• Welcome and introductions by Scott Weeman and Father Sean Kilcawley.
• Overview of the episode's topic: lifestyle changes for sustained recovery from addiction.
• Credit to I.B. Jacob (Bassanova) and Aisling Fuller for intro/outro music.

Check-In

• Father Sean Kilcawley's Check-in:
  • Discusses meeting with his spiritual director.
  • Upcoming trip to Denver for a celibacy workshop for Dominican novices.
  • Reflects on his upcoming change of assignment and the associated grief.
  • Shares about forming attachment bonds and the experience of leaving a place where he felt loved.
• Scott Weeman's Check-in:
  • Relates to Father Sean's cross-country move experience.
  • Discusses returning to regular exercise and physical wellness.
  • Shares about refraining from excessive screen time and unhealthy attachments.
  • Reflects on becoming comfortable being comfortable in recovery.
  • Mentions the start of Lent and Lenten practices.

Discussion: Lifestyle Changes for Recovery

• Importance of Lifestyle Changes:
  • Why lifestyle changes are essential for sustained recovery.
  • Changing people, places, and habits ("playgrounds and playmates").
  • Internal transformations that need attention.
• "Barbershop of the Heart":
  • Identifying triggers and places/habits that lead to old behaviors.
  • Transforming all aspects of life and living on different terms.
  • Acceptance of things that can't be done anymore.
  • Clearing out space for God.
• Mindset and Thinking:
  • Losing the "right to laissez-faire thinking."
  • Addressing shame and fear.
  • Renewing the mind (Romans 12:2).
  • Addiction's impact on biological, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects.
  • Addiction as a symptom of a deeper spiritual illness.
  • The need for grace and divine power in recovery.
  • Importance of people, sacraments, mental/physical practices, and habits.
• Developing New Habits:
  • Seeking counsel and guidance.
  • Habit of calling on God in times of need ("Be with me, Lord, when I am in trouble").
  • Practicing the presence of God.
  • Addressing backsliding and negative thought patterns.
  • Recognizing God as trustworthy and capable.
  • Overcoming the belief that substances/behaviors are the greatest need.

Practical Steps and Areas for Growth

• Prayer and Spiritual Growth:
  • Developing a consistent and honest prayer life.
  • Communicating with God like a trusted friend.
  • Inviting God's will.
  • Spiritual practices and sacraments.
  • Daily examine/mental health check-in.
• Healthy Community and Accountability:
  • Importance of fellowship in 12-step recovery.
  • Seeking virtuous friendships, mentors, and sponsors.
  • Finding a community where you feel understood and accepted.
  • Being transparent and vulnerable.
  • Avoiding isolation and secrets.
  • Staying "in the middle of the herd."
• Daily Disciplines:
  • Importance of routines (sleeping, eating, etc.).
  • Morning and evening prayer routines.
  • Practicing gratitude.
  • Exercise and physical well-being.
  • Learning to relax and find healthy recreation.
  • Avoiding triggers and "near occasions of sin."
  • Financial and work-life balance.
• Service and Purpose:
  • Finding purpose through service to others.
  • Helping other addicts/alcoholics.
  • Giving by getting, and getting by giving.
  • Being a welcoming presence.
  • Moving towards something, not just running away from something.
• Emotional Healing and Therapy:
  • Addressing past traumas and emotional wounds.
  • Seeking counseling, spiritual direction, and therapy.
  • Surrender to God's will.
  • Being willing to do whatever it takes for recovery.
  • Clearing out space for God.

Mailbag Question

• Question from "Arthur" about support for seminarians and priests with addiction.
• Discussion on whether 12-step recovery is encouraged in seminaries/religious orders.
• Advice for Arthur to share his concerns with the vocation instructor.
• Emphasis on prioritizing holiness and recovery.

Conclusion

• Summary of key points.
• Encouragement to get to meetings, practice daily habits, and connect with others.
• Recommendation to subscribe to the podcast.
• Final blessing by Father Sean Kilcawley.