Stephen Van Hooser joins Judd for episode five of our addiction series—bringing a powerful, personal conversation that unpacks the true nature of addiction and the pathways to recovery. Drawing from his own experience as both a patient and a leader in substance abuse treatment, Stephen offers deep insights into how trauma, disconnection, and unmet mental health needs drive addictive behaviors.
During their conversation Stephen introduces listeners to the biopsychosocial and diathesis-stress models, explaining how addiction is not just a disease of choice or biology, but a symptom of deeper wounds. He also challenges the outdated one-size-fits-all treatment model, advocating instead for personalized approaches that recognize the role of connection—whether to people, purpose, nature, or self. Whether you're in recovery, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of addiction—this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical insights behind the often closed-off world of rehab.
5 Lessons from the Episode:
Connection heals: Recovery thrives when people rebuild relationships with others, themselves, and the world around them.
Trauma focus: Treating the root emotional wounds, especially trauma, is often more effective than only addressing symptoms.
Personalized care: Every recovery journey is different; successful treatment adapts to the individual’s life and needs.
Small steps matter: Setting and achieving daily, attainable goals can build the foundation for lasting change.
Support saves lives: Whether through family, 12-step groups, or alternative peer communities, consistent human connection is key.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Addiction is a symptom, not the problem
00:36 Judd’s breaking point and first call for help
04:00 Biopsychosocial model of treatment
06:09 The role of connection in recovery
08:35 Trauma as the root cause of addiction
11:05 Nature vs. nurture in addiction
14:54 Innovations in addiction treatment
17:41 Evolution of addiction and emerging types
18:15 Social media and behavioral addictions
20:24 Personalized treatment for modern addictions
21:54 Accessibility of treatment for underserved communities
24:38 Finding connection through peer support groups
26:12 Views on “California sober” and recovery diversity
28:33 Stephen’s 3 pillars of sustained recovery
31:05 Final reflections on connection
Follow me:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/juddshawofficial/
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juddshawofficial/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@juddshawofficial
For more inspiring episodes and exclusive content, visit https://www.juddshaw.com
Popular Podcasts
Cold Case Files: Miami
Joyce Sapp, 76; Bryan Herrera, 16; and Laurance Webb, 32—three Miami residents whose lives were stolen in brutal, unsolved homicides. Cold Case Files: Miami follows award‑winning radio host and City of Miami Police reserve officer Enrique Santos as he partners with the department’s Cold Case Homicide Unit, determined family members, and the advocates who spend their lives fighting for justice for the victims who can no longer fight for themselves.
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.