Addiction Help | The Freedom Model For Addictions

Are “Functional Alcoholics” Actually Drinkers Who Moderate?

Ryan A. Schwantes — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 14:55:04 +0000

The functional alcoholic. What does that term mean? Many of the terms we use to describe human behaviors have multiple meanings, and the functional alcoholic is one of them. The lack of a single universally agreed upon definition causes all manner of confusion when trying to build solutions for people with these kinds of drinking habits. The term, functional alcoholic is an example where a lack of…

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Brad Pitt is Drinking Again – and People are Losing their Minds

Ryan A. Schwantes — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 16:17:23 +0000

Brad Pitt resumes moderate drinking after 7 yrs AA abstinence. In this episode, we discuss the backlash & how it challenges powerlessness beliefs about addiction.

Is Moderation Possible for the “Real Alcoholic”?

Mark Scheeren — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 16:37:58 +0000

Few ideas have shaped and misled heavy drinkers and drug users more profoundly than the concept of “real alcoholic” and “real addict.” For nearly a century, millions of people have been taught that some individuals cross an invisible line after which they can no longer control their substance use. Chapters 2, 3, and 5 of the book Alcoholics Anonymous helped popularize this idea…

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Is Fear of Moderation Justified or Irrational?

Ryan A. Schwantes — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 15:02:31 +0000

Why does suggesting moderation of substance use anger many? Is it dangerous—or does it challenge recovery’s core belief that struggle means lifelong fear of substances?

Every Single Addiction Success Story Includes This…

Ryan A. Schwantes — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 14:45:52 +0000

People solve addiction by changing their mind. Mark & Michelle explain lasting solutions via beliefs, perspective & choice—and The Freedom Model’s direct path.

The Biggest Lie About Addiction: Disease or Moral Failure?

Ryan A. Schwantes — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 18:16:45 +0000

Addiction is NOT a Disease and There is A Solution! Society tells us there are only two ways to view addiction: it’s either a lifelong disease that renders you powerless or a moral failing caused by weak…

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The Burden of Misplaced Guilt

Ryan A. Schwantes — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 21:15:55 +0000

Guilt quietly destroys your self-worth and keeps you stuck. In this episode, Mark and Michelle show why letting go of guilt and shame is essential for breaking free and creating real change.

What About the People Who “Keep Coming Back?”

Ryan A. Schwantes — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 14:56:46 +0000

Mark & Michelle respect AA/recovery successes but challenge dogma to offer hope to millions still trapped in the addiction-recovery cycle.

Just Because You Don’t Stop, Doesn’t Mean You Can’t

Ryan A. Schwantes — Thu, 28 May 2026 13:48:49 +0000

Addiction is NOT a Disease and There is A Solution! If you’ve ever believed or said, “I just can’t stop,” this episode will change your entire perspective. Mark and Michelle discuss why people often mistake…

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Moving Beyond 12-Step Recovery! Are You Ready?

Ryan A. Schwantes — Wed, 13 May 2026 16:29:38 +0000

Mark & Michelle challenge the addiction industry, sharing research proving no one is powerless over substances, why fear traps people in 12-step recovery, and how true freedom is possible. Must-watch!