Ask Dr. Louise

Dr. Louise Stanger

Ask Dr. Louise is a thought-provoking podcast where renowned interventionist and author Dr. Louise Stanger explores the complexities of addiction, mental health, and family dynamics. With decades of experience, she offers expert insight, compassionate guidance, and real conversations designed to educate, empower, and inspire lasting transformation.

  1. 1d ago

    Building BoxUnion & Beyond: Felicia Alexander on Scaling, Reinvention & Helping Studio Owners Grow

    Welcome to a heartfelt and inspiring episode of Ask Dr. Louise, where the conversation focused on the remarkable journey of Felicia Alexander. From her early days growing up as a middle child and building unshakable self-confidence, to an impressive career spanning tech, marketing at Mattel, launching the popular fitness concept BoxUnion, and scaling businesses through bold acquisitions, Felicia’s story is one of resilience, courage, and continuous reinvention. The discussion explored her path through personal tragedies and entrepreneurial triumphs, the importance of community building, and the power of embracing change—even when it’s daunting. Listeners will gain insight into creating connection, navigating setbacks, and living life with joy and purpose. Get ready to meet Felicia Alexander and discover what’s next for this dynamic leader, adventurer, and connector. Timestamps: 00:00 Introducing my daughters Sydney and Shelby05:19 Unexpected career setback and travel09:04 Networking at the hair salon10:11 Family's social and outgoing traits14:49 Starting BoxUnion in Los Angeles17:05 Creating a welcoming gym atmosphere20:31 Planning world travel after son's graduation24:08 The glass dental office story29:24 Mentorship program with Krista Gurka31:02 Investing in consumer packaged goods35:25 Felicia's unexpected San Diego visit36:41 Expressing gratitude and future anticipationConnect with Felicia: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feliciaralexander/ Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

    Building BoxUnion & Beyond: Felicia Alexander on Scaling, Reinvention & Helping Studio Owners Grow
  2. Sep 24

    The Truth About Rehab: What Families Need to Know About Addiction, Recovery & Healing with Denise Klein of Milestones Ranch Malibu

    In this episode of Ask Dr. Louise, Dr. Louise welcomes Denise Klein, CEO of Milestones Ranch Malibu and one of the leading women in behavioral health. With over 30 years of experience, Denise delves into the complexities of running a dual diagnosis treatment center, where mental health and addiction are addressed simultaneously. The conversation explores Denise’s journey from journalism to social work, her philosophy of relational—not transactional—care, and why Milestones Ranch deliberately remains small to provide individualized attention. Denise offers candid insights into the evolving landscape of behavioral healthcare, the critical role of family involvement, and the importance of attunement, hope, and aftercare in achieving lasting recovery. Whether you’re a clinician, a family member seeking guidance, or someone passionate about mental health, Denise’s expertise and heartfelt approach illuminate what truly matters in transformative care. Timestamps: 00:00 Working with dual diagnosis patients04:13 Experiencing and recovering from a flood07:12 Value of small therapy programs11:44 Virtual therapy and innovative treatments15:19 The importance of compassionate leadership18:42 Gathering information for interventions22:13 Misconceptions about addiction treatment24:09 Challenges after rehab and support systems29:40 Choosing a qualified therapist32:49 Preparing for natural disasters35:01 Passion for helping others38:14 Challenges of running a rehab center41:34 Approach to handling interventions44:19 Recommending Milestones RanchConnect with Denise: Website: https://milestonesranch.com/ Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

    The Truth About Rehab: What Families Need to Know About Addiction, Recovery & Healing with Denise Klein of Milestones Ranch Malibu
  3. Sep 10

    Becoming the Creator of Your Story: Lauren Fields’ Journey from TBI to Founder of Fieldswell

    The conversation focused on transformation, resilience, and the power of mindset. This debut episode of Ask Dr. Louise welcomes Lauren Fields, a transformational coach whose own journey through adversity inspired her mission to help others actualize their highest potential. The discussion explored the pivotal experiences that shaped Lauren’s path—from a life-altering accident in her youth to building a thriving coaching practice based on self-actualization and wellness. Listeners will discover insightful stories about overcoming limiting beliefs, the challenges and growth that come with change, and the tools that enable personal reinvention. A key theme that emerged was the belief that everyone holds the capacity to become the creator of their own reality. Tune in to hear how personal setbacks can become superpowers and learn practical techniques for turning vision into reality, developing gratitude, and stepping boldly into new identities. Timestamps: 00:00 Meeting at a birthday party05:45 Building Fieldswell and coaching entrepreneurs09:09 Reflecting on limiting beliefs12:32 Prioritizing self-care and fulfillment13:42 Deciding when to dismiss clients18:00 Thanking sponsors and collaborationsConnect with Lauren:  https://laurenfields.komi.io/ Website: https://www.fieldswell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurenfields/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurfields/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laurfields TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fieldswell Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

    Becoming the Creator of Your Story: Lauren Fields’ Journey from TBI to Founder of Fieldswell
  4. Jul 30

    From Painkillers to Purpose: Felicia Montiforte's Story of Redemption

    On this episode of Ask Dr. Louise, Dr. Louise welcomes Felicia Montiforte, co-founder of Imagine Recovery in New Orleans, to share her story of addiction, recovery, and service. Felicia recounts early substance use, escalating opioid addiction after a car accident at 40, and the consequences that led to losing custody of her children in 2006 after a blackout. She describes entering treatment in 2008, meeting court-ordered conditions through “footwork,” and reuniting with her children in 2009, ultimately rebuilding strong relationships. Felicia discusses stigma women face in addiction and recovery, the value of addressing substance misuse before “rock bottom,” and the hope and community found in treatment. She also explains her ties to the Harmon Recovery Foundation and her current full-time RV travel while working remotely and continuing her mission. TIMESTAMPS  00:00 Podcast Opening 00:56 Meet Felicia 02:17 How We Met 04:48 Harmon Foundation 07:29 Accident And Addiction 09:21 Losing Custody 11:44 Footwork To Reunite 17:06 Women Shame And Stigma 20:19 Owning Your Story 22:01 Imagine Recovery Origin 25:43 Wine Mom Culture 29:48 RV Reset And Advice 36:34 Closing Thanks Connect with Felicia Montiforte:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/felicia_imagine/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/felicia-montiforte-16620232 Website: https://www.imaginehousenola.com/about-us Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

    From Painkillers to Purpose: Felicia Montiforte's Story of Redemption
  5. Jul 16

    The Power of Feeling Beautiful: Makeup Artist Allison Elliott on Confidence and Self-Worth

    What if beauty wasn't about perfection—but about confidence? In this uplifting episode of Ask Dr. Louise, Dr. Louise sits down with celebrity and bridal makeup artist Allison Elliott for a heartfelt conversation about beauty, confidence, entrepreneurship, and discovering your true worth. While Allison has spent decades helping brides, celebrities, and women of all ages look their best, her greatest passion isn't makeup—it's helping people feel beautiful from the inside out. Allison shares her inspiring journey from earning a business degree at her father's encouragement to leaving corporate America, moving to New York City, and building a successful career in the beauty industry. From working at Sephora and learning under legendary makeup artist Laura Geller to New York Fashion Week, celebrity clients, and now owning a luxury bridal beauty agency, Allison's story is one of courage, creativity, and following your calling. Together, Dr. Louise and Allison explore why confidence begins long before the makeup brush, how positive self-talk changes the way we see ourselves, and why every woman deserves to feel radiant—whether it's on her wedding day or an ordinary Tuesday. In this episode, you will learn: Allison's journey from corporate America to becoming a professional makeup artist How following your passion can lead to a fulfilling career Why beauty starts with confidence and self-worth The emotional transformation makeup can create Working with brides, celebrities, and women of every age The importance of enhancing—not hiding—your natural beauty Building confidence through positive self-talk Why comparison steals confidence Starting and growing a successful bridal beauty business Lessons learned from entrepreneurship Finding purpose by reconnecting with what you loved as a child Why taking care of your health contributes to feeling beautiful Allison's experience getting married later in life and what it taught her about love Connect with Allison: Website: https://allisonvalebeauty.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allison.elliott.503 Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

    The Power of Feeling Beautiful: Makeup Artist Allison Elliott on Confidence and Self-Worth
  6. Jul 2

    Comprehensive Healing: Finding the Root Cause of Trauma, Addiction & Mental Illness with Dr. James Flowers

    Dr. Louise introduces her podcast Ask Dr. Louise and interviews longtime friend and collaborator Dr. James Flowers, CEO of J. Flowers Health Institute in Houston, Texas. They recount meeting in Las Vegas and discuss why their work aligns: an academic, research-driven, precision-based approach that prioritizes deep empathy, selectivity with complex cases, and spending hours with patients rather than relying on time-limited group formats. Flowers explains the Institute’s comprehensive 360-degree diagnostic evaluation, which he describes as a “living MRI” to pinpoint root causes and prevent relapse, emphasizing the need to rule out medical issues. He shares cases where imaging revealed a pituitary tumor and a brain worm misdiagnosed as psychiatric illness. Flowers and Louise discuss trauma, including Flowers’ childhood losses and his “superpower” of compartmentalization, and he advises families to seek comprehensive, well-evaluated treatment beyond what is found via online ads. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Podcast Mission 00:54 Meet Dr James Flowers 02:01 How We First Met 03:06 Why Our Approach Works 06:16 Inside J Flowers Institute 10:03 Medical Mysteries Solved 18:21 Trauma Stories Shared 21:33 Choosing The Right Treatment 25:42 Superpower And Healing 27:44 Whats Next And Contact 30:18 Final Thoughts Connect with Dr. James: Website: https://jflowershealth.com/ Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

    Comprehensive Healing: Finding the Root Cause of Trauma, Addiction & Mental Illness with Dr. James Flowers

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Ask Dr. Louise is a thought-provoking podcast where renowned interventionist and author Dr. Louise Stanger explores the complexities of addiction, mental health, and family dynamics. With decades of experience, she offers expert insight, compassionate guidance, and real conversations designed to educate, empower, and inspire lasting transformation.