Heart of the Matter Partnership to End Addiction

For the season 5 finale of Heart of the Matter, Captain Sandy Yawn from the hit Bravo TV show “Below Deck” joins Elizabeth Vargas to discuss how years of substance use eventually led to more than 30 years in recovery. Sandy also gives advice to anyone struggling – especially those who’ve relapsed – as well as their families.


Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: 
Having Tough Conversations  Suggesting Treatment to a Loved One Long Term Recovery from 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

Figlia founder Lily Geiger joins Elizabeth Vargas to share the inspiration behind her non-alcoholic cocktail brand. Lily reveals what it was like growing up with a parent struggling with substance use –  including its profound influence on her life, and why it inspired her to start her own company. 
Content warning: This episode contains mentions of death, as well as 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:
Harm Reduction Strategies for Alcohol  Alcohol: What Parents Need to Know  Walking Through Grief Together 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

In this episode of “Heart of the Matter”, award-winning author David Ambroz joins Elizabeth Vargas to share his incredible journey of overcoming poverty and homelessness and rising to become a successful lawyer and advocate for change.  David’s childhood was marked by hardship and a system that failed him. Yet, he defied the odds, achieving remarkable success and using his experience to fight for a better future for vulnerable youth. 
Tune into this special episode to hear David’s inspiring story and his powerful message about investing in our children early on before they fall victim to a broken system. 


Content warning: This episode contains mentions of death, as well as 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: 
Parental Modeling: The Most Powerful Parenting Tool in Fostering Youth Mental Health and Resilience A Parent’s Guide to Raising Resilient Kids Is Your Child at Risk? A Substance Use Risk Assessment 
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

Dave Aronberg, who serves as the Palm Beach County State Attorney in Florida, speaks with Elizabeth Vargas about navigating the treatment system. They discuss things people should look for when researching treatment centers, as well as things to avoid. He also explains the “Florida Shuffle” and what patient brokering is – and how this is happening all over the country. In addition, Dave shares ways to find legitimate treatment centers.


 Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: 
Find support and treatment for you or your loved one Seeking Help: What to Look For, What to Avoid What Types of Addiction Treatment are Available? Navigating the Treatment 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

Award-winning chef Ashish Alfred joins Elizabeth Vargas to discuss his family history with substance use – including his own addiction. Now that he’s in recovery, he is focused on transforming the restaurant industry for those who don’t drink alcohol. 


Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: 
Is Your Child at Risk? A Substance Use Risk Assessment Having Tough Conversations Continuing Care: Life and Recovery After 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

Charles Kelley joins Elizabeth Vargas to talk about his recovery journey. He discloses why he often hid his drinking from those closest to him, how his wife supported his recovery, and why it was important for Charles to be honest about Lady A’s 2022 tour postponement. 
 
Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:
Navigating the Treatment SystemSuggesting Treatment to a Loved OneAlcohol Screening and Abstinence and Moderation Mobile MessagingTo learn more:
Partnership to End Addiction website
Donate today to help us provide free resources to families