In this episode of the Real Drug Talk podcast, Jack Nagle sits down with Dr. Jack Freestone, researcher and former manager of ACON’s LGBTQ+ drug and alcohol program, to explore the realities of chemsex, GHB use, and harm reduction strategies in Australia.

We dive deep into:

• What chemsex actually is – and how it’s defined in research and community.

• GHB trends and risks – why use is rising, overdose dangers, and myths about dependence.

• Harm reduction strategies that work – from safe dosing and measuring to peer-led support.

• The METHOD program – a peer-based service helping people reduce harm in sexualised drug use.

• Barriers to AOD services – why talking about sex and drug use together is still taboo for many clients.

• The Prompt Response Network – how Australia responds to emerging drug threats.

This conversation goes beyond headlines and stigma, offering a balanced look at drug use, sexuality, public health, and community-driven solutions.

📌 Resources & Links Mentioned:

• METHOD Program (ACON) – Harm reduction for chemsex:  Book A M3THOD Appointment | Party & Play Support | Ending HIV  

• The Know – National drug alerts: The Know - Australian drug alerts, all in one place

• NCRED – National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs: https://nccred.org.au/

• Research study on chemsex & service experiences: Exploring experiences of talk therapies among gay and bisexual men seeking to reduce or abstain from using crystal methamphetamine in the context of chemsex - PubMed

  
  

  
  

In this powerful and honest video, we hear the raw story of Mike, who went from drinking as early as 9 years old to completely transforming his life through sobriety.

If you've ever struggled with alcohol or wondered how to stop drinking, this video is for you.

Mike shares what led to his alcohol dependence, the moment he knew he had to change, and the exact steps he took to get sober and stay that way.

This isn’t just about quitting alcohol—it’s about rebuilding a life with purpose, clarity, and connection.

✅ Discover what recovery really looks like

✅ Learn tools for staying sober long-term

✅ Hear an inspiring transformation from alcohol addiction to personal growth.

This story proves it’s never too late to change. Whether you're in recovery, sober curious, or supporting a loved one, you'll find hope and motivation here.

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📚- Free Report - 5 horrifying Dodgey Practices Rehabs Don't Want You To Know About: https://www.realdrugtalk.com/freereport

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❌💊🍷 Want To Get Help To Beat Addiction?

☎️ Book A FREE Consultation: www.connectionbasedliving.com/bookcall

🖥️ More Help On Our Website: www.connectionbasedliving.com.au/

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📲 SOCIALS:

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FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/791635894623729

In this powerful video, Nash shares his personal journey overcoming cocaine addiction, highlighting the strong connection between alcohol use and cocaine abuse. Working in the construction industry, Nash reveals how prevalent and socially accepted cocaine use has become among workers, describing his own struggle as a "dysfunctional functional user"—seemingly managing life while internally battling addiction.

Discover the turning point that led Nash to seek help and how he successfully broke free from his addiction using the Connection Based Living group coaching program. This recovery program emphasizes connection, support, and accountability, providing an effective alternative to traditional rehab.

If you're struggling with cocaine or substance use, or know someone who is, Nash's story offers inspiration, hope, and practical insights on the road to recovery.

🔑 Key topics covered:

• The link between alcohol and cocaine use

• Cocaine addiction in the construction industry

• Signs of a dysfunctional functional user

• Benefits of the Connection Based Living group coaching program

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  Connection Based Living Programs, CLICK HERE

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  To download the free report on dodgy rehabs, ⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠

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  To book a free consultation, ⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠

In this episode, we chat with Thalia from @project.herself about Australia's desperate need for women's prison reform.

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To download the free report on dodgy rehabs, ⁠CLICK HERE⁠

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To book a free consultation, ⁠CLICK HERE⁠

Ever been curious about getting sober without 12-step programs? - Well then, this podcast might be for you.

Today, Jack chats with Cheyenne from all the way in Florida.

Chey shares her experience of addiction and sobriety and how she is now helping other women heal.

You can find Chey on Instagram here: @sobrietyseven

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To download the free report on dodgy rehabs, CLICK HERE

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To book a free consultation, CLICK HERE

In this video, Jack chats with Amanda from Addiction Makes Three about her personal journey in dealing with a loved one going through addictive patterns. How she made changes in her life, and how she now helps others to do the same. ____________

☎️ Book A FREE Consultation: ⁠⁠www.connectionbasedliving.com/bookcall

⁠⁠🖥️ More Help On Our Website:

⁠⁠www.connectionbasedliving.com.au/

⁠⁠______________________

📲 SOCIALS:

Insta:⁠⁠

www.instagram.com/realdrugtalk/⁠⁠

Facebook:

⁠⁠www.facebook.com/realdrugtalk⁠⁠

Peace & Love✌🏾❤️Real Drug Talk Team

In today's episode, we have a little bit of a coaching session for y'all.

Firstly, I hope it's helpful along with giving a small insight into what people in the Connection Based Living Program work on in their sessions.

If you need any further support, don't hesitate to reach out using the links below.

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☎️ Book A FREE Consultation: ⁠www.connectionbasedliving.com/bookcall⁠

🖥️ More Help On Our Website: ⁠www.connectionbasedliving.com.au/⁠

______________________

📲 SOCIALS:

Insta:⁠ www.instagram.com/realdrugtalk/⁠

Facebook: ⁠www.facebook.com/realdrugtalk⁠

Peace & Love✌🏾❤️Real Drug Talk Team

My Dad Died... Here's What He Taught Me About Addiction Recovery. I got emotional in this video.

It felt uncomfortable but powerful... I share the lessons I learned from my dad before his passing, and how his wisdom has shaped my journey through addiction recovery.

Through personal stories and reflections, I dive deep into the transformative power of believing in someone when they may not believe in themselves.

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, this one might help.

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☎️ Book A FREE Consultation: www.connectionbasedliving.com/bookcall

🖥️ More Help On Our Website: www.connectionbasedliving.com.au/

______________________

📲 SOCIALS:

Insta: www.instagram.com/realdrugtalk/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realdrugtalk

Peace & Love✌🏾❤️Real Drug Talk Team

Have you been sitting on the fence with recovery? Then this episode is for you.

Today's show is from Jack's Instagram live with Amanda from Addiction Makes Three.

Amanda and Jack Chat about:

- Families and addiction

- The fallacy of rock bottom

- Why the time to act is now

- much much more.

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Are you a functional user looking to change your relationship with alcohol or other drugs?

Imagine not waking up hungover in the mornings, not spending that extra cash on bags and the pokies, and finding a new sense of freedom. I have a free workshop that offers practical tools and support to help you to start making lasting changes.

Join us to learn strategies that can empower you to take control, reduce dependency, and enhance your overall well-being. This is your opportunity to transform your habits and regain your sense of balance.

Register now for our free workshop and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you

https://www.realdrugtalk.com/freeworkshop

Imagine what life would be like on the run from the cops high on meth with no way to escape. 

In this episode, Paul shares his story of growing up in a broken home, dealing with his mother’s heroin addiction and eventual overdose death, a life of crime, meth addiction and being on the run from police for 2 months  

There is never a dull moment in Paul’s story and he will keep you on the edge of your seat. (The story about his mum’s overdose nearly had me in tears) 

Listen wherever you get your podcasts.

To find out more about Paul you can follow him on Instagram: @tankbro_

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Ever wanted to beat addictive patterns without going to rehab?

Research suggests that between 20% to 25% of individuals with alcohol use disorders achieve sobriety without formal treatment or participation in support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

If you could learn how to change your relationship with substances, without rehab, without having to stop forever, without a lifetime of AA groups, would you do it?

Join our program "The Wholeness Shift" to learn how: https://realdrugtalk.com.au/online-course/

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Don't miss the deeper conversation in our weekly newsletter packed with tips and insights on how to make change, AOD policy issues and much more. 📧 Join our FREE Good Gear newsletter here:

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