Wednesday, July 31, 2024

ABOUT ME! Pedersen Media/Pedersen Recovery Inc.

We often come across individuals who excel in multiple fields, and Rod Pedersen is undoubtedly one of them. With a diverse skill set that encompasses broadcasting, writing, and serving as a sober coach for athletes, entertainers and military, Pedersen has made a significant impact in each of these domains. Let's delve into his journey!

Rod Pedersen first gained recognition as a prominent Canadian sports broadcaster. With a career spanning over three decades, he has covered various sporting events including Super Bowl, Grey Cups and the Stanley Cup Final. He's also enjoyed successful partnerships with Hockey Canada and USA Football. Pedersen's passion for sports shines through his engaging commentary and in-depth analysis. Whether it's play-by-play coverage or insightful pre- and post-game discussions, he has an innate ability to captivate audiences and bring sports to life.

But Pedersen's talents extend beyond the broadcast booth. As a writer, he has penned several best-selling books and award-winning blogs, showcasing his ability to delve into different subjects, keeping readers engaged and entertained.

However, it is Pedersen's work as a sober coach that truly sets him apart. Having battled addiction himself, he understands the struggles individuals face in their journey towards sobriety. With his experience and empathy, Pedersen has become a beacon of hope for those seeking a way out of their addiction. As a sober coach, he offers support, guidance, and motivation to individuals aiming to achieve and maintain a sober lifestyle. His dedication to helping others turn their lives around is both inspiring and commendable.

Pedersen's multifaceted career is a testament to his versatility and determination. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he is also known for his warm and friendly personality. His genuine interactions with people have resonated with audiences, fostering a strong sense of connection and community.

In addition to his career achievements, Pedersen's openness about his personal struggles has made him a relatable figure to many. By sharing his own journey towards sobriety, he has inspired countless individuals to confront their own demons and seek the help they need. Rod likes to remind people that we are all human, united by our shared experiences.

As a broadcaster, writer, and sober coach, Pedersen serves as an inspiration to those looking to pursue their passions and overcome adversity. His dedication to excellence, coupled with his compassionate approach, is a true embodiment of the power of perseverance.

To contact Rod, please email pedersenrecovery@aol.com.

(Narrator.com)

Tuesday, July 30, 2024

PEDERSEN RECOVERY PODCAST: CRIS CARTER

Pro Football Hall of Famer and Person In Recovery Cris Carter joins the Pedersen Recovery PODCAST with host Rod Pedersen.

The 8-time Pro Bowler and long-time ESPN and Fox NFL analyst gives a shockingly raw account of his history with Addictions and Mental Illness, and holds nothing back in this interview.

Carter answers with amazing candor and honesty:

- What's your Recovery story?

- What was life like before, and what's it like now?

- How do you deal with social pressures around drinking?

- What's your Self-Care regimen?

- What advice would you give the still-suffering Alcoholic or Addict?

- What advice would you give young people in the same position you were?

Listen to the show by clicking on the link below. If you have any suggestions for future podcast interviews, please email me or post in the Comment section!

For more information or sponsorship inquiries for Pedersen Recovery Inc., please email Director of Business Development Joe Gunnis at gunny@sasktel.net or Rod Pedersen at pedersenrecovery@aol.com. For more information on the Pedersen Recovery Right Place, Right Time Tour, click here.

Follow our Social Media links at:
Facebook: Pedersen Recovery Coaching Inc.
Twitter: @pedersenrecover
Instagram: @pedersenrecovery

The Pedersen Recovery RODCAST is produced by Jordan McRae. (@jmcraeradio)

LINK: https://soundcloud.com/ridervoice/pedersen-recovery-rodcast-ep-1-cris-carter

Monday, July 29, 2024

ADDICTION RECOVERY PODCAST: CHRIS "KNUCKLES" NILAN

In our latest Pedersen Recovery Podcast series, we sit down with famed NHL enforcer Chris "Knuckles" Nilan.

Hockey fans will remember Nilan as a bruising, fan-favourite with the Montreal Canadiens where he spent the majority of his 16 NHL seasons, winning a Stanley Cup in 1986.

The Boston, MA product now hosts a radio show on TSN 690 Montreal and also works in the Recovery field as a trained interventionist.

But what most people don't know - and I certainly didn't - is that Nilan is 8-years sober from intravenous heroin addiction, along with alcohol and other drugs. His rock bottom came in a Boston hotel bathroom where he overdosed. When he awoke, he made the decision which would ultimately save his life and that was to reach out for help.

In this podcast interview Nilan details his Recovery story, what life was like before and what it's like now, and delivers a message to the still-suffering alcoholic/addict.

The Pedersen Recovery Podcast features names from the sports and entertainment fields detailing their Recovery stories from addiction and mental illness.

Click below to hear Knuckles' Nilan's Recovery story:

Sunday, July 28, 2024

RECOVERY PODCAST: DYSLEXIA SUFFERER, ADDICTION SURVIVOR BRENT SOPEL

"I was a bully and I caused a lot of pain. Now, helping others is greater than any day on the ice." - Brent Sopel

Stanley Cup champion and NHL star Brent Sopel is the latest guest on the Pedersen Recovery Podcast!

The 42-year old Calgary product has recently gone public with his story of a lifelong battle with Dyslexia, which led to a substance abuse battle, and successful stint in a treatment center.

Sopel played in the Western Hockey League with the Saskatoon Blades and Swift Current Broncos, but admits to graduating high school at only a Grade 8 reading level.

Brent went on to a very successful NHL career with stops in Vancouver, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta and Montreal, winning a Stanley Cup with the Blackhawks in 2010. All tolled, he played 659 NHL games.

However all-the-while, he was carrying scars of being mocked in elementary school, and the frustration of not knowing what was wrong with him well into his adulthood.

The story of how he got the Dyslexia diagnosis is a cliffhanger. However even after that, it took many more years before he'd reach successful, long-term sobriety.

Nowadays, Brent Sopel is an advocate for those suffering from Dyslexia and heads up the Brent Sopel Foundation for charitable causes. He is a proud Recovery Warrior.

Please enjoy this month's Recovery podcast interview with NHL star and survivor Brent Sopel:

PEDERSEN RECOVERY RODCAST: SCOTT OAKE


"If you fight against Addiction daily and are successful, I think that makes you a hero."

- Scott Oake


The star of CBC's Hockey Night In Canada Scott Oake tells his family's Recovery story on the latest Pedersen Recovery Rodcast.

Oake's son Bruce died of a drug overdose in 2011 in Winnipeg and while the Oake family will always struggle with that loss, they are working hard to ensure Bruce's death wasn't in vain.

In this month's podcast Scott talks about what got Bruce on the wrong path, how he struggled even in Recovery, the stigma facing both active and recovering addicts, and what the family is doing to attack the Addiction Crisis in Winnipeg.

A huge thank you to our sponsors Fine Foods, Milk2Go Sport and CJ Evans Home Designs for bringing you another edition of the podcast, and for sponsoring my speaking tour on Substance Abuse Prevention and Recovery.

The next stop on the tour is Saturday, May 12 at the fundraising gala for the Oak Tree Place centre in Moose Jaw. We'll be raising funds for the opening of the facility and the speakers are Billy Cuthbert and me. For tickets email jody.oakes@sasktel.net.

Please give the podcast a listen here:

Saturday, July 27, 2024

PEDERSEN RECOVERY RODCAST: CLINT MALARCHUK

We're back for Round 2 of the Pedersen Recovery Rodcast!

As we continue to bring together the worlds of Recovery and professional sports, we chat on this episode with All Star NHL goaltender Clint Malarchuk.

We're also proud to announce the Rodcast is sponsored by Fine Foods and Saputo Dairy's Milk2Go Sport! To perform like a Pro you need to recover like a Pro.

Clint Malarchuk is a product of Grande Prairie, Alberta and played in the WHL with the Portland Winterhawks before being drafted in the 7th Round of the NHL Draft by the Quebec Nordiques.
Clint was in the NHL between 1981-1992 with the Nordiques, Sabres and Capitals and was named an NHL All-Star.

He also was the victim of one of the most tragic events in NHL history when his throat was slashed by an opponent's skate and he nearly bled to death at the Auditorium in Buffalo. That was one of many traumatic events Clint has experienced in his life and he turned to alcohol to "self-medicate" with disastrous consequences.

Clint also wrote the book The Crazy Game in which he tells stories from the crease but also of his lifelong battle with Mental Illness.

Listen to Clint's interview here, and hopefully you find some inspiration like I did from Clint's story!


Rod & Clint at Recovery Day Regina

Friday, July 26, 2024

RECOVERY PODCAST: NHL GREAT CHICO RESCH

September is Recovery Month in Saskatchewan where we celebrate people in Recovery from Alcoholism & Addiction. On our latest Recovery Podcast, we interview NHL great Glenn "Chico" Resch. Chico is a Saskatchewan product, who was born in Moose Jaw and raised in Regina.

Resch spent 14 seasons in the National Hockey League as a goaltender with the New York Islanders, Colorado Rockies, New Jersey Devils and Philadelphia Flyers. He also won a Stanley Cup while with New York.

These days, Chico is a broadcaster with the New Jersey Devils and also a key figure with Hockey Ministries International. While at the 2018 Memorial Cup in Regina, Chico and Florida Panthers goalie James Reimer spoke at the HMI Breakfast. At the soldout event, Resch shared his personal Faith story and also how he turned his life around by turning his back on alcohol.

This interview should be mandatory-listening for young athletes as well as their coaches, managers and parents as Chico and I discuss peer pressure within a locker room, and how easy it is to go down the wrong road like we did.

It's possible to turn your life around before it's too late.

Thanks to Pedersen Recovery sponsors Fine Foods, Milk2Go Sport and C.J. Evans Home Designs for their continued support of our efforts including this podcast, sober coaching, interventions, public speaking and sober events.

Listen to our latest podcast here:
Don't forget the 6th Annual Recovery Day luncheon is this Wednesday, September 19 featuring guest speaker Dr. Wendy Gore-Hickman and me as the MC.

Thanks for listening!
RP
@pedersenrecovery




MENTAL HEALTH PODCAST: NHL GOALIE & BROADCASTER COREY HIRSCH

Welcome back!

It's our first Pedersen Recovery Podcast of 2019 and we're pleased to welcome former NHL goaltender, current Vancouver Canucks broadcaster, and Mental Health Advocate Corey Hirsch!

I'd known - and known of - Corey Hirsch for quite some time. We're the same age, he's from Medicine Hat, AB, and I'd followed his illustrious playing career through his stops in Kamloops, Vancouver, New York, Washington, Dallas and Team Canada.

It was a pleasure to finally meet "Hirschy" in the living room of our mutual friend Curtis Hunt in Regina 10 or so years ago. At the time, Corey was working as a goalie coach.

But what really got my attention - and dropped my jaw - was Corey's raw column on his Mental Health battle on the popular website The Players Tribune two years ago. The courage Corey displayed in telling his story was remarkable, but it was equally sad to hear what he'd gone through including an attempt to take his own life.

Happily, Corey came out on the other side and lived to tell the tale after reaching out for assistance. Now he's sharing his story and doing his best to help others.

Here for you in our latest Recovery Podcast is Corey Hirsch telling his own personal story of battling Mental Illness, and he hopes to help others who might be battling the same thing.

Give it a listen here:

Thursday, July 25, 2024

RECOVERY PODCAST: NFL AND CFL LINEMAN XAVIER FULTON

It's a brand new month, and time for a brand new Recovery Podcast here at Pedersen Recovery Inc.

This interview is one I've been excited to post for quite some time.

At 6'5" and 285 lbs, former NFL and CFL offensive tackle Xavier Fulton certainly looks the part of a rough-and-tumble pro football player.

But his life journey has had more than its share of ups and downs, with football stops in Tampa Bay, Indianapolis, San Francisco, Washington, Edmonton, Saskatchewan, Hamilton and Montreal.

His longest stint was with the Saskatchewan Roughriders (2012-2016), but it was there where he hit his own personal rock bottom and began taking the steps to turn his life around.

Those around him didn't know what "X" was going through at the time, but it turns out to be a familiar story for anyone who's battled the demons of Alcoholism and Mental Illness.

The Chicago, IL product went public with his personal story in 2016, and is happy to share it with our podcast listeners.

Heart-breaking at times, Xavier's story is one of triumph and inspiration and I'm thrilled to be able to share it with you.

Thanks again to our Recovery sponsors Fine Foods, Milk 2 Go Sport and C.J. Evans Home Designs for their continued support of all our Recovery efforts including one-on-one coaching, public speaking, interventions, sober events and this podcast.

Please have a listen here:
 

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

RECOVERY PODCAST: CODY FAJARDO TELLS HIS FAITH STORY

Saskatchewan Roughriders quarterback Cody Fajardo is a rising star in the football world, but also within the Faith community.

The 27-year old pivot from Brea, CA has risen to prominence in the Canadian Football League in his first year as a starter, but his fifth in the CFL. He also spent time with the NFL's Oakland Raiders.

Fajardo drew headlines this season with his colourful "Sprinkle of Jesus" quote, when he led the Riders on a game-winning touchdown drive in a 24-19 victory over Hamilton on August 1 at Mosaic Stadium. After the game, Cody gave credit for his heroics to his Lord and Saviour. The comment took off within the Rider Nation, and within the religious community

In this month's Pedersen Recovery Podcast, Cody Fajardo tells his personal Faith story, how he dealt with his parents' divorce as a teen, and how he deals with critics since he wears his heart on his sleeve as a Believer.

Please enjoy this uplifting interview with Cody Fajardo:

PEDERSEN RECOVERY RODCAST: CFL ALL STAR SHEA EMRY

Photo: Bell.ca
2-Time Grey Cup champion Shea Emry is the featured guest on the latest edition of the Pedersen Recovery Rodcast.

The Richmond, BC product spent eight seasons in the CFL with Montreal, Toronto and Saskatchewan and was named a CFL All Star in 2012. The linebacker also won the prestigious Jake Gaudaur Veterans Trophy in 2013, a distinction appointed to the individual who most exemplifies the values of Canada’s Veterans.

The 31-year old is the founder and CEO of WellMen Project, a men's adventure club which aims to empower men to take initiative in their own mental wellness.

While Shea has no history of substance abuse, he is an outspoken advocate for Mental Health and in this podcast Rod shares his own battles with Mental Illness along with Shea.

The Rodcast is sponsored by Saputo Dairy's Milk 2 Go Sport and CJ Evans Home Design.

Please give it a listen!



KORY SHEETS: RECOVERY IN LIFE AFTER FOOTBALL

Photo: Jeff Sawatzky
Pro football fans' last memory of Kory Sheets is very likely the famed Saskatchewan Roughriders running back ripping off a record 197 yards rushing in the 2013 Grey Cup, and being named the MVP of a 45-23 Saskatchewan victory over Hamilton at Taylor Field.

The highest of highs, you'd think.

Just a few months later Sheets - a free agent - spurned a lucrative offer from the Roughriders to sign with the NFL's Oakland Raiders for a few thousand dollars more. The following August, on national television at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Sheets popped his achilles tendon in a preseason game against the Packers and his career was over. In the blink of an eye.

That's when the regrets, the demons, and the downward spiral began.

With Sheets in Regina in June/2019 Photo: Jeff Armstead
In an interview with The Rod Pedersen Show, Sheets bared all about what Life After Football can be like, and how his life turned south with one fateful decision.

"I wanted to either stay in Saskatchewan or go pursue my dream," the former Dolphin, 49er, Raider and Rider said. "Honestly, I left over $20,000 and now I'm sitting here saying 'man, that's stupid!' Everyday.

"I see a therapist now because I deal with mental health issues and she asked me what my biggest regret in life is.

"I was like, 'Honestly, arguing over $20,000'. I literally left Canada, where I likely should've stayed, because they wouldn't give me an extra $20,000. I could've made that up off the field (in endorsements)! Hindsight's 20/20, you live and you learn, don't sweat the little stuff."

So just a scant six months later, Sheets' career was pinched off when it was potentially at the apex. He knew the second he heard a 'pop' near his ankle that he'd suffered a second severe achilles tendon injury. The Tampa Bay product waved off the trainer's cart and walked off on his own strength, admitting to himself that his days under the lights were over.

"That's another regret," Sheets winced. "I let go of the ball. So my last carry in the NFL was a damn fumble. When it popped, I thought 'Oh no, not this again'. And it was over."

You've likely heard the stories or seen the stats about how 75% of retired NFL'ers are broke, many have taken their own lives or attempted it, and their lives have completely fallen apart.

Kory Sheets is one of them, and he bravely bared his soul on the matter in an attempt to help others.

"For me after football I went through a big stage of depression where it was bad," the 34-year old detailed. "I got committed, and stayed in a facility for five days. That whole domestic violence thing I went through, I like to talk to people about that because there's a misconception about how that went.

"I was in pain through my career, and I took it out on the person that I loved, which was all bad. I think people do that a lot and don't understand where it's coming from. The partner thinks you're mad at them but really they're just a punching bag (metaphorically speaking). They could have nothing to do with what's going on in their partner's life but it's taken out on them. That's what was going on with me."

So how did that situation get resolved?

"She left me!" Sheets blurted. "That wasn't so much of a wakeup call but it forced me to face my biggest fears. It was my girl leaving me, my career was over, having another surgery, I had to move back into my parents' house, everything I didn't want to do in life. I thought, 'Alright, something's gotta give. Clearly, what I'm doing's not helping'. And I reached out and got help. I think more people should do that."

In the Recovery world, we often refer to the term "rock bottom". Anyone who's repaired their life has one. Where was Kory Sheets' rock bottom in this story?

"It was an attempted suicide," Sheets admitted. "I saw the pain in my parents, my sisters and my best friend and all I was doing was making them cry. I was tired of seeing me hurt the people I love. I needed to go get help, and that's what I did."

Forget about facing 300-lb frothing-at-the-mouth defensive linemen or blocking blitzing linebackers. This moment took the most courage Kory had ever mustered.

"It was a long drive to the hospital. I drove myself there and they asked, 'What's going on?' and I said 'I need help'.

The euphoria that comes on the other side of life begins when you tackle your demons head-on. No more running away. And life becomes a whole lot easier after that.

That's where Kory Sheets finds himself today.

"Yeah I've moved on but it's moreso like, have you ever faced your biggest fear in life?" Sheets asked, to which I nodded yes. "It's like, what the hell you got any fear for now? The worst thing I could've ever imagined, I done went through it already! And I'm still here. Nothing can really faze me now."

Just as happy for Kory Sheets is his family, who knew they couldn't do anything till Kory decided to help himself.

"They were just happy seeing me try to get better because they were watching me beat myself down and tear myself apart," Sheets surmised. "But they couldn't help me. They didn't know how, they didn't know why or what was going on with me because I didn't talk to people. Most men don't talk to people about their feelings.

"And I think that needs to change."

Sheets has a message for anyone who finds themself in a similar situation, and is wondering if there's a way out. It's not hopeless.

"You're not alone," Sheets concluded. "We're all struggling out here. Life is hard whether you're rich, poor or in the middle. Just talk to somebody and don't be afraid to reach out and get help. I promise you it's there and your loved ones will want to help you."

For more information on Kory Sheets or to book him for your event, visit his website at https://www.sheets24k.com.

(Rod Pedersen is a Recovery Coach in Sports, Entertainment & Military. He spent 20 seasons in the CFL as a Hall of Fame broadcaster.)

Tuesday, July 23, 2024

RECOVERY, SOBRIETY AND A BRONCOS COACH

Saskatchewan was rocked on April 6, 2018 by the devastating bus crash which took the lives of 16 players and staff of the Humboldt Broncos hockey club.

Remarkably, Broncos Assistant Coach Chris Beaudry - who celebrated his 4-year sober anniversary the day before the accident - survived the catastrophe simply because he was driving on his own to the playoff game in Nipawin, SK.

He wasn't on the bus.

Beaudry - a farmer from St. Front, SK and married father of two - has been very vocal about his sobriety, appearing in interviews and podcasts across North America since he made the positive life change in 2014.

And for the purposes of this Recovery podcast, Beaudry wanted to share his Recovery story and how it relates to the devastating circumstances in which he currently finds himself with the Broncos. If he can help someone, he wants to be that positive influence in their life.

When the interview was completed in the parking lot of a church in Northwest Regina, I asked Chris if he was happy with how it went.  "Yes," he smiled. "Very happy."

In the podcast you'll discover:

- Chris's Recovery story.

- What his life was like before sobriety and what it's like now.

- His daily self-care regimen.

- Why he thinks he survived and his best friends, and "sons", did not.

- How he's coping with the Broncos tragedy and helping the families of others.

It's a very emotional and fairly graphic interview in which Coach Beaudry holds nothing back. If that sounds like it may be too much for you, I encourage you NOT to listen.

You can access the show here:

As always thank you to Pedersen Recovery Inc. sponsors Fine Foods, Saputo Dairy's Milk2Go Sport and C.J. Evans Home Designs for their continued support of our Recovery efforts and this podcast. 

RP
TWITTER: @pedersenrecover
INSTAGRAM: @pedersenrecovery

Saturday, August 26, 2023

TOP 10 BEST THINGS OF A SOBER LIFE

Nine times out of 10 when someone I meet learns that I no longer drink (3,124 days as of this writing), they say, "Boy it must be great not having to deal with hangovers!"

Of course it is, but in truth that's about the 10th best thing I've discovered from leading a sober life. So for this week's blog post, here are my Top 10 Best Things of My Sober Life after hitting rock bottom on January 26, 2015:

1 - NO FEAR: The rest of these points really are in no particular order but this is my clearcut #1. Why? Because imagine being paralyzed by fear so much that you're afraid to look at your phone, you shudder in a cold sweat each and every time a text or call comes in because you assume you're in trouble for something you did or said while drinking (and most times you don't even remember doing it). Imagine having to tiptoe around your boss's office to avoid his angry glare for your drunken antics, or constantly worry about "who's talking to who" about the drama you created about yourself.

Now, all of that is gone and that's the biggest relief in the world.

2 - EXPERIENCING LIFE: A week long trip to Mexico seems like two weeks, or a 2-day road trip seems like a 4-day adventure because you're not drunk half the time and hungover in bed for the other half. Somebody just asked me this week how I handle so much life on the road without drinking and he said "What's life like?" Well, it was exhilarating to be sitting in a Starbucks in downtown Toronto at 7:00 am last Saturday when Pro Football Hall of Famer Cris Carter walked in. The old me would've still been in bed sleeping it off. On this morning, Carter and I chatted, took a photo, and I soon learned he's in long-term Recovery too. That's one of hundreds of examples of how nice it is to be "with it", and finally enjoying the real side of life rather than getting loaded in a dingy bar.

3 - FREEDOM: It's a real thing. Not having to take the long way around a checkstop never gets old, and it's empowering to drive by a cop and look him in the eye. This may seem elementary to you if you're not an alcoholic, but hardcore drinkers will nod their heads like a bobblehead when they read this. Above all else, it's nice to be able to rent a car on so many of our trips and know Blood Alcohol Level won't be a problem. Travelling across borders is effortless and free. Sober living is win, win, win.

4 - TRUST: This has to rank up near the top, and it's wide-ranging. But the big one is the security that my wife and family feels about me now when I'm off on my own. There are no worries that I'll get into trouble or injure myself. A scrape on my shin or hands is easily explained - and believed - rather than the elaborate lies I had to cook up in my old life. That was exhausting. Now it's all gone. My family knows I'll be doing the right thing, all the time, when I'm gone or when they're gone.


Photo by Larry Mueller
5 - FINANCES: This shouldn't be surprising, but it's bigger than you think. It's one thing to ring up high bar tabs for yourself and buy the whole tavern drinks just so you have somebody to drink with (pathetic I know, but it was a regular occurrence). But what about this: lost sunglasses, cell phones, VEHICLES, and every other material possession you could think of. It didn't take very long into Recovery for me to see my bank account go up, up, and up. In fact, I bought a Jeep with money I've saved in sobriety and it's a reward I enjoy every day.

6 - RESPECT AND SELF-RESPECT: Did you know the most important things on this earth, you can't buy? (Love, respect, trust, dignity, health). I'm literally years into Recovery and still digging myself out of the 25-year hole I created while wallowing in the disease of Alcoholism. It's a day-by-day effort to restore respect and dignity and it only comes by proving yourself every 24 hours (hence our favourite saying, One Day At A Time). However the days stack up into weeks, months and years and I've met a lot of new people who have no idea about my past. They say I'm a nice, respectable, admirable person and some even call me Mr. Pedersen. I never thought getting to this point would ever be possible. Again, what a reward for sobriety.

On the flipside, as an addict you allow people to treat you like garbage because you think you are garbage. Because of your dirty little secret, you don't think you can have nice things. However once that secret is out in the open and dealt with, life becomes a whole new world. Put it this way: if you mistreat me now, you'd better be prepared for a fight.

7 - CLEAR MIND: They call it the "Alcoholic Fog" and it too is a thing. Booze really takes over your brain and clouds all of your thinking. That, I feel, is why 90 days in Recovery is a real milestone because by that point, you should be coming out of the fog, detangling your mind, feeling 100% better physically, and realizing a sober life is the ONLY option for an alcoholic. There were times on my radio show where my mind would just "freeze" because of my drinking and I literally could not think. That is not optimum on live radio. It was absolutely horrible.

One day last year I was sitting on the patio of a coffee house in Phoenix and looked up at the blue, cloudless sky. I thought to myself, "My mind is as clear as that Arizona sky." What a feeling!

8 - MY HEALTH: You would think this would be higher on the list, and perhaps it should be. When I got into Recovery everyone kept saying, "You're sick!" and "You're not well!" What on earth were they talking about? I was in the gym at least an hour everyday. But it was the shock of my life when my doctor said I'd be dead in a year the way I was going if I didn't change my life, pronto. Someone told me last week that I look 10 years younger. My skin is fresh and that's likely because I sleep like a baby. ("A clean conscience is the softest pillow" - John Wooden). I am preparing for a long and happy life rather than wishing I was dead, which I did just a few years ago.

9 - NOT FEELING LOST: This kind of spills into my Anxiety Disorder but it's another real thing. As an alcoholic you feel like you're on an island - except for your drinking buddies - but when you get into Recovery you meet dozens, maybe even hundreds, of people who are just like you. That's a nice feeling. And by keeping a daily journal you plant your feet on the ground rather than waving around in the wind like a balloon. I got started in this by my accountant who wanted me to track my mileage on a daily basis. Soon I was writing down who I talk with daily, where I went for lunch, family events, etc. Basically, it feels like you have your shit together for the first time in your life.

10 - NO HANGOVERS: So, yes, not having hangovers is a pretty wonderful way to go through life but it doesn't really compare to the nine other points above. Plus, when you drink as much as an alcoholic does, hangovers aren't really that bad. I see people who go on benders once or twice every year and sometimes wonder, "Why can't I do that?" However I quickly realize that I was doing it every weekend or sometimes multiple times per week. It was completely ruining my life and I'm grateful every minute of every day that I found the road out.

* If you have a serious problem with alcohol (if it's causing problems in your life), then it's imperative that you seek help. If it's deemed that you suffer from Alcoholism, then drinking can no longer be part of your life.

Hopefully this week's blog shows you what the upside of that is. It's ALL positive.

RP
Twitter: @pedersenrecover
IG: @pedersenrecovery
FB: Pedersen Recovery & Coaching Inc.

SC: Pedersenmedia

Tuesday, April 18, 2023

BRUINS' MONTGOMERY PROVING RECOVERY WORKS


BOSTON
— Jim Montgomery was at his lowest point after he was fired by the Dallas Stars for what he has since admitted was a drinking problem.

Three years later, he is at the top of the NHL, coaching the Boston Bruins to the best record in NHL history. It wouldn’t have been possible if not for the lessons learned during his exile, his rehab and his climb back through the coaching ranks.

“You’re filled with guilt and shame. You’re not even thinking about when’s your next job,” Montgomery said in an interview with The Associated Press. “I was at the nadir of my life. Then you start building yourself back up and you start to get your life in order first and work on yourself. And then you start getting back. And you become better at everything.”

A native of Canada who led Maine to the 1993 NCAA title — scoring a third-period hat trick in the final — Montgomery played in 122 NHL games over six years before he turned to coaching. He won two U.S. junior titles and led Denver to an NCAA championship before he was hired by Dallas.

In his first season, the Stars made the playoffs for the first time in three years. In his second, he had a team that reached the Stanley Cup Final.

But he wouldn’t get there with them.

Montgomery was fired 32 games into the year for what the team called unprofessional conduct. He has since admitted to binge drinking to the point of blackouts, and conceded that he deserved to be fired. After going through rehab, he began working his way back.

Montgomery spent two seasons as an assistant in St. Louis, the team that signed him as a player out of college. He made himself a better coach, he said, absorbing what he could from every system he worked in along the way.

When the Bruins gave him his second chance as a head coach, he brought those lessons with him, creating his own “system” from the bits and pieces he picked up.

He also came out of it stronger as a leader, and more empathic.

“You become a lot more aware and mindful of how other people are doing,” Montgomery said. “I’m talking about someone, maybe they’re off, and they’re off because, well, maybe their dog passed away, their grandmother’s ill. And that’s where I think I’m a much more aware and much more in touch with how other people are doing.”

Montgomery’s predecessor, Bruce Cassidy, led the Bruins to the seventh game of the 2019 Stanley Cup Final and at least 100 points in each of his full, non-pandemic seasons in Boston. But some players bristled at his coaching style, and the front office concluded that younger players couldn’t develop under Cassidy’s harsh glare.

Montgomery – so far, at least – has fronted a softer image.

“I definitely see a guy who has worked really hard on making the right approach to being the best coach that he can be, and person off the ice,” defenseman Brandon Carlo said. “The jokes that he makes, the things that he does are pretty funny. And it’s allowed us to connect with him on a different level, just on a personal level as well.”

Carlo declined to provide any examples of Montgomery’s humor, but categorized the 53-year-old coach’s sense of humor as “definitely dad jokes.” Told of this, Montgomery laughed and confessed to telling jokes that might tend toward the corny and dated: “I do a lot of that.”

So instead of chewing out defenseman Connor Clifton for taking too many chances on the ice, Montgomery good-heartedly calls him Kenny Rogers, after the 1978 song, “The Gambler.” He drops in references to Mike Bossy, the Hall of Famer who led the Islanders to four straight Stanley Cup championships in the 1980s, or Canadiens icon Guy Lafleur.

“Some of these guys don’t know who Mike Bossy is or was, or Guy Lafleur,” Montgomery said with a chuckle.

“He’s done a very good job of that, making it light in here and making it fun,” Carlo said. “Especially in the moments where we are having success.”

Five months after taking over in Boston, Montgomery’s office at the team’s practice facility is still largely unadorned, with a picture of his children the only personal touch among hockey charts and diagrams. He said he would eventually like to add some memorabilia that recognizes the Original Six franchise’s long tradition of success, which includes six Cup championships but none since 2011.

In the meantime, he is trying to create more.

Montgomery’s smooth transition has helped the Bruins weather what was supposed to be a rough fall, with top forward Brad Marchand and top defenseman Charlie McAvoy missing the start of the season due to injuries. The expectation was that if the Bruins could remain competitive early, they could pick up ground once reinforcements arrived.

“This is a real easy group,” he said. “Everybody cares about everybody. And I’m not talking teammates with teammates only. That happens. But it’s also how they treat equipment managers, everybody who’s involved. There’s a lot of communication up and down the ladder.”

“And then,” he added, “you’ve got the talent on the ice.”

Montgomery said no one expected these kind of results so early.

“But we try and stay in the present,” he said. “Because if you’re worried about the future — when are these three guys going to get healthy? — well, then you’re not thinking about how you’re going to get better that day.”

(Associated Press/Photo: Boston Bruins)

Thursday, May 27, 2021

MONTREAL GAZETTE: RIDERS' PEDERSEN GETS LIFE, CAREER BACK ON TRACK

The following story originally appeared in the Montreal Gazette's June 29/2018 edition, in the Inside The CFL feature, written by Hall of Fame writer Herb Zurkowsky:

REGINA — More than three years later, Rod Pedersen still tells the story when asked, almost as though it has become cathartic to relive his battle with alcoholism and the subsequent fight to become sober.

And each time the narrative becomes easier, each graphic detail of a life that was spiralling into self-destruction flowing more readily.

“They say when you can tell your story without crying, you’ve healed,” Pedersen said. “Most times, I can tell it without crying.”

Pedersen, 45, a big fish in a small pond, has been the radio voice of the Saskatchewan Roughriders for 20 seasons, a broadcaster at Regina radio station CKRM since 1995. And he easily could have lost it all.

The native of Milestone, Sask., a farming community (pop. 640) 50 kilometres south of Regina, began drinking at age 16.

Perhaps Pedersen was bored living in such a small town. Or perhaps it was the peer pressure. Or perhaps he succumbed to a genetic predisposition. His father, Jim, also a recovering alcoholic, drank for 43 years until 1974, and warned his son the condition might be passed down.

“I knew it was a potential problem. It was causing problems in my life early on. I just wasn’t willing to look at them,” Pedersen said. “I was drinking until I blacked out, and that didn’t deter me. I could not quit. The idea of reaching out and asking for help never donned on me.

“I thank God I never tried drugs. I wouldn’t be sitting here, talking to you today. I’d be dead.”

Pedersen, once the voice of the junior hockey Prince Albert Raiders at age 20, never drank before or during a Riders broadcast — the sanctity of that job in Saskatchewan simply too important. But he also hosts a daily sports talk show that, at one point, was simultaneously sponsored by three breweries, all of which readily made their products available at the station. And it wasn’t uncommon for Pedersen to broadcast the show from banquets or sports bars.

“It (beer) was like a magic tonic to me. I literally couldn’t get enough of it,” he said. “I wanted to drink to the point where I couldn’t move. I had it stashed all over the station. If I didn’t black out, I didn’t think I was drunk. The floor of my car vehicle was littered with beer cans. Shockingly, I didn’t think that was a problem.”

In summer 2014, Pedersen successfully auditioned for his dream job and was hired to become the radio voice of the Calgary Flames. And, when his drinking problem was discovered, quickly, he was removed from the position. That sent him into a deep depression — later diagnosed as anxiety disorder — and accelerated his drinking.

“If you thought I drank too much, just watch me. Now I’m going to drink more,” he remembered vowing.

The more he drank, the louder and more obnoxious he became. Once the life of the party, the funny guy with the one-liners, Pedersen quickly discovered none of his friends wanted to associate with him.

“That becomes the loneliest place in the world and, frankly, quite embarrassing,” he said.

Pedersen mixed anti-depressants with alcohol while on the job. He was frequently sent home from work and was forced by his employer to sign documents stating, were he drunk in public or at work, he would be terminated. Finally, in January 2015, drugs in his system and so drunk he was incoherent, Pedersen was suspended, told to enter a recovery program or he’d be fired.

“I gave them more than enough reasons to terminate me,” he said.

The first year of his recovery battle was the most difficult, Pedersen said, avoiding the temptation of reaching for a drink; the constant battle raging in his head between the good and bad voices, along with the craving for alcohol.

Pedersen will never say for certain the habit has been kicked. He wants to say it’s behind him, and believes that to be true. He proudly proclaims he vacationed at an all-inclusive Mexican resort last winter, not one drop of alcohol touching his palate despite the voice in his head arguing nobody would know if he had just one drink. What would it matter?

Pedersen continues to attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings once a week. He attended classes in the U.S., received a diploma as an addiction-treatment specialist and coaches recovering alcoholics three or four times each week. He also works in conjunction with the Betty Ford Center.

Most importantly, on Saturday night, after the Riders-Alouettes broadcast concludes, Pedersen will go straight home where his wife since 2012, Cindy, will await.

“A lot of people didn’t think I could overcome this and win the battle,” Pedersen said proudly. “That was the fuel, to prove them wrong. It’s a happy story, and the world doesn’t have a lot of them.

“Don’t give up on yourself, because I did. Anybody can be saved.”

hzurkowsky@postmedia.com

http://montrealgazette.com/sports/football/cfl/inside-the-cfl-riders-radio-host-gets-his-life-career-back-on-track

Saturday, June 27, 2020

BOOK REVIEW: MENtal HEALTH BY ALLAN KEHLER

2020 hasn't been ALL bad.

For the past few months I kept hearing the name Allan Kehler, Allan Kehler, ALLAN KEHLER. The name had been coming up in my conversations with friends like Clint Malarchuk, Health industry personnel and media folk. Allan's mug even popped up in my Facebook feed under "People You May Know". But I didn't know him.

It seemed Allan Kehler's name is a trusted one, and my friends told me he's a Mental Health advocate, motivational speaker and best-selling author out of Saskatoon. "You've gotta meet him," they kept saying. "You two'd hit it off!"

And then this week, out of the blue, I got a note from Allan saying he was going to be in my city and he asked for a meeting. As I've learned in Recovery when someone opens a door for you, you walk through it. So we set up a time to meet on Friday at the studios of my daily sports talkshow.

That in itself was a gong show and Allan would have his first "Welcome To Rod's Life" moment as he had to adjust his schedule for my antique Jeep breaking down, which threw a kink into our plans. Then he had to wade through a staff barbecue in our studio parking lot being thrown by retired NFL'er-turned-TV analyst Tori Gurley. (Allan graciously accepted a hotdog).

Once inside the IKS Media building, we closed the glass door to a nice air conditioned conference room and got down to business. 

You see when two people in Recovery and in the "helping people" business connect, you get to the heart of the matter real fast and the conversation can last for hours. The rest of the world doesn't *get us*, so we cherish the few who do.  ("Why would you help somebody else with no expectation of a return?" is the popular refrain from the earthlings). 

Anyway after briefly sharing our stories and scheming how best to team up our services, Allan handed me four copies of his latest book MENtal Health - It's Time To Talk, with the foreword by famed broadcaster and Mental Health speaker Michael Landsberg.

I promised Allan I would read it over the weekend but in truth, I crushed it by noon on Saturday. That's a testament in two ways: 1) I couldn't put it down, and 2) The book is framed in small, bite-sized chapters which makes it easily digestible. If you have a passion for this stuff, you'll blaze through it too.

And what's different about Kehler's fourth book is that it's tailored specifically to men. It examines the stats on men's Mental Health issues versus women's, how they affect each gender differently (inward versus outward reactions), and much, much more.


With Allan Kehler (left) at IKS Media
There are a host of short stories from men from all walks of life sharing their struggles. You want to hear from the guy running through downtown barefoot in a hospital gown and wonder why he did it? That guy tells you in this book. You want to know why farmers are among the most stressed and anxious blue-collar workers and how they deal with it (or DON'T deal with it?). You'll hear from one young farmer - who's also a junior hockey coach - on how we've been looking at it all wrong our whole lives. You'll also hear from the First Responder whose PTSD led him down the wrong path before he turned his life around with the proper help.

And that right there is the biggest key. I'll admit there's a tornado of stories encapsulated in the 181 pages which can be a lot to absorb in one sitting. But one key message kept coming through over and over:

You need to reach out for assistance if you're struggling. Nobody can do it for you and once you're tired enough of living in the storm, it's up to you to take the first step. And if a door or two gets slammed in your face, don't be discouraged. Try another door. Keep trying doors until the right one opens because you'll find it.

The publication is also rife with little nuggets that'll stay with you forever, like: "You are the author of your life. But the universe is the editor". That one came from the guy who was running barefoot downtown in a hospital gown. Maybe he's not so crazy after all.

MENtal Health is a collection of stories from the winners who kept fighting and came out on the other side. They didn't give up no matter how much adversity was shoved in their face.

Who doesn't love a good comeback story?

And one other thing about 2020 not being so bad. There are have been countless horrible things go on this calendar year which are largely out of our control. However we are also in the midst of the digital age and no matter where you live in the world - no matter how remote or even how congested it is - you can find all the resources and the "right door" online.

Shame, embarrassment and stigma are no longer viable excuses for not getting help.

Allan Kehler's book gives you the keys to get your life back.

Bravo.

Order yours direct-to-home from Allan's website: https://www.outfromtheshadows.ca/shop/mental-health-its-time-to-talk/
or at your local Indigo/Chapters.

Rod Pedersen
Pedersen Recovery Inc./The Recovery Hour

Friday, June 5, 2020

RECOVERY ADVOCATE PEDERSEN SPEAKS AT PEACOCK

(Photo: Zach Drake, DiscoverMooseJaw.com)
By: Zach Drake, DiscoverMooseJaw.com
Alcohol and drugs have never been more easily accessible to youth, and that's the reason many feel it's so important to educate them on the dangers of substance abuse early.
Former voice of the Saskatchewan Roughriders Rod Pedersen now works as a Sober Coach with Pedersen Recovery INC. for athletes, entertainers, the military and more who are battling addictions and mental illness.
Pedersen spends a lot of time working as a recovery advocate and serving as a keynote speaker.
Thursday afternoon, Pedersen spoke to a group of students at Peacock Collegiate. He described what his main message was in the presentation.
"Well, the number one weapon against addiction is prevention. So if we can stop kids before they've started drugs and alcohol abuse it's a win right there. If it's an older group I talk to, I say 'it's never too late to turn your life around' but with kids like this at Peacock I say 'it's never too early'. If you're starting to experience issues with mental health or addictions/substance abuse, look into it. Don't let it take your life down the drain like it did with mine."
Pedersen also explained why it's important to educate youth, even as young as 10 years old.
"I've become big on numbers. Suicide rates have tripled for kids 10-14, and there's a variety of reasons why that is ... a lot of excuses why that is. It's an important age; it's when people start to make life-altering decisions. Again it's about prevention, the number one weapon against addiction is prevention. We're trying to get to them as early as we can, because it's easier to build boys and girls than it is to repair men and women."
Pedersen added that it only takes one person in your corner to turn your life around and that it could be as simple as a single sentence that saves your life.

Thursday, August 15, 2019

RECOVERY PODCAST: RAPTORS ANNOUNCER HERBIE KUHN

Like millions of Canadians, it's very likely you were wrapped up in the thrilling Toronto Raptors run to the 2019 NBA championship this past spring!

And, if you were tuned into the broadcasts on TSN and Sportsnet, you'll recall a deep, baritone voice introducing "Yourrrrrrrrrrr Toronnnnnto Rrrrrraptors!" to the hardwood at Scotiabank Arena before thousands of fans, and millions more on TV.

That voice belongs to my friend Herbie Kuhn who, in addition to his role as Public Address Announcer for Canada's NBA Team, serves as the club's official co-Chaplin. He is also the Team Chaplin for the CFL's Toronto Argonauts, and that's how he and I crossed paths.

It was at the 2016 Grey Cup in Toronto, where Herbie was serving as the MC for the annual Athletes In Action Breakfast at the Sheraton in Downtown Toronto. I'll detail a little more of the story in the podcast, but suffice it to say that Herbie and I met, exchanged numbers, and became fast friends.

Fast forward to today, and Herbie can now say he's a champion of both the CFL and the NBA! But he took a long, tough road to get there due to a battle with substance abuse and mental health issues before turning his life around. Now, he's helping others get out of similar funks and clearly he's doing great things.

Please enjoy our visit with Raptors announcer Herbie Kuhn on this month's Pedersen Recovery Podcast:

ABOUT ME! Pedersen Media/Pedersen Recovery Inc.

We often come across individuals who excel in multiple fields, and Rod Pedersen is undoubtedly one of them. With a diverse skill set that en...