Ep. 8 - Surviving Addiction: Todd’s 31-Year Recovery Story

Todd and Bettijo tackle addiction, recovery, and the parallels to compulsive behaviors like gambling, pornography, overeating, and shopping. Todd shares his recovery story including reflections on getting and staying sober under the relentless spotlight of fame. Plus hear how addiction affects almost everyone. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

SUMMARY
Drawing from Todd’s remarkable 31 years in recovery and Bettijo’s candid perspective on everyday struggles, the pair delve into how addiction rewires the brain, the stigma surrounding recovery, and how true personal growth begins with understanding emotions and setting boundaries. Todd shares his powerful journey of overcoming addiction, emphasizing that addiction is often a symptom of deeper emotional pain. He highlights the critical role of emotional healing, self-awareness, and boundaries in maintaining sobriety. 

Together, they explore the science of addiction, discussing how behaviors like shopping or consuming pornography can trigger brain chemistry changes similar to substance use. Bettijo offers relatable insights into managing compulsive shopping, explaining how setting limits and practicing self-control can help break addictive cycles in everyday life. They also confront the societal stigma of addiction, the ways media narratives perpetuate it, and the urgent need for compassion and understanding in the recovery process.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Todd’s personal journey: 31 years sober and counting.
• Todd’s reflections on how recovery taught him emotional resilience.
• The science behind addiction, and how the brain’s chemical reactions fuel compulsive behaviors.
• Bettijo compares an ankle injury to the lasting impact of recovery.
• How recovery is an ongoing journey of action, not a fixed destination.
• The societal stigma surrounding addiction and how it has evolved over the years.
• Advice for helping loved ones struggling with addiction: offering support before the breaking point.

TUNE IN TO LEARN

• Todd's candid take on why the drug wasn’t the problem.
• Bettijo’s strategy for managing compulsive shopping
• Why recovery isn’t just possible — it can lead to a life better than you imagined.

This episode delivers a powerful mix of unfiltered honesty and actionable insights, offering hope and empowerment to anyone navigating addiction or compulsive habits. Hit play to listen now!

SAHMSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
If you're struggling with your mental health, you don't have to face it alone. The SAMHSA National Helpline is available 24/7 to provide free, confidential support (in English and Spanish), information, and resources for individuals and families facing mental health or substance use challenges. Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) to speak with someone who cares. Help is just a call away.

Follow on Instagram:  Todd @toddbridges & Bettijo @pagingsupermom
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DANG! is produced by Loop 101 Media, Bettijo Bridges, Todd Bridges & Attalie Anne
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