Establishing Discipline and Structure as Part of Recovering with Cleve Bell and Misty Buck

Welcome to Inside Job—a podcast by offenders, for offenders. I’m your host, Cleve Bell, and today I’m joined again by Misty Buck. 

In our last episode, we explored the power of acceptance, the role of self-help programs, and the importance of celebrating recovery.

In this episode, we take the next step—getting started. We discuss what it looks like to begin attending meetings regularly and how doing so builds one of the most valuable tools in recovery: discipline. Establishing a routine through group participation not only supports healing but also lays the foundation for lasting change.

Tune in as we unpack how small steps toward structure can lead to big breakthroughs on the road to recovery.

Key Takeaways:

[4:03] Establishing discipline in the process of recovering.

[6:53] Discipline keeps you accountable.

[8:11] The element of structure as part of recovering.

[9:15] How does one know when discipline and structure can become detrimental?

[14:04] In life, you make decisions with the tools you have available at the moment, even though you might regret those decisions later, it is important to know that at least you did make some choices.

[15:33] Accept the things you cannot change.

[17:30] Drifting from fear to accomplishment.

[18:46] The benefits of attending retreats and workshops.

[21:53] Force yourself to meet other people during workshops; that interaction can be the most valuable asset you got from that meeting.

[24:13] Practice what you are learning.

[26:25] Ninety percent of your job while recovering is on the inside.

[27:11] Why is it so difficult to ask for help?

[30:34] Without trust, it is nearly impossible to live.

[33:07] Cleve and Misty talk about the power of active listening.

Learn More About Riverside House:

Riverside House is a nonprofit, government, and faith community partner. We have been active agents of change and sustained progress in the Miami area for more than three decades, helping tens of thousands walk a straight path into refashioned, sober, and spiritually upright lives as free citizens.

At Riverside House, we provide a critical relief valve during the transition of offenders from confinement to community. Our teams of well-credentialed and committed professionals support each man and woman who enters our doors in their unique, personal path to rehabilitation and recovery.

We are in the business of second chances, and we know that the consideration we extend to those most in need must be holistic in nature. We address the total person — mind, body, and spirit — attuned to the moral and material needs we all share.

“… Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

Matthew 25:40 (NIV)

To learn more visit riversidehouse.org

Reach out to Riverside House:

Would you like to be featured on a future episode of Inside Job?

We would love to hear from you! Please go to riverside house.org, click the media tab then podcast. There you will find an application to submit your request.