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Recovering Addict Hosts Podcast Chronicling Music Industry's Dark Underbelly
1 Oct
Summary
- David Manheim hosts the Dopey podcast, sharing addiction stories from music stars
- Manheim has been sober for 10 years after struggling with heroin addiction
- Dopey podcast celebrates its 10th anniversary with a special event in New York City

In the world of music, tales of alcohol- and drug-fueled debauchery are as common as playing the guitar. However, when musicians survive their addiction and find sobriety, their war stories don't go away. This is where the Dopey podcast, hosted by recovering addict David Manheim, comes into play.
Manheim, who has been sober for 10 years, provides a platform for music stars and notable personalities to share their darkest addiction moments. The podcast, which has become essential listening for the recovery community, features a range of guests, from Motley Crue manager Doc Mcghee to comedians like Artie Lange and Hank Azaria.
On October 1st, 2025, Manheim will celebrate the Dopey podcast's 10th anniversary with a special event, DopeyCon, to be held at the Church of the Holy Apostle in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood. The event will feature a lineup of interesting guests, as the Dopey community continues to grow, with fans organizing weekly Zoom meetings and even getting Dopey-themed tattoos.
Manheim's own journey with addiction and recovery has been a driving force behind the podcast's success. He recounts his experiences, from working at Broadway Video and MTV2 while high on heroin, to finding solace in the recovery community and using cannabis as an "exit-drug" to help him get off of heroin. The Dopey podcast has become a platform for sharing these stories, providing a sense of community and hope for those struggling with addiction.