How America's Only Faith-Military-Clinical Program Helps Men Recover from Addiction with Melinda Russ and Rand Carlson of Men of Nehemiah
Nov 20, 2025
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In honor of this month’s theme of gratitude, we’re sharing stories of those who have answered the call to serve others.
In this week’s episode of Dominate Your Day, two leaders from Men of Nehemiah—Executive Director Melinda Russ and Biblical Director Rand Carlson—highlight the power of giving back and the deep transformation happening within this unique ministry. Men of Nehemiah is a Dallas faith-based residential program serving men battling addiction. What makes this ministry stand apart is its threefold approach: biblical discipleship, military-style structure, and clinical counseling—the only recovery program of its kind in America. As Rand shares, this combination instills discipline, restores identity, and builds a foundation for lasting recovery—one that’s producing success rates in the 80th percentile for men who complete the program and continue in sober living.
Both Melinda and Rand share powerful stories of recovery, from reconciling families to men stepping into leadership roles after completing the program. Rand’s own journey—from years of addiction to now leading others through the same healing process—is a living example of how God uses our hardest chapters as the very tools to serve others. Melinda, who came to the ministry after years in corporate leadership, has become a fierce advocate for these men.
When we use our gifts, values, and lived experiences to serve others, we step into our authentic mission. That’s exactly what Men of Nehemiah is doing for each man who walks through its doors—and it’s what I hope listeners consider for themselves.
Whether you're seeking a place to serve, searching for healing, or wanting to support life-changing work, I encourage you to learn more about Men of Nehemiah. Their impact doesn’t just transform men—it transforms families, communities, and every heart willing to show up.
Episode Minutes:
- Minute 3:00 — Personal Stories of Transformation
- Minute 9:00 — The Role of Military Discipline
- Minute 15:00 — Faith-Based Support
- Minute 21:00 — Community and Mentorship
- Minute 27:00 — Impact on Families and Communities
Links + Resources from This Episode:
- Learn more about Men of Nehemiah at www.menofnehemiah.org
- Get your copy of Dana’s new book, The Internal Revolution: Lead Authentically and Build Your Personal Brand from Within
- Learn more about The Strengths Journal
About Men of Nehemiah
The Men of Nehemiah is a Christian organization that exists to rebuild the lives of men who have been torn apart by the effects of drug and alcohol addiction. The organization serves each man as he is restored to the person God created him to be, reunited with his family and his community.
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