Well this is awkward 😬🤦🏽♀️I sincerely apologize for the ad placement in this week’s episode. We will make sure to do a better job so something like this doesn’t happen again. Many of our episodes tackle addiction and the seriousness of alcoholism; please know this ad placement was not intentional and I sincerely apologize. 🙏🏽❤️ instagram.com/tv/CNVME4IFONL/?igshid=1xsy9df4cobeo
I am sure it wasn't intentional & its great on your part to accept the error I truly loved AJ's episode! BSB is my favorite band!! Keep making great episodes! Looking forward to many more great chats We at Ep.Log Media produce The SOS Show India's #1 podcast for mental health awareness It would be really awesome if you could join for an episode! www.eplog.media/thesosshow/ Best Wishes, Rohan
Thank you, I greatly appreciate your videos and I acknowledge the odd slip is bound to happen, this demonstrates your integrity is genuine and loved by many.
AJ is doing so much service for his program by being so public about his addiction and his emotional struggles. You don't hear it enough from men. I hope he stays strong with his ongoing sobriety struggle. He is so talented and charismatic and I certainly wish he and Nick well. I think having wifes and kids will keep them on the straight and narrow. They finally have the love and support they so desperately needed.
I am so so so proud of AJ and his journey. I remember sending letters to the band when he went to rehab for the first time. It’s beautiful to see how he has grown and is openly talking about it ❤️
This summer I watched them in concert for the first time. I have been a fan of them since 93. He is the glue of that group. Brian needs to retire. His voice is gone and they need to do like Journey and do a world wide search for a replacement.
This was me for 3 out of 5 years of my addiction. Finally 2 years & 8 months ago I broke the habit once & for all. I got sick & tired of being sick & tired.
AJ is so well spoken and communicates his thoughts and feelings so well and seems to have gained so much wisdom through all of his experiences. I could listen to him over again!
I can still remember the moment BSB became a thing in my small Canadian City on the East Coast of Nova Scotia. I was in 8th grade. 1997 ish. My friends and I had bought a new teenbop or some other teen magazine. There were a handful of pictures of them in the magazine saying new artist alert or something like that. It was the first time I saw their faces, but I had heard a song on the radio recently. The name stuck in my head. So I said to my friend, oh yes, I heard their song on the radio, they're really good. She had not heard them yet. And one of the girls in my class who enjoyed being a bully, overheard us talking and she came over to berate our interest and the Boys at the same time. So, that cemented our connection and love for BSB! We became instant fans because I liked pissing off my bullies. I'm still proud to be a Backstreet Girl all these years later. I am always really proud of AJ and how open and honest he has been in talking about his sobriety. My family has a long history with alcoholism. My grandfather, uncle and mother all had issues with staying sober. All of them are gone now. BSB helped me immensely with managing my grief when they passed. However, I can no longer listen to The Perfect Fan. After my mom passed away, it was just too difficult for me. All the love from this girl! Looking forward to seeing the boys in Show some time in the future.
I’m so incredibly proud of the man that Alex has become. I’m glad he’s not that insecure person anymore. I’m so happy that he has the support system that he has. 💗
Huge Props to AJ's wife for doing her own work in Alanon. Many people don't know about or understand the benefits of a 12 step program for friends or family members of someone with a drinking problem.
I met him like 25 years ago when I was a teenage fan girl! I remember he was so nice and took a picture with me. Still love them as a band and am glad to see he is doing well. Wish him the best always.
I met and got a picture with AJ in 2008 at a after party! He and nick were visibly high. I look at the picture I have with him and see him now and he looks soooo healthy! Very happy for him. He’s my favourite BSB 🙌🏻💕
I respect AJ so much that I even named my first son after his Alexander James. I am a huge BSB fan been sense the beginning. I love this interview it's very real.
I love this podcast so much, but decided to leave a comment to celebrate how respectful the comment sections always are. Bravo Mayim for attracting such a wonderful fanbase!
As a lifelong fan, I was fortunate to meet BSB in Edmonton this past summer and was so thankful to have the opportunity to tell AJ how proud I am for everything he has been through and overcome. As a daughter of an alcoholic, I have vivid memories of my dad drinking. The greatest gift he gave me as a father was his sobriety over 35 years ago. Don't give up AJ ... the best is yet to come for you. Thanks for 30 years of memories. I hope to meet you again someday! xo
This podcast is really exciting for me. Living in Russia, at 90th and early 20th we never had a source of information about foreign stars, such as Backstreet Boys or Blossom. And i loved both of them so much. But now, 20 years later, i can subscribe Mayim’s podcast, AJ’s podcast or instagram and to know them closely, like if they were my neighbours. And i’d also want to say that It’s really important to discuss the problem of alcoholism and to see meaningful person who tell you that healing is possible.
I’ve been a huge Bsb fan since their birth, I’ve never met them, but they are like Brothers to me. Even if I can’t say I know A,j., I can see clearly that this time the light is on. I’m so proud of you man, you are an inspiration for many people and you can’t even imagine how your strenght, kindness and braveness do affect my everyday life. Thank you so much for sharing your struggles and your story and thank you for being a great lgbt and black community ally. The world needs people like you! Keep up the good work! Love you, you are a great person. Kisses from Italy
So glad he mentioned Hanson...although that was 97. I honestly thought BSB’s had broken the USA before then? They were big in 96 in the UK. Loved this Mayim! A great podcast!
I had tickets for last summer to see them for the first time in almost 20 years, bought them in February and then Covid happened in March. But, I'm glad he's used the time well, and hope he maintains it back on the road, I'm so proud of him. And, the fact that he gets his nails done with his girls and they bond is the most adorable thing ever!
This is honestly my favorite podcast to ever happen because it feels so familiar and safe, and as someone with bipolar II it just helps to learn about all facets of mental health
Loved this so much. It's so interesting to hear people talk about their experiences with drugs and alcohol. I loved when AJ was talking about the idea that drugs and alcohol are not the problem, but a symptom of the problem. The problem is our own mental health and lives and things like that and alcohol and drugs are numbing agents that become symptoms of the real problem. Super interesting perspective. Great show. Thank you to AJ, Mayim, and Jonathon for another great week! Can't wait for more. Love to all.
I don't know why I waited so long to watch this but it was AMAZING! I always super adored AJ. He is actually the person I showed my son pictures of when he was little and wanted to wear nail polish. I told him, society says it is ONLY for girls but all sorts of guys wear it. I explained that he will get made fun of because people stink but if it's what HE likes, do it! He always painted his nails the color of his baseball team. Anyway, this really made me gain even more respect for AJ and now I need to find his podcast!
I've seen BSB 3 times- going back again when their DNA tour comes back again. Covid shut it down. They are my favorite group and I adore them so this is very special to me! Been following AJs recovery and it makes me so happy to see him shine! This is so amazing so thank you for this! ❤
Fun fact, the Game Grumps channel uses "The Backstreet Boys Reunion World Tour" as a stand-in for "The Covid-19 Pandemic" whenever they talk about it. "Gee I really need the Backstreet Boys to wrap up their world tour already."
He is amazing, i literaly grew up with them. My father had their albums in 2001 and i was 4, and listerning to them, and 18 years after i went to another country to see their show. one of my hapiest days on earth
I love this , I have watched it several times. I relate on so many levels. Recovery is a way of life for me. After all I’m an HSP. feelings can own my life without a program. We all have what works and it is usually a change , change use to be scary. Now I welcome change as long as it is in a positive motion. Thank you Mayim & Jonathan.
This is pretty powerful. As someone that didn’t listen to backstreet until later in the game (I know, I knowwwwww) I really didn’t know a whole lot about them individually. It’s great how open he is about his journey.
Great episode! I had no idea he had these struggles throughout his career. Respect to him for overcoming one day at a time, for himself, his wife, and his girls. 💜
My mom was addicted to narcotics she was in and out of rehab many times. Unfortunately she passed away in 2015 but I will love her till I draw my last breath. She was a wonderful person especially when she was clean and sober so A.J. being so open about his problems is extremely refreshing because people don't want to admit they have a problem but of course that is the first step towards getting sober. That is very hard.
This podcast is amazing. I'm listening to it on work because there are no costumer in sight today. So I'm cleaning around listen to you, knowing that this situation won't last forever, even if I struggle... Thank you so much
Nothing but love and respect for AJ. I appreciate his openness and I'm sure he's helped a lot of people by sharing his own experience. Also I love when someone in BSB acnowledges the impact that us Canadian fans, especially here in Quebec, have had on their career. We opened the doors to the American market for them and I love that they recognize that, makes me proud to be a fan.
Both sides of my family have had issues with drugs and alcohol, I raised my daughter armed with as much information as was age appropriate including the knowledge that you have to ask yourself if you are controlling you use or if the substances are are they controlling you and that it’s never to early to seek help. So far she has got to 19, she drinks occasionally and has fun in a safe way and knows what to look for, she has a counsellor she can call anytime. My father died indirectly through alcohol and my brother had a fight on his hands with probably every drug that was around and he is proud to be working the 12 steps it’s fantastic that people in the spot light share there battle stories and serve as an example that there can be life after addiction.
This was such a wonderful session! You have to grow through it, lean into it, to be able to go through it. Just love his story. Thank you AJ for sharing your on-going story and experiences ~ such respect and I’m 52 and have been a fan of BSB since the beginning! Big fan of Mayim as well ever since Blossom then to Amy FF. So enjoying your shows and very informative sessions! Thank you from 🇨🇦 (Go Johnathan!)
I saw BSB at the hard rock cafe in Jakarta in the late 90s and I remember telling myself that they seemed to work really hard to perform for their audience. And all the travelling, the fans, everything ... It looked intense. No wonder they became so big but there must have been a lot of pressure. Really happy to see that the boys are ok now, still perform together & appear to have good lives. Thank you BSB! AJ is amazing. You have rocked our world, I swear I know the lyrics of all your songs 😍 Thanks Myriam too ofc & everyone here for the great comments
I totally remember when AJ went into rehab, because Me and my friend were going to see BSB in concert in Boston and it got postponed to September. And I want to say we finally saw them in Boston on 9/(7-or-8)/2001. Just a few days shy from the 9/11/01 attack. The BSB concert in 2001 was my very first concert. AJ was my very first coming out of high school. I fell in love with that "bad boy" image, cause as I got older I crushed on Eminem. I'm so proud at how far AJ has come. drug and alcohol addiction is hard. I personally didn't have an issue with drugs and alcohol. I was a cigarette smoker from 2002 - 2014, but I was able to quit smoking cold turkey, when I was n Medical assistant school right before I started my MA externship. I did my externship at a pediatric office and did not want to smell like smoke in front children and their parents. I was never a big drinker, I remember being drunk only once at a coworker/friend's house and the next day they showed me a video of how drunk I was (I was literally on the floor), I was like awe hell no. Never again. I was shit-face drunk and did not like it.
Aw. Man. This Interview made me love AJ even more. I love that he has father-daughter-dates and that he has no Problem not only accepting but expressing his female side. Great Interview ❤❤❤
Loved this episode Mayim! You are an absolutely amazing host!! Felt a little ironic though, the episode being about alcohol addiction & the advertisement being about wine... Thanks Rohan
Today start to take notes because this podcast is helpful for me. This episode was half funny half strong, AJ is a brave man. I am agree with him, the best version of yourself is a day by day struggle
What a beautiful person. Thank you for having him. One of your best!!! Bless you sweet heart! You and him are dolls! Just lovely people. I needed your inspiration! GOD bless you your great show and good work.
@Aj McLean You are the & soundtrack of my better years. Lol. I love that you love your wife & your daughters & make it known..You are the 2021 man's, "man". It's important
Aww this is one of my favorite episodes. I love AJ's story ❤️ I also love it when Mayim gets excited over Best Fiends 😂 and fan girl over AJ 😂 such a cutie!! Thank you Mayim, Jonathan and AJ!
Great episode, can’t wait to see BSB live again. Wow I use to watch Blossom, Mayim looks great. I love hearing what AJ has to say, he has really good insight and can’t wait for that solo album 👍🏻😊
Thank you for another fantastic podcast! Was never the biggest Backstreet Boys fan - I'm a New Kids girl! WHen they toured together it was amazing! And now thanks to watching this episode I have mad respect for AJ!
I have no idea who to fangirl over right now! My favorite backstreet boy or my favorite neuroscientist??? I don't know, but I have a lot of love for both! ❤️
I love BSB and have seen them 5x. Last saw them a couple years ago and can't wait to go again. I relate to his story in so many ways. Great interview!!!
Im from Montreal Quebec Canada and I was a HUGE fan back in the day... I actually took part in a dance contest back in the 90s for the Backstreet Boys!! They saw my group dance video and actually sent a video back to us saying how they enjoyed our dance routine.. wish I could of met them.. im 33 today, wow times flies!
This has become my weekly show I hang out waiting for the next . Thank you 🙏 chronic relapse . I’m 3 mins in and I already know this is an episode for me 💁🏻🙈
I'm with Jonathan it should be the phrase of the day. It's been bugging the heck out of me, but I love you guys so much, I was able to look past that. 😉 This was a great episode. It can be so hard for those of us that love a person (or sometimes did love) who has chronic addiction. I love hearing stories of people who continue to work the program. It gives me hope that one day a person important to my children may get help and grow in recovery. Not holding my breath, but stories like this do help me have a twinkle of hope.
Mayin, First of all I want to congratulate you on the excellent interviewer that you are, it is a pleasure your intelligent and sharp questions, at the same time that you make the guest feel so comfortable and allow them to open up, show themselves vulnerable. I came from seeing all the #DemiLovato' docu and this gives me hope, even with members of my family who are struggling with addiction. We have so much to learn about this. I've been a fan of the Back street boys since I was 16 (now I'm 38) and I'm so proud of #AJ. Thanks to this interview I have discovered the human being behind the idol. Once again, thank you very much and you have a heart that admires you from #Chile 🇨🇱🇨🇱🇨🇱🇨🇱😍✨🌟
If you want to learn more and how you can help yourself in dealing with alcoholism (pieceofshitism) join an Alanon meeting. Many are on zoom all over the world all hours of the day. In person also may be in your area.
My son was given ketamine when he was 6 years old in the ER room. He had a huge cut in his hand and they needed to reattach the tendon. Anyways, it was the worst fucking experience of my life. Never ever again! He was lethargic and didn't know where he was. He grabbed my face and said "are you my real momma?!" It broke my heart. AND they still weren't able to repair it. He had to come back the next day and be put under.
Fan girl in recovery ❤ sent your way AJ. Its always only 24 hours right. Mayim your knowledge in neuroscience make you as an interviewer so much more interesting. You ask the questions so many of us have wondered about but youre not pushy... i like that, very wise respectable and courteous 👍
This is a fabulous conversation...and... I share this with concern, advertising a home delivery wine service on an episode where someone is courageously and openly discussing how they almost lost everything and everyone they love to alcoholism...is this really the best choice? I imagine a lot of sober folks would find a bit of catharsis hearing AJ talk about his healing journey and then...wine. Of all the things to advertise, alcohol? Right after he shared so genuinely about “keeping his lights on.” This feels like an oversight in a “safe space” to talk about addiction. Mayim and team, thoughts?
Since I was a tween I have imagined that this dude was my long lost brother. Here I am at 36 I still feel like he’s the brother I should have had. Precious human. 🥰🥳😎
Loved the wine subscription add during this one. Lol. Isn’t that just the way?...the world keeps on spinning. Great episode! This was great for those of us who are familiar with a 12-Step Program, and equality as informative for those who aren’t. 👌🏼 Really enjoying your way...☺️
Well this is awkward 😬🤦🏽♀️I sincerely apologize for the ad placement in this week’s episode. We will make sure to do a better job so something like this doesn’t happen again. Many of our episodes tackle addiction and the seriousness of alcoholism; please know this ad placement was not intentional and I sincerely apologize. 🙏🏽❤️ instagram.com/tv/CNVME4IFONL/?igshid=1xsy9df4cobeo
You are amazing!
Thank you for that ♥️
I am sure it wasn't intentional & its great on your part to accept the error
I truly loved AJ's episode! BSB is my favorite band!!
Keep making great episodes!
Looking forward to many more great chats
We at Ep.Log Media produce The SOS Show
India's #1 podcast for mental health awareness
It would be really awesome if you could join for an episode!
www.eplog.media/thesosshow/
Best Wishes,
Rohan
It honestly made me giggle :D We know you would never intentionally do anything malicious
Thank you, I greatly appreciate your videos and I acknowledge the odd slip is bound to happen, this demonstrates your integrity is genuine and loved by many.
Knew it wouldn’t be intentional. Probably gave everyone a little giggle tho, fantastic episode today. Really enjoyed it xx
AJ is doing so much service for his program by being so public about his addiction and his emotional struggles. You don't hear it enough from men. I hope he stays strong with his ongoing sobriety struggle. He is so talented and charismatic and I certainly wish he and Nick well. I think having wifes and kids will keep them on the straight and narrow. They finally have the love and support they so desperately needed.
I have been a fan of the backstreet boys since the beginning. I just want to say how incredibly proud I am of AJ.
I am so so so proud of AJ and his journey. I remember sending letters to the band when he went to rehab for the first time. It’s beautiful to see how he has grown and is openly talking about it ❤️
He's the best singer in the band. Love this dudes pipes. There would be no bsb sound without him.
Definitely agree! The Call and a few others are songs where i think he sounded the best!
Agreed. Even before B-Rok had those vocal issues, AJ was always the best singer.
I’ve always felt he was the lead.
@@ksnarks one hundred percent!
This summer I watched them in concert for the first time. I have been a fan of them since 93. He is the glue of that group. Brian needs to retire. His voice is gone and they need to do like Journey and do a world wide search for a replacement.
This was me for 3 out of 5 years of my addiction. Finally 2 years & 8 months ago I broke the habit once & for all. I got sick & tired of being sick & tired.
Did you go to rehab
AJ is so well spoken and communicates his thoughts and feelings so well and seems to have gained so much wisdom through all of his experiences. I could listen to him over again!
I can still remember the moment BSB became a thing in my small Canadian City on the East Coast of Nova Scotia. I was in 8th grade. 1997 ish. My friends and I had bought a new teenbop or some other teen magazine. There were a handful of pictures of them in the magazine saying new artist alert or something like that. It was the first time I saw their faces, but I had heard a song on the radio recently. The name stuck in my head. So I said to my friend, oh yes, I heard their song on the radio, they're really good. She had not heard them yet. And one of the girls in my class who enjoyed being a bully, overheard us talking and she came over to berate our interest and the Boys at the same time. So, that cemented our connection and love for BSB! We became instant fans because I liked pissing off my bullies. I'm still proud to be a Backstreet Girl all these years later. I am always really proud of AJ and how open and honest he has been in talking about his sobriety. My family has a long history with alcoholism. My grandfather, uncle and mother all had issues with staying sober. All of them are gone now. BSB helped me immensely with managing my grief when they passed. However, I can no longer listen to The Perfect Fan. After my mom passed away, it was just too difficult for me. All the love from this girl! Looking forward to seeing the boys in Show some time in the future.
I’m so incredibly proud of the man that Alex has become. I’m glad he’s not that insecure person anymore. I’m so happy that he has the support system that he has. 💗
Huge Props to AJ's wife for doing her own work in Alanon. Many people don't know about or understand the benefits of a 12 step program for friends or family members of someone with a drinking problem.
Who doesn't LOVE AJ and how he bears his sole? LOVE, LOVE, LOVE him! Great job Mayim and AJ!
I met him like 25 years ago when I was a teenage fan girl! I remember he was so nice and took a picture with me. Still love them as a band and am glad to see he is doing well. Wish him the best always.
I know this is their second podcast together but I can see Mayim fangirling over AJ 😆 so cute.
When did they do another pod together?
@@klash813 Oh on AJ McLean podcast called Pretty Messed Up, Mayim was a guest on their Episode 18 last january.
Don't you mean AJ fanboying her?
I still love them at 53 yrs old.
I met and got a picture with AJ in 2008 at a after party! He and nick were visibly high. I look at the picture I have with him and see him now and he looks soooo healthy! Very happy for him. He’s my favourite BSB 🙌🏻💕
I am so glad AJ is apart of the Backstreet Boys.
I respect AJ so much that I even named my first son after his Alexander James. I am a huge BSB fan been sense the beginning. I love this interview it's very real.
I love this podcast so much, but decided to leave a comment to celebrate how respectful the comment sections always are. Bravo Mayim for attracting such a wonderful fanbase!
I am SO HERE for an AJ+Mayim mani/pedi video 🤣
Me too
As a lifelong fan, I was fortunate to meet BSB in Edmonton this past summer and was so thankful to have the opportunity to tell AJ how proud I am for everything he has been through and overcome. As a daughter of an alcoholic, I have vivid memories of my dad drinking. The greatest gift he gave me as a father was his sobriety over 35 years ago. Don't give up AJ ... the best is yet to come for you. Thanks for 30 years of memories. I hope to meet you again someday! xo
Mayim fangirling the whole time is adorable!
You’re never too old for a Backstreet Boy 😍😍😍
This podcast is really exciting for me. Living in Russia, at 90th and early 20th we never had a source of information about foreign stars, such as Backstreet Boys or Blossom. And i loved both of them so much. But now, 20 years later, i can subscribe Mayim’s podcast, AJ’s podcast or instagram and to know them closely, like if they were my neighbours. And i’d also want to say that It’s really important to discuss the problem of alcoholism and to see meaningful person who tell you that healing is possible.
I’ve been a huge Bsb fan since their birth, I’ve never met them, but they are like Brothers to me.
Even if I can’t say I know A,j., I can see clearly that this time the light is on. I’m so proud of you man, you are an inspiration for many people and you can’t even imagine how your strenght, kindness and braveness do affect my everyday life.
Thank you so much for sharing your struggles and your story and thank you for being a great lgbt and black community ally.
The world needs people like you! Keep up the good work!
Love you, you are a great person.
Kisses from Italy
So glad he mentioned Hanson...although that was 97. I honestly thought BSB’s had broken the USA before then? They were big in 96 in the UK. Loved this Mayim! A great podcast!
I had tickets for last summer to see them for the first time in almost 20 years, bought them in February and then Covid happened in March. But, I'm glad he's used the time well, and hope he maintains it back on the road, I'm so proud of him. And, the fact that he gets his nails done with his girls and they bond is the most adorable thing ever!
Thank you for sharing AJ's story with us. I am going to be telling a couple of friends that are in recovery about this for them to listen to him.
I completely stan this friendship. Such a great episode.
The original artist for Didn't I (Blow Your Mind This Time) was The Delfonics, 1969.
And new.kids on the block sung it and is my favorite version
This is honestly my favorite podcast to ever happen because it feels so familiar and safe, and as someone with bipolar II it just helps to learn about all facets of mental health
Loved this so much. It's so interesting to hear people talk about their experiences with drugs and alcohol. I loved when AJ was talking about the idea that drugs and alcohol are not the problem, but a symptom of the problem. The problem is our own mental health and lives and things like that and alcohol and drugs are numbing agents that become symptoms of the real problem. Super interesting perspective. Great show. Thank you to AJ, Mayim, and Jonathon for another great week! Can't wait for more. Love to all.
That's straight out of AA.
That's straight out of AA.
I don't know why I waited so long to watch this but it was AMAZING! I always super adored AJ. He is actually the person I showed my son pictures of when he was little and wanted to wear nail polish. I told him, society says it is ONLY for girls but all sorts of guys wear it. I explained that he will get made fun of because people stink but if it's what HE likes, do it! He always painted his nails the color of his baseball team. Anyway, this really made me gain even more respect for AJ and now I need to find his podcast!
I've seen BSB 3 times- going back again when their DNA tour comes back again. Covid shut it down. They are my favorite group and I adore them so this is very special to me! Been following AJs recovery and it makes me so happy to see him shine! This is so amazing so thank you for this! ❤
Fun fact, the Game Grumps channel uses "The Backstreet Boys Reunion World Tour" as a stand-in for "The Covid-19 Pandemic" whenever they talk about it.
"Gee I really need the Backstreet Boys to wrap up their world tour already."
I've seen them too many times in concert to count! I've even met them! They are amazing people!
@@alicialynnette9889 I wanna meet them so bad! It's on my list!!!
He is amazing, i literaly grew up with them. My father had their albums in 2001 and i was 4, and listerning to them, and 18 years after i went to another country to see their show. one of my hapiest days on earth
Excellent podcast! My daughter, now 32, and I have been huge BSB fans since 1996. I am so proud of Alex. He is my favorite.
I love this , I have watched it several times. I relate on so many levels. Recovery is a way of life for me. After all I’m an HSP. feelings can own my life without a program. We all have what works and it is usually a change , change use to be scary. Now I welcome change as long as it is in a positive motion. Thank you Mayim & Jonathan.
This is pretty powerful. As someone that didn’t listen to backstreet until later in the game (I know, I knowwwwww) I really didn’t know a whole lot about them individually. It’s great how open he is about his journey.
OMG this is the combo I never knew I needed. This is so goooood
Thanks to Canada!! My father always said, "Noone is a prophet in his own land"
Great episode! I had no idea he had these struggles throughout his career. Respect to him for overcoming one day at a time, for himself, his wife, and his girls. 💜
My mom was addicted to narcotics she was in and out of rehab many times. Unfortunately she passed away in 2015 but I will love her till I draw my last breath. She was a wonderful person especially when she was clean and sober so A.J. being so open about his problems is extremely refreshing because people don't want to admit they have a problem but of course that is the first step towards getting sober. That is very hard.
Loved this episode. It’s nice to see this side of AJ being so open.
You are one of the people who are keeping me sane in the middle of pandemic and academic exhaustion. Thank you Mayim! 😊 (from:🇵🇭)
This podcast is amazing. I'm listening to it on work because there are no costumer in sight today. So I'm cleaning around listen to you, knowing that this situation won't last forever, even if I struggle... Thank you so much
Nothing but love and respect for AJ. I appreciate his openness and I'm sure he's helped a lot of people by sharing his own experience. Also I love when someone in BSB acnowledges the impact that us Canadian fans, especially here in Quebec, have had on their career. We opened the doors to the American market for them and I love that they recognize that, makes me proud to be a fan.
Omg he had a crush over Blossom hahaha Mayim,,, yes you are blushing haha
I am in recovery 21 years. Sending this to my son. Try telling him sober friends are the best!
Both sides of my family have had issues with drugs and alcohol, I raised my daughter armed with as much information as was age appropriate including the knowledge that you have to ask yourself if you are controlling you use or if the substances are are they controlling you and that it’s never to early to seek help. So far she has got to 19, she drinks occasionally and has fun in a safe way and knows what to look for, she has a counsellor she can call anytime. My father died indirectly through alcohol and my brother had a fight on his hands with probably every drug that was around and he is proud to be working the 12 steps it’s fantastic that people in the spot light share there battle stories and serve as an example that there can be life after addiction.
This was such a wonderful session! You have to grow through it, lean into it, to be able to go through it. Just love his story. Thank you AJ for sharing your on-going story and experiences ~ such respect and I’m 52 and have been a fan of BSB since the beginning! Big fan of Mayim as well ever since Blossom then to Amy FF. So enjoying your shows and very informative sessions! Thank you from 🇨🇦 (Go Johnathan!)
I saw BSB at the hard rock cafe in Jakarta in the late 90s and I remember telling myself that they seemed to work really hard to perform for their audience. And all the travelling, the fans, everything ... It looked intense. No wonder they became so big but there must have been a lot of pressure. Really happy to see that the boys are ok now, still perform together & appear to have good lives. Thank you BSB! AJ is amazing. You have rocked our world, I swear I know the lyrics of all your songs 😍 Thanks Myriam too ofc & everyone here for the great comments
I totally remember when AJ went into rehab, because Me and my friend were going to see BSB in concert in Boston and it got postponed to September. And I want to say we finally saw them in Boston on 9/(7-or-8)/2001. Just a few days shy from the 9/11/01 attack. The BSB concert in 2001 was my very first concert. AJ was my very first coming out of high school. I fell in love with that "bad boy" image, cause as I got older I crushed on Eminem. I'm so proud at how far AJ has come. drug and alcohol addiction is hard. I personally didn't have an issue with drugs and alcohol. I was a cigarette smoker from 2002 - 2014, but I was able to quit smoking cold turkey, when I was n Medical assistant school right before I started my MA externship. I did my externship at a pediatric office and did not want to smell like smoke in front children and their parents. I was never a big drinker, I remember being drunk only once at a coworker/friend's house and the next day they showed me a video of how drunk I was (I was literally on the floor), I was like awe hell no. Never again. I was shit-face drunk and did not like it.
This was another awesome interview! Thanks so much for letting us see another side of AJ
Holy moly awesomeness! He is so genuine and real.
Can’t wait for my polish to arrive!!
AJ’s polishes are awesome
I've never seen Mayim fangirl so hard over a guest 😂
Aw. Man. This Interview made me love AJ even more. I love that he has father-daughter-dates and that he has no Problem not only accepting but expressing his female side. Great Interview ❤❤❤
"I am the most perfect imperfect version of myself...and that's fine". Yes, yes, yes 💜🙏
Loved this episode Mayim!
You are an absolutely amazing host!!
Felt a little ironic though, the episode being about alcohol addiction & the advertisement being about wine...
Thanks
Rohan
As they also talked about the problem is not alcohol, the problem is deeper than that.
@@melissaeriksen6772 I agree
But still not the best choice of advertisement
She posted an apology video about the ad and explained the ads are randomly placed but they’ll check them more thoroughly in the future
Today start to take notes because this podcast is helpful for me. This episode was half funny half strong, AJ is a brave man. I am agree with him, the best version of yourself is a day by day struggle
Oh my inner middle schooler is so happy! So great to hear his story.
@Aj McLean 😆 ...you're not the real AJ, sweetheart
I found this interview very helpful. Thank you Mayim and A.J.
So insightful and an honest conversation. Well done, both of you.
I respect aj , glad he’s well now
What a beautiful person. Thank you for having him. One of your best!!! Bless you sweet heart! You and him are dolls! Just lovely people. I needed your inspiration! GOD bless you your great show and good work.
A new episode is exactly what I need right now! Can't wait :)
His nails,are always on point and the tattoos oh dang the tattoos. 😌
I loveee this guy! he's being so honest and open about his struggle! always have my support and admiration
Another amazing podcast. Thank you all for all your hard work x
I just love Mayim, so positive, uplifting & real.
@Aj McLean You are the & soundtrack of my better years. Lol. I love that you love your wife & your daughters & make it known..You are the 2021 man's, "man". It's important
@Aj McLean LOL
Aww this is one of my favorite episodes. I love AJ's story ❤️ I also love it when Mayim gets excited over Best Fiends 😂 and fan girl over AJ 😂 such a cutie!! Thank you Mayim, Jonathan and AJ!
So proud of Aj...also I happen to be binge watching Blossom right now so this was really cool to see
“I don’t care how much the electric bill is, I’m keeping’ ‘em on.” ⚡️✨🪄
I’m so so late to your podcast. I am so happy to see you speak with AJ (Alex). He’s been through so much. Perfectly imperfect. That is everything
Oh, yay! New episode! It’s my favorite day of the week!
Great episode, can’t wait to see BSB live again. Wow I use to watch Blossom, Mayim looks great. I love hearing what AJ has to say, he has really good insight and can’t wait for that solo album 👍🏻😊
Thank you for another fantastic podcast! Was never the biggest Backstreet Boys fan - I'm a New Kids girl! WHen they toured together it was amazing! And now thanks to watching this episode I have mad respect for AJ!
Did you see them then? I wanted to go that show, but was too busy with a deployment!
@@sbaxter3252 No just on TH-cam
I have no idea who to fangirl over right now! My favorite backstreet boy or my favorite neuroscientist??? I don't know, but I have a lot of love for both! ❤️
Same!!
This word of the day remains me of fun with flags with Sheldon and Amy
okay now I need to hear Mayim's longer cover of 'I Want It That Way' 😆
AJ was one of my first crushes!!! Glad he is doing well!! Many blessings
I love BSB and have seen them 5x. Last saw them a couple years ago and can't wait to go again. I relate to his story in so many ways. Great interview!!!
Aj is absolutely amazing. All time favorite backstreet boy. Love you aj.
Im from Montreal Quebec Canada and I was a HUGE fan back in the day... I actually took part in a dance contest back in the 90s for the Backstreet Boys!! They saw my group dance video and actually sent a video back to us saying how they enjoyed our dance routine.. wish I could of met them.. im 33 today, wow times flies!
I love A.J. Feeling so proud of him. And the nails better than mine. 🤣
This has become my weekly show I hang out waiting for the next . Thank you 🙏 chronic relapse . I’m 3 mins in and I already know this is an episode for me 💁🏻🙈
How about word or phrase of the day?
That was ironic. Bright Cellars. I enjoyed this interview. In recovey for 21 years. I am obsessed with this podcast!
Thank you for this one, Mayim. I am a huge BSB fan.👏🏽
I'm with Jonathan it should be the phrase of the day. It's been bugging the heck out of me, but I love you guys so much, I was able to look past that. 😉
This was a great episode. It can be so hard for those of us that love a person (or sometimes did love) who has chronic addiction. I love hearing stories of people who continue to work the program. It gives me hope that one day a person important to my children may get help and grow in recovery. Not holding my breath, but stories like this do help me have a twinkle of hope.
Mayin, First of all I want to congratulate you on the excellent interviewer that you are, it is a pleasure your intelligent and sharp questions, at the same time that you make the guest feel so comfortable and allow them to open up, show themselves vulnerable. I came from seeing all the #DemiLovato' docu and this gives me hope, even with members of my family who are struggling with addiction. We have so much to learn about this. I've been a fan of the Back street boys since I was 16 (now I'm 38) and I'm so proud of #AJ. Thanks to this interview I have discovered the human being behind the idol. Once again, thank you very much and you have a heart that admires you from #Chile 🇨🇱🇨🇱🇨🇱🇨🇱😍✨🌟
If you want to learn more and how you can help yourself in dealing with alcoholism (pieceofshitism) join an Alanon meeting. Many are on zoom all over the world all hours of the day. In person also may be in your area.
And that's why Tuesday is the best day of the week🥰
Great podcast Mayim! Great story by AJ, Mayim & AJ made some great points on relapse / recovery.
Loved this one! AJ is so awesome!
My OCD spectrum voice is saying in a shy soft voice to Mayim “Those two left down ancestors photos need to be realigned correctly....please!” 🙃🙏🏾🙏🏻
Yes ......
My first thought was also that the frames needed to be straightened.
@@jlcollins14 Welcome to my OCD spectrum!
My son was given ketamine when he was 6 years old in the ER room. He had a huge cut in his hand and they needed to reattach the tendon. Anyways, it was the worst fucking experience of my life. Never ever again! He was lethargic and didn't know where he was. He grabbed my face and said "are you my real momma?!" It broke my heart. AND they still weren't able to repair it. He had to come back the next day and be put under.
How did i not know this man has a podcast!
I am loving the podcast. It has been lovely to have a fun take on mental health. I struggle and it is great to hear fresh insights.
Shoutout BNL!
Happy birthday! What a sweet guy. Tell him GOD bless him. Not a Backstreet Boy fan, but I love him, tell him he's an inspiration.
Fan girl in recovery ❤ sent your way AJ. Its always only 24 hours right. Mayim your knowledge in neuroscience make you as an interviewer so much more interesting. You ask the questions so many of us have wondered about but youre not pushy... i like that, very wise respectable and courteous 👍
This is a fabulous conversation...and... I share this with concern, advertising a home delivery wine service on an episode where someone is courageously and openly discussing how they almost lost everything and everyone they love to alcoholism...is this really the best choice? I imagine a lot of sober folks would find a bit of catharsis hearing AJ talk about his healing journey and then...wine. Of all the things to advertise, alcohol? Right after he shared so genuinely about “keeping his lights on.” This feels like an oversight in a “safe space” to talk about addiction. Mayim and team, thoughts?
She talked about it on Instagram and in a recent comment and it wasn’t intentional.
@@eeshbhalla196 I appreciate you pointing me there. Thanks a lot.
Just saw the IG post, thank you. It was fully addressed and much appreciated. Well handled, thank you.
@@krystal.alexandria no problem
Such a great episode!!
Since I was a tween I have imagined that this dude was my long lost brother. Here I am at 36 I still feel like he’s the brother I should have had. Precious human. 🥰🥳😎
Loved the wine subscription add during this one. Lol. Isn’t that just the way?...the world keeps on spinning. Great episode! This was great for those of us who are familiar with a 12-Step Program, and equality as informative for those who aren’t. 👌🏼 Really enjoying your way...☺️
I love your breakdowns