131 - FAMILY FRIDAY - TED TALK ALUMNI; MICHELLE WEIDENBENNER AND RICH JOHNSTON; INTERVENTIONIST, JOIN ME TO DISCUSS HOW TO HANDLE LOVING SOMEONE WHO SUFFERS IN ACTIVE ADDICTION131 - FAMILY FRIDAY - TED TALK ALUMNI; MICHELLE WEIDENBENNER AND RICH JOHNSTON; INTERVENTIONIST, JOIN ME TO DISCUSS HOW TO HANDLE LOVING SOMEONE WHO SUFFERS IN ACTIVE ADDICTION
Ashes to Awesome Podcast - Rising in Recovery
Rich Johnston and Michelle Weidenbenner discuss loving someone in active addiction and offer practical advice for families.
1:25:10•23 Jun 2023
Family Friday: Navigating Love and Addiction with Rich Johnston and Michelle Weidenbenner
Episode Overview
- The episode delves into the complexities of loving someone in active addiction, featuring Rich Johnston, an interventionist, and Michelle Weidenbenner, a dedicated advocate for mothers of addicts.
- The conversation highlights the evolution of the podcast, from humorous anecdotes to a comprehensive six-day-a-week program.
- Rich Johnston emphasises the unique dynamics of addiction within families, shedding light on the 'love model' and the absence of universal approaches in interventions.
- Michelle Weidenbenner shares insights into shame, guilt, and the emotional toll on loved ones, drawing from her personal experiences.
- The episode addresses various topics, including addiction legislation, societal stigma, and the urgent need for holistic support systems in addiction recovery.
“If you are in active addiction right now, today could be the day that you start that lifelong journey. Reach out to a friend, reach out to a family member, call into detox, go to a meeting, do whatever the hell it is you need to do to get that journey started because it is so much better on the other side.”
How do you love someone who is struggling with active addiction? This episode of the Ashes to Awesome Podcast brings a unique perspective to Family Friday with two insightful guests: Rich Johnston, an interventionist from Florida, and Michelle Weidenbenner, a dedicated advocate for mothers of addicts. Hosted by Chuck LaFlange, the conversation dives deep into the emotional and practical challenges of supporting a loved one through addiction.
Rich Johnston shares his expertise on the 'love model', emphasizing that there are no one-size-fits-all solutions when it comes to addiction. Each family's journey is unique, and Rich offers compassionate guidance on navigating these turbulent waters. Michelle Weidenbenner opens up about her personal experiences and the heavy burden of shame and guilt that often accompanies addiction. She passionately discusses her advocacy work and the importance of education in breaking down stigma.
The episode also touches on broader issues such as the impact of legislation on addiction treatment and the urgent need for holistic support systems. Rich and Michelle's heartfelt stories and practical advice make this episode a must-listen for anyone dealing with addiction in their family. The conversation concludes with a powerful reminder: today could be the day to start the journey to recovery, and even a small act of love and support can make a significant difference.
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