Episode 35 | AA From an Addiction Specialist

In this episode, Scott Loyd and Daniela Mestyanek-Young engage in a deep conversation with Andi Wiseman about the nature of cults, particularly focusing on the military and Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). They explore the harmful aspects of 12-step programs, the intersection of addiction and systemic issues, and the importance of listening to survivors. The discussion highlights personal experiences with cult-like behavior in nonprofits and the need for a broader understanding of recovery beyond traditional frameworks.

Andi's Links

Website

The Book: The Unsubtle Art of Unfucking Your Life

Daniella's Links:

You can read all about my story in my book, Uncultured-- buy signed copies here. https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured

For more info on me:

Patreon: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding

Cult book Clubs (Advanced AND Memoirs) Annual Membership: https://bit.ly/YTPLanding

Get an autographed copy of my book, Uncultured: https://bit.ly/SignedUncultured

Get my book, Uncultured, from Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/4g1Ufw8

Daniella's Tiktok: https://bit.ly/4bwvNC0

Instagram: https://bit.ly/4ePAOFK / daniellamyoung_

Unamerican video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/YTVideoBook

Secret Practice video book (on Patreon): https://bit.ly/3ZswGY8

Other Podcasts

Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women

Scot's TikTok

@thescotloyd

Takeaways

Cults can be found in various societal structures, including the military and AA.
The 12-step model may not work for everyone and can be harmful.
Recovery is a personal journey that can take many forms.
Cults often manipulate vulnerable individuals seeking connection.
The nonprofit sector can exhibit cult-like behaviors.
Systemic issues contribute to addiction and recovery challenges.
Listening to survivors is crucial for understanding the impact of cults.
Secrecy in groups often hides harmful practices.
Challenging the status quo is necessary for meaningful change.
Individual action alone cannot solve systemic problems.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cults and Group Behavior
03:01 Exploring the Definition of Cults
06:08 The Role of AA and Military in Cult Dynamics
08:59 The Harmful Impact of 12-Step Programs
11:59 Generational Trauma and Cult Influence
14:59 Personal Stories and Systemic Issues
18:04 Navigating Nonprofit Work and Cult-like Structures
20:52 The Intersection of Individual Action and Systemic Problems
29:42 Systemic Issues in Recovery
36:18 The Intersection of Faith and Recovery Programs
40:06 The Role of the State in Addiction Treatment
43:20 Cults and Coercive Control
49:04 Understanding Trauma and Recovery
55:02 Promoting Open Conversations about Recovery

Produced by Haley Phillips