In this episode, we talk to Miss Florida 2022 Lindsay Bettis about perseverance, achieving dreams, and why real talk about substance use, addiction, and recovery could make a difference to the next generation of students.
Subscribe for more: www.nobu.ai/podcast
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nobuapp
Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3NMIEgjblqmhwT6Uy3l0Nm
Subscribe to Dear Mind You Matter Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dear-mind-you-matter/id1573642046
Leave us a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dear-mind-you-matter/id1573642046
Interested in attending our Educational Events? https://bit.ly/eventsandeducation
____
Lindsay Bettis, Miss Florida 2022, a Summa Cum Laude graduate of the University of Central Florida and is currently pursuing her MBA from Louisiana State University Shreveport’s accelerated online program. Her social impact initiative, “Prescription for Change: Addiction Prevention, Treatment and Recovery” was crafted from the responsibility she felt to reverse the addiction crisis after growing up in a family with substance use. As Miss Florida 2022 she will continue her partnership and employment with Advanced Recovery Systems, a leader in behavioral healthcare, which allows her the opportunity to repair lives, restore families and revive communities. Through her advocacy, she has saved over 315 lives and impacted over 975 lives. She recently became a nationally Certified Event Interventionist (CEI) and serves as an ambassador for two substance abuse prevention programs, Natural High and Real Talk.
Social Media Handle:
Instagram: @missamericafl
Memorable Moments:
3:08 I grew up in a family with substance use. And it was something that was really associated with the dark parts of my life. So I really never saw it becoming a career because it was something that I always looked at and frowned upon...something that my family always swept under the rug and tried to keep hush hush. And as we grew and progressed through this journey, we realized that that was the worst possible thing that we could have done. And what we needed to do was reach out and get the resources that were needed in order to get my loved one healthy, and back on track and recovery.
7:00 I remember the first time that I saw a real talk presentation, I was in college, and I will be the first to admit, I was naive about what was going on in the world related to drugs and alcohol. I didn't know all the science and the facts. And I'm glad that this program laid it out straight, because it's something that students need to hear. Because there are a lot of people like me that don't necessarily know what happens if you choose to experiment.
14:52 I think that that will forever be a part of my story, the fact that I persevered through something that could have been where I easily decided to just give up, bow out. But instead, we decided to go full force and go down kicking and screaming in the process.
19:36 My dad is my biggest supporter and always gives me his full okay to bring these stories to the stage and to bring them out to the public and I could not be more thankful for that because I know that our story is similar to a lot of other individuals that could really benefit from hearing this.
20:05 What matters most to me at this point is that I have been handed this incredible opportunity. So what matters most is making the most out of that opportunity and making a difference.
Dear Mind, You Matter is brought to you by NOBU, a new mental health, and wellness app. To download NOBU, visit the app store or Google Play.
This podcast is hosted by Allison Walsh and Angela Phillips. This podcast is produced by Allison Walsh, Savannah Eckstrom and Nicole LaNeve. For more information or if you’re interested in being a guest on this podcast, please visit www.therecoveryvillage.com/dearmindyoumatter.
Allison: 00:02
Hello and welcome to the dear mind, do you matter podcast? My name is Allison Walsh. I'm a longtime mental health advocate and vice president at Advanced Recovery Systems. On each episode I will be joined by my colleague and clinical expert, Dr. Angela Phillips. This show along with our mental health and wellness app, Nobu are just some of the ways we're working to provide you with actionable tips and tools to take really good care of yourself each and every day. So sit back, relax and grab your favorite note taking device, it's time to fill your mind with things that matter. Lindsay Bettis Miss Florida 2022 is a silicon latte graduate of the University of Central Florida and is currently pursuing her MBA from Louisiana State University, Shreveport accelerated online program. Her social impact initiative prescription for change, addiction prevention, treatment and recovery was crafted from the responsibility she felt to reverse the addiction crisis after growing up in a family with substance use as Miss Florida 2022. She will continue her partnership and employment with Advanced Recovery Systems, a leader in behavioral health care which allows her the opportunity to repair lives, restore families and revive communities. She recently became a nationally certified event interventionist and serves as an ambassador for to substance abuse prevention programs natural high and real talk as Miss Florida 2022. Lindsey is excited to continue working in collaboration with several organizations with missions synergistic with her own social impact initiative, such as Project opioid, the Orange County Drug Free coalition, Florida recovery schools of Central Florida, as well as continuing the well established partnerships as an ambassador for Nobu, the Everglades foundation and Florida House on Capitol Hill. Please welcome to the Show Advanced Recovery Systems very own and our new Miss Florida, Lindsay Pettis. All right. Well, Lindsey, I am super excited that you're on the show today, would you mind sharing a little bit more about yourself with our audience?
Lindsay Bettis 01:55
I'd love to Well, hello, everyone. I'm Lindsay and I'm the current Miss Florida for 2022. Which is crazy to say because it's something that I've been dreaming about my entire life. But outside of Miss Florida, I work in the behavioral health care industry and Advanced Recovery Systems where I have the best job in the world. I'm able to direct a team of dedicated outreach individuals, and we help people get into treatment, and we help save lives every single day. Outside of that I am a cat Mom, I love to dance. And I love anything adventurous. So I'm super excited to be here and share a little bit about my journey in life.
Allison: 02:31
And I'm thrilled to have you here. And as you've mentioned, you are a part of our team at Advanced Recovery Systems. You started as an intern, now you're here, right? You're a director, which is so cool. And you continue to work your way up. And as you said, you've got the best job ever, as far as helping to save lives every day and work with a great team. But I want to start with really why this cause matters to you. You know, I think for all of us that end up working in the behavioral health industry or I know a lot of us today are so there's a direct connection to the cause. There's something that, you know, meaning and purpose and passion behind it. So would you mind sharing a little bit more about your story?
Lindsay Bettis 03:05
Yeah, of course. So I grew up in a family with substance use. And it was something that was really associated with the dark parts of my life. So I really never saw it becoming a career within my future because it was something that I always looked at and frowned upon really in my life, something that my family always swept under the rug and tried to keep hush hush. And as we grew and progressed through this journey, we realized that that was the worst possible thing that we could have done. And what we needed to do was reach out and get the resources that were needed in order to get my loved one healthy, and back on track and recovery. So that's the little bit of the journey of why I kind of got into this realm. And it all kind of connects into this one beautiful circle with Miss Florida and ARS when my first year I competed at Miss Florida was the first year they introduced the real talk program with Advanced Recovery Systems, which is an evidence based program that teaches communities, school organizations, why they feel the way that they do when they mix drugs and alcohol and real stories and scenarios that have happened. And I remember it all coming together at that point and saying that this is the job for me, because it's more than a PowerPoint. And I wanted to be Miss Florida, or work in an impactful career like advanced recovery systems to be able to help people in a similar situation as myself and a similar situation as my loved one. And I am so lucky that I get to do both of those.
Allison: 04:35
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or mental health issues, we encourage you to reach out to us today. Advanced Recovery Systems is a leading behavioral health care company with locations across this country. Don't hesitate Call us today at 855-409-1753 That's 855-409-1753 help is just a phone Call away. Oh, you do? So you're you signed up for that now. So I'm really excited. But yeah, you know, and I'm glad you brought up real talk. And that was something that, you know, we kicked off in 2016. And we've, you know, spoken to 10s of 1000s of students, we've scaled it to, like 16 states now, so great to be able to get that information into the hands of those that need it most. And, you know, I think what's so different about it is, it's not like a scared straight type. Program, right, I think we've all realized that those aren't necessarily the most effective way, but rather what you shared, you know, really educating people on what happens, giving them the knowledge and the information and empowering them to do the right thing if they're ever in a situation. And so, I'm looking forward to you being able to share that message on a grander scale throughout your years of service. But you've also done some really cool things outside of the IRS world. But you know, with Project opioid with different officials, and let's talk about some of that stuff, too. Because I really love the fact that you've been able to take something that impacted your family, as you mentioned, and turn it into something that you are making a difference in the lives of every person you encounter. And you're you're sharing with them your story and giving them the courage to hopefully take brave steps and make change in their lives or their family or friends lives too. So let's talk about some of the other cool things that you've been able to do.
Lindsay Bettis 06:18
Yeah, so one of the first organizations that I got started with when I really decided to take this on as my social impact initiative. And as a career was with the Orange County Drug Free coalition, that's where I got involved with some great leaders within the Orlando area, I joined the Higher Education Committee, the treatment Committee, and the youth and Media Education Committee, which pretty much impacts all all sides of Orlando, whether that is students, young children, all the way up to people that are actively needing treatment. And then also, the interesting part that I think is great is that we brought back that higher education committee. Apparently, it went away for a while, and it came back. And I think that's something that's so important. I remember the first time that I saw a real talk presentation, I was in college, and I will be the first to admit, I was naive about what was going on in the world related to drugs and alcohol. I didn't know all the science and the facts. And I'm glad that this program laid it out straight, because it's something that students need to hear. Because there are a lot of people like me that don't necessarily know what happens if you choose to experiment. And that's why we need to be equipped with knowledge in order to make those proper decisions. So that's something that is kind of a cool full circle moment, they're being able to help in a similar way that I've had programs similar to real talk and Real Talk helped me. One of the other organizations that I think is really, really cool is the Florida recovery schools of Central Florida. They're a new organization. But the idea is that they opened up recovery High School for adolescents that are transitioning out of treatment, and not necessarily needing to go back to their traditional method of education, because that no longer serves them, they need something that supports their recovery, and can also help them gain that education, get their degree and move on with the next steps of their life. Because recovery is going to be a lifelong process. If they can be supported in that group of like minded individuals, that's something that is going to be life changing. We have students enrolled now. And I think that it's just going to continue and expand. And I'd love to see that really in every county within Florida and then eventually across the United States. And that's something that I hope that I can advocate for. Next would be project opioid, which was one of the newer projects that I got involved with, and I had the opportunity to actually be a board member and then become involved with the radio show, which was called prescription for change. And it was a really cool experience to really just lay it all out there and talk about these subjects that are typically really uncomfortable to talk about. I talked about things that I have kept hidden my life for so many years. On the radio show you'll hear me talk about my journey with OCD, my father's recovery and addiction. You'll hear me talk about dermatillomania and trichotillomania which a lot of people are like those are some big words What the heck is that but it's something that a lot of people do have but don't really know that it is common and that there are other people out there that are having similar struggles as them so they feel so alone and that's something that I hope to also eradicate within this radio show and throughout my year Miss Florida
Allison: 09:32
When you've got so many cool opportunities and I know I'm super excited for you and as now a fellow Miss Florida sister I'm so excited right and so the fact that you are also able to have this incredible experience and it's life changing the doors that open when you have that opportunity and and I'm just so grateful that you've chosen your your social impact your platform to really champion addiction, mental health and attack and where we need to have these candid conversations every single day and empower people to do what they need to do to take care of themselves. But I want to pivot the conversation now. Because for those that aren't as entrenched in pageant land, as you and I, you had one heck of an experience this past year. So you've been competing for many years, you've come so close, so many times to capturing this opportunity. And, you know, you're really putting your whole heart and soul into your preparations, you know, very focused on on creating your reality. But there were some things that happened a couple of weeks prior that I think serve now as such an inspiration for people and just that reinforcement of mind over matter, and really being able to stay focused on something that you want. So let's talk about what happened share with the our listeners a little bit more of the behind the scenes.
Lindsay Bettis 10:53
Yeah. So in January of 2022, I pulled my right hamstring. That was all fine and good, we have healed that and we have moved on come 10 days prior to check in for Miss Florida, I tore my left hamstring, which really threw a wrench in my plans of becoming this Florida. Or I thought I remember I was in the studio, practicing my talent, getting ready to make the final decisions and preparations to bring the stance to the stage and make sure that it was the best possible thing that I could put forward to show that I was ready for this job. And I was completely warm. And I redid a part of my dance that I had messed up. And when I redid that part, I felt everything pop in my leg. And I just lay down on the ground, I immediately started crying, because you know, you can't hold back those emotions when something that you've worked for seven years suddenly come flashing before your eyes and might not happen now. And I remember laying on the ground. And my my dance teacher said okay, when's check in? I said it's intended days, she said, Okay, we have 10 days to make this, as great as it can be, and put you on that stage. And make them fall in love with you whether it's your best dance or your worst performance. I later went to physical therapy. And I went there, I cried a lot more than I should because my dreams felt crushed. But he was really encouraging. And just let me know that we were going to do anything that we could to make this leg as strong as possible. Before I had to check in now mind at this point, I couldn't really walk. I had literally had my leg breakout into spasms, and I had fell down multiple times throughout those next few days. And when I would try to do anything, it was just immense pain, and I didn't think that there was going to be a world in which I could pull this off. And I had some really great mentors in my life, you included that kind of reminded me that there are some things that it seems like the worst possible timing, which it wasn't all reality. But it gave me such an opportunity to realize what the job was of Miss Florida and kind of refocus my energy, realize what the duties and responsibilities were. And the reality is, is that I wasn't going to dance my entire year as Miss Florida, but I was going to advocate for my social impact initiative, and I was going to represent the organization. So I made that really clear within my interview with the judges that I wanted this job and I was ready for it. So with those days leading up to Miss Florida, that shift in energy, and the opportunity to kind of mentally recharge also, although I was still worrying about the hamstring in my head, but it gave me probably the best possible mindset going into it. And then another thing too, is that I've always imagined what things would look like if I were to win Miss Florida. And this was probably the first time where I had to realistically think, what would things look like if I don't miss Florida. And I thought about all the great things that I have in my life, my career, my family, I have a bright future ahead of me and thinking of those things really made me go into the week much calmer. Even though it's still extremely nerve wracking, going in as a dancer with a completely torn up hamstring. It was completely black and blue the night that I performed. And I will be honest, it was not a great performance. But I put it all out there on the stage showed that I was willing to do whatever it took to get the job. And ultimately I was awarded the job of Miss Florida and I think that that will forever be a part of my story is the fact that I persevered through something that could have been where I easily decide had to just give up bail out. But instead we decided to go full force and go down kicking and screaming in the process. So, I am on the mend now, but it was definitely a very mentally challenging process. And I'll be the first to say it was not easy. And I did not do it alone, I had probably about 25 people in my corner supporting me at all times, that were checking on me constantly. And I'm so thankful for that. And I think that I would have not gone through without that support team.
Allison: 15:33
ARS University is the perfect go to resource for anyone looking to learn more about mental health, addiction and other related topics. The on demand library offers a wealth of engaging and informative content that can help you gain a deeper understanding of these complex subjects. With ARS University, you'll have everything you need to empower yourself with knowledge and support. To learn more, go to www dot IRS university.com. Oh, it was unbelievable. From from one of those supporting people over here, it was the most emotional today's like I can't even tell you like but you Lindsey like on that stage. The moment it all happened, the entire theater just erupted for you, the girls right? Like when I always love to not only watch, you know when the moment happens, right. And for the young woman whose life just changed in that very moment, I love to watch everybody else like that's behind them on stage. And there was just pure joy and excitement from your fellow competitors for you. Because you worked so hard, right? Like that dedication, that perseverance, you're such an inspiration for every single one of them. Right, you're proof that it can be done. You're the one that keep kept coming back, kept coming back, kept coming back and to see a dream realized is such a special experience. And it was just the best. So obviously the the hard part leading up to it was talking about mental torture, but you persevered. And I think you probably prove to yourself that you're a lot stronger than you thought you are. And you're going to carry that with you wherever you go, you're going to carry that as you go to Miss America, you're going to carry it for the rest of your life with difficult situations that are going to present themselves because life's not easy, right. But I think all of us every day, we're faced with the opportunity to make choices, right? We're faced with the opportunity to make decisions, we're faced with the opportunity to change courses, and and to say yes or no to things that are in our future. And you chose to say, yes, 1,000,000%, I'm not going to do this. This way, this is not going to get the best of me. And I'm going to, you know, at least show up and show out. And if it doesn't happen, it doesn't happen. But you didn't give up on yourself. And I think there's such a big lesson there for whatever people are facing. Challenges are always going to be there. But it's how you handle them. And you did a great job. And I'm so excited for you. And you have this incredible year of service ahead of you and what are some of the things you're looking forward to.
Lindsay Bettis 18:08
I'm really looking forward to partnering with many different organizations ARS being one of them in order to advance my social impact initiative and hopefully see movement on the addiction crisis towards the reversal of that I know that we're currently seeing astronomical numbers on both mental health and addiction crises that are coming up. So I'd love to be able to play a role in that and see us come on out better next year on the other side. I am super excited to partner with Nobu. I think that that is going to be a game changer for students, college students, adults across the country. And it's going to be something that is going to save so many lives and make mental health and behavioral health so much more accessible and at your fingertips. Besides that, I can't believe that I'm going to Miss America. I have been watching it every year since I can remember and went for the first time last year. So the fact that I'm going is extremely weird. Because you know, you compete. I competed six times over seven years. And you always see someone else when when you come back and you come back and the fact that it is it is my time to go to Miss America is extremely wild. And I'm excited to have the opportunity to share this story on a national stage and bring this message. And I'm lucky that I have a great support team behind me a great family that understands that this is a story that does need to be shared. My dad is my biggest supporter and always gives me his full okay to bring these stories to the stage and to bring them out to the public and I could not be more thankful for that because I know that our story is similar to a lot of other individuals that could really benefit from hearing this.
Allison: 19:55
It's going to be an amazing year and you know, we'd love to ask everybody that comes on Our show at this point in your life, what matters most to you right now.
Lindsay Bettis 20:04
What matters most to me at this point is that I have been handed this incredible opportunity. So what matters most is making the most out of that opportunity and making a difference. I think that it's really easy to get caught up in the moment and think that you've, you finally accomplished your dream. But to really get down to the roots of what this opportunity is, and how I can exactly make a difference. I would have loved to have a Miss Florida that had a similar story as me because I do not think there was anyone else that was in the same situation. always comparing my life to others, I thought I was alone. And I would love to be the most supportive that tells people that they're not alone, and could connect them to the resources that they or their family members need in order to get the help that they need.
Allison: 20:48
You know, we're cheering for you. So but I'm sure there's gonna be a lot of people listening right now that are going to be like, Oh my gosh, we gotta cheer Lindsey on and get to know her. Or maybe they're thinking, wow, she should come to my organization or school or whatever it may be. How should people follow you or connect with you?
Lindsay Bettis 21:03
So there's a few different ways you can follow me on Instagram at Miss America f L? Or at my personal Instagram at Li NDSAYEBETTIS or the Facebook page, which is Miss Florida 2022. Lindsay Pettis.
Allison: 21:22
Excellent. Well, we are super excited for you cheering for you always super proud of everything that you've accomplished and coolest part is I know this is just the beginning. So congrats, Lindsey. And thank you for coming on the show today.
Lindsay Bettis 21:33
Thanks so much for having me.
Angela: 21:38
Thank you so much for listening to today's episode. If you're not already subscribed, we hope you join us regularly. And please leave us a five star review wherever you get your podcasts if you enjoyed the show. We hope that this podcast is beneficial to you and your wellness journey. Dear mind you matter is brought to you by Nobu, a new mental health and wellness app. You can download it today using the link in our show notes. We will talk to you next time and until then remember you and your mind matter