“You’re not broken—you’re just wired in a way that no longer serves you. And the incredible thing is, your brain can be rewired. Change is possible, and it starts with one small step.”
— George Haymaker
Addiction is not just a behavioral issue—it’s a neurological one. Understanding how the brain becomes hijacked by substances and behaviors is key to lasting recovery, and few people explain it as powerfully as George Haymaker. A former entrepreneur who once battled a severe addiction to pain pills and alcohol, George has since rebuilt his life and now helps others do the same using neuroscience-based recovery coaching. His journey from despair to transformation gives him a unique perspective, one grounded in both personal experience and cutting-edge brain science.
In this in-depth and inspiring interview, George breaks down the role of dopamine in addiction, why it’s so difficult to break free from destructive patterns, and how the brain can rewire itself with the right tools and guidance. He offers a hopeful and practical roadmap for anyone struggling—whether with substance use, compulsive behaviors, or just feeling stuck in life. Through his candid insights and compassionate approach, George proves that healing is not only possible, but often more beautiful and rewarding than we ever imagined.
Thank you so much for joining us, George! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your backstory?
Absolutely. My journey began at what most would consider rock bottom. I was taking 50 pain pills a day and drinking two bottles of vodka. I was drowning in anxiety, shame, and low self-worth, barely holding on. I didn’t know how to stop or even where to begin. Eventually, I made my way into rehab—and that’s when everything started to change. Over the past 12 years, I’ve completely rebuilt my life by diving into neuroscience, transforming my identity, and rewiring how my brain operates. Today, I use those same principles to help others break free from addiction and reclaim their lives.
You often talk about dopamine and how it plays a role in addiction. Can you break that down for us?
Dopamine is often referred to as the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, but it’s more accurate to think of it as the brain’s motivation chemical. It drives us to seek rewards. Whether it’s anticipating a delicious meal, getting a social media notification, or craving a fix—dopamine is behind that pull. For those of us who’ve struggled with addiction, the mere thought of using would trigger a massive flood of dopamine. That anticipation, that craving, becomes almost more powerful than the substance itself. It’s not just about getting high—it’s about the relentless motivation to chase that high.
Why is it so hard to break free from that dopamine loop?
Because addictive substances and behaviors release far more dopamine than anything natural—up to 10 times more. Over time, the brain learns to prioritize those intense spikes above everything else. Meaningful experiences like relationships, food, hobbies, even love—none of it can compete. The brain becomes wired to chase the biggest reward, and addictive behaviors deliver that. Eventually, your internal systems start breaking down—dopamine receptors shrink, signals weaken, and you stop feeling good from anything else. That’s how addiction traps you.
What’s happening in the brain during that trap?
The brain gets overwhelmed when flooded with excessive dopamine. It wasn’t built for that kind of overload. To cope, it starts shutting down dopamine receptors or producing less dopamine altogether. This is how tolerance builds—you need more of the substance just to feel anything. Eventually, you’re not chasing a high; you’re trying to avoid feeling awful. And when you stop using, dopamine levels plummet. That’s withdrawal—a brutal crash emotionally, physically, and mentally. It’s why so many people relapse. The brain is out of balance and screaming for relief.
How does recovery begin when the brain is in that state?
The first stage of recovery is all about healing the brain physically and neurologically. In those early days, your dopamine levels are critically low. Life feels flat, joyless, and sometimes excruciating. That’s why support, patience, and sometimes medical intervention are so crucial. Over time, the brain gradually resets. And once it stabilizes, the deeper work can begin: exploring why you used in the first place, what you were coping with, and how to live differently moving forward. That’s when recovery truly begins.
You distinguish between sobriety and recovery. What’s the difference?
Sobriety is putting down the substance. Recovery is building a new life without it. It’s not just about quitting—it’s about creating a life that makes staying sober feel natural and fulfilling. Recovery is rewiring your thoughts, healing your emotions, and building an identity that aligns with your values and purpose. Sobriety is the first step. Recovery is the full journey that follows.
How do you help people reconstruct their identity in recovery?
We begin by getting clear on who they want to become. Addiction convinces us we are our failures or flaws—but that’s not true. I help people uncover their core values, strengths, and beliefs. Then we start practicing that new identity—changing how they think, act, and respond. With repetition, the brain starts supporting that new version of self. It’s not overnight, but with consistency, transformation happens—and it sticks.
What makes change so difficult for people in early recovery?
Many people enter recovery without a framework. They think it’s about willpower alone. But true change requires structure, strategy, and support. The brain learns through repetition—just like when you’re learning to play an instrument or speak a new language. Without understanding how the brain actually changes, it’s easy to get discouraged. That’s why coaching is so powerful. I help people understand the process and guide them every step of the way.
How soon can someone work with you after they’ve stopped using?
Ideally, once they’ve gone through detox and are no longer in acute withdrawal—usually about 7 to 14 days clean. It’s important they’re mentally and emotionally stable enough to engage. That’s when the real work of rewiring begins—when we can start to rebuild life with clarity and purpose.
Can you describe what progress feels like in recovery?
At first, it’s uncomfortable. But gradually, you notice small wins—laughter returns, conversations become meaningful, you find joy in simple things. It’s subtle but powerful. That’s when chemicals like serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins start kicking back in. These aren’t the chaotic highs of addiction—they’re deeper, more grounded, and way more fulfilling. It’s the feeling of your brain coming back online and aligning with who you truly are.
What are some of those other “feel-good” chemicals and how do they differ from dopamine?
Dopamine is all about motivation and pursuit. But serotonin creates a sense of peace and emotional well-being. Oxytocin is the bonding chemical—it comes from love and human connection. Endorphins help relieve stress and pain. When you shift away from dopamine addiction, you start to rely on these more stable, nourishing chemicals. And they bring a sense of fulfillment that no high can match.
What would you say to someone who feels hopeless right now?
I’ve been there. I couldn’t go ten minutes without using. I felt completely lost. But the truth is—your brain wants to heal. It’s capable of change. You’re not broken—you’re just wired in a way that isn’t serving you. And wiring can be rewired. You just need the awareness to recognize there’s a problem, and the courage to take one small step forward. Ask for help. Don’t try to do it alone. There are people out there—like me—who know the road and can walk it with you.
What is the experience like now when you look at your old self versus your new self?
The difference is like night and day. My old self lived in chaos, constantly chasing relief. I was disconnected, anxious, and exhausted. Today, I live in alignment. I experience joy, connection, and peace in ways I never thought possible. I’m proud of the person I’ve become. That feeling—waking up every day knowing you’re living with integrity and purpose—is better than any high I ever chased.
What kind of clients do you typically work with?
I work with people who have detoxed and are ready to move forward. Some are newly sober, others are struggling with mental patterns or unhealthy behaviors. You don’t have to be deep in addiction to benefit. If you’re stuck, anxious, or just not living the life you want—I help you uncover why and show you how to change it.
What would you like to leave our audience with today?
Don’t give up. I know how dark it can feel when you’re in the thick of it—when getting through the day feels impossible. I remember that place. But I also know this: recovery is not only possible—it’s beautiful. The brain is capable of incredible change. You just have to take one small step. Then another. Eventually, those steps build momentum. Life gets better—steadily and meaningfully. And one day, you’ll look back and realize how far you’ve come. Start where you are. Keep going. That’s all it takes.
Where can people find you and learn more about your work?
The best way to connect is through my website, georgehaymaker.com. There, you’ll find free tools, videos, and resources to help you on your recovery journey. You can also sign up for my newsletter, where I share weekly insights on neuroscience, mindset, and emotional healing. And if you’re curious about working together, you can schedule a completely free discovery call—no pressure, just a safe space to talk.
I’m also active on LinkedIn, where I post regularly about the science behind addiction, mental health, behavior change, and how to create lasting personal transformation. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or deep into recovery, I’d love to connect and support you however I can.
Thank you so much for being here, George. Everything you shared today was incredibly eye-opening and heartfelt. I know your message is going to bring hope and clarity to so many people who need it. I’m truly grateful for this conversation.
Thank you. It means the world to be part of a conversation like this—one that’s rooted in empathy and truth. These kinds of discussions help people feel seen and understood. I’m honored to share this space with you and be part of a greater mission to bring light, hope, and healing where it’s needed most.
