Sober Curator Podcast

In this gripping episode, Alysse sits down with filmmaker Benjamin Flaherty for a powerful conversation about the business behind addiction recovery — and why too many families are left carrying shame, confusion, and financial devastation while trying to save their loved ones. Benjamin’s documentary exposes the economics, ethics, and emotional fallout inside the modern treatment industry, while also honoring the parents, advocates, and survivors who continue fighting for change. 

From medically assisted treatment debates to the insurance inequalities that shape who gets quality care, this episode goes deeper than most sober conversations dare to go. It’s raw, urgent, and grounded in truth — the kind of discussion that can only happen in a space built for honesty. 

Takeaways: 

• Families aren’t alone. Many parents attend screenings thinking their child’s exploitation or treatment experience was “their fault” — Benjamin’s film shows the systemic patterns behind the pain. 

• Recovery has an economic engine. Benjamin describes the shocking moment he realized how profitability shapes care, access, and outcomes in the treatment world. 

• Insurance determines who gets humane care. Both Benjamin and Alysse reflect on how “good insurance” gave them safe recovery environments — an advantage many don’t have. 

• Pop culture shapes our understanding. Films like Dopesick, Painkiller, Pain Hustlers, Body Brokers help raise awareness but flatten nuance; documentaries add back the complexity. 

• Conversations spark courage. When parents meet each other at screenings, shame lifts and the real healing begins. 

Key Timestamps: 

00:06:40 — Benjamin’s turning point: quitting alcohol & cocaine in high-pressure advertising 

00:07:45 — The myth of “the next milestone” that will magically fix everything 

00:08:20 — Why treatment is the only major health process most people don’t understand 

00:26:26 — Parents finding relief and validation through the film 

00:27:00 — The economics of recovery: what families aren’t told 

00:28:00 — Alysse shares her own insurance-based experience and privilege in treatment access 

00:28:20 — Pop culture portrayals of recovery & exploitation (Body Brokers, Painkiller, Dopesick) 

00:41:56 — The media Benjamin loves — and what representations resonate most 

Resources & Links: 

• Website / Film https://www.stoptheshuffle.com/ 

• Instagram: @benjaminflaherty 

•  YouTube Trailer: OFFICIAL TRAILER | SHUFFLE  

–Meet the Contributors 

–Alcohol + Substance Use Disorder Guide 

–Recovery Nonprofit Resource Guide 

–LBGTQ+ Recovery Resource Guide 

Connect with Us: 

-Website: www.thesobercurator.com  

-Facebook: @The Sober Curator 

-Instagram: @thesobercurator 

-X: @thesobercurator 

-YouTube: @thesobercurator 

-Pinterest: @thesobercurator 

Send Feedback: 

If you have a story, feedback, or just want to connect, email us at thesobercurator@gmail.com. We’d love to hear from you! 

About: 

Sobriety isn’t the end of the party—it’s just the start of a better one. Hosted by Alysse Bryson, media powerhouse and sobriety’s ultimate hype woman, and joined by Sober Curator contributors, The Sober Curator Podcast* delivers bold convos, pop culture deep dives, and zero-proof living that doesn’t suck. Whether you're sober, sober-curious, or just looking for good vibes without the hangover, we’ve got you covered. Subscribe now—because getting sober matters, staying sober matters more. 

*The Sober Curator Podcast is a space for open and honest conversations about sobriety, recovery, and alcohol-free living. While we celebrate all paths to a sober lifestyle, some topics discussed may be sensitive or triggering for certain listeners. This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. If you’re in recovery or exploring sobriety, please take care while listening and seek support from trusted professionals as needed.