Sobertown Podcast

EP 333: Samantha’s Recovery Story

Host: Drifter
Guest: Samantha
 
My name is Samantha Brantley I am 38 and mother of 4 wonderful kids and a very special granddaughter, Shiloh.  My addiction started in my early 20s and I have been clean for over 5 years. So when I went through addiction my small, rural community had no resources.  Since being clean I have been advocating to get resources there for others that are struggling.  I started a recovery meeting last year that is growing.  Probation officers and the courts are sending people to our meeting.  It seems so small but being able to sign someone's meeting sheet, at a meeting I started, is huge to me. I also have been on the Union County ICARE Board for about a year.  ICARE is a prevention coalition that does lots of great things in the schools in my area as well as in the community.  I have also been working hand in hand with the misdemeanor court system in my county to launch a recovery court there.  The goal of this is to offer resources and programs, with structure, early on with the hope of helping citizens find recovery and life worth living before it feels too late.  We also hope this will help break stigma and prevent those struggling from reaching even worse felony convictions.  My goal is to spread hope anywhere I can by being living proof that WE DO RECOVER.  And we should do it LOUDLY! 
Samantha, I'm so grateful to have sat with you as you shared your recovery story! I'm so grateful to know you and Chris and being able to witness in person all you're doing for our community as you help others fight their way out of the trenches of addiction! You, Chris, your team and everyone coming together is a huge inspiration to us all!! You are definitely an amazing example of someone turning their life around!!
THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH!!!!!
EP 90: Uncovering Happiness - The Mind and Heart
 
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 332: From Addiction to Attraction: A Road to Recovery

Host: Drifter
Guest: Piere Ingram
How do you overcome a rough life after being dealt a bad hand?
Piere Ingram spent years trying to figure this out. He was trapped, with no clear escape. Abused as a child, Piere rebelled during his teenage years. He was labeled a troubled teen and turned to the only way out he could find: a life filled with addictions. It is said taking the easy way can become the path to self-destruction. Piere learned this the hard way. The downward spiral threatened to destroy him.
Piere plunged headfirst down the rabbit hole and would have been consumed if not for one simple thing that intervened and, appropriately, save his life. Piere discovered God and the power of faith. From Addiction to Attraction: A Road To Recovery is his testament. Emotionally charged and often difficult to swallow, Piere lays his life bare for all to witness.Far more than a somber tale, Piere’s story also provides the tools necessary for those grappling with addictions to break free and reclaim their lives. Ultimately you are the only one responsible for who you are and what you can become. By breaking the shackles of addiction you are not only freeing yourself to a better world, you are beginning the healing process and restoring balance.From Addiction to Attraction is powerful and driven. It is a journey too many of us have taken and many more have yet to begin. Perhaps these words, this brutal honesty, will help some see the light and begin the long road to recovery and a new dawn.From Addiction to Attraction is the true story of how Piere Ingram overcame a hard start to his life and, through the discovery of faith, turned everything around to become a successful, faithful man. An emotional rollercoaster, this memoir is an inspiration for all who are undergoing similar circumstances.
Piere was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. His first exposure to poetry was through Dr. Suess books when he was very young. Piere loved the rhythm, rhymes, and wordplay of poetry. Reading and writing poetry became a way for Piere to escape from his problems and release his emotions.
 
I'd love to say that when I was addicted to drugs, alcohol, negative environments, and people that it changed overnight. You know, that an inspirational person came into my life and I was changed forever. But to be honest, it was neither that easy nor that smooth. I had to go through a lot of tough times. I experienced a lot of growth, from having both my parents die within six months, and then meeting many people who affected my way of thinking and feeling.
Before, I was so addicted to searching for things that didn't benefit me. I was looking to get "my next fix". I was getting love in the wrong places, and in the long run, I ended up breaking down to such a low point in my life. So low, that I had no choice but to change the way that I was doing things if I was going to survive.
One thing that hit me after my mom died was remembering her words, "Piere, you only have one life to live, so you better get this right".
Her words forced me to look within myself and come to terms with the bad choices I was making. I want to make her proud.
Poetry is my passion and I love to share my story through my poems to inspire others. If I can change, so can you! I enjoy interacting with my readers.
From Addiction to Attraction: A road to recovery
The Heart of Addiction: Poetic Therapy
NewLifePoetry Live
 
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 331: Kieran Cooke’s Recovery Story

Host: Michal Charles aka MMC13
Guest: Kieran Cooke
 
Kieran is 42 years old and from Nottinghamshire England. He has struggled with alcohol addiction for many years. After living the cycle of serial relapsing over and over, he has finally found peace with his sobriety. This is his story.
 
Kieran has been a Sobertown Podcast FB Group from the early days of the FB group being created. Kieran has struggled in his journey like most of us do. It's great seeing Kieran moving forward on his Sober Journey!! He's a huge inspiration to all of us with his posts and videos he creates where he shares his journey.
 
Thank you for all you do my Sober Brother!! Thank you for sharing your amazing Recovery Story!!!
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 330: Five Things To Know Before You Get Sober With Nicolas Morales

Host: Michal Charles aka MMC13
Guest: Nicolas Morales
Five Things To Know Before You Get Sober
This book describes five elements of recovery that have been learned through experience. It explains raw realities that may not be covered in counseling, therapy, or treatment facilities. It allows the reader to see into these elements and prepare for them so the path to recovery may be accomplished with less roadblocks. It can also be used as a tool for individuals who are dancing around the idea of recovery. Through lived experience of addiction to opiates and alcohol, these five elements were the most shocking, rough, and problematic to a successful recovery. Addiction has no concern for the individual it plagues. The battle against it is unique to each person. These elements are generic in nature with the hope the reader will apply the topics to their own struggles.
 
Nico Morales: Transforming Lives Through Resilience and Purpose
Born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Nico Morales embodies the spirit of the Duke City. As a third-generation resident, he takes immense pride in his roots and the vibrant community that shaped him. Nico's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and personal growth, as he overcame significant challenges to emerge as an author, graduate, and successful business owner.
Nico's upbringing was influenced by his parents, who instilled in him the values of hard work and compassion. His father, a skilled technician in the technology sector, and his angelic mother, who dedicated herself to social work, provided Nico with a solid foundation. Despite their best efforts, Nico faced early hardships that left lasting imprints on his worldview.
Throughout his childhood, Nico grappled with feelings of abandonment and rejection. These emotions were compounded by traumatic experiences, leading him to develop a skewed perspective on family and belonging. By the age of fourteen, Nico believed he was capable of living independently and contemplated dropping out of school to join the workforce. It was his mother's guidance and the prospect of pursuing his passion for wrestling that redirected his path back to education.
Understanding the importance of financial independence, Nico devised alternative ways to earn money during the school year. Initially selling single prime times (loose cigarettes), he later transitioned into the cannabis trade. In his junior year of high school, Nico recognized the lucrative potential in the emerging market of prescription pills. However, his involvement took a dangerous turn when he succumbed to the temptations of substance abuse.
Dependent on OxyContin, Nico faced a critical crossroad when the availability of the drug diminished. Faced with limited options, he turned to heroin as a means of escape. By the time he reached his twenties, Nico found himself living in his truck, ensnared in a cycle of desperation. It was this distress that ultimately compelled him to break free from opioid addiction, although he did so without seeking professional help to address the underlying issues.
Reintegrating into his family's support system, Nico sought solace in excessive alcohol consumption, which strained relationships and led to his eventual expulsion from their homes. This rejection only amplified his feelings of isolation. Rock bottom arrived when Nico found himself living in a dilapidated building, broken physically, mentally, and spiritually. Despite the challenges, he recognized a higher purpose and chose to embark on a spiritual journey of healing.
Through introspection and self-study, Nico gained valuable insights into his thoughts, emotions, and actions. This newfound awareness led to transformative changes in his life and propelled him toward serving others on their own paths of self-discovery. Fueling his purpose, Nico authored the book "Five Things to Know Before You Get Sober," sharing his experiences and providing guidance to those seeking a similar path of personal growth.
Driven by his commitment to serve others, Nico pursued higher education with unwavering determination. He earned a bachelor's degree with honors, solidifying his academic achievements. Today, Nico is the proud founder of No Halo, a personal and professional development services company. The name reflects his belief that nobody is born an angel, but everyone has the capacity to improve themselves each day.
Nico Morales stands as a living testament to the power of resilience, determination, and personal growth. His life experiences have shaped his mission to inspire others to discover their purpose, navigate life's challenges, and embrace imperfections. Through his work, Nico embodies the transformative journey from adversity to empowerment, reminding us all that it is never too late to change our lives for the better.
Website: https://nohalonm.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@No_HaloNM
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nohalonm?mibextid=ZbWKwL
 
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 329: Terry G’s Recovery Story

Host: Drifter
Guest: Terry G
 
Terry is a life long friend of Drifter and his late brother Mark Bittle.
Terry is definitely a miracle who has transformed his life from addiction to an amazing sober life!
Terry has become an amazing husband, father, grandfather, and friend! He continues to work the 12 Steps of Recovery and continues to give back to those coming behind him.
Thank you my brother for sharing your amazing journey from the trenches of addiction to the powerful transformation of recovery!!
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 328: Sober Meet-Up PollyA and Corinna

What an amazing Happy Hour. Pollya and Corinna reunited to share their thoughts and emotions on their journey through sobriety, grief and learning to build a new life.Please follow Corinna’s Blog Positive Recovery With Corrina and follow her Canam journey in honor of her late partner Andy.
 
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 Corrina  (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 327: Uncommon amongst the Common: Yves-Marc Lemieux (Co-Author)

Host: Michal Charles
Guest: Yves-Marc Lemieux
 
Yves-Marc Lemieux, CEO of Mind Engineering Corporation
After studying and completing a BAC in Psycho Education and while helping others, Yves-Marc, obtained a Master's in Humanist Hypnosis and a Post Master in Neuroscience ( NLP - Neuro Linguistic Programming ).
With a constant and never ending thirst for human achievements, Yves-Marc has dedicated his life in learning human psychology to help others reach their full potential and coaching them toward self-discovery and excellence.
 
UNCOMMON AMONGST THE COMMON is the Blueprint of exceptional achievers and is an awe-inspiring roadmap to greatness, etched with the sweat and tears of those who dared to dream big. Within its pages lie the secrets of relentless determination, unwavering passion, and belief. It is a beacon of hope for those who crave success, for it teaches that extraordinary achievements are not reserved for the chosen few, but attainable by anyone with the audacity to chase their dreams.
 
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 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: 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
https://youtube.com/@positiverecoverywithcorinn5071
 
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