The 13th Step

NHPR

An investigation into the widespread culture of sexual misconduct and abuse persistent in the addiction treatment industry. Read more

News

Episodes

Introducing: Safe to Drink

02/12/2026 00:33:39Feds Arrest Eric Spofford

06/09/2025 00:29:08 The Sentencing

12/11/2024 00:26:06A New Bill and a Final Ruling

03/05/2024 00:20:45A Big Arrest

09/12/2023 00:19:33 Show all episodes

Our take on The 13th Step podcast

Launched by Lauren Chooljian, The 13th Step unveils the dark secrets of the addiction treatment industry. Following a disturbing tip, Chooljian digs into serious sexual harassment claims against the founder of New Hampshire's largest treatment network. The seven-part series, crafted by the creators of Bear Brook and Stranglehold, bravely confronts the '13th step' - a reference to the pervasive sexual misconduct within the recovery field. The series sheds light on the complex challenges of regulating such behavior and the imperative need for change to effectively counter the addiction crisis. Further, it points out the considerable risks whistleblowers and journalists face in their quest to reveal powerful wrongdoers. The 13th Step is a news podcast by NHPR.