

183: Addiction Series with Cole Zick: How to Break Any Addiction & The Power of Context
Are you struggling to break habits that hold you back? On this final episode of our addiction series, I sit down with my friend Cole Zick to uncover the truth about overcoming addiction. We dive into why habits persist, the role of environment, and how small and drastic changes can transform your life. This episode isn’t about shame—it’s about strategy, mindset, and freedom.
We explore life-changing insights from studies like the New York subway revitalization, Vietnam veterans’ heroin recovery, and the Rat Park experiments. Learn why context matters more than willpower and how your environment may be silently keeping you stuck. Whether you struggle with phone addiction, unhealthy friendships, or other habits, this episode gives you the tools to reset your life and win.
I also share practical steps you can take today: changing toxic contexts, building new routines, embodying change, and tools like the Be Present app to limit screen time and regain focus. If you’re ready to reclaim your strength, walk in freedom, and live the life you were made for, this episode is for you.
Listen, share, and subscribe to Brave Co Podcast to never miss an episode! If this episode blesses you, send it to another man who could benefit—because transformation starts with one brave step.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: Why Masculinity is Under Attack
01:00 - The Final Episode of the Addiction Series
03:00 - Cole Zick: Experience in Addiction Recovery and Leadership
05:00 - Redefining Addiction: Beyond Drugs and Alcohol
07:00 - Understanding the Power of Context in Overcoming Addiction
10:00 - The Subway & Vietnam Veteran Studies: Lessons in Context
15:00 - Drastic Changes That Can Reset Your Life
20:00 - Practical Tools: Changing Your Environment and Habits
24:00 - Apps & Small Wins: Managing Phone and Screen Addiction
26:00 - Closing Prayer & Final Encouragement for Brave Men
🔥 Recommended Actions:
Subscribe to the Brave Co Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@BraveCo
Watch our previous episodes on addiction: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLT4Vf7mom3rNpDQlDaFSR47aGqZ_kSkOs&si=wM-K4Yx01Nt1HHJT
Upgrade your wardrobe and grab Brave Co merch: https://shop.braveco.org/
ABOUT BRAVECO
We live in a time where men are hunting for the truth and looking for the codebook to manhood. At BraveCo, we are on a mission to heal the narrative of masculinity across a generation; fighting the good fight together because every man should feel confident and capable of facing his pain, loving deeply, and leading a life that impacts the world around him.