Sobriety Sucks

Sobriety Sucks

Sobriety Sucks

  • Life's a Painkiller ft. Zach Siegel

Life's a Painkiller ft. Zach Siegel

Friday 8th September 2023

Join Jack, Meredith, and Zach Siegel as they discuss addiction, loss, and the need for compassionate media portrayals in this heartfelt episode.
Explicit
88 minutes
Raw
Thought-provoking
Compassionate
Urgent
Impactful

About this podcast

Sobriety Sucks
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Stigma & Social Perspectives
Family Recovery from Addiction
Creative Recovery Journeys
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
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Episodes:
50 (View all)
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Facing Addiction and Loss: Jack, Meredith, and Zach Siegel Speak Out

Episode Overview

  • The hosts and Zach reflect on the impact of online friendships and the genuine connections formed with their late friend, Alan Hansen.
  • The episode provides a thought-provoking perspective on the mishandling of the opioid crisis in the media and the real struggles faced by those battling addiction.
  • The conversation emphasizes the need for a more compassionate and supportive approach to addressing addiction, highlighting the vital importance of human connection and solidarity in saving lives.
  • The episode sheds light on the complexities of addiction and the urgent need for meaningful change in how society approaches and supports those affected by it.
  • The hosts express frustration with the fatalism and lack of hope often depicted in media portrayals of addiction recovery, advocating for a more empathetic and understanding approach.
I don't know it's just like the perception of somebody who does overdose and the idea of like, 'oh, well, they were really troubled.' It doesn't mean people want to die, and people in AA talk that way too.
What happens when addiction hits close to home? In this moving episode of 'Sobriety Sucks', hosts Jack and Meredith open up about the heart-wrenching loss of their friend Alan Hansen to a drug overdose. Alan, a well-known Twitter personality, left a lasting impact on their lives despite never meeting in person. This episode dives into the real emotions behind online friendships and the void left by Alan's untimely death.
Joining them is journalist Zach Siegel, who sheds light on the ongoing opioid crisis and how it’s often mishandled in the media. The trio doesn’t hold back as they discuss the frustrations with how addiction is portrayed, often with a sense of hopelessness that does more harm than good. They argue for a shift towards compassion and understanding, emphasizing that human connection and solidarity are key in supporting those battling addiction.
If you’re looking for an honest conversation that tackles the complexities of addiction and loss, this episode is a must-listen. It’s not just about pointing out what’s wrong; it’s about envisioning a more supportive and hopeful way forward.