Addiction Recovery

Addiction is relentless, often pushing people toward devastating consequences. In this candid conversation, Steven T. Ginsburg shares the painful reality he’s seen this summer—an alarming rise in relapses and deaths. Quoting recovery literature, he notes, “The ultimate goal of any alcoholic is to drink like a gentleman. It never happens, and they will literally chase this goal into the gates of death.” Steven draws on his own recovery journey and his work at Restore Detox Centers to explain t...

Recovery doesn’t last when it feels like punishment. The turning point comes when sobriety shifts from something you “have to” do into something you truly want—when it stops being about restriction and starts being about freedom. Language plays a huge role in that shift. Saying “I don’t drink” instead of “I can’t drink” reframes recovery as empowerment, not deprivation. Over time—through meetings, step work, and community—what begins as obligation becomes desire. Addiction involves both physi...

“You can’t be a little bit pregnant”—Steven T. Ginsburg uses this phrase to capture the all-or-nothing reality of addiction. In this episode, he explores why some are more vulnerable than others, how trauma and genetics fuel dependency, and why willpower alone isn’t enough. Through real stories and personal experience, Ginsburg shows that lasting recovery requires spiritual growth, daily practice, and the support of community. Honest and compassionate, this conversation offers both hope and p...

Are weight loss medications changing addiction treatment? GLP-1 drugs and other medications are sparking a new conversation about their role in recovery. In this episode, Steven T. Ginsburg breaks down one of sobriety’s most debated topics: when medication supports—not hinders—the path to recovery. He explains the key difference between mind-altering substances and medications like GLP-1 products, Vivitrol, Suboxone, and Naltrexone, which target cravings without creating new dependencies. The...

The illusion of being “California sober” takes center stage in this candid conversation with Steven T. Ginsburg, founder of Restore Detox Centers. With nearly 21 years of sobriety, Steven challenges the idea of selective abstinence—where marijuana or psychedelics are still used while claiming recovery. “If it alters your mind in any way, it’s a mind-altering substance,” he states, underscoring why this distinction is life-or-death for those in recovery. Through powerful analogies—like Russian...

"Never take a pill that didn’t come from your family’s doctor." That one rule could save a life—and it’s the heart of an urgent message about the fentanyl crisis sweeping the country. Fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills are killing people of all ages—middle schoolers, college athletes, honor students, adults—after just one mistake. These pills often look identical to real medications, but even a single dose can be deadly. There’s no stereotype for who’s at risk. It could be anyone’s child, frie...

Recovery takes patience—and that’s something many of us find tough. In this episode, Steven T. Ginsburg breaks down the powerful meaning behind the phrase “don’t leave before the miracle,” and why it’s a game-changer for lasting sobriety. We dive into a common trap in recovery: self-sabotage during the good times. Steven explains how many people struggle with the idea that they deserve peace, success, or stability. “It’s okay for things to be okay,” he says—a simple truth that’s surprisingly ...

Can success in recovery lead to complacency? In this episode, we explore the critical "pre-lapse" stage that often precedes relapse. Sharing my own experience of relapsing after 12 years of sobriety, I highlight the importance of staying engaged in recovery practices and maintaining integrity. We discuss how small daily actions can reinforce long-term goals and how spirituality—rooted in a belief in a higher power, not tied to any deity—can support sobriety. We share insights on building a co...

Curious if your child's addiction reflects your parenting? In our latest episode, with Steven T. Ginsburg, founder of Restore Detox Centers, to tackle this tough question. Drawing from my own journey and my book, Filling the Void, we shift the focus from guilt and blame to proactive solutions. Together, we explore how support—not enabling—can foster recovery and transform your family’s healing process. We also discuss the challenges of setting boundaries with a loved one struggling with...

As we step into the New Year, the promise of a fresh start shines brightly, especially for those on the path to sobriety. Waking up clear-headed and hopeful on New Year's Day isn't just about celebrating; it's about embracing a new beginning and a renewed commitment to a sober lifestyle. Consider New Year's as a symbolic anniversary in sobriety, a chance to reflect, reassess, and push past the fears and myths that often hinder the journey to recovery. In this episode, we urge listeners to dis...

Have you ever wondered if sobriety could be your superpower? Join me, Steven T. Ginsburg, on the Addiction Recovery Podcast as we uncover how kicking addiction is the ultimate life hack. Imagine gaining clarity, presence, and a renewed sense of purpose by making this transformative choice. We'll explore powerful stories, like that of a disciplined athlete who used sobriety to outshine his more naturally gifted peers, proving that a sober lifestyle isn't just a change—it's an advantage. In th...

Imagine the heartbreak of seeing a loved one relapse after months or even years of sobriety. In this powerful episode, Steven and Steve share their personal experiences, highlighting the recent relapse of a team member at Restore. They discuss the relentless nature of addiction, the critical steps outlined in Alcoholics Anonymous, and the vital importance of continuous commitment, support groups, and a sponsor to maintain sobriety. Relapse affects not only the individual but also the entire c...

Have you ever wondered what it truly takes for someone to embrace sobriety? In today's powerful episode, we uncover the pivotal moments that indicate readiness for change. Through a heartfelt personal story of hitting rock bottom, we discuss "the gift of desperation" and how unmanageability across home, work, spirituality, and health serves as a clear sign of addiction. We delve into the importance of willingness and the crucial role of loved ones in supporting the journey toward recovery. B...

What if maintaining your sobriety after rehab could be as simple as a daily commitment? Join us as we unpack the essential steps for preventing relapse and integrating recovery activities into your everyday life. From attending meetings to finding a sponsor and working the 12 steps, we'll show you how to make sobriety your top priority. We also tackle common concerns about the time commitment involved, revealing that the effort invested in recovery is a fraction of what was lost to substance ...

Can routine, random drug testing really protect your kids from the dangers of substance abuse? Tune in to our conversation with Stephen T. Ginsburg, founder of Restore Detox Centers, as we explore this compelling approach to keep teenagers safe. Steven shares his insights on how random drug testing, starting from seventh grade, can serve as a powerful shield against peer pressure, helping kids say no to drugs and alcohol. Alongside personal anecdotes, we discuss how parents can team up with o...