Explore every episode of the podcast The StraitJacket Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overcoming 18 Years in Prison & Trauma | Sonny von Cleveland | 18 Oct 2026 | 00:50:27 | |
In this compelling episode of the Straight Jacket Podcast, hosts Keta Loren and Jeff welcome author, speaker, and content creator Sonny von Cleveland to discuss his extraordinary journey of resilience and recovery from severe childhood trauma. Sonny candidly reflects on his harrowing past, detailing his experiences with severe abuse, human trafficking, and an early entry into the criminal justice system that led to an 18-year prison sentence. He describes the profound internal shift he experienced while serving time in solitary confinement, where a fellow inmate became a mentor and introduced him to life-changing literature, including Viktor Frankl's Man's Search for Meaning. This pivotal moment taught Sonny to give his suffering a purpose, sparking a dedicated path toward self-forgiveness, personal transformation, and emotional freedom. Today, Sonny uses his voice and platform to inspire others and fight for those who cannot fight for themselves. Alongside his wife, he operates a cat cafe in Palm Springs that serves as a neurodiverse workplace, and he actively collaborates with organizations like the Tim Tebow Foundation and Operation Light Shine to combat child exploitation and trafficking. Throughout the conversation, Sonny and the hosts emphasize that healing is an inherent right rather than a privilege, highlighting the transformative power of speaking one's truth without fear of judgment. Tune in to hear Sonny's powerful message on turning deep personal pain into a life dedicated to service, advocacy, and hope. | |||
| Nicki Part 2|Trauma, Addiction and Recovery | 04 Oct 2026 | 00:34:52 | |
Nicki opens up about reaching her rock bottom through severe alcoholism and domestic struggles, reflecting on how her actions impacted her relationship with her children. Through shelter support, day treatment programs, and continuous therapy, she was able to confront her addictions, accept accountability, and overcome immense family trauma. | |||
| Escaping the Bondage of Meth Addiction|Julie’s Powerful Recovery Story | 20 Sep 2026 | 01:02:20 | |
In this episode of the Straitjacket podcast, hosted by Keta alongside Jeff from Mental Health Resource, guest Julie shares her raw and inspiring journey through addiction, trauma, and redemption. From facing early childhood struggles and surviving sexual trauma to enduring years of severe substance abuse and homelessness on the streets of Southern California, Julie opens up about the pivotal moments that nearly cost her life. Her powerful testimony highlights the incredible resilience of the human spirit and the life-saving impact of family, faith, and support networks. Now celebrating eight years of sobriety, Julie’s story serves as a beacon of hope for anyone currently struggling with addiction or mental health challenges. Through her journey, she demonstrates how taking life one day at a time, finding self-worth, and building a supportive community can break the cycle of addiction. Tune in to hear how Julie transformed her life from surviving on the streets to giving back, pursuing higher education, and helping others find their path to recovery. | |||
| Chaotic Childhood to Criminal Justice| Nikki’s Story of Survival, Struggle, and Strength | 30 Aug 2026 | 00:58:16 | |
In this powerful episode of the StraitJacket Podcast, hosted by Keta Loren and presented by Mental Health Resource, we introduce a very special guest, Nikki. For the first time ever, Nikki opens up and shares the deeply raw, unfiltered journey of her life. Growing up in a chaotic environment split between a hard-working but distant mother, a father heavily involved in gang culture and addiction, and strict but loving grandparents, Nikki’s definition of love and security was shaped by early trauma. She candidly walks us through her childhood memories, from navigating an abusive household to facing her own early battles with aggression and confusion. | |||
| Lived Experience vs. Theory: Navigating Addiction, Recovery, and Systemic Reform | 16 Aug 2026 | 00:52:18 | |
In this episode of the Straight Jacket podcast, hosts Jeff and Keta dive into a profound discussion on the value of lived experience over theoretical knowledge, contrasting observation with active immersion in life. Drawing from an introductory story about information versus immersion, they explore how this binary manifests in the mindset of individuals facing addiction. The conversation highlights a fundamental defiance and curiosity that drives some people to seek personal, sometimes painful, experiences rather than settling for standard societal timelines or theories. They share personal reflections and a reading of Robert Frost’s "The Road Not Taken" to underscore the impact of paving one's own path and embracing the scars that come with it. 2 3 4 5 The hosts shift focus to local systemic issues, particularly regarding addiction and homelessness within LA County and Long Beach. They debate the delicate balance between compassion and enabling, offering firsthand insight into how legal consequences and interventions can play a life-saving role for active addicts. Ultimately, they critique current harm reduction and public policy approaches, advocating instead for structural, supervised integration frameworks that actively guide recovering individuals through the long-term process of rebuilding life skills. | |||
| Kevin Blue's 25 Years in Recovery | 03 Aug 2026 | 00:53:11 | |
| Viking Barbie: Healing, Ownership, and the StraitJacket Family | 12 Jul 2026 | 01:02:29 | |
In this episode, I sit down with Viking Barbie—someone who’s not only an incredible force in recovery but is now part-owner of Manifest Behavioral Health. We explore her journey through nervous system healing, navigating difficult emotions, and her passion for guiding others toward recovery. We’re thrilled to announce that Viking Barbie is now an official part of the StraitJacket Podcast! Join us for a powerful conversation filled with transformation, resilience, and what’s next for our growing community. This episode has heart, humor, and real talk you won’t want to miss! | |||
| From People Pleaser to Free | Emily's 11-Year Sobriety Journey | 28 Jun 2026 | 00:50:05 | |
Some of the strongest people you'll ever meet are the ones who spent years putting everyone else before themselves. This week on the StraitJacket Podcast, I sit down with Emily, who shares her incredible journey through addiction, recovery, and the difficult process of breaking free from people-pleasing. With 11 years of sobriety, Emily opens up about learning to set boundaries, finding her own voice, and discovering that true healing isn't about making everyone else happy—it's about becoming the person you were always meant to be. If you've ever struggled with saying no, losing yourself in relationships, or wondering if real change is possible, this conversation will remind you that recovery is about so much more than putting down the substance—it's about reclaiming your life. 🎙️ New episode drops at 2 PM. Don't miss this powerful conversation about growth, self-worth, and what it really takes to build a life worth staying sober for. | |||
| 7 Years Free | P. Wilson’s Journey from Addiction to Purpose | 14 Jun 2026 | 00:44:34 | |
In this powerful episode, we sit down with P. Wilson, a music artist and entertainer whose story goes far beyond the stage. Through years of struggle, setbacks, and hard-earned lessons, P. Wilson faced addiction to substances including crack, meth, Xanax, and cocaine. Today, he shares his journey with honesty and courage, offering a raw look at the challenges he overcame and the strength it took to rebuild his life. Now celebrating seven years of recovery, P. Wilson uses his voice, music, and experiences to inspire others who may be fighting their own battles. We talk about resilience, redemption, personal growth, and the role creativity has played in his healing process. Whether you're in recovery, supporting someone who is, or simply looking for a story of perseverance and hope, this conversation is one you won't want to miss. | |||
| From Foster Care to Finding Christ | Jazmine Rose’s Recovery Story | 31 May 2026 | 00:53:06 | |
Some stories don’t sound survivable when you hear them out loud. Jazmine Rose grew up bouncing through foster homes and juvenile hall before addiction pulled her deeper into a life she never imagined for herself. From surviving the streets and sex work to trying to rebuild a life as a wife and mother, her story is filled with pain, betrayal, loss, and chaos that would break most people. When the people closest to her shattered her trust in the worst way imaginable, it sent her spiraling into multiple psych ward stays, complete emotional collapse, and a high-speed chase fueled by heartbreak and rage. But this episode of the StraitJacket Podcast isn’t just about destruction… it’s about redemption. Jazmine opens up about finding Christ in the middle of complete darkness and how surrendering her life changed everything. Now 7 months sober, she shares the raw truth about addiction, trauma, forgiveness, motherhood, faith, and rebuilding your identity after losing everything. This conversation is messy, heartbreaking, honest, and ultimately proof that no one is too far gone to find a new life. | |||
| From Darkness to Light | Alena's Story | 24 May 2026 | 00:53:30 | |
Addiction doesn’t always look the way people think it does. On this episode of the StraitJacket Podcast, Alena opens up about the realities of addiction, the emotional weight behind it, and what it really takes to begin rebuilding your life. From the chaos of substance abuse to the uncomfortable truths that come with recovery, this conversation is raw, honest, and deeply human. Keta Loren and Jeff Conroy sit down with Alena to talk about pain, healing, identity, and the moments that force us to decide whether we’re going to stay stuck or fight for something more. If you’ve ever struggled, loved someone who has, or questioned whether change is possible, this episode is for you. | |||
| Real Talk With Jeff and Keta | 17 May 2026 | 00:47:55 | |
Some of the most important conversations happen when there’s no guest, no script, and no polished version of ourselves to hide behind. On this episode of the StraitJacket Podcast, Jeff Conroy and Keta Loren sit down for an honest conversation about recovery, mental health, identity, and what it actually looks like to rebuild your life after chaos. From the highs and lows of sobriety to the uncomfortable truths people avoid talking about, nothing was off limits. This episode is for the people trying to heal while still carrying pieces of their past. The ones learning that recovery isn’t just about putting substances down — it’s about changing your thinking, facing yourself honestly, and learning how to live again. Raw, unfiltered, funny at times, heavy at others, but real the entire way through. | |||
| Survival to Sobriety | Shelby's Story | 03 May 2026 | 00:55:17 | |
On this episode of the StraitJacket Podcast, Keta Loren sits down with Shelby to unpack a story that hits close to home in more ways than one. With multiple years of recovery, Shelby shares what it was like growing up in an environment where addiction and recovery existed side by side—her mother working in treatment while also, at times, enabling her use. It’s a raw look at how complicated love, boundaries, and survival can get when addiction is woven into family dynamics. What makes this story powerful isn’t just where they’ve been—it’s where they are now. Through honesty, growth, and hard-earned healing, Shelby and her mom have rebuilt their relationship into something strong, supportive, and rooted in recovery. This episode is about breaking cycles, redefining connection, and proving that even the messiest beginnings can lead to something meaningful. | |||
| You Don’t Have to Hit Rock Bottom to Get Sober | Juicy Mawma on Recovery | 19 Apr 2026 | 00:52:01 | |
Not every story of recovery starts with losing everything—and Juicy Mawma is living proof. On this episode of the StraitJacket Podcast, Keta Loren and Jeff sit down with a woman whose journey challenges the narrative that you have to hit rock bottom to make a change. Growing up on the East Coast, Juicy Mawma found herself caught in the cycle of overindulgence through college and beyond, until one day she chose something different. Her story isn’t about destruction—it’s about awareness, choice, and the quiet moment when you decide you want more for your life. This conversation dives into what it really looks like to walk away before everything falls apart. Juicy Mawma shares the internal battles, the societal expectations, and the strength it takes to choose recovery when the outside world might say “you’re fine.” It’s honest, refreshing, and a powerful reminder that transformation doesn’t require tragedy—just willingness. | |||
| From Chaos to Consistency | Jack's Story | 05 Apr 2026 | 00:50:56 | |
From rebuilding his body to reclaiming his life, Jack Van Damn sits down with Keta Loren to talk about what it really looks like to start over. Known online as SimpleJackFitness, his rapid rise on social media isn’t just about workouts—it’s about discipline, honesty, and the raw truth of stepping into recovery from alcohol and cocaine addiction. This episode pulls back the curtain on the early days of sobriety, where motivation isn’t always there—but the decision to keep going has to be. Jack opens up about trading chaos for consistency, and how fitness became more than a physical transformation—it became a lifeline. From battling cravings to building a brand, this conversation hits on identity, accountability, and what happens when you finally choose yourself. Whether you’re in recovery or just searching for a reset, this one’s a reminder that growth doesn’t wait—it’s built, rep by rep, day by da | |||
| Bipolar Disorder and Addiction Recovery | Ashley's Story | 29 Mar 2026 | 00:51:06 | |
Ashley’s story is one of resilience, rebuilding, and redefining what healing really looks like. Living with bipolar disorder while navigating recovery hasn’t been a straight line—but it’s been a powerful one. In this episode, Ashley opens up about the highs, the lows, and the in-between moments that shaped her journey, breaking down the stigma around mental health and addiction with honesty and strength. Now pursuing a future as a biology teacher, Ashley is turning her pain into purpose—proving that where you’ve been doesn’t limit where you’re going. Keta Loren and Ashley dive into the realities of managing mental health in recovery, finding stability, and creating a life rooted in growth, education, and self-worth. This conversation is raw, inspiring, and a reminder that transformation is always possible. | |||
| Jeff and Keta | Addiction Unfiltered | 22 Mar 2026 | 00:46:57 | |
Jeff and Keta sit down for a raw, real, and unfiltered conversation about addiction recovery—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. From the chaos of active addiction to the clarity that comes with doing the work, they break down what it actually takes to get sober and stay sober. No sugarcoating, no pretending—just honest insight, personal experience, and the truth about what recovery really looks like behind the scenes. Whether you’re in recovery, thinking about getting clean, or supporting someone who is, this episode is for you. Jeff and Keta dive into the mindset shifts, the daily practices, and the hard truths that can make or break your journey. If you’ve ever felt stuck, lost, or unsure of where to start, this conversation might be exactly what you need to hear. | |||
| The Truth About Addiction | Jeff Conroy & Keta Loren Q&A | 15 Mar 2026 | 00:57:41 | |
Jeff Conroy and Keta Loren sit down for a raw and unfiltered Q&A episode of the StraitJacket Podcast, answering the questions viewers ask the most about addiction, recovery, and everything in between. From the realities of early sobriety to the misconceptions people still have about addiction, Jeff and Keta break down the tough topics people are often afraid to talk about. Nothing is off limits as they share personal insight, hard truths, and the lessons they've learned both in recovery and through years of conversations with people walking the same path. This episode dives into the questions people are genuinely curious about—relapse, rebuilding trust, relationships in recovery, stigma, and what it actually takes to stay sober long term. Jeff and Keta give honest, experience-driven answers while creating space for the conversations that help people feel less alone. If you've ever wondered about the realities of addiction and recovery, this episode answers the questions many people are thinking but rarely ask. | |||
| From Trauma to Transformation | Haelie Queen on Recovery | 08 Mar 2026 | 00:55:24 | |
Haelie Queen’s story is one of resilience, truth, and the long road back to yourself. In this episode of The StraitJacket Podcast, Haelie opens up about growing up in what appeared to be a normal life before a devastating sexual assault involving her biological father changed everything. Carrying trauma she didn’t know how to process, she turned to prescription drugs and spent years battling addiction while somehow maintaining the outward image of a “soccer mom” life. Behind the scenes, however, she was fighting a quiet war that very few people could see. | |||
| Non-Consecutive Recovery| Breaking the All-or-Nothing Sobriety Myth | 01 Mar 2026 | 00:54:20 | |
Gaby’s story is one so many people are living but few are brave enough to talk about. With two DUIs and multiple years of non-consecutive recovery, she opens up about what it really means to fall down, get back up, and keep trying anyway. On this episode, Gaby shares the messy middle — the shame, the restarts, the lessons, and the resilience it takes to keep choosing sobriety even when the journey isn’t linear. Her honesty breaks the illusion that recovery has to look perfect to be powerful. Keta Loren and Gaby dive deep into the ins and outs of non-consecutive recovery, the taboos that keep people silent, and the preconceptions that make relapse feel like failure instead of feedback. This conversation challenges the “all or nothing” mindset and reminds us that every day sober counts — even if your timeline isn’t clean and tidy. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t fit the traditional recovery narrative, this episode is for you. | |||
| The Untold Story of Loving an Addict | Kellyn Rose on Boundaries, Enabling & Healing | 22 Feb 2026 | 00:52:42 | |
Addiction doesn’t just affect the person using — it impacts the ones who love them most. On this episode of StraitJacket Podcast, our guest Kellyn Rose opens up about what it’s like to grow up as both the daughter and sibling of addicts. We talk about the heartbreak, the confusion, the loyalty, the anger, and the silent battles that so many family members carry behind closed doors. From blurred boundaries to the fine line between love and enabling, this conversation gives voice to the perspective that often goes unheard. Kellyn shares powerful insight from her own lived experience and her book *Except Me*, available now, while Keta Loren offers grounded advice for those navigating similar relationships. If you’ve ever loved someone struggling with addiction and wondered how to protect your peace without losing your heart, this episode is for you. This one is honest, healing, and necessary. | |||
| The Dealer Who Found Recovery| A Transformation Story with Sherif | 15 Feb 2026 | 00:51:45 | |
What does it take to transform a life of struggle into a career dedicated to saving others? Sherif joins the show to share his evolution from a lone teenage immigrant to a professional in the recovery community. Growing up in the Middle East and moving to America independently, Sherif faced a unique set of pressures that eventually led to a period of involvement in the drug trade. He provides a raw look at the intersection of cultural displacement and substance use, and how he eventually found the path to sobriety. In this episode, the discussion highlights how a difficult past can be the foundation for a meaningful future. With years of sobriety, Sherif now serves as a bridge between those still struggling and the hope of a new life. His story is a powerful reminder that it is possible to change direction and use one's lived experience to guide others toward a healthy and stable path. | |||
| From a High-Speed Chase to Sobriety|Julia’s Recovery Story | 08 Feb 2026 | 01:01:54 | |
From chaos to clarity. Julia’s story is raw, real, and impossible to ignore. As a recovery content creator, she opens up about a life once consumed by heavy drug use, risky choices, and running from herself—until everything came to a breaking point during a high-speed chase while pregnant. That moment changed the trajectory of her life forever. Today, Julia has multiple years of clean and sober living and uses her voice to show what’s possible after rock bottom. Her journey is proof that no matter how dark it gets, transformation is always within reach. This episode is about accountability, motherhood, redemption, and choosing a new life—one day at a time. 🤍✨ | |||
| From Addiction to Influence | Savannah Lee’s Sobriety Story | 01 Feb 2026 | 00:55:57 | |
Savannah Lee’s story is a powerful reminder that addiction doesn’t discriminate. Before the spotlight, she was battling a heroin addiction that nearly cost her everything. In this episode, Savannah opens up about the darkness of addiction, the turning point that changed her life, and what it truly took to get sober. After choosing recovery, Savannah rebuilt her life and went on to become a successful model and content creator. Today, she shares how sobriety gave her confidence, clarity, and purpose—and how healing made space for everything she once thought was impossible. 🎙️✨ | |||
| Tony Hoffman| From BMX Prodigy to Addiction Recovery Advocate | 25 Jan 2026 | 00:55:40 | |
Tony Hoffman’s story is a powerful testament to resilience — from elite BMX prodigy to the depths of addiction, incarceration, and ultimately a life rebuilt with purpose. Once a top-ranked BMX athlete with sponsorships and magazine covers, Tony silently battled anxiety and depression, which led him down a path of substance use that cost him his career, freedom, and sense of self. At his lowest point, facing opioid addiction and prison, he made a life-altering decision to confront his pain head-on and choose recovery over destruction. Today, Tony Hoffman is a nationally recognized mental health and addiction recovery speaker, coach, and advocate, using his story to save lives and spark transformation. Sober and purpose-driven, he now travels the country delivering raw, honest conversations about mental health, addiction, and hope — reminding us that rock bottom is not the end, but often the beginning of something far greater. | |||
| Alcohol Addiction and Suicide Loss | Wendy’s Journey to Recovery | 18 Jan 2026 | 00:45:42 | |
On this episode of the StraitJacket Podcast, Wendy shares a raw and deeply moving story of alcoholism, grief, and survival. After years of struggling with alcohol, Wendy’s life was forever changed when she found her husband after he died by suicide. The trauma and heartbreak could have pulled her deeper into addiction, but instead became the turning point that forced her to confront her pain head-on. Wendy opens up about navigating unimaginable loss, choosing sobriety in the aftermath of tragedy, and learning how to live again after everything fell apart. Her story is a powerful reminder that recovery doesn’t erase the past, but it does create space for healing, hope, and purpose. This episode speaks to anyone who has loved an addict, lost someone to suicide, or wondered if it’s possible to rebuild after devastating loss. | |||
| Lucky Lisa| From Child Drug Use to 9 Years of Recovery | 11 Jan 2026 | 00:55:48 | |
Lucky Lisa’s story is one of survival, resilience, and radical transformation. Growing up in the 1970s, she was introduced to substances far too young—drugged for the first time in adolescence and smoking cocaine by the age of 13. What followed was a long and painful road shaped by trauma, addiction, and the normalization of chaos at a time when no one was talking about recovery the way we do today. Now, Lucky Lisa stands on the other side with 9 years of recovery. In this episode, she shares what it took to break free, rebuild her life, and stay sober through every season. Her story is a powerful reminder that no matter how early addiction begins or how deep it runs, healing is possible—and recovery can become the greatest chapter of all. | |||
| Escaping the Rave Scene | How Diego Left Meth, Alcohol, and Addiction Behind | 04 Jan 2026 | 00:53:02 | |
On this episode of the StraitJacket Podcast, Diego shares his powerful journey of growing up as an immigrant after being born in Mexico and raised in the United States. Navigating identity, belonging, and hardship at a young age wasn’t easy, and those struggles led him into experimenting with drugs in high school, eventually pulling him deep into the rave scene and a serious meth addiction. 🌎💔 Diego opens up about walking away from meth and other substances, only to find himself leaning heavily on alcohol for years after. In a raw and honest conversation, he talks about what it finally took to quit drinking as well and face life sober. His story is one of resilience, self-awareness, and the courage it takes to break cycles and choose a different path. 🔥✨ | |||
| Prison Saved My Life | Campbell on Addiction, Accountability, and Recovery | 28 Dec 2025 | 00:53:22 | |
On this episode of the StraitJacket Podcast, Campbell shares a raw and powerful journey that began as an at-risk youth and led to a life sentence-altering moment. After being arrested for a home invasion, Campbell spent 10 years in prison—where he made the decision to get sober behind the walls. What started in incarceration became the foundation for a complete transformation, rooted in accountability, discipline, and inner strength. Now with 12 years of recovery, Campbell is living proof that change is possible no matter where you start. He’s a strength and conditioning coach who pours into others physically, mentally, and spiritually, and he works closely with nonprofits to support at-risk communities and youth who remind him of his own past. This episode is about redemption, resilience, and turning pain into purpose. | |||
| From Drug Mule to Divine Miracles | Melia’s Redemption Story | 21 Dec 2025 | 00:45:13 | |
On this episode of StraitJacket Podcast, Melia shares a raw and powerful journey through dual diagnosis—battling both eating disorders and drug addiction. At every turn in her recovery, God showed up in ways she can only describe as miracles. From the depths of self-destruction to moments of divine intervention, Melia’s story is a testament to grace, resilience, and the power of surrender. Once living a life that put her in unimaginable danger as a drug mule for the cartel, Melia now has multiple years of recovery and a life transformed. Her story is one of redemption, faith, and proof that no one is too far gone to be restored. This episode is hope-filled, intense, and deeply inspiring for anyone who believes in second chances and miracles. | |||
| From the Strip Club to Sobriety|Jacqui’s Powerful Recovery Story | 14 Dec 2025 | 00:49:31 | |
On this episode of StraitJacket Podcast, Jacqui shares her raw and powerful story of addiction and recovery. From years spent as an exotic dancer, using every drug she could get her hands on, and surviving tumultuous, destructive relationships, her life was once driven by chaos and pain. At her lowest, she woke up strapped to a hospital bed, a moment that reflected just how far her addiction had taken her. Today, Jacqui is living proof that transformation is possible. With multiple years of recovery, she has turned her pain into purpose and become a true light in the world. Her story is one of resilience, hope, and the strength it takes to choose a new way of living when everything feels lost. | |||
| Crashing Out | How DJ Paden Survived Addiction, Suicide, and Found Jesus | 07 Dec 2025 | 00:57:08 | |
On this episode of StraitJacketPodcast, we sit down with DJ Paden — a man who should not be alive by any logical measure. After four DUIs, with the last crash slamming his truck into a wall and nearly taking his life, addiction and despair pushed him to the edge. He battled the heaviness of isolation, shame, and suicidal thoughts, believing there was no way out — until he encountered something bigger than himself. 🙏🔥 Today, DJ has over a decade in recovery and credits his survival and transformation to surrendering his life to Jesus Christ. He talks about how faith broke the spirit of suicide, rewired his identity, and gave him a purpose he never imagined. This is a powerful, hope-filled episode about grace, redemption, and a God who meets you when everything else is falling apart. If you’re looking for proof that miracles still happen, start here. ✨ | |||
| KXNG Crooked | From Addiction to Hip-Hop Legacy | 30 Nov 2025 | 00:52:01 | |
Get ready — our next episode features longtime-legend of the mic, KXNG Crooked. From the streets of Long Beach to worldwide stages, Crooked’s journey has carved through decades of hip-hop history — from early record deals, to his explosive weekly freestyle runs, to defining moments as part of Slaughterhouse. But behind the lyrics and the legacy lies a deeper story... of battle, of choice, and ultimate redemption. In this episode Crooked opens up about walking away from addiction, reclaiming his power, and using music as his medicine. His honesty grips you — a powerful reminder that recovery doesn’t erase the past, it transforms it. Tune in to hear resilience, truth, and the kind of strength only forged by fire. | |||
| From Porta Potty to Purpose|Skinny Vinny’s Wild Ride to Recovery | 23 Nov 2025 | 00:57:01 | |
On this episode of StraitJacketPodcast, Skinny Vinny — co-host of The Wild Ride Podcast with Steve-O — sits down with Jeff Conroy and Keta Loren to share the raw, uncut truth of his journey. Growing up around addiction, he slipped into a world that nearly swallowed him whole, eventually living in a porta potty at the height of his using. His story is a reminder of how far down addiction can take us… and how far recovery can bring us back. Today, with 8 years clean, Vinny’s life is bigger, brighter, and wilder than anything he ever imagined. From surviving chaos to building a career in entertainment and finding real purpose, he proves that nothing is too far gone to rebuild. This episode is all heart, humor, redemption, and proof that miracles happen when you don’t give up. | |||
| From Prison to Purpose | Garet McClendon’s Recovery Story | 16 Nov 2025 | 00:46:10 | |
On this episode of the StraitJacket Podcast, Garet McClendon sits down with Jeff Conroy and Keta Loren to share his powerful journey from years in prison and deep addiction to becoming a treatment center owner, content creator, and man in long-term recovery. His story is raw, honest, and filled with the kind of truth most people are too scared to speak out loud. Garet’s transformation proves that no matter how far someone falls, hope is still possible—and redemption is always within reach. | |||
| From The Strip Club to Salvation | Van’s Redemption Story | 09 Nov 2025 | 00:48:09 | |
From the stage lights to the spotlight of redemption — Van’s story is raw, real, and a testament to the power of grace. Once caught in the fast life as a male stripper and battling addiction to crack, he spiraled through darkness most couldn’t imagine. But hitting rock bottom became the solid ground he rebuilt his faith on, and today he walks in the light — clean, sober, and devoted to Christ. In this episode of the StraitJacket Podcast, Van opens up about the temptations, trauma, and transformation that shaped his journey. His story reminds us that no one is too far gone for God to reach, and no past is too broken for redemption. This one’s for anyone who’s ever questioned if change is really possible — it is. | |||
| Adopted, Addicted, and Redeemed | Lena’s Story of Survival | 02 Nov 2025 | 00:50:06 | |
On this episode of the StraitJacket Podcast, Keta Loren and Jeff Conroy sit down with Lena, whose story begins in Russia and unfolds into an inspiring tale of survival and transformation. Adopted at just five years old and brought to the U.S., Lena’s childhood was filled with challenges that eventually led her down a dark road of meth addiction. | |||
| From Abuse to Advocate | Fausto’s Journey of Healing and Recovery on the StraitJacket Podcast | 26 Oct 2025 | 00:49:16 | |
On this episode of the StraitJacket Podcast, Keta Loren sits down with Fausto, a content creator and mental health advocate whose story sheds light on the lasting effects of childhood trauma. Fausto opens up about being sexually abused as a child and how that pain shaped the path of his addiction. Through vulnerability and courage, he shares the reality of surviving abuse, self-destruction, and the long road to healing. Now, with several years in recovery, Fausto uses his voice and platform to help others break free from silence and shame. His journey is a powerful reminder that recovery isn’t just about sobriety—it’s about reclaiming your identity, your voice, and your life. Tune in as we explore the intersection of trauma, resilience, and redemption on this deeply moving episode of the StraitJacket Podcast with Keta Loren. | |||
| She Stabbed Herself and Survived | Julie’s Journey to Healing | 19 Oct 2025 | 01:02:20 | |
Julie sits down with Keta Loren and Jeff Conroy on the StraitJacket Podcast to share her incredible story of survival and redemption. After years of battling addiction, Julie reached her breaking point during a near-fatal suicide attempt where she stabbed herself in the femoral artery. Against all odds, she survived — and that moment became the turning point that led her into recovery. Now, with multiple years of sobriety, Julie has transformed her pain into purpose. She’s become an inspiration to others fighting addiction and mental health battles, using her story to remind people that even from the darkest moments, healing is possible. Her journey is a raw, emotional testament to the power of resilience, faith, and second chances.
| |||
| The Power of Storytelling: Sonny Von Cleavland on Trauma, Healing, and Hope | 12 Oct 2025 | 00:50:27 | |
Sonny Von Cleavland sits down with Keta Loren and Jeff Conroy on The StraitJacket Podcast for one of the most powerful and vulnerable conversations yet. A survivor of severe childhood sexual abuse, Sonny has transformed his pain into purpose — becoming a national speaker, advocate for the abused, and author of Hey White Boy: A Memoir. Fresh off his national tour, Sonny opens up in vivid detail about his story, the shame cycle that traps so many survivors, and the freedom that comes with breaking it. This episode is raw, emotional, and deeply human — a reminder that healing isn’t about forgetting what happened, but reclaiming your power through truth and compassion. #HealingJourney #TraumaSurvivor #StraitJacketPodcast #KetaLoren #JeffConroy #SonnyVonCleavland #HeyWhiteBoy #RecoveryPodcast #AbuseAwareness #SurvivorStories #ChildhoodTrauma #AdvocateForTheAbused #MentalHealthAwareness #BreakingTheCycle #OvercomingShame #Resilience #Memoir #PodcastInterview | |||
| From Body-Brokered to Sober | Kayla’s Journey on StraitJacket Podcast | 28 Sep 2025 | 00:43:39 | |
Keta Loren and Jeff Conroy sit down with Kayla on the StraitJacket Podcast for a raw and revealing conversation. Kayla shares what it was like to come to California seeking treatment only to be *“body-brokered”* into the rehab system—exposing a side of the industry that few are willing to talk about. | |||
| From Rock Bottom to Role Model: Kori Hagel’s Inspiring Sobriety Story | 21 Sep 2025 | 00:43:52 | |
Kori Hagel’s story is one you don’t want to miss. Once struggling with cocaine and alcohol addiction — even losing her car — she fought her way back to a beautiful, sober life. Now, she’s a loving mother and a powerful online advocate for sobriety. In this episode, Kori opens up about the lows of addiction, the turning point that led to her recovery, and how she now uses her voice to inspire others to find freedom. If you’ve ever felt hopeless or wondered if change is possible, this episode will give you the hope you need. #Sobriety #RecoveryJourney #SoberLife #SoberLiving #AddictionRecovery #SoberCommunity #CleanAndSober #SoberCurious #MentalHealthAwareness #HealingJourney #TransformationStory #Overcomer #HealingIsPossible #RiseAbove #LifeAfterAddiction #RecoveryIsPossible #BreakTheStigma #SoberMotivation #EmpoweredLiving #HopeDealer #SoberMom #MomLife #OnlineAdvocate #InspireOthers #HelpingOthersHeal #PurposeDriven #RecoveryCoach #SoberSupport #CommunityMatters #AdvocateForChange | |||
| From Addiction to Empowerment | Jeannine Coulter’s 10-Year Sobriety Journey | 14 Sep 2025 | 00:50:03 | |
Jeannine Coulter joins me for a powerful and inspiring conversation about recovery, resilience, and living life out loud. With **10 years sober**, Jeannine has transformed her journey from addiction into a mission to help others find freedom. She’s not just a **TEDx speaker** and **fitness coach**—she’s a force in the **online recovery community**, using her platform to empower thousands to heal, grow, and thrive. | |||
| Trauma to Triumph | Delphine's Story | 08 Sep 2025 | 00:48:41 | |
Delphine’s story is raw, brave, and transformative. From a painful childhood that fueled addiction, to the courage of embracing their true self later in life, Delphine has walked through darkness and found recovery, healing, and strength. 🌱✨ In this powerful episode, we explore resilience, addiction recovery, and what it means to start over when the odds are stacked against you. Delphine’s journey is living proof that it’s never too late to heal, grow, and thrive. 💪💜 #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryPodcast #Sobriety #MentalHealth #HealingJourney #RecoveryCommunity #PodcastInterview #Inspiration #Resilience #RecoveryIsPossible | |||
| High Speed Chases and Aces | Jessie's Story | 31 Aug 2025 | 00:45:30 | |
Jessie Lauren’s story is one you won’t forget. From the fast-paced world of underground poker games to the chaos of addiction, her life spiraled into bank fraud, crime, and even a high-speed police chase. What started as a thrilling hustle quickly became a dangerous descent that nearly cost her everything. In this raw and unfiltered conversation, Jessie opens up about the dark side of chasing quick money, the destructive power of addiction, and the moments that brought her face-to-face with rock bottom. | |||
| Proof of God | Tanya's Story | 24 Aug 2025 | 00:50:36 | |
Tanya’s story is a raw and powerful reminder of resilience and redemption. Growing up in extreme poverty, living in motels, and exposed to addiction at just nine years old, she began smoking crack with her prostitute aunt and following her on calls. What seemed like a childhood destined for destruction turned into years of battling addiction—until Tanya found a turning point at the Salvation Army. Today, Tanya is a captain at that same Salvation Army, helping women overcome addiction and reclaim their lives. In this episode of the StraitJacket Podcast, we uncover how she transformed her pain into purpose, proving that recovery is possible no matter how far you’ve fallen.
| |||
| From Foster Homes to Freedom | Bella's Story | 17 Aug 2025 | 00:50:08 | |
Isabella James’ journey is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Growing up in foster care, she faced a childhood filled with instability, loneliness, and the kind of challenges that can break even the strongest. As she grew older, she turned to substances to numb the pain, falling deeper into addiction. But Isabella’s story doesn’t end there—it’s a story of awakening, of realizing that the same mind that was stuck in cycles of destruction could be used to create a life of beauty, peace, and abundance. Through spirituality and manifestation, Isabella completely transformed her reality. She learned to align her mind, body, and soul, letting go of past trauma and embracing a vision for her life beyond anything she once thought possible. Today, she shares her truth to inspire others who feel trapped in their circumstances, reminding them that healing is possible, and your past does not define your future. This conversation is a deep dive into faith, mindset, and the art of rewriting your own story. | |||
| Sobriety On The Spectrum | Russ's Story | 10 Aug 2025 | 00:42:25 | |
Russ grew up in a rough environment where survival often came before dreams. Alcohol became his escape, pulling him into years of struggle that could have easily broken him. But instead of letting his circumstances define him, he fought his way out, step by step, finding strength in recovery and a voice in advocacy. | |||
| The Track, The Trap and The Testimony | Monica's Story | 03 Aug 2025 | 00:47:31 | |
🚨 New Episode Alert 🎙️ | |||
| Chains to Changed | Katt's Story | 27 Jul 2025 | 01:03:22 | |
From the outside, Katt Sorensen had it all — 💍 a loving husband, 💼 a six-figure corporate job, and a picture-perfect life. But behind closed doors, she was spiraling into a private hell of booze and cocaine. Raised in a good home, nothing *looked* broken — but something inside always felt off. The harder she tried to maintain the façade, the faster she was unraveling. What do you do when the life you built becomes the prison you escape from every night? Want to learn more about Katt? Click the links below! https://sobrietyjournal.com/ https://kat-sorensen.mykajabi.com/chains-to-changed | |||