Sober Motivation: Sharing Sobriety Stories

In this episode of the Subber Motivation Podcast, my buddy Ryan joins us to share his sobriety journey. Ryan reflects on his childhood in a tight-knit community, his introduction to alcohol in high school, and how his father's coping mechanisms influenced his own. He describes the progressive nature of his alcohol dependency, the strain it put on his relationships, and his eventual realization of needing change in 2020. After multiple attempts to quit, trying a few different pathways Ryan was tired of the life he was leading and realized his drinking did not only affect him it affected everyone around him.  Something had to change but how would Ryan go from a life of drinking to a life without? This is Ryan's story on the Sober Motivation podcast. --------------- Join the Sober Motivation Community here: https://sobermotivation.mn.co Ryan's Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/weber.m.ryan/   00:00 Introduction to Season Three 00:14 Meet Ryan: A Journey Begins 00:43 Ryan's Early Life and College Days 01:25 The Role of Alcohol in Ryan's Life 02:39 Marriage and Moving Away 03:29 Struggles with Alcohol and Family Dynamics 04:47 Realizations and Early Signs of Alcohol Dependence 06:25 The Turning Point: Marriage and Parenthood 08:25 Hiding the Problem and Seeking Help 10:27 The Role of Community and Support 25:48 Fishing Trip Revelations 26:31 Struggles with Sobriety 27:00 A Turning Point 28:22 The Road to Recovery 30:07 Reflections and Realizations 35:32 Finding Community 47:34 The Power of Connection 52:19 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode we have Dave, who shares his deeply personal and inspirational journey from growing up with an anxious mind and early struggles with guilt and shame, to becoming a defined party guy in high school and college. Despite achieving professional milestones, Dave's life was becoming increasingly unmanageable due to his drinking. He opens up about the physical and emotional toll his addiction took on him and his loved ones. Dave recounts his turning point moment of seeking help, the challenges of early sobriety, and the transformative effects it has had on his health, relationships, and overall life. Dave and I discuss the importance of replacing drinking with healthier activities, the persistent struggle with alcohol cravings, and the critical role of self-awareness and support systems in recovery. --------- Join the Sober Motivation Community: https://sobermotivation.mn.co   Dave's IG: https://www.instagram.com/daveg717/

In this episode of the Sober Motivation podcast, we have Ashley who shares about her journey from growing up in a single-parent household with attachment anxiety, through her struggles with alcohol addiction from her teenage years into her adult life. Ashley shares her experiences of hiding her addiction, the trauma of losing close family members to addiction-related causes, and the various stages of her drinking habits. She details her turning point, how she reached out for help, and her eventual path to sobriety. Ashley also discusses the importance of connection in overcoming addiction and how sharing her story publicly led to the creation of supportive communities and resources for those facing similar struggles. ---------------- Ashley on IG: https://www.instagram.com/coach_ashley88/ 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:10 Ashley's Childhood and Early Struggles 01:05 High School Challenges and Coping Mechanisms 06:53 College Years and Escalating Alcohol Use 12:07 Young Adulthood and Moving to Alabama 16:15 Family Tragedies and Increased Drinking 19:30 Reflecting on Alcohol Use and Seeking Support 24:25 Overcoming Shame and Stigma 27:33 The Turning Point: Halloween 2022 28:26 Embracing Sobriety: The First Steps 34:42 Support Systems and Community 37:29 Sharing the Journey: Going Public 39:20 Building a Sober Community 40:54 Reflecting on the Journey 43:32 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of the  Podcast, we have Jess, who shares her deeply personal and powerful story of growing up in a seemingly perfect middle-class family in Portland, Oregon, while dealing with an emotionally absent father and a series of traumatic experiences. Jess opens up about her early experimentation with alcohol, the challenging transitions during her school years, and an abusive relationship that drove her further into drinking. She discusses her wake-up call moments, the pivotal support from her now-husband, and the journey towards sobriety that began at age 20. Jess highlights the importance of addressing mental health and breaking the cycle of addiction for future generations. Her story emphasizes the necessity of recovering out loud and supporting others through their battles with addiction and this is Jess’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. ------------- Donate to support the show here: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Jess on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mysobersunrise/   00:00 Introduction to Season Three 00:14 Meet Jess: Early Life and Family Dynamics 03:10 School Days: Navigating Childhood and Adolescence 05:05 First Encounters with Alcohol 10:58 Middle School Experiments and Social Circles 14:54 High School Transitions and Challenges 20:14 Struggles with Acceptance and Relationships 29:21 College Life and Escalating Issues 34:56 Parental Awareness and Hidden Struggles 36:24 Escaping an Abusive Relationship 39:25 The Turning Point: Realizing the Depth of Alcoholism 41:15 Failed Attempts at Moderation 44:26 The Consequences of Alcohol Abuse 48:22 Finding Support and Making a Change 55:20 Long-Term Sobriety and Family Impact 01:02:34 Breaking the Cycle for Future Generations

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Kari shares her powerful journey from a challenging childhood in an alcoholic environment to achieving sobriety. Despite growing up surrounded by alcohol and undergoing various personal struggles, Kari recounts her battle with alcohol, the impact it had on her life, and how she managed to find the strength to quit drinking. She discusses her multiple relapses, the emotional challenges she faced, and the turning point that led her to dedicate herself to sobriety. This is Kari’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast.   Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Kari on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kari.nautique/   00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:12 Carrie's Early Life in an Alcoholic Family 01:21 Teenage Years and First Experiences with Alcohol 02:32 Struggles with Alcohol and Personal Loss 04:34 Modeling Career and Escalating Alcohol Use 05:09 Toxic Relationships and a Suicide Attempt 06:29 Moving to LA and the Party Lifestyle 07:22 Realizations and the Beginning of Change 11:35 Motherhood and Continued Struggles 18:35 First Steps Towards Sobriety 25:36 Introduction to AA and Seeking Help 28:50 Struggles with Alcohol and Early Attempts at Sobriety 29:22 Cutting Ties and Seeking Help 30:11 Lockdown and the Nine-Month Sobriety Streak 34:16 Relapse and the Battle with Temptation 42:01 The Importance of Changing Environment and Community 46:06 Finding Purpose Through Service and Sobriety 48:20 Final Reflections and Moving Forward  

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Nikki recounts her journey of sobriety, beginning from her early experiences with alcohol in Sydney, Australia, where the legal drinking age is 18 and societal pressure to drink is high. She describes her youthful experimentation and eventual reliance on drinking during a difficult breakup, leading to a period of drinking alone. Nikki shares the challenges she faced in the alcohol-centric film industry and how societal expectations made it difficult to quit. Despite several stints of sobriety, during the lockdowns she first attempted to cut back on alcohol, finding initial success before societal pressures tempted her back. In 2021, Nikki quit drinking for good, supported by a non-drinking friend and a personal realization about her health and happiness. Nikki's story sheds light on the internal battles and societal pressures that make sobriety challenging, and she offers her insights and lessons learned for those on similar paths. ----------- Follow Nikki on IG: https://www.instagram.com/vanillathickshakee/

Leanne shares her journey of overcoming addiction to alcohol and cocaine, and the transformations she sees in her life since choosing recovery. She openly discusses her early life experiences, her struggles being adopted, dealing with ADHD, the pressures of a dancing career, and her almost life-ending relationship with substance abuse.  Leanne’s daughter was born with serious health conditions and she struggled to cope and went deeper and deeper into her addiction.  Leanne stresses the importance of honesty and introspection in recovery and the need for help and connection. Leanne and her daughter Darcy have a saying ‘We Move’ and from listening to her story you will understand the importance sobriety plays in her life. This is Leanne’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. ------------- Sobriety Shower Affirmation Cards : https://jaxkelly.com/products/sobriety-shower-affirmations  (USE code 'Sobermotivation' for 25% off) Leanne's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soberlittlemotherred/ Giveaway on Sobermotivation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/

In this episode of the podcast, we have Shane, who reflects on a loving childhood that took a dark turn due to severe bullying in middle school, leading him to drink alcohol for the first time, from experimenting with alcohol and drugs in his adolescence to facing severe addiction in his adult years, including an impactful self-intervention and multiple arrests. Shane's breaking point came in 2011 when he faced serious legal consequences and ultimately found redemption through a faith-based rehabilitation program and the support of his family. Now dedicated to helping others, Shane underscores the importance of community, purpose, and addressing underlying traumas in the journey to recovery. ------------ Sober Motivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ Shane on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silverladder/

In this heartfelt episode of the Podcast, we have Tiffany, who opens up about her upbringing in a strict Christian home in the Midwest, where she was the eldest of six in a bustling family environment. Sharing her journey from a care-free childhood to battling perfectionism, and the emotional challenges she faced, Tiffany provides an honest recount of how alcohol and substance use became a coping mechanism. Despite several lows, including a stroke scare and a difficult first marriage, she found strength in her family, therapy, and her faith to embrace sobriety. Tiffany underscores the importance of community support, therapy, and self-worth as vital elements in her recovery process. Her story offers hope and a message that it's possible to rebuild a healthy, authentic life away from the shadows of addiction. ----------------- Support the show: www.buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Tiffany's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiffany_epiphany0911/   00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:18 Tiffany's Childhood Memories 02:45 School Life and Teenage Years 07:16 College and Early Adulthood 09:38 Marriage and Motherhood 14:31 Struggles with Alcohol and Drugs 27:25 Health Crisis and Reflection 29:49 The Struggle with Moderation 30:56 Family Vacation and High Bottom 32:24 The Turning Point: Family Intervention 33:06 The Importance of Sharing and Support 40:08 Building a Supportive Community 54:07 The Role of Therapy in Recovery 56:13 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode, Dave shares his incredible journey to sobriety. Born into a household of addiction and instability, Dave recounts his childhood experiences and the impact they had on his life choices. Moving from a tumultuous upbringing to struggling with alcohol as an adult, Dave eventually reaches a turning point that leads him to seek help and enter rehab. Dave provides hope and insight for those facing similar battles through candid discussions about his recovery process, the support he found, and the changes in his life post-rehab. The episode emphasizes the importance of honesty, support, and dedication in the journey to sobriety. ---------------- Follow Dave's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djsobershorts/ Follow SoberMotivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ 00:00 Introduction to Season Three 00:29 Dave's Early Life and Family Struggles 02:08 School Life and Early Realizations 04:38 Teenage Years and First Encounters with Alcohol 07:32 Reconnecting with Biological Parents 09:39 The Escalation of Addiction 16:12 Struggles with Family and Mental Health 25:17 The Turning Point: Realizing the Damage 25:48 The Final Stretch: Escalation and Consequences 29:02 The Decision to Seek Help 29:44 Entering Rehab: A New Beginning 37:11 Post-Rehab Challenges and Adjustments 40:59 Finding a New Path to Recovery 43:12 Support Systems and Overcoming Excuses 47:46 Reflecting on the Journey and Future  

In this episode of the Sober Motivation podcast, Nisha shares her compelling journey of growing up as a first-generation South Asian-American in a small town, navigating the complexities of fitting in, and eventually finding a connection in sports. As her story unfolds, she details the role of alcohol in her life through high school and college and the realization that it was leading her astray. Through heartfelt support and reflections, Nisha shares how a call for help and the support of her family led her to sobriety and a fulfilling career as a Counselor and sober coach. The conversation highlights the importance of community, staying curious, and the continuous journey of personal growth and alignment. Donate to support the show here: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Nisha on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nishajp/ 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:14 Nisha's Childhood and Early Life 02:21 High School Experiences and Early Drinking 03:03 Personal Reflections and Struggles 08:47 College Life and Increasing Drinking 15:05 Post-College Challenges and Career 17:27 Moving to California and Hitting Rock Bottom 25:07 Switching Substances: A Common Misconception 26:00 Introducing the Expert: A Licensed Professional Counselor 28:11 The Journey to Sobriety: Personal Stories and Insights 30:31 The Importance of Support Systems 34:38 Therapy and Personal Growth 42:39 Reflecting on the Sobriety Journey 45:28 The Role of Therapy in Recovery 47:57 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In this insightful episode, Brad and four special guests discuss their experiences with sobriety and offer valuable tips for those participating in 'Dry July.' They share personal stories and advice on starting and maintaining a sober lifestyle, emphasize the importance of support systems, and highlight unexpected benefits. With practical mantras and motivational messages, this episode aims to encourage and support listeners on their journey to sobriety. The panel also addresses common concerns such as social situations and the decision to share sobriety goals with others. ----------- Free Dry July Support SoberBuddy Community: https://community.yoursoberbuddy.com/plans/368200bundle_token=8d76ca38d63813200c6c1f46cb3bdbed&utm_source=manual More Info about SoberLink: www.soberlink.com/recover Guests Accounts Todd: https://www.instagram.com/tkinney111/ Hadley: https://www.instagram.com/hadley_sorensen/ Megan: https://www.instagram.com/sobahsistahs/ Jon: https://www.instagram.com/thetireddad/    

In this emotional and powerful episode, we welcome Melissa, who courageously shares her journey to sobriety. From struggling with alcohol during her teenage years in Wisconsin to moving to New York to pursue a career in theatre, Melissa's story is filled with ups and downs. She discusses how her alcohol use escalated during her adult life. With insights on the challenges of quitting alcohol, the importance of community support, and her continuous journey toward a healthy life, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that sobriety is achievable. Tune in to hear Melissa's story of resilience, determination, and reclaiming her life. This is Melissa’s story on the SoberMotivation Podcast. Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesobernewyorker/ More Information about SoberLink: www.soberlink.com/recover Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ 00:00 Welcome to Season Three! 00:15 Facing Setbacks in Sobriety 01:06 The Power of Trying Again 02:28 Introducing Soberlink 03:14 Meet Melissa 03:37 Melissa's Early Life 05:52 High School and Early Drinking 12:37 College and Theater Life 16:57 Moving to New York 25:32 Starting a Family 28:13 Struggles with Alcohol 29:11 Sober Curious Journey 33:20 Facing Unexpected Challenges 33:34 Finding Purpose in Mask Making 34:10 Turning a Hobby into a Hustle 34:58 Coping with Loss and Grief 36:34 Struggles with Alcohol and Health 44:39 A Wake-Up Call from the Doctor 49:58 The Journey to Sobriety 51:12 Reflecting on the Path to Recovery 58:28 The Power of Connection and Support 01:04:27 Encouragement for Those Struggling 01:07:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Will shares his powerful story of growing up in a supportive family, his early struggles with alcohol in high school, and the progressive nature of his addiction. At 14 Will had his first drink and recalled the seamless transition as alcohol was normalized all around him. Alcohol would creep into every corner of Will’s life as he went through college and started his career as a teacher. Will never thought alcohol would take his life to where it did. One day his wife mentioned he needed to go to the hospital because he was not looking good and the visit would forever change his life. He was drinking himself to death. In the episode, Will highlights the importance of perseverance, self-awareness, and the support of loved ones when getting sober. Today, Will is sober and thriving, grateful for a second chance at life. During the entire struggle, Will held on to a sliver of hope and this is Will’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. ----------- Will's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gordobombay/ Check out SoberLink: https://www.soberlink.com/recover Donate to support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Join Us on SoberBuddy Free 30 Day Trial: https://community.yoursoberbuddy.com/plans/368200?bundle_token=8d76ca38d63813200c6c1f46cb3bdbed&utm_source=manual

In this episode of the Podcast, Jared shares his journey from a seemingly normal childhood in rural Arkansas to struggling with addiction and eventually finding sobriety. Jared shares about the impact of his addiction on his role as a father. Jared recounts his experiences in rehab, the importance of honesty and community in recovery, and how his career in music, including a stint on The Voice, helped shape his path. After having 12 years clean, Jared went back out for another drink but was able to exit the train much sooner this time.  He emphasizes the significance of finding purpose, helping others, and the continuous effort required to maintain sobriety. This is Jared’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast.   More Information on SoberLink: https://soberlink.com/recover Connect with Jared on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaredblakemusic/  

In this episode, Natalie has been sober since October 16, 2022, and shares her inspiring sobriety journey. Natalie recounts her childhood in Kentucky, her disciplined college years, and her eventual immersion into social drinking through her career in sales. Struggling with moderation, Natalie navigates societal pressures, and the mommy wine culture, and eventually finds clarity. She explains her transformative 30-day challenge, the support from her husband and community, and how she discovered her true self and potential through sobriety. This compelling episode highlights the power of mindset, community support, and self-discovery on the path to a fulfilling sober life. More Information on SoberLink: https://soberlink.com/recover Follow Natalie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossladyzeroproof Donate the Support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation 00:00 Introduction to Season Three 00:28 Natalie's Early Life and Upbringing 01:22 College Years and Pageant Life 02:06 Entering the Workforce and Social Drinking 06:22 Marriage and Mommy Wine Culture 07:44 First AA Meeting and Continued Drinking 09:58 COVID-19 and Wine Side Hustle 14:10 Moderation Attempts and Realizations 16:26 Breaking Up with Wine and Embracing Sobriety 19:56 Immersing in the Sober Community 29:32 Reflecting on the Journey 30:11 The Turning Point 31:00 Embracing Sobriety 31:48 Navigating Social Dynamics 35:32 The Impact of Alcohol on Health 37:04 Support Systems and Community 41:36 Personal Growth and Transformation 48:56 Balancing Sobriety and Life 56:51 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Mod Sun shares his transformative journey from a chaotic childhood in rural Minnesota to becoming a successful solo artist. He discusses growing up with divorced parents, early sports ambitions, and how he looked up to Travis Barker which sparked his music career. Mod Sun opens up about his battles with alcohol, cocaine, and the turning points that led him to sobriety, and the steps he took to battle addiction. Just passing 5 years this is Mod Sun’s story on the Sober Motivation Podcast. ------------ Support Podcast Here: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Check out SoberLink Here: https://www.soberlink.com/recover 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 01:05 Early Life in Minnesota 05:04 Transition to Sports and Social Life 09:03 Discovering Music and High School Challenges 21:25 Substance Use and Post-High School Journey 27:44 First Band and the Influence of Bob Dylan 32:58 Joining Four Letter Lie and Pursuing a Solo Career 35:02 First Tour Experiences and Early Career 35:58 Struggles with Substance Abuse 38:37 A Dark Turning Point 43:01 The Path to Sobriety 45:08 Maintaining Sobriety and Personal Growth 48:19 The First Day of Sobriety 56:17 Embracing Sobriety and Its Challenges 01:08:10 Final Thoughts and Encouragement  

In this episode of the Brenton shares his journey through a childhood filled with constant relocations, his early life in a large family, and his experiences with homeschooling. He shares his struggles with alcohol, starting in college, and how it intensified following personal and professional setbacks. Brenton wrestled with the thoughts of being a failure and alcohol quieted those thoughts, temporarily at least. Brenton reflected back on a trip to the ER where he felt like he was dying and how alcohol was impacting his mental and physical health. Brenton has been sober since July 2022 and this is his story on the SoberMotivation podcast. ---------------- More information about SoberLink: https://www.soberlink.com/recover Follow SoberMotivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ Follow Brenton on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officerecovery/

In this episode of the show, we have Thomas, who shares his inspiring journey toward sobriety. Thomas discusses his childhood and his teenage years filled with minor troubles. He recounts how his drinking habits escalated during his bartending career and later as a brand ambassador for alcohol companies. Thomas speaks about the moment he realized he needed help, spurred by personal and professional crises during the pandemic. His story underscores the importance of community, seeking help, and the transformative power of sobriety. This is Thomas’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. Check out SoberLink: https://www.soberlink.com/recover Free 30 day Trial to the SoberBuddy App: https://community.yoursoberbuddy.com/plans/368200?bundle_token=8d76ca38d63813200c6c1f46cb3bdbed&utm_source=manual   00:00 Introduction to Season Three 00:14 Meet Thomas: Early Life and Childhood 03:09 Teenage Years and School Experiences 07:51 First Jobs and Discovering Bartending 09:49 Alcohol and Bar Culture 18:52 COVID-19 and Escalation of Drinking 26:33 Struggles with Sobriety Attempts 27:23 Seeking Help and Support 28:09 Facing Social Situations Sober 29:13 Conversations with Family 30:34 The Turning Point 32:42 Importance of Self-Motivation 36:22 The Day of Sobriety 40:51 Processing Emotions Sober 45:15 Life After Sobriety 47:33 Career Transition 50:17 Advice for Others in the Industry 52:31 Conclusion and Gratitude

In this episode of the Podcast, Garrett shares his journey of growing up in a small town in Iowa, enjoying a seemingly normal childhood, and later struggling with alcohol. Reflecting on his high school years, college days, and the progressive impact of alcohol on his life, Garrett talks about his experiences with social drinking, blackouts, and brushes with the law. He recounts the turning point moments that led to his decision to quit drinking, including his involvement in an outpatient program, the birth of his twin boys, and the emotional toll his drinking took on his family and himself. This is Garrett’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. ------------ Garrett on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gurthove/ Sobermotivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:14 Childhood and Family Background 01:03 High School Years and Sports 02:04 College Life and Alcohol Introduction 03:59 Early Consequences and Social Dynamics 09:05 Post-College Life and Escalation 17:41 Struggles with Moderation and Mental Health 24:43 Realization and Eye-Opening Moments 25:48 Struggles with Drinking and Social Life 28:58 Turning Points and Family Impact 31:44 Final Straws and Seeking Help 34:13 Embracing Sobriety and Personal Growth 37:48 Life After Sobriety 48:07 Advice for Those Struggling 50:34 Conclusion and Support