Sobertown Podcast

Ep 326: Erica Spiegelman - Our Favorite Addiction Specialist

Host: Drifter
Guest: Erica Spiegelman
Rewired is Now in over 300 prisons, jails and juvenile detention centers, with over 20,000 prisoners using Erica Spiegelman’s Rewired Programs FOR FREE!!
Thank You Erica for all you’re giving to all of us around the world!!
 
Erica Spiegelman is an Addiction Specialist, Counselor, Author and Speaker who has made an indelible mark in the field of addiction recovery. She has founded a multi-media health and wellness platform, providing consulting and counseling solutions for clients by providing them with tools on how to reach emotional, mental and physical freedom. She holds a Bachelors degree in Literature from the University of Arizona and a degree as a California State Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CADAC-II) from University of California, Los Angeles. Erica works with several treatment centers in California.
She has a private practice, is a regular Wellness and Addiction expert on news shows, media outlets, writes for POOSH (poosh.com) and co-hosts a weekly podcast called: “Rewiring Your Life” on RadioMD.
Erica also has the REWIRED PROGRAM which is an online educational program available on her website:
Ericaspiegelman.com
 
A counselor at one of the most innovative and renowned drug and alcohol treatment centers in the world introduces an empowering approach to addiction recovery that addresses the whole self—mind, body, and spiritThis “useful and practical perspective on what you can do to recover from [addiction]” can replace or supplement 12-step programs—at any stage in your recovery (Allen Berger, Ph.D., author of 12 Stupid Things That Mess Up Recovery) Rewired is a new, breakthrough approach to fighting addiction and self-damaging behavior by acknowledging our personal power to bring ourselves back from the brink. Centered on the concept of self-actualization, Rewired will guide you towards not only physical sobriety, but a mental, emotional, and spiritual sobriety by learning to identify key principles within yourself, including authenticity, honesty, gratitude, and understanding a need for solitude. Rewired addresses the whole self; just as addiction affects every part of one’s life, so too must its treatment. By helping us to build a healthy space to support our own recovery, we can rewrite the negative behaviors that result in addiction. Usable in conjunction with or in place of 12-step programs, Rewired allows for a more holistic approach, helping to create a personalized treatment plan that is right for you. Each section in Rewired includes: • Personal anecdotes from the author’s own struggles with alcoholism and addiction• Inspiring true success stories of patients overcoming their addictions• Questions to engage you into finding what is missing from your recovery• Positive affirmations and intentions to guide and motivate With all the variables, both physical and emotional, that play into overcoming addiction, Rewiredenables us to stay strong and positive as we progress on the path to recovery. Rewired teaches patience and compassion, the two cornerstones of a new, humanist approach to curing addiction. Remember, addicts are not broken people that need to be fixed—they just have a few crossed wires.
 
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What.  Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!     Sobertownpodcast.com

EP 325: Ripped Sober with Brett Grau

Host: Drifter
Guest: Brett Grau
 
Ripped Sober: The Fitness Routine That Got Me Out Of Addiction, Into Recovery, And How To Create Your Own (Fitness Series)
Take back control and free yourself from the shackles of addiction with the power of physical fitness!
Do you wake up every damn morning feeling trapped inside your own body because you can't even control your addiction?
Are you struggling to keep your life intact because of the urges and cravings that seem to control your life?
Do you find yourself wondering if there’s still hope for you because you have exhausted all your means of moving forward yet you always end up back to square one?
You’re not alone. Addiction has plagued millions of people around the world. In fact, in theUnited States, almost 21 million suffer from at least one addiction.Addiction has ruined the lives of countless individuals. It promises them a false illusion of a lifeof happiness and bliss, yet the reality is a prison trapping them from a bright and happy future.Fortunately, it’s not yet too late. There are scientific ways to fight back and conqueraddiction, to take back the reins of control and fix your life.This is where Brett Grau enters the picture. Drawing from his own addiction success story, heoutlines an easy and effective roadmap for addicts to recover their true selves.Even better, you don’t have to spend money on medicines, rehab, or other costly sessions! Allyou need is the commitment to change, forgive yourself for your progress, and a practical guideto walking you through using your own body to overcome your addiction.Inside this transformative manual on using physical fitness as your weapon against addiction,you will discover:● An inspiring story of how a man conquered the addiction that has plagued him foryears – it’s never too late for anyone, as long as you WANT to change!● The importance of identifying your trauma to fully understand the root of your addiction–by making your inner child feel safe, overcoming your urges can be easier● How to motivate yourself and keep your brain focused on the sobriety trackdespite the various temptations around● Science-backed proof that training for fitness events can significantly speed up yourrecovery progress● The various benefits of exercising outdoors and surrounding yourself with nature – youcan literally have your workout anywhere, free of charge!● How to incorporate physical exercise in your daily routine – turn your householdchores into a strenuous workout and achieve your goals in no time● Effective workout routines that involve meditation and mindfulness – improve yourmind and body connection by being fully present!And so much more!The journey to overcoming addiction is riddled with challenges and hardships because you’rebasically facing the most difficult enemy of them all: yourself.But you have this book as your guide to walk you through how to win every battle in yourmind while removing the traces of harmful substances in your body.It’s time to say goodbye to addiction and get started on the road to recovery, health, andhappiness!Don’t let addiction hold you back from the life you want. Are youup for the most transformative challenge? Click Here to Buy the Book
 
 The Sober Revolution FB
Brett Grau Sober Rebel FB
The Sober Revolution by Brett Grau, YouTube
 
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What.  Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!     Sobertownpodcast.com

EP 324: Polly and King13’s Sober meetup in Australia

Hosts: Polly and King13
 
2 Sober Sisters who had met on the I Am Sober app and have been huge podcast contributors on the Sobertown Podcast, met up in person in Australia!
Join these 2 amazing Soberwarriors as they sit down, catch up with one another and have an amazing Sober Chat!!
 
It's so great to have you ladies back together on Sobertown, sharing your sober journeys!!!
Thank You Both!!!!!
BOOOOOM!!!
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What.  Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!     Sobertownpodcast.com

EP 323: Yusuf aka Advancing’s Recovery Story

Host: Drifter
Guest: Yusuf aka Advancing
My name is Yusuf Sharif Wilson (Advancing . . . on the I am Sober App) and I have been alcohol-free for 6 months (the recording of this conversation actually took place on my 6 month anniversary✨).
Where to begin . . . This alcohol-free journey has been one of the most significant and important experiences I’ve had in my life. While my entry-point was seemingly random (that said, I don’t believe in coincidence), the process has taken on a power and impacted my path forward in ways that I could never have imagined this time last year. 
I was fortunate to come across the I Am Sober community and have been afforded access to an incredible ecosystem that has contributed greatly to my ongoing evolution. I now am committed to similarly serve others as I have and continue to be served. 
I accepted and allowed my relationship with alcohol to rob me of health, wealth, vitality, clarity, focus, and life. While I can’t change the impact of the choices I’ve made in the past, my commitment to being a part of assisting others in their respective relationships with substances is certain.
Immense gratitude to Drifter and the team at Sobertown Podcast for all of their incredible efforts and work! Thank you for being such phenomenal examples and showing the way . . . 🙏🏾✨
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What.  Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!     Sobertownpodcast.com
 
 

EP 322: Addiction and Isolation Positive Recovery with Corinna

Addiction and Isolation Positive Recovery with Corinna 
Thank you to Namaste for this topic. Corinna talks about the need to connect with others and ourselves in sobriety. She looks at the id, ego and super ego and how having a supportive community helps us to keep these in check and our sobriety heading in the right direction. Corinna is also the author of ‘The A-Z of Alcohol and Sobriety: Everything you need to know’ by Corinna Alderton  - available worldwide on Amazon. Keep focussing  on controlling the things you can and not resisting the things you cannot www.sobertownpodcast.com 🍵🫖☕️💦 Chin Chin💖🙋🏻‍♀️
 
If you have any topics you would like me to cover or comments then please email me alcoholandsobriety@gmail.com
My communities are: 
Sobertownpodcast.com
I Am Sober - Corinna Dotty Pot currently at 2 years. 
Instagram@canamgirluk YouTube: Positive Recovery with Corinna  (link in my Instagram bio) 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What.  Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!     Sobertownpodcast.com
 

EP 321: Kajsa’s Recovery Story

Host: Drifter
Guest: Kajsa
 
Boom 💥 "My name is Kajsa and I am an alcoholic/addict. My sobriety date is 12/9/19. And for that I am truly grateful. 43 months ago, God saved me from the depths of hell. My addictions included alcohol, cocaine, mushrooms, hydrocodone, soma, and Xanax. It was the" ideal perfect storm" until it began to destroy my life little by little.
Addiction is a liar. It is deceiving. In a matter of moments, it destroys not only a life, but also a family. It shows no mercy or compassion. It brings us down, even lower than hell; our very own purgatory. There we are isolated, alone, cold, abandoned, neglected, and rejected. Basically left for dead and not a soul can hear us; no matter how loud we beg and plead.
Somehow, along the way, my higher power found me. He sent an angel to rescue and carry me out. Through my willingness and a mustard seed of hope, He blessed me with another chance; a fresh start; a new beginning. He has a plan - a plan for me to spread the message of experience, strength, and hope. For I am everything I am by His grace.
Today, I love happy, joyous, and free. Free from the chains of addiction and my own personal hell. Free to love instead of hate. Free to grow instead of staying stuck. Free to reach out a hand to the next person suffering. Free to use my voice. Free to break toxic, generational habits and patterns.
My higher power has shown me that WE are not alone. His love defends me. "  
I am a member of Alcoholics Anonymous, and admin/Ambassador of three sober pages on Facebook.The Sober Revolution with Brett Grau.Kajsa’s Sober Bus Tribe with Dave Devita and Richard Gallardo Ozuna.And Ladies Only Sober Bus 🚃.
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy, No Slippy. Not Another Drop, No Matter WhatRemember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!Sobertownpodcast.com
 
 
 

EP 320: Unleashing the Power of Positivity with Judy Wilkins-Smith

Host: Viv aka Sober_iThrive
Guest: Judy Wilkins-Smith
In a world where suffering is often glamorized and trauma is seen as a badge of honor, how do we shift our mindset from victimhood to empowerment? The answer lies within us, and our guest today, Judy Wilkins-Smith, is here to guide us on this transformative journey.Judy Wilkins-Smith, a world-renowned expert in Systemic Work and Constellations, motivational speaker, and author of "Decoding Your Emotional Blueprint," joins us in this episode to share her insights on moving beyond the victimhood mindset and unleashing the power of positivity.In our conversation, Judy delves into the reasons behind the rise of the culture of victimhood, the role of generational trauma, and the power of positivity. She challenges the notion that our traumas define us and encourages us to focus on our inherent greatness instead.Judy is the founder of System Dynamics for Individuals and Organizations and has spent 18 years helping high-performance individuals, Fortune 500 executives, and legacy families break free from limiting cycles and step into their full potential. Despite the challenges she faced growing up, Judy has built a successful career in healthcare and personal development.Join us on this enlightening journey as we delve into the power of positivity with Judy Wilkins-Smith, and learn how to break free from the culture of victimhood and embrace the power of possibility.For more about Judy Wilkins-Smith and her approach to personal development, visit her website at https://judywilkins-smith.com
 
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy, No Slippy. Not Another Drop, No Matter WhatRemember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!Sobertownpodcast.com
 
 

EP 319: How to Achieve Your Next Level of Greatness with Transformation Specialist Dr. Dravon James

Host: Viv aka Sober_iThrive
Guest: Dr. Dravon James
For every question that you have about creating the life of your dreams, the answer lies within you. The power to achieve the next level of greatness lies within you. So what is the secret key to unleashing this amazing potential? It isn’t really a secret at all. It’s a practical process that takes into full account how we humans achieve self-mastery. Freedom is Your Birthright is a small, bite-size book, the first step in the 5-part Stepping Stone Series. This book will teach you how to attain internal freedom, an essential ingredient on your exciting journey to Every Day Peace.
DR. DRAVON JAMES: Systems, Goals, and Your Next Level of GreatnessDr. Dravon James, an inspirational speaker, life coach, and author of "Freedom is Your Birthright," joins us in this episode. Dr. James shares her unique approach to personal development, focusing on the power of systems and habits over outcomes.Dr. James explores how our identity can shape our lives and how to build systems that reinforce our desired identity. She emphasizes the importance of tracking systems over goals, explaining that our habits shape our future more than our goals.Dr. James is the Founder of the Next Step Leadership Academy, empowering women to use everything in their lives to reach their next level of greatness. Despite her humble beginnings on the South Side of Chicago, she has built a successful healthcare and personal development career.For more about Dr. Dravon James and her approach to personal development, visit her website at www.drdravonjames.com.Join us as we explore the power of systems and goals with Dr. Dravon James, and learn how to reach your next level of greatness.
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy, No Slippy. Not Another Drop, No Matter WhatRemember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!Sobertownpodcast.com
 
 

EP 318: Early days in Sobriety - Transformational Women of Sobriety

Host: Viv aka Sober_iThrive 
Guests: Lisa and Jen
 
Lisa’s Bio:
Hi, I'm Lisa, aka PizzaLisa on the I Am Sober App. I'm a mom, wife, restaurant owner and a sober alcoholic. 
With a 'work hard, play hard' mentality and an ego as big as a house, I bulldozed my way through life. Being powerful was my goal. I now know the only thing I can control is my own actions. Not my husband, not my employees and certainly not my drinking. 
I've found humility through working the steps of AA, being involved in the sober community, working with a sponsor, service and consistent self reflection. 
I've been in recovery since January 24, 2022. I am now the best version of myself and continue to gradually grow-- one day at a time.
 
Jen’s Bio:
My name is Jen aka GrowinginGrace&Gratitude on the I Am Sober App. 
I am a wife, mom, full-time worker, and someone who abused alcohol daily.  Driven by my personal struggles and a longing for connection, I joined the sobertown zooms and embarked on a profound journey of self-discovery. Since December 28, 2021, I am living the AF lifestyle, and learning to make everyday count.  I started a blog Growing in Grace & Gratitude, where I delve into various aspects of spirituality and sobriety.
Blog Link: https://growingingracegrat.wixsite.com/gigg
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy, No Slippy. Not Another Drop, No Matter WhatRemember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!Sobertownpodcast.com

EP 317: NatQc’s Recovery Story

Host: Drifter
Guest: NatQc
 
My name is natQc on the I am Sober App.  I am a French Canadian 53 years old and I have been sober for 3.5 years after drinking for 30 years, except during my 2 pregnancies.  I drank to forget, to numb and to manage my social anxiety.
We often hear that “connection is the opposite of addiction”.  But what if illness, feelings, remnants of past hurts and unhealed parts prevent us from being able to trust people and make those connections?
My feelings aren't necessarily based on current facts but I have always felt like an outcast and I wanted to share about that solitude.  Only now, after being sober for a while and building a solid foundation, do I feel I can deal with my most profound traumas.
 
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What.  Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!     Sobertownpodcast.com

EP 316: Ali’s Recovery Story

Host: Michal Charles aka MMC13
Guest: Ali
Trigger and content warning                 Suicide/guns
Ali is a 33 year old survivor and sober warrior. In December, 2021, addiction brought Ali to her knees, but her faith, her love of family, and her sheer determination pushed her onto a new, brighter path. Ali now dedicates her life to bringing joy and positivity into the lives of others around her. Please join us on her terrifying and inspirational journey to recovery.
 
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What.  Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!     Sobertownpodcast.com
 

EP 315: DR. GREG HAMMER - 3-Minute Mindfulness Practice

Host: Viv aka Sober_iThrive 
Guest: DR. GREG HAMMER
 
In this captivating episode, join Dr. Greg Hammer, a renowned mindfulness expert, best-selling author, and professor at Stanford School of Medicine, as he explores 'The Power of Intention.' Discover the profound impact intentional living can have on every aspect of our lives. Driven by the question, 'What is my intention?' Dr. Hammer encourages us to incorporate intentional living into our daily routines and witness its transformative effects.
Research has shown that setting clear intentions activates the prefrontal cortex, creating neural pathways that facilitate success, promote healing, and alleviate chronic diseases. Our minds and bodies are deeply connected, and each thought has a direct cellular effect. Setting intentions ignites the communication pathways between our mind, brain, and body, unlocking our true potential.
During the episode, Dr. Hammer delves into the distinction between intentions and goals. While goals focus on future achievements, intentions are lived in the present moment, nurturing our inner relationships with ourselves and others. Learn how to identify your genuine desires and differentiate them from societal expectations. Embrace the power of positive intentions, which will guide your journey toward intentional living.
Dr. Greg Hammer is a leading expert and an esteemed physician specializing in pediatric cardiac anesthesia and critical care medicine. As a member of the Stanford WellMD initiative, Dr. Hammer advocates for physician wellness and shares his wisdom as a visiting professor and lecturer on wellness worldwide. He is the author of 'GAIN without Pain: The Happiness Handbook for Health Care Professionals,' a comprehensive guide resonating with healthcare professionals.
For more information about Dr. Greg Hammer, his research, and his mindfulness-based approach, please visit his website at www.GregHammerMD.com. You can also explore media clips featuring Dr. Hammer on The Daily Flash, National WISH-TV Indianapolis, and KATU-TV Portland.
Join us on this enlightening journey as we delve into the power of intention with Dr. Greg Hammer, unlocking the secrets to intentional living and its profound impact on our well-being.
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy, No Slippy. Not Another Drop, No Matter WhatRemember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!Sobertownpodcast.com

EP 314: Corina D aka Cee Change’s Recovery Story

Host: Viv aka Sober_iThrive
Guest: Corinna aka Cee Change
Corina/“Cee Change” is a Canadian educator living in Edmonton, Canada, with her partner, his rescue dog, and her two feral pharaohs (street cats she saved as kittens while living in Egypt). Her sobriety began in earnest after the cruel breakup of her volatile second marriage, forcing her to re-examine her life choices. This led to a sea change in how she manages it—without the numbing effects of alcohol or drugs. Beyond the classroom, Cee Change remains an advocate for mental health and emotional well-being. She shares her story openly, encouraging others to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and offering support and guidance along the way.
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What.  Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!     Sobertownpodcast.com

EP 313: Shelly-Anne with Viv - Coaching vs Therapy

Host: Viv aka Sober_iThrive 
Guest: Shelly-Anne
 
In this enlightening episode of Sobertown Podcast, our guest Shelly-Anne and our host Viv (@sober_ithrive), both internationally certified professional addiction recovery and life coaches, join forces to delve into the intricacies of sober coaching. As they explain, sober coaches are more than just guides; they are allies in the recovery journey, providing a supportive and non-judgmental environment that fosters personal growth and self-discovery.
This episode also addresses the many modalities and differences between a sober coach and a therapist, counselor, or sponsor and how to seek a certified professional sober coach, which empowers individuals to develop their own critical thinking skills and take charge of their recovery.
More about Shelly-Anne
Shelly-Anne Mckay is a master mentor coach with over three decades of experience in coaching, consulting, and media production. As the owner of a private practice and co-founder of an international coaching agency, she has guided thousands toward their sense of purpose and fulfillment. Shelly-Anne serves as the Director for Coach Credentialing and Certification for the International Association for Recovery Coaches (IAPRC) and NET Institute, ensuring coaches meet the global standards set by the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaches (NBHWC).
Holding multiple international certifications and accreditations, Shelly-Anne's expertise spans Addiction and Recovery, Functional Medicine, Executive Leadership, and Corporate Development. Her journey began when she collapsed from exhaustion and stress in her early 30s, leading her to work with a coach who inspired her to find a better way to live. Shelly-Anne is now committed to helping others achieve balance and optimal performance in their personal and professional lives.
 
Unalome Agency Website: www.unalomeagency.comHealing Hive Website: www.recoveryemotionaleating.com 
LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile 
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No Matter What.  Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!     Sobertownpodcast.com
 

EP 312: My System Is Better Than Yours!

Host: Todd Crafter
Todd is an Aussie who is a husband and father of 2 first. He’s a Personal trainer and works as a Chiropractor. He loves the outdoors, camping, riding bikes, motorcycles and is a fitness fanatic. Todd is also a self described introvert.
Todd writes and narrates all of the Sobertown’s Education Center Modules: Sober Toolboxes, Fighting Cravings, Building Mindsets and Your Body on Booze. Todd is also a Sobertown Podcast contributor.
Todd is a self-described introvert. In the first 9 months of meeting him on the I Am Sober platform he only posted 3 times and you'd rarely see a comment from him. But when it comes to having a passion for Sobriety, Todd is a Powerhouse with an amazing mind and mindset! His Recovery Modules (Sober Toolbox, Fighting Cravings, Building Mindsets, and Your Body On Booze) are full of research, facts and explanations that are unique and specifically built for Sobertown Podcast! Todd is also narrating his blogs to share on the Sobertown Podcast, eventually you'll be able to hear them all as you read! That's a double dose of learning! Boooom!!
Thank You Todd for all you do! You are a perfect example how sobriety can bring us out of our comfort zone, change our lives and onto the front lines to fight against addiction!!
Onwards Upwards My Friend!!
 
To contact the author please email soberaustralia@gmail.com
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What.  Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!     Sobertownpodcast.com
 

EP 311: Ashleybear’s Follow up with Viv

Host: Viv aka Sober_iThrive 
Guest: Ashleybear
 
Ashley is based in Toronto and started her sobriety journey in October 2020. The intent was only to go for a few months, but quickly, she realized all the benefits: less anxiety, more energy, and better mental health overall. Ashley was amazed at the community's support and soon got involved in supporting herself and others. There was so much “love and vulnerability… I found myself connecting in ways I hadn’t before.” To give back to the community that had given so much to her, she started Potentialize Studio, where she creates video content aimed at amplifying the diverse stories of sobriety to eliminate the stigma so people don’t hesitate to reach out for help. At the center of it, each episode fosters connection, diversity, and community. 
Instagram
YouTube-Potentialize Studio
EP 128: Ashleybear9’s Recovery Story 
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What.  Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!     Sobertownpodcast.com

EP 310: Candice aka Whatcandicesaid Recovery Story

Host: Viv aka Sober_iThrive 
Guest: Candice aka Whatcandicesaid
 
I'm a 41-year-old mom of two girls. I'm a Critical Care nurse and a young breast cancer survivor. My relationship with alcohol became a cross-addiction when I couldn't come off the opioids I was prescribed when I was going through cancer and cancer treatment. I have been sober now for just over 6 months. I live in Ontario, Canada. I love Miniatures and Junk Journaling. I strive to spread awareness about anything and everything I have first-hand experience with. I enjoy meeting like-minded people. I'm super humble and down-to-earth. I am accepting of everyone from all walks of life. I hope my podcast speaks to those who have gone down a similar path.
Instagram @Whatcandicesaid
TikTok Whatcandicesaid
FB Whatcandicesaid
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What.  Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!     Sobertownpodcast.com
 

EP 309: Marie’s Recovery Story

Host: Drifter
Guest: Marie
 
Hey, all… My name is Marie. I am a recovering alcoholic. Notice that I didn’t say my name is Marie and I’m a recovering alcoholic. It’s not part of my title. It’s just a piece of who I am. I am a retired teacher of Aurora Public Schools in Aurora Colorado of 28 years and retired in June 2021 after teaching through Covid. 25 of those years was at a high school in Aurora Called Hinkley High School. Urban education at its finest. If you know anything about Aurora Colorado, you may remember the theater shooting that happened years ago. That theater is 2 miles from this high school and I lost two of my former students that night in that shooting. I love to tell my story, because I believe in telling it, it keeps the shame and guilt away. God is doing amazing things in my life. And I hope and believe that it will help others. I have ADHD,I have had serious bouts of anxiety and panic. I’m a recovering Southern Baptist, and I am a Christian woman. I have a son who I am proud to say is one of my biggest supporters in life. I have put that kid through hell sometimes and he has stood by my side, holding my hand telling me he loves more than I’ll ever know. I am the founder and Director of Colorado’s pop rock choir. We started in September 2022 and we raised over $5000 to three area high schools who are hard hit by Covid and the result of not many students being in a program coupled with funding being slashed. I got the chance to perform and direct with rock Choir, Colorado and we performed Carnegie Hall in April 2022. I’ve also had the pleasure of conducting at red rocks, and in August we will be singing the national anthem at the Colorado Rockies game. I am a judge for the Colorado all-state choir. This summer I will be offering a free two week all-state choir prep camp for students in Aurora Public schools with the help of my choir members. I teach life skills through music, and I tell my stories openly and share my vulnerabilities. Whether you have an addiction or not, we can all learn from each other. We come from all walks of life, and together we are always stronger. Between a Bible study, my choir, trauma therapy, AA, the Bible, and God himself, I am a recovering alcoholic. And I will continue on this journey, and share my story, because there is hope. I know there is hope, because I am living it, and I am living proof that having faith and a higher power will result in an amazing journey you had no idea was in front of you.
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What.  Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!     Sobertownpodcast.com
 
 

EP 308: Michael aka Readykilowatt’s Recovery Story

Host: Drifter
Guest: Michael aka Readykilowatt
 
My name is Michael.  You may know me as Readykilowatt from the I Am Sober app.  I took my first drink around the age of 14 and after 24 years of drinking, it was time to make a change.  I had short stints of sobriety here and there, always knowing deep down that there was a serious problem but never brave enough to truly face the demons.  That is until something snapped in me on 1/18/2021, the day I took my last drink.  Since that day I knew that alcohol could never be an option again. Years of battling depression and anxiety took its toll on me.  Self medicating with the very substance that was causing most of my problems.   It really came down to life or death.  I chose life.
The Pickle Song, This is a song about Acceptance
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What.  Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!     Sobertownpodcast.com
 
 

EP 307: Gary Menkes’s Recovery Story

Host: Drifter
Guest: Gary Menkes
 
Gary Menkes was born and raised in Port Washington, NY and struggled with alcoholism since his early teens which took him to places he never wants to go again and which took a toll on his health, relationships and professional endeavors. However, Gary completely transformed his life when he was given the gift of sobriety on May 13, 2006. Determined to break free from the cycle of self-destruction, he embarked on a remarkable journey of recovery.
Today, Gary is an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous in New York, married to the love of his life and father of two amazing children of which he owes all to his sobriety. Gary is now launching his own podcast, The Begin Again Podcast.
The mission of The Begin Again Podcast is to inspire and to showcase the incredible stories of those who have overcome addiction to achieve massive success in entrepreneurship, business professionals, athletics, and all fields and who have gained a newfound purpose in sobriety.  Through authentic, inspirational, and often spiritual conversations with our guests, we aim to break the stigma around addiction and show that recovery is possible, and that sobriety can be a source of strength and resilience.  We believe that by sharing these stories of redemption, we can empower individuals to achieve their fullest potential, create positive change, and build a better world.  Set to be launched on July 2, 2023, you can The Begin Again Podcast wherever you listen to your pods.  Listen to the trailer here:  https://open.spotify.com/show/0VSWwikt48NBHMW4dofMU6 
The Begin Again Podcast
WITH GARY MENKES Website
 
Other Sober Resources:
I Am Sober App
Getting Sober ...Again
Boom Rethink The Drink
Recovery Movie Meet-Ups
No Sippy No Slippy. Not Another Drop No matter What.  Remember to Pour The Poison Down The Sink!!     Sobertownpodcast.com