The Battle Within: Joe’s Journey from Addiction to Purpose

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett welcomes Joe for a no-holds-barred conversation about his journey through addiction, despair, and his incredible transformation into a beacon of hope in the recovery community. Joe’s story is one of resilience, redemption, and the profound impact of finding purpose.

From a childhood marked by feelings of isolation and self-doubt to years of struggling with addiction, incarceration, and self-destruction, Joe recounts his path with raw honesty. He shares how his substance use spiraled into chaos, pushing him to the brink of suicide before a critical turning point—a realization that recovery was possible and his life still had meaning.

Nick and Joe discuss the pivotal moments that shaped his transformation, including his early recovery journey, the importance of accountability, and the life-changing support of his wife and granddaughter. Joe reveals how finding community, leaning into faith, and embracing vulnerability gave him the tools to rebuild his life. Today, Joe is a leader in the recovery field, creating programs and offering support to those seeking to escape the grips of addiction.

This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance, the value of service, and the life-changing rewards of sobriety. Joe’s inspiring journey offers hope for anyone searching for redemption and proof that no mess is too big to clean up.

Episode Highlights:

•00:00 Introduction: From Chaos to Purpose

•02:00 Guest Introduction: Joe’s Journey of Struggle and Redemption

•06:00 Childhood and the Roots of Isolation

•14:00 Addiction Unleashed: Substance Use and the Cycle of Shame

•25:00 Rock Bottom: Incarceration, Loss, and Near-Death Experiences

•32:00 The Turning Point: Recovery Begins with Faith and Community

•38:00 Finding Purpose: Joe’s Work in the Recovery Community

•46:00 Building Connection: The Role of Accountability and Service

•58:00 Fatherhood and Legacy: Lessons for Future Generations

•1:10:00 Advice for the Struggling: “How Bad Do You Want It?”

•1:16:00 Final Thoughts: Life After Addiction

Key Themes:

•The roots of addiction and the courage to face one’s truth

•The importance of accountability, community, and faith in recovery

•Overcoming shame and building self-worth

•Fatherhood, resilience, and creating a legacy of hope

•The ongoing journey of sobriety and the joy of serving others

Joe’s story will resonate with anyone battling addiction or searching for a path to redemption. His unwavering commitment to helping others is a reminder that every step forward can inspire change and healing in the lives of countless others.

#RecoveryJourney #BreakingAddiction #FaithAndPurpose #DomesticDadPodcast #ResilienceInRecovery #FatherhoodLegacy #SobrietySuccess #OvercomingShame #CommunityHealing #StrengthInService

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Elevate: https://elevateccbhc.org/

Joe Trumbley Social: https://www.facebook.com/joe.trumbley.7

In this powerful episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett welcomes Quovadis Marshall, affectionately known as Pastor Q, the Pastor of Hope City Church in Waterloo, Iowa, and the author of the life-changing book Fighting for Love: Fighting for Life, Love, and All That Matters. https://www.fightingforlove.us

This conversation delves deep into Pastor Q’s remarkable story—a journey from brokenness to redemption. Raised in a home marked by poverty, chaos, and broken relationships, Pastor Q sought belonging in all the wrong places. From gang life to a robbery at age 19 that led to over seven years in prison, his journey is a testament to the transformative power of God’s grace and intentionality.

Pastor Q shares how a single moment changed his life forever—the day God knocked on his door—literally—and set him on a path toward healing, restoration, and a renewed purpose. Through candid storytelling, he opens up about his “BC days” (before Christ): a time defined by anger, selfishness, and dysfunction, especially in his marriage. With vulnerability and wisdom, Pastor Q and Nick unpack the lessons that helped him rebuild trust, embrace his role as a leader, and fight for what truly matters—his family, his faith, and his legacy.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

• Building Strong Marriages: Insights from Fighting for Love on how to fight for your spouse, not against them, and how conflict can serve as a tool for intimacy and growth.

• Breaking Generational Cycles: Replacing unhealthy family patterns with love, trust, and a purpose rooted in faith.

• Fatherhood and Leadership: Why embracing vulnerability and accountability is essential for leading your family with integrity.

• Faith as the Foundation: The life-changing power of God’s grace in rewriting even the most broken stories.

This episode offers more than inspiration—it’s packed with practical advice and biblical wisdom for anyone looking to strengthen their relationships, lead their families, and build a legacy rooted in love and faith.

Nick and Pastor Q challenge listeners to step into their calling, drop the pride, and begin actively fighting for love in their marriages, families, and personal growth. Whether you’re seeking encouragement, wisdom, or a fresh perspective on what it means to fight for what matters most, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped.

Fighting For Love Book: https://www.fightingforlove.us

Fighting For Love on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0zSMkzR

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The holiday season is here, and while it’s a time for joy, family, and celebration, it can also be a minefield for those navigating sobriety. In this episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up the Mess, Nick Barnett reflects on his personal journey of transforming holiday chaos into a season of hope and connection through sobriety. Packed with insights, practical advice, and heartfelt stories, this episode is your guide to staying sober, present, and purposeful during the holidays.

Nick breaks down six actionable tips to help you not only survive but thrive during the holiday season. From preparing for social gatherings to creating meaningful sober traditions, you’ll walk away with tools to stay strong in your recovery. Whether you’re newly sober or years into your journey, this episode will resonate deeply.

Key Takeaways with Timestamps:

•[00:01:00] Opening Reflection: Nick paints a vivid picture of how his holidays once revolved around heavy drinking and the impact it had on his family.

•[00:04:00] The Dangerous Illusion of Control: A candid discussion about how addiction tricks us into thinking we’re in charge, while it silently steals joy and connection.

•[00:07:00] Tip 1 - Plan Your Gatherings with Sobriety in Mind: Learn why preparation is your best ally and how to create a fail-proof plan for navigating parties and family events.

•[00:09:00] Tip 2 - Practice Saying No: Nick shares how to confidently decline offers of alcohol and manage social pressures with grace.

•[00:11:00] Tip 3 - Create Sober Traditions: Discover creative ways to replace old drinking habits with meaningful holiday rituals that bring joy and connection.

•[00:13:00] Tip 4 - Backup Plans for Triggering Situations: From managing family dynamics to finding quiet spaces, Nick outlines strategies to stay grounded during stressful moments.

•[00:16:00] Tip 5 - Prioritize Self-Care: Explore why rest, reflection, and personal downtime are critical for staying sober during the holiday hustle.

•[00:18:00] Tip 6 - Focus on the True Meaning of the Holidays: A call to shift your energy toward gratitude, faith, family, and connection to make the holidays truly special.

•[00:21:00] Closing Thoughts: Nick reflects on his third sober Christmas and offers hope and encouragement for listeners navigating similar paths.

Keywords:

Sobriety during the holidays, tips for staying sober, holiday sobriety strategies, managing family triggers, sober traditions for Christmas, coping with holiday stress in recovery, staying present while sober, creating sober holiday memories, overcoming addiction, sobriety podcast, Domestic Dad podcast, sobriety tips for parents, staying alcohol-free at Christmas, recovery during the holidays.

Why You Should Listen:

Whether you’re dealing with addiction, in early recovery, or looking for ways to support a loved one, this episode offers relatable stories and practical advice to make this holiday season a meaningful and sober celebration. Tune in now to gain the confidence and clarity you need to thrive during this festive time of year!

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Overcoming Trauma and Finding Purpose | Marcus “Smooth” Norris Shares His Powerful Story

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up The Mess, host Nick Barnett sits down with Marcus “Smooth” Norris for an inspiring conversation about overcoming unimaginable trauma, finding purpose, and using his experiences to uplift others.

Marcus shares his journey from a childhood marked by violence, tragedy, and adversity to becoming a beacon of hope for his community. Shot in the head at just seven years old, Marcus faced a life-altering injury that left him with physical and emotional scars. Despite the odds, he refused to be defined by his circumstances. From enduring multiple losses, including the death of his father and mother, to finding solace and strength in fatherhood, Marcus reveals the battles he fought to heal and grow.

This episode dives deep into the creation of Marcus’s inspirational brand, Reality Check Movement, which combines motivational apparel and community engagement to spark change and inspire others to chase their dreams. Nick and Marcus discuss the healing power of vulnerability, the importance of creating safe spaces for young people, and the strength that comes from leaning into your purpose—even when life feels insurmountable.

Through candid stories of faith, fatherhood, and resilience, Marcus demonstrates how the darkest moments can plant seeds for the brightest futures. His journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of healing, community, and staying true to one’s values.

Topics Covered in This Episode:

✔️ How Marcus overcame childhood trauma and loss

✔️ The creation of Reality Check Movement and its impact

✔️ Lessons from fatherhood and co-parenting with compassion

✔️ Mental health, resilience, and personal growth

✔️ Empowering kids to dream big and find their purpose

Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction: Turning Trauma into Triumph

2:00 Marcus’s Early Life: Violence, Adversity, and Survival

12:00 Building Resilience: Coping with Loss and Finding Strength

22:30 Creating Reality Check Movement: Turning Pain into Purpose

35:00 The Role of Fatherhood: Lessons Learned from a 4-Year-Old Son

43:00 Co-Parenting with Compassion: Communicating for Your Child’s Growth

52:00 Helping Kids Dream Big: Empowering Youth Through Creativity

1:00:00 Final Words: Finding Grace, Healing, and Community

Why You Should Watch This Episode:

Marcus’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of faith and resilience. Whether you’re navigating challenges in your own life, seeking inspiration, or looking for actionable advice on personal growth, this episode offers powerful insights that will resonate with you.

💡 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories and practical advice on fatherhood, healing, and personal growth!

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#OvercomingTrauma #ResilienceInAction #RealityCheckMovement #DomesticDadPodcast #FatherhoodJourney #HealingAndFaith #MentalHealthMatters #InspiringStories #PersonalGrowth #MotivationalPodcast

🎧 Watch, Learn, and Be Inspired!

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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