Laxson Auditorium filled up fast on Friday, Aug. 19 as students, parents and fans of Dr. Drew Pinsky gathered to hear the highly acclaimed, board-certified internist and addiction medical specialist talk about relationships, drugs, sex and anything in between.
Pinsky’s work has become extremely popular with his syndicated radio show, “Loveline,” which he has hosted for more than 20 years. His TV show on VH1 “Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew” and other spinoffs such as “Sex Rehab with Dr. Drew” have highlighted the issues of addiction.
This is not the first time Pinsky has made his way to Chico. He has been to Chico State a few times in the past and recognizes the “reduced sense of self respect and boundaries” among college students.
College is “the launching pad for our lives” and “there is a vibrancy of talking to younger people,” Pinsky said.
As he took the stage, it was immediately apparent that Pinsky was willing to talk about serious problems such as binge drinking, casual sex and addiction.
“Starting college, I know I’ll be running into a lot of problems emotionally,” said freshman Spencer Thomas, an environmental science major. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get this high of advice.”
The goal for the night was simple, Pinsky said.
“To have fun and learn something,” he said. “I want this to be as interactive as possible.”
Audience members were involved in the conversation for the entire two hours. Several microphones floated throughout the crowd and students were welcome to ask Pinsky questions. His responses were entertaining as well as knowledgeable.
Thomas found Pinsky’s presentation to be a learning experience, especially when it came to differences between the sexes, he said.
“I didn’t know there was a difference in brain chemistry,” Thomas said. “That it’s possible for a girl to be attracted and not act on it.”
Pinsky covers many topics, but one that he has excelled in is talking about how men and women think differently when it comes to sex and relationships.
His TV and radio talk shows address the struggles real, everyday people deal with.
Addiction is the most relevant issue in today’s society, Pinsky said. He has dedicated his life to helping others gain a healthier understanding of their lives to better themselves.
“It’s about the shared experience,” Pinsky said. “I’m in love with the human experience.”
This love has culminated into widespread success and his college talks seem to have only increased his popularity.
“I watch ‘Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew’ all the time,” said freshman Anna Hunter. “I’ve never listened to ‘Loveline’ before, but I want to now.”
Instinct was a theme that presented itself in many of the audience members’ questions.
Pinsky began this profession because he had an instinct about addressing issues publically in a powerful manner, he said. Many of the problems youth face today can be answered by asking a simple question of yourself — “What does your instinct tell you?”
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