Episode 28 - Discussion with Frank Runles: Lies We Tell
Episode 28 - Discussion with Frank Runles: Lies We Tell

Recovery Is Possible

Retired FBI Agent Frank Runles and I discuss Statement Analysis and how we lie about addiction to ourselves and others.

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48:42•1 Nov 2020

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About this podcast

Recovery Is Possible

Michael Van Meter

Michael has seen first-hand the devastating effects of addiction on the public, his profession, and himself. Michael began his career as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Navy. After eight years, he became a Corrections Officer, Washington DC Police Officer, and then FBI Agent. In 2010, Michael became an instructor at the FBI Academy. In 2013, he created a course titled “Leading At-Risk Employees” geared toward Police Executives to help them understand alcoholism, prescription drug abuse, PTSD, suicide, and domestic violence as it relates to policies and procedures for their agencies worldwide. In 2019, Michael retired from the FBI but his passion for helping others continued. In August 2022, he graduated with a Master’s in Addiction Counseling: Integrated Recovery for Co-Occurring Disorders from the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies. He currently works full-time as a Behavioral Health Therapist at a large nonprofit hospital. Pulling from his personal and professional experience, Michael shares his thoughts on this sensitive, complex, and controversial subject.

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Facing the Truth: Lies and Addiction with Frank Runles

“Lies are a hallmark of early addiction…we lie about addiction to ourselves and others.”

Ever caught yourself in a web of lies, especially when it comes to addiction? In this eye-opening episode of 'Recovery is Possible', Michael Van Meter sits down with retired FBI agent Frank Runles to unravel the intricate ways we deceive ourselves and others about addiction. Frank, an expert in statement analysis, brings his unique perspective to the table, helping to identify the subtle and not-so-subtle lies that can sabotage recovery.

From lies of omission to outright fabrications, they explore how dishonesty can be a significant hurdle in both early and long-term recovery. They also discuss the cognitive toll of maintaining these lies and the dangerous overconfidence that can develop during long-term sobriety. This episode isn't just about pointing out the problem; it's packed with practical advice on how to recognize and overcome these deceptive behaviors.

Whether you're struggling with addiction yourself or supporting someone who is, Michael and Frank's conversation offers valuable insights and tools to navigate the path to recovery. Tune in for a candid discussion that sheds light on the often-overlooked aspect of addiction: the lies we tell.

PreviousEpisode 27 - Interview with Steve Click: Ohio ASSIST Program

NextEpisode 29 - Interview with John Taylor: HIMS Program for Pilots Who Need Recovery