In this episode, award-winning addiction scientist Dr. Suzette Glasner shares her expert opinion and commentary on Shaquille O’Neal’s candid reflections on opioid use, tolerance, and performance pressure. She explains subtle signs of addiction that are often missed—even by high performers—and why early recognition matters.

About Dr. Glasner: Dr. Suzette Glasner is an award-winning addiction scientist and clinical researcher, author, and educator focused on evidence-based approaches to substance use and recovery.

Contact the show: askdrglasner@gmail.com

Early access: Substack subscribers receive audio on Tuesdays.

Premiere: New episodes publish on YouTube every Thursday at 8:00 AM PT: https://youtu.be/PTIfi8sztAI

Thank you to Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard for fostering open, thoughtful conversations that help dismantle addiction stigma.

Disclaimer: This episode reflects Dr. Glasner’s professional opinion and commentary based on publicly available interviews. It is not a diagnosis or medical advice. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, seek help from a qualified healthcare professional.

Episode 25 | Sober October Tips: 3 Thoughts Holding You Back (and How to Move Forward)

In this episode, Dr. Suzette Glasner explains how to overcome three common mental barriers that can keep you from reducing or quitting alcohol and other substances this month. Drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), she guides listeners through simple, research-backed ways to rethink habits and gain momentum—even if you start late in the month.

🧠 Topics Include:

• Reframing “I can’t do this” thinking

• Experimenting with new ways to relax without substances

• Assessing your own motivation and progress

• When to seek professional help for dependence

📈 Key Takeaway: Even small reductions can improve mood, sleep, concentration, and liver function within 30 days.

⏱ Length: ~25 minutes

📅 Release: October 2025

The Addiction Recovery Skills Workbook https://amzn.to/3J1FTkA

Addiction: What Everyone Needs to Know https://amzn.to/4nIvWI1

📩 askdrglasner@gmail.com | drsuzetteglasner.com

Women are drinking more than ever — yet they remain far less likely than men to seek help, often waiting up to 10 years to get treatment. In this episode, Dr. Suzette Glasner explores why: from shame, stigma, and caregiving fears to cost concerns and workplace pressures. Learn how alcohol harms women faster, why health risks are rising, and what steps can help close the gap — whether you’re seeking support yourself or trying to help someone you love.

📊 Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Welcome & why this topic matters

01:20 – The narrowing gender gap and rising drinking trends

03:05 – Shame, stigma, and caregiving fears: the top barriers women face

06:45 – The telescoping effect: why alcohol harms women faster

09:20 – Cancer, cardiovascular risk, and other health impacts

12:10 – Workplace stress, wine culture, and binge drinking trends

15:35 – Why women wait 10 years to seek treatment

18:10 – How support, sober-curious strategies, and digital care make a difference

22:00 – How to approach a loved one about alcohol use — without shame

💡 Key takeaway: Women face unique social, cultural, and biological barriers to getting help for alcohol use — but with better information, compassionate support, and accessible treatment options, we can close the gap and save lives.

📩 Have a question or topic suggestion? Email Dr. Glasner at askdrglasner@gmail.com.

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