In this episode of Heart and Soulution, hosts Mike and Kristen sit down with Amber Hollingsworth, a veteran addiction counselor with over 20 years of clinical experience and founder of the popular YouTube channel Put the Shovel Down (boasting over 800,000 subscribers). Amber challenges traditional narratives around addiction, rejecting the notion that families must passively wait for a loved one to hit "rock bottom" or rely strictly on harsh "tough love". Drawing from both her professional work and her own upbringing in an addicted family system, Amber outlines practical, empathetic strategies that empower loved ones to break toxic communication loops, rebuild mutual trust, and inspire lasting recovery.

© 2025-2026 All Music by Mike and Kristen Jones for use by Heart and Soulution, including "Heart and Soulution theme (feat. Mike Jones)", "Card of the day", "Get to Know You Theme", "If We're Asking Other People Theme" and all background music; written and created by Mike Jones; produced and mastered with Suno.com.

Reference material and Resources to dive deeper:

• Amber Hollingsworth's YouTube channel, Put The Shovel Down. You're not helpless. You just need a better strategy.

• Amber's website, Family Recovery Academy. For families that have tried everything and are running out of ideas.

• ⁠You can also reach Amber on Instagram @puttheshoveldown

Connect with Heart and Soulution:

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