Ask Dr. Louise

About Ask Dr. Louise

Ask Dr. Louise is a thought-provoking podcast where renowned interventionist and author Dr. Louise Stanger explores the complexities of addiction, mental health, and family dynamics. With decades of experience, she offers expert insight, compassionate guidance, and real conversations designed to educate, empower, and inspire lasting transformation.

Publisher

Dr. Louise Stanger

Category

business · health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

16 Apr 2026

Latest episode

22 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   22 Oct 2026

   From Rock Star to Recovery Expert: 36 Years of Sobriety with Woody Giessmann, LADC-I, CADC, CIP

   This week on Ask Dr. Louise, join us for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation with Woody Giessmann—musician, clinician, and leader in the field of recovery. Known for his work as a drummer with the Del Fuegos, Woody shares his deeply personal journey from a life shaped by addiction and tragedy to one devoted to healing, service, and creative expression. From his early years in a musical Kansas family, through his struggles and eventual long-term recovery, Woody opens up about the influence of his family, the power of music, and the lessons learned from decades in both the music industry and clinical practice. We explore how compassion, listening, and creativity inform his unique approach to intervention and recovery, and discuss his latest projects—including his book on breaking the chains of addiction and the launch of Rock Bottom: The Musical. Whether you’re seeking hope, insight, or simply the story of someone who turned adversity into purpose, you won’t want to miss this episode. Timestamps: 00:00 Joining the Del Fuegos band 05:52 Discussing personal family tragedies 07:16 Becoming a better listener 10:39 Growing up in a musical family 15:47 Starting recovery and 12-step meetings 18:06 Genetic predisposition and recovery beliefs 21:23 Talking about compassionate writing 25:42 Supporting loved ones with mental health 29:30 Prioritizing self-care and wellness 32:34 Breaking chains and promoting hope 37:01 Sting's advice and growth strategy 38:55 Praising Woody's contributions Connect with Woody: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodygiessmannpaintings Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

2. 

   8 Oct 2026

   Building BoxUnion & Beyond: Felicia Alexander on Scaling, Reinvention & Helping Studio Owners Grow

   Welcome to a heartfelt and inspiring episode of Ask Dr. Louise, where the conversation focused on the remarkable journey of Felicia Alexander. From her early days growing up as a middle child and building unshakable self-confidence, to an impressive career spanning tech, marketing at Mattel, launching the popular fitness concept BoxUnion, and scaling businesses through bold acquisitions, Felicia’s story is one of resilience, courage, and continuous reinvention. The discussion explored her path through personal tragedies and entrepreneurial triumphs, the importance of community building, and the power of embracing change—even when it’s daunting. Listeners will gain insight into creating connection, navigating setbacks, and living life with joy and purpose. Get ready to meet Felicia Alexander and discover what’s next for this dynamic leader, adventurer, and connector. Timestamps: 00:00 Introducing my daughters Sydney and Shelby 05:19 Unexpected career setback and travel 09:04 Networking at the hair salon 10:11 Family's social and outgoing traits 14:49 Starting BoxUnion in Los Angeles 17:05 Creating a welcoming gym atmosphere 20:31 Planning world travel after son's graduation 24:08 The glass dental office story 29:24 Mentorship program with Krista Gurka 31:02 Investing in consumer packaged goods 35:25 Felicia's unexpected San Diego visit 36:41 Expressing gratitude and future anticipation Connect with Felicia: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feliciaralexander/ Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

3. 

   24 Sept 2026

   The Truth About Rehab: What Families Need to Know About Addiction, Recovery & Healing with Denise Klein of Milestones Ranch Malibu

   In this episode of Ask Dr. Louise, Dr. Louise welcomes Denise Klein, CEO of Milestones Ranch Malibu and one of the leading women in behavioral health. With over 30 years of experience, Denise delves into the complexities of running a dual diagnosis treatment center, where mental health and addiction are addressed simultaneously. The conversation explores Denise’s journey from journalism to social work, her philosophy of relational—not transactional—care, and why Milestones Ranch deliberately remains small to provide individualized attention. Denise offers candid insights into the evolving landscape of behavioral healthcare, the critical role of family involvement, and the importance of attunement, hope, and aftercare in achieving lasting recovery. Whether you’re a clinician, a family member seeking guidance, or someone passionate about mental health, Denise’s expertise and heartfelt approach illuminate what truly matters in transformative care. Timestamps: 00:00 Working with dual diagnosis patients 04:13 Experiencing and recovering from a flood 07:12 Value of small therapy programs 11:44 Virtual therapy and innovative treatments 15:19 The importance of compassionate leadership 18:42 Gathering information for interventions 22:13 Misconceptions about addiction treatment 24:09 Challenges after rehab and support systems 29:40 Choosing a qualified therapist 32:49 Preparing for natural disasters 35:01 Passion for helping others 38:14 Challenges of running a rehab center 41:34 Approach to handling interventions 44:19 Recommending Milestones Ranch Connect with Denise: Website: https://milestonesranch.com/ Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

4. 

   10 Sept 2026

   Becoming the Creator of Your Story: Lauren Fields’ Journey from TBI to Founder of Fieldswell

   The conversation focused on transformation, resilience, and the power of mindset. This debut episode of Ask Dr. Louise welcomes Lauren Fields, a transformational coach whose own journey through adversity inspired her mission to help others actualize their highest potential. The discussion explored the pivotal experiences that shaped Lauren’s path—from a life-altering accident in her youth to building a thriving coaching practice based on self-actualization and wellness. Listeners will discover insightful stories about overcoming limiting beliefs, the challenges and growth that come with change, and the tools that enable personal reinvention. A key theme that emerged was the belief that everyone holds the capacity to become the creator of their own reality. Tune in to hear how personal setbacks can become superpowers and learn practical techniques for turning vision into reality, developing gratitude, and stepping boldly into new identities. Timestamps: 00:00 Meeting at a birthday party 05:45 Building Fieldswell and coaching entrepreneurs 09:09 Reflecting on limiting beliefs 12:32 Prioritizing self-care and fulfillment 13:42 Deciding when to dismiss clients 18:00 Thanking sponsors and collaborations Connect with Lauren: https://laurenfields.komi.io/ Website: https://www.fieldswell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurenfields/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurfields/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laurfields TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fieldswell Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

5. 

   27 Aug 2026

   Rewriting Your Story: Dr. Louise & Daughter Sydney Holland on Addiction, Loss & Becoming Your Own Woman

   Welcome to another transformative episode of the Podcast, hosted by Dr. Louise. This week’s conversation is especially close to home — Dr. Louise sits down with her oldest daughter, Sydney Holland, for an intimate and powerful discussion about resilience, personal growth, and the complexities of family. Together, they revisit pivotal moments from Sydney Holland’s childhood, including the profound impact of losing her father and witnessing her mother’s strength through adversity. Sydney Holland opens up about her journey with addiction and recovery, exploring how early struggles with sobriety led her toward a life of mentorship, empathy, and independence. This rare, candid exchange between mother and daughter offers listeners both inspiration and insight into navigating life’s toughest challenges with dignity and courage. Connect with Sydney: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sydney_d_holland/ Website: https://theurbanandthemystic.com/ Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

6. 

   13 Aug 2026

   How Golf and Mountains Shape Addiction Recovery with KC Gooding of Jaywalker Lodge

   In this episode of Ask Dr. Louise, Dr. Louise sits down with longtime friend Casey Gooding, partner at Jaywalker Lodge, for a conversation about recovery, connection, leadership, and personal growth. Casey shares how golf has shaped meaningful relationships and mentorships throughout his career before diving into Jaywalker Lodge’s approach to addiction recovery. He explains why lasting recovery goes beyond completing a treatment program—it’s about creating experiences that help people rediscover joy, purpose, ambition, and community. They also discuss the importance of long-term treatment, family involvement, and creating an environment where transformation can take root. Casey shares stories of men who arrived in crisis and went on to build meaningful lives, with some even returning to serve others in recovery. The conversation explores mentorship, fatherhood, resilience, and how adversity can ultimately shape a life of greater purpose and service. Connect with KC: Website: https://www.jaywalkerlodge.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaywalkerlodge https://www.instagram.com/calisparty/ Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

7. 

   30 Jul 2026

   From Painkillers to Purpose: Felicia Montiforte's Story of Redemption

   Dr. Louise introduces her podcast Ask Dr. Louise and welcomes Felicia, co-founder of Imagine Recovery in Louisiana, describing her transformation from a stay-at-home mother addicted to painkillers after a car accident to a sober clinician helping others. Felicia recounts early substance use, escalating opioid addiction, separation, and losing custody of her children in 2006 after a blackout; she entered treatment in 2008, followed court-ordered recovery conditions, and reunited with her children in 2009, rebuilding strong relationships. She discusses stigma and shame for women, especially mothers, and the importance of “footwork,” community, and early help for substance misuse, including “wine mom” culture during COVID. Felicia explains her ties to the Harmon Recovery Foundation, the naming and mission of Imagine Recovery, and her current full-time RV travel for personal growth while working remotely and supporting Imagine’s team.

8. 

   16 Jul 2026

   The Power of Feeling Beautiful: Makeup Artist Allison Elliott on Confidence and Self-Worth

   What if beauty wasn't about perfection—but about confidence? In this uplifting episode of Ask Dr. Louise, Dr. Louise sits down with celebrity and bridal makeup artist Allison Elliott for a heartfelt conversation about beauty, confidence, entrepreneurship, and discovering your true worth. While Allison has spent decades helping brides, celebrities, and women of all ages look their best, her greatest passion isn't makeup—it's helping people feel beautiful from the inside out. Allison shares her inspiring journey from earning a business degree at her father's encouragement to leaving corporate America, moving to New York City, and building a successful career in the beauty industry. From working at Sephora and learning under legendary makeup artist Laura Geller to New York Fashion Week, celebrity clients, and now owning a luxury bridal beauty agency, Allison's story is one of courage, creativity, and following your calling. Together, Dr. Louise and Allison explore why confidence begins long before the makeup brush, how positive self-talk changes the way we see ourselves, and why every woman deserves to feel radiant—whether it's on her wedding day or an ordinary Tuesday. In this episode, you will learn: Allison's journey from corporate America to becoming a professional makeup artist How following your passion can lead to a fulfilling career Why beauty starts with confidence and self-worth The emotional transformation makeup can create Working with brides, celebrities, and women of every age The importance of enhancing—not hiding—your natural beauty Building confidence through positive self-talk Why comparison steals confidence Starting and growing a successful bridal beauty business Lessons learned from entrepreneurship Finding purpose by reconnecting with what you loved as a child Why taking care of your health contributes to feeling beautiful Allison's experience getting married later in life and what it taught her about love Connect with Allison: Website: https://allisonvalebeauty.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allison.elliott.503 Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

9. 

   2 Jul 2026

   Comprehensive Healing: Finding the Root Cause of Trauma, Addiction & Mental Illness with Dr. James Flowers

   Dr. Louise introduces her podcast Ask Dr. Louise and interviews longtime friend and collaborator Dr. James Flowers, CEO of J. Flowers Health Institute in Houston, Texas, discussing their shared academic, research-driven, precision-based approach to complex mental health cases, emphasizing comprehensive diagnostics, one-on-one care without strict time limits, and strong therapeutic alliance. Flowers explains he created the institute to address gaps in group-based, time-limited treatment, describing a 360-degree “living MRI” evaluation to identify root causes. He shares cases where medical workups changed psychiatric assumptions, including a pituitary tumor causing aberrant behavior and a student misdiagnosed with schizophrenia who had a brain parasite. They discuss trauma, with Flowers recounting severe childhood losses and describing compartmentalization as his early “superpower,” while highlighting ongoing therapy and helping families heal. Flowers shares institute contact details and encourages careful, informed treatment selection.

10. 

    18 Jun 2026

    From Family Crisis to Global Impact: Jessica Sarowitz on Trauma, Healing, and Purpose

    On Ask Dr. Louise, Dr. Louise Stanger interviews Jessica Sarowitz, who recounts first contacting Dr. Stanger during a desperate period when her 17-year-old son experienced a severe mental health breakdown; she emphasizes the importance of a unified family approach, avoiding triangulation, and the role of peers in supporting treatment, and shares that David is now graduating college and pursuing mental health work. Sarowitz describes leading For Us Bay Partners, a single-family office with payroll/HR, real estate, investments, film, and philanthropy through the Julian Grace Foundation, including projects like Stocker Street Creative in Baldwin Hills and support for unaccompanied immigrant minors and a Jewish-Muslim/Palestinian educational center in Akko. They discuss parenting values, curiosity across cultures, learning from failure, Sarowitz’s childhood abuse and reclaiming her story, travel and scuba diving goals, aging, gratitude, mental health “maintenance,” and Stanger’s goals at 80 and her book Trauma Is Your Superpower.

11. 

    4 Jun 2026

    Trauma Is Your Superpower: Turning Pain into Purpose with Dr. Louise Stanger

    In this special episode of Ask Dr. Louise, the tables are turned as transformational coach and Fieldswell founder Lauren Fields interviews Dr. Louise Stanger about her powerful new book, Trauma Is Your Superpower. Together, they explore how life's most painful experiences can become the foundation for resilience, healing, personal growth, and purpose. Drawing from her own deeply personal experiences—including the suicide of her father when she was a child, multiple sudden losses, and decades of work helping others navigate adversity—Dr. Louise shares how trauma shapes us, challenges us, and ultimately offers opportunities for transformation. Rather than viewing trauma solely through the lens of suffering, Dr. Louise introduces a compelling new perspective: every superhero has an origin story, and our greatest wounds often become the source of our greatest strengths. Through storytelling, practical exercises, and compassionate insight, she encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability, develop resilience, and discover the hidden gifts that emerge from life's most difficult chapters. In this episode you will hear about: Why every superhero has an origin story—and so do we The difference between trauma, resilience, and post-traumatic growth Dr. Louise's personal story of losing her father to suicide How hidden trauma shapes identity and behavior Why vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness The power of sharing your story with trusted people Moving beyond victimhood and into growth How grief evolves over time The importance of empathy versus sympathy Developing boundaries, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness How trauma can become a source of purpose and service Why healing isn't linear Learning to "fall up" after life's setbacks Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

12. 

    21 May 2026

    Do We Still Matter? Beth Saunders on Identity, Purpose, and Life’s Next Chapter

    In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Ask Dr. Louise, Dr. Louise welcomes swimmer, teacher, volunteer, mother, and wellness advocate Beth Saunders for a deeply meaningful conversation about identity, aging, purpose, resilience, and what it truly means to “matter.” Beth shares her journey from raising three daughters and navigating the empty nest transition to finding renewed purpose through substitute teaching, coaching swimmers, volunteering, and embracing lifelong learning. Along the way, she opens up about living with arthritis, undergoing two hip replacements, and continuing to thrive physically and emotionally through movement, connection, and service. Together, Dr. Louise and Beth explore how women can rediscover themselves after caregiving years, why community and authenticity matter more than perfection, and how simple acts of kindness can profoundly change lives. This episode is a beautiful reminder that every stage of life offers opportunities to grow, contribute, connect, and live fully. Connect with Beth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth2022/ Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

13. 

    14 May 2026

    Inside the Mind of a Hollywood Costume Designer with Ernesto Martinez

    In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Ask Dr. Louise, Dr. Louise sits down with acclaimed costume designer Ernesto Martinez for an intimate conversation about creativity, courage, recovery, and living a life fueled by gratitude. From designing costumes for films and hit television series like Song Sung Blue, Physical, and Veep, to discovering the healing power of horses and the life-changing lessons of 12-step recovery, Ernesto shares the deeply personal experiences that shaped both his career and his character. Together, they reflect on their unforgettable friendship that began during the early SoulCycle days in Los Angeles, the collaborative magic behind bringing characters to life on screen, and the importance of remaining teachable no matter where life takes you. Ernesto opens up about caring for his mother during her final years, overcoming fear and self-doubt, and why listening may be the greatest superpower of all. This episode is a moving reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams, walk through fear, and create a meaningful life filled with purpose, creativity, and connection. Connect with Ernesto: https://www.instagram.com/ernestito1/ Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

14. 

    30 Apr 2026

    Unlocking Potential with Jack Vaughn: A Journey of Mentorship and Growth

    In today's episode of Ask Dr. Louise podcast, Dr. Louise interviews Jack Vaughn, COO of Youth Prevention Mentors (YPM), about how he entered youth mentoring and case-support work. Jack describes struggling as a rebellious student, later pursuing self-understanding and psychology, and how caring for his father during a serious cancer battle and learning from his mother’s recovery coaching prepared him for high-acuity support roles. He recounts his first major YPM case—joining a barricaded young man using an invitational approach and motivational interviewing, ultimately accompanying him to a distant behavioral health treatment center—and how that work led to ongoing collaboration with Dr. Louise and Max. Jack also discusses a later case involving addiction recovery, traumatic loss, and academic collapse, which prompted him to develop an executive-functioning curriculum focused on initiation, follow-through, grit, and self-control. He shares plans to expand this work through Launch Go, a separate virtual coaching service paired with a productivity platform (currently soft-launched in beta) designed to support clients at the “point of performance,” and he provides a phone number for families seeking help. Connect with Jack: Website: https://www.youthpreventionmentors.com/ Connect with Dr. Louise: Website: https://www.allaboutinterventions.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutinterventions/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlouisestanger/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drlouisestanger

15. 

    16 Apr 2026

    From Photography to Storytelling: Cheryl Fox’s Artistic Journey

    Cheryl Fox, a photographer and storyteller, recounting how they met through a photo shoot of Louise’s daughter Sydney and later collaborated on Louise’s book Reflections on Aging, with images shot at the Sunset Marquis and a signing at Morrison Hotel Gallery. Fox discusses her books Rock and Roll of Hip Hop and A Few Good Women, a project about womanhood beyond societal roles, curated from women who inspired her. She shares becoming a photographer after being suspended from Hampton University, studying sociology, discovering photography in a darkroom class, and later training at the School of Visual Arts. Fox describes shooting celebrities (Pharrell, Snoop Dogg, Rihanna), managing difficult sets, being underestimated as a woman of color, finding joy through laughter, and advising creatives to use imagination. She previews A Few Good Women second edition as a docuseries with partnerships, and mentions illustrating her son’s children’s books using AI while collaborating with Louise on a comic project, Trauma is Your Superpower.

16. 

    16 Apr 2026

    A Journey of Resilience: Conversations with Shelby Stanger

    In a mother-daughter podcast conversation, Dr. Louise interviews her youngest daughter, journalist and podcaster Shelby Stanger Arthur (author of “Will to Wild” and host of “Wild Ideas Worth Living,” later acquired by REI Co-op in 2020). Shelby explains launching her podcast after an Outside Magazine story about Wim Hof was cut, using an all-women 12-week entrepreneurship course to create a business plan, meet deadlines, and hire technical production help. They discuss how Dr. Louise taught Shelby curiosity and talking to everyone, then share family trauma: the sudden infant death of Dr. Louise’s son Eric and the later sudden death of Shelby’s father, plus how water, camp, and nature helped Shelby heal and build courage. Shelby recounts choosing Emory for journalism, mentors like Nathan McCall, quitting a cushy Vans job to become a journalist, major adventures and partnerships, and advice on awe, asking questions, silence, and following intuition.

17. 

    16 Apr 2026

    Hope Interventions: Gino Galofaro's Journey in Addiction Recovery

    Dr. Louise interviews interventionist and treatment entrepreneur Gino Galofaro about how they met through mutual colleague Ian DePuy and later connected at a networking event after Ian’s death. Gino describes getting sober in 1999, opening Rancho Coast sober livings in 2005 near Pathfinders, and developing interventions organically from handling intakes, later training in the Johnson Model. He explains his focus on high-intensity, high-risk interventions and recounts a recent Texas hotel crisis involving heavy nitrous use, culminating in transport to detox within 12 hours. They discuss how insurance and fentanyl have changed addiction treatment, making “rock bottom” riskier and retention harder, and emphasize family boundaries. Gino shares current projects including Hope Interventions, Windansea Recovery, Grotta House/Ranch, House of Hope, and a Hope and Recovery Foundation, stressing that recovery is still possible.

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Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.