Working With and Supporting Employees with Addiction

In this thought‑provoking episode of The Independent Minds, host Michael Millward speaks with Jeff Jones of thefamilyrecoverysolution.com to explore one of the workplace’s most uncomfortable realities: addiction.

Drawing on his personal history and professional experience as a therapist, Jeff explains why addiction is rarely a simple, individual problem. As he puts it, “families are on the front lines… they see this first,” and employers often become the next crucial part of the support system.

Together, Michael and Jeff examine how addiction develops, why behavioural changes at work matter, and how workplace culture can either reduce risks or unintentionally amplify them.

The conversation challenges black‑and‑white thinking and instead encourages employers to recognise the “shades of grey” that define each person’s relationship with addiction. Jeff outlines what a truly supportive employer looks like—one who focuses on whole‑person wellbeing, builds trust, avoids harmful cultural norms, and creates systems that help employees recover rather than fall further.

Whether you’re an HR professional, a leader, or simply someone interested in healthier workplaces, this episode will make you think differently about addiction, support, and the role work plays in recovery.

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