In this powerful episode, recovery veterans Christopher Doyle and Joe Courtney (with 48 combined years of sobriety) dismantle the dangerous myth that you can't help someone until they "want it" or "hit bottom."

Guest’s Info Joe Courtney is many people's first phone call when they need help with an addicted loved one. Joe is married 24 years, has 4 beautiful children, and 30 years sober.

Highlights

• The truth behind "they have to want it" that the conventional wisdom gets totally backward
• Why your loved one's first meeting rarely happens because they chose it (and what actually gets them there)
• The surprisingly simple sentence that's gotten hundreds of resistant addicts to agree to help
• Why the person who got you sober might be the one person you never thank
• The heartbreaking story of waiting "until they're ready" that ended in a funeral just days before this recording
• The counterintuitive leverage point that turns "I don't have a problem" into "I'll go to one meeting"
• Why the most resistant addicts who fought all the way to rehab are often the most grateful afterward
• The shockingly simple 10-word question that can be your loved one's turning point

Joe and Chris reveal their personal journeys, relapse stories, and the practical tactics they've used to help countless others find recovery - even when those people initially wanted nothing to do with getting help.

This isn't just theory - it's battle-tested wisdom from two men who've been on both sides: the resistant addict and the person making that vital first call.

Links and Resources from this Episode

• https://whyintervention.com/
• https://twitter.com/whyintervention
• https://www.facebook.com/whyintervention/
• https://www.instagram.com/whyintervention/
• TIME SENSITIVE, FREE RESOURCE: Get an early preview of Christopher's new book "Stop Addiction Early: A Recovery Roadmap For Proactive Parents" at no cost for a limited time: https://helpthisbook.com/recoveryroadmapforparents/recovery-roadmap
• Even Russell Brand misses the point: Youtube video - "How to treat the addict you love!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJ-y5QSpgTo  

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In this powerful episode of the Why Intervention podcast, host Christopher Doyle interviews Sally Harris, who transformed her devastating experience with her daughter's estrangement into a mission helping other mothers find healing.

Guest’s Info Sally helps mothers navigate one of life's most challenging journeys - estrangement from their children. After over a decade battling addiction, depression, and the despair of suicide attempts, it was a severe health crisis that ultimately sparked Sally’s profound transformation. Through deepening faith and a revolutionary insight - that her well-being couldn't depend on her daughter's choices - Sally found her way to healing. Today, she celebrates years of sobriety, a renewed relationship with her daughter, and a thriving coaching practice that helps other mothers find their path to wholeness.”

Highlights

• The shocking truth about what "estrangement" really means—and why it's not always what you think (hint: your child might be in more pain than you realize)
• Why 60% of mothers dealing with estrangement have ZERO support system—and the dangerous spiral this creates
• The "front porch vs. front yard" strategy that will immediately transform who you talk to about your child's struggles
• The critical difference between HELPING and ENABLING your adult child (most parents get this dangerously wrong)
• Why loving detachment might be the most painful—yet healing—gift you can give both yourself and your child
• How to handle the soul-crushing judgment from others who haven't walked in your shoes
• The unexpected revelation about "control" that changed everything for Sally (and can do the same for you)
• The simple communication technique that can instantly transform your relationship with your adult child
• Why forgiving YOURSELF might be the missing key to healing your relationship (most parents skip this crucial step)
• The counterintuitive approach to boundaries that actually strengthens your bond with your child
• The profound mistake Sally made that led to dangerous enabling—and how you can avoid the same path
• Why Sally chooses to meet with mothers on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day (the revelation will bring tears to your eyes)

Listen now to discover how Sally found her way to healing after years of addiction, depression, and suicide attempts—and how her journey can light the path for your own healing and reconciliation.

Links and Resources from this Episode

• https://whyintervention.com/
• https://twitter.com/whyintervention
• https://www.facebook.com/whyintervention/
• https://www.instagram.com/whyintervention/
• TIME SENSITIVE, FREE RESOURCE: Get an early preview of Christopher's new book "Stop Addiction Early: A Recovery Roadmap For Proactive Parents" at no cost for a limited time: https://helpthisbook.com/recoveryroadmapforparents/recovery-roadmap  
• Connect with Sally Harris
• www.sally-harris.com
• https://www.youtube.com/@sallyharriscoach  

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In this episode of the Why Intervention Podcast, Christopher Doyle and Kirsten Cobabe dive deep into the turbulent waters of teen development and addiction risk. Kirsten draws from over two decades of experience guiding parents through the challenges of adolescence to reveal the hidden connections between brain development, parenting approaches, and addiction vulnerability.

Beyond the typical "just say no" advice, this conversation explores why teens make the decisions they do, how parents can maintain influence during these critical years, and the powerful protective factors that can prevent addiction before it starts. What emerges is a masterclass in understanding the teen brain and building the kind of relationship that keeps communication open even when the stakes are highest.

You'll discover exactly what's happening in your teenager's mind, why traditional approaches often backfire spectacularly, and the specific conversational techniques that transform parent-teen relationships from battlegrounds to lifelines. This isn't just information—it's a roadmap for connection when it matters most.

WARNING: What you're about to discover might forever change how you speak to your teenager…

Guest’s Info

Kirsten Cobabe is a former therapist turned coach, specializing in supporting families navigate the waves of adolescence. For over two decades, she has guided parents in learning how to listen to, and talk with, their teens. She engages parents in personal reflection, embracing their evolving role, understanding the teen brain and restoring harmony in the home. In recognizing this unique stage of development, her hope is to bridge the widening gap between parents and their children, creating timeless bonds. Through compassionate guidance, intentional strategies and a tailored approach, Kirsten empowers families to pilot these pivotal years with deeper awareness. Her work is not just about addressing immediate concerns, but about lighting the path to a more empowered future, ensuring that today's challenges become the foundation for tomorrow's brighter relationships. Kirsten works with parents, teens and the entire family constellation with a holistic lens, starting with what is already working.

Highlights

• The shocking truth about your teen's brain and why expecting them to "just make better decisions" is like expecting a car with no brakes to stop safely
• Why your teenager might be HARDWIRED to seek thrills that terrify you (and the counterintuitive way smart parents can channel this energy)
• The "substitute prefrontal cortex" technique that helps teens navigate risk without destroying their lives in the process
• Why some teens try substances once and walk away while others spiral into addiction – the answer isn't what most "experts" claim
• The emotional detection system every teenager possesses that allows them to "read" your true feelings (even when you think you're hiding them perfectly)
• The counterintuitive reason why your teenager's complaints and negativity are actually GOLDEN OPPORTUNITIES you should never shut down
• Why "Connect Before Correct" might be the three most important words any parent of a teen will ever hear The devastating childhood experiences that dramatically increase addiction vulnerability (and the surprising protective factor that can neutralize them)
• How to be the person your teen WANTS to talk to about the scary, dangerous, confusing parts of their life
• The tragic mistake well-meaning parents make when setting boundaries around substance use (and what to do instead)

This conversation offers something truly valuable – practical wisdom that strengthens the parent-teen relationship and builds the resilience young people need to navigate adolescence successfully. The tools shared here don't just help prevent problems – they create the foundation for deeper connection and understanding that lasts a lifetime.

Links and Resources from this Episode

• https://whyintervention.com/
• https://twitter.com/whyintervention
• https://www.facebook.com/whyintervention/
• https://www.instagram.com/whyintervention/
• TIME SENSITIVE, FREE RESOURCE: Get an early preview of Christopher's new book "Stop Addiction Early: A Recovery Roadmap For Proactive Parents" at no cost for a limited time: https://helpthisbook.com/recoveryroadmapforparents/recovery-roadmap  
• Connect with Kirsten Cobabe
• [email protected]
• www.parentingwave.com  

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In this episode of the Why Intervention Podcast, Christopher Doyle and Daniel Klein discuss the complexities of addiction, particularly in teenagers. They explore the rapid onset of addiction in today's society, the psychological and physical aspects of substance use, and the importance of parental intervention.

The conversation emphasizes the need for parents to recognize the signs of addiction and to take proactive steps to help their children. They introduce the Four-Part Connection Formula as a method for parents to effectively communicate and support their loved ones in recovery.

In this conversation, Chris and Danny discuss the critical role of family members in the recovery journey of loved ones struggling with addiction. They explore the importance of being a catalyst for change, the balance between influence and control, and the necessity of empathy and communication.

The discussion also addresses common misconceptions about addiction, the societal responsibility to intervene, and the long-term nature of recovery. Ultimately, they emphasize that while accepting help lies with the individual, family support is essential in facilitating that journey.

Highlights

• The shocking brain scan evidence that explains why your loved one keeps using despite promising to stop (hint: it's nearly identical to another devastating condition)
• Why "waiting for them to hit bottom" is a dangerous myth that keeps families paralyzed while their loved one drowns
• The uncomfortable truth about sobriety stories that even recovered addicts don't realize about their own journey to recovery
• A startling confession from Dan: "I spent 10 years saying 'I'll stop tomorrow' - here's why tomorrow never came until someone else made it happen"
• The secret 2% statistic that explains why your traditional approach to helping your addicted loved one is almost guaranteed to fail
• How to be the catalyst for your loved one's recovery without staging a dramatic intervention (the same method that helped Chris get sober at 17)
• The critical difference between "swimming in rough waters" and "drowning" - and why it changes everything about how you should respond

Links and Resources from this Episode

• https://whyintervention.com/
• https://twitter.com/whyintervention
• https://www.facebook.com/whyintervention/
• https://www.instagram.com/whyintervention/
• TIME SENSITIVE, FREE RESOURCE: Get an early preview of Christopher's new book "Stop Addiction Early: A Recovery Roadmap For Proactive Parents" at no cost for a limited time: https://helpthisbook.com/recoveryroadmapforparents/recovery-roadmap  

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In this eye-opening episode of the Why Intervention Podcast, host Christopher Doyle interviews Shanenn Bryant, pattern transformation expert and founder of Top Self, who reveals the hidden connections between childhood experiences and adult relationship patterns.

Guest’s Info

Shanenn Bryant helps women demolish their patterns and dominate their future. As a Pattern Transformation Expert and founder of Top Self, she bridges the gap between attachment theory and real-world transformation, showing women how to recognize and transform patterns that limit both their personal and professional lives.

Combining her certification in Integrated Attachment Theory with nearly a decade of corporate Learning and Development experience, Shanenn demonstrates why "conscious seeing leads to conscious being." Host of the 2.5% globally ranked podcast Top Self, she's helped thousands of women transform their relationship with themselves and others by understanding the science behind their stories.

Shanenn brings a unique blend of professional expertise and personal insight to her work. She demonstrates how the same patterns that show up in relationships often appear in professional settings, helping women create lasting transformation in all areas of life.

Through speaking engagements, workshops, and her podcast, she's on a mission to help women move from old patterns to personal power.

Highlights

• The shocking truth about why anxious and avoidant people fall in love– and the unconscious dance that keeps them locked in painful cycles
• The "relationship land mine" hiding in children of alcoholics – why growing up with addiction creates a dangerous attachment style that sabotages love just when it starts feeling safe
• Why "trying harder" never works – Shanenn's personal revelation about why willpower alone couldn't stop her jealousy (and why addicts can't just "stop using")
• The hidden "core wounds" driving your relationships– uncover what's really happening when you keep choosing partners who can't love you back
• The surprising reason secure relationships often feel "boring" – and how your brain creates chaos when things get too calm
• The BTEA method– a powerful technique to trace your triggered behaviors back to their original childhood wounds
• How Shanenn overcame crippling jealousy – the turning point that saved her marriage after 8 years of struggle
• Why your brain is designed to confirm your worst beliefs – and the simple reprogramming technique that can permanently change your patterns
• The unexpected way Shanenn healed her relationship with her alcoholic father – after decades of estrangement

Listen as Christopher and Shanenn share personal experiences and professional insights that will transform how you understand both yourself and the addicted loved ones in your life.

Links and Resources from this Episode

• https://whyintervention.com/
• https://twitter.com/whyintervention
• https://www.facebook.com/whyintervention/
• https://www.instagram.com/whyintervention/
• Connect with Shanenn Bryant
• https://www.topself.com/  

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In this powerful episode, Christopher Doyle and Daniel Klein explore the critical distinction between addiction and dependence. Through personal stories and professional insights, they unpack how addiction fundamentally means "can't stop" - a completely different experience from dependence. 

The conversation examines nuances of pain medication use, environmental factors, and why families often struggle to recognize true addiction. Klein shares vulnerable stories from his own journey while Doyle offers clinical perspectives from his extensive experience, creating a comprehensive guide for anyone trying to understand if their loved one is experiencing addiction, dependence, a phase, or simply a bad habit.

Highlights

• The overlooked "brake system" that 90% of substance users have – and why 10% are racing toward disaster without one
• Why the most dangerous phrase a parent can utter is "it's just a phase" – and the hidden warning signs most families completely miss until it's too late
• The bizarre Vietnam heroin phenomenon that shattered addiction myths – and what it reveals about your loved one's struggles
• The startling 5-minute conversation test that exposes whether you're dealing with addiction or dependence (warning: most therapists get this wrong)
• Why "pep talks" and "tough love" produce miracles for some users – and catastrophic failure for others
• The heartbreaking "tomorrow trap" that keeps addicted people believing they can quit for 365+ consecutive days – while family members waste precious time and resources
• How distinguishing between "can't stop" and "can stop" could literally save your loved one's life – and why getting this wrong leads to years of unnecessary suffering

Discover why everything you thought you knew about addiction might be wrong – and the surprisingly simple focus shift that could finally break through to your struggling loved one.

Links and Resources from this Episode

• https://whyintervention.com/
• https://twitter.com/whyintervention
• https://www.facebook.com/whyintervention/
• https://www.instagram.com/whyintervention/
• https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2018/06/a-landmark-study-in-the-origins-of-alcoholism/563372/
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PY9DcIMGxMs  

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In this gripping episode, business coach and speaker Leah Lemberg reveals her shocking journey as honor student and heroin addict – and the moment that saved her life.

Guest’s Info Leah Lemberg is a business coach and speaker who helps high-powered business owners achieve more freedom, profitability, and balance through strategic growth and mindset shifts. She is the creator of The Freedom Framework and Pipeline Mastery, two courses designed to help entrepreneurs scale their businesses and create sustainable growth. Leah’s one-on-one work is grounded in personal accountability, and she draws from her own journey of overcoming addiction and adversity to inspire others. As a speaker, Leah delivers actionable insights on business strategy, leadership, and personal transformation.

What you'll discover

• The "perfect example" delusion Leah believed about addiction that nearly killed her before she turned 18
• Why being "too smart" for addiction treatment is actually the deadliest trap imaginable
• The bizarre warning sign in preschool that everyone missed – and what parents should watch for
• The shocking contents of a mother's dryer that could have changed everything (but didn't)
• Why the "good kid" maintaining a 4.0 GPA might be hiding the deepest hurts of all
• The strange 7-word revelation on a treatment center's steps that finally broke through after months of resistance
• The "plucking method" that saved Leah's life when reasoning and negotiation had utterly failed
• Why a 28-day program is "barely doing anything" and what actually works instead
• How Leah went from stealing veterinary drugs to creating the "Freedom Framework" for entrepreneurs

Leah's raw honesty about her teenage addiction, treatment resistance, and 16-year recovery offers crucial insights for families struggling with a loved one's substance use. Her story proves that intervention works – even when the person doesn't want help – and recovery is always possible.

Listen now to discover why what appears to be a "lost year" in treatment might be the thing that saves a lifetime.

Links and Resources from this Episode

• https://whyintervention.com/
• https://twitter.com/whyintervention
• https://www.facebook.com/whyintervention/
• Connect with Leah Lemberg
• https://leahlemberg.com/  

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In this powerful milestone episode of the Why Intervention Podcast, host Christopher Doyle marks 18 years of sobriety alongside co-host Danny Klein. Through raw and insightful dialogue, they unpack the profound transformations that emerge from long-term recovery - far beyond just staying sober.

Chris shares how sobriety revealed gifts he never expected: finding power in silence, breaking free from the grip of judgment and gossip, and developing a profound capacity to love others exactly as they are. The conversation dives deep into how recovery becomes a masterclass in emotional intelligence, teaching us to sit with uncomfortable feelings without trying to fix or flee from them.

A highlight of the episode is Christopher's vulnerable reflection on how helping others through their darkest moments became the light that guided his own path. He explores the delicate balance of service work in recovery, and how true healing often comes through extending a hand to others while maintaining healthy boundaries.

Episode Highlights Chris and Danny examine the ripple effects of self-worth on every relationship in our lives, offering practical wisdom on:

• Navigating emotional triggers with grace and self-awareness
• Breaking free from the exhausting cycle of people-pleasing
• Finding the courage to say "no" without guilt
• Transforming grief and loss into catalysts for spiritual growth

This episode isn't just for those in recovery - it's for anyone seeking to build more authentic relationships, develop emotional resilience, and discover the profound peace that comes from truly knowing yourself.

Takeaways

• Celebrating 18 years of sobriety is a significant milestone.
• Sobriety brings unexpected gifts that enhance personal growth.
• The ability to keep quiet can lead to better relationships.
• Freedom from gossip and judgment fosters inner peace.
• Loving and accepting others is a key aspect of recovery.
• Self-created crises can be understood and overcome.
• Embracing thoughts and feelings without judgment is liberating.
• Compassion for oneself leads to compassion for others.
• Expectations can impact relationships, especially in addiction.
• Time flies, and recovery is a journey of continuous growth.
• Detaching from thoughts helps in recovery.
• Transformation is a powerful gift of recovery.
• Self-worth should not be based on external expectations.
• The victim mentality hinders recovery and growth.
• Personal responsibility is key to overcoming disturbances.
• Effective communication is crucial in relationships.
• Understanding the root of disturbances leads to healing.
• Saying no is a form of self-care and empowerment.
• Freedom from justification enhances personal relationships.
• Service to others is a key aspect of recovery.
• Helping others can provide a sense of purpose.
• Intuition plays a significant role in decision-making post recovery.
• Recovery can lead to profound spiritual growth.
• Grief can be experienced without added shame or blame.
• The journey of sobriety is filled with unexpected gifts.
• Sobriety allows for a new perspective on life events.
• The importance of community in the recovery process.
• Recovery is a continuous journey of self-discovery.
• The ripple effect of recovery can change lives.

Links and Resources from this Episode

• https://whyintervention.com/
• https://twitter.com/whyintervention
• https://www.facebook.com/whyintervention/ 

Call to Action

• Schedule a Call
• Free Resources

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Tune into the Why Intervention Podcast for an enlightening episode with host Chris Doyle featuring Joe Polish, founder of Genius Network & Genius Recovery. Explore compassionate addiction treatment and recovery, jam-packed with personal insights and actionable advice. Support for families and those struggling with addiction awaits!

Episode Highlights

• Addiction: The fastest two-word definition.
• Chris Doyle’s personal recovery story.
• The delusion of addiction: “I don’t have a problem.”
• Identifying moments of clarity for intervention.
• Definition of addiction vs. dependence.
• The concept of “can’t stop” in addiction.
• The misunderstanding that addicts must “hit bottom” to seek help.
• The role of a family member in helping addicts.
• Importance of external motivating factors in recovery.
• Substance use disorder’s definitions and criteria.
• Chris Doyle’s role as an interventionist for first responders.
• The importance of addressing trauma in recovery.
• Recovery: Managing the need for a solution.
• Challenges in helping high-stress professions (first responders) with addiction.
• The lasting impact of early interventions in first responder communities.
• The family’s role in getting a loved one to realize the need for help.
• Empathy and support for those dealing with addiction.
• The significance of acknowledging and supporting recovery pathways.
• Community support in maintaining sobriety.
• Tailoring addiction recovery to individual needs.

Links and Resources from this Episode

• https://whyintervention.com/
• https://twitter.com/whyintervention
• https://www.facebook.com/whyintervention/ 

Call to Action Schedule a Call Free Resources

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In this Valentine's Day special, intervention specialists Christopher Doyle and Danny Klein reveal counterintuitive truths about loving someone with addiction…

They discuss the challenges of maintaining a loving relationship with someone struggling with substance use, the importance of connection, and the necessity of intervention and support. The speakers emphasize the need for effective communication, setting boundaries, and recognizing addiction as a serious issue that requires outside help. They share a case study illustrating the positive impact of a recovery contract and highlight the importance of envisioning a healthy future in relationships. 

In this conversation, Chris and Danny explore the complexities of relationships affected by substance use. They discuss the importance of understanding the impact of addiction on loved ones, the difficult decisions that must be made, and the duality of outcomes that can arise from these situations. The conversation emphasizes the need for support, the effectiveness of contrary actions in conflict resolution, and the significant role family members play in the recovery process. They highlight that external influences often drive individuals towards sobriety and encourage listeners to seek help and resources for their loved ones.

Episode Highlights

• Relationships are central to our lives and recovery.
• Addiction complicates relationships, creating a two-on-one dynamic.
• Effective communication is crucial in relationships affected by addiction.
• Intervention is often necessary to address addiction.
• Recognizing addiction is the first step towards recovery.
• A recovery contract can provide structure and accountability.
• Improving communication can enhance relationships, regardless of addiction status.
• Setting boundaries is essential for both partners' well-being.
• Envisioning a happy future can motivate change in relationships.
• Honesty and willingness to change are key to overcoming challenges.  If your loved one continues to use substances, your vision for the future may be impossible.
• Making informed decisions about relationships can lead to healthier outcomes.
• Divorce can sometimes lead to positive changes for both partners.
• Hope exists in various forms, even in difficult endings.
• Addiction requires a unique approach that differs from typical relationship advice.
• The most obvious actions in addiction situations can often be the most dangerous.
• Supporting recovery is not the same as enabling addiction.
• Family members can play a crucial role in initiating recovery for loved ones.
• Most individuals achieve sobriety due to external influences rather than internal motivation.
• It's essential to seek help and resources when dealing with addiction in relationships.

Links and Resources from this Episode

• https://whyintervention.com/
• https://twitter.com/whyintervention
• https://www.facebook.com/whyintervention/ 

Call to Action Schedule a Call Free Resources

Review, Subscribe and Share If you like what you hear please leave a review by clicking here

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