I've Got A Problem

Episodes

• Getting Sober After Cancer & Toxic Shame – Jesse CaseMar 24, 2026 · 1 hr 16 minComedian Jesse Case joins Forrest Shaw on I've Got A Problem to talk about addiction, drinking through cancer treatment, and the toxic shame that can drive self-destructive behavior. Jesse shares honest stories about getting diagnosed young, hiding how bad things had gotten, and the difficult process of quitting alcohol and learning how to face life without running from himself. It's raw, funny, and packed with real stories about alcohol, illness, isolation, anxiety, toxic shame, and learning how to stop running from yourself. 🎧 If you've ever felt stuck in a cycle, hidden how bad things really were, or wondered why "feeling okay" can be so hard to hold onto, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. ——————————————————————————————————————— Timestamps 00:00 – Intro & Meet Jesse Case 00:52 – The Dunkin' Drive-Thru Beef 03:15 – "You Look Like an Ex-Gambling Addict" 05:30 – Jesse vs. Cancer 08:40 – Getting Sick in L.A. 11:55 – Starting the Cancer Podcast 15:40 – Why Cancer Felt So Isolating 18:20 – Drinking During Treatment 21:50 – The DUI on Foot Story 25:35 – Waking Up in the Car 28:45 – Quitting After Thanksgiving 32:15 – The Shock of Early Sobriety 37:00 – Toxic Shame 44:45 – Why It All Goes in the Same Bucket 58:10 – The Worst Addiction 01:02:30 – Pathetic, Pride & Starting to Feel Okay ——————————————————————————————————————— Find Jesse Case Podcast : Probably Science https://www.probablyscience.com/about Podcast : Jesse Vs. Cancer https://jessevscancer.com/aboutPlayPlay Getting Sober After Cancer & Toxic Shame – Jesse Case
• Quitting Drinking at 24 (Before It Destroyed My Life) – Greg FitzsimmonsMar 17, 2026 · 55 minQuitting Drinking at 24 (Before It Destroyed My Life) – Greg Fitzsimmons | I've Got A ProblemComedian Greg Fitzsimmons joins Forrest Shaw on I've Got A Problem to talk about quitting drinking at 24 before alcohol destroyed his life. Greg shares stories about growing up around family alcoholism, early stand-up in Boston, fighting, crashing cars, and realizing he was heading down the same path as his father. It's raw, funny, and honest — packed with stories about comedy clubs, family history, denial, dating, and the strange clarity that can come from recognizing a drinking problem early. 🎧 If you've ever wondered whether you're catching a problem early or already sliding into something bigger, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly conversations about addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps 00:00 – Intro & Greg Fitzsimmons 02:05 – Greg's Drinking Problem 04:10 – The Only Time He Drank in 36 Years 06:20 – Comedy, Injuries & Damaged Comics 08:50 – Growing Up Around Alcoholism 11:30 – Quitting Drinking at 24 14:05 – Fighting, Crashing Cars & Warning Signs 17:10 – Early Stand-Up in Boston 20:15 – Dating, Drinking & Social Anxiety 23:30 – Weight Loss & Life on the Road 26:45 – Masturbation, Health & Comedy Tangents 30:40 – Why Young People Drink Less Now 34:30 – Parenting, Pot & Addiction Risk 39:15 – Advice That Changed Greg's Comedy 44:20 – One Word for Addiction 49:30 – Helping People Struggling with Addiction 54:00 – Final Thoughts Find Greg Fitzsimmons Website: https://gregfitzsimmons.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregfitzsimmons YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gregfitzsimmonscomedy Book: Dear Mrs. FitzsimmonsPlayPlay Quitting Drinking at 24 (Before It Destroyed My Life) – Greg Fitzsimmons
• Addiction, Touring & the Cost of Living Loud – Rob DukesMar 10, 2026 · 1 hr 11 minSinger Rob Dukes joins comedian Forrest Shaw on I've Got A Problem to talk about addiction, drinking culture in music, and the consequences of years spent living loud on the road. Rob shares honest stories about touring in the metal scene, the role alcohol plays in music culture, getting older in an industry built on excess, and the moment you realize something has to change. It's raw, funny, and brutally honest — packed with real stories about touring, drinking, aging, identity, and learning how to keep the music without destroying yourself in the process. 🎧 If you've ever wondered where the line is between partying and losing control, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly conversations about addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 03:05 – Meeting Rob Dukes 06:20 – Life on the Road 10:15 – Drinking Culture in Metal 14:30 – Touring Chaos Stories 18:10 – When the Party Never Stops 22:05 – Aging in a Young Music Scene 26:40 – Looking Back at the Lifestyle 31:15 – Music, Identity & Ego 36:30 – Consequences Catching Up 41:20 – Getting Honest About Addiction 46:10 – Mental Health & Perspective 51:05 – Lessons From the Road 56:40 – What Actually Matters Now 01:02:30 – Final Thoughts Find Rob Dukes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rob_dukes/ Exodus: https://www.instagram.com/exodusbandofficial/ Generation Kill: https://www.instagram.com/generationkillband/PlayPlay Addiction, Touring & the Cost of Living Loud – Rob Dukes
• One Year Later: Gambling, Weight Loss & Starting Over – Forrest ShawMar 3, 2026 · 18 minForrest marks one year of the podcast with a solo episode about gambling, relapse cycles, weight loss, and what real progress actually looks like. He reflects on 52 weeks of recording, losing 88 pounds, rebuilding his life again, the exhaustion of lying during addiction, and why staying connected keeps him out of the cave. It's honest, reflective, and funny — packed with real talk about gambling, shame, productivity, denial, childhood patterns, comedy, and the relief of not having to hide anymore. 🎧 If you're rebuilding, starting over (again), or trying to claw your way out of isolation, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – 52 Episodes Later 01:50 – Looking at Old Footage 04:15 – Not Seeing Yourself Clearly 06:30 – Why I Started This Podcast 09:05 – Two-Thirds Stay Clean? 12:10 – In and Out of Gambling 14:45 – 88 Pounds Down 17:00 – The Exhaustion of Lying 19:20 – Living in the Cave 22:00 – Childhood Gambling Memories 25:40 – Conservative vs Reckless Kids 29:10 – 40+ Years of Gambling 32:30 – Being of Service 35:10 – Gratitude & Growth 38:40 – Crisis Resources & Final ThoughtsPlayPlay One Year Later: Gambling, Weight Loss & Starting Over – Forrest Shaw
• When Addiction Feels Fun… Until It Isn't – Al JacksonFeb 24, 2026 · 56 minComedian and TV host Al Jackson joins Forrest to talk addiction, drinking, memory loss, mental health, and the long tail of consequences that show up years later. They get into being young and reckless, the "it's still fun" lie, friends who stopped early, identity wrapped around partying, and how addiction mirrors everything from gambling to political cult thinking. It's raw, funny, and reflective — packed with real stories about drinking, denial, aging, regret, nostalgia, social media addiction, and learning how to live without numbing out. 🎧 If you've ever looked back at your 20s and thought "that was fun"… but also paid for it later, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 02:25 – Growing Older, Drinking Harder 04:50 – Why Some People Quit at 18 07:30 – Paying for DUIs Years Later 09:05 – "It Was Fun Back Then" 11:00 – Damage You Can't Undo 13:10 – Gambling vs Drinking 15:30 – Not Remembering Your Life 18:15 – Getting Pulled Over at LAX 21:40 – Comedy Clubs & Old Stories 23:25 – Addiction and Political Cults 26:00 – Losing Family Over Beliefs 28:45 – Social Media Addiction 31:10 – Mental Health & What Americans Believe 36:20 – Vaccines, Rage & Generations 42:00 – Helping Friends Get Sober 49:10 – Being of Service & Identity 🎙️ Find Al Jackson : ▶️ YouTube: @FriendsfromWorkshow https://www.youtube.com/@friendsfromworkshow ▶️ YouTube: AlJackson https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5H_JfxlfKzuy0SJtAEMGXQ 📸 Instagram: aljacksonig https://www.instagram.com/aljacksonig/?hl=enPlayPlay When Addiction Feels Fun… Until It Isn't – Al Jackson
• When Addiction Is Really About Validation – Dan DuvallFeb 17, 2026 · 56 minComedian Dan Duvall joins Forrest to talk addiction, drinking, mental health, and the underlying need for validation that fueled years of destructive behavior. They get into moving goalposts, "I'll quit tomorrow" thinking, addictive patterns beyond substances, and learning how to slow down and make intentional choices for the first time. It's raw, funny, and deeply honest — packed with real stories about denial, shame, creativity, gambling, codependency, and what it actually means to grow up and participate in your own life without numbing out. 🎧 If you've ever chased approval, justified bad decisions, or felt stuck repeating the same patterns — this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro & Meet Dan Duvall 01:02 – "What's Your Problem?" 03:30 – Moving the Goalposts 05:21 – When One Thing Takes Over 06:56 – Shame, Identity & Early Recovery 08:45 – Not Owing Anyone an Explanation 10:50 – Addiction Beyond Substances 13:00 – Gambling Everywhere Now 15:34 – Losing Track of Money 18:08 – Everything Has a Price Tag 21:45 – Watching Others as Motivation 24:40 – Addiction Is the Brain 26:50 – Work, Exercise & Obsession 29:38 – The Real Problem Beneath It All 34:27 – Helping Others Helps You 39:32 – "I'll Quit Tomorrow" Thinking 46:21 – One Word for Addiction / One for Recovery 🎙️ Find Dan Duvall : ▶️ YouTube: @danduvallcomedy https://www.youtube.com/@DanDuvallComedy 📸 Instagram: @danduvallcomedy https://www.instagram.com/danduvallcomedy/ 👉 FB : @danduvallcomedy https://www.facebook.com/DanDuvallComedy/PlayPlay When Addiction Is Really About Validation – Dan Duvall
• Living in Fantasy: Addiction, Money & Reality – Kelly EbsaryFeb 10, 2026 · 50 minActor and comedian Kelly Ebsary joins Forrest to talk addiction, drinking, mental health, family systems, and the role fantasy plays in keeping destructive patterns alive. They get into growing up around alcohol, surviving trauma, compulsive behaviors around money and spending, and the slow process of learning boundaries, accountability, and self-trust. It's raw, funny, and deeply honest — packed with real stories about alcohol, denial, fantasy thinking, grief, financial chaos, creativity, and what it takes to build a grounded life without numbing out. 🎧 If you've ever escaped into fantasy, struggled with money or relationships, or felt stuck replaying the same patterns — this episode hits close to home and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro & Meeting Kelly Ebsary 01:08 – "Here's Everything Wrong With Me" 03:30 – Comedy Camp Out & Desert Life 05:55 – Getting Sick After 9/11 08:20 – Leaving Los Angeles to Heal 10:11 – Growing Up Around Alcohol 12:50 – Isolation, Community & Loss 15:40 – Addiction and Money Problems 18:10 – Property Taxes & Losing the Family Home 21:16 – Why Credit Cards Don't Feel Real 24:20 – Gambling, Cash & Fantasy Thinking 27:34 – You Can't Make Someone Change 31:10 – Spending vs Saving Psychology 33:58 – Fantasy as the Core Addiction 37:03 – A Small Moment That Meant Everything 40:38 – No Choice Inside Addiction 43:51 – One Word for Recovery 46:00 – Worst Advice & Final MessagePlayPlay Living in Fantasy: Addiction, Money & Reality – Kelly Ebsary
• Falling Off The Bar Stool and Finding Clarity – Tom RhodesFeb 3, 2026 · 58 minComedian Tom Rhodes joins Forrest to talk addiction, drinking, mental health, creativity, and the long road from excess to clarity. They get into growing up around alcohol, the romanticized "drunk artist" myth, dangerous party years, loss, grief, and the moment Tom finally saw himself clearly and decided to change. It's raw, thoughtful, and funny — packed with real stories about alcohol, denial, creativity, regret, love, and learning how much more is possible when you stop numbing out. 🎧 If you've ever believed chaos was part of who you are, or wondered who you might be without it, this episode will hit deep and still make you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro & Meet Tom Rhodes 01:22 – Growing Up Around Drinking 02:30 – Wanting to Be "Cool" Like Your Heroes 03:47 – Moving to Amsterdam to Slow Down 05:15 – Loss, Grief & Drinking to Numb 06:41 – The Night Everything Changed 08:20 – Seeing Yourself Clearly 11:22 – Regret, Shame & Sensitivity 13:03 – Cringing at Who You Used to Be 15:22 – Social Media & Modern 'Assholishness' 18:49 – Dangerous Party Years 21:44 – What Felt Normal But Wasn't 23:29 – Love as a Catalyst for Change 28:22 – The Lie That It Helps Creativity 41:22 – One Song That Describes Addiction 45:10 – Why Clarity Is Its Own Drug 51:50 – Advice for Anyone Still Struggling 🎙️ Find Tom Rhodes : 🔗 Website: https://www.tomrhodes.net 📸 Instagram: @_tomrhodes https://www.instagram.com/_tomrhodes/ 👉 TikTok : @tomrhodescomedy https://www.tiktok.com/@tomrhodescomedy ▶️ YouTube: @kingofhaha https://www.youtube.com/user/kingofhahaPlayPlay Falling Off The Bar Stool and Finding Clarity – Tom Rhodes
• When Addiction Feels Normal: Growing Up Around Alcohol – Cort McCownJan 27, 2026 · 55 minComedian and actor Cort McCown joins Forrest to talk addiction, drinking, mental health, and growing up in an environment where chaos felt normal. They get into starting young, family dynamics, fear, the myth of the "drunk artist," and how addiction slowly became a way of coping rather than a choice. It's raw, funny, and packed with real stories about alcohol, denial, isolation, creativity, relationships, and learning how to live comfortably in your own skin without numbing out. 🎧 If you grew up around addiction, normalized unhealthy behavior, or have ever wondered why chaos felt familiar — this episode hits close to home and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro & Meet Cort McCown 01:13 – Growing Up Around Alcohol 03:07 – The "Geographic Fix" Myth 04:50 – Remembering 9/11 in Early Recovery 07:09 – Fear as a Driving Force 08:45 – Comedy, Bars & Being Around It 10:40 – Pain on the Inside vs the Outside 12:50 – Why Moderation Never Worked 15:11 – Dating & Not Drinking 18:45 – Responsibility Changes Everything 21:22 – The Drunk Artist Myth 23:39 – Starting Young & Losing Control 27:50 – Barely Getting Through School 30:01 – From Acting to Stand-Up 33:36 – Isolation and Addiction 41:03 – "I'll Worry About It Tomorrow" 46:36 – One Word for Addiction / One for Recovery 🎙️ Find Cort McCown: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cortmccown/ ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/cortmccowncomedyPlayPlay When Addiction Feels Normal: Growing Up Around Alcohol – Cort McCown
• Wants vs NeedsJan 20, 2026 · 16 minForrest jumps on for a short solo episode to talk gambling, money, addiction, and the difference between what you want and what you actually need. Sparked by expensive dental work, he reflects on fantasy thinking, chasing jackpots, financial denial, and how addiction convinces you everything will be fixed "once this one thing works out." It's raw, funny, and honest — packed with real talk about gambling, money stress, aging, mental health, and learning to choose stability over ego. 🎧 If you've ever justified risky decisions, chased a financial fantasy, or struggled to tell the difference between wants and needs, this episode will hit close to home and still make you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro & Dental Bills 02:00 – Wants vs Needs 05:00 – Gambling Fantasy Thinking 09:30 – Closing PerspectivePlayPlay Wants vs Needs
• Disappearing for Days: When Addiction Feels Normal - Chad AndersonJan 13, 2026 · 1 hrComedian Chad Anderson joins Forrest to talk addiction, drinking, cocaine, mental health, and the slow creep of chaos becoming normal. They get into small-town drinking culture, disappearing for entire weekends, using "I'm young" as an excuse, and the moments that finally forced him to confront how bad things had gotten. It's raw, funny, and packed with real stories about alcohol, cocaine, denial, broken trust, homelessness, terrifying situations, and what it actually takes to rebuild a life after addiction. 🎧 If you've ever minimized your drinking, vanished on people who love you, or told yourself you're "fine" when you're clearly not — this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro & Meet Chad Anderson 00:56 – "What's Your Problem?" 02:25 – Booze, Then Cocaine, Then Everything 03:49 – Eight Years Clean, Then Weed Comes Back 05:46 – First Time Getting High (Grade Seven) 07:09 – Small-Town Drinking Culture 08:45 – Why Alcohol Gets a Free Pass 09:49 – Being Young as an Excuse 11:58 – Fear of Losing Friends 13:59 – Early Recovery Oversharing 18:37 – Disappearing for Days Became Normal 20:22 – Losing the Relationship That Mattered 23:02 – Crack Apartment & Needle Reality Check 25:55 – Arm Through the Glass Door 42:09 – One Word for Addiction / One for Recovery 55:06 – Advice: get busy and do the work 🎙️ Find Chad Anderson : 🔗 Website: www.chadanderson.net 📸 Instagram: @Chadillmatic Facebook: Chad AndersonPlayPlay Disappearing for Days: When Addiction Feels Normal - Chad Anderson
• Christmas Rock Bottom, Free Hot Dogs & Getting Sober – J.F. HarrisJan 6, 2026 · 1 hr 12 minComedian J.F. Harris joins Forrest to talk addiction, alcohol, sobriety, mental health, and the Christmas Eve spiral that finally forced him to stop drinking. They get into drinking without an off-switch, idolizing the "drunk artist" myth, free hot dogs with every pitcher, and the moment he realized the life he was living wasn't the one he wanted. It's raw, hilarious, and packed with real stories about alcohol, denial, shame, family holidays, rebuilding self-worth, and learning how to show up for life without numbing out. 🎧 If you've ever told yourself "I'll stop tomorrow," romanticized drinking, or wondered if life actually gets better without it — this episode will hit hard and still make you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro & Reintroducing J.F. Harris 02:10 – "What's Your Problem?" 04:45 – Getting Sober on Christmas Day 07:30 – Drinking Without an Off Switch 10:45 – Free Hot Dogs With Every Pitcher 13:40 – The Hot Bus From Hell 16:20 – CVS Gift Cards & Rock Bottom 19:00 – Lying on the Basement Couch 21:45 – "This Is Not the Life I Want" 25:10 – Why Quitting "For a Bit" Never Works 28:30 – Becoming a Different Person 32:00 – Comedy, Status & Letting Go 36:10 – Food, Weight & Transferring Addictions 41:15 – What People Get Wrong About Addiction 46:30 – Pride, Purpose & Showing Up 52:10 – One Word for Addiction, One for Recovery 🎙️ Find J.F. Harris: 🔗 Website: https://www.jfharris.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejfharris/?hl=en ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-VSmTEtDHNZ1F9ytDTDx1APlayPlay Christmas Rock Bottom, Free Hot Dogs & Getting Sober – J.F. Harris
• Holidays, Gratitude & the Dark Side of AddictionDec 23, 2025 · 5 minForrest closes out the year with a short solo episode reflecting on gratitude, the holidays, and what addiction can look like when it's left unchecked. He talks honestly about family damage, accountability, compassion, and the devastating consequences that addiction can have — regardless of money, fame, or resources. It's a raw, sincere message about staying vigilant, reaching out, helping others when you can, and remembering that recovery requires ownership, not excuses. 🎧 If the holidays bring up heavy feelings, guilt, fear, or concern about yourself or someone you love, this episode is a grounding reminder that you're not alone — and that action still matters. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Gratitude & Holiday Thanks 02:10 – When Addiction Turns Tragic 04:25 – Final Holiday MessagePlayPlay Holidays, Gratitude & the Dark Side of Addiction
• Why Addiction Happens & How the Brain Heals – Dr. Suzette GlasnerDec 16, 2025 · 1 hr 16 minDr. Suzette Glasner joins Forrest to break down the science of addiction — why some people get hooked and others don't, what actually happens in the brain during cravings, and how recovery rewires the circuits that chronic use destroys. They dig into genetics, trauma, dopamine, stress pathways, gambling triggers, access, professional athletes, and why the brain can heal more than most people think. It's raw, smart, and packed with real explanations about addiction, cravings, relapse risk, emotional regulation, and why time, behavior change, and biology all work together in recovery. 🎧 If you've ever wondered why you crave, slip, spiral, or struggle — this episode makes the science finally make sense. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 02:25 – Introducing Dr. Suzette Glasner? 04:30 – "What's Your Problem?" 06:35 – Why Scientists Need Better Platforms 07:55 – The Otani Gambling Scandal Pops Up 09:20 – What Actually Happens in the Brain During Addiction 12:30 – Dopamine, Memories & Chasing the First High 14:52 – Early Gambling & Childhood Reinforcement 17:20 – Social Aspect vs. Alone Behavior 19:05 – Is Addiction an Illness or a Choice? 22:40 – Genetics, Trauma & Why Some People Become Addicted 26:30 – Teen Brains, Risk Windows & Early Use 30:05 – Forrest's Childhood Stories (Pot Brownie Edition) 32:45 – Stress Pathways & Why They Increase Vulnerability 38:40 – What Craving Feels Like in the Brain 43:15 – Money, Cash & Gambling Triggers 47:20 – Can the Brain Heal After Addiction? 51:50 – Time, Neural Rewiring & Building New Pathways 55:20 – Dopamine vs. Serotonin (and Why Both Matter) 58:10 – Gambling in the NBA & Athlete Vulnerability 1:04:10 – Treating Gambling for High-Access Populations 1:08:05 – Legalized Sports Betting & Public Health Risks 1:13:10 – Recovery Outcomes & Why There's Real Hope 🎙️ Find Dr. Suzette Glasner: 🔗 Website: https://www.drglasner.com/ ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drglasner 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drglasner/ 👉 Book : Addiciton : What Everyone Needs To KnowPlayPlay Why Addiction Happens & How the Brain Heals – Dr. Suzette Glasner
• Hurricanes, Hangovers & Hard Truths – Gwen FilosaDec 10, 2025 · 1 hr 3 minPulitzer Prize–winning journalist and comedian Gwen Filosa joins Forrest to talk alcoholism, cocaine, recovery, identity, and the messy, hilarious reality of rebuilding your life when your mind refuses to shut up. They dive into New Orleans drinking culture, addiction in Key West, obsessive thinking, dating disasters, internalized homophobia, and what it actually feels like to stay sober one stubborn day at a time. It's honest, funny, and packed with real stories about booze, coke, self-doubt, relapse thinking, bad decisions, better choices, and the relentless nature of addiction. 🎧 If you're queer, questioning, sober, struggling, or just someone with a brain that won't shut up, this episode will absolutely hit you. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 04:23 – Meet Gwen Filosa 05:09 – "My Only Trigger Is Reality" 06:42 – Why Good Decisions Are Hard 08:31 – Drinking in Key West & New Orleans 10:59 – What Alcohol Really Did for Her 12:37 – Gambling vs Drinking Consequences 14:45 – Hitting Bottom in New Orleans 17:13 – Staying Sober in a Drinking Culture 19:19 – Relationships, Boundaries & Patterns 22:29 – Giving Yourself Credit 24:54 – Being Gay, Identity & Self-Acceptance 33:04 – Dating in Key West 43:29 – Lightning Questions Begin 46:40 – Dumbest Excuses We Tell Ourselves 56:11 – Advice for Anyone Struggling 🎙️ Find Gwen Filosa: 🔗 Substack: https://gwenfilosa.substack.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gwenfilosamedia 👉 Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/keywestgwen/PlayPlay Hurricanes, Hangovers & Hard Truths – Gwen Filosa
• Holiday Triggers, Food Addiction & Birthday ReflectionsDec 2, 2025 · 21 minForrest jumps in for a quick episode to talk about turning 53, holiday overwhelm, and why this time of year brings out every addiction trigger imaginable — drinking, gambling, emotional eating, family pressure, and old habits that sneak back in when you're not paying attention. He breaks down why the holidays hit so hard, how to build an exit plan before things get messy, and why sugar might actually be the most dangerous drug in your house. It's short, honest, and surprisingly funny for an episode about spiraling at Thanksgiving. 🎧 If the holidays crank up your cravings, stress, or self-destruction meter, this one will make you feel seen (and a little less nuts). 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 02:30 – Listener Call: Missed Messages 05:12 – Holiday Triggers: Drinking, Gambling & Overwhelm 08:10 – Thanksgiving Food Spiral & Sugar as a Drug 11:45 – Family Chaos, Pressure & Coping Strategies 14:30 – Dog Training, Anxiety & Removing Yourself 16:55 – Staying Steady Through the HolidaysPlayPlay Holiday Triggers, Food Addiction & Birthday Reflections
• On Stage & Out of Control — Kristin KeyNov 25, 2025 · 49 minComedian Kristin Key joins Forrest to talk alcohol abuse, hidden struggles, recovery, mental health, and the moment she realized she couldn't joke her way out of it anymore. They get into "rock bottoms" that don't look dramatic from the outside, performing while impaired, concealing the truth from friends, and the strange mental gymnastics you do before finally admitting something isn't right. It's raw, funny, and full of real stories about denial, shame spirals, setbacks, and rebuilding a life that doesn't revolve around numbing out or pretending everything's fine. 🎧 If you're trying to cut back, reevaluate your relationship with substances, or just understand how hard honesty can be, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Kristin Key 03:38 Struggles with Alcoholism 05:20 Transitioning to Sobriety 10:40 The Impact of Sobriety on Comedy 15:01 Finding Authenticity in Performance 18:31 Navigating Relationships in Sobriety 22:15 Emotional Rock Bottom and Recovery 32:14 The Journey to Sobriety and Acceptance 33:32 Navigating Relationships and Recovery 35:06 The Impact of COVID-19 on Lives 37:09 Reflections on Addiction and Recovery 45:33 Advice and Insights for Those Struggling 49:05 Introduction and Mental Health Awareness 49:33 Outro 🎙️ Find Kristin Key: 🔗 Website: https://kristinkey.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekristinkey/ ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/kristinkeycomedy 👉 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@kristinkeycomedy 🎧 Podcast: Kristin Knows BlankPlayPlay On Stage & Out of Control — Kristin Key
• Sparkling Merlot & Rock Bottoms – Hannah VeldhoenNov 18, 2025 · 1 hr 11 minComedian Hannah Veldhoen joins Forrest to talk addiction, drinking, cocaine, recovery, mental health, and the brutally honest moment that pushed her into sobriety. They get into drinking culture, doing drugs to "feel cool," quitting for real, and why honesty is the only thing that actually works. It's raw, funny, and packed with real stories about alcohol, cocaine, relapse, AA, and rebuilding your life without numbing out. 🎧 If you're sober, sober-curious, or stuck in the cycle, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Hannah Veldhoen 04:27 Exploring Mental Health and Comedy 07:32 Addiction: A Personal Journey 13:24 The Allure and Reality of Cocaine 18:44 Romanticizing Addiction and Recovery 22:52 The Deceptive Nature of Alcohol and Wine 24:51 The Sparkling Merlot Obsession 26:30 Drinking Culture in Europe 27:54 Life in Different Cities 29:02 The Party Scene in Australia and Vegas 34:49 Turning Point: The Decision to Quit 38:11 The Journey to Sobriety 41:39 Rebuilding Trust After Addiction 42:52 Encouragement and Support in Recovery 48:19 The Role of Honesty in Recovery 49:08 Music and Addiction: A Personal Connection 54:31 Romanticizing Addiction: The Artist's Struggle 58:18 Confronting the Worst Addictions 01:07:53 Advice for Those Struggling with Addiction 01:11:08 Introduction and Acknowledgments 01:11:29 Mental Health Awareness and Resources 01:11:33 Outro 🎙️ Find Hannah Veldhoen: 🔗 Website: https://www.hannahveldhoen.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahveldhoen ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hannahveldhoen 🎧 Podcast: Menty BreakyPlayPlay Sparkling Merlot & Rock Bottoms – Hannah Veldhoen
• Relationships & Addiction – Justin FosterNov 11, 2025 · 55 minThis week, Forrest is joined by comedian Justin Foster to dive into the world of relationships and addiction — from how soon to tell someone you're in recovery, to the mental gymnastics of dating while sober. It's a raw, honest, and funny look at the intersection of love, sobriety, and self-awareness — packed with real stories, humor, and insights from two comedians who have seen it all. 🎧 If you've ever wondered how addiction impacts relationships, or just want to laugh through some uncomfortable truths, this episode's for you. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly conversations about addiction, recovery, and mental health — all told through the lens of comedy and real life. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 04:59 Revisiting Past Experiences and Growth 08:21 Navigating Relationships and Addiction 15:59 Understanding the Addict Brain in Relationships 22:28 Working in Recovery: Bartending and Sobriety 24:55 Navigating Sobriety in Social Settings 25:56 The Journey of Sobriety: Reflections and Milestones 28:46 Letting Go: The Freedom of Rebuilding Life 31:54 Building a Life Beyond Addiction 32:52 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights and Humor 41:20 Understanding the Depth of Addiction 46:13 Hope and Recovery: A New Perspective 49:16 Helping Others: The Joy of Recovery 52:05 Final Thoughts: Seeking Help and Community 53:37 Acknowledgments 54:07 Mental Health Resources and Support 🎙️ Find Justin Foster: 🔗 Website: https://justincomic.weebly.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejustinfoster/ ▶️ YouTube: @thejustinfoster 🎧 Podcast: Foster The PodcastPlayPlay Relationships & Addiction – Justin Foster
• The NBA, The Mob & My Gambling BrainNov 4, 2025 · 46 minForrest breaks down the wild world of sports gambling — from NBA prop-bet scandals to Chauncey Billups' alleged mob-run poker games — through the lens of someone who lived it. As a former gambling addict, he explains why these scandals make sense, how betting apps are wrecking people, and why celebrities pushing sportsbooks is doing real damage. It's fast, honest, and funny: addiction, prop bets, betting apps, money issues, chasing losses, and the dark side of gambling culture — all in one solo episode. 🎧 If gambling, sports betting, or addiction has touched your life, this episode hits hard. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, mental health, recovery, and real-life chaos. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 04:06 Upcoming Shows and Events 05:57 Gambling in the News 21:13 The Impact of Celebrity Endorsements in Gambling 24:26 The Influence of Celebrity Endorsements in Gambling 30:55 The Unregulated Nature of Online Gambling 36:59 Personal Reflections on Money and Gambling Addiction 46:45 OutroPlayPlay The NBA, The Mob & My Gambling Brain
• The CIA, The Strip Clubs & Team USA – Mike GlazerOct 28, 2025 · 1 hr 12 minComedian Mike Glazer joins Forrest for one of the wildest and most honest episodes yet — from smoking weed with Snoop Dogg to selling opium in Missouri, piercing himself during a blackout, and somehow ending up trying out for Team USA roller hockey. Now over 100 days sober, Mike opens up about addiction, lying to yourself, weed culture, ego, losing his identity, ice cream binges, and what it's like to rebuild your life while still performing in comedy clubs that are basically bars with spotlights. They dig into drugs, alcohol, mushrooms, weed fame, strip-club sponsorships, weight struggles, trauma, and the strange path that led him from the rink to the stage. It's raw, funny, and full of insane true stories — all grounded in real recovery. 🎧 If you've battled addiction or love a "how is this even real?" life story, this episode is for you. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes about addiction, recovery, mental health, and the chaos of being human. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Dog Talk 04:34 Meet Mike Glazer: Comedian and Storyteller 06:04 Struggles with Addiction and Honesty 08:58 Navigating Sobriety and Comedy 12:04 Alaska: A Double-Edged Sword for Addicts 14:02 Gambling Addiction and Its Impact 16:51 Food Addiction and Body Image 19:52 The Ozempic Era and Celebrity Culture 22:54 Reflections on Addiction in Comedy 26:05 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth 38:11 The Roller Hockey Journey and Substance Use 43:03 From Partying to Olympic Dreams 44:39 Reflections on Sobriety and Regret 46:22 The Struggles of Recovery and Sugar Addiction 51:28 Culinary Adventures and Future Travels 54:57 Finding Identity in Recovery and Comedy 01:00:45 The Transition from Athlete to Comedian 01:03:33 Insights on Addiction and Recovery 🎙️ Find Mike Glazer: 👉 TikTok : Under The Denver Airport : https://www.tiktok.com/@underthedenverairport 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glazerboohoohoo ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Glazerboohoohoo 👉 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@glazerjokesPlayPlay The CIA, The Strip Clubs & Team USA – Mike Glazer
• Alcohol, Shame & Small Wins - Brittany LysengOct 21, 2025 · 1 hr 7 minComedian Brittany Lyseng joins Forrest to talk booze, denial, and trying to rebuild your life one small win at a time. From being the "fun face" people send shots to onstage, to the one drink that instantly reminded her why she quit, Brittany breaks down alcohol, shame, and figuring out recovery without a program. They get into bad advice ("just drink a little every night"), learning to take real compliments, and what it feels like to quietly fix your life without labels or perfection. 🎧 If you've been "fun on the outside, falling apart on the inside," or you've quit drinking and wondered who you even are now, you'll love this one. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes about addiction, recovery, mental health, and the chaos of being human. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Brittany Lyseng 06:48 Brittany's Journey to Sobriety 10:39 The Realization of a Problem 14:36 The Impact of Environment on Drinking 18:49 Facing Reality and Guilt 22:50 The Challenge of Sobriety 26:41 Family Dynamics and Sobriety 29:24 Cultural Attitudes Towards Drinking 33:23 The Blue Collar Drinking Culture 35:10 Life at the Construction Site 35:31 Dolphins and Their Healing Powers 37:29 The Hangover Cure: Diving Deep 38:39 The Drug Test Dilemma 40:40 Cocaine vs. Marijuana: The Drug Testing Paradox 41:50 The History of Alcohol in Aviation 43:59 Romanticizing Addiction 44:59 Therapeutic Storytelling in Recovery 48:03 Finding Your Own Path in Recovery 48:24 The Impact of Small Acknowledgments 49:52 The Role of Compliments in Recovery 51:06 Music and Addiction 53:41 Justifying Addiction 55:16 The Scourge of Fentanyl 57:33 The Wild World of PCP 59:18 Hope and Recovery 59:25 Proud Moments in Recovery 01:01:31 Worst Advice During Struggles 01:02:48 Encouragement for Those Struggling 01:04:12 Introduction and Mental Health Awareness 01:07:03 Global Crisis Hotlines Overview 01:07:10 Outro 🎙️ Find Brittany Lyseng: 🔗 Website: https://www.brittanylyseng.com/shows 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brittanythecomedian 👉 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@brittanylysengPlayPlay Alcohol, Shame & Small Wins - Brittany Lyseng
• Drinking, Ego & All the Dumb Stuff We Did - Des BishopOct 14, 2025 · 1 hr 17 minComedian Des Bishop joins Forrest to talk addiction, drinking, drugs, ego, recovery, and the emotional work that comes after you stop. They get into stopping young, growing up in a recovery household, blackouts, denial, trying to control the uncontrollable, and why he still considers himself an addict 30 years later. They also talk about identity, self-sabotage, trauma, emotional resilience, aging, grief, parenting, regret, and the weird psychological gymnastics comedians do to cope with real life when the jokes run out. 🎧 If you've ever tried to outrun your own brain — or wondered why change feels so damn hard — this episode is for you. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Dez Bishop 06:50 Cultural Differences in Comedy 09:55 Des Bishop's Journey with Addiction 12:51 The Complexity of Recovery 15:48 The Evolution of Recovery Language 18:51 Generational Perspectives on Resilience 21:56 Navigating the Comedy Industry 24:43 The Impact of Ego in Comedy 27:48 The Importance of Self-Forgetfulness 30:57 Grounding in the Face of Success 33:55 The Hidden Struggles of Gambling Addiction 38:26 Understanding Addiction and Its Impact 40:29 Personal Journeys: Early Experiences with Addiction 45:20 Family Influence and Recovery 51:04 The Role of Support Systems in Recovery 57:02 Reflections on Cancer and Life Decisions 01:05:30 Advice for Those Struggling with Addiction 01:15:15 Introduction and Guest Appreciation 01:15:15 Mental Health Resources and Support 01:17:05 Finding the Right Help 01:17:43 New Chapter59:25 Proud Moments in Recovery 01:01:31 Worst Advice During Struggles 01:02:48 Encouragement for Those Struggling 01:04:12 Introduction and Mental Health Awareness 01:07:03 Global Crisis Hotlines Overview 01:07:10 Outro 🎙️ Find Des Bishop: 🔗 Website: https://www.desbishop.net/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desbishop 👉 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@desbishop5PlayPlay Drinking, Ego & All the Dumb Stuff We Did - Des Bishop
• Addiction, Policy & Why the System's Broken - Blaise MarkovichOct 7, 2025 · 1 hrBusiness and psychology researcher Blaise Markovich joins Forrest to talk addiction, public policy, mental health, harm reduction, and the systems that fail people long before they "hit bottom." They get into bad policy, the war on drugs mindset, privatized rehab, insurance nightmares, decriminalization, GLP-1 medications, and why treatment access depends more on politics and profit than human need. They also dive into dopamine, gambling, gaming addiction, brain science, deep-brain stimulation, future tech, self-control, trauma, and how the human brain is being rewired by phones, apps, and modern life. It's a raw, thoughtful conversation about the forces shaping addiction today — and what real support could actually look like. 🎧 If you've ever battled addiction, loved someone who's struggling, or just wondered why the system feels impossible, this episode is for you. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 11:19 The State of Mental Health and Addiction Policy 19:49 Decriminalization and Legalization of Drugs 30:53 Future Policy Changes for Addiction Support 36:06 The Struggle of Long-Term Thinking in Addiction 38:37 Exploring GLP-1 and Its Impact on Addiction 44:04 Deep Brain Stimulation: A New Frontier in Treatment 49:21 The Future of Addiction Treatment and Aftercare 56:56 Finding What Works: Personalizing Recovery 58:12 The Value of Life Experience in Giving Advice 59:26 Crisis Support and Resources 01:00:46 OutroPlayPlay Addiction, Policy & Why the System's Broken - Blaise Markovich
• Painkillers, Mushrooms & All the Ways We Lie to Ourselves - Jake MarinSep 30, 2025 · 1 hr 20 minComedian and writer Jake Marin joins Forrest to talk addiction, painkillers, weed, mushrooms, vaping, gambling, chronic pain, and the exhausting mental gymnastics of convincing yourself "this one doesn't count." They get into back injuries, pills in college, relapses, lying to yourself, shrinking your world, and the moment Jake finally realized he's just better when he's fully sober. They also talk about depression, isolation, pain management, fantasy football obsession, community, friendship, and why making your world bigger is the only way out of the cycle. It's raw, honest, funny, and painfully relatable — especially if you've ever tried to fix one problem by creating a brand new one. 🎧 If you've ever said "I don't have a problem… unless you count THIS," this episode is going to land. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Jake Marin 05:06 Jake's Journey with Addiction 07:08 Understanding Addiction and Sobriety 10:38 The Struggles of Addiction and Coping Mechanisms 14:42 The Impact of Relationships on Recovery 17:59 Food and Other Addictions 19:37 The Role of Gambling in Addiction 24:41 Reflections on Sports and Injuries 31:35 The Importance of Community in Recovery 34:12 Small Actions, Big Changes 36:42 Building Relationships and Support Networks 40:11 The Role of Community in Sobriety 43:28 Living Life to the Fullest 44:50 Gratitude and the Will to Live 49:19 Music and Addiction 52:37 Understanding Pain and Addiction 54:33 The Worst Addictions 55:08 Navigating Pain Management and Addiction 57:11 The Impact of Prescription Drugs on Families 59:05 The Struggle with Painkillers and Addiction 01:05:03 Living with Addiction: A Personal Journey 01:15:53 Advice and Insights on Overcoming Addiction 01:19:35 Introduction and Mental Health Awareness 01:20:01 Resources for Crisis Support 01:20:33 Outro I've Got A Problem is a humorous podcast about addiction — for addicts, families and friends of addicts, and anyone who enjoys honest, funny conversations about recovery. Hosted by comedian, writer, and addict Forrest Shaw, the show explores addiction and recovery with unfiltered honesty and humor. Laughter might not be the best medicine, but it's definitely better than electroshock therapy.PlayPlay Painkillers, Mushrooms & All the Ways We Lie to Ourselves - Jake Marin
• Getting Out of Your Own Way - Aaron GilbertSep 23, 2025 · 1 hr 3 minPsychotherapist Aaron Gilbert joins Forrest to talk addiction, therapy, mental health, self-acceptance, and the messy reality of why people relapse even when they know better. They get into negative thoughts, shame, the addict brain looking for quick fixes, the cultural pressure to stay distracted, and how phones, apps, and modern life are rewiring us to seek constant dopamine hits. They also dig into why people fear therapy, the "emptiness" so many addicts try to fill, imposter syndrome, purpose, clarity, and the difference between actually changing your life versus hoping for a magic solution. It's honest, thoughtful, funny, and packed with insights about how our brains work — and what actually helps us get unstuck. 🎧 If you've ever tried to outrun your own thoughts or kept hoping for the "easy fix," this episode is going to hit you right in the chest (in a good way). 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Aaron Gilbert and His Work 06:05 The Role of Therapy in Personal Growth 10:29 Building Trust in Therapy 14:31 Therapy vs. Medication in Addiction Treatment 18:51 Understanding the Roots of Addiction 24:35 Cultural Vulnerability to Addiction 31:33 The Common Thread of Emptiness in Addictions 34:52 Imposter Syndrome and Personal Inadequacy 37:09 Finding Purpose and Meaning in Life 39:33 Clarity and Self-Acceptance 41:26 Rationalizations in Addiction 44:55 The Cost of Therapy and Stigmas 54:21 Community vs. Self-Acceptance in Recovery 01:00:42 Crisis Support and Resources 01:03:07 OutroPlayPlay Getting Out of Your Own Way - Aaron Gilbert
• Obsession, Meditation & Trying Not to Lose Your Mind — Rocco StoweSep 16, 2025 · 1 hr 2 minComedian Rocco Stowe joins Forrest for a raw, funny, and brutally honest conversation about sobriety, obsession, gambling, drugs, growing up in Philly, and how his brain can turn anything into a compulsion. They get into fighting, cocaine, casino spirals, panic attacks, health scares, weed-induced paranoia, and why Rocco's life only started to work once he stopped trying to "manage" the chaos and actually learned how to breathe. They also talk about insecurity, jealousy, career anxiety, self-esteem, bodybuilding, fatherhood, and how breathwork, meditation, and slowing his nervous system down became the only things that finally balanced that compulsive, all-or-nothing brain. It's fast, wild, emotional, and full of insane-but-true stories only Rocco could tell. 🎧 If you've ever tried to get your life under control — or realized you're the one creating half the problems — this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Rocco Stowe 06:18 Childhood Struggles and Early Addictions 09:15 The Comedy Scene and Substance Use 12:13 Reflections on Gambling and Addiction 15:13 Understanding Addiction as a Disease 18:12 The Nature of Addiction in Society 22:36 The Dangers of Distracted Driving 25:20 Workaholism and Its Consequences 28:56 The Journey of Sobriety 30:26 Tools for Managing Mental Health 33:26 The Power of Meditation 39:54 The Intersection of Meditation and Recovery 44:58 The Importance of Listening 47:15 Power of Prayer and Support 49:20 Navigating Recovery and Emotional Release 52:24 Understanding Addiction and Its Excuses 54:04 Identifying Hidden Addictions 54:42 Describing Addiction and Recovery 55:24 Proud Moments in Recovery 58:13 Advice for Those Struggling with Addiction 01:00:19 Introduction and Light Banter 01:01:01 Mental Health Awareness and Resources 01:01:49 Outro 🎙️ Find Rocco Stowe: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roccocomedy/?hl=enPlayPlay Obsession, Meditation & Trying Not to Lose Your Mind — Rocco Stowe
• Getting Out Of Your Own Way — Al JacksonSep 9, 2025 · 1 hr 9 minComedian Al Jackson returns to talk sobriety, ego, hiding your drinking, parenting guilt, road life, shame, and all the weird mental gymnastics addicts do to convince themselves everything is "fine." They get into drinking at airports, sneaking shots, numbing out before flights, lying to yourself, helping other people get sober, and why certain addictions hide in plain sight because the person is "fun enough" that nobody calls them out. They also dive into insomnia, depression, loneliness, street-racing trauma, crippling separation from your kids, compulsive habits, messy cars, ego, relationships, bad advice from drunk friends, the myth of "just managing it," and the relief that comes when you're finally done. It's honest, fast, funny, and full of stories only Al can tell—equal parts chaos and wisdom. 🎧 If you've ever convinced yourself you were "fine" while clearly not being fine, this episode is going to hit home and still make you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 02:47 The Fast and Furious Franchise Discussion 05:33 Exploring Addiction and Personal Stories 11:05 The Impact of Addiction on Relationships 16:20 Understanding the Nature of Excuses in Addiction 22:03 Reflections on Recovery and Personal Growth 27:27 The Role of Environment in Addiction 29:13 Concluding Thoughts and Anecdotes 30:18 Navigating Addiction and Its Triggers 38:07 The Journey to Recovery 49:04 Advice and Insights on Struggling with Addiction 52:16 Reflections on Life and Sports 🎙️ Find Al Jackson: ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AlJackson 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aljacksonig/?hl=enPlayPlay Getting Out Of Your Own Way — Al Jackson
• Sugar Withdrawals, Vegas Nightmares & Getting Sober – Sydnee WashingtonSep 2, 2025 · 1 hr 5 minComedian Sydnee Washington sits down with Forrest to talk sobriety, overthinking, sugar addiction, nightlife chaos, and the absolute delirium of doing Hard 75 while working in Las Vegas. They get into the stigma women face around addiction, the illusion of "having it together," and why breaking old patterns feels harder than quitting Patron and cocaine combined. It's raw, funny, and full of real stories about getting sober, relapsing, rebuilding your life, giving up sugar, escaping casino traps, and learning how to actually take care of yourself without losing your sense of humor. 🎧 If you've ever tried to change your life while your brain screams "maybe just one drink," this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on recovery, mental health, comedy, and the mess of being human. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Sydney Washington 06:41 Understanding Addiction and Stigmas 09:46 The Hard 75 Challenge and Its Impact 12:50 The Struggles of Sugar Addiction 15:47 Gambling and Its Psychological Effects 18:45 The Balance of Comedy and Self-Help 21:45 Navigating Comedy in Different Environments 24:39 Finding Wholesome Activities in Vegas 27:58 The Importance of Rest and Sleep 30:48 Traveling as a Comedian 33:45 The Intersection of Comedy and Addiction 35:34 Turning Point: Embracing Sobriety 39:48 The Struggles of Sobriety in Comedy 44:55 Reflections on Past Choices 49:47 Support Systems and Relationships 54:33 Understanding Addiction and Its Impact 58:17 The Relentless Nature of Addiction 01:01:26 Advice for Those Struggling with Addiction 01:03:19 Introduction and Context 01:05:43 Outro 🎙️ Find Sydnee Washington: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justsydbw/ 👉 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@justsydbw20 🎧 Podcast: Mess' with Sydnee Washington and Marie FaustinPlayPlay Sugar Withdrawals, Vegas Nightmares & Getting Sober – Sydnee Washington
• Gas Station Heroin & The Kratom Trap – Noah UrbinaAug 26, 2025 · 1 hr 7 minNoah Urbina joins Forrest to talk kratom addiction, "Feel Free," 7-OH, dopamine crashes, and how a harmless-looking wellness tonic turned into full-blown withdrawal hell. They get into how kratom tricks your brain, why gas-station supplements are basically the Wild West, the sleepless sweating panic of detox, and the moment Noah realized he needed to quit before the crash got worse. It's raw, funny, and packed with real stories about pain cycles, anxiety spirals, numbing out with "natural" highs, healing your body after synthetic plants wreck it, and trying to rebuild your life without depending on a drink, a leaf, or a tincture to feel normal. 🎧 If you've ever used something "healthy" to take the edge off and accidentally found yourself in the upside-down, this episode hits close and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on recovery, mental health, comedy, and the chaos of being human. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Noah Urbina and His Journey 04:19 Understanding Kratom: Origins and Popularity 06:30 The Dark Side of Kratom: Addiction and Withdrawal 09:39 Kratom Consumption: Methods and Effects 14:10 The Marketing of Kratom: Misleading Claims 17:03 The Stigma of Addiction: Personal Stories and Experiences 20:31 The Complexity of Addiction: Kratom vs. Other Substances 26:25 The Science of Kratom: How It Affects the Body 32:15 The Future of Kratom: Industry Growth and Regulation 36:17 The Importance of Accountability in Recovery 38:42 Food and Weight Loss: An Addict's Journey 41:17 The Overlap of OCD and Addiction 44:03 Mental Health and the Role of Addiction 47:04 Exercise as a Vital Component of Recovery 48:53 The Power of Vulnerability and Support 53:31 Self-Deception in Addiction 57:03 The Insidious Nature of Kratom 01:00:02 Facing the Devil: Overcoming Withdrawal 01:02:48 Community and Connection in Recovery 01:05:54 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:06:53 Crisis Support Resources 01:07:18 Outro 🎙️ Find Noah Urbina: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urbeezy/?hl=enPlayPlay Gas Station Heroin & The Kratom Trap – Noah Urbina
• Good at Gambling (Bad at Life) – Pawn Shops, Casinos & RecoveryAug 19, 2025 · 47 minForrest dives into gambling addiction, pawn shops, casinos, debt, trust, and the strange, humiliating, funny reality of trying to rebuild your life after blowing it up more than once. He gets into pawning family heirlooms, being recognized at the pawn counter, emergency vet CPR fees, old memories with his mom, accountability, losing friends' trust, and the moment you realize other people aren't on your recovery timeline—no matter how badly you want them to be. He also talks about casino traps, how he protects himself while working in Vegas, why cash is the "vodka" of gambling, the emotional hangover of asking friends for money, and the slow, uncomfortable process of earning trust back. It's honest, chaotic, embarrassing, cathartic, and very, very real. 🎧 If you've ever tried to get your life together while your past keeps tapping you on the shoulder, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 06:47 The Impact of Addiction on Relationships 11:12 Understanding Recovery and Its Challenges 20:45 Reflections on Personal Growth and Apologies 23:33 The Pawn Shop Experience 30:15 Reflections on Gambling and Addiction 38:29 Strategies for Managing Gambling Temptations 42:59 Accountability in Recovery 44:47 Patience and Understanding in Healing 47:35 OutroPlayPlay Good at Gambling (Bad at Life) – Pawn Shops, Casinos & Recovery
• Opiates, Anxiety & Comedy – Jamie WolfAug 12, 2025 · 1 hr 19 minComedian Jamie Wolf joins Forrest to talk addiction, opiates, anxiety, childhood drug use, mental health, and the emotional spiral that pulled him into pills. They get into growing up anxious, replacing drugs with comedy, chasing adrenaline on stage, and the quiet, lonely moments that kept him using. It's raw, funny, and brutally honest — packed with real stories about Oxy, panic attacks, emotional avoidance, recovery attempts, and how comedy became both an escape and a coping mechanism. 🎧 If you've struggled with anxiety, hidden addictions, or the pressure to hold it all together, this episode hits you right in the center and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 08:40 – Introducing Jamie Wolf11:04 – "I'm an opiate addict" — Jamie sets the tone12:30 – Anxiety, low self-esteem, and the root of addiction14:15 – Comedy as a new addiction16:00 – Relationships vs. stand-up: why no one understands18:44 – Anxiety, empathy, and people who "don't get it"22:40 – Is addiction a mental illness?26:00 – Growing up atheist, panic as a kid29:00 – Starting drugs at 1331:00 – The first shrooms trip from hell (and all the piss)36:20 – Oxy prescriptions, surgeries, and the slide into pills50:00 – Using alone, lying to everyone, and the emotional hook 🎙️ Find Jamie Wolf: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamiewolfcomedy/?hl=en ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/jamiewolfcomedy 👉 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@jamiewolfcomedyPlayPlay Opiates, Anxiety & Comedy – Jamie Wolf
• The Not Bonus EpisodeAug 5, 2025 · 3 minSorry, no episode this week. Talk to you next week.PlayPlay The Not Bonus Episode
• Huffing Gas at 8 & Homeless at 16 – David StebbinsJul 29, 2025 · 1 hr 29 minComedian David Stebbins joins Forrest to talk childhood addiction, early drug use, homelessness, cancer, chaos, and the darkly funny, brutally honest path that shaped his life. They get into huffing gas at eight, discovering alcohol young, drifting between states, surviving cancer at 20, and how comedy became both an escape and a lifeline. It's raw, wild, and packed with real stories about addiction, homelessness, self-destruction, survival, and the strange places life takes you before you're ready to face it. 🎧 If you've ever felt lost, restless, out of control, or like you're piecing your life together one disaster at a time, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 01:45 – Comment Corner 06:58 – Shadow-Banned? 10:08 – Meet David Stebbins 11:05 – "What Isn't Your Problem?" 12:31 – Optimism vs Reality 16:13 – Using at Age Eight 18:05 – Huffing Gas Story 19:24 – Forrest's First Gambling Memory 21:23 – The FIU Recovery Show Disaster 24:11 – The Drunk Guy in the Gymnasium 28:23 – Homeless at Sixteen 33:26 – Surviving the Streets 39:51 – Cancer at Twenty 41:40 – Starting Stand-Up 48:03 – NBC Deal While UsingPlayPlay Huffing Gas at 8 & Homeless at 16 – David Stebbins
• Losing Big: Sports Betting & Gambling Addiction – Jonathan D. CohenJul 22, 2025 · 1 hr 18 minHistorian and author Jonathan D. Cohen joins Forrest to talk sports gambling, the explosion of betting apps, how we got here legally, and who's actually getting hurt. They dig into the history of sports betting, parlays and "sports lotteries," the role of fantasy sports and social media, and why governments keep pretending gambling money will fix everything from schools to water shortages. Forrest also opens up about his own life as a compulsive gambler—bookies, casinos, offshore accounts, shame, and the illusion that one big score will finally make it all okay. It's raw, funny, and packed with real stories about betting apps, parlays, debt, bankruptcies, suicide risk, and what other countries are already doing to rein gambling in—plus practical ideas for making sports betting safer without pretending it's going away. 🎧 If you're betting on your phone "just for fun," chasing parlays to fix money problems, or worried about someone you love, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 4:20 I've Got Another Problem: littering, oceans & Yellowstone diaper revenge 8:23 Introducing historian Jonathan D. Cohen & his very normal "problem" 11:10 Board games, loss-chasing & what made Jonathan obsessed with gambling policy 13:00 How sports betting grew up with sports: horse racing, Fenway riots & early scandals 17:40 Parlays, sports "lotteries" and why tiny bets with huge payouts are so dangerous 22:05 DraftKings, FanDuel & how daily fantasy quietly trained us to gamble 26:32 Why U.S. regulation is so lax compared to Australia and the U.K. 31:10 Tennis at 3 a.m., Malaysian badminton & betting on games you don't even watch 37:05 College campuses, payday deposits & who's really getting wrecked by legal betting 44:05 Lotteries, "free money" myths & how states quietly cut education anyway 51:00 The NFL's 180 on gambling and why viewership suddenly jumped 57:20 Gambling addiction, shame, masculinity & why big wins can be the worst thing 1:06:40 Making sports betting safer: friction, self-exclusion & real guardrails 1:15:03 Outro Jonathan D. Cohen is a historian and the author of "Losing BIg: America's Reckless Bet on Sports Gambling." People can find more info about his book or contact him through his website: https://www.jonathandcohen.com/PlayPlay Losing Big: Sports Betting & Gambling Addiction – Jonathan D. Cohen
• I've Got A Problem - Ep. 21 - Solo #4 (Questions)Jul 15, 2025 · 23 minEpisode 21 of the 'I've Got A Problem' podcast with Forrest Shaw. Forrest is flying soloooooooo! Again! '8 Lucky Questions' in the house! That's enough excalmation points, settle down.PlayPlay I've Got A Problem - Ep. 21 - Solo #4 (Questions)
• Champagne Breakfasts & Nicotine Panic — Gavin CoscarellaJul 8, 2025 · 1 hr 27 minComedian Gavin Coscarella joins Forrest to talk booze, nicotine pouches, porn, cocaine, gambling, overeating, and the chaos of trying to fix every bad habit at once. They get into champagne-for-breakfast years, pandemic fallout, poker rooms, slipping into old identities, and the moment Gavin realized wanting "just one drink" was never really the problem. It's raw, honest, and genuinely funny as they talk early recovery panic, ditching vices, cravings that hit like lightning, letting go of shame, and rebuilding a life without blowing it up again. It's messy, relatable, and exactly what trying to change actually looks like. 🎧 If you've ever tried to clean up your life while your habits fight back, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 6:49 Arnie's vet scare & the $250 CPR checkbox 9:00 Story of putting down his cat 10:54 How addiction damages relationships 12:59 Borrowing money, guilt & recovery timelines 14:15 The "recovery train" analogy 16:15 The friend who said "I'm not loaning you money" 18:00 Why people don't move at your recovery pace 21:09 Pawn shop life & pawning sentimental things 25:00 How pawn loans work & negotiating 31:20 How pawn shops trigger old addiction feelings 32:00 Casinos, relapse prevention & gambling boundaries 40:15 Accountability, discipline & rebuilding trust 🎙️ Find Gavin Coscarella: 📸 Instagram: ttps://www.instagram.com/gavinthehouse/?hl=enPlayPlay Champagne Breakfasts & Nicotine Panic — Gavin Coscarella
• Why He Kept Doing the Same Dumb Stuff — Dustin ChafinJul 1, 2025 · 1 hr 27 minComedian Dustin Chafin joins Forrest to talk alcoholism, painkillers, cocaine, anger, chaos, prison time, Texas madness, and the long, messy road to actually growing up. They get into bar fights, blackout drinking, sneaking pills, self-loathing, the "cowboy justice" he was raised on, and how untreated pain turned into years of running, hiding, and blowing up every good thing he touched. They also dig into therapy, fear, ego, comedy survival, relationships, impulsive decisions, hitting bottom more than once, and what changes when you finally stop trying to be the toughest guy in the room and start trying to be an honest one. It's raw, funny, vulnerable, and packed with unbelievable stories only Dustin could tell — the kind you laugh at and wince at at the same time. 🎧 If you've ever sworn you'd "never do that again" and then did it again anyway, this episode is going to hit home. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introducing Dustin Chafin 01:20 – Dustin on Texas, chaos, and growing up wild 04:12 – First drinks, anger, and trying to feel tough 07:45 – Cocaine, painkillers & hiding how bad it really was 10:58 – Bar fights, blackout behavior & the "cowboy justice" mindset 14:33 – Pill addiction, self-loathing & blowing up opportunities 18:05 – Running, hiding & repeating the same destructive patterns 21:40 – Prison stories & the reality check that followed 25:10 – Comedy, ego & the years spent pretending everything was fine 29:26 – Therapy, fear & finally learning to stop lying to yourself 33:02 – Relationships, guilt & trying to become an honest adult 36:27 – The emotional bottom nobody saw coming 40:18 – Letting go of the "tough guy" identity 43:50 – What healing actually looks like (messier than expected) 47:33 – Sobriety, purpose & building a life that finally works 50:12 – Outro 🎙️ Find Dustin Chafin: 🔗 Website: https://www.dustinchafin.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dustin_chafin/?hl=enPlayPlay Why He Kept Doing the Same Dumb Stuff — Dustin Chafin
• Bourbon, Cocaine & 10 Years Sober – Brandon VaughnJun 24, 2025 · 1 hr 14 minComedy writer Brandon Vaughn joins Forrest to talk alcoholism, blackout drinking, cocaine, overdosing in the rain, recovery, mental health, and how he went from nearly dying to becoming head writer for MTV's Ridiculousness. They get into Kentucky drinking culture, using drugs as "medicine," moving to LA to drink less (and drinking more), and what finally made him admit he had a problem. It's raw, funny, and packed with real stories about liquor, cocaine, overdosing, trying to moderate, gambling addiction, family, money fear, and rebuilding your life into something you're not ashamed of. 🎧 If you're sober, trying to cut back, or quietly wondering if your drinking is "normal," this episode is honest, darkly funny, and surprisingly hopeful. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:47 Donations, shout-outs & how to support the podcast 1:50 "I've Got Another Problem" theme song 1:58 Forrest's full meltdown about parking, hospitals & hotel garages 5:20 Why hotel valet + parking fees make him lose his mind 6:54 Introducing Brandon Vaughn & his Ridiculousness day job 7:33 Brandon's problem: alcoholic with 10+ years sober 8:07 Forrest on being a gambling addict and the "silent addiction" 17:02 Brandon's cocaine overdose story and walking himself to the hospital in the rain 24:48 Moving from Kentucky to LA thinking he'd drink less (spoiler: he didn't) 25:33 How addiction makes you shrink your goals instead of changing your behavior 32:07 Forrest explains why being a "compulsive gambler" doesn't mean you're bad at gambling 41:18 Inside bookies, laying off bets, Hawaii games, and degenerates chasing losses 54:06 How recovery works for gambling, GA meetings, and why money is just more "fuel" 59:03 The surprising upsides: self-awareness, growth, and actually changing as a person 1:01:38 Forrest debuts "Eight Lucky Questions" 🎙️ Find Brand Vaughn: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandonmichaelvaughn/PlayPlay Bourbon, Cocaine & 10 Years Sober – Brandon Vaughn
• When the Party Stops Being Funny – Andrew BarrJun 17, 2025 · 1 hrComedian Andrew Barr joins Forrest to talk alcoholism, interventions, sugar addiction, and the quiet danger of isolating yourself into complete chaos. They get into early drinking, trying (and failing) to moderate, shedding bags of 'fun' everywhere, the intervention that snapped him awake, and why you can't outthink an addiction that already knows all your tricks. It's raw, funny, and full of painfully honest stories about shame, tricky apologies, rebuilding trust, getting re-invited to a wedding he was once banned from, and what the first 30 months of sobriety actually feel like when you've lived your whole adult life in bars and green rooms. 🎧 If you've ever tried to "manage" your addiction or convince yourself you're fine while clearly not being fine, this episode hits close to home — and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 01:50 – Donations, touring & Australia plans 03:02 – Life perspective after a friend's loss 04:41 – "Don't wait to get better" 05:30 – Forrest introduces Andrew Barr 06:07 – Sugar addiction after quitting booze & cocaine 07:26 – Comedy clubs, alcohol everywhere & early signs 09:50 – After-show chaos, casinos & fan encounters 12:51 – When moderation becomes the trap 17:07 – "Just one beer" lies & addict logic 22:12 – Sports betting, harassment & predatory ads 29:59 – Shame, guilt & admitting you have a problem 32:25 – Making amends & when people aren't ready 39:26 – The intervention & what actually changed 41:03 – The "shedding" incident & the cat scare 47:02 – Small wins: marathon sober 47:56 – Getting re-invited to the wedding 49:54 – Rebuilding trust slowly 52:16 – Andrew's advice: community beats isolation 55:00 – Outro 🎙️ Find Andrew Barr: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrewbarrcomedy/PlayPlay When the Party Stops Being Funny – Andrew Barr
• From Jail to Recovery — Patrick ChesterJun 10, 2025 · 1 hr 4 minForrest chats with mental health advocate Patrick Chester to talk gambling addiction, rock bottom, and the lie every compulsive gambler tells themselves: one more big win will fix everything. Patrick opens up about draining his 5-year-old son's piggy bank, racking up over $1 million in debt, landing in jail, and putting $45,000 on the Seahawks in the 2015 Super Bowl — a bet that shattered him on the 1-yard line. They break down shame, secrecy, chasing losses, the rise of live betting and props, and how Patrick now teaches college athletes what he wishes someone had told him. It's raw, honest, and painfully relatable — especially if money, gambling, or denial has ever taken over your life. 🎧 If you've ever chased "one last bet" or felt trapped by money and addiction, this episode's for you.🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes about addiction, recovery, mental health, and the chaos of being human. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro & No-Hat Day 06:22 Introducing Patrick Chester 07:10 Patrick's 15-Year Gambling Spiral 11:58 How Gambling Became Normalized 20:25 The $45,000 Super Bowl Bet 26:55 Jail Time, Shame & Consequences 45:55 Rock Bottom: The Piggy Bank Moment 52:59 "Are You Jealous of Normal Gamblers?" 59:02 Recovery Wins & Advice for Anyone Struggling Watch Patrick's TEDx talk here : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSi1zbLbXAsPlayPlay From Jail to Recovery — Patrick Chester
• I've Got A Problem - Ep. 15 - Solo #3 (Happy)Jun 3, 2025 · 44 minEpisode 15 of the 'I've Got A Problem' podcast with Forrest Shaw. Forrest is flying soloooooooo! He talks about addiciton as a disease, gambling while committed, being happy, and he plays a few calls! Plus, hey airlines! Stop price gouging us.PlayPlay I've Got A Problem - Ep. 15 - Solo #3 (Happy)
• Losing Your Wallet on Tour & Finding Yourself – Al JacksonMay 27, 2025 · 1 hr 8 minComedian Al Jackson returns to join Forrest for a very off-the-rails episode about addiction, money, losing your wallet on tour, and trying to grow up without losing your sense of humor. They get into traveling broke, staying in sketchy motels, gambling away paychecks, and what it means when your past lies and bad decisions still follow you around years later. It's raw, funny, and packed with real stories about losing everything in casinos, pawning family heirlooms, cashless culture, race and police, parenting, and how sobriety changes the way you tell the truth, handle money, and show up for your kids. 🎧 If you've ever blown up your life with money, lies, or bad decisions—and are still trying to be a better human—this episode will make you cringe, laugh, and feel less alone. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 1:42 Al Jackson returns: chaos lighting, cat stare, and credits Forrest can't remember 3:49 Apocalypse podcast studios and how we'll broadcast after the world ends 5:51 Al's latest problem: losing his wallet before an 8-city tour 7:38 Uber from Cleveland to Pittsburgh and checking into a real-life meth motel 9:40 Forrest's Soho House story: heavy keys, no phones, and hating fancy places 12:02 Traveling broke, losing wallets 20+ times, and what it says about money 16:00 Singapore story: pawning a family necklace to gamble, then trying to win it back 19:24 Cash is disappearing, tip screens are everywhere, and dirtbag gas hacks 24:18 Lying, "white lies," and why keeping track of lies isn't worth it sober 29:05 White lies, racism in language, and Black Lives Matter vs "All Lives Matter" 34:18 Growing up with racism: cops, friends, and stuff that never happened to Forrest 43:10 Kids today vs our generation: phones, news, and being way more put together 49:35 Good kids, bad kids, and how much of it is parenting vs personality 54:42 Al's daughter graduating, being present, and fixing your life late 1:04:10 Kratom, new addictions, Al's music, and Forrest's messy but heartfelt wrap-up 🎙️ Find Al Jackson: ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AlJackson 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aljacksonig/?hl=enPlayPlay Losing Your Wallet on Tour & Finding Yourself – Al Jackson
• Should a Gambling Addict Move to Vegas?May 20, 2025 · 45 minForrest goes solo from the desert to talk bad internet, big regrets, and whether it's insane or reasonable for a gambling addict to move to Las Vegas. He gets into early casino stories from college, driving hours in a beat-up Dodge Aspen just to chase action, and how proximity to gambling isn't nearly as dangerous as what's going on in your head. It's raw, funny, and honest about gambling addiction, shame, regret, dating apps, and the quiet ways we try to escape—whether it's blackjack, DraftKings, or getting hooked on Tinder and AdultFriendFinder just to feel less alone. 🎧 If you've ever struggled with addiction, obsessive thinking, or the weight of your own regrets, this episode will make you feel seen and still make you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 0:00 Fiona Apple lighting, desert life & why the episode is late 2:16 "I've got another problem" – bad internet in 2025 3:39 Lotion, almond oil & realizing we don't know how anything works 6:15 No guest, donations, and living solo in the desert with Arie 7:54 Tour dates, Vegas, Boise, Florida & the Australia plans 9:34 Someone finally called the show – clarifying the phone rules 11:06 Sitting alone in the desert and deciding to try dating apps 12:13 Should a gambling addict move to Las Vegas? 15:02 Why distance doesn't matter when you're an addict 16:14 The Turning Stone Casino years – driving hours in a deathtrap to gamble 23:31 The snowball of guilt, regret, and broken trust 27:09 Deciding to attack guilt and regret head-on 28:20 Desert diet, working out, and trying meditation & breathwork 31:12 First time on Tinder – writing a ridiculous profile on purpose 36:56 AdultFriendFinder, dom messages, and instantly seeing the addiction in dating appsPlayPlay Should a Gambling Addict Move to Vegas?
• Alcoholism, Escapism & Getting Sober – Jeff LeachMay 14, 2025 · 1 hr 2 minComedian Jeff Leach joins Forrest to talk alcoholism, drugs, weed, escapism, depression, grief, and the brutal losses that finally forced him to change. They get into using booze and drugs to escape reality, near-death moments at music festivals, getting jumped in Lithuania over cocaine, and watching his dad slowly die from drinking. It's raw, funny, and packed with real stories about blackouts, weed dependency, emotional dysregulation, suicidal thoughts, losing friends and parents, and how he's rebuilding his life around honesty, acceptance, and actually feeling his feelings instead of running from them. 🎧 If you're struggling with alcohol, weed, grief, or that urge to escape your own brain, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 2:25 Meet Jeff Leach: comedian, actor, voice actor, clown for hire 3:13 "What's your problem?" – Jeff's alcoholism, drugs, weed, and mental health 5:03 Rave culture, drum & bass, and doing ecstasy, coke, MDMA, ketamine 9:03 Using weed after quitting booze and the real reason Jeff kept smoking 9:56 Addiction as escapism: wanting to shut off your own brain 15:04 Forrest's gambling addiction vs Jeff's drinking: escaping reality in different ways 18:44 Losing hours in casinos, Vegas design, and how gambling hijacks your brain 22:02 The $18,000 blackjack hand where Forrest thought his heart might explode 23:58 Jeff's heart stopping at a music festival after a huge drug cocktail 32:25 Beaten unconscious in Lithuania after a cocaine deal goes wrong 36:36 Jeff's dad's alcoholism, slow self-destruction, and what his death taught him 37:52 Best friend's suicide, grief, and why those losses forced Jeff to really live 41:52 "Playthroughs," reincarnating yourself, and finding purpose after addiction 54:03 Brad Pitt's "B PIT" license plate, fame as an addiction. 🎙️ Find Vince Carone: 🔗 Website: https://jeffreyleach.com/ 📸 Instagram: ttps://www.instagram.com/jeffleach/?hl=en ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC487HjN3m6dpCb1YAa6VpWQPlayPlay Alcoholism, Escapism & Getting Sober – Jeff Leach
• Vegas, Rock Bottom & Gambling Addiction – Vince CaroneMay 6, 2025 · 1 hrComedian Vince Carone joins Forrest to talk gambling addiction, Vegas, blackjack, giant swings, hiding debt, and the moment he finally decided he was done. They get into boredom on the road, online bookies, pawn shops, and how easy it is to blow up your life chasing "just one more win." It's raw, funny, and packed with real stories about compulsive gambling, secret credit cards, family bailouts, and what it actually takes to walk away from the table and start rebuilding. 🎧 If you've ever chased your losses, stared at the ceiling all night doing gambling math, or wondered if your "bad habit" is really an addiction, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 4:18 Forrest admits his own gambling addiction on mic 4:59 Vince's problem: "I'm a gambling addict" 6:28 Why gambling addiction hides better than booze and drugs 8:59 How Forrest protects himself from gambling in Vegas 11:15 Triggers, boredom, and why free time is dangerous 19:19 Vince's Davenport story: sprinting from blackjack to the stage 23:00 Pawn shops, guitars, and the math that never adds up 27:19 The $15,000 hole, parents bailing him out, and gambling again 34:38 Pawning his grandfather's necklace in Singapore 41:06 Uncut Gems, anxiety, and why that movie nails gambling addiction 47:01 Lost payments, bank chaos, and sleepless nights 55:03 Vince on rock bottom, hope, and what he'd tell another addict 🎙️ Find Vince Carone: 🔗 Website: https://www.vincecarone.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vincecarone ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/vincecaronePlayPlay Vegas, Rock Bottom & Gambling Addiction – Vince Carone
• Am I Afraid of Being Happy? Gambling Addiction & RecoveryApr 29, 2025 · 37 minForrest talks about his gambling addiction, why he keeps sabotaging his own happiness, and how shame, sarcasm, and grief have all played a part. He opens up about losing millions, taxes on gambling, chasing that casino feeling, and the weird ways he punishes himself instead of letting himself be happy. It's raw, funny, and packed with real talk about gambling, self-hatred, grief, sleep issues, meds like Ozempic, and what it actually feels like to try and build a life you don't want to escape from. 🎧 If you've ever blown up your own life, wrestled with gambling, or wondered why happiness feels uncomfortable, this episode might hit closer than you expect. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 4:52 "Why am I gambling?" – starting to question the real reasons 5:30 Fear of happiness, comedy, and losing your edge if you feel good 6:52 Sarcasm as a form of anger & the old group session that stuck with him 8:12 Saving a guy as a marine biologist and hiding the commendation in the bathroom 10:16 Ozempic, naltrexone, and the idea of taking drugs to kill cravings 12:25 "Have I ever actually been happy?" – moments with his dog vs. constant self-punishment 20:48 Listener question: how much has he lost gambling in his life? 22:44 Millions won, millions lost & why that way of living is brutal on your body and brain 29:25 Why he always reads the crisis hotlines at the end of the show 33:35 Inviting emails, calls, and questions for future episodes 36:14 OutroPlayPlay Am I Afraid of Being Happy? Gambling Addiction & Recovery
• Ozempic, Addiction & the Pain We Don't Talk About – Dave YatesApr 22, 2025 · 1 hr 2 minComedian Dave Yates joins Forrest to talk alcoholism, addiction, grief, medication, weight-loss shots, sleep, and the moment he realized he was his own problem. They get into using work as a drug, losing his dad, what cold plunges and therapy have done for his brain, and whether things like Ozempic can really help or just become another crutch. It's raw, funny, and packed with real stories about blackout drinking, withdrawal, grief, CPAP machines, gambling urges, and trying to build a life that actually feels manageable. 🎧 If you're wrestling with grief, thinking about quitting a habit, or just stuck in your own head, this episode is painfully honest, surprisingly hopeful, and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Into 02:01 "I've Got Another Problem": traffic, ego, and being the center of the universe 06:08 Introducing Dave Yates 07:02 The hot sauce hustle: comedy pay, survival, and Carolina Reapers 09:48 "What's your problem?" — Dave explains how he is the problem 13:10 Influencer gamblers & why Forrest would've been a great one 17:03 Ozempic, cravings, dopamine, and the science of addiction 19:56 Why addicts hate medication… until they need medication 23:30 The ego trap: "I can quit whenever I want" and other lies 26:03 Dave on 13 years sober and the reality behind it 31:45 CPAP machines, bad sleep, and finally admitting you need help 38:05 Cold plunges, recovery tools, and learning to treat yourself gently 44:48 Grief, losing a parent, and the part no one prepares you for 52:12 Withdrawal, breakups, and why your brain attacks your body 58:05 Dave's message to anyone struggling right now 59:43 Outro 🎙️ Find Dave Yates: 🔗 Website: https://www.hahahotsauce.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yatescomedy ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@daveyatescomedyPlayPlay Ozempic, Addiction & the Pain We Don't Talk About – Dave Yates
• Marlboro Regrets & Panic Attacks - John HastingsApr 15, 2025 · 59 minComedian John Hastings joins Forrest to talk cigarettes, addiction, anxiety, emotional avoidance, and the strange rituals that keep people smoking long after they want to quit. They get into the psychology of nicotine, the chaos of smoking through stress, the identity trap of being "a smoker," and the real moment John decided he was done for good. It's raw, funny, and packed with real stories about smoking culture, anxiety loops, quitting attempts, emotional crutches, and the surprising ways people rebuild their lives once they finally stop lighting up. 🎧 If you're struggling with cigarettes, wrestling with anxiety, or trying to break a habit that won't let go, this episode hits hard and still makes you laugh. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 01:46 Clearing Up the Viral Rat Study 03:07 Introducing "Passing the Buck" with Forrest's Dad 04:22 Slayton's Vegas Gambling Story 06:57 The Worst Bet of His Life 08:58 Can Gambling Be Inherited? 10:56 The Miami Environment & Early Addiction Seeds 11:59 Introducing Comedian John Hastings 13:01 John's Cigarette Addiction Begins 15:12 Smoking as a Social Crutch & Anxiety Mask 17:54 The Chaos of Smoking While Working in Restaurants 21:26 Crack in the Workplace (Truly Insane Story) 28:00 The Moment John Finally Quit for Good 33:10 Airline Smoking, Europe, and Wild Smoking Culture 42:03 Forrest's Mom & How Hard Quitting Can Be 48:03 Mindfulness, Anxiety, and Life After Cigarettes 55:40 Forrest's Wrap-Up, Reflections & Final Thoughts 58:01 Outro 🎙️ Find John Hastings: 🔗 Website: https://www.thejohnhastings.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejohnhastings/?hl=en ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ5LNH6xl0bxS6EFrChNjcQPlayPlay Marlboro Regrets & Panic Attacks - John Hastings
• Mindfulness, Meltdowns & Rock Bottom Logic - Andy HaynesApr 8, 2025 · 1 hr 24 minComedian Andy Haynes sits down with Forrest to talk addiction, anxiety spirals, mindfulness, Buddhism, panic attacks, and the beautiful stupidity of trying to grow as a person when your brain absolutely refuses to cooperate. They get into relapse thinking, ego, meditation, relationships, and the "I swear I'm working on myself" moments every addict knows too well. It's honest, funny, and packed with real stories about fear, recovery, self-improvement, and why the brain seems engineered to sabotage you right when things are going well. 🎧 If you've ever tried to be a better human and immediately fell on your face, this episode is for you. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on addiction, recovery, mental health, and comedy. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 03:03 Forrest's "another problem": Unsubscribe hell 04:45 Meet Andy Haynes 06:01 Andy's problem: alcohol, weed & the hole inside 07:59 First sports bet in Vegas and instant "genius" 10:01 How gambling hijacks watching sports 13:06 Forrest's first gambling memories & college bookies 16:03 Teenage blackouts, getting hit by a car & waking up in mom's bed 20:06 Busy hands, depression that won't let you sleep & idle addict brains 23:16 Marine biologist Forrest, drugs, bookies & manatees 31:04 Climate change, dead lakes & why manatees freeze 37:04 Rat studies, idle minds & how addiction rewires memory 41:32 Structure, marriage, 12-steps & trading chaos for routines 54:00 Weed, "California sober" & 90 meetings in 90 days 1:01:27 Coke-era comedy stories & why the 80s would've killed us 1:07:07 Fatherhood, being of service & advice for young comics in addiction (plus suicide hotlines) 🎙️ Find Andy Haynes: 🔗 Website: https://www.imandyhaynes.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imandyhaynes/?hl=en ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AndyHaynesPlayPlay Mindfulness, Meltdowns & Rock Bottom Logic - Andy Haynes