✨ Episode Summary:
In this raw and real episode of Define the Fight, we meet Cassie Kozelski — an alpha female, fierce advocate, and founder of Beth’s Place, a recovery center rooted in compassion, structure, and second chances. Cassie opens up about the deeply personal journey that inspired her mission: losing her mother to alcoholism and channeling that pain into purpose.
Together, the host and Cassie explore what addiction really looks like from the inside out — not just for those struggling, but for families, friends, and communities. You’ll hear about the trauma behind addiction, the science of substance use, and the healing power of being seen — not just treated.
This one’s for the fighters, the caretakers, the ones who show up strong but hurt silently, and the folks who know it’s time to break the cycle.
🔥 Episode Highlights & Timestamps:
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(0:00) Welcome & introduction to the concept: Everyone has a fight.
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(1:15) “People can look successful while dying inside.” 💔 Cassie reflects on hiding her own trauma.
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(2:15) Cassie shares her mom's story — battling addiction after gastric bypass, and her tragic passing at 52.
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(4:45) “Hyper-focus isn’t healing.” How overachievement can be a trauma response.
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(5:59) What actually works in addiction treatment? Cassie gets real about residential vs. outpatient care.
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(8:01) Why structure after treatment is essential to prevent relapse.
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(10:15) Inside Beth’s Place: a sensory-safe, welcoming environment where healing begins.
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(13:05) Meth vs. Alcohol: Cassie breaks down the neurological and behavioral differences in addiction types.
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(16:50) “Detachment from self” — the common root Cassie sees in most addictions.
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(18:35) The modern war: addiction, disassociation, and disconnection in a digital age.
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(22:56) Healing in action: helping clients rebuild lives, credit scores, and self-worth.
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(24:37) Cassie’s personal growth through loss, motherhood, and entrepreneurship.
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(26:17) The weight of the “alpha” — when strong people carry too much for too long.
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(30:23) The ask we all need to make: "How can I help you?" 💬
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(33:00) Building a healing-driven team that walks the talk.
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(35:07) Stop waiting. “Marriage won't make you whole — healing will.”
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(37:23) Final message: “Slow down. Connect with yourself. We only get one life.”