I've Got A Problem

Comedian Kristin Key joins Forrest to talk alcohol abuse, hidden struggles, recovery, mental health, and the moment she realized she couldn't joke her way out of it anymore. They get into "rock bottoms" that don't look dramatic from the outside, performing while impaired, concealing the truth from friends, and the strange mental gymnastics you do before finally admitting something isn't right. It's raw, funny, and full of real stories about denial, shame spirals, setbacks, and rebuilding a life that doesn't revolve around numbing out or pretending everything's fine. 🎧 If you're trying to cut back, reevaluate your relationship with substances, or just understand how hard honesty can be, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Kristin Key 03:38 Struggles with Alcoholism 05:20 Transitioning to Sobriety 10:40 The Impact of Sobriety on Comedy 15:01 Finding Authenticity in Performance 18:31 Navigating Relationships in Sobriety 22:15 Emotional Rock Bottom and Recovery 32:14 The Journey to Sobriety and Acceptance 33:32 Navigating Relationships and Recovery 35:06 The Impact of COVID-19 on Lives 37:09 Reflections on Addiction and Recovery 45:33 Advice and Insights for Those Struggling 49:05 Introduction and Mental Health Awareness 49:33 Outro 🎙️ Find Kristin Key: 🔗 Website: https://kristinkey.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekristinkey/ ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/kristinkeycomedy 👉 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@kristinkeycomedy 🎧 Podcast: Kristin Knows Blank

Comedian Hannah Veldhoen joins Forrest to talk addiction, drinking, cocaine, recovery, mental health, and the brutally honest moment that pushed her into sobriety. They get into drinking culture, doing drugs to "feel cool," quitting for real, and why honesty is the only thing that actually works. It's raw, funny, and packed with real stories about alcohol, cocaine, relapse, AA, and rebuilding your life without numbing out. 🎧 If you're sober, sober-curious, or stuck in the cycle, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Hannah Veldhoen 04:27 Exploring Mental Health and Comedy 07:32 Addiction: A Personal Journey 13:24 The Allure and Reality of Cocaine 18:44 Romanticizing Addiction and Recovery 22:52 The Deceptive Nature of Alcohol and Wine 24:51 The Sparkling Merlot Obsession 26:30 Drinking Culture in Europe 27:54 Life in Different Cities 29:02 The Party Scene in Australia and Vegas 34:49 Turning Point: The Decision to Quit 38:11 The Journey to Sobriety 41:39 Rebuilding Trust After Addiction 42:52 Encouragement and Support in Recovery 48:19 The Role of Honesty in Recovery 49:08 Music and Addiction: A Personal Connection 54:31 Romanticizing Addiction: The Artist's Struggle 58:18 Confronting the Worst Addictions 01:07:53 Advice for Those Struggling with Addiction 01:11:08 Introduction and Acknowledgments 01:11:29 Mental Health Awareness and Resources 01:11:33 Outro 🎙️ Find Hannah Veldhoen: 🔗 Website: https://www.hannahveldhoen.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahveldhoen ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hannahveldhoen 🎧 Podcast: Menty Breaky

This week, Forrest is joined by comedian Justin Foster to dive into the world of relationships and addiction — from how soon to tell someone you're in recovery, to the mental gymnastics of dating while sober. It's a raw, honest, and funny look at the intersection of love, sobriety, and self-awareness — packed with real stories, humor, and insights from two comedians who have seen it all. 🎧 If you've ever wondered how addiction impacts relationships, or just want to laugh through some uncomfortable truths, this episode's for you. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly conversations about addiction, recovery, and mental health — all told through the lens of comedy and real life. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 04:59 Revisiting Past Experiences and Growth 08:21 Navigating Relationships and Addiction 15:59 Understanding the Addict Brain in Relationships 22:28 Working in Recovery: Bartending and Sobriety 24:55 Navigating Sobriety in Social Settings 25:56 The Journey of Sobriety: Reflections and Milestones 28:46 Letting Go: The Freedom of Rebuilding Life 31:54 Building a Life Beyond Addiction 32:52 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights and Humor 41:20 Understanding the Depth of Addiction 46:13 Hope and Recovery: A New Perspective 49:16 Helping Others: The Joy of Recovery 52:05 Final Thoughts: Seeking Help and Community 53:37 Acknowledgments 54:07 Mental Health Resources and Support 🎙️ Find Justin Foster: 🔗 Website: https://justincomic.weebly.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejustinfoster/ ▶️ YouTube: @thejustinfoster 🎧 Podcast: Foster The Podcast

Forrest breaks down the wild world of sports gambling — from NBA prop-bet scandals to Chauncey Billups' alleged mob-run poker games — through the lens of someone who lived it. As a former gambling addict, he explains why these scandals make sense, how betting apps are wrecking people, and why celebrities pushing sportsbooks is doing real damage. It's fast, honest, and funny: addiction, prop bets, betting apps, money issues, chasing losses, and the dark side of gambling culture — all in one solo episode. 🎧 If gambling, sports betting, or addiction has touched your life, this episode hits hard. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, mental health, recovery, and real-life chaos. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 04:06 Upcoming Shows and Events 05:57 Gambling in the News 21:13 The Impact of Celebrity Endorsements in Gambling 24:26 The Influence of Celebrity Endorsements in Gambling 30:55 The Unregulated Nature of Online Gambling 36:59 Personal Reflections on Money and Gambling Addiction 46:45 Outro

Comedian Mike Glazer joins Forrest for one of the wildest and most honest episodes yet — from smoking weed with Snoop Dogg to selling opium in Missouri, piercing himself during a blackout, and somehow ending up trying out for Team USA roller hockey. Now over 100 days sober, Mike opens up about addiction, lying to yourself, weed culture, ego, losing his identity, ice cream binges, and what it's like to rebuild your life while still performing in comedy clubs that are basically bars with spotlights. They dig into drugs, alcohol, mushrooms, weed fame, strip-club sponsorships, weight struggles, trauma, and the strange path that led him from the rink to the stage. It's raw, funny, and full of insane true stories — all grounded in real recovery. 🎧 If you've battled addiction or love a "how is this even real?" life story, this episode is for you. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes about addiction, recovery, mental health, and the chaos of being human. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Dog Talk 04:34 Meet Mike Glazer: Comedian and Storyteller 06:04 Struggles with Addiction and Honesty 08:58 Navigating Sobriety and Comedy 12:04 Alaska: A Double-Edged Sword for Addicts 14:02 Gambling Addiction and Its Impact 16:51 Food Addiction and Body Image 19:52 The Ozempic Era and Celebrity Culture 22:54 Reflections on Addiction in Comedy 26:05 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth 38:11 The Roller Hockey Journey and Substance Use 43:03 From Partying to Olympic Dreams 44:39 Reflections on Sobriety and Regret 46:22 The Struggles of Recovery and Sugar Addiction 51:28 Culinary Adventures and Future Travels 54:57 Finding Identity in Recovery and Comedy 01:00:45 The Transition from Athlete to Comedian 01:03:33 Insights on Addiction and Recovery 🎙️ Find Mike Glazer: 👉 TikTok : Under The Denver Airport : https://www.tiktok.com/@underthedenverairport 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glazerboohoohoo ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Glazerboohoohoo 👉 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@glazerjokes

Comedian Brittany Lyseng joins Forrest to talk booze, denial, and trying to rebuild your life one small win at a time. From being the "fun face" people send shots to onstage, to the one drink that instantly reminded her why she quit, Brittany breaks down alcohol, shame, and figuring out recovery without a program. They get into bad advice ("just drink a little every night"), learning to take real compliments, and what it feels like to quietly fix your life without labels or perfection. 🎧 If you've been "fun on the outside, falling apart on the inside," or you've quit drinking and wondered who you even are now, you'll love this one. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes about addiction, recovery, mental health, and the chaos of being human. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Brittany Lyseng 06:48 Brittany's Journey to Sobriety 10:39 The Realization of a Problem 14:36 The Impact of Environment on Drinking 18:49 Facing Reality and Guilt 22:50 The Challenge of Sobriety 26:41 Family Dynamics and Sobriety 29:24 Cultural Attitudes Towards Drinking 33:23 The Blue Collar Drinking Culture 35:10 Life at the Construction Site 35:31 Dolphins and Their Healing Powers 37:29 The Hangover Cure: Diving Deep 38:39 The Drug Test Dilemma 40:40 Cocaine vs. Marijuana: The Drug Testing Paradox 41:50 The History of Alcohol in Aviation 43:59 Romanticizing Addiction 44:59 Therapeutic Storytelling in Recovery 48:03 Finding Your Own Path in Recovery 48:24 The Impact of Small Acknowledgments 49:52 The Role of Compliments in Recovery 51:06 Music and Addiction 53:41 Justifying Addiction 55:16 The Scourge of Fentanyl 57:33 The Wild World of PCP 59:18 Hope and Recovery 59:25 Proud Moments in Recovery 01:01:31 Worst Advice During Struggles 01:02:48 Encouragement for Those Struggling 01:04:12 Introduction and Mental Health Awareness 01:07:03 Global Crisis Hotlines Overview 01:07:10 Outro 🎙️ Find Brittany Lyseng: 🔗 Website: https://www.brittanylyseng.com/shows 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brittanythecomedian 👉 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@brittanylyseng

Comedian Des Bishop joins Forrest to talk addiction, drinking, drugs, ego, recovery, and the emotional work that comes after you stop. They get into stopping young, growing up in a recovery household, blackouts, denial, trying to control the uncontrollable, and why he still considers himself an addict 30 years later. They also talk about identity, self-sabotage, trauma, emotional resilience, aging, grief, parenting, regret, and the weird psychological gymnastics comedians do to cope with real life when the jokes run out. 🎧 If you've ever tried to outrun your own brain — or wondered why change feels so damn hard — this episode is for you. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Dez Bishop 06:50 Cultural Differences in Comedy 09:55 Des Bishop's Journey with Addiction 12:51 The Complexity of Recovery 15:48 The Evolution of Recovery Language 18:51 Generational Perspectives on Resilience 21:56 Navigating the Comedy Industry 24:43 The Impact of Ego in Comedy 27:48 The Importance of Self-Forgetfulness 30:57 Grounding in the Face of Success 33:55 The Hidden Struggles of Gambling Addiction 38:26 Understanding Addiction and Its Impact 40:29 Personal Journeys: Early Experiences with Addiction 45:20 Family Influence and Recovery 51:04 The Role of Support Systems in Recovery 57:02 Reflections on Cancer and Life Decisions 01:05:30 Advice for Those Struggling with Addiction 01:15:15 Introduction and Guest Appreciation 01:15:15 Mental Health Resources and Support 01:17:05 Finding the Right Help 01:17:43 New Chapter59:25 Proud Moments in Recovery 01:01:31 Worst Advice During Struggles 01:02:48 Encouragement for Those Struggling 01:04:12 Introduction and Mental Health Awareness 01:07:03 Global Crisis Hotlines Overview 01:07:10 Outro 🎙️ Find Des Bishop: 🔗 Website: https://www.desbishop.net/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desbishop 👉 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@desbishop5

Business and psychology researcher Blaise Markovich joins Forrest to talk addiction, public policy, mental health, harm reduction, and the systems that fail people long before they "hit bottom." They get into bad policy, the war on drugs mindset, privatized rehab, insurance nightmares, decriminalization, GLP-1 medications, and why treatment access depends more on politics and profit than human need. They also dive into dopamine, gambling, gaming addiction, brain science, deep-brain stimulation, future tech, self-control, trauma, and how the human brain is being rewired by phones, apps, and modern life. It's a raw, thoughtful conversation about the forces shaping addiction today — and what real support could actually look like. 🎧 If you've ever battled addiction, loved someone who's struggling, or just wondered why the system feels impossible, this episode is for you. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 11:19 The State of Mental Health and Addiction Policy 19:49 Decriminalization and Legalization of Drugs 30:53 Future Policy Changes for Addiction Support 36:06 The Struggle of Long-Term Thinking in Addiction 38:37 Exploring GLP-1 and Its Impact on Addiction 44:04 Deep Brain Stimulation: A New Frontier in Treatment 49:21 The Future of Addiction Treatment and Aftercare 56:56 Finding What Works: Personalizing Recovery 58:12 The Value of Life Experience in Giving Advice 59:26 Crisis Support and Resources 01:00:46 Outro

Comedian and writer Jake Marin joins Forrest to talk addiction, painkillers, weed, mushrooms, vaping, gambling, chronic pain, and the exhausting mental gymnastics of convincing yourself "this one doesn't count." They get into back injuries, pills in college, relapses, lying to yourself, shrinking your world, and the moment Jake finally realized he's just better when he's fully sober. They also talk about depression, isolation, pain management, fantasy football obsession, community, friendship, and why making your world bigger is the only way out of the cycle. It's raw, honest, funny, and painfully relatable — especially if you've ever tried to fix one problem by creating a brand new one. 🎧 If you've ever said "I don't have a problem… unless you count THIS," this episode is going to land. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Jake Marin 05:06 Jake's Journey with Addiction 07:08 Understanding Addiction and Sobriety 10:38 The Struggles of Addiction and Coping Mechanisms 14:42 The Impact of Relationships on Recovery 17:59 Food and Other Addictions 19:37 The Role of Gambling in Addiction 24:41 Reflections on Sports and Injuries 31:35 The Importance of Community in Recovery 34:12 Small Actions, Big Changes 36:42 Building Relationships and Support Networks 40:11 The Role of Community in Sobriety 43:28 Living Life to the Fullest 44:50 Gratitude and the Will to Live 49:19 Music and Addiction 52:37 Understanding Pain and Addiction 54:33 The Worst Addictions 55:08 Navigating Pain Management and Addiction 57:11 The Impact of Prescription Drugs on Families 59:05 The Struggle with Painkillers and Addiction 01:05:03 Living with Addiction: A Personal Journey 01:15:53 Advice and Insights on Overcoming Addiction 01:19:35 Introduction and Mental Health Awareness 01:20:01 Resources for Crisis Support 01:20:33 Outro I've Got A Problem is a humorous podcast about addiction — for addicts, families and friends of addicts, and anyone who enjoys honest, funny conversations about recovery. Hosted by comedian, writer, and addict Forrest Shaw, the show explores addiction and recovery with unfiltered honesty and humor. Laughter might not be the best medicine, but it's definitely better than electroshock therapy.

Psychotherapist Aaron Gilbert joins Forrest to talk addiction, therapy, mental health, self-acceptance, and the messy reality of why people relapse even when they know better. They get into negative thoughts, shame, the addict brain looking for quick fixes, the cultural pressure to stay distracted, and how phones, apps, and modern life are rewiring us to seek constant dopamine hits. They also dig into why people fear therapy, the "emptiness" so many addicts try to fill, imposter syndrome, purpose, clarity, and the difference between actually changing your life versus hoping for a magic solution. It's honest, thoughtful, funny, and packed with insights about how our brains work — and what actually helps us get unstuck. 🎧 If you've ever tried to outrun your own thoughts or kept hoping for the "easy fix," this episode is going to hit you right in the chest (in a good way). 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Aaron Gilbert and His Work 06:05 The Role of Therapy in Personal Growth 10:29 Building Trust in Therapy 14:31 Therapy vs. Medication in Addiction Treatment 18:51 Understanding the Roots of Addiction 24:35 Cultural Vulnerability to Addiction 31:33 The Common Thread of Emptiness in Addictions 34:52 Imposter Syndrome and Personal Inadequacy 37:09 Finding Purpose and Meaning in Life 39:33 Clarity and Self-Acceptance 41:26 Rationalizations in Addiction 44:55 The Cost of Therapy and Stigmas 54:21 Community vs. Self-Acceptance in Recovery 01:00:42 Crisis Support and Resources 01:03:07 Outro

Comedian Rocco Stowe joins Forrest for a raw, funny, and brutally honest conversation about sobriety, obsession, gambling, drugs, growing up in Philly, and how his brain can turn anything into a compulsion. They get into fighting, cocaine, casino spirals, panic attacks, health scares, weed-induced paranoia, and why Rocco's life only started to work once he stopped trying to "manage" the chaos and actually learned how to breathe. They also talk about insecurity, jealousy, career anxiety, self-esteem, bodybuilding, fatherhood, and how breathwork, meditation, and slowing his nervous system down became the only things that finally balanced that compulsive, all-or-nothing brain. It's fast, wild, emotional, and full of insane-but-true stories only Rocco could tell. 🎧 If you've ever tried to get your life under control — or realized you're the one creating half the problems — this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Rocco Stowe 06:18 Childhood Struggles and Early Addictions 09:15 The Comedy Scene and Substance Use 12:13 Reflections on Gambling and Addiction 15:13 Understanding Addiction as a Disease 18:12 The Nature of Addiction in Society 22:36 The Dangers of Distracted Driving 25:20 Workaholism and Its Consequences 28:56 The Journey of Sobriety 30:26 Tools for Managing Mental Health 33:26 The Power of Meditation 39:54 The Intersection of Meditation and Recovery 44:58 The Importance of Listening 47:15 Power of Prayer and Support 49:20 Navigating Recovery and Emotional Release 52:24 Understanding Addiction and Its Excuses 54:04 Identifying Hidden Addictions 54:42 Describing Addiction and Recovery 55:24 Proud Moments in Recovery 58:13 Advice for Those Struggling with Addiction 01:00:19 Introduction and Light Banter 01:01:01 Mental Health Awareness and Resources 01:01:49 Outro 🎙️ Find Rocco Stowe: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roccocomedy/?hl=en

Comedian Al Jackson returns to talk sobriety, ego, hiding your drinking, parenting guilt, road life, shame, and all the weird mental gymnastics addicts do to convince themselves everything is "fine." They get into drinking at airports, sneaking shots, numbing out before flights, lying to yourself, helping other people get sober, and why certain addictions hide in plain sight because the person is "fun enough" that nobody calls them out. They also dive into insomnia, depression, loneliness, street-racing trauma, crippling separation from your kids, compulsive habits, messy cars, ego, relationships, bad advice from drunk friends, the myth of "just managing it," and the relief that comes when you're finally done. It's honest, fast, funny, and full of stories only Al can tell—equal parts chaos and wisdom. 🎧 If you've ever convinced yourself you were "fine" while clearly not being fine, this episode is going to hit home and still make you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 02:47 The Fast and Furious Franchise Discussion 05:33 Exploring Addiction and Personal Stories 11:05 The Impact of Addiction on Relationships 16:20 Understanding the Nature of Excuses in Addiction 22:03 Reflections on Recovery and Personal Growth 27:27 The Role of Environment in Addiction 29:13 Concluding Thoughts and Anecdotes 30:18 Navigating Addiction and Its Triggers 38:07 The Journey to Recovery 49:04 Advice and Insights on Struggling with Addiction 52:16 Reflections on Life and Sports 🎙️ Find Al Jackson: ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AlJackson 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aljacksonig/?hl=en

Comedian Sydnee Washington sits down with Forrest to talk sobriety, overthinking, sugar addiction, nightlife chaos, and the absolute delirium of doing Hard 75 while working in Las Vegas. They get into the stigma women face around addiction, the illusion of "having it together," and why breaking old patterns feels harder than quitting Patron and cocaine combined. It's raw, funny, and full of real stories about getting sober, relapsing, rebuilding your life, giving up sugar, escaping casino traps, and learning how to actually take care of yourself without losing your sense of humor. 🎧 If you've ever tried to change your life while your brain screams "maybe just one drink," this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on recovery, mental health, comedy, and the mess of being human. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Sydney Washington 06:41 Understanding Addiction and Stigmas 09:46 The Hard 75 Challenge and Its Impact 12:50 The Struggles of Sugar Addiction 15:47 Gambling and Its Psychological Effects 18:45 The Balance of Comedy and Self-Help 21:45 Navigating Comedy in Different Environments 24:39 Finding Wholesome Activities in Vegas 27:58 The Importance of Rest and Sleep 30:48 Traveling as a Comedian 33:45 The Intersection of Comedy and Addiction 35:34 Turning Point: Embracing Sobriety 39:48 The Struggles of Sobriety in Comedy 44:55 Reflections on Past Choices 49:47 Support Systems and Relationships 54:33 Understanding Addiction and Its Impact 58:17 The Relentless Nature of Addiction 01:01:26 Advice for Those Struggling with Addiction 01:03:19 Introduction and Context 01:05:43 Outro 🎙️ Find Sydnee Washington: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justsydbw/ 👉 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@justsydbw20 🎧 Podcast: Mess' with Sydnee Washington and Marie Faustin

Noah Urbina joins Forrest to talk kratom addiction, "Feel Free," 7-OH, dopamine crashes, and how a harmless-looking wellness tonic turned into full-blown withdrawal hell. They get into how kratom tricks your brain, why gas-station supplements are basically the Wild West, the sleepless sweating panic of detox, and the moment Noah realized he needed to quit before the crash got worse. It's raw, funny, and packed with real stories about pain cycles, anxiety spirals, numbing out with "natural" highs, healing your body after synthetic plants wreck it, and trying to rebuild your life without depending on a drink, a leaf, or a tincture to feel normal. 🎧 If you've ever used something "healthy" to take the edge off and accidentally found yourself in the upside-down, this episode hits close and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on recovery, mental health, comedy, and the chaos of being human. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Noah Urbina and His Journey 04:19 Understanding Kratom: Origins and Popularity 06:30 The Dark Side of Kratom: Addiction and Withdrawal 09:39 Kratom Consumption: Methods and Effects 14:10 The Marketing of Kratom: Misleading Claims 17:03 The Stigma of Addiction: Personal Stories and Experiences 20:31 The Complexity of Addiction: Kratom vs. Other Substances 26:25 The Science of Kratom: How It Affects the Body 32:15 The Future of Kratom: Industry Growth and Regulation 36:17 The Importance of Accountability in Recovery 38:42 Food and Weight Loss: An Addict's Journey 41:17 The Overlap of OCD and Addiction 44:03 Mental Health and the Role of Addiction 47:04 Exercise as a Vital Component of Recovery 48:53 The Power of Vulnerability and Support 53:31 Self-Deception in Addiction 57:03 The Insidious Nature of Kratom 01:00:02 Facing the Devil: Overcoming Withdrawal 01:02:48 Community and Connection in Recovery 01:05:54 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:06:53 Crisis Support Resources 01:07:18 Outro 🎙️ Find Noah Urbina: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urbeezy/?hl=en

Forrest dives into gambling addiction, pawn shops, casinos, debt, trust, and the strange, humiliating, funny reality of trying to rebuild your life after blowing it up more than once. He gets into pawning family heirlooms, being recognized at the pawn counter, emergency vet CPR fees, old memories with his mom, accountability, losing friends' trust, and the moment you realize other people aren't on your recovery timeline—no matter how badly you want them to be. He also talks about casino traps, how he protects himself while working in Vegas, why cash is the "vodka" of gambling, the emotional hangover of asking friends for money, and the slow, uncomfortable process of earning trust back. It's honest, chaotic, embarrassing, cathartic, and very, very real. 🎧 If you've ever tried to get your life together while your past keeps tapping you on the shoulder, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 06:47 The Impact of Addiction on Relationships 11:12 Understanding Recovery and Its Challenges 20:45 Reflections on Personal Growth and Apologies 23:33 The Pawn Shop Experience 30:15 Reflections on Gambling and Addiction 38:29 Strategies for Managing Gambling Temptations 42:59 Accountability in Recovery 44:47 Patience and Understanding in Healing 47:35 Outro

Comedian Jamie Wolf joins Forrest to talk addiction, opiates, anxiety, childhood drug use, mental health, and the emotional spiral that pulled him into pills. They get into growing up anxious, replacing drugs with comedy, chasing adrenaline on stage, and the quiet, lonely moments that kept him using. It's raw, funny, and brutally honest — packed with real stories about Oxy, panic attacks, emotional avoidance, recovery attempts, and how comedy became both an escape and a coping mechanism. 🎧 If you've struggled with anxiety, hidden addictions, or the pressure to hold it all together, this episode hits you right in the center and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 08:40 – Introducing Jamie Wolf11:04 – "I'm an opiate addict" — Jamie sets the tone12:30 – Anxiety, low self-esteem, and the root of addiction14:15 – Comedy as a new addiction16:00 – Relationships vs. stand-up: why no one understands18:44 – Anxiety, empathy, and people who "don't get it"22:40 – Is addiction a mental illness?26:00 – Growing up atheist, panic as a kid29:00 – Starting drugs at 1331:00 – The first shrooms trip from hell (and all the piss)36:20 – Oxy prescriptions, surgeries, and the slide into pills50:00 – Using alone, lying to everyone, and the emotional hook 🎙️ Find Jamie Wolf: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamiewolfcomedy/?hl=en ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/jamiewolfcomedy 👉 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@jamiewolfcomedy

Comedian David Stebbins joins Forrest to talk childhood addiction, early drug use, homelessness, cancer, chaos, and the darkly funny, brutally honest path that shaped his life. They get into huffing gas at eight, discovering alcohol young, drifting between states, surviving cancer at 20, and how comedy became both an escape and a lifeline. It's raw, wild, and packed with real stories about addiction, homelessness, self-destruction, survival, and the strange places life takes you before you're ready to face it. 🎧 If you've ever felt lost, restless, out of control, or like you're piecing your life together one disaster at a time, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 01:45 – Comment Corner 06:58 – Shadow-Banned? 10:08 – Meet David Stebbins 11:05 – "What Isn't Your Problem?" 12:31 – Optimism vs Reality 16:13 – Using at Age Eight 18:05 – Huffing Gas Story 19:24 – Forrest's First Gambling Memory 21:23 – The FIU Recovery Show Disaster 24:11 – The Drunk Guy in the Gymnasium 28:23 – Homeless at Sixteen 33:26 – Surviving the Streets 39:51 – Cancer at Twenty 41:40 – Starting Stand-Up 48:03 – NBC Deal While Using

Historian and author Jonathan D. Cohen joins Forrest to talk sports gambling, the explosion of betting apps, how we got here legally, and who's actually getting hurt. They dig into the history of sports betting, parlays and "sports lotteries," the role of fantasy sports and social media, and why governments keep pretending gambling money will fix everything from schools to water shortages. Forrest also opens up about his own life as a compulsive gambler—bookies, casinos, offshore accounts, shame, and the illusion that one big score will finally make it all okay. It's raw, funny, and packed with real stories about betting apps, parlays, debt, bankruptcies, suicide risk, and what other countries are already doing to rein gambling in—plus practical ideas for making sports betting safer without pretending it's going away. 🎧 If you're betting on your phone "just for fun," chasing parlays to fix money problems, or worried about someone you love, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 4:20 I've Got Another Problem: littering, oceans & Yellowstone diaper revenge 8:23 Introducing historian Jonathan D. Cohen & his very normal "problem" 11:10 Board games, loss-chasing & what made Jonathan obsessed with gambling policy 13:00 How sports betting grew up with sports: horse racing, Fenway riots & early scandals 17:40 Parlays, sports "lotteries" and why tiny bets with huge payouts are so dangerous 22:05 DraftKings, FanDuel & how daily fantasy quietly trained us to gamble 26:32 Why U.S. regulation is so lax compared to Australia and the U.K. 31:10 Tennis at 3 a.m., Malaysian badminton & betting on games you don't even watch 37:05 College campuses, payday deposits & who's really getting wrecked by legal betting 44:05 Lotteries, "free money" myths & how states quietly cut education anyway 51:00 The NFL's 180 on gambling and why viewership suddenly jumped 57:20 Gambling addiction, shame, masculinity & why big wins can be the worst thing 1:06:40 Making sports betting safer: friction, self-exclusion & real guardrails 1:15:03 Outro Jonathan D. Cohen is a historian and the author of "Losing BIg: America's Reckless Bet on Sports Gambling." People can find more info about his book or contact him through his website: https://www.jonathandcohen.com/

Comedian Gavin Coscarella joins Forrest to talk booze, nicotine pouches, porn, cocaine, gambling, overeating, and the chaos of trying to fix every bad habit at once. They get into champagne-for-breakfast years, pandemic fallout, poker rooms, slipping into old identities, and the moment Gavin realized wanting "just one drink" was never really the problem. It's raw, honest, and genuinely funny as they talk early recovery panic, ditching vices, cravings that hit like lightning, letting go of shame, and rebuilding a life without blowing it up again. It's messy, relatable, and exactly what trying to change actually looks like. 🎧 If you've ever tried to clean up your life while your habits fight back, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 6:49 Arnie's vet scare & the $250 CPR checkbox 9:00 Story of putting down his cat 10:54 How addiction damages relationships 12:59 Borrowing money, guilt & recovery timelines 14:15 The "recovery train" analogy 16:15 The friend who said "I'm not loaning you money" 18:00 Why people don't move at your recovery pace 21:09 Pawn shop life & pawning sentimental things 25:00 How pawn loans work & negotiating 31:20 How pawn shops trigger old addiction feelings 32:00 Casinos, relapse prevention & gambling boundaries 40:15 Accountability, discipline & rebuilding trust 🎙️ Find Gavin Coscarella: 📸 Instagram: ttps://www.instagram.com/gavinthehouse/?hl=en

Comedian Dustin Chafin joins Forrest to talk alcoholism, painkillers, cocaine, anger, chaos, prison time, Texas madness, and the long, messy road to actually growing up. They get into bar fights, blackout drinking, sneaking pills, self-loathing, the "cowboy justice" he was raised on, and how untreated pain turned into years of running, hiding, and blowing up every good thing he touched. They also dig into therapy, fear, ego, comedy survival, relationships, impulsive decisions, hitting bottom more than once, and what changes when you finally stop trying to be the toughest guy in the room and start trying to be an honest one. It's raw, funny, vulnerable, and packed with unbelievable stories only Dustin could tell — the kind you laugh at and wince at at the same time. 🎧 If you've ever sworn you'd "never do that again" and then did it again anyway, this episode is going to hit home. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introducing Dustin Chafin 01:20 – Dustin on Texas, chaos, and growing up wild 04:12 – First drinks, anger, and trying to feel tough 07:45 – Cocaine, painkillers & hiding how bad it really was 10:58 – Bar fights, blackout behavior & the "cowboy justice" mindset 14:33 – Pill addiction, self-loathing & blowing up opportunities 18:05 – Running, hiding & repeating the same destructive patterns 21:40 – Prison stories & the reality check that followed 25:10 – Comedy, ego & the years spent pretending everything was fine 29:26 – Therapy, fear & finally learning to stop lying to yourself 33:02 – Relationships, guilt & trying to become an honest adult 36:27 – The emotional bottom nobody saw coming 40:18 – Letting go of the "tough guy" identity 43:50 – What healing actually looks like (messier than expected) 47:33 – Sobriety, purpose & building a life that finally works 50:12 – Outro 🎙️ Find Dustin Chafin: 🔗 Website: https://www.dustinchafin.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dustin_chafin/?hl=en