Addiction Isn’t Just a Behavior Problem—It’s An Identity Problem with: Erik Frederickson

Addiction Isn’t Just a Behavior Problem—It’s An Identity Problem with: Erik Frederickson

From Lets Have This Conversation by Kevin McShan

April 24, 2026 · 56 min

About this episode

The episode explores the idea that addiction is an identity problem rather than just a behavior problem, featuring insights from Erik Frederickson.

Nearly 90% of Americans say faith plays a role in reducing relapse from addiction (Journal of Religion and Health), and research from the National Library of Medicine shows that approximately 75% of people who experience substance use disorders eventually recover. But what actually creates lasting freedom? This week’s episode dives into that question with Erik Frederickson—biblical life coach, best-selling author of Recovering Reality — Freedom from the Torment of Addiction, and founder of Recovering Reality. With 17 years of personal freedom and over 7,000 hours spent coaching people from all walks of life, Erik brings both lived experience and deep insight into what truly drives transformation. His perspective challenges the conventional approach: addiction isn’t just a behavior problem—it’s an identity problem. In this powerful conversation, Erik shares his own story of being trapped in addiction despite doing everything “right,” and how a life-altering encounter with God changed everything. Not through more discipline or better systems—but through confronting the lies he believed about himself and discovering truth at a deeper level. Now, after helping hundreds of people find…

People in this episode

Host: Kevin McShan

Guest: Erik Frederickson

Topics covered

  • addiction
  • identity
  • faith
  • transformation
  • recovery
  • coaching

Keywords

  • addiction
  • identity
  • faith
  • recovery
  • transformation
  • coaching
  • sobriety

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Journal of Religion and Health, National Library of Medicine

Books & works: Recovering Reality — Freedom from the Torment of Addiction

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