Heart of the Matter

Partnership to End Addiction
  • 4.8 (297)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Biweekly

Heart of the Matter with Elizabeth Vargas is a production from Partnership to End Addiction. Heart of the Matter is an interview series that gives guests the opportunity to share their personal, candid stories about addiction. This podcast offers a space to open up about addiction, substance use and mental health, to share the ways in which people are shifting their narrative – in their own relationships and across communities – to support the cause of ending addiction in our country.Worried about your child or loved one? Partnership to End Addiction's helpline is here for you and anyone else playing a supportive role in the life of a person struggling with substance use. Get one on one support by texting JOIN to 55753 or visit https://helphope.net/3koi6Kh to learn more. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. Text HELP for help or STOP to opt out.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 the following link. 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. https://drugfree.org/article/shouldnt-use-word-addict/

  1. Sep 29

    Inside the Film "Union County": Adam Meeks & Annette Deao on Where Fiction Meets Real-Life Recovery

    Director Adam Meeks and counselor Annette Deao join Elizabeth Vargas to discuss "Union County," a film starring Will Poulter and Noah Centineo as brothers navigating a drug recovery court. Blending fiction with real courtroom footage and real participants playing themselves, the film offers a realistic look at addiction, community, and the daily work of recovery. Adam and Annette share stories behind the film's most powerful scenes and why they built it as a celebration of resilience. Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: Continuing Care: Life and Recovery After TreatmentRelapse: What You Can Do as a ParentRecovery Housing: Need it? Here's What to ConsiderEditor’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 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

    Inside the Film "Union County": Adam Meeks & Annette Deao on Where Fiction Meets Real-Life Recovery

  2. Sep 15

    How Genetics Shapes Risk for Substance Use Disorder with Dr. Danielle Dick

    DNA doesn't just shape our eye color. It shapes how our brains are wired for risk, anxiety, reward, and so much more. Dr. Danielle Dick, the director of the Rutgers Addiction Research Center, Brain Health Institute, joins Elizabeth Vargas for the season 8 premiere of Heart of the Matter to unpack the science behind that idea. Dr. Dick explains the three genetically influenced pathways to substance use disorder and why understanding a person's wiring, rather than assigning blame, is key to real prevention and recovery.  Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode: Risk Factors for AddictionPrevention Check-upHow Worried Should I BeEditor’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 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

    How Genetics Shapes Risk for Substance Use Disorder with Dr. Danielle Dick

  3. 12/16/2025

    Carleah Summers: Helping Mothers Recover from Addiction by Keeping Families Together

    Carleah Summers shares her journey from addiction to recovery and how her experience inspired her to open Andrea's House, a non-profit residential treatment program in Maryland where mothers can recover from substance use disorder without being separated from their children. Carleah discusses the stigma around maternal mental health and the importance of keeping families together during recovery. Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:   Pregnancy and Postpartum Substance Use SupportParental Mental HealthRisk Factors for AddictionEditor’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 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

    Carleah Summers: Helping Mothers Recover from Addiction by Keeping Families Together

  4. 12/02/2025

    Matt Dorsey's Journey Through Addiction, Relapse, and Helping San Francisco's Recovery Community

    Matt Dorsey stopped drinking alcohol on his own in 1992. But after a few years, he began using substances again and questioned whether or not recovery was possible for him. Matt shares his experience with relapse, navigating addiction in the LGBTQ+ community, and how he’s using his experience to help others struggling with addiction in San Francisco. Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:   Long Term Recovery from Addiction Relapse: What You Can Do as a ParentLGBTQ+, Family & Substance Use  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 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

    Matt Dorsey's Journey Through Addiction, Relapse, and Helping San Francisco's Recovery Community

  5. 11/18/2025

    Author Lara Love Hardin’s Story of Addiction, Jail, and Redemption

    Lara Love Hardin discusses her journey from suburban soccer mom hiding a heroin addiction to bestselling author. As a result of stealing money and credit cards to fund her addiction, The Many Lives of Mama Love: A Memoir of Lying, Stealing, Writing, and Healing author shares how jail helped her rediscover writing and inspired her to build a nonprofit supporting justice-impacted women. Her story is a powerful exploration of shame, resilience, and redemption. Content warning: This episode contains mentions of death, as well as in-depth 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:    Heroin: What parents need to knowOpioids: What parents need to knowLegal Process After an Arrest: A Family Guide to Juvenile & Adult Justice 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 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

    Author Lara Love Hardin’s Story of Addiction, Jail, and Redemption

  6. 11/04/2025

    Hootie & the Blowfish's Jim Sonefeld: From Rockstar to Recovery Advocate

    Jim Sonefeld, drummer for Hootie & the Blowfish, shares his powerful journey from concert tours fueled by alcohol to finding recovery at age 40. He opens up about hiding his drinking behind the rock-and-roll lifestyle, the intervention that came from his 4-year-old daughter, and how he's rebuilt his life through recovery. Jim also discusses his unique approach to talking with his kids about substance use and why he now sees his recovery story as a gift rather than a punishment. Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:   Alcohol Resource CenterLong Term Recovery from AddictionPrevention Tips for Every AgeEditor’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 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

    Hootie & the Blowfish's Jim Sonefeld: From Rockstar to Recovery Advocate

  7. 10/21/2025

    Dr. Kristen Gilliland: A Mother's Journey from Neuroscience to Advocacy

    After losing one son to overdose and watching another struggle with lifelong schizophrenia, neuroscientist Dr. Kristen Gilliland reveals what she wishes she'd known about today's ultra-potent marijuana and the developing brain. She breaks down the science of how THC hijacks the adolescent brain's critical development period and why the push for marijuana legalization may be putting more teens at risk.  Content warning: This episode contains mentions of death, as well as in-depth 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:    Marijuana Resource Center Co-Occurring Disorders Resource CenterHaving Tough Conversations   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 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

    Dr. Kristen Gilliland: A Mother's Journey from Neuroscience to Advocacy

  8. 10/07/2025

    Recovery Through Music and Harm Reduction with This Must Be the Place’s William Perry

    William Perry shares his powerful journey from childhood trauma and opioid addiction to a 10-year prison sentence, and ultimately to co-founding This Must Be the Place, an organization that combines music, arts, and harm reduction. Now in recovery, Perry and his team distribute naloxone kits at concerts and festivals across the country. His story demonstrates how recovery, connection, and meeting people where they are can save lives and transform communities.   Explore more on topics and themes discussed in this episode:    Harm Reduction Resource Center - Partnership to End Addiction Naloxone: Overdose Reversal Drug - Partnership to End Addiction Legal Process After an Arrest: A Family Guide to Juvenile & Adult Justice - Partnership to End 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 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

    Recovery Through Music and Harm Reduction with This Must Be the Place’s William Perry
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4.8
out of 5
297 Ratings

About

Heart of the Matter with Elizabeth Vargas is a production from Partnership to End Addiction. Heart of the Matter is an interview series that gives guests the opportunity to share their personal, candid stories about addiction. This podcast offers a space to open up about addiction, substance use and mental health, to share the ways in which people are shifting their narrative – in their own relationships and across communities – to support the cause of ending addiction in our country.Worried about your child or loved one? Partnership to End Addiction's helpline is here for you and anyone else playing a supportive role in the life of a person struggling with substance use. Get one on one support by texting JOIN to 55753 or visit https://helphope.net/3koi6Kh to learn more. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. Text HELP for help or STOP to opt out.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 the following link. 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. https://drugfree.org/article/shouldnt-use-word-addict/

Information

  • Creator
    Partnership to End Addiction
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    85
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Heart of the Matter
  • Show Website
    Heart of the Matter

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