Have A Seat with Manny Rodriguez and Guests

In this episode of Fact or Fiction, Rory Hunter, LMFT, LPCC breaks down the Pink Cloud — the euphoric phase of early recovery where sobriety feels effortless… until it doesn’t. We separate fact from fiction by exploring the neurobiology of addiction recovery, including dopamine rebound, serotonin repair, neuroplasticity, and why the Pink Cloud is real, temporary, and often followed by PAWS (Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome). Designed for gay men, the LGBTQ+ community, and mental health professionals, this episode explains relapse risk, why the first year of recovery is critical, and how medication-assisted treatment (MAT), therapy, and structure can support long-term healing. Understanding what’s happening in the brain isn’t just helpful — it can be lifesaving.

In this episode of Fact or Fiction, Rory Hunter, LMFT, LPCC breaks down one of the most confusing and misunderstood phases of early recovery: the Pink Cloud. That euphoric rush where sobriety feels effortless, life feels bright, and everything finally makes sense — until it doesn’t. We explore the neuroscience of addiction recovery, unpacking how dopamine rebound, serotonin repair, and neuroplasticity create the Pink Cloud, and why its inevitable fade can leave people vulnerable to relapse, PAWS (Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome), anxiety, and depression. Whether you’re a gay man, part of the LGBTQ+ community, or a mental health professional supporting clients in recovery, this episode explains why the Pink Cloud isn’t a cure — it’s a phase. Understanding what’s happening in the brain can help you build structure, lean into support, and stay grounded when recovery gets real. Knowledge isn’t just power here — it can be lifesaving.

In this powerful episode of Have A Seat, Manny Rodriguez sits down with Scott Fowler, a former Broadway and film dancer whose career took him from working with the greats to losing himself to addiction — and then rebuilding a life rooted in sobriety, purpose, and mentorship. Scott shares his journey through early success, substance use, career collapse, intervention, and recovery, including the pivotal moment that ended his Broadway career and the long road back to himself. This conversation is an honest look at addiction in the performing arts, recovery in the LGBTQ+ community, and what it means to stay for the whole show. Today, Scott travels the country mentoring young dancers, proving that creative life after sobriety is not only possible — it can be richer, deeper, and more meaningful. If you’re a gay man, part of the LGBTQ+ community, a mental health professional, or a creative questioning whether recovery means the end of your dreams, this episode offers hope, truth, and hard-earned wisdom. This is a story about resilience, reinvention, and choosing faith over fear — again and again. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLZhtH6UcCkz7zPindqs1nu2e-RLw3Hs3 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLZhtH6UcCkyCdAqpodEzlWcDhZsTNvbA https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLZhtH6UcCkxudleLuX4AcfoNCtRvqEub https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLZhtH6UcCkz7zPindqs1nu2e-RLw3Hs3 www.lafuentehollywood.com

Is Dry January actually helpful — or just another wellness trend wrapped in shame? In this episode of Fact or Fiction, Rory Hunter, LMFT LPCC breaks down the truths and myths around Dry January, harm reduction, and what changing your relationship with alcohol can look like in the LGBTQ+ community. From unpacking why queer spaces have historically centered around drinking, to explaining how harm reduction approaches to recovery meet people where they are, this conversation offers clarity without judgment — whether you’re sober, curious, or somewhere in between. If you’re a gay man, part of the LGBTQ+ community, or a mental health professional supporting clients navigating alcohol use, this episode explores why taking a break from drinking can be valuable — and when stopping suddenly may require medical support. Dry January isn’t a test, a diagnosis, or a lifelong commitment. It’s an invitation to pause, notice, and reflect. And if alcohol use is starting to feel concerning, La Fuente Hollywood Treatment Center offers queer-affirming care, including medically supervised detox and comprehensive treatment options. You don’t have to figure this out alone.

Welcome to Have A Seat and our first conversation of the year: The Real Reset. Not the kind built on pressure, perfection, or pretending everything’s fine — but an honest reset, rooted in truth, accountability, community, and healing. In this episode, Manny Rodriguez reflects on what this space has always stood for: real conversations about addiction, mental health, and the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ people. From naming systemic failures in LGBTQ+ treatment, to honoring resilience, survival, and joy, this is about remembering who we are and why community has always been our greatest strength. At a time when LGBTQ+ rights, safety, and dignity are once again under threat, The Real Reset is a call to choose connection over isolation, history over fear, and the long game over quick fixes. Whether you’re a gay man, part of the LGBTQ+ community, a mental health professional, clinician, ally, or someone quietly searching for clarity, there’s space for you here. This year, we don’t erase the past — we build on it. Pull up a chair. Take a breath. Stay connected. This is Have A Seat.

What happens when religion collides with shame, addiction, and redemption? In this episode, Manny Rodriguez sits down with actor, artist and author Sean Hemeon, who grew up gay in a Mormon household and was asked by his mother if he had AIDS when he came out to her. Sean spiraled into drug addiction and federal trafficking. He shares his journey from the depths of addiction to sobriety, his unlikely role working with the feds, the powerful healing of his relationship with his mother and his thriving life. This conversation explores LGBTQ+ identity, addiction recovery, family reconciliation, and the resilience of the human spirit. www.seanhemeon.com Instagram: sean_hemeon

🌈 From Prison to Purpose to Pageant Winner | Have A Seat Podcast 🌈 In this episode, host Manny Rodriguez sits down with Anil Patel—better known as Chanelta—to share his remarkable journey from incarceration to being crowned as an Ms. Sobriety World. Once a promising top university graduate, Anil’s path took an unexpected turn that led him to prison. But through resilience, addiction recovery, and a commitment to serving others, he transformed his story into one of purpose and triumph. This conversation dives into mental health, the challenges of LGBTQ+ visibility, and how finding meaning in service can turn adversity into strength. ✨ Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more powerful stories on LGBTQ+ recovery, resilience, and community. #LGBTQ #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealth #Resilience #RedemptionStory #HaveASeatPodcast #PageantWinner

Calling on Our LGBTQ+ Allies – In this powerful episode of Have a Seat, host Manny Rodriguez delivers a direct challenge to the mental health and addiction treatment community: Where are you when LGBTQ+ lives are under attack? From the elimination of the National LGBTQ+ Suicide Prevention Hotline to the rising wave of anti-trans policies, Manny calls out the silence of providers who once actively sought to serve this community. He reflects on the history of “LGBTQ tracks” in treatment programs, the trainings and advocacy that built bridges, and the pressing need for allies to speak out—loudly and now. This episode is a rallying cry for ethical responsibility, solidarity, and real action in defense of LGBTQ+ lives. The Trevor Project https://www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help/ Please reach out to The Trevor Project for help and support @ivehaditpodcast Full episode with attack on LGBTQ+ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sW3GdAD7mkk We love Jennifer and Angie www.lafuentehollywod.com

🌈 Welcome to "Have a Seat" – the podcast that dives deep into addiction, mental health, and the unique experiences of the LGBTQ+ community. Hosted by Manny Rodriguez, a veteran in LGBTQ+ advocacy, we explore topics that matter: from minority stress to family rejection, trauma, and navigating recovery. In this episode, Manny breaks down what makes LGBTQ+ addiction different with 6 powerful insights. Learn how societal pressures, community-specific challenges, and healthcare discrimination shape addiction within our community—and how affirming, culturally competent care can make all the difference. If you're an LGBTQ+ individual, a mental health professional, or an ally, this podcast is for you. 💡 Subscribe for expert advice, real stories, and resources to support recovery and wellness. 📞 Need help? Call La Fuente Hollywood Treatment Center at 323.464.2947—because you’re not alone. 🎁 6 Reasons Why Choosing an LGBTQ+ Treatment Center Matters" link: https://youtu.be/GmFAKASpRBE #LGBTQAddiction #MentalHealth #LGBTQSupport #AddictionRecovery #GayMen #LGBTQCommunity

La Fuente Clinical Director Rory Hunter, LMFT and Manny Rodriguez discuss how sex positivity has helped many queer people feel proud of who they are and how they love. However, when this open embrace of sex mixes with drug use — especially crystal meth — that same freedom can become risky for people in recovery. Some may trade one addiction for another, replacing drugs with compulsive sex. This podcast explores how queer communities can remain sex-positive while also creating safer, more supportive paths to healing. View Part One of SEX METH and The Dangers of Cross Addiction: https://youtu.be/aUqyfttwW1A Success vs Failure in LGBTQ Drug Rehab: https://youtu.be/IbkZ7GHLdME

In this episode of Have A Seat, we explore the complex intersection of chemsex, sex positivity, cross addiction, and recovery in the LGBTQ+ community. La Fuente Hollywood Treatment Center Clinical Director-Rory Hunter, LMFT delves into the addictive nature of chemsex and its impact on mental health, while highlighting the importance of embracing sex positivity to reduce stigma and promote healthier relationships with intimacy. Whether you’re new to recovery, a gay man navigating this journey, a concerned parent, or a therapist seeking insights, this discussion offers actionable strategies for fostering safer and more supportive recovery environments. Join us for a conversation that balances compassion, lived experience, and data-driven advocacy. https://youtu.be/q3dg3kSkW7s

"Drag Race star Jason De Puy aka Salina EsTitties opens up about the struggles behind their success, including losing his mom to cancer, a partner’s relapse, and rebuilding after personal and professional turmoil. Discover how they overcame it all to reclaim their identity, health, and purpose—and how therapy and self-reflection were key to their inspiring transformation. Perfect for those seeking strength in recovery, LGBTQ support, and fans of Drag Race."

"Drag Race star Jason De Puy aka Salina EsTitties opens up about the struggles behind their success, including losing their mom to cancer, a partner’s relapse, and rebuilding after personal and professional turmoil. Discover how they overcame it all to reclaim their identity, health, and purpose—and how therapy and self-reflection were key to their inspiring transformation. Perfect for those seeking strength in recovery, LGBTQ support, and fans of Drag Race." #drugaddictionrecovery #rupaulsdragrace #soberlife https://youtu.be/XXfXC8vSPRs

Discover the inspiring recovery journey of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 15 alum Jason De Puy, aka Salina EsTitties, who hit rock bottom with drugs and alcohol before getting sober at just 21. In this powerful HAVE A SEAT interview manny Rodriguez Jason opens up about his path to sobriety, proving that recovery is possible at any age with hard work, determination, and a commitment to service. Whether you’re a fan of Drag Race, part of the LGBTQ+ recovery community, or a mental health professional, this story is a must-watch testament to resilience and transformation. #DragRace #Recovery #lgbtq

Discover the inspiring recovery journey of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 15 alum Jason De Puy, aka Salina EsTitties, who hit rock bottom with drugs and alcohol before getting sober at just 21. In this powerful interview, Jason opens up about his path to sobriety, proving that recovery is possible at any age with hard work, determination, and a commitment to service. Whether you're a fan of Drag Race, part of the LGBTQ+ recovery community, or a mental health professional, this story is a must-watch testament to resilience and transformation. #DragRace #Recovery #lgbtq https://www.youtube.com/@mannyrodriguez5528/playlists https://www.youtube.com/@UCssJ14-wTmL6mrhHKMJYUmQ https://www.youtube.com/@UCssJ14-wTmL6mrhHKMJYUmQ

Understanding drug use in the Gay LGBTQ+ community involves challenging stereotypes and examining the diverse realities of substance use within this population. In this video, we explore the data on drugs of choice among LGBTQ+ individuals, dispelling the myth that methamphetamine dominates across the board. While 53% of clients in our program struggle with crystal meth use, alcohol use represents a significant 27%, and 4% deal with opiate addiction. These insights highlight the need for stigma-free, inclusive treatment approaches that address the unique challenges of queer individuals, including those navigating chemsex-related issues or less common substance dependencies. Join us as we discuss the power of unified treatment models that foster healing and understanding for all. www.lafuentehollywood.com see full episode here: https://youtu.be/IbkZ7GHLdME?si=0WSbWdwNiK6Def2A https://youtu.be/q3dg3kSkW7s?si=gCiuwR2S4xpGg8AL

La Fuente Hollywood Treatment Center is proud to present: “Have A Seat” with Manny Rodriguez and Guests. “Have A Seat” is more than just a podcast—it’s a platform for deep exploration and intimate conversations. Together, we’ll delve into the unique ways the LGBTQ community is affected by addiction, mental health challenges, and the evolving political landscape. We’ll welcome leaders and experts from within and beyond the LGBTQ addiction and mental health space. These guests will share their wealth of experience, knowledge, and personal stories, offering insights that can help us create healthier, more inclusive communities. Equally important are the stories of recovery—stories that remind us of our shared humanity and the resilience of the human spirit. By celebrating these journeys, we aim to inspire listeners to reconnect with their own sense of purpose and possibility.

Success vs. Failure in LGBTQ Drug Rehab? There is a lack of outcome data in the addiction medicine field, combined with the lack of data on the LGBTQ+ community in general, it is unsurprisingly that there is no existing data set or metric yet available to compare our data too. Manny Rodriguez, Founder of La Fuente has been committed to providing more targeting services to LGBTQ individuals seeking treatment for addiction since 2011. Between 2020 and 2024, La Fuente Hollywood Treatment Center, an LGBTQ specialized addiction treatment program in Los Angeles California gathered outcome data on all clients who were admitted to their facility. The data focused primarily on demographic information and success/completion rates of treatment. While this information only scratches the surface. It is exciting to be able to present what La Fuente believes is the first of its kind. Rory Hunter, LMFT and La Fuente Clinical Director and Manny Rodriguez have an in-depth conversation about the findings and how the available inform will be able to educate and be utilized to improve clinical care. Click here for full video: https://youtu.be/IbkZ7GHLdME

Success vs. Failure in LGBTQ Drug Rehab? There is a lack of outcome data in the addiction medicine field, combined with the lack of data on the LGBTQ+ community in general, it is unsurprisingly that there is no existing data set or metric yet available to compare our data too. Manny Rodriguez, Founder of La Fuente has been committed to providing more targeting services to LGBTQ individuals seeking treatment for addiction since 2011. Between 2020 and 2024, La Fuente Hollywood Treatment Center, an LGBTQ specialized addiction treatment program in Los Angeles California gathered outcome data on all clients who were admitted to their facility. The data focused primarily on demographic information and success/completion rates of treatment. While this information only scratches the surface. It is exciting to be able to present what La Fuente believes is the first of its kind. Rory Hunter, LMFT and La Fuente Clinical Director and Manny Rodriguez have an in-depth conversation about the findings and how the available inform will be able to educate and be utilized to improve clinical care.

La Fuente is proud to present: “Have A Seat” with Manny Rodriguez and Guests. “Have A Seat” is more than just a podcast—it’s a platform for deep exploration and intimate conversations. Together, we’ll delve into the unique ways the LGBTQ community is affected by addiction, mental health challenges, and the evolving political landscape. We’ll welcome leaders and experts from within and beyond the LGBTQ addiction and mental health space. These guests will share their wealth of experience, knowledge, and personal stories, offering insights that can help us create healthier, more inclusive communities. Equally important are the stories of recovery—stories that remind us of our shared humanity and the resilience of the human spirit. By celebrating these journeys, we aim to inspire listeners to reconnect with their own sense of purpose and possibility. Episode 1 will be available on Tuesday, March 18 will feature guest Rory Hunter, LMFT, and La Fuente Hollywood Treatment Center’s Clinical Director. After March 18, new “Have A Seat” episodes will be posted every other Tuesday. Welcome to “Have A Seat.” Let’s get started!