Show Details

Biography

Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 with Denise Krochta

Denise Krochta grew up on the east coast. She has a BA degree from Indiana University Bloomington, Indiana in foreign languages. After college, her career in international business took her to places around the globe. Traveling, meeting and learning about people and their values and traditions have since been an integral part of her life.

Denise moved into “crisis” mode when she discovered that her teenage son was addicted to prescription drugs along with alcohol and street drugs. She developed a plan for herself to navigate through her son’s addiction that would offer her at least some serenity and peace of mind. This plan is documented in her book “Sweat: A Practical Plan for Keeping Your Heart Intact While Loving an Addict”.

To arrange for Denise to be a speaker for your organization, please contact her at DeniseKrochta@gmail.com.

Archived Shows

• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Are You Married to a Sex Addict?

  Denise’s guest this week, Susan Mayginnes, has been leading workshops and working with couples on their relationships for over 30 years. As Director of Training for a personal growth organization for 17 years she trained over 15 trainers to also facilitate people toward extraordinary ways of communicating and relating. As someone who has been through all stages of intimate relationship: dating, living together, married, parenting, divorce, the afterlife of divorce, starting over again in relationship – as well as having coached people through all of these stages, she has been deeply interested throughout her life in what makes relationships thrive and what stops relationships from working. As a result it has been a lifelong study and she has supported thousands of people in having truly extraordinary relationships through developing a unique body of work that combines the best of what she discovered out there in her research as well as insights and methods Susan has developed through her years of work with couples. Because there are no “one-size-fits-all” approaches to relationships, she wants you to turn to the real authority of your love life: yourself.
  In her Marriage 2.0 program you will learn to begin relationships consciously and engage in ways that allow you to create the relationship experience that you want.
  With all this experience, Susan still found herself married to a sex addict. Consider Susan’s experience and consider your relationships. What would you do?

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – There is No Hero In Heroin

  This week Denise interviews Janice Nargi, a mom of a heroin addict and author of the new e-book, “There is No Hero in Heroin”. Ms Nargi is a nurse by profession who admits that, although trained in the ER to detect addiction, she did not recognize it in her own child. Denise and Ms Nargi try to dispel some myths about the new face of addiction and who are people likely to become addicts these days.
  With a passion to help others who are experiencing this drama of loving an addict, Nargi has developed a non-profit organization to educate and support.
  She also has an ongoing blog for support.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Are You Almost an Alcoholic? Is Someone You Know Almost an Alcoholic?

  This is the topic of this week’s interview. Dr. Joe Nowinski, co-author of “Almost Alcoholic: Is My (or My Loved One’s) Drinking a Problem?” is my guest today. We will talk about where this “line” is drawn and some resolutions and solutions. What are some of the signs of an “almost alcoholic?” What are the signs of an alcoholic? Can we really determine the difference?

  Dr. Nowinski talks about “the almost effect” with regards to alcoholism and other maladies. He has also written extensively on helping families cope with terminal illness which will not be part of our discussion today but something many of us can use some input on.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Drugs to Treat Drug Addiction or Not?

  This week’s show is about treating drug addiction without other drugs. The guest today is Carolyn Reuben, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Alliance for Addiction Solutions, an international nonprofit organization dedicated to using acupuncture, nutrition, exercise, and other mind-body integration techniques to repair the brains of people with addictive and mental health disorders. She is a licensed acupuncturist, medical journalist, and the author of four self-help health books.

  In our discussion, she refers to Julia Ross, the author of The Diet Cure and the Mood Cure, and Kathleen DesMaisons PhD, founder of the online treatment community called Radiant Recovery
  

  Another reference she would like to share is Bridging the Gaps, an Integrative Addiction Treatment that uses a unique holistic approach addressing the physical, spiritual and psychological aspects of addiction.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – What Can We Say About Men and Support?

  This week Denise speaks with Ken and Bob, two men whose experiences living with and loving addicts led them to ask themselves this question. If people reach out for support when dealing with a loved ones addiction, it is usually women, as these men discovered. In their book, We Codependent Men, We Mute Coyotes, the men talk about their own hesitancy to reach out and how they hope to help other men to learn that they don’t have to deal with this chaos alone. Ken also has a blog with information and resources that you might want to check out too.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – This Week's Show Is All About Hope and Possibilities

  Denise speaks with Ted McGrath who has a great story to share about where he came from and where he is now. Ted is a successful entrepreneur and CEO of Rize Global and Coaching Leadership Academy. He shows us what it is like to regroup and reinvent.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Drug Testing. Is it for you?

  This week my show is dedicated to drug testing and options. I am interviewing Corinne Kligmann, CEO of Mobile Drug Testing, LLC. We discuss who should drug test, when drug testing is necessary, and what drugs can be tested. There are many questions and we try to answer as many as possible with this interview. Tune in to get your answers.
  Mobile Drug Testing, LLC link: http://www.mdtesting.com/

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Alcoholism, Addiction, and the Military

  Captain Ron Smith, MD, PHD, Senior Psychiatrist, National Naval Medical Center is Denise’s guest this week. The discussion is centered on the families of the military and how to cope with the many issues related to deployment, return home, and PTSD, alcoholism, and addiction. Dr. Smith has been working with the military personnel and their families for over thirty years and has seen just what war can do to the mental and physical existence of both those in the military and those at home waiting for their return. Listen and consider what we as a society might do to make this return more “gentle” and also, what families can do to cope a little better with these issues. We can not solve all these problems but we can talk about them and do our part to try to be more understanding and supportive.
  Captain Ron Smith will be a featured speaker at the Freedom and Recovery Conference in San Diego in April 2012

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Possibilities and Hope

  Clint Arthur is an author and successful entrepreneur with a story for us. Although he has his own story, we are talking today about a man who he interviewed for his book “100% True Life Story of a Nice Jewish Boy From Los Angeles………..”. I was interested in the thoughts and feelings of the interviewer/writer, his impression of someone who had the experience of long term addiction and who turned his life around and gave back to society. As with most of my shows, there is a twist to the interview and we hear more about Mr. Arthur and his story too. Clint Arthur is the author of many books including “The Greatest Book of All Time”

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Moms United to End the War on Drugs

  Another perspective, this time from moms and family members of addicts and alcoholics, about drug reform policy and the War on Drugs.
  Gretchen Bergman is the founder and Executive Director of A New Path, A non-profit advocacy organization of parents, concerned citizens, individuals in recovery, healthcare professionals and community leaders working together to educate the public, media and decision makers about the true nature of the disease of addiction, and to expand access to treatment services. We advocate to end discriminatory drug policies that serve as roadblocks to recovery.
  She is also part of the national organization Moms United which she will talk about here on the show today.
  Many of you have listened to the other shows representing this new perspective on the War on Drugs where Denise has interviewed people representing college students, law enforcement, judges, and the clergy. Please go to the archives page to listen to these past shows. Also see link: Freedom and Recovery Conference

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Being Young and Sober

  Does embracing a life of sobriety have an effect on your social life? Is it life enhancing or detrimental to social life as you know it?
  Denise’s son, a 27 year old heroin addict celebrating his 7th year of recovery, shares some insight into these questions.
  Andy Rothman of Soberlink, Inc. is the first of a short series of interviews offering information on products used in the field of addiction. In this interview Denise asks questions about a new portable monitoring device that became available in January.
  Also, a list of more ingenius and creative places where addicts hide their drugs in the home.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Resources, families helping each other

  This week is all about resources. It is so important that those of us who have learned from our own experiences share what we know with others. Wouldn’t it be nice if people didn’t have to feel the angst, frustrations, and fears because we learned for them? I know that it is a very rare occasion when someone can learn from others’ experiences, but we must try. It really is our job.
  Let’s help each other with our resources, networks, and experiences. Slowly, but surely our lives will improve no matter what chaos and drama is in our lives.
  This week’s interview is with Cathy Tannebaugh, the developer of the website treatmenttalk.org. Cathy offers resources, a blog, and her own story.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Can Alcoholism Be Deadly?

  Alberta Sequiera is an author and speaker who has lived with alcoholics and has watched them die. Her books, “Someone Stop the Merry Go Round: An Alcoholic Family in Crisis” and “Please God Not Two”, were written to share her experience and bring this to our attention. Her blog continues this conversation.Ms Squiera discusses the signs, challenges, and angst related to being in a family with alcoholism and what she has learned from it. Just because alcohol is legal, does not mean it can’t kill you.
  Again, listen and learn. Awareness is important.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Whitney Houston Family a Model?

  This week Denise talks about what happens to those left behind when a loved one, who has had problems with addiction and brings lots of chaos and drama into the family, suddenly dies. Dr. Kristina Diener, a therapist from Los Angeles, who specializes in trauma, divorce, teens and children, gives her insight into this type of event.
  The discussion focuses on families in general but uses the family of Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown as a model, not role model.
  Although we don’t know first hand how her family, mom Cissy Houston, cousin Dionne Warwick, and God Mother Aretha Franklin will be grieving and coping, Denise and Dr. Diener speculate on the impending grieving process for Bobbi Kristina, Whitney Houston’s 18 year old daughter and what the possibilities might be.
  Listen and join in the discussion by sending your comments via email (Just click on the envelope on this radio show page).

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Let's Talk Money!

  This week Denise interviews Ron Gallen about addiction to money, addicts and money, and addicts in recovery and money.
  Ron Gallen specializes in helping families and individuals sort through their difficulties in relation to money. He is especially adept at getting to the heart of the emotional matters controlling money behavior in families, and has established broad experience helping understand how to support their children, without enabling them.
  Ron works as a financial counselor and as a case manager. He is widely regarded as expert at sorting through and managing complex issues within families regarding addiction, mental health, treatment decisions and the elaborate ways that money can affect all facets of the process.
  Ron has been called New York’s leading money doctor.
  He can be reached at CenterPoint at his phone number (646)553-5490

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Tiger Woods, Anthony Wiener, David Duchovny: Are They Really Sex Addicts?

  This week the show continues it’s foray into the behavioral addictions with a focus on sex addiction, love addiction, and porn addiction where the above question is addressed. Denise interviews Alexandra Katehakis, MFT, CSAT-S, CST-S, Clinical Director for the Center for Healthy Sex in Los Angeles, CA. What is the difference between sex addiction and love addiction?, Can you be addicted to porn and not be a sex addict?, and What is sexual anorexia? are some of the questions discussed in this interview.
  Some of these questions can be further explained online at the Society for the Advancement of Sexual Health as well as the resources mentioned above.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Decriminalizing Drugs

  More discussion on drug reform policy is in order in light of what has been happening in the news. Judge John Delaney, a member of LEAP, gives his thoughts on drug reform policy from the perspective of a private citizen and from the bench as a judge in Texas. Judge Delaney recommends a book that he feels most describes the drug situation as it is today, called Dealing Death and Drugs.
  Listen and let me know, does this make you wonder?

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Social Life in Recovery

  This week’s guest is Anna David. Ms David is the author of the novels Party Girl and Bought as well as editor of the anthology Reality Matters and author of her memoir recently released, Falling For Me. You may have seen her on CNN, NBC, Hannity,Fox News, and as the sex, dating and relationship expert on G4′s Attack of the Show.

  Anna is currently the executive editor of the addiction and recovery website “The Fix” and a contributor to The Daily Beast, Details and Maxim, and has contributed pieces to the New York Times, Vanity Fair, Cosmo, Redbook, Self, and many other publications. She speaks around the country at colleges and universities on the topic of addiction and recovery.
  Denise speaks with Ms Davis about her story of addiction and recovery and what it is like to socialize as a young woman in recovery.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Growing Up Around Recovery

  On this show we’ve talked about all kinds of relationships of loved ones with addicts. We’ve talked about the love of parents for their addicted children. We’ve talked about the love a husband for an addicted wife or vice versa. We’ve talked about grandparents loving their addicted children but having to raise their grandchildren because their adult children are not capable.
  This week Denise talks with Sarah, a young woman who grew up in a family who was just embracing early recovery when she was old enough to notice. Hear her “take” on sobriety, recovery, and the 12 steps as she grew up and became a woman.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Writers In Treatment

  Writer’s In Treatment Link: http://www.writersintreatment.org/
  Many times we hear about addicts and alcoholics being very creative not only in their quest to get their drug no matter what, but also in music, the arts, and writing. This week’s guest, Leonard Buschel, offers a good, hopeful story along with a financial resource for those who are driven by the written word.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – A Message of Hope

  This week Denise speaks with Precious Williams, a woman with a story that will emphasize the fact that there is always hope. Ms Williams is an attorney in New York City and also an entrepreneur who can offer a positive outlook, no matter what.
  Again, listen, learn, and relax.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Should We D.A.R.E?

  In today’s show we will be briefly discussing the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program that is taught in about 75% of the school districts in the US and in 43 countries around the world. This program is designed to give kids the skills to avoid involvement in drugs, gangs, and violence. The question that comes into mind is “Is that all there is?” We will try to answer this question.
  My guest today is Kris Kancler (also known as Superstar). He is the creator of the Rockstar Superstar Project developed to encourage sobriety and prevent drug use among our youth.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Addiction and the Holidays

  What do you buy an addict for Christmas? Are you optimistic about the holidays or do you dread the holidays? Let’s talk about it and work through the possibilities, not the probabilities.
  Our guest for the show is Jay DiPaola, the owner of Choices. Choices is a retail bookstore in Manhattan that has been in business for nineteen years. Jay bought the store from the original owner in 2002. Choices is one of the oldest retail stores with a focus on addictions in the country. It has one of the largest selections of recovery products anywhere. Over time the focus has expanded to physical, mental, and spiritual wellness. To order from Choices by phone call 866-245-4818.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – The Holidays: The Addict's Point of View

  Last week Denise spoke with a dad about how the holidays might be for his family with a son who is an addict. This week Denise interviews and addict in recovery about his thoughts on the holidays both from when he was actively addicted to drugs and now, in recovery. Again, listen and learn!

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Dealing With Addiction During the Holidays

  This week Denise talks with Rick, a dad who is very nervous about the holidays this year. His young teenage son, who has been abusing substances for a few years, will be getting out of a 60 day rehab to return to his family just in time for his 18th birthday and the holidays. The always asked question “What do we do when he gets out of rehab?” is one of the many questions we talk about in this interview. Do you have similar concerns? Listen and you will see, you are not alone.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Another Perspective of Addiction Treatment

  Hank Hayes believes that discipline and an alternative approach can help people live an addiction and alcohol free life.
  Hank Hayes’ book “You’ve Been Lied To..The UNTOLD truth about mainstream alcohol and addiction treatment programs and the SECRETS on how to eliminate the problem for good” is his answer. He offers the 5 master key formula to an alcohol and addiction free life.
  Today Denise speaks with Mr. Hayes about how his martial arts background and self discipline play a big part in what he believes can be an answer to addiction and alcoholism.
  You can contact Mr. Hayes via email or by phone at 484.393.1613.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Goings on In The World of Addiction

  This week we hear about an opportunity for anyone who is interested in the evolution of addiction treatment to attend a valuable conference with expert speakers about current events and history. Listen to Dr. Allen Berger tell Denise about the first annual “Evolution of Addiction Treatment” Conference. Also, Denise speaks with Dr. Horvath of Practical Recovery and Katherine Celantano of SSDP (Students for Sensible Drug Policy) about their impressions of the conference focusing on Drug Policy Reform. Lots of information to think about.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Teens, Dating, Under the Influence

  What is the best teen dating advice if your teen is “dating under the influence?” This show explores the cultural crisis our teens are facing including teen pregnancies, teen dating abuse and violence and especially the impact of teen drug and alcohol abuse in dating. Lisa Jander, the Teen Whisperer, does not promote teen dating but helps families build a healthy framework for all relationships and supports better dating choices.

  Lisa Jander is a Certified Life/Relationship/Dating Coach, CTACC, Public Speaker and Author of “Dater’s Ed: The Instruction Manual for Parents ” modeled after the Driver’s Ed manual. Her unique workshops draw analogies between driving and dating to help parents teach their teens how to “date defensively, navigate safely and steer clear of unhealthy relationships.”

  For other valuable resources, Lisa recommends Break the Cycle , empowering youth to end domestic violence and Start Strong , building healthy teen relationships.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Online Resources Important and Effective

  For the past few weeks Denise has been interviewing guests who offer valuable resources to those who love addicts and alcoholics. This week she interviews Susan King, who has created Pathway to Prevention,
  an online support organization for tackling prevention. She will also speak about an adjunct organization, Parent Pathway for those who are already experiencing the drama and chaos of loving an addict or alcoholic. Listen and share. There are resources on these sites that can be valuable resources for schools, community organizations, family groups, etc. Please help to get the word out that there is support.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Dad, Drug Bust, Prescription Drugs

  This week’s show is about the lengths a loved one will go to try to save an addict. Was he right to do what he did? Who really knows what is right and what is wrong when you love an addict? Most of us find ourselves with that dilemma more times than not. Brad DeHaven is Denise’s guest this week. He is a dad of an addict, the author of the book “Defining Moments: A Suburban Father’s Journey Into His Son’s Oxy Addiction”, and developer of a resource for loved ones, rxdrugaddict.com. Listen to the discussion, it will sound familiar.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Saving Teens One Teen at a Time

  This week Denise is beginning a series of shows on resources for loved ones. She begins this week with a guest who heads a foundation that offers financial and treatment resources for troubled and addicted teens. Please listen to her interview with John Reuben of Savingteens.org.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Clergy for Drug Policy Reform

  This week Denise speaks with Reverend Canon Mary Richardson about the clergy and drug reform policy. Listen to another perspective regarding this current topic of conversation. Hear from Judge Jim Gray, the Drug Policy Alliance, and the Interfaith Drug Policy Initiative for more enlightening thoughts. Is it just those who want to smoke marijuana and use illegal drugs who are interested in drug policy reform? Again, listen and learn!

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Is Smoking an Addiction or Just a Habit?

  Tobacco has been around a long time. In the past 10 to 20 years it has been discovered that Big Tobacco consciously added addictive properties to cigarettes since the 1950s in order to keep “lifetime” customers. Many experts believe that nicotine causes more dependence than any other drug including alcohol, cocaine, or heroin. What do you think? Do you smoke? Do you believe you have an addiction or just a habit?
  This week’s topic is Smoking. Denise speaks with Eddie Salen, of Diversified Intervention Group, a non profit organization dedicated to helping addicts get on the road to recovery in an affordable way. The organization is a 501(c)3 non-profit accepting donations for this cause.

  Diversified Intervention Group link: http://interventiontreatmentrecovery.org/

  Donate to DIG non profit link: http://interventiontreatmentrecovery.org/donate.html

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Food Addiction: Deadlier than Drinking?

  Today we tackle the topic of food addiction. Is compulsive eating really an addiction? Doesn’t everyone use food for comfort at one time or another? Is that addiction? John Kiernan is the guest this week. He is a speaker and writer who is working on a book called “Recovery from the Food Relapse Cycle”. John tells Denise about his experience as an alcoholic and as a food addict. There are resources mentioned to support those who believe they have an addiction to food. Is a 12 step group (OALAIG.org or OA.org) the answer or is it Weight Watchers or Jenny Craig? Listen to John’s perspective then make your own conclusions.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – A Son's Drug Addiction

  This week’s show features the promised interview of Denise’s son regarding his drug addiction and recovery. Denise and her listeners offer questions to be answered by her son, who has agreed to be as candid as possible to help the audience understand the thought process of an addict, from his perspective as an addict.
  Listen and learn. Consider this discussion when making life altering decisions for your loved one and yourselves. What does your addict think?

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Marijuana Harmless or Not?

  Rand Teed, teacher of Drug Class in Canada, the country with the most prevalent use of marijuana ( US is second in use), speaks with Denise this week about marijuana. What does he teach the students and what does he learn from them about this drug? Learn science and statistics, thoughts and feelings about the use of marijuana as perceived by Mr. Teed through his years of experience as a teacher of this unique class. Please check the archives page on this radio show for a past show titled “Drug Class” for more information about Rand and his class.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Legalization, Decriminalization, Marijuana, Changing Drug Policy

  This week Denise talks with a member of LEAP (Law Enforcement Against Prohibition) about these topics and more. What would happen if we legalized, decriminalized marijuana, all illegal drugs?
  “The Drug War is clearly not fulfilling any of its goals to reduce drug use or keep us safe.”
  This week’s guest is Howard Rahtz who has a dual background in drug treatment and drug interdiction, providing him first hand experience with drug enforcement policy. His career in law enforcement spanned 18 years where he rose to the rank of police captain in the Cincinnati police department. His journey in law enforcement and drug rehabilitation is an interesting parallel to the 40 years of the Drug War.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Understanding the Twelve Steps

  Last week we spoke about Practical Recovery, an alternative treatment model to the traditional twelve step treatment plan which is used in the majority of treatment facilities here in the US. This week, with my guest, Dr. Allen Berger, we are going to discuss that traditional model, that of the Twelve Steps.

  Dr. Berger has been helping people establish and enrich their recovery for over 34 years. He pioneered cutting edge treatment programs focused on treating the family as a whole. He is often found speaking at recovery seminars and celebrations around the country. He received his doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of California, Davis and also had the unique privilege to train closely with two famous psychiatrists – William C. Rader and Walter Kempler. Dr. Berger has worked as both a counselor and clinical supervisor in two of Southern California’s finest treatment programs, San Pedro Peninsula Hospital and South Bay Hospital.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Practical Recovery is the new sponsor of our show

  You will learn all about them today in our interview with Dr. Tom Horvath. He is the creator of Practical Recovery, an alternative to the traditional 12 step recovery and treatment plan. Practical Recovery provides comprehensive addiction treatment. They use a self-empowering approach to create practical solutions for the well being of their clients. They specialize in the treatment of underlying and related problems (“dual diagnosis” or “co-occuring disorders”).
  On the show we will discuss what some of the choices are offered in the US for treatment and recovery so you can make a more informed decision for your loved ones and yourselves.
  We also speak a little bit about support groups offered for recovery and Dr. Horvath specifically introduces us to Smart Recovery groups.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Is the War on Drugs Working?

  Students for Sensible Drug Policy (SSDP) is an International grassroots network of students who are concerned about the impact drug abuse has on our communities, but who also know that the War on Drugs is failing their generation and society in general. On today’s show, I speak with Katherine Celentano, a student representative from Columbia University about the organization and why she is involved. The information is thought provoking and a new way of tackling an old problem. As usual, there is more than one side to every topic and this one is sure to present many.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Women In Prison

  This week’s show is a practical and real look at women in prison.  Denise Krochta’s guest is a woman who has served time in both the local jail system and in the prison system.  Her story is not uncommon.  She is Tammy Gagnon, author of  No Longer Silent.  Is prison like it is on TV?  Tammy tells all, baring her soul and sharing how she ended up doing time…time and time again.

  Denise starts off the episode with a few statistics:  “There were only 5,600 women in prison at the beginning of 1970.  [By 1980 there were still fewer than 12,500 women in State and Federal prisons.  But over the course of the next two decades that number rose to the current total of 167,000 women.]  Including those on probation and parole, almost 1 million women are currently under the control of the criminal justice system in the United States.”  Is someone you know part of that statistic?  Tammy Gagnon was.

  “As my drug use and alcohol use excelled, what landed me in prison was actually alcohol related,” says Tammy, who was incarcerated for 10 years for habitually drinking and driving.

  Fleeing a childhood of incest and horrors, Tammy ended up on the streets, taking drugs to numb the pain and forget her troubled life.  Suffering further abuse and multiple rapes, Tammy’s nightmare was far from over.  And when the drugs and alcohol finally wore off, she was left with more pain and more questions than when she fled: “Why didn’t I tell?  Why me?  Why can’t I cry?  What’s wrong with me?!”

  Tammy discusses the helpfulness of halfway houses in reintegrating prisoners to society and her experience with halfway house mandated AA meetings.  She then delves into what being in prison was really like: “It was just very scary.”  Tammy tells, in detail, what it’s like to walk into a prison–the booking, the testing, and being led to your cell.  She also compares her prison experience to her experiences in county jails.

  Is one of your friends or family members headed down this path?  Or you yourself?  Learn from Tammy Gagnon’s experience and get out now!

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Help, My Brother is a Drug Addict!

  In an episode “dedicated to siblings,” Denise Krochta welcomes guest Erin Daly, a freelance journalist from San Fransisco with a passion for reporting cultural and human interest stories.  Oxycontin became a subject of interest to Erin in the course of her day job, but her fascination with it took a personal turn when her youngest brother became addicted to the painkiller and eventually died of a related heroin overdose in 2009.  Tune in as Erin shares her personal story and how you can address (or prevent) similar instances in your own life.

  What is life like when your sibling is a drug addict and/or an alcoholic?  What happens to a family thrown into chaos due to a brother or sister abusing drugs and alcohol?  Who gets all the attention from the parents?  And what is the proper emotional response: Fear? Anger?  Denise starts off this episode by reading a letter from an anonymous contributor describing her pain as she struggled watching her brother fall into the perilous grip of drug abuse.

  “[My brother] was a risk-taker by nature,” explains Erin Daly, elaborating on her childhood and a few of the factors she feels led her brother to a life of drug addiction.  How much should personality be taken into account when examining drug addiction?  Are you able to tell early on–when someone is a child!–they then may be prone toward taking up these deadly habits?

  Denise and Erin also have an in-depth conversation on the cultural acceptance of prescription drugs in the United States and how that attitude–and the media stance on the matter (including the ongoing flood of commercials)–affects our youth’s opinion toward addictive substances.  Is our Nation’s casual stance on prescription drugs taking a toll on our kids?  Why are only some drugs taken seriously?  And why is it only in America that we take such a lackadaisical approach?

  This episode is sure to leave you thinking, asking questions, and begging for more!

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – New Residency Programs Accredited

  On July 1st, 2011 ten university medical schools began residency programs in Addiction Medicine. These programs are accredited by the American Board of Addiction Medicine. In this episode, host Denise Krochta discusses the goals and aspirations of these new programs with Dr. Alexander Walley of the Boston University Medical Center (where one of the new programs has begun!).

  It has always been a concern to those of us who love addicts–and to the addicts themselves!–that many doctors were not equipped to deal with the challenges faced by patients addicted to and abusing substances, both legal and illegal.  Throughout the interview, Dr. Walley clears up some of those concerns and enlightens listeners about the future of Addiction Medicine, with regards to both physical and mental health.

  As usual, Denise coaxes her guest to reveal a bit about their childhood and what led them to be an advocate against drug abuse.  Dr. Alexander Walley is no different, freely opening up about his life:  After the death of his father when he was six years old, Dr. Walley first felt the tuggings of knowing, deep down, he was meant for a greater purpose.  That purpose was to help those who were less fortunate than he.  Yes, he had been through something terrible, but it was that moment in his life where he realized that things could be worse–and for so many people, they are worse.  Dr. Walley has since then dedicated his life to helping the homeless and those addicted to drugs and alcohol.

  “There’s a separate but equal–or separate but unequal–status for mental health; and even within mental help, there’s a separate but not equal status for addiction treatment,” says Dr. Walley in regard to the importance of Addiction Psychiatrists (and how there just “aren’t enough” of them to go around).  “There’s a huge overlap between mental illness and addiction, but there’s also a huge overlap between addiction and medical illnesses,” he continues.

  So what are the new Residency Programs going to do to help?  Tune in!

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Harm Reduction

  What is “Harm Reduction?”  Does it work?  This week, Addicted to Addicts welcomes Dirk Hanson, a freelance science reporter and novelist.  Hansen talks about his latest book, The Chemical Carousel: What Science Tells Us About Beating Addiction.  Hansen also discusses recent articles he’s written for TheFix.com and his Blog, Addiction Inbox.

  “Let’s have some more!” said a young Dirk Hansen to his friend upon their first drinking experience.  Hansen discusses his first experience with alcohol and dishes out some facts on the age range typically associated with early onset alcohol dependency.  At the tender age of 13, Hansen had his first drink and, many years later, he was put into a position where he had to admit to himself that he had a problem.  “It led me to AA eventually,” Hansen admits.  From there, Hansen decided to dedicate his life to the science behind the disease of addiction.

  But are Alcoholism and Drug Addictions really diseases?  Denise has a thing or two of her own to say on this controversial issue.

  Hansen discusses the frustration that so commonly occurs in the recovery community.  Why can some addicts drop their addiction cold turkey?  Why do other addicts need to go through years of rehab and meetings?  Why can some people smoke socially (“Chippers”) while most of us are doomed to nicotine addiction?  There’s a scientific reason, and Hansen is willing to share!

  “We’ve gone through a century of blaming the addict for the addiction–for the disease,” says Dirk Hansen.  But what have we done to help them?  What have we done to “fix” them?  If it really is a “weakness” rather than a disease–as so many have been taught to believe–then what is our responsibility as a society to these people?  Hansen compares the discrimination that alcoholics and drug addicts face to the discrimination many are facing right now in the recent Gay Rights movements.

  Love it or hate it, this episode has something to say.  Are you ready to listen?

   

   

   

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Special Guest, Musical Interlude, News

  This week on Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101, host Denise Krochta mixes it up a bit.  “This week, I want to change the format of the show a little and do things differently,” says Denise.  News, a musical interlude, and a “very special guest.”  Who is this mystery guest?  You may have read her book…or recently visited her new website…  That’s right.  This week, Denise Krochta interviews herself…and her son!  That’s right, the son that inspired her to become an advocate in the fight against drug abuse is here to talk about drug addiction from his perspective.

  Denise starts off the show by reading an emotionally moving essay from one of her sponsers, Intercept Interventions.  The struggles, pain, and ever-lasting love that family members go through when an addict reveals themselves in their lives is clearly outlined and poignantly discussed.

  Next up, Denise talks about the variety of drug addiction stories that have been appearing in the news lately.  What would you do if you had to go off to war…and leave your recovering addict behind?  “It’s hard to say who faced the tougher battle,” says Denise.  Will this story have a happy ending?  Or will it end in tragedy?  Denise has got all the details on this heart-wrenching true story.

  Denise then puts her son in the interview chair, asking him the tough questions: Why did he start abusing prescription pills and heroin?  In his case, were Pot and alcohol “gateway drugs?”  Did he fear that he–or his “associates”–would become a physical danger to his family who loved him?  What are the signs to look for that indicate the beginning of an addiction? And what advice does he have for the families of addicts?

  And for those of you who remember Denise’s interview with Super Star of the ROCKSTAR SUPERSTAR PROJECT last month, you’re in for a special treat: Denise has snagged a copy of their new hit single and plays it for you as a totally rockin’ conclusion to this week’s episode!

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Prescription Drug Abuse. Epidemic?

  This week on Addicted to Addicts, Denise Krochta interviews April Rovero, founder of the National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse (NCAPDA).  April is here to talk about what’s new at the NCAPDA (including her series of YouTube videos and her new Facebook page) and to try to educate families about the prescription drug epidemic that is gripping our nation!

  In December 2009 April Rovero’s son Joey lost his life to an overdose of prescription drugs and alcohol. On November 11, 2010, just before the first anniversary of his death, April was on this show describing this life-changing event and how it affected her and her family.  She also talked about the new organization she formed: the NCAPDA.  Eight months later, she’s here with amazing updates!

  For April’s son Joey, it was his “first time out” that did him in.  This is not an uncommon situation–many mother’s have gotten the fateful phone call telling them that their child–who was not previously addicted–experimented with drugs and had it go horribly wrong.  April talks about her personal experience, with her son going away to college…and not coming back.  April discusses support groups for parents in similar situations, her son’s “dirty doctor” that gave him the drugs, and how YOU can help raise awareness.

  “Parents are still generally in denial–they just don’t think there’s any chance it will happen to their kid–while all the while there kids very well may be taking medications out of their very own medicine cabinets,” says April.  Is YOUR child secretly addicted to the drugs in YOUR medicine cabinet?  Or their babysitter’s cabinet?

  April also details her trip to Washington DC and the presentations she preformed for the people in power.  But April doesn’t just present for the big wigs in Washington–April also hits the local schools.  April shares her experiences in middle and high schools and how different children of different ages react to drug education and awareness.

  Learn how to not only get aware, but get involved!  Stop prescription drug abuse today!

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Dads Against Drug Dealers

  “On today’s show, we’re going to tackle the topic of what can we ordinary citizens do to help curb the growth of drug addiction in our communities,” starts host Denise Krochta.  Today’s guest is Lance Merrill, founder of D.A.D.D.S (Dads Against Drug Dealers).  D.A.D.D.S gives everyone a risk free way of joining the fight.  Learn how you can safely divulge the names of the local drug dealers in your area–without anyone ever finding out it was you!  Learn how YOU can make a difference!

  Lance Merrill details his own experiences with drug dealers when his daughter Jani fell into their clutches.  Merrill was somewhat familiar with the symptoms associated with various type of drug addicts and immediately became suspicious when his daughter’s personality and interests started changing.  He pulled her aside and had a heart-to-heart.  “I didn’t ask if she was doing drugs,” says Merrill, “I asked her which drugs she was doing.”  Merrill was shocked to discover Jani was addicted to Heroin.

  When Jani lost her life to her Heroin addiction, Merrill went after her drug dealer.  Once Jani’s dealer was behind bars, Merrill decided it was time to help other dads (and moms!) fight their child’s drug dealers.  D.A.D.D.S was born from this idea.

  Merrill and Krochta discuss how many good people want to speak out against their local drug dealers–to turn them in to the police!–but do not for fear of violent retaliation.  “Most drug addicts are druggies themselves,” explains Merrill, “…they usually don’t have that kind of organization.”  However, Merrill understood these concerns and developed the G.O.O.D (Give Our Officials Dealers) section of his organization.  G.O.O.D is a safe anonymous way to divulge the name of a drug dealer in your area without posing any risk to yourself! The information goes directly to the Attorney General’s office and is then distributed to local law enforcement.

  Don’t be afraid to step up and make YOUR community a better, safer, place to be.  Tune in today!

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Teens and the Juvenile Justice System

  What rights do teenagers have when it comes to the juvenile justice system?  Do parents have rights too?  Denise Krochta interviews former Arizona Assistant Attorney General Thomas Jacobs on the topic of child welfare and how it connects to criminal law.  Jacobs writes regularly for teens, parents and educators on youth justice issues while answering readers’ questions at his website, but today he’s on Addicted to Addicts answering all of YOUR biggest questions!

  Denise starts off this intriguing episode by having Jacobs reach back, far back, to the days of his childhood.  Jacobs reveals his upbringing and how it helped to influence his choices later in life.  “It lead me to teen law and children’s law,” says Jacobs, of growing up in an environment where he was surrounded by children at all times (he had 7 siblings and even more young relatives in his extended family!).  Having this background, Jacobs grew to realize that children and teens were uncomfortable with coming to adults with their most important questions: Hence the birth of his official website–Ask the Judge–where kids and teens can look up the information for themselves.

  Denise cracks down on Jacobs, asking the tough questions about children and their upbringing.  Is it right to buy a child a Shirley Temple or Roy Rogers at a bar?  It’s just soda, but is the environment–and that “feel” of having a drink in their hands while in a bar–fine or is it a “setup” for future addiction?

  “In addition to the sex talk [with your child]…you have to have the sexting talk!” says Jacobs.  Children are growing up more quickly than ever and the dangers are different for this generation than for the last.  How should a parent approach these new problems?

  Denise continues to bring up her “pet peeves” throughout the episode–from parents offering alcohol to children at sleepovers to the harsh judgements that comes from other parents when YOU are the parent of a child or teen with a problem–and Thomas Jacobs shines a guiding light on the subjects from both his personal experiences and a legal perspective.  This is an episode you won’t want to miss!

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Drug Abuse, Alcoholism, and Gambling?

  Is there a relationship between substance abuse and compulsive gambling? On this week’s Addicted to Addicts, host Denise Krochta interviews Michael Burke, author of Never Enough.  His answer?  A whopping big YES!  “Addiction is addiction is addiction,” says Burke.  Find out why!  Krochta and Burke share their recommendations for addicts (and their loved ones) about prevention, recovery, and support.

  After battling alcoholism in his younger days and spending time to get help in rehab, Burke felt he was finally free and clear; however, he traded in one addiction for another and ended up spending his 24th, 25th, and 26th year of “sobriety” in prison… because of his gambling addiction.  Thanks to celebrities, alcohol, drug, and even sex addiction have been on the forefront of news media–but what about gambling addiction?  This serious problem often goes ignored for lack of publicity.  But does a lack of attention from the public eye make the problem any less important?  Of course not.  Burke describes, in detail, how he first got pulled under by the riptide of gambling addiction and how it affected not only his own life, but the lives of the people he cared about.

  Burke discusses his suicidal thoughts, how difficult it was to “come out” to his family about his problem, and the time he ultimately spent in prison when his gambling debts spiraled completely out of control.  The strange thing is: “In the beginning, addiction works,” says Burke; addressing his former alcoholism and how, at first, it was very enjoyable (and a huge part of his social life).  The same was true for his gambling addiction.  However, a gambling addiction is much easier to hide.  “You can’t smell a pack of cards on a gambler like you can smell alcohol on an alcoholic,” Burke points out.

  Gambling is socially accepted and sometimes even presented as a good thing to do; however, a gambling addiction can ruin your life: financially, romantically, mentally, emotionally, and otherwise.  Learn how and when to get help today!

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Addiction and the Nursing Profession

  When we are sick and in need of nursing attention we expect focus and professional care. But, what if our caregivers are prone to substance abuse and misuse?  In this week’s Addicted to Addicts, host Denise Krochta gets an inside look at this intriguing topic from the author of From Unbecoming a Nurse to Overcoming addiction, Paula Scimeca, RN, MS.  The topic is addiction and the nursing profession. Paula and Denise discuss accountability in the profession, the pressures and expectations specific to nurses, and explore addiction and accountability in the general population.

  “I saw [nursing] not only as a way to support myself, but as a way to give back to society,” says Paula.  So, what went wrong?  For her, not much; however, for thousands of other nurses, there was an ongoing chemical dependency that turned their lives upside-down.  Paula discusses the numerous stresses unique to nurses and the treatment process she goes through to help rehabilitate them when they finally realize that they need help.

  Paula goes on to explain that this is a common enough occurrence, not only in the medical field, but just about everywhere.   It’s no longer heroin that people are clamoring for: it’s prescription drugs–the kind dished out by doctors and dentists.  “The mindset is, ‘it’s not illegal if it’s prescribed,” notes Denise.  When drugs are readily available and not illegal to take–are they more tempting than ever?

  “Substance abuse, including alcohol and prescription drugs, crosses all barriers these days and the more we talk about it and recognize that it exists, the quicker we can talk about possible solutions,” says Denise.  Are you a nurse seeking help to overcome your substance abuse addiction?  Or do you know and love someone who falls into that category?  Then this episode is definitely for you.  And for anyone else who has ever loved an addict and wanted to see them well.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Families / First 30 Days of Sobriety

  Denise Krochta interviews Kris Kancler, better known as SUPERSTAR, of the ROCKSTAR SUPERSTAR PROJECT as he discusses his new book, The First 30 Days to Serenity: The Essential Guide to Staying Sober, and answers some of the tough questions that come from those of us who love addicts and alcoholics, regarding relapses, frustrations, fears, anxieties, and our own judgments and cynicism.

  “[Superstar] and his twin brother [Rockstar] are the creators the the Rockstar Superstar Project, created to present Drug Addiction Education in schools–mostly middle schools and high schools–in a unique way…Through music.”

  In this interview, Kancler talks about his book and the writing process.  Written in a unique way, Kancler began writing his book during his first 30 days of sobriety and then returned to it one year later–fully sober–to add reflections. The First 30 Days to Serenity: The Essential Guide to Staying Sober is written from the point of view of an addict during his initial recovery and gives a window into how addicts feel when first thrust into rehab.  However, the “Stinkin’ Thinkin’” (Kancler’s initial thoughts) throughout the book have been revised with Kancler’s “Sober Thoughts” (his reflections one year later), leaving a piece filled with hope and positive energy.

  Kancler also opens up about his own struggles with addiction and recovery stating, “It’s a family disease and everyone dances around it.  It’s not just the addicts, of course, that dance with it, it’s the friends and family members of the addicts that are suffering too…  That’s another reason I wrote the book: To give that friend or family member and idea of what it is that we’re thinking .”  Kris Kancler offers his insights and offers tips for friends and family members of addicts and recovering addicts.

  For more on Kris “Super Star” Kancler’s background, feel free to listen to his first interview on Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 by clicking HERE.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Sober Living, Yes or No?

  In this episode, host Denise Krochta welcomes guest Mary Clifford, Resident Manager of The Bridges of San Diego Sober Living Home located in La Jolla, California.  Mary addresses her alcoholism (now sober for six and a half years!), who she is, and what she does at a sober living facility designed especially for women.

  What is a sober living and is it a good thing or a bad thing? In today’s recovery environment loved ones of addicts and alcoholics often get into the “panic mode” when they know their addicted loved ones are about to leave a rehab facility or jail. What next? Do we invite them back into our homes? Do we research options for them so they can make choices for themselves? What exactly is available ? Denise and Mary discuss, in detail, what a sober living environment is and what questions to ask to make informed decisions about them.

  Mary Clifford talks about her first job working at a sober living home in 2008, and how it affected her life during the economic collapse, and how it led her to the career she has now.  “Whether you have been sober 30 days or 30 years, it is always inspirational to take part in helping women regain hope for their futures, learn to live life on life’s terms, be reliable and accountable, and be productive members of society,” says Clifford.

  As a recovering alcoholic, Mary Clifford knows from experience the struggles one goes through on the road to recovery.  “I believe in sober living, because it played such an important role in my early sobriety. I don’t know what would have happened those first six months, had I only had myself to be accountable,” says Clifford.

  Learn what “Sober Living” is, the steps to sobriety, and how to regain the trust of your friends and family.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Addiction, Recovery, Treatment: Let's talk Detachment

  Addicted to Addicts‘ Denise Krochta interviews Cathy Taughinbaugh, a former teacher and mother of a crystal meth addict who has been in recovery for over 5 years.  Taughinbaugh writes on addiction, recovery, and treatment at TreatmentTalk.org.

  In this revealing interview, Cathy Taughinbaugh talks about her youth: The alcoholism that runs in her bloodline, and her college-era experiments with beer, marijuana, and coke.  “I wasn’t really out using them all the time–I wasn’t buying them–and it really didn’t become that big a part of my life,” says Taughinbaugh.  Unfortunately, this was not the case for her eldest son and youngest daughter.

  Thanks to Taughinbaugh’s ex-husband, her son was steeped in an environment of alcohol and drug abuse from the very beginning.  While the marriage ended in divorce, it was not without consequence.  “Everything went very well until the kids hit  high school…”

  As a fourth grade teacher, Taughinbaugh struggled talking to the parents’ of her students–helping to prepare their children for their futures–knowing her own children were at home experimenting with drugs and alcohol.  Marijuana, mushrooms, and alcohol affected her eldest son throughout high school and especially college; leaving him with a lack of motivation and struggling in his adult life.  However, it was her daughter that ended up fully grasped in the evil claws of Addiction.

  After finding crystal meth in her daughter’s backpack, Taughinbaugh’s world was rocked.  In denial at first, the problem went unchecked for several years until it eventually got to the point of no return: Something had to be done.  Her daughter was thoroughly addicted.

  Learn more about Cathy Taughinbaugh, her story, her daughter’s horrifying addiction and intense recovery process; and how alcoholism, drugs, and rehab can shape your family’s life.  Hear one mother’s story of “cautious optimism” and how these two mother’s of addicts deal with their worry, regret, and everlasting love and support for their children.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Drug Class

  In this episode of Addicted to Addicts, author and host Denise Krochta interviews Rand Teed, the primary instructor of Canada’s prized Drug Class.  “Rand has been working with teens for over 35 years and for the past 15 years has been helping them understand how substance use can get in the way of having the life they want.”

  In this informative interview, Denise has Rand Teed elaborate on his concept of “Say Know to Drugs” versus the classic “Say NO to Drugs.”  As a former addict himself–with a key to his father’s Pharmacy and liquor cabinet!–Rand uses his personal experiences of failure and triumph to relate to today’s troubled adolescents.  Rand describes his teaching approach as “non-confrontational and not negative.”  He introduced this program nearly a decade ago and kids and teens have been listening ever since!

  Denise and Rand also investigate the differences between Drug Education in the United States versus Canada: Why does the United States only offer Drug Education to children in 5th grade and then seemingly ignore the issue in their later school years?  Is Canada’s younger legal drinking age (18-19) better or worse than the United State’s legal drinking age of 21?  Does regular drug and alcohol education throughout one’s schooling make a difference later in life?  Does a lack of education on these issues leave a child/teenager at a larger risk for addiction?

  Now in its third season, Drug Class airs in both Canada and some parts of the United States.  Drug Class can also be found online at their Official Website to stream or to buy.  Or, for those of you who prefer reading to watching, Drug Class can also be found in written form on their informative frequently updated Blog.

  For anyone who’s ever had Drug Education in school, or has a child who’s going through it (or needs to go through it), this Podcast is for you.  Get the inside scoop from Canada’s leading Drug Education instructor today!

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – The Addicts' Moms

  On this week’s show I’ve got some moms together to discuss just what it is like to be the mom of an addict. We speak about the fears, blame, frustrations, and possibilities. Barbara, the creator of “The Addict’s Mom” facebook page and website joins us, along with one of the participating members.
  I would like to encourage all of you, again, to check out some of this online support, along with another group on the internet at eons.com, and join the group “Parents of adult drug addicts”.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Sandra's Walk for Recovery

  This week’s show will feature a mom, addict in recovery, and a project she is working on to spread the word about recovery. I’m presenting this, again, to give hope to families who are in the middle of trying to cope with addiction and the chaos and drama it can present. Sandra is a woman who was an active addict for over 30 years. She is celebrating her 5 year anniversary of sobriety this year. You can follow her on twitter and Facebook or at her website.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Denial or Hope, A Fine Line

  This week we will discuss denial and hope, with a little bit of “gut feeling” thrown in. My guest is Diana Clark, a specialist in addiction and family systems. She offers an array of services to educate family members about addictive disorders and encourages healthy responses. Diana offers a calm, compassionate, and logical voice during a time of turmoil: encouraging family members to engage in behavior which promotes recovery and healthy functioning for all.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – A Dad's View

  On the show this week I am speaking with Charles, a dad whose adult son has been battling alcoholism and addiction for many years. I am familiar with the “mom’s” perspective, and now we will hear a dad’s perspective.
  For support for moms and dads dealing with the addiction of their child/adult child, Partnership for a Drug Free America and SAMSHA are both good resources.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Drug Court

  What is drug court? Who qualifies for drug court? Is drug court a good thing? Today we will try to answer these questions and more with my guest Dan Griffin who has worked with drug courts for the past eight years. Mr. Griffin has been working in the field of addiction for over sixteen years. He lives in Minnesota.
  “A Man’s Way Through the Twelve Steps” is his first book and is the first book to speak directly to men’s experience in recovery. For more information about drug court check out this website http://www.nadcp.org/nadcp-home/

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Prevention?

  Drug prevention programs have been around for decades. Are they working? Have the programs changed with the times? Do we take them seriously? What are the statistics?
  On this show I will ask Peggy Sapp these questions, and more. Peggy is the president and CEO of Informed Families, an agency she helped create to help kids grow up healthy and drug free. She is, also, the volunteer president of National Family Partnership. She is a recognized leader in drug prevention and has been the recipient of numerous honors and community service awards. Peggy has served on the Advisory Councils of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy as well as other national boards and councils.
  Check out one of the current campaigns for prevention “Lock Your Meds”.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – From Tragedy to Survival

  Today’s show is about surviving “no matter what”. My guest is James Brown an author, college professor, and addict and alcoholic in recovery. His story is compelling and full of twists and turns. His recently re-released memoir, the” Los Angeles Diaries” and newly released (continuing) memoir,” This River” are stories movies are made of. Tune in and listen to a different story about Hollywood, at least different than what we see on the news.
  Click on his name and go to his blog and website. You will find much food for thought.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Baby Boomers in Treatment

  Growing older can be a rich and wondrous time for many adults. For others, these are years filled with anxiety, uncertainty, loss and profound loneliness. Alcoholism and prescription drug abuse have reached epidemic proportion among this population.
  Today my guest is John Dyben, clinical director for Hanley Center, where they take a unique approach to age and gender treatment. We will be discussing the specific population of Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964).
  For more information call toll free 866-442-6539

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – The Grandparent Parent

  What happens to the children when their parents are addicted to drugs and alcohol? Who becomes the responsible adult? Are these children in danger? Who cares? These are some of the questions we will address on today’s show. Our topic is ” Must grandparents raise grandchildren when their children are addicts?”
  Our guest today is Dr. Kristina Diener, a violence trauma and addictions specialist and a former prison psychologist. Dr. Diener has nearly 36 years in recovery herself. She works with addicts as well as families who have addicts in their lives. Her phone number is (818) 497-2400.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Science and Addiction?

  The show today is a comparison between standard drug treatment and some of the different alternative treatments for addiction. Our guest today is John Giordano, president of G&G Holistic Addiction Treatment Center in North Miami Beach, Florida. He is the author of the book “Proven Holistic Treatment for Addiction of Chronic Relapse” and, previously, the host of a one hour call in television show on addiction. You can reach the center at 800-559-9503. G&G Treatment Center will be hosting “Evolution of Treatment: An Experiential Conference” on March 9,10,11 of 2011.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Can We Really Be Still?

  Today we are going to speak about mindfulness, focus, and healing from within. It’s all about the tools to use to grasp serenity and peace while there is chaos and drama surrounding us.
  Today’s guest is Peter Amato. Mr. Amato is an alcoholic and cocaine addict in recovery who has written “Soul Silence: A Unique Approach to Mastering the 11th Step”. He is a meditation master and psychotherapist who has founded Inner Harmony Wellness Centers.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Second Hand Drinking/Drugging

  Lisa Frederiksen is a researcher,writer, speaker, consultant, and most recently, author of her 7th and 8th books, “If You Loved Me, You’d Stop” and ” Loved One in Treatment? Now What?”
  She writes a blog and presents and consults to a wide variety of groups, families, and individuals.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Intervention or No Intervention?

  Today’s show is all about intervention. When do we consider intervening in our loved ones’ drug addicted lives? Do we need a professional to do this? Can we do it ourselves? Is there money involved and how much?
  What, exactly, is an intervention anyway?
  This week my guest is Ken Seeley, world famous board registered interventionist and Founder of Intervention 911. Ken is well known for being a featured interventionist on the Emmy Award Winning Series, “Intervention” on A&E tv. He is also the author of “Face it and Fix It: A Three Step Plan to Break Free From Denial, and Discover the Life You Deserve.” You can follow Ken on Facebook and Twitter. You can reach Ken at Intervention 911 on his toll free number 866-888-4911.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Athletes, Pain, Drug Abuse

  Is the combination of pain incurred in sports (from middle school to professional sports) and the easy availability of prescription drugs, becoming lethal to our athletes? Is the “drug culture” to take a pill for anything that ails you, contributing to the impairment and deaths of our most promising fit phenoms? Is there a link between steroids, muscle enhancers, HGH, muscle relaxers and prescription pain pills?
  My guest today is Sean Morley, from World Wrestling Entertainment. Sean is known around the world for his 11 year run with the WWE. During his career with World Wrestling Entertainment, Mr. Morley held the Intercontinental Championship twice, European Championship once, and World Tag Team Championship with Lance Storm.
  Sean has been speaking to students around the world through WWE and public speaking programs for almost a decade, and now speaks to these same groups about the dangers of prescription drug abuse through Scriptdanger.com.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Cautious Optimism and Hope

  We who love addicts and alcoholics experience lots of ups and downs, hopes and disappointments, and, yes, crashes. We try to cling on to the saying “where there is life, there’s hope”. Well, today’s show is a good example of this possibility. We will be talking to a young man who somehow extracted himself from a 9 year drug addiction and dealer life to somewhere even the most positive person might not even imagine.
  Dr. Adi Jaffe is a UCLA trained psychologist, specializing in addiction. Before he got involved in addiction research at UCLA, he was a drug dealer and meth addict. Besides his research, Dr. Jaffe writes for his All About Addiction Blog and for Psychology Today Magazine.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Who Loves an Addict?

  On today’s show we discuss the different relationships between loved ones and addicts. My guest is Marie Cullen.Cullen is the author of the memoir, The Year of the Dogs, which tells the story of her deep love for Luke and of his tragic relapse back into addiction. . Cullen has spoken at schools, treatment facilities,substance abuse treatment conferences and in the realm of substance abuse prevention venues all over New England. Her memoir opened a dialogue within that community that continues to this day. In May 2005, Cullen was awarded the distinction of Community Member of the Year by Rhode Island Communities for Addiction Recovery Efforts.

  A portion of the proceeds from her book benefit To Write Love On Her Arms, a non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide. TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery.

  Currently, Cullen’s memoir is the featured Book of the Month on In The Rooms, an online community for people in recovery and their
  loved ones.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Power to the People

  This show focuses on power for loved ones. Please remember that there are shows on the archives page that will arm you with information and power. If you have not listened to them all, take some time to “catch up”.
  Today’s guest is Raymond Ferrero from Addiction Recovery Legal Services (1-877-35-ABUSE). Mr. Ferrero and his partner Alan Levin have devoted their practice to representing families in Civil Court where they began to utilize the Marchman Alcohol & Other Drug Services Act. The Marchman Act is their way of assisting families to obtain and enforce confidential, court ordered drug and alcohol intervention, assessment, stabilization, and treatment before an individual suffers the significant and dangerous affects of substance abuse and addiction.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – "Mommy I am Here!"

  What is it really like to be a young child of an alcoholic mother? What are the family dynamics? How does this reflect on the child when he/she becomes an adult? These are some of the questions we will discuss on the show today.
  My guest today is Tori Hartman, whose name is synonymous with celebrity and reliability. She is the only psychic to be interviewed by The NY Times and the LA Business Journal and her products have been featured in Allure Magazine and on The Oprah Winfrey Show. This is not the reason Tori is on the show today. Tori is also the child of an alcoholic and has a compelling story to be shared. Many of you will identify with this. Listen and learn. Let’s consider this information as we see helpless children we didn’t think we could help.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Is Addiction a Disease of the Brain?

  In recent years progress has been made in brain imaging and understanding more about what happens in the brain of addicts and alcoholics. Today’s discussion is about possibilities regarding this aspect of addiction research. We will talk about the science of addiction as presented by The National Institute on Drug Abuse and the neuroscience of the brain as reported by Neuroscience Inc.
  My guest today is award winning and internationally recognized author Leslie Botha, marketing director of Courage to Change Addiction Recovery Ranch in Colorado.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – What's In Your Medicine Cabinet?

  Every day, more than 2500 teenagers abuse prescription medication for the first time. Sadly, teens often experiment with medications they find right at home. Many young people think that it is safer to misuse prescription medications than illegal street drugs. That is simply not true.

  Our guest today is Bryan Johnson from Bridge Back Interventions. Bryan is a certified addictions counselor and facilitates interventions for treatment centers located around the country. He is a national speaker on addiction.

  Sarah Ramsey is with Bryan today. She works with Bryan and speaks nationally to parents and teens about the RX epidemic across the country.

  Check out Child Cause for another resource that brings awareness to parents and teens on this topic.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Helping or Enabling?

  When my children were toddlers, they would push my hand away when they were trying to accomplish something like putting a t-shirt on or pouring some water. “No, Me!” they would say. So, I tried to be patient as I watched an inside out t-shirt or the head through an arm hole or water missing the cup. Later on, when they were engrossed in some toy or coloring or something, I would carefully and quietly go over and fix it.
  Addiction reminds me of this. Are we helping by doing things for them or do we just want to fix everything too quickly? Is this helping? Is this enabling? On today’s show we will address this issue with our guest.
  Today’s guest is Shelly Pratt, a psychotherapist who has helped clients in addressing the challenges of emotional, psychiatric and substance abuse issues since 1987.
  She has a masters of Clinical Social Work treating a broad range of diagnoses, with Employee Assistance Programs, individuals, groups, couples, families, children and adolescents in various treatment settings including outpatient, inpatient, day programs, schools and emergency room evaluations. She is currently serving as an outpatient clinician in Boston, Ma.
  Shelly’s holistic approach to healing is grounded in education, compassion and empathy, nurturing the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of individuals and their families; to bring order out of the chaos, the unbearable into the bearable, and help to master what has been too overwhelming to one’s self esteem and sense of value. She can be reached at her email address: mailto:shelly.pratt@comcast.net and by phone at 617-262-9494.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Spice is Nice?

  “K2″, “spice”, fake marijuana is one of the topics for today’s show. It is an “incense” that has come under the radar of the DEA . Should it be legal or not? This is followed by a discussion on the use of drug treatment for addiction, such as methadone and suboxone.
  This week’s guest is Kansas Cafferty, a Master Counselor of Addictions, Marriage and Family Therapist, and he carries a Clinical Supervisor Credential for supervising other addiction counselors. He is a full time therapist at Newport Academy, the nation’s premiere residential treatment program for teens, and has a private practice in Oceanside, Ca. He also serves in a leadership capacity for the adolescent specialty committee for NAADAC (National Association of Alcohol, Drug and other Addiction Counselors). Kansas has been in the addiction treatment field for 13 years, working primarily with adolescents, young adults, and relapse prone individuals.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – CAN WE SAVE THESE KIDS?

  Prescription Drug Abuse is becoming an epidemic here in the US. It is the new face of addiction. All ages and genders participate. You just never know who or where. This week we will begin our discussion of this “epidemic” with the rampant drug overdoses of young people ages 15-30, especially on college campuses.
  Our guest today is April Rovero, whose youngest son, Joey, died from a lethal combination of alcohol and misused prescription medication. He died on December 18, 2009 while attending Arizona State University. April is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of  The National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse (NCAPDA), an organization that was established to generate nationwide awareness about the dangers of prescription drug misuse and abuse. Please visit their facebook page for more information and interaction.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – Not Always What It Seems

  Clueless is always the word that

  comes to mind when I think of how I was when it came to what was going on with my son and his drug addiction. I look back and wonder if things would be different if I had some idea of what to look for and if I knew some of the things that he knew. So, this week we are going to learn about many of the signs, sounds, expressions, etc that are part of the “world” of our addicted loved ones. Perhaps being more aware can help us to make better decisions.

  Today’s guest is Nick Athas. He and his wife Kelli are the founders of Intercept Interventions. They work daily with families & friends of addicts and alcoholics in thier battle against the disease of addiction. They are just finishing their first book “Enough is Enough”. Both Kelli and Nick are recovering addicts. Nick’s oldest son is also an addict in recovery.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 – ONLINE SUPPORT. YOU ARE NOT ALONE

  The majority of those who love addicts do not get any support or help for themselves. They keep their situation a secret and suffer alone. This show will offer online support where we can remain anonymous or remote, if we choose, and still get support. The guest for this show is Barbara Theodosiou, Founder and Managing Director of The Women’s Mastermind Group, of Mommy Mentors, and Co Founder of Women Helping Women Mastermind. She is also the creator of The Addict’s Mom website and The Addict’s Mom Facebook Group. Barbara was honored as one of the top 100 outstanding women in business in Broward County in 2009 and has her master’s degree in Family Therapy.

  
• Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101 - The first show of “Addicted to Addicts: Survival 101” is an overview of the goals for the show. Denise will give a brief view of her history with addiction in her world and a comprehensive look at the resources that she provides from her website and book.

  This week’s guest is Christian DeLuca, CEO of Steps to Recovery. His organization provides sources and information for the best opportunities for recovery for addicts and their families. Christian, an addict in recovery himself, will give us an insight into this growing social problem through his own story and through what he does today.