Podcasts about heroin addiction

Dopey Film Festival Tickets: https://buytickets.at/thedopeyfoundation/2216905 Patreon: www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast Long Summary This week's Total Replay features Dopey Episode 30, originally recorded in the Lower East Side apartment when Chris and Dave were still figuring out what the show would become. Dave opens by explaining why Episode 29 won't be replayed. It was Ray Brown's first appearance on Dopey, but Ray has repeatedly requested that his early appearances remain offline. Dave pays tribute to Ray and plugs the upcoming Dopey Recovery Film Festival before reflecting on how strange it is to revisit these early episodes. The episode begins with Chris bringing his then-girlfriend Karen onto the show. Karen and Chris discuss meeting on Tinder, their awkward early dates, Chris almost ghosting her, and the bizarre process of figuring out whether they were actually boyfriend and girlfriend. Dave relentlessly interrogates both of them about their relationship while Karen patiently tolerates the nonsense. Karen reveals she had already listened to Dopey before Chris realized it and shares what it was like hearing some of Chris's wilder stories for the first time. The conversation includes a hilarious story about Karen drunkenly inviting Chris over, only for him to arrive and find her passed out on the toilet. The show then veers into classic early Dopey territory: recovery debates, methadone arguments, active addicts, prison stories, and discussions about whether people on maintenance medications should qualify at meetings. The centerpiece of the episode is Chris's legendary LSD story: After relapsing while working at a sober living house, Chris begins ordering drugs from the Silk Road. He buys heroin, cocaine, and some incredibly strong LSD. While attempting to maintain the appearance of sobriety, he takes acid during a screening of The Wolf of Wall Street with his girlfriend Tina. By the time they return home, Chris is tripping hard and realizes his girlfriend is going to notice. His solution? Convince her he's experiencing HPPD (Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder) brought on by meditation. Chris leads a meditation session, then pretends he's suddenly having an LSD flashback. Initially Tina believes him. Eventually guilt gets the better of him and he confesses. Then he immediately tries to convince her he didn't actually take acid after all, causing her to question her own reality before finally admitting the truth again. The story ends with Tina kicking him out while Chris, deep into the trip, worries less about the relationship and more about whether she'll make him carry home a gigantic cast-iron piggy bank he had previously given her as a gift. The episode closes with a discussion about recovery, why addicts laugh at horrifying things they've done, and how the absurdity of addiction becomes funny only after enough distance and healing. A bonafide dopey classic! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Film Festival Tickets: https://buytickets.at/thedopeyfoundation/2216905 PATREONL www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast Zoom: dopeyzoom.com This Week on the Wednesday Dose! The episode opens with Dave feeling sick but super inspired by the Knicks, community in general, and the way Dopey Nation sticks together. He talks about Dopey Zoom, putting up Dopey stickers carefully, and the psychedelic idea that listeners are all connected through the show. Dave also pays tribute to Rob Base and Sonny Rollins, then reads a brutal listener email from Sarah about broken ankles, losing housing, 7OH/Kratom struggles, and leaning on Dopey Nation. He reads Patreon and Spotify comments, talks about Skinny Vinny, drug dreams, Canadian bacon, Patreon tiers, Tom Shoes backlash, and then promotes the Dopey Recovery Short Film Festival. The main conversation is with Handsome Evan, who is celebrating six years sober and just had his second son on his sobriety anniversary. Sitting in the car by the Great South Bay, Dave and Evan talk AA politics, Jewishness in meetings, Anthony Spaghetti, recovery community, and Evan's story. Evan tells stories about smoking crack, driving dealers around Gordon Heights, trading belongings for drugs, stealing from his family, and eventually becoming a drug and alcohol counselor while still smoking weed and later using coke, booze, Xanax, and Ritalin. He talks about the shame of claiming recovery while secretly using, finally going back to rehab after his wife caught him, and how AA, structure, OCD, and fatherhood helped him build a real life. The episode closes with Evan opening up about anxiety around parenting, obsessive fears about his kids, family resentments, and the strange normal problems of sober life. Anthony Spaghetti makes a guest appearance to explain Prince Spaghetti Day.  All that and MORE! MORE! MORE! on a new wednesday dose of that good ol' dopey show.       Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

FILM FESTIVAL TICKETS: https://buytickets.at/thedopeyfoundation/2216905 PATREON: www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast Dave and Alan Manheim return for another classic Dopey Tuesday conversation, this time recorded outside the Dopey studio because of ongoing production issues. Alan immediately launches into a breakdown of his “mutual redevelopment” Manhattan apartment and reminisces about living there for over 50 years while Dave complains about the transformation of his childhood bedroom into the Dopey studio. The conversation drifts into Blake Mycoskie from TOMS Shoes and the Dopey Nation's reaction to a less drug-heavy episode before Alan unveils his newest entrepreneurial fantasy: buying 30 acres upstate to create a solar-powered greenhouse capable of producing meat without animals. This naturally leads into stories about Alan's previous failed business ideas, including indoor lobster farming, eclipse merchandise, imported Chinese knives, underwear futures, cryptocurrency disasters, and the legendary JJ and the Jelly Bean children's books. Dave and Alan then pivot hard into Knicks playoff mania, gambling talk, and the absurdity of spending $1,000 for nosebleed seats at Madison Square Garden. Alan shares a story about his cardiologist's son cashing out a massive preseason Spurs futures bet while Dave reflects on how his father never really took him anywhere growing up besides zoos, museums, and nursing homes. Dave jokes that this emotional neglect may explain how he became a heroin addict in the first place. The episode also dives into Spotify and Patreon comments, listener criticism of Heart Attack Doug, vape addiction rituals, Kratom recovery, and the strange comfort of hearing from the same diehard Dopey listeners every week. The teaser cuts off right before the controversial Patreon comments section, ending with Dave shamelessly trying to convert listeners into Patreon subscribers. FULL SHOW ONLY ON PATREON! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

FILM FESTIVAL TICKETS: https://buytickets.at/thedopeyfoundation/2216905 PATREON: www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast Summary On this Dopey Monday Total Replay, Dave looks back at Dopey Episode 28, one of the strangest and creepiest early episodes of the show. It features Dave, Chris, and graphic-design Ryan — the guy who made the original Dopey logo — talking through old Lower East Side drug energy, the first major Dopey fan emails, weird ego stuff, drug stories, recovery, Rob Reiner, Nick Reiner, and a whole lot of eerie foreshadowing. Dave reflects on how painful it is to hear Chris again, knowing he died in 2018, and uses the episode to make a simple but brutal point: if Chris had stayed in recovery, he probably wouldn't have died. The replay itself is classic early Dopey: messy, funny, dark, uncomfortable, and weirdly prophetic. Ryan tells a story about refusing to leave a drug pickup even after a guy puts a gun to his head. Chris talks about addiction, genetics, rats drinking heroin water, and recovery. Dylan randomly calls in right as Dave is talking about Dylan from 90210, which feels like Dopey synchronicity. The episode also includes the first big fan email from Tina in Philadelphia, Dave getting wounded by being called “Dan,” and a long, now-haunting conversation about Rob Reiner and Nick Reiner before Nick ever appeared on Dopey. It's funny, painful, and very Dopey. PLUS Drugs, addiction and dumb shit on the new/old 10 year anniversary of this episode!(of Dopey)   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dopey Film Festival: https://buytickets.at/thedopeyfoundation/2216905 Listen without ads www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast This week on the Wednesday Dose of Dopey, Dave opens the show with Brer Brian's Dopey Wednesday anthem and immediately starts hustling tickets for the upcoming Dopey Short Film Festival in New York City. Dave explains that only nine tickets have sold so far and promises cheap tickets, food, fellowship, desserts, filmmakers, and recovery community vibes. He begs the Dopey Nation to come out and support the event while Winnie the dog barks in the background. Before getting to the main interview, Dave plays an absolutely insane voicemail from longtime Dopey contributor JD DeHart about surviving a cocaine overdose during a three-day binge in a trailer in Mississippi when he was 20 years old. JD describes an old-school coke and crack marathon involving an entire ounce of cocaine, nonstop shooting coke, smoking crack, drinking beer, no sleep, no food, and no water. He vividly recounts doing a gigantic shot of cocaine and suddenly entering a terrifying paralysis where he could hear and see everything but couldn't move a single part of his body. JD compares the experience to the Metallica “One” video and explains how his paranoid dealer friend may have saved his life by slapping him awake, giving him water and food, and slowly bringing him out of the overdose. Naturally, once he recovered, the first thing he did was smoke an enormous crack hit. Dave praises the voicemail and thanks JD for consistently contributing incredible stories to the show. Dave then dives into Patreon and Spotify comments responding to last week's controversial Blake Mycoskie episode. Listeners debate rich-guy recovery, psychedelic therapy, AI therapy, polo, founder culture, and whether wealthy people talking about depression is relatable to the average Dopey listener. Some commenters defend the episode and appreciate hearing about mental health and self-worth, while others say they turned it off the moment Blake started discussing AI therapy or learning polo in Argentina. Dave jokes that people should blame John Bukaty for bringing in “woo-woo guests,” but still says he genuinely liked Blake and appreciated trying something different. The comment section also leads to discussions about recovery, privilege, treatment access, government responsibility for addiction, and Dave's ongoing balancing act between growing Dopey and maintaining authenticity. Dave also reads a moving Spotify comment from a listener celebrating 120 days clean after a devastating relapse that nearly destroyed his marriage and relationship with his child. Other listeners compliment Dave's podcasting skills, compare his intros to Marc Maron, and joke about Tesla AI therapy and rich recovery people. Dave also contemplates launching a higher Patreon tier with an exclusive Zoom while openly joking about his “cynical cash grab” tendencies and his need to support his family. The centerpiece of the episode is Dave's long conversation with Skinny Vinny inside Steve-O's Wild Ride podcast van in Sherman Oaks, California. The interview covers almost every phase of Vinny's chaotic life story. Vinny explains how the Wild Ride podcast went on hiatus after backlash surrounding a sarcastic Steve-O clip from an episode with Harlan Williams that got taken out of context online. Vinny talks openly about Steve-O's sensitivity, internet outrage culture, and the emotional toll of constant public criticism. The conversation then shifts into Vinny's upbringing in Connecticut and his lifelong obsession with Jackass. Vinny tells the story of being a kid with a camera glued to his hand, idolizing Bam Margera and Jeff Tremaine, and eventually convincing Bam to punch him in the face at a skate shop signing when he was a teenager. Dave and Vinny reminisce about old Jackass dreams eventually becoming reality years later through recovery and content creation. Vinny dives deep into his addiction history, including following Phish and Bob Weir tours while constantly inhaling nitrous balloons in parking lots, discovering Silk Road drug markets in Vermont, and eventually falling into severe heroin addiction. He recounts horrifying years living in Vermont, where heroin was outrageously expensive, and where he watched his girlfriend overdose in front of her parents after both of them desperately tried to detox using kratom. Vinny also describes his obsession with needles, famously saying, “If I could rig it, I could dig it,” while discussing shooting heroin and eventually shooting liquid LSD purchased from Silk Road. One of the darkest sections of the interview involves Vinny describing his infamous “porta potty bottom.” After burning every bridge and alienating everyone in his life, Vinny ended up secretly living inside a handicapped-sized porta potty in Connecticut while hustling to survive. He explains his daily routine of waking up at sunrise, hiding blankets in bushes, charging his Obama phone at Dunkin Donuts, stealing energy drinks from grocery stores, selling them to bodegas, buying heroin and crack, and repeating the cycle endlessly. Dave and Vinny talk about the terrifying comfort that comes with fully accepting life as a hopeless junkie. Vinny also recounts his arrest, jail sentence, and the legendary “prison pocket” story. Knowing he had to turn himself in, Vinny literally trained his body to smuggle heroin, Xanax, rolling tobacco, papers, and even needles into jail. He explains how he eventually ran out of drugs behind bars and suffered brutally through withdrawal on the top bunk in jail while promising himself he'd never use again — only to get released and immediately return to hustling and heroin. The interview takes a more hopeful turn as Vinny explains how recovery unexpectedly transformed his life. He talks about meeting Zackass in sober living, becoming indispensable behind the camera, eventually becoming a co-host, and later joining Steve-O's Wild Ride. Vinny describes feeling like recovery gave him the exact life he fantasized about as a kid obsessed with Jackass culture. Dave and Vinny repeatedly discuss the strange intersection of manifestation, luck, spirituality, showing up, and being willing to work hard without getting high. Later in the interview, Vinny opens up emotionally about his failed marriage to a Canadian woman, the devastating heartbreak that followed, and the depression that nearly broke him. He describes locking himself in his apartment for 45 days, barely eating, crying himself to sleep, and seriously considering drinking despite years of sobriety. Instead of relapsing, Vinny redirected all of his pain into fitness, weight loss, and self-improvement. He explains how discovering peptides, returning to the gym, diving back into recovery meetings and service work, and focusing entirely on himself ultimately helped him lose over 200 pounds and completely transform his life. The episode ends with Vinny discussing his plans to open a sober living house called The Comeback with a former client from his early recovery days. Dave and Vinny also joke about Canadians, Dopeywood structure problems, podcasting, body dysmorphia, fear dreams, and the strange reality of surviving addiction long enough to accidentally build a meaningful life. Dave closes the episode asking listeners yet again to buy film festival tickets, join Patreon, leave Spotify comments, send voicemails, and stay involved in the Dopey community before ending, as always, with “Stay strong Dopey Nation and fucking toodles for Chris.” 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, Christina Thomas and Charles Patti, the founders of MY Self Wellness, reveal how ketamine therapy and psychedelic healing are reshaping mental health, helping people overcome depression, PTSD, and addiction at the root level. What started as personal survival becomes a fast-growing wellness movement built on purpose, frequency, and transformation. As they expand into advanced psychedelic research and a global healing model, they share the mindset, risks, and unconventional strategies behind scaling impact in a controversial space.Key Takeaways• Healing at the root cause creates lasting transformation, not symptom relief• Personal trauma can become the foundation for a scalable business mission• Psychedelic therapy is redefining mental health treatment models• Raising internal state and mindset directly impacts external success• Building a purpose-driven brand requires risk, belief, and unconventional thinkingNotable Quotes• “Psychedelic medicines gave me the ability to love myself enough to change my life.” • “If I heal myself, I heal the world.” • “Nothing ever worked for me, except psychedelic therapy.” • “We don't put people in boxes. We meet them where they are.” • “It's never too late to redeem yourself.”Connect with Rudy Mawer:LinkedInInstagramFacebookTwitter

BUY TICKETS TO DOPEY SHORT FILM FESTIVAL: https://buytickets.at/thedopeyfoundation/2216905 Join Patreon For Cheap Tickets and much more: www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast Long Summary Notes: Dave opens the Dopey Total Replay by revisiting Episode 27, “Detox Withdrawal,” one of the earliest foundational episodes of Dopey. He explains how the episode introduced both graphic designer Ryan — creator of the iconic nodding Dopey logo — and Todd Curry, Dave's longtime using buddy who would later die in 2018, just weeks before Chris. Dave reflects on Chris's original idea for a “Dopey Stories” book made up of listener submissions and stories from the show. He talks about failed attempts to pitch the project to publishers and wonders whether self-publishing a Dopey book on Amazon might finally make sense. He invites listeners to resend their best stories to dopeypodcast@gmail.com. Disclaimer: I think I called Spanish People Stupid - but it was meant totally with love. Dave then shifts into a recap of Music on the Mountain in Vermont, where he attended with Linda and the kids. He talks about seeing Anders Osborne, Daniel Donato, Jackie Greene, Karina Rykman, Eggy, Lamp, and others. Susan celebrates her eighth birthday and hilariously insists on introducing bands onstage after Dave lets her introduce Karina Rykman. Dave admits Susan might actually be a better MC than him. Dave promotes the upcoming Dopey Short Film Festival at the SVA Theater, mentioning Mountainside as a possible title sponsor and joking about Katz's desserts and Othello cookies potentially being involved. He reads Patreon and Spotify comments reacting to the previous replay episode, including discussion of Rush, Basketball Diaries, Knicks playoff hopes, bread basket addiction, and people missing Chris. Dave goes on multiple tangents about bread, fitness, the Knicks, and Cleveland versus Detroit. The replay itself begins with Chris and Dave just starting to record when Todd randomly calls in. Todd immediately launches into a story about getting arrested while allegedly trying to buy weed in a housing project. Chris and Dave immediately question the story while Todd insists he was only trying to buy marijuana. The conversation spirals into stories about community service, Delancey Street cleanup duty, reverse discrimination jokes, airport profiling, Todd's history with Dave, and their years selling drugs together. Chris openly campaigns for Todd to become a recurring Dopey guest while Dave resists because Todd is still actively using heroin and weed. Graphic designer Ryan joins the conversation and explains why he loved Dopey from the beginning — because it wasn't a traditional recovery podcast. He says recovery shows felt too church-like, while Dopey mixed active addiction stories with recovery in a way that could actually reach addicts. Todd and Dave argue about whether active users should appear on Dopey. Ryan attempts to sober coach Todd live on the air, asking him what heroin does for him emotionally. Todd admits heroin covers feelings of loneliness, insecurity, and self-hatred. He describes failed relationships, yoga classes, women, and using heroin to cope with emotional pain. Ryan explains the basics of abstinence and recovery while Todd half-jokes and half-confesses his inability to stop using. Chris mostly eggs the entire thing on while enjoying the chaos. The episode shifts into stories about Mountainside and the infamous “Phase Four” extended-care house. Ryan explains how he entered treatment planning only to save money for heroin afterward, but somehow ended up getting sober instead. Dave admits he originally thought Ryan would never stay sober, while Dave himself eventually relapsed despite appearing more serious about recovery at the time. Ryan tells wild detox stories involving escaping treatment during withdrawal, trading a $2,500 laptop for heroin bundles, walking through snowstorms, and eventually landing at Mountainside. The group discusses relapse, sobriety, AA sponsorship disasters, yoga, heroin addiction, and the randomness of getting sober. The episode eventually devolves into jokes about Dave's disgusting toenail, Instagram photos, podcast structure, and arguments about whether episodes should be one hour long. Chris insists on ending every episode with “Good So Bad,” while Dave complains nobody wants long podcasts — ironic considering modern Dopey episodes often run three hours. Back in present-day narration, Dave reflects emotionally on hearing Todd and Chris together again. He reveals that Todd eventually appeared on Dopey multiple times, including once when he left mid-recording to go downstairs and shoot heroin before returning to finish the episode high. Dave closes by talking about Ryan's later recovery work at Berkshire Transition Network and how foundational he was to early Dopey. He reflects on the pain, foreshadowing, and innocence captured in the episode before ending with “Good So Bad” and a tribute to Chris and Todd. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

LISTEN WITHOUT ADS ON PATREON: www.patron.com/dopeypodcast  Summary Dave opens Dopey Greatest Hits with an AI Dopey song from Josh Clark, updates the chaos around Katz's, Action Bronson, Paul Wall, the Divided Sky festival, Susan's birthday, and the Dopey short film festival. A listener voicemail tells a wild guru story involving opium, coke, mushrooms, MDMA, hot springs, and pee drinking. Dave reads Patreon and Spotify comments from the Gilbert Trejo replay before playing the Gabor Maté episode. In the Gabor Maté interview, Dave and Dr. Maté talk addiction, trauma, shame, ADD, dopamine, recovery, psychedelics, ayahuasca, the “stupid friend,” food addiction, and why addiction is not the primary problem but an attempt to soothe pain. Dr. Maté explains that recovery means getting yourself back. PLUS MORE< MORE, MORE!   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

LISTEN TO THE WHOLE WONDERFUL EPISODE: www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast Dave and Ray kick off a weird “Christmas in May” Dopey Tuesday with an old Ray parody song before diving into stories about Chelsea in the ‘90s, addiction nostalgia, Andy Dick, and the destruction of a longtime neighborhood building. Dave talks about working on a Andy Dick interview for Rolling Stone, while Ray reflects on drinking alone, avoiding chaos in public, and their old neighborhood's transformation from rough-and-dangerous to luxury real estate heaven.   The episode spirals into hilarious listener reactions to Selby's heavy breathing during the Patreon Reddit Roundup episode, with fans comparing him to Darth Vader, a dying pug, and someone “pleasuring himself at a men's shelter.” Dave and Ray also talk about recovery shame, missing teeth, NYU dental clinics, old LA drug days, soft-core SLA emails, and the weirdness of getting older in recovery. The episode ends with Dave teasing a big TV pitch meeting and playing “Good So Bad.”   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

LISTEN WITHOUT ADS FOR 25 CENTS A DAY at www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast Episode Summary This week on the Wednesday Dose! Dave opens the Wednesday Dose of Dopey talking about Patreon backlash over Selby's heavy breathing during the Tuesday Patreon show, his hatred for the newest season of Euphoria, Lena Dunham's audiobook, Knicks obsession, and getting ready to emcee the Phoenix House gala honoring Hank Azaria. He then reads an email from a Scottish listener who got sober from alcohol after discovering Dopey through This American Life, but later spiraled into opioids, heroin, and benzos before finally trying to get clean again after hearing DJ's episode. Then Dave dives into a massive pile of brutal Spotify and Patreon comments reacting to the Amanda de Cadenet episode, with listeners calling her “insufferable,” “guarded,” “pretentious,” and “the worst guest ever,” while others defend her and praise Dave for surviving the awkward interview. The episode shifts into a long and funny conversation with comedian Zach Noe Towers. Zach talks about growing up gay in Missouri, discovering weed through theater kids, using alcohol and drugs to quiet fear and insecurity, moving to Los Angeles, rich gay party culture, ecstasy at Indiana University, Coachella mushroom disasters, being trapped in the trunk of a drug dealer's car, and eventually getting sober after years of chaotic partying and emotional bottoming out. Dave and Zach also talk comedy, AA, twink culture, Midwestern niceness, gay identity, stand-up anxiety, and planning the Dopeywood Comedy Store show. PLUS MORE! on the brand new Wednesday Dose of Dopey!   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

LISTEN TO THE WHOLE EPISODE: www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast This week on the teaser: A special guestis back and we spiral immediately—bassoon repair shops, weird road trips, and why I told him to stop shoving bassoons in my face. I break down LA, interviewing Andy Dick (who calls me fat repeatedly), Dopeywood fallout, and the insanity of doing 11 interviews in 4 days. Then things get extra Dopey: we discover a gay app called Blowey that's basically Yelp for blowjobs, Ray refuses to admit anything about his sex life, and we somehow end up talking about fear of escalators, driving anxiety, and being old. We wrap with Dopey Nation updates, Spotify comments, Jeremy love/hate, and Drugs, sex, fear, bassoons, and Andy Dick being Andy Dick Plus Ba Ba Boohi!   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

PATREON - LISTEN WITHOUT ADS - www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast SUMMARY: This Week on Dopey's Greatest Hits! Dave records from his dad's overheated apartment and opens with a long, chaotic conversation about Dopeywood at The Comedy Store. His dad gives a detailed, meandering recap of the trip, the show, and his mixed reactions to the comedians, praising the turnout but criticizing some of the material as confusing and overly raunchy.   They argue about politics, language on the show, and listener feedback, including a back-and-forth with a fan upset about violent rhetoric. Dave reflects on tone, community, and the balance between humor and responsibility.   The episode includes emails and voicemails about poppy seed tea addiction, with detailed stories about making opioid-like substances from seeds and pods, building tolerance, and the extreme lengths people went to stay well.   The second half features a replay of Dave's interview with Steve Earle. Steve talks about growing up surrounded by recovery, with addiction deeply embedded in his family, including relatives who were part of early AA. He says he avoided recovery at first despite seeing that it worked.   Steve describes getting high for the first time at age 11 and explains that music and addiction developed side by side but weren't directly connected. He talks about learning guitar from his uncle, discovering Dylan and the Beatles, and becoming obsessed with songwriting and storytelling.   He reflects on his career as a musician, the pressure of performing, and how much he depends on audience feedback to feel okay. He also talks about the realities of the music business, losing his band, shifting to solo work, and writing for theater.   Throughout the conversation, Steve is blunt about addiction, family history, and the long-term impact of substance use, while also showing humor, insight, and a deep connection to music as both a craft and a survival tool. ALL THAT AND MUCH MUCH MORE! On an old classic episode with my Dad in it TWICE! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Full Show on Patreon: www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast

Max Jolliffe is the Moab 240 course record holder, elite ultrarunner, and one of endurance sport's more unlikely origin stories. This conversation explores Max's multi-generational family history with addiction, the opioid crisis, his decade-long battle with heroin, the moment in a jail cell that changed everything, and how the tools of sobriety – surrender, teachability, the daily reprieve – became the foundation of an athletic career. Along the way, we get into what it looks like to take an obsessive, addictive mind and aim it at something that gives back. Max is the real deal. Enjoy! Show notes + MORE Watch on YouTube Newsletter Sign-Up   Today's Sponsors: BetterHelp: Get 10% OFF the first month

Three years on, Nadine Balmer returns to the Believe in People podcast, and her life looks very different.In this episode of Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma, Nadine Balmer joins us to discuss long-term heroin recovery, ADHD, neurodiversity, identity, stigma, and rebuilding a life after addiction. Her first appearance became one of the most downloaded episodes of the series. This conversation shows what happened next.Now six years free from illicit substances following a 17-year heroin addiction, Nadine reflects on the reality of sustained recovery and what it takes to move beyond survival. She speaks openly about transitioning away from methadone, rebuilding trust with her family, and developing a strong sense of self, purpose, and direction.We explore how an ADHD diagnosis in recovery transformed her understanding of herself, and how neurodiversity and addiction intersect. Nadine explains why understanding the brain is critical, and how clarity, structure, and self-awareness have changed the way she lives her life.Three years ago, this was a story about survival. Today, it is a story about growth, identity, and evolution.This is what recovery can become.This episode offers practical insight for people in recovery, family members, frontline practitioners, and anyone interested in real stories of change.Search terms: addiction recovery podcast UK, heroin recovery story, ADHD and addiction, neurodiversity and addiction, long-term recovery, lived experience stories, peer support, trauma and recovery, substance misuse, Believe in People podcast.Click here to text our host, Matt, directly!

Jay Mewes is an actor and comedian. Catch his YouTube show "5 Things With Jay Mewes," and get ready for his new podcast "The Murdoch Mysteries," out in May wherever you get podcasts—based on the iconic Canadian TV show running for 20 years. Visit jaymewes.com for more.IN THE NEWS: A shocking incident at a California Whole Foods captured a man exposing himself and rubbing his junk against a woman's ear on March 23, with LA County Sheriff's deputies now searching for the suspect. The Chicago Bulls waived guard Jaden Ivey after his Instagram rant called out the NBA's Pride Month celebrations as “unrighteousness,” citing conduct detrimental to the team. Miss Grand Thailand contestant Darathorn Yoothong went viral with her high-energy club-style dance during the swimsuit competition, racking up over 30 million views and Top 20 placement.*NEW MERCH AVAILABLE* – Go to adamcarolla.com FOR MORE WITH JAY MEWES:YOUTUBE SHOW: 5 Things With Jay MewesNEW PODCAST: THE MURDOCH MYSTERIES - Out in MayWEBSITE: jaymewes.com FOR MORE WITH ELISHA KRAUSS: INSTAGRAM: @elishakraussWEBSITE: elishakrauss.com JOURNAL: https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/author/elisha-krauss/LIVE SHOWS: April 10 - Salt Lake City, UT (2 shows)April 11 - Salt Lake City, UT (2 shows)April 12 - San Diego, CA (Live Podcast)April 12 - San Diego, CA (Stand up)Thank you for supporting our sponsors:Stay ready for anything with the American Giant Classic Full Zip. Go to https://www.american-giant.com and get 20% off your first order with promo code ADAM. Thanks to American Giant for sponsoring the show!BetOnlineoreillyauto.com/ADAMPluto.tvSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dopeywood Tickets: https://www.showclix.com/event/dopeywood-2026 PAtreon: www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast This week on Dopey's Greatest Hits - The Patrons voted for Artie Lange! In one of my most proud moments - we had the honor of havingArtie Lange on the show. It happened two weeks before Chris died and was loaded with all kinds of crazy emotions. We talk about everything: Artie's rise from Mad TV to the Howard Stern Show, how heroin took over his life, the insanity of fame, gambling, strippers, and self-destruction at the highest level. He tells stories that are as funny as they are fucked — Santa Claus shitting his pants, buying coke before Dirty Work, and getting high while becoming one of the biggest voices in radio. I cannot believe this even happened! Please send comments to dopeypodcast@gmail.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

She had the “perfect” life on paper and still didn't want to wake up. In this episode of Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma, Cara Cox joins us to discuss trauma, addiction, repeated relapse, and long-term recovery. We explore how childhood loss, family alcoholism, emotional instability, and internal loneliness shaped her relationship with substances from an early age.Cara speaks openly about drinking to blackout as a teenager, using cannabis and ketamine, and later progressing into heroin and crack use. She reflects on the devastating impact of her mum's alcoholism and suicide, the instability of moving between schools as a child, and how substances became both escapism and a way to feel confident, connected, and temporarily at peace.This episode also examines the realities of ketamine addiction, including physical harm, rehab admissions, near-death experiences, psychiatric units, and the mental health crash that often comes when substances are removed. Cara shares what changed after years of relapse, how connection and fellowship helped her recover, and why creative recovery, peer support, and lived experience now shape her work through Chase Recovery and The Detox Factor.This episode offers practical insight for people in recovery, family members, frontline practitioners, and anyone interested in real stories of change.Search terms: addiction recovery podcast UK, ketamine addiction recovery, trauma and addiction, lived experience stories, relapse and recovery, peer support, substance misuse, Believe in People podcast.Click here to text our host, Matt, directly!

Dopey Wood Tickets! https://www.showclix.com/event/dopeywood-2026 Patreon: www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast This week on the Total Replay we replay -  Dopey Episode 19: “Smoking on Plane”, the first appearance of his childhood friend Jeremy! Before the replay, we explain Jeremy's history - from smoking weed and doing psychedelics together as kids in Manhattan to later doing heroin with Todd. We also talk about the Dopey Fitness Challenge, and plays a voicemail from Dade about underage drinking, Spiritualized, getting stung by a bee, vomiting on the side of the road, and getting arrested in North Carolina for driving after having consumed alcohol within 24 hours. In the replayed episode itself, Dave, Chris, and Jeremy joke around about Jeremy being late, EZ Pass disasters, old LA stories, blood in bathrooms from shooting dope, Todd escaping out a window to avoid Jeremy's parents, and Jeremy's drug history. Jeremy talks about how he did plenty of drugs but was able to stop when heroin started interfering with his acting work and life, while Dave and Chris frame that as the difference between an addict and someone who isn't afflicted the same way. The centerpiece is Jeremy's insane “smoking weed on a plane” story, where he rolls a joint, sneaks into the airplane bathroom before takeoff on a flight from London to New York, smokes it, gets caught by a flight attendant, lies and says it was a cigarette, then somehow gets away with it. After the replay, Dave reflects on how early Dopey was more about comedy and chaos than feelings, plugs Save Spot, stickers, Patreon, Dopeywood, and teases future merch and a possible guest named Cece. All that and more???? On the latest dopey total replay! Write us at dopeypodcast@gmail.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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ADD FREE @ www.patreon.com/dopeypodcastToday on Total Dopey Replay! We are replaying the classic 2016 Episode 13: "Tales from the Plug" — raw early Dopey with Dave and Chris swapping dealer horror stories, rip-offs, close calls, and dumb shit. ). Listener voicemails shine: James Dehart's wild crack-reverse-overdose tale (eye-reset magic), and Haley Shell's epic Mississippi meth-tweak chaos (self-Cheddar-Bob gunshot, swallowing shards in cop car, dirty towel compress, jail sweat puddle). Ends with Dave's song snippet and plugs for emails, Spotify comments, Patreon, Wednesday Zooms, stickers, and more Dopeycon/YouTube love.All that and MORE! on this brand new 10 year old Dopey Episode! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

LISTEN TO THE WHOLE SHOW ON PATREON!www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast Episode Summary (for show notes / description)Dave kicks off another chaotic Dopey Tuesday teaser with special guest 'Douglas Brown'! Rival voicemails from the ever-competitive "Heart Attack Doug," and why politics shouldn't wreck recovery friendships or meetings. Fentanyl death drops (blamed on Trump or natural arc?)Family holiday stress (yelling at kids, car fails)The Bad Bunny Super Bowl halftime (cinematic flex for Latin expansion vs. stadium spectacle fail), and outrage over Spanish lyrics. Listener comments roast tough times and acronym chaos, plus Dave belts out a raw acoustic tune about bad desires and shadows. Classic Dopey mix of dumb shit banter, recovery reflections, and teases for the full Patreon episode—drugs, addiction, holiday madness with Ray and Alan. Sign up at patreon.com/dopeypodcast for the uncut version. And a bit more on that good old raytreon show!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Wednesday Dose of Dopey! Dave kicks off an intensely emotional episode amid personal chaos—grieving Linda's dad's death, a bizarre Verizon outage conspiracy vibe, a $1,100 car repair scam, and a half-hearted gratitude meditation to stay grounded. He reads glowing listener comments on the recent Sid Vicious/Ned Van Zandt heroin epic, plugs stickers for Spotify/iTunes reviews, and shares a powerful email from Sarah E. about her ongoing brutal struggle with 7-OH (7-hydroxymitragynine) dependence after accidents and kratom escalation, highlighting deception, severe withdrawals, and the "master of deception" label despite a strong sober community.The core is a raw, heartfelt interview with returning guest Erin Khar (author of Strung Out, unlicensed advice columnist), who opens up about her recent diagnosis of small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) / chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)—a slow-growing, incurable non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphoma discovered via routine mammogram/biopsy around Labor Day. Erin details the terrifying pathology call, symptoms (years of unexplained fatigue, anemia, frequent illnesses), watch-and-wait monitoring (no treatment yet until lymphocyte count rises), good-news/bad-news aspects (no chemo likely, keeps her hair, many live normal lifespans especially younger diagnoses like her at 52), and how curiosity over fear helps her cope.They explore parallels to addiction/recovery (one day at a time, sitting on hands during suicidal moments, grief + gratitude coexisting), family impact (kids' anxiety, protecting emotions), quality over quantity of life, and Erin's Substack reveal for connection. Ends with an Ask Erin advice segment, Johnny Thunders love ("Can't Put Your Arms Around a Memory"), and Trinity's cover of "Wanna Be Good So Bad". ALL THAT AND MORE MORE MORE! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This is the interview the Kohberger family never wanted to give — until now.In a bombshell exclusive with The New York Times, Mel Kohberger finally breaks three years of silence about her brother Bryan, the man who pleaded guilty to murdering Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin in November 2022.She takes us inside Bryan's troubled youth: the relentless bullying, the undiagnosed autism the family now believes shaped his personality, the heroin addiction that nearly killed him, and the moment he stole her phone to buy drugs — prompting their parents to call police on their own son.She describes the last Christmas before the arrest: vegan cookies their mother baked, TV party games, Bryan helping bandage a cut on her finger. Days later, FBI agents shattered the windows and took him away in handcuffs.And she finally explains the "creepy drawing" that went viral during Bryan's sentencing hearing. It wasn't dark. It wasn't a symbol of evil. It was a vibrant heart she drew for her brother — a reminder that even after everything, he was still loved.Mel also reflects on her own history as a true crime fan — and why she now regrets it.This episode contains new details about the Kohberger family's experience, their ongoing prayers for the victims, and what it's like to be dragged into the center of America's most scrutinized murder case.#BryanKohberger #MelKohberger #KohbergerFamily #KohbergerInterview #IdahoMurders #IdahoFour #KohbergerSister #KohbergerNews #KohbergerUpdate #MoscowIdahoMurdersJoin Our SubStack For AD-FREE ADVANCE EPISDOES & EXTRAS!: https://hiddenkillers.substack.com/Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspodInstagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspodX Twitter https://x.com/tonybpodListen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872

Raised around biker culture, gangs, and addiction, Dave began using drugs and alcohol at a young age, experienced multiple overdoses, and lived a life surrounded by violence, crime, and loss. After losing both parents, surviving near-death experiences, and reaching a breaking point, Dave made a life-changing decision to seek recovery.In this episode, Dave talks about trauma, addiction, spirituality, accountability, and what it truly means to rewrite your story. Today, he is a tattoo shop owner, mentor, and someone deeply committed to service, recovery, and personal growth.This is a raw, honest conversation about addiction, recovery, faith, and transformation.00:00 Introduction & Dave's recovery time01:00 Growing up around biker culture and gangs03:00 Early trauma, loss, and first substance use06:00 First overdose and rehab at 1409:00 Exposure to heroin and escalation12:00 Gangs, weapons charges, and self-destruction15:00 Spiritual breaking point and near-death experience18:00 Entering treatment with willingness21:00 Emotional breakthrough in rehab24:00 Early recovery and rebuilding trust27:00 Tattooing, service work, and purpose30:00 Life today in recovery33:00 Giving back and redefining success ----Across the Web----

Tony's story is a whirlwind of loss, chaos, identity struggles, and years spent chasing anything that would make him feel whole. Growing up without a father, he searched for belonging everywhere except within himself. That search eventually pulled him into a fast-moving lifestyle that brought consequences, arrests, and years of feeling stuck in a cycle he couldn't escape.Everything changed when a moment in detox — triggered by a story on TV — cracked him open and forced him to confront the life he'd built. That spark became surrender, and surrender became a complete transformation. Tony rebuilt his life from the ground up: he found purpose, lost over 100 pounds, restored his driver's license after 15 years, and today he works at the CCAR New Haven Recovery Community Center, helping others find the hope he once needed.His story is proof that discipline, purpose, and community can pull anyone out of the darkest places — and into a life they never believed they deserved.0:00 — Introductions0:24 — Growing Up Without a Father1:02 — Early Behaviors & Searching for Belonging2:20 — First Experiences With Substances3:10 — Feeling “Not Enough” as a Kid4:12 — Losing Control in Young Adulthood5:07 — Slipping Into a Dangerous Lifestyle6:05 — Trouble, Consequences & Prison Time7:20 — The Cycle of Relapse8:32 — The Breaking Point9:43 — Spiritual Awakening in Detox10:58 — Starting Over at Davenport House12:18 — Beginning His Fitness Journey13:12 — Losing 100 Pounds14:10 — Food, Obsession & Filling the Void15:22 — Finding Purpose at CCAR16:30 — Coaching Others in Recovery17:50 — Living With Hope & Discipline18:45 — Gratitude, Growth & Becoming a Better Man20:00 — Rebuilding His Life Step by Step22:00 — Getting His License Back After 15 Years23:40 — Working, Volunteering & Relearning Life25:00 — Big Wins & Small Steps Forward26:40 — Advice for Someone in Their First 24 Hours ----Across the Web----

For Ad Free shows go to:www.patreon.com/dopeypodcastDave kicks off the first-ever Wednesday Dose of Dopey talking about post-Thanksgiving food insanity, a brownie-topped cheesecake Linda brought home, and his evolving stance on cheesecake as a “real” dessert. He updates the Dopey Nation on the Dopey Fitness Challenge, his failed attempt at jogging with his dog Winnie that ends with him eating pavement, ripping his pants, smacking the dog in frustration, and then feeling guilty about it all week. Dave reads an email from Haley in Mississippi, who loved the Glenis and Billy Strings episodes and promises heavy dopey stories from homelessness, prison, and IV meth. He begs for more voicemails and then plays a chunk of Miles Davis's autobiography, where Miles describes sliding from snorting heroin into shooting it, realizing he has a habit, and sinking into a four-year “horror show” of heroin and cocaine in New York.Then Dave introduces Naughty God (Dakota), a heavily tattooed Instagram/TikTok/YouTube creator who built a big following rating nod videos “sportscaster-style.” Dakota tells his story: growing up between a sweet, young mom and a meth-addicted dad, starting drugs at 13 by snorting random pain pills he found in a friend's brother's room, and becoming the classic weed-identity kid with a pot-leaf MySpace. He forms the band LAW with his friend Jacob Nowell (Bradley Nowell's son, who now sings for Sublime), and they grow up playing shows in San Diego and Long Beach while having access to grown-up levels of partying. Dakota falls in love with cocaine in his mid-teens, then with speed, and his using gets him kicked out of LAW when Jacob gets sober and can't handle him showing up high to everything.After moving to Orange County, Dakota dives into selling and using coke in San Clemente, then adds Oxy 30s (“blues”), fentanyl pills, and heroin to his daily rotation. He and his tight crew—especially his best friend Robert—live in a constant loop of dealing, partying, and using. Over two months, Robert, Dakota's cousin, and three other friends all die from fentanyl. The losses break him: he has a mental breakdown, calls his grandma, and checks himself into a San Diego hospital detox, where he's put on 100mg of methadone and spends years on the clinic grind.Dakota talks about being on methadone for four–five years, barely using anything else, then deciding—with help from a therapist—that he'll never fully turn a corner if he stays on it forever. He tapers himself from 100mg down to 4mg over about a year, jumps off, and goes through a long, foggy, uncomfortable withdrawal. He's now about a year and a half off methadone, occasionally smokes weed, sees a therapist, plays bass in his band Somehow Unseen, and works on content. He and Dave riff on nodding (“my whole life”), nod techniques, fentanyl's short “legs,” and the economics of why heroin likely won't “come back” in a big way.Dakota explains how he built NaughtyGod into a fast-growing account by structuring it like a recurring “show” and inventing/collecting phrases like “Charm City Rainbow,” “Nodwalk Shuffle,” “Baltimore Street Yoga,” “Sheriff of Nottingham” to describe different nod poses. They talk about Instagram flagging and banning drug content, other junkie meme/recovery pages, and how both of them accidentally stumbled into helping people through content that started out as pure jokes and self-centered ambition. They agree to collab on a nod reel, and Dakota shouts out his band and pages.All that and more on a brand new WEDNESDAY Episode of the good old dopey show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tyler shares his raw and emotional journey, detailing a chaotic childhood where addiction was the family norm. He recounts the shocking progression of his own drug use, the moment his mother introduced him to heroin, and how his father was the first person to put a needle in his arm. After years of the "jail, rehab, rehab, jail" cycle, hear how the loss of his 'perfect' life and a moment of desperation led him to a permanent path of recovery. Now sober and working at the very treatment center that saved him, Tyler discusses finding his identity, the power of fellowship, and how he navigated the grief of losing both parents while staying clean. [00:00] Podcast Introduction and Tyler's Clean Date (October 1st, 2023) [00:00:45] The Host's Initial Doubt: "He's not gonna make it" [00:02:29] Finding God and a "Physically New Person" [00:03:30] Growing Up in a Vicious Cycle of Family Addiction My Mother Gave Me My First Perk; Sniffing Heroin Together [00:07:28] "My Father Was the First Person to Put a Needle in My Arm"[00:07:47] Playing the Shitty Cards: Winning with the Disease of Addiction [00:09:26] The 10-Year Cycle: Jail, Rehab, Rehab, Jail [00:11:37] The Gift of Desperation: Leaving the "White Picket Fence" [00:14:13] The Genetic Factor of Opiate Addiction[00:15:55] Identity Crisis: Who Am I Without Drugs? [00:17:59] Life in Recovery & The Power of Fellowship (NA/AA) [00:20:18] Faking the Funk: Why Half-Stepping the Work Fails[00:30:52] Nothing Changes If Nothing Changes [00:31:35] Grieving in Sobriety: Losing Both Parents [00:34:33] Final Thought: It's Easier to Keep Your Seat Than to Get It Back [00:36:06] Conclusion and Gratitude ----Across the Web----

In this episode, Leon recounts a childhood cracked by coercive control, a slide from party drugs to 17 years on heroin, and the moment a tube platform changed his life. We unpack the tools that broke denial: a blunt warning, a rigorous NHS program, mindfulness, and the slow rebuild into purpose.• identity split between England and Scotland shaping early outlook• his mom's affair, and the treacherous life of violence and drugs that ensued• coercion and control dynamics in the home• adolescent self-medication and early substance experimentation• heroin's appeal as warmth and silence from trauma• functional using, secrecy, and eventual isolation• Hierarchy of drugs• near overdose, suicidal ideation• key worker's intervention and 12-week outpatient rehab• CBT, grief work, exposure therapy, and mindfulness practices• rebuilding with journaling, music, movement, and service work• acceptance, partial forgiveness, and the role of consistent allies• current mission: conversations on shadow work and healingIf you enjoyed the episode and would like to help support the show, please subscribe, rate and review- it really makes a huge difference.Send us a text Support the showAdditionally, you can now also watch the full video version of your favourite episode here on YouTube. Please subscribe, like or drop a comment letting us know your thoughts on the episode and if you'd like more stories going forward!If you would like to offer any feedback on our show or get in touch with us, you can also contact us on the following platforms: Website: www.multispective.org Email: info@multispective.org Instagram: www.instagram.com/multispectivepodcast Facebook: www.facebook.com/multispectiveorg Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/multispective Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/multispectiveProducer & Host: Jennica SadhwaniEditing: Stephan MenzelMarketing: Lucas Phiri Fatty15 promotes healthy metabolism, balanced immunity, and heart health. 2 out of 3 customers report near-term benefits, including calmer mood, deeper sleep or less snacking, within 6 weeks. 20% off on purchases link and code: ...

www.patreon.con/dopeypodcastThis Week on Dopey! I'm in Philly at the Rise for Recovery Conference! I was on Soft White Underbelly! I read Spotify comments, and one of the single greatest dopey emails ever! And Old School Dopey Kirby sends in a voicemail about what it means to be an addict. Then we welcome the incredible Roddy Bottum, keyboardist for Faith No More and lead singer/guitar of Imperial Teen, and author of his new book, The Royal We. Roddy talks about growing up gay in a hard-rock world, his early San Francisco punk days, and how Courtney Love briefly joined Faith No More before their friendship and drug use turned dark. He remembers touring with the Chili Peppers, getting arrested for weed, experimenting with heroin, and being surrounded by chaos as Faith No More blew up with “Epic.”Roddy opens up about how addiction and grief collided — the deaths of his friend Cliff, Kurt Cobain, and especially his father, who died of cancer soon after Roddy got sober. He and Dave talk about recovery, guilt, and the weirdness of surviving when so many others didn't. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From shining shoes at the Connecticut State Capitol to surviving gang violence, addiction, and multiple prison sentences—Luis Flores has lived through it all. In this gripping episode of Recovery Matters, Luis opens up about his descent into Hartford's drug trade, the pain of losing friends, and the night five guns were pointed at him—and didn't go off. But his story doesn't end in tragedy. After years trapped in addiction and incarceration, Luis found faith, redemption, and purpose through writing. Today, he's the author of Don't Judge Me, a raw memoir soon to be adapted into a movie. His transformation is proof that no matter how far you've fallen, recovery—and even greatness—is still possible. ----Across the Web----

This week, I'm chatting to the absolutely brilliant Dr. Brian Pennie - a man who went from 15 years of heroin addiction to becoming a neuroscientist, lecturer and speaker.Brian's story is one of radical transformation, told with fierce honesty and zero fluff. We dive deep into the stuff that really matters: anxiety, addiction, identity, and the relentless inner critic we all wrestle with. We explore how early anxiety and trauma shapes us, the power of journaling to literally rewire your brain, and how spotting your inner voices can help you reclaim control. If addiction, your own or someone else's, has touched your life, this one's for you.Stick around to the end for a short guided meditation to help reset your mind. You've got this, and I've got you covered.If you would like to check out Brian and his work visit www.brianpennie.com. Check out his wonderful book Bonus Time, his podcast Change is Possible and most of all go to the RTÉ Player and watch the three-episode documentary he made called Hooked: How Addiction Hijacks Your Brain.If you're new to the series, why not take the time to go back and catch up on the wonderful interviews that you may have missed!Visit www.dermotwhelan.com for more information and don't forget my new book Busy and Wrecked is out now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Recovery Matters, TJ sits down with Matt, a young person in recovery who now works as a Young People and Family Services Coordinator with CCAR. Matt opens up about his journey, beginning with his first treatment at just 13 years old. Despite having parents in recovery, he struggled deeply with drugs, arrests, and time in the juvenile justice system. He shares the progression of his addiction—weed and pills leading to heroin, crack, and near-fatal lows including homelessness, suicidal thoughts, and severe health complications. A turning point came when he entered detox and long-term treatment programs, where structure and community support helped him rebuild his life. Matt also talks about relapse, rebuilding quickly, and how building a strong network of sober friends became crucial to his recovery. His story highlights both the tragedy of losing friends to overdose and the joy of discovering a fulfilling sober life—travel, motorcycles, relationships, and most importantly, fatherhood. Becoming a dad gave Matt a new sense of purpose, grounding his recovery in love and responsibility.  00:00 – Introductions00:36 – First Treatment at 1305:00 – Escalating Addiction07:00 – First Arrests & Juvenile Justice08:00 – Hitting Rock Bottom at 1810:00 – Sober House & Overdose Scare13:00 – Relapse After Heartbreak15:00 – Waterbury & Heavy Addiction17:30 – Final Turning Point19:00 – Structured Recovery & Torrington Move22:00 – Slip & Quick Return to Recovery23:00 – Building a New Life25:00 – Meeting His Fiancée & Becoming a Father29:00 – Parenthood in Recovery34:00 – Advice for Newcomers ----Across the Web----

Show NotesEarly Life & Tattoo Beginnings:JS grew up going back and forth to NYC, starting Fun City tattoo shop in the late ‘70s/early ‘80s, working with punk legends, including Iggy Pop and hanging around the Lower East Side near Katz's Deli. Took over Spider Webb's tattoo shop and innovated tattoo styles internationally.Wild Addiction Years:Struggled with violent, restless addiction in LA, carrying guns, dealing with near-death overdoses, and hitting rock bottom multiple times. Describes being surrounded by tragedy (neighbors dying, violence) while strung out.First Sobriety Attempts:Found AA through a phone call, went to meetings while sick and broken, experienced his first sober year full of fear and confusion but connected with a tribe. Stayed sober for 10 years but was still dangerously angry and unstable.Relapse & Real Surrender:After years dry but miserable, relapsed hard on speedballs and other drugs. After a near-fatal speedball overdose, sincerely prayed for help for the first time — a turning point that led to a true surrender and lasting recovery.Spiritual Awakening & 12 Steps:Recommitted to sobriety at 48, dove deep into 12-step literature and principles, learning the disease was rooted in selfishness, self-centeredness, and insanity, not just substances. Developed a personal understanding of “God as we understood Him” and built a spiritual relationship that restored sanity.Plant Medicine Experiences:Explores ayahuasca and ibogaine ceremonies in Brazil and Mexico — the mother and stern general of plant medicines. Describes transformative, often brutal trips, communicating with ancestral spirits, and being a bridge to help suffering souls find peace.Integration with AA:Believes his foundation in AA allowed the plant medicine experiences to speak in a language he understood, blending 12-step spirituality with psychedelic healing. Emphasizes these tools aren't for everyone; people must be called to them.Writing & Legacy:Channels his higher self to write influential, raw literature about addiction and recovery. Proud of his work that connects deeply with people facing darkness.Wild Stories & Encounters:Remembers meeting Johnny Depp and Hunter S. Thompson, including a hilarious story about buying mummified fingers at a flea market and delivering a sarcastic note to a hotel room.

Every 19 minutes, someone in America dies from a drug overdose. 70% of street drugs now contain fentanyl. This isn't the opioid crisis of the 2000s. This is far worse. Dr. Roger McFillin sits down with Richard Taite one of the most recognized voices in addiction treatment.  If you've followed addiction treatment or the opioid crisis over the past two decades, you've probably seen him. He's been featured on HBO's Real Time with Bill Maher, ABC's Nightline, CBS This Morning, and Entertainment Tonight. He was the addiction expert featured in the award-winning documentary 'Prescription Thugs.' He's one of the most recognized voices in addiction treatment in America. Richard's journey is as raw as it gets. As the original founder of Cliffside Malibu, ultimately becoming the most elite rehab in America; today he's back to fight an even deadlier epidemic as Executive Chairman of Carrara Treatment Wellness & Spa. Dr. Roger McFillin / Radically Genuine WebsiteYouTube @RadicallyGenuineDr. Roger McFillin (@DrMcFillin) / XSubstack | Radically Genuine | Dr. Roger McFillinInstagram @radicallygenuineContact Radically GenuineConscious Clinician CollectivePLEASE SUPPORT OUR PARTNERS15% Off Pure Spectrum CBD (Code: RadicallyGenuine)10% off Lovetuner click here

This week on Dopey! It's the long-awaited episode with Chasing Heroin host Jeanine Coulter, recorded live at Jeremy's house during Dopeywood!Janine tells the full, raw, and very dopey story of her descent into addiction: from being a straight-A Supreme Court hopeful, to getting obsessed with exercise and binge eating, to discovering coke in a redneck bar in Georgia, all the way to living in an abandoned cell phone store in Oceanside, California smoking heroin off foil.Janine talks about doing meth that was pink, accidentally getting strung out at 30, and finding herself in a cinderblock junkie jungle gym run by tweakers. She reflects on her arrest record, her failed attempts at controlled drinking, and how it all somehow led to a decade of recovery, a podcast, and a damn TED Talk on post-traumatic growth.PLUS: a touching email from a listener who outran the cops with a trunk full of weed and somehow lived to tell the tale. A beautiful PCP voicemail and much much more on a brand new epiksode of that good ol Dopey Show!Don't forget: DopeyCon 6 tickets are out on Patreon. Leave a review. Send a voicemail. And follow us on youtu

Note from Jeannine:Thank you guys so much for your patience over the last few weeks as I prepared for my TedX Talk! I think it went well and hopefully it'll be published to the TedX YouTube in a few months! CJ's episode is incredible, I learned so much from him and I know you will, too. Let me know your thoughts!Episode description:CJ grew up bouncing around amongst three separate and very culturally distinct neighborhoods. Chaos and violence at home led to early instability and adversity. While CJ did manage to graduate from high school, he struggled afterward with establishing financial or emotional stability. Descending into heroin addiction over time, CJ started the rounds of state facilities and detoxes, even traveling cross country a few times. Sober now since 2018, CJ's spiritual and Twelve Step wisdom and insight truly amazed and inspired me. Let me know what you think!DM me on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Message me on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen AD FREE & workout with me on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with me on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Email me chasingheroine@gmail.comSee you next week!

From a childhood marked by trauma and instability to multiple incarcerations, heroin addiction, and even surviving a gunshot to the head—Rick opens up about the chaos that defined his past and the redemption he's found in recovery.Rick reflects on the moment he finally surrendered on February 5, 2008, and how that surrender sparked a transformation that's helped him become a community leader, father, and advocate. He shares how meaningful work—including launching Redemption House and running recovery housing for over a decade—continues to give his life purpose.

Claude Robinson developed a heroin habit as a young man, and spent years in jail. In 2006 he began to turn his life around for good. (CW: descriptions of drug use, addiction, and crime) (R)Claude Robinson is the manager of Rainbow Lodge, a home in inner Sydney for men just out of prison. Claude knows the place well because nearly 20 years ago he was sent there himself.Claude was a heroin addict who had taken to crime to pay for his habit and wound up in a minimum security jail. But after he assaulted a prison guard, he ended up in one of Australia's toughest jails - Goulburn Correctional Centre. While Claude was inside, his father died, and he found out that he had inherited $60,000.It was a chance to start a new life when he got out of prison. But instead, he and a girlfriend checked into a hotel in Kings Cross and bought some backs of heroin. Within weeks, all of Claude's inheritance was gone.In 2006, Claude was back in prison when he decided to finally change his story. He got off drugs, went to TAFE, and started working his way back to Rainbow Lodge, where he helps men who have walked a similar path to his own.Help and support is always available: The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015.Learn more about Rainbow LodgeRead about Australia's Justice Reform Initiative's campaign Jailing is Failing This episode of Conversations discusses drug use, substance abuse, addiction, crime, mental health, toxic masculinity, manhood, fatherhood, parenting, turning your life around, getting clean, rehabilitation, rehab, intervention, AA, NA, sponsors, inheritance, heroin, methadone, ice, meth, illicit substances, incarceration, recidivism. 

The opioid epidemic continues to devastate families and communities across America, leaving researchers and clinicians desperately searching for new treatment approaches. What if a compound found in mushrooms could help break the cycle of addiction? In this riveting conversation, Alex Dorr welcomes Dr. Stephanie Daves from Temple University's Center for Substance Abuse Research to discuss her groundbreaking work exploring how psilocybin might combat heroin addiction.Dr. Daves shares her personal journey into addiction research, motivated partly by witnessing the devastating impacts of substance use disorders firsthand. She explains the science behind addiction as a chronic disease—not simply a matter of willpower—where individuals prioritize obtaining and using substances despite severe negative consequences to their lives and relationships.The heart of their conversation revolves around fascinating research showing how psilocybin targets the serotonin 2A receptor, which changes in the brains of rats exposed to heroin. While psilocybin didn't prevent rats from taking heroin when available, it significantly reduced drug-seeking behavior during simulated relapse scenarios. Dr. Daves hypothesizes that beyond psychedelic experiences, psilocybin may work through anti-inflammatory pathways in the brain, potentially offering a new mechanism for addiction treatment.They explore the distinctions between two therapeutic approaches: high-dose sessions producing profound psychedelic experiences versus microdosing protocols where individuals take sub-perceptual amounts. Each approach may benefit different individuals or conditions, highlighting the need for personalized treatment strategies. The discussion also touches on how environmental factors and social connections play crucial roles in recovery, drawing parallels to the famous "Rat Park" experiments.Despite promising results, the conversation reveals significant challenges in addiction research, including lengthy study timelines and difficulties securing consistent funding. As communities continue fighting the opioid crisis, this research offers hope through innovative approaches that might help address both the biological and psychological aspects of substance use disorders.Ready to explore the fascinating world of functional mushrooms? Visit mushroomrevival.com and use code "podtreat" for a special discount on our organic mushroom products.www.mushroomrevival.comWe are a functional mushroom company and make 100% certified USDA Organic and Vegan mushroom supplements. We are transparent with our lab results, and use actual fruiting bodies aka mushrooms! We provide our supplements in tincture, capsule, powder, and delicious gummy form. Energy (Cordyceps): Need a little pick-me-up before a workout or when you're picking up your kids from school? The Energy Cordyceps is the mushy match for you.Focus (Lion's Mane):  Needing a little more focus in your daily life? Lion's Mane is known to be the mushroom for the brain and may support cognitive function.Calm (Reishi): Looking for some tranquility and zen in your life? Reishi will bring you into the zen state of mind you've been searching for.Daily 10 (Mushroom Mix): It's like having 10 bodyguard mushrooms fighting off all those bad guys. This is a good place to start as it contains all of the daily mushies you need. Not sure where to begin? Take our mushroom quiz here.

In 2000, Holly Deane-Johns was arrested and later sentenced to 31 years in a Thailand prison. It marked a turning point in a life shaped by trauma, heroin addiction, and loss. After serving time in both Thailand and Australia, Holly has rebuilt her life and now works as a counsellor and speaker, using her story to support others facing addiction and adversity.Click here to visit Holly's website to learn about her professional work and to purchase her book, Holly's Hell.Click here to subscribe to ATC Plus on Apple Podcasts and access all ATC episodes early and ad-free, as well as exclusive bonus episodes. Join our Facebook Group here.Do you have information regarding any of the cases discussed on this podcast? Please report it on the Crime Stoppers website or by calling 1800 333 000.For Support: Lifeline  on 13 11 1413 YARN on 13 92 76 (24/7 crisis support phone line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples)1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732CREDITS:Guest Host: Meshel Laurie. You can find her on instagram.Guest: Holly Deane-JohnsExecutive Producer/Editor: Matthew TankardGET IN TOUCH:https://www.australiantruecrimethepodcast.com/Follow the show on Instagram @australiantruecrimepodcast and Facebook Send us a question to have played on the show by recording a voice message here.Email the show at AusTrueCrimePodcast@gmail.com  Become a subscriber to Australian True Crime Plus here: https://plus.acast.com/s/australiantruecrime. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a "Shortcut" episode. It's a shortened version of this week's more detailed full episode, which is also available on our feed.In 2000, Holly Deane-Johns was arrested and later sentenced to 31 years in a Thailand prison.It marked a turning point in a life shaped by trauma, heroin addiction, and loss.After serving time in both Thailand and Australia, Holly has rebuilt her life and now works as a counsellor and speaker, using her story to support others facing addiction and adversity.Click here to visit Holly's website to learn about her professional work and to purchase her book, Holly's Hell.Click here to subscribe to ATC Plus on Apple Podcasts and access all ATC episodes early and ad-free, as well as exclusive bonus episodes. Join our Facebook Group here.Do you have information regarding any of the cases discussed on this podcast? Please report it on the Crime Stoppers website or by calling 1800 333 000.For Support: Lifeline  on 13 11 1413 YARN on 13 92 76 (24/7 crisis support phone line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples)1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732CREDITS:Guest Host: Meshel Laurie. You can find her on instagram.Guest: Holly Deane-JohnsExecutive Producer/Editor: Matthew TankardGET IN TOUCH:https://www.australiantruecrimethepodcast.com/Follow the show on Instagram @australiantruecrimepodcast and Facebook Send us a question to have played on the show by recording a voice message here.Email the show at AusTrueCrimePodcast@gmail.com  Become a subscriber to Australian True Crime Plus here: https://plus.acast.com/s/australiantruecrime. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Greg and Edie describe their son's eight-year journey through heroin addiction which impacts the family in profound ways. They describe how it disrupted their lives and how they grappled with the difficult and scary decisions of how much to help. They share the tools they learned that gave them wisdom, health, and peace.    According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 40.3 million people in the United States had a substance abuse disorder in 2020. This means that at least two family members were impacted for a minimum of 80.6 million people whose lives were disrupted. It is more likely a minimum of four people making it a total of 161.2 million people who have been affected by a family member's drug use. Of those 40.3 million people with substance use disorder, only 6.5 percent received treatment.   Their son got clean after many rehabs and 127 changes in where he lived over eight years after finally hitting his bottom. If you have a loved one who is imprisoned by addiction, listen to this story. It will give you experience, strength, and hope for your journey. #addictionrecovery #boundaries #truthinlove #toxicrelationships   Website: https://www.changemyrelationship.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChangeMyRelationship YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@changemyrelationship Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0ErlNczUBU0

Recovery Matters Podcast Episode 170 | From growing up amidst addiction in Connecticut to battling his own substance use, Vinny Imperati aka Skinny Vinny opens up about his father's tragic overdose, his time spent homeless in a porta-potty, and his near-death experiences. But the story takes a turn when Vinny finds a new purpose in film and entertainment, leading him to work with his idols from Jackass, including Steve-O. Today, Vinny co-hosts the Wild Ride Podcast with Steve-O and co-stars in 'Your Pranks, Our Show' with Zach "Zackass" Holmes. Tune in to hear how Vinny not only turned his life around but also found a new mission in helping others achieve sobriety. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:48 Vinny's Early Life and Family Struggles03:25 Teenage Years and Early Addiction06:33 Descent into Addiction and Homelessness11:06 Turning Point and Path to Recovery14:27 Building a New Life and Career20:15 Reflections on Sobriety and Giving Back26:57 Call to Action: Support Recovery Centers ----Across the Web----

In this gripping episode, business coach and speaker Leah Lemberg reveals her shocking journey as honor student and heroin addict – and the moment that saved her life. Guest's Info Leah Lemberg is a business coach and speaker who helps high-powered business owners achieve more freedom, profitability, and balance through strategic growth and mindset shifts. She is the creator of The Freedom Framework and Pipeline Mastery, two courses designed to help entrepreneurs scale their businesses and create sustainable growth. Leah's one-on-one work is grounded in personal accountability, and she draws from her own journey of overcoming addiction and adversity to inspire others. As a speaker, Leah delivers actionable insights on business strategy, leadership, and personal transformation. What you'll discover The "perfect example" delusion Leah believed about addiction that nearly killed her before she turned 18 Why being "too smart" for addiction treatment is actually the deadliest trap imaginable The bizarre warning sign in preschool that everyone missed – and what parents should watch for The shocking contents of a mother's dryer that could have changed everything (but didn't) Why the "good kid" maintaining a 4.0 GPA might be hiding the deepest hurts of all The strange 7-word revelation on a treatment center's steps that finally broke through after months of resistance The "plucking method" that saved Leah's life when reasoning and negotiation had utterly failed Why a 28-day program is "barely doing anything" and what actually works instead How Leah went from stealing veterinary drugs to creating the "Freedom Framework" for entrepreneurs Leah's raw honesty about her teenage addiction, treatment resistance, and 16-year recovery offers crucial insights for families struggling with a loved one's substance use. Her story proves that intervention works – even when the person doesn't want help – and recovery is always possible. Listen now to discover why what appears to be a "lost year" in treatment might be the thing that saves a lifetime. Links and Resources from this Episode https://whyintervention.com/ https://twitter.com/whyintervention https://www.facebook.com/whyintervention/ Connect with Leah Lemberg https://leahlemberg.com/   Call to Action Schedule a Call Free Resources Review, Subscribe and Share If you like what you hear please leave a review by clicking here Make sure you're subscribed to the podcast so you get the latest episodes. Subscribe with Apple Podcasts Follow on Spotify Subscribe with RSS