Leaving AA Behind, and Building a Better Model

Host Michelle Dunbar interviews Mark Scheeren, Chairman of the Baldwin Research Institute, Co-founder of The Freedom Model Retreats, and Co-author of The Freedom Model for Addictions. Michelle and Mark discuss the development of The Freedom Model – from its earliest beginnings in the late ‘80’s to the present day. The interview covers Mark’s early life in AA, and then his decision to leave AA, and his final decision to create the antithesis of AA and treatment for addiction in America. He highlights the founding of the first non-12 step residential model in America, The Freedom Model Retreats, and the book that chronicle’s the research and method behind this path, The Freedom Model for Addictions. Mark describes his continued mission to change the way people see and define addiction, and why the research led him to abandon what he calls, the 12-step treatment complex. A must-listen for anyone dabbling with the idea of leaving a 12 step program in their search for greater happiness and success!