Let's Talk Addiction & Recovery

Latest Episodes:

Stress Relief or Something More? When Casual Drinking Becomes Problematic Jan 12, 2022

Show notes

Stress is as natural and persistent as the moon and the tides, and people often unwind with a drink. The rough edges of the day are quickly smoothed out by the depressant effects on the mind and the body, and for many, it's the preferred way to relax: a cold beer after work or a glass of red to pair with dinner. But can that small and modest habit become something dangerous? Join host William C. Moyers and Damir Utrzan, PhD, to learn more.

The Science and Spirit of Recovery: A Farewell Conversation with Marvin Seppala, MD Dec 15, 2021

Show notes

Before he retired as Chief Medical Officer Dr. Marvin Seppala shared a few of his quintessential lessons and memories from the past 40 years. To name a few: Our pressing need to belong and be loved. The timeless and abiding wisdom behind the Twelve Steps. And the opportunity now for science to further their legacy. Tune in for this wonderful conversation between Dr. Seppala and host William C. Moyers, longtime coworkers and friends.

Jeff Goldring Speaks about His Ongoing Recovery Dec 01, 2021

Show notes

Jeff Goldring has a uniquely intimate perspective on addiction and recovery. His family's storied history is all about distilled spirits and he himself works for Sazerac, one of the world's most recognized producers of alcohol products. Now with twenty years of sobriety, he joins host William C. Moyers to talk about the convergence of those two worlds and the pillars to his long-term recovery. Tune in.

The Healing Power of Love, Communication and Acceptance Nov 17, 2021

Show notes

Addiction passed from one generation to the next, and Reyna watched her family succumb to alcohol-related disease and death. She never had a chance to speak up, and she was never given the words to speak out. Then Miaveya, her 10-year-old daughter who attended the Children's Program, came along and taught her. Now they both sit down with host William C. Moyers and share their experience with the disease and how, in the end, acceptance and open communication win out.

The Moment Everything Changed: Edgar's Story of Asking for Help Nov 17, 2021

Show notes

Edgar was sitting at the family dinner table—sick, sleepless and withdrawing from drugs at 5 a.m.—while his father was getting ready for work. Until this point, Edgar had hidden his addiction from both his parents. But something compelled him in that moment, and it took only one act of fearlessness to completely change his life. Now he sits down with host William C. Moyers to reflect on that pivotal moment, appreciating the world of difference that recovery makes.

Hope in Every Language: A Family's Combined Efforts to Heal Oct 20, 2021

Show notes

Host William C. Moyers speaks with two incredibly supportive parents, José and Juanita, and their son Edgar who is now in recovery. They describe the family journey through addiction and into recovery, from first gaining awareness of the disease at the Spanish Family Program to now supporting one another at every turn. Tune in to hear their invaluable perspectives on the importance of family, the lifelong journey of recovery and practicing self-care to best support one another.

Improving the Human Condition, and Grace as a Conduit for Change Oct 06, 2021

Show notes

Dr. Joseph Lee spent his mornings in the inner city of Baltimore providing basic necessities to lower-income students, then he spent his afternoons treating dignitaries and elites. It opened his eyes, and he vowed on the spot to treat every patient equally. Now the CEO and President of Hazelden Betty Ford intends to uplift as many people as possible. Speaking with host William C. Moyers, he revisits those watershed moments, spotlighting the power of a hopeful story to change thousands of lives.

A Candid Conversation about Race, Recovery and Personal Transformation Sep 22, 2021

Show notes

Peter Hayden, PhD, always sees an opportunity to help. Even when his family is blindsided by tragedy—the likes of which no parent should endure—he somehow uses the experience to protect complete strangers. Now he shares his story with host William C. Moyers, reflecting on his nearly 50 years in recovery, the biggest difference makers and the undeniable truths that connect us with a higher purpose.

Never Too Famous: Andrew Zimmern's Story and His Principles for Humble Recovery Sep 08, 2021

Show notes

Before he won his Emmy and James Beard awards, and before he became a famous TV personality, Andrew Zimmern was essentially homeless, living in an abandoned New York City apartment and nearly drinking himself to death. How did he transform from hopeless soul into hopeful citizen? Tune in for this honest conversation between William C. Moyers and Andrew Zimmern, where they revisit his past and discuss his personal strategies for lasting recovery—top among them, the daily salvation of gratitude.

A Closer Look: The Mental Health Realities for Military Veterans Aug 18, 2021

Show notes

Returning service members and military veterans often confront trauma and other mental health challenges, and when they don't receive help, it often ends in tragedy—with more than 6,000 military veterans dying every year to suicide. Army veteran and psychologist Dustin Brockberg, PhD, sheds light on the issues, speaking with host William C. Moyers about the tough emotional realities, mental health challenges and support opportunities for veterans and their families.