Podcast Summary: Dr. Laura Call of the Day – "My Husband Drove Drunk with Our Kids"
Episode Information
- Title: My Husband Drove Drunk with Our Kids
- Host: Dr. Laura Schlessinger
- Release Date: July 16, 2025
- Platform: SiriusXM Triumph 111
Introduction to the Issue
In this poignant episode of Dr. Laura Call of the Day, a concerned mother reaches out for guidance after discovering that her husband drove drunk with their two young children in the car. The caller’s distressing account highlights the challenges of dealing with a spouse struggling with alcohol abuse, especially when it endangers the safety of their children.
Caller’s Background and Situation
The caller provides a comprehensive background:
- Marital History: Married her current husband for almost nine years, having dated him for nearly two years prior to marriage.
- Family Dynamics: They have twin six-year-old children and an older son who is about to turn 18.
- Past Marriages: The caller was previously married once and acknowledges mistakes made in her second marriage, including bringing children into it.
Notable Quote:
"I've been married to my husband for almost nine years... I know I made mistakes in having a second marriage, much much less making two more kids in that second marriage."
(01:07)
The Incident
Eleven days prior to the call, the husband made a grave decision:
- Behavior: Drove drunk with their two young children in the car, consuming alcohol while driving.
- Frequency: Although this was the first time he had done so, he is described as a "seasoned drinker."
Notable Quote:
"11 days ago my husband made the decision to drive drunk with our two children in the car."
(02:13)
Immediate Aftermath
Upon discovering the incident:
- Caller’s Reaction: Chose not to confront her husband immediately; instead, she ensured the children were safe by putting them to bed while her husband passed out.
- Confrontation: Upon his awakening, she expressed a loss of trust and established new household boundaries, including living as roommates and managing all household responsibilities alone.
Notable Quote:
"I told him that I have lost all trust in him and I could not believe what he did in putting not only our children."
(05:24)
Dr. Laura’s Guidance
Dr. Laura addresses the severity of the situation with practical and stern advice:
- Legal Action: She recommends the caller immediately consult a lawyer to file for legal separation and remove her husband from the home to protect the children.
- Long-Term Measures: Suggests that her husband should seek treatment, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or rehab, and remain sober for an extended period (nine months to a year) before considering reconciliation.
- Protecting the Children: Emphasizes that he should not have access to the children until he proves his sobriety and commitment to change.
- Support System: Encourages the caller to seek help from her family and involve her 18-year-old son in supporting her through this ordeal.
Notable Quotes:
"Go to a lawyer and file for a legal separation and get him the hell out of the house."
(06:48)
"He should not be allowed to take the kids out of the house... Drunks do drunk things. I know a lot of you women who have first or second or third marriages with this situation. Just keep hanging on, hoping this will get better and you can control it."
(07:26)
"Call your mom. Get some help from your family. And your 18-year-old son can help you right now. He's been watching this and waiting for you to do the right thing."
(07:50)
Concluding Insights
Dr. Laura delivers a powerful message about personal responsibility and the importance of taking decisive action in the face of destructive behavior. She underscores that enabling a spouse’s addiction only prolongs the harm and stresses the necessity of prioritizing the safety and well-being of the children.
Key Takeaways:
- Safety First: Protecting children from potential harm is paramount.
- Accountability: Holding the addicted spouse accountable through legal and personal boundaries.
- Support Systems: Leveraging family and trusted individuals to navigate through challenging times.
- Professional Help: Encouraging the addicted spouse to seek professional treatment and commit to long-term sobriety.
Conclusion
This episode serves as a critical reminder of the devastating impact alcohol abuse can have on a family. Dr. Laura’s no-nonsense advice provides a clear pathway for individuals facing similar situations, emphasizing strength, accountability, and the importance of safeguarding one’s family.
Timeline
- [00:01] Laura discusses personal drinking habits.
- [00:30] Introduction to the podcast and welcome.
- [01:00] Caller begins her story.
- [02:13] Details of the husband’s drunk driving incident.
- [05:24] Caller explains her response to the incident.
- [06:48] Dr. Laura advises legal separation.
- [07:50] Encouragement to seek family support.