When Addiction Hits Home: A Father's Story of Recovery, Loss & Purpose with David Mahler

What happens when addiction doesn’t just affect one person… but the entire family?In this deeply honest conversation, Krista sits down with recovery coach and author Dave Mahler, who has experienced addiction from every angle, as a spouse, a parent, and someone navigating his own trauma.Dave shares his powerful story of love, loss, and transformation, including the heartbreaking loss of his daughter to fentanyl poisoning. Together, they unpack the realities of addiction that often go unspoken: the chaos behind closed doors, the weight carried by families, and the patterns of over-functioning, enabling, and emotional survival.This episode goes beyond awareness. It’s about understanding, breaking stigma, and learning what actually helps.If you’ve ever loved someone struggling with addiction or felt the ripple effects in your own life, this conversation will meet you there.Key Takeaways:Addiction affects everyone in the household, not just the individualYou can’t fix someone else, but you can get support for yourselfRecovery is more than sobriety, it’s a full lifestyle shiftLanguage matters more than you think when supporting someoneHealing happens faster when families do the work togetherYou are not alone, even if it feels like itResources & Links for David Mahler:Dave’s Book: https://www.groundzerorecoverycoaching.com/#ABOUTCoaching: https://www.groundzerorecoverycoaching.com/Email: [email protected] Groups: https://al-anon.org/al-anon-meetings/ https://www.nar-anon.org/Connect with Us:💬 Want personalized support? Book a free strategy call to explore how coaching can help you reclaim your energy, self-trust, and vision for a life that actually feels good.🔗 Website:  https://kristazaft.com/🔗 Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/zaftkrista/🔗 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/krista.zaft/🔗 Watch on Youtube: Please Note: The views, information and opinions expressed during the Becoming Sound podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved. The content of this podcast is to educate, inform and for entertainment purposes only. This podcast series  and the content presented does not constitute for medical or other professional advice or services. If you are in crisis or in need of help, please contact your medical or professional provider.