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

Nick joins the show; he has been sober for 10 years and shares his journey from substance abuse to sobriety. Nick describes his childhood marked by his parents' separation, their struggle with substance abuse, and his own progression into alcoholism and drug use. He ventures into various attempts at sobriety that he was unable to maintain. Nick hit many bottoms, including losing everything, and after being charged with a felony, he had a choice to make. Along the path, Nick tried many methods of achieving sobriety, but there was always one thing holding him back from the change he desired so much. This is Nick’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. ------------------ FREE 30- Day Trial to SoberBuddy: https://community.yoursoberbuddy.com/plans/368200?bundle_token=8d76ca38d63813200c6c1f46cb3bdbed&utm_source=manual Follow Nick on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breathofliferecovery808/ Nick's Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1956955860?ref_=cm_sw_r_mwn_dp_2SMDP9Q8QRQ2CPF25GJT&language=en_US Follow Sober Motivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ 00:18 Guest's Early Life and Family Background 00:36 Exposure to Substance Abuse and Early Experiences 01:32 Adolescent Struggles and First Encounter with Addiction 02:08 Dealing with Dishonesty and Fear 03:42 Escaping Reality through Television 04:20 The Role of Drugs and Alcohol in Coping 05:46 Downward Spiral into Addiction 06:48 Moving to Hawaii: A Failed Attempt at a Fresh Start 08:32 First Attempt at Sobriety and Relapse 13:42 Journey to Surrender: The Struggle to Get Sober 20:45 Rebuilding Relationships and Life in Recovery 25:55 The Last Chance at Recovery 26:11 Committing to the Recovery Process 26:30 Facing the Reality of Life's Challenges 28:50 The Turning Point: Choosing Sobriety 30:16 The Journey to Sobriety and Service 34:28 The Power of Honesty and Change 36:20 Building a New Life in Recovery 42:47 The Impact of Breathwork on Recovery 49:59 The Power of Consciousness in Overcoming Addiction 51:44 Closing Thoughts on the Recovery Journey

Michelle Smith (recoveryisthenewblack) who shares openly about her late-onset addiction to alcohol and turbulent journey to sobriety. Growing up in a household filled with alcoholism, she focused on academics and her career before gradually slipping into alcohol dependency due to life's pressures. Following multiple hospital visits, rehab stays and a significant personal realization, she committed to sobriety in 2016. We also explore the societal stigma of addiction, the challenges of early recovery, and the power of connection, community, and constant personal work on the road to recovery. The episode underscores that addiction does not discriminate and recovery is possible for everyone willing to take the necessary steps. This is Michelle Smith’s story on the sober motivation podcast. ------------------ Follow Michelle on IG: https://www.instagram.com/recoveryisthenewblack/ FREE 30- Day Trial to SoberBuddy: https://community.yoursoberbuddy.com/plans/368200?bundle_token=8d76ca38d63813200c6c1f46cb3bdbed&utm_source=manual Donate the support the show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ 00:14 Introduction: Michelle's Struggle with Addiction 00:47 The Sober Motivation Podcast and Sober Buddy App 01:50 Michelle's Childhood and School Life 05:08 Michelle's College Life and Career Path 10:26 Michelle's Journey into Alcoholism 18:38 Michelle's Road to Recovery 23:40 The Million Dollar Question: How to Get Sober? 25:11 The Power of Decision: Choosing Sobriety 26:05 The Struggle: Society's Perception of Addiction 27:19 The Turning Point: Realizing the Need for Change 28:29 The Journey: From Addiction to Recovery 28:53 The Importance of Support: Building Your Dream Team 29:28 The Stigma: Breaking the Silence Around Addiction 34:54 The Reality: Addiction Doesn't Discriminate 36:23 The Commitment: Embracing Sobriety 39:36 The Transformation: From Shame to Empowerment 43:18 The Impact: Sharing the Journey to Inspire Others 48:30 The Message: Keep Fighting for Your Recovery 49:22 Conclusion: The Power of Sharing Your Story

In this episode, we have Jake 'The Snake' Roberts, a WWF professional wrestling icon who shares his journey from growing up in a difficult environment to achieving fame in the wrestling world only to fall into addiction. Jake candidly recounts his destructive path, from enduring a damaged childhood to wrestling successes, severe injuries, and the subsequent slide into alcohol and drug addiction. Despite multiple failed attempts at rehab, Jake reveals how fellow wrestling veteran Diamond Dallas Page (DDP) helped him turn his life around through DDP Yoga, not only by providing a program to regain his physical health but also by altering his mental perspective. Jake's story underscores the power of positive influence, self-care, love, and the human capacity for resilience and recovery. --------------- 30-Day Free Trial To the SoberBuddy App: https://community.yoursoberbuddy.com/plans/368200?bundle_token=8d76ca38d63813200c6c1f46cb3bdbed&utm_source=manual Follow SoberMotivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ Donate to support the show here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation

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 Leannne’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. ----------------- Follow Leanne on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/soberlittlemotherred/ Sign up for SoberBuddy Meeting: https://calendly.com/tarazoe/freezoom Follow Sober Motivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ 00:25 Leanne's Childhood and Adoption 01:11 The Impact of Adoption on Leanne's Life 03:04 Leanne's School Life and Early Struggles 04:58 The Start of Substance Abuse 11:00 Leanne's Dance Career and Its Abrupt End 14:45 The Downward Spiral: Alcohol, Drugs, and Loss of Identity 20:26 Attempts at Seeking Help and the Struggle of Honesty 24:00 Leanne's Life Amidst Chaos: Relationships, Work, and Addiction 25:10 The Unexpected Pregnancy and the Shocking News 27:13 The Birth of Darcy and the Struggles that Followed 27:31 The Spiral into Addiction and the Wake-up Call 29:06 The Turning Point: A Near-Death Experience 30:22 The Journey to Sobriety and Self-Discovery 31:11 The Power of Presence and the Fight for Life 32:36 The Struggle for Survival and the Power of Sharing 36:41 The Importance of Honesty and the Steps to Recovery 39:17 The Impact of Sobriety on Relationships 42:20 The Power of Giving and the Journey to Self-Realization 45:32 The Challenges of Single Parenthood and the Power of Resilience 48:23 The Power of Sobriety and the Gift of Life 49:53 The Importance of Truth and the Call to Action

In this episode, I talk to Justin Brien about his life's journey. Starting from his childhood marked by low self-esteem and self-worth, Justin shares his deep dive into substance abuse and the toll it took on his relationships and mental health. However, the heart of the story lies in his road to recovery and self-discovery, marked by his admission of his issues, seeking therapy, and finding motivation in his desired relationship with his son. Despite numerous setbacks, including multiple relapses and personal loss, Justin's journey is a powerful example of resilience and the power of acceptance and forgiveness, serving as an inspiration for others in similar situations. With over 5 years sober this is Justin’s story on the sober motivation podcast. ------------ Check out Justin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justinbrien19/ Follow Sober Motivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ Donate to support the show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation 00:00 Introduction to the Subber Motivation Podcast 00:14 The Challenges of Sobriety During the Holiday Season 00:23 Introducing Soberlink: A Tool for Maintaining Sobriety 00:58 Shoutout to Sponsors: Charmaine's Cookbook 01:55 Guest Introduction: Justin's Sobriety Journey 02:15 Justin's Early Life and Struggles with Self-Esteem 03:54 Justin's Journey into Alcoholism 05:37 Justin's Life as a Bartender and Struggles with Addiction 09:03 Justin's Realization and Attempts at Recovery 09:39 Justin's Transition into Drug Abuse 21:05 Justin's Return to Hometown and Continued Struggles 25:25 Justin's Journey to Fatherhood and Rehab 27:17 Justin's Suicide Attempt and Continued Struggles 28:43 The Struggle with Substance Abuse 29:06 The Turning Point: Counseling and Self-Realization 31:11 The Power of 'Why' and the Journey to Rehab 31:43 The Struggle with Suicidal Thoughts 34:14 The Importance of Acceptance and Forgiveness 35:26 The Journey to Sobriety and Self-Forgiveness 35:50 The Struggle with Relapse and the Decision to Seek Help 36:57 The Power of Asking for Help and the Road to Recovery 37:29 The Journey to Becoming a Mental Health Advocate 43:07 The Challenges and Triumphs of Sobriety 43:21 The Power of Resilience and the Journey of Parenthood 52:36 The Struggle with Loss and the Power of Perseverance 56:28 The Journey to Writing a Book and Sharing the Story

Mailinn Hamre began drinking at the age of 13, and by the time she turned 18, things took a dramatic turn as it became the legal age to purchase beer in Norway. Initially, she started drinking to fit in with her friends, and the consequences of her actions didn't become apparent until some time had passed. She found herself becoming dependent on the escape that alcohol provided. As the years went by, her situation worsened, and she ended up consuming up to 17 litres of beer or 4 litres of vodka per day. She mentioned feeling that her body was deteriorating, and her doctor confirmed this grim reality by simply wishing her well and stating that there was no need for another appointment the following year, as her prognosis was bleak. The thought of a life without alcohol was unimaginable for her. After enduring many months of illness, Mailinn was placed into a coma that lasted for three months. Today, we celebrate a true miracle on the show, as she has been three years sober. ------------------- Follow Mailinn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soyli91/ Donate to support the show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Check out SoberBuddy: https://www.yoursoberbuddy.com Follow Sober Motivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ 00:12 Malin's Struggle with Alcohol Addiction 01:04 Celebrating Malin's Sobriety 01:13 Behind the Scenes of the Podcast 02:04 Shoutout to Sober Buddy Community 03:11 Interview with Malin Begins 03:43 Malin's Childhood and Family Background 05:03 Malin's Early Drinking Experiences 09:03 The Progression of Malin's Addiction 16:04 Malin's Realization and Acceptance of Her Alcoholism 17:34 The Impact of Alcohol on Malin's Health 23:17 Struggling with Addiction: A Personal Journey 24:23 The Turning Point: A Near-Death Experience 25:21 The Harsh Reality: Paralysis and Hospitalization 31:26 The Road to Recovery: Physical Therapy and Visitors 36:53 The Power of Perspective: Reflecting on the Past 39:04 The Joy of Sobriety: Embracing a Second Chance 42:00 The Future: Helping Others and Celebrating Life 47:25 Final Thoughts: The Power of Resilience

In this episode we have Brett who shares a reflective account of his journey with alcohol, starting from his relatively normal, religious upbringing, through to his involvement with a Christian college, in the music industry, and his ever-shifting relationship with alcohol. He talks about the phases of his life where drinking culture was normalized and admits as his career advanced, the pressures increased, leading him to turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism. He discusses a period of on-and-off sobriety and his eventual decision to become fully sober. Brett emphasizes that the concept of 'gray area drinking' was a significant factor, contending that many people fall into this middle area on the spectrum of alcohol use. Brett was not having fun anymore consuming alcohol and as much as he wanted to he couldn’t stop until he did this is Brett’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. --------------- Connect with Brett on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/breadwilliamsburg/ Sign up for the Addiction Collective Virtual Summit: https://theaddictioncollective.com/ Connect with me here: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ Donate to support the show here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation 02:09 First Experiences with Alcohol 03:50 Navigating High School and Faith 05:13 Transition to College and Early Drinking Habits 06:51 Entering the Music Industry and Increased Drinking 08:10 Reflections on the Early Twenties and Lifestyle Changes 10:59 The Shift in Drinking Habits and Its Impact 13:23 Managing a Band and Balancing Responsibilities 16:50 The Progression of Alcohol Dependence 27:17 Recognizing the Problem: The Struggle with Alcohol 27:41 The First Attempt: A Bet to Stop Drinking 28:33 Back to the Cycle: The Relapse and the Struggle 29:06 Work, Life, and Alcohol: The Intertwining Threads 29:49 The Descent: Feeling Alone and Increasing Alcohol Consumption 30:38 The Pandemic and Alcohol: A Dangerous Combination 32:06 The Turning Point: A Book and a New Perspective 35:18 The Struggle: The On-and-Off Relationship with Alcohol 43:27 The Final Decision: Quitting Alcohol for Good 44:43 The Journey of Sobriety: Challenges and Triumphs 51:49 Reflections and Advice: A Message to Others

In this episode of the Sober Motivation podcast, I chat with Kate about her journey from childhood to adulthood fueled by heavy drinking, to her decision to choose a sober life. The discussion uncovers Kate's upbringing in a large London household and her early 20s described as a 'constant party', and her later relationship with alcohol, which led her to question her real identity and purpose in life. Eventually, these reflections triggered a transformation, with Kate finally embracing a sober lifestyle and reshaping her life in the process. Kate shares practical tips and recounts how she used journaling, walking outdoors, and interacting with others on a similar path to help her stay the course. ----------- Donate to support the podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Follow Kate on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/walking_the_straight_line/ Follow (Me) SoberMotivation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/ 00:23 Guest's Childhood and Early Life 02:39 Beginning of Alcohol Consumption 03:44 Escalation of Drinking in College 05:08 Transition into Professional Life and Continued Drinking 05:45 Reflections on Self-Identity and Alcohol 13:14 Moving to America and Continued Struggles 20:24 Becoming a Mother and the Impact on Drinking 22:19 Reflections on Sobriety and Life Changes 26:18 The Impact of Alcohol on Family Life 27:59 The Turning Point: A Personal Video Message 28:59 The Fight Against Alcohol: A New Beginning 32:58 The Power of Support and Self-Love in Recovery 34:33 The Journey of Sobriety: Challenges and Triumphs 35:32 The Transformation: From Alcohol Dependence to Self-Love 42:29 The Power of Community and Connection in Sobriety 47:26 The Joy of Sobriety: A New Perspective on Life 49:28 The Final Thoughts: Encouragement for Those on the Sobriety Journey