Shows
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 Bonus: Jeff StevensOriginally from season one, we are excited to share this episode again. Jeff Stevens of WellBeing Brewing joined us back in 2020. We'll be back next week!2025-07-2855 min
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E25 Karissa Jones (with Nathaniel Carpenter)Who this episode is for:Anyone who’s lost someone they couldn’t saveThose navigating addiction—from the inside or from the sidelinesSiblings who’ve had to be the strong oneMoms who’ve done everything and still blame themselvesAnyone who’s ever made a mess of their lifeEpisode 25 – “Jordan, Jack in the Box, and the Shit We Carry”Pondoff’s Anonymous is brought to you by:McKelvey Insurance – Real humans, no bullshit. Whether it’s personal or commercial coverage, they work with over 30 companies to find the best rate without screwing you over. Call or text 618-623-008...2025-07-211h 43
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E24 Kelly Burton and Kevin Saak🚨 Trigger Warning: This episode includes frank and emotional discussion of childhood sexual abuse, addiction, relapse, hospitalization, and incarceration. It’s raw, real, and may be triggering for listeners with past trauma. We don’t hold back—because healing doesn’t either. Listener discretion is strongly advised.---Who this episode is for: – Anyone who’s ever looked in the mirror and thought, “What the actual f*ck am I doing with my life?” – People buried in addiction or dragging themselves out of it with broken fingernai...2025-07-141h 40
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E23 Shaun Weiss aka Goldberg from The Mighty DucksS2 E23 - Shaun Weiss Show Notes Who this episode is for: Those addicted to drugs and/or alcohol Anyone who's ever woke up not knowing what city they're in (or why there's a meth pipe under their pillow) People who thought Goldberg from The Mighty Ducks just "fell off" Fans of 90s nostalgia with a side of real-life wreckage Anyone who's ever made a mess of their life (and wants a way out) S2 E23 - Shaun Weiss aka Goldberg from The Mighty Ducks You think you know Goldberg? Think again. Shaun Weiss joins the pod and rips...2025-07-071h 12
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E22 Jeff BrennemanWho this episode is for:Anyone who feels like they were an alcoholic before their first drinkParents secretly hating the newborn phaseTherapists who drink alone and pretend it’s finePeople who nurse a beer until it becomes a personality traitAnyone who’s ever made a mess of their lifeEpisode 22: Therapist, Addict, Jesus-Lover — Jeff Brenneman Uncensored Strap in, degenerates. This one veers from Bible college to blackout whiskey nights, with a surprise stop for tea with the Taliban. Chris, Jeff, and Jakob welcome Jeff Brenneman, Clinical Director at Illinois Recovery Center. Once on track...2025-06-301h 50
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E21 Chris and Angela Schenewerk Pondoff's Anonymous – Episode 21 Show Notes Who this episode is for: Anyone who woke up with a Great Dane puppy and no memory of ordering it The families still trying to love a tornado in human form Addicts who’ve checked into rehab more times than they can count (Angela’s got you beat) People in recovery, people out of recovery, people still circling the drain Folks not in recovery but who’ve ever made a mess of their life and are wondering, “Now what?” Chris and Jeff wrangle the now-married madness that is Angela and Dr. Chris Schenewerk—b...2025-06-231h 45
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E20 The Science of Addiction | Pondoff's Anonymous x No Lions Here Crossover EpisodeCrossover Chaos: The Science of Addiction Who this episode is for: Anyone who’s ever stared down their own addictions Families who don’t get why their loved one can’t “just stop” The “I’m not an addict, but I totally have addictive behaviors” crowd People obsessed with the science behind why their brains keep screwing them over Therapy nerds, recovery warriors, and dudes who need to get over being "too tough" to talk about emotions And of course — anyone who’s ever made a complete dumpster fire of their life 🎧 Crossover Chaos: The Science of Addiction — Jakob Miller x Big Panda This on...2025-06-161h 05
Pondoff's AnonymousBONUS: Cristina Preston Re-Release Pondoff’s Anonymous – Cristina Preston Episode Who this episode is for: Anyone outworking pain in the gym Folks from good homes who wrecked their lives People with pasts they swore they’d never share Anyone who’s felt like a fraud—addict or not Church kids hiding chaos behind smiles Chris is on a Staten Island ferry, pizza grease on his fingers, yelling at Lady Liberty and eating humble pie ‘cause the remote-record plan tanked. But that tech fail is your gain—because we’re re-dropping a raw convo with Cristina Preston: fitness model, news junkie, steroid-using bodybuilder, tra...2025-06-092h 18
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E19 Angela SchenewerkWho this episode is for:• Anyone battling booze, burnout, or both• Moms hanging on by a thread with a wine glass in hand• Those who think “functioning alcoholic” means everything’s fine• Anyone who ever woke up and said, “How the hell did I get here?”• People not in recovery who’ve ever run from themselves and called it “freedom”Episode Title: "Closet Wine & Corporate Flights: Angela’s Fight for Herself"Angela Schenewerk shows up and blows the roof off. From Cahokia childhood to hidden booze bottles in adulthood, she takes us through what it’s l...2025-06-022h 19
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E18 Christopher Schenewerk, M.D.Who this episode is for: Anyone who thinks addiction can't touch high-achieving professionals 🧠💉 People who think "functioning alcoholic" is a badge of honor 🥃🏆 Those stalling on help because \"work is too busy\" 🏃♂️📅 Anyone who's survived a brutal divorce 💔 Healthcare workers, therapists & rehab skeptics 🩺🧪 Family members who don’t get why their addicted loved one keeps spiraling 😔👨👩👧👦 People NOT in recovery but know they’re circling the drain 🚨🌀Dr. Chris Schenewerk is in the building. And if you think doctors are immune to the wreckage addiction brings, buckle the hell up. Chris, Jakob & (a Jeff-less) Pondoff dive into a no-holds-barred convo with the Medical Director of Illinois Re...2025-05-261h 50
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E17 Victory Palmisano-BrucknerGuest: Victory Palmisano-Bruckner – Hollywood Producer, Stunt Industry Survivor, and Daughter of a Vietnam Vet/AddictWho this episode is for:Anyone with an alcoholic parent or a complicated grief storyDaughters who loved their dads even when it hurtFolks haunted by the war they never fought inSurvivors of church trauma, spiritual abuse, and Hollywood bullshitCreatives chasing their own IP dream (and still broke)Anyone who’s ever loved someone they couldn’t saveAND anyone not in recovery who thinks “just stop drinking” is solid adviceThis one hits the gut and the funny bone in equal measure.2025-05-191h 32
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E16 Kurt GarnerWho this episode is for:Those gutted by playoff heartbreak.Anyone who’s blacked out and called mom from jail.Teachers who taught Spanish while sweating out tequila.The sober curious, the secret drinkers, and the still spiraling.And anyone who’s ever run from a strip club tab and lived to tell it.EPISODE 16: “Señor Tequila & the Long Walk Home” (with Kurt Garner)Chris and Jakob are emotionally wrecked. The Blues blew it with 1.6 seconds left. Enter Kurt Garner—a guy who once taught elementary Spanish still buzzed from the ni...2025-05-122h 03
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E15 Cam Janssen🎙️ EPISODE 15: Cam Janssen – "Painkillers, Playoffs & Garth Fucking Brooks"Who this episode is for:Anyone who’s ever played hurt, lived high, or faked being fineMoms who can smell bullshit before you open your mouthBlues fans screaming “LET’S GO!” and flipping off WinnipegKids who grew up begging to stay on the ice till the Zamboni chased ‘em offThose who overdosed in front of their neighbors and somehow kept it movingAnyone who’s ever made a mess of their lifeCam Janssen rolls into the studio with a story that’ll punch you right in the soul. What starts off...2025-05-051h 27
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E14 What the FAQ?! Part DeuxWho this episode is for:Anyone teetering on the edge of “maybe I need help”Parents of addicts who keep asking, “Am I helping or enabling?”People in recovery wondering if they can keep their phone in rehab (spoiler: no)The spiritually curious and the godless skepticsBosses trying to figure out WTF is going on with their flaky employeeAnyone who’s ever paced around their house yelling at a hockey game with chicken wing grease on their shirt🎙️ Episode 14 – What the FAQ: Easter Hangovers, Higher Powers, and Rehab Real TalkA no-BS recovery Q&A straight from the mouth of experience. Pondoff and the g...2025-04-281h 54
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E13 Dillon DunnaganWho this episode is for:- Musicians living gig to gig, paycheck to bar tab- Anyone who ever tried to quit drinking with “just a few more beers”- People who’ve played on stage… and people who’ve blacked out in the crowd- Friends who’ve called in a wellness check and hoped to God it worked- Anyone who’s ever made a mess of their life and thought, “F***, I can’t keep doing this”Episode 13: 4-3-2-1 — The Day I Chose Not to DiePondoff sits down with Dillon...2025-04-211h 59
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E12 Becky Evans🎧 WHO THIS EPISODE IS FOR:If you’re a mom who’s been up all night worrying.If you’ve lost someone and don’t know how you’re still breathing.If you’re in recovery or barely hanging on to it.If you think one more relapse won’t kill you—listen up. This is for you.EPISODE 12 – THE LIGHT THAT DOESN’T GO OUT: BECKY’S STORYWe go deep on this one. Becky Evans—our sister, our friend—joins the pod to tell the story of her son Jordan. 18 months sober. Doin...2025-04-141h 27
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E11 Alex Kaiser | Host of No Lions Here Podcast🎧 PONDOFF’S ANONYMOUS – EPISODE 11Guest: Alex Kaiser | Host of No Lions Here Podcast🎧 https://www.nolionshere.com/WHO’S THIS EPISODE FOR?The morbidly curiousAnyone whose secrets are getting heavyPartners of sex addicts who want answersFolks untangling faith, shame, and identityPeople craving unfiltered recovery talkEPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:Chris, Jeff, and Jakob dive in with Alex Kaiser, a man who’s walked through hell and come back with a mic. From childhood trauma to sex addiction, locker room benders to emotional sobriety—this one hits hard.🎧 Alex’s podcast: No Lions H...2025-04-072h 03
Pondoff's AnonymousPondoff Archives: Megan Gehrs (Still the G.O.A.T.)Back by popular demand (and because we promised), we’re throwing it back to an episode that still slaps five years later. Megan Gehrs sat down with Chris and poured out a jaw-dropping story of addiction, destruction, and one hell of a comeback. From sneaking booze in Catholic school basements to being wheelchair-bound with alcoholic neuropathy, Megan takes us on a brutal, hilarious, and brutally honest ride.But don’t get it twisted—this isn’t a sob story. It’s a story of survival, faith, and the kind of redemption arc that makes Hollywood scripts look soft.2025-04-0257 min
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E10 Megan Gehrs & Bree BadgleyWho It’s ForThe introvert who thinks they can't recover in a loud-ass worldAnyone clinging to the idea of "high-functioning" addictionParents who think “we raised them right” means addiction-proofThe one white-knuckling sobriety and thinking it’ll magically stay that wayFolks who think jail and liver failure are just someone else’s problem—until they’re notMegan Gehrs is back to defend her YouTube crown, and she brought backup: the fierce, funny, and fearless Bree Badgley. What starts as a roast-fest quickly turns into a raw, riveting convo about what it really takes to crawl out o...2025-03-312h 12
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E9 Chris Pondoff as HimselfThis week, Chris, Jeff, and Jakob throw down on some heavy hitters: grief, addiction, childhood trauma, and what it really takes to get your shit together in recovery. No fluff, no fake inspiration—just real talk from guys who’ve lived it.Chris opens up about a brutal personal loss and how it shook his sobriety to the core. The crew doesn’t sugarcoat it—grief will mess with your head, especially when you’re trying to stay clean. They break down why grieving your old life is part of the process and how pretending you’re “fine” only mak...2025-03-241h 43
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E8 What the FAQ?So here’s the deal—Chris kicked off this episode saying Jeff’s out ‘cause his kid’s on spring break. Cute story, totally false. Jeff’s actually home while his wife’s doing parent-teacher conferences, because unlike some people, he listens. I guess you can tell who writes these show notes now…With Jeff out, our guy Eric Conley slides back into the studio alongside Chris and Jakob for a special FAQ episode—where we cut through the fluff and tackle the questions people in and out of recovery are really asking.We’re talking about what r...2025-03-171h 46
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E7 Tina Meier & Kenny "Iggy" Strode⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses suicide, cyberbullying, and mental health struggles.If these topics are difficult for you, please listen with care. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available—don’t hesitate to reach out. This one’s a tough conversation, but it’s one that needs to be had. We sit down with Tina Meier, the unstoppable force behind the Megan Meier Foundation, a foundation born from tragedy after the unthinkable happened to her daughter, Megan. At just 13 years old, Megan took her own life after being the target of a cruel and...2025-03-102h 23Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E6 Eric ConleyPondoff's Anonymous - Recovery, Relapse, and Real Talk with Eric ConleyChris, Jakob, and Jeff sit down with Eric Conley, CEO of Illinois Recovery Center, for a no-BS deep dive into addiction, recovery, and the brutal reality of getting clean. If you're looking for sugarcoated platitudes, go somewhere else—this one’s raw, real, and straight from the trenches.🔥 Recovery is a journey—support and community make all the difference.🔥 The pain of addiction has to hit a breaking point before change happens.🔥 Empathy isn’t optional—it’s a key ingredient in the recovery process...2025-03-032h 15
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E5 Cristina PrestonJakob was MIA, playing nurse for his sick girlfriend, so Chris and Jeff held it down.But don’t worry, this episode still packs a punch.Guest: Cristina PrestonMinistry Leader at Celebrate Recovery at Connect Church in Fenton, MO. But don’t let the “ministry leader” title fool you—this ain't some holier-than-thou sermon. Cristina's been through the trenches: heroin, crack, drug dealing, debts, and even surviving sex trafficking. Rock bottom wasn’t just a place; it was her reality. But she clawed her way back and now helps others do the same....2025-02-242h 16
Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E4 Jakob MillerStrap in, folks—this episode gets raw. Chris, Jeff, and special “guest” (aka their own co-host) Jakob Miller get brutally honest about addiction, recovery, and the wild ride in between. They dive deep into childhood chaos, learning disabilities, and that nagging feeling of being different. No sugarcoating here—just real talk about alcohol, weed, and the slippery slope into harder stuff like heroin.The guys break down the mind games of addiction: denial, relapse, and the struggle to claw your way back. They go headfirst into fatherhood, how becoming a dad changes everything (or doesn’t, until you’re rea...2025-02-172h 15Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E3 Kevin BuntenPondoff’s Anonymous – Family, Recovery & The Hard Truth with Kevin BuntenPondoff’s Anonymous – Family, Recovery & The Hard Truth with Kevin BuntenThis episode dives deep into theraw, messy, and real side of addiction recovery—because let’s be honest, it’s never just about the addict. The family plays a massive role, and sometimes, they’re just as deep in the chaos as the one struggling.We sit down withKevin Bunten, aLicensed Clinical Professional Counselor, family therapist at Illinois Recovery Center, and a guy who’s been through the trenches himself. Withover 22 years in the field and his own...2025-02-101h 29Pondoff's AnonymousS2E2 Nathaniel CarpenterBrought to you by:
Bertarelli Cutlery
&
Illinois Recovery Center
In this episode, hosts Chris, Jakob, and Jeff welcome Nathaniel Carpenter, who shares his journey of recovery from addiction. The conversation explores Nathaniel's early life in Washington, Missouri, the impact of his environment on his choices, and his transition from casual drug use to addiction. The episode highlights the importance of community, support, and the challenges faced in recovery.
Nathaniel opens up about his introduction to opiates after a severe injury, his experiences with childhood trauma, rebellion...2025-02-032h 00Pondoff's AnonymousS2 E1 We're Back-In this episode of Pondoff’s Anonymous, Chris Pondoff, Jeff Allen, and new co-host Jakob Miller discuss their return after a long hiatus, reflecting on personal growth and the establishment of the Illinois Recovery Center. -They delve into the importance of community support, family dynamics in recovery, and the realities of functioning addicts. The conversation highlights the dangers of modern substance use, particularly the prevalence of fentanyl, and emphasizes the need for comprehensive treatment options. -The hosts share personal experiences and insights into the recovery process, aiming to spread hope and under...2025-01-271h 38
Hot Take Central4-23 Segment 3 - Chris Pondoff from Illinois Recovery Center joins us live in-studioChris Pondoff from Illinois Recovery Center joins us live in-studio2024-04-2347 min
Growing Belleville thru Community ChatsA New Avenue for Sobriety with Chris PondoffIn this episode we sit down with Chris Pondoff of Illinois Recovery Center and discuss:
- The mission of the new rehab center in Swansea
- Why he and his partners decided to open the Rehab Center in this area
- Chris' own sobriety and giving back
- The challenges they faced with opening this center
- Much more2023-07-2629 min
The Street Smart Mental Health PodcastFrom Excuses to Empowerment: Discovering Happiness with Chris PondoffFew things will wreck your life faster than childhood trauma. What happens, though – when that trauma becomes an excuse to usher yourself into the bottom of a bottle, that eventually leads to snorting cocaine, debauchery and continually up-ending your life and of those around you? Chris Pondoff, host of The Pondoff’s Anonymous Podcast sits […]2023-04-1955 min
The F Word: Conversations On Faith with Matt MiofskyEpisode 14 // Chris PondoffPastor Matt talks Easter, the promise of change, and the importance of seeking and accepting help from others. He interviews author, podcaster and addiction/recovery advocate Chris Pondoff and answers listener questions.2021-04-1155 min
The F Word: Conversations On Faith with Matt MiofskyEpisode 14 // Chris Pondoff Pastor Matt talks Easter, the promise of change, and the importance of seeking and accepting help from others. He interviews author, podcaster and addiction/recovery advocate Chris Pondoff and answers listener questions. 2021-04-1155 minPondoff's AnonymousS1E38 - “Out of the Darkness” w/ Julie Hoff (with special appearance by Maddie)For Episode 38’s show notes, I’ll leave it to the words from a girl I know…
“We gathered to remember Randy Hoff, a life that ended way too early. I never knew Randy but I know those that love him dearly. It is inspiring to see their commitment to talk about something that has been stigmatized for so long - suicide and mental health. The only way to save lives is to talk about this. Pain is what people are trying to end, unbearable pain, not their lives. We have to keep this conversation going - to bring...2020-10-1954 minPondoff's AnonymousS1E37 - “F*** Six Flags”On episode 37, Jeff and I sit down and discuss:
-We’re back in the Studio! Thank you, Jesus!
-Jeff took a mental health break. Power to him!
-The Bold and the Beautiful is getting fucking good, man. Sup, Stephy. Sup, Hope.
-I’ve been to a ton of fucking funerals. Had one this past Saturday.
-I’m a bad coach, man. But I know how to delegate.
And.
-F*** six flags.
Let us pray.
-Chris
Chris Pondoff
Pondoff's Anonymous (Podcas...2020-10-0553 minPondoff's AnonymousS1E36 - “East Belle Ave.”On Episode 36, Jeff and I talk about:
-a two week break
-Labor Day
-Zillow is the new porn
-Chris used to live in a shit hole when he was all drunk.
Sorry for the short and sweet show notes, life is 2020 right now.
But all is well and God is great, mother fuckers!
Enjoy the show, tell your friends, and let us pray!
-CP2020-09-2150 minPondoff's AnonymousS1E35 - “Personal Freedom” w/ Ben CurtisBen Curtis was on LAW & ORDER!
And he came on our shitty, fucking podcast!?!
I should quit now!
For those of you that know me and understand my obsession with L&O, THIS IS MY MOUNTAIN TOP! (The only thing that could top this is having Joey Potter or Hope from The Bold and The Beautiful on.)
Amen! Praise the Lord! And, check-fucking-please!
Haha.
In all seriousness, it was an absolute honor and privilege having Ben on. He has risen, fell, and rose again, and his story...2020-08-311h 09Pondoff's AnonymousS1E34 - “Vacation”Episode Notes
Vacation episode, comin’ at ya’!
I went to Table Rock Lake!
The last time I was in Branson, I rolled my balls off on ecstasy.
Not this time!
This time It was Ashley, Charlie, and I’s first vacation as a family.
As: "The Pondoffs”…
Very similar to: "The Griswolds.”
Lots of “cluster-fuckery”, but also lots of fun.
As much as I make fun of the sentimental shit, I really am a lucky bastard with this family of mine.
Thanks, Go...2020-08-2458 min
Pondoff's Anonymous"Don't Panic!"It’s a bonus episode! I got to take over while Chris is on vacation and give you some quick thoughts on dealing with anxiety. This stuff helps me, I hope it helps you.
Here are some links to the couple things I promised you in this episode:
Breathing exercise video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wdbbtgf05Ek
Salsa Recipe! https://www.dropbox.com/s/arm8bqqav2p6m68/salsa%20recipe.docx?dl=1
Check out our podcasting host, Pinecast. Start your own podcast for free, no credit card required, forever. If...2020-08-2006 minPondoff's AnonymousS1E33 - “What Do You Need in the Dark” w/ Chaz FrankeOn episode thirty-three, Jeff and I welcome my dear friend, Chaz Franke.
Chaz has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from McKendree University, and he has a Master of Social Work degree from Saint Louis University (SLU). Chaz received his clinical license in 2009 and now owns his own joint (private practice) in Belleville, IL called Light Source (we’ll get to that in a minute).
Okay. Now that the fancy introduction is out of the way, allow me to get to it.
Chaz is the fucking man!
Plain and simple.
He...2020-08-171h 30Pondoff's AnonymousS1E32 - "Cravings"What’s up, y’all!
On Episode 32, It’s just Jeff and I.
We talk about:
-Xanax
-Coping
-Friday’s South Tavern’s fish fry.
-Some employee at Friday’s didn’t know me when Jeff name dropped my ass.
-I’m calling her fucking boss.
-I should be apart of the God d**n interview process!
-We then talk about cravings.
-And dopamine.
-And how now I’m a little fat.
Tune into the podcast!
...2020-08-1058 minPondoff's AnonymousS1E31 - “Bellev-I-L-L-e. Part 1”“Wake up, wake up, wake up…”
This episode will drop on Monday, August 3rd.
But, we recorded it on the first of the month.
“So cash your checks and up.”
On Episode 31 Jeff and I bullshit back and forth about a variety of different things:
-Jeff quit Facebook.
-Kindness.
-My wife went to Pepperdine. Have you fucking seen Pepperdine? Yeah well, if she had money, she sure doesn’t anymore.
Finally, after jabber jawin’ like two coked up barbers, I get to this episode’s topi...2020-08-031h 04Pondoff's AnonymousS1E30 - “The Candy Cane Knife.”We made it to episode thirty!
Hot damn!
The dirty thirty!
When I was done recording, my wife Ashley asked what we talked about…
After I told her she replied, “Do you think people will find that interesting?”
Smart ass. You barely listen anyway! 😉
Anyway.
To all the loyal listeners out there... (by "loyal" I mean the seven of you - we're growing! - that I guilt trip the fuck out of to listen... )
Are you just now starting to listen to the podcast...2020-07-271h 17