Stephen Van Hooser joins Judd for episode five of our addiction series—bringing a powerful, personal conversation that unpacks the true nature of addiction and the pathways to recovery. Drawing from his own experience as both a patient and a leader in substance abuse treatment, Stephen offers deep insights into how trauma, disconnection, and unmet mental health needs drive addictive behaviors.

During their conversation Stephen introduces listeners to the biopsychosocial and diathesis-stress models, explaining how addiction is not just a disease of choice or biology, but a symptom of deeper wounds. He also challenges the outdated one-size-fits-all treatment model, advocating instead for personalized approaches that recognize the role of connection—whether to people, purpose, nature, or self. Whether you're in recovery, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of addiction—this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical insights behind the often closed-off world of rehab.

5 Lessons from the Episode:

Connection heals: Recovery thrives when people rebuild relationships with others, themselves, and the world around them.

Trauma focus: Treating the root emotional wounds, especially trauma, is often more effective than only addressing symptoms.

Personalized care: Every recovery journey is different; successful treatment adapts to the individual’s life and needs.

Small steps matter: Setting and achieving daily, attainable goals can build the foundation for lasting change.

Support saves lives: Whether through family, 12-step groups, or alternative peer communities, consistent human connection is key.

CHAPTERS:
00:00 Addiction is a symptom, not the problem
00:36 Judd’s breaking point and first call for help
04:00 Biopsychosocial model of treatment
06:09 The role of connection in recovery
08:35 Trauma as the root cause of addiction
11:05 Nature vs. nurture in addiction
14:54 Innovations in addiction treatment
17:41 Evolution of addiction and emerging types
18:15 Social media and behavioral addictions
20:24 Personalized treatment for modern addictions
21:54 Accessibility of treatment for underserved communities
24:38 Finding connection through peer support groups
26:12 Views on “California sober” and recovery diversity
28:33 Stephen’s 3 pillars of sustained recovery
31:05 Final reflections on connection

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When Judd found himself alone on his garage floor, consumed by addiction and despair, he made a desperate phone call. Adam Greenspan answered. What followed wasn’t a dramatic intervention or scripted moment—it was one friend doing the next right thing, over and over again. Adam stayed on the phone, calmed Judd through a personal crisis, and helped orchestrate a cross-country plan to safely get him into rehab, despite being under constant surveillance.

This fourth episode of our addiction series captures the essence of human connection, the power of showing up, and the courage to act without knowing exactly what to do. Together Judd and Adam reflect on the warning signs of addiction, the pain of high-functioning denial, and the importance of breaking free from toxic relationships. This is not just a story about addiction and recovery. It’s about how any of us—regardless of experience—can be the person who answers the call and shows up when someone needs us most.

5 Lessons from the Episode:

Stay calm: In moments of crisis, composure can lead to clear action and potentially save a life.

Answer the call: Simply picking up the phone and being present may be the turning point for someone in pain.

Act decisively: You don’t need all the answers—research, respond, and take the next right step.

Support without judgment: Offering help without blame builds trust and provides safety.

Remember your lowest point: Keeping a reminder of how far you’ve come can prevent relapse and inspire growth.

CHAPTERS:
00:00 Crisis Call: The Moment Everything Changed
03:10 The Garage Floor and the Call for Help
06:50 Choosing a Rehab: Insurance, Location, and Urgency
09:22 Warning Signs and the Reality of High-Functioning Addiction
12:54 The Jail Call and Adam's Calm Under Pressure
16:46 The Great Escape Plan
21:53 Withdrawal and the Power of Remembering Pain
25:05 Calm is a Superpower
29:14 Huntington Beach Hiccup and Final Check-In
33:05 Family Dynamics and Childhood Trauma
35:49 Losing Connection with His Children
38:37 How to Take the Call That Saves a Life
40:28 What Makes Someone Great: Adam’s Relentless Drive

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In episode three of our addiction series, Judd is joined by Shawn Livingston - veteran, ultra marathon runner, and recovery advocate, for a profoundly honest conversation about what it truly means to hit rock bottom—and how to climb back out. Shawn is a former combat veteran whose addiction to heroin landed him in prison, he recounts his journey from jail cells and failed rehab stays to becoming a beacon of hope for others. The episode explores how childhood trauma, a complicated relationship with masculinity, and unresolved pain fed into Shawn’s addiction.

Shawn and Judd draw powerful parallels in their stories, from chasing validation through professional success to learning how to confront deep emotional wounds. The two men explore the societal stigma around addiction and why vulnerability—not toughness—is the true measure of strength. Shawn details how community, physical fitness, and consistent self-work—mentally, physically, and spiritually—helped him maintain long-term sobriety. They also discuss Shawn’s documentary, his ultra-marathon achievements, and how helping others heal has become his purpose. Shawn’s story is a testament to resilience, vulnerability, and the human capacity for change. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking truth, transformation, and tangible tools for overcoming life’s hardest battles.

5 Lessons from the Episode:

Vulnerability wins: Being real about your pain fosters deeper connections and healing.

Find your Super Bowl: Identify your ultimate goal and make every choice in service of it.

Pain needs purpose: Transform your darkest moments into a source of strength by using them to help others.

Community matters: Surrounding yourself with people who see your worth is vital to staying on track.

Balance your tools: Even healthy habits like fitness can become unhealthy if not kept in perspective.

CHAPTERS:
00:00 Opening and guest introduction
03:12 What rock bottom really feels like
08:30 Drug progression and the lure of heroin
13:45 Childhood wounds and validation
19:02 Father figures, masculinity, and identity
25:20 The power of going first in men’s work
29:58 Twelve rehab visits and what finally worked
34:15 Heroin withdrawal and the reality of detox
38:00 Running, fitness, and finding purpose
43:25 When sobriety tools become new obsessions
47:40 Owning your story and helping others
50:05 Redemption defined

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In the second episode of Judd Shaw’s addiction series, Drug Lords and Dead Ends, Shaun Attwood joins the conversation for a raw and riveting first guest appearance. Once a millionaire stockbroker turned international ecstasy trafficker, Shaun sits down with Judd to reveal how two strangers on opposite sides of the drug trade were living dangerously parallel lives in the Arizona scene. With chilling detail, they unpack moments of near-death, cartel entanglements, and the human wreckage left behind—while offering a brutally honest look at what it truly takes to rebuild a life from rock bottom. This episode is an honest, emotional, and ultimately uplifting reminder that owning your story—no matter how dark—can be the key to transformation and purpose.

5 Lessons from the Episode:
- False bravado fails: Fear masked as toughness only deepens destruction; humility is key to surviving.
- Redemption is service: Healing begins when we turn pain into purpose by helping others avoid our path.
- Pride is deadly: The need to impress can drive choices that end lives; self-awareness is life-saving.
- Own your story: Transparency dismantles shame and creates real, authentic human connections.
- Forgiveness frees you: Letting go of resentment toward yourself and others is the true start of transformation.

Shaun’s YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@shaunattwoodOFFICIAL

Shaun’s social media and book links:
https://linktr.ee/shaunattwood

CHAPTERS:
00:00 The Parallel Paths of Judd & Shaun
03:22 How It All Started: From Broker to Dealer
08:45 Building a Drug Empire in Arizona
13:00 Inside the Rave Scene & Drug Distribution
18:33 Dealing with Cartels and Biker Gangs
22:50 Encounters with the Gravanos & Mafia Threats
28:11 Money Laundering and Corporate Strategy
33:20 Breaking Points and Narrow Escapes
40:00 Life in Sheriff Joe Arpaio’s Jail
46:12 The Path to Redemption & Activism
51:35 Lessons in Forgiveness and Ayahuasca Healing
56:00 Owning Your Story and Giving Back

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Judd Shaw opens Season 2 of Behind the Armor by confronting the foundation of his personal healing: addiction. Through raw storytelling, Judd shares his descent into substance abuse, validation seeking, and materialism, all rooted in his unmet need for safety and connection. His journey spans from drug trafficking with biker gangs to success-driven burnout as a lawyer. The common thread: unresolved pain. This episode invites listeners to recognize that beneath every addiction—whether substances, success, or validation—is often unhealed trauma, shame, and loneliness waiting to be acknowledged and healed.

Lessons from the Episode:

Pain drives addiction: Healing begins when we address the root wounds, not just the surface behavior.

Success isn't safety: Achievements and wealth cannot substitute for inner peace and genuine security.

Belonging can be dangerous: Seeking connection without discernment can lead to destructive environments.

Vulnerability is strength: Owning personal stories is the first step to true healing and connection.

Healing is a journey: There is another side to pain; perseverance and connection lead the way forward.

CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction to Season 2 and addiction theme
02:45 Addiction begins with the search for safety
07:30 Early exposure to drugs and college descent
12:50 Deeper involvement with biker gangs and meth trafficking
18:20 Meth labs in Mexico and encounters with danger
23:10 Arrest fears and escape plan
27:35 Rehab, mental institution, and solitary confinement
33:40 Recovery attempts through validation and success
39:15 Marriage, wealth, and return to substance abuse
43:00 Hitting rock bottom and starting true healing

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Bridgett Burrick Brown is the founder of the Beyond Beauty Project, a movement dedicated to redefining beauty standards and promoting self-acceptance. As a former model turned activist, Bridgett uses her platform to educate and empower individuals struggling with body image issues, particularly in the age of social media. She is a keynote speaker and workshop leader, advocating for media literacy, digital wellness, and mental health awareness. Her work has been featured in major publications, and she continues to be a leading voice in challenging the harmful narratives around beauty and self-worth.

Lessons from the Episode:

Digital wellness starts with us – Children learn from the adults around them. If we obsess over appearances, they will too.

Curate your social media feed – Exposure to diverse body types and real, unfiltered images can help reshape perceptions of beauty.

Set boundaries with technology – Establish screen-free times, limit social media exposure, and prioritize in-person connections.

Encourage self-appreciation – Shift the focus from looks to abilities, accomplishments, and personal strengths.

Take social media breaks – Studies show that even a short break from social media can significantly improve self-esteem.

Learn more about Bridgett & the Beyond Beauty Project:
https://www.beyondbeautyproject.com/

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Bridgett Burrick Brown
03:45 The Impact of Social Media on Self-Esteem
08:20 The Rise of Filters and Retouching
12:35 The Mental Health Effects of Unrealistic Beauty Standards
18:50 The Role of Adults in Shaping Digital Wellness
24:10 How to Help Kids Build Confidence Beyond Appearance
30:25 Setting Healthy Boundaries with Social Media
37:15 Final Thoughts & Practical Steps

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Joey Aviles is a keynote speaker, executive coach, and thought leader specializing in diversity, equity, and inclusion. With years of experience leading executive leadership programs for the U.S. Department of Defense, Joey has guided top leaders in developing inclusive workplace cultures. On this week’s episode of Behind the Armor, Joey sits down with Judd to talk about how embracing diversity can really only start when we choose to become “fluent in human.” Together the two discuss the importance of early childhood exposure to diverse cultures, the role of vulnerability in leadership, and how organizations can create inclusive environments.

Lessons from the Episode:

Inclusion starts with awareness: Leaders must first understand themselves before they can create an inclusive culture.

Storytelling bridges differences: Sharing and listening to stories fosters empathy and deeper workplace connections.

Vulnerability is a leadership strength: Showing authenticity encourages others to open up and fosters trust.

Psychological safety boosts innovation: Employees perform best when they feel safe sharing ideas and taking risks.

Frontline voices matter: Inclusion isn’t just about top-down leadership—frontline workers should have a say in decisions.

Learn more about Joey and get connected on his website: https://www.joeyaviles.com/.

00:00:00 - The Power of Feedback in Leadership
00:02:38 - Teaching Diversity and Inclusion to Children
00:10:29 - Seeing Diversity Through New Eyes
00:16:14 - Storytelling as a Leadership Superpower
00:24:22 - Creating Psychological Safety in Workplaces
00:30:17 - Leadership Awareness and Inclusion Strategies
00:37:45 - Bridging the Gap Between Leadership and Frontline Workers
00:43:29 - Measuring Inclusion and Employee Perspectives
00:45:54 - Receiving and Reacting to Feedback as a Leader
00:48:56 - The Lifelong Process of Growth and Inclusion

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Jenny DeRosse is a renowned speaker, coach, and advocate for personal and professional growth. As part of the Impact Eleven community, Jenny specializes in helping speakers and professionals amplify their voices by focusing on authenticity, storytelling, and audience connection. On this week’s Behind the Armor conversation, Jenny joins Judd to discuss the art of amplifying your voice and standing out in a crowded space—whether as a speaker, professional, or brand. From overcoming fears of imperfection to engaging audiences interactively, Jenny provides actionable advice for those seeking to create lasting impact in their industries.

Lessons from the Episode:

Know Your Expertise: Focus on what makes you "one of one" and position yourself authentically in your field.

Embrace Vulnerability: True connection comes from sharing your imperfect, human side.

Engage Your Audience: Use storytelling, interactive tools, and tailored messages to keep people involved.

Test Your Message: Experiment with your voice on social media and podcasts to refine your content.

Control the Closing Note: Structure your presentations to end with impact, not unpredictability from a Q&A.

Learn more about Impact Eleven and Jenny’s work on their website: https://impacteleven.com/.

CHAPTERS
00:00:00 Finding Your Unique Expertise
00:04:49 Steps to Amplify Your Voice
00:07:29 The Power of Audience Connection
00:10:42 Authenticity in Storytelling
00:14:29 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Vulnerability
00:19:34 Engaging Modern Audiences
00:24:00 Innovations in Public Speaking
00:26:32 Closing Insights on Speaking Success

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