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    Health & Fitness

    Heart of the Matter

    Heart of the Matter with Elizabeth Vargas is a production from Partnership to End Addiction. Heart of the Matter is an interview series that gives guests the opportunity to share their personal, candid stories about addiction. This podcast offers a space to open up about addiction, substance use and mental health, to share the ways in which people are shifting their narrative – in their own relationships and across communities – to support the cause of ending addiction in our country.

    Worried about your child or loved one? Partnership to End Addiction’s helpline is here for you and anyone else playing a supportive role in the life of a person struggling with substance use. Get one on one support by texting JOIN to 55753 or visit https://helphope.net/3koi6Kh to learn more. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. Text HELP for help or STOP to opt out.

    Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on Heart of the Matter are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from the following link. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion. https://drugfree.org/article/shouldnt-use-word-addict/

    Advertise

    Copyright: © 2023 Heart of the Matter

    • Apple Podcasts
    • Google Play
    • Spotify

    Latest Episodes:
    Meredith Mickelson on Losing Her Brother to Fentanyl and Honoring Him Through Overdose Awareness Oct 13, 2026
    Show notes

    Model and actress Meredith Mickelson joins Elizabeth Vargas on Heart of the Matter to discuss her brother Daniel, who died at 23-years-old from a fentanyl-laced cocaine overdose. She describes the progression of Daniel’s substance use, the gap between his public persona and his private struggles, and how her family navigates grief. She also discusses using her platform to raise awareness about addiction and how to help someone experiencing an overdose.

    Content warning: This episode contains mentions of death, as well as in-depth discussions of substance use. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, please contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (800) 662-4357. These programs provide free, confidential support 24/7. You are not alone.

    Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:

    • Naloxone: Overdose Reversal Drug
    • Co-Occurring Disorders Resource Center
    • Types of Addiction Treatment

    Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on “Heart of the Matter”are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion.

    To learn more:
    Partnership to End Addiction website
    Donate today to help us provide free resources to families
    Leave a review on Apple Podcasts


    Inside the Film "Union County": Adam Meeks & Annette Deao on Where Fiction Meets Real-Life Recovery Sep 29, 2026
    Show notes

    Director Adam Meeks and counselor Annette Deao join Elizabeth Vargas to discuss "Union County," a film starring Will Poulter and Noah Centineo as brothers navigating a drug recovery court. Blending fiction with real courtroom footage and real participants playing themselves, the film offers a realistic look at addiction, community, and the daily work of recovery. Adam and Annette share stories behind the film's most powerful scenes and why they built it as a celebration of resilience.

    Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:

    • Continuing Care: Life and Recovery After Treatment
    • Relapse: What You Can Do as a Parent
    • Recovery Housing: Need it? Here's What to Consider

    Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on “Heart of the Matter”are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion

    To learn more:
    Partnership to End Addiction website
    Donate today to help us provide free resources to families
    Leave a review on Apple Podcasts


    How Genetics Shapes Risk for Substance Use Disorder with Dr. Danielle Dick Sep 15, 2026
    Show notes

    DNA doesn't just shape our eye color. It shapes how our brains are wired for risk, anxiety, reward, and so much more. Dr. Danielle Dick, the director of the Rutgers Addiction Research Center, Brain Health Institute, joins Elizabeth Vargas for the season 8 premiere of Heart of the Matter to unpack the science behind that idea. Dr. Dick explains the three genetically influenced pathways to substance use disorder and why understanding a person's wiring, rather than assigning blame, is key to real prevention and recovery.

    Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:

    • Risk Factors for Addiction
    • Prevention Check-up
    • How Worried Should I Be

    Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on “Heart of the Matter”are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion

    To learn more:
    Partnership to End Addiction website
    Donate today to help us provide free resources to families
    Leave a review on Apple Podcasts


    Carleah Summers: Helping Mothers Recover from Addiction by Keeping Families Together Dec 16, 2025
    Show notes

    Carleah Summers shares her journey from addiction to recovery and how her experience inspired her to open Andrea's House, a non-profit residential treatment program in Maryland where mothers can recover from substance use disorder without being separated from their children. Carleah discusses the stigma around maternal mental health and the importance of keeping families together during recovery.

    Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:

    • Pregnancy and Postpartum Substance Use Support
    • Parental Mental Health
    • Risk Factors for Addiction

    Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on “Heart of the Matter”are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion

    To learn more:
    Partnership to End Addiction website
    Donate today to help us provide free resources to families
    Leave a review on Apple Podcasts


    Matt Dorsey's Journey Through Addiction, Relapse, and Helping San Francisco's Recovery Community Dec 02, 2025
    Show notes

    Matt Dorsey stopped drinking alcohol on his own in 1992. But after a few years, he began using substances again and questioned whether or not recovery was possible for him. Matt shares his experience with relapse, navigating addiction in the LGBTQ+ community, and how he’s using his experience to help others struggling with addiction in San Francisco.


    Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:

    • Long Term Recovery from Addiction
    • Relapse: What You Can Do as a Parent
    • LGBTQ+, Family & Substance Use


    Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on “Heart of the Matter”are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion.

    To learn more:
    Partnership to End Addiction website
    Donate today to help us provide free resources to families
    Leave a review on Apple Podcasts


    Author Lara Love Hardin’s Story of Addiction, Jail, and Redemption Nov 18, 2025
    Show notes

    Lara Love Hardin discusses her journey from suburban soccer mom hiding a heroin addiction to bestselling author. As a result of stealing money and credit cards to fund her addiction, The Many Lives of Mama Love: A Memoir of Lying, Stealing, Writing, and Healing author shares how jail helped her rediscover writing and inspired her to build a nonprofit supporting justice-impacted women. Her story is a powerful exploration of shame, resilience, and redemption.


    Content warning: This episode contains mentions of death, as well as in-depth discussions of substance use. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, please contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (800) 662-4357. These programs provide free, confidential support 24/7. You are not alone.


    Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:  

    • Heroin: What parents need to know
    • Opioids: What parents need to know
    • Legal Process After an Arrest: A Family Guide to Juvenile & Adult Justice


    Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on “Heart of the Matter”are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion.

    To learn more:
    Partnership to End Addiction website
    Donate today to help us provide free resources to families
    Leave a review on Apple Podcasts


    Hootie & the Blowfish's Jim Sonefeld: From Rockstar to Recovery Advocate Nov 04, 2025
    Show notes

    Jim Sonefeld, drummer for Hootie & the Blowfish, shares his powerful journey from concert tours fueled by alcohol to finding recovery at age 40. He opens up about hiding his drinking behind the rock-and-roll lifestyle, the intervention that came from his 4-year-old daughter, and how he's rebuilt his life through recovery. Jim also discusses his unique approach to talking with his kids about substance use and why he now sees his recovery story as a gift rather than a punishment.

    Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:

    • Alcohol Resource Center
    • Long Term Recovery from Addiction
    • Prevention Tips for Every Age

    Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on “Heart of the Matter”are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion.

    To learn more:
    Partnership to End Addiction website
    Donate today to help us provide free resources to families
    Leave a review on Apple Podcasts


    Dr. Kristen Gilliland: A Mother's Journey from Neuroscience to Advocacy Oct 21, 2025
    Show notes

    After losing one son to overdose and watching another struggle with lifelong schizophrenia, neuroscientist Dr. Kristen Gilliland reveals what she wishes she'd known about today's ultra-potent marijuana and the developing brain. She breaks down the science of how THC hijacks the adolescent brain's critical development period and why the push for marijuana legalization may be putting more teens at risk.


    Content warning: This episode contains mentions of death, as well as in-depth discussions of substance use. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health or substance use disorder, please contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (800) 662-4357. These programs provide free, confidential support 24/7. You are not alone.


    Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:  

    • Marijuana Resource Center
    • Co-Occurring Disorders Resource Center
    • Having Tough Conversations

    Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on “Heart of the Matter”are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion.

    To learn more:
    Partnership to End Addiction website
    Donate today to help us provide free resources to families
    Leave a review on Apple Podcasts


    Recovery Through Music and Harm Reduction with This Must Be the Place’s William Perry Oct 07, 2025
    Show notes

    William Perry shares his powerful journey from childhood trauma and opioid addiction to a 10-year prison sentence, and ultimately to co-founding This Must Be the Place, an organization that combines music, arts, and harm reduction. Now in recovery, Perry and his team distribute naloxone kits at concerts and festivals across the country. His story demonstrates how recovery, connection, and meeting people where they are can save lives and transform communities.

    Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:  

    • Harm Reduction Resource Center - Partnership to End Addiction
    • Naloxone: Overdose Reversal Drug - Partnership to End Addiction
    • Legal Process After an Arrest: A Family Guide to Juvenile & Adult Justice - Partnership to End Addiction


    Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on “Heart of the Matter”are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion.

    To learn more:
    Partnership to End Addiction website
    Donate today to help us provide free resources to families
    Leave a review on Apple Podcasts


    Can GLP-1 medications help in addiction treatment? Sep 23, 2025
    Show notes

    Can GLP-1 medications like Ozempic help treat addiction? Elizabeth Vargas talks with Pat Aussem, Vice President of Consumer Clinical Content Development at Partnership to End Addiction, about the ongoing clinical trials and the science behind how these drugs work on the brain's reward system. From promising early results to concerns about long-term effects and accessibility, Elizabeth and Pat examine both the potentials and the unknowns surrounding what could be a game-changing approach to substance use disorders.


    Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:  

    • Can GLP-1 Medications Like Ozempic Help in Addiction Treatment?
    • Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder
    • Recovery Resource Center


    Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed on “Heart of the Matter”are those of the podcast participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Partnership to End Addiction. We are also mindful that some of the personal stories feature the word “addict” and other terms from this list. We respect and understand those who choose to use certain terms to express themselves. However, we strive to use language that’s health-oriented, accurately reflects science, promotes evidence-based treatment and demonstrates respect and compassion.

    To learn more:
    Partnership to End Addiction website
    Donate today to help us provide free resources to families
    Leave a review on Apple Podcasts


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