In this heartfelt episode, Matthew, David and his mother Alison dive into the messy, emotional world of addiction—the kind that tests families to their limits but also brings out the deepest love and resilience. They look back on David’s childhood, those first, subtle signs of alcohol use, and the wild ride through university that took a darker turn. Alison opens up with raw honesty about the frustration and hope of trying to help a loved one who doesn’t want to be helped, sharing the moments that broke her heart and the ones that made her stronger. There’s laughter amidst the tears as they recount their struggles—David’s cunning attempts to hide his drinking, Alison’s relentless determination to pull him back, and the long road to rehab. Together, they show that recovery isn’t a straight line; it’s a bumpy, winding road that sometimes feels more like a rollercoaster. The conversation underscores the power of therapy, honest communication, and tough love in facing addiction’s challenges head-on. This episode is a reminder that, while addiction can strain family bonds, it can also become a journey of healing, one that brings a deeper understanding and renewed hope for everyone involved. #TheBrinkPodcast #MatthewRidge #DavidRing #Podcast #addiction