The Harder to Breathe Podcast25 Maalis 2025

The Psychology of a Drug Dealer | #12

On today's episode of "Harder to Breathe", host, founding drummer of "Maroon 5", and licensed therapist, Ryan Dusick is joined by co-host and actor Brian "Duck" Maillard for a deep and inspirational conversation with Doug Bopst.

Doug has been through it all. Early in his teens he became addicted to hard drugs– a path that would ultimately lead him to becoming a Drug Dealer, getting caught by the police, and incarceration. However, he will be the first to tell you that his time in jail changed his life… and that it was the best thing that ever happened to him.

Through their conversation, Ryan and Duck learn the extent of Doug's incredible transformation since getting out of jail– a transformation that has led him to incredible success today as an author, a Podcaster, a Fitness Instructor, a Youtuber, and so much more.

From stories about Pigeons and Cups-of-Noodles to embracing a winning diet within the jail system, this episode of the "Harder to Breathe" Podcast covers it all. It's a reminder that no matter how you grew up, or what adversity you've faced in your past, that you can learn from it and grow.

0:00:36 Introduction & Spring Weather

0:01:56 Ryan's Anger Triggers at the Gym

0:07:05 Relationship Triggers & The Pigeon Story

0:11:50 Getting Into Fist-Fights & The Cup-of-Noodles Story

0:14:54 "Fights" Within Maroon 5

0:17:59 Injustices in Duck's Life

0:24:32 Today's Guest: Doug Bopst

0:28:09 Doug Bopst Joins the Podcast

0:28:49 Doug's Background of Incarceration & Addiction

0:43:44 The Psychology of a Drug Dealer

0:50:07 Glamorization of Drug Dealing

0:53:11 Doug's Advice for Young People

0:58:57 Present-Day Coping Mechanisms

1:02:56 Introduction of Spirituality

1:05:44 Replacing Addiction with Addiction

1:10:16 "Fake it Until You Make It"

1:18:24 Let's Talk About Jail

1:21:55 Pros and Cons of the "Tough Love" Approach

1:28:19 Wrap Up & Conclusion

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