Get a Grip Podcast

I Graduated from Ohio's #1 Party School with a Degree… and a Drug & Alcohol Problem | Ep 81


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In this inspiring solo episode, host Louis sits down with Chrissie Mackie, whose life took a dramatic turn from small-town band nerd to full-blown battle with the bottle.

Chrissie grew up in a loving, ordinary household and spent her school years immersed in music, proudly embracing her “band nerd” identity. But when she left for college, everything shifted. What began as casual drinking to fit in soon became an all-out war with alcohol—nights blurred by blackouts, bar fights, and a relentless spiral she couldn’t escape.

The heartbreak deepened when Chrissie’s mother passed away from cancer without warning. The sudden loss sent her reeling. Grief and destructive habits consumed her, and she feared she’d never break free of the same demons that had already stolen so much. Friends and family worried, but nothing seemed to reach her.

Then, in a dimly lit bar on an ordinary night, something extraordinary happened: a line from Good Will Hunting cut through the noise and hit her like lightning. That single movie quote became the spark that saved her life. Chrissie walked out of the bar and never looked back, determined to build something better.

Today, Chrissie is not only sober—she holds a master’s degree and dedicates her career to helping others fight the same battles she once faced. Her journey is a testament to resilience, the power of unexpected inspiration, and the truth that change is always possible.

This conversation is raw, honest, and unforgettable. Chrissie’s story proves that even in the darkest moments, hope can arrive in the most surprising ways and lead to a future brighter than you ever imagined.

🔥 Expect emotion. Expect truth. Expect hope.

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more powerful stories on addiction, recovery, and resilience.Get a Grip Podcast Social Media: Find our TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio links, a more on our Link Tree below!

Get a Grip Social Media Links: ⁠https://linktr.ee/officialgetagrippodcast⁠

👇 Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

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Get a Grip PodcastBy Louis Essig and Aaron Garnes

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