Living Addy Free (Adderall): Real Stories, Tools, and Support for Thriving Beyond Stimulants

PODCAST · education

Living Addy Free (Adderall): Real Stories, Tools, and Support for Thriving Beyond Stimulants

Addy Free is a way of life—one no longer dependent on ADHD stimulant medication, including Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, and beyond.This podcast exists to raise awareness that ADHD medication addiction and dependency are real, that you are not alone, and that thriving without stimulants is possible.Each month, you’ll hear honest conversations with community members, professionals, and host Janet Oliva, sharing real stories, tools, and resources to support your journey.This podcast is here to provide clarity, strength, and hope to help you stay on the Addy Free path.

  1. 32

    Misdiagnosed by a Checklist: ADHD Symptoms, Root Causes & What Comes Next | A Conversation with Dr. Arthur Lavin, MD

    On this episode, I interview Dr. Arthur Lavin, MD, my former pediatrician with 40 years of experience, Co-Chair of Doctors Organized for HealthCare Solutions, and Immediate Past Chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on the Psychosocial Aspects of Child and Family Health.We explore why he chose not to diagnose me with ADHD as a child, even though I displayed many of the commonly recognized symptoms. His approach goes beyond symptom checklists to look at what may be underneath those behaviors, of which there are 49 possible contributors. In fact, Dr. Lavin co-authored a policy published by the American Academy of Pediatrics outlining 49 different reasons a child may struggle academically.This conversation is a reminder that human beings are complex and cannot be fully understood through a checklist questionnaire. No diagnosis, especially one that leads to powerful, potentially addictive medication, should be made without a deeper understanding of what is truly going on underneath the surface.References: Check out the official policy of the American Academy of Pediatrics, co-written by Dr. Lavin, which sets international standards for the profession of pediatrics and its practice, outlining the 49 root causes that contribute to inattention: https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/144/4/e20192520/38485/School-aged-Children-Who-Are-Not-ProgressingAn Addy Free tool to help with working memory and attention. Brought to the United States by Dr. Lavin himself: https://www.cogmed.com/

  2. 31

    Spring Reset: The Lifelong Addy Free Journey of Learning When to Let Go So You Can Keep Showing Up

    Happy first day of spring!A season of new beginnings… and a new season in my Addy Free journey, too.Addy Free began as the resource I wish I had when I was struggling with Adderall and Vyvanse addiction—and while that mission hasn’t changed, this next chapter is bringing me back to the podcast In this short episode, I share the evolution of Addy Free, my personal journey in ADHD medication recovery, and why I’m stepping away from hosting weekly meetings.If there’s one message I hope you take with you, it’s this:Your recovery comes first.You can’t truly help others if you’re not in alignment with yourself.Reflecting on the past few years, the greatest gift has been connection. For anyone navigating stimulant dependency, ADHD medication withdrawal, or life after Adderall, this episode is a reminder that healing doesn’t happen alone.I also share simple tools that helped me in early recovery:• Telling your story—you never know who you’ll reach• Volunteering—reconnecting with purpose• Walk + talks—building connection through movementBecause at the end of the day:Connection is the opposite of addiction.If you're on a journey to live Addy Free, you're not alone

  3. 30

    From Medicated Boy to Self-Medicated Man: ADHD Medication, Addiction, and Finding a New Identity Addy Free

    In this episode of the Addy Free Podcast, we sit down with Gavin, our first male coed community member, to share his powerful story of growing up on ADHD stimulant medication and the long-term impact it had on his identity.Prescribed medication at just 10 years old in the early 2000s, what began as treatment slowly turned into addiction and self-medication over the next two decades. Gavin reflects on how being told so young that he needed something outside himself to function shaped his self-worth, coping patterns, and relationship with substances.Now living Addy Free, Gavin shares what it took to break free from stimulant medication, rebuild his identity, and thrive as a husband, father, and member of Addy Free. This episode amplifies male voices often missing from conversations about ADHD medication addiction and recovery.If you or someone you love grew up on stimulant medication and is questioning life beyond it, this episode offers honesty, hope, and a reminder that a new identity is possible.

  4. 29

    The Simple Question That Has Kept Me Addy (Adderall) Free (Featuring Former Guests’ Answers)

    After 4.5 years living free from Adderall and Vyvanse dependency, I share the single most powerful tool that has kept me—and so many others—Addy Free. You’ll also hear powerful answers from former Adderall users who once believed they couldn’t function without it.

  5. 28

    Choosing Presence Over Perfection: Life Without Adderall During the Holiday Season

    In this special holiday episode, I’m joined by former guest, thriving community member, mom of four, therapist, and ADHD stimulant addiction thought leader Chelsea—who will also be stepping in as a co-host in the new year for short, powerful mini-episodes filled with tools, honesty, hope… and even some fun.On Christmas Eve 2023, Chelsea quit Adderall for good. If you’re a parent—or anyone navigating the chaos of the holidays—you might be wondering why someone would choose the most stressful time of the year to stop ADHD medication.Because the holidays are meant for slowing down—not speeding up. We’re letting go of the perfection, performance, and nonstop productivity that this drug convinces us we need. In its place, we’re choosing presence, connection, love, and a sense of calm—something no pill could ever provide.If you’re questioning your relationship with ADHD medication, navigating stimulant recovery, or craving motivation, strength, and hope this holiday season—this episode is for you.

  6. 27

    Failing on the ‘Focus Drug’: Why University Got Easier Off Ritalin & Vyvanse — An International Community Member’s Addy Free Story

    On this month’s episode of the Addy Free Podcast, we’re welcoming community member Abby—our first active college student and our first international member, joining us all the way from New Zealand. Proof that Adderall and stimulant medication dependency is a global issue.In this episode, Abby shares how the ADHD medication prescribed to help her focus at university—including stimulant drugs like Adderall and Vyvanse—actually led her to fail academically, emotionally, and personally. She opens up about the pressure to perform, the side effects of stimulant use, and how breaking free from a medication she believed she needed helped her manage her ADHD more effectively without stimulants—both in school and in life.In our Addy Free meetings, people often describe Abby as someone who “glows.” Her story is living proof that getting off stimulant medication doesn’t have to be all withdrawal and darkness. Sometimes, recovery becomes empowering, grounding, and deeply rewarding—especially when supported by community, honesty, and self-trust.Referenced resources mentioned:https://www.waikato.ac.nz/int/news-events/news/more-than-meds-why-easier-access-to-adhd-treatment-has-to-be-part-of-a-whole-system-approach/https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7340a1.htm?utm_source

  7. 26

    You Can’t Prescribe Effort: Jay Mohr’s Adderall Free Story

    You might know Jay Mohr from Saturday Night Live, Jerry Maguire, Picture Perfect, or his hit podcast Mohr Stories — but what you might not know is that Jay, like so many of us, was living a secret life behind the success… and the main character was Adderall.In this episode, Jay opens up with honesty and humor about his Addy Free journey — sharing how he found purpose, freedom, and peace beyond the pill.We’re so honored to have him on the Addy Free Podcast and even more excited to continue supporting him as he shows us through his continued success that you can thrive Addy Free.

  8. 25

    From Diagnoser to Diagnosed: A Therapist’s Addy Free Journey

    Happy Friday, Addy Free community! This month on the Addy Free Living podcast, we’re featuring another incredible community member — Chelsea Yule — who’s bravely sharing her story of Adderall addiction and how she came out on the other side, now thriving Addy Free.What I love about having community members on the podcast is that their stories are always so relatable yet completely unique in their own way — and Chelsea’s is exactly that. She’s our first guest to open up about her experience as both a psychotherapist and someone who’s been on the other side — both the diagnoser and the diagnosed.Chelsea took everything she’s learned as a therapist and applied it to create her own treatment plan to get off Adderall — and it worked. She’s now helping others do the same, expanding her already successful therapy practice into her new passion: guiding others to thrive without medication. Tune in now to hear Chelsea’s inspiring story

  9. 24

    Vyvanse for ED: The Prescription That Blocked Recovery — A Community Member’s Story

    In this episode of the Addy Free Podcast, a brave Addy Free community member shares her personal story of Vyvanse addiction and recovery — and how it all began with a prescription meant to help her in her struggle with binge eating.Meet Maria — a career woman, wife, mom, and friend, and the first Addy Free community member to share her experience with Vyvanse, not prescribed for ADHD but for ED. She bravely shares how what started as medical treatment slowly turned into reliance, unraveling her relationship with herself, her body, and her sense of control.Maria opens up about:Life before VyvanseBeing prescribed Vyvanse for an eating disorderHow dependency developed over timeHitting rock bottomAnd what life looks like now, coping with her ED Addy FreeHer story is raw, honest, and filled with hope for anyone struggling with Vyvanse, stimulant medication dependency, or disordered eating tied to prescription use. This episode sheds light on how easily dependency can form — even when a medication is taken as prescribed — and how recovery is possible.Tune in to hear Maria’s Addy Free journey and discover how ED is managed better without a pill.

  10. 23

    Breaking the Pill Cycle: Healing ADHD the Holistic Way

    Welcome to another episode featuring a professional whose perspective aligns perfectly with Addy Free’s mission—you don’t need medication to thrive. And this time, that message comes from a psychiatrist herself.This conversation may shift how you think about medication—not just our once-faithful (and now retired) friend Addy, but also SSRIs, which many of us are told will help ease the transition into life after Addy. I’ve walked that path myself.Dr. Lee offers a fresh approach, uncovering the root causes of ADHD and showing how to address them holistically—nurturing mind, body, and soul. It’s the approach I now embrace as well.My hope is that you’ll listen with an open mind, trusting the path you’re on and letting go of any shame when it comes to your way of getting off this medication. We’re all doing our best out here, one day at a time—this just offers a new perspective if you feel ready to live fully without pills. Know that there is no perfect solution, the key is having faith in yourself and your journey. Let yourself learn and evolve, without judgement in yourself and those around you. Be kind. Be proud of yourself. 

  11. 22

    From Broken Promises to Daily Confidence: 4 Years Adderall and Vyvanse Free—Proof That Every Day Without It Matters

    In this episode of the Addy Free Podcast, I share a short but powerful message with the community as I celebrate 4 years sober from Adderall and stimulant medication. This episode isn’t about everything I’ve learned in recovery—there’s far too much for one conversation—but about one foundational truth in Adderall addiction recovery: the power of keeping a promise to yourself.Whether you’re 4 years, 4 months, 4 days, or 4 hours off Adderall or Vyvanse, every moment you choose not to take a stimulant matters. Each choice builds self-trust, confidence, and momentum—and that momentum is what makes long-term recovery possible.If you’re struggling with ADHD medication dependency, stimulant addiction, or life after Adderall, this episode is a reminder that recovery doesn’t happen all at once. It starts with one promise—and by continuing to show up, you’ll one day look back and realize just how far you’ve come.Keep going. Living Addy Free is possible—and you are not alone.

  12. 21

    The Voice Behind Stop Speeding: Jesse’s Journey & the 42K-Member ADHD Stimulant Recovery Group

    This month on the Addy Free Podcast, I’m joined by Jesse, a moderator of Stop Speeding, one of the largest online communities focused on stimulant addiction recovery, with over 42,000 members navigating life beyond Adderall, Vyvanse, and other stimulant drugs.Stop Speeding is a recovery-centered, judgment-free space for anyone impacted by stimulant use—regardless of the type of drug, how it was prescribed, or how long it was used. The community is not anti-psychiatry or anti-ADHD medication; it’s pro-recovery, harm awareness, and honest conversation. Members share real-life experiences, peer support, and resources for those struggling with Adderall dependency, stimulant misuse, withdrawal, and rebuilding life after stimulants.In this episode, we explore who Jesse is, how Stop Speeding began, and how this grassroots Reddit forum grew into one of the most trusted online stimulant recovery communities. If you’re searching for support, connection, or hope while living without stimulants, this conversation is for you.

  13. 20

    From Perfectionism to Freedom: Vitale Buford, Author of Addicted to Perfect, Shares Her Addy Free Story

    In this powerful episode of the Addy Free Podcast, we sit down with Vitale Buford, author of Addicted to Perfect, to explore her 10-year struggle with Adderall addiction, perfectionism, and the path to lasting recovery.Vitale shares how ADHD stimulant medication—often labeled a “study drug”—slowly became a source of dependency, burnout, and emotional disconnection. What began as a tool for productivity eventually cost her mental health, physical well-being, and sense of self-worth.In this episode, we discuss:How perfectionism and Adderall addiction became deeply intertwinedEarly warning signs of stimulant dependencyThe hidden mental and emotional toll of chasing productivity and external successThe moment Vitale knew she had to stop taking Adderall—and what recovery looked like nextHer 11-year journey living Addy FreePractical tools for healing perfectionism during stimulant recoveryHow to stop tying your self-worth to performance and achievementWhy authenticity—not productivity—is the real measure of successHow Vitale now helps others through coaching, leadership development, and speakingThis episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with Adderall or stimulant addiction, perfectionism, burnout, or the pressure to perform. If you’re questioning your relationship with ADHD medication or searching for freedom beyond productivity, this conversation offers honesty, hope, and real tools for healing.

  14. 19

    What’s New at Addy Free: Zoom Meetings, Interviews & Community Updates!

    We've got a lot going on in the Addy Free world... listen if you want to find out!

  15. 18

    11 Months Addy Free: Real Talk with a Community Member Navigating Her First Year Without Addy

    Here is the instagram post for your reel!when I get the opportunity to interview an Addy Free community member, I prioritize that more than any specialized doctor—because we’ve lived it, and we know what it’s like. That’s why I’m SO excited to have on Hayley Carver, who is officially 11 months Addy Free (we recorded this a month ago). WELCOME 🩵When I first realized I had a problem with Addy, all I wanted was to find someone else who felt like I did.Was I crazy for thinking I was addicted?Was it normal to take this much just to function?Why did no one else seem as obsessed as me?I just wanted to feel:✨ Seen✨ Heard✨ ValidatedThat’s why I started the Addy Free community—and now, a year and a half later, there are 11 of us, all in different stages of the journey, showing up weekly to support each other.Hayley was one of the first to find this podcast and join the Monday Zooms. Her story is real, relatable, and a powerful reminder that the first year is full of growth—and of facing that inner voice telling you to go back. But you can handle life without Addy. That’s why you’re here.Want to join the weekly Zooms? Mondays @ 8PM EST. DM me @addyfree or visit addyfree.comI hope you love this convo with Hayley

  16. 17

    Outgrowing Addy Impulses: How Adderall Addiction Can Stunt Your Mental Growth, Trigger Impulse Buys, and Leave You with an Unused Peloton

    If you’ve ever found yourself scrolling Amazon at 2am with a cart full of impulse buys—whether it’s washi tape, fitness equipment, or something truly unhinged—this episode is for you.In today’s episode of the Addy Free Podcast, I unpack a habit that was intensified by Adderall use and that I continue to work through in my Adderall addiction recovery: impulsive shopping and impulse control issues.But this conversation goes far deeper than spending money. We explore how stimulant medication impacts impulse control, emotional regulation, and brain development, and how trauma and early coping patterns can be amplified by Adderall and other ADHD stimulant medications.In this episode, I break down:How Adderall worsened my impulse controlThe connection between childhood trauma, ADHD, and impulsive behaviorsPractical tools I use now in recovery (including the 24-hour rule, movement-based regulation, and pause practices)How to stop shaming yourself and start practicing self-compassion in recoveryThis episode isn’t just about breaking bad habits—it’s about healing the nervous system, developing coping skills that couldn’t form while on a numbing substance, and learning how to live Addy Free with awareness, grace, and intention.Resource links:https://boardwalkrecoverycenter.com/how-addiction-stunts-emotional-growth/https://lakesidemilam.com/blog/emotional-maturity/https://recovery.com/resources/addiction-and-arrested-development/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3260977/https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0925492724000830https://brcrecovery.com/makana-path/

  17. 16

    Author R.L. Kramer on Hocus Focus: Growing Up with ADD and Its Medications

    In this month's episode, I sit down with R.L. Kramer, author of Hocus Focus, to explore his raw, eye-opening journey of being prescribed Adderall and Dexedrine from age seven—and how what began as treatment for ADD turned into a decades-long struggle with stimulant addiction, identity loss, and mental health challenges.Kramer opens up about:The real benefits and long-term risks of ADHD stimulant medicationsHow Adderall and Dexedrine dependency impacts the brain, body, and sense of selfThe mental and physical realities of stimulant withdrawalHow childhood trauma and an unconventional upbringing shaped his relationship with medicationHolistic alternatives for focus and regulation, including diet, exercise, meditation, and plant-based toolsHis path toward healing, self-acceptance, and sustainable focus without stimulantsThis conversation goes beyond a personal recovery story—it’s a powerful discussion on pharmaceutical dependence, mental health, and reclaiming clarity without relying on stimulants.If you’re navigating ADHD, ADD, Adderall addiction, stimulant withdrawal, or searching for natural ways to improve focus and mental clarity, this episode offers insight, validation, and hope.

  18. 15

    I Don't Take Adderall or Vyvanse- How Identity Shifts Can Keep You from Relapsing

    In this solo episode, I dive deep into the moment I truly realized Adderall no longer worked for me—and how that revelation became the key to my recovery. I share how shifting my identity from someone who needed Adderall to someone who simply doesn’t take it rewired my mindset and freed me from the cycle of dependency.This concept, known as identity-based habits, is backed by neuroscience and psychology, and it was the game-changer I didn’t even know I was using. If you’re struggling to quit, this episode will help you rethink your approach and give you a new way to break free.

  19. 14

    Supporting Your Body's Recovery After Addy: How Chiropractic Care Can Help

    In this episode, we explore how chiropractic care can support Adderall and Vyvanse recovery by helping regulate the nervous system after stimulant use.Dr. Liv and Dr. Devin explain how nervous system imbalance contributes to anxiety, depression, brain fog, focus issues, digestion problems, and chronic stress—common symptoms during stimulant withdrawal and long-term ADHD medication recovery.If you’re learning how to heal after Adderall, this episode introduces a drug-free nervous system regulation tool to support your Addy Free recovery journey.

  20. 13

    Choosing Therapy Over Quick Fixes: Hanna Perkins School’s Take on Building Adult Resilience Holistically

    In this parent-focused episode of the Addy Free Podcast, I speak with Dr. Kimberly Bell, child psychologist and Director of the Hanna Perkins Center for Child Development, about why so many parents feel pressured to medicate their children when school becomes challenging.Dr. Bell explains how today’s education system often turns to ADHD medication and behavioral labels before fully understanding a child’s emotional development, family dynamics, and individual needs. She shares how labels can unintentionally shape a child’s identity and lead to self-limiting beliefs that follow them into adolescence and adulthood.In this episode, parents will learn:Why schools often recommend ADHD medication firstWhat parents should consider before medicating their childHow emotional development impacts behavior and learningWhy every child needs an individualized approach, not a one-size-fits-all diagnosisHow strengthening the parent-child relationship supports resilience, confidence, and long-term mental healthThe Hanna Perkins model and its focus on child-centered, relationship-based educationThis conversation is especially helpful for parents navigating ADHD diagnoses, school behavior concerns, learning challenges, or questions about medication alternatives—and for those seeking a more compassionate, developmentally informed path forward.

  21. 12

    There Is No Magic Pill for Motherhood: Interview with Cari Williamson, Creator of Motherboard Press

    In today’s episode, I sit down with Cari Williamson, founder of Motherboard Press, a community and business dedicated to supporting moms’ mental health, confidence, and well-being.Cari shares her personal Addy Free journey and opens up about the belief so many mothers carry—that they need ADHD stimulants like Vyvanse to juggle motherhood, entrepreneurship, and everyday life. After stepping away from stimulants, Cari discovered she could not only cope—but thrive—using the same grounded systems and tools she now teaches other moms.In this conversation, we explore:ADHD, stimulant dependency, and the pressure placed on modern mothersLetting go of perfectionism while balancing business and familyBuilding confidence through challenge instead of medicationCreating sustainable routines without relying on stimulantsGiving yourself grace while redefining productivity and successCari also shares the practical tools that support her stimulant-free life, including Life Flow, Home Flow, and the Motherboard Planner, designed to help moms stay organized without burnout.If you’re a mom navigating ADHD, Vyvanse use, stimulant recovery, or searching for healthier ways to manage life and work, this episode offers encouragement, real tools, and hope.Follow Cari’s journey at @motherboardpress and cheer her on as she completes her first—and hardest—year living Addy Free.

  22. 11

    Janet's Journey to Becoming Addy Free (Part I): Interviewed by Jay Oliva

    In this episode, Janet opens up for the first time about her journey to becoming Addy Free, as she sits down with her brother and one of her biggest supporters, Jay Oliva. Janet gets vulnerable, sharing how her addiction began and what led her to hit "rock bottom." Join Janet and Jay for an honest and open conversation on a topic that’s rarely discussed: Adderall and Vyvanse addiction.

  23. 10

    Nature's Adderall - An interview with Best 365 Labs

    In this episode, I’m joined by Dan Schmidt, co-founder of Best 365 Labs, and Dr. Steven E. Warren, M.D., Ph.D., to explore natural, science-backed alternatives to ADHD medication, anxiety treatment, and modern quick-fix health culture.We discuss how fast-paced lifestyles, chronic stress, and misdiagnosis are contributing to anxiety, burnout, and stimulant dependency—and how targeted supplements can support focus, memory, mental energy, and nervous system regulation without relying solely on prescription medication.Dr. Warren explains:Why coming off medications like ADHD stimulants can disrupt metabolism, energy, and mental healthHow anxiety is often misdiagnosed as ADHD—leading to inappropriate treatmentThe limitations doctors face due to insurance-driven healthcare systemsWhy society is addicted to quick fixes instead of long-term healingThe importance of slowing down, self-education, and taking ownership of your healthWe also break down one of Best 365 Labs’ clinically supported ADHD supplements and the key ingredient that sets it apart from typical focus formulas.This episode is for anyone questioning medication dependency, struggling with anxiety or ADHD symptoms, or looking for natural tools to support focus and mental clarity while living Addy Free.Support the show:Use code ADDYFREE at checkout for 10% off your first purchase at Best 365 Labs.

  24. 9

    Food Freedom Living Addy Free- Interview with Laney Feighan, RD and Eating Disorder Specialist

    In this episode, we discuss: Laney's journey with disordered eating after gaining weight from stopping Vyvanse, and why she decided to make a change. The importance of reframing our mindset around food. Why weight gain shouldn't deter you from discontinuing stimulants. Actionable tools to maintain a healthy mindset during your body's recovery phase after stopping stimulants.

  25. 8

    Nothin' Like Ruining Your Sunday with Binge Drinking and an Addy - Interview with Comedian and Viral Sensation, Sara Huntington

    In this episode with Sara, In this episode of the Addy Free Podcast, we sit down with a stand-up comedian and viral Instagram and TikTok creator to talk openly about her experience with Adderall use, dependency, and quitting stimulant medication.After going viral for joking about her former Adderall use and why she quit, Sara shares the deeper story behind her decision to get off the drug—and how her life and career changed afterward.In this conversation, we explore:When and why she was prescribed AdderallThe link between comedy, creativity, and addictive personalitiesThe fear that she couldn’t succeed as a comedian without AdderallWhat really happened after quitting Adderall and breaking destructive patternsHow living Addy Free led to improved mental health, clarity, confidence, and viral successThis episode is for anyone questioning their relationship with Adderall or other stimulant medications, worried they can’t perform, create, or succeed without them, or looking for real-life stories of thriving after quitting Adderall.Sara’s story proves that success, creativity, and joy don’t come from a prescription—they come from presence, healing, and living Addy Free.

  26. 7

    "It's Literally Meth" - An Interview with Ricki Friedman, Motivational Speaker, Creative Entrepreneur, and Top100 Podcaster

    Ricki's journey in becoming Addy Free, from receiving a stimulant prescription at age 7 to discontinuing the medication at age 35, serves as a compelling illustration of the lasting impact Adderall and Vyvanse have on the body, mind, and soul. In this episode, we discuss all the issues that Ricki faced while taking Adderall and Vyvanse throughout her 28-year medication journey: - Unrealistic body image - Disconnection with others - Inability to process emotions - Impacts on the nervous system - Addictions that have followed Now that Ricki is living Addy Free, she's able to come home to herself and rediscover who she is without the drug. I hope this episode shares as inspiration to all that it's never too late to walk away from something that is no longer serving you!

  27. 6

    Interview with a Thriving Addy Free Community Member - Anne Oliphant

    In this powerful episode, we share the story of Anne Oliphant, a mother of three from South Carolina, and her journey through Adderall addiction and recovery.Anne opens up about how her Adderall use began during her school years, how dependency slowly took hold, and the moment she realized the medication she relied on for control was actually worsening her anxiety, perfectionism, and mental fog. What she once believed helped her function ultimately led to unhealthy habits, emotional exhaustion, and cognitive burnout.In this episode, Anne shares:How Adderall addiction developed over timeThe link between anxiety, perfectionism, and stimulant dependencyThe mental and physical toll of long-term stimulant useThe challenges of getting off Adderall and navigating early recoveryHow sobriety brought clarity, presence, and emotional stabilityWhy vulnerability and honesty are essential to long-term recoveryAnne’s story is a reminder that stimulant addiction can affect anyone—and that healing is possible. Her journey offers hope, strength, and reassurance to anyone struggling with Adderall dependency, anxiety, or perfectionism, especially mothers trying to hold it all together.If you’re questioning your relationship with ADHD medication or searching for inspiration in stimulant recovery, this episode will leave you feeling seen and encouraged.

  28. 5

    An Interview with my Therapist from Rehab, Kenneth Dobbins M.Ed., Ed.S., LPS

    In this episode of the Addy (Adderall) Free Podcast, I sit down with Kenneth Dobbins, the therapist who supported me during rehab. Kenneth is a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Austin, Texas, specializing in stimulant addiction, Adderall dependency, Vyvanse recovery, and trauma-informed addiction treatment.With a unique background in collegiate football coaching, Kenneth brings a grounded, person-centered approach to therapy, using trauma-focused CBT, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and EMDR to help clients heal the root causes of addiction—not just the symptoms.Together, we have an honest conversation about:Adderall and Vyvanse addictionLetting go of shame after stimulant dependencyHow to cope, focus, and function without ADHD stimulant medicationTherapy modalities that support long-term stimulant recoveryWhy community, connection, and presence are critical to staying sober from stimulantsThis episode is for anyone questioning their relationship with ADHD medication, struggling with Adderall or Vyvanse dependence, or looking for hope and tools to build a life beyond stimulants.

  29. 4

    An Interview with my Therapist from Rehab, Kenneth Dobbins M.Ed., Ed.S., LPS

    In this interview, I'm excited to welcome Kenneth Dobbins, my therapist from Rehab. Based in Austin, TX, Kenneth is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in addiction and recovery. With a background in collegiate football coaching, he employs trauma-focused CBT, IFS, and EMDR in his therapy practice, focusing on a person-centered, trauma-informed approach. In this episode, we discuss various topics related to stimulant addiction, including overcoming shame, coping without Adderall and Vyvanse, types of therapy to consider, and the role of community and connection in maintaining sobriety from stimulants. Enjoy!

  30. 3

    Kimberly Thompson, Founder of White Flag Recovery Yoga, on how she uses yoga and the cognitive approach of the 12 Steps to discover and discard the trauma our bodies develop in our addictions

    Kimberly's White Flag Yoga practice is dedicated to rekindling our connection with the central nervous system through purposeful movement. By doing so, it empowers individuals to confront trauma and unearth their authentic selves. This holistic approach not only aids in navigating the repercussions of substances like Adderall and Vyvanse, which directly affect the central nervous system, but also facilitates personal growth through a blend of movement, meditation, and insights drawn from the cognitive strategies of the 12 steps. I wholeheartedly advocate for integrating yoga into your routine, whether through Kimberly's specialized practice or attending basic classes at your local YMCA. Embracing this practice can lead to profound discoveries within yourself, enriching your mind-body connection in unexpected ways. I hope Kimberly's personal story and practice inspires you to try yoga as a healthy way to thrive without Adderall and Vyvanse! 

  31. 2

    Beau Payne, published author, keynote speaker, recovery coach, and host of The Beau Payne Show on how his stimulant use led to a meth addiction and how he is now Addy AND Meth free

    In this powerful episode of the Addy Free Podcast, I sit down with Beau Payne—published author, keynote speaker, recovery coach, mental health advocate, and host of The Beau Payne Show Podcast—to explore the dangerous progression of Adderall addiction and stimulant tolerance.Beau shares how developing a tolerance to prescription Adderall led him down a devastating path toward methamphetamine use, exposing the often-overlooked chemical reality that amphetamine and methamphetamine are closely related substances. While meth is far more potent, the pursuit of the original “focus” or high from Adderall can escalate when tolerance sets in.In this episode, we discuss:The link between Adderall addiction and methamphetamineHow stimulant tolerance increases risk-taking behaviorThe role of childhood trauma in substance useDoctor shopping, incarceration, and the consequences of untreated addictionHow Beau rebuilt his life through recovery, service, vulnerability, and purposeThis conversation is essential listening for anyone questioning their relationship with ADHD stimulant medications, navigating stimulant recovery, or seeking hope beyond prescription amphetamines.

  32. 1

    Perrin White from Breathe Well Be Well on her experience with Adderall addiction and how she discovered her solution to fatigue through her new formed practice

    About BWBW Breathe Well Be Well’s mission is to inform, empower, and support clients through their breath, movement, and thought patterns utilizing myofunctional therapy, breathwork, meaningful movement, and meditation practices. Combining both her professional and personal background, founder Perrin White loves most helping clients find their deepest, truest breath through better learning about their own bodies and what it is capable of! Breathe Well Be Well provides support for everything from anxiety, tongue ties, tongue thrust, and sleep apnea until strengthening muscles in the orofacial complex, breathing re-education, and healing through myofunctional therapy, breathwork, meditation, and the lens of curiosity over criticism.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Addy Free is a way of life—one no longer dependent on ADHD stimulant medication, including Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, and beyond.This podcast exists to raise awareness that ADHD medication addiction and dependency are real, that you are not alone, and that thriving without stimulants is possible.Each month, you’ll hear honest conversations with community members, professionals, and host Janet Oliva, sharing real stories, tools, and resources to support your journey.This podcast is here to provide clarity, strength, and hope to help you stay on the Addy Free path.

HOSTED BY

Janet Oliva

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