Explore every episode of the podcast F#CK THE STIGMA

In episode 54 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with  @icoreywarren  a sober coach and mental health advocate who shares his raw journey from heroin use in high school to alcohol addiction—and ultimately, recovery. Now dedicated to helping others, Corey breaks down the myths surrounding alcohol, addiction, and sobriety, while offering real insight into how addiction impacts the brain and decision-making.This conversation dives into recovery, relapse prevention, and the truth about substance use—aimed at breaking stigma and helping others find a path forward.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.Chapters |Corey's Links | Website | https://www.coreywarren.com/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/icoreywarrenFollow us! Instagram | https://instagram.com/fthestigmapodTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigmaFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigmaPod links |Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bacApple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness #recovery #criminal #addictionrecovery #addict

In episode 53 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Alika Gambill to talk about what it really looks like to rebuild your life from the ground up. Alika opens up about the trauma he experienced growing up and how it shaped the path that led him into nearly two decades of addiction. He shares the chaos of that lifestyle, his struggle with addiction, and the reality of trying to survive while losing himself in the process. Alika speaks on rebuilding a relationship with his abusive father, navigating forgiveness, and what it means to break generational cycles.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Introduction & Hawaiian Roots

01:00 Growing Up in Hawaii: Culture & Family

04:00 Family Dynamics and Childhood Challenges

08:00 Turbulent Home Life and Early Trauma

12:00 Feeling Overlooked and Introverted

15:00 Turning to Alcohol & Identity Issues

19:00 Following Role Models: Substances and Surf

22:00 Addiction, Identity, and Men’s Perspective

25:00 Finding Religion & First Encounters with God

29:00 Entry Into Drugs and Escalating Addiction

34:00 Living in Active Addiction

39:00 Victim Mentality and Family Resentments

44:00 Turning Point: Understanding & Forgiveness

47:00 Bottoming Out and the Path to Sobriety

53:00 Sobriety, Recovery, and Changing Mindsets

57:00 Addict Thinking: It’s About the Mind

01:00:00 Life After Addiction & Giving Back

01:02:00 Misconceptions About Addiction & Closing Thoughts

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Pod links |

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bacApple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224

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fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness #recovery #criminal #addictionrecovery #addict

In episode 52 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Ahmad Hussain, founder and CEO of DEFENT, breaks down the harsh reality of the fentanyl epidemic and the truth behind the rising death toll. He shares what drives his mission to create an all-in-one fentanyl detection device and why urgent action is needed to address this national crisis.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

DEFENT Links |Website | https://defent.com/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/defentofficialTiktok | https://www.tiktok.com/@defentofficialChapters |00:00 Welcome & Guest Introduction01:00 What is Defend? The All-in-One Solution03:00 Challenges with Traditional Fentanyl Test Strips05:00 Harm Reduction and Its Stigma09:00 Who Needs Harm Reduction? Breaking Stereotypes13:00 Personal Motivation: The Opioid Crisis17:00 Rising Fentanyl Deaths and Underlying Causes21:00 Why Fentanyl Is Everywhere: Economics & Supply Chains25:00 Strategy: Disrupting Drug Supply from the Bottom Up29:00 Limitations of Testing for Chronic Users33:00 Public Funding and Making Testing Accessible35:00 Addiction, Mental Health & Social Stigma39:00 Early Education and Honest Communication43:00 Myths About Fentanyl Risk and Consumer Attitudes46:00 Community Reporting and Real-Life Impact49:00 How the Device Works: All-in-One Explained53:00 Barriers to Adoption & Market Challenges57:00 Schools, Narcan, and Preventative Measures01:00:00 Xylazine, Nitazines, and Changing Drug Risks01:03:00 The Future of Harm Reduction01:07:00 Key Takeaways: Test Your SubstancesFollow us! Instagram | https://instagram.com/fthestigmapodTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigmaFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigmaPod links |Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bacApple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness #recovery #criminal #addictionrecovery #addict

In episode 51 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Garet McLendon to share his powerful story of addiction, trauma, and recovery. In this episode, he opens up about the struggles that led him down a destructive path, the turning points that forced change, and what it really takes to rebuild your life from the ground up. From hard truths about relapse to finding purpose in sobriety, Garet gives raw insight into the realities of overcoming addiction and breaking the stigma around mental health.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.Chapters |00:00 Welcome and Introductions00:50 Garrett's Sobriety Journey02:03 Life Today & Daily Routine03:10 Finding Balance in Recovery06:07 Early Life and Childhood Memories07:13 Family, Addiction and Early Exposure10:25 First Experiences With Substances11:01 Escalation and Living With Addiction14:10 Turning to Selling Drugs & Crime17:08 Life on the Streets and Prison21:19 Chaos, Paranoia, and Survival26:41 Addiction Deepens and Losing Hope32:41 Isolation and the Breaking Point36:46 Hitting Rock Bottom and Treatment41:12 First Steps to Recovery45:46 Staying Engaged and Active in Recovery50:01 Life Lessons and Growth in Sobriety54:08 Advice and Message for Those Struggling59:01 Closing Thoughts and GratitudeFollow us! Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigmaTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigmaFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigmaPod links |Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bacApple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness #recovery #criminal #addictionrecovery #addict

In episode 50 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Faust Castellanos, who shares a powerful and deeply vulnerable conversation about trauma, addiction, faith, and recovery. Known for his appearance on Soft White Underbelly and several other podcasts, as well as his work as a pastor, clinical therapist, and founder of a peptide company, Fausto opens up about the sexual abuse he endured during his adolescent years and how that unresolved trauma led him to drugs and alcohol at just 14 years old. He shares candidly about overdoses, traumatic experiences, and hitting rock bottom in his early twenties before finally choosing sobriety and rebuilding his life from the ground up. Now thriving in recovery and helping others through faith, therapy, and entrepreneurship, Fausto explains why sharing his story publicly has been one of the most empowering and healing experiences of his life. This episode dives deep into childhood trauma, substance abuse, overcoming shame, getting sober, faith based healing, and what it truly means to transform pain into purpose.

Chapters |

00:00 Intro & Purpose of the Podcast

01:00 Meet Foster: Therapist, Influencer, Speaker

02:00 Motivation & Overcoming Adversity

04:00 Early Life: Trauma, Addiction, and Pain

07:30 Alcohol, Drugs & Escaping Anxieties

12:00 Teen Addiction & Spiraling Out

18:00 Progression of Substances & Deepening Struggles

22:00 Narcissistic Abuse Explained

26:00 Rock Bottom: Overdoses & Seizures

29:00 Attempts at Normalcy & Cycles of Toxic Relationships

34:30 Escalation: Heavier Use & Isolation

38:00 Reaching Out for Help & First Spiritual Experience

41:00 Entering Recovery: AA, Social Media & Vulnerability

46:00 Religion, Spirituality, and Recovery

55:00 Overcoming Trauma: Forgiveness & Growth

01:00:00 Addiction as a Disease and Relapse

01:02:00 Final Thoughts on Recovery and Resilience

01:03:00 Outro: Reflections and Gratitude

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fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness #recovery #criminal #addictionrecovery #addict

In episode 49 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Michael Lynch and Dr. Kenny Clark as they return to announce the launch of their new podcast, Solo and Doc, and have a powerful conversation about rebuilding in recovery after losing everything to addiction. We talk about what it felt like to be absent fathers during active addiction and how they worked to repair and rebuild those relationships in sobriety. Dr. Kenny shares an honest look into the inner workings of his relapses, while we also dive into how trauma impacts addiction, the grief of losing friends to substance use, and what it truly takes to heal. This is a raw and real conversation about accountability, fatherhood, relapse, and hope in recovery that you do not want to miss.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Solo & Doc Links!

Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/@soloanddoc

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/soloanddoc

Tiktok | https://www.tiktok.com/@soloanddoc

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/soloanddoc/

Chapters |

00:00 Introductions & Podcast Origins

01:05 Discussing Recovery & Addiction as a Disease

03:00 Personal Stories of Addiction and Family Impact

09:17 Rebuilding Family Relationships in Recovery

12:00 Trauma, Addiction, and Personal Growth

18:00 Defining Trauma & Its Effects

28:00 Relapse: Understanding the Process

35:30 Emotional States and Relapse Triggers

43:00 Importance of Community in Recovery

47:00 Restarting Recovery After Setbacks

54:30 Transforming Loss into Purpose

01:00:00 Closing Thoughts & Next Steps

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/I

nstagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

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X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

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fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI, felon, disease

#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness #recovery #criminal #addictionrecovery #addict

In episode 48 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Rich Bishop, who shares his journey through addiction and mental health struggles. From drinking alcohol at just two years old to later turning to opiates and other hard substances, Rich explains how he spent most of his life searching for escape. He also opens up about the devastating loss of his father, who battled severe mental health issues and agoraphobia before dying by suicide. As Rich’s addiction escalated and led to homelessness, he somehow found his way to rehab and has remained sober since his first time in treatment. In this honest conversation about trauma, substance abuse, grief, and recovery, Rich reveals what truly helped him get sober and stay sober, offering hope to anyone struggling with addiction and mental health.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Introductions & Backgrounds

01:07 Shared Treatment History & Podcast Goals

01:14 Rich's Early Life and Family Struggles

02:21 Impact of Agoraphobia & Parental Mental Health

03:51 Coping with Trauma and Loss

05:11 Early Substance Use and Addictive Patterns

06:40 Teenage Years: Escalating Addiction

08:31 Addiction as a Coping Mechanism

09:59 High Functioning Addiction & Escaping Consequences

15:35 Progression Through Substances & Life Events

20:23 Poverty, Relationships, and Rock Bottom

26:27 The Moment of Asking for Help

29:14 Treatment Experience & Malibu

32:28 Building Connections in Recovery

36:47 Spirituality and Faith in Recovery

40:07 Letting Go of Materialism & Comfort Zones

43:04 Growth Through Uncomfortable Experiences

45:05 Owning the Addict Label & Redefining Self

47:01 Power of Connection Over Isolation

48:49 Friendship, Honesty & Overcoming Loneliness

51:20 Is Addiction a Disease?

52:41 Challenging Stigma & Addiction in All Walks of Life

54:54 Addiction Doesn't Discriminate – Final Messages

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓

fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI

#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness #recovery #criminal #addictionrecovery #addict

In episode 47 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez welcomes back Santana Dawson for the third time for an honest conversation about change, healing, and what it really takes to grow. Together, they unpack the fear of change and how trauma shapes our present behaviors, relationships, and mindset. They dive deep into how our parents and childhood experiences impact who we become, how we respond to stress, and how we navigate mental health and addiction recovery. Laisha and Santana also speak vulnerably about surviving suicide attempts, reaching four years of recovery, and what it looks like to rebuild a life after rock bottom. This episode explores breaking generational cycles, overcoming trauma, facing the fear of growth, and the power of sharing your story to help the next person struggling. If you’re navigating healing, sobriety, mental health challenges, or learning how to embrace change without losing yourself, this conversation will remind you that transformation is possible and your story has purpose.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Welcome & Intro to F the Stigma01:01 Reuniting & Reflections on Past Milestones03:00 Personal Growth After Sobriety05:00 Owning Your Story vs. Society’s Labels08:30 Stigma, Labels, and Stereotypes12:00 Expectations from Others – Family, Guilt & Shame15:00 Childhood, Fear, and How We Learn to Cope18:00 Addiction Beyond Substances: Codependency & Loneliness22:00 Confronting Old Memories & Breaking Cycles26:00 Strangers vs. Family: Acceptance on the Recovery Journey29:00 Purpose, Fulfillment, and the Search for Meaning33:00 Radical Optimism & Embracing Life’s Duality36:30 Living in the Gray: Extremes, Emotions & Self-Balance41:00 Change, Control & Learning to Adapt45:00 Goals, Vision Boards & The Power of Writing Things Down51:00 Paper, Ink & Manifesting Your Growth53:00 Connection, Spontaneity & The Power of Small Acts55:00 Reflections, Goodbyes & What’s Next

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us! Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓

fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness #recovery #criminal #addictionrecovery #addict

In episode 46 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Jeff, who shares his story of addiction, crime, and recovery, opening up about how growing up without a father figure and coming from a troubled family became his excuse for using drugs. He talks about how substance use within his family normalized addiction and led him down a path of criminal behavior, repeated prison time, and years stuck in the cycle of incarceration. Jeff reflects on the turning point that forced him to take accountability, break free from addiction, and leave the criminal lifestyle behind. Now four years in recovery, he shares how he rebuilt his life, found purpose, and proves that long-term recovery is possible after years of crime, prison, and substance use.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Welcome & Podcast Mission

01:14 Introducing Geeoff: Background & Early Life

02:40 Childhood Struggles & First Encounters with Addiction

05:08 Starting Substance Use as a Teen

08:05 Escalation: Crime, Jail, and Addiction Deepening

11:57 Living with Addiction: Violence, Jail Time & Consequences

16:36 Rock Bottom: Bank Robbery & Family Descent

23:31 Jail Time, Attempts at Recovery, and Relapse

28:00 The Turning Point: Last High & Entering Recovery

33:09 Sobriety Journey: Recovery Houses & New Beginnings

37:34 Family, Fatherhood & Life Changes

42:54 Life Today: Simplicity, Fear, and Values

47:15 Stepchildren, New Family Roles & Reflections

50:00 Faith, Baptism, and Spiritual Growth

51:32 Losing My Brother: Grief, Guilt, and Tough Love

58:37 Turning Pain into Purpose: Foundations & Giving Back

01:03:20 Understanding Addiction & Breaking the Stigma

01:09:28 Recovery, New Perspectives & Lived Experience

01:13:40 Lessons Learned & The Power of Real Experience

01:15:06 Concluding Thoughts & Inspirational Message

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness #recovery #criminal #addictionrecovery #addict

In episode 45 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Malik Keene, discussing his journey from active addiction to long-term recovery. Malik opens up about quitting drugs and alcohol, walking away from the drug dealer lifestyle, and confronting a gambling addiction that deeply impacted every area of his life. He shares how multiple DUIs and compulsive gambling became major turning points, forcing him to face the consequences of addiction and ultimately choose sobriety. Now dedicated to helping others, Malik explains how he transformed his lived experience into purpose and became a sobriety coach, supporting individuals seeking recovery from substance use, gambling, and other addictive behaviors. This episode offers an honest conversation about addiction, accountability, mental health, and what real recovery looks like beyond just quitting substances.

Malik's Links! |Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/3901295416779134Book A Screening Call - https://calendly.com/malik-malikkeene/screening-callMalik's Book - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVQ6M2TR

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction

.Chapters |

00:00 Welcome & Podcast Mission

01:13 Introducing Malik’s Recovery Journey

03:30 Addiction Timeline & Early Struggles

06:40 Middle School Trauma & Search for Belonging

13:00 High School Years: Experimentation & Party Lifestyle

17:00 First Experience with Addiction Consequences

22:00 Escalation in College: Drugs, Gambling, and Dealing

29:00 Understanding Gambling & Its Risks

36:00 Rock Bottom Moments: Violence, DUIs, and Crisis

47:00 Cycle of Addiction: Guilt, Relapse, and Denial

01:00:00 Spiritual Turning Point & Seeking Help

01:04:00 Key Relationships & the Path to Surrender

01:09:00 Checking Into Rehab & Embracing Recovery

01:18:00 Transformation, Faith, and Life After Addiction

01:25:00 Debating Identity: 'Once an Addict, Always an Addict?'

01:32:00 Multiple Pathways to Recovery & Breaking the Stigma

01:36:00 Supporting Others, Resources & Final Thoughts

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 44 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Travis Shields, who shares an honest conversation about addiction, grief, and recovery after more than a decade of active drug and alcohol use. Travis opens up about surviving the loss of a close friend, the survivor’s guilt that followed, and how that pain drove him deeper into substance use. He also reflects on losing multiple friends to addiction, struggling to identify and process emotions, and the long internal work required to heal. This episode dives deep into the inner workings of addiction in the mind, the emotional impact of grief, and what recovery really looks like beyond sobriety.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI

#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 43 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Ryan Ead, sharing his raw and unfiltered story of mental health struggles and addiction that began at a young age. After years of misbehavior and substance use, Ryan’s parents had him kidnapped and sent to a wilderness program in the Utah desert, where he was forced to survive for three months. Instead of helping, the experience fueled anger and rebellion, pushing Ryan deeper into addiction. As the opioid epidemic took hold, he began doctor shopping, spiraling into heroin addiction and eventually hitting rock bottom in prison. It was there, at his lowest point, that Ryan made the decision to get sober. This episode explores trauma, addiction, the troubled teen industry, the opioid crisis, incarceration, and the long road to recovery, while breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and substance use.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Chapters |

00:00 Welcome & Breaking the Stigma

01:00 Childhood, Family, and Early Influences

03:40 Addiction and Its Deeper Roots

07:00 Coping with Trauma and Finding Outlets

11:00 School Struggles and Early Substance Use

17:00 Escalation: Drugs, Crime, and Identity

26:00 Being Sent Away: Utah Desert & Boarding School

34:00 Returning Home and Deepening Addiction

39:50 Cycle of Jail, Addiction, and Starting Over

45:00 Rock Bottom, Solitary, and a Turning Point

49:00 The Importance of Intent and Recovery

53:00 Giving Back: Recovery, Purpose, and Service

56:00 Finding Connection & Overcoming Stigma

58:00 Mindset in Addiction & Final Thoughts

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

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Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 42 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Matt Anderson, who shares his raw and honest journey through mental health struggles, addiction, incarceration, and recovery. Now 9 years sober, Matt opens up about going to jail at just 15 years old, being exposed to hard drugs at a young age, and growing up with an abusive father where fighting became his outlet. After his childhood home burned to the ground, his addiction escalated, leading to years of cycling in and out of jail and prison. Along the way, Matt lost many loved ones to fentanyl overdoses, deepening his struggle with grief and substance use. He shares how finding God became a turning point in his life and played a critical role in his sobriety and recovery. This episode dives into trauma, addiction, faith, loss, and what it truly takes to break the cycle and rebuild a life in recovery.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Welcome & Podcast Introduction

00:30 Matt's Early Life & Family Background

02:00 Struggling with Anger & Behavior as a Child

04:55 Violence, Hyperactivity, and Early Programs

07:20 Discovering Outlets: Fighting & Seeking Approval

10:25 Substances Enter the Picture

13:00 Experimenting with Alcohol & Peer Influence

15:20 Family Trauma & First Encounters with Drugs

17:55 Stealing, Conscience, and Losing Guidance

22:35 Escalation: Violence, Stealing & Substances

25:15 First Consequences: Juvenile Detention & Early Legal Trouble

29:30 Growing Up in the System & Life-changing Encounters

36:00 Cycles: Release, Relapse & Street Life

40:00 Introduction to Cocaine & Crack Addiction

44:00 Descending into Crime & Prisons

50:40 Losing Loved Ones & Reflection

53:25 Hitting Rock Bottom & The Road to Change

01:00:20 Sobriety, AA, and Finding God

01:06:30 The Power of Inventory & Making Amends

01:13:00 Perspective, Gratitude, and Relationships

01:17:20 The Stigma of Addiction & Educating Others

01:25:00 Steps for Everyone & Final Thoughts

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 41 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Mike Eaton, who has 17 years sober and opens up about the turning point that changed his life forever. After years of failed attempts to get sober, Mike’s addiction led to a fatal drunk driving accident that took someone’s life, resulting in him getting sober while incarcerated. He shares what it was like to confront the weight of that reality, take accountability, and begin true recovery behind bars. Mike also speaks candidly about being diagnosed with Bipolar 1, how untreated mental health impacted his addiction, and what it’s taken to manage his diagnosis through medication, structure, and sobriety. This conversation explores accountability, mental health, and what long-term recovery really looks like after irreversible loss.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Welcome & Introduction

00:29 Early Substance Use & Childhood

01:46 Escalation & Early Consequences

06:00 Major Life Losses & Hitting Rock Bottom

09:20 First Journey to Sobriety

12:00 Underlying Mental Health & Relapse

14:14 Mania, Breakdown, and Recovery Setbacks

17:00 Addiction's Toll: Loss, Depression, and Rock Bottom

20:00 DUI, Fatal Accident & Jail Time

24:00 Prison Experience & Personal Growth

28:00 Release, Recovery, and Starting Over

33:00 Dream Life Program & Life After Prison

36:00 Managing Resentment & Forgiveness

40:00 Living with Bipolar & Balanced Medication

44:00 Breaking Stigma: Addiction & Community

48:00 Understanding Addiction & Disease Concept

52:00 Mental Health, Medication, & Recovery Perspective

56:00 Ongoing Growth & Reflections

58:46 Closing Thoughts & Gratitude

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 40 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Emily, who shares her journey with alcoholism, starting from drinking at a young age and the struggles that followed her into high school, including an abusive relationship that shaped how she coped with pain. She opens up about using alcohol to numb the grief of losing a close family member and how that loss deepened her addiction. Now approaching 15 years of sobriety, Emily reflects on what it took to break the cycle, heal from trauma, and build a life rooted in recovery, honesty, and resilience.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma\

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigmaSubscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI

In episode 39 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with William Mitchell, who was wrongfully sentenced to life in prison for attempted murder at just 23 years old and ended up serving 18 years behind bars. William opens up about battling crack addiction, how prison transformed him, and the moment he found his faith in Christianity. He shares how becoming a minister and paralegal while incarcerated changed the course of his life, and how he now dedicates his time to advocating for people in recovery and supporting those impacted by overdoses in Baltimore. This is a powerful conversation about resilience, redemption, and using your story to help others.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Intro & Prison Backstory

03:35 Growing Up Around Addiction

08:00 Prison Life & Self-Transformation

14:00 Faith, Purpose, and Religion in Recovery

20:45 Meeting People Where They Are

25:25 Family Influence & Early Recovery Attempts

32:00 Crack Addiction: Control & Recovery

38:45 Stigma, Language, and Helping Others

45:35 Recovery Identities & Harm Reduction

52:00 Addiction, Faith & The 'God-Sized Hole'

59:40 Working as an Overdose Coach

01:07:00 Giving, Money, and Service in Recovery

01:11:45 Loving Difficult People

01:17:00 Overdoses, Fentanyl, and Community Response

01:21:00 Breaking the Stigma of Addiction & Mental Health

01:25:05 Explaining Addiction to Non-Addicts

01:32:00 Closing Reflections & Final Thoughts

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓

fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI

#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 38 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Cindy, who opens up about using heroin at just 11 years old, growing up in a chaotic and painful environment, and losing control of her life to addiction. She shares what it was like entering 13 different treatment centers, the multiple rock bottoms that forced her to confront the reality of her addiction, and the moments that pushed her toward change.

Chapters |

00:00 Introduction & Cindy's Recovery Journey00:47 Early Life and First Encounters with Addiction02:53 Struggling with Self-Esteem and Family Issues05:25 Childhood Trauma and Feeling Like an Outsider11:00 Addiction as a Family Disease13:55 Escalation: From Adolescence to Young Adult20:05 Rock Bottom and Spiritual Awakening27:00 Misconceptions, Stigma, and Willpower35:40 Different Paths to Recovery & Harm Reduction43:36 Sober Living and Starting Over53:01 Lessons, Growth, and Challenges in Long-Term Recovery01:03:36 Coping with Loss, Grief, and Mental Health in Recovery01:11:15 New Possibilities and Giving Back01:13:13 Hope and Meeting People Where They Are01:14:25 Closing Remarks & Gratitude

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI

#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 37 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Chris Yarnell, In this episode, Laisha sits down with a guest who opens up about a lifetime of stigma, trauma, and addiction. He talks about growing up in a household shaped by alcohol and drugs and how fractured family dynamics fueled his early substance use. He shares how his drinking escalated through adolescence, how a chemical imbalance influenced his drug choices, and what ultimately pushed him to join the Marines. He dives into the reality of serving while struggling mentally, the injuries and losses that followed, and the survivor’s guilt that nearly destroyed him. As addiction progressed, sobriety became a cycle of chaos, relapse, and consequence that eventually led to jail time, psychosis, and a rock-bottom moment that forced him to confront the truth. Now in recovery, he reflects on rebuilding purpose, the importance of service, and why healing means more than just staying sober. This conversation sheds light on the stigma around mental health, the impact of unspoken trauma, and the power of asking for help.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Welcome and Podcast Intro

01:29 Breaking Stigma Around Mental Health & Addiction

02:58 Growing Up: Family, Community and Early Exposure

05:47 Alcohol and Drugs in the Home

10:13 First Experiences With Drinking and Family Dynamics

15:41 Teens, Substance Use, and Parental Relationships

20:48 Adolescence & The Progression of Alcohol Use

27:01 Chemical Imbalance and Drug Choice Discussion

33:14 Joining the Marines: Motivation & Pre-Military Life

38:33 Struggles in the Military, Family, and Trauma

46:11 Injury, Discharge, and Caregiving at Home

50:40 Loss, Survivor’s Guilt & Mental Health Impact

57:12 Addiction Progression & Cycles of Sobriety

01:01:33 Complacency, Chaos, and Staying Sober

01:09:34 Relapses, Triggers, and Uphill Recovery

01:17:42 Consequences: Jail and the Wrong Path

01:27:06 Bad Criminal Luck: Court, Mistakes, and Stigma

01:36:00 The Breaking Point: Psychosis & Ultimate Rock Bottom

01:44:11 Recovery Work, Service, and What It Means

01:53:19 Defining Addiction & Hope for Recovery

02:01:01 Purpose, Wellness, and Community Healing

02:04:02 Why Recovery Means More Than Sobriety

02:09:07 Trauma, Comparison, and The Value of Asking For Help

02:15:05 Final Thoughts: Breaking Down Stigma and Moving Forward

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI

In episode 36 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Ashley Pertuno, who bravely shares her story of surviving childhood abuse by a close family member, the trauma that fueled her addiction, and the mental health battles that followed her into adulthood. Ashley reveals how this pain shaped her relationships with men, pushed her deeper into substance use, and followed her through both her basketball career and her time serving in the military. From hitting rock bottom to fighting her way back to recovery, Ashley’s story is a raw and powerful look at trauma, addiction, resilience, and the strength it takes to rebuild your life after years of darkness.

*Apologies for the change in audio quality around the 17:00 mark, we experienced technical difficulties*

Chapters |

00:00 Welcome & Podcast Introduction

00:43 Ashley’s Childhood and Family Life

02:10 Experiencing Trauma and Navigating Shame

05:07 When Did the Secret Come Out?

06:49 The Challenges of Sharing and Healing

08:27 Speaking Truth, Baby Steps Toward Healing

10:27 Substances Enter the Picture

13:20 High School Struggles & Coping with Addiction

16:00 Mental Health Battles and Suicidal Thoughts

17:38 First Treatment & The ‘Great Pretender’

18:32 Addiction Progression and Chasing Stability

20:26 College Athletics and Hidden Addiction

22:45 Joining the Military: A New Escape

25:14 Military Life, Structure, and Drinking

28:44 Life After the Military: Back to Delaware

30:52 Addiction to Love and Relationships

34:29 Chasing Toxic Relationships

38:58 The Spiral Into Harder Drugs

41:53 The Depths of Addiction: Love in the Trenches

45:19 Rock Bottom: A Winter to Remember

48:04 First Real Treatment Experience

52:14 Finding Recovery & a New Perspective

55:27 Baby Steps, Willingness, and Long-Term Recovery

58:48 Value of Sobriety & Recovery Stories

01:01:28 Why Recovery Time Matters

01:04:15 The Insanity of Addiction

01:06:47 Hardest Parts of Recovery: Relationships

01:10:15 Discovering Self-Worth in Recovery

01:13:18 Addiction as a Disease – Personal Insight

01:18:55 Genetics, Awareness, and Stigma

01:22:11 Closing Thoughts & Thank You

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 35 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Josh, who opens up about his journey from decades of jail, prison, and active heroin addiction to now celebrating 15 years sober. Josh keeps it real about what life was like in and out of institutions, what finally pushed him to change, and how he’s managed to stay grounded in recovery ever since. It’s an honest, no-fluff conversation about the reality of addiction, rebuilding your life, and what long-term sobriety really looks like.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Intro & Podcast Purpose

00:32 Breaking the Stigma: Why We Share

00:59 Growing Up: Childhood & Family Dynamics

02:51 Moving, Family Background & School Years

05:59 Adolescence, Rebellion & Early Exposure

09:12 First Experiences with Substances

11:00 Getting Drawn into Drug Culture

13:00 Dropping Out & Life on the Road

17:18 Grateful Dead Tour & Teenage Drug Community

23:04 Psychedelics: Influence & Reflections

27:10 The Progression to Harder Drugs

30:29 Addiction Escalates: Heroin & Real Consequences

36:42 Legal Trouble: Jail, Homelessness & Hitting Bottom

43:08 Rock Bottom Moments & Missed Opportunities

51:00 Seeking Help: Jail, Treatment & Getting Sober

54:01 Entering Recovery: New Life Challenges

01:00:03 Life Skills, Fear & Growing Up in Sobriety

01:03:22 Mindset in Active Addiction vs Recovery

01:06:08 Personal Growth & Lifelong Recovery

01:09:00 Service, Self-Discovery & Staying Grateful

01:10:02 Closing & Final Reflections

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigmaSubscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 34 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Tabitha, who shares powerful journey from a childhood filled with chaos, trauma, and abuse to finding recovery and rebuilding her life. Growing up in a toxic household in Baltimore, she faced early exposure to addiction, violence, and pain that led her down a path of substance use, incarceration, and survival on the streets. From the heartbreak of overdoses and prison time to navigating the fentanyl and Xylazine crisis, Tabitha’s story is raw and real—but it’s also one of redemption. Today, she’s a devoted mother, Peer Recovery Specialist, and living proof that healing is possible. Her story reminds us that no matter how dark life gets, recovery and self-worth can still be found.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Intro & Meet Tabitha

00:17 Growing Up in Baltimore

02:28 Family Struggles & Early Trauma

06:46 Addiction Starts Young

08:55 Teen Pregnancy & Family Dynamics

13:01 Escalation: Violence & Arrests

17:00 First Time in Prison

22:22 Prison Life & Heroin Introduction

28:36 Street Life, Drug Dealing & Multiple Incarcerations

32:21 Overdoses, Survival & Losing Hope

39:03 Kensington & Fentanyl/Xylazine Era

44:41 Final Arrest & Path to Recovery

46:03 Treatment, Sobriety, and Becoming a Parent Again

49:40 Therapy, Medication & Adult Recovery Court

53:07 Sustaining Sobriety & Growing Self-Worth

56:00 Working as a Peer Recovery Specialist

57:01 Family Healing & Finding Stability

58:58 Reflection, Advice, and Hope for Others

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigmaSubscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI

#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 33 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Ansu, who shares his powerful story of battling alcoholism for over a decade while struggling with identity, family abandonment, and a toxic marriage. From growing up between cultures and living as a “functional” addict to hitting rock bottom and finding faith, Ansu opens up about his journey toward healing, self-discovery, and spiritual growth. Through honesty and reflection, he reveals how surrendering to God and embracing humility helped him rebuild his life and find true purpose beyond addiction.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Welcome & Guest Introduction

00:40 Growing Up Between Cultures

02:18 Family Dynamics and Childhood Challenges

05:13 Landmark Childhood Events and Moving

08:07 Adjusting to New Environments

10:11 Struggles with Identity and Acceptance

13:13 Experimenting with Substances in Adolescence

16:46 College Life: Escalation of Alcohol & Drugs

21:21 Living as a 'Functional' Addict

25:29 Marriage, Stress, & Substance Abuse

32:57 Divorce, Rock Bottom & Hitting Crisis

37:34 Withdrawal, Recovery & Spiritual Awakening

41:05 Finding Healing Through Community & Faith

44:22 Spirituality vs Organized Religion

48:28 Humility, Ego, and Emotional Growth

52:00 Service, Connection, and Helping Others

56:41 Emotions, Reactions, and Growth

01:00:10 God, Purpose, and Identity

01:04:04 Materialism, Fulfillment & Guiding Decisions

01:10:59 Defining God, Spirituality & Personal Belief

01:14:32 Closing Reflections & Gratitude

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 32 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Tim Fritz to share his powerful story of battling active alcoholism and addiction. Tim opens up about how the loss of his father deeply impacted his life and became a driving force behind his substance use. Together, Laisha and Tim break down the thought processes that come with being in active addiction—the denial, the shame, and the endless cycle of chasing escape. Through raw honesty and reflection, Tim shares what it truly took to find his way out and begin the journey toward healing and self-awareness. This conversation sheds light on the emotional roots of addiction and serves as a reminder that recovery is possible, no matter how lost you may feel.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Intro & Growing Up in Baltimore

01:30 Early Childhood and Family Dynamics

03:30 Losing a Parent and Turning to Substances

06:30 Is Addiction Nature or Nurture?

08:00 Personal DUI Experiences & Defining Addiction

11:00 Identifying as an Addict—Comparison and Craving

15:00 The Spiritual, Mental, and Physical Nature of Addiction

18:30 Impact of External Consequences and Unmanageability

21:30 Adolescence into College—Escalating Drinking

24:30 College Years and the Struggle to Control Drinking

28:00 The Obsession with Control & Attempts to Moderate

32:00 Substances Beyond Alcohol and Cross-Addiction

36:00 Why Alcohol Feels Different Than Other Drugs

39:00 Misconceptions: Is it Just Willpower?

43:00 Material Success vs. Internal Fulfillment

47:00 Reaching Bottom: The Path to Treatment

51:00 Medical Marijuana, Relapse, and True Recovery

55:00 Spiritual Experience & Life with a Higher Power

01:00:00 Advice for Those Struggling & Breaking Stigma

01:01:30 Closing Thoughts and Farewell

Donate to support!

https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, forgiveness, spiritual, DUI

In episode 31 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Maggie who opens up about her journey through addiction, recovery, and rebuilding her life. She shares what it was like growing up around addiction, experimenting as a teen, and facing early arrests and probation. From her first rehab stay—where she admits she tried to “beat the system”—to the depths of opiate and heroin addiction in Kensington, Maggie’s story is raw and eye-opening. She talks about the repeated attempts at treatment, the turning point of true surrender, and how community became essential to her recovery. Now years sober, Maggie reflects on becoming a parent in recovery, working in treatment, navigating mental health challenges, and finding spirituality and purpose in long-term sobriety. This episode is a real, honest look at what it takes to rebuild and heal after addiction.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Intro and Podcast Mission

00:35 Maggie's Early Years & Family Background

02:00 Childhood Experiences with Addiction

04:34 Noticing Differences & First Encounters

07:14 Teen Experimentation and Escalation

13:10 High School Arrests & Probation Struggles

17:00 First Rehab and Intentions to ‘Beat the System’

19:09 Opiates, Heroin, and Full-Blown Addiction

23:18 Going Deeper: Kensington and Consequences

27:30 Multiple Attempts at Treatment

32:00 The Role of Community and True Surrender

38:29 Early Recovery, Growth, & New Challenges

44:24 Becoming a Sober Parent and Building a New Life

47:07 Working in Treatment & Family Recovery

52:18 Mental Health, Stigma, and Support Needs

55:26 Spirituality in Recovery

01:03:42 Long-term Sobriety and Changing Recovery Paths

01:07:07 Biggest Highlights and Reflections

01:09:54 Ongoing Mental Health and Support in Recovery

01:13:23 Final Thoughts and Closing

FTS Medication Assistance Program |

Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance

Donate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, DUI, DWI, forgiveness, #fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 30 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Michael to share his story of addiction, recovery, and rebuilding his life. From early identity struggles to his first experiences with substances, legal trouble, and near-death moments, Michael opens up about what it took to reach rock bottom and finally seek treatment. He discusses relapse, homelessness, and the importance of finding a sponsor, setting family boundaries, and doing the hard internal work of change. Together, Laisha and Michael dive into stigma, mental health, overdose prevention, Narcan access, and what recovery really means. This conversation is raw, real, and a reminder that addiction recovery is possible.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Meet Michael & Podcast Intro

01:05 Growing Up: Childhood and Family Dynamics

02:27 Trauma, Emotions & Early Identity Issues

04:07 First Experiences with Substances

07:07 School Years and Deepening Addiction

10:19 Legal Consequences & Arrest Stories

13:31 The Role of Psychedelics and Opinions on Recovery

16:15 Abstinence, Relapse, and Recovery Definitions

19:35 Reaching Rock Bottom & Going to Treatment

23:39 Homelessness, Health Scares, and Near-Death

27:01 Finding a Sponsor & Starting Over

31:39 Family Boundaries, Al-Anon & Building Relationships

34:47 Describing Addiction & Seeking Internal Change

39:34 Struggles in Recovery & What Matters Most

43:12 Forgiveness, Amends & Maintaining Relationships

47:11 Foundations for Recovery: Steps, Community & God

53:40 Powerlessness & The Nature of Choice in Addiction

54:46 Treatment Industry, Body Brokering & Advice

01:00:06 Stigma, Normalizing Recovery & The Mental Health Crisis

01:02:44 Why Are We Addicts? Nature, Nurture & Accepting Reality

01:04:50 Overdose, Narcan, and Access to Help

01:07:08 Final Thoughts & The Importance of Conversation

FTS Medication Assistance Program |

Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance

Donate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate

Pod links |

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac

Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, DUI, DWI, forgiveness, #fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 29 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Joe as he opens up about his journey through pain, addiction, and redemption. From a rough childhood marked by school struggles, trauma, and searching for belonging, Joe shares how early challenges led him down a path of experimenting with drugs that eventually escalated into hard addiction. He speaks candidly about coping with personal loss, navigating the streets of Baltimore, and becoming involved in criminal enterprises that brought both wealth and devastating consequences. Joe reflects on his time in prison, the unraveling of his life, and the moment he truly hit rock bottom. From there, he describes his fight for sobriety, the healing process, and how he ultimately found purpose in recovery. The conversation also dives into Baltimore’s ongoing addiction crisis, the stigma and misconceptions society holds, and the struggles of mental health, isolation, and suicide that many face in silence.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Intro

00:18 Joe's Rough Childhood & School Struggles

04:34 Special Ed, Trauma & Seeking Belonging

09:01 Experimenting with Drugs and Addiction Starts

14:00 Escalation to Hard Drugs & Coping Mechanisms

20:00 Personal Loss, Grief, and Street Outreach Work

27:00 Criminal Enterprise, Wealth, and Consequences

36:00 Prison, More Business & Life Falling Apart

44:00 Hitting Rock Bottom & Journey to Sobriety

47:00 Healing, Recovery and Finding Purpose

49:00 Baltimore's Addiction Crisis & Street Realities

53:00 Mental Health, Isolation & Suicide Struggles

01:00:00 Society, Connection & Simplicity of Life

01:03:00 Biggest Misconceptions About Addiction

01:04:38 Life Purpose, Community & The Power of Connection

01:07:00 Final Thoughts & Podcast Wrap-Up

FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance

Donate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate

Pod links |

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac

Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, DUI, DWI

#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 28 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Catie to share a raw and powerful story of addiction, self-harm, and healing. Catie opens up about growing up in a chaotic household, experimenting with drugs at a young age, and spending seven years trapped in addiction while battling self-harm. She talks about how trauma, toxic and addictive relationships, and the stigma surrounding substance use shaped her path, leading to moments of pain, legal troubles, and loss. Through honesty and vulnerability, Catie reflects on her journey of finding strength, building self-worth, navigating grief, and learning healthier ways to cope with life’s challenges. Today, with over a decade of sobriety, Catie is a wife, a mother of two children, and an addiction counselor helping others find hope and healing. Together, Laisha and Catie dive into the realities of addiction, mental health, treatment systems, motherhood, mindfulness, and breaking the stigma to create space for empathy and understanding.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Introduction & Katie's Sobriety Journey

01:10 Family History & Early Substance Exposure

03:10 Coping With Trauma & First Drug Experiences

06:03 Growing Up in a Chaotic Household

09:01 Teenage Years: Self-Harm, School, and Escape

13:20 Addictive Patterns: Relationships & Escalation

17:40 Legal Troubles & Turning Point22:00 Early Recovery: Loss, Grief, and Healing

26:30 Growing Up in Recovery & Learning Life Skills

31:15 Building Self-Worth & Staying Clean

36:00 Therapy Styles: Compassion and Empathy

41:00 From Addiction to Mental Health Advocacy

47:40 Comorbidity: Treating Addiction & Mental Health

55:00 The Realities of Treatment Systems & Stigma

01:03:00 Individual Healing Journeys & Supporting Others

01:13:00 Motherhood, Loss, and Life Lessons

01:24:00 Mindfulness, Living In The Moment & Parenting

01:32:00 Understanding & Explaining Addiction

01:38:00 Destigmatizing All Struggles & Empathy in Practice

01:45:00 Closing Thoughts & Reflections

FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance

Donate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate

Pod links |

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac

Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigmaSubscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, DUI, DWI#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 27 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Tristan, who’s back to share what life looks like now at 4 years sober. Tristan talks about what it was really like in the thick of his addiction—six years of IV heroin use, seven stints in rehab, and even losing all his teeth. He contrasts that with where he’s at today: learning how to cope, building real tools to get through the tough moments, and figuring out what long-term recovery actually looks like.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction

.Chapters |

00:00 Welcome & Catching Up

02:30 Reflections on Recovery and Four Years Sober

05:45 Realizing Imperfection in Recovery

07:30 Professionalism, Mentors, and Being Human

12:30 The Road to Recovery: Tristan's Journey

18:00 What Was Different This Time in Treatment?

22:30 Individualized Care & Shared Stories

26:00 Building a Life in Recovery

29:30 Dealing with Perspective and Daily Peace

33:00 Early Signs: Discontent and Escapism

36:30 From Marijuana to Opiates: Escalation of Addiction

40:30 IV Drug Use and Understanding Self-Harm

44:45 Life at the Lowest Points

48:30 Realizing Addiction & Reflecting on Rock Bottom

53:00 Why Some Need Multiple Trips to Treatment

57:00 Normies vs. Addicts: Is There a Real Difference?

FTS Medication Assistance Program |

Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance

Donate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate

Pod links |

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac

Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us! Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, los angeles, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 26 of F The Stigma Podcast, the roles are reversed as host Laisha of the Fuck The Stigma podcast sits down with Santana to share her own story in honor of hitting 4 years of sobriety. Laisha opens up about her rock bottom moment in a jail cell after her third DWI and the painful reality of admitting she was an addict at just 18 years old. She reflects on the struggles of early recovery, the ongoing battle with anxiety and depression in sobriety, and the way mental health has become her main focus now that drugs are no longer the issue. Laisha also speaks on the lifelong process of making amends, the weight of still righting past wrongs, and how she continues to cope with the lasting consequences of her DUIs. Raw, vulnerable, and deeply honest, this conversation is a powerful reminder that recovery is not just about putting down substances, but about rebuilding, healing, and growing every single day.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Celebrating Four Years Sober

02:00 Reflecting on Milestones & Sobriety Feelings

04:20 The Decision to Get Sober: Hitting Rock Bottom

07:00 The Early Recovery Journey & Facing the Past

12:20 Making Amends & Living With Consequences

17:10 Family Relationships and the Healing Process

21:45 Self-Reflection: Why Did I Use Substances?

25:10 People Who Impacted Recovery & Wisdom From Treatment

30:00 Accepting Addiction & Overcoming Stigma

34:00 Guilt, Amends, and Self-Forgiveness

38:30 Biggest Challenges in Staying Sober

42:30 Supporting Others in Addiction & Relapse

47:00 Boundaries, Outgrowing Friends & Loss

52:30 Relationships in Recovery: From Shallow to Meaningful

57:30 Life After Addiction: Fulfillment & Contentment

01:03:00 Using Pain, Sharing Your Story & Embracing Growth

01:08:40 The Weight of Recovery & Lessons Learned

01:13:00 Advice, Self-Love & Acceptance

01:17:15 Looking Back & Moving Forward With Hope

FTS Medication Assistance Program |

Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance

Donate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate

Pod links |

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac

Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, los angeles, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies, dui, xanax, #fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 25 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Matt Bell, CEO of Team Recovery and founder of the Team Recovery Foundation, to share his journey through addiction, loss, and redemption. Matt opens up about losing his father to cancer—a tragedy that became the catalyst for more than a decade of active addiction. From getting a DUI on the very first day he received his driver’s license to progressing from marijuana and alcohol to daily heroin use, his story is one of relentless struggle. With three overdoses, 28 treatment centers, and 13 arrests behind him, Matt’s road to recovery was anything but easy. In this candid conversation, he reveals the turning point that helped him finally achieve sobriety, the “missing piece” he discovered along the way, and how he now uses his story to inspire change and bring hope to others.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Chapters |

00:00 Intro & Guest Welcome

00:17 Meet Matt: Team Recovery Origins

02:59 Making Recovery Cool & Community Focus

07:01 Early Life, Family, and Beginnings of Addiction

13:14 College, Prescription Pills, and Denial

20:20 Escalation: Injecting and Daily Struggles

24:42 Legal Consequences and Breaking the Law

29:44 28 Treatment Centers and Family Dynamics

33:39 The Turning Point: Faith, Surrender, and Recovery

37:39 What Treatment Really Means & Mental Health

42:43 Pain, Triggers, and Getting to the Root

47:02 Rock Bottom: Family, Boundaries & Suicidal Thoughts

50:57 The Final Surrender & Intervention

53:04 Biggest Lessons from Recovery

56:56 Making Amends & Facing the Past

58:46 Overcoming Stigma as a Leader in Recovery

01:01:36 Is Addiction a Disease? Medical Model & Stigma

01:05:52 Changing Perspectives on Addiction

01:09:12 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

Matt Bell & Team Recovery Links |

Website | https://theteamrecovery.org/

Matt's Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/thatmattbell/

Team Recovery Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/teamrecovery419/

FTS Medication Assistance Program |

Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance

Donate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

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fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, los angeles, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 24 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Ben Nolot, filmmaker and founder of Exodus Cry—a nonprofit advocacy organization committed to ending sex trafficking and abolishing the commercial sex industry in all its forms, including pornography, strip clubs, and prostitution. Ben opens up about the deeply exploitative nature of the porn industry, shedding light on how it profits from the objectification and abuse of women while normalizing harmful behaviors and mindsets. Together, Laisha and Ben dive into the realities of porn and sex addiction—how it starts, what drives it, and how it silently devastates lives and relationships. This conversation challenges mainstream narratives and encourages listeners to rethink what society has normalized. If you're ready to confront uncomfortable truths and learn more about the movement to fight exploitation, this episode is a must-watch.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.Chapters |00:00 Introduction & Guest Background01:01 Exodus Cry and Its Mission02:56 Documentaries and Raising Awareness06:47 The Roots of Sex Trafficking13:54 Culture, Pornography, and Self-Worth20:32 Prostitution, Violation, and Dissociation25:49 Redefining Worth and Dignity33:58 Clarifying Terms: Trafficking, Sex Trade, and Sex Work41:35 Pro-Sex Work Narratives vs. Abolitionists46:40 Gender Dynamics & Misogyny in the Sex Trade54:15 Childhood Exposure to Pornography01:00:55 Cultural Impact of Pornography on Boys & Girls01:04:10 Relational, Object, and Malevolent Sexuality01:12:35 Why Men Buy Sex & The Issue of Power01:22:10 Pornography's Connection with Trafficking01:26:35 Accountability for Porn Platforms01:30:22 Culture, Addiction, and Closing ThoughtsBen Nolot & Exodus Cry Links |Website | https://exoduscry.com/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/benjinolot/ & https://www.instagram.com/exoduscry/Watch Newest Film 'Buying Her' | https://exoduscry.com/exodus-cry-films/FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistanceDonate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donatePod links |Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bacApple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… Follow us! Website | https://fthestigma.com/Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigmaTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigmaFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigmaX | https://x.com/fthestigmaSubscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigmaTags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, los angeles, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 23 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Monica, who bravely shares her journey of surviving 24 years of active addiction. Monica opens up about the trauma that sparked it all—being forced to have an abortion—and how that pain led her down a dark path of substance use and self-destruction. She recounts multiple suicide attempts that she believes she miraculously survived through divine intervention. From her experiences as a drug dealer on the streets of Baltimore to the emotional and spiritual battles she faced daily, Monica holds nothing back. Now sober, she reflects on how she coped during her addiction versus the tools she uses today in recovery, offering hope, honesty, and inspiration to anyone who has ever felt lost. This is a raw conversation about pain, survival, redemption, and the power of transformation.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.Chapters |00:00 Intro & Early Life in Baltimore03:00 Family, Community, and Moving Neighborhoods07:00 First Encounters with Drugs14:00 Escalation: High School, Substances, and Challenges22:00 First Job, College Dreams, and Heroin25:00 Living with Addiction & Functioning31:00 Dealing & Consequences: From Selling to Prison39:00 Experiences in Prison & Streets Culture46:00 Changing Drug Scenes, Fentanyl Crisis, and Harm Reduction54:00 Multiple Suicide Attempts and Hitting Bottom01:00:00 Spiritual Programs & Beginning Recovery01:08:00 The Turning Point: Realizing Responsibility01:16:00 Accepting the Past & Embracing Recovery01:23:00 Living in Recovery & Finding Purpose01:29:00 Purpose, Teaching, and Looking Ahead01:30:00 Closing Thoughts & Podcast OutroFTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistanceDonate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donatePod links |Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bacApple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… Follow us! Website | https://fthestigma.com/Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigmaTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigmaFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigmaX | https://x.com/fthestigmaSubscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigmaTags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, los angeles, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, criminal, psychology, doctor, dealer, baltimore diagnosis, felony, felonies#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 22 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Will, who shares his powerful story of addiction, recovery, and what it means to keep pushing forward through some of life’s darkest moments. His battle with substance use began in his early teens, leading to two felonies by the age of 16 and a suicide attempt that nearly cost him his life. At 19, he got sober and has stayed committed to his recovery ever since. But just as he hit two years sober, he was faced with another challenge—a cancer diagnosis. Will opens up about what it’s like to carry all of this at such a young age and how he continues to show up, stay sober, and speak out. This episode also highlights the importance of men’s mental health, breaking the silence around the emotional weight so many young men are carrying alone.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

FTS Medication Assistance Program |

Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance

Donate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate

Pod links |

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac

Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us! Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 21 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Dr. Rae, a forensic psychologist who works inside a secure psychiatric facility dedicated to treating individuals found not guilty by reason of insanity. These are people who have committed unimaginable crimes—often including murder—while in the grip of severe, untreated mental illness. Together, we explore the complex question: What drives someone to commit such acts? Dr. Rae shares her firsthand insight into the minds of her patients, the traumatic histories that often shape them, and the intensive, long-term process of rehabilitation. This conversation challenges common misconceptions about mental illness, justice, and redemption—and forces us to reckon with the uncomfortable truth about how society treats its most vulnerable and dangerous individuals.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.Chapters |00:00 Welcome & Introductions00:17 Dr. Ray’s Program: Helping the Insanity Acquitted01:41 The Path Through State Hospitals & Step-Down Care03:02 Why Dr. Ray Entered Forensic Psychology05:13 Discovering True Crime & Early Inspirations07:06 From Textbooks to Real Patients07:51 Observing Mental Illness in Real Life09:38 Delusions and Their Complexities12:00 Psychosis: Voices and Paranoia14:27 OCD, Medication, and Managing Thoughts16:33 Trauma, Genetics, and Dual Diagnosis18:59 Addiction vs. Mental Illness21:12 Substance-Induced Psychosis Explained22:40 Medication Stigma and Recovery26:31 Criminality, Mental Illness & Prison Populations29:00 Notorious Cases: Serial Killers & The Menendez Brothers33:37 How Trauma Can Lead to Violence36:51 Change, Recovery & Regret Among Clients42:48 Homelessness, Mental Health & Systemic Shortfalls46:44 State Programs, Funding, and Community Transitions49:10 Criteria for Recovery & Reintegration50:38 Religion, Spirituality & Delusions52:10 Cases That Stay With You: Maternal Psychosis55:17 Unique Struggles, Support & Relating57:08 Levity, Coping, and Compassion in Forensic Work59:01 Insanity Pleas: Dispelling Myths01:00:18 Fixing the System: Funding, Education, and Hope01:01:44 Ending Stigma & Closing ThoughtsFTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistanceDonate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donateFuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… Follow us! Website | https://fthestigma.com/Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigmaTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigmaFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigmaX | https://x.com/fthestigmaSubscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigmaTags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, los angeles, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, jail, prescription, alcoholic, alcoholism, treatment, diagnosis, prison, murder, criminal, criminally insane, forensic, psychology, doctor, true crime,

In episode 20 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with Ian Bick—entrepreneur, speaker, and host of the viral podcast Locked In with Ian Bick—to unpack his extraordinary journey from teenage nightclub owner to federal prison inmate, and ultimately, to one of the most impactful voices in the reentry and criminal justice reform space. At just 30 years old, Ian opens up about the ambition that fueled his early success, the gambling addiction and financial pressure that led to his downfall, and the federal charges that changed the course of his life. He shares how prison became a turning point, inspiring him to use his story to break stigmas and uplift others affected by incarceration. Now with millions of views across platforms, a growing media company, and a leadership role in national reentry efforts, Ian’s resilience is both raw and inspiring. This is a conversation about accountability, transformation, and how our darkest chapters can spark the brightest change.

Ian Bick Links |

Website | https://www.ianbick.com/

Youtube |  @ianbickCT 

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

FTS Medication Assistance Program |

Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance

Donate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate

Pod links |

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac

Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

In episode 19 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with actress and director Mädchen Amick—best known for her iconic roles in Twin Peaks and Riverdale—and her daughter Mina Tobias, a musician and mental health advocate. What began as a tragic turning point for their family—when Mädchen’s son, Sylvester, witnessed a death on campus—unfolded into years of mental health struggles, addiction, and a heartbreaking journey through a broken system. Mädchen and Mina open up about the pain their family endured while trying to find proper care and diagnosis, how stigma and misinformation worsened the situation, and what ultimately inspired them to take action. Their firsthand experience led to the creation of the nonprofit Don’t Mind Me, which aims to break down barriers to mental health care, correct widespread misinformation, and advocate for a more compassionate, accessible system. This episode is a raw, honest conversation about love, resilience, and using personal pain to ignite real change.Don't Mind Me Links |Website | https://www.dontmindme.org/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/dontmindme/Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/dontMINDme/Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistanceDonate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donatePod links |Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bacApple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… Follow us! Website | https://fthestigma.com/Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigmaTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigmaFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigmaX | https://x.com/fthestigmaSubscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

In episode 18 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez reconnects with Patrick years after their first interview, this time for Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month. Patrick opens up about a major shift in his sobriety journey—recently starting medication for his mental health after years of hesitation. He shares how his addiction began with a prescription following a serious surgery, eventually leading him down a dark path that included robbing the same bank twice and serving years in prison. During his time behind bars, after getting caught up in prison politics, he ultimately found sobriety and started to rebuild. This raw conversation sheds light on the complicated layers of addiction, recovery, and the importance of mental health support for men.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistanceDonate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donatePod links |Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bacApple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… Follow us! Website | https://fthestigma.com/Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigmaTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigmaFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigmaX | https://x.com/fthestigmaSubscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

In episode 17 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with guest Santana Ryan, who shares her raw and unfiltered experience growing up in Baltimore while battling mental health struggles, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. Santana opens up about the pain of growing up with an absent father due to his struggle with addiction, and how that shaped her sense of self and relationships. She bravely recounts a manic episode that led to faking a pregnancy, as well as her experience with love addiction and the chaos that often comes with untreated mental health issues. Now in a place of growth and healing, Santana is prioritizing her mental well-being and speaking openly about her journey in hopes of helping others feel less alone. This conversation sheds light on the realities so many face in silence and serves as a reminder that recovery is possible, and that talking about it is the first step in breaking the stigma.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.Santana's Socials |Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/thesantanaryan/Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/@UCDNunZUjMq39BenizGKCPrQ FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistanceDonate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donatePod links |Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bacApple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… Follow us! Website | https://fthestigma.com/Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigmaTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigmaFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigmaX | https://x.com/fthestigmaSubscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigmaTags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, los angeles, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, robbery, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, baltimore, jail, psych ward, prescription#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In episode 16 of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with guest Walt, who shares his raw and unfiltered experience growing up in Baltimore surrounded by addiction. From a young age, Walt witnessed the devastating impact of drugs in his community, which ultimately led him down a path of selling drugs and frequent encounters with law enforcement. With honesty and reflection, Walt opens up about the lack of fear he had when it came to jail and prison, the regrets that came with his choices, and what it was really like serving 10 years behind bars. Now removed from that lifestyle, Walt speaks on the realities of the drug crisis in Baltimore and the turning point that led him to change his life. This episode sheds light on a story far too common, yet rarely told this openly.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistanceDonate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donatePod links |Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bacApple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… Follow us! Website | https://fthestigma.com/Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigmaTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigmaFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigmaX | https://x.com/fthestigmaSubscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigmaTags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, los angeles, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, robbery, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, baltimore, prison, jail, insititutions, prescription#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In this episode of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with guest Laura Cathcart Robbins, who is also the author of the book Stash, to talk about her personal journey through addiction and recovery. Laura opens up about how a prescription for Ambien to treat postpartum insomnia quietly spiraled into a full-blown dependency—one she kept hidden behind the appearance of a picture-perfect, high-end Los Angeles lifestyle. From navigating divorce and separation to the lasting impact of an abusive stepfather, she shares the emotional toll, the stigma, and the deep isolation that came with addiction. Laura speaks honestly about the resistance, hesitation, and discrimination she faced while seeking help—and how, despite it all, she found the strength to go to rehab and transform her life. This episode is a raw, inspiring look at the power of truth, healing, and breaking the stigma.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistanceDonate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donatePod links |Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bacApple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… Follow us! Website | https://fthestigma.com/Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigmaTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigmaFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigmaX | https://x.com/fthestigmaSubscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigmaTags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, los angeles, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, robbery, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, author

In this episode of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with guest Dr. Kenny Clark, a physician who opens up about his personal journey through addiction, recovery, relapse, and healing. Kenny shares how he battled over a decade of substance use while navigating the intense demands of medical school, and how the loss of his father led him to cope through substances. After achieving more than 10 years of sobriety, a prescription for Xanax—meant to help with his sleep—triggered a relapse, sending him back into the chaos of addiction. In this raw conversation, Kenny reveals parts of his story he's never shared before, reflecting on the pain, lessons, and hope he's found in his continued path to recovery. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and serves as a beacon of inspiration for anyone facing the challenges of mental health or addiction.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistanceDonate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donatePod links |Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bacApple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… Follow us! Website | https://fthestigma.com/Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigmaTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigmaFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigmaX | https://x.com/fthestigmaSubscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigmaTags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, los angeles, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, robbery, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, neglect, doctor, physician #fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In this episode of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with guest Madisun to share her raw and deeply personal story of growing up in the foster care system. She opens up about the trauma she experienced, from the neglect and abuse by her father to the painful realities of living in group homes. Madisun speaks candidly about how addiction shaped parts of her journey and how difficult it was to navigate life without stability or safety. But her story doesn't end there—Madisun also shares the turning point of meeting her foster mom, a moment that brought love, healing, and a sense of belonging. Now, as an adult, she's using her experiences to help other foster kids feel seen, supported, and at home—wherever they may be. This episode is a testament to resilience, vulnerability, and the power of using your story to uplift others.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Madisun's Social Media |

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/madawgydawg/

FTS Medication Assistance Program |

Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance

Donate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, los angeles, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, robbery, addiction recovery, insanity, psychosis, story, foster, foster care, fostercare, kids, children, juvenile, juvi, neglect, abuse,

#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In this episode of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with guest Jimmy, known to many as "Jimmy Who Am You," for an open and refreshingly light-hearted conversation about his journey through addiction and into recovery. Jimmy, who has gained recognition for his ability to find humor in even the darkest parts of his past, shares his story of progressive addiction — starting with weed and alcohol, leading to cocaine, and ultimately, to his biggest battle: crystal meth. His addiction spiraled into a life of crime, fraud, homelessness, and even stealing from his own parents. It wasn’t until he ended up in jail that Jimmy was able to find a path toward sobriety. Today, he shares his incredible journey with almost 13 years of recovery under his belt, proving that hope, humor, and healing are possible no matter how far you fall. This is a powerful conversation about resilience, redemption, and the strength it takes to turn your life around.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.

Jimmy's Social Media |

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/whoamyou/Website | https://whoamyou.bigcartel.com/

Episode Highlights |

0:00 | Intro

2:11 | Laughing at our Past

4:18 | Beginning of Jimmy’s Addiction

13:42 | How he got hooked on Crystal Meth

18:59 | Reality of Homelessness & Addiction

26:58 | Reality check

35:03 | Romanizing drug use

38:28 | Mental Hospitals

42:12 | Recovery

54:05 | Jimmy’s thoughts of Medications & Big Pharma

FTS Medication Assistance Program |

Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance

Donate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate

Pod links |

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac

Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, los angeles, psychological, experience, spiritual, spirituality, alcoholic, robbery, addiction recovery, #fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

In this episode of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with guest Aaron Hall, also known as Sun Hat Kid, returns to the FTS Podcast after a year and a half to share how he's been coping with and owning his autism, OCD, and FASD diagnoses. He opens up about dealing with online criticism, what his struggles actually look like behind the scenes, and how he’s continued to grow through it all. Aaron also speaks honestly about his Christian faith and the shame he felt being the only Black person in an all-white church. This is a real, unfiltered conversation about identity, mental health, and breaking the stigma. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.Sun Hat Kid's Social Media |Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/sunhatkidWebsite | www.sunhatkid.shopTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@sunhatkid3FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistanceDonate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donatePod links |Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bacApple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… Follow us! Website | https://fthestigma.com/Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigmaTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigmaFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigmaX | https://x.com/fthestigmaSubscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

In this episode of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with guest Big Faith — a Christian rapper from Los Angeles with a story that’s as real as it gets.Growing up surrounded by street life, Big Faith was once caught up in the same cycle that traps so many. But after seeing the darkness and emptiness that came with it, he made a decision to shift his path. Fueled by a love for hip hop and a desire to make something meaningful out of his life, he now uses rap to share his testimony and help others find a way out — and back to God.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.Big Faith Social's |Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/mrbigfaith/YouTube |  @BigFaithOfficial  TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@mrbigfaithFTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistanceDonate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donatePod links |Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bacApple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… Follow us! Website | https://fthestigma.com/Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigmaTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigmaFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigmaX | https://x.com/fthestigmaSubscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

In this episode of F The Stigma Podcast, host Laisha Martinez sits down with guest Alex for an open and honest conversation about anxiety, addiction, recovery, and the impact of toxic relationships. Laisha and Alex share what triggers their anxiety, how they cope with it, and their personal perspectives on addiction and the recovery journey. They also dive into how toxic relationships shaped their experiences, the struggles they faced, and what ultimately led Laisha to break free from a harmful situation. This episode is a raw and relatable discussion on mental health, self-growth, and healing.🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that challenge stigma and bring awareness to mental health and addiction.Instagram |https://www.instagram.com/fukthestigma/https://www.instagram.com/nolongerlaisha/FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistanceDonate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donatePod links |Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bacApple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health. Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree… Follow us! Website | https://fthestigma.com/Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigmaTikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigmaFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigmaX | https://x.com/fthestigmaSubscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigmaTags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, loss, grief, addicts, recovery, addict, relationships, relationship, toxic, toxicity, nyc, new york, meetings, 12 step, #fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

We’re joined by Noah Thompson, the winner of American Idol Season 20, as he opens up about his journey from a small-town kid to a national sensation. Noah shares his deeply personal experience of growing up with both parents battling addiction, becoming a father at just 19 years old, and the whirlwind of competing on one of the biggest stages in the world. He also speaks candidly about the grief of losing his best friend, who struggled with mental health, and how that loss has shaped his perspective. Join us for this raw and heartfelt conversation as we dive into resilience, fatherhood, fame, and the impact of addiction and mental health struggles.

Noah's Social's |

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/noahthompsonmusic/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@noahthompsonmusic

Website - https://www.noahthompsonmusic.com/

Episode Highlights :

0:00 | Intro

1:13 | Noah Winning Season 20 of American Idol

3:44 | Starting Music

5:44 | Noah speaking on Addiction

11:01 | Parents Struggling with Addiction

15:21 | Losing his best friend

21:20 | Relating with Addicts

24:36 | Growing up too fast

34:05 | His purpose with as a musician

37:30 | Men’s Mental Health & Addiction Stigma

FTS Medication Assistance Program |

Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance

Donate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate

Pod links |

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac

Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, sobriety, relapse, treatment, americanidol, winner, american idol, loss, grief, addicts, noah thompson, recovery, musician, songwriter, singer, music,

#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness

We’re joined by Michelle Hammer, the founder of Schizophrenic NYC, a clothing and lifestyle brand dedicated to spreading awareness and breaking the stigma surrounding schizophrenia. Michelle shares her personal journey of being diagnosed, what her schizophrenic symptoms were, and how she navigated paranoia and hallucinations. She opens up about the realities of living with schizophrenia, the misconceptions that often surround the disorder, and how her brand is working to change the conversation. We dive deep into education, advocacy, and breaking the stigma—because mental health awareness matters.

Michelle's Social's |

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/schizophrenic.nyc/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@schizophrenic.nyc

Website - https://www.schizophrenic.nyc/

FTS Medication Assistance Program | Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance

Donate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate

Pod links |

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac

Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓

fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, jesus, god, judaism, epidemic, higherpower, relapse, sobriety, psych wards, psych, police, paranoia, hallucinations, hallucination

#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness #schizophrenia

FTS sat down with Lillo Brancato, best known for his roles in A Bronx Tale and The Sopranos. Joining us from Yonkers, New York, Lillo opens up about his struggles with addiction, the choices that led to his high-profile burglary case, and the tragic events that resulted in the death of an off-duty police officer—landing him behind bars for years. He shares raw, unfiltered insights on how addiction took control of his life, what he learned during his time in prison, and how he fought to rebuild himself after hitting rock bottom. Now focused on using his story to inspire others, he discusses his journey to recovery, the lessons he’s gained, and what he’s working on today.

Lillo Socials |

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lillo_brancato/

Podcast IG - https://www.instagram.com/thekultureproject_/

Podcast on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheKultureProjectEpisode

Highlights |

0:00 | Intro ; How Lillo would've defended his own case

4:08 | Lillo's thoughts on Addiction & Recovery14:28 | Lillo's upbringing

21:03 | Effects of Addiction to Crack Cocaine

33:25 | Struggling with Sobriety ; Physical & Psychological Dependency

39:48 | Prison Mentality

44:56 | Done Apologizing for Past Mistakes

51:45 | Do you have any regrets?

1:00:07 | Lillo's Sobriety

1:10:13 | Thought's on Treatment

FTS Medication Assistance Program |

Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance

Donate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate

Pod links |

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac

Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/

Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

The hosts of The Journey & FTS Podcast dive into the struggles of addiction, the relentless feeling of never having enough, and the deep grief that comes with losing loved ones—both those who have passed and those still alive but distant. We explore how vices fill the void, the emotional toll of addiction, and the complex ways grief manifests in our lives. Whether you're in recovery, have lost someone to addiction, or are battling your own demons, this conversation sheds light on the pain, longing, and search for healing.

Journey Podcast Socials |

Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/@TheJourneyPodcast_/

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/thejourneypodcast

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@thejourneypodcast__

Episode Highlights |

0:00 | Intro

00:17 | We’re all ‘At War’ with something

8:25 | How the Journey Podcast came out

22:29 | Grieving people who are still alive

40:08 | Being Discontent

51:32 | Is the grass greener on the other side?

11:11:34 | Jake

1:37:25 | F The Stigma

FTS Medication Assistance Program |

Apply today : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/rx-assistance

Donate to support! : https://www.fthestigma.com/pages/donate

Pod links |

Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/46dw6sl5t344p6PlBcykb3?si=35349a057d564bac

Apple Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/f-ck-the-stigma/id1691599224

Fuck the Stigma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes people shouldn’t be judged or labeled based on their mental health status. Whether you are struggling with an addiction or have been taking meds for a diagnosis, our community doesn’t judge and seeks to collectively end the stigma around mental health.

Our mission is to normalize mental health and mental illness as widespread, treatable, and acceptable. We do this by providing useful resources, improving access to services for those who need help, sharing stories, and building a community of young people who all agree…

Follow us!

Website | https://fthestigma.com/Instagram | https://instagram.com/fukthestigma

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@fthestigma

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma

X | https://x.com/fthestigma

Subscribe for more! | https://www.youtube.com/@fthestigma

Tags in this video ↓fthestigma, podcast, addiction, recovery, trauma, anxiety, depression, ptsd, mentalhealth, mentalillness, nonprofit, vulnerability, youth, healthandwellness, god, tattoos, relapse, sobriety, the journey podcast, relationship, relationships, grief, loss, content creators, motivation,

#fthestigma #podcast #addiction #overdoseawareness #nonprofit #mentalhealth #mentalillness