communal effort in overcoming life's obstacles.

00:00 Introduction: Finding Inspiration as a Dad

00:35 Welcome to the Domestic Dad Podcast

01:26 Guest Introduction: Dean's Early Life

06:41 Dean's Journey to Sobriety and Faith

13:08 Nick's Personal Faith Journey

18:26 Launching OneCityUnited

26:28 Challenges Faced by Dads Today

30:08 The Perpetual Cycle of Shame and Guilt

31:28 Facing and Owning Your Past

31:54 Moving Forward with Purpose

32:17 The Role of the Enemy in Our Struggles

33:16 Empowering Through Transparency

35:49 Living Your Calling Every Day

39:15 Parenting with Purpose and Accountability

51:13 The Impact of Social Media on Kids

54:10 What's in Your Cup?

56:59 Concluding Thoughts

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In this heartfelt episode, the host, Nick, interviews Joey, a father who has walked the challenging path of sobriety. Joey shares his personal journey from struggling with alcoholism to finding hope, strength, and community through Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). He reflects on the pivotal moments that led him to seek help, the importance of accountability, and the profound changes in his relationships since getting sober.

Joey emphasizes that sobriety isn't just about quitting alcohol—it's about transforming one's entire life. He discusses the struggles of early sobriety, the critical role of a support network, and the unexpected rewards that come from helping others on their own journeys. As a sponsor in AA, Joey finds fulfillment in guiding others through the steps and witnessing their personal growth.

Throughout the conversation, Joey offers practical advice to those contemplating sobriety, urging them to take the first step and seek help. He candidly shares the challenges and rewards of staying sober and underscores the importance of being open-minded, trusting the process, and embracing the support available in the sober community.

The episode closes with Joey encouraging listeners to believe in the possibility of a better life, no matter how deep their struggles with addiction may be.

Key Takeaways:

1. Sobriety Requires Support: Joey stresses the importance of finding a mentor or sponsor who can guide you through the early stages of sobriety. This relationship is crucial for accountability and learning how to navigate life without alcohol.
2. Transformation Beyond Sobriety: Getting sober is not just about stopping drinking—it's about fundamentally changing your approach to life, relationships, and self-care.
3. Help Others, Help Yourself: As a sponsor, Joey finds that helping others stay sober is a powerful tool for maintaining his own sobriety. The process of guiding others reinforces his commitment to his own recovery.
4. Open-Mindedness and Trust: Joey advises newcomers to sobriety to stay open-minded and trust that life will improve, even if the path is unclear at first.
5. Improved Relationships: One of the biggest rewards of sobriety is the positive change in relationships. Joey highlights how his connections with family, friends, and his son have strengthened since he stopped drinking.
6. Challenges Remain: Sobriety doesn't eliminate life's challenges, but it does equip you with better tools to handle them. Joey emphasizes the importance of learning to deal with issues soberly and productively.

Memorable Quotes:

• "Things will get better. Things can get better."
• "Helping other people is how I gain energy."
• "Sobriety is a path where you have no idea where you're headed at first, but trust that things are going to get better."

00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Joey

00:40 Childhood Memories and Family Dynamics

01:52 School Days and Early Friendships

02:47 Sports and Sibling Bonding

05:01 Parental Influence and Growing Up

06:55 High School Years and Early Drinking

07:52 College Life and Escalating Alcohol Use

11:59 Realizing the Problem with Alcohol

15:57 Struggles with Addiction and Attempts to Quit

17:11 Regrets and Consequences of Drinking

27:07 The Turning Point and Seeking Help

38:41 The Turning Point: Quitting Alcohol for Good

38:47 Physical and Emotional Struggles of Alcoholism

40:58 Building Skills for Sobriety

42:35 The Importance of Community and Meetings

43:39 Maintaining Sobriety: Daily Practices

45:12 The Impact of Sobriety on Family Life

53:26 The Journey of Helping Others

01:04:34 Advice for Those Seeking Sobriety

01:05:52 The Role of AA and Sponsorship

01:13:50 Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom

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In today's episode I'm sharing the first podcast episode I ever recoded. Meet Paul—a remarkable individual born into a challenging environment, who had his first drink at the age of five. Growing up surrounded by addiction, Paul shares his journey from a troubled childhood to the streets of San Bernardino and the struggles with alcohol that defined his life. Together, we unravel the complexities of his past, exploring the impact of family dynamics, addiction, and the pursuit of redemption.

Join us on this powerful journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to sobriety. This is the Domestic Dad Project Podcast, where we go beyond the surface to uncover stories that inspire and ignite hope.

#SobrietyJourney #BreakingTheStigma #FaithAndRecovery #InspirationForChange #CleanLiving #RecoveryStories #TransformativeJourneys #HopeAfterAddiction #BreakingFree #HealingThroughFaith #StrengthInSobriety #SoberLife #OvercomingAddiction #ResilienceInRecovery #SecondChances #EmpowermentInSobriety #FindingPurpose #FamilySupport #InnerStrength #AddictionFreeLife

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Welcome back to Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up the Mess as we chat with Steve Schneider, a devoted father who shares his inspirational journey from initial reluctance about parenthood to becoming a dedicated dad. This episode delves into overcoming alcoholism, embracing personal growth, and the critical role of modeling positive behavior. Steve's story highlights the significance of confidence, integrity, and aligning one's life with core values. We also explore parenting complexities, the importance of building trust, honest communication, and handling addictions, video games, and social media. Through personal anecdotes about struggles, triumphs, and the transformative power of faith, this episode offers practical wisdom for guiding children toward a better future and nurturing a supportive family environment.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome 00:50 Unexpected Journey to Fatherhood 03:13 Reflecting on Childhood and Family 06:21 Struggles with Alcohol and Turning Points 09:16 Finding Faith and Life Transformation 17:20 Lessons in Parenting and Personal Growth 23:01 The Importance of Modeling and Integrity 40:20 Pursuing Significance Over Success 48:21 The Joys and Challenges of Fatherhood 49:47 Teaching Mental Toughness and Confidence 54:16 Lessons from My Father 01:00:40 Pursuing Passions and Overcoming Fears 01:03:37 The Importance of Accountability and Friendship 01:09:20 Parenting Challenges and Teaching Respect 01:21:38 Addiction, Technology, and Setting Boundaries 01:26:22 Faith, Sobriety, and Personal Transformation

Tune in for Steve’s powerful insights and heartfelt stories, offering practical wisdom to help dads guide their children towards a brighter future and build a supportive family environment.

#DomesticDadPodcast #FatherhoodJourney #ParentingTips #OvercomingAddiction #PersonalGrowth #FaithAndFamily #PositiveParenting #SoberLiving #MentalToughness #BuildingTrust #ModelingIntegrity #ParentingChallenge

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