Why do we keep turning to cigarettes, food, gambling, shopping, porn, alcohol, or even our phones when we’re hurting? In this raw and eye-opening episode of Dr. Judy WTF (What the Freud / What the Foot), Dr. Judy Rosenberg dives deep into the psychology of addiction and reveals what she calls the “Hole in the Soul”—the emotional wound left by childhood trauma, neglect, abuse, and disconnection that drives us to self-medicate.

Using her powerful Mind Map system, Dr. Judy breaks down how early wounds lead to emotional reactions, toxic encodings, chaos, and ultimately the defense mechanisms we call addictions. From smoking and gambling to binge eating and shopping, she explains the difference between filling yourself and truly fulfilling yourself—and why addictions only create temporary relief while deepening long-term pain.

Dr. Judy also shares insights from her upcoming book “Kick It: Stop Smoking and Be the Cause of Better Outcomes for Your Life”, including the psychology behind comfort smokers, control smokers, and performance smokers, and why quitting isn’t just about willpower—it’s about healing the original wound.

This episode features powerful listener questions, real-life examples, and an unfiltered look at why even life-threatening diagnoses often aren’t enough to stop addiction. If you’ve ever wondered “Why do I do this to myself?”—this conversation is for you.

It’s not about shame.
It’s not about weakness.
It’s about healing the hole… so you no longer need the filler.