Shows
Till The Wheels Fall OffThe Most Abused Step in Recovery: Don’t Weaponize the 9th StepHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this audio newsletter (or maybe Mindset Mondays - still not sure here...working title), Matt tackles one of the most misunderstood and misused ideas in recovery: Step 9’s infamous “except when to do so would injure them or others” clause. Too often, this line becomes a get-out-of-accountability-free card used to avoid hard conversations, hide the truth, and protect ego instead of healing relationships. Matt breaks down what amends actually means, how to avoid performative apologies, and why transparency matters more than comfort. Whether you're in recovery or not, this is a mast...2025-07-2133 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: This Is My Nervous System Rehab Part 2Have an episode suggestion? Text us!In this honest follow-up to Wheelie Rehab, Paige shares where she’s at in her nervous system reset—mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically. From slow mornings and ASMR background vibes to decluttering closets and skipping caffeine, she’s rebuilding structure to save herself from burnout. But this episode is about more than routines; it’s about reclaiming your life before it crumbles. Paige talks identity shifts, balancing gratitude with boundaries, and why self-care has to come before community care. This isn’t just a vent; it’s a reset. One built on action, h...2025-07-1813 minTill The Wheels Fall OffThis Isn’t Who I Married: Growing Apart, Shifting Roles & Identity Changes in RecoveryHave an episode suggestion? Text us!Sobriety changes everything. Not just for the person getting sober, but for the relationship too. In this episode, Matt and Paige talk about what really happens when the chaos ends, the roles shift, and the people in the relationship start to realize they're not who they used to be.Some relationships were built on survival, not stability. And once sobriety enters the picture, everything gets exposed. From mismatched growth to identity shifts to grief over the people you used to be, this episode dives into the messy in-between.2025-07-1652 minTill The Wheels Fall OffAudio Newsletter: 12 Real Questions Men Ask About Shame, Trust, and Being a Good ManHave an episode suggestion? Text us!This one’s for the guys who never ask, and for the partners who wish they would. I answered 12 of the most honest, uncomfortable, and important questions I get asked (usually in DMs) from men trying to figure out who the hell they are, how to change, and how to make things right.We’re talking shame, trust, accountability, marriage, relapse, what Paige actually did that helped, and whether love is enough to save a relationship. I get into the biggest lies I told myself, the moment I knew Paig...2025-07-1447 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: This Is My Nervous System RehabHave an episode suggestion? Text us!This week’s Paige’s Perspective isn’t polished; it’s personal. I’m in the middle of a full-blown nervous system reset because burnout caught up with me, and pushing through stopped working. I talk about overwhelm, guilt, hustle culture, and why I’ve traded productivity for consistency, structure, naps, and sun. If you’ve ever felt like your system is shot and you just want to hide under a rock, this one’s for you. It’s not lazy. It’s recovery.Support the showFind video clips a...2025-07-1108 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Why ‘Just Trust Yourself’ Doesn’t WorkHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, we’re talking about something most healing journeys overlook—validation. You’ve probably heard things like “just trust yourself” or “you don’t need anyone else’s opinion.” But what if you’ve been gaslit, manipulated, blamed, and lied to by someone you loved? What if you spent years questioning your own reality?Here’s the truth: you do need external validation in the beginning. It’s part of the healing process. And today, I’m walking you through the three phases I s...2025-07-0413 minTill The Wheels Fall OffHow Patriarchy Built the Recovery Model — And Why It Has to ChangeHave an episode suggestion? Text us!This might be one of our most important conversations yet.In this episode of Till the Wheels Fall Off, Matt and Paige take a deeper look at how patriarchy still influences recovery, relationships, and the systems that claim to support healing. We break down how women are often expected to stay silent, show grace, and be endlessly patient, even in situations that cause deep emotional harm.We explore the outdated beliefs that shaped programs like AA and Al-Anon, the gender roles passed down through generations, and the...2025-07-021h 29Till The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Heavy Week? Here’s a Soft LandingHave an episode suggestion? Text us!Feeling like life keeps piling on? Like you’re stuck in survival mode? In this short and honest episode, Paige offers a gentle reset for your nervous system and your spirit. If you’re overwhelmed, overstimulated, or just done, this is your reminder: you’re not broken, and you’re not alone. You’re in a season—and seasons change. No fixing. No fluff. Just truth, breath, and permission to feel it all. You’re going to be okay. And we’re right here with you.Support the showFind vid...2025-06-2708 minTill The Wheels Fall OffAudio Newsletter: Why Men Stay Silent & How to Start Talking Without Losing YourselfHave an episode suggestion? Text us!Most men don’t stay quiet because they have nothing to say, they stay quiet because they’ve been trained to believe it’s safer that way. In this episode, Matt breaks down the some of the reasons he and other men struggle to open up: fear of being judged, minimized pain, past betrayals, and the belief that emotions make you weak. He shares how to start speaking honestly, even when it feels uncomfortable or unfamiliar, and why vulnerability isn’t a loss of power, it’s the beginning of becoming whole....2025-06-2335 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Learning to Trust Again Starts with Trusting YourselfHave an episode suggestion? Text us!What happens when you find out the truth years later—when the person you trusted most finally admits they lied? This episode is about the invisible aftermath of long-term betrayal. Paige walks through how repeated lies, not just addiction, reshape your brain, destroy self-trust, and make you question your reality. She explores the delayed grief that hits when you’re just now entering the pain they’ve already moved through, and why learning to trust yourself again is the foundation for everything that comes next. This life does change you—but not...2025-06-2015 minTill The Wheels Fall OffThe 4 Layers of Trust: What Rebuilding Actually Looks LikeHave an episode suggestion? Text us!If you’ve heard this from a partner or found yourself asking it, this episode breaks down exactly why rebuilding trust isn’t a single moment. It’s a layered process that takes time, consistency, and real change.In this episode of Till the Wheels Fall Off, Matt and Paige walk you through the four essential layers of trust that had to be rebuilt after addiction nearly destroyed their relationship:Sobriety Safety - the non-negotiable foundationFunctional Trust - parenting, money, and showin...2025-06-171h 02Till The Wheels Fall OffAudio Newsletter: "How Do I Trust Again?"Have an episode suggestion? Text us!Trust gets asked about all the time. “How do I trust them again?” But that question is usually hiding something deeper, like “How do I stop feeling anxious?” or “How do I get back to normal?” In this audio newsletter, Matt talks about why that question might be the wrong place to start.This episode touches on the neuroscience and evolutionary basis of trust - why your brain wants to reconnect with someone who hurt you, and why that craving can override logic. Matt also shares some of what Dr. Jake Port...2025-06-1633 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Track Less, Trust More: Why Self-Monitoring Might Be Making You AnxiousHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, Paige gets real about something many of us are doing in the name of healing: self-monitoring everything—our sleep, food, steps, moods, routines. What starts as a tool for awareness can quickly turn into another form of anxiety and self-doubt, especially for those recovering from relational trauma.Paige shares her personal story of ditching her Apple Watch, the illusion of safety gadgets provide, and the deeper truth: real healing isn’t something you track—it’s something you feel.She expl...2025-06-1311 minTill The Wheels Fall OffThey’re Really Good at What They Do: The Psychology of ManipulatorsHave an episode suggestion? Text us!Why do people stay in abusive relationships? Why don’t they just leave?In this raw and powerful episode, Matt and Paige break down the complex psychological tactics that manipulators use to keep their partners stuck—DARVO, gaslighting, love bombing, guilt-tripping, isolation, and more. Inspired by recent high-profile stories, they connect the dots between emotional abuse in the public eye and what many quietly endure behind closed doors every day.Whether you're in it, healing from it, or supporting someone who is, this episode will help you unde...2025-06-111h 20Till The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: The Truth About Self-Care: It’s Not Always PrettyHave an episode suggestion? Text us!Self-care isn’t always candles and calm. In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, Paige breaks down what real self-care actually looks like—and calls out the way many people use self-care as a cover for avoidance. From the difference between self-care and self-indulgence to the six key categories (mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, environmental, and social), you’ll learn how to tell if your self-care is helping you heal… or keeping you stuck. If you’re tired of numbing out and ready to start showing up for yourself in real, uncomfortable, life-changin...2025-06-0613 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: You Don’t Have a Communication ProblemHave an episode suggestion? Text us!You’ve rewritten the message in your notes app a dozen times. You’ve softened your tone, used “I” statements, stayed calm, and begged them to meet you halfway—but nothing changes. In this episode, Paige breaks down the hard truth: most of you don’t have a communication problem. You have a respect problem. A values problem. A partner who’s not ready—or willing—to show up.We explore why so many people believe communication will fix everything, how that belief keeps them stuck, and how to tell when someone...2025-05-3010 minTill The Wheels Fall OffIs It a Disease or a Cop-Out?Have an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Till the Wheels Fall Off, Matt and Paige take on one of the most controversial topics in the recovery world - the disease model of addiction. Is it a disease? Yes. But is it an excuse? Absolutely not. They break down the origins of the disease model, where it helps, where it massively fails, and how it’s been weaponized to avoid accountability and silence those harmed by addiction.They explore the danger of comparing addiction to cancer, how the narrative erases the experiences of sp...2025-05-281h 25Till The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: How to Survive Maycember Without Losing YourselfHave an episode suggestion? Text us!It’s May—aka Maycember—that time of year when school events, sports, recitals, end-of-year chaos, and mental overload all collide. If you're feeling stretched thin, resentful, or like you might snap over a missed sign-up genius… you're not alone.In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, I’m talking about the emotional weight of this season, what you can give yourself grace on, and what should stay nonnegotiable—even when it feels like you’re drowning in to-dos.You’ll hear about: – Why the cro...2025-05-2310 minTill The Wheels Fall OffWhat Recovery Gets Wrong: The Partner's Side of the StoryHave an episode suggestion? Text us! The recovery world loves to talk about healing, but what about the people most impacted by the chaos? In this brutally honest episode, Matt and Paige pull back the curtain on what treatment centers, therapists, and traditional recovery programs often miss: the spouse’s experience.Why are partners immediately labeled codependent? Why is their anger pathologized while the addict’s pain is protected? Why are they expected to forgive before they’ve even been allowed to grieve?Matt and Paige dive into their own story, breaking down how bet...2025-05-211h 09Till The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Back to the Basics. Stop Excusing the InexcusableHave an episode suggestion? Text us!You don’t need more clarity. You need permission to trust what you already know.This episode is about cutting through the noise, the over-explaining, and the endless justifications. Paige brings it back to the basics: it’s not about the substance — it’s about the behavior. Always has been.You’ll hear the truth about how we overcomplicate addiction by focusing on trauma, diagnoses, and potential while ignoring the very real, repeated harm that’s happening in front of us. This episode explores the toxic behaviors we’ve normal...2025-05-1613 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: If Mother’s Day Hurts, You’re Not AloneHave an episode suggestion? Text us!Mother’s Day can feel complicated, especially when life doesn’t look the way you thought it would. Maybe you’re raising kids alone. Maybe your partner is deep in addiction. Maybe you have an unequal partner and just feel all the feels.In this episode, I talk directly to the women who feel unseen, forgotten, or unappreciated on a day that’s meant to celebrate them. We’ll walk through five gentle steps to get through Mother’s Day—without faking joy, waiting on others to show up, or pretending...2025-05-0911 minTill The Wheels Fall OffAudio Newsletter: You Can Rest, But Don’t QuitHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this special audio edition of the newsletter, Matt shares a listener story that’s all too familiar: someone begins the work: therapy, sobriety, growth - but eventually hits a wall and stops. What do you do when your partner says things like “I’m tired of doing the work” or “What if this is the best I get?” How do you support someone without enabling them? How do you hold space without losing yourself?Matt unpacks the difference between healing fatigue and a fixed mindset, why growth can feel like be...2025-05-0546 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Behavior Over Bullsh*t: Stop Blaming the LabelHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, we’re cutting through the noise and getting back to the basics — because somewhere along the way, we started overcomplicating what’s right in front of us.Addiction. Trauma. ADHD. Nervous system dysregulation. You name it — there’s a label for every behavior now, and we’ve been trained to see the story before we see the impact. But here’s the thing: Behavior tells the truth. Not the diagnosis. Not the excuse. Not the backstory.We’re talking ab...2025-05-0210 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: You’re Not Overreacting: The Truth About DARVOHave an episode suggestion? Text us!This week on Paige’s Perspective, we’re digging into DARVO—the manipulative pattern people use to avoid accountability by flipping the script and making you question your reality. You’ll learn what DARVO looks like, why it happens, and how to spot it in both loud and subtle forms (even the sweet, guilt-soaked kind that sounds like love but isn’t). I’ll also share what healthy accountability sounds like and give you practical tools to protect your peace, stop overexplaining, and see DARVO for what it is—a mindf*ck, not a comm...2025-04-2522 minTill The Wheels Fall OffThe Truth That Changed Everything: What Finally Made Me Get SoberHave an episode suggestion? Text us!Matt sits down for an unfiltered, no-holds-barred conversation about the moment everything changed - the exact point he knew he couldn’t lie one more time, couldn’t hide one more day, and had to choose either transformation or destruction. Paige asks the raw questions our listeners always want answered: What finally made you get sober? What was rock bottom really like? Do you ever miss that life? What does recovery actually look like years later—and how the hell do you rebuild a marriage after all of it?This i...2025-04-231h 34Till The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: When 'It’s Not That Bad' Is Still Too BadHave an episode suggestion? Text us!You’ve said it. Maybe weekly. “He’s just stressed.” “He only acts like this when he’s drinking.” “That's just how they were raised.”But here’s the truth: just because you’ve gotten used to it… doesn’t mean it’s healthy.In this episode, Paige breaks down the quiet ways we minimize emotional abuse and excuse hurtful behavior—especially in relationships shaped by addiction, trauma, or chaos. You’ll learn to recognize the red flags hiding in everyday phrases, understand why your nervous system is drawn to dys...2025-04-1813 minTill The Wheels Fall OffHow to Bounce Back: Mistakes, Shame, and Second ChancesHave an episode suggestion? Text us!We all screw up, but how you respond to a mistake says way more about you than the mistake itself. In this episode, we have a raw, honest conversation about emotional regulation, accountability, and how to bounce back after you’ve messed up. Whether it’s a bad tone with your kids or a history of bigger mistakes like addiction or abuse, this episode explores how to repair, rebuild, and move forward without drowning in shame. You’ll hear the differences in how Matt and Paige process regret, how to know if it’...2025-04-161h 20Till The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Self-Love Isn’t Soft - Why It Scares You and How to Do It AnywayHave an episode suggestion? Text us!Do you ever feel afraid to love yourself? You’re not alone—and you’re not broken. In this episode, Paige gets real about the fear, discomfort, and confusion that often comes with the concept of self-love. She unpacks why loving yourself can feel unsafe, selfish, or even threatening depending on your past, your programming, and your current relationships.From trauma bonds to people-pleasing, and from sabotaging growth to staying small to make others comfortable—this is a deep dive into why we fear loving ourselves and how we c...2025-04-1120 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Social Media Is Loud, But You Don’t Have to Be Lost in ItHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode, Paige gets real about the toll social media can take on our nervous systems, identity, and sense of reality. Inspired by a quote—“Normal is 7 hours of screen time a day”—she opens up about why she’s taking a step back, how social media may create low-agency behavior, and what it really means to get back to the basics.This isn’t a lecture—it’s a wake-up call for anyone feeling overstimulated, stuck in the scroll, and slowly losing themselves in the noise.If you’ve ever...2025-04-0415 minTill The Wheels Fall OffHigh Agency, Part Two: Navigating the Traps That Keep You StuckHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In Part Two of our High Agency series, Matt and Paige dive even deeper into what it really means to live a high agency life—and what gets in the way.We unpack the traps that keep people stuck: the vague trap, the midwit trap, the rumination trap, and the overwhelm trap. You’ll hear how overthinking and searching for the perfect, risk-free solution leaves people paralyzed, stuck in fantasy instead of action. We talk about defining problems clearly, trusting your gut, experimenting with bold choices, and taking the smal...2025-04-021h 44Till The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Life Is a Sh*t Show—Even If, You'll Be OkayHave an episode suggestion? Text us!“What if they relapse?” “What if I mess up?” “What if everything falls apart?” If those questions live rent-free in your mind, this episode is for you. I’ll show you how one simple shift—from “What if” to “Even if”—can change the way you cope with stress, fear, and uncertainty. You’ll hear mindset exercises, honest stories, and practical ways to handle life when it doesn’t go according to plan. Because it rarely does.Support the showFind video clips and full length video from this episode on You...2025-03-2813 minTill The Wheels Fall OffHigh Agency, Part One: Reclaiming Your Power When Life Feels Out of ControlHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this solo episode, Matt breaks down the core beliefs that define high agency—an empowering mindset rooted in action, clarity, and personal responsibility. Inspired by George Mack’s High Agency essay, Matt explores five foundational beliefs that high agency people carry and shares practical exercises you can start using today to apply them in your own life.You’ll learn: – Why leaving isn’t impossible – How to stop waiting for permission – What it means to design your own path – Why “normal” is overrated – And how to take action righ...2025-03-2659 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: The Discomfort of SilenceHave an episode suggestion? Text us!If silence makes you restless, anxious, or uneasy, you’re not alone. For many, silence isn’t peaceful. The second things get quiet, all the thoughts, emotions, and fears we’ve been avoiding start creeping in. And if you’ve been living in survival mode, silence doesn’t feel safe, it feels like the calm before the next storm.But what if silence isn’t something to fear? What if sitting in it is actually an important part of healing?In this episode, I break down why silence feel...2025-03-2111 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Fear of Rejection - Why It Feels So Big After Loving an AddictHave an episode suggestion? Text us!If you’ve loved someone struggling with addiction—whether you’re still in the relationship or you’ve left—the fear of rejection can feel overwhelming. It’s not just about someone saying “no,” it feels personal. It feels like proof that you weren’t enough. But what if rejection isn’t what you think it is? In this episode, I break down how unhealthy relationships mess with your sense of self-worth, why rejection can feel paralyzing, and why avoiding connection isn’t actually protecting you—it’s keeping you stuck.I’m in this with you...2025-03-1410 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Breaking Free from Irrational AnxietyHave an episode suggestion? Text us!Do you feel like you're constantly battling anxiety, even when there’s no real threat? In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, we’re diving into irrational anxiety—when fear and worry take over your mind despite the lack of actual danger. I share my personal journey with anxiety, the bandaid solutions that didn’t work, and the hard truths that finally helped me break free.We’ll discuss how to recognize irrational anxiety, challenge intrusive thoughts, and shift your mindset from fear-based reactions to logical, confident responses. I...2025-03-0716 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Feel the Feels… But Don’t Feed ThemHave an episode suggestion? Text us!Are your emotions guiding you or controlling you? In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, we break down the difference between feeling your emotions and being ruled by them.You’ve heard us say “Feel the Feels,” but also “Eff your feelings.” So which one is it? Both. Emotional regulation isn’t about ignoring feelings or letting them dictate your actions—it’s about finding the middle ground.We’ll talk about:✔ The difference between healthy reflection and rumination2025-02-2816 minTill The Wheels Fall OffThe Power of Feeling Seen in Relationships: Feeling Known > KnowingHave an episode suggestion? Text us!What makes a great relationship? Is it knowing everything about your partner, or is it feeling truly known by them? In this episode of Till the Wheels Fall Off, we dig deep into what it means to be seen, heard, and understood in our closest relationships.Drawing from personal experiences, text conversations, and research—including a study that confirms feeling known by your partner is a stronger predictor of relationship satisfaction than knowing them—we explore how genuine curiosity and active listening can transform the way we connect with our...2025-02-2659 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Everyone’s Journey Is Different... But Is It?Have an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, Paige challenges the popular idea that “everyone’s journey is different.” While our circumstances might vary, the emotional struggles we face—grief, betrayal, fear, loneliness—are universal.Paige dives into how believing your pain is unique can actually keep you stuck, isolated, and resistant to healing. Whether you’re dealing with addiction, anxiety, depression, or loss of a loved one, the truth is: you’re not alone, and there are solutions that work.She also explores the shared struggles of spo...2025-02-2120 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Are We Living by Old Rules That No Longer Apply?Have an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, we’re diving into why so many women struggle with people-pleasing, caretaking, and suppressing their needs—and the truth about where these behaviors actually come from. Spoiler alert: you weren’t born this way.For generations, women have been conditioned to put everyone else first. Our mothers, grandmothers, and great-grandmothers weren’t just “nice” or “selfless”—they were surviving in a world where they had no real choices. They were trained to keep the peace, endure mistreatment...2025-02-1415 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: The Truth About Judgment – Why It’s Necessary and Where the Line IsHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, we’re breaking down the truth about judgment—why it’s not the problem, but ignoring your instincts is. Society tells you that being judgmental is wrong, that you should always give the benefit of the doubt, and that compassion should override discernment. But what happens when that mindset keeps you stuck, excusing harmful behaviors, and doubting yourself?We’ve been conditioned to believe that judging others makes us cruel—but judgment is a survival tool. It helps you recognize red flags, s...2025-02-0713 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: The Silent Abuse of Addiction - What No One Wants to AdmitHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, we’re breaking down the excuses addicts use to justify staying the same—the guilt trips, the half-promises, and the ways they frame their struggles to keep you invested. You’ve heard it all: “In sickness and in health,” “Unconditional love means accepting me as I am,” “I’m trying! Recovery takes time!”—but what’s really happening beneath the surface? These aren’t necessarily intentional attempts to manipulate, but they are ways addicts avoid growth—and when those excuses keep you stuck in a cy...2025-01-3119 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: What Does It Mean To Be PresentHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this reflection, Paige explores the true essence of being present and why it matters. She shares a childhood memory of quiet connection with nature, illustrating how presence can ground us, ease anxiety, and bring clarity. Paige discusses practical ways to cultivate this mindset, from grounding exercises and intentional focus to disconnecting from distractions like phones. She emphasizes the profound benefits of presence, including improved relationships, thoughtful responses, and a more intentional life. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or simply seeking calm, Paige offers relatable insights to help you embrace the power...2025-01-2407 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Anxiety, Authenticity, and Acting on Your ValuesHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, Paige dives into the essential question: Are you living by your values? Drawing inspiration from a Freya India article on anxiety and values, she reflects on how self-love and self-respect aren’t given—they’re earned through action. Paige breaks down how values like honesty, health, and personal integrity serve as an inner compass, helping us make decisions and create a life we’re proud of. She emphasizes that living by values isn’t about perfection; it’s about small, intentional steps that lead to bi...2025-01-1711 minTill The Wheels Fall OffEarning Back Trust: Sheri and Matt Salis on the Pain and Power of RecoveryHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode, we sit down with Sheri and Matt Salis from the Untoxicated Podcast to explore the complexities of addiction, recovery, and the profound impact these experiences have on relationships. Sheri and Matt share their journey, starting from the early years of their marriage, through the decade of Matt's active addiction, and into the challenging process of rebuilding their lives and relationship.We dive deep into topics like natural detachment, resentment processing, and how addiction reshapes not just the addict but also their partner. Sheri opens up about...2025-01-151h 33Till The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: The Hard Truth: No One Can Save You But YouHave an episode suggestion? Text us!It’s a week into the new year, and while resolutions are fresh on our minds, some of you may already feel yourself slipping. This is the perfect time to confront a reality that can change everything: no one is coming to save you. If you’ve been waiting for someone to fix your life, make decisions for you, or pull you out of the tough situations you’re in, it’s time to stop. The truth might feel harsh, but it’s also freeing—because the power to change your...2025-01-1023 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige’s Perspective: Are You Asking the Right Questions?Have an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, we dive into the power of the questions we ask ourselves and how they shape our lives. Are your inner questions keeping you stuck, or are they guiding you toward growth? Learn how to identify disempowering questions like, “Why does this always happen to me?” and reframe them into empowering ones like, “What can I learn from this?” Through real-life examples, journaling prompts, and practical strategies, you’ll discover how to challenge negative narratives, focus on your personal growth, and reclaim control over your mindset. Som...2025-01-0313 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Balancing Empathy and BoundariesHave an episode suggestion? Text us!Empathy is a beautiful quality, but when it starts to overshadow your self-respect, it can become a trap. In this episode, Paige explores the fine line between caring for someone and enabling them, unpacking why letting people face the consequences of their actions is often the most loving—and respectful—choice you can make. Through relatable examples and practical advice, she dives into how unchecked empathy can erode your boundaries, delay someone else’s growth, and leave you feeling drained. Tune in to learn how to balance compassion with accountability and mainta...2024-12-2714 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige’s Perspective: Complaining – Are You Venting or Staying Stuck?Have an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode, we’re getting real about complaining—why we do it, when it’s healthy, and when it becomes a trap that keeps us stuck. Complaining isn’t the enemy; sometimes, you need to let off steam and call out the frustration. But here’s the truth: if all you’re doing is talking about the problem without taking action, you’re just spinning your wheels.We’ll dive into:The good side of complaining—how venting can clear your head and highlight what needs to change.2024-12-2011 minTill The Wheels Fall OffThe Year We Made Things Right: Facing Holiday Tension Head-OnHave an episode suggestion? Text us!The holidays can get messy when unspoken issues come to light. In this episode of Till the Wheels Fall Off, we dive into the complexities of accountability during the holiday season. When a spouse or partner’s actions have rippled out and hurt family or friends, how do you navigate the awkward tension?Matt shares actionable advice for those on the recovering side of addiction, urging them to take ownership and repair the damage they've caused—no matter how difficult it feels. Paige provides insight for partners who find them...2024-12-181h 06Till The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Optimism TheatreHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode, Paige shares thoughts on Optimism Theatre—a concept Matt explored in a recent TWFO article. While he told the story from his perspective as someone in recovery, Paige focuses on why it’s so difficult for spouses and partners to set boundaries and be assertive in these relationships. I dive into how the addict’s performance of optimism—promising change, saying the right things, and creating false hope—can keep us stuck in cycles of waiting and second-guessing. Actions speak louder than words. Support the showFin...2024-12-1318 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Regulating Your Nervous SystemHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige's Perspective, we’re breaking down what it really means to regulate your nervous system—and why practices like mindfulness and deep breathing won’t cut it if you’re still stuck in toxic situations. Paige explores how your environment and relationships shape your stress response, why temporary fixes can only take you so far, and the real changes you need to make to feel safe and stable. If you’ve ever wondered why you’re still on edge no matter how many yoga classes you’ve taken, this ep...2024-12-0609 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Celebrating Your Hidden WinsHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige's Perspective, we shift the focus from what we haven’t done to the unseen victories we’ve achieved. Paige opens up about her year, one filled with challenges, growth, and stepping outside her comfort zone. From professional milestones to personal wins like reconnecting with old passions and finding balance in family life, Paige highlights the importance of reflecting on accomplishments big and small.This episode challenges listeners to take stock of their own year—not through the lens of setbacks, but by recognizing the resili...2024-11-2919 minTill The Wheels Fall OffStop Fexting: How Text Fights Are Ruining Your RelationshipHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Till the Wheels Fall Off, Matt and Paige dive headfirst into the digital dumpster fire of text fighting—aka "fexting." They tackle why arguing via text rarely accomplishes anything productive, how it’s become the modern default for conflict, and why it’s often a sign of deeper communication issues.They explore why text fights are emotionally exhausting, miscommunication-prone, and give manipulators an easy playground. Plus, they ask the big questions: Is texting making relationships worse? Are you addicted to the back-and-forth drama? And wh...2024-11-271h 05Till The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Is Happiness a Choice?Have an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, we dive into the age-old question: Is happiness a choice? Inspired by a recent conversation with Dr. Taylor, we explore what it really means to choose happiness, especially when life feels overwhelming or relationships are challenging. Spoiler: happiness isn’t the goal—it’s about living authentically.I share my personal journey of waking up angry every day and how shifting my mindset through gratitude and intentional action helped me reclaim my life. But choosing happiness isn’t about ignoring your feelings or forcing...2024-11-2221 minTill The Wheels Fall OffDr. Christopher Taylor: Attachment Styles, Narcissism, and the Rise of Over-LabelingHave an episode suggestion? Text us! In this episode of Till the Wheels Fall Off, Matt and Paige are joined by Dr. Christopher Taylor to explore the impact of labeling behaviors in relationships, from attachment styles to narcissism. They discuss how these labels can either empower or trap us, depending on how they're used, and examine the role of resilience, the pitfalls of toxic positivity, and the fine line between understanding and enabling. With insights on navigating relationships thoughtfully, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a balanced approach to self-growth and mental health in today’s l...2024-11-201h 11Till The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Navigating the HolidaysHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, I dive into the ups and downs of the holiday season and how to handle them with strength, self-care, and realistic expectations. The holidays can be tough—shorter days, overwhelming demands, and the stress of dealing with family dynamics can easily throw us off balance. But it doesn’t have to be that way. I’ll share practical tips to help you stay grounded, from setting healthy boundaries and managing expectations to connecting with others and finding gratitude in the small things. We’ll talk about...2024-11-1511 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPain and the Past: How We Faced Opiates Together After Years of SobrietyHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode, we share our personal journey through Matt's recent surgery and the challenges of managing pain with opioids - his past drug of choice. This was scary, new territory for us and it's a slippery slope given the history of addiction. We discuss the emotional complexities surrounding the surgery recovery, how we planned in advance and discussed the decision to treat the pain with a dangerous substance, the accountability built into the situation, the importance of open communication, and how we navigated the fears and realities of pain management...2024-11-131h 05Till The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Why Self-Care is Essential for True HealingHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige's Perspective, we're diving deep into the true power of self-care—not as a luxury, but as a crucial foundation for healing and growth. Self-care isn’t about spa days or quick fixes; it's about rebuilding from within and learning to prioritize ourselves so we can face life’s challenges with clarity and strength. We’ll explore how self-care helps us understand who we are, what we need, and what we stand for. Think of it as self-maintenance, like tuning up a car or maintaining a home—it’s ongoi...2024-11-0817 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective - Substance or Not: Why Behavior Defines Your RelationshipHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, we explore why focusing on substance use keeps partners stuck in unhealthy dynamics and how shifting attention to behaviors leads to real growth and change. Paige breaks down the common societal trap of thinking sobriety will fix everything and highlights why manipulation, dishonesty, and emotional neglect must be addressed—whether or not the substance is involved.Through personal insights, practical exercises, and reflection prompts, Paige encourages listeners to reclaim their power b...2024-11-0128 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective - Stop Thinking, Start Growing: Lessons from Life-Changing ReadsHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, we dive into some of the most impactful books that have shaped my journey through life’s toughest moments. Instead of focusing solely on addiction or codependency, I recommend books that emphasize personal growth, shifting perspectives, and stepping out of comfort zones. I walk you through key takeaways from works by Lundy Bancroft, Eckhart Tolle, Wayne Dyer, David Goggins, and many others. These books are designed to push boundaries, encourage self-awareness, and challenge limiting beliefs. They remind us that life isn’t about avoiding strugg...2024-10-2529 minTill The Wheels Fall OffThe Questions You Should Be Asking: A Candid Q&A with PaigeHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this special episode celebrating 250,000 downloads, I sit down with Paige for an honest, no-holds-barred Q&A. Together, we reflect on the journey through addiction, recovery, and what it took to rebuild our marriage from the ground up. Paige answers the questions people should be asking about recovery and what she has done to find success through a difficult journey —offering raw insights into the patience, struggles, and victories that come with loving someone through addiction.From moments of doubt to the habits that made us stronger, we...2024-10-231h 27Till The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Anger vs. Aggression: Finding Strength Without Losing ControlHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode, Paige explores the difference between anger and aggression, helping listeners understand how to express anger without letting it control them. She acknowledges that anger is a natural response to betrayal, harm, or crossed boundaries, but warns that reacting aggressively—yelling or lashing out—often shifts the focus away from the real issue and gives others an excuse to dismiss your needs.Paige discusses how aggression can leave us feeling disconnected from our authentic selves, trapping us in guilt and shame. Instead of trying to change others with...2024-10-1813 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Anger - Own It, Don’t Let It Own YouHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode , Paige dives deep into the power of anger—how it can be both justifiable and destructive depending on how we manage it. Paige shares personal experiences of waking up angry, snapping at her kids, and the realization that controlling her reactions is key to healthier relationships and self-growth. She explains the difference between justifiable anger—when we’re betrayed, manipulated, or taken advantage of—and unjustified anger, which often stems from unmet expectations, insecurities, or misplaced frustration.Paige also discusses how emotional healing...2024-10-1120 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Recognizing GrowthHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode, Paige explores how to recognize personal growth, inspired by a community question. She shares ten key signs of growth, from handling once-overwhelming tasks like social anxiety, to responding to emotions with more patience, and developing healthier coping mechanisms. Paige reflects on her own journey, emphasizing how changes in communication, a reduced need for external validation, and even phases of cynicism can mark significant personal development. She encourages listeners to recognize that growth is a continuous process, often uncomfortable but necessary for self-improvement, and reminds them that the journey...2024-10-0416 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Turning Obstacles into Opportunities: The Power of a Challenge MindsetHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige's Perspective, Paige explores the power of viewing obstacles as challenges instead of letting them consume us. Inspired by Matt’s journey in addiction recovery, Paige shares how adopting a challenge mindset can transform difficult situations into opportunities for growth. From finding new routes on the way to school to cooking creatively with limited ingredients, she demonstrates how embracing challenges in everyday life leads to surprising solutions. The episode delves into how this mindset applies to bigger challenges like unequal partnerships, job loss, breakups, and health setbacks. Pa...2024-09-2711 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: What Does Your Rock Bottom Look Like?Have an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, we dive into the concept of "rock bottom" and what it looks like for each of us. Paige brings some tough love, helping listeners recognize when they've hit their lowest point and offering practical advice on how to rise from it. She highlights the importance of clarity and commitment in these moments, challenging her audience to stop making excuses and start taking action.Paige shares her personal journey of hitting rock bottom and how she had to make hard sacrifices for the sa...2024-09-2011 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Finding Clarity in Chaos - How to Make Decisions When You’re OverwhelmedHave an episode suggestion? Text us!In this episode of Paige’s Perspective, Paige dives into what it means to feel overwhelmed, especially when carrying the mental and emotional load of an unequal partnership or living with a partner struggling with addiction. Paige shares her personal experience with overwhelm, offering practical tips for finding clarity in the midst of chaos. From acknowledging your emotions to taking small steps, and clarifying your values, this episode gives listeners actionable advice for regaining control. Tune in to learn how to break through the fog of overwhelm and make empowered decisions fo...2024-09-1323 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Recognizing the Spouse During National Recovery MonthHave an episode suggestion? Text us!This episode highlights National Recovery Month, with Paige focusing on the recovery journey not only for addicts but also for their spouses and partners. She discusses the often-overlooked struggles of spouses, who experience emotional abuse, loss of their sense of self, and the need to rebuild their identity. She shares a letter from a spouse of an alcoholic, illustrating the emotional toll they endure. Paige also discusses the Independently Strong program, which guides spouses through their own recovery using the VEER method (Validate, Educate, Empower, Recover), offering an alternative to traditional...2024-09-0614 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: Exploring Optimism, Pessimism, and RealismHave an episode suggestion? Text us!This episode focuses on understanding the roles that optimism, realism, and pessimism play in handling life situations. Paige emphasizes that each perspective has its place and that balancing them is crucial for making informed and healthy decisions. She shares personal experiences, including being overly optimistic in the past and learning the importance of realism and even pessimism in certain situations. Paige encourages listeners to reflect on their own tendencies and to integrate aspects of all three perspectives to effectively navigate challenges. The episode underlines the importance of facing reality, acknowledging both...2024-08-3011 minTill The Wheels Fall OffPaige's Perspective: People PleasingHave an episode suggestion? Text us!This episode from Paige's Perspective discusses the human tendency to care about what others think and the roots of people-pleasing behaviors. Paige reflects on how historically, humans lived in small, interconnected communities where fitting in was essential for survival. This instinct to please others was ingrained as a means to avoid ostracization. However, in the modern world, with access to diverse perspectives and communities, the need to conform to one’s immediate environment is less critical. Paige encourages embracing authenticity and going against the grain, even when it feels uncomfortable or wh...2024-08-2313 min