The Lose Control Podcast

Epsiode 21 Special Guest: Seth Vallet "From Hallucinations to Halos"

Seth Vallett’s life has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, a symphony of triumphs and struggles. Born in the heart of Macon, Georgia, he emerged from a close-knit family—a tapestry woven with love and resilience.

As a teenager, Seth danced on the edge of existence, drawn to mind-altering substances like a moth to a flame. These choices led him down a treacherous path, where addiction wrapped its tendrils around his soul, threatening to extinguish his light. The future seemed uncertain, a foggy landscape where hope flickered like a distant star.

But in the midst of this darkness, Seth found unwavering support. His wife and family stood by his side, warriors in the battle against addiction. Together, they weathered storms, fought demons, and held onto the fragile thread of hope.

Rehabilitation centers became Seth’s battlegrounds, and he faced more than ten overdose incidents—each a near miss, a second chance. Yet it was a seemingly ordinary six-day detox that altered the course of his life forever. In those quiet moments, Seth encountered Jesus Christ—a revelation that transformed his pain into purpose. Faith became the cornerstone of his recovery, a lighthouse guiding him through the tempest.

Today, Seth stands as a testament to resilience. He wears honesty like armor, love like a warm embrace. In his community, he is more than a name; he is a beacon—a devoted father, a successful business owner, a friend, a role model. His scars tell stories of battles fought and won, etched into his skin like chapters of a gripping novel.

Beyond personal growth, Seth finds solace in the wild. Hunting and fishing are his cathedrals, where he connects with nature and himself. But it doesn’t end there. Seth’s heart spills over with compassion—he gives back through service work, a ripple of kindness in a troubled world.

He whispers to others in their darkest hours: “There is hope.” Seth believes that every twist of fate, every stumble, happens for a reason. His recovery journey, spanning nearly two years, is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of redemption.

So, remember Seth Vallett—a survivor, a warrior, a man who turned brokenness into beauty. His story echoes through time, a melody of hope for those who listen

 

Episode 19 "When we get it...We gotta keep doing it!" GOD...COUNTRY...GUNS

Gerry Kelly: A Journey Across Oceans

Gerry Kelly, a man of seasoned years and weathered spirit, traces his origins to the cobbled streets of Dublin, Ireland. Born under the watchful eyes of the Emerald Isle, he carried dreams as fragile as the morning mist. But destiny, that elusive weaver of narratives, had grander plans.

In the fateful year of 1986, Gerry embarked on a pilgrimage across the Atlantic. With a mere $400 clutched tightly—a talisman against uncertainty—he stepped onto American soil. The United States, a symphony of ambition and opportunity, welcomed him with open arms. The Statue of Liberty, her torch ablaze, whispered secrets of reinvention and resilience.

And so Gerry stayed. Thirty-eight years etched into the marrow of his bones, each day a chapter in the epic saga of survival. Pamela Helms, a beacon of warmth and laughter, became his partner in this unfolding drama. On a sun-kissed June day in 2024, they exchanged vows—their love a bridge spanning continents, cultures, and shared dreams.

Their family portrait is a canvas of diversity: Together, they form a mosaic of love, resilience, and acceptance—a testament to the beauty of blended families. Their home reverberates with gratitude, and their hearts dance to a rhythm of compassion.

But Gerry and Pamela are more than mere spectators in life’s theater. Their purpose transcends the ordinary. They extend hands to those ensnared by addiction—the alcoholics, the lost souls—offering redemption in exchange for their own joy.

And then there are the constants: God, the silent architect; Country, its flag rippling in the wind; and Guns, symbols

of protection and heritage. Gerry’s allegiance is unwavering, a hymn sung in the language of calloused hands and sunburned necks.

 

“Trust in God,” Gerry declares, his voice a timeworn melody. For he knows that even amidst the scaffolding of construction sites, where sweat mingles with sawdust, there’s a divine blueprint guiding his steps.

May the winds carry his tale across oceans, whispering it to those who listen

 

Episode 18 Broken pieces: "We turned our pain into passion." Special guest: Lacy Spivey & Jesse Franklin

Jessie Franklin and Lacy Spivey: A Journey of Redemption and Resilience

Jessie Franklin and Lacy Spivey’s intertwined lives, marked by addiction and separation, ultimately led them back to each other. Their story serves as a beacon of hope for others, demonstrating that even in the darkest moments, redemption and resilience can pave the way to a new beginning.

1. High School Connection: Jessie and Lacy’s vibrant personalities drew them together during their high school years. Although their initial romance was brief, fate would reunite them later in life, weaving their paths together once more.
2. Bond Through Parenthood: Lacy’s pregnancy with their son, Hudson, solidified their bond. However, alcohol initially held them together while also fueling their downward spiral. Their shared responsibility as parents became a powerful force in their lives.
3. Struggles and Recovery: Jessie battled severe addiction, reaching a turning point where he chose sobriety and relocated to Georgia. Meanwhile, Lacy raised Hudson alone, navigating her own substance-related challenges.
4. Recommitment and Transformation: Despite their struggles, Jessie and Lacy recommitted to each other, embracing the 12-step recovery process. Jessie’s personal transformation led him to become a Certified Peer Support Specialist, while Lacy blossomed into the mother she aspired to be.
5. Shared Faith and Community: Their unwavering faith sustained them. Jessie now coaches his son’s basketball team, surrounded by a close-knit group of friends. Lacy continues her recovery journey, supporting others along the way.

In Jessie Franklin and Lacy Spivey’s remarkable journey, we find inspiration—a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for renewal and hope. 

JESSE FRANKLIN CONTACT INFO 

EMAIL : JESSIE@CourageCenterSC.ORG

(803)-546-8280

LACY SPIVEY CONTACT INFO  

EMAIL: lacyaspivey@gmail.com

(803)-243-2368

 

 

 

Episode 17 "I don't know how to NOT move forward" Special guest: Julie Cole

Julie’s Journey to Authenticity

 INSTAGRAM: Julie_Cole_Coaching / Julie@JulieCole.org

Julie Cole sat in the dimly lit room, her fingers tracing the edges of her sobriety coin. Twenty-six years. It felt like a lifetime and a heartbeat all at once. The room was filled with others—strangers who had become confidantes, their stories woven together like a patchwork quilt of resilience.

“If you live sober long enough,” Julie thought, “you’ll face joys and heartbreaks that cut to the core.” She knew this truth intimately. The laughter of newfound friends, the tears shed for lost loved ones—it was all part of the tapestry of recovery.

Julie’s journey hadn’t been pretty. It had been raw, messy, and achingly real. She’d stumbled, fallen, and risen again. Her transparency was her strength, her authenticity a beacon for those still finding their way.

As the owner of Julie Cole Counseling, Coaching & Consulting, LLC, Julie took a holistic approach to helping others. She understood that healing wasn’t just about abstinence; it was about rebuilding shattered lives. Her clients weren’t statistics; they were souls seeking redemption.

The #loveher Podcast was her passion project—a space where authenticity reigned. Julie’s soothing voice carried stories of triumph and struggle, weaving hope into the airwaves. Listeners tuned in, nodding along as she shared her own battles—the messy divorce, the late-night cravings, the quiet victories.

Twenty-five years in social work and substance use disorder counseling had etched lines of compassion on Julie’s face. She’d held trembling hands, wiped tears, and celebrated small victories. Her heart swelled when a client found their voice or a lost soul discovered purpose.

Public speaking was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. Julie stood before crowds, her vulnerability a superpower. She spoke of resilience, of the beauty in brokenness. Her certifications—Licensed Master Social Worker, Certified Peer Support Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Health Coach, and Certified Nutrition Coach—were mere labels. What mattered was the fire within her—the unwavering belief that everyone deserved a second chance.

At home, Julie juggled motherhood with grace. Two children, a spoiled dog, a guinea pig, two rats, and two fish—they were her heart. She taught them empathy, resilience, and the value of authenticity. They laughed together, huddled under blankets during thunderstorms, and whispered secrets late at night.

And then there were her escapes—the gym, where sweat washed away worries; camping trips, where nature whispered ancient truths; hikes that led to mountaintop revelations; and travels that expanded her soul.

Julie Cole—the woman who wore her scars proudly, who turned vulnerability into strength. Her journey wasn’t linear, but it was authentic. And as she sat in that room, surrounded by fellow travelers, she knew she was exactly where she needed to be.

Episode 16 "Before I knew it." Special guest: Jodi Friend

Jodi’s Journey: From Darkness to Hope

Jodi’s path through addiction, recovery, and the pain of loss has been an arduous one. The weight of shame and guilt rests heavily on her shoulders, yet she remains resolute in her quest for strength and sobriety. Despite enduring immense heartache, Jodi channels her experiences into helping others while safeguarding her own well-being.

Together with her husband and son, Jodi’s commitment to staying clean reflects the unbreakable bonds of family love and resilience. Their shared journey is a testament to their unwavering faith and passion for grace. Facing adversity at its deepest levels, Jodi confronts her emotions head-on, drawing strength from every available source.

In her 3.5-year clean journey, Jodi encountered three relapses in December and January. The turning point? The guilt stemming from her son’s overdose on December 31, 2024. Jodi believes her purpose extends beyond mere survival—it may even be divinely ordained.

Her pain resonates universally: countless people in active addiction won’t survive, leaving shattered families behind. Jodi would sacrifice herself to spare a stranger from such anguish.

Jodi’s transformation is remarkable. Once ensnared by addiction, she now embraces faith, supporting others seeking change. Yet, she’s learned that self-care matters too. Her son’s recovery from fentanyl and heroin addiction serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between helping others and preserving one’s own well-being. Jodi’s inner honesty fuels her commitment to personal growth. Her spirit stands as a humbling testament: no matter the trials, with divine grace, we can prevail.

 

Episode 14 " Then I was introduced to sub levels 1,2&3" Special guest Russell Marchese

Russell Marchese’s story is indeed a profound narrative of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of faith and love. It’s a story that resonates with many who have faced similar battles, and it serves as a beacon of light for those still navigating the path of recovery.

The journey of self-discovery and the embrace of one’s spirituality can be transformative. It’s a process that often begins with the challenging acknowledgment of our own role in our struggles, leading to a deeper understanding and acceptance of ourselves. Russ’s experience underscores the importance of this self-awareness and the strength that comes from a connection with a higher power. Russ says,” Once I put GOD 1^st, you 2^nd, I began to love the Man in the Mirror.”

Every day of sobriety is a milestone, a testament to the commitment to a life reclaimed. The clarity and freedom that come with sobriety are indeed akin to a rebirth, offering new perspectives and possibilities.

Russ’s story, like so many others, is a reminder that while the road to recovery may be long and fraught with challenges, it is also paved with moments of triumph and the potential for a renewed sense of purpose. It’s a journey that not only changes the individual but also has the power to inspire and impact the lives of others.

May Russ’s story continue to inspire and offer solace to those who are on their own journey towards healing and self-discovery. 

Thank you Russ for sharing such an inspiring account of transformation and hope. I love you and will be eternally grateful.

“When the student is ready the teacher will appear”

 

Episode 15 "In my pain, I really found my purpose" Special guest Rachel Jackson

Rachel’s profound journey to freedom is indeed a testament to the human spirit’s resilience and the transformative power of recovery. Born into a challenging environment, she faced her struggles head-on. Rachel’s journey from dealing with an eating disorder and substance abuse to becoming a pillar of support and inspiration is nothing short of remarkable. By turning her life around and dedicating herself to helping others, Rachel exemplifies the strength that can emerge from adversity.

Her dedication to mindfulness, community, and physical wellness has not only been a cornerstone of her own recovery but also a source of strength for those around her. As Rachel continues to support others and spread her message of recovery, she embodies the very essence of service. Her efforts are indeed making a significant impact, and her story will undoubtedly continue to guide and inspire many on their paths to healing and well-being.

Rachel’s words, “Together we will continue to embrace the pillars of peaceful balance through seeking resources to support your journey, -I’m here to help,” reflect a powerful commitment to service and a reminder that no one is alone in their struggles. It’s a call to action for communities to come together, share resources, and uplift each other in the pursuit of well-being.

“Rachel, your journey is a testament to the power of hope and the strength of the human spirit” – Matty I

 

Episode 13 - 3 Pillars to a Peaceful Balance

 

3 Pillars to a Peaceful Balance:

1. Mindfulness / Meditation:

• Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help you cultivate awareness of the present moment, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. Consider incorporating mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing, body scans, or guided meditation into your daily routine.

Community / Relationship:

• Building and maintaining meaningful connections with others is essential for emotional health. Engage with your community, whether through social activities, volunteering, or participating in group events. Supportive relationships provide a sense of belonging and contribute to a peaceful balance.

Physical Wellness and Diet:

• Prioritize your physical health by adopting a balanced diet and regular exercise. Proper nutrition fuels your body and mind, while physical activity promotes vitality and reduces tension. Remember to stay hydrated and get adequate rest to maintain overall well-being.