Addiction Talk

Can a family truly heal after addiction?In the final chapter of this three-part conversation, Hollywood director Mark Rosman (Keep Coming Back, A Cinderella Story, Lizzie McGuire, Even Stevens) reflects on what recovery looked like—not just for his daughter, but for his entire family.After facing denial, fear, and one of the most difficult experiences a parent can endure, Mark shares the lessons that helped his family move forward. He discusses the importance of setting healthy boundaries, letting go of guilt, embracing family recovery, and finding hope even after addiction has changed everything.In this episode, you'll hear:Why recovery is a journey for the entire familyThe importance of healthy boundaries and self-careHow Mark's perspective as a father changed through the recovery processThe role of hope, healing, and resilienceEncouragement for families navigating addiction todayWhether you're supporting a loved one, working through your own recovery journey, or searching for hope after addiction has impacted your family, this conversation offers honest insight and practical encouragement.This episode concludes our three-part conversation with Mark Rosman. If you're just joining us, be sure to listen to Part 1: How Do You Know If Your Child Has an Addiction? and Part 2: How Do You Accept That Your Child Is an Addict?to hear the complete story from beginning to end.Thank you for listening to Addiction Talk, where real stories and expert insights inspire hope, healing, and recovery. Be sure to follow the podcast so you never miss future conversations with clinicians, people in recovery, family members, and experts working to change lives every day. Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

How do you come to terms with the fact that your child is struggling with addiction?In Part 2 of this three-part conversation, Hollywood director Mark Rosman (Keep Coming Back, A Cinderella Story, Lizzie McGuire, Even Stevens) shares the heartbreaking moment his family could no longer deny the reality of his daughter's addiction.Mark opens up about hearing the devastating truth from an addiction specialist, the fear of losing his daughter, and the emotional toll addiction takes on parents and the entire family. He also discusses how support groups like Al-Anon helped him begin to understand that recovery isn't just for the person struggling with addiction—it's for the family, too.In this episode, you'll hear:The conversation that changed Mark's family foreverWhy accepting addiction is one of the hardest steps for parentsHow denial can delay getting helpThe emotional impact addiction has on loved onesWhy family recovery is just as important as individual recoveryIf you're a parent, spouse, sibling, or someone who loves a person struggling with addiction, this conversation offers honest insight, compassion, and hope from someone who has lived through it.🎙 In Part 3, Mark shares what healing looked like for his family, the importance of setting healthy boundaries, and the lessons every family affected by addiction should hear.If this conversation has been meaningful to you, be sure to follow the podcast and listen to Part 3: Can Families Recover from Addiction Together? Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

How do you know when typical teenage behavior has become something much more serious?In Part 1 of this three-part conversation, Hollywood director Mark Rosman (Keep Coming Back, A Cinderella Story, Lizzie McGuire, Even Stevens) shares the deeply personal story of discovering his daughter's addiction—and the warning signs he and his family almost missed.Mark opens up about the denial, fear, and uncertainty that so many parents experience when addiction enters the family. He also explains how years of successful filmmaking ultimately led him to create Keep Coming Back, a feature film inspired by his family's recovery journey.In this episode, you'll hear:The early warning signs of addiction that many parents overlookWhy denial is such a common responseHow Mark's Hollywood career led him to tell his most personal storyWhy he believes families need recovery tooThe events that set his family on an entirely new pathWhether you're a parent, family member, or simply want to better understand addiction, this conversation offers honest insight, practical perspective, and hope.🎙 In Part 2, Mark shares the heartbreaking moment an addiction specialist told him the truth about his daughter—and how that conversation changed everything for his family.If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast so you don't miss Part 2. Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

Hollywood director Mark Rosman has helped create some of the most beloved family films and television shows, including A Cinderella Story, Lizzie McGuire, and Even Stevens. But behind the cameras, he and his family were facing a battle they never expected—his teenage daughter's addiction.In this powerful episode of Addiction Talk, Mark shares the deeply personal journey that inspired his upcoming film, Keep Coming Back. He opens up about the denial, fear, heartbreak, and ultimately the hope that came from learning one of recovery's most important lessons: families heal too. Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

For years, April believed she could eventually drink like a "normal person." After surviving childhood trauma, family alcoholism, and decades of emotional pain, she spent 20 years abstinent from alcohol—but without addressing the deeper issues underneath.When she returned to drinking, everything spiraled. What followed was a journey through addiction, toxic relationships, relapse, and ultimately a life-changing decision to seek help. Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

Actress, entrepreneur, and survivor Luann Lee shares her powerful recovery story, revealing the childhood trauma, emotional pain, and addiction that nearly took everything from her.For years, Luann used alcohol to cope with wounds she didn't fully understand. What appeared to be a successful life on the outside was masking a deeper struggle within. In this candid conversation, she opens up about hitting a breaking point, seeking help, and discovering the root causes of her addiction.Everything changed when she entered treatment at Oxford Treatment Center. Through trauma-focused therapy and a life-changing women's trauma program, Luann was able to confront her past, begin healing, and build a new life in recovery."Nothing unpacked it the way Oxford Treatment Center did."In this episode, you'll hear:✔️ The trauma behind her addiction✔️ The moment she knew she needed help✔️ How Oxford Treatment Center helped change her life✔️ Why addressing underlying trauma is essential for recovery✔️ A message of hope for anyone struggling with addiction Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

Kassandra’s story is one of resilience, faith, and the power of never giving up.After years of addiction, trauma, and being told recovery might not be possible, she made a life-changing decision—to fight for her sobriety and build a life worth living. Through unwavering determination, deep faith, and a commitment to healing, Kassandra not only got sober, but transformed her pain into purpose.In this powerful recovery story, she opens up about:• Overcoming addiction and refusing to relapse despite every obstacle• Living with bipolar disorder and healing from PTSD through EMDR therapy• The role faith played in carrying her through her darkest moments• Rebuilding her life, relationships, and finding true happiness in sobrietyToday, Kassandra is thriving—married, working full-time, surrounded by love, and using her voice to help others break free from addiction. Her message is simple but powerful: If she can do it, so can you.This is more than a recovery story—it’s proof that no one is beyond hope.If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, help is available. Recovery is possible. Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

What does it really mean to earn your way back to yourself? For Madeline Smith, sober influencer and founder of Swole Sober, earned isn’t a hashtag. It’s hard work, dedication, and choosing again and again to make the next right decision. As a military wife surrounded by a “tough it out” culture and someone who prided herself on independence, she believed she should be figure out sobriety on her own. But recovery required something different: the humility to admit she couldn’t.After years of battling addiction and finding herself in the same pattern she vowed never to repeat, Maddie finally raised her hand and said, “I need help.” That moment launched a journey grounded in vulnerability, transparency, and community. Today, through Swole Sober and competitions like Miss Health & Fitness—where she’s pledged to donate any winnings to the Shields and Stripes Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Veterans and first responders—she’s redefining strength: not as white-knuckled independence, but as honesty, connection, and the courage to ask for help.In this episode, we talk about:Why framing addiction as a willpower problem keeps people stuck in shame.How isolation fuels relapse.What it means to build the toolset you were never taught.And how the past does not define you, but what you do next absolutely does. Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

Jamison’s recovery story is a raw, honest, and deeply inspiring look at what real healing can look like after addiction.After more than a decade of substance use, Jamison reached a breaking point that forced him to confront not just drugs—but the trauma beneath them. In this episode of Recovery Stories, Jamison shares how addiction treatment at Desert Hope Treatment Center became the turning point that helped him rebuild his foundation, reconnect with his faith, and redefine what recovery means to him Jamison opens up about:Leaving active addiction behind after a life-altering momentTraveling across the country to seek treatment at Desert HopeWhy trauma—not drugs—was the real root of his addictionHow treatment helped him develop emotional intelligence and self-awarenessStaying sober in Las Vegas—one of the most challenging environments imaginableBuilding a new life as a professional boxer, husband, father, and mentorToday, Jamison is living proof that recovery is possible—even when it feels impossible. His story offers hope to anyone struggling with addiction, questioning whether treatment works, or wondering if change is still possible for them or someone they love If you or a loved one are struggling with substance use, stories like Jamison’s remind us that healing starts with taking the first step—and that you don’t have to do it alone.Call 866-244-1070Watch, listen, and share this story of redemption, resilience, and recovery. Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

Todd Marinovich’s life looked like a fairytale from the outside — a USC standout, first-round NFL draft pick, and the face of the L.A. Raiders. But behind the success was a lifetime of control, pressure, and unrealized identity that pushed him toward substance use at a young age. In this full episode of Addiction Talk, Todd shares the truth about his upbringing, the collapse of his football career after multiple failed drug tests, seven trips through rehab, and the turning point that led him to lasting recovery. He also discusses his powerful memoir, Outside the Lines: Football, Art, and Addiction, and how creativity and honesty helped him find peace.This is a raw, inspiring conversation about loss, identity, addiction, and redemption.If you or a loved one is struggling, call 866-244-1070 Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

Addiction Talk: My Recovery StoryMadison shares her emotional journey from childhood trauma, to alcohol addiction, to nearly losing her ability to walk — to now almost 1,000 days sober. In this episode of My Recovery Story, Madison opens up about hitting rock bottom, facing the consequences of alcohol neuropathy, entering treatment at Greenhouse Treatment Center, experiencing healing physically and spiritually, and how surrender and faith changed everything.She talks about transfer addiction after gastric bypass surgery, the moment she surrendered in detox, the support she received from women in treatment, and how recovery restored her ability to walk — and her relationship with her son.If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol misuse, Madison’s story is living proof that recovery is possible and healing is real.Topics in this video include:• Overcoming alcohol neuropathy• Transfer addiction after weight loss surgery• The power of surrender in recovery• Treatment vs trying to quit alone• Faith, trauma healing, and rediscovering purpose Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

Actress Brandy Ledford, known for her roles in Baywatch Hawaii, Andromeda, and Modern Family, opens up about her powerful journey from Hollywood fame to addiction and recovery. Behind the spotlight, Brandy faced a decades-long battle with cocaine and alcohol that began at just 14 years old. Now celebrating 13 years of sobriety, she shares her story of resilience, faith, and redemption. In this episode of Addiction Talk, Brandy offers an inspiring message of hope for anyone struggling with addiction or supporting a loved one in recovery. Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

Veteran crime reporter Beth McDonough built a career on relentless pursuit—until life hit hard. After her mother’s sudden passing, a breakup, and her father’s emergency heart surgery, alcohol became her coping mechanism. Two DUIs and a lost dream job later, Beth faced a choice: go home or go to treatment. She chose recovery.Now 16 years sober and the author of Standby, Beth shares a raw, unflinching conversation about losing everything—and rebuilding with honesty, humility, and hope. If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol, this story offers practical insight and proof that long-term recovery is possible.In this interview, Beth discusses:How high-achiever “grit” can hide a growing alcohol problemThe breaking point that led her to treatmentEarly sobriety: shame, repair, and rebuilding trustTools that sustain long-term recovery (community, routine, service)Writing Standby and turning pain into purposeAbout Beth:Beth McDonough is a former crime reporter and the author of Standby, a memoir about addiction, loss, and the everyday work of recovery. Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

Paramedic and author Peter Canning has witnessed the opioid epidemic from the frontlines, responding to over a thousand overdoses. In this episode of Addiction Talk, Canning—author of Killing Season: A Paramedic's Dispatches from the Front Lines of the Opioid Epidemic—returns with insights from his new book written for families and loved ones impacted by addiction. He shares his powerful perspective on the overdose crisis, why addiction is not a character flaw, and what every parent, friend, and family member should know to help save a life. Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

Joseph Camera, Military and Veteran Liaison at American Addiction Centers, shares his powerful story of overcoming addiction, trauma, and incarceration to find healing through faith and service. Once facing 27 years in prison, Joseph opens up about the turning point in a jail cell that led him to recovery, redemption, and a new purpose—helping fellow veterans find the treatment they deserve. His raw, emotional testimony shows that no one is too far gone for hope, healing, and peace.You can reach Joe at 858-419-9800If you or a loved one is struggling, call 866-244-1070 Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

On this episode of Addiction Talk, we’re joined by author and former TV director, Art Dielhenn. In the 1980s and 90s, Art Dielhenn was at the top of his game, directing iconic sitcoms like Diff’rent Strokes, Punky Brewster, Head of the Class, and Sister, Sister. But behind the scenes, Art was fighting a private battle: his growing compulsion to drink. After white-knuckling sobriety for 15 years, Art entered a recovery program after hitting what he calls his rock bottom. Today, he’s sober and using his voice to help others. Author of "Get Out of Your Head, It’s a Mess in There" and "Addiction Is a Family Disease," Art Dielhenn is pulling back the curtain on what addiction really looks like inside a family, and how families can navigate this disease. If you have a loved one who has been impacted by addiction, you won’t want to miss this. Join us as Art takes us through his powerful journey—from the director’s chair to a mission of recovery, redemption, and real change.If you or a loved one is struggling, call 866-244-1070 Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

This episode of My Recovery Story features former patient Marissa. She shares about her journey to recovery and how her life has changed since seeking treatment at Desert Hope Treatment Center in Las Vegas, NV.  Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

As marijuana legalization expands, many assume cannabis is safe—but is it really? In this episode of Addiction Talk: Expert Insights, Dr. Gary Mitrevolis, Medical Director at Laguna Treatment Center, discusses the growing concerns around cannabis use. Learn about the mental health impacts, risk of addiction, rising THC levels, and the dangers of adolescent use. Dr. Mitrevolis also addresses the myth of "safe" edibles, potential laced products, withdrawal symptoms, and what treatment looks like for cannabis use disorder. Don't miss this essential conversation about one of today’s most misunderstood substances. Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

Far too many women are battling addiction behind closed doors, carrying the weight of silence, shame, and the fear of what asking for help might cost them. For mothers especially, the thought of leaving their children for treatment can feel impossible.On this episode of Addiction Talk: Expert Insights, Ari Chelli, Clinical Director at Desert Hope Treatment Center, gets personal about her journey from addiction to advocacy. She discusses the barriers that keep women stuck and what can be done to help more women get the support they deserve. Expert Insights starts now. Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

On this episode of Addiction Talk: My Recovery Story, we sit down with Liz Varnado—a resilient, insightful woman whose powerful journey through addiction, cultural identity, and healing is as inspiring as it is raw. As a Black, French, and Native American mother and professional, Liz opens up about the significance of cultural identity in treatment, the weight of generational trauma, and how she found strength through spiritual reconnection through Laguna Treatment Center’s Tribal Track and community. Her path from rock bottom to rebuilding her life with purpose is one you won’t want to miss.  Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

In this episode of Addiction Talk: My Recovery Story, Veteran and Oxford Treatment Center graduate Frank Pace shares his powerful addiction recovery journey. Now working in the VA’s PTSD unit, Frank discusses overcoming substance use, navigating treatment, and the importance of mental health support for Veterans. A must-watch for anyone impacted by addiction or PTSD. Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

Ozempic and other GLP-1 medications are widely known for managing diabetes and aiding weight loss—but could they also help treat addiction? Dr. Gary Malone, Medical Director at Greenhouse Treatment Center and a top addiction psychiatrist, joins us to discuss the potential of GLP-1s for substance use disorders. Don’t miss this expert insight into a groundbreaking development in addiction treatment! Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

On this episode of Addiction Talk, My Recovery Story, we talk to Monte Twilley, a motivational speaker, Veteran in recovery, and alumni of our Texas facility, Greenhouse Treatment Center. During his military service, Monte drank and experienced some blackouts, but it was after his service when he experimented with freebasing cocaine that his life began to spiral out of control. Here's his story.  Addiction Talk is brought to you by  American Addiction Centers, a leading provider of addiction and mental health services. Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. Looking for more addiction-related content? Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok @americanaddictioncenters!  Addiction Talk is brought to you by American Addiction Centers. If you or someone you know needs help, call 866-407-4130, or visit our website at AmericanAddictionCenters.org

Rod Espudo is a U.S. Veteran who transformed his life after battling addiction and PTSD. After struggling for years, Rod turned his life around and experienced an inspiring evolution into a well-known interventionist. Today, Rod has nearly 36 years of experience and over 1,500 interventions to his credit. In this episode, Rod will give us a behind-the-scenes look into his real-life intervention experiences and his time on the TV show “Intervention.” Rod’s story is one of resilience, showing that even after relapsing following 15 years of sobriety, it’s possible to rise again.

Isaak Presley is the star of Disney’s “Stuck in the Middle,” the Netflix spinoff “Fuller House,” Amazon Prime’s “One Nation Under God,” for which he won several Best Actor Awards, and “Hubie Halloween” with Adam Sandler. Isaak Presley is already an industry veteran at the age of 22. He has been in the entertainment industry since the age of 5, at which time he landed his first television role in Nickelodeon’s Yo Gabba Gabba. Forced into adulthood at an early age to help provide for his family and having grown up in an environment where men didn’t share their feelings, Presley turned to drugs and alcohol to cope in his early teens. His substance use escalated during the pandemic, when he was isolated and with all the time in the world to drink and use as he pleased. Presley’s use spiraled until early 2023 an arrest on a small charge made him finally understand that he needed to make a change. On this episode of Addiction Talk, Presley gets real about child stardom, trauma, addiction, and how he’s turned his life around today.

Leah McSweeney is a former star of “Real Housewives of New York City,” a fashion-industry pioneer who established the streetwear line Married to the Mob, a podcast host, and the author of Chaos Theory: Finding Meaning in the Madness, One Bad Decision at a Time. As Leah shares in her book, she battled with addiction from an early age and became sober for many years. After a very public relapse on national television, she worked to become sober again. Throughout it all, Leah has been a beacon of candor and compassion for people craving a more authentic conversation about what it means to face challenges, make mistakes, and find support for your mental well-being to live your best life.

LaTavia Roberson is an American singer, songwriter, and actress, best known as an original member of the widely acclaimed R&B girl group, Destiny’s Child. Alongside Beyoncé Knowles, Kelly Rowland, and LeToya Luckett, she played a pivotal role in the group’s success, contributing to chart-topping hits such as “Say My Name,” “Survivor,” and “Bootylicious.” Despite the group’s phenomenal achievements, LaTavia faced personal struggles with drugs, experienced jail time, and navigated through dark times in her life.Following her departure from Destiny’s Child in 2000, LaTavia embarked on a solo music career and explored opportunities in acting. Despite the challenges she faced, LaTavia remained resilient and committed to her passion for music and performance. Beyond her artistic pursuits, she dedicated herself to philanthropic endeavors, championing causes like breast cancer awareness and youth empowerment, showcasing her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

Melissa Etheridge is a well-known American rock star, famous for her confessional lyrics and raspy vocals. She has won numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards and a “Songwriter of the Year” honor. Melissa is also an activist for Marriage Equality and has advocated for the therapeutic benefits of medicinal cannabis as a cancer survivor. In May 2020, Melissa lost her son Beckett from causes related to opioid addiction. In his memory, she founded the Etheridge Foundation to advance transformative plant medicine treatment resources for people struggling with opioid use disorder. Through the foundation, Melissa continues her activism and public education to help people heal through the transformative power of plant medicines.

The latest episode of “Addiction Talk” promises to be a thought-provoking conversation between three guests who are at the forefront of addiction recovery research and advocacy. Cure Addiction Now Founder Nancy Davis, Director of Drug Discovery Institute Paul J. Kenny, and MTV’s Laguna Beach and The Hills star Jason Wahler will be discussing the latest breakthroughs in addiction recovery, including the usage of the widely popular medications Ozempic and Wegovy (semaglutide) to combat addiction cravings.

Peter White is a true warrior of the Yaqan Nukiy tribe, which is a part of the Ktunaxa Nation. His journey of triumph over homelessness, addiction and a cancer diagnosis is nothing short of inspiring. After his cancer diagnosis in May of 2016, Peter knew that he needed to make a change in his life. He had always wanted to start powwow dancing, but kept pushing it off for the “right time.” Little did he know that his cancer diagnosis was the sign he had been waiting for. Today, Peter is a Men’s traditional dancer, and this dance has brought out the inner warrior in him. As someone who has battled addiction and depression in the past, Peter’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and hope.

Adam Paul Hicks is an American actor, rapper, singer, and songwriter, best known for his leading role in the Disney Channel Original Movie “Lemonade Mouth” and his music projects. However, behind closed doors, Adam was struggling with addiction, mental illness, and family tragedies that ultimately led to his arrest and incarceration. At the age of 17, Adam’s mother was diagnosed with MS and began to have severe episodes that impacted his family’s wellbeing. As his career was taking off, Adam turned to alcohol and Xanax to cope with the stress. Then, his younger brother was in a car crash, killing his girlfriend, and Adam’s mother died two months before his brother was sentenced to ten years in prison. These tragic events, and the accidental drowning of his best friend, pushed Adam into a state of psychosis.In January 2018, Adam and his girlfriend were arrested on suspicion of armed robbery. Adam spent time in a mental facility and ultimately prison, serving 1,460 days before being released on parole in 2022. Since then, Adam has been sober for over five years and focused on his health and wellbeing. Adam’s journey to recovery from addiction and mental illness is ongoing, and he credits therapy, medication, and a clean diet for his progress. Despite the challenges he faced, Adam is back into the Hollywood game, feeling more mentally and physically healthy than ever before. 

On this episode of “Addiction Talk,” the topic of alcohol addiction will be discussed by way of cutting edge research helmed by Bryant University Assistant Professor Kristin Scaplen, Ph.D.Professor Scaplen, who obtained a B.S. in biology and psychology from the University of Connecticut, and Ph.D in neuroscience from Brown University, has spent years studying neural circuits and the persistence of memory in the context of alcohol use. This work was done in preparation for her current body of work in which she is conducting alcohol addiction research by investigating the neural circuits of fruit flies.Fruit flies share 75% of the genes that cause human diseases and have previously aided researchers in learning more about biological processes that affect human health.When it comes to alcohol addiction research, Dr. Scaplan in a pioneer in terms of the use of fruit flies, and there is much to learn from her work. Join us for this special episode where we learn more about the findings and the deeper understanding that can be gleaned from her research.

Jason Yamas is a queer writer, producer, director, and actor. Having released his courageous memoir, Tweakerworld, he joins us on Addiction Talk sharing a bright light on the worsening epidemic of crystal meth in the LGBTQ+ community.

Many know Leigh Steinberg as one of the most prolific sports agents, having represented more than 300 professional athletes in his 40+ year career, and as the real-life inspiration for Jerry Maguire. Steinberg’s clients include former San Francisco 49ers QB Steve Young, former Dallas Cowboys QB Troy Aikman and current QB for the Kansas City Chiefs Patrick Mahomes.Leigh’s reputation stemming from his decades of success precedes him, but what many may not know is that he endured a public battle with addiction to alcohol. For nearly 10 years, Steinberg struggled with alcohol, which was spurred by financial issues.Now, with more than 13 years in recovery, Steinberg is continuing his success in the sports industry. Steinberg Sports and Entertainment recently negotiated the largest deal in NFL history and will be expanding beyond its football roots; professional athletes from the MLB, NBA and BMX are all on the agency’s roster.

To kick off National Recovery Month, on this episode of “Addiction Talk,” we will be speaking with three experts in recovery who have utilized their collective experiences to aid others in beginning their own journey.Each guest will speak about the importance of mindfulness in recovery: tactics that may work best, essential self-care strategies necessary for sobriety, and offer advice for those wanting to live a life without alcohol and substancesFeaturing: Lane Kennedy is a precision health nutritionist, certified mindfulness teacher, hypnotherapist and co-host of the podcast Laughing without Liquor. She has also been in recovery for more than 26 years.Fausto Castellanos is a substance abuse/mental health counselor and motivational speaker who has worked with thousands of people around the world to help find purpose in pain.Erica Spiegelman is an author, addiction counselor, wellness specialist and motivational speaker who works with individuals, couples and families on personal growth and overall wellness. Her holistic approach to helping those with addiction has given many people the tools they need to create healthy lives.

VH1’s Mob Wives star Renee Graziano's tumultuous journey from a mob-tied upbringing to overcoming addiction is a testament to resilience and redemption. Shaped by childhood trauma, seeking love and acceptance, she spiraled into drug misuse and abusive relationships, but through reality TV fame, multiple rehab attempts, and a life-altering car accident, she found strength in therapy, support networks, and self-discovery, ultimately emerging as a survivor who reclaimed her identity and purpose.

Josh Eppard, drummer for rock band Coheed and Cambria, will be joining “Addiction Talk.” For more than two decades, Josh has been a seasoned musician, but in the early 2000s, it almost came to an end.In 2002, Coheed and Cambria released their first studio album, first single and first music video, and by 2005, the band released their first major-label album, “Good Apollo, I’m Burning Star IV, Volume One: From Fear Through the Eyes of Madness.” While his band was receiving international acclaim, unbeknownst to many, Josh’s substance use became unmanageable. In 2006, just after the release of his band’s most commercially successful album to date, he left.During his time away, Josh continued to abuse substances: he release his second Weerd Science album, which was a personal account of his addiction, and began drumming for the supergroup Terrible Things.Josh’s substance use continued after his resignation from the band until one day he decided to seek treatment. He left his hometown of Kingston, New York, moved to Albany and joined the supergroup Terrible Things.Attempting to reestablish his relationship with his former bandmates, Josh began to reach out, and after seeing the changes he made in his life since his 2009 exit, nearly five years to the day of the announcement of his departure, it was announced he had rejoined.Today, Josh has more 14 years in recovery and is thriving. Coheed and Cambria released their 10th album in 2022 and will be touring in Fall 2023. Josh has recently established Drum Set Confessional, an endeavor he uses to tell his story and inspire others.

Joining “Addiction Talk” is actress, recovery advocate and former Miss USA, Tara Conner. Many remember the controversy surrounding Tara back in 2006: months after being crowned Miss USA and participating in the Miss Universe pageant, she tested positive for cocaine.Publicly, this was a surprise, but for Tara, it was a long time coming. In her early teens, after the death of her grandfather and her parents’ divorce, Tara had her first drink. Not long after, Tara began experimenting with other substances, like Percocet, Xanax and other opioids. It was also during this time that Tara experienced a sexual assault, which exacerbated the pain she was already feeling.By the time the Miss USA pageant came around, Tara’s substance use was well underway. In fact, she was under the influence during the competition.Tara’s substance use was widely reported on in 2006, but she was able to finish her reign after seeking treatment.Today, Tara has been in recovery for more than 16 years and continues to raise awareness around the country that addiction is a disease and that a healthy, productive and sober life is possible.

Sharing her story on “Addiction Talk” is Melissa Urban, the co-founder and CEO of Whole30. Whole30 is the popular food plan designed to help its users learn more about food sensitivities and how food affects them. Urban is also a seven-time “New York Times” best-selling author, including the instant best-seller “The Book of Boundaries.”Many are aware of Melissa’s dedication to health and wellness, but it was the tribulations early in her life that led her to where she is today.According to Melissa, she appeared to have everything going for her, but at 16, she experienced a sexual assault that understandably devastated her. Feeling alone, hopeless and broken, at age 18, she tried drugs for the first time. Soon, her substance use escalated and she was using heroin, cocaine, psychedelics and pills to numb her pain.At 26, after being urged to seek help by her partner, Melissa entered treatment. Though she experienced a relapse after a year, Melissa entered treatment again and has been in recovery for more than 20 years.

Many already know of Nic’s story: the Golden Globe and SAG nominated-film “Beautiful Boy” was based on his New York Times best-selling memoir, “Tweak: Growing Up on Methamphetamines” and his father, David’s, bestseller of the same name.In this episode Nic shares his incredible recovery story. 

In honor of Fentanyl Awareness Day, Addiction Talk will host Mae Van Der Weide, a talented fashion model who began using cannabis at age 16, and later progressed to using fentanyl due to the high pressures of the modeling industry. Today, Mae celebrates three years in recovery and uses her platform to share her experience with others who are also struggling with addiction.

Cameron Douglas, actor and son of Hollywood legend Michael Douglas, fought against heroin and liquid cocaine addiction, numerous rehabs and interventions, and even resorted to drug dealing to support his habit. Join us on Addiction Talk as he shares his inspiring story of finding his way back home.

On this episode of “Addiction Talk,” we will hear from a panel of experts who have all been personally affected by Narcan and the overdose crisis. Nathan “Narcan Nate” Smiddy, Robin Vang Bigelow and Philip Van Guilder will share their harrowing experiences and illustrate the importance of accessibility to Narcan.

Joining “Addiction Talk” is actor, activist and model, Kevin Kreider, who is best known as one of the stars of the Netflix series, “Bling Empire.”Though he comes from a loving and kind family, Kreider struggled with his identity beginning at a young age. Kevin was born in Seoul, Korea, and at age three, was adopted and grew up in Philadelphia. It wasn’t long after this that the bullying and beatings began due to his ethnicity.Because of what he experienced in his youth, Kevin threw himself into fitness and had success as a personal trainer. Though he changed himself physically, he relied upon alcohol to shape his personality. After a short while, he signed with one of the most prestigious modeling agencies in New York City. Years of non-stop work, stress, an alopecia areata diagnosis and alcohol consumption proved to be too much and Kevin sought help.Just a few years into his recovery, Kevin delivered a TED talk called “Redefining Asian Masculinity” that went viral. His other videos on Asian masculinity began to garner attention and were responsible for his participation in “Bling Empire.”Today, Kevin has been sober for more than eight years and is the founder and CEO of Sans by Taejin Beverage, a nonalcoholic drink and mixer. His mission with his company is to empower and destigmatize sobriety.

On this International Women’s Day episode of Addiction Talk, we celebrate the achievements of three women who, through recovery from addiction, have overcome adversity and have made it their mission to empower other women.

Irene Rollins is a pastor, certified emotional health coach, recovery activist and the author of “Reframe Your Shame: Experience Freedom from What Holds You Back.”As a pastor, mother and wife, Irene looked like she had it all: a successful church that she led with her husband, Jimmy, and three amazing children. After not drinking for more than a decade, Irene introduced alcohol back into her life and quickly fell into the grips of addiction.Irene never believed she drank problematically and believed that she only drank to alleviate her stress, but she became increasingly dependent on the substance. Turmoil within her marriage and family followed until a close circle of friends and family intervened and she accepted help.It was during treatment that Irene began to address the root causes of her drinking and understand that the unresolved childhood trauma that she never attended to affected her greater than she imagined.Today, Irene has been sober for a number of years and leads a ministry with her husband called Two Equals One.

In honor of Black History Month, joining “Addiction Talk” are Khadi A. Oluwatoyin and J. Nicole Jones from the Sober Black Girls Club, a collective that provides resources and support for Black girls, women, femmes and non-binary folks who are in recovery or considering sobriety.Khadi founded Sober Black Girls Club in 2018 after addressing her own struggles with alcohol. It was during college that she discovered alcohol quelled the depression she’s experienced since childhood, but it wasn’t until after graduating from law school that she began drinking excessively. She sought help for her alcohol use in 2018, and noticing the lack of culturally adequate support for sober Black women, she created Sober Black Girls Club.Sober Black Girls Club also has an accompanying podcast of which J. Nicole is the co-host. J. Nicole’s experience with alcohol began during her freshman year of high school, where heavy drinking was common among her friend group and the basketball team she was a member of. Her basketball career extended into college where the drinking was also commonplace. Though people expressed their concerns over her drinking, she ultimately wanted to better herself and became sober at age 23 during her senior year of college.In this episode, they both share their respective journeys, why cultural support is critical for those seeking sobriety and the importance of community and growth in recovery.

Cara Santana is an actress, activist, designer and digital influencer known for her starring role in the Starz series “Vida” and her upcoming role in the film “Daughter of the Bride” out Feb. 3.Cara’s experience with addiction took place in her teens, when she left her hometown of El Paso, TX, to pursue a career in acting in Los Angeles. It wasn’t long after her arrival that she encountered cocaine for the first time and it quickly turned into an addiction. At age 18, Cara experienced an overdose, and it was this event that led her to sobriety – a journey that not many people were aware of because she kept it under wraps; Cara’s parents had no knowledge until she informed them years later.Today, Cara has been sober for 18 years and her career is thriving: she’s currently working on a film about the lives of New Yorkers with addiction and will be appearing in the upcoming comedy, “Daughter of the Bride.” She joins Addiction Talk to discuss her unique path to recovery that began early in her life and career, and the advice she has for others who may be facing a similar situation.

Actor and comedian, Tom Arnold, has had a well-publicized journey with addiction. Arnold’s drinking and substance use began years prior to him leaving the Midwest, where he was born and raised, and where his sister became one of the most prominent drug dealers.In the late ‘80s, Arnold arrived in LA – with his substance use under wraps – to pursue a career in comedy and soon after was brought on as a writer for the sitcom “Roseanne.” After marrying the show’s star and gaining significant popularity and success, he decided he needed treatment.Throughout the ‘90s, Arnold maintained his sobriety, his career flourished, and he even served as sponsor to late comedian Chris Farley. But in 2008, Arnold was involved in a motorcycle accident. The crash resulted in him breaking his scapula and he was prescribed pain medication for the injury. Despite his years in recovery, Arnold again experienced addiction.In 2010, a health scare and close call was the catalyst for seeking treatment once again. Due to his continued substance use, Arnold’s colon ruptured, he became septic and spent three weeks in a coma. Since that time, he has experienced a few relapses, but has now been sober for more than five years.

Danny Trejo is one of the most recognized character actors known for roles in films such as “Desperado,” “From Dusk Till Dawn,” “Machete,” and the sequel “Machete Kills.” But, what many may not know is that he has been in recovery for more than 54 years.Trejo’s history with substances and encounters with law enforcement began at a very early age: When he was seven, he participated in his first drug deal, at 10, was arrested for the first time, began using substances at age eight and by 14, he was addicted to and selling heroin. He had many stints in jail throughout his adolescence, and by 22, he was a prisoner at San Quentin.It was in 1968, while in solitary confinement, that he found faith, became a member of the prison’s 12-step program and began a life in sobriety. He was released from custody for the last time in 1969.Trejo began his unique path to acting in 1985. He was working as a substance use counselor and his assistance was needed by someone on the set of the film “Runaway Train.” While on the set, he was recognized by the screenwriter, who served time at San Quentin with Trejo. Knowing his history and expertise in boxing, this connection led him to become the personal trainer and boxing advisor to actor Eric Roberts.In the decades since, Trejo has appeared in more than 300 films and television shows, is the owner of eight restaurants, and is a New York Times best-selling author with his memoir, “Trejo: My Life of Crime, Redemption and Hollywood.” Danny Trejo joins “Addiction Talk” to speak about his inspirational 50+ year journey in recovery.