In this episode, Christina sits down with Kathie McKinney, a parent, SMART Family & Friends facilitator, and advocate for families impacted by addiction. Kathie shares her own journey of moving from fear, frustration, and trying to “fix” the problem to learning how trust, empathy, and communication can transform relationships.

They discuss why families need support and skills of their own, how approaches like motivational interviewing and Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) can help loved ones respond differently, and why creating a safe space for honest conversations can make all the difference in recovery.

If you love someone struggling with substance use, this conversation offers hope, practical tools, and a reminder that connection is often the starting point for change.

Resources:

• Allies in Recovery: https://alliesinrecovery.net/
• Center for Motivation and Change: https://motivationandchange.com/
• Helping Families Help: https://helpingfamilieshelp.com/
• Hopestream Podcast: https://hopestreamcommunity.org
• Partnership to End Addiction: https://drugfree.org/
• Heather Ross Podcast: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/podcast-3/
• Put The Shovel Down: https://www.youtube.com/@PutTheShovelDown
• The School of Hard Talks: https://www.dremilykline.com/home/schoolofhardtalksonline
• SMART Recovery Family & Friends: https://smartrecovery.org/family