Dopey: On the Dark Comedy of Drug Addiction

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Alternative Health #41

Dopey Podcast is the world’s greatest podcast on drugs, addiction and dumb shit. Chris and I were two IV heroin addicts who loved to talk about all the coke we smoked, snorted and shot, all the pills we ate, smoked, all the weed we smoked and ate, all the booze we consumed and all the consequences we suffered. After making the show for 2 and a half years, Chris tragically relapsed and died from a fentanyl overdose. Dopey continued on, at first to mourn the horrible loss of Chris, but then to continue our mission - which was at its core, to keep addicts and alcoholics company. Whether to laugh at our time in rehab, or cry at the worst missteps we made, Dopey tells the truth about drugs, addiction and recovery. We continually mine the universe for stories rife with debauchery and highlight serious drug taking and alcoholism. We also examine different paths toward addiction recovery. We shine a light on harm reduction and medication assisted treatment. We talk with celebrities and nobodies and stockpile stories to be the greatest one stop shop podcast on all things drugs, addiction, recovery and comedy pathfinding the route to the heart of the opioid epidemic.

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Recent Reviews
  • OT Jodi
    Love this podcast!
    Love Dopey! ☀️
  • Kynduvme
    A Brilliant Commentary on the Modern Addict
    Dopey is a colorfully painted portrait of the modern recovering addict. Dave sits upon a mountain of followers hanging on his every word just hoping for more of what he has so masterfully articulated over the past few years. More and more addicts are flocking to podcasts and online recovery platforms in a long-in-coming wholesale rejection of the traditional 12 step dogma. Dave does subscribe to some traditional 12 step recovery while leaving room for a much needed and more nuanced approach to getting and staying clean. This is MUCH more than a few war stories with a stage set with dirty needles next to burned and mangled spoons amongst fast food trash and crumpled receipts. This is recovery today, and it couldn’t be better depicted and shepherded by the Dopey podcast and the ghosts of our dear and deceased friends and family.
  • Yodimsum
    It’s an important show.
    Who am I to rate anything? Its real, and it’s honest. It will make you cringe and nod in agreement at the same time. It’s funny sometimes, devastating at others, and disarmingly insightful.
  • beth in croton
    Love the show and your dad
    Lost my 20 year old son 10 years ago … fentanyl laced heroin I was looking for podcasts for answers why … I’ve learned a lot from your podcast. Wish I would’ve known more when my boy was in the thick of addiction Made me sad about Annie & your friend Chris. I wish my son could’ve heard your podcast to let him know there was a way out … a light at the end of the tunnel. I do have to say it makes me a little sad when you blame your dad for your addiction … I’m glad you’re sober .. God bless you and your family. Don’t blame Alan Tootles for Chris Beth from Westchester NY
  • Kirby J Peters
    Great recovery community and amazing guests
    Although I have been clean and sober for years I still really enjoy the Dopey podcast and Dave always keeps it 100% real. Some great guests over the years! Toodles 4 Chris😢💕
  • Milesm319
    Episode 498
    Just wanted to let you know I was still listening all the way through Jake’s song at the end. Great episode
  • Freighttrain3
    Love the pod
    Been in recovery 3.5 years from some heavy stuff. Love Dave! Keep on keeping on!
  • Louise777ri
    Miss the older episodes
    Really enjoyed the older episodes, haven’t been able to get into the show in the last couple of years. Still appreciate what you’re doing for the recovery community though. Toodles for Chris
  • DoN0td0wnl0ad
    Tootles to Dopey
    Listen to the first 143 episodes and tell me Dave did not contribute to Chris’s death. If you don’t have the time try episode 98 and 132. RIP Chris 143
  • AlaskanTrash
    Simply The Best
    I started the Dopey podcast on episode 400 and something and quickly realized I needed to start from episode 1. I felt like I needed to get to know Chris better and it’s given me a completely new gratitude for the show. This podcast has made my recovery so much better. Chris’s way of subtly weaving in a message of recovery into his stories and quietly persuading Dave to take the same course of action is inspiring and significantly helpful. Thank you Dave for building such a great podcast. RIP Chris and Todd. Stay strong Dopey Nation and Toodles for Chris! -Matthew
  • B. Birdell
    Jerry Stahl! Love the long format!
    I finiished Nein, Nein, Nein last week and unfortunately gad to miss Jerry’s reading here in Los Angeles so it was doubly great to hear him on Dopey!I love him. And Dopey I love how long the episodes are #386 ketamine: those guys are doctors?? Doubt it! THREE hours of goodness! I love this podcast.
  • Newly Dopey
    Dopey long time first time
    The Brace Belden eps are awesome, keep up the good work Dave!
  • Jenny8159
    Like a rock
    This podcast is phenomenal! The episode w/ Jesse and Cassidy, so many twists and turns, it was wild. Jesse is an incredible speaker with a moving story that should be told in person once there is more clean time. I think he could have a solid speaking career in the recovery community. He should be proud of himself for moving forward. I’m rooting for him! Toodles for Chris!
  • nicglo
    Found when lost
    I found this podcast the week of my brothers 5th year anniversary of his passing. June 30th 2019 He died from a laced fentanyl pill at 19 years old my mother & I found him. I was 22 and needless to say I’ve never been the same. This podcast was everything I needed to hear this week. From the perspective of his sweet sister, to hearing Dave talk so fondly about his dear friend. It just gave my heart the hug it needed. Hearing todd talk gave me a weird sense of peace I can’t explain. I’m onto episode 138 next to continue in my week of wallowing but this has made me laugh through the tears and I wish I had someone in my life I could share this with that would enjoy it as much as I did or even just get that same sense of peace from it. Like they’ve GOT to be in a better place now then they were then. Despite us wanting them here with us. Incredible show to stumble upon. I’m so thankful I did during a time I needed it the most. 🤍🪽 fly high todd & Tyler
  • Grantlerz
    Thank you!
    I didn’t get to know Dopey until after getting to know Dave. He’s such a great listener and interviewer, and he makes so much space for different ideas and trends within the recovery and addiction landscapes. I take this podcast with me on runs, and when I’m feeling stressed out, I’ll put it on, and it’s helps me to hear that I’m not alone in my struggles. It’s sometimes funny, it’s sometimes shocking, it’s sometimes sad, it’s sometimes joyful and heartwarming, but it’s always honest and it’s always loving, and it’s always a great place to find some hope.
  • BexNark
    Thank you
    Not an avid listener, but appreciate what you do. And thank you for giving Billy Jensen the opportunity to share his story. Wonderful episode.
  • Ms JBowman
    Love!!!
    I quit drinking 500 days ago, and sobriety podcasts have become a big part of my life. Unfortunately most of them are kind of bland, and I can’t relate that well. My experiences are a lot milder than those of the people who make up the world of Dopey, but their stories are so funny and fascinating and moving. This podcast is really something special, and Dave is the best. ❤️
  • josetejeda5666
    Helped take my mind off of my problems
    I’ve struggle from time to time with cravings of alcohol. Listening to other people’s stories helps remind myself ,to take it one day at a time.
  • Ice-cream 12345
    Real and relatable
    I am someone who struggled with drugs for 30 years and have been lucky ent to be successful (and 10 years sober). I love living vicariously through the guest’s experiences and also appreciate the Howard inspired interviews. Well done!
  • Ed Brickbreaker
    Best Addiction & Recovery Podcast in the world
    I began listening to Dopey while not sober and am still listening 6 sober years later. Dopey has taught me so many things, including how recovery can be a real thing for me AND fun. I’m living my best life thanks to this podcast. It’s a Godsend, irreverent, hilarious, tragic, informative and real. Thank you Dave & Chris (R.I.P.). DOPEY 4-EVER 4-EVER DOPEY TOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOODLES
  • Chase Hines
    Good vibes. Place to find peace.
    I’ve been listening to Dopey daily since 2016 or 2017. Such a good show. Often fall asleep listening to it. Always ready for a new release each week. Proud of Dave. He’s been able to keep the heart of Dopey rolling in the right direction throughout everything that has taken place. It’s certainly grown quite a bit from Dave & Chris & random guests like Novak, Nick Reiner, Tim’s killer voicemails & the East Side Crackhead. Those are some of my favorite classic episodes. I would go as far as saying that Dopey has hit Soprano’s or The Wire status where you can just kick on some of those classic episodes to get thrown into a happy nostalgic state….OR you can follow along with new each week & still get those same good vibes, wild stories & stuff we can all relate to from the fresh content. 10 stars Dave. Keep it rolling.
  • baltimoreKev
    The Dirt and the Gold
    I used to listen to podcasts like recovery elevator and Omar, but now this is the only recovery podcast I listen to bc the Dopey universe is so expansive. Even though the host Dave is sober for years, he still has a cool edge, and since he grew up listening to stern everyday, Dave has an incredible interviewing style that makes the guests feel so Welcome and therefore more willing to tell the grimiest parts of their addiction. Seriously, I gasp at some of the horrendous stories on this podcast, but it’s totally mixed with really wholesome stuff like when Dave and his cool liberal dad lovingly spar nearly every show.
  • Titt135
    Only halfway through, but damn…
    I love, love, love this podcast and kind of got a crush on Dave. I am am not a typical Dopey. I am pretty boring, but do have Dopey experiences in the 35 years + I was busy living a very messy life. I happily survived and have longtime sobriety, and an awesome life. BUT listening helps me fill in the gaps between in person meetings. I recommend this to many folks, because Dave (and Chris, Todd, Andrew, Hot Wheels RIP) deliver the message with each show. Allan, Linda, and Linda’s mom are wonderful voices representing what the family experience is. My coworker surprised my with a set of dopey stickers and I am so thrilled! Keep it up, stay strong, and keep safe.
  • weaelteats
    Long time listener, first time reviewer
    After hearing Dave and Chris on Last Day, I checked out their first Dopey episode. It was like listening to my friends and I tell our best stories. I couldn’t stop listening to them laugh and share, I rushed to catch up to current. Dave’s interviewing has become masterful and empathetic. Who would think the guy who couldn’t stop interrupting his co-host and guests would become THIS GUY?! His interviews are deliciously debaucherous, yet he also offers support to his guests and listeners and genuinely cares. Dave has created a family, just by showing up for the Dopes and those that love them every Friday night.
  • Ben Croxton
    The Only Recovery Podcast Worth Listening to
    Dopey has completely changed my life. It gave me a place where I truly feel like I fit in. It showed me I wasn’t alone in this. That I could make meaningful relationships with people all over the world that have been down the exact same path as me. It showed me that recovery can be fun and exciting and that there are many different ways to do it. I will be forever grateful to Dave and Chris.
  • a.willy333
    Can’t stop!!!
    Omg someone help me I cannot stop listening to this podcast! I’m at episode 30-something. Love these guys, they are the same type of bottom of the barrel addicts in recovery as I am! There’s something so healing being able to relate to someone on this type of level… the fellowships don’t allow for this kind of release!
  • Finiaj
    Amy D.
    👍👍👍👍👍
  • VirtualAnomaly8
    Love Dopey
    My partner died from a fentanyl overdose last September. I have never felt so alone in my life. I tried listening to recovery podcasts, but I didn’t want to hear preaching about how awesome their lives were now that they are sober because I felt like my life was never going to be okay again. I am so glad I found Dopey. It was really helpful to hear Dave and all of the friends and family members of Chris and Todd. I didn’t feel so alone and the old episodes kept me company in the evenings when the silence was deafening. Stay strong Dopey Nation and toodles for Chris.
  • Child of God, only by Grace
    Dave M. Carries the message with a welcoming, humorous, comfortable
    I always look forward to the new release of Dopey on Friday. I’ve found it to be a great way for a sober person in recovery to unwind with like minded travelers at the end of a long, stressful, sober work week. I must admit, I was a little uneasy about some of the topics and conversation early on. Reflecting on that, I can see I was listening through the wrong “pair of glasses” so to speak! When I stopped listening and comparing how different my journey and program is from the story being told by the Dopes and started listening and comparing to the similarities, I realized I was right where I needed to be. So many similarities that I’m grateful to be able to reflect on and laugh at while listening. I would say for anyone early on in recovery, some of the episodes could be a bit triggering. Regardless of that, Dave M. always finds away to subtly carry the message; recovery is clearly possible no matter how far down the scale you have gone! So kick back, enjoy the show and embrace being another bozo on the bus! Stay strong Dopey Nation and F’n toodles for Chris! Love and Service, Brian V
  • lit watch
    All about Dave
    the host )who sounds like they named be a lovely person) is in love with themself.. pick a random spot in the podcast and do a line -or a shot- everytime that it isn’t Dave talking about himself. Were I to have done all the needed work, I would also try to have a digestible broadcast (interviewing the rich and famous) that is almost entirely about my own life, but I may not recommend it.
  • MaggieBP
    Love Dopey
    This is the very best podcast. I’m Dopey adjacent—many addicts in my family and I grew up around it all. I love how Dave mixes the recovery and the debauchery, the positive and the negative. I also love how he shares random stories about his day, which are always hilarious. Ray is an AWESOME cohost and reminds me of Chris with his good nature. Alan is also my fave. I cannot believe he walked 11 miles and 11 flights of stairs today! Love Dopey Zoom and Dopey Nation FB. You are my people. So genuine, honest, and caring. SSDN. FTFC.
  • LP937263748
    Funny and raw
    This podcast is the new soundtrack to my life. Thank you for the incredible work you are doing.
  • Horse enthusiast for life
    A mom who has lived with a son’s struggles-and successes.
    I’ve listened for many years and find hope and inspiration from your show. To hear how you and your guests have had lives that are ‘ off the rails’ and then, eventually, recover to find meaning and purpose beyond drugs and alcohol gives me hope that my son can find this too. And being a parent, I always enjoy when Alan is on the show!!
  • Xxxxxxxxooooooooo
    Thumbs up Dave.
    Hi. Am a 44 yr old guy from Illinois who really loves the podcast. Especially the interview with Steve poltz. It was amazing. Thanks you for all you do. If I had one complaint, it would be your father Alan. He seems like a nice enough guy, but his politics are annoying and seem very far left. (Almost to the extreme at times ). You do a very good job at staying centered. Thank you. Thank you for all the entertainment you have provided and helped me stay sober when it’s tough. Take care. Tom.
  • RedDogCometh
    Movie or book in the works???
    Long time listener. I’ve always thought the story behind this podcast would make an excellent book or movie. Someone needs to make this happen.
  • pdusslt
    So many ads.
    2.5 hour long episode, and already 5 ad reads 20 minutes in. This has to be a joke.
  • Strip: A Memoir
    WHAT are you waiting for?!? Dopey Rules!
    The Best of the Best when it comes to recovery podcasts. Dopey covers it all and does not shy away fro the hard stuff, to say the least. Give a listen. You’ll be addicted!
  • Otho67
    Thank you
    Great podcast that gives us all hope!
  • Waghappy
    Have loved this forever.
    I’ve laughed and cried and learned so much from this podcast. It got me through the pandemic, and even before that. I’m almost in original listener, but not quite. I guess you could call me a touch head.
  • KristopherH15
    The Best Podcast Ever
    FIVE STARS! I have been listening for over a year and started from the beginning. I have finally caught up on all episodes but am a bit down I no longer have an endless episode list of Dopey episodes to rely on. The length of the show is great, the longer the better since it is more Dopey. This podcast is the best entertainment, a reliable friend and provides an inspiring community for an addict, in any stage of using or recovery. Dave has put his heart and soul into perfecting Dopey and along the way has created a very unique recovery community. The story of Dave and Chris is heartfelt and the current format of the podcast has reached a professional and entertaining level which provides a strong support for my recovery while making me laugh and feel at peace with my past struggles. I hope Dopey continues to succeed and grow so Dave can finally leave the deli and become abundantly wealthy from the show, he deserves it (I empathize as a fellow restaurant industry member). Allen, if you read this review you should be very proud of Dave and you are a wonderfully supportive dad, it is encouraging. Stay strong Dopey Nation and Tootles for Chris!
  • kiersten0122
    Awesome podcast!
    I do prefer the earlier episodes with Chris… but this podcast is amazing!! Thank yall for what you do. The stories are HILARIOUS and so relatable. And the chemistry is awesome. I truly appreciate this podcast and I listen to it every day on my hour commute to work!
  • ElTeo1234
    Tip Top Stuff
    Not an addict here and you don’t have to be to enjoy this one. It’s all basic life crap. Found Dave through Maron. The show has come a long way. Production is great and it’s powerful stuff 🚷
  • Sarah Pearle
    Unique Addiction Podcast
    This is interestingly my comfort podcast. I’ve only experienced food addiction (although addiction runs in my family), but something about hearing people tell their most shameful stories makes me feel less ashamed for some of the things I’ve done and experienced. I also love Dave as an interviewer. Dave, don’t stop interrupting, you’re asking what we want to know!
  • Fat member
    Great show
    I look forward tto listening to your. I miss Ray. I like hearing Mr. Manheim read the one star review. Hint hint…. I was some socks
  • TRC_HM
    The single best podcast out there
    Funny, relatable, sometimes absurd, sometimes heartwarming, sometimes heartbreaking and always human … this is the best podcast out there. If you want to understand the dopiness of addiction, the hope of recovery, or you just want to hear interesting stories and conversations hosted by a master interviewer who isn’t afraid to be himself, then this is the podcast for you! I’ve been listening since the summer of 2018 and I can’t get enough Dopey!
  • JESUS C123
    "Echoes of Inspiration: Chris's Afterlife Legacy"
    Hello! I've just wrapped up listening to an episode in which Chris shares his belief in an afterlife. As I reflect on his contributions to the earlier episodes, it's incredible to see how he and Dave have provided a voice to those who needed to hear their experiences shared. I'm truly thankful that Chris's work in recovery has become his legacy in the afterlife, and he continues to inspire. While he enjoyed signing off with "toodles," I'd rather say, "keep inspiring!" 🌟
  • Earledonkachoo
    Better than heroin
    I had tuned in about a month ago, and was listening to recent episodes. 2 weeks ago, I got in my time machine and hopped back to episode 50, so I could enjoy the cheerful and melodramatic banter of Dave and Chris. God this is good stuff. I have since listened to about 30 episodes, putting me in the low 80’s. Just heard Omar from SHAIR recount his crazy cocaine fueled debauchery in Costa Rica. This guy is awesome, you should consider bringing him on again. The main reason I love Dopey is that it isn’t at all preachy, makes me feel like I’m not alone with all the depraved disgusting conduct I have done during my using, and the guests are always so authentic and entertaining. Also want to mention, listening to this podcast at the gym has really improved my regiment. Keep cruising Dave, love you brother! Btw I sent to a connection request on LI, would love to work with you some day if possible.
  • Jack’sBack
    Jack
    I love Dopey but I shy away from the advertisements. 😬❤️
  • princessdiaz5
    Shalom Dooey!!
    All I listen to is Dopey, I really can’t find anything else I like, Well at least I have sooooo many episodes here to keep me going especially on my long car rides to work! I’m a recovering addict , So I can definitely relate to a lot & can also laugh about it now that it’s finally over & I made it out alive ! (Thank God) I hope Dopey never ends! Much love! ✌🏼
  • Jadedvwgirl
    Best podcast ever!!!
    🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥Dopey makes my commute to work go by so much faster. I find myself lol alone in my car. Wonder what people driving next to me must think. Hilarious stories, great format. Wicked fire. Love all the appearances by Allen. Please keep doing Dopey! SSDN. FTFC 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
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