Inside Our New Podcast: A Q&A with Elizabeth Vargas

Tell us about why are you hosting a podcast.

I’m hosting a podcast to give people the opportunity to share their stories about addiction. I wasn’t always comfortable sharing my own story. A few years ago, I wrote a book, Between Breaths, a Memoir of Panic and Addiction. In the months leading up to publishing my book, I would wake up at 3 a.m. worrying and think, am I making a terrible mistake? My initial hope – that I would make just one person feel less alone in their struggle – suddenly turned to doubt. I convinced myself that I would be shamed, shunned and mocked. I was ready to pull the plug every single night.

Yet, the book got published and I realized that telling my story publicly in all its detail has proven to be one of the greatest gifts of my life.

How does your podcast help address addiction in our country?

This podcast is a small step in the complex journey we must take as a nation to address this public health crisis. Heart of the Matter features powerful, candid and personal conversations on substance use and addiction.

Our stories are told from the vantage points of individuals – athletes, political leaders, researchers, clinicians, influential authors and families. This podcast provides an opportunity for people to open up about addiction, substance use and mental health. To share the ways in which individuals are shifting their narrative – in their own relationships and across communities – to support the cause of ending addiction in our country. We heal together, through connection, not alone.

Who are your upcoming guests?

Our first guest is Chris Herren, former NBA player and founder of Herren Talks, Herren Project and Herren Wellness. Chris shares intimate details about his journey and how he’s now using his experience to change the way high school students think about substance use.

In our second episode, I will be speaking with David Sheff, journalist and author of several books, including Beautiful Boy: A Father’s Journey Through His Son’s Addiction.

Where can we listen?

Our new podcast will be available on iTunes, Spotify, on this website and anywhere else you listen to podcasts.