Hour 4: From Oxy to AA | 10-15-25

Lionel kicks off the hour by scrutinizing Dram Shop legislation and litigation. Lionel questions the burden placed on bartenders and establishments, which can be held legally liable for damages if they over-serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated patrons or minors who later cause harm. The conversation then transitions to a fascinating and deeply personal segment on addiction and recovery. Lionel speaks with two remarkable callers: Kevin, a recovering addict 15 years sober, who discusses his downward spiral from an injury leading to oxycodone use, followed by heroin, arrests, and two DUIs. He and Lionel explore the chemical and physiological predispositions to addiction. Next, John, 42 years sober, shares his story of being a “wild child” addicted to various substances from the age of 12, his arrest under the Rockefeller law, and how he ultimately reached sobriety after a profound moment of self-reflection in a mirror. Throughout the hour, people debate the core question of whether addiction should be viewed as a medical problem rather than a crime, contrasting the accountability of bartenders with that of doctors who overprescribe opioids. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices