Podcasts by Category
Are you ready to ditch daily drinking, reclaim your confidence, and create a life of freedom? Each week, Angela combines no-nonsense advice, personal stories, and science-backed strategies to tackle the challenges of sobriety. Angela Pugh is a globally-ranked Life Coach and podcast host, a professional Interventionist, and entrepreneur with more than 18 years of personal sobriety, helping people rebuild their lives since 2008. From navigating relationships to managing triggers, you’ll discover practical tools, empowering insights, and real-world solutions to thrive in sobriety. It’s time to stop feeling stuck and start feeling unlimited. Listen now for the inspiration, tools, and support you need to live a sober, confident, and happy life.
- 448 - Overcoming Frustration and Staying Strong in Sobriety
All right, my friend. Don’t even try to deny it—you know the feeling I’m talking about.
You start out with the best intentions, maybe after a particularly rough night or an emotional moment of clarity, and you tell yourself, This is it. I’m going to stop drinking, and everything will fall into place.
But then, reality sets in.
The road feels harder than you imagined. You’re not seeing the changes as quickly as you’d hoped, and before you know it, you’re wondering if you’re even doing it right.
You’re not alone.
These struggles are incredibly common, and they often stem from three big pitfalls: unrealistic expectations, a lack of direction or plan, and that deep desire to escape uncomfortable feelings.
These challenges are not a reflection of your strength or your willpower—they’re just part of the journey.
In today’s episode, I’m going to walk you through each of these pitfalls, step by step.
We’ll talk about how to reset your expectations so you can embrace progress instead of perfection.
I’ll show you how to create a simple plan to stay grounded and focused, even when life throws you curveballs.
And we’ll unpack the real reason behind cravings—spoiler alert: it’s not actually about the drink—and how you can handle them with confidence.
And as always, stick around until the end because I’ve got a bonus for you: a free resource that will help you put today’s tips into action and keep moving forward with clarity and confidence.
So, grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and let’s dive into these common pitfalls and, more importantly, how you can overcome them to build a strong, empowered recovery.
You’ve got this, and I’m here to help.
Links mentioned in this episode:
Is Angela the right Coach for you? Book A Call Here to find out : addictionunlimited.com/call
Get my Daily Plan: addictionunlimited.com/plan
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Wed, 20 Nov 2024 - 29min - 447 - Create A Powerful New Year Plan That Will Actually Work
New Year Plan
Can you believe 2022 is over already?
I know it’s so cliché and everyone is saying it- but this year has gone by so fast!
Maybe you can relate. I know when a year is packed with as many projects, challenges, milestones reached and lessons learned as 2022 has been for me, it makes time fly by.
Some years ago I adopted a new way of thinking about it - instead of thinking about resolutions, as if something isn’t right and needs to be resolved – I think about my intentions for the upcoming year. And because my sobriety birthday is in January, I have a tradition at the end of the year I always reflect back on what my life was like before I got sober.
Of course, that immediately puts me in a place of gratitude because I was such a mess in so many ways.
And, it gives me fresh inspiration on how I want to approach the coming year.
This year, I went through some major stuff. And, if we all get honest here, every year is full of major stuff.
So as I was reflecting on the past 12 months, I was writing down so many things that I had to turn it into a whole podcast episode for you.
Because, I want you to approach your next year with a fresh perspective and sense of determination like you’ve never had before. But also, a sense of ease. Like, we’re going to make this so effortless, and you are going to feel so empowered, that you look forward to getting started and following through!
The strategy I’m going over today is all about a different way to approach your goals so that…
* you will get more done
* everything is set up for you to succeed with ease
* you end the day feeling more satisfied with your whole life
In particular, if you want to build a life around recovery and confidence in whatever you do, this strategy will be really applicable for you.
It will help you get more done with less stress, less guilt, and less resources… you know, all the precious commodities we never have enough of.
I suggest curling up with the last Christmas cookie, stir a little eggnog creamer into your coffee, and enjoy a final moment of holiday hibernation to brainstorm your 2023 intentions.
In the end, your intentions are really all about your balance. Understanding we are working on personal growth and taking on new habits more than just accomplishing tasks. Adding too little will leave you underwhelmed and unsatisfied; adding too much is just way more stress than you need.
This episode is your personal low-down on how to think about your intentions, and how to set yourself up for success from day one so that you can get your life and your goals aligned for an amazing year!
Links mentioned in this episode:
Dry January Kickstarter: A 30-Day Bootcamp with Angela Pugh:addictionunlimited.com/bootcamp
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Book A Call With Angela: addictionunlimited.com/call
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want. Click here, scroll to the bottom,Wed, 28 Dec 2022 - 46min - 446 - Why Your Mindset Affects Your Outcome
Feeling better, adulting better, and how life will steer you the right direction (whether you’re ready for it or not!)
A mom with a huge heart, a nurse, and determined to change the game, Lucy Maina is here and she’s ready to help you take action on your recovery dreams, move forward even when fear wants to hold you back, and use the gifts you already have to support your sobriety.
I love this interview with Lucy, and I know you will, too. In this episode we talk about how she channeled her energy from the beginning to support her decision to quit drinking, why her thoughts and mindset were such a powerful tool in the process, and the importance of getting comfortable being uncomfortable.
There are so many light bulb moments, “a-has”, and brow-raising WOWS in this episode, I can’t even name them all. You’ll just have to listen to the podcast and hear them for yourself.
On this show, conversations have a life of their own and a lot of wisdom is revealed. And when Lucy says, “I decided to focus on two things that were really hard for me to distract me in the beginning,” you’re going to stop multi-tasking and listen in to hear the conversation that follows.
You’re in for a treat, my friend! Listen in, get excited and inspired, and driven to take action with Lucy’s insight and experience.
Links mentioned in this episode:
Dry January Bootcamp: addictionunlimited.com/bootcamp
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Book A Call With Angela: addictionunlimited.com/call
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Wed, 21 Dec 2022 - 38min - 445 - What to Focus On to Keep A Healthy Routine During the Holidays
Healthy Routines
When you're going into a stressful time of year your healthy routines get off balance, there are tons of things to do, and stressors lurking around every corner.
And if you don't know what to do, that lack of clarity can you lead you down the path of overwhelm and high anxiety. That's why I recorded today's episode. To take away your stress and make this process a lot easier for you.
I'm breaking down a few fundamental steps to focus on when your rituals and routines are thrown off balance in the holiday season with travel, family, and all the added financial and time stressors. Whether you're just getting started, or you have decades of sobriety under your belt. These are absolutely crucial for a successful and sober holiday season (or any high-stress situation!).
Are you a successfully substance-free and getting through stressors with ease? Don't click away because this episode is for you, too. I not only focus on these steps for the holidays, but I still practice this today whenever I travel or have any disruption in my routines and rituals.
Here's a snapshot of what I'm focusing on in today's episode:
--> action steps to keep your sobriety in tact
--> strategies you can use RIGHT NOW
--> a step-by-step plan to set you up for sober success
I don’t want you to feel like you are walking into a high-stress situation completely unprepared so I’m going to walk you through what to focus on so you are happy, healthy, and staying sober even when your routines and rituals are turned upside down.
Links mentioned in this episode:
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Book A Call With Angela: addictionunlimited.com/call
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Wed, 14 Dec 2022 - 32min - 444 - Figuring It Out When You Don’t Fit In Anywhere with Nate Kelly
I don't fit in anywhere
Not all success stories are created equal.
There are easy stories, hard stories, and everything in between. All are different and unique in their own way and all of them can have a happy ending.
In this episode, I share an enlightening conversation with Nate Kelly about his quest of growing up, figuring himself out, and ending up in an unhealthy relationship with alcohol.
He talks about...
How he used alcohol to make him more social and to fit in more. The successes, and struggles, he went through trying to figure out where he fit and what his life would look like. Plus, we delve into trying to find yourself in a world that doesn't support those of us who don't fit in anywhere.
If you've ever just felt different, and unsure about how you fit or where you fit, this episode is for you!
Links mentioned in this episode:
Join Me On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Sobriety Diaries Podcast: Sobriety Diaries Podcast
Book A Call With Angela: addictionunlimited.com/call
Coming Out Colton: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYu82eFgDhE
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Wed, 07 Dec 2022 - 41min - 443 - This is the Practical Mental Wellness Plan You Need
Mental Wellness
I wholeheartedly believe that mental wellness in recovery can be one of the best gifts you can give yourself. It gives you the freedom to design your life the way you want to and gives you the energy to do the things you love.
But as you have probably figured out, if you don't have the right plan in place, the stress of social and family events can really take a toll on you. Every day, recovering people are dealing with things like anxiety, loneliness, and burnout.
The statistics on relapse are alarming, and if I'll be straight with you... the numbers are far too high and hit a little close to home.
It's a goal of mine to bring more awareness and solutions to this issue that affects so many people. And that's why we're talking all about the actions, solutions, and tools you need to protect your recovery and continue to build on that happiness and comfort you're striving for in sobriety.
Especially when you are going into social and family situations that can push ALL your buttons and triggers.
You want fast and easy solutions and I've got them for you!
> No time commitment!
>> It's totally FREE!
>> And you can do it in your jammies!
In this episode I'll tell you exactly how to navigate every party, gathering, and anything else that makes your anxiety shoot through the roof.
AND some science-backed actions that will change your life.
Find balance between feeling vulnerable and being able to lean on your own instincts and plans when in stressful situations. Tap into your ability to feel joy, confidence, and acceptance when things don't go your way, versus fear and anger. And how to navigate FOMO and loneliness and so much more!
I’m going to make the call -- this episode is going to be a fan-fave. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
Links mentioned in this episode:
Book A Call With Angela: addictionunlimited.com/call
Join the FB Group: facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast!” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Wed, 30 Nov 2022 - 26min - 442 - Take Control of Your Life with Sloane Freemont
take control of your life
When it comes to creating the life you want, most people think they are at the mercy of outside forces.
But what if I told you… you have the power to create what you speak? It may sound like a cliché, but it’s true.
The thoughts we entertain and the words we speak create our reality.
One of the most important things you can do to take control of your life is to be mindful of your thoughts and words.
I’m telling you my friend, everything you think and say has an impact. So be deliberate in what you put out in the universe.
→ pay attention to the language you use when speaking about yourself and your life
Are you using positive, empowering language, or are you putting yourself down?
→ get clear on what you want and focus on creating that reality
When you know what you want, you can begin to take steps towards making it a reality.
Your thoughts are powerful and today’s guest, Sloane Freemont, is giving us the lowdown on how to create what you speak. Which is also the name of her podcast!
She speaks from personal experience of hitting an all-time low in her life, knowing she had to make major changes, and how she started digging her way out.
I know, I know…we can all relate to this!
She’s a podcast host, a brilliant mind, and new friend and she walks us through the power we have in our lives:
If you focus on the negative, you'll get more negative.
If you focus on the positive, you’ll attract more positive.
So choose your thoughts wisely and create the life you want!
With a little practice, you’ll be well on your way to creating the life you deserve — simply by speaking it into existence!
Links mentioned in this episode:
Learn more about Sloane here: https://sloanefreemont.com/
Book A Call With Angela: addictionunlimited.com/call
Join the FB Group: facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Wed, 23 Nov 2022 - 40min - 441 - 4 Simple Ways For Finding Passion In Your Life
Finding Passion
If you find yourself doing busy work because you don’t know what else to do, or feel like you are at a total loss when it comes to knowing yourself and your hobbies, it’s time to start finding passion in your life.
Imagine this: You get out of bed early feeling refreshed and ready for your weekend. You love to spend time with your kids and make their favorite pancakes for breakfast, and you can’t wait to get some time for yourself to do the things you love. You know your happy place, you love your hobbies, and you feel excited to get there!
Having activities you enjoy in your life is important! And, as much as we enjoy being workaholics, parents and partners, there has to be more to your life than just work and family.
Studies show that taking part in fun and leisure activities improves your overall health, but when you get lost in addiction you often lose sight of yourself and the things you once loved.
What are you passionate about?
What activities do you enjoy on your day off?
If you don’t take action to find what you love to do then you will always look for substances or food or shopping to fill that void. And none of those things will serve you well.
Instead of feeling overwhelmed or confused, let’s talk about some actionable steps you can take to find your self again.
In this episode you’ll get:
Easy actions to find the self you’ve lost
A gameplan to curb the overwhelm and get clarity on what makes you happy
And a quick note on all the ways your life is going to improve!
Links mentioned in this episode:
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Book A Call With Angela: addictionunlimited.com/call
Research Article:
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Wed, 16 Nov 2022 - 22min - 440 - Breaking Free From Mommy Wine Culture with Michelle Smith
mommy wine culture
You feel embarrassed and humiliated because you know you are hiding this secret, and you feel like you should know better. Unfortunately, way too many moms fall victim to the mommy wine culture and as a result, get completely lost in the comfort of the drink.
If this sounds familiar to you, then keep reading, my friend, because today’s guest, Michelle Smith, has a powerful story about losing yourself in alcohol and hiding it from the world, all while trying to work and be a great mom.
Michelle is a speaker, influencer, and educator with a digital community for women exploring an alcohol-free lifestyle
Her recovery is thriving -- but that hasn’t always been the case. In fact, it took a lot of soul searching, exploration, and life struggles for Michelle to land in a safe sober place in her life and how it truly lit her up. And by staying on track and pushing through some really difficult situations, she was able to create the sober life of her dreams
Today, Michelle shows women all across the country actionable steps for creating a successful sober lifestyle while also building a solid foundation for motherhood -- and she doesn’t need a drink to get through the day.
In this episode, Michelle opens up about her story and how living a double life was taking a toll, and how getting honest with herself ended up being her way out.
So if you’re ready to move from the wine mommy culture and the darkness of a double life into sweet sober freedom, get your ear buds ready for this one!
Links mentioned in this episode:
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Book A Call With Angela: addictionunlimited.com/call
Find Michelle here: https://www.recoveryisthenewblack.com/
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Wed, 09 Nov 2022 - 40min - 439 - Getting Back To Basics When Your Life Is Turned Upside Down
When life throws you a curveball, sometimes you have to get back to basics until you feel better.
When you are going through something really heavy, at some point you have to make a decision to get into action.
Otherwise, you’re going to sink.
I was sinking. And I knew I would continue to sink if I didn’t make a conscious choice to do some things, to take action to counteract all the negativity and sadness. I had to feel better.
And my first thought was, just get back to basics. Just do the most basic things that you know are good for you and if you do those things consistently, and let time heal you, you will get better.
There will be times in our lives that we will cry. There will be curve balls that make you feel like your soul is dying. Those days that are a struggle, that you don’t want to do it, you want to give up - those are the days that define who you are.
Don’t quit.
Hard times come for everyone, and they are what make you strong but only when you make the decision to keep moving forward.
Giving up, or wanting to give up is human nature. It’s just fear of the ‘what ifs’.
What if I can’t do it, what if I’m bad at it, what if it’s a mistake, what if I fail?
It feels easier to just quit.
But here’s the problem, you’ve heard me say it before, if you shrink to accommodate your fear, you are sentencing yourself to a lifetime of shrinking, and failing. You lose faith in yourself and the world around you.
Instead, get back to basics.
* What are your basics?
* What do you need to do to take care of yourself?
* How do you push through to nurture your mental wellness?
Links mentioned in this episode:
Mental resistance episode: How to Conquer Mental Resistance & Energize Your Life
6 Week Signature Program: addictionunlimited.com/call
Join the FB Group: facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Wed, 02 Nov 2022 - 25min - 438 - Sober Motivation
Sober Motivation
It may sound crazy to think about getting geared up for holiday season, but I want you to be prepared so we are starting with some warm and fuzzy motivation.
In the midst of all the weight of getting sober, having jobs, raising kids, and being high-functioning... it can be exhausting to stay excited about this self-help journey.
And knowing there is plenty of stress for everyone, I want you to take a minute to breathe, and think about all the rewards for the hard work you are doing.
It's so easy to look at the road ahead and get focused on how far we have to go. It is a road with no end, by the way, our work is never finished. At the same time, focus also on how far you've come.
I went back in the archives of Addiction Unlimited and pulled some clips from some of my favorite guests to put together an episode that is laser focused on the beauty of transformation and all the rewards that come with having a clear mind and a vision for the future.
Allyson Kane, Russ Perry, Omar Pinto, Mark Crandall, Emily Paulson, Chris Hill, and our very own 6 week program alum, Amorie. They all shared their stories with us on the podcast and I want you to hear the blessings and gratitude that recovery brings.
These are all high-functioning, educated, entrepreneurs and self-starters, just like all my clients, and they have taken full advantage of the gifts of sobriety. As we move into the most demanding season of the year, I want you to have a fresh perspective and renewed energy moving forward.
We'll do a series of episodes on getting through the holidays and, as you know, mindset is where it all starts. So get your ear buds ready, start your workout or curl up in your quiet space, and let's energize your mindset with the gifts of transformation.
Links mentioned in this episode:
If you want to listen to the last episode I did like this, you can find it here: addictionunlimited.com/133
Join us in the Facebook group for more support, conversation, and , click here.
When you're ready for max support, to get happy and confident in your sober journey, book a call with me here.
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast!” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Wed, 19 Oct 2022 - 16min - 437 - 4 Ways To Build Strong Sobriety When You Don’t Have Family Support
family support in sobriety
If you’ve ever made a big change in your life then you know firsthand how lonely it can feel to be on the road less traveled.
And it’s not because the change you are making is bad or wrong (trust me, I’m a huge fan of changing and growing), you most likely feel lonely because the people around you are staying the same.
Having a strategy is the surefire way to stick to your change. It’s the driving force that will keep you going when it gets difficult or feels overwhelming – when you’re exhausted, and think you want to give up, isolate in your room with the door locked and watch the latest episode of Love Is Blind.
I’ve been there before, and I know you have, too. And that’s why, in this episode, I am giving you 4 easy actions you can take to ease the anxiety of feeling like you don’t have family support in sobriety and you begin to doubt whether it’s worth your time and energy to keep going.
Grab a pen & paper… or open an app… and get ready to jot down these steps so that those big beautiful sober goals you set for yourself are closer than ever before.
Links mentioned in this episode:
Finding your mentors episode: How To Find The Right Mentor & Why It’s A Game Changer
Book A Call With Angela: addictionunlimited.com/call
Join the FB Group: facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast!” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Wed, 12 Oct 2022 - 24min - 436 - When Recovery Feels Intimidating, Do It Your Own Way
If you’re a human being on this planet then I’m willing to bet there have been a million times that you have said, “If only I knew then what I know now, I would have ____________.”
Yes, my friend. Hindsight is always 20/20, and it’s so much easier to see the truth of your situation when you’re looking back on it in the past rather than standing in it in the present moment.
It’s also easy to look back and blame yourself for the “mistakes” you made. But here’s the thing, you were doing the best you could with what you knew at the time. And when you know better, you do better
I mean, I thought it was a great idea to overpluck my eyebrows in the early 2000s, and here we are now spending a small fortune to restore those beautiful brows back to the thicker life they once had.
But all jokes aside, in this episode you’ll meet Bob, one of my star clients with an incredible success story. He’s going to share his own bumpy ride to recovery, how relapse helped him stay sober, the things that have given him a ton of momentum in his sober life and how he pieced it all together one step at a time.
Bob will also share a couple of things he did that really moved the needle. And, I hope you’ll consider doing them, too.
As you know, it’s my goal to share powerful experiences with you -- both good and bad -- so you can learn from them and create the sober life of your dreams.
So if you’re ready, get out your earbuds and listen in!
Links mentioned in this episode:
Post Acute Withdrawal (PAWS) episode: The Science of Sobriety and How To Feel Better Faster
Book A Call With Angela: addictionunlimited.com/call
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Wed, 05 Oct 2022 - 47min - 435 - Relationships In Recovery
Relationships in recovery
It scares you and excites you all at the same time.
You are making lifestyle changes and want, more than anything, to regain control of your life. You can see this sober future full of friends and laughter, having a clear mind, and achieving more than ever to build your dream life.
But where does romance fall into the equation?
Maybe the thought of leaving the booze behind to pursue an alcohol-free life gives you butterflies, but every time you think about how it will affect your marriage or your dating life you think, "Oh man, this could change everything."
Something I've learned over the last 16+ years of recovery and personal development is that nothing is more important than communication. Those butterflies in your stomach are a loud and clear message that it's time to shake things up and take some action.
It isn't always comfortable- I mean, let's keep it 100 - you have to get out of your comfort zone to do anything amazing and rewarding. But I can promise you this, the biggest moments of growth are the ones where I stepped out of my comfort zone. My life, my business, my recovery... none of it would be where it is today without being willing to take a leap of faith- whether big or small.
In this episode, I share with you some strategies to navigate your relationship when you get sober and your partner doesn't. This is a major topic that comes up over and over again and I want you to have some simple pointers to get you started in dealing with this journey.
Then, we take a turn and talk about dating in recovery and how to deal with some of the common difficulties in that situation. As a single person myself, I've tried dating all the different ways over the years and it is one of my favorite topics.
And, as usual, if you have more questions and want to talk more about this topic, join us in the Facebook group where you can find me every single day interacting, answering questions, and cheering you on.
If you are ready for more support and guidance to take your recovery to the next level, you can book a call with me here.Wed, 28 Sep 2022 - 27min - 434 - Addiction In The Family
Addiction in the family
Any difficulty can be resolved when people are willing to own their emotional issues and to get the process of communication healthy. You can have the kind relationships you have always wanted, but it takes becoming the kind of person who treats others the way you want to be treated regardless of how they treat you.
This is a story of a father and son’s journey to healing through substance abuse, depression, anger and family conflict. It is a story of redemption and growth through the emotional anguish that many families experience in the teen years and shares a message of hope that shows a path to maturity for struggling teens and for their parents.
These stories are told both through a father’s eyes as a family therapist and through the teen’s perspective and shares the profound heartache and deep love between a father and son. The lessons learned and the growth for parents and teens are clearly described so everyone who reads this can use these lessons in their own lives.
Healing is a journey and this is a family dedicated to doing the work and sharing the journey. The book, workshops, and a commitment to continued growth, there is something for everyone here.
Join us in the Facebook group here.
If you're ready to feel better faster, book a call with Angela here.
Wed, 21 Sep 2022 - 40min - 433 - 5 Truths You Must Accept to Battle Addiction
"I don't know where to start! I feel so overwhelmed by sobriety!"
Sound familiar?
No worries! I've got you covered.
Most people know it's important to take action and do certain things to get, and stay, sober. But there's a big problem.
They aren't sure how to do the right things at the right time to be consistently building their recovery and feeling better.
They get super busy with a giant TO DO list filled with books to read and podcasts to listen to, and that's only part of the equation.
There is a HUGE piece of this that starts right between your ears, with your beliefs and thoughts about sobriety.
As parents and spouses and business owners we don't want to waste any more time on feeble attempts to get sober, to relapse again, and have zero understanding what happened and even less understanding of what to do next.
Am I right?
There's a better way to think about recovery and there are certain truths you HAVE TO get clear on to create your sober life without more overwhelm and failed attempts.
I'm going to save you a lot of time. These are some of the most common misconceptions and missteps I see people make over and over again. It all starts in your head and you don't even realize how you set yourself up for failure, before you even start.
I did it, too.
You don't have to do this by yourself without a roadmap. You have support and resources, motivation and inspiration at your fingertips:
Join the Facebook group here: www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Schedule Coaching with Angela here: addictionunlimited.com/callWed, 14 Sep 2022 - 38min - 432 - ADHD Symptoms: Do You Have It & How To Treat It
ADHD Symptoms
Do you have ADHD symptoms?
Have you ever struggled to complete the most basic life tasks? Being on time, keeping up on the housework, and never knowing what day it is?
Does this scenario sound familiar? You sit down at your computer, you open a tab to get started on your first task. You know you have a few important things to complete today and you are ready to get it done.
Then something else catches your eye and you think, "I'll just do this real quick", and next thing you know two hours have flown by, you've got 20 tabs open on your computer and you never completed the original task you sat down to do.
I think most of us can relate to a scene like this at one point or another. But there is hope, my friends! And that hope comes in understanding what's happening for you, why, and how to deal with it. And this episode is FULL of all of that information!
With some simple tweaks in the way you approach your day, and your life, you'll find much more success in the small things that may drive you crazy. Excited about showing up to things and being on time, feeling confident that you are good in conversations because you aren't constantly interrupting, and having a new sense of calm without major over-reactions to small things.
And this is where Kristen Carder comes in. Kristen, founder of Focused membership community, shows you how to recognize ADHD symptoms and how to manage them with support and education.
A few common symptoms of ADHD:
Impulsivity
Time Blind
Difficult to Identify, Regulate, and Soothe Emotions
I wasn't familiar with the term 'time blind' until recently and this was a major aha for me! Are you ready to listen and get solutions?
After the episode, join us in the Facebook group for more conversation and support!
And if you want more support to get farther faster in your journey, you can book a call with me here.Wed, 07 Sep 2022 - 57min - 431 - The Secret To Change How You Feel About Yourself
Change how you feel
You use substances and behaviors to change how you feel, because you don’t feel good.
For all my listeners who have dreams of a wonderful life and maybe struggle with a little self-doubt, fear of failure, or have an inner critic that tends to be a little harsh, this episode is for you.
My guess is that most of you just thought, “Yes. Angela, that is me 100%.”
And I get it because it's me too. I deal with those same struggles. In fact, as humans, I think we all do, which is why it's something that needs to be worked on day in and day out.
In this episode I'm going to break down the truth about change, and it may surprise you.
Join us in the Facebook group for support and community.
Book a call with Angela here.Wed, 31 Aug 2022 - 19min - 430 - Best Money & Credit-Building Strategies You Can Start Today
Credit Repair
If you've lost hope, or you're looking for some, you're not alone and today's episode is all about taking some small simple steps to find hope in the midst of the overwhelm of credit stress and credit repair.
I've worked with a lot of clients through financial stress - job loss, divorce, over spending, and (like me!) just being irresponsible and immature with money.
When we are facing big life changes it's not uncommon for finances to be one of those stressors, which is why I thought it was time to have some conversation about this here on the podcast. It's a perfect time, post-Covid, when people are facing challenges they've never faced before. Our world has been turned upside down and now it's time to start the clean-up process.
The relief you get from taking the smallest step is unbelievable, and I want that for you, too!
If you are anything like me, when you have financial stress or fear of money problems, it is overwhelming. It took such a toll on my self-esteem, it consumed my thoughts all day every day, dodging phone calls from bill collectors, crying every day, and feeling like I had no idea what to do to fix it all.
I have ruined my credit multiple times in my adult life, and I've rebuilt it from the ground up.
In today's episode, Deryk Faber is going to walk us through some common misconceptions about finances, credit, and how to face the problems we've created.
I want you to have solutions so that you can make progress and feel better. And that's what this episode is all about. How can you start to make changes? How do you figure out where to start? What do you do?
We've got all that and more, so tune in!
And if you want more information and education on financial healing and wellness, join us in the Sober Society Membership Community where Deryk will share tips, tricks, and strategies on credit repair and money 101 on a monthly basis!
Join us in the Facebook group for more support. It's totally private, and free.
Get your free credit report: annualcreditreport.com
Subscribe to the podcast here.Wed, 24 Aug 2022 - 41min - 429 - Guaranteed Ways to Make Sleep Easier for You
Sleep Hygiene
I’ve been at this Life Coaching thing for a long time and sleep hygiene is a problem for a lot of people. I’ve worked with thousands of people and I’ve gotten pretty good at recognizing patterns. Specifically, patterns that cause challenges and often stop capable people in their tracks.
One common struggle I’ve seen countless times over the years is the struggle to get good sleep when you’re trying so hard to make positive changes in your life. Here’s the thing. Sleep can be tough, especially for people with anxiety, and it can definitely be frustrating.
One of my clients asked, “Angela, this is one of the reasons I drank, to quiet my mind. How do you learn to sleep when the chatter in your head is so loud?”
Another client asked, “It’s so hard just to fall asleep in the beginning stage of my sobriety. No matter how many calming exercises I do before bed, I just can’t go to sleep easily. What do you do when it feels like nothing is working?”
Have you ever felt like this? Have you ever wondered how you will survive with nights of tossing and turning, waking up frustrated and still tired, and feeling like there is no light at the end of the tunnel?
Well, you’re not alone, my friend. It’s all valid. And that’s why I wanted to have this conversation with you today because I want you to have solutions!
You're going to get a super easy checklist to start creating your very own sleep routine, building your sleep hygiene, and these are actions you can take TODAY!
* your winding-down routine
* set your sleep and wake up time
* get your environment in order
We are taking a deep dive into how you can set yourself up for sweet sleepy success, my friend, and how to keep it super simple so you'll have no problem following through so you can feel better and be better.
Join us in the Facebook Group here.
Book a call with Angela here.Wed, 17 Aug 2022 - 30min - 428 - Undo Heavy-Duty Food Habits Now For A Promising Healthful Lifestyle
Food Habits
Food habits is a topic that comes up frequently in my professional, and personal, life.
We see people in the Facebook group posting about eating too much sugar in early sobriety, or that they are eating out of control now that they aren't drinking.
Some wonder if they will lose weight, others are scared to quit drinking because they think they'll gain weight. I was there, too.
I want to talk to you about food, lifestyle, and being health-minded. Not necessarily about what to eat and what not to eat, although we will talk about some of that because I know what it's like to want to lose weight so badly, and when someone is making good food choices the first thing I want to do is ask, "What are you eating? What diet are you doing? Are you cutting out carbs?"
All of these are normal questions, but what I've learned on my lifestyle journey is those are the least important questions to get stuck on. The conversation I want to have is about how to create positive change in your life that you feel good about. Change that is sustainable and that empowers you, builds your self-esteem, and changes your mindset about your life.
And that didn't happen for me when all I focused on was the number on the scale and the increasing size of my love handles.
As a part of my membership community, the Sober Society, I am bringing in a new focus on lifestyle. Relationships, feelings, finances, and food.
Nutrition & Health Coach, Ellie Stewart, is going to share her knowledge and experience about food myths, how recovery can affect food habits, and she's going to give you a few key activities and choices to focus on if you are ready to start treating your body better.
It's not about cleaning out all your cabinets and replacing all the junk food with broccoli. Or, wishing you were the person you thought you were when you bought all those fruits and vegetables at the store only to throw them away when they went bad in the refrigerator.
Been there, done that. Many times.
This episode is to focus on understanding and making small shifts to feel good about yourself and change your life in positive ways and you're going to get some great tips on how to get that party started without turning your life upside down and stressing yourself out.
I really hope as you listen to this episode and hear how I approach this that you decide enough is enough and you are going to figure this out in your own way so this doesn't become something that is holding you back from living the life you want to live. My food habits, eating habits, and weight gain were holding me back from that in a dramatic way until I finally hit my breaking point.
Ellie offers some great starting tips, a lot of knowledge and personal experience with food habits, and you can get more of her in the Sober Society membership soon!
Links from the episode:
Facebook group
Sober Society Membership
Book: Food: What the Heck Should I Eat?
Wed, 10 Aug 2022 - 39min - 427 - Strategies You Need To Turn The Tables On Wine O’Clock
Wine O'Clock
A successful recovery has everything to do with how you plan your day and approach your challenges.
Imagine this scenario:
You've been alcohol-free for a minute, and you really want to continue waking up without a hangover and having a clear head. You're getting through the days, you're on track, and overall, you're feeling pretty proud of your accomplishment.
But let’s be real -- you’re also feeling a little bit burnt out from pouring every ounce of your energy into fighting cravings, and some things are starting to slip because… you’re human.
Maybe you’re packing your days so tight that you have absolutely no room to think about wine, or you’re struggling to focus on the day in front of you because your mind is constantly going into future things and stressing about upcoming events. Or maybe, you're just feeling overwhelmed and lost, and have no idea what the heck to do. Sound familiar?
I don’t know about you, but I definitely had a 'witching hour' when I would get a little frazzled and start to lose focus on the goals and intentions I set for myself and my new life.
And if you’ve been a listener for some time, you probably know that having a plan in place sets the tone for my entire life -- and if I want to be successful in my intentions, I keep my plans front and center. Even if they just stare at me blankly as I daydream about a nap.
In this episode, I’m sharing powerful strategies you can do to avoid getting sucked down the rabbit hole of wine o'clock so that you can stay on top of your game and move forward with a clear mind and a grateful heart that you didn't give in to the craving and wreck all the good progress you've made.
It’s time to tighten up, my friend -- are you ready?
Book a call with me here.
Join the Facebook group here.Wed, 03 Aug 2022 - 28min - 426 - How to Stay Engaged and Inspired In Your Life
How to stay engaged in life
Get ready to tackle the uninspired daily grind and uncover this not-so-secret framework that I use in my life (and with my clients!) to stay engaged in your life and feel inspired.
Let's be real: kids, jobs, sobriety, households, yoga, and everything else you try to do to have a happy life can take a lot of time out of an already busy day.
Just when you think you're on top of everything, you feel a nagging reminder in the back of your head that you aren't feeling super happy.
Sometimes it can feel like you're just running from one thing to the next thing and you can't even catch your breath. You're in good company, my friend - many power players just like you are in the same boat.
That's why in this podcast episode, I'm tackling that underlying feeling of discontent so you can start ramping up the inspiration in your life and start living the life you want.
Not only will you get some behind-the-scenes sneak peeks on how I stay engaged, feel inspired and fulfilled but you'll also get the inside scoop on the framework I use to stay balanced.
Here's what you'll get:
How to use this framework to create an engaged life so it's exciting and creates a sense of clarity and happiness
Ways you might be missing huge pieces of your life and a simple solution to help across the board
Getting past the dreaded excuses you'll make to talk yourself out of taking action so you can build the life you want
Get ready to break through that irritable, restless, and discontent barrier and get into an action-based state of mind - this episode is ready for you.
If you are struggling with solutions and want some pointers on what to do, join us in the Facebook group where you'll have a whole community of people to support you, share their experiences, and offer solutions to all the problems.
And for all my goal-getter action takers out there, if you're thinking about working with me as your Coach, you can book a call with me to get all the info and start working with me ASAP. Book here: addictionunlimited.com/callWed, 27 Jul 2022 - 36min - 425 - How To Conquer Mental Resistance and Energize Your Life
Mental Resistance
Stop getting trapped in mental resistance.
And right now, you may be saying, "But Angela, you don't know my life and how hard things are. I don't have support, I have kids and activities and work...."
Oh boy. Do I hear you. I've had the same thoughts a thousand times.
But I also want to challenge you on how that resistance is working against you…and that's exactly what I'm doing on this episode.
In this episode, I want to talk to you about recognizing resistance, even when it is totally logical and real, and starting to change that thought process to better serve you.
Mental resistance comes up in many different ways. It’s laziness, procrastination, telling yourself you can’t do something, you can’t afford it, you don’t have time, now isn’t the right time, you aren’t strong enough, you don’t have enough support. Or, it’s overwhelm, or fear.
I want you to lean into what might feel uncomfortable, but also actually may create more strength underneath all that discomfort.
And I want to challenge you in an area that you’re probably doing yourself a great disservice and staying stuck.
My friend, I am happy to help you gain as much courage as you need — and you'll find some in this episode — overcome mental resistance and put it to bed for good in your life so that you can step fully into this version of you that you are today, and continue to grow into the amazing human you are destined to be.
You can start to overcome mental resistance right now by joining me in the Facebook group!
If you've been thinking about doing a private coaching package with me and want to book a call, click here.
Wed, 20 Jul 2022 - 32min - 424 - Unlock the Meaning of Self-Sabotage & Helpful Ways to Overcome It
Self-Sabotage Meaning
The title says it all. Let's start with self-sabotage meaning:
Self-sabotage occurs when we destroy ourselves physically, mentally, or emotionally or deliberately hinder our own success and wellbeing by undermining personal goals and values-
But why do we do it, and what does it mean?
I think the best explanation I’ve ever gotten for this was from my friend, Adam Gilbert, from My Body Tutor. He said: usually, people self-sabotage because the thought of maintaining the thing they are trying to achieve is more overwhelming than staying the same.
So let’s dig into some self-sabotaging behaviors so that you can recognize it and start breaking it down. Remember, when you want to break something down you have to directly counteract it with an opposite behavior.
In this episode you'll learn:
* the most common self-sabotaging behaviors
* they 'why' behind your own self-sabotage
* how to start changing TODAY
Self-sabotage isn’t an inherent part of your character, nor does it define who you are as a human being. Why do we self-sabotage?
Self-sabotage is typically fear based. And that fear plays into toxic perfectionism or habitual procrastination. And that, increases anxiety and takes you into future tripping with all the what-ifs.. what if this thing happens... or what if that thing happens.
Or, you catastrophize and go straight to worst-case scenarios. These are distorted beliefs and they are exactly the thing that perpetuates the fear and causes you to self-sabotage.
Self-sabotage isn’t a character flaw; it is nothing more than a set of behaviors, usually arising out of fear-based negative beliefs, that are preventing you from achieving your goals.
Be patient with yourself and reach out for help if you feel stuck. These are all the things we work on in Coaching and, if you’re thinking about working with me as your Coach, you can book a call with me to ask questions and get more information.
Book A Call here.
Join us in the Facebook Group!Wed, 13 Jul 2022 - 41min - 423 - Build A Simple Foundation For Successful Sobriety
Whether you are getting sober, going through a breakup, or just look at yourself in the mirror one day and recognize it’s time to make some changes because you aren’t feeling great about who you are or how you’re treating people.
You have to have stellar coping skills, the ability to adapt, and the ability to change when you’ve gotten stuck in some habits that don’t serve you.
In this episode, we'll get into some of the specifics about what it takes to be successful in sobriety.
I know you want to have a lifestyle you enjoy. You want to be engaged in your life, have less anxiety, and have confidence in yourself.
So how the heck do you pull that off?
If you want to feel better you have to take action.
And one of the easiest and best ways to start taking action is working on that inner dialogue you are having with the committee in your head all day long.
Here's what we are covering in this episode:
* You are your own CEO, responsible for the good and the bad
* How to manage your mindset and not beat yourself up
* Recognizing limitations and learning to work around them
The key in all of this is to be successful in the changes you want to make. No one is perfect! It takes practice to build these skills and that's why it's important to be an action-taker!
The greatest thing you can do today is to GET STARTED!
If you want support and fun in a no-pressure zone, join us for the Dry July Event: 30 Days to Wellness. This is an excellent way to get a jumpstart on yourself and have fun while you do it!
When you are in full-tilt action-taker mode and you want to do private Coaching with me, you can book a call here.Wed, 06 Jul 2022 - 23min - 422 - Simple Formulas That Will Build Powerful Sobriety
Powerful Sobriety
One of my Addiction Unlimited besties is the textbook definition of a recovery warrior. He's in his second year sober, has been a valuable member of our Facebook group and Sober Society Membership community, and is an incredible example of how to get through sobriety, know yourself, and learn how to set boundaries to protect your recovery.
I respect and admire Michael so much because he's all about supporting other goal-getters to understand the activities needed to go from having multiple 'day one again' to powerful, fun recovery. And what I find most impressive about him is his willingness to look at his life and habits and recognize where and how he needs to protect his recovery and make it his number one priority.
In this episode, Michael shares his best tools and advice for creating a life and sobriety that lights you up -- and you know this is so important as a recovering person. You'll learn:
* How to be resourceful and find the tools that work for you
* Tools to manage social situations and put your recovery and comfort FIRST
* How to get involved in online communities (like Sober Society!) to build relationships and have fun
* Ways to look at yourself, be resilient, and stick with recovery even when it takes multiple tries
Not only will you get some powerful insights on how to become the best sober version of yourself possible, but I know you'll walk away feeling super empowered by Michaels's recovery and honesty about his journey.
Get more here:
Join Addiction Unlimited Facebook group here.
Sign up for my Dry July Event: 30 Days to Wellness here!
Interested in having your very own recovery community and safe place to learn about yourself and sobriety? Check out my Sober Society membership community :-)Wed, 29 Jun 2022 - 50min - 421 - Reliable Tips To Survive When Your Routines Are Disrupted
There are two kinds of people in this world. Those who have routines, and those who don't. Especially when dealing with addiction because we tend to only have two modes... 100% enthralled... or completely uninterested.
I definitely have routines in every area of my life and it's a good mix of wellness, Henry, and family. #auntielife
I'm not here to tell you how to create your routine or what it *should* be.
On today's podcast, I'm going to share with you how challenging it can be when our routines get totally disrupted and what you can do to get back on track. What you should know is, everyone has their own routine and no two are the same. And did I mention that you can have successful routines even when you are super busy, like we all are, with a lot on your plate?
You get to design your own life and you get to call the shots with what routines are important to you and how you recalibrate when you get thrown off because, we all know, life is going to get in the way and throw you a curve ball.
Whether it's travel, work, getting sick, moving, or an unexpected death in the family I hope this episode inspires you to look at your routines a little differently and know that getting off balance is normal, and perfectly okay.
Join me in the Facebook group here so I can answer your questions and support you in your journey.
Wed, 22 Jun 2022 - 28min - 420 - Quickly See What Happens With Unresolved Trauma
"Machines are built to work 24/7, but not human beings."
This is a fantastic quote from Marie Forleo that has always stood out to me because most humans aren't very good at balancing all the areas of life to be sane and healthy.
And that goes for our mental wellness, too.
We have to be aware of how we set boundaries around our time and energy, but also our mental wellness.
In this episode with Ashley Sperber-Hirsch, we take a deep dive into the connection between our emotional and physical well-being. If you don't take care of your emotional struggles and resolve those things that are unresolved that angst and dis-ease will manifest with physical symptoms.
If I'm honest, I haven't always been great at setting boundaries, or sticking to them. In fact, I had to learn the hard way when I wore myself down to a point of almost being hospitalized.
Over the years, I've definitely come to understand the importance of being aware of my mental wellness, just as much as I'm aware of my need for exercise, dog kisses, and time with my family. It's required, not optional.
But before you can make strides to nourish your beautiful emotional mind, there's one thing I know for sure... you have to understand how important it is in your daily life that you take care of yourself. You have to know the WHY.
Take a moment and answer these questions for yourself.
* Why do you want to make a commitment to better mental wellness?
* Why do you want to stay with it day in and day out?
* Why is it important to you? (and your family)
Getting crystal clear on why you are doing this is imperative if you want to make your mental health and self-care a priority and make it work for you.
Join me in the Facebook group for more conversation, support, and healthy living.Wed, 15 Jun 2022 - 48min - 419 - Guaranteed Results When Your Social Life Is Stalled
Stalled Social Life
It's Friday night and you're home, alone, zero invitations to go anywhere, it's just you, your seltzer, and Netflix. Again.
You feel like your social life is stalled, you're stuck in a rut of boring, and your regular activities just aren't doing it for you right now.
But what do you do? How do you "have more fun"? And what about the crippling social anxiety you get when you go places where other people are??
Well, you're in the right place, my friend, because in this episode we aren't only talking about how to find more things to do, but I'm also giving you the lowdown on how to get your anxiety in check once you get there.
If that little voice in your head is saying:
* What the heck do I do now?
* Everything I do involves drinking.
* Everyone I know, drinks.
* How do I have fun, if I’m not drinking?
Then you'll want to listen up, because I'm giving you all the answers. Not only are we taking a deep dive in some powerful ways to find fun things to do, but I'm giving you a step-by-step checklist on how to start breaking down your anxiety so that you can start planning fun events without that feeling of sheer panic.
I'm the master of faking a headache to leave early because my anxiety has all the power. But with a few simple actions, I put my anxiety on the back burner and I'm going to teach you how to do the same.
When you want to get out in the world, have fun and meet people it's important to make sure you are doing things you love and not getting stuck in people-pleasing mode.
As a bonus, I'm going to give you a couple of quick questions to ask yourself to make sure you are doing things for yourself and not for others.
Then we'll talk about strategies to break down your anxiety on a daily basis so that you feel confident going out in the world, and then we dig into some super simple strategies to get you out of your pajama pants and surrounded by two-legged friends who actually speak your language.
And then there's a special bonus for you in the Facebook group, if you're not a member you canjoin here.
Thu, 09 Jun 2022 - 40min - 418 - One Woman’s Wonderful Journey With Sex Addiction And Healing
Sex Addiction
What kind of life do you dream of living?
What type of impact do you want to have on your family and the people you love?
If you don't think it's possible to get crystal clear on how to take your sex addiction, or any addiction, and leverage it into massive purpose, recovery and impact after just one podcast episode... you've never met Jace Downey.
Jace is a busy lady who passionately splits her time between sharing her journey with sex addiction, practicing multiple modalities of healing and nurturing her life, and working toward creating a rural healing community for people to live and find peace.
Jace is on a mission to help passionate recovering souls to shed that shame-filled view on sex addiction and trauma, find inspiration, and change their lives.
Just like she has.
And let me give you fair warning... Jace is a force to be reckoned with.
She's a loving dog mom, loves dance and somatic healing, and learning how to work a farm and live off-the-grid... that's just an average day for Jace.
And in this episode, Jace is breaking down how healing and exploration guides her in life, and in business. And we have some great book recommendations for you if you are struggling with sex addiction and trauma healing!
If you want more support and tools, join us in the Facebook group by clicking here.
Find all the free videos Jace was talking about here: www.youtube.com/jacedowneyWed, 01 Jun 2022 - 34min - 417 - The Challenge Of Dealing With Judgmental People
Judgmental Person
Being a judgmental person is usually a defense mechanism people use to try to boost their own sense of self-worth. Being judgy and gossipy is a way to get an ego boost, although it has quite the opposite effect.
You know the people who are at the office or the gym or the pool party with something negative to say about everyone and creating an air of superiority in their own lives and choices? Yes, we all know those people.
And because I used to be that person, and I have worked with so many for so long... I recognize the signs and the underlying discomfort that can put the brakes on the self-improvement journey for so many people that just want to feel better and be better.
There are questions that arise when we think about dealing with a judgmental person.
Questions like:
* What does it mean to be judgmental?
* Why are people judgmental?
* How do I deal with judgmental people??
And all these questions are exactly why I did this episode! Because these questions creep up everywhere, especially as we are trying to heal and get control of our lives back.
Which means, we need answers so we can continue to heal ourselves and understand how to better deal with the people around us who push our buttons.
So, in this episode, I want to help you push through the negative thoughts and personalizing other people's judgmental nature so you can move forward, make bold decisions, and show up to regain control and build the life you know you deserve.
In fact, I share a few real-life examples of what being judgmental looks like so you can see if you have some work to do on yourself in this area, we talk about the underlying issues and what drives someone to this behavior (and how it's not your fault!), and some powerful strategies on how to deal with judgmental people without letting them drain your energy and ruin your day.
And, just a friendly reminder... 16 years into my recovery and self-improvement journey and I still have to watch myself on this one. But it gets so much better and easier!
Being judgmental doesn't have to continue to hold you down and keep you from being the person you want to be.
In fact, sometimes it 's recognizing the thoughts and counteracting them for the first time that allows you to have a major breakthrough moment.
There is a lot of power in these small shifts in our thoughts and behaviors that bring HUGE results in your life.
So settle in and get comfortable and let's figure out how to flip the script on judgment and negativity.
And here are the links I promised you in the episode:
Join the FB group here.
Join the Sober Society member community with 3 online meetings per week, tons of support and content each week, and no commitments.
Thinking Errors post and infographic here.
Wed, 25 May 2022 - 32min - 416 - How To Reclaim Your Relationship When One Partner Gets Sober
Alcoholic Spouse
Choosing to get sober can be one of the scariest, wildest, and most beautiful decisions you ever make.
But what about the people you share your life with and, possibly, shared drinks with?
Those that held your hair while you were sick, forgave you for the awful things you said and did, who babysat you, tucked you in, and lied to your family and friends to protect you.
Addiction doesn't only affect the alcoholic, for better or worse. It also profoundly affects the lives of the people closest to you.
In this episode, Amorie and Steven talk about how alcoholism and sobriety has both challenged and strengthened their relationship.
We talk about the before and after, how their relationship has changed, how they've grown, and how alcoholism really affected their lives.
And, you are invited to the conversation.
I'm sitting down with one of my favorite guests ever, Amorie, to talk about what has changed in her marriage thanks to alcohol, and how you can support, protect, and grow your relationship while you build your recovery support that helps you be a better partner.
We talk about:
* How she struggled and what roadblocks her husband saw early on
* What was the hardest part for her husband as the spouse of someone getting sober
* And the connection recovery has brought to their marriage
I hope this episode gives you the encouragement to tackle the difficult and awkward parts head on with the people you love.
My alcoholism affected everyone around me, and I make sure my recovery does, too.
For more support and conversation, join us in the Facebook group!
Thinking about working with me as your Coach? Check out the options here.
Wed, 18 May 2022 - 51min - 415 - The Bottom Line On The High-Functioning Alcoholic
High Functioning Alcoholic
Many people deny a drinking problem because they are a high functioning alcoholic. You haven't had a tragic rock bottom moment yet, so you can continue to tell yourself, "I'm not that bad". But, rock bottom isn't about tragedy or an event that happens to you.
Rock bottom is that feeling you have when your mind is screaming for help, screaming to make it stop, begging for some force to take the desire to drink from you because you can’t bear to live this way anymore.
For me it was so sad, how I felt. My thoughts were dark I hated myself and hated my life, I lied to everyone, every thought I had was full of negativity, judgment, and disdain. Disdain for everything. My body hurt, my heart hurt. That’s rock bottom.
It’s not DUIs and car crashes and getting kicked out of the house and losing everything.
Rock bottom isn’t what happens to you, it’s how you feel when you get to that place that you just can’t go on living the same way for another moment.
And it doesn’t matter what the thing is- alcohol, divorce, weight, illness- we will all have many rock bottoms in many different areas of our lives over the years.
Other researchers and specialists estimate that as much as 50 to 75% of those with AUDs are able to function at a high level in many areas of their life.*
The first piece of this conversation I want to talk about is the infamous rock bottom. I am a believer that you tend to connect these two concepts- rock bottom and high-functioning. Because it seems as though the people who have a tragic rock bottom used to be considered low-bottom or low-functioning
I had a low-bottom moment, but was very high-functioning in my life and alcoholism.
And, as I spoke about in that prior episode- we tend to connect the rock bottom moment to an event or tragedy. But, the truth is, rock bottom is a feeling, not an event.
Want to join us for more conversation after the episode? Join me in the Facebook Group!
*Benton, S.A. (2009). Understanding the high-functioning alcoholic: Professional views and personal insights. Westport, CT: Praeger Publishers.Wed, 11 May 2022 - 26min - 414 - The Hidden Secrets of People & Porn Addiction
Porn Addiction
One of the fastest growing addictions is sex and porn addiction.
Just because something is uncomfortable to talk about, doesn’t mean we can ignore it and sweep it under the rug because it’s awkward.
Addictions of every kind are on the rise- food, drugs, sex, alcohol, shopping...all of them.
And today's guest teaches his most successful strategies for living a healthy lifestyle, abstinent from sex and porn addiction.
Get ready for all the hidden secrets:
What are the signs and symptoms?
Is there porn addiction withdrawal?
I'm so excited to welcome Matt Sinkovitz to Addiction Unlimited Podcast to give us some insider info and how this addiction affects people, their lives, and relationships. This episode is a must-listen, especially if you are wondering how sex and porn addiction may be affecting you or someone you love, and your goal is to get control of your life back, have freedom, personal fulfillment... and more.
As a practitioner and teacher of personal & spiritual development for over a decade, he sets the stage to build a successful foundation for abstinence and recovery. He is an avid student of mindfulness and meditation, and Matt graduated from the Blue Mountain School of Mindfulness Arts seminary program with a Masters in Buddhist Ministry.
And now, he serves as a spiritual guide and interfaith chaplain in prisons and hospitals.
Overcoming his 20+ year compulsive relationship with porn he's here to share his journey and talk about:
* How to get help
* What recovery looks like
* Long-term effects of porn addiction
Plus, Matt reveals his abstinence success tips and how thinking outside-the-box when it comes to getting help can ease the shame and stigma.
Learn more about Matt's program, Porn to Purpose, by clicking here.
Join me in the Addiction Unlimited Facebook group here. It's free, and private!Wed, 04 May 2022 - 35min - 413 - Simplified Answers You Need To Uncommon Questions
People often ask me their most challenging life questions and want to know how I manage the day-to-day struggles we all go through.
And I will always tell you I live and die by knowing myself, my strengths, and my weaknesses.
Without that strong sense of self I wouldn't be able to set myself up for success in all areas of my life, recognize when something needs removed from my life, when I need to get help, and when it's time to refuel.
And that's why today's episode is so important. I want you to imagine feeling clarity, getting control of your life back and not feeling like you are constantly chasing your tail with more questions than answers. Instead, I want you to feel cool as a cucumber as you build the life of your dreams.
We'll talk about:
* Dating as a sober person and how I navigate that conversation to work for all parties involved
* How long it took to get to a place where NOT drinking became a way of life
* The necessities you need to work on to deal with stress, anxiety, and angst like an old sober pro
* Pulling back the curtain on this whole higher power convo and how to not stress out about it
If you want to know how I've made it through years of personal development to go from a hot mess express to sober and powerful with a beautiful life, a ton of incredible and fun friends, and an inner confidence I never knew possible... you're in the right place.
And.. if you want to get answers to your questions and sober support, join us in theFacebook group- it's free and private!Wed, 27 Apr 2022 - 35min - 412 - Therapist Approved: Why Healthy Boundaries Make Your Life Easier
You want to set healthy boundaries, but you feel guilty.
A people-pleaser in a family that didn’t talk about feelings, sweep everything under the rug, and maybe you were labeled as 'too emotional'.
Then, you grew up believing you don't have the right to say no to things or stand up for yourself.
Our guest today, Amanda E. White, knows that journey, too.
Amanda struggled with her own high expectations of herself and the shame that comes when you don’t meet those expectations- and all that shame manifested through drinking, an eating disorder, unhealthy relationships, and so much more.
Growing up, you create a picture of yourself as a 'nice' person, and being a nice person means you do things for others, you help people, you say yes to things because you're nice. And, unfortunately, that doesn't set you up for success in healthy boundaries and protecting yourself, your time, and well-being.
If you want to start working on setting some healthy boundaries, Amanda is going to give you a couple of key one-liners to get you started with healthy boundaries and lessening some of that guilt you feel when you think about it.
As helping professionals it's your own journey of healing your wounds that leads you to do this work to help others. It is heart-centered and passion-based. I know for me, I have such a desire to support people in their journey because I know, firsthand, how difficult this deep personal work is.
I know what it feels like to look at your life and feel disgusted and defeated. I know what it feels like to think you will never get your life together and be a good person because so many areas of your life are messed up and you can’t even figure out where to start. That’s where I was.
And our guest, knows that journey, too.
Learn more about Amanda by clicking here.
For more support and recovery conversation, join us in the Facebook group by clicking here.
If you want to get access to the Free Resource Library on codependence, boundaries, and self esteem, click here.Wed, 20 Apr 2022 - 30min - 411 - Helpful Secrets You Need To Stop The Self-Control Tailspin Now
You may equate self-discipline and self-control to be virtually the same thing, and according to Webster’s Dictionary they pretty much are. But when it comes to the world of psychology, they are defined as two different processes.
Having strong self-control can help you keep your debit card on lockdown and save you from impulse shopping on Amazon. It can help you refrain from having another cookie when they are calling your name. Or, it can help you refrain from giving your number to that person you have no business giving your number to.
This is a struggle so many of my clients have, and it can make you feel bad about yourself.
What’s wrong with me? Why can’t I stop doing this? I’m shopping too much and it’s causing problems in my marriage, or, I’m working too much and it’s causing problems in my marriage.
I’m over-eating and I feel like crap! I can’t figure out this sugar thing! I quit drinking and now I’m eating sugar like crazy!
Lacking self-control can cause a host of problems from your temper getting the best of you, to deciding in a split second to go down the liquor aisle at the grocery store and put booze in your cart.
It’s that instant gratification thing we talk about in so many episodes. I want it right now, I don’t want to wait, I want to feel better now!
And, this is a damaging way to live. You will get much farther in every way if you have the ability to regulate yourself, and love delayed gratification. You will naturally make better decisions if you aren’t clouded by the need for instant gratification.
Think about it like this: self-discipline is the gas pedal, and self-control is the brake.
Join us in the Facebook group by clicking here.Wed, 13 Apr 2022 - 36min - 410 - Inside View That Will Make Your Recovery Better
You want to learn how to stop letting alcohol ruin your mood, your behavior, and damaging your life. But figuring out weekends, and vacations, and coping skills all feel overwhelming.
It feels like there is so much to manage when quitting drinking. And this is why it's so important to get back to basics and keep things super simple.
Your recovery path is your choice. I think this is something we don't talk about enough- even if you go to a program, you still get to choose how you create your recovery journey.
This episode is a great conversation about recovery, the stumbling blocks of 12 steps, how to stay sober without the 12 steps, and be a better human being.
Do you need a program? Are you powerless? Do you have to quit forever? Are you an alcoholic?
These are all questions we dig into in this episode. A portrayal of recovery and all the terms and all the different belief systems we have around this illness... and remembering that you have the choice to do your recovery however you want to do your recovery.
For additional resources to use in your recovery, please visit Currie's Non-Profit - Freedom Through Choice Foundation
And you can find Currie on the Recovery My Way Podcast by clicking here.
Join the Addiction Unlimited Facebook group here.Wed, 06 Apr 2022 - 48min - 409 - Stuck In A Rut: My Growth Is At A Standstill
Do you feel like you are in a bit of a personal rut? You’re in good company: the number of people struggling with their mental health has increased considerably in the past two years.
Thankfully, feeling stuck in a rut is something you have the tools to deal with, and in this episode we'll talk about how.
We’ll also deep dive into the why behind ruts and look at ways to avoid falling into a rut in the first place.
In general, I like to think of a rut like this: If someone asked you how something was going (your meal plan, your job, your relationship, etc.) and your honest answer was somewhere along the lines of... “meh” ... that’s a rut.
When you lack direction, you will lack action, and when you lack action you languish. In fear.
Something I really want you to get about this particular issue is that you have to do SOMETHING- it doesn’t have to be the RIGHT thing, but you have to start somewhere.
Being stuck in a rut is its own comfort zone that gives you the security of avoidance and certainty. Even if being stuck in a rut feels bad, you know exactly what to expect. Leaving the comfort zone forces you to face a host of unknowns- what will you do, what will it feel like, what if you make a mistake, what if you make the wrong choice, what if you aren't good at it... these are all the fears and unknowns that make you stay stuck in the rut. Because the rut is familiar, there are no unknowns, and it allows you to avoid responsibility for yourself and your life.
The good news is, you don't have to figure it out alone! And you can start by joining us in the Facebook group by clicking here.Wed, 30 Mar 2022 - 44min - 408 - A Dirty Little Secret: Sober In The Service Industry
When you work in the service industry as a bartender, server, chef, or anything else, you know firsthand the culture is all about late nights and hard partying.
People who work in restaurants, food service or hospitality have higher rates of problem drinking and substance abuse than the general population.
As I researched this topic, this fact came up over and over again, year after year.
And it's a life I lived for two decades.
When the time comes that you have to face hanging up your party hat, the overwhelm is even more daunting when it is, literally, your job.
The questions run rampant in your head, "Can I do it??", "Will I have to leave my profession??", "Will sober people accept me??"
Thankfully there are friends and resources now to support us in every field, including the food and beverage industry.
Ben's Friends co-founder, restauranteur Steve Palmer said to Forbes magazine, “The industry enabled my addiction so readily and completely that I nearly drank myself to death on the job,” says Palmer.
I can easily relate to that statement.
Sober people are powerful and innovative, and we can overcome obstacles like no others. So Steve Palmer and Mickey Bakst joined forces to create a sober community for service industry workers.
We have seen far too many good people lose themselves, their careers, and sometimes even their lives to alcohol and drug abuse. We were compelled to act when Ben Murray, a friend and colleague, took his life in 2016 because of his addiction. We could no longer stand by and watch tragedies strike around us – we needed to try to help. Through the pain of this loss, Ben’s Friends was created.
https://www.bensfriendshope.com/about
Support and fellowship for food and beverage professionals with meetings online and in-person in some cities. A safe space to connect and support one another Ben's Friends is a community, not a program.
Learn more about Ben's Friendshere.
Join us in the Facebook group here.
Wed, 23 Mar 2022 - 42min - 407 - Secrets About Self-Esteem That Will Blow Your Mind
Self-Esteem is your true thoughts about yourself, who you are as a person, how you handle your life, how honest or dishonest you are, how strong or weak you believe yourself to be, and how much you trust yourself.
Wed, 16 Mar 2022 - 26min - 406 - How To Get Relationship Bliss With These Simple StepsWed, 09 Mar 2022 - 49min
- 405 - The Complete Guide to Understanding Your Codependence Problem
I'm giving you my deepest codependence secrets in this one and I'm willing to bet you can relate!
This is the second episode in my 3-part series, Boundaries, Codependence, & Self-Esteem.
I like doing the deep dive into these concepts, figuring out how to apply it to your daily life how it makes sense for you, and getting real strategies about how to make changes.
These struggles of codependence, boundaries and self-esteem are universal. These aren’t issues specific to addiction- they’re specific to life.
At the same time, you can’t effectively recover for the long-term without addressing some of this stuff and making improvements.
Otherwise, you will still continue to be uncomfortable and not proud of who you are as a person and when you have that underlying discomfort and low self-esteem… it makes it very challenging to recover, very challenging to stay sober, and that’s when we transfer to another unhealthy behavior.
As an alcoholic, if I continue to be uncomfortable and not like myself, there’s a huge chance I will go back to drinking.
If I stay sober, and still feel uncomfortable and don’t like, trust, or believe in myself, then I will transfer to another unhealthy habit or addiction. Sex, food, shopping… whatever it may be.
To recover from life and all the curve balls it will throw at you, it’s imperative we see these troublesome pieces of ourselves and spend some time healing them.
I’m going to start this episode by laying out some codependent behaviors. And I’m going to take it a step further- there are different reasons we use different codependent behaviors and today we are going to dig in to denial patterns, compliance patterns, and control patterns.
If you want to be a part of the conversation after the show, join me in the Facebook Group here.
And if you want to get the Resource Library: Boundaries, Codependence, & Self-Esteem, click here!Wed, 02 Mar 2022 - 41min - 404 - Facts About Gambling Addiction You Need to Know
Gambling is addictive because it stimulates the brain's reward system much like drugs or alcohol can.
In fact, gambling addiction is the most common impulse control disorder worldwide.
THAT... is a bold and frightening statement from addictioncenter.com and I feel like I'm still a little in shock from reading it.
Not enough people are talking about this, and the effects of gambling addiction on our families and relationships is devastating.
It's also a huge companion to alcoholism. That probably doesn't come as a shock when you think about it!
Jamie, creator of the After Gambling Podcast, was a competitive golfer, honor student, and math whiz. In this particular situation those math skills did not help the situation...
He walks us through the signs and symptoms of
* crossing the line from fun to problem behavior
* common triggers for gambling addiction
* and how a pocket dial to his fiancé brought his world to its knees... oops
To learn more about Jamie, you can find him here: https://www.aftergambling.com/
Join us in the Facebook Group for ongoing conversation, support, and friendships: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimitedWed, 23 Feb 2022 - 39min - 403 - What Unhealthy Boundaries Tell Others About You
When you don't set healthy boundaries with the people around you, it sends a crystal-clear message... and it's one you may not be aware of.
There are several types of boundaries you are setting everyday without even realizing it. When you ignore a phone call because you are in the middle of your morning routine and getting kids out the door... that's a time boundary. You don't have time in that moment to deal with that call.
When you are standing in line at the store and someone steps too close to you, you move away. That's a physical boundary and establishing comfortable personal space.
We set time, physical, emotional boundaries, as well as relationship boundaries and others.
Setting healthy personal boundaries is how you communicate to others that you have self-respect, self-worth, and you won't let people walk all over you.
Do you feel:
* pushed
* pressured
* bullied
* controlled
If any of that list feels familiar, this episode is for you!
And there's another trap with unhealthy boundaries! You don't set healthy boundaries, you overextend yourself and that makes you tired and grumpy, other things in your life suffer because you spread yourself too thin, then you want to be mad at the person you didn't set boundaries with like it's their fault!
Oh. My. Goodness.
But that's the cold hard truth, my friends.
We get angry at the person because we didn't have the courage to step up for ourselves and say "no". This is how anger and resentment starts to brew... and if you want to live a healthy and happy life, there is no space for anger and resentment.
Listen to this episode, then join us in the Facebook Group for the after-the-show conversation!Wed, 16 Feb 2022 - 27min - 402 - How To Deal With Codependence
Taking adversity and using it to our advantage is the name of the game around here. And today is no different.
Is it difficult for you to make decisions in your relationships? Do you have trouble identifying your feelings, communicating effectively and trusting yourself?
If you are furiously nodding your head yes.... you'll definitely want to listen to this episode!
Michelle Farris takes us into a deeper understanding of what it means to be codependent, how it affects us, and how we can start to make those much-needed changes.
This is a journey with a person who took her own adversity and struggles with relationships and used it as a platform to create a better version of herself. Learning the issues and the solutions, and using that information to heal. And like the rest of us heart-centered healers, her victory became her passion.
Come with me on this journey to learn codependence from the inside out, and start healing.
Join the Addiction Unlimited Facebook group here.
Wed, 09 Feb 2022 - 38min - 401 - The Science Of Sobriety And How To Feel Better Faster
There's a bit more to drug and alcohol withdrawal than just the physical symptoms and discomfort.
The initial withdrawal or, detox, period is mostly about your body's healing and purging the poison.
The next phase is all about your brain.
Post Acute Withdrawal happens after that initial couple of weeks when you quit drinking and lay low to get over the physical withdrawal. But PAWS is what happens as your brain begins to heal and adjust to this "new normal" without substance.
It can happen a few weeks into recovery or a few months down the road and it is a temporary condition lasting anywhere from a few months up to a year.
The scary part is, PAWS is a driving factor in relapse.
Your natural feel-good chemicals are all out of whack and your brain is in a major reboot phase. And if your natural feel-good chemicals aren't firing right... how good do you think you're going to feel??
We're digging in to all the details of PAWS. What is it, why does it happen, what are the symptoms, and what the heck can you do about it?!?
AND... I made you a PAWS Quick-Start Guide: Feel Better Faster, you can get that byclicking here.
Don't forget to join us in the Facebook group for all the insider info, deals, steals, and strategies!Wed, 02 Feb 2022 - 34min - 400 - What No One Tells You About Overeating
Our relationship with food has become disordered and borderline obsessive. As we ring in the new year we ring in new promises to ourselves to "be better", "try harder", and make all those changes we thought about last year.
But, it doesn't have to be such a struggle to learn good eating habits.
Especially if you have a healthy understanding of how to do it, and how to set your expectations appropriately.
Did you hear that? AP-PRO-PRIATELY. Say it again.
In this episode, food and fitness expert, Adam Gilbert, sets the record straight on the most common pitfalls of making lifestyle changes and how to overcome them.
And this isn't the same old stuff you hear and read everywhere - Adam digs in to the good stuff that helps you create the change you crave.
Three lightbulb moments to listen for:
* discomfort is our compass
* the truth about self-sabotage (omg... blew my mind and changed everything!)
* support & accountability to really change the game
Adam's view on his health changed drastically after watching his father struggle with health issues, then get diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. In that moment he began to understand the importance of what goes in our bodies and how we treat them. And, although he was young, he started his own journey into wellness.
Now, he's the Founder of My Body Tutor, an online coaching and accountability platform that matches you with your very own coach for daily support as you move toward your health goals.
Find Adam here: https://www.mybodytutor.com/
Join the Addiction Unlimited Facebook Group here!Wed, 26 Jan 2022 - 38min - 399 - How To Break Your Bad Habits in 6 Easy Steps
You know you want to change. You know you need to change. Yet, you resist change for some reason you have yet to understand.
This episode's for you.
But that old saying, "You can't teach an old dog new tricks", just isn't true. Not saying you are old... or a dog...
The truth is, old habits are hard to break. And new ones are challenging to create. But if you follow these 6 easy steps, you'll be a healthy habit champion in no time!
I'd love to tell you, "Just believe in yourself!", but we aren't always good at that. Especially if you've been battling the same ugly habits for years and losing.
What I will tell you is... believe in your ability. Because you are able, and capable, of doing anything you want. And I'm happy to show you how.
Listen in for my lightbulb moment that gave me a HUGE perspective shift, the 6 easy steps, and one of my super secret keys to success.
See you in the Facebook group, click here to join.Wed, 19 Jan 2022 - 28min - 398 - Signs You Should Stop Trying To Moderate Your Drinking
Drinking less and feeling better is the desire of struggling drinkers everywhere.
It's why we start this journey in the first place, right? Less alcohol consumption, better life.
My guest on today's episode, Gillian Tietz, changed her life forever when she was forced to take a hard look at her drinking habits and as a result, her quest for moderation came to a halt.
But then, the unthinkable happened.
Gill experienced the relief she was seeking with no alcohol at all.
And she's breaking it all down during our conversation in this episode.
In it, Gill is throwing a wrench in the whole concept of moderation for alcoholics. So, if you've been looking for guidance on whether or not you are someone who can moderate, or someone who needs to quit altogether, you're in the right place.
In this episode, Gill and I talk about:
* Exactly what Gill went through in her moderation journey
* How to recognize how badly you feel (instead of trying to sweep it under the rug and power through)
* How us problem-drinkers can begin to shift our perspective on getting help, instead of continuing to hide and be miserable
You don't have to ride the train all the way to a dramatic and tragic rock bottom. In fact, you won't get better if you can't get real.
So hang up your drunken dancing shoes, my friend, and listen to my less-is-more conversation with Gillian Tietz.
If you don't want to miss a beat, get all the freebies, announcements, and special events thenjoin us in the Facebook group!Wed, 12 Jan 2022 - 46min - 397 - How To Forgive Yourself
You can't drive your car looking in the rearview mirror so why do you live your life that way?
If you want to move forward and create a new life, you have to look forward.
In this episode, I'm bringing you a BIG solution to a BIG problem.
It's big solution because it is so necessary for success in this journey. Not only the recovery journey, but the life journey!
I KNOW IT'S NOT EASY. But it's totally worth the effort.
Bottom line: Forgiving yourself helps you build self-esteem, trust with yourself, and creates self-respect. AND - if you are working on forgiveness and acceptance on a regular basis, you won't have to work as hard when poo hits the fan.
Meaning, it's easier to get quick relief when you are practicing healthy actions daily.
So no more excuses. Let's do this.
Trust me when I say, this could be the biggest game-changer for your sobriety.
And to help you make a commitment to action, I'm giving you a step-by-step process to follow that breaks down a system and tells you exactly how to get started.
If this was easy, everyone would do it and stay sober the first time they tried. You are with me right now because you want something more for your life. And, forgiving yourself is a foundation piece that is a must to grow your recovery.
It doesn't happen overnight, but if you start taking action TODAY, I promise you great things can happen.
Join us in the Dry January Kickstarter: A 30-Day BootcampWed, 05 Jan 2022 - 29min - 396 - The Recovery Struggle Is REAL
There’s a really good reason you hear “the struggle is real”.
Alcoholics and the alcohol-free alike hear the word “struggle” and think, “Ah, my familiar friend. I know exactly what the struggle feels like.”
It feels like poo.
You could *genuinely* love your recovery!
But the hours it takes from the other areas of life that need you… plus the feeling there’s always something missing… are enough to steal the joy right out of the sobriety and life you love.
So I'd like to introduce you to my guest on today's episode, Christi Cripps.
Christi's life changed when she was forced to face the fact that her drinking problem had taken over her life. And when she did… she experienced more growth in her life than ever before.
When I heard this, I was like...
... I have to share this with my people!
And man, oh man, my friend, she's sharing it all
On today’s episode, Christi and I talk about:
* Exactly how Christi recognized her problem AND what she did about it
* How to identify what the heck is happening (instead of convincing yourself that “it’s fine”... when it’s not.)
* How us achiever-types can begin to get comfortable getting help, instead of avoiding all the help out of pride (GUILTY)
I don’t want you to build a successful recovery lifestyle only to arrive at the place you’ve always dreamed of being… and then wish you were anywhere else because you aren't getting relief.
You don’t have to suffer all the way to sobriety. In fact, you won’t get to maintain sobriety if you feel like every step of the journey is a struggle.
So hang up your sober-curious cleats, and listen to my empowering conversation with Christi Cripps.
Join the Dry January Kickstarter: A 30-Day Bootcamp with Angela Pugh
Get in the Facebook Group here.Wed, 29 Dec 2021 - 52min - 395 - How To Deal With Feelings And Prevent Relapse
Do you wish you had more balance and control over your feelings and moods?
Tens of millions of people around the world struggle with anxiety, depression, and general overwhelm with life. And, although these feelings are now more common, many find it hard to understand what they're feeling and how to find the right solutions for them.
Rest assured there are solutions to this common discomfort and that's what we're talking about in this episode. You need support, emotionally and physically, and with a little guidance anyone can banish the panic that comes with not being able to identify feelings and manage them.
Identify, understand, and balance your own emotions in positive ways to relieve stress and anxiety, communicate effectively, empathize with others, overcome challenges, and defuse conflict.
If you're on the email list, you'll get my free feelings guide, too!
And if you're ready for the Dry January Kickstarter: A 30-Day Bootcamp with ME.... sign up here!Wed, 22 Dec 2021 - 45min - 394 - When You Get Sober, And Your Partner Doesn’t
Are you frustrated with having to face a partner who is still drinking or using drugs, when you've made the decision to change your life?
My guest on this episode is a master at putting together a powerful conversation with the partner you love, who is still on the drinking train.
Beverly Buncher is a person in recovery, a family recovery life coach, and innovator of the BALM method- a program designed for families impacted by substance and other use disorders.
In this episode, Beverly joins me to discuss what really works when trying to live with someone is stuck in their addiction.
We talk about the specific type of conversation that works to propel change, and what doesn't.
But more than that, Beverly and I also talk about how recovery gives us much more power in our lives than just the ability to stop suffering in addiction.
When we direct our efforts, we have more freedom to decide on our next steps and building our future.
Find Beverly here: https://www.facebook.com/FamilyRecoveryResources
Join the Addiction Unlimited Facebook group here.Wed, 15 Dec 2021 - 42min - 393 - Coping Skills That Will Completely Change How You Live
Skills, strategies, tools for your emotional toolbox… coping skills are anything, any activity that is good for your mental wellness.
Let’s start with the dictionary.com definition of “coping mechanism”, then we’ll go deeper-
an adaptation to environmental stress that is based on conscious or unconscious choice and that enhances control over behavior or gives psychological comfort.
Coping skills are things that we can do in the moment, when we are feeling something, to help us turn down the volume of our emotions and avoid getting overwhelmed. They help us to get through stressful situations with a little more ease, and without doing something we’ll regret later on.
Coping skills aren’t going to solve the deep, underlying issues. Having healthy coping strategies isn’t going to cure WHY you have the anger, resentment, or general discomfort in life. It doesn’t take all of that away.
What it does, is allow you to create more calm in your life so you can start to dig in to those things and understand them better.
Powerful coping skills allows you an entry point to get deeper into what’s really bothering you.
Different coping skills serve a different purpose, too, so let's dive in to the coping strategies that will change the way you live.
Check out the Holiday Gift Guides here:
Join us in the Facebook group here.Wed, 08 Dec 2021 - 28min - 392 - Filling the Void With Henry Ward
It can be hard to figure out how to spend your time when you leave booze and alcohol behind. At the same time, if you're willing to step out of your comfort zone and make use of that extra brain power, that's all it takes.
In this episode Henry Ward talks about his recovery and this feeling of, "Is this it??".
How do you find your passion in recovery? How do you figure out what you like to do again and then balance it all with life and family and work?
If you've ever asked those questions, you'll love Henry's story of getting comfortable being uncomfortable, navigating the surprise twists and turns of life, and learning to love yourself and your new life, post-addiction.
Wed, 01 Dec 2021 - 35min - 391 - 6 Foolproof Ways to Not Be A Quitter
If I'm being totally honest, I was a quitter my whole life.
I didn't want to do hard things. I didn't care about being committed to something, and I was too selfish to get off my buns and show up for something when I didn't feel like it.
I had so much fear of embarrassing myself, people not liking me, messing things up... I isolated and fed my fear then, whenever I did try something... I quit as soon as it was inconvenient or hard.
It's easy to quit things when they feel difficult or uncomfortable.
Some days I want to quit work! I just don't feel like recording a new episode or responding to emails. If I had my way, I would lay on the couch with Henry binge watching The Real Housewives and researching new skin care products. But that wouldn't get me too far in my life, lol.
And when it comes to recovery, quitting is not an option.
One of the reasons I fell in love with recovery so quickly was because it was the first thing I had ever been committed to other than drinking.
As we roll into this holiday season and stress is at an all-time high, I don't want you to quit and give up on your recovery.
In this episode we'll talk about 6 things you can do to keep your sobriety strong through family gatherings, travel, and holiday shopping.
And, of course I made you a cheatsheet! Get over to the Facebook Group and I will post the cheatsheet there. Snap a pic on your phone and keep it close by so you have solutions at your fingertips.
Be a fighter, not a quitter.
Join the Facebook Group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Related posts: #83 Stay Sober During the Holidays & Social Situations
#139 Protect Your Sobriety Through Holiday Stress
Wed, 24 Nov 2021 - 35min - 390 - Stunning Facts That Will Shock You About Food Addiction
Food Addiction
Need a confidence boost when it comes to overcoming addiction and the overwhelm of food cravings that come with it?
It's important for you to know what's really going on with your food, and how it affects addiction.
If you would have told me 15 years ago about emotional eating and the physical effects of food, I probably would have bailed on the whole thing.
Clear thought process, more energy, looking better... all on the other side of understanding food? Not sure I could have done it.
But after 15 years of using food for everything from fun, comfort, and connection... I have good news for you.
You don't have to fall down the shame spiral of wondering what the heck is wrong with you because you want to eat every cookie, donut, and XL plate of food you can find. And you don't have to be perfect.
But understanding the ins and outs of food, what's in it, and how it's manipulating you will give you more confidence and allow you to make better choices for your life.
And in this episode, that's what we're doing.
Dr. Joan Ifland is spelling it out for you. After years of personal experience, research, and writing a textbook, she's giving you all the insider information on what the food industry is really up to.
And it's not good.
If you are food challenged and in need of a little confidence boost when it comes to choosing how to treat yourself for maximum energy and brain power, I recorded this episode with you in mind :)
And I'll tell you now, I was shocked by what I learned and more motivated than ever.
To continue the discussion after the show, join us in the private FB group here.
Wed, 17 Nov 2021 - 44min - 389 - Don’t Let Cravings Drive You Crazy
You’re cruising along in your day feeling good, just minding your own business, when all of a sudden the thought of a drink pops in your head.
What the heck?!?
You don't want to drink, you know it tried to ruin your life and you don't do it well, so why is your brain thinking about it?!?
Then, your brain wants to take it to a whole other level telling you you can do it!
* Maybe you can control it now.
* You could drink today and no one would even know.
* You could just have one, that’s easy to hide.
Here’s the deal- cravings are totally normal.
Having a craving doesn’t mean there is something wrong with you or that you are doing it wrong- it doesn’t mean you are weak or that your program isn’t working. It's just your brain, doing brainy things!
Three key takeaways from this episode:
* Cravings are NORMAL.
* Cravings are brought on by triggers.
* Studies show that an average craving lasts around 20 minutes.
To continue the conversation join us in the Facebook group here!
Find the Relapse Triggers episode here.Wed, 10 Nov 2021 - 33min - 388 - Break Free and Live
Addiction Unlimited has an incredible, supportive Facebook group and today’s episode is one of our listeners, and one of my MVPs in the FB group. I plucked him right out of the crowd to come on and do an episode with me to share his journey, his struggles, and his strengths.
Stephen shares how his sobriety made him feel ostracized from the gay community because his identity had revolved around bars and clubs. Just like you and me.
As his sobriety grew, his new identity began to form. He is proud to be sober and wants to share all the great things he’s experienced living a recovery lifestyle. And he didn’t just sit back and wish he had a new sober community… he created his own!
You can find him on Facebook at Sober Gay Socials and if you’re around Manchester in the UK you have a sober family to laugh with!
This episode is full of laughs, and a true celebration of the gifts of sobriety.
For so many years you feel trapped, like there’s no light at the end of the tunnel.
It feels lonely, like you’re different from everyone and don’t fit anywhere.
That’s the drinking part of the story.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff. Break free from all that's holding you back... and live.
Join us in the Facebook group here.
Sober Gay Socials on Facebook here.Wed, 03 Nov 2021 - 26min - 387 - The Best Solutions You Can Have For Anxiety
It surprised me to read that some 40 million adults in the US have some sort of anxiety disorder. That's a lot!
I've known for several years that I have anxiety. And it can manifest in different ways at different times. Sometimes it's social anxiety where I don't like being in a group of people. Even if it's people I know and love.
Sometimes, if I isolate too much, I can get some anxiety about leaving the house and getting out in the world. Other times, I worry.
Worry about money, the future, am I making good decisions, should I be doing more, am I doing too much... you name it, I can worry about it.
In my search for solutions I came across this very interesting, and effective, method for managing my anxiety. I had always categorized this as a luxury, not a therapy. Boy, was I wrong.
Join me in the Facebook group to keep the conversation going!Wed, 27 Oct 2021 - 32min - 386 - Juicy Tips On How You Can Combat Recovery Fatigue
Let’s talk recovery fatigue.
Not the kind of fatigue where you are tired because you are early in your recovery and your body is on the roller coaster ride of it’s lifetime- but the fatigue you feel because you are doing so many things for your recovery you feel exhausted by it all.
You are told you have to make your recovery your #1 priority if you want to stay sober, and you are taking it seriously. You're doing meetings and groups, maybe even outpatient treatment. You are reading all the latest and greatest books by the incredible gurus and influencers, you are journaling and reading daily recovery inspirations, you are literally doing ALL THE THINGS.
Not only do you wonder if you have to keep this pace up for the rest of your sober life, but you are getting tired and overwhelmed. All the things don't feel as great as they did the first 30 days and the thought pops in, "Is this it?"
As your recovery activities start to lose their luster you wonder why it feels like it's taking more energy than it did in the beginning and you realize you are tired. Tired of recovery.
This fatigue starts feeling like your brain just won't function properly. You hear people use the term brain fog or, in self-help world we call it decision fatigue or brain fatigue.
You can't concentrate, it seems like simple tasks take forever, you're having to reread the same paragraph or going over the same things over-and-over.
Mentally exhausted, burned out, your brain is fried. Whatever you want to call it, it happens to all of us and it tends to sneak up on you after you have a stressful situation or when you've been thinking hard about something.
Most of us don’t have a problem recognizing physical exhaustion. Your limbs might feel heavy, your eyes droop, your energy is zapped. But recognizing when you’re mentally exhausted is a bit trickier.
In this episode I dig into a list of symptoms and, trust me when I say, a lot of these hit very close to home. And not only recognizing symptoms, but what it means, why it's happening, and what to do about it.
If you're feeling like you are drowning in meetings, quit lit, podcasts, and worksheets trying to do your absolute best and take your recovery seriously, and you are getting worn out... this episode is for you.
Continue the conversation with us in the Facebook Group here.
Wed, 20 Oct 2021 - 36min - 385 - 10 Life-Changing Habits You Can Start Today
Creating a life you love takes work.
We're supposed to eat healthy and cook fresh food for every meal, get 10,000 steps, meditate, work, sleep, take care of your family, exercise, go to your support group meetings, do self-care... and, seriously?!?
And don't forget we want all the results and changes RIGHT NOW. We are wired for instant gratification and 5 minutes is too long.
What if I told you there are a handful of super simple actions you can take, right now, that will definitely improve your life? Would you be willing to try? Even if it sounds too simple or it's something you don't "feel like" doing?
Well, I'm here for you, my friend! I found this fantastic article on Medium and it is a list of some of the best tools available. You can use it right now, get results, and practice these actions to continue to get better FOREVVVVVVVVVER!
As usual, we'll continue the convo in the Facebook group so join me over there! Click here.
Original article by Yousuf Rafi:Wed, 13 Oct 2021 - 384 - Sensible Tips To Life & Recovery With Adam Jablin
"My journey led me to face not just alcohol and drugs, but all of my addictions and dependencies. My classic tale of descent and redemption can unleash the Superman hidden in each of us. A Superman who SAVES LIVES!"
Without the constant pressure that was pushing him to drink and engage in drug use, Adam turned his life around and was able to feel like himself again. He had big shoes to fill running his family business, the #1 lace manufacturers in the world. Now, he has sold the family business and has started his own coaching business called The Hero Project. In this program, Adam transforms his clients in 90 days and takes them from zero to hero, transforming pain into power.
"Getting sober woke up gifts in me that I never knew I had. But, at the same time, I was always wired for it." - yahoo.com
Join us in the Facebook group here!
Instagram: @adamjablin @addictionunlimited
Wed, 06 Oct 2021 - 44min - 383 - Life Changing Habits To Create More Freedom And Live Your Best Life
Success stories tell-all.
I love hearing what other people are up to and how they build the amazing lives they are living. It's like a secret glimpse into the lifestyles of the sober and infamous
In today's episode I reached out to a few of my friends and peers and asked them to share their #1 habit for building successful sobriety and enjoying life.
I'm talking about names you know in the sober world- Jarrod Collier, Jenn Kautsch, and Brock Bevell.
I was curious to know what habit really mattered and made a difference when it came to making lifestyle changes like... quitting drinking.
Because really, none of us needs to reinvent the wheel here! We can use each other's knowledge and experience to start building our own killer habits. I love to keep it simple!
Get your Habit Tracker Workbook here!
Join us in the Facebook group here!Wed, 29 Sep 2021 - 30min - 382 - The Subtle Art Of Living Sober With Wade Bergquist
"I'm not in the results business. I'm in the effort business." - Wade Bergquist
Recovery is more than just putting down the drink. It's an accomplishment, a skill, a lifestyle and way of being, and in today's episode Wade and I are going to talk about how to step into this new life that is critical to your wellbeing, and why it's so rewarding to do this!
Wade talks about the importance of giving everything 150% of his effort if he wants it to work and success isn't measured by results, but by that effort you put in.
3 key points that stand out in this conversations are:
* the skill of turning into your problems instead of running the other way
* when you get hit by a train it's not the caboose that kills you
* and the contrast of FOMO v. JOMO
If this episode is inspiring to you in some way, share it with me! Take a screenshot and tag me on Insta @addictionunlimited or post it to your Instagram Stories and tag me!
If you are looking to build a solid support system and tribe, you can join us in the private Facebook group here.Wed, 22 Sep 2021 - 381 - “I Can’t Do This, Recovery Is So Hard” And Other Lies That Are Killing Your Sober Vibe
There is a better life waiting for you.
And you're almost there.
I remember feeling like I would never be able to get over my fears and finally quit drinking. And, for awhile, I gave up.
The idea of giving up alcohol and everything it represents is terrifying. Wondering how your friends and family will react, questioning if you'll ever have fun again, and will you lose all your friends?!?
Even through all the unanswered questions you know you can't continue the yo-yo sobriety forever. It is exhausting. You are tired of waking up with the shame spiral and feeling all the pressure of not knowing how to overcome the fear and actually make a change.
I am so glad I didn’t give up entirely because now I get to know true freedom in my life instead of being a hostage to my drinking, I get to be present with my family and they know they can depend on me, and I like myself.
Something I NEVER thought I was capable of.
Telling yourself recovery is too hard, you can't do it, or you don't know how... are all lies to hide behind. Most of the time you don't even realize you're hiding. But when you begin to understand that these are lies, just stories you're telling yourself, then you can come out of the fear and isolation and start getting solutions.
For more support & discussion join the Facebook Group here.Wed, 15 Sep 2021 - 380 - Shift Your Mental Health Perspective with Archie Messersmith-Bunting
Wouldn't it be amazing to live in a world where you can talk about your mental health struggles and get love and support for doing it?
Ummm.... yes, please.
But I hear it all the time, people feel awkward and don't want to be judged for struggling with this issue or that issue and it feels like one of the biggest challenges there is.
My guest today, Archie Messersmith-Bunting (say that 3 times real fast), is going to clear up some confusion around this topic. He's going to tell you the difference between mental health and mental illness, and how to shift your perspective so that you can find the support and life you deserve.
Archie- a.k.a. The Feelings Guy - is an international speaker and the host of What A Feeling podcast.
Why is this topic so important, you ask?
Because Archie knows first hand how to figure out this road of sobriety, feelings & mental illness and he's sharing some of his best insights and personal struggles and how to use them to build a life where you are thriving, not just surviving.
If you are looking for more love and support on your journey, head over here and join us in the Facebook group. It's free & totally private.
Wed, 08 Sep 2021 - 31min - 379 - How I’d Grow My Recovery If I Were Starting From Day One (Again)
If you are sitting in early sobriety, or feeling "stuck" in your recovery, this conversation is for you.
In the beginning, motivation is high because there is some event that makes you stop and analyze what you're doing, ie. you embarrassed yourself at a party, you fell down drunk and hurt yourself, got in a fight with your partner, or got a DUI.
There is something that makes you wake up and think, "Holy crap, I've got to get it together."
But, as you've heard me say before, you can't depend on motivation because it comes... and it goes.
When it goes, staying sober is a challenge. Life strikes, throws you a curveball, emotions are triggered and you find yourself wanting a drink more than ever.
There are a few key skills you can start focusing on to set yourself up for success and we are doing a deep dive in this episode.
And for those of you who want more, join us in the Facebook group! Free, private, and we are going to be celebrating National Recovery Month all month!
Join here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Podcast mentioned in this episode: Sober Day One #104Wed, 01 Sep 2021 - 28min - 378 - This Is Why You’re Anxious. Dr. Don Wood Explains What’s Under The Surface
Are you exhausted by the constant chatter that wears you out and brings you down? If this sounds familiar then today's episode is for you.
You may think you just have anxiety, alcoholism or ADD, or many other things, but wait 'til you hear what's going on under the surface and how to heal it.
My special guest, Dr. Don Wood is an inspired leader in the field of trauma, healing, and how our brain controls us. This isn't only a field of interest for him, but a personal crusade that began with a desire to support his wife in her healing, and to unravel his daughter's illness from the inside out.
He has worked with some of the world's top athletes, is a renowned author, and has a special offer for Addiction Unlimited listeners!
Dr. Wood reveals how we've created codes in our brains that dictate our behaviors, like addiction, AND the way to re-write the code. You won't want to miss this.
Join us in the Facebook group for more discussion and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Get your special offer from Dr. Don Wood here: Inspired Performance Institute
Wed, 25 Aug 2021 - 1h 13min - 377 - Fight Fair: How To Avoid Confrontation & Resolve Conflict Like A Pro
As human beings, we all struggle with a lack of communication skills, and have no fear, it's totally normal to feel overwhelmed with this sometimes. There are many things that make confrontation difficult and make you want to avoid it at all costs.
None of us wants to be in an argument or fight, we don't want to hurt each other's feelings or disappoint one another, but there are a few things we can do to navigate these tricky waters like a pro.
In this episode, I'm going to dive into 8 simple rules to fight fair that I swear by using everyday to prevent making some of the most common communication mistakes out there.
Tune in to find out how you can begin implementing these key strategies in your conversations and discussions today!
Join us in the free and private Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimitedWed, 18 Aug 2021 - 41min - 376 - Dennis Berry of Funky Brain Podcast
It's a hundred miles into the forest, and a hundred miles out.
Sometimes it feels like it takes forever to get relief in sobriety. You want relief from the pain and you want it as quickly as possible. You see other people who look like they are thriving sober, they seem happy, they're smiling and laughing, but you aren't feeling any of that.
Dennis Berry, from The Funky Brain Podcast, breaks it down in this episode. He talks about the journey of sobriety and how you have to rewire your thought process for success in sobriety. Your brain has been conditioned for the instant gratification that alcohol and drugs provide, and the moment it feels uncomfortable you automatically go for the substance to make the feeling go away.
In recovery, you have to rewire your thinking for the long game. It took a long time to get to the level of drinking that I go to. It just makes sense that my recovery would take awhile, too.
It's a hundred miles into the forest, and a hundred miles out.
https://dennisberry.com/Wed, 11 Aug 2021 - 40min - 375 - How To Find the Right Mentor And Why It’s A Game Changer
If you’re taking advice from more than 3 influencers, experts, gurus, teachers, mentors... whatever you want to call them… you are stunting your recovery growth.
A mentor is someone who has walked the path before you, and has succeeded in a way that you aspire to succeed, also. They give you tools, tips, and guidance that you can directly apply to your life.
Then, there are people you admire. You enjoy following them and seeing what they’re up to, listening to their podcasts and following their social media, however, they don’t necessarily align with your needs or your ambitions for your life.
The thing that sets apart an actual mentor is that you really take time to understand their values and philosophies- you are watching how they do recovery, and life. And you feel like their ideas and approaches are in alignment with what you want for yourself. And this takes time- you don’t necessarily recognize this in someone when you first start following them online, or if it’s a Coach you hire- it takes time to learn the ins and outs of why they teach what they teach.
When it comes to step-by-step guidance, I have just a couple of people I count on to mentor me and it has worked amazingly well.
I need to learn from someone who shares their precise strategies, thought processes, and action steps. That’s why I share all of that with you!
AND… I’ve got a download for you, to help you identify the people you follow, and are they someone you admire, or are they a mentor? Head over to addictionunlimited.com/174 and get your Identify Your Mentors worksheet!
For more support, fun, and conversation join us in the free and private Facebook group here!
Identify Your Mentors worksheet here!
Wed, 04 Aug 2021 - 31min - 374 - The Power of Movement: How To Avoid Loneliness, Cut Out Boredom, & Have Fun
We all struggle with finding things to do as we shift from our old lifestyle of chaos and substance, to a new lifestyle that we can’t quite define yet.
You know you need to be busy, you know you want to be connected, and you know you want to still have fun… even sober.
What if you had the opportunity to join a whole group of other sober people with events across the nation and options for all fitness levels?
What if you aren’t so much the crossfit or mountain climbing person but you’d like to do yoga with your fellow sober-minded people? Or a book club?
The Phoenix has got you covered.
It’s not an organization, it’s a movement.
Scott Strode is the Founder and Executive Director of this organization that has evolved into a national movement.
The intention of The Phoenix is inclusivity. It’s not about bigger muscles or weight loss, it’s about connection, moving your body, healing, and creating a new life you love.
Join us in the private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Learn more about The Phoenix & Scott Strode: https://thephoenix.org/
Wed, 28 Jul 2021 - 44min - 373 - The Ultimate Recovery Recipe
If you want to know how to thrive in your life and not just survive,
* you want to be clear about what needs to be done to move you forward
* you want to feel in charge
* and you want to make sure you absolutely love the life that you create
...then this episode is for you! Because when it comes down to it, there is one thing I know you need to move to the top of your list (maybe even to the very top of your to-do list) to begin shifting toward a lifestyle that you love.
It’s your recovery recipe.
And while that may not seem all that exciting... hold up, because I’m going to flip that script for you.
Today I’m showing you just how important the recipe is whether you’re two days into sobriety or 15 years.
I want you to imagine what it would feel like to not be chasing a lifestyle that seems un-achievable and like a never-ending cycle, and instead feel focused and confident as you create the life of your dreams.
I bet you are listening to this episode today because you want your life to feel easy but right now it feels a little messy or unfulfilling, you may be feeling bored and restless, and you are missing the action and chaos of the life you are trying to leave behind.
Maybe you started your recovery because you want to feel better, be a better parent and human and it feels way harder and more overwhelming than you ever imagined.
Maybe you are frustrated because you don’t know what you should be working on in your recovery or your life to move forward and reach your personal goals.
No matter why you tuned in, you’re in the right place. I’m going to help you find solutions to what you’re struggling with.
If you are looking for support and fellow sober comrades, join us in the private Facebook group here!
To get your copy of the Recovery Recipe pdf, click here.
And, the book I talked about in this episode (and others!) is right here!Wed, 21 Jul 2021 - 32min - 372 - BIG Work I Wish I Had Done Sooner (and What You Should Know)
Do you find yourself wondering if you are working on the right things? Or, asking yourself what you should be focused on at this stage of your recovery?
This is one of the biggest challenges in early sobriety, especially the first year or two. You are in the midst of so many changes, within yourself, your head is clear, your energy is up, and you want to continue to feel better and be better.
I was exactly the same way. And you know, hindsight is always 20/20.
There is no precise blueprint to healing. That is the #1 thing I want you to hear.
Issues will present themselves as you are ready to deal with them. And that includes trauma.
I always knew on some level I had some trauma- I had divorced parents, we had some chaos in our lives when I was young, I was an alcoholic, I had terrible relationships and made questionable decisions in my early adulthood- so I knew there were some deeper issues. But that’s all I knew.
And, if you’re anything like me, you may have this sense of something lurking deep below the surface.
I didn't feel sad, like a depression, but I felt like something deep inside was holding me back from thriving in my life.
What I love about today’s guest is her approach to working with trauma. She makes it feel not so scary and totally doable. I wish I would have had someone like this 15 years ago!
Heck, I wish I would have found someone like this 2 years ago when I started working on my own trauma!
Trauma is all kinds of things that happen to us every single day. Divorce. Hurricanes, fires, and other natural disasters. Death. Accidents- car accidents, sports injuries, head injuries- and not only are these regular everyday occurrences traumas, but trauma is accumulative. It piles up inside of us day after day, year after year.
And I wish I would have found someone like our guest today to make it feel good and exciting instead of scary- meet Amy Guerrero with Thrive In Recovery.
Join us in the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimitedWed, 14 Jul 2021 - 47min - 371 - 10 Things To Tell People Why You Aren’t Drinking
What if I told you you could go to all the summer events, pool parties, camping trips, going to the lake for the weekend, family vacays and bbq’s and get through them easily, even if you are in the beginning of your sobriety?
Today we are talking all about awkward summertime situations. Or, how we make them awkward before they even happen because we are future tripping about being uncomfortable and anxious.
What will people think if you’re not drinking and what will you say and how will they react????
Today I have 10 things you can tell people why you aren’t drinking to help you get through the summer situations confidently, with your sobriety in tact.
If you are going to go into challenging situations, or if you have to go into challenging situations because it’s a family thing or a work thing that you can’t avoid, then I want you to be prepared.
Today’s episode is a cheat sheet to fast-track you from struggling with overwhelming anxiety about what you will say and how everyone else will react, to being able to relax and feel confident like you’ve been alcohol-free for a hundred years.
All by planning ahead.
This is how you build confidence going into the situation is already having it planned out exactly in your head how you will do it and what you will say.
And if you are being that person right now, thinking, I don’t need to do this, this isn’t important for me to do- then I want to ask you, what would it hurt to try?
For more conversation and conncection, join us in the private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimitedWed, 07 Jul 2021 - 32min - 370 - Can’t See The Forest For The Trees
You know that saying, you can't see the forest for the trees?
When you are caught up in the day-to-day life activities- kids, school, jobs, partners, homes- when you look up, all you can see are the trees. You can't see the way out because every direction you look is just more trees.
But if you get in a helicopter and fly up above the trees, from the sky you can see the whole forest. And as you look down on the whole forest you can easily see the path. You see exactly where to go straight, turn left, turn right... every move is obvious.
In this impromptu episode I'm sharing a personal story with you about getting stuck in the trees. I walk you through something I just went through, how I handled it, my fear, anxiety, stress, poor decisions... all of it. And, most importantly, how I got out of the mess I made.
Addiction Unlimited Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Want to work with me? Book a call here to learn more.
Wed, 30 Jun 2021 - 32min - 369 - Be A Free-Thinker In Your Recovery
Are you at a crossroads right now in your life or in your lifestyle ie. drinking... or whatever other unhealthy thing you are doing that you know isn't serving you?
You are all over the internet searching, how to stop drinking, how do I stop drinking without AA, am I an alcoholic, can I stop drinking without AA, can I stop drinking without going to rehab?? And you see all the memes and inspirational quotes, bikini pics from the sober fitness people, and everybody is telling you to quit drinking and your life will fall into place.
But, your life isn't falling into place. And you're only stopping the drink for days or maybe weeks at a time and you're like... what the heck is happening?? What am I doing wrong?
If this is you... today's episode is for you.
Or, if you're like me, and you're comfy and happy with your sobriety but that "addictive personality" keeps popping up in other areas like food, relationships, spending, sex, online shopping...(my friends, it's like whack-a-mole around here!) you want to keep working on life and being balanced, then this is also for you.
As you know many years ago I found myself at the same fork in the road where I had to make a super tough decision to break up with alcohol.
I didn't go to detox, I didn't go to treatment, not because I didn't want to, but because I didn't know back then how dangerous alcohol withdrawal is, and I thought treatment was only for celebrities.
I went to AA. All I knew about AA was that's where people went when they didn't want to drink anymore and I knew I wanted to be a person who didn't drink anymore.
Also, I got sober a long time ago and there weren't dozens of different options back in the day. And.. you know you're getting old when you start using phrases like 'back in the day'. Okay, a long ass time ago.
Since I got sober I became a Life Coach, I went to school for Addiction Counseling, I went to Social Work school, got certified as a Recovery Coach, studied NLP and neuro-psych- and I have learned so much more about everything! Not only recovery and quitting drinking, but about life, how our brains work, human behavior and how we act and react, trauma, self-esteem, breaking habits, and a thousand other things.
What I've learned on this journey is that changing your life is about knowing yourself. It's about knowing who you are, what works for you, and knowing your limitations.
Join the FB group! https://www.facebook.com/addictionunlimitedpodcast
Want to work with me? Book a call here to get started.Wed, 23 Jun 2021 - 32min - 368 - Sober Sunday Clubhouse App with Jenna Malyon
You know the importance of building your sober tribe, and Jenna has become a part of mine, and YOURS!
In this episode, Jenna shares her recovery journey as someone who got sober during a global pandemic after drinking her entire adult life.
I met Jenna when I started Sober Sunday on the Clubhouse app. She showed up every week, loved being there, and always shared her story and insights. That's exactly the kind of person we all need!
She understands the true gift of service work and when I was unable to continue Sober Sunday, she stepped up and welcomed the opportunity.
Carrying on the tradition of Sober Sunday on the Clubhouse app, a totally free, live, audio-only experience.
Yes, you heard me... audio ONLY! No video, don't worry about your hair, just show up and listen and support each other!
We all need more tools, especially tools that are super simple and easy to use, and Jenna is happy to show up and keep this space open for all of our sober souls.
If you need an invite to Clubhouse, join us in the Addiction Unlimited Facebook group - we've got invites to share! And join us for Sober Sunday at 10am CST every Sunday!
Need a Clubhouse app invite? Go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimitedWed, 16 Jun 2021 - 43min - 367 - ADD/ADHD Problems
Have you ever felt like you just don’t fit anywhere because your brain is going 100 mph and no one understands you? Or, you feel like you drive people crazy because you are scattered and disorganized, you constantly interrupt people, or maybe you walk out of the room right in the middle of someone’s sentence!
Easily bored, sensitive to distractions, creative, and intense. If you grew up with ADHD symptoms, chances are you always felt “different.”
This is the reality of life with ADHD. And it leaves us susceptible to self-medicate with substances.
In this episode we'll tackle:
* ADD-ADHD Symptoms
* ADD-ADHD Websites
* ADD-ADHD Problems
* ADD-ADHD Relationship Problems
* ADD-ADHD Treatment
I am so fascinated with this- as I was researching this episode I literally felt like I was beginning to make sense to me. AND all these people in my life are making more sense to me!
Here are the links to the sites/articles I used most for this episode:
https://www.additudemag.com/adhd-in-adults-nervous-system/
https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/adhd-adults
Want more support and powerful conversation? Join us in the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Wed, 09 Jun 2021 - 35min - 366 - Strength In Time With Jarrod Collier
There's a feeling I get when I connect with other people with addiction. It's a deep sense of connection, friendship, acceptance, love, and understanding.
We connect on a soul level because we are the only ones that understand what it's like, what it means, to have this illness. We know one another in a different way than we know other people and we care for and protect each other automatically.
Jarrod makes vulnerability look easy. And we all know it isn't!
But he has this way of sharing his thoughts and experiences that give you this, almost forbidden, insight to the struggles of addiction and recovery, how to thrive, and rebuild yourself from the ground up.
Jarrod isn't afraid to put himself out there and share his recovery as the superpower it is. He shares his journey and insights in videos on his Instagram, and today, sharing it all with you and I.
Find Jarrod on Insta: @strengthintime
Join us in the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimitedWed, 02 Jun 2021 - 1h 00min - 365 - Life Coach v. Recovery Coach
I can't believe it has been 13 years since I took my first course to become a Life Coach.
Every day I woke up I wanted to help people. I woke up feeling more and more excited about building the next chapter of my life and leaving behind the last bits of disappointment from my old life.
I realized that my journey through alcoholism and sobriety had led me to this incredible mentor that helped me change my life and believe in myself. And that's what I wanted to do for others.
So I did some research and I took action. AND IT CHANGED MY LIFE!
In this episode, I'm going to give you an inside peek at how I developed my Coaching programs and what is important to be a GREAT Coach.
I wake up everyday and get to have these incredible conversations with powerful and dynamic people that want to build better lives and be better people.
And one of the most popular questions I get is about how to become a Coach, what certification or program do I recommend, which one is the best and how long does it take?
When you overcome a huge obstacle in life it is natural to want to help others overcome obstacles, too.
Back in the day we all fell under the umbrella of Life Coach. Now, you see all different specialties and niche markets, and it is amazing. On my client roster alone I work with a Divorce Coach, an Obesity Coach, a Sales Coach, and a Leadership Coach.
In this episode we get into what it takes to be a GREAT Coach, my personal coaching foundation, what to look for in a Coach, and the differences between a Life Coach and a Recovery Coach.
For more conversation, join me in our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Wed, 26 May 2021 - 34min - 364 - Relationship Expert Lana Elco
Lana Elco specializes in working with prominent visionary women and leading women entrepreneurs on their most intimate relationships & deeply private areas of life. Her focus is guiding her clients into the deepest level of intimacy and transforming their intimate relationships into a work of Art.
Lana believes that our intimate relationships are overdue for transformation. Many modern women don’t feel fulfilled with old outdated relationship containers anymore. There is still a lot of social and cultural conditioning in the area of intimacy and relationships that creates walls of separation between feminine and masculine.
Lana offers a new perspective and creative approach to intimacy and relationships. Her relationship models are based on the Tantric Sacred Union approach enriched by the insights of transpersonal psychology, NVC, the feminine empowerment movement and Lana’s genius direct downloads.
Lana guides women on the journey of discovery and exploration within their own Intimate Universe. In her work she utilizes highly experiential tools and facilitates practices in expanded states of consciousness.
Never stop seeking what seems unobtainable.
Lana has a Master’s Degree in Social Sciences, studied transpersonal psychology and is certified with Grof Transpersonal Training.
She has been working with cross-cultural couples and women from all over the world on their intimate relationships for about 12 years.
She is also trained in NVC (Non Violent Communication), Zegg Psychodrama, Intimacy and Tantra.
Follow Lana on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/lana.elco/
Lana's website: https://www.lanaelcocoaching.com
Join the Addiction Unlimited Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimitedWed, 19 May 2021 - 1h 09min - 363 - What I Learned Doing 90 Meetings In 90 Days
Before I got sober I struggled to do the most basic things. I spent the majority of my time drunk, hungover, or thinking about and planning the next drinking event. I was full of fear, had to drink to calm my anxiety and discomfort, and I never did anything outside of my little safe comfort zone.
And because of that, I wasted a decade of my life doing a whole lot of nothing.
The only thing I was committed to in my life was drinking. I worked, but I would quit a job as soon as something or someone made me mad. I dated, but I quit relationships when they got the least bit tricky or uncomfortable.
I quit everything because I didn't know how to cope with my life and I felt inadequate and unworthy. So I ran away from everything and found comfort in the bottle.
Now, I can look back to the beginning of my sobriety and I can see where all that changed.
For me, it was 90 meetings in 90 days.
The first time someone told me to do 90 in 90 I thought it sounded like such a huge commitment. How the heck do you do a meeting every day for 90 days?!?
But I knew I had to go big or go home and I knew the most important thing to me was to NOT drink. No matter what. So I showed up.
Everyday.
Slowly but surely I got to see all those things start to change. I learned what I was really capable of and I started to see a new version of myself that I liked a whole lot better and I just kept going.
It doesn't matter if it's 12 steps, SMART, or what program you do. The most important piece of the puzzle is that you show up consistently for yourself.
Join the Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimitedWed, 12 May 2021 - 29min - 362 - When Is It Time To Get Help? Stephen Watts from Futures Recovery Healthcare
Futures Palm Beach
You know your drinking isn't quite "right". It has more control than it should, you aren't proud of your behavior while drinking or hungover, you've stopped a time or two on your own but always go back and drink worse than before.
You're not alone.
This story is so common for many of us.
Every day I woke up dreading the day ahead.
I woke up feeling more and more miserable.
I wasn't fully satisfied with how I was leading my life.
I felt like everything was falling apart and if it didn't change, I'd lose myself too.
Then one day I woke up and decided enough was enough and started to take action.
It was time to take back my freedom and build the life I wanted.
If this sounds all too familiar, it may be time to get help.
Help comes in many different shapes and sizes, and doesn't always cost money. There are several support groups that are absolutely free and you can show up as often as you want. TOTALLY FREE.
Where it gets tricky is when you are trying different options and over and over again you find yourself back at day one. If you are back at day one, then you have to get honest that how you are doing it isn't working.
In this episode, my dear friend, Stephen Watts and I talk about what happens in normal life that signals it may be time to seek help. This illness is manipulative, it's hard to understand, and there is a ton of help to figure it out.
Stephen has worked in the treatment industry for decades and now spends his time doing community outreach and business development for Futures Recovery Healthcare. A passionate and reputable treatment facility in Florida.
Interested in working with me? Book a call with me here to learn more.
Join the Facebook group here!Wed, 05 May 2021 - 1h 12min - 361 - Top 5 Ways To Sabotage Sobriety
Ever wonder "how did they get sober?" when you have been struggling to get there yourself?
In the online world, we often compare ourselves to other people... even when we don't mean to.
But we have to remember, we don't see what is going on behind closed doors.
People often ask me how to avoid relapse when they are trying to get sober. But you can't maintain a sober lifestyle without understanding some basic pitfalls and troubleshooting solutions before you find yourself right in the middle of a pitfall.
These are my top 5 pitfalls to avoid at all costs!
I have shared some incredible results lately, but behind it all there have been a lot of mistakes made and a lot of lessons learned!
So today,I am going to give you the truth about those self-sabotaging behaviors that wear you out, and wear you down.
Come and learn from the mistakes I have made on my journey so you can prevent making them yourself.
And don't forget the 5 Day FREE Live Training starts next week in the Facebook Group- join here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
AND... I have invites to join me on the Clubhouse App for Sober Sunday! Join the Facebook Group to get yours!Wed, 28 Apr 2021 - 39min - 360 - Seltzer Squad: Kate & Jes
The addiction and recovery community has never been more vibrant, open, and fun. And these two ladies are proof of that!
Recovery podcasts are popping up left and right. Different people from different walks of life sharing their experiences of what sobriety looks like. It's never been more fun to be sober.
If you listen to Seltzer Squad, and I bet you do, then you are going to love this conversation with me and Kate & Jes. We talk recovery, we talk challenges, feelings, learning to be ourselves and accept ourselves, and we have A LOT of laughs!
I'm more proud than ever to be a part of such an incredible supportive community like recovery. I have never felt love the way I felt it from my recovery family and those are the people that taught me to love myself and taught me to grow up and become a better version of myself living without alcohol. And I felt that same love, acceptance, and support from Jes & Kate.
Enjoy the episode getting to learn more about these podcast hosts and recovery warriors.... Seltzer Squad on Addiction Unlimited.
Want to join my community?
Join my free Facebook group to get all the inside info and to be part of the upcoming 5 day LIVE training! https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Wed, 21 Apr 2021 - 48min - 359 - 12 Morning Routine Ideas
You hear the alarm go off, you don't want to get up because you stayed up late last night watching one more episode of that show you love, you hit the snooze, and hit it again... and again.
Next thing you know, you're 20 minutes late and already mad at yourself and your day and you haven't even left the house yet!
Imagine how you would feel with a simple routine that only takes a few minutes and sets you up to have a great day everyday. You feel good, relaxed, on top of your game, you're smiling, taking your time with that morning cup of coffee and the insanity of your kids just rolls off your back. Because you are already crushing your day.
I start with a morning conversation with myself and the committee to set my intentions for the day. You'll hear all about this in the episode. If you need a starter conversation try this simple sentence:
"I'm looking forward to having a positive, productive and calm day."
Easy peasy.
If you want my list of 12 Morning Routine Ideas from this episode you can join our Facebook group because I posted it in there for you to see, save and use. If you are a Sober Society member you can find this in your member portal!
You want to be intentional in your life. Use your time to your advantage and create these mini-victories that you can celebrate all day long, instead of being lazy and sloppy and being irritated and tired all day.
Get the list, be intentional, have a routine.
Join the Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimitedWed, 14 Apr 2021 - 47min - 358 - Coming Out SOBER with Mark A. Turnipseed
Coming Out Sober
Secrets make you sick.
We talk a lot about the masks we wear in life. All the things we do to create one picture to the outside world as we try to hide who we really are on the inside.
The truth is, as long as you are hiding something, the more uncomfortable and unhealthy you will be. Because secrets make you sick.
Mark shares his phenomenal story of becoming aware of his own mask and what he was hiding from the world. He understood his sexuality, but recognized that being involved with women allowed him to keep that mask firmly in place. After two failed marriages, suicide attempts, and a dramatic battle with drug addiction he finally realized his last secret had to come out or he was going to lose the battle.
He built up the courage and came out as sober.
His path has taken many twists and turns and he remained dedicated to finding his way and creating a routine that makes sense for him. Now, he shares his story through his blog, and his best-selling book: My Suicide Race.
Follow Mark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markaturnipseed/
Buy the book: My Suicide Race: Winning Over the Trauma of Addiction, Recovery, and Coming Out
Join the Addiction Unlimited Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimitedWed, 07 Apr 2021 - 46min - 357 - Stop Worrying
It seems like nearly everyone is running around the planet stuck in anxiety and worry. Especially since coronavirus started.
40 million people in the United States suffer from anxiety. It is the number one mental illness.
Thoughts start swirling around your head, what's going to happen, will it be okay, I can't pay my bills, can I stay sober... and the more they swirl, the more you can blow them out of proportion and make them feel much bigger than they are.
Early in my recovery I was taught to "get things right-sized". Meaning, get clear on what is happening, what my thoughts are about it, and what is the ACTUAL situation. Not what I'm catastrophizing about it, but what it really is.
In this episode I'll talk about some quick strategies to get your thoughts in order, be realistic, and how to change the story you are telling yourself from one of doom and gloom and worry, to one of reality, preparedness, and truth.
You have two opportunities every week to connect with me live. Every Friday on Facebook in the Addiction Unlimited Facebook group, and every Sunday on the Clubhouse app for Sober Sunday. (Clubhouse is only available for iPhone users at this time.)
Don't forget to share this episode with someone else and I'll see you live on Friday and Sunday!
Join the FB group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Wed, 31 Mar 2021 - 24min - 356 - Undercover Agent to Undercover Addict
When he had to get a prescription for pain medication, his doctor told him he couldn't become addicted because he was a cop. Like seeing all the tragedy of addiction makes you immune to it's powers.
Brock's story could easily be a movie.
Police officer and undercover agent, run over by a truck in the line of duty, and that led to multiple surgeries and pain meds.
The opioid epidemic in the US is in the headlines every day. It is devastating our communities and young people, and it has changed our society and how we view medications.
Brock shares his journey from the job he loved and lived for, through his demise and all the pain and drama of addiction, to his rising and reclaiming of his life.
When I tell you that people with addiction are strongest people ever built, I mean it. And Brock is further proof that we are made of something so powerful, when we put our minds to it, there's nothing we can't overcome.
Find Brock here:
Join our FB group here: facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimitedWed, 24 Mar 2021 - 59min - 355 - 7 Little Things That Say A Lot About You
Your biggest responsibility in life is to be the best version of yourself and be responsible for your own life and behaviors.
I came across this fantastic article by Anthony J. Yeung, on Medium and I wanted to share his insights and how we can adapt it to our selves and our lives.
We spend a lot of time watching other people and making judgements about how and what they do. But, are you aware of what you are doing and how you are doing it? Are you showing up and being the person you want to be in your life?
You know yourself better than anyone else. You can tell other people whatever you want. You can create a picture of your life to portray and manipulate the picture you want others to see... but what is your actual truth?
You'll love this quick checklist of 7 things to check yourself.
Link to Anthony J. Yeung article: https://medium.com/mind-cafe/7-little-things-that-can-tell-you-a-lot-about-someone-7a5f51157c3d
Join us in the Facebook group: facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimitedWed, 17 Mar 2021 - 30min - 354 - Shantell Ogden: Songs to Recover By
"This is an album that helps to combat addiction, fears and anxieties and serves as a reminder that with the bad comes the good and to hold onto your loved ones as you travel through the ups-and-downs of life" - Alan Cackett, British Country Music Hall of Fame (shantellogden.com)
Addiction touches everyone. Whether it's a family member, co-worker, spouse or neighbor- everyone has a story to share about how their lives have been touched by alcoholism and/or drug addiction.
All of the stories are sad and often heartbreaking, but they are also powerful and inspiring. As people with addiction we do better when we stick together and support and love one another. And when we find amazing people who also want to love and support us, it's a huge victory.
In Shantell's own words she writes, "It’s my job to tell the truth about what I see and feel—and tell stories about real life. Whether I'm playing for you live or you hear it on TV or in a film, I want my songs to move you."
An entire album fully funded by fans and supporters, her music takes you on a journey with One Step Closer: Songs to Recover By.
Find Shantell and the album here: https://shantellogden.com/
Join us in the Addiction Unlimited Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Wed, 10 Mar 2021 - 36min - 353 - 5 Surefire Ways to Build Your Self-Esteem
Self-esteem feels like this elusive 'thing' we want, but aren't really sure how to get it.
You know your self-esteem isn't great. You can see how it's holding you back in your life. But how do you change it? What are the actual steps you take on a daily basis to make it better?
You're in the right place.
It will not surprise you that I approach this from a different angle than all the reading you'll do online. There are some fantastic tools and blogs and suggestions you'll find when you search this topic. But what stood out to me in all of those lists was that everything was surface level.
One thing I can tell you for sure is that your self-esteem is NOT surface level. It's deep down inside of you.
Your self-esteem is a reflection of your deepest and innermost thoughts about yourself and WHO you really are.
It's fantastic to practice positive affirmations and healthy self-talk. But if you want to get serious, you have to take action on a deeper level.
It doesn't matter how many positive affirmations I do in the morning telling myself how awesome I am, if all of my actions throughout the day don't support that statement.
I'm going to take you on this journey of understanding how every little thing you do throughout your day builds, or breaks, your self-esteem.
And I'm going to tell you how to fix it.
Join us in the Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Wed, 03 Mar 2021 - 43min - 352 - Sugar Addiction with Mike Collins
“It’s a lonely situation if you don’t have support.” - Mike Collins
That's the understatement of the century!
We can all agree that life can feel daunting and very lonely if you don't have a tribe.
As people with addiction, this is especially important. I need to be connected with people who think like me, who can relate to my habits and have a laugh with me about the insanity of it all.
One thing that stands out in this episode is when Mike talks about the family dynamics of giving up sugar, how people respond, and the effect it has on mood. Just like giving up alcohol.
Here are a few episode highlights:
* Mike talks about his history with addiction, and states that after kicking his alcohol addiction, he developed an addiction to sugar.
* He says that treating it like a substance addiction rather than a diet or lifestyle change can be easier for people.
* Sticking to the outside aisles of the grocery store is a good way to eliminate sugar from your diet since it contains fruits and veggies, dairy products, meat and other proteins, etc.
* Much like alcohol, sugar is treated as something to consume when you’re celebrating an event or bonding with friends and family.
* It can take a long time to recover from sugar addiction, and it often leads to intense downturns in mood when you stop consuming it.
* Mike discusses the difficult family dynamics that can be at play when going 100% off sugar, especially when your close family members are not on board and don’t want to cut sugar out of their diets.
Find Mike here: https://sugaraddiction.com/Wed, 24 Feb 2021 - 39min - 351 - The Difference Between Sobriety & Recovery
Everybody is recovering from something.
Sobriety is stopping the substance, recovery is healing.
There are so many pieces of life and self that are affected by drinking. Our personalities change, our responses to people and life change, and our ability to bounce back changes.
Sobriety is putting the substance down and getting a clear mind and body. Recovery is the healing part.
In this episode I'm going to get a little personal. I use my personal story of my first heart break that led me to going out and drinking, all the feelings I couldn't cope with, and how it affected my life in the long-term.
This is a deep-dive into all the ways your life is affected by all the circumstances and consequences that come with drinking and using drugs to numb our feelings.
Inadvertently, we numb our lives. Then we sit back and scratch our heads wondering how we ended up in these lives that aren't what we thought they were going to be.
Sound familiar?
You know I don't like to focus on the problem, I want to focus my time and energy on the solution.
Wed, 17 Feb 2021 - 38min - 350 - Kelsey Moreira of Doughp
On today’s episode of the Addiction Unlimited Podcast, host Angela Pugh talks to guest Kelsey Moreira, the founder of Doughp and Shark Tank alum, about how she got sober, what inspired her to quit the tech business after a decade to be an entrepreneur, and what life is like now after 5 years of sobriety.
She left a tech job, got sober, started an edible cookie dough company, went on Shark Tank, made the Forbes 30 Under 30 and she hasn't turned back.
Talk about taking advantage of your sobriety!
Tune in as we discuss:
* Our culture glamorizes drinking in your 20s, and at 24 Kelsey was in AA meetings with people who were twice her age.
* Kelsey’s alcoholism was dismissed because she was very “high-functioning” and continued to get good grades in school and do well at Intel.
* In the 2000s, there were many reality TV shows that featured people drinking to excess and behaving sloppily, and it contributed to the culture of unhealthy drinking habits. However, there have now been changes in the culture that have made it “cool” to stop drinking.
Resources Mentioned:
* Angela Pugh Instagram
* Forbes 30 Under 30
* Kelsey Moreira Twitter
* DoughpWed, 10 Feb 2021 - 55min - 348 - Managing Social Situations With Friends & Family When You Quit Drinking
I wholeheartedly believe that learning to enjoy social situations without alcohol is one of the most empowering gifts you can give yourself.
It’s a skill that brings freedom and joy, allowing you to show up as your authentic self—without a drink in hand.
But as you probably already know, it’s not always easy.
Whether it’s handling those awkward questions, navigating a wedding or happy hour, or simply feeling like you don't fit in, sober socializing can feel daunting.
In fact, social anxiety is considered one of the biggest hurdles for people who quit drinking.
And I’ll be honest—this is something that hits close to home for so many of us.
That’s why I invited Ellie, one of my 6-week program alumni, to join me for this episode.
Ellie knows firsthand how tricky it can be to navigate social situations in early sobriety, and she’s here to share how she handled those challenges from day one so her friends new exactly what was going on, where she was, and what to expect.
Ellie brings incredible insights and practical tips to help you feel confident, calm, and ready to face any social situation.
In this inspiring conversation, Ellie shares how to:
* Prepare for events and gatherings so you feel empowered and in control.
* Create meaningful connections with others without relying on alcohol.
* Stay grounded and true to yourself—even in high-pressure situations.
Plus, Ellie reflects on the lessons she’s learned since my 6-week program and the tools that continue to help her thrive in her sober life.
I’ll go ahead and call it now—this episode is going to be a favorite. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
Links mentioned in this episode:
Thinking about working with Angela? Book A Free Call Here to learn more: addictionunlimited.com/call
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Wed, 13 Nov 2024 - 37min
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