Sober Motivation: Sharing Sobriety Stories

In this episode, we have Saz, she discusses her struggles with drinking, its roots in her childhood, and the escalated challenges she faced through her teenage years to adulthood because of it. Despite a supportive family and a seemingly happy childhood in Northern Ireland, Saz's insecurities and need for control led her to a struggle with eating and, later, an unhealthy relationship with alcohol as a means of coping with social anxiety and self-esteem issues. Saz did try everything to make moderation work out. But eventually, after an emotional breakup and realizing she must desire sobriety for herself rather than for others, she commits to quit drinking on her 30th birthday. This is Saz’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. ----------------------- Follow Saz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sackedthesauce/ Donate the support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Join SoberBuddy Free 30-Day Trial: https://community.yoursoberbuddy.com/plans/368200?bundle_token=8d76ca38d63813200c6c1f46cb3bdbed&utm_source=manual  

In this episode, my friend Megan Wilcox shares her life story, emphasizing the struggle with her self-worth, addiction, and eventually finding sobriety. Growing up, her parents divorced, and Megan faced difficulties fitting in and experienced anxiety from a young age. Her journey into addiction began with gambling and escalated into daily wine drinking. After having her two sons, her marriage was struggling, and the divorce process began. Megan struggled more and more with alcohol. The turning point came after a low moment during the Christmas season, leading her to seek help. With over 3.5 years sober, this is Megan, AKA the Sobahsistah’s story on the Sober Motivation Podcast. ------------ Follow Megan on IG: https://www.instagram.com/sobahsistahs/ Donate to support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/

In this episode, we have  MJ who has been sober since 2012 and opens up about his challenging journey from a troubled childhood in New York City, marked by overprotection and bullying, to his struggles with alcohol and drug addiction as an adult. MJ shares how being overprotective instilled a fear in him that led to his inability to socialize without alcohol. MJ struggled to let anyone in on how he was feeling in his life and his ego ran the show for decades. The episode also delves into MJ's commitment to helping others as a crucial part of his recovery, his insights on ego and humility, and how his humiliation became the foundation for his humility and readiness to change.  He emphasizes the importance of asking for help, the power of giving back in recovery, and the message that anyone can turn their life around with the willingness to seek help. This is MJ’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. ----------------- Loosid Sober Dating App: https://loosiddating.onelink.me/CAgW/791p3n0a Follow MJ on Instgram: https://www.instagram.com/mjgottlieb/ Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation

In this episode of the Podcast, we have Leigh, discussing her journey to sobriety. Leigh shares her upbringing in a traditional household in Missouri, where drinking was not part of the story, her initial encounter with alcohol in college, and her struggles with anxiety, OCD, and social awkwardness. Despite starting drinking at a later age, Leigh talks about her gradual increase in alcohol consumption through college and into her professional life, highlighting the culture of drinking in her workplaces and the slow recognition of her drinking problem. She touches upon the significant moments that led her to realize the need for change, including the impact of her father's death on her alcohol consumption, various attempts to quit drinking, and the role of sobriety programs and accountability through social media. Leigh emphasizes the importance of deciding that 'drinking is not an option' and the freedom and peace found in sobriety. This is Leigh’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. ------------ 👉 Follow Leigh on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/macrosnmocktails/ 📲 30 Day Trail to SoberBuddy Community: https://community.yoursoberbuddy.com/plans/368200?bundle_token=8d76ca38d63813200c6c1f46cb3bdbed&utm_source=manual ❤️ Follow SoberMotivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ 00:00 Welcome to Season Three: Unveiling Sobriety Stories 00:17 Lee's Journey: From a Traditional Upbringing to College Drinking 09:03 Navigating Early Adulthood: Work Culture and Social Drinking 11:55 A Shift in Perspective: Recognizing the Impact of Alcohol 15:07 The Rocky Road to Sobriety: Challenges and Realizations 18:08 Exploring Sobriety: Breaks, Relapses, and the Path Forward 25:29 The Journey to Sobriety: A Personal Story 25:44 Challenges and Relapses: Navigating the Path to Recovery 26:17 Finding Connection and Support in Sobriety 27:35 Turning Points: Embracing Sobriety and Starting Fresh 27:42 Building a Sober Community: The Power of Sharing and Accountability 30:09 The Impact of Sobriety: Personal Growth and Helping Others 34:52 Reflections on Sobriety: The Continuous Journey and Future Outlook 46:03 Navigating Social Dynamics and Maintaining Sobriety  

In this episode, we have Johnny a veteran who shares his transformative journey from growing up amidst the chaos of his brothers' addiction during the South Florida crack epidemic, to falling into his destructive cycle of substance abuse. Despite excelling in school and initially resisting the path of addiction, Johnny's experimentation with alcohol in middle school eventually led to a spiral of drug use, including cocaine, opioids, and heroin. After experiencing homelessness, multiple overdoses, and the tragic loss of his brother, a moment in an abandoned apartment in Austin, Texas, led Johnny to seek recovery. His sobriety journey began in March 2019, during which he faced the immense challenge of rebuilding his life, re-establishing relationships with his family, and overcoming the remnants of his troubled past. Johnny's story highlights the power of hope, the significance of self-improvement, and the impact of reaching out for help. This is Johnny’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. Johnny on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schreyj11/ 00:00 Welcome to the Sober Motivation Podcast 00:11 Johnny's Childhood Amidst Family Chaos 01:20 School Life and the Start of Substance Use 04:16 The Slippery Slope: College and Consequences 08:13 Military Service: A Temporary Escape 16:47 The Downward Spiral: Addiction and Homelessness 20:20 Reflections on Recovery and Rebuilding 24:12 The Dark Depths of Addiction 29:09 The Turning Point: A Glimpse of Hope 32:59 The Road to Recovery: Embracing Sobriety 41:47 Rebuilding Life: Family, Work, and Self-Discovery 47:44 A Message of Hope and Resilience

In this episode, we have Anne’s heartfelt story of growing up with a father struggling with addiction, his involvement in the Cornbread Mafia, and her own battles with drinking. Anne discusses the impact of her father's addiction on her childhood, leading to her own struggles with alcohol in an attempt to cope with her anxiety and feelings of unworthiness. She shares her moment of awakening and the decision to pursue sobriety, emphasizing the importance of community, therapy, and the power of forgiveness in healing and recovery. Anne's journey highlights the transformative potential of sobriety and how sharing and community support can help overcome the challenges of addiction. This is Anne’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast.   Follow Anne on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_bright_eyed_sober_girl/ Donate to support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation   00:00 Opening and Guest Introduction 00:12 Anne's Childhood and Family Background 01:13 Generational Struggles and Personal Challenges 02:51 Early Memories and Realizations of a Troubled Family Life 07:51 School Struggles and the Impact of Family Issues 10:32 The Turning Point: A Traumatic Event and Its Aftermath 16:10 The Descent into Alcoholism and Seeking Escape 21:27 Finding Hope and the Path to Healing 27:55 A Journey to Faith: From Starbucks to Salvation 28:12 Family Ties: Forgiveness and Transformation 30:14 Embracing Church and Discovering Self-Worth 31:12 The Struggle with Gray Area Drinking 33:54 A Turning Point: Awakening to Sobriety 45:27 Finding Strength in Community and Sobriety 48:54 Reflecting on the Journey and Offering Hope

In this episode we have  Brandi, who openly shares her harrowing journey through a rocky childhood riddled with exposure to alcohol and abuse, leading to her own struggles with alcohol and substance abuse.  Brandi narrates how early childhood traumas, including being raised by her grandparents due to her parents' youth and inability to care for her, normalized the presence of alcohol and chaos from a young age. Her story goes into the depths of her addiction, detailing a cycle of struggling relationships, involvement with drugs and alcohol, and the consequential negative impact on her life and her children's lives. The turning point comes when she decides to seek help and successfully enters rehab, marking the beginning of her journey to recovery. Brandi's narrative highlights the stark realities of addiction, the importance of support, and the possibility of redemption and rebuilding one's life. --------------- Contact Brandi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandilvick/ 30 Day Free Trial to SoberBuddy: https://community.yoursoberbuddy.com/plans/368200?bundle_token=8d76ca38d63813200c6c1f46cb3bdbed&utm_source=manual Donate to support the show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Follow Sober Motivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ 00:00 Welcome to Season Three: Unveiling Sobriety Stories 00:19 Brandy's Journey: From Childhood to Sobriety 00:36 The Early Years: Chaos, Alcohol, and Family Dynamics 04:22 Adolescence: Struggles, School, and the Spiral into Substance Abuse 10:23 Turning Points: Escaping Abuse and Finding New Paths 15:37 The Cycle Continues: Challenges, Loss, and the Fight for Sobriety 19:36 Reflections and Revelations: Navigating Life's Turbulent Waters 24:00 A New Chapter: Overcoming Addiction and Embracing Change 25:05 A Journey Through Addiction and Loss 25:26 The Spiral of Addiction: Pills, Alcohol, and Cocaine 27:01 Family Struggles and the Cycle of Addiction 28:49 Hitting Rock Bottom and Seeking Help 34:52 A New Chapter: Recovery and Sobriety 46:51 The Importance of Connection and Routine in Sobriety

In this episode, we are joined by Jenna, who shares her story from childhood as a 4.0 student who excelled in sports. And at 14 everything changed when alcohol became involved in her life.  She discusses the impact of her mother’s hidden struggle with alcohol, and how her pursuit of athletic and academic excellence masked deeper issues of loneliness and the need for acceptance. Jenna's story dives into her spiral into heavier drinking and partying during her teenage years, leading to dropping out of high school, multiple jobs, and eventually motherhood at a young age. She describes facing the reality of her mother’s deteriorating health due to alcohol, and her journey towards sobriety, sparked by a desire to change, therapy, and the sober community. Jenna emphasizes the importance of wanting sobriety, the role of fitness and social media in her recovery, and now a mother of 6 and over 500 days sober and living a more fulfilling life without alcohol. This is Jenn’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. Connect with Jenna on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennaraneamiller/ Support the Podcast here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Sign up for free sober buddy meetings: https://yoursoberbuddy.com/free-zoom-meetings/ Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ 00:00 Welcome to Season Three: Unveiling Sobriety Stories 00:14 Jenna's Journey: From Childhood to Sobriety 04:19 The Turning Point: High School and the Spiral of Addiction 10:03 A New Chapter: Motherhood, Moving, and the Struggle with Alcohol 11:16 The Bartending Years: Navigating Work, Motherhood, and Alcohol 18:07 Seeking Change: The Move and the Battle with Alcoholism 20:17 The Harsh Reality of Alcohol: Mental Health and Seeking Help 21:48 The Struggle with Isolation and Alcohol 23:28 Finding a New Path: Entrepreneurship and Fitness 24:28 A Wake-Up Call: Family Health Crisis 25:59 The Journey to Sobriety: Therapy and Support 29:04 The Power of Sharing and Connecting 40:29 Reflections on Sobriety and Personal Growth    

In this episode, we have John, who shares his deeply personal journey through childhood challenges, struggles with self-esteem and self-confidence, his battle with alcohol addiction, and eventually finding sobriety. Growing up in a family grappling with addiction, John's early experiences shaped his relationship with alcohol, which became a coping mechanism during his teenage years that carried into adulthood. Despite early signs of his struggle, the loss of his father and the responsibilities that followed further complicated his path.  The turning point in John's story comes with his decision to seek treatment, triggered by another trip to the hospital. His journey toward recovery is proof of the power of seeking help and the significance of a supportive community in overcoming addiction. John emphasizes the importance of trust, sharing his insights on how sobriety has transformed his life and relationships. Now, he strives to be a source of hope and support for others facing similar battles, highlighting that change is possible at any age.   Sign up for April 10th Meeting and others: https://yoursoberbuddy.com/free-zoom-meetings/ FREE Trial Link to join SoberBuddy: https://community.yoursoberbuddy.com/plans/368200?bundle_token=8d76ca38d63813200c6c1f46cb3bdbed&utm_source=manual Follow John on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobersinkiller/   00:00 Welcome to Season Three: Unveiling Sobriety Stories 00:24 John's Journey: From Childhood to Sobriety 00:38 The Early Signs: Growing Up with Addiction 02:37 High School Struggles: Acne, Fitting In, and Early Drinking 04:21 College Days: The Start of a Deeper Relationship with Alcohol 13:42 Post-College Life: Realizations and Responsibilities 19:34 Marriage, Parenthood, and the Turning Point 21:48 The Journey to Sobriety Begins 22:28 The Realization and Struggle with Sobriety 24:28 A Second Chance at Sobriety 27:42 The Impact of Family and Age on Recovery 28:49 Embracing Recovery and the Path Forward 35:18 The Power of Community in Sobriety 40:05 Final Reflections and Encouragement

In this episode we have Chris, who shares his compelling story of growing up in East Texas, his battles with alcoholism and drug abuse, and his journey to sobriety. Born in 1972 in Tyler, Texas, Chris grew up witnessing heavy drinking in his community  Despite a supportive extended family, Chris struggled with feeling uncomfortable in his own skin.  After several interventions in which he spent 12 months in a strict rehab center, Chris initially found sobriety at 22. However, after having another drink after 8.5 years of sobriety, he experienced a dark period of relapse. Chris openly narrates the challenging, yet ultimately successful, battle to regain his sobriety, his personal growth, and his current role as a father. He emphasizes the importance of persistence, the need for a strong support system, and how his views have changed over the years. This is Chris’s story on the sober motivation podcast. ----------- Free SoberBuddy Meetings Sign up Link:  https://yoursoberbuddy.com/free-zoom-meetings/ Follow Chris on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrismcox72/ Follow Sober Motivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ 00:00 Welcome to the Sober Motivation Podcast with Chris 00:16 Chris's Childhood in East Texas: Family, Culture, and Early Challenges 02:26 Feeling Different and Out of Place: Chris's Early Struggles 05:34 Turning Points: From Trouble to Treatment 08:56 A Journey Through Rehabilitation and Recovery 16:41 The Road to Sobriety: Challenges and Triumphs 18:56 Embracing Fatherhood and Finding Purpose in Sobriety 20:27 Finding Joy in Sobriety and Community 21:26 The Slippery Slope: From Sobriety to Relapse 22:44 The Harsh Reality of Addiction and Its Consequences 25:18 Struggling to Regain Sobriety: A Personal Journey 27:39 The Turning Point: From Despair to Hope 33:22 Building a New Life: Sobriety, Family, and Career 37:22 Embracing Change and Helping Others 41:08 The Power of Community and Virtual Support

In this episode, we have Suze from England who shares she faced various significant life challenges, including being sent away to boarding school at a young age, facing bullying, the sudden death of her mother, and surviving the terrifying 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami. She discusses her struggle with alcohol, which became a coping mechanism following these traumatic events and the subsequent dip in her mental health. Despite initially starting to drink socially in her late teens, Suze's real battle with alcohol began in her thirties, intensified by trying to moderate her consumption without success. Eventually, feeling trapped in a cycle of drinking, she sought help.  --------------- Follow Suze on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzesober/ Sign up for FREE SoberBuddy Virtual Meetings: https://yoursoberbuddy.com/free-zoom-meetings/ More information on Sober Link: www.soberlink.com/recover Follow Sobermotivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/   00:00 Welcome to the Sober Motivation Podcast with Sue 00:15 Sue's Childhood and Early Experiences 01:49 The Start of Sue's Drinking Habits 03:07 Traumatic Events and Their Impact on Sue 07:50 Boarding School Memories and Its Influence 10:17 Navigating Early Adulthood and Challenges 12:21 The Tsunami Experience and Its Aftermath 18:55 The Journey of Motherhood and Its Struggles 22:36 Finding a New Beginning and Facing Challenges 25:53 Reflections on Drinking and Its Role in Coping 26:59 The Vicious Cycle of Alcohol Addiction 27:36 The Turning Point: Seeking Help and Finding AA 32:04 The Journey to Sobriety: From Desperation to Hope 34:44 Embracing a New Life: Growth and Healing in Sobriety 39:23 The Power of Community and Self-Reflection 48:36 Advice for Those Struggling with Sobriety 50:28 Conclusion: The Continuous Journey of Recovery

In this episode I share personal insights on sobriety, debunking the notion of a linear process and emphasizing the importance of community, asking for help, and the realization that no external validation is required to quit. The episode also touches on misconceptions about hitting rock bottom, the gradually decreasing challenge of sobriety as one gains more tools, the potential need to walk away from certain relationships, and the significance of prioritizing sobriety in various social settings. Additionally, the episode encourages staying active and focusing on a healthy routine to aid in the recovery process and concludes with the importance of community support and persistent effort to overcome the challenges of sobriety. ------------- Sign up for FREE SoberBuddy Meetings here: https://yoursoberbuddy.com/free-zoom-meetings/ More information on SoberLink: www.soberlink.com/recover Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/

In this episode, we have Jordan, a listener of the show with a compelling story of struggle, sobriety, and self-discovery. Growing up in a social, drinking-centered environment, Jordan felt like an outsider, which led to experimenting with alcohol and drugs at a young age. Despite attempts to fit in and find a community, Jordan's journey through high school, college, and various jobs in bars only deepened the addiction.  After feeling sick and tired of how she was living always wondering if there was more to life than the cycle of drinking she quit in May of 2020 and this is Jordan’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. 👉 Links 👇 Jordan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/like_the.river/ More information on Sober Link: www.soberlink.com/recover Follow me(Sobermotivation): https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/   00:00 Welcome to Season Three: Unveiling Sobriety Stories 00:38 Jordan's Journey: From Awkward Childhood to Substance Use 01:38 High School to College: Finding Identity in Substances 02:53 The Spiral Continues: College, Marriage, and the Service Industry 14:23 A Glimpse of Reality: Facing Anxiety and Substance Abuse 20:36 The Phoenix Phase: A New City, Same Patterns 23:14 Reflections on Mental Health and Self-Medication 24:18 The Turning Point: Deciding to Leave the Drinking Lifestyle 26:42 The Struggle with Sobriety and Moving Back Home 30:05 A New Beginning: The Journey Towards Sobriety 39:31 Finding Purpose and Helping Others in Recovery 46:16 Reflections and Advice for Those Struggling with Addiction  

In this episode, we have Brantt Myhres a former NHL player who shares his turbulent journey through addiction, his career in professional hockey, and his path to sobriety. Myers discusses the early roots of his struggles, beginning with a challenging childhood marked by abuse, which led him to find solace in hockey. His career escalated quickly, but so did his drinking and drug use, ultimately leading to multiple suspensions and a lifetime ban from the NHL. The turning point came after hitting rock bottom, which prompted Myers to seek help and enter long-term treatment. Now sober, he reflects on his recovery process, the importance of finding a reason to stay sober, and how he’s giving back by helping others in the sports world facing similar battles. Myers also talks about his book, 'Painkiller', where he shares his honest take on the journey, emphasizing the lessons learned and that recovery is possible no matter how dark times may seem. --------------- Follow Brantt on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brantt_myhres/ Check out the book Painkiller: https://www.amazon.ca/Pain-Killer-Memoir-League-Addiction/dp/0735239436 More Information on Sober Link: https://www.soberlink.com/partners/recover Donate the support the show: buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation

In this episode of the sober motivation podcast, we talk with Lucy Bruce, who shares her journey of growing up in a household tainted by her father's violent alcoholism and her own struggles with drinking, eating disorders, and trauma. Though initially appearing picture-perfect, Lucy's family life deteriorated when her father began to spiral into violence due to his drinking, affecting everyone around him.  Lucy's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of confronting one's past to build a brighter future. With 18 years alcohol free this is Lucy’s story on the sober motivation podcast. ------------ Lucy's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucybrucelifecoach/ More information on Sober Link: https://soberlink.com/recover SoberMotivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ Free 30 Day Trial to SoberBuddy: https://community.yoursoberbuddy.com/plans/368200?bundle_token=8d76ca38d63813200c6c1f46cb3bdbed&utm_source=manual

In this episode we have Meg who shares her deeply personal journey from growing up in a culture of appearances and early alcohol exposure to facing significant life challenges and navigating gray area drinking. Meg details her experiences with perfectionism, the pressures of life, early  interactions with alcohol, and traumatic events in college that contributed to her complicated relationship with alcohol. As she left college Meg got sucked into the mommy wine culture. She discusses the important moment when her drinking habits began severely impacting her life and her decision to seek help, only to be dismissed by a therapist. This is Meg’s story on the sober motivation podcast ---------------- Follow Meg on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intoxicatingliesbook/ Meg's Book Intoxicating Lies CLICK HERE More information on Sober Link: www.soberlink.com/recover Free 30 Day Trial to SoberBuddy Community App: https://community.yoursoberbuddy.com/plans/368200?bundle_token=8d76ca38d63813200c6c1f46cb3bdbed&utm_source=manual   00:00 Welcome to the Sober Motivation Podcast 00:14 Meg's Journey: Childhood and Early Encounters with Alcohol 02:26 Navigating Adolescence: Peer Pressure and First Experiences 03:08 College Years: Binge Drinking and Trauma 05:45 The Work-Hard, Play-Hard Culture and Its Impact 14:03 Facing Life's Challenges: The Slip into Nightly Drinking 17:09 The Realization and Quest for Sobriety 22:50 Reflecting on the Journey and Embracing Change 26:15 The Journey to Sobriety: Tools for Self-Love and Comfort 26:54 Unraveling the Story: From Denial to Discovery 27:11 The Power of Community and the Sober Curious Movement 28:11 The Transformative Impact of Sobriety on Personal and Family Life 30:57 The Ripple Effect: Inspiring Change in Others 38:32 The Importance of Addressing Alcohol's Role in Society and Personal Trauma 42:37 Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Empowermen

In this episode we have Josh Connolly, discussing his childhood experiences and the impact of addiction on his life. Josh gives a candid recount of his complicated relationship with his alcoholic father and his struggles with substance use from an early age. After becoming a father at a young age, Josh found himself stuck in a toxic cycle of substance use and dishonesty, leading to making the decision to get sober. Navigating through the challenges of life without the means to escape reality, he makes a focused effort to be honest and present with those he cares about the most, even in the face of adversity. After 9 months of sobriety Josh was really struggling and was was so confused on why. Through conversation on this episode, Josh and I underscore the importance of self-love, honesty, and daily commitment to sobriety. -------------- Follow Josh on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/josh_ffw/ More information on SoberLink: www.soberlink.com/recover Free 30 Trial to SoberBuddy App: https://community.yoursoberbuddy.com/plans/368200?bundle_token=8d76ca38d63813200c6c1f46cb3bdbed&utm_source=manual

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Johnny Lawrence shares his path from an unstable and traumatic childhood to a fulfilling life of sobriety. Born into a mixed-race family subjected to domestic violence, Johnny found comfort in alcohol. However, he felt compelled to give up drinking when he became a father. Johnny discusses the details of sobriety, emphasizing resilience, honesty, and the importance of never giving up. He also shares his concept of 'The Four A's - Awareness, Accountability,  Acceptance, and Action' to handle life changes. Johnny underlines that while the journey to sobriety can be challenging, the emotional resolution and personal insights gained make it worthwhile. This is Johnny’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. ------------ Follow Johnny on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theselfdevelopmentcoach/ Check out SoberLink here: https://www.soberlink.com/recover Support the Podcast here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation 00:00 Introduction and Guest Arrival 01:47 Guest's Early Life and Struggles 05:38 Turning Point and Leaving Home 12:52 Finding Solace in Wrestling 16:30 Becoming a Father and Facing Old Demons 22:30 The Journey to Sobriety 24:40 Understanding Emotional Regulation and Alcohol Cravings 25:26 The Journey of Sobriety: Relapses and Vulnerability 27:22 The Struggle with Suppressed Emotions 28:06 The Honesty Stage: Recognizing the Impact of Alcohol 28:56 The Transition to Sobriety: Challenges and Self-Soothing 31:16 The Four A's of Behavioral Change 34:50 The Emotional Journey of Quitting Alcohol 39:15 The Power of Persistence and Building Emotional Resilience 43:47 Final Thoughts: Never Give Up

In today’s episode, we have Hadley, who speaks about her first drink at 14 and how it would remain complicated until quitting at 41. As life progressed so did the drinking from the binge drinking culture in college to the mommy wine culture that followed. After another night of broken promises to herself about remaining present and aware at a party, she blacked out and the hangover lasted several days and the thoughts of quitting started to become more real. Hadley discusses how it was in a 2-year span that she was working on her relationship with alcohol and after a day drinking session at the lake house she began her journey of sobriety in August of 2021 and everything has changed since then. This is Hadley’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. ---------------- Follow Hadley on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/hadley_sorensen Check out SoberLink here: https://www.soberlink.com/recover Follow SoberMotivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/

In this episode, we have Gregg who opens up about his tragic childhood marked by his father's death in a drunk driving accident and being raised by a single mother.  He talks about his struggle with substance abuse, including dealing drugs, and numerous arrests. Eventually, Gregg relays the turning point in his life – an encounter with a priest who introduced him to a different way of living, which became the foundation of his recovery journey. Gregg highlights the importance of sobriety, recovery, and wellness in his life, discussing how he started the recovery program, Startup Recovery, as well as his realization about the need to work on himself and 'grow up' to be a good father and husband. With 29 years of sobriety, this is Gregg Champion’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. ------------------ Follow Gregg on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greggchampion/ Donate the support the podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Follow SoberMotivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ 30-Day Free Trail to SoberBuddy: https://community.yoursoberbuddy.com/plans/368200?bundle_token=8d76ca38d63813200c6c1f46cb3bdbed&utm_source=manual 00:31 Guest Introduction: Greg's Early Life and Struggles 02:05 Greg's Journey Through High School 03:45 Greg's College Life and Early Adulthood 10:40 Gregg's Downward Spiral into Drug Dealing 13:02 Gregg's Arrests and Consequences 19:27 Gregg's Path to Recovery 21:59 A Life-Changing Encounter 22:34 First Steps Towards Sobriety 23:09 The Power of Belief and Positive Energy 23:21 The Role of Sponsorship in Recovery 23:32 The Impact of Removing the Middle Part 24:23 The Importance of Physical Fitness in Recovery 24:58 The Journey to the First Meeting 25:08 The Struggle of Trying to Get Sober Alone 26:10 The Turning Point: Fear of Going to Prison 28:37 The Power of Mentorship and Taking Suggestions 34:04 The Importance of Being Willing to Be Willing 34:36 The Journey to Wellness 37:06 The Challenges and Rewards of Working in Recovery 41:52 The Joy of Being a Sober Dad 42:16 Final Thoughts: The Importance of Doing the Inner Wo