In My 22 Month Addiction recovery Journey, I’ve noticed lots of things I find it hard to understand. In this episode I stream of conscience my thoughts on one of the hardest.

Alcohol is the only drug you have to explain quitting.

In this episode, I’m not telling anyone what to drink, how to live, or what choices to make. I’m trying to understand something that’s confused me for a long time — why alcohol is embraced, protected, and normalized despite being one of the most harmful substances humans consume.

From holidays and social pressure, to celebrity doctors claiming alcohol is “good for you,” to the way society excuses drunk violence while condemning mental illness, this is a messy, honest, unscripted attempt to make sense of a culture that treats some addictions as acceptable and others as moral failure.

Coming from lived experience, homelessness, addiction, and 22 months of sobriety, this isn’t a lecture or a call to arms. It’s a reflection.

No judgment. No preaching.

Just noticing.

Step Five in addiction recovery asks us to confront the uncomfortable truth about ourselves—out loud, to another person. It’s about revealing the raw, unpolished reality behind our addict stories, breaking the cycles of shame, secrecy, and self-deception that hold us back. In this episode, we explore why this step is a critical turning point on the recovery journey, offering insights into sober living and psychological healing. Whether you’re navigating your own addiction journey, supporting someone in recovery, or seeking understanding of the human need for honesty, this conversation sheds light on the power of truth as a path to freedom and connection. Join us for a candid exploration of recovery, addiction support, and the transformative power of being truly known.

Recovery is truly a group project, and this episode dives into the crucial role loved ones play in addiction support and relapse prevention. If you care about someone in recovery, prepare for some uncomfortable but honest truths. Jason explains why relapse doesn’t begin with drugs or alcohol but with isolation, control, and silence, and how well-meaning support can sometimes unintentionally feed addiction. Discover early relapse warning signs, why control can backfire, the danger of fake forgiveness, and why joy and laughter are vital for sustained recovery. This episode offers real talk on maintaining honesty, setting healthy boundaries, and building a livable, sober life. Join us for an insightful discussion that challenges myths about drug addiction and highlights effective strategies for addiction recovery.