The Hanley Effect Podcast - Addiction and Mental Health

Hanley Foundation
  • 5.0 (7)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
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The Hanley Effect is a weekly addiction recovery and mental health podcast hosted by Dr. John Dyben, Chief Clinical Officer at Hanley Center, and Dr. Rachel Docekal, CEO of the Hanley Foundation, the podcast explores the science, stories, and systems shaping substance use disorder, mental health, and trauma care today. Through in-depth, compassionate conversations, The Hanley Effect brings together leading experts in addiction medicine, behavioral health, neuroscience, psychology, education, public policy, and recovery advocacy, along with individuals and families with lived experience. Episodes dive into evidence-based treatment, trauma-informed care, co-occurring disorders, adolescent mental health, overdose prevention, stigma, shame, and the realities of long-term recovery. Dr. Dyben and Dr. Docekal offer a unique dual perspective, combining clinical expertise and nonprofit leadership, to unpack what quality addiction treatment looks like, why prevention and early intervention matter, and how families and communities can respond more effectively to substance use and mental health challenges. Listeners gain practical tools, expert insight, and a clearer understanding of the evolving landscape of addiction and mental health. The podcast also highlights powerful stories of resilience, post-traumatic growth, and recovery, reminding listeners that healing is possible and help is available. Whether you are a behavioral health professional, first responder, educator, policymaker, parent, person in recovery, or someone seeking reliable information about addiction and mental health, The Hanley Effect delivers education that empowers and conversations that change lives. Produced by the Hanley Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to saving lives through prevention, treatment, education, and advocacy, The Hanley Effect exists to change minds, reduce stigma, and build healthier, more informed communities through honest, evidence-based dialogue.

  1. What is Trauma’s Role in Addiction?

    6D AGO

    What is Trauma’s Role in Addiction?

    In this trauma-informed episode of The Hanley Effect, Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal welcome Vidya Nair, MSW, LCSW, and returning guest Lyanne Azqueta, LMHC, NCC, MAC, to explore a perspective that can change everything: addiction as an adaptation, not a moral failure. Together, they unpack how early experiences shape the nervous system, how “survival mode” becomes a lifelong blueprint, and why healing requires more than abstinence, it requires safety, connection, and new pathways in the brain. Vidya shares how her early work with homeless children in India shaped her clinical lens and why the core human need is the same across all ages: to feel safe. Lyanne adds practical clarity around the brain’s role in trauma responses, how dysregulation takes us “offline,” and why substances can feel like instant relief. The episode also highlights what sets Hanley apart: a culture rooted in trauma-informed care, organizational humility, and a commitment to treating the “why” beneath the addiction. Episode Highlights* Addiction as Adaptation: Why substances and compulsive behaviors often begin as survival tools developed in response to trauma and chronic unsafety. * Trauma Lenses & “Schemas”: How childhood experiences shape the way we interpret the world, like wearing “glasses” that color everything we see. * The “Adaptive Child” & the “Wise Adult”: Understanding why we don’t “get rid” of our inner child and what it really means to heal and re-parent those wounded parts. * The Body Keeps the Score: How trauma lives in the nervous system, resurfaces through triggers, and can drive reactive patterns long after the danger is gone. * Neuroplasticity & New Pathways: A memorable metaphor: the old coping route is a worn path, recovery is learning to clear a new one, again and again. * Trauma-Informed vs. Trauma Therapy: The difference between being trauma-informed as a culture (admissions, advocates, first contact) and providing specialized trauma treatment. * EMDR Readiness: Why EMDR can be transformational, but only when a patient has enough stability and support to safely reprocess trauma. * Recovery as Connection: How true recovery moves from object-centered living (substance as primary relationship) to relationship-centered living rooted in presence, trust, and meaning. * A message of hope: If you’re struggling, or love someone who is, this episode offers compassionate truth: it’s not your fault, and you don’t have to do this alone. Memorable Takeaways* “Addiction is not a moral failure.” It’s often the nervous system doing what it learned to do to survive. * You’re not responsible for the first thought, but you are responsible for what comes next. Healing is learning to pause and choose a different response. * Connection regulates. Sustained recovery is built through connection with self, others, community, and meaning. * Trauma work isn’t an excuse for behavior; it’s an explanation. Understanding the “why” can reduce shame and open the door to change. About Our GuestsVidya Nair, MSW, LCSW, is the Clinical Director of Hanley Center’s women’s services, including Headwaters and Casa Flores, Hanley’s specialized perinatal program. She brings a deep trauma-informed lens, a background in play therapy, and a passion for building safety and healing for both mothers and families. Lyanne Azqueta, LMHC, NCC, MAC, is a Hanley Foundation Board Member and full-time volunteer counselor who has spent decades working in addictions and trauma. A returning guest on The Hanley Effect, Lyanne is known for her compassionate, relational approach and her commitment to helping patients build lasting connection-centered recovery. Watch Lyanne's previous episode here: https://youtu.be/nhNh0yIpKlY Resources & SupportTo learn more about Hanley Center’s programs, visit

    33 min
  2. Senator Darryl Rouson: Recovery, Redemption, and Public Service

    JAN 28

    Senator Darryl Rouson: Recovery, Redemption, and Public Service

    In this deeply moving and inspiring episode of The Hanley Effect, Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal welcome Florida State Senator Darryl Rouson, a Hanley Center alumnus, longtime recovery advocate, and dedicated public servant, whose journey powerfully illustrates that recovery is not only possible but life-changing. Senator Rouson shares his remarkable path from addiction and repeated treatment attempts to long-term recovery, public leadership, and legislative impact. With honesty, humility, and profound insight, he reflects on the “gift of desperation” that brought him to Hanley Center in March of 1998, and how that moment became the foundation for a life devoted to service. Growing up in a supportive family, attending Catholic schools, and becoming the first African American prosecutor in Pinellas County, Senator Rouson’s early success masked a deepening struggle with alcohol and cocaine addiction during the height of the 1980s. After nine years and eight treatment programs, it was at Hanley where recovery finally took root, through dignity, accountability, spirituality, and connection. From sleeping on the floor of an office building early in recovery to leading the NAACP, serving eight years in the Florida House of Representatives, and now the Florida Senate, Senator Rouson speaks candidly about owning his story, living with integrity, and refusing to let his past define his future. Today, his lived experience informs his legislative work, particularly around mental health and substance use disorders. He discusses two of the bills he is most proud of: Senate Bill 282, which formally recognizes and supports peer recovery specialists, andSenate Bill 1620 is landmark legislation improving access, accountability, and quality of care for mental health and substance use treatment in Florida.Throughout the conversation, Senator Rouson emphasizes the irreplaceable value of peer recovery, the importance of recovery support after treatment, and the need to treat addiction as healthcare, not a moral failing or a crime. He also shares the deeply personal practice of carrying the journals he began writing during his first days at Hanley, a reminder of where he started and why he continues to give back. Looking ahead, Senator Rouson reflects on his upcoming book, A Journey Through Addiction to Public Service, and the honor of having the Darryl E. Rouson Center for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Research named after him at the University of South Florida. This episode is a powerful message of hope for individuals in recovery, families, clinicians, policymakers, and anyone who believes in redemption, second chances, and the transformative power of compassion. As Senator Rouson reminds us: “We do recover.” To learn more about Hanley Center visit www.hanleycenter.org.

    27 min
  3. What Role Can Comedy Play in Suicide Prevention? with Frank King

    JAN 21

    What Role Can Comedy Play in Suicide Prevention? with Frank King

    Content note: This episode includes discussion of suicide and suicidal ideation. Listener discretion advised. If you’re struggling, call or text 988 (U.S.). Comedy and mental health collide in this powerful, heartfelt episode of The Hanley Effect with Frank King, The Mental Health Comedian. Frank shares how a lifelong career in stand-up and joke-writing, including 20 years writing for Jay Leno and The Tonight Show, evolved into a mission: using humor to help people talk about suicide, reduce stigma, and save lives. Frank speaks candidly about living with major depressive disorder and chronic suicidal ideation, and why naming those experiences can be life-changing for people who have silently carried similar thoughts. With hosts Dr. Rachel Docekal and Dr. John Dyben, the group unpacks why asking directly about suicide does not “plant the idea” and why meaningful prevention often starts with something simple: showing up, noticing, and starting the conversation. In this episode, you’ll hear: - Why Frank calls himself “The Mental Health Comedian” and what that really means - Chronic suicidal ideation and how hearing it named can reduce shame and isolation - How humor can create emotional “breathing room” so people can absorb difficult truths - Frank’s story of hitting bottom during financial collapse, and the unexpected moment that helped interrupt his plan - A moving story from a construction site that illustrates why workplace suicide prevention is essential - Why “Are you OK?” can be one of the most important questions you ever ask - The role of peer mentorship and lived experience in recovery and healing - A simple way to help someone in crisis: encourage them to reach out before their “time runs out” Crisis support mentioned in the episode: If you or someone you love is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 in the U.S. the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Help is available 24/7 and connects you to trained support. About our Guest Frank King is a comedian, TEDx speaker, and suicide prevention speaker with 30 years of experience helping audiences laugh, learn, and leave presentations loving life. He began stand-up in 1985 and holds a record for 2,629 consecutive nights on the road performing without a home, just a PO Box and an answering service. He has shared the stage with many of the biggest names in comedy and entertainment and spent two decades writing for Jay Leno and The Tonight Show. Today, Frank uses his lived experience and comedic skill to make suicide prevention conversations more approachable and actionable. Frank’s Website: mentalhealthcomedian.com How to Connect Learn more about Hanley's mental health and substance use treatment programs visit: hanleycenter.org Admissions & info: 844‑502‑4673

    28 min
  4. Compassion & the Brain: A Neurologist’s View of Addiction with Dr. Carolyn Larkin Taylor

    JAN 14

    Compassion & the Brain: A Neurologist’s View of Addiction with Dr. Carolyn Larkin Taylor

    In this episode of The Hanley Effect, neurologist Dr. Carolyn Larkin Taylor shares how three decades in practice shaped her view of addiction as a brain disease, not a moral failing. She traces her path from early training in Philadelphia to many years of practice in Washington State, explains why the developing brain is especially vulnerable (“wet cement”), and offers concrete examples of how addiction shows up in neurology clinics (e.g., withdrawal‑related seizures, B12 deficiency from nitrous oxide). Together, hosts Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal with Dr. Taylor unpack the “rock bottom” myth, the fine line between compassion and enabling, and why family education changes outcomes. What We CoverDr. Taylor’s path in neurology: From training and early practice in Philadelphia to decades of patient care in Washington State, including building group practice and an MS‑focused center.Addiction is a brain disease: Why language matters, how stigma blocks care, and the role of dopamine pathways, stress reactivity, and metabolism in vulnerability.Genetics & risk: Twin/adoption research suggests 40–60% heritability; we can’t predict which young person will be most at risk, so prevention and education are essential.The adolescent brain (“wet cement”): Early exposure can re‑wire maturing circuitry and raise adult addiction risk (4–6×); abstinence and healthy routines can still support re‑wiring, but it’s harder later.What neurologists see:Alcohol/benzodiazepine withdrawal seizures in teens and adults.B12 deficiency (e.g., from nitrous oxide) presenting as numbness/tingling.Seizures are misattributed to other conditions when withdrawal is the driver.Rock bottom is not a treatment plan: Why earlier intervention saves lives; how families can “raise the bottom” with boundaries and support.Compassion vs. enabling: Understanding survival‑driven brain changes (craving feels like “air/water”) while guiding loved ones toward care.Systems & solutions: Family education (including intensive family programs), the limits of punishment/incarceration, and the urgent need for more mental‑health resources.Continuing education for clinicians: How required CME around substance use (spurred by the opioid crisis) is improving clinical literacy.How to ConnectLearn more about Hanley Foundation treatment programs and family education: hanleycenter.orgAdmissions & info: 844‑502‑4673

    28 min
  5. Is Advertising Contributing to Addiction? With Dr. Jean Kilbourne

    JAN 7

    Is Advertising Contributing to Addiction? With Dr. Jean Kilbourne

    In this episode of The Hanley Effect, pioneering activist, speaker, and author Dr. Jean Kilbourne joins hosts Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal to unpack how advertising and media shape our beliefs, behaviors, and public health, especially around addiction, gender, and youth. Jean Kilbourne, Ed.D. is a National Women’s Hall of Fame inductee and one of the world’s most influential voices on advertising’s impact on public health. Her films and lectures have reached millions, and her research helped mainstream media literacy as a core prevention strategy. Kilbourne, creator of the landmark film series Killing Us Softly: Advertising’s Image of Women and author of Can’t Buy My Love, explains why simply showing “scared‑straight” health images rarely works, and how media literacy can. Drawing on decades of research (and her own story of getting sober in 1976), she shows how alcohol and tobacco marketers have long targeted kids and women, erased negative consequences, and even positioned products as stand‑ins for community, romance, and “freedom.” The episode closes with a look at today’s landscape, social media, filters, algorithms, and AI, and what families, schools, and prevention programs can do that truly helps. What You’ll LearnMedia literacy as prevention: Teaching kids how to understand ads, instead of just telling them to “say no,” helps delay when they start and lowers the risks.How ads target emotions, not logic: Advertisers design campaigns to influence us without us noticing, linking their products to feelings of belonging, celebration, and identity.Gendered marketing tactics: Alcohol is marketed differently to men and women, and objectifying women in ads leads to bigger problems.From billboards to social media: Filters, algorithms, and content made by peers increase pressure and make substance use seem normal.Hope in practice: Evidence‑based prevention models rooted in Jean’s work, like Hanley’s Alcohol Literacy Challenge and Prevention Research Institute’s Prime for Life. Resources & MentionsJean Kilbourne, Ed.D. – Films & resources: jeankilbourne.comAlcohol Literacy Challenge – Hanley Foundation’s classroom program teaching media literacy around alcohol.Prime For Life – Prevention Research Institute’s evidence‑based curriculum.Learn more: hanleyfoundation.org | Call: 844‑502‑4673

    33 min
  6. RE-RELEASE: Breaking Cycles of Addiction: Niki T’s Story of Recovery, Motherhood, and Advocacy

    12/31/2025

    RE-RELEASE: Breaking Cycles of Addiction: Niki T’s Story of Recovery, Motherhood, and Advocacy

    In this powerful episode of The Hanley Effect, Dr. Rachel Docekal and Dr. John Dyben are joined by Turner Benoit, Chief Philanthropy Officer at Hanley Foundation, and Niki T, a former Hanley Center patient whose journey through recovery has transformed her life, and the lives of others. Niki shares her deeply personal story of addiction, recovery, and rebuilding. Today, she is not only a devoted mother but also a professional in the field of forensic social work and a passionate advocate for women and families impacted by substance use disorder. Her story is a testament to what’s possible when compassionate, comprehensive care meets determination and hope. Turner Benoit offers insight into Hanley’s mission-driven programming and the life-changing impact of Casa Flores, a specialized, family-centered treatment program designed to support pregnant women and mothers while keeping families together. Casa Flores addresses the unique needs of women and children, helping break generational cycles of addiction through trauma-informed care, parenting support, and long-term recovery planning. This episode highlights the power of recovery, the importance of supporting mothers, and the profound ripple effect that healing one person can have on an entire family. Resources Mentioned Hanley Center ProgramsCasa Flores Program: Providing a pathway to recovery and family reunification for mothers in recovery.Mark Garwood Phoenix Scholarships: Scholarships and support services for individuals seeking purpose through recovery.Contact Information For more information about Hanley Foundation’s programs or to contribute to their mission, visit Hanley Foundation or call 844-502-4673. This episode was originally released on 12/26/2024.

    36 min
  7. RE-RELEASE: Spirituality in Addiction Recovery with Chaplain Lance Woodley

    12/24/2025

    RE-RELEASE: Spirituality in Addiction Recovery with Chaplain Lance Woodley

    In this special re-release of The Hanley Effect, we return to a heartfelt conversation with Lance Woodley, Hanley Center’s well-loved Clinical Chaplain. Alongside Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal, Lance shares his personal and professional story and talks about how spirituality can make a real difference in addiction recovery. Lance talks about growing up in Bell Glade, Florida, and how his experiences in music, theology, and clinical social work led him to his role at Hanley. He explains with compassion and insight how spiritually informed therapy can help people in recovery work through grief, find self-worth, and reconnect with meaning. This episode takes a closer look at what it means to heal the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and explains why presence, ritual, and purpose are so important for lasting recovery. What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeLance’s JourneyLance talks about his journey from studying music at Bethune-Cookman University to earning advanced degrees in theology and clinical social work. He explains how he combines spirituality with evidence-based care in his work at Hanley Center. Spirituality as a Healing ForceThe conversation looks at how spirituality can help people in treatment work through loss, grief, shame, and identity, which are often at the core of addiction. The Neuroscience of Spiritual PracticeLance talks about research on meditation and prayer, sharing insights from neuroscientists like Andrew Newberg. He explains how spiritual practices can have a positive effect on the brain and help with emotional regulation. The Power of RitualListeners hear about meaningful therapeutic rituals, such as the Stone Key Ritual, that help people express pain, let go of resentment, and move toward forgiveness and healing. Holistic Care at Hanley CenterThis episode shows how Hanley Center combines strong clinical care with spiritual support to create a caring, personalized, and life-changing recovery experience. Key TakeawaysRecovery is more than just stopping substance use; it’s also about finding meaning and self-worth again.Spiritual care and clinical science can work together to support deep and lasting healing.Rituals and being present can help people process pain and build hope.When we treat the whole person, recovery becomes more compassionate and effective.Why We’re Re-Releasing This EpisodeLance Woodley’s wisdom, warmth, and steady presence continue to make a difference in the Hanley community. This re-release gives both new and returning listeners a chance to revisit a conversation that gets to the heart of healing and the lasting power of hope. Learn More: Visit https://www.hanleycenter.org/ or call 844-502-4673 to explore programs and services designed to inspire hope and foster recovery. This episode was originally released on 1/22/2025.

    33 min
  8. Two Dr. A’s on the Brain: Neuropsychology, QEEG & Whole‑Person Recovery

    12/17/2025

    Two Dr. A’s on the Brain: Neuropsychology, QEEG & Whole‑Person Recovery

    What actually happens in the brain during addiction, anxiety, depression, or trauma, and how can we measure it in ways that meaningfully guide treatment? In this episode, hosts Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal sit down with Hanley Center’s Chief Clinical Officer, Dr. Angelo Asheh, M.D., and neuropsychologist Dr. Yianoula Alexakis, Psy.D., to demystify the brain–behavior connection. Dr. Alexakis explains how neuropsychological testing, quantitative EEG (QEEG or “brain mapping”), and neurofeedback provide objective data to tailor interventions, while Dr. Asheh shares how those findings improve medical decision‑making and outcomes for people with co‑occurring substance use and mental health disorders. Along the way, Dr. Alexakis shares her first‑generation story (and a few accents!), then brings it back to hope: the brain’s capacity for neuroplasticity means recovery can be measured, trained, and strengthened over time, when clinicians work together around the whole person. What you’ll learnNeuropsychology 101: How brain–behavior assessment looks beyond symptoms to attention, memory, executive function, mood, and personality, so treatment is individualized, not one‑size‑fits‑all.Objective data that matters: Why cognitive testing + clinical observation + medical labs/imaging create a clearer diagnostic picture than any single data point alone.QEEG (brain mapping) explained: How quantitative EEG visualizes over‑ or under‑activation in brain networks related to sleep, anxiety, attention, and more, and how it becomes a baseline to track change.Neurofeedback & “neuro‑restorative” care: Training the brain toward healthier patterns to support mood regulation, focus, and recovery stability.Co‑occurring realities: Why treating substance use and the underlying drivers (trauma, anxiety, depression) is essential, and how integrated teams align around that.Whole‑system health: The gut–brain axis, sleep hygiene, stress physiology, psychotherapy, and medication, how they intersect with brain function and recovery.Hope through neuroplasticity: The brain can adapt. Measuring progress over time helps patients see change and stay engaged.Episode highlightsThe role of a neuropsychologist on a treatment team, and why data‑informed care improves outcomes.Distinguishing ADHD‑like symptoms from anxiety or depression during assessment.Practical uses of QEEG in residential treatment and aftercare planning.How neuropsych findings support smarter prescribing and case formulation.“Two Dr. A’s” on collaboration: medicine, psychology, therapy, sleep, nutrition, and brain training working in concert.Closing message: a clear, compassionate case for measured hope.Learn MoreLearn about our programs visit: hanleycenter.orgSpeak with our admissions team at: 844‑502‑4673

    28 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

The Hanley Effect is a weekly addiction recovery and mental health podcast hosted by Dr. John Dyben, Chief Clinical Officer at Hanley Center, and Dr. Rachel Docekal, CEO of the Hanley Foundation, the podcast explores the science, stories, and systems shaping substance use disorder, mental health, and trauma care today. Through in-depth, compassionate conversations, The Hanley Effect brings together leading experts in addiction medicine, behavioral health, neuroscience, psychology, education, public policy, and recovery advocacy, along with individuals and families with lived experience. Episodes dive into evidence-based treatment, trauma-informed care, co-occurring disorders, adolescent mental health, overdose prevention, stigma, shame, and the realities of long-term recovery. Dr. Dyben and Dr. Docekal offer a unique dual perspective, combining clinical expertise and nonprofit leadership, to unpack what quality addiction treatment looks like, why prevention and early intervention matter, and how families and communities can respond more effectively to substance use and mental health challenges. Listeners gain practical tools, expert insight, and a clearer understanding of the evolving landscape of addiction and mental health. The podcast also highlights powerful stories of resilience, post-traumatic growth, and recovery, reminding listeners that healing is possible and help is available. Whether you are a behavioral health professional, first responder, educator, policymaker, parent, person in recovery, or someone seeking reliable information about addiction and mental health, The Hanley Effect delivers education that empowers and conversations that change lives. Produced by the Hanley Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to saving lives through prevention, treatment, education, and advocacy, The Hanley Effect exists to change minds, reduce stigma, and build healthier, more informed communities through honest, evidence-based dialogue.

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