Sharing Without Shame

Donna Marston
  • 4.4 (9)
  • Relationships
  • Updated Monthly

Sharing Without Shame with Donna Marston is for parents who love a teen or adult child struggling with addiction and feel scared, exhausted, judged, or unsure what to do next. Donna is a mom with lived experience, CRSW, Family Recovery Specialist, author, and speaker. Through honest conversations with people in recovery, professionals in the field, and families impacted by addiction, this podcast helps parents understand addiction, explore pathways to recovery, set healthier boundaries, and begin healing without shame.

  1. Jun 19

    Supporting a Loved One with Addiction Without Losing Yourself with Burton Fischler | Ep70

    What happens when addiction, mental illness, and unresolved trauma collide within a family? In this episode of Sharing Without Shame, Donna Marston welcomes Burton Fischler, a trauma survivor, Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor, life coach, and author of The Gift: From Trauma to Triumph. Burton shares the unimaginable losses that reshaped his life—including the murder of his wife by her son who struggled with severe mental illness and addiction, and the suicide of his second stepson just one year later. Together, Donna and Burton explore the devastating impact addiction has on families, why shame keeps so many people suffering in silence, and how healing begins when we learn to set boundaries, practice self-compassion, and reconnect with our authentic selves. Burton also explains the role trauma plays in addiction, the science of neuroplasticity, and why recovery is less about punishment and more about love, connection, and taking small actions toward change. If you've ever wondered whether healing is possible after profound loss, this conversation offers hope, wisdom, and practical tools for moving forward. In This Episode You'll Learn: 💠Why addiction is a biopsychosocial-spiritual disease rather than a moral failing 💠How shame influences enabling behaviors in families 💠 The difference between supporting and enabling a loved one 💠 How neuroplasticity allows the brain to heal and rewire itself 💠 Why changing actions often leads to healthier thinking 💠 The connection between childhood wounds, trauma, and substance use 💠 How self-love and re-parenting practices can support recovery 💠 Why connection, purpose, and compassion are essential components of healing 💠 Burton's journey from surviving tragedy to helping others overcome trauma and addiction About The Guest: Burton Fischler holds a Master's degree in Psychology and is a Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and life coach. After enduring the tragic loss of his wife and stepsons, Burton transformed his pain into purpose. Today, he works at a medically supervised outpatient treatment center in New York City, helping individuals navigate substance use disorders, trauma, and mental health challenges. He also facilitates trauma recovery and self-love workshops and is the author of The Gift: From Trauma to Triumph. Resources and Links: (Book) The Gift: From Trauma to Triumph: https://www.amazon.com/GIFT-TRIUMPH-Survivors-Suicide-Addiction-ebook/dp/B0DZK87JFJ Grab my free "5 Boundaries and Breakthrough" Guide here: ⁠ https://swos.sharingwithoutshame.com/5-boundaries Learn more: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/Sharingwithoutshame⁠⁠ Thank you for tuning in! May your faith and strength heal your heart.

    43 min
  2. What Parents Need to Know About Addiction Before It's Too Late with Bonnie Tisdale | Ep69

    Jun 7

    What Parents Need to Know About Addiction Before It's Too Late with Bonnie Tisdale | Ep69

    In this episode, Donna Marston sits down with Bonnie Tisdale, mother, business owner, recovery advocate, and author of Messy in the Middle: Love, Addiction, and All the Rest. Bonnie shares the heartbreaking story of losing her son, Frankie, to addiction in 2021 and the lessons she learned navigating years of uncertainty, hope, recovery attempts, relapse, and grief. Together, Donna and Bonnie discuss the realities of addiction, the stigma families face, and why parents must stop carrying blame for a disease they cannot control. This episode is a powerful reminder that addiction impacts entire families—and that healing begins with compassion, understanding, and connection. In This Episode, You'll Learn: 💠Bonnie's journey as a mother supporting a son struggling with addiction 💠Why addiction is far more complex than simply making bad choices 💠The emotional impact addiction has on siblings, children, and grandparents 💠How shame and stigma prevent families from seeking support 💠Why parents often blame themselves—and why they shouldn't 💠The challenges of relapse after periods of sobriety 💠How Bonnie found healing after losing her son 💠The inspiration behind her upcoming book, Messy in the Middle 💠The importance of loving people for who they are, not who we want them to be 💠Why compassion is one of the most powerful tools in recovery About the Guest: Bonnie Tisdale is a mother, entrepreneur, recovery advocate, and author of the upcoming book Messy in the Middle: Love, Addiction, and All the Rest. After losing her son Frankie to addiction in 2021, Bonnie became passionate about helping families understand addiction, navigate grief, and find hope in the midst of life's most difficult challenges. Through her story, Bonnie offers parents and loved ones reassurance that they are not alone and that healing is possible, even after unimaginable loss. Resources and Links: The Messy Middle: Love, Loss & Addiction: https://a.co/d/0aWgiJgH Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tizzyfun/ Grab my free "5 Boundaries and Breakthrough" Guide here: ⁠ https://swos.sharingwithoutshame.com/5-boundaries Learn more: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/Sharingwithoutshame⁠⁠ Thank you for tuning in! May your faith and strength heal your heart.

    36 min
  3. Addiction, Loss, Recovery & Finding Hope After Tragedy with Ashley Jo | Ep68

    May 29

    Addiction, Loss, Recovery & Finding Hope After Tragedy with Ashley Jo | Ep68

    In this episode of Sharing Without Shame, Donna Marston sits down with author, speaker, and recovery advocate Ashley Jo for an honest conversation about addiction, grief, recovery, and resilience.Ashley shares her unique experience of living on both sides of addiction — first as the wife of someone battling opioid addiction and later as someone navigating her own substance use disorder and recovery journey. From becoming a young mother while supporting a newly sober husband, to losing her infant son to spinal muscular atrophy, to rebuilding her life after devastating loss, Ashley opens up about the heartbreak, chaos, healing, and hope that shaped her story.She also shares the inspiration behind her memoir, Tides of Grief, Waves of Grace, and the powerful lessons she’s learned about grief, sobriety, family, and finding purpose through pain.In This Episode, We Discuss:💠Ashley’s experience supporting a spouse through opioid addiction💠Becoming a mother at a young age while facing addiction in the home💠Losing her infant son to spinal muscular atrophy💠The emotional toll of grief and caregiving💠Ashley’s own struggle with substance use disorder💠What recovery and sobriety really look like💠The difference between shame and healing💠Writing as a tool for processing pain💠The inspiration behind Tides of Grief, Waves of Grace💠How grief comes in waves — and how healing is possibleAbout Ashley JoAshley Jo is an author, speaker, mom, podcaster, and recovery advocate who writes with raw honesty about addiction, grief, heartbreak, and healing. Through her memoir, Tides of Grief, Waves of Grace, she shares her journey through unimaginable loss, recovery, and rebuilding a life filled with purpose and grace.Resources & Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisisashleyjo/Website: https://www.thisisashleyjo.com/Book: https://www.thisisashleyjo.com/bookGrab my free "5 Boundaries and Breakthrough" Guide here: ⁠ https://swos.sharingwithoutshame.com/5-boundariesLearn more: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/Sharingwithoutshame⁠⁠Thank you for tuning in! May your faith and strength heal your heart.

    39 min
  4. How Jeannie Miller Found Healing Through Recovery, Mindfulness, and Gratitude | Ep67

    May 15

    How Jeannie Miller Found Healing Through Recovery, Mindfulness, and Gratitude | Ep67

    In this episode of the Sharing Without Shame podcast, Donna Marston sits down with recovery coach and author Jeannie Miller to discuss addiction, grief, mindfulness, and the lifelong journey of healing. Jeannie shares her powerful story of becoming alcohol-free after years of functioning alcoholism, unresolved grief, and emotional pain following the loss of her first husband to cancer. Together, Donna and Jeannie explore how recovery is about far more than putting down the drink — it’s about uncovering your authentic self, healing old wounds, creating boundaries, and learning to live mindfully. This conversation is filled with hope, wisdom, and practical tools for anyone struggling with addiction, grief, emotional overwhelm, or feeling stuck in unhealthy patterns. In this episode, we discuss: 💠 Jeannie’s journey to becoming over 850 days alcohol-free 💠Why “functional drinking” can still hide deep pain 💠 The impact of grief and loss on addiction 💠 How the 12 Steps helped Jeannie rediscover herself 💠The importance of mindfulness and meditation in recovery 💠Why recovery is a lifelong process of growth 💠Learning to identify your authentic self 💠How gratitude can transform your mindset 💠Creating healthy boundaries without guilt 💠Why self-discipline matters in healing 💠The power of slowing down and living intentionally 💠How Jeannie now helps others through coaching and meditation About the Guest Jeannie Miller is the founder of Path to Progress Healing Center in Connecticut, where she helps individuals move from chaos to clarity through mindful life coaching, meditation, grief support, and personal growth work. Drawing from her own experiences with addiction recovery, grief, and transformation, Jeannie is passionate about helping others cultivate self-awareness, emotional healing, and inner peace. Resources & Links Website: https://www.pathtoprogresscoaching.com/ Books: https://www.pathtoprogresscoaching.com/shop Grab my free "5 Boundaries and Breakthrough" Guide here: ⁠ https://swos.sharingwithoutshame.com/5-boundaries Learn more: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/Sharingwithoutshame⁠⁠ Thank you for tuning in! May your faith and strength heal your heart.

    47 min
  5. Healing Through Awareness, Identity & Emotional Truth with Cătălina Popoveniuc | Ep66

    May 1

    Healing Through Awareness, Identity & Emotional Truth with Cătălina Popoveniuc | Ep66

    In this episode of Sharing Without Shame, Donna Marston sits down with psychotherapist and global movement founder Cătălina Popoveniuc to explore the deep impact of shame, toxic relationships, and the silence that keeps so many people stuck. Drawing from both personal experience and years of professional work, Cătălina shares how shame is often rooted in childhood and reinforced by culture—leaving individuals feeling isolated, blamed, and afraid to speak up. Together, they unpack how this silence can keep people trapped in harmful environments, especially when addiction and emotional abuse are involved. The conversation dives into the realities of narcissistic relationships, gaslighting, and control, highlighting the subtle red flags many people overlook in the beginning. Cătălina explains how these dynamics can distort a person’s sense of reality, making it difficult to trust themselves or seek help. She also sheds light on why leaving isn’t always simple—especially when fear, lack of support, and societal stigma come into play. Through it all, Donna and Cătălina emphasize one critical truth: healing begins when we are willing to see our situation clearly and speak about it honestly. In This Episode, We Discuss: 💠The generational roots of shame and how it shapes our identity 💠The harsh reality of domestic violence and lack of support systems in some countries 💠How narcissistic abuse and addiction intersect and intensify trauma 💠Why women stay in toxic relationships—and how to begin breaking free 💠The importance of community, storytelling, and shared healing 💠Her global movement Alive in Her, designed to create a safe space for connection and support About the Guest: Cătălina Popoveniuc is a psychotherapist, speaker, and founder of the global movement Alive in Her. With over 23 years of experience in law and psychology, she helps women break free from toxic relationships, heal from narcissistic abuse, and rediscover what it means to truly live—not just survive. Resources and Links: Website: https://catalinapopoveniuc.com/ Alive in Her Movement: https://aliveinhermovement.com/ Grab my free "5 Boundaries and Breakthrough" Guide here: ⁠ https://swos.sharingwithoutshame.com/5-boundaries Learn more: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/Sharingwithoutshame⁠⁠ Thank you for tuning in! May your faith and strength heal your heart.

    40 min
  6. What Every Parent Needs to Know About Trauma and Substance Abuse with Dr. Janelle Martin | Ep65

    Apr 17

    What Every Parent Needs to Know About Trauma and Substance Abuse with Dr. Janelle Martin | Ep65

    In this episode, Donna Marston sits down with Dr. Janelle Martin—licensed counselor, functional medicine practitioner, and founder of The Mind Connection—to unpack the raw reality of parenting a child through addiction. Janelle bravely shares her story of navigating divorce, parental alienation, and the devastating discovery of her daughter’s drug use. From denial and desperation to treatment and transformation, this episode offers hope to parents walking a similar path.You’ll also learn about innovative healing approaches like microcurrent neurofeedback and brain spotting, and how they’re helping individuals recover from trauma, addiction, anxiety, and more. In This Episode, We Discuss: 💠The early warning signs of teen substance use 💠How trauma, divorce, and family dynamics impact addiction 💠What to do when your child refuses help 💠The truth about treatment centers (and what actually works) 💠Why traditional medication approaches may not always be the answer 💠How microcurrent neurofeedback supports brain healing 💠The role of trauma therapy like brain spotting in recovery 💠Why support groups are essential for parents About the Guest: Dr. Janelle Martin is a licensed counselor, certified microcurrent neurofeedback provider, and doctor of functional medicine. She is the founder of The Mind Connection in Houston, Texas, where she helps clients heal from trauma, addiction, and emotional dysregulation using a mind-body approach.She is also the co-author of Losing Her, Finding Us, a powerful dual-perspective book written with her daughter about their journey through addiction and recovery. Resources and Links: The Mind Connection: ⁠https://mindconnection.org/⁠ Book (Losing Her, Finding Us): ⁠https://www.ourbeautifulrecovery.com/services-1⁠ Grab my free "5 Boundaries and Breakthrough" Guide here: ⁠ https://swos.sharingwithoutshame.com/5-boundaries Learn more: ⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/Sharingwithoutshame⁠⁠⁠ Thank you for tuning in! May your faith and strength heal your heart.

    38 min
  7. The Hidden Impact of Trauma on Addiction with Jacqueline Williams | Sharing Without Shame | Ep64

    Apr 3

    The Hidden Impact of Trauma on Addiction with Jacqueline Williams | Sharing Without Shame | Ep64

    In this episode, Donna sits down with Jacqueline Williams to explore the realities of healing, resilience, and the emotional journey that comes with navigating addiction and its ripple effects. Jacqueline shares her personal story with vulnerability and strength, offering listeners insight into what it truly means to face pain, process trauma, and choose healing, even when it’s uncomfortable. This conversation is a reminder that healing is not linear, not easy, and not always pretty—but it is possible. In This Episode, We Discuss: 💠The emotional toll addiction takes on individuals and families 💠Why healing requires honesty, courage, and deep inner work 💠The role of trauma in shaping behaviors and coping mechanisms 💠Letting go of shame and reclaiming your story 💠The importance of self-awareness and emotional healing 💠How pain can become a pathway to purpose 💠Breaking cycles and creating a new legacy About the Guest: Jacqueline Williams is a passionate advocate for women and children affected by childhood trauma. Jacqueline shares her personal journey of surviving childhood abuse and the long path toward healing. Her story is not shared to relive pain, but to offer understanding, hope, and practical guidance to others who are walking a similar road. Resources and Links: Website: https://somethingabouthisgrace.com/ Book (By His Grace): https://www.amazon.com/His-Grace-surviving-childhood-domestice/ Grab my free "5 Boundaries and Breakthrough" Guide here: ⁠ https://swos.sharingwithoutshame.com/5-boundaries Learn more: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/Sharingwithoutshame⁠⁠ Thank you for tuning in! May your faith and strength heal your heart.

    36 min
  8. Trauma, Depression & Mental Health Recovery with Jamie Hughes | Sharing Without Shame | Ep63

    Mar 23

    Trauma, Depression & Mental Health Recovery with Jamie Hughes | Sharing Without Shame | Ep63

    What happens when a mental health expert has lived the very pain they now help others overcome? In this deeply honest episode of Sharing Without Shame, Donna Marston sits down with Jamie Hughes—author, trauma specialist, and mental health advocate—who shares his powerful journey through childhood trauma, depression, and a suicide attempt at 18. Jamie opens up about what it really feels like to live with depression, the stigma men face when asking for help, and why healing is never a straight line. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward—this conversation will meet you where you are. What You’ll Learn in This Episode 💠Why healing from trauma is messy, nonlinear, and often feels like failure 💠 The real reason behind suicidal thoughts (it’s not what you think) 💠 How childhood trauma shapes emotional suppression—especially in men 💠 The connection between ADHD, dopamine, and addictive behaviors 💠Why “just get help” isn’t practical advice—and what actually works 💠The role of compassion, listening, and trust in healing 💠Simple, practical steps to start improving mental health today 💠How journaling can become one of the most powerful healing tools 💠What it means to “become a student of yourself” About the Guest: Jamie Hughes is an author and passionate advocate for mental well-being, with a master’s degree in psychology specializing in trauma and resilience. Blending academic expertise with real-life experience in victim advocacy, nonprofit leadership, and forensic psychology, Jamie provides compassionate, evidence-based strategies to help individuals heal and grow. Resources & Links 🌐 Website: managingmentalhealth.net 📚 Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@managingmentalhealth-net He is the creator of the Managing Mental Health book series, covering Depression, Anxiety, PTSD and Adult ADHD. Along with a guided journal designed for deep self-reflection and personal growth. Grab my free "5 Boundaries and Breakthrough" Guide here: ⁠ https://swos.sharingwithoutshame.com/5-boundaries Learn more: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/Sharingwithoutshame⁠⁠ Thank you for tuning in! May your faith and strength heal your heart.

    41 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.4
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Sharing Without Shame with Donna Marston is for parents who love a teen or adult child struggling with addiction and feel scared, exhausted, judged, or unsure what to do next. Donna is a mom with lived experience, CRSW, Family Recovery Specialist, author, and speaker. Through honest conversations with people in recovery, professionals in the field, and families impacted by addiction, this podcast helps parents understand addiction, explore pathways to recovery, set healthier boundaries, and begin healing without shame.

Information

  • Creator
    Donna Marston
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    70
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Donna Marston
  • Show Website
    Sharing Without Shame