The Addiction Podcast-Point of No Return

Lauren Sisler is an Emmy Award-winning sports broadcaster, ESPN sideline reporter, author, and keynote speaker known for her sideline shimmy. After landing her dream career with ESPN, reporting on college football and gymnastics, she began to open up about a story she once kept hidden: losing her parents to opioid addiction. Through sharing her story, she's been able to shed light on the stigma of addiction. Now, whether she's on the sidelines or on stages, her purpose lies in helping people tell (and love) their own stories, live more courageous, resilient lives, and find their own sideline shimmies. Lauren lost both parents to opioid addiction - At just 18, while most kids are learning how to navigate college life, Lauren faced a life-altering tragedy: the sudden and unexpected loss of both parents due to a hidden prescription drug addiction. Her parent's death left her grappling with grief, shame and countless unanswered questions. As she struggled to understand their addiction and its ripple effects, Lauren's life seemed shattered. Her new memoir "Shatterproof" - In her powerful memoir, Lauren shares her story of finding strength, redemption and a commitment to breaking the stigma of addiction. By openly discussing her family's experiences with opioid addiction, Lauren hopes to offer support and inspiration to others dealing with similar struggles—proving that in the face of trauma, it's possible to become shatterproof. The power of falling in love with your story. https://www.amazon.com/Shatterproof-Overcame-Parents-Addiction-Sideline/dp/1962802078 HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Marcel Gemme is a Drug and Alcohol Treatment Specialist (DATS) and a member of NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals who concentrates on helping families find help for their loved ones. He is the founder and CEO of DRS, which includes Addicted.org and Drugrehab.ca, two websites that have helped thousands of people find treatment for substance use disorder in the United States and Canada. Marcel is also a member of International Society of Substance Use Prevention and Treatment Professionals (ISSUP).Marcel started as an intake counselor for a drug rehabilitation center in 2000. During his five years as an intake counselor, he helped many addicts get the treatment they needed. He also dealt with the families and friends of those people; he saw first-hand how much strain addiction puts on a family and how it can tear relationships apart. With drug and alcohol problems constantly on the rise in the United States and Canada, he decided to use the Internet to educate and help many more people in both countries.For the past 17 years, Marcel has been working with his family and other addiction professionals to build two of the largest substance use resource websites in the U.S. and Canada. These websites help millions of people each year by providing listings for every type of drug rehab service available in the country. To complement this, Marcel is constantly writing helpful tips and providing resources to keep individuals updated with the ever-evolving subject of addiction recovery. The quality of his work has not gone unnoticed, and the Government of Canada has recently included his Canadian website, Drugrehab.ca, on a short list of country-wide resources for getting help with substance use.HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE:https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK.AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES:https://theaddictionpodcast.comCONTACT US:The Addiction Podcast - Point of No [email protected] and Outro music by:Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Thaddeus' service to this country began its course while proudly serving in the United States Air Force. He served on the Terrell County Independent School District School Board for eight years and as the Board President four of those years. His viewpoint: "Students and our school's educators are at the forefront of our nations foundation. Texas must lead the nation by adapting our approach to doing what is best for the students first and foremost so we as Texans and parents promote the most effective solutions to prepare future leaders of Texas and our nation with what they need to reach their full potential." Currently Thaddeus C. Cleveland is the Sheriff for Terrell County, Texas. He was appointed as Sheriff on May 17, 2022. Prior to his appointment, Sheriff Cleveland spent just over 26 years in the United States Border Patrol and the last 11 years of his career as the Patrol Agent in Charge of the Sanderson Border Patrol Station. Sheriff Cleveland entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on February 26, 1996, as a member of Class 300. His first duty assignment as a Border Patrol agent was at the Nogales Border Patrol Station in the Tucson Sector. Since his entry into the U.S. Border Patrol, Sheriff Cleveland served as a Border Patrol Agent at Sierra Blanca, Texas, a Senior Patrol Agent at Eagle Pass, Texas, a Supervisory Border Patrol Agent at Douglas, Arizona and Artesia, New Mexico. He has also served as a Field Operations Supervisor at Naco, Arizona and Alpine, Texas. Sheriff Cleveland served as an Assistant Chief in Washington, D.C. at the Office of Border Patrol as well as Customs and Border Protection's Commissioner's Office of Anti-Terrorism and Office of State, Local and Tribal Liaison. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Dr. Tracy Strawberry is an international speaker, published author, CEO, and wife of baseball legend Darryl Strawberry. After many years of battling addiction, alcoholism and other life controlling issues, Tracy surrendered her life to Jesus Christ and experienced a radical life transformation through the power of God and the process of change. By sharing her testimony openly, with biblical solutions and practical application, Tracy is a highly sought after international speaker with requests to deliver her powerful messages of how to experience lasting change, re-inventing yourself, experiencing God in the most difficult of times, overcoming your past, and becoming the very best "you" that God created you to be, and much, much more! Tracy now holds a Doctorate Degree in Theology, with a focused study in Cultural Restoration and Leadership. She holds her Masters Degree in Business Administration and Management, with a Bachelors in Ministry Leadership. Dr. Strawberry is the Author of several publications including, Clean Sober & Saved, a Christ-Centered Recovery Curriculum that is established globally. In her weekly programs and traveling ministry, she teaches biblical truth with practical application to deliver a message of faith, redeeming hope, restoration and freedom in Jesus Christ. Tracy believes that those who are lost will be found and those who are bound will be free! Alongside her biblical teaching and preaching platform, she is an international business consultant with a specialty in assisting Pastors, Governments, and other Leaders with infrastructure and organizational development, strategic planning, and the creation of innovative solutions needed to reach culturally diverse demographics and territories. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Andrew Zimmern knew from a young age he wanted a career in food. After attending The Dalton School and Vassar College, he cooked in New York City restaurants for Anne Rosenzweig, Joachim Splichal and Thomas Keller, amongst others. Andrew helped open and run a dozen restaurants, and at the same time was also an addict spiraling out of control. After a year spent living on the streets, an intervention by close friends brought him to the Hazelden Foundation in Minnesota. Transforming his life around sobriety, Andrew took a job washing dishes at Minneapolis' Café Un Deux Trois. In 1992, he was named executive chef and during his six-year tenure, turned Un Deux Trois into an awarded, national caliber restaurant. An Emmy-winning and four-time James Beard Award-winning TV personality, chef, writer and teacher, Andrew Zimmern is regarded as one of the most knowledgeable personalities in the food world. As the creator, executive producer and host of Travel Channel's Bizarre Foods franchise, Andrew Zimmern's Driven by Food and Emmy-winning The Zimmern List, he has devoted his life to exploring and promoting cultural acceptance, tolerance and understanding through food. In 2020, Andrew returned to television with the MSNBC series What's Eating America. His latest series, Family Dinner, airs on Chip & Joanna Gaines' Magnolia Network and steams on Discovery+. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Brace yourself for a fascinating episode of **The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return**, featuring the Pulitzer Prize winning investigative journalist, **Barry Meier**, as we peel back the layers of the opioid crisis, examining its roots, aftermath, and the unsettling role played by the Sackler family and their empire, Purdue Pharma. Meier also discusses how he ventured into investigative reporting and provides context for his journey in creating the book that started it all – **"Pain Killer: An Empire Of Deceit And The Origin Of America's Opioid Epidemic" In this groundbreaking book, Meier exposes the chilling truth behind the creation of OxyContin and its devastating impact on countless lives. The Netflix limited series, based on his work, thrusts viewers into the epicenter of the crisis, spotlighting the Sackler family's sordid connection to Purdue Pharma and their undeniable role in the nationwide tragedy. As you listen to/watch this interview and read the book, you'll gain incomparable insights into the opioid crisis that has ravaged America. Meier's narrative explores the origins and aftermath of this epidemic, giving voice to the perpetrators, victims, and those determined to uncover the truth. The Netflix series not only chronicles the haunting stories of those affected but also introduces us to the relentless truth-seekers whose lives have been forever altered by the invention of OxyContin. The Netflix series boasts a star-studded cast that brings this gripping narrative to life. **Matthew Broderick** takes on the role of Richard Sackler, the scion of the billionaire Sackler family and a senior executive at Purdue Pharma. **Uzo Aduba** from "Orange Is The New Black" embodies Edie, the investigator leading the case against Purdue, while **John Rothman** and **West Duchovny** portray Mortimer Sackler, co-owner of Purdue Pharma, and Shannon, a new recruit to the Purdue sales team, respectively. Additionally, **Dina Shihabi** steps into the shoes of Britt, a seasoned sales representative for Purdue. Tune in to our website or YouTube Channel - **The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return** - to gain a deeper understanding of the opioid crisis, the role of the Sackler family and Purdue Pharma, and the riveting personal stories that have shaped this tragic narrative. Subscribe now and be prepared to be both informed and moved by the revelations that unfold in this unmissable podcast episode. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Leeann Blaskowsky is a board-certified neonatal nurse practitioner. In her words: since 2009 I have been living and working in Colorado, and I am faced, almost daily, with counseling families about marijuana use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. My nursing education began with an Associates degree waaay back in 1984, continuing to a Bachelors and Masters in Nursing more than twenty-five years later, finally finishing with a Doctorate of Nursing Practice in 2020. With more than 40 years in healthcare beginning as a bedside nurse in the ICU/CCU, Emergency Department and Neonatal ICU settings, I have had the opportunity to interact with patients and families with varying opinions and practices regarding the use of marijuana. These interactions have expanded in scope and increased in number as medical marijuana and legalized recreational use arrived in Colorado. I have also cared for many patients struggling with addiction to various substances including mothers and newborns. Optimizing outcomes for our patients has, and always will, remain my driving force in practice when a clear need to continue educating providers and families in our communities arises. And now I have a personal stake. References for listeners: https://drugfree.org/article/marijuana-and-pregnancy/ HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Lunden Roberts is a mother, author, and financial officer from Batesville, AR. Her all-star basketball career culminated at Arkansas State University, where she was a McDonalds All-American Nominee shooting guard and studied criminal justice and psychology. Roberts went on to Washington, D.C. for the most prestigious CSI training in the country, where she met and began a relationship with Hunter Biden. She served as Biden's executive assistant at Rosemont Seneca and other business entities, and now serves as the financial controller for her family-owned business, Rob Roberts Custom Gunworks. She is the mother of Navy, President Biden's seventh grandchild, she is in the process of launching a new fashion line, and serves as an advocate for women in unplanned pregnancies. She is the author of the book "Out of the Shadows - My Life inside the Wild World of Hunter Biden" - available where books are sold. https://www.amazon.com/dp/151078229X/ HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Jim Willfred is a man with extensive life experiences that have fueled his insatiable passion to help those afflicted with substance use disorders and to support other parents in avoiding the pain of losing a child as he has. Jim struggled with substance use disorder for 20 years until he broke free in 2004. He was honored with the Individual Achievement Award by Governor Bond for his ability to utilize help from government agencies to rebuild his life. Jim was invited to speak before 500 government agency workers, emphasizing the importance of their work. Additionally, Jim was asked by the HeadStart organization to attend a weekend conference in Kansas City and then return to St. Louis to run a mentoring program, teaching fathers how to be effective parents. In 2005, he joined the Carpenters Union, spending 20 years as a Millwright. In 2006, just two years after overcoming substance use disorder, Jim purchased his first home and, for the next 16 years, housed people with substance use disorders in his own home. In 2018, Jim founded "A Second Chance at Life." However, this endeavor faced significant challenges, including financial devastation and the loss of five immediate family members within a year. On June 20, 2023, Jim's son, Austin, was poisoned by fentanyl. This tragedy, combined with his life experiences and immense passion, led Jim to reinstate "A Second Chance at Life." He completely revised the company's vision, now working not only for sober living homes but also for advocacy, legislative change, drug prevention education, and coalition building and collaboration. Though it is too late to save his own child, Jim dedicates his efforts to saving other children. https://asecondchanceatlife.org/ HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

John Bitinas is a native of New England, an entrepreneur, public speaker and young guy who has just been wildly successful after getting his life back from addiction. John has been clean and sober now for over 18 years, in that time he has built a successful business, found and married the love of his life and personally spoke to over 250,000 people about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. John currently resides in New Hampshire with his wife Renee, where they own and operate their business Northpoint Financial. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

he tragic loss of her son, Devin, in Feb 2018 to an accidental drug overdose was the catalyst for INTO LIGHT Project. Through the simple act of drawing, Theresa discovered the power of art and storytelling to change minds and hearts. The INTO LIGHT Project, while born out of tragedy, has provided Theresa with an opportunity to shed light on those lost to addiction so that their spirit, kindness, humor, pain, and compassion are seen. She is passionate about changing the conversation about drug addiction. She believes that ending the stigma and shame of addiction is the first and most important step in overcoming the disease. And that begins with empathy. Debbie Simon's son Scott was featured in the Florida exhibit of Into Light Project. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Anne Elizabeth Fundner lost her son Weston to fentanyl poisoning in 2022. She blames the current administration for the opening of the borders for the death of her son. Anne Fundner shared that Weston was a really good kid, and she and her family did everything right. They involved him in sports, and Anne was an active room mom. Their relationship was wonderful; Weston was her perfect little bouncing baby boy who taught her what unconditional love was, a love she had never known existed outside of her own parents. Being her firstborn son, he showed her the strength of love when she first held him in her arms. He meant everything to her. Both Anne and Weston's father were very active in his life. They had family dinners every night, went on outings together, and enjoyed fun vacations. They led a nice life, with Weston attending private school. They did everything to set him up for a perfect life, from getting him braces to ensuring he had a 3.5 GPA, and encouraging his involvement in football, hockey, and friendships. Despite all their efforts, fentanyl still found Weston. As a teenager, he faced peer pressure and sought independence. He decided to fit in with a new crowd at a new school, moving from private to public school. Anne believes he wanted friends who seemed fun and, unfortunately, succumbed to peer pressure. This ultimately led to his tragic death. Anne Fundner's 15-year-old son Weston died from a fentanyl overdose after, in his mother's telling, he succumbed to peer pressure and "tried something" he shouldn't have. She said she blamed Joe Biden, Kamala Harris— "The Border Czar"—and Gov. Gavin Newsom, after California authorities declined to prosecute the case. "He did everything right," she said of her son. "This was not an overdose, it was a poisoning." HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Charlotte Bismuth was an attorney who started her career as a litigation associate. After joining the Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor in 2010, she began investigating a doctor who was illegally overprescribing pain medications. After months of investigation, Dr. Li was finally convicted of 2 counts of murder and over 90 other counts. While she was part of an incredible team that assisted, this is the story of one woman's campaign to right a deadly wrong. She continues to fight the good fight in educating families devastated by loss. She's helping them navigate the bankruptcy laws to help alleviate their pain. https://www.charlottebismuth.com/ HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Darryl Strawberry is described as a baseball legend by many who have been dazzled by the dynamics of his game. His many accomplishments in the major leagues include four World Series titles, eight All-Star Game appearances, and a nomination to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2004. He has earned the legendary nicknames and phrases of one of the most feared home run hitters in the game of baseball: Straw's Sweet Swing, Strawberry's Field Forever, and The Legendary Straw Man! Though Darryl was extremely successful in his career, his personal life was plagued with addictions, abuse, divorces, cancer, jail time, and other issues. Darryl finally found true redemption and restoration in Jesus Christ. Today, Darryl's purpose and passion is serving the Lord Jesus Christ by traveling the country, speaking a message of hope and restoration through the power of the gospel. He is the author of numerous books, including the New York Times bestseller, Straw: Finding My Way (with John Strausbaugh), Don't Give Up on Me: Shining Light on Addiction with Darryl Strawberry (with Shawn Powell), The Imperfect Marriage: Help for Those Who Think It's Over with his wife, Tracy Strawberry, and Turn Your Season Around. In 2011 Darryl and Tracy founded Strawberry Ministries, and they use their global reach to restore the multitudes through spiritual and practical life applications. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Ryan David Leaf champions those battling mental and behavioral health issues, urging us to rethink mental health and addiction. He aims to crush the stigma, declaring, "asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness." As a former quarterback, Leaf's career at Washington State was stellar: Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year (1997), First Team All-American, Sammy Baugh Quarterback of the Year, Heisman Trophy finalist, and leading the Cougars to the '97 Rose Bowl. Drafted No. 2 overall in the 1998 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers, he spent four years in the NFL. Currently, Ryan is the CEO and President of RAM Consultant, Inc., and program ambassador for Transcend Recovery Community. In the sports world, he's a college football analyst for ESPN, where he calls games on ESPN2 and ESPNU, hosts the Pac-12 radio show on Sirius XM from 7-10 am PST, and regularly contributes to SportsCenter. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Steven May reflected on his legal journey, noting that despite losing the case on a technical motion to dismiss, the experience during discovery was profoundly enlightening. His case had traversed through various stages, including a Supreme Court review before ultimately being dismissed due to what he deemed an unfortunate technicality. According to May, there was a belief that governmental pressure influenced the court's decision to dismiss the case through any available means. May highlighted the core argument of his case, which contended that Purdue Pharma's alleged fraud in misrepresenting OxyContin's efficacy during the approval process contributed to the subsequent opioid crisis. He pointed out that had the drug not been approved based on falsified claims, both the company and the government would not have used it, potentially averting the crisis. Moreover, May underscored his role as a whistleblower in the Purdue Pharma case, drawing parallels to other whistleblower cases such as that of Brooke Jackson, who exposed issues with Pfizer's mRNA vaccines. He emphasized that these cases shared a fundamental premise: if pharmaceutical companies had not manipulated clinical data to support false claims about their products' efficacy, the products might never have been approved in the first place. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Ed Bisch's son died of an overdose of Oxycontin. Ed didn't sit by. He started researching Oxycontin and its manufacturer - Purdue Pharma; AND the family behind it - The Sacklers. He has been fighting this battle for years and doesn't see giving up until both the company and the family are made to take responsibility for the countless deaths due to oxycontin addiction and overdose. In December 2020, Ed appeared in the MSNBC special - The Forgotten Epidemic. Recently, Ed has been working to raise awareness and calling for the DOJ to prosecute the Sacklers after his 18-year-old son, Eddie, died of an OxyContin-related overdose in 2001. He founded Relatives Against Purdue Pharma. Judge Robert D. Drain Drain retired 7 years early and took a job at a law firm that was Purdue's General Counsel in a multi Billion dollar case he was hand picked for? How is this NOT illegal? Petition started called the Drain Curtain law to make it illegal to go to work for a vested interest in prior legal actions the judge presided over. Sign the petition here: https://www.change.org/p/drain-curtain-law Message the Attorney General; the Deputy Attorney General; and the Associate Attorney General. Email the DOJ here: https://www.justice.gov/doj/webform/your-message-department-justice If you want to read Mike Quinn's filing with the Supreme Court, go here: https://bit.ly/supremecourtfilingmikequinn Gracie Parker - 9 years old - her book - Shattered: Stories of Lives Broken by Substance Abuse and How We Put the Pieces Back Together https://www.amazon.com/Shattered-Stories-Broken-Substance-Together/dp/B0CJKY8B5Y Her website: https://whyuskids.org/ Rick Mountcastle served as a federal prosecutor for more than 32 years, first at the Department of Justice and later at the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Virginia. As a senior trial attorney in DOJ's Criminal Tax Enforcement Section, he prosecuted criminal tax cases throughout the United States. He was the lead prosecutor on several high-profile health care fraud cases, including the first Purdue Pharma prosecution (featured in the Hulu series "Dopesick"). Rick previously served four years as an active duty Army JAG officer and 24 years as a National Guard and Army Reserve JAG officer. Rick is dedicated to the issue of justice for victims of oxycontin and as such speaks out on the subject and assists activists like Ed Bisch in this mission. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION: DONATE HERE: https://bit.ly/Fightdrugs PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ #drugaddictionpodcast #alcoholaddiction #alternativetreatment #hopeforaddiction #helpforaddiction #newmaninterventions

Born in Redondo Beach, California, David Sanchez began learning about drugs at age 9 when a neighbor offered him marijuana. By age 15, he was using harder drugs that first led to juvenile jail and eventually to multiple penitentiaries. The turning points came in 2012 when he finally conquered his addiction, and then in 2014 when he began building on his own knowledge and studies of addiction, and on ideas to develop and keep communities healthier, safer, and free of drugs. https://www.strikeoutagainstdrugs.com/ HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Johnny Stack was born on February 7, 2000 and died by suicide on November 20, 2019 at the age of 19. He was an incredibly intelligent, funny, charming, handsome young man, which you can see in his tribute video. We are a normal suburban family and did normal family things. He had a happy life, a 4.0 GPA with a scholarship to college, and a family who loved him very much. Unfortunately, we live in Colorado, which was the first state to legalize marijuana in 2014, when Johnny was 14 years old. Johnny's Ambassadors is a non-partisan, non-profit, grass-roots alliance of individuals and organizations around the globe concerned about the harms of youth marijuana use. We are parents, coalitions, impacted family members, healthcare professionals, teachers, and nonprofits who seek to reduce youth marijuana use through education, prevention, and awareness. We use evidence-based, scientific research and experts to teach the impacts of today's high-THC marijuana on youth mental illness and suicide ideation. Our allied organizations come together to save the lives of our youth, and Johnny's Ambassadors actively promotes their activities. Our Mission: Johnny's Ambassadors educates parents and teens about the risks of today's high-THC marijuana on adolescent brain development, mental illness, and suicide. Research shows today's high-potency marijuana causes mental health issues and higher incidence of suicide when used recreationally and illegally under 21 years of age. Our Vision: To dramatically decrease the incidence of adolescent marijuana and substance abuse, mental illness, and suicide, to allow our youth to live productive, happy lives. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ #drugaddictionpodcast #alcoholaddiction #alternativetreatment #hopeforaddiction #helpforaddiction #newmaninterventions #johnnysambassadors #marijuana #marijuanaaddiction #legalizedmarijuana #marijuanasuicide

We've talked about marijuana many times on the podcast and noted that quite a few of the former addicts started their drug path with marijuana. In this episode, Dr. Kenneth Finn from Colorado gives us the facts about the use of marijuana as pain medication as well as it's adverse effects on young adults. Dr. Finn used slides during his interview so we suggest you watch the YouTube version of this interview so that you get the truth, nothing but the truth and the whole truth about marijuana. He's got the credentials and the science to back it up. https://www.amazon.com/Cannabis-Medicine-Evidence-Based-Kenneth-Finn/dp/3030459675 HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Philip Eil is an award-winning freelance journalist based in his hometown, Providence, Rhode Island. He is the former news editor of the alt-weekly newspaper, The Providence Phoenix. Since the paper's close in 2014, he has contributed to The Atlantic, Men's Health, the Boston Globe, Huffington Post, and the Columbia Journalism Review, among other outlets. He has also taught writing and journalism classes at Brown University, Columbia University's School of the Arts, and the Rhode Island School of Design. He holds an MFA in Nonfiction Writing from the Columbia University School of the Arts. This is his first book. The book is about addiction and a criminal doctor. Prescription for Pain by Philip Eil HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Michael R. DeLeon, a successfully acclimated ex-offender who after nearly 8 years of drug addiction and gang involvement, spent 12 years in state prison and half-way houses for a gang-related homicide. Michael plead guilty in a very emotional and complicated case involving the murder of his own Mother by people tasked to kill him. Since Michael's release from prison, he has earned 3 Associates Degrees, a Baccalaureate Degree in Business Management, with a minor in Criminal Justice and a CADC Educational Certificate. Michael is now in the process of obtaining his Tobacco specialist certification from the University of Kentucky School of Nursing, his Masters Degree in Social Work at Liberty University School of Social Work as well as pursuing his LCADC. Michael DeLeon is on a mission: A mission to educate the youth to stay on the right path when it comes to serious life issues, especially drugs. He has become the #1 booked school presenter in the country. Michael is the founder and powerhouse behind Steered Straight Inc., a non-profit organization formed in 2007 upon his release from prison and designed to carry an important message to youth on the extreme dangers of drugs, gang involvement and associated criminal activity. Steered Straight's program reaches out to children, teens and young adults with a message of reality about life-choices and the importance of consequential thinking so that they understand that there are consequences to their actions. The reality of the message comes from Michael himself, who was entwined in the life of drugs and traveled a troubling road to get to his future. Throughout the country, Michael now leads a team of talented speakers who present a realistic and powerful prevention message. His "no holds back" message resonates well with student assemblies, faculty and parents. Stay In Your Lane Media, the media arm of Steered Straight, was founded by Michael in 2012, and has produced four award winning documentaries, Kids Are Dying, An American Epidemic, Marijuana X and Road to Recovery. His fifth documentary, "Higher Power is currently in post-production. Michael has also produced multiple public service announcements, as well as educational and instructional videos on prevention and Recovery Michael founded a project of Steered Straight, Inc., called "The Recovery Army". Recovery Army's mission is to recruit everyone to wage war on this pandemic of addiction. He tours the country in a Recovery Army Tour bus, visiting communities with educational resources, films and books. He visits schools, prisons, jails, treatment centers, Churches and community organizations addressing each group with catered messages and presentations. He captures stories of Hope and Recovery and has produced over one hundred video stories on the Recovery Army Website. Every state in America has experienced Michael DeLeon – one of the most passionate prevention speakers you will ever encounter. He is a member of many associations, committees and boards, but more importantly, he will take the time to answer questions from any youth and talk with anyone in his audience. Why? As Michael says, "I don't want to just affect one kid; I want to affect them all." HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Navarone Garcia is Priscilla Presley's son. Navarone Garibaldi Garcia (born March 1, 1987) is an American musician who serves as the lead singer of Them Guns. Them Guns is a Los Angeles-based rock band made up of members Garcia (guitar/lead vocals), Kyle Hamood (lead guitar/vocals/keys), Bobby Vega (drums), and Chuck Holiday (bass). Santa Cruz Waves described their sound as "...a rock base, a tinge of surf/ska vocals, and funked out keys, a sound to satisfy the traditional, to alternative, to psychedelic rock music enthusiasts...birthed from the barrels of Them Guns". Navarone Garcia was raised in LA. He was introduced to drugs and started using at a pretty young age. He became addicted to fentanyl in 2016. After getting clean in 2020 and a few relapses in 2022, he is now clean and sober for real. He is now traveling with Michael Deleon from Steered Straight. He is talking to kids mainly about the danger of fentanyl and helping to raise fentanyl/vaping awareness. The main point he wants to get across is that there is fentanyl in everything and it doesn't seem to be an accident. It's not like one dealer put fentanyl in their batch and it started killing everybody.. and all the other dealers said GREAT IDEA. It seems planned. And the growing vape industry is very misleading, making people think it is safer than smoking, or a way to quit smoking. https://steeredstraight.org HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

About 29 years ago, a public school teacher told Barbie Rivera that her 6 year old son had a mental disorder and she needed to put him on a mind altering drug - Ritalin. Barbie thought that was nutty as her son was very bright, normal and already bilingual. She started home schooling him now has her own school - called HELP Miami. Her story of how the drug companies offered to pay her $5K every year for every student she will recommend for medication is horrific. H.E.L.P. Miami is a non-profit, accredited private school and tutoring center whose mission is to empower the individual student to become a competent, independent learner with sound educational skills (without the use of labels and drugs) so that they can master their academics and succeed in life. Barbie's book: https://www.amazon.com/Enough-Exposing-Education-System-Attempt/dp/1957128062 HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Tim has seen and done it all. He's been an addict. He's run million dollar companies. Drugs stole more than half of his life but now he's dedicated every waking minute since walking out of prison to dealing hope to addicts and their families. Tim says "where there is life, there is hope." Known as The Hope Dealer, Tim is a successful entrepreneur, grateful recovering heroin addict and alcoholic - and truth-talking convicted felon. Tim and their wife - Jennifer Gimenez - are a power couple, helping others. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Duke Rumely is a former alcoholic who has been sober since 1989. Since then he realized that what was needed at concerts and sporting events was an area for those who are sober and trying to remain that way. He founded Sober AF Entertainment and is making great strides in leading the sober movement - making sober the popular to be for young and old alike. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Paula Santos Young's world shattered when her beloved oldest son's life was stolen in March 2022 - poisoned by fentanyl-laced marijuana from someone he trusted. With his death, Paula's motherly instincts kicked into high gear. Now she's on a crusade, roaring from every platform she can find to wake up officials and communities to the fentanyl crisis destroying families like an unstoppable hurricane. Paula ferociously shares her anguish and her son's story on podcasts, TV and radio to put a human face on this epidemic. She mercilessly calls out the lack of urgency from leaders who act like this is just a minor storm, not the Category 5 emergency that it is. With steely determination, Paula founded a nonprofit to battle the crisis she calls "our war." She's leading the charge, uniting forces throughout Massachusetts to proclaim this fight. Her rallying cry is being heard - from cities recognizing Fentanyl Prevention Day to the State House honoring her efforts. Still, Paula won't rest until the crisis is tackled with the full might and resources it deserves. For she's more than a grieving mom; she's a warrior fighting to ensure no other mother feels the searing loss that forged her unwavering mission. Last month, she received a special Congressional Recognition on her Human Rights Award 2022 for her work combatting the fentanyl crisis. He and her husband run the organization Achieve Greatness - https://www.achievegreatness88.org/. An organization originally started by her son Andrew. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Dr. Dallas Bragg launched his Sobriety Coaching business in January 2023 to help gay men break free from addictive behavior and create life past addiction. After struggling with a crystal meth addiction, he decided to begin his sobriety journey on August 4, 2018. Since then, he and his two kids have rebuilt their lives together. Now, blending spirituality and recovery has led to an expansive coaching practice and a new podcast called The AfterMeth. Dallas makes time for physical fitness, houseplant, hiking, and his favorite pastime: writing. Dallas obtained his doctorate in Nonprofit Leadership in 2014 and still enjoys teaching part-time at post-secondary Universities. Father of two adult children, out gay man, adjunct college professor, and sobriety coach who helps gay men recover from addiction. www.drdallasbragg.com HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Grant Cardone is an American businessman, Equity Fund Manager ($4B Assets Under Management), Real Estate Investor, Business author and Founder of 10X Growth Conference, 10X Health System, Cardone Ventures & 10X Studios. Also author of seven best selling business books, creator of Cardone U online education and The 10X Growth Conferences (the largest business conference in the USA.) Grant Cardone has been a sales training consultant for over 25 years working with a wide range of organizations including Google, Morgan Stanley, Toyota, GM, Nissan, Infiniti, Reinhardt, Carrier, and the U.S. Army. He is also a New York Times best-selling author, executive producer of the reality TV business show, Turnaround King, and the host of The Cardone Zone. In 2012, Cardone was named Number-One Sales Expert and Top 10 Business Coaches to follow on Twitter. He is a regular contributor to a wide variety of publications including The Huffington Post, Entrepreneur, and Business Insider. Also the author of Sell or Be Sold, The Closer's Survival Guide, If You're Not First You're Last, and The 10X Rule, he lives in Miami Beach, FL. https://addicted.org/supe HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Samantha Bushika is a survivor with a story she finds inspirational, one that has already saved lives. She celebrates eight years of sobriety in March, marking a journey away from a lifelong addiction to using and selling heroin. Her battle with addiction led her into an unjust justice system, where she became a scapegoat in her small Vermont town's first heroin bust. Despite possessing no heroin herself—it was found in her roommate's possession—Samantha was unfairly targeted due to her circumstances as a poor 20-year-old with addict parents. Over two decades, Samantha endured what she calls "Life on the Installment Plan," facing repeated incarcerations for non-violent, drug-related offenses, some of which are no longer criminal. Despite completing treatment successfully twice during 14-day rehab stints, she was labeled a treatment failure. Each jail term stripped her of her mental health and maintenance medications, often leaving her isolated in solitary confinement for months. In 2016, at the age of 35, a tragedy led to an unexpected turn: Samantha found herself pregnant. Despite never desiring children and doubting her maternal instincts, she saw this as an opportunity for love and redemption. With nothing but a correctional GPS ankle monitor and a 450 credit score, she checked into a homeless shelter, determined to build a better life for her unborn child. Driven by a desire to help others, Samantha launched her blog, "Progressing Not Perfecting," aiming to support people on a larger scale. Despite facing stigma within her niche and financial challenges, she remains committed to her mission, tirelessly working 18-hour days to #provethemallwrong and #showthemwhatwecando. With a domain rating of around 65 and 27k followers on Instagram, she has built a platform to share her message of hope and resilience. Despite her achievements, Samantha struggles to be taken seriously due to her past as a heroin user in recovery. Yet, she remains undeterred, reaching out to potential collaborators and expressing her willingness to work together for mutual benefit. https://addicted.org/supe HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Amy Ronshausen is the Executive Director of both Drug Free America Foundation, Inc. and Save Our Society From Drugs (S.O.S.), national nonprofit organizations that work to defeat drug legalization attempts, promote sound drug policies, and prevent drug use, abuse and addiction. Mrs. Ronshausen has dedicated most of her adult life to the work of reducing illegal drug use and drug prevention. In her twelve years with Drug Free America Foundation and S.O.S, she has assisted in coordinating successful grassroots advocacy campaigns to defeat marijuana legalization efforts, organized statewide prevention summits, analyzed and tracked state and federal drug policy legislation, and trained prevention professionals at local, national and international conferences. Prior to coming to DFAF, Mrs. Ronshausen spent three years as a program specialist with the Pinellas County Adult Drug Court, working under four judges. While in drug court, Mrs. Ronshausen linked defendants with treatment providers and monitored their progress through the criminal justice system. In 2007, Mrs. Ronshausen was awarded Best Team Practices for her work in Adult Drug Court. Mrs. Ronshausen started her work in drug prevention with Operation PAR, where she started off as a call specialist in their access center and then worked as a juvenile certified GAIN assessor. She also worked as a juvenile counselor for PAR's Adolescent Recovery Intervention Services and the Juvenile Enhancement Treatment Services and is trained in Motivational Enhancement and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Mrs. Ronshausen volunteers as the Executive Director for the Florida Coalition Alliance, representing over 30 community anti-drug coalitions. She chairs the Marijuana Task Force as part of the Hillsborough County Anti-Drug Alliance, and serves on the Pinellas County Opioid Task Force. Mrs. Ronshausen serves on the board of Informed Families and was recently elected President of the World Federation Against Drugs. Mrs. Ronshausen received her Bachelors of Arts Degree from University of South Florida. https://www.addicted.org/supe HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Bobby Wiggins is a beacon of hope and transformation, rising from the depths of addiction to become a tireless advocate for recovery. Since finding his own path to sobriety through the Narconon Program in 1977, Bobby has dedicated his life to helping others break free from the chains of substance abuse. For nearly four decades, Bobby has immersed himself in the field of addiction recovery, working hands-on in rehabilitation settings to guide drug addicts and alcoholics toward a brighter future. His impact is far-reaching and profound, with a remarkable track record of success. Bobby's commitment to prevention is equally impressive. His dynamic drug education presentations have reached over 900,000 school children across five continents, igniting conversations and empowering young minds to make informed choices. Through audio-visual mediums, he has touched the lives of over 13 million students in thousands of schools throughout America. His expertise has been recognized with accolades, including two Aurora Awards for his educational DVDs, "Ecstasy – The Real Story" (2006) and "Drugs & Emotions" (2015). Bobby's influence extends to digital platforms, where he is featured in the acclaimed series "The 10 Things Your Friends May Not Know About Drugs" on YouTube, garnering over 2 million views. Bobby's impact transcends borders and industries. He has trained NFL alumni to deliver drug education in Northern CA, addressed Britain's House of Lords on substance abuse, and conducted programs at top universities in India. Bobby's dedication even led him to train agents for the Drug Enforcement Agency in the Philippines and educate pilots for the FAA in New England airports. His commitment to education is underscored by the creation of a groundbreaking curriculum for high school students, validated by independent scientific study and published in a major medical journal. Recognized by the United States Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, the Narconon Drug Education Program stands as an approved and evidence-based solution. In recent years, Bobby has focused his efforts on shaping the future by working with youth detention centers and other youth groups in Florida, striving to reshape perceptions and prevent the cycle of addiction before it begins. Bobby Wiggins's journey from addiction to advocacy is a testament to the power of resilience, compassion, and unwavering determination. His life's work continues to inspire hope, transform lives, and pave the way for a brighter, drug-free tomorrow. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Michael Gray is the CEO of Actus Analytical, Inc., which develops spectroscopy solutions for public safety compliance, illicit drug detection, agricultural productivity, and other applications. Michael and his wife Nancy founded The Actus Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, in 2018. The Actus Foundation advocates for solutions to treating the entirety of the overdose epidemic problem in America, including the largely forgotten constituency of intermittent users. He founded, with partner Ed Kobilis in 2019, the Fentanyl Awareness Coalition - a coalition of tens of thousands of advocates in the US. Michael is a popular speaker, offering unique analyses and suggestions for creative solutions to a new problem, i.e., an old problem with a recently altered paradigm. Michael walks participants through the murky world of the drug problem clarifying the threat and dispelling myths. The Actus Foundation also advocates for the mentally ill, striving to deliver the message that mental illness is a disease the entire family suffers, and suffers in isolation; there are no well-worn paths to solutions available to those in chronic states of mental illness. For all our success in medical science – diagnostic practices, treatment/care and patient advocacy – our nation has left behavioral science in the stone age. Our practice of psychiatric care – diagnostic practices, treatment/care and patient advocacy – is the ugly stepchild hidden in the attic as the country proudly displays her medical science wonders to the world. In addition to advocacy, Mr. Gray is offering his 35 years of professional expertise in the world of scientific instrumentation as another element of his work on behalf of the victims of overdose. As the Interdict Law and other legislative activity considers nascent technological advances in the ability to detect illicit drugs at the street level, Michael adds his professional expertise to that debate. With experience in the areas of Infrared Spectroscopy and Mass Spectrometry, Michael is participating in the development and deployment of portable testing for narcotics, at the field level, as a means of confirming suspected illegal substances and protecting First Responders. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Loretta Boesing is the founder of Unite For Safe Medications. Unite for Safe Medications seeks to save lives and advance patient outcomes by improving the quality, safety, and accessibility of pharmaceutical care. Loretta's advocacy began after her son received a liver transplant after his liver failed after contracting the flu. She uncovered the monopolization of the pharmacy industry and its harsh impact on patients' affordability and accessibility to medications after being forced to an insurance owned mail order pharmacy for her child's life-saving medications. Prior to her advocacy, her childhood struggles and the loss of a loved one to substance abuse disorder inspired her to be a social worker. She was a caseworker and group facilitator for people who were dually diagnosed with substance abuse disorder and a mental health condition. Upon starting Unite For Safe Medications, she connected with advocates such as Ed Bisch and Dan Schnieder and is heavily inspired by their advocacy as she realizes that many components of their advocacy work are intertwined with hers. Her advocacy to ensure the safety and accessibility of pharmaceutical care is as critical as exposing and holding accountable those who fail in their roles to protect patients from harm. Loretta hopes to unite with others across the nation to ensure a safer and more accessible future of pharmaceutical care. She has been interviewed by NBC News, NPR, USA Today, & CNN and has been recorded for an upcoming documentary, Harmacy. This documentary will highlight the many pharmacy issues impacting safe patient care in America. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Ricki Friedman is a motivational speaker, visionary, educator, and podcaster who takes you on the walk with her as she embarks on a life-changing journey of growth, healing, and expansion. Her humor, way with words, wisdom, and vulnerability make you feel seen, heard, and ready to transform your life, live your truth and walk towards your next level - one step forward at a time. Ricki started a business called Break the Weight. With Ricki's system, she will help guide you every single step of the way, all while helping you to achieve your healthiest lifestyle possible. She'll be the first to tell you healthy habits don't happen overnight nor without putting forth the effort and work, but it can happen, and BTW has a number of success stories to prove it. Ricki teaches us the mindset and tools she used to walk away from weed. Her tools are universal in helping with any change or whatever you want to walk away from in your life. Since we interviewed her last year she has quit taking Adderall and any sort of stimulants. In her interview with Newsweek, she said: "One year ago, I was taking 100 milligrams of adderall (and Vyvanse) trying to work up the courage to get off the medication. "I don't think I've ever been that terrified of walking away from something in my life. "28-years on a VERY dangerous drug that controlled my mind and body was hard for me to wrap my head around. This wasn't like walking away from weed…I knew that getting off this drug was going to make my life harder at first, not better. "However, I also knew that staying on them was dangerous and holding me back from healing, expanding and understanding WHO I truly was and how my brain worked. "So, I did what I always do…researched, educated myself and walked right into the most challenging journey I've ever been on. And today, one year after making the decision to begin taking these steps, I'm 9 months completely off stimulants and sharing my story in Newsweek." (December 2023) stan.store/iamricki HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

This is a replay of an interview we did with Ed Bisch in 2021. Ed was the first real activist to come on our podcast and since then, he has introduced us to countless others who are fighting this fight. Ed Bisch lost his son, Eddie, to an oxycontin overdose (he took one pill) in 2001. While Ed grieved the loss of his son, he also took notice - never having heard of oxycontin before. He began researching and finding other parents who had lost children to this drug, and he was contacted by Purdue Pharma, who had all sorts of justifications as to why this might happen. Ed has been keeping the pressure on his group - RAPP - Relatives Against Purdue Pharma. The goal is for Purdue and the Sackler family executives to receive jail time for their participation in the many deaths caused by oxycontin. More about Ed and RAPP: https://www.nytimes.com/2019/07/20/opinion/sunday/oxycontin-purdue-sacklers.html HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Thaddeus' service to this country began its course while proudly serving in the United States Air Force. He served on the Terrell County Independent School District School Board for eight years and as the Board President four of those years. His viewpoint: "Students and our school's educators are at the forefront of our nations foundation. Texas must lead the nation by adapting our approach to doing what is best for the students first and foremost so we as Texans and parents promote the most effective solutions to prepare future leaders of Texas and our nation with what they need to reach their full potential." Currently Thaddeus C. Cleveland is the Sheriff for Terrell County, Texas. He was appointed as Sheriff on May 17, 2022. Prior to his appointment, Sheriff Cleveland spent just over 26 years in the United States Border Patrol and the last 11 years of his career as the Patrol Agent in Charge of the Sanderson Border Patrol Station. Sheriff Cleveland entered on duty with the U.S. Border Patrol on February 26, 1996, as a member of Class 300. His first duty assignment as a Border Patrol agent was at the Nogales Border Patrol Station in the Tucson Sector. Since his entry into the U.S. Border Patrol, Sheriff Cleveland served as a Border Patrol Agent at Sierra Blanca, Texas, a Senior Patrol Agent at Eagle Pass, Texas, a Supervisory Border Patrol Agent at Douglas, Arizona and Artesia, New Mexico. He has also served as a Field Operations Supervisor at Naco, Arizona and Alpine, Texas. Sheriff Cleveland served as an Assistant Chief in Washington, D.C. at the Office of Border Patrol as well as Customs and Border Protection's Commissioner's Office of Anti-Terrorism and Office of State, Local and Tribal Liaison. https://thaddeusfortexas.com/ Facebook: The Border Project Terrell County Sheriff's Office PLEASE SUPPORT OUR PODCAST: https://www.patreon.com/TheAddictionPodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/ #drugaddictionpodcast #alcoholaddiction #alternativetreatment #hopeforaddiction #helpforaddiction #newmaninterventions

David J. Greer is an entrepreneurial coach, author, and facilitator living in Vancouver, Canada with his wife Karalee and their three children. He helps people fully realize their dreams through his coaching, writing, and speaking engagements. Spending just an hour with David, whether through his book, a talk, or personal coaching session, provides concrete action items to accelerate one's business within 90 days. David has been sober for 15 years after struggling with alcoholism earlier in life. He leverages his journey to sobriety and personal growth to help other entrepreneurs challenged with addiction issues. Even while living on a sailboat and homeschooling his children for two years, David drank daily to cope with his inner turmoil. His decision in sobriety to connect with his birth families catalyzed immense personal development, although meeting his birth mother who rejected him and drank until her death was deeply painful. David attributes much of his growth to the 12 Step programs that have supported his sobriety. Though David appeared successful externally during his drinking years, internally he struggled greatly before committing to sobriety. Now with over a decade of clarity, he is devoted to his family and helping others fully live their dreams and overcome their challenges with alcohol dependence. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

After going from a strong, moral upbringing in Southern Oklahoma to a drug-related downfall that had him facing federal prison, Bobby Newman understands what those who are addicted feel and think. That's what enables him to cut through the resistance and manipulative tactics of an addicted person and help them choose life and recovery. In the eighteen years since he completed a long-term drug rehabilitation program, he has educated more than a hundred thousand youth on the dangers of drug abuse and helped thousands of people with drug or alcohol rehabilitation. Many of those he helped with their addictions as a substance abuse counselor, now many more as a drug intervention specialist. Now, his focus is on doing interventions that turn situations from tragic to hopeful. When Bobby walks into a room full of family who have asked for help, he knows exactly how to cut through the emotion and confusion and establish ground rules to make the intervention a success. A successful intervention is so much about preparation. He'll work with the family to ensure they have chosen a good rehab and cut off all avenues of evasion so their loved one has only one choice ahead of them — start rehab right now. When Bobby arrives, he has only one intention and that is getting that person in the doors of an effective rehab facility. His clear intention resonates with the family and gives them a boost in confidence and strength. Finally, they feel like this is going to happen, they are going to be able to save this person they love — this person they have feared they were going to lose. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Marci Hopkins is an award-winning TV personality, talk show host, and author. She is the brilliant mind behind the captivating talk show, Wake Up with Marci and Hilary, A Talk Show with A Heart, which has won the prestigious Telly Award three times. Marci is also a sought-after public speaker, recovery expert, and media trainer, with appearances on major networks such as Fox, CBS, NBC, and ABC. Don't miss Wake Up with Marci, airing on CBS owned WLNY-TV 10/55, CBS Palm Springs, and ABC Idaho Falls. The show is also available for streaming on Hulu Live and FuboTV, and as a podcast on all major platforms. Marci's show is a source of inspiration and empowerment, sharing remarkable stories of triumph and transformation. She is deeply committed to changing lives, drawing from her own journey of overcoming alcoholism and celebrating eight years of sobriety. Through her book and show, Marci aims to show that healing is possible and that difficult situations do not define us. Outside of her TV career, Marci is actively involved in giving back to her community. She supports organizations such as the Kumali Organization and the YWCA, and has helped open a sanctuary with Access Family Services. Marci's dedication and impact have been recognized with awards and honors, and she has been featured on major networks and publications. Originally from Texas, Marci began her career at Fox Cable Group before becoming a prominent figure in the industry.Marci's book is her story of sexual abuse and alcholism and sobriety. Marci is now seven years sober. Wake Up With Marci was created after Marci went into sobriety. She felt inspired to help other people with great content and stories that would help inspire and heal others. She graphically shares the chain of events in her book in hopes of helping others. Marci has been featured on TV as a recovery expert, such as WJLA ABC Washington, NBC Tampa, Cheddar, WXIX FOX Cincinnati, WTVR CBS VA, Metropolitan Magazine, Hollywood Life etc. She's now an official monthly wellness contributor for KATU ABC Portland. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Mischa Zvegintzov is a man who got sober off of alcohol and drugs when he was 17 years old. In 1986, while living in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, a judge gave him the choice of either going to jail for six months or going to treatment. He chose treatment and has maintained straight line sobriety ever since, which is now 37 years clean and sober. Mischa has known tremendous success, incredible failure and heartbreak over the years but has stayed sober through it all. Now in 2024, at the age of 54, he has tons of stories, strategies and tactics related to sobriety that he looks forward to sharing. Mischa is a dynamic force in the world of digital marketing; empowering heart-centered entrepreneurs to Amplify their message into the market and elevate their authority, their impact, and their income! No need for throwing money away on Facebook ads, Mischa has got a better strategy up his sleeve! With a track record of 20 years in old-school sales, Mischa marries tried-and-true strategies with the cutting-edge tools of the digital era. He has made over a million phone calls, run massive flier campaigns, and pounded the pavement door-to-door and business-to-business. Mischa and his team generated over 1.5 billion dollars in loans funded. After a brief retirement to guide his two boys through high school and enlighten others through yoga teaching, Mischa's now back in the game and his superpower is building influence! As the founder of the "Influence Army" and host of the "Table Rush Talk Show", he's all about sharing his expertise and inspiring others to put their voice out there in a big way. Recent appearances: Podcast Host Testimonial! Yaron Been liked my Tactical Tips, My Stories, and My Energy! HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Paula Santos Young's world shattered when her beloved oldest son's life was stolen in March 2022 - poisoned by fentanyl-laced marijuana from someone he trusted. With his death, Paula's motherly instincts kicked into high gear. Now she's on a crusade, roaring from every platform she can find to wake up officials and communities to the fentanyl crisis destroying families like an unstoppable hurricane. Paula ferociously shares her anguish and her son's story on podcasts, TV and radio to put a human face on this epidemic. She mercilessly calls out the lack of urgency from leaders who act like this is just a minor storm, not the Category 5 emergency that it is. With steely determination, Paula founded a nonprofit to battle the crisis she calls "our war." She's leading the charge, uniting forces throughout Massachusetts to proclaim this fight. Her rallying cry is being heard - from cities recognizing Fentanyl Prevention Day to the State House honoring her efforts. Still, Paula won't rest until the crisis is tackled with the full might and resources it deserves. For she's more than a grieving mom; she's a warrior fighting to ensure no other mother feels the searing loss that forged her unwavering mission. Last month, she received a special Congressional Recognition on her Human Rights Award 2022 for her work combatting the fentanyl crisis. He and her husband run the organization Achieve Greatness - https://www.achievegreatness88.org/. An organization originally started by her son Andrew. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Colleen Schaeffel's childhood in Minnesota was upended when both of her parents became alcoholics. As her father's addiction escalated, he lost his job, home, and family bonds. But through it all, Colleen remained dedicated to helping him, making countless trips to detox and rehabilitation centers over nearly two decades. It was a painful journey that tested Colleen's own mental health and strength. But she persevered by setting healthy boundaries, practicing mindfulness, reframing negative thoughts, and leaning on the love of family. Her unwavering compassion and forgiveness toward her father never faltered, even when he hit rock bottom again and again. Despite the chaos at home, Colleen blossomed into a high achiever - earning advanced degrees, building a successful medical career, and raising three amazing kids. She found meaning by sharing her story through writing and counseling others struggling with addiction, including publishing a memoir called Do You Believe in Me: A Memoir of Addiction, Hope, and Family Bonds. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJL9SYGW Colleen is living proof that with resilience, hope and loving bonds, you can triumph over even the most traumatic upbringings. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Meet Tim Lodgen, a 46-year-old Baltimore County resident with a story of resilience and redemption. A former sponsored skateboarder, US Marine, MMA fighter, and Jr. Olympic Boxer, Tim battled a 27-year-long struggle with bipolar disorder, alcohol and drug addiction, and multiple suicide attempts. In this gripping podcast narrative, Tim shares his journey from the highs of athleticism to the depths of addiction. The turning point came when a childhood friend intervened, saving him from a near-fatal moment in his basement. Tim's story is an intense exploration of strength, courage, and hope, revealing how he transformed his life. Tim, now a master carpenter, emphasizes the importance of support networks. His loving wife and three daughters stood by him through the darkest times, inspiring his triumphant comeback. Tim has become an advocate, sharing his story on over 104 recovery and sober podcasts, in 5 recovery magazines, and nationwide at schools, rehabs, fundraisers, and events. He is on a mission with non-profit organizations to raise awareness about mental health, addiction, PTSD, and suicide prevention among veterans and first responders. Tune in to hear Tim's compelling journey – a testament to the possibility of recovery and the transformative power of hope. Don't miss this episode that transcends challenges to celebrate the resilience of the human spirit. If you or someone you know is struggling, Tim's story is a beacon that no one is alone, and recovery is possible. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Susan Bartz Herrick, MFA, EdD., is a retired professor at UNC-Fayetteville, St. Andrews University, and Methodist University. Early in her career, she was a Community Liaison Specialist at HCA Cumberland Psychiatric Hospital and Treatment Center, giving seminars on Mental Health Disorders and Addiction. Susan Herrick's memoir follows the story of her beloved and only son, Luke, through his struggle with opioid addiction, recovery and sobriety, and untimely and heartbreaking death. Luke suffered a near-fatal car accident that left him partially paralyzed and addicted to Oxycontin, the very drug that helped save his life. Susan turned to the streets to obtain Suboxone, a legal but medically restricted opioid blocker, in an attempt to save her son's life. Remembering this, she writes, "The day I became my son's drug dealer, we both died, in a way." This poignant and compelling memoir exposes the rampant prescribing of Oxycontin, upwards of 600mg daily in cases like Luke's, and the role overprescribing plays in the disease of Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Through Luke's story, Herrick addresses failed public policies, misguided medical practices, societal stigmas, and enabling tendencies of loved ones that hinder recovery for those afflicted with SUD. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://www.patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Allie Severino overcame unimaginable odds to turn her life around. What started as a typical suburban childhood took a detour into darkness when she developed an addiction to drugs as a teenager. At 17, she was arrested and faced over a century behind bars for trafficking ecstasy and oxycontin. Hitting rock bottom, Severino had a choice - continue on the road to prison or death, or choose recovery. She chose the latter and committed herself to a 6-month rehabilitation program. It was no easy feat, but 15 years ago, Severino graduated drug-free. Now celebrated as a tenacious crusader in the fight against addiction, she dedicates her life to breaking down stigma and leading others out of the darkness. She speaks openly about her journey, offering guidance to schools, court officials, and families grappling with substance abuse disorders. Severino sees the potential in every addict to rewrite their story. She's living proof that with grit and support, anyone can transform their life. Hers is an inspiration that cuts through shame and illuminates the path forward. Rather than dwell on past mistakes, Severino champions redemption. She's a reminder that we're so much more than our worst moments. And she's undoubtedly saving lives along the way. Allie Severino is the host of Viceland's Dopesick Nation and the award winning film American Relapse! She is also the host of Back Alley Chat Podcast - an educational, inspirational series with a dash of humor and grace. Educational content and funny videos about life, recovery, harm reduction, homelessness, mental health, and more! HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Stephen Yates, a seasoned analyst and practitioner in politics, policy, and national security, hails from St. Petersburg, Florida. As a Senior Fellow and Chair of the China Policy Initiative, he has traversed the intricacies of policy decision-making, both foreign and domestic. A veteran commentator and media trainer, Yates brings a wealth of experience to the table, having served as a senior advisor to presidential campaigns, the CEO of D.C. International Advisory, and the President of Radio Free Asia. His journey includes a notable stint in the White House as Deputy Assistant to Vice President Dick Cheney for National Security Affairs. Yates also served as chairman of the Idaho Republican Party and co-chaired the 2016 Republican Platform Subcommittee on National Security. A familiar face on national TV and radio, he is a respected voice in the realm of politics and policy. On this podcast, beyond the realms of geopolitics, Mr. Yates shares a deeply personal and impactful story. His daughter, Christina, became entangled in the complex web of drug addiction. Born into a narrative of adoption and early years marked by questions of nature versus nurture, Christina's journey took her through the challenges of adolescence into adulthood. Stephen witnessed and tells the chilling story about the heart-wrenching realities of life with an addicted child – from leaving home to facing homelessness and navigating the complexities of her marriage within the shadows of addiction. The struggle to save Christina from the clutches of homelessness, addiction, and ultimately, death, became a central theme in their lives. Yet, amid the struggles, surprises emerged, displaying uncommon beauty and strength. Christina's art, spirit, and energy shone through, defying the darkness that threatened to engulf her. Stephen delves into the profound impact of loss, exploring the depths of grief and its repercussions on the family. https://www.imaginemuseum.com HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://patreon.com/theaddictionpodcast PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Alex is 51 years of age, graduated in the top 5 and got a college scholarship, went to state in cross country and track and qualified for national team freshman year. Pre-med student for biomedical engineering. Busted with 52 hits of LSD in campus dorm room. Lost scholarship and started the slow spiral downward. Became a male entertainer, was in a couple of movies (both with Lee Burns) played semi pro paintball, and dabbled with stage and closeup magic. Cocaine use started to take its toll. I tried crack cocaine one time and lost everything I had including my first marriage. 3 trips to prisons and too many jail stints to count. Got involved with prison gangs and ran the streets and even homeless for over a year, living any way we could and eating food out of dumpsters placed by a woman who's son we later helped get recovery! Amazing how God works! Started shooting up meth to get off the cocaine and met my current wife and best friend. Got married in the middle of our addiction during a short sober run, finally reached the end of it all and God, after many nudges to turn around, brought us out of our addiction. Angela has had a career as a top sales woman for Holiday in Club Vacations, and I now co-own 2 companies. We have a very small ministry helping drug addicts sent to us by referral or that we seek out to get into Christian based recovery programs. We also go into the women's prisons on xmas and mothers day to hand out gifts and minister. Covid unfortunately put a pause to that but will hopefully get started back up soon. Any and all facets of drug addiction. How we get there, why we stay there, and how we can get back. Willing to talk about any portion of our lives you want to talk about if it will help even 1 person change their mind. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://bit.ly/Fightdrugs PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Scott Strode, sober for over 25 years, is the Executive Director of The Phoenix, a transformational nonprofit he founded in 2006. The Phoenix harnesses the power of connection to ignite a movement that's changing how society looks at addiction and recovery. The Phoenix provides free programs both in-person and virtually, across the globe, including yoga, climbing, music, CrossFit, art, and more. The only cost to participate is 48 hours of sobriety. Scott says, "It might be the activity that brings someone in, but it's the community of sober friendships that keeps them coming back." This spark of hope for recovery, that Scott himself experienced, has continued to grow and help thousands rise from addiction. Not limited to those in recovery, The Phoenix movement is for anyone who has been impacted by substance use disorder — because the solution to the addiction crisis lives in all of us. This is our movement! To learn more, or to connect with our community, volunteer, or donate, please go to thephoenix.org. The Phoenix is a national sober active community that provides free, active, and meaningful programming—ranging from yoga and rock climbing to CrossFit and art—to individuals impacted by substance use. The Phoenix fosters a welcoming and safe community where participants, with a minimum of 48 hours of sobriety, can heal and grow together. The organization has achieved remarkable results: 83% of members report sustained sobriety after three months of participation. In 2022, The Phoenix realized a gap in recovery support in the music industry despite the fact that addiction disproportionately affects the music industry – 56% of music industry professionals cite problematic substance use (Source: Tulane University School of Social Work 2022), so they partnered with Stand Together Music and Stand Together Foundation to launch 1 Million Strong—an impact initiative to support one million people impacted by substance use, starting in the music industry. Over the past year, 1MS has hosted sober-supportive retreats at over a dozen renowned music festivals, supporting hundreds of thousands of fans. Positioned strategically amid the festival's heart, these retreats offer a VIP-like experience with mocktails, The Phoenix programming (like guided meditations and yoga) and a supportive atmosphere to meet other likeminded people. The impact of these events are undeniable: Since the launch of 1MS in September 2022, The Phoenix has had nearly 140,000 new members join the community. We're not slowing down the tempo – 1 Million Strong will be hosting sober-supportive retreats at In Between Days, Park City Song Sumit, Bourbon & Beyond, Telluride Blues & Brews, Louder than Life, and Camp Flog Gnaw between now and the end of the year and planning for a festival-filled 2024! The Phoenix and 1 Million Strong are transforming how America approaches addiction, so those in recovery can go from surviving to truly living. Scott's personal story and work with The Phoenix and 1 Million Strong could offer your listeners a fresh perspective on the power of connection in overcoming addiction. thephoenix.org 1millionstrong.com The Phoenix - A Sober Community (app) HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://bit.ly/Fightdrugs PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Nily Ilan lost her son 4 years ago to fentanyl poisoning. He had become addicted to painkillers after a devastating car accident and even though he had tried rehab, he relapsed and bought what he thought was heroin. However, it was laced with fentanyl and he died. He was a young man in his 20s. He was loved by all who knew him. He had a young son at the time. Now dealing with unspeakable grief, Nily is helping to education youth and parents on the dangers of drugs. She is working with Drug Free World Florida and helping to distribute the Truth About Drugs booklets. She wants everyone to know that these booklets are free from https://www.drugfreeworld.org/. There are also teacher kits so that this vital information can be taught in schools. She hopes to save other mothers from experiencing the excruciating pain of losing a child. HELP SUPPORT OUR FIGHT AGAINST ADDICTION. DONATE HERE: https://bit.ly/Fightdrugs PART OF THE GOOD NEWS PODCAST NETWORK. AUDIO VERSIONS OF ALL OUR EPISODES: https://theaddictionpodcast.com CONTACT US: The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return [email protected] Intro and Outro music by: Decisions by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100756 Artist: http://incompetech.com/