Brian McAlister (he/him)

Brian joined Momma on September 17, 2024 for a live Q&A via Twitch and YouTube to talk about Thriving Beyond Sobriety: A Holistic Recovery Approach

About Brian

Brian McAlister is a transformational figure who emerged from a 20-year battle with addiction and alcoholism, embarking on a remarkable journey of recovery and resilience. Initiated on August 2, 1990, his holistic approach to recovery extends beyond sobriety, encompassing career success, financial stability, healthy relationships, and spiritual growth. Brian's transformation from addict to corporate leader and entrepreneur led to the creation of the Amazon #1 Best Selling Book, "Full Recovery," and the establishment of the Full Recovery Wellness Center. Committed to revolutionizing mental health, he introduced innovative solutions such as Freedom 365 and My Mental Health Nonprofit to make treatment accessible to all. Brian's belief in the teachability of full recovery and his exploration of groundbreaking approaches to mental health continue to inspire and transform lives.

Socials / Links for Guest Connection

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-mcalister/

• Facebook: 

  • https://www.facebook.com/BrianMcAlisterAuthor/

  • https://www.facebook.com/mymentalhealthinc

• Instagram: 

  • https://www.instagram.com/brianmcalister_/

  • https://www.instagram.com/mymentalhealthinc/

• Book: https://www.amazon.com/Full-Recovery-Recovering-Persons-Unleashing/dp/0982394829

• Website: https://www.vrsfreedom365.com/

• Website: https://www.mymentalhealth.org/

• Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mymentalhealthinc

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvp4RgmdJ7xXcgQFj_z0WXg

References / Things Mentioned During the Stream

• Favorite Poem: Desiderata 

• Favorite Quote: www.goodreads.com/quotes/20076-the-thought-manifests-the-word-the-word-manifests-the-deed 

• Movie Recommendation: American Gangster

• Al-Anon Family Groups Resource 

Episode Summary

If you’re ready to break free from limiting beliefs, embrace personal growth, or learn how to create a life worth living—whether you’re in recovery or simply seeking more fulfillment—this episode with Brian McAlister is for you.

Key Takeaways

• Addiction affects all aspects of life: physical, emotional, and spiritual.

• Finding purpose is essential for long-term sobriety.

• Asking better questions leads to better answers in life.

• We all have gifts that can be used for good.

• Support systems are vital in recovery.

• Happiness is an internal state, not dependent on external achievements.

• Contribution and service to others enhance personal fulfillment.

• Innovative recovery programs can provide essential support.

• You are never too old or too young to seek change.

In this episode of Even Tacos Fall Apart, Brian McAlister, author of Full Recovery and founder of the Full Recovery Wellness Center, shared his inspiring journey from addiction to a fulfilling life rooted in holistic recovery. With humor, raw honesty, and practical advice, Brian walked us through the highs and lows of his transformation.

Brian began by recounting his battle with addiction, which started at age 12 and led to a catastrophic motorcycle crash in the desert. That moment of clarity - literally at rock bottom - sparked his decision to change. Despite a four-year recovery to relearn how to walk, he admitted to falling back into his old habits before finally committing to sobriety on August 2, 1990.

His recovery philosophy goes beyond quitting substances. He emphasizes the importance of building a fulfilling life - financial stability, meaningful relationships, and spiritual growth. For Brian, recovery isn’t just about not drinking; it’s about creating a life that makes sobriety worth it.

Brian’s approach is practical and full of actionable advice. He advocates for replacing unhealthy distractions with goals that excite you and align with your purpose. He shared how asking better questions, like “Who’s getting the results I want?” helped him pivot from a minimum-wage job to leading a division with 10,000 employees.

The conversation covered fear’s role in holding people back, whether it’s fear of failure, success, or change. Brian stressed the importance of confronting these fears and breaking down challenges into manageable steps. For example, he explained how addicts often fear success more than failure because they’re so used to falling short. He reframed the mindset by encouraging listeners to embrace small wins and use them to build momentum.

Spirituality also played a critical role in Brian’s recovery. He discussed finding a higher power of his understanding, which opened the door to forgiveness - both of himself and others. For Brian, spirituality isn’t tied to any specific religion. It’s about connecting with something bigger than yourself to navigate life’s challenges.

One of the most impactful parts of the episode was Brian’s emphasis on finding your purpose. He spoke about helping others uncover what excites them, using examples of people he’s worked with. From a Wall Street professional-turned-environmental advocate to a former prisoner who started a lawn care business, Brian showed how identifying your passions can transform your life.

The interview wrapped up with a discussion about balance. Brian acknowledged that he still struggles with maintaining harmony between his career, personal life, and recovery. His advice? Regularly reassess your priorities and be honest about what’s working and what isn’t.

Whether you’re battling addiction, supporting someone who is, or simply trying to live a more fulfilling life, Brian’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and self-discovery. His key message? Sobriety isn’t just about staying clean - it’s about building a life you’re proud of.