73: From Addiction to Advocacy: Fighting Substance Use Disorder with Natasha Davis and Haley Sample

Thrive While Loving an Addict | Addiction | Sobriety | Recovery | Relapse

In this episode of Thrive While Loving an Addict, host KL Wells interviews Natasha Davis and Haley Sample, best friends of 25 years who have both personally navigated addiction and substance use disorder. Now working on the treatment side at Her Harbor in Fresno, they focus on specialized addiction treatment for women. Natasha and Haley share their personal journeys, insights on recovery, and compassionate advice for parents and loved ones of those struggling with addiction.

Key Discussion Points:

• The personal recovery journeys of Natasha and Haley.
• The vital role of support and community in sustaining sobriety.
• Unique benefits and challenges within women's-only recovery programs.
• Understanding the science behind addiction and its impact on decision-making.
• Practical advice for parents supporting children facing substance use disorder.
• How education, love, and tolerance can combat the stigma surrounding addiction.
• Essential self-care practices for families affected by addiction.
• Realities of relapse and the importance of ongoing support and empathy.
• The impact of COVID-19 on recovery and the growth of virtual support meetings.

Some Questions I Ask:

• Can you share the “CNN version” of your personal journeys with addiction?
• What role has AA played in understanding your disease?
• Did you have any pivotal moments around COVID that impacted your recovery?
• What inspired you to start Her Harbor Recovery, and what are your aspirations for it?
• What are the three most important things for parents to understand about addiction?
• Can you speak about your experiences with intervention?

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

✅ How addiction impacts decision-making by reducing individuals to an "animal level."

✅ Why creating safe, gender-specific spaces is crucial for women in recovery.

✅ The importance of education in understanding addiction to better support loved ones.

✅ Why you can't cause or cure addiction in someone you love.

✅ The power of practicing love, tolerance, and self-care as family members.

✅ Why relapse can be part of the recovery journey, and how continued support makes a difference.

✅ Strategies for appreciating each day and staying present while supporting someone through addiction.

Resources & Links:

🌊 Her Harbor Recovery

• Website: herharborrecovery.com
• Email: [email protected]