Expanding Access · 2026-03-31 · 26 min
Recovery outcomes improve when support is continuous, trust-based, and built around human connection rather than episodic treatment alone. In this episode, Chris Thompson, founder and CEO of Sober Sidekick, shares how his personal experience with addiction inspired him to build a platform focused on reducing isolation and providing real-time support. He explains why relapse, overdose, and crises often occur outside traditional care settings, where support is limited. The platform addresses this gap through peer support, behavioral signals, and care navigation to engage people when it matters most. Chris also critiques traditional treatment incentives and emphasizes the need for a more empathetic, proactive, and trust-based approach to long-term recovery. Tune in and learn how always-on, empathy-driven support can help people sustain recovery and rethink how addiction care is delivered! Resources:
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