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<rss xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:googleplay="http://www.google.com/schemas/play-podcasts/1.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0"><channel><title>The Next Right STEPS podcast</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/show/the-next-right-steps-podcast</link><description><![CDATA[If you or someone close to you is struggling, here are proven techniques to improve your life and prevent addiction and bad habits from taking you down. Hear from someone who’s been there how you can find more peace, joy, and purpose in your life, starting today!     <br /><br />The world’s most effective (and misunderstood) life improvement program has been used successfully by millions of people. Amazingly, most others aren’t even aware of it! Learn how you can worry less, be happier, and find meaning and significance one day at a time. And how you can prevent addiction from ruining your life or the life of someone you care about.<br /><br />Because we all have issues, and it seems that everyone is addicted to something. But you don’t have to reinvent the wheel or haphazardly search the internet for help. There are proven principles from the world of recovery that can lead you on a daily journey to a better life. There is hope and promise for the future, if you take the next right steps.]]></description><atom:link href="https://www.spreaker.com/show/4748021/episodes/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><language>en</language><category>Mental Health</category><copyright>Copyright Steve Ward</copyright><image><url>https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg</url><title>The Next Right STEPS podcast</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/show/the-next-right-steps-podcast</link></image><lastBuildDate>Thu, 22 Jul 2021 15:34:48 +0000</lastBuildDate><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:owner><itunes:name>Steve Ward</itunes:name><itunes:email>feeds@spreaker.com</itunes:email></itunes:owner><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:subtitle>If you or someone close to you is struggling, here are proven techniques to improve your life and prevent addiction and bad habits from taking you down. Hear from someone who’s been there how you can find more peace, joy, and purpose in your life,...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[If you or someone close to you is struggling, here are proven techniques to improve your life and prevent addiction and bad habits from taking you down. Hear from someone who’s been there how you can find more peace, joy, and purpose in your life, starting today!     <br /><br />The world’s most effective (and misunderstood) life improvement program has been used successfully by millions of people. Amazingly, most others aren’t even aware of it! Learn how you can worry less, be happier, and find meaning and significance one day at a time. And how you can prevent addiction from ruining your life or the life of someone you care about.<br /><br />Because we all have issues, and it seems that everyone is addicted to something. But you don’t have to reinvent the wheel or haphazardly search the internet for help. There are proven principles from the world of recovery that can lead you on a daily journey to a better life. There is hope and promise for the future, if you take the next right steps.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:category text="Health &amp; Fitness"><itunes:category text="Mental Health"/></itunes:category><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:email>feeds@spreaker.com</googleplay:email><googleplay:description>If you or someone close to you is struggling, here are proven techniques to improve your life and prevent addiction and bad habits from taking you down. Hear from someone who’s been there how you can find more peace, joy, and purpose in your life, starting today!     

The world’s most effective (and misunderstood) life improvement program has been used successfully by millions of people. Amazingly, most others aren’t even aware of it! Learn how you can worry less, be happier, and find meaning and significance one day at a time. And how you can prevent addiction from ruining your life or the life of someone you care about.

Because we all have issues, and it seems that everyone is addicted to something. But you don’t have to reinvent the wheel or haphazardly search the internet for help. There are proven principles from the world of recovery that can lead you on a daily journey to a better life. There is hope and promise for the future, if you take the next right steps.</googleplay:description><googleplay:category text="Health"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit><item><title>You Can Improve Your Life</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/you-can-improve-your-life</link><description><![CDATA[It can be easy to feel stuck in this life, but it's important to remember that you hold the power to improve it! <br /><br />While this may sound like an "easier said than done" concept, there are specific actions and mindsets that allow us to elevate our surroundings.<br /><br />We share a few important things to know to begin taking the steps to improve your life here.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">0f0d6e8a-2268-4108-b1d0-91c49093e6b6</guid><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jul 2021 15:02:29 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/45801387/steps_podcast_you_can_improve_your_life_final_export.mp3" length="2908365" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>It can be easy to feel stuck in this life, but it's important to remember that you hold the power to improve it! 

While this may sound like an "easier said than done" concept, there are specific actions and mindsets that allow us to elevate our...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[It can be easy to feel stuck in this life, but it's important to remember that you hold the power to improve it! <br /><br />While this may sound like an "easier said than done" concept, there are specific actions and mindsets that allow us to elevate our surroundings.<br /><br />We share a few important things to know to begin taking the steps to improve your life here.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>182</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>life,improvement</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>It can be easy to feel stuck in this life, but it's important to remember that you hold the power to improve it! 

While this may sound like an "easier said than done" concept, there are specific actions and mindsets that allow us to elevate our surroundings.

We share a few important things to know to begin taking the steps to improve your life here.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>Becoming Great at the People Business</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/becoming-great-at-the-people-business</link><description><![CDATA[No matter what industry you work in, employers and managers must understand that people are their greatest company asset–and it's important to treat them right.<br /><br />It's important to let people at every level of your business feel valued, and there are specific measures you can take to do so.<br /><br />We share a few strategies here, along with a more in-depth look at the importance of becoming great at "the people business."]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">b0d9762c-ddab-45c0-888a-9e321a955aa1</guid><pubDate>Wed, 14 Jul 2021 19:56:41 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/45698249/steps_podcast_becoming_great_at_the_people_business_final_export.mp3" length="6972880" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>No matter what industry you work in, employers and managers must understand that people are their greatest company asset–and it's important to treat them right.

It's important to let people at every level of your business feel valued, and there are...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[No matter what industry you work in, employers and managers must understand that people are their greatest company asset–and it's important to treat them right.<br /><br />It's important to let people at every level of your business feel valued, and there are specific measures you can take to do so.<br /><br />We share a few strategies here, along with a more in-depth look at the importance of becoming great at "the people business."]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>437</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>business,leadership,management</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>No matter what industry you work in, employers and managers must understand that people are their greatest company asset–and it's important to treat them right.

It's important to let people at every level of your business feel valued, and there are specific measures you can take to do so.

We share a few strategies here, along with a more in-depth look at the importance of becoming great at "the people business."</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>Through a Kid's Eyes</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/through-a-kids-eyes</link><description><![CDATA[Do you remember what it was like to view the world through the eyes of your childhood self?<br /><br />Every day, every new experience, every brief journey felt like the adventure of a lifetime.<br /><br />Our Executive Director discusses the beauty of that perspective further here.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">dfbee296-0bdd-464b-8cc1-f6509c0256ea</guid><pubDate>Fri, 02 Jul 2021 16:58:50 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/45553908/steps_podcast_through_a_kids_eyes.mp3" length="3863304" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Do you remember what it was like to view the world through the eyes of your childhood self?

Every day, every new experience, every brief journey felt like the adventure of a lifetime.

Our Executive Director discusses the beauty of that perspective...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Do you remember what it was like to view the world through the eyes of your childhood self?<br /><br />Every day, every new experience, every brief journey felt like the adventure of a lifetime.<br /><br />Our Executive Director discusses the beauty of that perspective further here.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>241</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>family,childhood</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>Do you remember what it was like to view the world through the eyes of your childhood self?

Every day, every new experience, every brief journey felt like the adventure of a lifetime.

Our Executive Director discusses the beauty of that perspective further here.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>Who Do You Know Who Could Relapse?</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/who-do-you-know-who-could-relapse</link><description><![CDATA[The word "relapse" is a scary one for anyone that knows someone who has struggled with addiction in the past.<br /><br />Years of hard work and improvement are seemingly erased, and a life is back to being endangered - but there is hope.<br /><br />Our Executive Director discusses some signs to look for before a relapse, and things to remember if a loved one returns to their vices here.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">eb04f01c-1d1e-4c27-8224-bb1db7afcbd6</guid><pubDate>Thu, 24 Jun 2021 14:31:24 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/45426665/steps_podcast_who_do_you_know_that_could_relapse_final_export.mp3" length="4767781" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>The word "relapse" is a scary one for anyone that knows someone who has struggled with addiction in the past.

Years of hard work and improvement are seemingly erased, and a life is back to being endangered - but there is hope.

Our Executive Director...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[The word "relapse" is a scary one for anyone that knows someone who has struggled with addiction in the past.<br /><br />Years of hard work and improvement are seemingly erased, and a life is back to being endangered - but there is hope.<br /><br />Our Executive Director discusses some signs to look for before a relapse, and things to remember if a loved one returns to their vices here.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>298</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>addiction,relapse</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>The word "relapse" is a scary one for anyone that knows someone who has struggled with addiction in the past.

Years of hard work and improvement are seemingly erased, and a life is back to being endangered - but there is hope.

Our Executive Director discusses some signs to look for before a relapse, and things to remember if a loved one returns to their vices here.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>Deciding We Have Hit Bottom</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/deciding-we-have-hit-bottom</link><description><![CDATA[Addiction is not something people plan on entering their lives, it happens gradually. What started as a hobby or coping mechanism can become a serious concern.<br /><br />Self-awareness is key in stopping ourselves from letting a situation spiral out of control, and there are steps that can be taken to help you recognize this problem.<br /><br />Read more from our founder Steve Ward, who has seen the importance of this lesson in his own life.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">61e7db1c-e8ed-403a-b857-d583771b5c8e</guid><pubDate>Tue, 08 Jun 2021 19:18:45 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/45219380/steps_podcast_deciding_we_have_hit_bottom_final_export.mp3" length="5709357" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Addiction is not something people plan on entering their lives, it happens gradually. What started as a hobby or coping mechanism can become a serious concern.

Self-awareness is key in stopping ourselves from letting a situation spiral out of...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Addiction is not something people plan on entering their lives, it happens gradually. What started as a hobby or coping mechanism can become a serious concern.<br /><br />Self-awareness is key in stopping ourselves from letting a situation spiral out of control, and there are steps that can be taken to help you recognize this problem.<br /><br />Read more from our founder Steve Ward, who has seen the importance of this lesson in his own life.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>357</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>addiction,family</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>Addiction is not something people plan on entering their lives, it happens gradually. What started as a hobby or coping mechanism can become a serious concern.

Self-awareness is key in stopping ourselves from letting a situation spiral out of control, and there are steps that can be taken to help you recognize this problem.

Read more from our founder Steve Ward, who has seen the importance of this lesson in his own life.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>Addiction: The Facts and the Stories</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/addiction-the-facts-and-the-stories</link><description><![CDATA[Did you know that 38,000 people per year die of a drug overdose in the United States? That's over 100 people each day.<br /><br />While this statistic is understandably terrifying for parents to hear, there are also positive stats that show the power of prevention.<br /><br />Being aware of the dangers of addiction, but also where to get help is crucial for your family's well-being. We share a few important things to know here. ]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">f54d2426-e810-45d3-b372-29f025a046aa</guid><pubDate>Wed, 02 Jun 2021 19:25:50 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/45141181/steps_podcast_addiction_the_facts_and_the_stories_final_export.mp3" length="6660960" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Did you know that 38,000 people per year die of a drug overdose in the United States? That's over 100 people each day.

While this statistic is understandably terrifying for parents to hear, there are also positive stats that show the power of...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Did you know that 38,000 people per year die of a drug overdose in the United States? That's over 100 people each day.<br /><br />While this statistic is understandably terrifying for parents to hear, there are also positive stats that show the power of prevention.<br /><br />Being aware of the dangers of addiction, but also where to get help is crucial for your family's well-being. We share a few important things to know here. ]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>416</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>addiction,prevention</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>Did you know that 38,000 people per year die of a drug overdose in the United States? That's over 100 people each day.

While this statistic is understandably terrifying for parents to hear, there are also positive stats that show the power of prevention.

Being aware of the dangers of addiction, but also where to get help is crucial for your family's well-being. We share a few important things to know here. </googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>The Next Generation of Addiction Treatment</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/the-next-generation-of-addiction-treatme</link><description><![CDATA[Addiction is a worldwide problem that has existed for centuries, and the disease continues to haunt families today. <br /><br />Much like other illnesses, researchers are now focusing on prevention as a primary tool to treat addiction. <br /><br />We take a closer look at what that looks like, and the role STEPS plays in this important process, here.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">46d11c87-7c54-4e94-bfd0-158bcc4c664e</guid><pubDate>Thu, 27 May 2021 16:33:31 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/45066358/steps_podcast_the_next_generation_of_addiction_treatment_final_export.mp3" length="10314390" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Addiction is a worldwide problem that has existed for centuries, and the disease continues to haunt families today. 

Much like other illnesses, researchers are now focusing on prevention as a primary tool to treat addiction. 

We take a closer look...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Addiction is a worldwide problem that has existed for centuries, and the disease continues to haunt families today. <br /><br />Much like other illnesses, researchers are now focusing on prevention as a primary tool to treat addiction. <br /><br />We take a closer look at what that looks like, and the role STEPS plays in this important process, here.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>646</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>addiction,prevention</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>Addiction is a worldwide problem that has existed for centuries, and the disease continues to haunt families today. 

Much like other illnesses, researchers are now focusing on prevention as a primary tool to treat addiction. 

We take a closer look at what that looks like, and the role STEPS plays in this important process, here.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>Counting the Cost</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/counting-the-cost</link><description><![CDATA[Drinking is a common occurrence in the world we live in. Many people use alcohol to relax after work, enjoy time with friends, or briefly dull life's stresses. <br /><br />But if you've ever sat back and wondering if your life is impacted by drinking, it may be time to ask yourself some questions.<br /><br />We introduce some things to consider here, and encourage you to lovingly pass this on to friends and family that you think this could help.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">89af8ca4-0329-44c5-a883-41e663100654</guid><pubDate>Tue, 18 May 2021 20:09:39 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/44898384/steps_podcast_counting_the_cost_final_export.mp3" length="13755142" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Drinking is a common occurrence in the world we live in. Many people use alcohol to relax after work, enjoy time with friends, or briefly dull life's stresses. 

But if you've ever sat back and wondering if your life is impacted by drinking, it may be...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Drinking is a common occurrence in the world we live in. Many people use alcohol to relax after work, enjoy time with friends, or briefly dull life's stresses. <br /><br />But if you've ever sat back and wondering if your life is impacted by drinking, it may be time to ask yourself some questions.<br /><br />We introduce some things to consider here, and encourage you to lovingly pass this on to friends and family that you think this could help.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>430</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>drinkingalcohol</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>Drinking is a common occurrence in the world we live in. Many people use alcohol to relax after work, enjoy time with friends, or briefly dull life's stresses. 

But if you've ever sat back and wondering if your life is impacted by drinking, it may be time to ask yourself some questions.

We introduce some things to consider here, and encourage you to lovingly pass this on to friends and family that you think this could help.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>Being a Dad</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/being-a-dad</link><description><![CDATA[Men are typically not known for bringing baggage into or overthinking their relationships, but this assumption immediately gives way when looking at the dynamic between a father and their son.<br /><br />It can be hard to deal with the many difficulties that arise with raising a young man, but the end results are more than worth the hassle. <br /><br />Patience, trust, and understanding go a long way in seeing our boys become men themselves. Learn more here.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">94bc94cc-6944-4e4b-96f7-64778a74ba30</guid><pubDate>Tue, 11 May 2021 17:13:04 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/44756769/steps_podcast_being_a_dad_final_export.mp3" length="11060588" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Men are typically not known for bringing baggage into or overthinking their relationships, but this assumption immediately gives way when looking at the dynamic between a father and their son.

It can be hard to deal with the many difficulties that...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Men are typically not known for bringing baggage into or overthinking their relationships, but this assumption immediately gives way when looking at the dynamic between a father and their son.<br /><br />It can be hard to deal with the many difficulties that arise with raising a young man, but the end results are more than worth the hassle. <br /><br />Patience, trust, and understanding go a long way in seeing our boys become men themselves. Learn more here.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>346</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>family,parenting,fatherhood</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>Men are typically not known for bringing baggage into or overthinking their relationships, but this assumption immediately gives way when looking at the dynamic between a father and their son.

It can be hard to deal with the many difficulties that arise with raising a young man, but the end results are more than worth the hassle. 

Patience, trust, and understanding go a long way in seeing our boys become men themselves. Learn more here.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>Rationalizing Drinking</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/rationalizing-drinking</link><description><![CDATA[In this week's podcast, I talk about a skill I developed in my drinking days: rationalization. Whether you have bad habits or not, it's important to be self-aware, so I'll give you some examples of the rationalizations I told myself for years.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">8b60bf61-e2bc-460e-8c52-7513857e5aa8</guid><pubDate>Thu, 29 Apr 2021 00:30:29 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/44550576/steps_podcast_rationalizing_drinking_final_export.mp3" length="10341663" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>In this week's podcast, I talk about a skill I developed in my drinking days: rationalization. Whether you have bad habits or not, it's important to be self-aware, so I'll give you some examples of the rationalizations I told myself for years.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[In this week's podcast, I talk about a skill I developed in my drinking days: rationalization. Whether you have bad habits or not, it's important to be self-aware, so I'll give you some examples of the rationalizations I told myself for years.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>323</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>addiction,alcoholism,drinking</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>In this week's podcast, I talk about a skill I developed in my drinking days: rationalization. Whether you have bad habits or not, it's important to be self-aware, so I'll give you some examples of the rationalizations I told myself for years.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>The Power of Blessing Our Kids</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/the-power-of-blessing-our-kids</link><description><![CDATA[In the Bible, a blessing is a sign of God's grace and assurance that the one being blessed has a purpose in this world. Blessing our children can remind them of these important truths.<br /><br />This is extra important when they are going through troubled times. It can be easy to act in frustration during these moments, but turning to blessing is the right option for both parent and child.<br /><br />Our Executive Director, Steve Ward, shares more insights along with a blessing he wrote for his own son here. ]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">2745c444-ff4e-4d3a-bacd-2ff061fa04a9</guid><pubDate>Mon, 19 Apr 2021 16:44:19 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/44395555/steps_podcast_the_power_of_blessing_our_kids_final_export.mp3" length="12640956" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>In the Bible, a blessing is a sign of God's grace and assurance that the one being blessed has a purpose in this world. Blessing our children can remind them of these important truths.

This is extra important when they are going through troubled...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[In the Bible, a blessing is a sign of God's grace and assurance that the one being blessed has a purpose in this world. Blessing our children can remind them of these important truths.<br /><br />This is extra important when they are going through troubled times. It can be easy to act in frustration during these moments, but turning to blessing is the right option for both parent and child.<br /><br />Our Executive Director, Steve Ward, shares more insights along with a blessing he wrote for his own son here. ]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>395</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>addiction,family,parenting</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>In the Bible, a blessing is a sign of God's grace and assurance that the one being blessed has a purpose in this world. Blessing our children can remind them of these important truths.

This is extra important when they are going through troubled times. It can be easy to act in frustration during these moments, but turning to blessing is the right option for both parent and child.

Our Executive Director, Steve Ward, shares more insights along with a blessing he wrote for his own son here. </googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>Thriving in a VUCA World</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/thriving-in-a-vuca-world_1</link><description><![CDATA[The term VUCA was created by the U.S. Army War College to assist leaders across the world in adapting to the rapid changes that came following the end of the Cold War. <br /><br />But the variables addressed by this approach - Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity - can be found in today's world as well.<br /><br />Learn more about the VUCA strategy, and how it can help both your workplace and your personal life, here.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">5e7cf5b2-9ba3-4fbc-9767-5206205b6877</guid><pubDate>Wed, 14 Apr 2021 15:46:24 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/44333712/steps_podcast_thriving_in_a_vuca_world_final_export.mp3" length="13801816" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>The term VUCA was created by the U.S. Army War College to assist leaders across the world in adapting to the rapid changes that came following the end of the Cold War. 

But the variables addressed by this approach - Volatility, Uncertainty,...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[The term VUCA was created by the U.S. Army War College to assist leaders across the world in adapting to the rapid changes that came following the end of the Cold War. <br /><br />But the variables addressed by this approach - Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity - can be found in today's world as well.<br /><br />Learn more about the VUCA strategy, and how it can help both your workplace and your personal life, here.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>431</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>addiction,business</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>The term VUCA was created by the U.S. Army War College to assist leaders across the world in adapting to the rapid changes that came following the end of the Cold War. 

But the variables addressed by this approach - Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity - can be found in today's world as well.

Learn more about the VUCA strategy, and how it can help both your workplace and your personal life, here.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>The Behaviors of Addiction and Recovery</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/the-behaviors-of-addiction-and-recovery</link><description><![CDATA[While addiction is a deeply personal battle for everyone who experiences it, there are some signs we all share while falling into this dreaded condition.<br /><br />Thoughts lead to considerations, which then impact our attitudes and actions - ultimately leading to addiction. Staying aware of what each stage looks like is crucial for avoiding potential harm.<br /><br />Our Executive Director, Steve Ward, breaks this down further here.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">b552bab7-b519-4815-bfc5-f5ac96edbca4</guid><pubDate>Fri, 09 Apr 2021 16:17:33 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/44274062/the_behaviors_of_addiction_and_recovery_podcast.mp3" length="6247736" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>While addiction is a deeply personal battle for everyone who experiences it, there are some signs we all share while falling into this dreaded condition.

Thoughts lead to considerations, which then impact our attitudes and actions - ultimately...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[While addiction is a deeply personal battle for everyone who experiences it, there are some signs we all share while falling into this dreaded condition.<br /><br />Thoughts lead to considerations, which then impact our attitudes and actions - ultimately leading to addiction. Staying aware of what each stage looks like is crucial for avoiding potential harm.<br /><br />Our Executive Director, Steve Ward, breaks this down further here.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>390</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>addiction,recovery</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>While addiction is a deeply personal battle for everyone who experiences it, there are some signs we all share while falling into this dreaded condition.

Thoughts lead to considerations, which then impact our attitudes and actions - ultimately leading to addiction. Staying aware of what each stage looks like is crucial for avoiding potential harm.

Our Executive Director, Steve Ward, breaks this down further here.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>The Next Wave of Business Wellness</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/the-next-wave-of-business-wellness</link><guid isPermaLink="false">e26d6716-13ef-4e31-a455-2da608cbb260</guid><pubDate>Tue, 06 Apr 2021 20:26:36 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/44227265/steps_podcast_the_next_wave_of_business_wellness_final_export.mp3" length="15365874" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:duration>480</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>Are We All Addicted to Something?</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/are-we-all-addicted-to-something</link><guid isPermaLink="false">40f5e75d-4678-45f3-815d-1dd5886c902c</guid><pubDate>Tue, 06 Apr 2021 20:19:13 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/44227256/steps_podcast_are_we_all_addicted_to_something_final_export.mp3" length="8566463" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:duration>268</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>A Young Person's Advice to Parents</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/a-young-persons-advice-to-parents</link><description><![CDATA[Adults can give all the advice they want on how to prevent teenagers from experimenting with drugs and alcohol, but that doesn't stop kids from coming across these temptations. Listening to youth who've experienced this struggle first-hand provides key insights to what goes through the mind of a teenager in the 21st century. Learn some crucial things to be aware of directly from a young person who has struggled with substance abuse here, and feel free to visit our website at lifeimprovementsteps.com for more insights.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">a35c2695-0589-49ff-9b41-83419f6e85e6</guid><pubDate>Tue, 30 Mar 2021 12:55:28 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/44114881/a_young_persons_advice_to_parents_podcast.mp3" length="4687316" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Adults can give all the advice they want on how to prevent teenagers from experimenting with drugs and alcohol, but that doesn't stop kids from coming across these temptations. Listening to youth who've experienced this struggle first-hand provides...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Adults can give all the advice they want on how to prevent teenagers from experimenting with drugs and alcohol, but that doesn't stop kids from coming across these temptations. Listening to youth who've experienced this struggle first-hand provides key insights to what goes through the mind of a teenager in the 21st century. Learn some crucial things to be aware of directly from a young person who has struggled with substance abuse here, and feel free to visit our website at lifeimprovementsteps.com for more insights.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>293</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>Adults can give all the advice they want on how to prevent teenagers from experimenting with drugs and alcohol, but that doesn't stop kids from coming across these temptations. Listening to youth who've experienced this struggle first-hand provides key insights to what goes through the mind of a teenager in the 21st century. Learn some crucial things to be aware of directly from a young person who has struggled with substance abuse here, and feel free to visit our website at lifeimprovementsteps.com for more insights.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>Dealing with the Stigma of Addiction</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/dealing-with-the-stigma-of-addiction</link><description><![CDATA[Unfortunately, those who suffer from addiction also often have to deal with stigmatization in our society.<br /><br />This judgement does nothing for those dealing with a very real disease, and only creates an extra barrier for those trying to seek help.<br /><br />We discuss why stigmatizing those suffering from addiction is so harmful, and other ways to approach this familiar problem for so many families, here.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">54a7d10d-3866-494d-9e40-be7a00219be9</guid><pubDate>Mon, 01 Feb 2021 18:35:19 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/43233903/dealing_with_the_stigma_of_addiction_podcast.mp3" length="5663099" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Unfortunately, those who suffer from addiction also often have to deal with stigmatization in our society.

This judgement does nothing for those dealing with a very real disease, and only creates an extra barrier for those trying to seek help.

We...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Unfortunately, those who suffer from addiction also often have to deal with stigmatization in our society.<br /><br />This judgement does nothing for those dealing with a very real disease, and only creates an extra barrier for those trying to seek help.<br /><br />We discuss why stigmatizing those suffering from addiction is so harmful, and other ways to approach this familiar problem for so many families, here.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>354</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>addiction,family,prevention</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>Unfortunately, those who suffer from addiction also often have to deal with stigmatization in our society.

This judgement does nothing for those dealing with a very real disease, and only creates an extra barrier for those trying to seek help.

We discuss why stigmatizing those suffering from addiction is so harmful, and other ways to approach this familiar problem for so many families, here.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>Building a Proactive Parenting Plan</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/building-a-proactive-parenting-plan</link><description><![CDATA[Parenting can often feel like a responsive role - helping our children grow as they come across life's new obstacles.<br /><br />But if we pay attention to certain traits ahead of time, we can use this information to help shape our child's future before the challenges grow too big.<br /><br />We took a closer look at some key characteristics that children often have, what they mean, and how to turn this knowledge into a proactive parenting tool here.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">5c2bc3c1-59ff-47b5-a2b0-4e9922f73902</guid><pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2021 18:56:52 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/43112809/building_a_proactive_parenting_plan_podcast.mp3" length="5834065" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Parenting can often feel like a responsive role - helping our children grow as they come across life's new obstacles.

But if we pay attention to certain traits ahead of time, we can use this information to help shape our child's future before the...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Parenting can often feel like a responsive role - helping our children grow as they come across life's new obstacles.<br /><br />But if we pay attention to certain traits ahead of time, we can use this information to help shape our child's future before the challenges grow too big.<br /><br />We took a closer look at some key characteristics that children often have, what they mean, and how to turn this knowledge into a proactive parenting tool here.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>364</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>addiction,family,parenting</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>Parenting can often feel like a responsive role - helping our children grow as they come across life's new obstacles.

But if we pay attention to certain traits ahead of time, we can use this information to help shape our child's future before the challenges grow too big.

We took a closer look at some key characteristics that children often have, what they mean, and how to turn this knowledge into a proactive parenting tool here.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>What's Missing from Wellness</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/whats-missing-from-wellness</link><description><![CDATA[Do you know anyone who’s into getting in shape, yet ignores other areas they need to work on? Perhaps they’re one of those people who always eats the right foods (you know, the kale and quinoa crowd) and who seems to be at the gym all the time. But maybe they have a bad habit—one they can’t stop that is messing up their lives—that they do nothing about.   The approach many people—and companies—take to wellness is like that. But what is wellness? I discuss this further here.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">c6bd065a928943259eef2cbeaeee17c9</guid><pubDate>Sat, 16 Nov 2019 18:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/43017044/steps_podcast_what_is_missing_from_wellness.mp3" length="5736932" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Do you know anyone who’s into getting in shape, yet ignores other areas they need to work on? Perhaps they’re one of those people who always eats the right foods (you know, the kale and quinoa crowd) and who seems to be at the gym all the time. But...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Do you know anyone who’s into getting in shape, yet ignores other areas they need to work on? Perhaps they’re one of those people who always eats the right foods (you know, the kale and quinoa crowd) and who seems to be at the gym all the time. But maybe they have a bad habit—one they can’t stop that is messing up their lives—that they do nothing about.   The approach many people—and companies—take to wellness is like that. But what is wellness? I discuss this further here.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>358</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>addiction,recovery,wellness</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>Do you know anyone who’s into getting in shape, yet ignores other areas they need to work on? Perhaps they’re one of those people who always eats the right foods (you know, the kale and quinoa crowd) and who seems to be at the gym all the time. But maybe they have a bad habit—one they can’t stop that is messing up their lives—that they do nothing about.   The approach many people—and companies—take to wellness is like that. But what is wellness? I discuss this further here.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>Is It Okay To Drink?</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/is-it-okay-to-drink</link><description><![CDATA[Is it okay to drink alcohol? Yes, it is okay. As long as you read the rest of this article and thoughtfully consider all it says.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">d3410c31b120474bb1ed7d18bc93ee21</guid><pubDate>Sat, 09 Nov 2019 01:28:39 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/43017039/steps_podcast_is_it_okay_to_drink.mp3" length="11327229" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Is it okay to drink alcohol? Yes, it is okay. As long as you read the rest of this article and thoughtfully consider all it says.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Is it okay to drink alcohol? Yes, it is okay. As long as you read the rest of this article and thoughtfully consider all it says.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>709</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>addiction,alcoholism,drinking</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>Is it okay to drink alcohol? Yes, it is okay. As long as you read the rest of this article and thoughtfully consider all it says.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>What Every Teenager Needs to Hear</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/what-every-teenager-needs-to-hear</link><description><![CDATA[Research validates that parents positively impact their kids by talking to them, and there are some things that desperately need to be said. Such as: “You are loved, you have great value, and you have a good future.” And, “It’s okay not to be okay sometimes.” Young people also need to know they are responsible for their decisions, and that some choices can be very dangerous. There are some really important things we need to talk to our kids about as they get older—they are what every teenager needs to hear.  ]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">8512838d4bb0405e824a72da67187aa8</guid><pubDate>Sun, 13 Oct 2019 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/43017041/steps_podcast_teenagers_and_parents_final.mp3" length="8940174" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Research validates that parents positively impact their kids by talking to them, and there are some things that desperately need to be said. Such as: “You are loved, you have great value, and you have a good future.” And, “It’s okay not to be okay...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Research validates that parents positively impact their kids by talking to them, and there are some things that desperately need to be said. Such as: “You are loved, you have great value, and you have a good future.” And, “It’s okay not to be okay sometimes.” Young people also need to know they are responsible for their decisions, and that some choices can be very dangerous. There are some really important things we need to talk to our kids about as they get older—they are what every teenager needs to hear.  ]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>558</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>Research validates that parents positively impact their kids by talking to them, and there are some things that desperately need to be said. Such as: “You are loved, you have great value, and you have a good future.” And, “It’s okay not to be okay sometimes.” Young people also need to know they are responsible for their decisions, and that some choices can be very dangerous. There are some really important things we need to talk to our kids about as they get older—they are what every teenager needs to hear.  </googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>5 of the Best Ways to Relieve Stress</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/5-of-the-best-ways-to-relieve-stress</link><description><![CDATA[We all feel stress at times, but it doesn’t have to debilitate us. You can find more peace and serenity, and the 5 proven tools in this article will help. Stress may be your daily companion now, but it doesn’t have to be that way in the future. Gallup says that 8 in 10 Americans are afflicted by anxiety on a daily basis. But one of the amazing things about resilience is that it can be learned, and with practice you can get better at handling any stress that comes along.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">4297c04820dd43eead23ba6942461f29</guid><pubDate>Sun, 06 Oct 2019 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/43017042/steps_podcast_stress_final.mp3" length="9823149" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>We all feel stress at times, but it doesn’t have to debilitate us. You can find more peace and serenity, and the 5 proven tools in this article will help. Stress may be your daily companion now, but it doesn’t have to be that way in the future. Gallup...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[We all feel stress at times, but it doesn’t have to debilitate us. You can find more peace and serenity, and the 5 proven tools in this article will help. Stress may be your daily companion now, but it doesn’t have to be that way in the future. Gallup says that 8 in 10 Americans are afflicted by anxiety on a daily basis. But one of the amazing things about resilience is that it can be learned, and with practice you can get better at handling any stress that comes along.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>501</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>We all feel stress at times, but it doesn’t have to debilitate us. You can find more peace and serenity, and the 5 proven tools in this article will help. Stress may be your daily companion now, but it doesn’t have to be that way in the future. Gallup says that 8 in 10 Americans are afflicted by anxiety on a daily basis. But one of the amazing things about resilience is that it can be learned, and with practice you can get better at handling any stress that comes along.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>The Lifestyle of Recovery</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/the-lifestyle-of-recovery</link><description><![CDATA[Many people haven’t yet learned what can be a life-changing secret: anyone can benefit from a lifestyle of recovery! Some of life’s most important lessons are captured in the principles of recovery, and you can find more peace, joy, and purpose if you give them a try. Recovery is about much more that addiction—it’s a lifestyle! Your world doesn’t have to be coming apart to benefit from the lessons of recovery. Amazingly, you will likely enjoy it, you will certainly get a lot out of it, and it might change your life.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">140d9110aef04f03b036854221a9cb1c</guid><pubDate>Sun, 29 Sep 2019 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/43017040/steps_podcast_recovery_final.mp3" length="7036291" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Many people haven’t yet learned what can be a life-changing secret: anyone can benefit from a lifestyle of recovery! Some of life’s most important lessons are captured in the principles of recovery, and you can find more peace, joy, and purpose if you...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Many people haven’t yet learned what can be a life-changing secret: anyone can benefit from a lifestyle of recovery! Some of life’s most important lessons are captured in the principles of recovery, and you can find more peace, joy, and purpose if you give them a try. Recovery is about much more that addiction—it’s a lifestyle! Your world doesn’t have to be coming apart to benefit from the lessons of recovery. Amazingly, you will likely enjoy it, you will certainly get a lot out of it, and it might change your life.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>439</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>aa,addiction,recovery,na</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>Many people haven’t yet learned what can be a life-changing secret: anyone can benefit from a lifestyle of recovery! Some of life’s most important lessons are captured in the principles of recovery, and you can find more peace, joy, and purpose if you give them a try. Recovery is about much more that addiction—it’s a lifestyle! Your world doesn’t have to be coming apart to benefit from the lessons of recovery. Amazingly, you will likely enjoy it, you will certainly get a lot out of it, and it might change your life.</googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>Understanding High-Functioning Alcoholics</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/understanding-high-functioning-alcoholic</link><description><![CDATA[The traits of high-performing people align strongly with those of addiction, and alcoholics are often from a white collar background and in positions of leadership. There are millions of high-functioning alcoholics everywhere, including some you know. They are good people, but they have a need for alcohol. They use it to relax, handle stress, or for reasons they may not understand. But they can find a peace and happiness they have never known before. And they can become even more productive, with greater resilience and sharper judgment. ]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">9752c3dd947b4aec91d23d53de782b4f</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Sep 2019 19:50:25 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/43017046/steps_podcast_high_fun_alcoholics_final.mp3" length="11286414" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>The traits of high-performing people align strongly with those of addiction, and alcoholics are often from a white collar background and in positions of leadership. There are millions of high-functioning alcoholics everywhere, including some you know....</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[The traits of high-performing people align strongly with those of addiction, and alcoholics are often from a white collar background and in positions of leadership. There are millions of high-functioning alcoholics everywhere, including some you know. They are good people, but they have a need for alcohol. They use it to relax, handle stress, or for reasons they may not understand. But they can find a peace and happiness they have never known before. And they can become even more productive, with greater resilience and sharper judgment. ]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>592</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>alcoholics,highfunctioning</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>The traits of high-performing people align strongly with those of addiction, and alcoholics are often from a white collar background and in positions of leadership. There are millions of high-functioning alcoholics everywhere, including some you know. They are good people, but they have a need for alcohol. They use it to relax, handle stress, or for reasons they may not understand. But they can find a peace and happiness they have never known before. And they can become even more productive, with greater resilience and sharper judgment. </googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item><item><title>Thriving in a VUCA World</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/user/13849770/thriving-in-a-vuca-world</link><description><![CDATA[“VUCA” means Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity, and it has become the new normal. VUCA poses challenges to businesses, and it can be debilitating to employees. And because stress, lack of engagement, and addiction are people issues, they need to be addressed by people solutions.  In these hectic times, good companies will focus not only on surviving, but on thriving in a VUCA world. And they can help their employees become better professionally and personally by developing their skills in areas such as awareness, resilience, connection, and intentionality.    ]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">e4a39544e0ee44a1b7b1314b103bec19</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Sep 2019 19:49:47 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/43017045/steps_podcast_business_wellness_final.mp3" length="8672653" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Steve Ward</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>“VUCA” means Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity, and it has become the new normal. VUCA poses challenges to businesses, and it can be debilitating to employees. And because stress, lack of engagement, and addiction are people issues,...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[“VUCA” means Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity, and it has become the new normal. VUCA poses challenges to businesses, and it can be debilitating to employees. And because stress, lack of engagement, and addiction are people issues, they need to be addressed by people solutions.  In these hectic times, good companies will focus not only on surviving, but on thriving in a VUCA world. And they can help their employees become better professionally and personally by developing their skills in areas such as awareness, resilience, connection, and intentionality.    ]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>428</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>work,wellness,business,at,alcoholics</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><googleplay:author>Steve Ward</googleplay:author><googleplay:description>“VUCA” means Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity, and it has become the new normal. VUCA poses challenges to businesses, and it can be debilitating to employees. And because stress, lack of engagement, and addiction are people issues, they need to be addressed by people solutions.  In these hectic times, good companies will focus not only on surviving, but on thriving in a VUCA world. And they can help their employees become better professionally and personally by developing their skills in areas such as awareness, resilience, connection, and intentionality.    </googleplay:description><googleplay:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8e1cabec36500d4d94b6126de2f30d20.jpg"/><googleplay:explicit>No</googleplay:explicit></item></channel></rss>
