SMART Recovery

SMART Recovery® Podcast

SMART Recovery

  • SMART Tools Changed My Life with Joel Walkowski

SMART Tools Changed My Life with Joel Walkowski

Wednesday 4th February 2026

Joel Walkowski shares how SMART Recovery tools transformed his life, from addiction struggles to becoming a facilitator and author.
33 minutes
Inspiring
Honest
Hopeful
Informative
Supportive

About this podcast

SMART Recovery® Podcast
Author:
SMART Recovery
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Family Recovery from Addiction
Body & Mind
Financial Health in Recovery
Links:
Visit site
Rounded Button Dark
Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!

Joel Walkowski's Path to Recovery: A Story of Hope and Healing

Episode Overview

  • SMART Recovery tools can significantly aid in overcoming addiction.
  • Community support is crucial for personal growth and healing.
  • Practical tools like Lifestyle Balance Pie help maintain sobriety.
  • Identifying personal values can guide recovery decisions.
  • Storytelling can be a powerful tool for processing trauma.
"Changing your thinking by changing your behaviours was not going to be enough."
Get ready to be moved by real-life accounts of recovery as Joel Walkowski shares his incredible journey from substance use and trauma to finding hope and healing through SMART Recovery tools. In this episode, Joel candidly recounts his struggles with addiction, the pivotal moments that led him to seek help, and how the science-backed methods of SMART Recovery transformed his life. Joel's story is not just about overcoming addiction but also about rediscovering self-worth and building meaningful connections.
His love for the Detroit Lions becomes a metaphor for perseverance and personal growth, as he uses his passion for the team to explore deeper themes of family and identity in his memoir, 'Honolulu Blues.' Joel discusses the importance of practical tools like the Lifestyle Balance Pie and Hierarchy of Values, which helped him create a fulfilling sober life.
He shares the unique camaraderie found in SMART meetings and how becoming a facilitator has allowed him to give back to the community that supported him. With humour and honesty, Joel's narrative is a testament to the power of community and self-reflection in recovery. If you're curious about how structured support systems can aid recovery or simply want to hear an inspiring tale of resilience, this episode is a must-listen. How do you find strength in your journey to sobriety?
Could Joel's approach be what you've been looking for?
alcoholfree.com
Published by The Mindful Drinking Company Limited
4 Providence Court, Pynes Hill, Exeter, Devon, EX2 5JL, England
Registered in England and Wales.
Company Number: 1195057. Vat Number: GB320915135.
Registered address as above.
© Copyright 2005-2026 The Mindful Drinking Company Limited.
All Rights Reserved.
alcoholfree.com is a participant in the Amazon Associates Programme, an affiliate advertising programme designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.co.uk. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.