In this episode of AAC Thrive, Mike Diamond explores the role of gratitude, resilience, and intentional action in recovery. He challenges the idea of “luck” and explains why lasting growth comes from consistent daily choices, self-awareness, and connection with others. Listeners will learn practical strategies for cultivating emotional resilience, celebrating small wins, and using gratitude to stay grounded while navigating life’s challenges. Whether you’re new to recovery or have years of sobriety, this episode offers insights for building a strong, sustainable, and fulfilling life.
Recovery Means Learning to Love Yourself Again
03/05/2026 | 10 mins.
What does self-love really mean in recovery? In this episode, we explore the differences among self-love, selfishness, and self-sabotage, and why caring for yourself is essential to protecting your sobriety. We discuss the honesty and accountability recovery requires, the discomfort many people feel when they hear the word "self-love," and how setting healthy boundaries can help you break patterns such as people-pleasing and negative self-talk. From small daily acts of self-care to choosing your healing one decision at a time, this conversation is a reminder that recovery isn’t about perfection; it’s about learning to value yourself and your future. If you’ve ever struggled to believe you’re worthy of recovery, this episode is for you.
The Intention Shift: Tools for Real Change in Recovery
01/28/2026 | 14 mins.
Resolutions can feel exciting… until they fail. In this episode of AAC Thrive, Mike Diamond explains why setting intentions—rather than resolutions—can transform your recovery journey. Discover how to: Set purpose-driven intentions that guide your actions every day. Navigate obstacles without shame or guilt. Avoid the “destination disease” of chasing results instead of growth. Align daily actions with your values and why. Recovery isn’t about starting over; it helps you move forward with direction, flexibility, and self-compassion. Learn how to create meaningful, lasting change in your life and your recovery. Download, listen, and find a new way to approach your goals this year because intentions empower progress, not pressure.
Sober & Steady This Holiday
12/17/2025 | 13 mins.
The holidays can be joyful but also stressful, emotional, and full of triggers. In this episode of AAC Thrive, Mike Diamond shares practical tips for staying grounded, protecting your peace, and maintaining sobriety through the season. From setting boundaries and planning to leaning on your support system, this episode helps you navigate the holidays with intention, gratitude, and connection.
Stronger Together: How Community Fuels Lasting Recovery
12/05/2025 | 17 mins.
Mike Diamond dives into why recovery can’t happen alone. Addiction isolates, but connection rebuilds. Community gives you support, accountability, and people who truly understand your journey. One bad meeting doesn’t mean the whole system is broken. It means you haven’t found your people yet. He highlights the power of mentors (both direct and indirect), reminding us that “success leaves clues” and that modeling healthy behavior creates a roadmap for growth. He also shares how unexpected moments—even online connections—can become lifelines. Keep showing up, stay open, and let community carry you when you can’t carry yourself. Recovery is built one day at a time, and the right people make the path possible.
AAC Thrive with Mike & Friends is the podcast for anyone on the recovery journey who needs insight, inspiration, and practical wisdom to keep moving forward. Hosted by Mike Diamond, celebrity interventionist featured on A&E and Director of Engagement and Intervention Services at American Addiction Centers, this show delivers real conversations that light the path to lasting recovery.With nearly 20 years of sobriety, Mike brings his lived experience and professional expertise, offering golden nuggets of truth, tools, and encouragement. Some episodes also feature his friends and colleagues from American Addiction Centers, or other special guests, who share their knowledge on addiction, mental health, treatment, and thriving in recovery.Whether you are new to sobriety or years into your recovery, AAC Thrive with Mike and Friends gives you the hope, strategies, and community you need to stay strong, stay connected, and stay thriving.We invite you to join the monthly live sessions, visit https://americanaddictioncenters.org/mondays-with-mike for more information.If you are someone you know is struggling, please call 844-91-SOBER.