<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><?xml-stylesheet href="https://feeds.captivate.fm/style.xsl" type="text/xsl"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0" xmlns:googleplay="http://www.google.com/schemas/play-podcasts/1.0" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:podcast="https://podcastindex.org/namespace/1.0"><channel><atom:link href="https://feeds.captivate.fm/thepatrickcustershow/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><title><![CDATA[The Patrick Custer Show]]></title><podcast:guid>5341cd40-e3f7-5834-9b18-f1520fe95ef3</podcast:guid><lastBuildDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 21:52:00 +0000</lastBuildDate><generator>Captivate.fm</generator><language><![CDATA[en]]></language><copyright><![CDATA[Copyright 2026 Patrick Custer]]></copyright><managingEditor>Patrick Custer</managingEditor><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Stories of transformation and survival from celebrities, artists and thought leaders offering hope to people facing similar storms. Brought to you by the creator of the 10x award‑winning series Rooted Recovery Stories, Patrick Custer invites each guest to get raw, real and vulnerable; pulling back the typical curtain shielding public figures, revealing their most human moments. Each episode dives into career highs, private struggles, honest conversations about life’s toughest experiences and the shame that keeps so many of us silent. Sharing the good, bad and ugly of how navigated their storm(s), what helped, what didn’t work and what life looks like now, on the other side. Expect laughter and tears as you finish each episode reminded that you may be breaking or have already broken - but breaks heal stronger than before. This isn't the end, it's the beginning of you’re becoming!

Blending humor and hope, The Patrick Custer Show proves that courage is forged in moments we never knew were possible, giving viewers and listeners a sense of community and a reminder that there’s always light on the other side of struggle.]]></itunes:summary><image><url>https://artwork.captivate.fm/8b973f9c-7edf-4038-a48d-3c3cc64fa5c1/TPC-SHOW-cover-1x1-1.png</url><title>The Patrick Custer Show</title><link><![CDATA[https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/]]></link></image><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/8b973f9c-7edf-4038-a48d-3c3cc64fa5c1/TPC-SHOW-cover-1x1-1.png"/><itunes:owner><itunes:name>Patrick Custer</itunes:name></itunes:owner><itunes:author>Patrick Custer</itunes:author><description>Stories of transformation and survival from celebrities, artists and thought leaders offering hope to people facing similar storms. Brought to you by the creator of the 10x award‑winning series Rooted Recovery Stories, Patrick Custer invites each guest to get raw, real and vulnerable; pulling back the typical curtain shielding public figures, revealing their most human moments. Each episode dives into career highs, private struggles, honest conversations about life’s toughest experiences and the shame that keeps so many of us silent. Sharing the good, bad and ugly of how navigated their storm(s), what helped, what didn’t work and what life looks like now, on the other side. Expect laughter and tears as you finish each episode reminded that you may be breaking or have already broken - but breaks heal stronger than before. This isn&apos;t the end, it&apos;s the beginning of you’re becoming!

Blending humor and hope, The Patrick Custer Show proves that courage is forged in moments we never knew were possible, giving viewers and listeners a sense of community and a reminder that there’s always light on the other side of struggle.</description><link>https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/</link><atom:link href="https://pubsubhubbub.appspot.com" rel="hub"/><itunes:subtitle><![CDATA[Entertainment That Heals: True stories of transformation and survival from celebrities, artists and thought leaders offering hope to those facing similar storms.]]></itunes:subtitle><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type><itunes:category text="Health &amp; Fitness"><itunes:category text="Mental Health"/></itunes:category><itunes:category text="News"><itunes:category text="Entertainment News"/></itunes:category><itunes:category text="Education"><itunes:category text="Self-Improvement"/></itunes:category><podcast:locked>no</podcast:locked><podcast:medium>podcast</podcast:medium><item><title>ALCOHOLISM OR JUST BINGEING? Understanding the &quot;all or nothing&quot; stop button - Featuring Keesha Scott</title><itunes:title>ALCOHOLISM OR JUST BINGEING? Understanding the &quot;all or nothing&quot; stop button - Featuring Keesha Scott</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p><strong>ONE DRINK TRAPS YOU</strong> because for the high-functioning binge drinker, the "stop button" simply doesn't exist. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Patrick Custer sits down with Keesha Scott—co-founder of a national treatment empire and host of the <em>Cake for Dinner</em> podcast—to dismantle the most dangerous myth in wellness: that you aren't an alcoholic if you don't drink every day. From the Nashville podcast bringing you celebrity stories of sensational transformation, survival &amp; healing from mental health, trauma, addiction and the shame that fuels it all!</p><h3>DO YOU HAVE AN "ALL OR NOTHING" BRAIN?</h3><p>Many successful professionals hide behind the "binge drinking" label, believing that because they can go days without a bottle, they are in control. Keesha reveals the "invisible struggle" of winning corporate awards while smelling of "booze and cigarettes," explaining how the high-functioning mask actually accelerates the spiral. We explore the neurological "animal state" that takes over after the first glass and why "pulling yourself up by your bootstraps" is the only trick most of us have until it stops working.</p><h3>WHY THIS EPISODE IS FOR EVERYONE</h3><p>Whether you’ve never touched a substance or you’re 20 years sober, this conversation is a masterclass in the human "mask." We all have an "aesthetic" we project—the entrepreneur, the perfect mom, the tireless leader—while often throwing our internal trauma "out the window" instead of processing it. Keesha’s journey from a fatal accident at 20 to co-founding Guardian Recovery demonstrates that "perfection is a myth that kills" and that choosing joy is a radical act of resilience that can start at any age.</p><p><br></p><h3>WHAT YOU WILL UNLOCK:</h3><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>The Binger’s Paradox</strong>: Why the "days in between" are actually a trap of denial.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>The Corporate Duality</strong>: How success is often used as a shield to avoid the "shit show" in private.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Parenting from Conviction</strong>: Moving from "parenting from fear" to being "honest-ish" with the next generation.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>The Back Nine</strong>: Why Keesha decided at age 51 to finally "put herself on the list" and how you can too.</li></ol><br/><p><br></p><h3>ABOUT OUR GUEST: KEESHA SCOTT</h3><p>Keesha Scott is a prominent public figure in the behavioral health space, a certified parenting coach, and the co-founder of Guardian Recovery—a nationwide network with over 800 employees and 17 facilities dedicated to whole-family healing. As the host of the <em>Cake for Dinner</em> podcast and author of an upcoming book (Simon &amp; Schuster), Keesha leverages her 23 years of sobriety and Master's in Psychology to advocate for adolescent mental health and "authenticity over aesthetics".</p><p><br></p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">SUBSCRIBE, FOLLLOW &amp; CONNECT:</strong></p><p><strong>🧲 <em>The Patrick Custer Show:</em></strong></p><p><strong>Stream:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Apple Podcast:</strong> <u><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-patrick-custer-show/id1855446218" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-patrick-custer-show/id1855446218</a></u></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Spotify:</strong> <u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/5ciCkeb799tKuE87nn0SfI?si=0a03d967e1c5405f" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://open.spotify.com/show/5ciCkeb799tKuE87nn0SfI?si=0a03d967e1c5405f</a></u></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui"...]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>ONE DRINK TRAPS YOU</strong> because for the high-functioning binge drinker, the "stop button" simply doesn't exist. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Patrick Custer sits down with Keesha Scott—co-founder of a national treatment empire and host of the <em>Cake for Dinner</em> podcast—to dismantle the most dangerous myth in wellness: that you aren't an alcoholic if you don't drink every day. From the Nashville podcast bringing you celebrity stories of sensational transformation, survival &amp; healing from mental health, trauma, addiction and the shame that fuels it all!</p><h3>DO YOU HAVE AN "ALL OR NOTHING" BRAIN?</h3><p>Many successful professionals hide behind the "binge drinking" label, believing that because they can go days without a bottle, they are in control. Keesha reveals the "invisible struggle" of winning corporate awards while smelling of "booze and cigarettes," explaining how the high-functioning mask actually accelerates the spiral. We explore the neurological "animal state" that takes over after the first glass and why "pulling yourself up by your bootstraps" is the only trick most of us have until it stops working.</p><h3>WHY THIS EPISODE IS FOR EVERYONE</h3><p>Whether you’ve never touched a substance or you’re 20 years sober, this conversation is a masterclass in the human "mask." We all have an "aesthetic" we project—the entrepreneur, the perfect mom, the tireless leader—while often throwing our internal trauma "out the window" instead of processing it. Keesha’s journey from a fatal accident at 20 to co-founding Guardian Recovery demonstrates that "perfection is a myth that kills" and that choosing joy is a radical act of resilience that can start at any age.</p><p><br></p><h3>WHAT YOU WILL UNLOCK:</h3><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>The Binger’s Paradox</strong>: Why the "days in between" are actually a trap of denial.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>The Corporate Duality</strong>: How success is often used as a shield to avoid the "shit show" in private.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Parenting from Conviction</strong>: Moving from "parenting from fear" to being "honest-ish" with the next generation.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>The Back Nine</strong>: Why Keesha decided at age 51 to finally "put herself on the list" and how you can too.</li></ol><br/><p><br></p><h3>ABOUT OUR GUEST: KEESHA SCOTT</h3><p>Keesha Scott is a prominent public figure in the behavioral health space, a certified parenting coach, and the co-founder of Guardian Recovery—a nationwide network with over 800 employees and 17 facilities dedicated to whole-family healing. As the host of the <em>Cake for Dinner</em> podcast and author of an upcoming book (Simon &amp; Schuster), Keesha leverages her 23 years of sobriety and Master's in Psychology to advocate for adolescent mental health and "authenticity over aesthetics".</p><p><br></p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">SUBSCRIBE, FOLLLOW &amp; CONNECT:</strong></p><p><strong>🧲 <em>The Patrick Custer Show:</em></strong></p><p><strong>Stream:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Apple Podcast:</strong> <u><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-patrick-custer-show/id1855446218" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-patrick-custer-show/id1855446218</a></u></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Spotify:</strong> <u><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/5ciCkeb799tKuE87nn0SfI?si=0a03d967e1c5405f" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://open.spotify.com/show/5ciCkeb799tKuE87nn0SfI?si=0a03d967e1c5405f</a></u></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>YouTube: </strong><u><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@thepatrickcustershow</a></u></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Amazon Podcast: </strong><u><a href="https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c189b8f5-4d39-40f0-8d37-efec32aa3c5b/the-patrick-custer-show" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c189b8f5-4d39-40f0-8d37-efec32aa3c5b/the-patrick-custer-show</a></u></li></ol><br/><p><strong>Socials:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Instagram: </strong><u><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcustershow/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcustershow/</a></u></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Facebook: </strong><u><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershoww/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershoww/</a></u></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Tiktok:</strong> <u><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@thepatrickcustershow</a></u></li></ol><br/><p><strong>Website:</strong> <u><a href="http://www.thepatrickcustershow.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.thepatrickcustershow.com</a></u></p><p><br></p><p><strong>🧲 <em>FOLLOW KEESHA SCOTT (guest): </em></strong></p><p><strong>Instagram:</strong> @keeshawscott - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/keeshawscott" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/keeshawscott</a></p><p><strong>TikTok: </strong>@keeshawscott - <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@keeshawscott" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@keeshawscott</a></p><p><strong>YouTube: </strong>@CakeForDinnerPod - <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@CakeForDinnerPod   " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@CakeForDinnerPod </a></p><p><strong>Web:</strong> <a href="https://keeshascott.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://keeshascott.com</a></p><p><br></p><p>🧲 <strong><em>FOLLOW PATRICK CUSTER (host): </em></strong></p><p><strong>Instagram: </strong>@thepatrickcuster - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcuster</a></p><p><strong>TikTok: </strong>@thepatrickcuster - <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcuster</a></p><p><strong>YouTube: </strong>@thepatrickcuster - <a href=" https://www.youtube.com/@thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.youtube.com/@thepatrickcuster</a></p><p><strong>Facebook:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcusterr" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcusterr</a></p><p><br></p><h4><strong>⛑️ Help Resources:</strong></h4><p>👉 <strong><em>FOR INDIVIDUALS:</em></strong></p><p>- Addiction:</p><p>- <strong>Guardian Recovery:</strong> (888) 509-0591</p><p>http://www.guardianrecovery.com</p><p><br></p><p>· <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline</a></p><p>· 1-800-622-4357</p><p>- Mental Health:</p><p>· <a href="https://loveyourmindtoday.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://loveyourmindtoday.org</a></p><p><br></p><p>👉 <strong><em>HELP FOR FAMILIES:</em></strong></p><p>- <strong>Guardian Recovery:</strong> (888) 509-0591</p><p>http://www.guardianrecovery.com</p><p><br></p><p>- Al-Anon Family Groups</p><p>· <a href="https://al-anon.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://al-anon.org</a></p><p>- Smart Recovery Family Support</p><p>· <a href="https://www.smartrecovery.org/family" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.smartrecovery.org/family</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><h3>Chapters:</h3><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>00:00:00 <strong>THE BROKEN STOP BUTTON</strong></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>00:01:30 <strong>NASHVILLE BROADWAY STUDIO TOUR</strong></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>00:04:00 <strong>PARENTING IN THE TRENCHES</strong></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>00:06:10 <strong>BALANCE IS TOTAL BULLSHIT</strong></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>00:08:30 <strong>CHOOSING JOY AT 51</strong></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>00:14:20 <strong>THE 1994 FATAL ACCIDENT</strong></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>00:20:45 <strong>THROWING TRAUMA OUT WINDOWS</strong></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>00:23:10 <strong>WINNING AWARDS WHILE DRUNK</strong></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>00:29:00 <strong>BINGEING OR REAL ADDICTION?</strong></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>00:32:40 <strong>THE ONE YEAR RULE</strong></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>00:37:20 <strong>PREGNANT AND TOTALLY ABANDONED</strong></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>00:51:40 <strong>THE TABOO OF RELIEF</strong></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>00:57:20 <strong>GUARDIAN RECOVERY EMPIRE SCALE</strong></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>01:02:15 <strong>CAKE FOR DINNER SECRETS</strong></li></ol><br/>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://thepatrickcustershow.captivate.fm/episode/alcoholism-or-just-bingeing-understanding-the-all-or-nothing-stop-button-featuring-keesha-scott]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">5b31c7e1-4984-4d06-863d-99c9d45bfa89</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/8b973f9c-7edf-4038-a48d-3c3cc64fa5c1/TPC-SHOW-cover-1x1-1.png"/><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0600</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/5b31c7e1-4984-4d06-863d-99c9d45bfa89.mp3" length="127040535" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>01:06:10</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>7</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>7</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/cfb4e1ac-21d1-4d62-ae56-12c7d202cfc1/transcript.json" type="application/json"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/cfb4e1ac-21d1-4d62-ae56-12c7d202cfc1/transcript.srt" type="application/srt" rel="captions"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/cfb4e1ac-21d1-4d62-ae56-12c7d202cfc1/index.html" type="text/html"/><podcast:chapters url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/chapter-97482bc0-ecea-48ca-909d-2fe94b3566c3.json" type="application/json+chapters"/></item><item><title>From Real Housewives to the Presidential Campaign: Ryan Basham on Surviving False Realities of a High-Functioning Alcoholic Mother</title><itunes:title>From Real Housewives to the Presidential Campaign: Ryan Basham on Surviving False Realities of a High-Functioning Alcoholic Mother</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p><strong>Political analyst Ryan Basham discusses addiction recovery and mental health after surviving the "Real Housewives" false realities of his high-functioning alcoholic mother. Imagine finding out the cameras were never there!</strong></p><p>We're bringing you to the heart of Nashville, inside our studio on Broadway for an in-depth conversation with former Presidential campaign advisor and Out100 honoree Ryan Basham pulls back the curtain on a childhood that was a "rigged script" long before he stepped into the political arena. If you have spent your life playing a part in a story you didn’t write, this conversation is your permission to tear it up. You are not broken—you are becoming.</p><p>Ryan’s mother was the ultimate high-functioning alcoholic paradox: the charismatic, community-leading PTA President who maintained a polished public image while losing her battle with a bottle every single night. In this fascinating deep-dive, Ryan recounts the "alternate reality" his family was forced to maintain—one where facts were rewritten daily to validate the disease of addiction and protect a public facade of "perfection". This episode explores the psychological gymnastics required in dysfunctional homes and the "invisible" toll of keeping a secret for twenty years.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>“People become attached to their burdens, sometimes more than the burdens are attached to them.” — George Bernard Shaw</strong></p><p>This quote highlights the core "a-ha" moment: we often cling to familiar dysfunction even when it is drowning us . Whether you are navigating your own addiction or are the exhausted "peacekeeper" in a chaotic family script, there is enlightenment waiting. You have the power to stop being a character in someone else’s false reality.</p><p>━</p><p>⏰ <strong>AUDIO CHAPTERS:</strong></p><p>00:00 Life is Too Important to Take Seriously</p><p>01:25 Meet Ryan Basham: Out100 &amp; Political Disruptor</p><p>04:30 Comedy as a Survival Skill</p><p>08:20 Hollywood Hills vs. Small Town Reality</p><p>11:05 The High-Functioning Alcoholic Mom Paradox</p><p>21:40 The Moment I Realized Mom was an Alcoholic</p><p>28:50 Surviving the Alternate Reality: Rewriting Facts</p><p>45:50 Shame vs. Accountability: The Mental Health Reframe</p><p>51:03 Lethal Love: Why Boundaries are Your "Air Hole"</p><p>54:15 Reclaiming Joy: The Ultimate Act of Defiance</p><p>━</p><p>📌 <strong>TOP 3 TIPS FOR FAMILIES:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="ordered"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Stop the Fact-Checking:</strong> You cannot cure someone else’s alternate reality. Shift energy to trusting your own internal truth .</li><li data-list="ordered"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Prioritize Your "Air Hole":</strong> You cannot save someone from a storm if you are drowning alongside them. Support is not enabling .</li><li data-list="ordered"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Reclaim Your Joy:</strong> Laughter is a biological survival mechanism and an act of defiance against a dysfunctional script .</li></ol><br/><p>📌 <strong>TOP 3 TIPS FOR THE "BECOMING" PROCESS:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="ordered"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Dismantle Shame:</strong> Shame is a global attack on who you are; accountability is a focus on what you do .</li><li data-list="ordered"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Embrace the Pivot:</strong> Your life doesn't have to follow the trajectory set by your trauma. Your most authentic self is found in the "becoming."</li><li data-list="ordered"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Refuse to "Shrink to Fit":</strong> If your environment requires you to hide your truth, it is the wrong environment. Take up space .</li></ol><br/><p>━</p><p>🛟 <strong>HELP RESOURCES:</strong></p><p>👉 <strong><em>FOR INDIVIDUALS:</em></strong></p><p>- Addiction:</p><p>· <a...]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Political analyst Ryan Basham discusses addiction recovery and mental health after surviving the "Real Housewives" false realities of his high-functioning alcoholic mother. Imagine finding out the cameras were never there!</strong></p><p>We're bringing you to the heart of Nashville, inside our studio on Broadway for an in-depth conversation with former Presidential campaign advisor and Out100 honoree Ryan Basham pulls back the curtain on a childhood that was a "rigged script" long before he stepped into the political arena. If you have spent your life playing a part in a story you didn’t write, this conversation is your permission to tear it up. You are not broken—you are becoming.</p><p>Ryan’s mother was the ultimate high-functioning alcoholic paradox: the charismatic, community-leading PTA President who maintained a polished public image while losing her battle with a bottle every single night. In this fascinating deep-dive, Ryan recounts the "alternate reality" his family was forced to maintain—one where facts were rewritten daily to validate the disease of addiction and protect a public facade of "perfection". This episode explores the psychological gymnastics required in dysfunctional homes and the "invisible" toll of keeping a secret for twenty years.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>“People become attached to their burdens, sometimes more than the burdens are attached to them.” — George Bernard Shaw</strong></p><p>This quote highlights the core "a-ha" moment: we often cling to familiar dysfunction even when it is drowning us . Whether you are navigating your own addiction or are the exhausted "peacekeeper" in a chaotic family script, there is enlightenment waiting. You have the power to stop being a character in someone else’s false reality.</p><p>━</p><p>⏰ <strong>AUDIO CHAPTERS:</strong></p><p>00:00 Life is Too Important to Take Seriously</p><p>01:25 Meet Ryan Basham: Out100 &amp; Political Disruptor</p><p>04:30 Comedy as a Survival Skill</p><p>08:20 Hollywood Hills vs. Small Town Reality</p><p>11:05 The High-Functioning Alcoholic Mom Paradox</p><p>21:40 The Moment I Realized Mom was an Alcoholic</p><p>28:50 Surviving the Alternate Reality: Rewriting Facts</p><p>45:50 Shame vs. Accountability: The Mental Health Reframe</p><p>51:03 Lethal Love: Why Boundaries are Your "Air Hole"</p><p>54:15 Reclaiming Joy: The Ultimate Act of Defiance</p><p>━</p><p>📌 <strong>TOP 3 TIPS FOR FAMILIES:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="ordered"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Stop the Fact-Checking:</strong> You cannot cure someone else’s alternate reality. Shift energy to trusting your own internal truth .</li><li data-list="ordered"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Prioritize Your "Air Hole":</strong> You cannot save someone from a storm if you are drowning alongside them. Support is not enabling .</li><li data-list="ordered"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Reclaim Your Joy:</strong> Laughter is a biological survival mechanism and an act of defiance against a dysfunctional script .</li></ol><br/><p>📌 <strong>TOP 3 TIPS FOR THE "BECOMING" PROCESS:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="ordered"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Dismantle Shame:</strong> Shame is a global attack on who you are; accountability is a focus on what you do .</li><li data-list="ordered"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Embrace the Pivot:</strong> Your life doesn't have to follow the trajectory set by your trauma. Your most authentic self is found in the "becoming."</li><li data-list="ordered"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Refuse to "Shrink to Fit":</strong> If your environment requires you to hide your truth, it is the wrong environment. Take up space .</li></ol><br/><p>━</p><p>🛟 <strong>HELP RESOURCES:</strong></p><p>👉 <strong><em>FOR INDIVIDUALS:</em></strong></p><p>- Addiction:</p><p>· <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline</a></p><p>· 1-800-622-4357</p><p>- Mental Health:</p><p>· <a href="https://loveyourmindtoday.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://loveyourmindtoday.org</a></p><p><br></p><p>👉 <strong><em>HELP FOR FAMILIES:</em></strong></p><p>- Al-Anon Family Groups</p><p>· <a href="https://al-anon.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://al-anon.org</a></p><p>- Smart Recovery Family Support</p><p>· <a href="https://www.smartrecovery.org/family" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.smartrecovery.org/family</a></p><p>━</p><p><strong>Follow &amp; Connect</strong></p><p>✅ <strong>Ryan Basham</strong> (Official Guest Links)</p><p>Instagram: @ryanbasham - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ryanbasham" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/ryanbasham</a></p><p>TikTok: @ryanbasham - <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@ryanbasham" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@ryanbasham</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCQoWWVbFtWYCYEBvXzvre3Q" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> ⁨@RyanBasham⁩ </a></p><p>Web: <a href="https://www.ryanbasham.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.ryanbasham.com/</a></p><p>✅ <strong>Patrick Custer</strong> (Official Host Links)</p><p>Instagram: @thepatrickcuster - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcuster</a></p><p>TikTok: @thepatrickcuster - <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@thepatrickcuster</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCOY8vmvYcPU-E0AG8NnXJoQ" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> ⁨@thepatrickcuster⁩ </a></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcusterr" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcusterr</a></p><p>✅ <strong>The Patrick Custer Show</strong> (Official Show Links)</p><p>Instagram: @thepatrickcustershow - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcustershow</a></p><p>TikTok: @thepatrickcustershow - <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@thepatrickcustershow</a></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershoww" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershoww</a></p><p>YouTube: <a href="https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCllvE1Xxua-HZ5RHehqSFfQ" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> ⁨@ThePatrickCusterShow⁩ </a></p><p>Website: <a href="https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/</a></p><p><br></p><p><strong>🫵 You are not broken; you are becoming. Leave a review and let us know your biggest takeaway!</strong></p><p>━</p><p><strong>Primary Keywords:</strong> addiction recovery, mental health, Ryan Basham, high-functioning alcoholic mother, alcoholism in families, trauma-informed storytelling, childhood trauma recovery.</p><p><strong>Secondary Keywords:</strong> Real Housewives, Bravo TV fans, Andy Cohen, rigged script, NFL script meme, Super Bowl LX, Presidential campaign advisor, political analyst, stand-up comedy, Nashville Broadway studio, Out100, LGBTQ mental health, surviving gaslighting, alternate reality trauma, resilience and reinvention, system disruption.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://thepatrickcustershow.captivate.fm/episode/from-real-housewives-to-the-presidential-campaign-ryan-basham-on-surviving-false-realities-of-a-high-functioning-alcoholic-mother]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">8e5e1570-d10a-4a3c-b6d8-cd0c761a473a</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/8b973f9c-7edf-4038-a48d-3c3cc64fa5c1/TPC-SHOW-cover-1x1-1.png"/><pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0600</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/8e5e1570-d10a-4a3c-b6d8-cd0c761a473a.mp3" length="108443415" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>56:29</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>6</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>6</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/fab7abe6-50e1-442f-a3f8-cacb72dfa966/transcript.json" type="application/json"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/fab7abe6-50e1-442f-a3f8-cacb72dfa966/transcript.srt" type="application/srt" rel="captions"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/fab7abe6-50e1-442f-a3f8-cacb72dfa966/index.html" type="text/html"/><podcast:chapters url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/chapter-08fec09a-feab-4cb0-9be4-5a6bcbde3082.json" type="application/json+chapters"/></item><item><title>I Relapsed After 10 Years Sober. (Here&apos;s Why)</title><itunes:title>I Relapsed After 10 Years Sober. (Here&apos;s Why)</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Corey Warren had it all: money, a family, and 10 years sober. Then he drank one beer.</p><p>In this episode, Corey joins Patrick Custer to dismantle the myth that you can "outgrow" addiction. We discuss the terrifying speed of his relapse—from one drink at a bar to blacking out daily in just 60 days—and the "successful failure" that nearly cost him his family.</p><p>Corey reveals the specific moment that broke him: sitting on a luxury boat he bought to win his daughter’s affection, only to hear the six words that money couldn't fix. If you are chasing success to quiet your shame, or navigating the guilt of co-parenting, this conversation is the wake-up call you need.</p><p><strong>In this episode, we cover:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>The "10-Year Lie":</strong> Why long-term sobriety doesn't mean you're cured.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>The Boat Story:</strong> How trying to buy his daughter's love backfired.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>The "Radio Glitch":</strong> The unexplainable moment that forced Corey back into recovery.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>"Work Sobriety":</strong> Why trading alcohol for 80-hour work weeks is just a different form of sickness.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Parenting Through Guilt:</strong> How to stop performing for your kids and start connecting with them.</li></ol><br/><p><strong>Quotes from the episode:</strong></p><blockquote><em>"I bought this boat to make my daughter love me. We were out there, sun shining, and she looked at me and said, 'Dad, I just really miss Mom.' It hit like a ton of bricks."</em></blockquote><blockquote><em>"I didn't think I was an alcoholic anymore. I thought I was just a guy who used to drink too much. That lie cost me everything."</em></blockquote><p><strong>Connect with Corey:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/icoreywarren" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/icoreywarren</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@icoreywarren" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@icoreywarren</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@icoreywarren" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@icoreywarren</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Website: <a href="https://www.coreywarren.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.coreywarren.com</a></li></ol><br/><p><strong>Connect with Patrick:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcuster/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcuster/</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@thepatrickcuster</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@thepatrickcuster</a></li></ol><br/><p><br></p><p><strong>CHAPTERS: </strong></p><p>0:00 - The "Do It For Yourself" Lie</p><p>01:16 - Welcome to The Patrick Custer Show</p><p>05:20 - "If I Had Cancer, I'd Ask For Help"</p><p>11:26 - "Dad, I Need My Tablet": Parenting &amp; Addiction</p><p>20:22 - The "Normal Drinker" Jealousy...]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Corey Warren had it all: money, a family, and 10 years sober. Then he drank one beer.</p><p>In this episode, Corey joins Patrick Custer to dismantle the myth that you can "outgrow" addiction. We discuss the terrifying speed of his relapse—from one drink at a bar to blacking out daily in just 60 days—and the "successful failure" that nearly cost him his family.</p><p>Corey reveals the specific moment that broke him: sitting on a luxury boat he bought to win his daughter’s affection, only to hear the six words that money couldn't fix. If you are chasing success to quiet your shame, or navigating the guilt of co-parenting, this conversation is the wake-up call you need.</p><p><strong>In this episode, we cover:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>The "10-Year Lie":</strong> Why long-term sobriety doesn't mean you're cured.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>The Boat Story:</strong> How trying to buy his daughter's love backfired.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>The "Radio Glitch":</strong> The unexplainable moment that forced Corey back into recovery.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>"Work Sobriety":</strong> Why trading alcohol for 80-hour work weeks is just a different form of sickness.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Parenting Through Guilt:</strong> How to stop performing for your kids and start connecting with them.</li></ol><br/><p><strong>Quotes from the episode:</strong></p><blockquote><em>"I bought this boat to make my daughter love me. We were out there, sun shining, and she looked at me and said, 'Dad, I just really miss Mom.' It hit like a ton of bricks."</em></blockquote><blockquote><em>"I didn't think I was an alcoholic anymore. I thought I was just a guy who used to drink too much. That lie cost me everything."</em></blockquote><p><strong>Connect with Corey:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/icoreywarren" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/icoreywarren</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@icoreywarren" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@icoreywarren</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@icoreywarren" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@icoreywarren</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Website: <a href="https://www.coreywarren.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.coreywarren.com</a></li></ol><br/><p><strong>Connect with Patrick:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcuster/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcuster/</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@thepatrickcuster</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@thepatrickcuster</a></li></ol><br/><p><br></p><p><strong>CHAPTERS: </strong></p><p>0:00 - The "Do It For Yourself" Lie</p><p>01:16 - Welcome to The Patrick Custer Show</p><p>05:20 - "If I Had Cancer, I'd Ask For Help"</p><p>11:26 - "Dad, I Need My Tablet": Parenting &amp; Addiction</p><p>20:22 - The "Normal Drinker" Jealousy Trap</p><p>25:30 - Why You Shouldn't Get Sober "For Yourself"</p><p>38:36 - Relapse at 10 Years Sober: From One Beer to Blackouts</p><p>46:03 - The "Radio Glitch" (Did God Intervene?)</p><p>53:11 - "Work Sobriety": Replacing Vodka with Money</p><p>53:51 - The Boat Story: When Money Failed</p><p>01:04:17 - What's Next for Corey Warren</p><p>01:06:28 - Conclusion: You Are Not Alone</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Resources (HELP):</strong> If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health or addiction, help is available. You are not alone. Call or text 988 (USA) for confidential support.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>ABOUT THE GUEST:</strong> <strong>Corey Warren</strong> is a recovery advocate, entrepreneur, and the founder of the <strong>Rise Recovery Community</strong>, one of Michigan’s largest Medicaid-funded recovery housing programs. Known internationally for his viral storytelling and "Hook Point" media strategy, Corey has transformed his life from a convicted "Polite Bandit" facing armed robbery charges to a beacon of hope for millions.</p><p>His mission is to disrupt the stigma of addiction by blending raw vulnerability with business acumen. Through his work with <strong>Hook Point</strong> and his "Straight Talk" school programs, Corey helps individuals identify the root causes of their struggles—often stemming from a need for external validation rather than the substance itself.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://thepatrickcustershow.captivate.fm/episode/corey-warren-why-success-triggered-my-relapse-the-truth-about-parenting]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">c015a2ee-e1c1-4158-ac44-4e85707997b3</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/8b973f9c-7edf-4038-a48d-3c3cc64fa5c1/TPC-SHOW-cover-1x1-1.png"/><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0600</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/c015a2ee-e1c1-4158-ac44-4e85707997b3.mp3" length="132664599" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>01:09:06</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>5</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>5</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/fed9902f-299b-4cf9-92f1-f7cb8ebd9e0b/transcript.json" type="application/json"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/fed9902f-299b-4cf9-92f1-f7cb8ebd9e0b/transcript.srt" type="application/srt" rel="captions"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/fed9902f-299b-4cf9-92f1-f7cb8ebd9e0b/index.html" type="text/html"/><podcast:chapters url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/chapter-2e75fdae-42c4-4f47-b218-be6157cddbbb.json" type="application/json+chapters"/><podcast:alternateEnclosure type="video/youtube" title="I Relapsed After 10 Years Sober. (Here&apos;s Why)"><podcast:source uri="https://youtu.be/sIbxl0tEjRI"/></podcast:alternateEnclosure></item><item><title>Andi Marie Tillman: &quot;Aunt Pam,&quot; Speaking in Tongues &amp; Healing Through the Dogma</title><itunes:title>Andi Marie Tillman: &quot;Aunt Pam,&quot; Speaking in Tongues &amp; Healing Through the Dogma</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>From "Slide Singing" Beyoncé to battling autoimmune disease—this is the wildest journey of healing you'll hear this year.</p><p>Patrick sits down with viral comedian <strong>Andi Marie Tillman</strong> (and her alter-ego Aunt Pam) for a masterclass in satire and survival. We laugh at the absurdity of religious performance ("Belinda the Interpreter") so we can heal from the trauma of it.</p><p><strong>We Cover:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>The Comedy of Dogma:</strong> Why we laugh at the culture we grew up in.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>The "Victorian Woman":</strong> Andi’s hilarious take on chronic illness.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Reconstruction:</strong> How to keep your faith when the system breaks.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Sobriety:</strong> The reality of facing life without a buffer.</li></ol><br/><p><strong>Mentioned in this Episode:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>"All Her Fault" (Peacock)</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>The "Skibidi Toilet" Phenomenon</li></ol><br/><p>We dive into a hilariously candid conversation with comedian Andi Marie Tillman, who joins me, Patrick Custer, for a wild ride through her comedic journey and the ups and downs of life. Right off the bat, we chat about her unique approach to comedy, including her quirky tales of having a tongues interpreter who hilariously flips the script, interpreting her everyday chat into something utterly nonsensical. We also touch on her experiences with gratitude, health challenges, and the rollercoaster of recovery, all while keeping the laughs rolling. Andi's vibrant personality shines through as we explore her adventures in navigating life, relationships, and the struggle between public persona and personal reality. So, grab your favorite snack, kick back, and get ready for some belly laughs and heartfelt moments that remind us all that life is a beautifully messy journey! Diving into the vibrant world of comedy, this episode features a delightful chat between host Patrick Custer and the witty Andi Marie Tillman. From the get-go, the banter flows like a refreshing glass of lemonade on a hot summer day, as they explore the ups and downs of life, laughter, and everything in between. The conversation kicks off with Andi’s humorous take on the intricacies of life’s everyday challenges, including her witty commentary on being a mother and the delightful chaos that comes with it. With her unique perspective, Andi shares anecdotes that have the audience chuckling, all while weaving in meaningful insights about gratitude and resilience. “We have no idea what our life is going to actually look like,” she remarks, reminding us all to embrace uncertainty with a smile. As the episode progresses, Patrick and Andi delve into the nuances of self-identity, the importance of authenticity in comedy, and how humor can be a powerful tool for healing. Andi’s candidness about her own struggles with addiction and mental health adds depth to the conversation, making it not just a light-hearted romp but also a heartfelt exploration of overcoming adversity. She shares her journey of personal growth, emphasizing that while laughter is essential, acknowledging our struggles is equally crucial. “I want to cross between the Wiz and, like, gutter slut,” she quips, showcasing her ability to blend humor with real talk effortlessly. Listeners are treated to an emotional rollercoaster as Patrick and Andi navigate topics like societal expectations, the often unrealistic portrayal of life on social media, and the pressure to maintain a certain image. The episode wraps up on a high note, leaving audiences not only entertained but also inspired]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>From "Slide Singing" Beyoncé to battling autoimmune disease—this is the wildest journey of healing you'll hear this year.</p><p>Patrick sits down with viral comedian <strong>Andi Marie Tillman</strong> (and her alter-ego Aunt Pam) for a masterclass in satire and survival. We laugh at the absurdity of religious performance ("Belinda the Interpreter") so we can heal from the trauma of it.</p><p><strong>We Cover:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>The Comedy of Dogma:</strong> Why we laugh at the culture we grew up in.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>The "Victorian Woman":</strong> Andi’s hilarious take on chronic illness.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Reconstruction:</strong> How to keep your faith when the system breaks.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Sobriety:</strong> The reality of facing life without a buffer.</li></ol><br/><p><strong>Mentioned in this Episode:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>"All Her Fault" (Peacock)</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>The "Skibidi Toilet" Phenomenon</li></ol><br/><p>We dive into a hilariously candid conversation with comedian Andi Marie Tillman, who joins me, Patrick Custer, for a wild ride through her comedic journey and the ups and downs of life. Right off the bat, we chat about her unique approach to comedy, including her quirky tales of having a tongues interpreter who hilariously flips the script, interpreting her everyday chat into something utterly nonsensical. We also touch on her experiences with gratitude, health challenges, and the rollercoaster of recovery, all while keeping the laughs rolling. Andi's vibrant personality shines through as we explore her adventures in navigating life, relationships, and the struggle between public persona and personal reality. So, grab your favorite snack, kick back, and get ready for some belly laughs and heartfelt moments that remind us all that life is a beautifully messy journey! Diving into the vibrant world of comedy, this episode features a delightful chat between host Patrick Custer and the witty Andi Marie Tillman. From the get-go, the banter flows like a refreshing glass of lemonade on a hot summer day, as they explore the ups and downs of life, laughter, and everything in between. The conversation kicks off with Andi’s humorous take on the intricacies of life’s everyday challenges, including her witty commentary on being a mother and the delightful chaos that comes with it. With her unique perspective, Andi shares anecdotes that have the audience chuckling, all while weaving in meaningful insights about gratitude and resilience. “We have no idea what our life is going to actually look like,” she remarks, reminding us all to embrace uncertainty with a smile. As the episode progresses, Patrick and Andi delve into the nuances of self-identity, the importance of authenticity in comedy, and how humor can be a powerful tool for healing. Andi’s candidness about her own struggles with addiction and mental health adds depth to the conversation, making it not just a light-hearted romp but also a heartfelt exploration of overcoming adversity. She shares her journey of personal growth, emphasizing that while laughter is essential, acknowledging our struggles is equally crucial. “I want to cross between the Wiz and, like, gutter slut,” she quips, showcasing her ability to blend humor with real talk effortlessly. Listeners are treated to an emotional rollercoaster as Patrick and Andi navigate topics like societal expectations, the often unrealistic portrayal of life on social media, and the pressure to maintain a certain image. The episode wraps up on a high note, leaving audiences not only entertained but also inspired to embrace their own imperfections and to find joy in the journey of life. So, grab your headphones and get ready for a good laugh and a dose of wisdom that will resonate long after the episode ends!</p><p><strong>Meet the Guest:</strong> You know her as <strong>"Aunt Pam"</strong> on TikTok, but <strong>Andi Marie Tillman</strong> is so much more than the wig. She is an actor, writer, and the internet’s favorite "Appalachian Goth." After growing up in the strict world of Pentecostalism and navigating the "get cured or get out" pressure of the Christian music industry, Andi found her voice by turning her trauma into viral comedy. She joins Patrick to discuss the reality behind the characters, her journey through sobriety, and how to keep your faith when the church breaks your heart.</p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Follow me on </strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instagram:</a></strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> @thepatrickcuster</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TikTok: </a></strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcuster</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershoww/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Facebook: </a></strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershoww/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcustershoww</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube: </a></strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcuster</a></p><p><br></p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Follow Andi Marie Tillman on</strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/andimarietillman/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instagram: </a></strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/andimarietillman/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@andimarietillman</a></p><p><strong><a href="about:blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TikTok:</a></strong><a href="about:blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> @andimariere</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@andimarietillman" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube: </a></strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@andimarietillman" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@andimarietillman</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.patreon.com/AndiMarie/membership" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Patreon: </a></strong><a href="https://www.patreon.com/AndiMarie/membership" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">AndiMarie</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://thesleepyholler.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Merch</a></strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://linktr.ee/andimarie" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website: </a></strong><a href="https://linktr.ee/andimarie" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://linktr.ee/andimarie</a></p><p><br></p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Follow The Patrick Custer Show</strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instagram: </a></strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcustershow</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TikTok: </a></strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcustershow</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Facebook: </a></strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcustershoww</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website: </a></strong><a href="https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.thepatrickcustershow.com</a></p><p>-</p><p><strong>Are you ready to heal and grow?</strong> Start your journey with me by signing up at <a href="https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/updates" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">thepatrickcustershow.com</a> 👈 for exclusive updates, resources and behind‑the‑scenes insights from each episode. <em>It’s your invitation to experience “entertainment that heals,” where vulnerability becomes strength and hope is contagious.</em></p><p>Please click Follow on this page so you never miss an episode (and help us continue to change lives) — I appreciate every single one of you for joining this community.</p><p>Whether you’re here for your own growth or because someone you love shared this conversation, I’m grateful you’re listening and want to welcome you to The Patrick Custer Show family. Please pass this episode along to friends, family and anyone who might need a lift. When we open up about our struggles and triumphs, we remind each other that we’re not broken, we’re becoming.</p><p>Subscribe to my YouTube channel for video versions of the show 👉 <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlJBNcP_yswJuzVN1bsffmCNXhncZ2csH" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p>Companies mentioned in this episode:</p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Ambien</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>T.J. Maxx</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Burlington</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Goodwill</li></ol><br/>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://thepatrickcustershow.captivate.fm/episode/andi-marie-tillman-aunt-pam-speaking-in-tongues-healing-through-the-dogma]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">f4d74b0a-73c2-4329-833e-1dd22ea03fe6</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/8b973f9c-7edf-4038-a48d-3c3cc64fa5c1/TPC-SHOW-cover-1x1-1.png"/><pubDate>Wed, 07 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0600</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/f4d74b0a-73c2-4329-833e-1dd22ea03fe6.mp3" length="113476119" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>59:06</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>4</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>4</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/1a74e94d-7a74-4d8e-ba86-b2d86d404b4c/transcript.json" type="application/json"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/1a74e94d-7a74-4d8e-ba86-b2d86d404b4c/transcript.srt" type="application/srt" rel="captions"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/1a74e94d-7a74-4d8e-ba86-b2d86d404b4c/index.html" type="text/html"/><podcast:chapters url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/chapter-f2e0ec2d-c103-4b29-b5c9-ec1da8b6f1f5.json" type="application/json+chapters"/><podcast:alternateEnclosure type="video/youtube" title="Healing Religious Trauma, &quot;Aunt Pam&quot; &amp; The Truth About Tongues"><podcast:source uri="https://youtu.be/6WqrVbxrPHQ"/></podcast:alternateEnclosure></item><item><title>Forced Out: The Day Avalon Came to My House - Michael Passons (part 2)</title><itunes:title>Forced Out: The Day Avalon Came to My House - Michael Passons (part 2)</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h2>"They showed up at my house and told me I was no longer in the group." In Part 2, Michael Passons reveals the failed "cure" that cost him his career and the 17-year battle to reclaim his life.</h2><p>For nearly two decades, the official story was that Michael Passons left the multi-platinum group Avalon to "pursue other interests." Today, the silence ends.</p><p>In this conclusion to our interview, Michael takes us inside the room on June 30, 2003, detailing the unannounced "intervention" at his home that erased him from the band he helped build. He opens up about the industry ultimatum - "get cured or get out" - and the reality of the "reparative therapy" sessions that failed to change who he was, but succeeded in breaking his spirit.</p><p>But the trauma is only half the story. This episode is a masterclass in survival and healing. Michael shares how he navigated the "dark night of the soul" after being muzzled by NDAs and management , how he deconstructed the narrative that he was "broken," and how he finally made peace with the "boy in the mirror."</p><p>The truth was brutal, but the healing is beautiful.</p><h2><strong>Chapters &amp; Timestamps:</strong></h2><p><span class="ql-size-small">00:03. - </span><strong class="ql-size-small">The Ambush: "June 30, 2003: They Came to My House"</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">01:54. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The Secret: "I'm Gay" (Admitting the Lie)</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">05:20. - </span><strong class="ql-size-small">Family, faith and the barrier to belonging - the "othering" of LGBTQ+ people</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">08:47. - </span><strong class="ql-size-small">Reaching Out for Help</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">09:16. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> Reparative Therapy: Calling Mike Malloy &amp; The "Cure" That Failed</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">12:30. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The Process: Weekly Sessions at Reparative Therapy</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">17:10. - </span><strong class="ql-size-small">The Duality of Self</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">21:15. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The Spy: "Someone Saw Me at a Club" (The Beginning of the End)</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">23:02. - </span><strong class="ql-size-small">The "Purple Mirror": Industry Hypocrisy &amp; Fake Marriages</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">23:18. - </span><strong class="ql-size-small">The Impact of Public Perception</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">30:20. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The Campaign: "Either He Go or I Go" (The Ultimatum)</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">30:39. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The End of the Road: Facing theConsequences</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">34:00. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The Aftermath: Becoming a Shell of a Person</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">34:48. - </span><strong class="ql-size-small">The Turning Point: Identity and Loss</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">40:31. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> Deconstruction: Flattening the Boxes of Belief</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">41:02. - </span><strong class="ql-size-small">Rebuilding Belief Systems</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">44:50. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The Last Prejudice of the Church (Divorce vs. Gay Rights)</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">47:51. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> Faith and Acceptance: A Journey of Understanding</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">54:12. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> Navigating Identity and Belonging</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">58:10. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The "PR" Lie: "Pursuing Other Interests" &amp; The NDA</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">59:25. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> Reclaiming My...]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>"They showed up at my house and told me I was no longer in the group." In Part 2, Michael Passons reveals the failed "cure" that cost him his career and the 17-year battle to reclaim his life.</h2><p>For nearly two decades, the official story was that Michael Passons left the multi-platinum group Avalon to "pursue other interests." Today, the silence ends.</p><p>In this conclusion to our interview, Michael takes us inside the room on June 30, 2003, detailing the unannounced "intervention" at his home that erased him from the band he helped build. He opens up about the industry ultimatum - "get cured or get out" - and the reality of the "reparative therapy" sessions that failed to change who he was, but succeeded in breaking his spirit.</p><p>But the trauma is only half the story. This episode is a masterclass in survival and healing. Michael shares how he navigated the "dark night of the soul" after being muzzled by NDAs and management , how he deconstructed the narrative that he was "broken," and how he finally made peace with the "boy in the mirror."</p><p>The truth was brutal, but the healing is beautiful.</p><h2><strong>Chapters &amp; Timestamps:</strong></h2><p><span class="ql-size-small">00:03. - </span><strong class="ql-size-small">The Ambush: "June 30, 2003: They Came to My House"</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">01:54. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The Secret: "I'm Gay" (Admitting the Lie)</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">05:20. - </span><strong class="ql-size-small">Family, faith and the barrier to belonging - the "othering" of LGBTQ+ people</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">08:47. - </span><strong class="ql-size-small">Reaching Out for Help</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">09:16. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> Reparative Therapy: Calling Mike Malloy &amp; The "Cure" That Failed</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">12:30. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The Process: Weekly Sessions at Reparative Therapy</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">17:10. - </span><strong class="ql-size-small">The Duality of Self</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">21:15. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The Spy: "Someone Saw Me at a Club" (The Beginning of the End)</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">23:02. - </span><strong class="ql-size-small">The "Purple Mirror": Industry Hypocrisy &amp; Fake Marriages</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">23:18. - </span><strong class="ql-size-small">The Impact of Public Perception</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">30:20. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The Campaign: "Either He Go or I Go" (The Ultimatum)</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">30:39. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The End of the Road: Facing theConsequences</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">34:00. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The Aftermath: Becoming a Shell of a Person</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">34:48. - </span><strong class="ql-size-small">The Turning Point: Identity and Loss</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">40:31. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> Deconstruction: Flattening the Boxes of Belief</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">41:02. - </span><strong class="ql-size-small">Rebuilding Belief Systems</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">44:50. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The Last Prejudice of the Church (Divorce vs. Gay Rights)</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">47:51. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> Faith and Acceptance: A Journey of Understanding</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">54:12. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> Navigating Identity and Belonging</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">58:10. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The "PR" Lie: "Pursuing Other Interests" &amp; The NDA</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">59:25. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> Reclaiming My Narrative</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">01:02:27. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> Finding Authenticity in Writing</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">01:03:00. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> New Music: "Destined To Be" &amp; The Boy in the Mirror</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">01:13:34. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> Reflections on Faith and Change</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">01:16:10. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> Political Hypocrisy: "You Embraced Trump, But Threw Me Out"</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">01:20:32. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The Journey of Marginalization and Music</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">01:25:02. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> LGBTQ+ Struggle for Safety and Acceptance: Stories from Around the World</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">01:28:32. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The Starfish Story: Why One Person Matters</strong></p><p><span class="ql-size-small">01:30:31. -</span><strong class="ql-size-small"> The Power of Inner Voice</strong></p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">About the Guest:</strong><span class="ql-size-large"> </span></p><p>Michael Passons is a founding member of the Grammy-nominated group Avalon. After being forced out of the group in 2003 due to his sexuality, Michael spent nearly two decades out of the public eye. Today, he is reclaiming his voice as an advocate for "Exvangelicals" and LGBTQ+ inclusion in faith spaces, sharing the untold story of the machinery that tried to erase him.</p><p><strong>Are you ready to heal and grow?</strong> Start your journey with me by signing up at <a href="https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/updates" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">thepatrickcustershow.com</a> 👈 for exclusive updates, resources and behind‑the‑scenes insights from each episode. <em>It’s your invitation to experience “entertainment that heals,” where vulnerability becomes strength and hope is contagious.</em></p><p>Please click Follow on this page so you never miss an episode (and help us continue to change lives) — I appreciate every single one of you for joining this community.</p><p>Whether you’re here for your own growth or because someone you love shared this conversation, I’m grateful you’re listening and want to welcome you to The Patrick Custer Show family. Please pass this episode along to friends, family and anyone who might need a lift. When we open up about our struggles and triumphs, we remind each other that we’re not broken, we’re becoming.</p><p>Subscribe to my YouTube channel for video versions of the show 👉 <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlJBNcP_yswJuzVN1bsffmCNXhncZ2csH" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p><br></p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Follow me on </strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instagram:</a></strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> @thepatrickcuster</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TikTok: </a></strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcuster</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershoww/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Facebook: </a></strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershoww/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcustershoww</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube: </a></strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcuster</a></p><p><br></p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Follow Michael on</strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/michaelpassons" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instagram:</a></strong><a href="https://Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/michaelpassons" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> @michaelpassons</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@themichaelpassons" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TikTok</a>:</strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@themichaelpassons" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> @themichaelpassons</a></p><p><br></p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Follow The Patrick Custer Show</strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instagram: </a></strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcustershow</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TikTok: </a></strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcustershow</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Facebook: </a></strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcustershoww</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website: </a></strong><a href="https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.thepatrickcustershow.com</a></p><p><br></p><h3>🤝 Sponsor Spotlight – Bright Horse Counseling</h3><p>We’d like to thank our episode sponsor Bright Horse Counseling, one of Nashville’s most respected therapy practices. Their clinicians specialize in trauma, PTSD, personality disorders, anxiety, addiction, maternal mental health, couples work and more. Bright Horse blends embodiment, insight and research‑backed modalities like DBT, EMDR and trauma‑informed yoga. They offer secure telehealth anywhere in Tennessee and have a no‑nonsense relational style.</p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Website: <a href="https://talktobrighthorse.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">talktobrighthorse.com</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Phone: 615‑637‑7000</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/bright_horse_counseling" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instagram</a></li></ol><br/><p><br></p><p><strong>Takeaways:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Michael Passon shares his personal journey of coming out and the challenges he faced in a conservative environment, emphasizing the importance of authenticity over societal expectations.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>The podcast discusses the impact of community and belonging, highlighting how losing a support system can lead to profound personal struggles and the journey to reclaim one's identity.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Listeners are encouraged to confront their inner voice and challenge negative narratives, stressing that self-acceptance and positive thinking can lead to transformative change.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>The conversation touches on the evolution of faith and beliefs, illustrating that questioning long-held doctrines can lead to a more profound understanding of one's spirituality.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Michael emphasizes the importance of compassion and empathy, urging listeners to recognize the struggles of marginalized communities and work towards inclusivity and acceptance.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>The episode concludes with a powerful reminder that it's never too late to embrace one's true self and that personal stories can inspire and empower others in similar situations.</li></ol><br/>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://thepatrickcustershow.captivate.fm/episode/michael-passons-part-2-forced-out-the-day-avalon-came-to-my-house]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">809ed244-9bea-463a-9bc8-d64337276c10</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/8b973f9c-7edf-4038-a48d-3c3cc64fa5c1/TPC-SHOW-cover-1x1-1.png"/><pubDate>Tue, 23 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0600</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/809ed244-9bea-463a-9bc8-d64337276c10.mp3" length="179208471" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>01:33:20</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>3</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>3</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/c4f5709d-19e8-4b48-a019-003684d3787c/transcript.json" type="application/json"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/c4f5709d-19e8-4b48-a019-003684d3787c/transcript.srt" type="application/srt" rel="captions"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/c4f5709d-19e8-4b48-a019-003684d3787c/index.html" type="text/html"/><podcast:chapters url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/chapter-f8768e46-efef-4534-ae2d-7760b8bcc5e0.json" type="application/json+chapters"/><podcast:alternateEnclosure type="video/youtube" title="Forced Out: The Day Avalon Came to My House - Michael Passons (part 2)"><podcast:source uri="https://youtu.be/CZ9ctLW-2Yo"/></podcast:alternateEnclosure></item><item><title>Michael Passons Breaks Silence: His Truth About Avalon, Christian Music &amp; 20‑Year Return (Part 1)</title><itunes:title>Michael Passons Breaks Silence: His Truth About Avalon, Christian Music &amp; 20‑Year Return (Part 1)</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p><strong>Part 1 of 2: </strong>Discover the untold story behind one of Christian music’s biggest voices. In his most in‑depth interview ever, Michael Passons, founding member of the GRAMMY‑nominated group Avalon, sits down with Patrick Custer to share the highs, lows and hidden battles that shaped his journey. From singing hymns as a toddler in Yazoo City, Mississippi, to being discovered by Sparrow Records and launching Avalon in 1995, Michael takes you behind the scenes of the group’s meteoric rise. Hear how hits like “Testify to Love,” now considered a gospel classic, nearly didn’t make the cut, and why the band’s ABBA‑inspired sound stood out in the CCM world.</p><p>This rare conversation explores themes of mental health, faith and resilience without shying away from the pressure of fame, imposter syndrome and the weight of carrying a secret. Michael reflects on his connection to his mother, the power of music as therapy, and what it felt like to juggle creative success with personal turmoil. If you’ve ever struggled with perfectionism, wondered what happens backstage, or simply need encouragement on your own healing journey, this episode is for you.</p><p>And the story isn’t over - Part 1 ends just before a life‑changing revelation that will forever alter Michael’s path. In Part 2 we’ll dive into that revelation, the fallout that forced him out of Avalon, and how he rebuilt his life and faith while preparing to return to music after nearly twenty years away from the spotlight. Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it.</p><p><strong>Takeaways:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>In the podcast, we dive into how Avalon went from being unknown to winning an American Music Award, which was a total game changer for us!</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Michael Passons shares his journey of stepping into the spotlight, facing challenges, and navigating the complexities of fame in Christian music.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>We discuss the evolution of Avalon's sound and how our management played a crucial role in shaping our success during the 90s music scene.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>The episode highlights the importance of being true to oneself while managing public expectations, especially in the Christian music industry.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>We explore the rollercoaster of emotions that come with fame, including the struggle with imposter syndrome and the pressure to maintain a certain image.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Michael's heartfelt stories remind us that behind every successful artist, there are personal battles and moments of vulnerability that shape their journey.</li></ol><br/><p>-</p><p><strong>Are you ready to heal and grow?</strong> Start your journey with me by signing up at <a href="https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/updates" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">thepatrickcustershow.com</a> 👈 for exclusive updates, resources and behind‑the‑scenes insights from each episode. <em>It’s your invitation to experience “entertainment that heals,” where vulnerability becomes strength and hope is contagious.</em></p><p>Please click Follow on this page so you never miss an episode (and help us continue to change lives) — I appreciate every single one of you for joining this community.</p><p>Whether you’re here for your own growth or because someone you love shared this conversation, I’m grateful you’re listening and want to welcome you to The Patrick Custer Show family. Please pass this episode along to friends, family and anyone who might need a lift. When we open up about our struggles and triumphs, we remind each other that we’re not broken, we’re becoming.</p><p>Subscribe to my YouTube...]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Part 1 of 2: </strong>Discover the untold story behind one of Christian music’s biggest voices. In his most in‑depth interview ever, Michael Passons, founding member of the GRAMMY‑nominated group Avalon, sits down with Patrick Custer to share the highs, lows and hidden battles that shaped his journey. From singing hymns as a toddler in Yazoo City, Mississippi, to being discovered by Sparrow Records and launching Avalon in 1995, Michael takes you behind the scenes of the group’s meteoric rise. Hear how hits like “Testify to Love,” now considered a gospel classic, nearly didn’t make the cut, and why the band’s ABBA‑inspired sound stood out in the CCM world.</p><p>This rare conversation explores themes of mental health, faith and resilience without shying away from the pressure of fame, imposter syndrome and the weight of carrying a secret. Michael reflects on his connection to his mother, the power of music as therapy, and what it felt like to juggle creative success with personal turmoil. If you’ve ever struggled with perfectionism, wondered what happens backstage, or simply need encouragement on your own healing journey, this episode is for you.</p><p>And the story isn’t over - Part 1 ends just before a life‑changing revelation that will forever alter Michael’s path. In Part 2 we’ll dive into that revelation, the fallout that forced him out of Avalon, and how he rebuilt his life and faith while preparing to return to music after nearly twenty years away from the spotlight. Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it.</p><p><strong>Takeaways:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>In the podcast, we dive into how Avalon went from being unknown to winning an American Music Award, which was a total game changer for us!</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Michael Passons shares his journey of stepping into the spotlight, facing challenges, and navigating the complexities of fame in Christian music.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>We discuss the evolution of Avalon's sound and how our management played a crucial role in shaping our success during the 90s music scene.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>The episode highlights the importance of being true to oneself while managing public expectations, especially in the Christian music industry.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>We explore the rollercoaster of emotions that come with fame, including the struggle with imposter syndrome and the pressure to maintain a certain image.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Michael's heartfelt stories remind us that behind every successful artist, there are personal battles and moments of vulnerability that shape their journey.</li></ol><br/><p>-</p><p><strong>Are you ready to heal and grow?</strong> Start your journey with me by signing up at <a href="https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/updates" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">thepatrickcustershow.com</a> 👈 for exclusive updates, resources and behind‑the‑scenes insights from each episode. <em>It’s your invitation to experience “entertainment that heals,” where vulnerability becomes strength and hope is contagious.</em></p><p>Please click Follow on this page so you never miss an episode (and help us continue to change lives) — I appreciate every single one of you for joining this community.</p><p>Whether you’re here for your own growth or because someone you love shared this conversation, I’m grateful you’re listening and want to welcome you to The Patrick Custer Show family. Please pass this episode along to friends, family and anyone who might need a lift. When we open up about our struggles and triumphs, we remind each other that we’re not broken, we’re becoming.</p><p>Subscribe to my YouTube channel for video versions of the show 👉 <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlJBNcP_yswJuzVN1bsffmCNXhncZ2csH" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p>-</p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Follow me on </strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instagram:</a></strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> @thepatrickcuster</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TikTok: </a></strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcuster</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershoww/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Facebook: </a></strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershoww/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcustershoww</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube: </a></strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcuster</a></p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Follow Michael on</strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/michaelpassons" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instagram:</a></strong><a href="https://Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/michaelpassons" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> @michaelpassons</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@themichaelpassons" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TikTok</a>:</strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@themichaelpassons" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> @themichaelpassons</a></p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Follow The Patrick Custer Show</strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instagram: </a></strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcustershow</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TikTok: </a></strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcustershow</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Facebook: </a></strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcustershoww</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website: </a></strong><a href="https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.thepatrickcustershow.com</a></p><p>-</p><h3>🤝 Sponsor Spotlight – Bright Horse Counseling</h3><p>We’d like to thank our episode sponsor Bright Horse Counseling, one of Nashville’s most respected therapy practices. Their clinicians specialize in trauma, PTSD, personality disorders, anxiety, addiction, maternal mental health, couples work and more. Bright Horse blends embodiment, insight and research‑backed modalities like DBT, EMDR and trauma‑informed yoga. They offer secure telehealth anywhere in Tennessee and have a no‑nonsense relational style.</p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Website: <a href="https://talktobrighthorse.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">talktobrighthorse.com</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Phone: 615‑637‑7000</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/bright_horse_counseling" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instagram</a></li></ol><br/><p><strong>Companies mentioned in this episode:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Avalon</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Michael W. Smith</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Sandy Patty</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Stephen Curtis Chapman</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Twyla Paris</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Larnell Harris</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Point of Grace</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Sparrow Records</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Jars of Clay</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>P.O.D.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Bright Horse Counseling</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Lizzie Harrigan</li></ol><br/>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://thepatrickcustershow.captivate.fm/episode/michael-passons-breaks-silence-his-truth-about-avalon-christian-music-20year-return-part-1]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">f256cb49-2931-42e8-8cf9-88e9b413f558</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/8b973f9c-7edf-4038-a48d-3c3cc64fa5c1/TPC-SHOW-cover-1x1-1.png"/><pubDate>Fri, 12 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/f256cb49-2931-42e8-8cf9-88e9b413f558.mp3" length="101640471" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>52:56</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>2</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>2</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/5618468a-f951-40b1-ae07-201747d6b237/transcript.json" type="application/json"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/5618468a-f951-40b1-ae07-201747d6b237/transcript.srt" type="application/srt" rel="captions"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/5618468a-f951-40b1-ae07-201747d6b237/index.html" type="text/html"/><podcast:chapters url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/chapter-691b15a0-4909-4d0e-81bf-a7d72666d16d.json" type="application/json+chapters"/><podcast:alternateEnclosure type="video/youtube" title="Michael Passons Breaks Silence: His Truth About Avalon, Christian Music &amp; 20‑Year Return (Part 1)"><podcast:source uri="https://youtu.be/rmWXtnECYP0"/></podcast:alternateEnclosure></item><item><title>Series Premier: Country Music&apos;s Annie Bosko Reveals Mental Health Struggles &amp; Nashville Industry Realities</title><itunes:title>Series Premier: Country Music&apos;s Annie Bosko Reveals Mental Health Struggles &amp; Nashville Industry Realities</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>THIS IS IT - The premiere of The Patrick Custer Show! We're kicking this podcast off with a conversation that is relatable for us all and hits the core of Patrick's mission: The journey of finding your voice—literally and metaphorically.</p><p>Ever been told you’ll never get better? In this powerful debut episode, Patrick Custer and California Cowgirl <strong>Annie Bosko</strong> unpack her journey; from singing at her great‑grandmother’s funeral at five to fighting for her physical voice again after a devastating vocal injury and her inner voice for the power to fight back when business betrayal in the music industry machine tried to take her power and agency from her. You’ll hear how she hid her California roots in Nashville, fought perfectionism and depression, and learned to ask for help when everything fell apart.</p><p>They dive into therapy, faith, and the gritty reality of being a woman in country music—and why Annie believes every “no” is just a “not yet”: We discuss how she turned her struggles into opportunities, leading to collaborations with legends like Amy Grant, Vince Gill, Dwight Yoakam &amp; opening for Dolly Parton at Caesars Palace! So, grab your headphones and get ready for some entertaining stories, heartfelt moments, and a whole lot of inspiration!</p><h3><br></h3><h3>Show Highlights:</h3><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Early performing roots</strong>: turning household surfaces into stages; singing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” at her great‑grandmother’s funeral at five.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Breakthrough moments</strong>: landing <em>The Little Mermaid II</em> soundtrack at 13; singing jingles and studio work; moving from California to Nashville.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Country‑music identity</strong>: hiding her California background to fit in; eventually embracing her “California Cowgirl” roots.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Voice loss &amp; recovery</strong>: discovering a vascular lesion during a Broadway gig; enduring surgery, rehab and the pandemic.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Therapy &amp; mental health</strong>: learning to ask for help, dealing with perfectionism, and letting go of people‑pleasing.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Rejection, patience &amp; persistence</strong>: every “no” becomes a “not yet”—including later collaborations with Dwight Yoakam, Darius Rucker, Vince Gill and Dolly Parton.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Boundaries &amp; relationships</strong>: applying her grandmother’s “80% rule,” standing firm on family and faith values, and learning not to compromise her core beliefs.</li></ol><br/><p><strong>Are you ready to heal and grow?</strong> Start your journey with me by signing up at <a href="https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/updates" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">thepatrickcustershow.com</a> 👈 for exclusive updates, resources and behind‑the‑scenes insights from each episode. <em>It’s your invitation to experience “entertainment that heals,” where vulnerability becomes strength and hope is contagious.</em></p><p>Please click <strong>Follow</strong> on this page so you never miss an episode (and help us continue to change lives) — I appreciate every single one of you for joining this community.</p><p>Whether you’re here for your own growth or because someone you love shared this conversation, I’m grateful you’re listening and want to welcome you to The Patrick Custer Show family. Please pass this episode along to friends, family and anyone who might need a lift. When we open up about our struggles and triumphs, we remind each other that we’re not broken,...]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>THIS IS IT - The premiere of The Patrick Custer Show! We're kicking this podcast off with a conversation that is relatable for us all and hits the core of Patrick's mission: The journey of finding your voice—literally and metaphorically.</p><p>Ever been told you’ll never get better? In this powerful debut episode, Patrick Custer and California Cowgirl <strong>Annie Bosko</strong> unpack her journey; from singing at her great‑grandmother’s funeral at five to fighting for her physical voice again after a devastating vocal injury and her inner voice for the power to fight back when business betrayal in the music industry machine tried to take her power and agency from her. You’ll hear how she hid her California roots in Nashville, fought perfectionism and depression, and learned to ask for help when everything fell apart.</p><p>They dive into therapy, faith, and the gritty reality of being a woman in country music—and why Annie believes every “no” is just a “not yet”: We discuss how she turned her struggles into opportunities, leading to collaborations with legends like Amy Grant, Vince Gill, Dwight Yoakam &amp; opening for Dolly Parton at Caesars Palace! So, grab your headphones and get ready for some entertaining stories, heartfelt moments, and a whole lot of inspiration!</p><h3><br></h3><h3>Show Highlights:</h3><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Early performing roots</strong>: turning household surfaces into stages; singing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” at her great‑grandmother’s funeral at five.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Breakthrough moments</strong>: landing <em>The Little Mermaid II</em> soundtrack at 13; singing jingles and studio work; moving from California to Nashville.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Country‑music identity</strong>: hiding her California background to fit in; eventually embracing her “California Cowgirl” roots.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Voice loss &amp; recovery</strong>: discovering a vascular lesion during a Broadway gig; enduring surgery, rehab and the pandemic.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Therapy &amp; mental health</strong>: learning to ask for help, dealing with perfectionism, and letting go of people‑pleasing.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Rejection, patience &amp; persistence</strong>: every “no” becomes a “not yet”—including later collaborations with Dwight Yoakam, Darius Rucker, Vince Gill and Dolly Parton.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Boundaries &amp; relationships</strong>: applying her grandmother’s “80% rule,” standing firm on family and faith values, and learning not to compromise her core beliefs.</li></ol><br/><p><strong>Are you ready to heal and grow?</strong> Start your journey with me by signing up at <a href="https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/updates" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">thepatrickcustershow.com</a> 👈 for exclusive updates, resources and behind‑the‑scenes insights from each episode. <em>It’s your invitation to experience “entertainment that heals,” where vulnerability becomes strength and hope is contagious.</em></p><p>Please click <strong>Follow</strong> on this page so you never miss an episode (and help us continue to change lives) — I appreciate every single one of you for joining this community.</p><p>Whether you’re here for your own growth or because someone you love shared this conversation, I’m grateful you’re listening and want to welcome you to The Patrick Custer Show family. Please pass this episode along to friends, family and anyone who might need a lift. When we open up about our struggles and triumphs, we remind each other that we’re not broken, we’re becoming.</p><p><strong>Subscribe to my YouTube channel</strong> for video versions of the show 👉 <strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlJBNcP_yswJuzVN1bsffmCNXhncZ2csH" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a></strong>.</p><p>-</p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Follow me on </strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instagram:</a></strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> @thepatrickcuster</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TikTok: </a></strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcuster</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershoww/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Facebook: </a></strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershoww/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcustershoww</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube: </a></strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thepatrickcuster" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcuster</a></p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Follow Annie Bosko on</strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/anniebosko" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instagram:</a></strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/anniebosko" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> @anniebosko</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@anniebosko" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TikTok: </a></strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@anniebosko" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@anniebosko</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/annieboskomusic" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Facebook: @</a></strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/annieboskomusic" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">annieboskomusic</a></p><p><strong><a href="about:blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website:</a></strong><a href="about:blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> www.anniebosko.com</a></p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Follow The Patrick Custer Show</strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instagram: </a></strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcustershow</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TikTok: </a></strong><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcustershow</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Facebook: </a></strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepatrickcustershow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thepatrickcustershoww</a></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website: </a></strong><a href="https://www.thepatrickcustershow.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.thepatrickcustershow.com</a></p><p>-</p><h3>🤝 <strong>Sponsor Spotlight</strong> – Bright Horse Counseling</h3><p>We’d like to thank our episode sponsor <strong>Bright Horse Counseling</strong>, one of Nashville’s most respected therapy practices. Their clinicians specialize in trauma, PTSD, personality disorders, anxiety, addiction, maternal mental health, couples work and more. Bright Horse blends embodiment, insight and research‑backed modalities like DBT, EMDR and trauma‑informed yoga. They offer secure telehealth anywhere in Tennessee and have a no‑nonsense relational style.</p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Website:</strong> <a href="https://talktobrighthorse.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">talktobrighthorse.com</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong>Phone:</strong> 615‑637‑7000</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/bright_horse_counseling" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instagram</a></strong></li></ol><br/><p><strong>Companies mentioned in this episode:</strong></p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Bright Horse Counseling</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Lizzie Harrigan</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Barbara Walters</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Celine Dion</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Disney</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Darius Rucker</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Adele</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Dwight Yoakam</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Raúl Malo</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Amy Grant</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Toby Keith</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Faith Hill</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Keith Urban</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Michael Bublé</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Sam Smith</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Aerosmith</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Tony Robbins</li></ol><br/><p>Takeaways:</p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>In this episode, we explore the journey of self-discovery and resilience, highlighting how asking for help can transform our lives.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Annie Bosko shares her heartfelt experiences and challenges, reminding us that vulnerability is a strength in navigating life's storms.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>The conversation emphasizes the importance of knowing your worth and the power of transparency in relationships, making it clear that every connection has its ups and downs.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Listeners learn about the significance of timing in both personal and professional life, showcasing how 'no' can often mean 'not yet' and the need to keep pushing forward.</li></ol><br/>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://thepatrickcustershow.captivate.fm/episode/country-musics-annie-bosko-reveals-mental-health-struggles-nashville-industry-realities]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">ffbea38a-3ef0-4ad5-bde0-eedc8cd1b3b0</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/8b973f9c-7edf-4038-a48d-3c3cc64fa5c1/TPC-SHOW-cover-1x1-1.png"/><pubDate>Mon, 24 Nov 2025 03:39:00 -0600</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/ffbea38a-3ef0-4ad5-bde0-eedc8cd1b3b0.mp3" length="100691991" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>52:27</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>true</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>1</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/a71bf608-232e-4267-8a57-b8209e080096/transcript.json" type="application/json"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/a71bf608-232e-4267-8a57-b8209e080096/transcript.srt" type="application/srt" rel="captions"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/transcript/a71bf608-232e-4267-8a57-b8209e080096/index.html" type="text/html"/><podcast:chapters url="https://transcripts.captivate.fm/chapter-c746261f-28e1-4e00-9814-15580d26100e.json" type="application/json+chapters"/><podcast:alternateEnclosure type="video/youtube" title="Premiere: Country Music&apos;s Annie Bosko Reveals Mental Health Struggles &amp; Nashville Industry Realities"><podcast:source uri="https://youtu.be/fH9ftt49KRQ"/></podcast:alternateEnclosure></item></channel></rss>