Is It a Disease or a Cop-Out?

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 spouses and partners, and why real change requires personal choice - no matter what trauma, brain changes, or labels someone carries. You’ll also hear a passionate plea for more balanced, honest conversations that hold space for both compassion and boundaries.

Whether you’ve been harmed by someone in active addiction or you’re in recovery yourself, this conversation might challenge what you’ve been told - but it just might set you free.