The Balance Beam: How Much is too Much? Straight talk with the Pushy Broad

The Balance Beam: How Much is too Much? Straight talk with the Pushy Broad

What can we learn from those who have battled addiction? This straight-talking episode of *Recovery Recharged with Ellen Stewart Pushy Broad from the Bronx* tackles the question that haunts anyone who drinks or uses drugs: "How much is too much?" With her trademark direct style, Ellen breaks down the fine line between social use, abuse, and addiction in a way that’s clear, practical, and a bit cheeky.

You’ll hear her lay out simple benchmarks: social use is occasional, usually at gatherings, and typically capped at two or three drinks. Abuse starts when alcohol or drugs interfere with daily life, relationships, or responsibilities – like waking up hungover and unable to function, or taking “one too many gummies” and losing control. Addiction, as she puts it, is when “you do not know how to comfortably stop” and your mind is constantly on the next drink or drug.

Producer Jessica reads in real questions from listeners, prompting straight answers on habits, mental health, and peer pressure. Ellen explains how repeated abuse can slide into addiction, how substances are often used to self-medicate anxiety, depression or trauma, and why heroin and other opioids are inherently high-risk. She firmly challenges the idea of a “functioning alcoholic,” calling it an oxymoron.

The episode also offers practical self-checks: asking *why* you’re having that second or third drink, whether you can enjoy a night out sober, and paying attention when friends say “slow down, you’ve had enough.” Ellen stresses that “normal” is personal, and that being “allergic to alcohol” doesn’t make anyone less normal – it just means health has to come first.

If you’ve ever wondered where you stand on that balance beam between harmless fun and harmful use, this episode gives you straight answers and tough questions to ask yourself. Ready to check your own relationship with alcohol and drugs?