As a certified grief recovery specialist, mental health professional, and diversity coach, I’ve spent the last 8 years walking side-by-side with those in addiction recovery—and I’ve learned a truth we don’t talk about enough: Unresolved grief is often the silent root of addiction.

In this episode of the Feel Free Again podcast, Cole James and I explore the deeply emotional link between loss and substance use. We discuss the real-life stories behind recovery, the overlooked pain of caregivers, and why so many of us silently carry grief until it breaks us.

I also share personal experiences, including:

✅ My late father’s 14-year sobriety journey beginning at age 77

✅ Using food to cope with childhood pain

✅ The moment I almost left this work because of a client’s suicide—and how the grief recovery method helped me heal and return stronger

Whether you are in recovery, love someone who is, or work on the frontlines of grief and trauma, this conversation offers a safe space—and tangible hope.