Episode 179 - Heroes on the Water
Episode 179 - Heroes on the Water

Recovery Is Possible

Mike Van Meter talks with Laura Lindsey about how Heroes on the Water uses kayak fishing to support veterans and first responders in their recovery journeys.

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50:30•9 Dec 2025

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About this podcast

Recovery Is Possible

Michael Van Meter

Michael has seen first-hand the devastating effects of addiction on the public, his profession, and himself. Michael began his career as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Navy. After eight years, he became a Corrections Officer, Washington DC Police Officer, and then FBI Agent. In 2010, Michael became an instructor at the FBI Academy. In 2013, he created a course titled “Leading At-Risk Employees” geared toward Police Executives to help them understand alcoholism, prescription drug abuse, PTSD, suicide, and domestic violence as it relates to policies and procedures for their agencies worldwide. In 2019, Michael retired from the FBI but his passion for helping others continued. In August 2022, he graduated with a Master’s in Addiction Counseling: Integrated Recovery for Co-Occurring Disorders from the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies. He currently works full-time as a Behavioral Health Therapist at a large nonprofit hospital. Pulling from his personal and professional experience, Michael shares his thoughts on this sensitive, complex, and controversial subject.

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Casting Away Stress: Kayak Fishing as Therapy

Episode Overview

Kayak fishing provides a calming, therapeutic experience.
Heroes on the Water supports veterans and first responders.
Peer support is crucial in recovery journeys.
Simple activities can have profound healing effects.
Family involvement enhances the recovery process.

“"It's not just about catching fish; it's about catching hope."”

Curious about how others navigate their sobriety journey? This episode of 'Recovery Is Possible' offers a refreshing look at healing through nature, with a spotlight on Heroes on the Water. Host Mike Van Meter chats with Laura Lindsey, who shares how this organisation helps veterans and first responders find peace and community through kayak fishing. Forget the usual therapy sessions; this is about paddling away stress and reeling in camaraderie.

The conversation reveals the transformative power of being on the water, where participants not only enjoy the serenity of nature but also form supportive connections that aid in their recovery journey. Laura and Mike discuss the impact of peer support, the importance of including families, and how simple activities like fishing can create a ripple effect of positive change. With real-life stories and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in unconventional yet effective recovery methods.

So, are you ready to cast your doubts aside and see how the simplest acts can lead to profound healing?

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