Thrive While Loving an Addict | Addiction | Sobriety | Recovery | Relapse
More than 50% of American families have a loved one who is an addict or alcoholic. While resources exist for the addict, their families often suffer in silence. This podcast brings together loved ones and family members to share insights and create a community of healing. Host KL Wells provides a platform for real, raw advice from those walking the same path. Listen to vulnerable stories and discover how to address the hardships of having an addicted loved one.
Episodes
What Sits Right Beside the Worst Thing That Ever Happened to You
Healing from trauma rarely happens all at once. It unfolds over time, often in ways that are difficult to recognize while you're living through them. The journey beyond survival can be uncertain, filled with moments of growth, grief, and unexpected clarity.In Part 2 of this conversation, Jason Prokowiew returns to continue sharing his story. Building on the experiences explored in Part 1, he refle
Two Wars: One His Father Fought, One Jason Lived In
What does it take to understand a parent who hurt you?Not excuse them. Not justify what happened. Simply understand them in a way that helps make sense of wounds that have been carried for years.In this episode, KL Wells sits down with Jason Prokowiew, author of War Boys, to explore the lasting impact of addiction, generational trauma, and the possibility of finding healing through understanding.E
Running Out Of Capacity Is Not The Same As Giving Up
For years, Sherry Ehrin grieved a sister who was still alive. When her sister eventually died after decades of addiction, that grief did not end. In many ways, it began again.This conversation explores the kind of loss that families often carry quietly: the grief that accumulates through years of relapse, hope, disappointment, and difficult choices. It is a story about love, capacity, boundaries,
Drowning With Them Is Not the Same as Loving Them
What does it mean to love someone through addiction when the addiction is almost completely invisible from the outside?In this episode, KL Wells sits down with Dr. Wanda Kay, a clinician, somatic therapist, and coach who spent twenty years married to someone struggling with sex addiction while raising children, building careers, and trying to hold together a life that appeared stable to everyone a
No One Is Coming to Save You. That Is the Point.
What does it look like to grow up inside the kind of environment many families are trying to help their loved ones escape?Bill Hoopes shares what it was like to take on adult responsibility at a young age in a home shaped by addiction and mental illness. His story offers a perspective that many listeners may recognize, especially those who learned early on to care for others before learning how to
She Scared Herself Sober — and Then Found Her Purpose
In this episode of Thrive While Loving an Addict, KL Wells sits down with Lauren Fay to explore the hidden emotional landscape of addiction, particularly when it is shaped by perfectionism, secrecy, and the pressure to maintain an image. Lauren shares her experience of appearing put together on the outside while quietly struggling with alcohol and mental health challenges behind closed doors.As La
He Died Twice on the Streets Before Finding His Way Back
Episode SummaryIn this episode of Thrive While Loving an Addict, KL Wells sits down with Dr. Robb Kelly, a neuroscientist and addiction specialist, to explore what it means to understand addiction as a disease rather than a moral failure. Dr. Kelly shares his personal journey from early exposure to alcohol in childhood to losing his family, home, and stability, and eventually living on the streets
She Grew Up With Two Alcoholic Fathers — Here’s What Healed Her
Episode SummaryIn this episode of Thrive While Loving an Addict, KL Wells sits down with Dawn Jackson, a nurse, grief recovery specialist, and author, to explore what happens when grief goes unnamed for years. Dawn shares her experience growing up with both a biological father and a stepfather struggling with alcoholism, and how those early environments shaped what felt normal, safe, and familiar.
You're Not Stuck — You're Still Following Rules That Once Kept You Safe: Breaking Free from Inherited Patterns
Episode SummaryIn this episode of Thrive While Loving an Addict, producer Steve Cary joins host KL Wells to explore how deeply rooted patterns shape the way we think, respond, and relate to others. Many of these patterns begin in childhood as survival strategies within family systems affected by addiction, chaos, or emotional unpredictability.KL reflects on how growing up with a mother struggling
What a Death Doula Learned About Loving Someone You Can’t Save
Episode SummaryIn this powerful conversation, host KL Wells sits down with Paul Simard, a death doula, TED Talk speaker, and men’s wellness coach, to explore how our relationship with grief, loss, and mortality shapes the way we love. Drawing from his personal journey through crisis and transformation, Paul shares how facing life’s hardest realities can open the door to deeper compassion, connecti
“Nothing Is Working” Usually Means You’re Fighting the Wrong Battle
Episode SummaryIn this episode, podcast producer Steve Cary joins host KL Wells for an honest and reflective conversation about what it means to thrive while loving someone in active addiction. KL shares lessons from her 20-year journey with her son Sam, including his nearly three years of sustained recovery. Together, they explore the perspective that shaped KL’s healing path: the belief that lif
Why Healing Yourself Is the First Step to Breaking Generational Cycles of Shame – Part 2
Episode SummaryIn Part 2 of this compassionate conversation, host KL Wells continues her dialogue with Denise Frenette on what it truly means to heal while loving someone with addiction. Together, they explore how forgiveness, boundaries, and emotional honesty can exist without minimizing harm or excusing destructive behavior.Denise reflects on her own journey of reconciling love for her father wi
Why Healing Yourself Is the First Step to Breaking Generational Cycles of Shame
Episode SummaryIn this powerful episode, host KL Wells sits down with Denise Frenette, a Canadian spiritual synergist, life coach, and author of the newly released book, More. Denise opens up about the birthing process of her book and the profound realization that she could not teach others about manifestation and habit-breaking without first confronting her own origin story.Denise shares the raw
How to Survive the Holiday Grief Spiral When Addiction Has Taken Someone
In this deeply moving and honest episode, host KL Wells is joined by Jim Horton, a father who tragically lost his 19-year-old son, Zach, to an opiate addiction. Recorded during the holiday season, a particularly challenging time for many, this conversation offers a raw and authentic look at the rollercoaster ride of grief. Jim shares his personal story, from the initial shock and all-consuming pai
She Left Everything Behind - and Found What Was Missing
In this episode, host KL Wells welcomes Pamela Tosh, an energy healer and yoga teacher joining us from Cape Town, South Africa. Pamela shares her incredible story of resilience and transformation, from a childhood marked by emotional abuse and early struggles with addiction to a profound spiritual awakening in the Himalayas. She recounts how her journey to India for yoga teacher training became th
He Ran Antarctica Twice. His Wife's Addiction Was Still Harder.
In this powerful episode, host KL Wells welcomes the extraordinary Mike Pierce, also known as "Antarctic Mike." Mike shares his incredible life story, from conquering the Antarctic Ice Marathon to navigating the profound challenges of his late wife Angela's 36-year battle with chronic pain and opioid addiction. This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, offering a raw and h
The Moment She Realized Her Son’s Addiction Wasn’t Her Failure
In this powerful and deeply personal episode, host KL Wells sits down with fellow podcaster Krista Zaft to explore the generational cycles of addiction and the profound healing that comes from breaking them. Krista shares her story of growing up with an alcoholic father, unconsciously repeating familiar patterns in her own marriage, and facing one of the biggest challenges of her life: her son's a
Childhood Trauma Set the Stage. Then Addiction Arrived.
In this deeply moving episode, host KL Wells is joined by Dr. Janelle Martin, a functional medicine doctor and counselor from Houston. Dr. Martin shares the raw and transformative story of her daughter's journey through addiction and her own parallel path to recovery. She opens up about the hidden family traumas—divorce, parental alienation, and abuse—that served as the backdrop for her daughter's
Breaking Free from the Lie: How to Heal Past Trauma and Unlock Future Hope
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Thrive While Loving an Addict, host KL Wells welcomes author and cycle-breaker Wendy B. Correa to discuss her extraordinary journey from childhood trauma to profound healing.Wendy shares the genesis of her complex PTSD and anxiety, starting with the traumatic death of her father and the subsequent years spent walking on eggshells with an alcoholic an
Guilt Pushes You Forward. Shame Just Holds You Down.
In this episode of Thrive, host KL Wells sits down with Ian Vassilaros—a licensed therapist, business consultant, and coach—to explore the destructive power of shame and its hidden role in addiction and disconnection. Ian shares his professional journey into the heart of shame, unpacking how this often-overlooked emotion corrodes self-worth and drives human suffering.Listeners will learn the criti
Mother & Son: How Healing Herself Saved His Life: A 20‑Year Journey From Pain to Purpose
In this powerful third installment of our series with KL Wells, host Steve Cary explores KL’s deeply personal 20-year journey of loving her son, Sam, through the grips of addiction. Timed with National Sobriety Month, this conversation includes a moving update on Sam’s recovery and a heartfelt message of hope he recently wrote.KL shares her emotional transformation—from trying to “fix” her son to
From Grief to Purpose: A Sister’s Journey Through Addiction, Loss, and Recovery with Amanda Bourque
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Voices InCourage: Thrive While Loving an Addict, host KL Wells sits down with Amanda Bourque—certified addiction recovery coach and author of Living in My Sister's Shadow. Amanda opens up about her harrowing experience as the sister of an addict, navigating the emotional turmoil of watching her younger sister Jenna battle heroin and fentanyl addictio
Challenging Addiction: Emerging Approaches with Dr. Amy Swift
Episode Summary:In this insightful episode, host KL Wells sits down with Dr. Amy Swift, Deputy Chief Medical Officer at Silver Hill Hospital in New Canaan, Connecticut. A leading addiction specialist, Dr. Swift brings a holistic approach to mental health, addiction, and trauma care. Together, they discuss the realities of addiction treatment, the critical role of families, and how emerging approac
From Trauma to Triumph: A Journey of Recovery and Self-Discovery with Leslie Johansen Nack
In this powerful episode, host KL Wells sits down with Leslie Johansen Nack—award-winning author and advocate—as she prepares to launch her third book on addiction and recovery. Leslie opens up about her deeply personal journey, from a childhood marked by abuse and family dysfunction to overcoming addiction and creating a life rooted in purpose and advocacy. Together, they explore the importance o
Redefining Self-Defense: Elicia Ybarra on Taking Back Your Life with 'Pretty Hands Hard Punches'
Host KL Wells welcomes Elicia Ybarra, founder of Pretty Hands Hard Punches, for a powerful conversation about resilience, healing, and empowerment. Drawing from her upbringing in a family affected by addiction, Elicia shares how martial arts became her refuge and ultimately her life’s passion. She opens up about navigating postpartum depression, ADHD, and trauma, and how therapy, boundary-setting,
From Grief to Purpose: A Father's Journey Through Loss and Advocacy with Doug Ballinger
In this episode of Thrive While Loving an Addict, host KL Wells welcomes Doug Ballinger—author, advocate, podcaster, and end-of-life doula. Doug shares his deeply personal journey after losing his son Logan to a fentanyl overdose. Through candid conversation, Doug discusses how grief propelled him into advocacy with the Hope Movement Coalition, his experiences with addiction and recovery, and his
Thriving Not Just Surviving: Navigating Addiction and Family Healing featuring David Hampton
In this episode of Thrive While Loving an Addict, host KL Wells welcomes David Hampton, a certified professional recovery coach, author, and speaker from Tennessee. Drawing on his extensive experience in addiction recovery and family support, David joins KL for a candid conversation about the realities families face when a loved one struggles with substance use disorder. Together, they explore the
From Why to How: Debbie Simmons on Transforming Grief into a Thriving Legacy
In this heartfelt episode of Thrive While Loving an Addict, host KL Wells sits down with Debbie Simmons—author, founder, and resilient mother of nine adopted children from the foster care system. Debbie shares her extraordinary journey through infertility, profound loss, and the challenges of raising children with traumatic backgrounds.Together, they explore the power of resilience, faith, and th
Shame & Addiction: Breaking the Cycle with Duane Osterlind
In this episode of Thrive While Loving an Addict, host KL Wells reconnects with Duane Osterlind, LMFT, founder of The Addicted Mind podcast and expert in addiction recovery and men's mental health.After four years since their last conversation, KL and Duane dive deep into their journeys—KL’s work in mental health and her TED Talk, and Duane’s transition from the film industry to psychology. Togeth
A New Approach to Addiction and Trauma with Dr. Fredric Schiffer
In this episode of Thrive While Loving an Addict, host KL Wells welcomes Dr. Fredric Schiffer, a Harvard-affiliated expert on trauma and addiction. Dr. Schiffer shares his fascinating work on dual brain psychology and its applications in treating various mental health issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addiction. He discusses his journey into this field, insights from his res
Understanding Addiction: Separating the Person from the Disease with Jim Horton
In this powerful episode, host KL Wells sits down with Jim Horton, who shares his transformative experience in Utah and opens up about his deeply personal journey through grief and addiction. Jim discusses the critical role of support systems in overcoming addiction, the evolving societal perceptions of cancer versus substance use disorder, and the unique challenges faced in recovery. Together, th
From Addiction to Advocacy: Fighting Substance Use Disorder with Natasha Davis and Haley Sample
In this episode of Thrive While Loving an Addict, host KL Wells interviews Natasha Davis and Haley Sample, best friends of 25 years who have both personally navigated addiction and substance use disorder. Now working on the treatment side at Her Harbor in Fresno, they focus on specialized addiction treatment for women. Natasha and Haley share their personal journeys, insights on recovery, and comp
Transforming Pain into Purpose: KL Wells on Her Journey with Son Sam's Addiction
In this continuation of our conversation with KL Wells, host Steve Cary dives deeper into the challenges and triumphs of navigating life alongside a loved one battling addiction. Picking up from Part 1, "Thriving Amidst Chaos: KL Wells on Loving Someone with Addiction," this episode explores KL's personal journey as her son, Sam, faces the trials of addiction and recovery. KL shares her insights o
Boundaries and Love: Ian Cron on Parenting a Child in Recovery
In this powerful episode, host KL Wells sits down with Ian Morgan Cron, bestselling author, Enneagram expert, and host of the Typology Podcast, to explore the transformative power of the Twelve Steps—not just for those struggling with addiction, but for anyone seeking personal growth, healing, and a deeper spiritual awakening.Ian shares his deeply personal journey as a recovering alcoholic and add
Thriving Amidst Chaos: KL Wells Discusses Loving Someone with Addiction
In this podcast episode, producer and team member Steve Cary steps out from behind the scenes to host a heartfelt conversation with KL Wells, founder of Voices InCourage, about her experience as a mother navigating the complexities of loving someone struggling with addiction.KL candidly shares her deeply personal journey, highlighting her son Sam’s battle with substance use disorder, particularly
Navigating the Storm: KL Wells on Setting Boundaries for Families Affected by Addiction
In this special episode of the Voices InCourage podcast, the tables turn as host Beverly Buncher interviews KL Wells - leadership coach, emotional fitness trainer, TEDx speaker and the mother of a young man in recovery. Stepping into the guest seat, KL shares her deeply personal journey of resilience, courage, and the lessons learned while loving someone through addiction. This conversat
Supporting a Loved One in Addiction: Boundaries and Recovery with Kathy Wrenn
In this episode, host KL Wells speaks with Kathy Wrenn, a former health education teacher and current coach with BALM Family Recovery.With over 20 years of experience in education, Kathy shares her personal journey of navigating her son Tucker's substance use disorder. As the executive director of ILUME Family Recovery, she discusses the importance of family education, understanding risk factors,
Breaking the Cycle: Healing Generational Trauma and Addiction with Melissa Engle
In this episode, host KL Wells reflects on the new year and the challenges of multigenerational addiction and trauma. They introduce Melissa Engle, co-owner and executive vice president of Healing Springs Ranch, Texas, who has nearly 37 years of experience in addiction and mental health. Melissa discusses the importance of understanding trauma, epigenetics, and emotional suppression's impact on ch
From Struggle to Strength: Supporting Loved Ones in Recovery with Cathie Coe Sipe
In this episode of "Thrive While Loving an Addict," host KL Wells and guest Cathie Coe Sipe, Founder/CEO of New Each Morning, discuss the challenges and triumphs of supporting loved ones in recovery. Cathie shares her personal journey, including her first husband's battle with alcoholism and her transition from hairdresser to nonprofit leader. Emphasizing the importance of community and post-recov
Save Lives This Holiday Season – The Vital Role of Narcan and Advocacy with Dr. Rais Vohra
In this episode of "Thrive While Loving an Addict," the host KL Wells welcomes Dr. Rais Vohra, an emergency room physician and medical toxicology expert, to discuss addiction and emergency preparedness during the holiday season. They emphasize the importance of having Narcan (naloxone) available to reverse opioid overdoses and provide practical tips for navigating emergency room visits. Dr. Vohra
The Best Strategies for Supporting a Loved One in Recovery During the Holidays
In this episode, the host KL Wells engages with Beverly Buncher, founder of BALM Family Recovery, to discuss the emotional challenges families face during the holiday season when a loved one is struggling with substance use disorder. Beverly Buncher, with over 15 years of experience, shares strategies for managing emotions, setting boundaries, and providing support. Key topics include understandin
From Pain to Healing: Transforming Addiction into Connection with Melissa Engle
In this episode of "Thrive While Loving an Addict," host KL Wells welcomes Melissa Engle, co-owner and executive vice president of Healing Springs Ranch. Melissa, with nearly 40 years of experience in addiction and mental health, discusses the complexities of addiction, defining it as a "pervasive pattern of avoiding emotional pain." She emphasizes the link between trauma and addiction, advocating
Love, Limits, and Lessons: Navigating Life with an Addict with Waylon Hirst
In this episode of "Thriving While Loving an Addict," host KL Wells speaks with Waylon Hirst, spouse of sobriety coach Jen Hirst. Waylon shares his journey of supporting Jen through her struggle with alcoholism and recovery. He discusses the early signs of her addiction, the emotional challenges he faced, and the importance of setting boundaries. Waylon reflects on the personal growth he experienc
Healing the Family: How to Rebuild Trust and Connection Through Recovery with Beverly Buncher
In this episode, the host KL Wells welcomes Beverly Buncher, founder of BALM Family Recovery, and discusses the challenges families face when dealing with addiction. Beverly shares her personal journey with her husband's addiction and emphasizes the importance of family recovery and support systems. She introduces her mindfulness-based recovery program, BALM Recovery, used at Healing Springs Ranch
Breaking the Chains of Shame: A Journey to Authentic Sobriety with Meredith Eicher
In this podcast episode, the host KL Wells and guest Meredith Eicher discuss the themes of shame, guilt, judgment, and stigma surrounding substance use disorder. Meredith Eicher shares her personal journey of sobriety, detailing her early relationship with alcohol, the accumulation of shame, and the pivotal moments that led her to seek help. She emphasizes the importance of community, honesty, and
Beyond Bars: Empowering Families to Navigate Addiction and the Correctional System with Nicole Schueppert
In this episode, the host KL Wells and guest, Nicole Schueppert, a probation officer with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, discuss the challenges families face when a loved one is arrested. Nicole shares insights from her ten years of experience, highlighting the evolving, compassionate approaches within the correctional system to support individuals with substance use disorders. They emph
How Can Families Support Loved Ones Struggling with Addiction? with Rachel Graham
In this episode, the host welcomes back Rachel Graham, founder and CEO of Healing Springs, to discuss addiction and its impact on families. Rachel shares her personal journey and introduces her "ARCH" framework, which stands for Awareness, Root Cause, Change, and Heal. This model helps families support loved ones dealing with addiction by addressing underlying issues and fostering collective heali
Understanding the Family's Role in the Addiction Recovery Journey with William Moyers
In this insightful podcast episode, KL Wells welcomes William Moyers, a New York Times bestselling author and recovery advocate. They discuss addiction, recovery, and the vital role of family support. William shares his personal journey with addiction, emphasizing the importance of hope, setting boundaries, and understanding insurance coverage for treatment. He highlights the toxic nature of shame
Understanding the Complexities of Addiction and Incarceration with Kelly Misfeldt
In this episode, your host, KL Wells, shares a personal story about witnessing her son's arrest, highlighting the emotional challenges families face when a loved one is incarcerated. She introduces Kelly Misfeldt, a social worker and clinical substance abuse counselor from the Wisconsin Department of Corrections. Kelly discusses her role in overseeing treatment programs for adults in correctional
Exposing the Addiction Recovery Stigma in Healthcare with Dr. Rais Vohra
In this episode, KL Wells and Dr. Rais Vohra discuss their personal experiences and perspectives on addiction, emphasizing the need for a more compassionate and aggressive approach to treatment.They also explored the challenges and stigma surrounding substance use disorders, the importance of harm reduction, and the potential of non-pharmaceutical interventions like contingency management. Lastly
How Sobriety Can Transform Relationships and Foster Self-Care with Jen Lee Hirst
In this episode, the host, KL Wells welcomes sobriety coach Jen Lee Hurst to discuss the complexities of sobriety, self-care, and the impact of addiction on relationships. Jen shares her personal journey with alcohol abuse, her path to sobriety, and the valuable lessons she has learned. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, community support, and navigating her marriage during recovery. The
The Healing Power of Connection: Nurturing Supportive Communities for Recovery with Andrew Schultz
In this podcast episode, our host, KL Wells, a mother with personal experience in dealing with a loved one's substance use disorder, speaks with Andrew Schultz, an international speaker and entrepreneur. They discuss the critical role of supportive communities in the recovery process. Andrew shares his journey from addiction to recovery, emphasizing the importance of love, vulnerability, and commu
The Power of Living Amends After Recovery with Tucker Stine
In this episode, host KL Wells, a mother with firsthand experience, and guest Tucker Stine, a CMO and recovery advocate, discuss the complexities of rebuilding family relationships post-recovery. Tucker shares his personal journey of recovery, emphasizing the importance of patience, grace, and vulnerability.They explore the concept of "living amends," highlighting actions over words in rebuilding
Is Addiction Inherited? Can You Break the Cycle? with Andrew Schultz
In this podcast episode, Andrew Schultz, a podcaster and entrepreneur, shares his heartfelt story of addiction, recovery, and the power of family interventions. Growing up in Omaha, Nebraska, Andrew turned to substances after trauma and despite career success, he lost everything due to addiction.Influenced by his father's battle with alcoholism and subsequent recovery, Andrew eventually sought hel
What to Do When Your Spouse is an Addict with Rachel Graham
Imagine the life that you thought you were living was actually a lie as you witness your entire world unravel. Meet today’s guest, Rachel Graham, CEO and Co-founder of Healing Springs Ranch, an addiction treatment center in Tioga, Texas. In this episode, Rachel dives deep into PTSD, emotional unavailability, and the interplay between trauma, mental illness and addiction. She also shares her firsth
From Hollywood High Life to Rock Bottom: Laura Cathcart Robbins on Surviving Addiction in the Public Eye
Welcome to a deeply personal episode, featuring best-selling author and podcast host, Laura Cathcart Robbins. Her memoir, Stash, My Life In Hiding, is a testament to her resilience and authenticity. As a champion for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and a TEDx speaker, Laura's voice is a beacon of courage and wisdom. In this episode, we delve into her struggles with addiction, exploring how privil
The Brain Science Of "Change" With KL Wells
When we are in the throes of a loved one’s addiction, change can be one of the biggest obstacles that lies in the way of allowing ourselves to thrive. In today’s episode, KL Wells shares her journey of learning how critical role the brain plays in embracing real change. She shares her most unexpected lesson in dealing with her own son’s addiction simply by learning the power to say “no.” She even
How Women Thrive In Sobriety With Coach Jen Lee Hirst
In today’s Voices InCourage episode, we feature Jen Lee Hirst, a dynamic full-time working mom of two and a sobriety coach on a mission to empower women to boost confidence through a life without alcohol. Jen's journey is nothing short of inspiring – from facing two DUIs and battling intense anxiety to the point of drinking mouthwash, she found herself on the brink of a life-altering decision to g
Emotional Trauma The Power Of Resiliency With Therapist & Trauma Coach Cerita Yvonne
Embracing our emotions has incredible healing power, yet can be one of the hardest acts to accept. It doesn’t have to be that way. Meet Cerita Yvonne, trauma coach and therapist, who guides us through the process of acknowledging the validity of our emotions and embracing forgiveness in the healing process from emotional trauma. Cerita shares her recovery from emotional abuse, unveiling the powerf
Growing Up With Alcoholism With Marci Hopkins, Author Of “Chaos To Clarity”
Growing up with alcoholism in the family creates a storm many families cannot weather alone. Join us with the author of Chaos to Clarity, Marci Hopkins, who shares her story from being raised by an alcoholic mother to the chaos and clarity she found in her journey of recovery. She gives us an honest account as she recalls the effects of childhood abuse, which caused her to battle inner turmoil, fe
How To Thrive When A Loved One Relapses
Relapse is a part of the majority of an addict's journey. KL Wells opens up about her son’s relapse and how she went months with no contact. She advocates for elevating oneself above the chaos and challenges us to redefine the way we navigate life. Join her as she delves into the concept of avoiding the rabbit hole and reclaiming control over one's destiny. KL dismantles the futility of worry and
Susan Bartz Herrick On Reinventing Your Life After Losing A Son To Addiction
Experience a transformative conversation with Susan Bartz Herrick in today's episode that dives into the heartbreaking loss of her son to opioid addiction. Susan explores the 13 precursors to addiction and the profound insights into the 3 C's – cause, control, and cure – that shaped her own experiences in understanding her son's disease. Her story serves as a message of resilience, uncovering how
Unraveling Grief With Author & Grief Therapist Claire Bidwell Smith
In today’s episode, we have author, podcast host, speaker, and grief therapist Claire Bidwell Smith – a resilient woman who weathered the storm of losing both parents to cancer at a young age. Claire witnessed the loss of her mother during her freshman year of college, only later to face the death of her father senior year. With a compelling narrative spanning five books on grief, our speaker shar
Dr. Kate Lund On The Power Of Optimism
Life is a whirlwind, especially when you're a parent facing the challenges of your child’s addiction and alcoholism. But guess what? Those challenges don't define you.Embrace "The Power of Optimism" with Dr. Kate Lund as we navigate the art of seeing the positive outside of life's challenges. Learn how to foster change from the inside out and discover how to manage your stress response with the pr
Dr. Bill Crawford On Finding Clarity In The Chaos Of Addiction During The Holidays
As we navigate this year’s holiday season, Dr. Bill Crawford is back in today’s episode to share practical strategies to redefine our experience using his 5-Step Model for clarity, confidence, and purpose. In this episode, Dr. Crawford illuminates how these principles can transform our encounters, urging us to create the magic within ourselves rather than relying on external expectations. Tune in
Understanding The Mind And Brain Of Addiction
Did you know it takes at least 9 months for a brain to recover from prolonged substance abuse? Addiction is often a complex web of genetics, environment, and psychological factors. In this vulnerable episode, KL and Tucker share their personal insights and experiences as they dive deep into the mind of an addictive brain and explore the profound hold substances can have on the mindset and biology
Dr. Lynyetta Willis On The 5 PATHS Of Shifting Human Behavior
Dr. Lynyetta Willis, a trauma survivor, shares her inspiring insights of personal transformation in five key areas she calls "PATHS”: Perspective, Awareness, Tools, Healing, and Self-Empowerment. Dr. Willis challenges us to explore the stories we tell ourselves. What narratives have shaped our lives, and how can we shift our perspective? Finally, Dr. Willis drops a profound truth bomb: trauma will
Resentment To Understanding: Managing Anger When Addiction Hits Home
In the turbulent landscape of addiction, anger often emerges as an unwelcome companion. In this gripping podcast episode, host KL takes you on a deeply personal journey of transformation, where compassion triumphs over fury. KL divulges her own process of learning to let go of anger's tight grip, revealing how even the briefest moments of fury can quietly erode our well-being. Listen in as she imp
Jim Horton's Holiday Advice For Grieving Parents
Prepare for a podcast episode that may well be the most profound and impactful from Voices InCourage. Whether you've grappled with the loss of a child to addiction or are simply a concerned parent navigating your child's substance use, this episode is for you. Jim Horton's courageous vulnerability touches the core of every parent as he shares his insights on handling the holidays after losing his
Robin Detmer On Self-love, Forgiveness And The Ultimate Surrender.
In this episode of Voices InCourage, we welcome Robin Detmer, a woman whose life is a testament to love, resilience, and transformation. A physical therapist, mother, published author, and shamanic medicine mesa carrier, Robin's story is as captivating as it is inspiring. Born and raised in the wilds of Belize, her life was marked by natural disasters, addiction, and sexual abuse. Yet, along with
The Journey After Prison Release
If you've ever welcomed a loved one back after their release from prison, you understand the rollercoaster of emotions that ride alongside. In today's engaging podcast episode, KL reconnects with Jeannie, a mother who has recently welcomed her son back into her life following his battle with addiction and prison release. Together, they explore the intricacies of these delicate reunions and the hur
How To Love Someone With Alcoholism With Jan Salisbury
This is a story of empathy, understanding, and unwavering love with Jan Salisbury, whose daughter is a recovering alcoholic of 18 years. Learn as we explore how every individual's chemistry is different and how becoming aware of these differences can be the first step toward support. We unveil the concept of being emotionally detached without casting blame. KL and Jan provide actionable advice on
Grace Burkhart - From Crisis To Connection: When Someone I Love Has Been Arrested
Join us for an emotionally charged episode that dives deep into the raw realities of love and crisis. VIC’s CEO KL Wells' world shattered as her beloved son, Sam, fell into the grip of drug psychosis, and was taken to jail right before her eyes. But within the shadows of despair emerged an unexpected glimmer of hope in the form of Grace Burkhart, who is our very first guest that works in the crimi
How To Get Out Of The Silence Of Alcoholism, with Author Dana Killion
Uncover the compelling journey of Dana Killion, acclaimed author of "Where the Shadows Dance," and a wife to an alcoholic. In this heart-rending podcast episode, KL engages in a candid conversation, delving into the sacrifices made by wives of alcoholics and the transformative lessons they learn while finding their truth amidst chaos and getting out of the silence of alcoholism. Experience the emo
Mary Beth O’Connor: I'm A Recovering Addict, But I'm Also A Loved One
Imagine moving From Junkie to Judge and the depth of work and clarity it took for Mary Beth O'Connor to achieve this goal. Today, learn what happened after she decided to get clean and sober, while her best friend and sister did not. How did she handle those feelings of despair and terror and manage the racing thoughts: "I got sober. Why can't you?" Mary Beth sits down today with KL Wells to discu
Andy Graham: When the Outside Looks Perfect, But the Inside Is Shut Down
Have you ever been in so much pain you’ve had to shut down emotionally? You stop allowing yourself to feel your emotions just so you can survive and keep going, because the reality of what you are facing is so painful you cannot even begin to allow yourself to walk through and acknowledge the truth. If this sounds like you, then you don’t want to miss this episode with international CEO Andy Graha
Reinventing Summer Holidays When Addiction Takes Over
Holidays are meant to bring about happy celebration, but what happens when a family member’s addiction turns them into fearful anxiety? KL Wells is back with Tucker Stine as they discuss the challenges that come with reinventing family traditions for the summer holidays when the disease of addiction takes over. With the 4th of July being one of the most popular binge drinking days of the year, Tuc
Silence Kills: Shattering The Stigma Of Addiction With Jim Horton
Do you need help learning how to thrive in the midst of a family member’s substance abuse disorder? Today, KL Wells and Jim Horton discuss tactical steps on how to retrain our brains to find the lessons out of tragedies as family members. Including the unimaginable: the loss of Jim’s son to overdose. Their goal is to shatter the stigma of addiction to create an understanding of substance abuse dis
Voices InCourage 1 Year Anniversary Podcast
In today's podcast, KL Wells and Tucker Stine reflect on celebrating one year of the Voices InCourage Podcast. They explore the harsh reality of the recovery journey: the highs and lows that addicts and their families face. In a surprising realization, KL discovers that her relapse plan as a family member mirrors Tucker's relapse plan, who has been sober for eight years. In addition, they look bac
What I Learned From My 34-Day ‘Dry' with Rachelle Babler
Today, KL Wells sits down with her friend and collaborator, Rachelle Babler, a TEDx speaker, #1 International Best-Selling Co-Author, and Entrepreneur & Advocate who grew up in Southern California. Rachelle has a background of a variety of careers, ranging from paramedic to forensic analyst to entrepreneur. Years ago, Rachelle was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor, which caused her to dive int
