The One Question That Could Change Everything
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “The One Question That Could Change Everything” inside PodZeus.
In this powerful episode of LOA Today, host Walt welcomes Doug Cleaner, a former drug addict and business leader who transformed his life after hitting rock bottom. Doug shares his harrowing journey from a life of addiction, theft, and running away on Super Bowl Sunday—waking up in the center seat of an airplane en route to Hawaii—to finding recovery through a simple yet profound question: "What if today you just went a day without a drink or a drug?" This moment of interruption became the foundation for his personal and professional rebirth. He discusses how recovery taught him to live one day at a time, the importance of connecting with people who’ve been through similar struggles, and the transformative power of perspective. Doug emphasizes that growth often comes not from big leaps, but from small, intentional shifts in mindset—like asking "What if?" to break habitual thinking. He also shares insights from his books, including *Start With What If?*, which offers a practical three-step framework (Pause, Question, Go) to reframe challenges and unlock new possibilities. The episode closes with a moving tribute to the unseen impact of sharing one’s story, celebrating the quiet, lasting influence of givers in the digital age.
A single moment of interruption—like being asked to go one day sober—can spark a life-changing shift in perspective.
The most powerful growth often comes not from grand plans, but from small, daily choices and the willingness to pause and reframe.
Connection with others who’ve walked a similar path is essential for healing and transformation.
The simple question "What if?" can be a tool for breaking negative patterns and opening new possibilities.
Living with intention and presence—focusing on who you want to be each day—creates lasting change.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
The Power of a Single Question
“What if today you just went a day without a drink or a drug?”
From Addiction to Recovery
Doug recounts his descent into drug and alcohol addiction, stealing from his father’s business, and the emotional toll it took on his family. He shares how a therapist’s unconventional approach—suggesting he talk to his 'warrior' past—led to a turning point, and how he began attending 12-step meetings.
The Two by Four Rule and the Power of Perspective
“If you keep ignoring the signals, the two by four is going to come out at some point.”
The Role of Connection and Community
“We're both stuck down here. Joe says, yeah, but I've been down here before and I know the way out.”
Living One Day at a Time
Doug explains how recovery taught him to live in the present. He shares how focusing on the day, not the future, created clarity and momentum. He also discusses how his early life trauma and his father’s wisdom planted the seed for his belief that 'everything happens for the better.'
“Thank you for what you're doing because you're making a difference in this world.”
“What if today you just went a day without a drink or a drug?”
“The most meaningful impact often happens unseen—your story can change lives you’ll never meet.”
Hosts
Guest
Doug Cleaner
person
Jody Lynn
person
Walt
person
Joel Elston
person
Abraham Hicks
person
Bose Corporation
organization
Sharper Image
organization
Vera Wang
person
The Good Place
media
NetGalley
organization
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “The One Question That Could Change Everything” inside PodZeus.
Start discovering podcast insights today
Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.
No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime