What if drugs and alcohol aren’t the problem… because they actually work?

In this episode of The Next Fix, Ryan Penley sits down with author and recovery advocate Jeff Hayward of Simple Theory for a raw conversation about the complexity of addiction.

Jeff shares his journey from a lifestyle built around partying — “I can make a career out of partying” — to hitting rock bottom, acknowledging the need for help, and rebuilding his life from the inside out.

They explore:

• Why substances “work” emotionally and neurologically
• The void that keeps people chasing the next fix
• Addiction as an abusive relationship
• The emotional layers underneath dependency
• Why values are the foundation of sustainable recovery
• The role of community support
• How sharing your story builds confidence and purpose

Ryan opens up about chasing anything that made him feel alive — drugs, booze, sex, snowboarding, the rush — and realizing that pursuing happiness itself can become bottomless.

Jeff introduces his book, Simple Shit for Complicated People, a guide to clarity, values, and self-discovery for anyone ready to stop running and start rebuilding.

If you’ve ever felt the void…
If you’ve ever wondered why you keep going back…
If you’re ready for something deeper than surface-level recovery…

This episode is for you.

Connect with Jeff Hayward

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bennys.beans
Website: https://simpletheory.ca

Connect with Ryan Penley

https://www.myrockbottomrecovery.com