Addiction Unlimited Podcast

 



 

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!

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,

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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.

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.



 

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.

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. 

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.

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. 

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?

 

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. 

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/call

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.

 

 

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!

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 :-)

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. 

 

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/jacedowney

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. 

 

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.

 

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

Be happy in your relationship even if your partner won't do a thing!