The Hanley Effect Podcast - Addiction and Mental Health

The Hanley Effect Podcast - Addiction and Mental Health

by Hanley Foundation
Mental Health
Elizabeth Chance on Recovery, Purpose, and Living One Day at a Time
Explicit
In this episode of The Hanley Effect, hosts Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal welcome recovery advocate, certified coach, certified recovery specialist, and podcast host Elizabeth Chance for a candid conversation about addiction, recovery, personal growth, and finding joy in everyday life. Elizabeth shares her journey from a decades-long struggle with alcoholism that began at age 13 to nearly two decades of continuous sobriety. Growing up in a family affected by alcoholism, she learned early that addiction carried shame and stigma. Despite outward success, marriage, motherhood, and the appearance of having it all together, she found herself trapped in a cycle of drinking that left her feeling disconnected from herself and the people she loved. At 37, exhausted and out of options, Elizabeth reached a turning point. After falling to her knees on a beach in New Jersey and asking God for help, she began the recovery journey that would transform her life. Throughout the conversation, Elizabeth reflects on the realities of early recovery, the challenges of surrender, and the importance of taking life one day at a time. She offers a powerful perspective on what recovery really looks like, not perfection or instant transformation, but a lifelong process of growth, self-discovery, and learning to be present. Elizabeth also discusses her podcast, It's Bizzy, which has reached hundreds of episodes over the past decade, as well as her work as a recovery, life, and wellness coach. Through storytelling, coaching, and advocacy, she continues to help people find hope, connection, and freedom from shame. Most importantly, Elizabeth reminds listeners that recovery is not about what you lose; it's about what you gain: peace, purpose, authenticity, and the opportunity to experience life fully. About Elizabeth Chance Elizabeth Chance is a Certified Recovery Specialist, Certified Coach, Health and Wellness Coach, speaker, and host of the podcast It's Bizzy. Sober since August 14, 2006, she has dedicated her life to helping others find hope, healing, and lasting recovery. Through coaching, writing, speaking engagements, and her podcast, Elizabeth shares practical tools and personal insights to help individuals navigate addiction, recovery, and life's challenges with courage and authenticity. To learn more about Elizabeth and her work, visit ElizabethChance.com or listen to the It's Bizzy podcast wherever podcasts are available. Learn more about Hanley Foundation at hanleyfoundation.org or call 844-502-4673.
E85
Jul 8, 2026
30:49
Sober Travel: How to Travel, Celebrate, and Live Fully in Recovery with Teresa Bergen
What does it look like to build a full, adventurous life in recovery? In this inspiring episode of The Hanley Effect, Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal welcome Teresa Bergen, sober travel writer and author of Sober Travel Handbook, for a conversation about what it means to travel alcohol-free with confidence, purpose, and joy. Teresa shares her personal recovery story, how getting sober at a young age opened the door to a bigger life, and why recovery should never mean shrinking your world. Together, they explore one of the most common fears people face in sobriety: How do I still have fun, celebrate, connect, and travel without alcohol? Teresa offers practical advice for navigating weddings, vacations, cruises, holidays, and social events while protecting recovery and staying grounded. From bringing your own mindset into the room to planning an exit strategy and finding support while away from home, this episode is full of real-world guidance for anyone wondering how to live fully without substances. This conversation is especially meaningful for people in early recovery, those preparing for sober travel for the first time, and families looking to better understand how to support a loved one in recovery. Teresa’s message is clear and hopeful: you did not get sober to have a small life. In This Episode, You’ll Hear: Why addiction can make your world feel smaller — and how recovery helps you rebuild it The emotional fear many people have about having fun, traveling, or celebrating without alcohol Why early recovery is a time to rebuild your foundation before jumping into high-risk situations How to prepare for weddings, cruises, reunions, and other alcohol-centered environments Simple ways to participate in celebrations without drinking The importance of accountability, support people, and sober connection while traveling What “Friends of Bill W.” means on cruises and why those meetings can matter Why having an exit strategy can be a powerful recovery tool Teresa’s encouragement for people in recovery who want a better, bigger life About Teresa Bergen Teresa Bergen is a sober travel writer and author who writes and speaks about traveling alcohol-free. In her book, Sober Travel Handbook (Microcosm Publishing, February 2026), she shares practical strategies for navigating common travel situations without alcohol, including airport bars, business networking, social pressure, and travel planning in recovery. Through her work, Teresa helps nondrinkers build confidence, reduce relapse risk, and explore the world without compromising their sobriety. To learn more about Teresa visit: https://teresabergen.com/ Learn more about Hanley Foundation at hanleyfoundation.org or call 844-502-4673.
E84
Jun 24, 2026
25:10
Laurie Dhue on Addiction, Recovery & Breaking the Stigma
In this episode of The Hanley Effect, hosts Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal sit down with acclaimed broadcast journalist, speaker, and recovery advocate Laurie Dhue for an honest conversation about addiction, recovery, stigma, and hope. Known for her years as an anchor on CNN, Fox News, and MSNBC, Laurie shares the deeply personal story behind her recovery journey, from childhood trauma and high-pressure broadcasting to surviving an overdose and ultimately finding sobriety nearly 19 years ago. Laurie speaks candidly about the role of shame and stigma in addiction, the importance of connection and community in recovery, and how going public with her story transformed both her life and the lives of countless others. She also opens up about the heartbreaking experience of losing her father to addiction and the difficult reality families face when a loved one is unwilling or unable to seek help. Throughout the conversation, Laurie emphasizes a message of compassion: addiction is not a moral failing, but a disease deserving of dignity, treatment, and support. Her vulnerability, insight, and advocacy shine through as she reminds listeners that recovery is possible and that no one has to struggle alone. In This Episode: Laurie Dhue’s journey from national news anchor to recovery advocate The connection between trauma, addiction, and mental health Navigating sobriety in the high-pressure world of broadcast journalism Why shame and stigma continue to harm people seeking help The impact addiction has on families and relationships The importance of recovery communities and support systems Why addiction must be treated like any other chronic illness Hope, healing, and the power of sharing your story About Laurie Dhue Laurie Dhue is a former CNN, Fox News, and MSNBC anchor and current Managing Director of Family Health and Wellness for Family Office Growth Partners. She works closely with families navigating mental health and substance use challenges and has partnered with organizations including the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), SAMHSA, FAVOR, and NCADD. Laurie has spoken at the White House on behalf of ONDCP and remains a passionate advocate for recovery awareness and reducing stigma surrounding addiction. Learn more about Hanley Foundation at hanleyfoundation.org or call 844-502-4673.
E83
Jun 10, 2026
29:32
You Can Influence Someone to Want Recovery with Amber Hollingsworth
What if the way we talk about addiction recovery is actually pushing people away from getting help? In this episode of The Hanley Effect, Dr. John Dyben sits down with Amber Hollingsworth, LPC, MAC, LPS, founder of Hope for Families Recovery Consultants, and creator of the popular YouTube channel Put the Shovel Down. With more than two decades of experience working with individuals and families affected by substance use disorder, Amber shares a refreshingly hopeful and practical perspective on addiction, recovery, and family dynamics. Together, she and Dr. Dyben explore why “waiting for rock bottom” can be dangerous, how families can positively influence a loved one toward change, and why compassion and humility are essential in recovery conversations. Amber also opens up about growing up in a family impacted by addiction, her unconventional path into the field, and the lessons she learned working in inpatient treatment, detox, and private practice. Most importantly, she offers families actionable guidance on how to approach difficult conversations without shame, blame, or confrontation. This episode is a powerful reminder that addiction is not the whole story of a person and that recovery is possible for everyone involved. In This Episode: Why Amber rejects the “they have to want help first” mindsetHow families can influence motivation for recovery The importance of “raising the bottom” before devastating consequences occur Common mistakes families make when talking to loved ones about addiction Why humility works better than confrontation How addiction treatment and counseling have evolved over the years The problem with negative recovery statistics and fear-based messaging Why addiction is something a person has not who they are About Amber Hollingsworth Amber Hollingsworth is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Master Addictions Counselor (MAC), and Licensed Professional Supervisor (LPS) with more than 20 years of experience in addiction treatment and family recovery support. She is the founder of Hope for Families Recovery Consultants and the creator of the YouTube channel Put the Shovel Down, where she provides education and practical tools for families navigating addiction and recovery. Resources & Links Amber Hollingsworth’s YouTube Channel: Put the Shovel Down Amber's Website: https://www.familyrecoveryacademy.online/ Learn more about Hanley Foundation at hanleyfoundation.org or call 844-502-4673.
E82
May 27, 2026
29:13
Addiction, Trauma, and Family Recovery with Dr. Michael Barnes
In this episode of The Hanley Effect, hosts Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal welcome Dr. Michael F. Barnes, Ph.D., LAC, LPC, a nationally recognized expert in addiction, trauma, and family systems. Dr. Barnes is a nationally recognized speaker, author, and consultant, and the founder of the Michael Barnes Family Institute. With more than 40 years of experience in addiction treatment and family therapy, he brings deep insight into how substance use disorder affects not only the individual but the entire family system. This conversation explores why family recovery is essential in addiction treatment, how trauma shapes family dynamics, and why loved ones often need healing alongside the person receiving care. Dr. Barnes also discusses secondary trauma, chronic disease management, enabling as a trauma response, and the importance of trauma-integrated addiction treatment. About This Episode Addiction is often described as a family disease, but what does that really mean in treatment and recovery? Dr. Barnes explains how families can become deeply impacted by a loved one’s addiction, especially when trauma, fear, and survival patterns influence how they respond. Rather than viewing families only as support systems, this episode reframes recovery as something the entire family may need to participate in. Listeners will gain a better understanding of how family members can move from crisis management into healing, why old patterns can continue after treatment, and how trauma-informed support can improve long-term recovery outcomes. In This Episode, You’ll Learn How addiction impacts the entire family system What secondary trauma means for loved ones Why family involvement matters in addiction treatment How trauma can influence enabling behaviors Why recovery is more than abstinence from substances How chronic illness models can help families understand addiction The difference between rehabilitation and habilitation Why family members also deserve support, education, and healing What families can ask treatment providers when seeking care Resources Mentioned When the Solution Becomes the Problem: Helping Families Who Struggle with Addiction and Trauma by Dr. Michael Barnes - https://www.drmikebarnes.com/book Michael Barnes Family Institute - https://www.drmikebarnes.com/ Learn more about Hanley Foundation at hanleyfoundation.org or call 844-502-4673.
E81
May 20, 2026
29:59
How Breathwork Heals Trauma, Anxiety & Stress With Jon Paul Crimi
What if one of the most powerful tools for healing, emotional regulation, and recovery was something you already do every moment of your life? In this episode of The Hanley Effect, we sit down with breathwork expert Jon Paul Crimi, who shares how intentional breathing can transform mental health, release stored trauma, and reconnect us to ourselves. With over 26 years in recovery, Jon Paul’s journey, from actor and personal trainer to sober coach and breathwork facilitator, reveals the profound impact of learning how to regulate emotions in healthy, sustainable ways. After discovering breathwork 15 years ago, he experienced a shift so powerful that others immediately noticed—and began seeking the same transformation. Together, we explore: How breathwork calms the nervous system in real time The connection between breathing patterns and emotional states Why trauma lives in the body, and how breath can help release it The role of discomfort in growth and healing How simple breathing techniques can improve relationships, reduce stress, and support recovery This episode is both practical and deeply inspiring, offering tools you can use immediately and a new perspective on healing that starts with something as simple as your next breath. Key Takeaways Breathwork is an accessible, powerful tool for regulating emotions and reducing stress Changing your breathing pattern can directly shift your emotional state Trauma is often stored in the body and breathwork helps release and integrate it Emotional discomfort is often a necessary part of growth and healing Self-compassion is essential: “Work hard on yourself, but don’t be hard on yourself” About Our Guest Jon Paul Crimi is a breathwork facilitator, recovery advocate, and former sober coach with over 26 years of sobriety. After discovering breathwork 15 years ago, he experienced a profound personal transformation that led him to teach others around the world. Known for his energetic and accessible approach, Jon Paul blends science, lived experience, and practical tools to help people regulate emotions, release trauma, and reconnect with themselves. Learn more about Jon Paul’s work at https://breathewithjp.com/. Learn more about Hanley Foundation at hanleyfoundation.org or call 844-502-4673.
E80
May 13, 2026
26:49
The Hidden Impact of Childhood Domestic Violence with Brian Martin
In this powerful and eye-opening episode of The Hanley Effect, hosts Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal sit down with Brian Martin, founder and CEO of the Childhood Domestic Violence Association, to explore a deeply overlooked form of trauma: childhood domestic violence. Brian shares his personal story of growing up in a home impacted by domestic violence and how, for years, he didn’t even have the language to describe what he experienced. That lack of awareness, he explains, is part of the problem. When we can’t name something, we can’t begin to heal from it. This conversation dives into the long-lasting impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), particularly the trauma of witnessing violence between caregivers. Brian explains that even without direct physical abuse, simply being in an environment of unpredictability, fear, and instability can fundamentally shape how a person sees themselves and the world. The episode also explores the “10 common negative beliefs” that often develop in individuals who grow up in these environments, beliefs like guilt, shame, unworthiness, and disconnection. These internal narratives can persist into adulthood, influencing relationships, mental health, and even increasing vulnerability to substance use. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in recovery, working in mental health, or seeking to better understand how early life experiences shape adult behavior and how healing begins with awareness. Key Takeaways Childhood domestic violence is one of the least recognized forms of trauma, yet incredibly impactful. You don’t need to be physically abused to be deeply affected; witnessing violence is enough. Trauma doesn’t disappear with age; “time does not heal all wounds.” The brain forms beliefs in childhood before it’s fully developed, and then seeks evidence to reinforce them. Many individuals carry persistent negative beliefs like guilt, shame, and unworthiness into adulthood. Addiction can be rooted in a search for certainty and emotional stability. Healing begins with naming, understanding, and acknowledging these early experiences. About our Guest Brian Martin is the founder and CEO of the Childhood Domestic Violence Association (CDVA), a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness and providing resources for individuals who grew up in homes impacted by domestic violence. Drawing from both personal experience and extensive research, Brian has become a leading advocate for recognizing childhood domestic violence as a distinct and significant form of trauma. Through his work, including his book Invincible: The 10 Lies You Learn Growing Up with Domestic Violence, Brian helps individuals understand the lasting impact of early experiences and guides them toward healing and self-awareness. Learn more at: https://cdv.org/ Learn more about Hanley Foundation at hanleyfoundation.org or call 844-502-4673.
E79
May 6, 2026
29:49
Digital Minimalism & Mental Health: How to Break Screen Addiction with Kelsey Green
In this episode of The Hanley Effect, Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal sit down with strategist, speaker, and digital minimalist Kelsey L. Green to explore the growing impact of technology on our mental health, relationships, and sense of self. Kelsey shares her personal journey from burnout and constant connectivity to intentionally redefining her relationship with technology. Through the lens of digital minimalism, she challenges the idea that we need to be “always on” and offers practical ways to create healthier boundaries with our devices, without rejecting technology altogether. Together, they dive into the parallels between screen use and addiction, the role of dopamine and compulsive checking, and why so many of us feel out of control with our devices. From “Screen-Free Sundays” to small, realistic habit changes, this conversation offers both insight and actionable tools to help you reclaim your focus, creativity, and connection. If you’ve ever felt distracted, overwhelmed, or disconnected despite being constantly plugged in, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode What digital minimalism really means (and what it doesn’t) How technology impacts dopamine, attention span, and behavior Why constant phone use can mirror patterns of addiction and compulsivity The hidden ways screens affect relationships and presence Simple, practical strategies to reduce screen time and regain control Why core values, not just hacks, are key to lasting change Key Takeaways Technology isn’t the problem, unintentional use is If you can’t step away from your phone, even briefly, it may signal a deeper issue Many apps are designed to trigger dopamine and reinforce compulsive behavior Even having your phone nearby can reduce focus and presence Small boundaries like putting your phone out of sight can create meaningful change True transformation comes from asking: “Who do I want to be in relation to my technology?” Episode Highlights Kelsey introduces digital minimalism as a values-based approach to technology using tools intentionally while letting go of what doesn’t serve your well-being. The conversation draws powerful parallels between substance use and screen use, highlighting compulsivity, loss of control, and the impact on relationships. Listeners are encouraged to experiment with small steps, like reducing notifications, creating phone-free spaces, or trying a Screen-Free Sunday, to better understand their habits and regain autonomy. Ultimately, this episode is a reminder that the most meaningful parts of life: connection, creativity, presence, and purpose can’t be downloaded. About Our Guest Kelsey L. Green is a strategist, speaker, and community builder focused on helping people reclaim their focus, creativity, and real-world connection in an increasingly distracted world. Through her work in digital minimalism, she guides individuals and groups in creating intentional relationships with technology so they can live more present, purposeful lives. She is the creator of Summit in Six and How to Build Your Circle, programs designed to foster accountability, creativity, and authentic connection. To learn more visit: https://www.kelseylgreen.com/ Learn more about Hanley Foundation at hanleyfoundation.org or call 844-502-4673.
E78
Apr 29, 2026
29:35
How Early Childhood & Birth Trauma Shape Addiction, Anxiety, and Behavior with Dr. Annie Brook
In this episode of The Hanley Effect, Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal sit down with psychologist, educator, and author Dr. Annie Brook, Ph.D, LPC, MSME (ISMETA), to explore a groundbreaking perspective on trauma, addiction, and mental health. What if the patterns you struggle with today, anxiety, reactivity, disconnection, or even addiction, didn’t start in childhood as you remember it, but before you could think, speak, or form memories at all? Dr. Brook specializes in somatic and developmental trauma, helping people uncover how early experiences, including birth and infancy, are encoded in the nervous system and continue to shape behavior, relationships, and emotional regulation throughout life. Together, they unpack: How pre-verbal and birth experiences influence the brain and body Why many patterns are not cognitive and can’t be “talked away” The role of the nervous system, brainstem, and survival responses (fight, flight, freeze) How early disruptions, like lack of touch, feeding struggles, or medical interventions, can show up decades later Why traditional approaches sometimes fall short and what it takes to truly heal Dr. Brook shares her own journey of healing after trauma and explains how somatic practices, movement, and awareness can help “update” old survival patterns through neuroplasticity and relational repair. This episode offers a deeply compassionate reframe: You are not broken. Your patterns are adaptations. And with the right tools, they can change. Whether you're in recovery, a clinician, a parent, or someone seeking deeper self-understanding, this conversation will expand how you think about healing. Key Topics & Takeaways Somatic therapy and the body’s role in trauma healing Birth trauma and early attachment Pre-verbal memory and the brainstem Addiction as an adaptation, not a failure Nervous system regulation and emotional resilience How early unmet needs shape adult behaviors Why awareness + sensation = lasting change About Our Guest Dr. Annie Brook, Ph.D., LPC, MSME (ISMETA), is a psychologist, educator, and author specializing in somatic and developmental trauma. As the founder of The Brook Institute and former director of the somatic psychology master’s program at Naropa University, Dr. Brook has spent decades helping individuals and clinicians understand how early experiences—including birth and infancy—shape the nervous system and influence behavior throughout life. Her work integrates neuroscience, movement, attachment science, and applied neuroplasticity to help people move from overwhelm and reactivity toward regulation, resilience, and connection. She is the author of Birth’s Hidden Legacy and is passionate about empowering others with practical tools to heal deeply rooted patterns and rediscover a sense of safety and well-being. Learn more at: https://www.anniebrook.com/ Learn more about Hanley Foundation at hanleyfoundation.org or call 844-502-4673.
E77
Apr 22, 2026
23:49
What Is Somatic Experiencing? How Trauma Lives in the Body with Jennifer Goggin
In this episode of The Hanley Effect, Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal welcome Jennifer Goggin, LPC, LMHC, SEP, for a powerful conversation about trauma, healing, nervous system regulation, and the role the body plays in recovery. Jennifer shares her personal story of adoption, early separation, and how her own healing journey shaped the work she does today. She explains how somatic therapy helps people process trauma not just through words, but through sensations, regulation, and connection. Together, the conversation explores why trauma often lives in the body, why healing does not begin by diving straight into the hardest memories, and why real human connection remains essential in therapy. The episode also touches on the limits of AI in mental health care, the growing impact of technology on the nervous system, and why hope remains central no matter where someone is in their recovery or healing journey. This is a meaningful episode for anyone interested in trauma-informed care, addiction recovery, somatic therapy, adoption, nervous system healing, and mental health treatment that addresses the whole person. In this episode, you’ll hear: What somatic experiencing is and how it supports trauma healing How trauma can be stored in the body, even before a person has words for it Jennifer’s personal story of adoption and how it shaped her understanding of healing Why nervous system regulation is foundational in recovery and mental health treatment How somatic work can help people process trauma without starting with the most painful memory Why the therapeutic relationship cannot be replaced by artificial intelligence How screen overload and digital life can impact empathy, stress, and emotional regulation Why healing looks different for every person Key Takeaways Jen explains that somatic experiencing focuses on helping people build regulation and resilience in the nervous system before revisiting traumatic experiences. Rather than forcing someone to relive the most painful moments first, this approach helps create safety, trust, and internal resources so the body can begin to release what it has been holding. Her story also highlights a powerful truth: sometimes the body carries experiences long before the mind fully understands them. Through both her personal healing and professional work, Jen offers a compassionate perspective on trauma, therapy, and the possibility of change. One of the most memorable parts of the episode is the discussion around AI and therapy. Jen emphasizes that healing happens in relationship. Eye contact, attunement, presence, and human connection are essential parts of trauma recovery that technology cannot replicate. About Our Guest Jennifer Goggin is a licensed mental health counselor, licensed professional counselor, and Somatic Experiencing practitioner who helps clients work through trauma, stress, and nervous system dysregulation with a compassionate, body-based approach. Her work integrates clinical expertise, lived experience, and a deep understanding of how healing happens through both insight and connection. To learn more about Jennifer and her work, visit: https://jennifergogginlmhc.com/ Learn more about Hanley Foundation at hanleyfoundation.org or call 844-502-4673.
E76
Apr 15, 2026
25:37
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