Do What You Can Live With: Navigating Through Addiction and Recovery

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Latest Episodes:

When Boundaries Feel Impossible: What Families Deserve to Hear Aug 22, 2025

Summary

In this episode, Brandi Mac discusses the complexities of loving someone struggling with addiction, focusing on the importance of setting and adjusting boundaries. She shares personal experiences and insights on how to navigate toxic relationships, the evolution of boundaries over time, and the significance of self-reflection and communication. Brandi emphasizes that while tough love is often advocated, it is not the only approach to support a loved one in recovery. The conversation highlights the need for protective boundaries, the role of love in setting limits, and practical ways to show care without compromising one's own well-being.

Takeaways

Loving someone with addiction is a painful journey.
Boundaries are essential for protecting mental health.
It's okay to adjust boundaries as situations change.
Tough love can sometimes do more harm than good.
Self-reflection is crucial in navigating relationships.
You can show love without enabling harmful behaviors.
Communicating boundaries clearly is vital.
Consequences for violating boundaries must be established.
Creating a safe space is a priority for families.
Everyone deserves compassion, even those struggling with addiction.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Boundaries in Family Dynamics 02:19 Understanding Boundaries in Addiction 05:06 Types of Boundaries: Controlling vs. Protective 07:50 The Pain of Setting Boundaries 10:28 Navigating Toxic Relationships 13:04 Consequences of Violating Boundaries 15:14 Creating Healthy Boundaries 17:38 The Role of Love in Setting Boundaries 20:31 Communicating Boundaries Effectively 23:05 Supporting Loved Ones in Addiction 25:19 The Impact of Addiction on Family Dynamics 28:02 Finding Peace Through Boundaries 30:20 Conclusion and Future Directions

Purchase Book Here: Do What You Can Live: A Survival Guide for Families Navigating Addiction, Grief and Impossible Choices

Resources: Here

When I Let Go of "Tough Love"...I Found Peace Aug 07, 2025

In this raw and personal episode, Brandi Mac shares what happened when she stopped following the “tough love” narrative and started doing what she could actually live with. From the heartbreak of watching her daughter struggle with addiction to the moment she shaved her head as an act of surrender, Brandi reflects on how peace came not from control, but from radical acceptance.

This episode is for every parent, partner, or family member who’s ever been told to let go with love... and then been left drowning in grief and guilt.

She also introduces her new book, Doing What You Can Live With: A Survival Guide for Families Navigating Addiction, Grief, and Impossible Choices. A no-shame, deeply compassionate resource for families who need something real, not rehearsed.

If you’ve ever loved someone in addiction and didn’t know what to do… this one’s for you.

🎧 Get the Book: 👉 *Doing What You Can Live With: A Survival Guide for Families Navigating Addiction* https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FKNF7G2N

🌐 More Resources + Free Tools: Website: https://brandimac.com

📬 Subscribe for support, resources, and real talk: Substack: https://ogbrandimac.substack.com

📱 Follow Brandi: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_original_brandi_mac Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_original_brandi_mac/

🛠️ For professionals, bulk orders, or speaking inquiries: brandi@brandimac.com

15 Months Sober: A Raw Mother-Daughter Conversation About Recovery Mar 09, 2025

Summary: In this episode, Brandi Mac discusses her daughter Brooke's journey to sobriety, reflecting on the challenges of addiction, the impact on family relationships, and the importance of appropriate treatment. They explore the nuances of drug use, the effectiveness of medicated assisted treatment, and the experiences within treatment facilities. The conversation emphasizes personal growth, healing, and the complexities of recovery. Takeaways

Brooke is now 15 months sober, showcasing significant growth since her last podcast appearance.
The pain of addiction affects both the individual and their loved ones.
Fentanyl addiction can lead to severe physical and mental health issues.
Medicated assisted treatment, like Suboxone, can be effective if dosed appropriately.
Treatment facilities can vary greatly in their approach and effectiveness.
Family dynamics are deeply impacted by addiction and recovery processes.
Healing is possible, but it requires effort and alignment between individuals.
The importance of understanding the dangers of drug use, especially with substances like fentanyl.
Communication and support from family are crucial during recovery.
Personal growth often comes from facing and overcoming past challenges.

55:52 Supporting Loved Ones Struggling with Addiction

Prescribed Chaos Substack: https://ogbrandimac.substack.com

Family Resources and More: https://www.brandimac.com

Book Brandi Mac to Speak: https://www.brandimac.com/contact-brandi

Breaking Stigma: The Importance of Harm Reduction with Taylor Nichols, MD Aug 02, 2024

Summary: In this conversation, Dr. Taylor Nichols discusses his journey from emergency medicine to addiction medicine, emphasizing the importance of harm reduction and addressing stigma in healthcare. He shares insights on pain management, medication-assisted treatment options like Sublocade and Brixadi, and the significance of patient autonomy. The discussion also touches on the challenges families face when dealing with substance use disorder and the need for supportive resources. Takeaways

Dr. Nichols transitioned from ER to addiction medicine to address systemic issues in healthcare.
Harm reduction is essential in treating individuals with substance use disorders.
Stigma against drug users negatively impacts pain management and treatment options.
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a valid and effective approach for opioid use disorder.
Sublicade and Brixadi are innovative treatments that offer alternatives to traditional MAT.
Patient autonomy should be respected in treatment decisions.
Families need support and resources to navigate substance use disorders.
Understanding the pharmacology of buprenorphine is crucial for effective treatment.
Healthcare providers must be educated on the complexities of pain management in patients with substance use disorders.
Open discussions about tapering off MAT should be encouraged.

Dr. Nichols TikTok: Click Here

Dr. Nichols Website: Click Here

Recovery Reform Podcast by Dr. Nichols and McCauley Sexton: Click Here

Recovery Reform YouTube Channel: Click Here

Article: Naloxone to Buprenorphine

The impact of Sobriety On Family Dynamics Jul 27, 2024

Summary

Brandi Mac discusses her journey as a mother of a child with substance use disorder and her own healing process. She talks about the challenges of navigating her daughter's recovery and the impact it has had on their relationship. Brandi also shares her experience with perimenopause and the importance of addressing hormonal imbalances. She emphasizes the need for families to take ownership of their role in addiction and the importance of therapy and self-care.

Takeaways

Loving someone with substance use disorder is incredibly challenging and requires ongoing support and understanding.
Healing and rebuilding trust in the family after addiction takes time and effort from all members.
Addressing hormonal imbalances, such as those experienced during perimenopause, can have a significant impact on mental health and overall well-being.
Families need to take ownership of their role in addiction and work on their own healing and growth.
Therapy and self-care are essential for both individuals struggling with addiction and their loved ones.

Resources are available on my website : Resources Here

TikTok: The_original_brandi_mac

Email: Collateraldamagesucks@gmail.com

Happy New Year! Meet Brooke Part 2 Jan 01, 2024

Happy New Year everyone! Brooke and I figured we would start 2024 off with part 2 of her interview. This episode goes more into what happened in Maryland especially concerning her medicated assisted treatment and much more. All of the questions came from followers on social media. The next episode we will be discussing sex trafficking.

Email us @ collateraldamagesucks@gmail.com

Resources and website https://www.brandimac.com/

Meet My Daughter Brooke...Interview Part 1 Dec 23, 2023

This podcast is raw and real. My daughter came home one week ago to detox and together we made the decision to restart her medicated assisted treatment. This will likely be several parts and a great way to end 2023. Brooke and I want to wish each of you and your family's a very Happy Holiday.

Thank you for sticking around.

https://www.brandimac.com/

Meeting them Where They Are: Holidays, treatment and the future Nov 27, 2023

https://www.brandimac.com/

This episode I talk about what it was like having our daughter in active drug use home for Thanksgiving for the first time in 5 years. The day even included family pictures. Those who may be new here my daughter is 23 and struggles substance use disorder. She is an IV drug user and we have been raising our grandson since his first birthday. I also talk about the potential for opening a treatment facility.

Thank you for listening and please download and leave a review so we can get this episode out to more people.

Once upon a time there was an interventionist... Jul 14, 2023

Many have seen the drama on social media when it comes to Sam and I. He not only made a 1 sided podcast but also went live last night sharing a 1 sided view. Hopefully this will answer some of the questions many of you have had.

If you want to learn more about the story there is a playlist called "Sam Davis and Marc" on my Tiktok profile when this all started.

Brandi Mac Tiktok TikTok Link

Another life gone to soon...RIP Angel Jun 08, 2023

This week another mom who has shared her daughters struggles with addiction has experienced the call so many of us fear. Her 20 year old daughter lost her battle to addiction. Please pray for Melissa and the rest of her family grieving the loss of Angel.

Melissa's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.real.melissa

Brandi Mac's TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@the_original_brandi_mac

Go fund me Go fund me for funeral expenses

Season1, Episode 5- Dr. Stacy murphy May 17, 2023

This episode features an interview with Dr. Stacy Murphy who owns Navigating Addiction which provides family education for treatment centers. Stacy also know what its like love a child with substance use disorder. Her daughter has 11 years of sobriety and understands the struggles that many of us go through.

If you love the podcast please leave a review and follow!

Dr. Stacy Murphy Navigating Addiction

Dr. Stacy Murphy TikTok

If you are in need of resources check out The Apathetic Journey

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You can follow all of Brandi Mac's social media accounts at Brandi Mac's Website

Recovery and Awareness shirts Stop The Stigma Apparel

Season 1, Episode 4- Body Brokering in Addiction Treatment Apr 27, 2023

This episode is going to discuss what a bodybroker is, kickbacks, how the affordable care act contributed to many rehab facilities becoming the new "pill mill" following the oxycontin epidemic. I am sure there are some amazing rehabs but sadly it's impossible to determine which ones those are.

If you have been impacted by the "Florida Shuffle" or had an experience with a "body broker" I would love to hear your story!!!

Article: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl/pr/owner-sentenced-more-27-years-prison-multi-million-dollar-health-care-fraud-and-money

PBS: https://www.pbs.org/video/sci-body-brokering-rampant-in-addiction-rehab-industry-1665520234/

Body Brokers Movie: Body Brokers Movie

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As always I appreciate all of your reviews which will start being shared in the monthly newsletter.

Brandi Mac TikTok: Brandi Mac TikTok

Email the podcast @ collateraldamagesucks@gmail.com

Sponsor: The Apathetic Journey- All Things Addiction for families

S1, Episode 3- How we got our grandson? Mar 30, 2023

How we got our grandson

AA/NA online meetings: https://aa-intergroup.org/meetings/

Smart Recovery: https://meetings.smartrecovery.org/meetings/

Brandi Mac TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_original_brandi_mac

Interested in being on the podcast? Email us @ collateraldamagesucks@gmail.com

Join email list to be notified when a new episode drops @https://collateral-damage-podcast-with-brandi-mac.ck.page/f6a9af5a50

Season 1, episode 2- Rambling with Brandi Mac part 1 Mar 19, 2023

This is "Rambling with Brandi Mac." I am going to warn you now...there is background noise from the car, but my portable mic should arrive soon decreasing the background noise for future episodes.

This episode includes some bread crumbs on the TikTok creator being interviewed for our first interview series. I talk about being naive in the beginning of this journey #motherofanaddict, when some in the harm reduction tried to cancel me. Also end the show with some honest and truthful advice.

Thank you to each of you who have followed my podcast, we are in the top 100 on Apple for mental health in the US.

Alanon link: Al-anon meetings

What I am currently reading :How to Change your mind by Michael Pollan

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_original_brandi_mac

If you are interested in being on the show please email the show at:

collateraldamagesucks@gmail.com

I am looking for those in recovery, loved ones, those in active use, therapists, rehab owners and any other area that involves addiction and recovery.

Episode 1- Intro and Welcome Mar 17, 2023

Have you ever loved someone with substance use disorder and felt alone? Are you currently using or in recovery and feel like your family lacks understanding? Yea well welcome to my f$cking life! I’m Brandi Mac and my daughter battles addiction and her family? Well we are collateral damage and frankly it sucks. This podcast will cover all aspects of addiction with interviews of those in recovery, active use and family members. We will explore the good and bad of the treatment industry, harm reduction, medicated assisted treatment (MAT) and boundaries.

Follow me on TikTok: Brandi Mac's TikTok

Instagram: Brandi Mac's Instagram

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