Healing Families Shattered by Addiction

Di McQueen and Dr. Brian Jackson

Do you have a family member who is affected by addiction? Meet Di McQueen and Dr. Brian Jackson who can help you work through the fear and uncertainty that you and your family are facing. Within each episode you will learn specific tools and techniques to help you cope with a family member who is in the throes of their addiction. We are here to help heal families that are shattered by addiction here on the podcast and within our coaching program.

  1. May 28

    Detachment: The Hardest Thing You'll Ever Do for Someone You Love

    If you've ever tracked your loved one's phone at midnight, made excuses for them at family dinners, or felt like their choices were slowly swallowing your life whole, this episode is for you. Di McQueen gets honest about one of the most misunderstood tools in family recovery: detachment. And she's the first to admit it nearly broke her too. Detachment is not giving up. It's not going cold. It's learning to love someone deeply while refusing to let their disease become your identity and your undoing. Di breaks down what it actually looks like in real life, why it feels so wrong at first, and why that discomfort might mean you're finally doing something right. For additional information on this topic, visit our free resource library and receive free downloadable materials to help you and your family navigate through addiction: https://www.familyandaddictionexperts.com/resources Are you suffering from the pain of trying to fix the loved one who is addicted? Are you obsessed with the chaos and fear of your addicted loved one not changing? Learn how to detach from family addiction, cope, and thrive in spite of its impact on you through our coaching program.  ➡️ Schedule a free 30 minute consultation here. ⬅️ About Recovery Keys Recovery Keys is an accredited drug and alcohol rehabilitation center located in Ponte Vedra Beach, serving individuals and families throughout Northeast Florida. We provide residential and outpatient care for those struggling with substance use disorders and dual diagnosis conditions, offering support rooted in clinical excellence and genuine compassion. More than a rehab center, Recovery Keys is a place of hope, healing, and human connection. In a welcoming and professional setting, patients and their families are supported every step of the way by a team that truly cares. Our board-certified physicians, psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, licensed counselors, nurses, and experienced therapists collaborate to deliver evidence-based, individualized treatment designed for lasting recovery. Founded in 2012 by Dr. Jeremy Mirabile, a board-certified physician in addiction medicine, Recovery Keys treats addiction as a chronic disease requiring long-term, clinically guided care. We provide a full continuum of services, from medically assisted detox and residential treatment to PHP and IOP, along with family education and support. We also offer confidential, tailored care for professionals seeking structured treatment for substance use and co-occurring conditions. Recovery Keys has earned The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval for Behavioral Health, reflecting our commitment to the highest standards of safety and quality. In our peaceful coastal setting, individuals find the structure, dignity, and support needed to stabilize, rebuild, and move forward with confidence. Unlock the Keys to Your Recovery. Learn more at recoverykeys.org or call (904) 551-1394.

    32 min
  2. May 7

    Buzz Phrases for Addicted Families

    If you love someone struggling with addiction, chances are you've spent more time trying to fix, control, or manage their disease than taking care of yourself. In this episode, Dr. Brian Jackson breaks down the key phrases every family member needs to hear, including the powerful 3 C's, the real difference between boundaries and barriers, and why codependency is rooted in love, not weakness. Because here's what most people don't know: sometimes the family gets well first. And that shift alone can change everything. Tune in and learn how to stop organizing your life around someone else's addiction and start reclaiming your own peace, one practical step at a time. For additional information on this topic, visit our free resource library and receive free downloadable materials to help you and your family navigate through addiction: https://www.familyandaddictionexperts.com/resources Are you suffering from the pain of trying to fix the loved one who is addicted? Are you obsessed with the chaos and fear of your addicted loved one not changing? Learn how to detach from family addiction, cope, and thrive in spite of its impact on you through our coaching program.  ➡️ Schedule a free 30 minute consultation here. ⬅️ About Recovery Keys Recovery Keys is an accredited drug and alcohol rehabilitation center located in Ponte Vedra Beach, serving individuals and families throughout Northeast Florida. We provide residential and outpatient care for those struggling with substance use disorders and dual diagnosis conditions, offering support rooted in clinical excellence and genuine compassion. More than a rehab center, Recovery Keys is a place of hope, healing, and human connection. In a welcoming and professional setting, patients and their families are supported every step of the way by a team that truly cares. Our board-certified physicians, psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, licensed counselors, nurses, and experienced therapists collaborate to deliver evidence-based, individualized treatment designed for lasting recovery. Founded in 2012 by Dr. Jeremy Mirabile, a board-certified physician in addiction medicine, Recovery Keys treats addiction as a chronic disease requiring long-term, clinically guided care. We provide a full continuum of services, from medically assisted detox and residential treatment to PHP and IOP, along with family education and support. We also offer confidential, tailored care for professionals seeking structured treatment for substance use and co-occurring conditions. Recovery Keys has earned The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval for Behavioral Health, reflecting our commitment to the highest standards of safety and quality. In our peaceful coastal setting, individuals find the structure, dignity, and support needed to stabilize, rebuild, and move forward with confidence. Unlock the Keys to Your Recovery. Learn more at recoverykeys.org or call (904) 551-1394.

    12 min
  3. Apr 9

    Addiction Is a Brain Disease: Dr. Jason Hunt of Recovery Keys Explains What Families Get Wrong

    What if everything you thought about addiction… was slightly off? In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Jason Hunt of Recovery Keys—an addiction medicine specialist who's on the front lines of treatment every single day. And this conversation? It goes way beyond surface-level advice. We're talking about what's actually happening in the brain, why "just stop" doesn't work, and how the way we treat addiction might be part of the problem. Because here's the truth most people aren't told: Addiction isn't just about the substance. And it's definitely not just about willpower. Inside this episode, we unpack: Why addiction is a chronic brain disease (and what that really means) The role of trauma—yes, even the "small" stuff Why relapse isn't failure (and what it actually signals instead) The gap between how we treat addiction vs. other diseases And how Recovery Keys approaches treatment with full-spectrum care—including family involvement Plus, a conversation families really need to hear: 👉 You're not responsible for the disease… but you are part of the recovery process. This one challenges a lot of beliefs—in the best way. And if you've ever felt confused, frustrated, or just plain exhausted trying to understand a loved one's addiction… this episode might finally connect some dots. 🎧 Listen if you're ready to stop guessing—and start understanding what actually helps. 📚 Mentioned in this episode: Understanding Addiction: No Science, No Stigma by Dr. Jason Hunt For additional information on this topic, visit our free resource library and receive free downloadable materials to help you and your family navigate through addiction: https://www.familyandaddictionexperts.com/resources Are you suffering from the pain of trying to fix the loved one who is addicted? Are you obsessed with the chaos and fear of your addicted loved one not changing? Learn how to detach from family addiction, cope, and thrive in spite of its impact on you through our coaching program.  ➡️ Schedule a free 30 minute consultation here. ⬅️ About Recovery Keys Recovery Keys is an accredited drug and alcohol rehabilitation center located in Ponte Vedra Beach, serving individuals and families throughout Northeast Florida. We provide residential and outpatient care for those struggling with substance use disorders and dual diagnosis conditions, offering support rooted in clinical excellence and genuine compassion. More than a rehab center, Recovery Keys is a place of hope, healing, and human connection. In a welcoming and professional setting, patients and their families are supported every step of the way by a team that truly cares. Our board-certified physicians, psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, licensed counselors, nurses, and experienced therapists collaborate to deliver evidence-based, individualized treatment designed for lasting recovery. Founded in 2012 by Dr. Jeremy Mirabile, a board-certified physician in addiction medicine, Recovery Keys treats addiction as a chronic disease requiring long-term, clinically guided care. We provide a full continuum of services, from medically assisted detox and residential treatment to PHP and IOP, along with family education and support. We also offer confidential, tailored care for professionals seeking structured treatment for substance use and co-occurring conditions. Recovery Keys has earned The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval for Behavioral Health, reflecting our commitment to the highest standards of safety and quality. In our peaceful coastal setting, individuals find the structure, dignity, and support needed to stabilize, rebuild, and move forward with confidence. Unlock the Keys to Your Recovery. Learn more at recoverykeys.org or call (904) 551-1394.

    48 min
  4. Mar 26

    Addiction and the Family: The Hidden Impact No One Talks About

    What if addiction isn't just one person's struggle… but an entire family's silent heartbreak? In this episode, we take you inside a real courtroom moment that stopped everyone in their tracks—a mother standing up for her son, not to excuse what he's done, but to remind the room who he used to be. And what she says next? It's the kind of truth that lingers. Because behind every charge, every sentence, every "bad decision"… there's usually a family trying to hold it all together. We're talking about: The part of addiction no one really prepares families for Why consequences alone don't create change The invisible "dance" families get stuck in (without even realizing it) And what actually starts to shift things toward healing This conversation gets real about the frustration, the guilt, the system, and the moments that do give hope. Because here's the thing—this isn't about labeling someone as the problem. It's about understanding the whole picture. And maybe… finally feeling a little less alone in it. 🎧 If you've ever loved someone struggling—or felt like you're stuck in the same cycle—this one will hit home. For additional information on this topic, visit our free resource library and receive free downloadable materials to help you and your family navigate through addiction: https://www.familyandaddictionexperts.com/resources Are you suffering from the pain of trying to fix the loved one who is addicted? Are you obsessed with the chaos and fear of your addicted loved one not changing? Learn how to detach from family addiction, cope, and thrive in spite of its impact on you through our coaching program.  ➡️ Schedule a free 30 minute consultation here. ⬅️ About Recovery Keys Recovery Keys is an accredited drug and alcohol rehabilitation center located in Ponte Vedra Beach, serving individuals and families throughout Northeast Florida. We provide residential and outpatient care for those struggling with substance use disorders and dual diagnosis conditions, offering support rooted in clinical excellence and genuine compassion. More than a rehab center, Recovery Keys is a place of hope, healing, and human connection. In a welcoming and professional setting, patients and their families are supported every step of the way by a team that truly cares. Our board-certified physicians, psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, licensed counselors, nurses, and experienced therapists collaborate to deliver evidence-based, individualized treatment designed for lasting recovery. Founded in 2012 by Dr. Jeremy Mirabile, a board-certified physician in addiction medicine, Recovery Keys treats addiction as a chronic disease requiring long-term, clinically guided care. We provide a full continuum of services, from medically assisted detox and residential treatment to PHP and IOP, along with family education and support. We also offer confidential, tailored care for professionals seeking structured treatment for substance use and co-occurring conditions. Recovery Keys has earned The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval for Behavioral Health, reflecting our commitment to the highest standards of safety and quality. In our peaceful coastal setting, individuals find the structure, dignity, and support needed to stabilize, rebuild, and move forward with confidence. Unlock the Keys to Your Recovery. Learn more at recoverykeys.org or call (904) 551-1394.

    23 min
  5. Mar 3

    Hope, Help, and What Comes Next: Inside Recovery Keys with Ryan Teague

    What if the hardest phone call you'll ever make is the one that changes everything? In this episode, Dr. Brian Jackson sits down with Ryan Teague of Recovery Keys to talk about what truly sets a treatment center apart—from high-quality, low-volume care in Ponte Vedra Beach to the often-overlooked power of continuum support, family involvement, and life after inpatient. If you've ever wondered what real recovery looks like beyond detox—and what families should be looking for when it matters most—this conversation pulls back the curtain without giving it all away. For additional information on this topic, visit our free resource library and receive free downloadable materials to help you and your family navigate through addiction: https://www.familyandaddictionexperts.com/resources Are you suffering from the pain of trying to fix the loved one who is addicted? Are you obsessed with the chaos and fear of your addicted loved one not changing? Learn how to detach from family addiction, cope, and thrive in spite of its impact on you through our coaching program.  ➡️ Schedule a free 30 minute consultation here. ⬅️ About Recovery Keys Recovery Keys is an accredited drug and alcohol rehabilitation center located in Ponte Vedra Beach, serving individuals and families throughout Northeast Florida. We provide residential and outpatient care for those struggling with substance use disorders and dual diagnosis conditions, offering support rooted in clinical excellence and genuine compassion. More than a rehab center, Recovery Keys is a place of hope, healing, and human connection. In a welcoming and professional setting, patients and their families are supported every step of the way by a team that truly cares. Our board-certified physicians, psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, licensed counselors, nurses, and experienced therapists collaborate to deliver evidence-based, individualized treatment designed for lasting recovery. Founded in 2012 by Dr. Jeremy Mirabile, a board-certified physician in addiction medicine, Recovery Keys treats addiction as a chronic disease requiring long-term, clinically guided care. We provide a full continuum of services, from medically assisted detox and residential treatment to PHP and IOP, along with family education and support. We also offer confidential, tailored care for professionals seeking structured treatment for substance use and co-occurring conditions. Recovery Keys has earned The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval for Behavioral Health, reflecting our commitment to the highest standards of safety and quality. In our peaceful coastal setting, individuals find the structure, dignity, and support needed to stabilize, rebuild, and move forward with confidence. Unlock the Keys to Your Recovery. Learn more at recoverykeys.org or call (904) 551-1394.

    37 min
  6. Jan 8

    Dry January & the Quiet Shift Happening in 2026

    What if giving up alcohol for one month wasn't about discipline… but about discovering what's been numbing, draining, or quietly holding you back? As 2026 begins, this episode explores Dry January, the rise of sober curiosity, and the subtle cultural shift that's changing how people think about drinking — especially within families impacted by addiction. This conversation digs into: Why saying "no" to alcohol can feel harder than expected What happens when routine drinking disappears — physically and emotionally How one month can expose habits, pressures, and truths we rarely question And why more people are choosing clarity, health, and presence over "just one drink" No ultimatums. No shame. No all-or-nothing thinking. Just an honest look at what alcohol gives — and what it takes. If you've ever wondered why drinking feels normal, but not always right, this episode might change how you see January — and maybe the year ahead. For additional information on this topic, visit our free resource library and receive free downloadable materials to help you and your family navigate through addiction: https://www.familyandaddictionexperts.com/resources Are you suffering from the pain of trying to fix the loved one who is addicted? Are you obsessed with the chaos and fear of your addicted loved one not changing? Learn how to detach from family addiction, cope, and thrive in spite of its impact on you through our coaching program.  ➡️ Schedule a free 30 minute consultation here. ⬅️

    30 min
  7. 11/04/2025

    Divorce, Custody, and Addiction: Protecting Kids Through the Process with Family and Marital Law Expert, Jay Henderlite

    What happens to children caught in the middle when addiction tears a family apart? This episode explores the intersection of family law and addiction with guest Attorney Jay Henderlite, a board-certified family and marital law expert. This honest conversation focuses on  navigating divorce and custody battles when substance use is involved. From supervised visitation and step-up parenting plans to understanding "loyalty bind" and why kids aren't trophies, this episode breaks down how to protect children while supporting recovery. Learn what really happens in family court, why emotions need to cool before making decisions, and how to avoid common mistakes that hurt kids most. Whether you're facing this situation yourself or helping someone through it, you'll get practical insights on one of life's toughest transitions.   For additional information on this topic, visit our free resource library and receive free downloadable materials to help you and your family navigate through addiction: https://www.familyandaddictionexperts.com/resources Are you suffering from the pain of trying to fix the loved one who is addicted? Are you obsessed with the chaos and fear of your addicted loved one not changing? Learn how to detach from family addiction, cope, and thrive in spite of its impact on you through our coaching program.  ➡️ Schedule a free 30 minute consultation here. ⬅️

    55 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Do you have a family member who is affected by addiction? Meet Di McQueen and Dr. Brian Jackson who can help you work through the fear and uncertainty that you and your family are facing. Within each episode you will learn specific tools and techniques to help you cope with a family member who is in the throes of their addiction. We are here to help heal families that are shattered by addiction here on the podcast and within our coaching program.

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