Podcasts about Alcoholism

In this Think Thursday episode, we explore how the human brain evolved to use discomfort as information—and what happens when modern life removes nearly all friction, effort, and delay.Our brains weren't designed for constant comfort. Discomfort once served as critical feedback, helping guide behavior, attention, rest, and problem-solving. But in today's world of instant gratification and instant relief, discomfort is often treated as a problem to eliminate rather than a signal to interpret.This episode unpacks why that shift matters for brain health, motivation, resilience, and long-term satisfaction—and how intentional discomfort can support a hedonic reset.In this episode, we discuss:Why discomfort evolved as a key feedback mechanism in the human brainHow instant relief interrupts the brain's ability to learn from discomfortThe difference between regulation and comfort from a neuroscience perspectiveHow highly concentrated, low-effort rewards shape motivation and satisfactionThe concept of hedonic adaptation and why “enough” keeps movingWhat a hedonic reset actually is (and what it isn't)How intentional discomfort supports nervous system regulationThe role of dopamine, effort, and delay in sustaining motivationWhy distress tolerance is a foundational skill for behavior changeHow identity shifts through repeated, slightly uncomfortable choicesExpert perspectives referenced:Dr. Anna Lembke, author of Dopamine Nation, on pleasure–pain balance and modern reward concentrationDr. Andrew Huberman on dopamine signaling, effort, and motivationJames Clear on identity following behaviorInspiration from a conversation on the Mel Robbins Podcast with Dr. LembkeOne gentle experiment to try this week:Choose one moment per day when you notice mild discomfort—boredom, restlessness, or the urge to distract—and pause instead of fixing it.Examples:Standing in line without reaching for your phoneSitting with boredom for 60–90 secondsLetting an urge rise and fall without reactingNotice:Where you feel the sensation in your bodyWhat thoughts show upWhether the feeling changes on its ownThis isn't about forcing discomfort or pushing through distress. It's about teaching your nervous system that discomfort is tolerable and temporary—and that awareness alone can create change.Key takeaway:Discomfort isn't a problem to solve. It's information to work with.In a culture built around instant relief and effortless reward, intentional discomfort can be a powerful way to restore balance, protect motivation, and support long-term brain health. ★ Support this podcast ★

What if your worst childhood trauma became the gateway to your greatest gift?In this profoundly moving episode of The Big Silence, Karena sits down with Susan Grau: soul healer, grief and addiction therapist, and Hay House bestselling author. Her near-death experience transformed a childhood marked by extreme trauma into a life devoted to healing. Susan had a childhood that most people can't imagine surviving. But she's transformed unimaginable pain into a life of powerful healing. Now a grief and addiction therapist who works with spirits from the other side, Susan shares how she learned to survive by becoming her unstable mother's "ally," how codependency became her survival strategy, and why she believes therapists need lived experience to truly help people heal. How do you heal from a childhood that tried to destroy you, and then use that pain to help others?True healing comes from walking through the fire, not just studying it from afar.(02:43) A Near-Death Experience That Changed EverythingSusan's story of being locked in a freezer at age 5 Growing up with sexual abuse and traffickingHow childhood trauma shaped her entire life journey and awakened her abilitiesThe beginning of her connection to the spirit world(05:51) Growing Up with a Mother with Mental IllnessSusan's mother: borderline personality disorder, seeing spirits, and extreme inconsistencyLearning how to stay safeThe confusing duality: loving and giving one moment, frightening and abusive the nextWhy Susan became her mother's "ally" while her siblings didn't understand howUnderstanding codependency as a survival strategy for children of mentally ill parents(14:18) Addiction, Alcoholism & A Household of DysfunctionGrowing up in a home with addiction, alcoholism, and abuse Her brother's schizophrenia The unpredictability of never knowing which version of your parent you'd getHow dysfunction becomes normal when it's all you know(27:33) Her Brother's Suicide & Choosing to Become a TherapistWhy that loss pushed her toward becoming a grief and addiction therapistThe importance of therapists having lived experience with trauma and lossHow walking through darkness prepares you to help others find light(38:13) Why Your Therapist Needs to Have Walked Through Fire TooWhy Susan doesn't want to see a therapist who hasn't experienced real trauma

Keith Petty believes he would likely be dead from alcohol consumption if cannabis had not entered his life, as he consumed alcohol daily for years and engaged in destructive occasional drinking.Childhood trauma began early for Keith with his mother's incarceration and substance abuse problems, his grandparents' divorce when he was six or seven, and eventual placement in foster care at age 13 due to medical neglect.Foster care placement initially created culture shock as Keith moved from a chaotic household where his uncle sold marijuana to a strict religious family with no television and church three times weekly.Violence occurred in Keith's second foster home over sexuality issues and an AOL gay chat room incident, leading to his placement with a neighbor who became his permanent foster mother until age 19.Alcoholism escalated after Keith's first relationship ended, leading to ten years of reckless destruction including credit card fraud using his company's credit card for partying purposes.Legal consequences resulted in Keith facing jail time for credit card fraud and forgery at age 26, but he qualified for Virginia's first-time offenders program requiring two years of drug court and outpatient rehabilitation.Recovery through court-ordered sobriety was challenging as Keith had no family financial support system, forcing him to give up his leased home and handle legal consequences independently.A severe accident occurred in 2020 when Keith fell while day drinking during COVID quarantine, breaking his tibia, fibula, talus, and calcaneus bones, requiring surgery with rods and screws and causing permanent nerve damage.Blood alcohol content measured 0.34 the morning after Keith's accident, more than four times the legal limit of 0.08, highlighting the severity of his alcohol consumption.Pain management options were rejected by Keith due to family history with opiates, and high-dose ibuprofen consumption threatened organ damage, leading his doctor to suggest cannabis as an alternative.Cannabis treatment began with edibles and vaping cartridges, successfully managing Keith's pain while allowing his doctor to discontinue his Xanax prescription and break a generational cycle of benzodiazepine dependence.Mental health improvements from cannabis included reduced stress, better ADHD management alongside his Vyvanse prescription, and clearer thinking without sedation or brain fog.Business opportunity emerged when Keith was overcharged at a vape shop, inspiring him to convert his old party bus into a mobile cannabis dispensary serving farmer's markets, biker events, and local fairs.Sobriety from alcohol has been maintained for two years without AA meetings, as cannabis helped Keith view alcohol differently and removed its appeal entirely.  Visit our website: CannabisHealthRadio.comFind high-quality cannabis and CBD + get free consultations at MyFitLife.net/cannabishealthDiscover products and get expert advice from Swan ApothecaryFollow us on Facebook.Follow us on Instagram.Find us on Rumble.Keep your privacy! Buy NixT420 Odor Remover Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Joe Pappalardo traces the post-service lives of Company F leaders: Scott builds railroads in Mexico while Brooksbecomes a South Texas judge battling alcoholism, establishing the stoic, disciplined template defining the modern Texas Ranger identity and legacy.1904 TEXAS RANGERS

In this episode of the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, Molly sits down with Dr. Charles Knowles, professor of surgery at Queen Mary University of London and author of Why We Drink Too Much.This is a deep, science-forward conversation about why humans drink alcohol, why some people lose control while others don't, and how culture, biology, psychology, and learning all intersect in our relationship with alcohol.Dr. Knowles shares his personal journey through alcohol dependence, recovery, and ultimately peace—alongside the neuroscience, history, and behavioral science that explain why alcohol can quietly shift from pleasure to reliance.If you've ever wondered “Why me?”, questioned your own drinking without fitting neatly into a label, or felt stuck in the gray area between “fine” and “not fine,” this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and perspective.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy problematic drinking is not a moral failure or lack of willpowerThe difference between reward drinking and relief drinking—and why that shift mattersWhy consumption alone is a poor measure of alcohol's impactThe Three C's of Drinking: Consumption, Consequences, and ControlWhat “alcohol reliance” means—and why so many people live in this gray areaWhy sobriety, abstinence, and neutrality are not the same thingHow emotional sobriety and peace are built after (or alongside) behavior changeWhy understanding the brain can help some people change—and why action still mattersThe role of culture, normalization, and storytelling in how we relate to alcoholWhy a period of alcohol-free time can be valuable, regardless of long-term goalsKey Concepts DiscussedAlcohol as a learned behavior, not a character flawPsychological dependence vs. physical dependenceCognitive dissonance in gray-area drinkingNeuroplasticity and habit reinforcementEmotional sobriety as a state of mind, not a rule setIdentity, agency, and discovering who you are without alcohol driving the storyNotable Quote“Peace is an incredibly important thing—and it's not until you find it that you realize you never had it.”About the GuestDr. Charles Knowles is a professor of surgery at Queen Mary University of London, a consultant colorectal surgeon, and the author of over 300 peer-reviewed scientific publications. Why We Drink Too Much is his first popular science book, combining rigorous research with lived experience to challenge how we think about alcohol, addiction, and recovery.Recommended ResourceWhy We Drink Too Much: The Impact of Alcohol on Our Bodies and Culture by Dr. Charles KnowlesFinal TakeawayChanging your relationship with alcohol isn't about labels, perfection, or deprivation. It's about understanding what's driving your behavior, questioning old narratives, and creating enough space to build peace—mentally, emotionally, and physically.This episode is an invitation to look at alcohol with curiosity instead of judgment—and to remember that meaningful change is always possible.Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

(Repeat episode) - SEASON 11 Coming SoonMy website My Instagram

Robert first came into recovery February 9, 1986 and met a group of people who would change his life. After a short relapse, Robert came back to recovery on April 25 of 1986 and has been clean and sober ever since. Robert's mission is to become more well and to encourage others along the way.Robert is also the host of The Recovery Guy Podcast and was also a panelist on the 12 part Reco12 series called the "Ask-it Basket".  He will be marking 40 years in the rooms of recovery in a couple of weeks.Reco12 is an open-to-all addictions and afflictions organization, dedicated to exploring the common threads of the differing manifestations of alcoholism; sharing tools, and offering hope from those walking a similar path. We gather from diverse backgrounds, faiths, and locations to learn and support one another. Our speakers come from various fellowships and experiences, demonstrating the universal principles of recovery.  Reco12 is not allied or affiliated with any specific 12 Step fellowship.Support Reco12's 12th Step Mission! Help provide powerful audio resources for addicts and their loved ones. Your contributions cover Zoom, podcasts, web hosting, and admin costs.Monthly Donations: Reco12 SupportOne-Time Donations: PayPal | Venmo: @Reco-Twelve | Patreon | WISEYour support makes a difference—thank you!Outro music is "Just Can't Do this On My Own" written by James Carrington, Thomas Barkmeijer and Paul Freeman and performed by James Carrington and used with full permission of James Carrington.  To learn more about this music and performer, please visit https://www.jamescarrington.net/ and https://m.facebook.com/jamescarringtonmusic Information on Noodle It Out with Nikki M Big Book Roundtable Informational Seeking and educating on how to donate to Reco12.Support the showPrivate Facebook GroupInstagram PageBecome a Reco12 Spearhead (Monthly Supporter)PatreonPayPalVenmo: @Reco-TwelveYouTube ChannelReco12 WebsiteEmail: reco12pod@gmail.com to join WhatsApp GroupReco12 Shares PodcastReco12 Shares Record a Share LinkReco12 Noodle It Out with Nikki M PodcastReco12 Big Book Roundtable Podcast

In this final Think Thursday of Mostly Dry January, Molly delivers an empowering message for anyone questioning whether their efforts this month "counted." If you've found yourself wondering why change feels so slow, or why your results don't match your effort, this episode is for you.She explains why progress in behavior change is often invisible at first — especially when it comes to changing deeply ingrained habits like drinking. Backed by neuroscience, Molly reveals how your brain rewires itself through small wins, micro-pauses, and increased awareness, even if those changes aren't yet reflected in your habits or outcomes.Key Topics CoveredWhy behavior change often doesn't look like progress at firstThe role of neuroplasticity in rewiring your brain through repetitionWhat researchers call latent change — and why it mattersThe difference between outcomes and indicators in habit changeSubtle but powerful signs of invisible progressHow identity and self-talk begin shifting before results show upScience Concepts MentionedNeuroplasticity: Your brain is shaped by repetition, attention, and intentionAmygdala down-regulation and dopamine recalibration during early behavior changeLatent change: Internal shifts that occur before external behaviors visibly improveInvisible Wins to Look ForPausing more often before acting on a cravingFeeling curious instead of critical when things go off-planMore compassionate self-talkA stronger desire to re-engage, even after misstepsGrowing awareness of what drives your decisionsWeekly Reflection PromptWhat kind of progress have you made this month that no one else can see — but you can feel?Wrap-Up MessageYou don't need to be perfect. You don't need to be done. You just need to keep noticing.Progress is often invisible — until it's not. ★ Support this podcast ★

"The Voice" alum Audra McLaughlin is back and more powerful than ever. Joining Mike and Glenn in Nashville, Audra opens up about her transformative journey from darkness to light, the peace she's found in her purpose, and how her music now serves as a lifeline for others in recovery. This is more than just a podcast; it's a testament to resilience and the healing power of music. Plus, get the latest on her new releases.

SURVIVING vs THRIVING. On this episode of the Came to Believe Recovery Podcast Tom, Alicea and Monty discuss the difference between simply surviving life vs thriving in life. As members of the recovery community, it is an important topic as so many people find themselves stuck in the rut of life without vision or choosing to settle for less than what they can actually accomplish. Closing Song: I Belong to You by Phil Keaggy. #recovery #alcoholic #twelvesteps #wedorecover #addiction 

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Brad sits down with Nicole to share a powerful and honest sobriety story. Nicole grew up in California in a home affected by alcoholism, struggled with anxiety and a deep sense of not belonging, and discovered early that alcohol could instantly change the way she felt. What started as weekend drinking eventually became daily drinking, secrecy, relationship chaos, and escalating consequences.   Nicole opens up about how she used alcohol for energy, confidence, and relief—until it stopped working and her life hit a devastating turning point in July 2022. She shares what finally created true willingness, why her first rehab stay didn't stick, and how treatment, sober living, meetings, sponsorship, and rebuilding trust helped her stay sober. Today, Nicole is approaching four years sober, has rebuilt her relationship with her family, and is focused on living a life rooted in connection, service, and self-respect.   If you've ever wondered how to get sober, how to stop secret drinking, or how to rebuild after relapse, this episode will hit home. ------------- Nicole on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cargonicole/

Community Outreach Director of Recovery.com, Tom Farley, meets with Bryce Hamilton LSCSW, in this episode to discuss addiction, recovery, sobriety, and his personal journey... The post Alcoholism and Recovery.com with Tom Farley appeared first on WebTalkRadio.net.

"I stopped doing what I didn't want to do anymore. It's not hard to stop doing something you don't want to do... I didn't want to drink anymore." - Chris LeverettIn this incredibly vulnerable and powerful episode, we step away from the usual technical discussions of self-funding and insurance captives to tackle a pervasive, often silent issue in our industry: addiction and sobriety.My guest is Chris Leverett, Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Employee Benefits at TexCap Insurance. While Chris is a veteran in the benefits space, today he shares his personal testimony of battling high-functioning alcoholism while trying to maintain a career, a marriage, and a family.Chris opens up about the "boiling frog" effect of social drinking in the business world, the crushing weight of keeping up appearances, and the terrifying rock-bottom moments, including a lapse in insurance coverage during his daughter's premature birth, that finally led him to seek help.We discuss the freedom found in admitting powerlessness, how he replaced the "monster" of addiction with the discipline of Ironman triathlons, and how to navigate the alcohol-heavy social scene of insurance events without losing your edge.If you or someone you know is struggling in silence, this episode provides a blueprint for finding hope, help, and a better life on the other side.Thank you to our 2026 sponsors!ParetoHealth: ParetoHealth empowers midsize employers with a long-term solution to reduce volatility and lower overall health benefits costs. Visit ParetoHealth.com to learn more.Samaritan Fund: A program that connects those who need help to the support they need. We are proud to offer the Samaritan Fund Program. Visit SamaritanFundProgram.com to learn more.Vālenz Health: We're Vālenz Health, your partner in improving health literacy, reducing plan spend, and delivering high-value healthcare. Visit ValenzHealth.com to learn more.Imagine360: Imagine360 helps self-funded employers save on healthcare with smarter health plans. Cut expenses by 20-30% with custom solutions. Contact us today at Imagine360.com.Chapters:(00:00:00) Intro: TexCap Insurance & Going Up-Market (00:04:48) Sobriety: It Doesn't Have to Be a "Life Sentence" (00:09:26) The High-Functioning Trap & Social Lubricant (00:13:24) Rock Bottom #1: No Insurance During a Crisis (00:17:27) The Final Wake-Up Call & A Wife's Dream (00:19:21) The Power of Admitting "I Am an Alcoholic" (00:28:25) Trading Addiction for Ironman Triathlons (00:38:30) How to Navigate Happy Hours Sober (00:45:13) The Blueprint: Steps to Finding HelpKey Links for Social:@SelfFunded on YouTube for video versions of the podcast and much more - https://www.youtube.com/@SelfFundedListen/watch on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1TjmrMrkIj0qSmlwAIevKA?si=068a389925474f02Listen on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-funded-with-spencer/id1566182286Follow Spencer on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-smith-self-funded/Follow Spencer on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/selffundedwithspencer/

HOUR 4: Nature vs Nurture. Is alcoholism hereditary, environmental, or both? full 2250 Mon, 26 Jan 2026 23:00:00 +0000 tZl6CjYZPSOONcMuCnIE9Pq2rVeeVe5L news The Dana & Parks Podcast news HOUR 4: Nature vs Nurture. Is alcoholism hereditary, environmental, or both? You wanted it... Now here it is! Listen to each hour of the Dana & Parks Show whenever and wherever you want! © 2025 Audacy, Inc. News False https://player.a

In this episode, Molly explores one of the most emotionally charged moments in any behavior change journey: going off plan. Whether you're trying to drink less, eat healthier, or shift any long-standing habit, that moment of “I said I wouldn't, but I did” can feel like failure.But what if it's not?Molly shares how deeply rooted perfectionist narratives — especially around alcohol — make us believe that if we slip, we must be broken, or incapable of moderation. Drawing from neuroscience and psychology, she explains how our brains create conditioned responses and how off-plan drinking isn't a diagnosis, it's data.You'll learn why changing your relationship with alcohol (or any habit) doesn't require perfection — it requires compassion, curiosity, and a willingness to keep going. And you'll be introduced to the Off-Plan Plan, which is a tool  she teaches in her programs. What You'll LearnWhy culturally conditioned narratives frame abstinence as the “only” answerHow your lower brain creates automatic responses to stress and emotionThe science behind why intention alone doesn't drive behaviorWhat perfectionism is really about — and why it shuts down progressHow compassion and curiosity fuel lasting changeA powerful mindset reframe: Off-plan moments aren't failure — they're feedbackKey Quote from the Episode“Off-plan drinking is not a diagnosis. It's not proof that you can't do it. It's information. It's data. It's your brain telling you that something about that moment overwhelmed the tools you had available.”Weekly ReflectionWhen I drink off plan, what story do I immediately tell myself about who I am?And what would change if I treated that moment as information instead of evidence?Resources & MentionsSunnyside mindful drinking appPrevious episodes in the January arc:Fresh Start Effect (Jan 1)Mostly Dry is Enough (Jan 5)Neuroscience of Follow-Through (Jan 8)From Restraint to Reward (Jan 12)Identity Lag (Jan 15)Emotional Freedom (Jan 19)Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

(Repeat episode) - SEASON 11 Coming SoonMy website My Instagram

BEING KIND TO DIFFICULT PEOPLE. In this short Montyman's Meditorial Monty shares his thoughts on the challenge of responding in kindness when it comes to difficult people who get in our face. Them songs: Might As Well Be Me by Mike O'Bryan, Producer Brian Pothier. #recovery #alcoholic #twelvesteps #wedorecover #addiction 

We interview acclaimed minister and author John Ortberg in a wonderful conversation about the 12 Steps, the nature of faith, and how spirituality plays such a vital part in so many people's recovery. Special Guest: John Ortberg.

Send us a textBrent's addiction didn't begin with drugs — it began with alcohol, grief, and unspoken trauma. What started as confidence and relief quickly became daily drinking, violence, and survival alongside people involved in serious criminal activity. As his drinking escalated, so did the losses: the death of his mother, the loss of his marriage, homelessness, seizures, repeated assaults, and a life that slowly collapsed inward.Everything shattered when Brent lost his brother Curtis to suicide. Consumed by grief, guilt, and alcohol, Brent spiraled into suicidal ideation, multiple attempts, detox stays, and near-fatal withdrawals. Drinking to survive became drinking to disappear. What ultimately stopped the spiral wasn't willpower — it was surrender. Through treatment, grief work, spirituality, and finally allowing himself to feel what he'd been running from, Brent began to rebuild a life rooted in honesty and purpose.This episode explores alcoholism, suicide loss, complicated grief, relapse, treatment, and what it means to stop running and choose life — even when the pain feels unbearable.✅ Check SEIU West✅ Wellness News✅ Parenting in the StormFind Brent on Facebook HereSupport the showCheck out the speakeasy podcast Follow Daniel Unmanageable on Facebook Follow Project Sparky We've got fresh merch and it's amazing! Pick yours up HERE For business or speaking inquiries: Daniel@hardknoxtalks.com Follow Hard Knox TalksFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hardknoxtalkspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardknoxtalks/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardknoxtalks?lang=en Are you getting something from our content? Tap here and buy us a coffee to say thanks and help us keep this train on the tracks! Check us out on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@hardknoxtalksWant to watch our episodes uncensored? Become a channel member here!

In this Think Thursday episode, Molly breaks down a powerful concept at the heart of sustainable habit change: micro-yeses. These are the small, often overlooked decisions that align with your long-term goals—even if they feel too minor to matter.Whether you're working on behavior change related to exercise, diet, spending, screen time, or any other habit, micro-yeses are the building blocks of momentum. This episode explores how these tiny choices affect the brain, create identity shifts, and lead to real progress over time.Key Topics CoveredWhat a "micro-yes" is and why it mattersHow small decisions activate the prefrontal cortex and build new neural pathwaysWhy repetition, not perfection, drives real behavior changeThe role of self-recognition in maintaining motivationWhat behavior scientists like BJ Fogg say about starting smallScience and InsightsMicro-yeses interrupt automatic behavior loops by engaging intentional brain regions like the prefrontal cortexThrough consistent action, these moments create synaptic plasticity, helping rewire the brain for new habitsAs Stanford researcher BJ Fogg notes:“Tiny actions, repeated consistently, change identity.”Reflection Prompt:Where have you said yes to yourself this week, even in a small or imperfect way?Recognize it. Count it. It matters.Related Episodes to ExploreThe Fresh Start Effect (January 1)Neuroscience of Follow-Through (January 8)Identity Lag: Why Your Brain Hasn't Caught Up Yet (January 15) ★ Support this podcast ★

Marissa wants to take her 7-month-old and leave her husband who admits to being a drunk and a cheater throughout their marriage. Call 1-800-DR-LAURA / 1-800-375-2872 or make an appointment at DrLaura.comFollow me on social media:Facebook.com/DrLauraInstagram.com/DrLauraProgramYouTube.com/DrLauraJoin My Family!!Receive my Weekly Newsletter + 20% off my Marriage 101 course & 25% off Merch! Sign up now, it's FREE!Each week you'll get new articles, featured emails from listeners, special event invitations, early access to my Dr. Laura Designs Store benefiting Children of Fallen Patriots, and MORE! Sign up at DrLaura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Nashville-based singer-songwriter Audra joins Mike and Glenn to share a profound narrative of resilience and transformation. Moving beyond her past, Audra discusses her evolution from "sick to sparkle," detailing how she traded the shadows of addiction for a life of purpose and clarity. Her music serves as a beacon for those navigating their own sober journeys, offering a soulful connection for anyone seeking to redefine themselves.

Should Rene forgive his wife who fell in love with another man while in Alcoholics Anonymous? Call 1-800-DR-LAURA / 1-800-375-2872 or make an appointment at DrLaura.comFollow me on social media:Facebook.com/DrLauraInstagram.com/DrLauraProgramYouTube.com/DrLauraJoin My Family!!Receive my Weekly Newsletter + 20% off my Marriage 101 course & 25% off Merch! Sign up now, it's FREE!Each week you'll get new articles, featured emails from listeners, special event invitations, early access to my Dr. Laura Designs Store benefiting Children of Fallen Patriots, and MORE! Sign up at DrLaura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this reflective episode, Molly explores the concept of emotional freedom—what it is, what it isn't, and how it's connected to both her personal story and the Alcohol Minimalist approach.Recorded on Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the day after what would have been her father's 98th birthday, Molly connects the legacies of two powerful men who shaped her understanding of what true strength looks like: calm, steady, and intentional.You'll learn how emotional regulation plays a critical role in creating lasting change with alcohol habits, and why your ability to pause between feeling and acting is key to sustainable freedom. Drawing from neuroscience, psychology, and her own lived experience, Molly unpacks the subtle but powerful shift from automatic drinking to intentional living.Topics DiscussedWhy emotional freedom isn't about never feeling uncomfortableThe Viktor Frankl quote that changed Molly's approach to habit changeHow emotional avoidance and low distress tolerance fuel drinking patternsThe role of the basal ganglia in automatic habits and how to rewire itHer father's example of strength without reactivityHow to use the PB&J tool (Pause, Breathe, Just Ten Minutes) to interrupt urgesA deeper look into the “Figuring Out Your Feelings” chapter from Breaking the Bottle LegacyKey Quotes“Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” — Viktor Frankl “You can tell the size of a man by the size of the thing that makes him mad.” — Adlai Stevenson, as taught to Molly by her fatherResources MentionedBreaking the Bottle Legacy by Molly Watts – especially the chapter “Figuring Out Your Feelings”Drink-Less Success: A 30-day self-paced program based in neuroscience and habit psychology Includes the audiobook version of Breaking the Bottle Legacy Learn more at: mollywatts.com/drink-less-successWeekly Reflection PromptWhat does emotional freedom mean to me right now? Not in theory. Not for the future. But right now.Ask yourself:Where am I reactive?Where could I create more space?What would it look like to respond instead of escape?Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

The Atlantic Group Tuesday Night Speaker Meeting January 13, 2026 10-minute Speaker: Jonah F. Main Speaker: Dylan B.  Welcome to the Atlantic Group Podcast. Our 7th  tradition states, “Every A.A. group ought to be fully self-supporting declining outside contributions.” Your contribution covers the expenses of our group, this podcast, and also that of our AA service structure. If you are an AA member who finds this podcast helpful, you can contribute using Venmo @AGTradition7 or Zelle at AGNYCINFO@gmail.com. Under what's it for, please write AG Podcast. Thank you for your support. For any questions, please e-mail: TuesdayAGNYC@gmail.com

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Gray Area Drinking, Binge Drinking, Alcoholism, Alcohol Use Disorder or Problem Drinking? How Do You Know When Alcohol Is the Issue. In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Brad sits down with Shaz to share a raw and honest story of alcohol's role, blackouts, secret drinking, and pandemic-era daily drinking. This conversation is for anyone who doesn't see themselves as fitting with a label, but still feels uneasy about their relationship with alcohol. Shaz walks through how alcohol shifted from social use to binge drinking, how gray area drinking quietly escalated, and how secrecy, rationalization, and comparison kept him stuck for years. You'll hear why waiting for a diagnosis or label delayed real change—and how sobriety, connection, and community support became the turning point. If you're sober curious, questioning your drinking, or wondering whether life would feel better without alcohol, this conversation offers clarity, validation, and a path forward—without shame or judgment. Contact Shaz on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shazman07/  

By mid-January, many people are still taking action toward change but feel increasingly unsure of themselves. In this Think Thursday episode, Molly introduces the concept of identity lag to explain why behavior often changes before belief does and why that gap can feel uncomfortable.Building on recent conversations about the Fresh Start Effect and the neuroscience of follow-through, this episode explores what happens in the brain when new behaviors challenge long-held self-stories. Molly explains how identity is shaped through evidence over time, why self-doubt often peaks after consistency begins, and how cognitive dissonance plays a central role in this phase of change.Rather than seeing discomfort as a sign that something is wrong, listeners are invited to understand identity lag as a normal and necessary transition in sustainable behavior change.What You'll LearnWhy behavior change often feels awkward before it feels alignedWhat identity lag is and why it shows up in mid-JanuaryHow the brain prioritizes stability and safetyWhy confidence does not come first in lasting changeHow cognitive dissonance creates tension during growthWhy self-doubt often increases after consistency beginsHow identity actually updates through repetition and evidenceKey Concepts ExplainedIdentity lag as the gap between behavior and beliefDefault mode network and self-referential processingCognitive dissonance and the brain's drive for consistencyEvidence accumulation in identity-based behavior changeNeuroplasticity and learning across time and contextImpostor syndrome as a byproduct of uncertainty during growthCore Takeaways from the EpisodeBehavior leads and identity followsFeeling unfamiliar does not mean being misalignedSelf-doubt is information, not instructionConfidence grows from repetition, not declarationsConsistent behavior resolves cognitive dissonance over timeOver time, research shows that behavior is often what resolves cognitive dissonance, not beliefs.When behavior stays consistent, identity eventually follows.That's why you don't have to convince yourself. You just have to keep showing up.Practical Anchors SharedSeparate behavior from beliefLook for evidence rather than feelingsAvoid premature identity labelsNormalize discomfort during transitionUse language like “I am learning to become someone who…”Related Think Thursday EpisodesThe Myth of the Fresh Start BrainThe Neuroscience of Follow-ThroughBelief Echoes and Why Change Feels HardUnbreakable Habits and the Voice That Keeps Them AliveWhat's Coming NextNext week's Think Thursday explores what happens when progress starts to feel quieter, calmer, and even boring, and why that phase is actually a sign that change is taking hold. ★ Support this podcast ★

For journalist Kate Halfpenny, moving to a beachside town during Melbourne's lockdowns seemed like the perfect way to unwind and escape her huge mortgage. Then she had to contend with the triple whammy of perimenopause, her husband's alcoholism and distance from family and friends.For the first time in her life, Kate had an empty house, no job commitments and no city life to distract her.She was able to indulge daily in her love of boogie boarding and surf-side walks with her dog, Maggie.One day at the beach, Kate saw her elderly father struggling in the surf.Kate's husband Chris was in the water next to him, but was acting strangely and couldn't manage to haul him out of the dangerous water.That evening, Chris confessed his alcoholism to Kate and the couple faced the inevitable decisions they would have to navigate, together and apart.Further informationBoogie Wonderland is published by Affirm Press.This episode was produced by Alice Moldovan.Conversations' Executive Producer is Nicola Harrison.This episode of Conversations deals with good divorce, Melbourne covid lockdowns, seachange, addiction, alcoholism, supporting an alcoholic, women in media, perimenopause, midlife, being alone, boogie boarding and relationships.

After surviving a stranger's shove into the path of a subway train, a man confronts his mortality and viral fame, and finds himself transformed by community, clarity, and the everyday poignancy of being alive. Today's episode featured Joe Lynskey. You can email Joe at upfromthetracks@gmail.com. Joe is on Instagram @lynskey.joe. You can find news articles about Joe and his DJ career at his link tree: https://linktr.ee/lynskey.joe. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits Content/Trigger Warnings: Violence, Attempted murder, Graphic injury, PTSD, Death of a parent, Childhood bullying, Homophobia, Alcoholism, Drug addiction, Self-harm risk behaviors, Family dysfunction, Medical trauma, Viral exposure / public scrutiny, Crime and criminal justice system, explicit language Social Media:Instagram: @actuallyhappeningTwitter: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott VelasquezMusic Bed: Ambient Themes ServicesIf you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Real Reason Alcohol Will Never Be Banned (It's Not What You Think)Meet The Stop Drinking Expert: Craig BeckCraig Beck, ABNLP, ABHYP, DhP, is a leading alcohol-addiction therapist, coach, and bestselling author whose work has helped more than 250,000 people create lives they no longer need to escape.Why Craig's Method WorksCraig spent twenty years caught in the same drinking loop you may know all too well, rationalising “just one,” waking up regretful, repeating the cycle. Traditional routes felt wrong: twelve-step meetings didn't resonate, rehab was impractical, and quick-fix gimmicks failed.Eventually, he had a 'penny drop' moment where he realized that alcohol isn't a reward at all but just attractively packaged poison. First, he fixed his own problem and has spent the last fifteen years helping others with a clear, science-backed framework that anyone can follow.No labels, no judgment, no willpower battles.www.CraigBeck.comwww.StopDrinkingExpert.com#soberlife #sobrietycoach #quitdrinking #stopdrinkingSupport the show

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Dr. Keith Humphreys is a professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Stanford School of Medicine and a leading expert on treating addictions, drug laws and policy. We discuss all the major addictive substances and behaviors, including alcohol, opioids, gambling, stimulants, nicotine, cannabis and more, focusing on how genetics and certain use patterns shape addiction susceptibility. We discuss the best evidence-based tools for recovery, from 12-step programs to emerging treatments such as psychedelics and ibogaine. Anyone interested in making better choices for their health and/or seeking to avoid or overcome addictions ought to benefit from this episode. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman David: https://davidprotein.com/huberman BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/huberman Helix Sleep: https://helixsleep.com/huberman LMNT: https://drinklmnt.com/huberman Timestamps (00:00:58) Keith Humphreys (00:03:22) Addiction; Genetic Risk (00:09:14) Alcohol Use Disorder & Alcoholism; Genetic Predisposition & Addiction Risk (00:18:03) Sponsors: David & BetterHelp (00:20:37) Women & Alcohol Use; Young Adults; Cannabis Use (00:23:36) Health Benefit to Alcohol?, Red Wine, Cancer Risk; Social Pressure (00:31:47) Alcohol in Social Gatherings, Social Anxiety, Vulnerability, Work & Dates (00:37:41) Old vs New Cannabis & THC Levels; Smoked vs Edible Forms (00:44:38) Cannabis & Psychosis Risk; Cardiac Health; Youth Cannabis Use & Transition to Adulthood (00:52:29) Sponsor: AG1 (00:54:13) Industries of Addiction, Regulation; Gambling, Slot Machines, Novelty; Casinos (01:05:28) Decriminalization vs Legalization; Cannabis, Gateway Drug? (01:08:50) Psylocibin or LSD, Addiction Treatment; Microdosing, Clinical Trial Challenges (01:18:58) Sponsor: Helix Sleep (01:20:32) Brain Plasticity & Age; Ketamine, Depression, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) (01:28:10) SSRIs, Mass Shootings, Suicide, Side Effects; Drug Approval; Ibogaine & PTSD (01:36:10) Caffeine Addiction?; Stimulants & Rehab; Prescription Stimulants & ADHD (01:44:04) Nicotine, Mistaking Withdrawal for Benefit (01:47:24) Sponsor: LMNT (01:48:44) Tool: How to Talk to Someone with Addiction (01:55:23) Perception of Addicts, Character Defect, Pain (02:00:58) Overcoming Addiction, Immediate Rewards, AA; Addict & Co-Dependency? (02:09:53) Longterm Drug Use, Dopamine, Cues & Relapse; Social Media (02:16:21) Brain Stimulation, TMS; Homelessness, Substance Use & Rehab (02:26:11) Addiction Treatment Policy, Rehab & Insurance (02:29:08) Tool: 12-Step Programs, AA, Accessibility & Benefits (02:38:08) AA, Higher Power, Cult?; Flexibility, Tool: Open AA Meetings (02:44:38) GLP-1s, Weight Loss, Alcohol Addiction; Pharmaceutical Advertisements (02:52:39) Social Media Addiction, Tool: Avoiding Social Media Strategies (02:58:36) “Failure to Launch”, Youth, Video Games, Social Media; Recovery Pathways (03:04:13) AA as an Action Program, Tool: Try Different AA Meetings (03:08:21) Hospice, Death, Overcoming Fear of Death (03:13:54) Addiction to Escape Death?, Desire for Oblivion (03:18:11) Men vs Women & Addiction; Lying; Relapse; Fentanyl & Addiction Advice (03:24:27) Zero-Cost Support, YouTube, Spotify & Apple Follow, Reviews & Feedback, Sponsors, Protocols Book, Social Media, Neural Network Newsletter Disclaimer & Disclosures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a textPart 2A special animated reboot all the way back from Episode 65 and 66 of The Suffering Podcast.  Bobby is back to talk about his impactful journey back from the depths of despair and alcoholism.On this powerful episode of The Suffering Podcast, Kevin P. Donaldson and Mike Failace sit down with Bobby Crudele, a man who has walked through the fire of addiction and fought his way back into the light. Bobby's story is raw, honest, and unfiltered—an inside look at the devastating grip of alcoholism and the courageous climb toward recovery.From the first drink that started it all to the darkest moments that nearly cost him everything, Bobby opens up about the pain, the denial, the broken relationships, and the nightly battles that many people never see. But he also shares something even more important—the hope. The turning point. The moment he chose life over destruction.This episode is not just about addiction… it's about redemption. It's about choosing to rise. It's about proving that no matter how far you fall, you are never too far gone to turn your life around.Find Bobby CrudeleFind The Suffering PodcastThe Suffering Podcast InstagramKevin Donaldson InstagramTom Flynn InstagramApple PodcastSpotifyYouTubeSupport the showThe Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram TikTok YouTube

Joe and Stephanie lost one son to suicide and see their ties with their other son slipping away.  Call 1-800-DR-LAURA / 1-800-375-2872 or make an appointment at DrLaura.comFollow me on social media:Facebook.com/DrLauraInstagram.com/DrLauraProgramYouTube.com/DrLauraJoin My Family!!Receive my Weekly Newsletter + 20% off my Marriage 101 course & 25% off Merch! Sign up now, it's FREE!Each week you'll get new articles, featured emails from listeners, special event invitations, early access to my Dr. Laura Designs Store benefiting Children of Fallen Patriots, and MORE! Sign up at DrLaura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.