Sisters In Sobriety

Sobriety, midlife purpose, and finding your spark again. Sonia sits down with activist and author Shannon Watts. Shannon is the founder of Moms Demand Action, the nation’s largest grassroots group fighting gun violence. She led the organization to pass over 500 gun-safety laws and mobilize millions of supporters. She’s been named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People, a Forbes 50 Over 50 Changemaker, and a Glamour Woman of the Year. In 2025 she published her book Fired Up: How to Turn Your Spark into a Flame and Come Alive at Any Age. Together, they talk about what it really looks like to rebuild your life when the old one stops fitting. Shannon shares the story of her own “wake-up moment,” and Sonia brings her lived experience of starting over, making hard pivots, and learning to own her sobriety without apology. This episode is all about finding your spark again, even if you haven’t felt it in years. Sonia and Shannon dive into the big questions so many women wrestle with in midlife: How do you know when you’re meant for something more? What if you’ve spent decades doing what you were supposed to do instead of what you actually want? How do you handle people’s opinions when you finally step into your power? And what happens when drinking, dating, parenting, obligations, burnout, and old roles start to clash with the woman you’re becoming? Listeners will walk away with practical guidance and clarity around what lights them up. Shannon shares her simple framework for figuring out your next chapter, how to deal with criticism without shrinking, and why rest, boundaries, community, and honesty matter more than perfection. This episode also looks at signs you might be ready for a change, the myths about “purpose,” the pressure women carry in midlife, and the surprising freedom that comes with not caring what everyone else thinks. Sonia opens up about dating in sobriety, making herself small for years, and the moment she realized she didn’t need to apologize for the life she’s building. Shannon shares the realities of starting a national movement while raising five kids, navigating co-parenting, dealing with internet trolls, and knowing when it was finally time to step back. It’s heartfelt, real, and filled with the kind of “me too” moments that make women feel less alone. Episode Highlights  01:00 Shannon shares the moment she realized her life wasn’t aligned anymore 03:12 The emergency room visit that became her turning point 04:10 How journaling helped her map out a completely different future 06:02 Shannon explains her “values, abilities, desires” formula 07:15 Why so many women put obligations before what they actually want 09:20 The guilt and shame that show up when women start changing their lives 11:05 Sonia talks about the date that made her second-guess her sobriety identity 12:14 Shannon’s advice for handling criticism without shrinking 16:08 What launching Moms Demand Action looked like behind the scenes 18:02 The fear moms have about pursuing desires “at the expense of their kids” 20:40 How to know it’s time for a pivot even without a dramatic crisis 23:05 Discovering abilities you don’t realize you have 25:00 Sonia shares how nightly drinking revealed deeper misalignment 26:15 Shannon on her “controlled burn” approach to clearing space for change 28:20 The difference between true urgency and pressure we put on ourselves 30:12 Why Gen X women have more freedom in midlife than we realize 33:00 Shannon redefines success after years of burnout and martyrdom 35:18 How female friendships became the backbone of her second chapter 37:05 Sonia talks about intentionally rebuilding her community 40:22 The hardest “no” Shannon ever had to make in her career 46:04 The early “failure” that ended up shaping her entire movement 47:18 What Shannon hopes her next decade looks like SIS Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website – Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram

Infidelity, emotional sobriety, and recovery collide in this raw and honest continuation of the Sisters in Sobriety infidelity chat. In today’s episode, Sonia and Kathleen explore what happens when betrayal shows up in a relationship — and how to navigate it without abandoning yourself or your sobriety. They dig into the emotional rollercoaster, the shame that can surface on both sides, and the surprising ways infidelity can mimic relapse patterns even without alcohol involved. We'll unpack: what does emotional sobriety look like when your heart just got shattered? Can cheating happen as a form of emotional escape? How do you stay grounded when your nervous system is on fire and every coping mechanism is calling your name? And why does early recovery sometimes make people more vulnerable to risky behavior and emotional impulsivity? You'll hear strategies for repairing trust, protecting your recovery, and reconnecting with your values — even when life feels like it’s exploded. Sonia also opens up about her own experience with infidelity in her marriage, the fight to stay sober through heartbreak, and the fierce determination to not let someone else's choices take away the life she worked so hard to build. Together, she and Kathleen explore what healing can look like — and what they wish they knew back then about boundaries, self-trust, and choosing yourself in the aftermath. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks and resources. Episode Highlights 00:00 – The story starts with cruise-chaos and questionable onboard sushi 01:55 – A pivot from food poisoning to infidelity and emotional sobriety 02:58 – Emotional sobriety explained — steadiness when life gets messy 04:03 – Cheating as misalignment with values, not a “good vs bad person” label 05:26 – Emotional relapse vs physical relapse, and where infidelity fits in 06:41 – Dishonesty, avoidance, and numbing behaviors as warning signs 07:34 – What staying sober through betrayal actually feels like 08:17 – Accountability as the foundation for emotional recovery 09:08 – How betrayal can trigger old coping urges and emotional spiraling 10:03 – The difference between staying sober and staying emotionally regulated 11:12 – “You won’t take my sobriety too” — sobriety as rebellion and self-protection 12:17 – The dopamine hit of infidelity and temptation in early recovery 13:12 – Pause, play the tape forward, ruin the fantasy (and save yourself) 14:19 – Stumbling doesn't end your recovery — denial does 15:37 – Hyper-vigilance vs healing — and why control isn’t safety 17:45 – Avoiding conflict vs actually repairing the relationship 19:40 – The messy reality of sexual communication after betrayal 20:53 – Sonia reflects on self-blame and impossible expectations 23:40 – Letting go of “if I do everything right, they won’t cheat” 26:22 – A grounding tool for the day after everything falls apart 28:10 – Closing gratitude + a reminder that healing is possible Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website – Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram

Infidelity can be one of the most painful experiences in any relationship—and for many, it can also become a turning point. In this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, hosts Sonia and Kathleen unpack what it really means to stay emotionally sober through betrayal, heartbreak, and healing. Drawing on their own lived experiences and Kathleen’s clinical expertise, they’ll help you understand not only why infidelity happens, but how to navigate the emotional fallout with clarity, self-compassion, and growth. Together, they explore questions many of us have struggled with in silence: What counts as cheating? Is emotional infidelity just as damaging as physical betrayal? Can a relationship ever truly recover from deceit? And how do alcohol, secrecy, and unmet needs complicate our choices—and our healing? From defining betrayal to understanding why it feels so personal, this conversation offers both insight and empathy for anyone who’s been on either side of infidelity. Listeners will learn how infidelity impacts emotional sobriety, the difference between emotional and physical affairs, and how alcohol can blur—but never justify—boundaries. Kathleen breaks down the psychology of betrayal, explaining the roles of trust, attachment, and validation, while Sonia opens up about her own experience of infidelity and what it taught her about resilience, self-worth, and the power of sitting with discomfort. You’ll walk away with practical insights about rebuilding trust, recognizing red flags, and understanding when it’s time to rebuild—or let go. Finally, Sonia shares a deeply personal story about the aftermath of her own betrayal—the shock, the anger, and the white-knuckled early days of staying sober through grief—while Kathleen reflects on what it takes to heal, whether together or apart. Their raw honesty and humor make space for reflection, laughter, and growth, even in the messy middle of heartbreak. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources. Episode Highlights 00:00 – Sonia and Kathleen kick off with humor and a “dating disaster” red flag story 01:30 – Introducing the topic: why infidelity brings even the strongest to their knees 03:00 – Defining what “infidelity” really means—beyond just sex 04:15 – Kathleen explains deception and secrecy as the real breach of trust 05:45 – Emotional cheating vs. friendship—where’s the line? 07:00 – The danger of fantasy and emotional displacement 08:00 – A lighthearted detour into Jason Momoa and fantasy boundaries 09:00 – Alcohol and infidelity—how lowered inhibitions aren’t the same as lost morals 10:30 – Sonia recalls the difference between blackouts and passing out 11:15 – Why betrayal feels like a personal rejection (and why it’s not about you) 12:00 – The “roommate syndrome” and what makes relationships vulnerable 13:30 – Kathleen explains how discomfort avoidance fuels betrayal 14:30 – Sobriety and infidelity—why staying sober makes you feel more, not less 16:00 – Can good relationships survive cheating? 17:00 – When infidelity isn’t about love, but about lost identity 18:30 – Rebuilding after betrayal—what it really takes 19:30 – The long road back to trust and why it’s often harder than people realize 20:30 – “Punishment mode” after infidelity and the death-by-a-thousand-cuts dynamic 22:00 – Is it ever just about sex? Desire discrepancy and longing for aliveness 23:15 – Esther Perel’s perspective on why people cheat 24:30 – Navigating the recovery process: disclosure, accountability, and trust rebuilding 25:45 – Setting communication boundaries when discussing betrayal 27:00 – Why triggers can reappear years later—and how to respond with empathy 28:00 – When it’s time to walk away with love and clarity 29:00 – The importance of remorse, accountability, and emotional safety 30:00 – Closing reflections and the promise of a follow-up episode on emotional sobriety Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website – Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram

Bicultural identity, authenticity, boundaries, and belonging — this week on Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia sits down with award-winning therapist, author, and Washington Post columnist Sahaj Kaur Kohli, founder of Brown Girl Therapy (@browngirltherapy). Sahaj is the author of But What Will People Say: Navigating Mental Health, Identity, Love, and Family Between Cultures and host of So We’ve Been Told. Together, Sonia and Sahaj explore how culture shapes our emotional lives and what it really means to honor your identity while protecting your mental health. This conversation unpacks what happens when cultural expectations collide with personal truth. Sonia and Sahaj discuss why “just be yourself” can be harmful advice for children of immigrants, how boundaries sound different across cultures, and why guilt and shame can linger even in healing. They dive into the nuances of bicultural identity, family dynamics, and how recovery and self-discovery intersect when you grow up between worlds. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of bicultural identity, intergenerational trauma, authenticity, and decolonizing mental health. Sahaj explains how Western therapy often misses cultural context and why redefining concepts like boundaries, self-care, and recovery through a collectivist lens can change everything. She shares practical frameworks for discernment, emotional safety, and reclaiming ancestral wisdom in modern mental-health practices. Sonia also shares her personal story of navigating no contact, cultural shame, and the grief that comes with estrangement. Together, she and Sahaj reflect on how to hold compassion for parents shaped by survival, while creating space for your own healing. It’s a candid and heartfelt conversation about identity, duty, and the freedom to choose what wholeness means to you. This is Sisters in Sobriety — the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources. Episode Highlights [00:00:00] Introduction to Sahaj Kaur Kohli and her work bridging mental health and culture [00:02:00] The origins of Brown Girl Therapy and how identity crises inspired it [00:04:00] Why “boundaries” can feel unnatural in collectivist families [00:05:30] Reframing boundaries as compromise, connection, and care [00:06:30] The myth of authenticity when you live between cultures [00:08:00] Adapting between cultural spaces without losing yourself [00:09:30] The difference between hiding and lying in family systems [00:12:00] When immigrant parents surprise you with growth and empathy [00:13:30] Narrative therapy and rewriting generational family stories [00:16:00] “What will people say?” and the survival logic behind shame [00:18:00] Intergenerational trauma and assimilation through an immigrant lens [00:20:00] Drinking culture, gender, and coping in Punjabi families [00:23:30] How recovery language often excludes cultural context [00:26:00] What culturally responsive recovery could look like [00:29:00] The role of shame across cultures and its impact on healing [00:31:00] What it means to decolonize mental-health practices [00:33:00] When duty is love — and when it becomes control [00:36:00] Setting boundaries and practicing discernment with family [00:39:00] Grieving family estrangement and re-parenting yourself [00:44:00] Redefining self-care as collective and cultural care [00:47:00] What’s next for Sahaj and Brown Girl Therapy Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website – Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram

Harvard’s Dr. John Kelly joins Sisters in Sobriety to unpack the science of recovery, language, and what really works long-term. Addiction recovery isn’t a mystery—it’s a science. Dr.Kelly, Professor of Psychiatry in Addiction Medicine and Founder of the Recovery Research Institute at Massachusetts General Hospital. Together, they explore what the data actually shows about recovery, relapse, language, and long-term healing—and how our understanding of addiction has evolved far beyond stigma and shame. Throughout this conversation, Sonia and Kathleen unpack big questions about recovery and remission: Is addiction really a chronic disease—or does that label sometimes hurt more than it helps? How does the language we use—terms like “abuser,” “addict,” or even “clean”—impact recovery outcomes? And what does the evidence say about the effectiveness of AA compared to other programs and modern approaches to long-term sobriety? They talk about key scientific and psychological concepts such as behavioral mechanisms of recovery, language-based stigma reduction, chronic disease framing, psychosocial support networks, and gender differences in relapse and recovery. Dr. Kelly explains why AA remains the most evidence-based recovery tool for alcohol use disorder, how social connection drives sustained remission, and why linking clinical care to community-based supports is critical to long-term success. In the personal story segment, Sonia shares how fear of stigma once kept her from seeking help while she was still a practicing dentist—and how Dr. Kelly’s research validates those fears and offers a new framework for compassionate understanding. Together, they discuss what’s changing in the recovery landscape—from virtual meetings to redefining “recovery” itself—and how science is helping rewrite the story of what healing can look like. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources. Episode Highlights (Time-Stamped) 00:00 – Sonia and Kathleen introduce Dr. John Kelly, Harvard Professor and Founder of the Recovery Research Institute. 01:30 – Dr. Kelly shares how personal experience drew him to addiction medicine. 03:10 – Why short-term treatment isn’t enough—and the importance of long-term recovery support. 04:20 – Understanding the “chronic disease” model of addiction: when it helps and when it harms. 05:45 – The surprising statistic: 72% of people with substance use disorders achieve sustained remission. 06:50 – How language shapes stigma—why “abuser” versus “person with a substance use disorder” matters. 08:40 – Studies showing clinicians and the public are both biased by the words we use. 10:30 – How self-stigma can lead to treatment dropout and hinder recovery. 12:15 – The neuroscience of addiction: how chronic exposure changes the brain. 14:10 – Why clinicians need better training in screening, coding, and compassionate documentation. 17:00 – Sonia shares her personal fear of seeking help due to professional stigma. 18:20 – What “recovery” really means—and how to define it beyond remission. 21:40 – Dr. Kelly’s analogy of photosynthesis and “psychosynthesis” in human recovery. 24:00 – What decades of research show about AA’s effectiveness and why it works. 26:40 – The difference between process addictions and substance use disorders. 27:40 – AA’s abstinence roots—and how it evolved over time. 31:10 – Who benefits most from AA, and who might need alternative programs. 34:00 – Comparing AA to Smart Recovery, LifeRing, and Women for Sobriety. 39:00 – The science behind why AA works: social networks, coping skills, and self-efficacy. 43:30 – Gender differences in recovery: how AA supports women differently than men. 48:00 – Dr. Kelly’s current research on relapse after long-term remission. 51:00 – His vision for an integrated, wraparound system of recovery support. 54:00 – How to reach the 80% of people with untreated addiction. 56:00 – The future of virtual recovery meetings and what researchers are exploring next. 57:00 – Final reflections on redefining recovery and sustaining remission over a lifetime. Dr. Kelly's Links 🔗 Recovery Research Institute 🔗 Cochrane Systematic Review: Alcoholics Anonymous and Other 12-Step Programs 🔗 Cochrane Author Interview with Dr. John Kelly SIS Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram  

When it comes to transforming your environment, the energy of a space can be just as powerful as its aesthetics. On this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, we explore how intentional design, Feng Shui, and spiritual alignment can support wellness, recovery, and renewal. Joining Sonia is Alejandra G. Brady—Founder & Visionary of Casa Shui Life, Feng Shui & Biophilic Designer, best-selling author, and energy alchemist. With over two decades in luxury interiors, Alejandra pivoted her career after a profound awakening at age 50, weaving ancient energetic practices into her design work to help clients create sanctuaries that heal, inspire, and uplift. In their conversation, they dive into what Feng Shui really is (beyond the myths), how our homes can impact health, relationships, and creativity, and the subtle yet powerful shifts that make a space magnetic. Together, they explore questions like: What does it mean to “sleep under knives”? Why is the bedroom the most important room for love and rest? How can unused or cluttered spaces block abundance? And how do color, light, and texture play into energy flow? Listeners will walk away with practical takeaways on how to shift their own spaces using intentional placement, the Bagua map, biophilic principles, and crystals. You’ll learn why small choices—like moving an heirloom, clearing out old love letters, or balancing elements with plants and lighting—can have ripple effects in your health, wealth, relationships, and emotional clarity.  Beyond the design tools, Alejandra shares deeply personal stories: her health struggles and surgeries leading up to her 50th birthday, the life-changing consultation with her mentor, and how she became her own first “Feng Shui client.” She recounts the dramatic changes in her own home, her spiritual awakening, and the unexpected calling to write her memoir I Just Can’t Make This Sh!t Up. They reflect with her on how space can heal grief, nurture sobriety, and anchor a new chapter of life with intention and beauty. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources. Episode Highlights 00:00 – Welcoming Alejandra Brady and her journey from luxury interiors to Feng Shui 02:00 – The health crises at age 50 that became a turning point 04:30 – Her first Feng Shui consultation and the life-changing mentorship that followed 06:15 – Why certification in Feng Shui matters when working with energy 08:00 – How meditation led to writing her memoir and oracle deck 10:00 – The surprising role of silverware under the bed and the connection to surgeries 13:30 – How clearing a client’s old love letters invited in a new partner 16:00 – Bedroom Feng Shui: rest, romance, and relaxation as the foundation 18:00 – The “coffin position” and practical adjustments for better sleep 20:30 – Why single artwork or photos can unintentionally block love 22:00 – Using crystals like rose quartz for love and amethyst for sobriety support 24:00 – Avoiding clutter while integrating crystals intentionally into design 26:00 – Protecting energy as a practitioner with crystals in everyday life 27:00 – Where to source crystals and how to clear them 29:30 – Broken objects, wealth corners, and knowing when to release or repurpose 31:00 – The dramatic story of a client healing after moving a painting of water 34:00 – Literal connections between words (“burnt out”) and home energy 36:00 – Understanding the Bagua map and the nine areas of life it represents 40:00 – How interconnected areas (wealth, career, fame) affect one another 42:00 – Using Feng Shui for both large and micro spaces—even a mattress 44:00 – The importance of keeping unused rooms alive with intention 47:00 – Creating multifunctional rooms that support family and life transitions 50:00 – How colors, textures, and the five elements (fire, water, earth, wood, metal) balance a space 53:00 – Triple-duty design: objects that bring multiple elements into balance 55:00 – Live plants vs. fake plants—what really matters energetically 56:30 – Preserved flowers, sentimental items, and when joy overrides rules 57:00 – Alejandra’s current projects, travel plans, and future online courses Alejandra's Links 📸 Alejandra G. Brady Instagram SIS Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website – Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram

In this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen dive into the power of storytelling, resilience, and rewriting our lives with special guest Marsha Vanwynsberghe. Marsha is the founder of OUTSPOKEN, a leadership platform designed to help female entrepreneurs rise as global thought leaders through coaching, writing, speaking, and publishing. As an NLP Trainer, six-time Best-Selling Author, and Boutique Publisher, she empowers her clients to rewire limiting beliefs and build confidence. Today, Sonia and Kathleen explore how her unique blend of personal story and professional expertise helps women transform pain into purpose. Together, they unpack what it really means to share your story, the difference between wounds and scars, how emotions live in the body, and why resilience doesn’t mean going it alone. They also talk about the role of subconscious patterns in shaping our behavior, the signals cravings send us, and how practices like NLP and reframing beliefs can shift everything from self-worth to success. Listeners will come away with practical tools for emotional processing, boundary setting, and storytelling. Key takeaways include understanding how emotions last only 90 seconds unless we attach a story, why humor and reframing are powerful tools to loosen old narratives, and how to interrupt negative thought loops with curiosity and new language. You’ll also learn how NLP helps reprogram the subconscious mind so that the conscious goals you set actually stick. On a more personal note, Marsha opens up about her journey through family addiction, living with endometriosis, and how early experiences with shame shaped her emotional landscape. She shares how storytelling became her healing tool, what it took to forgive herself, and how she moved from silence to speaking boldly. Sonia and Kathleen also bring their own stories to the conversation, making this a raw, relatable, and uplifting episode you won’t want to miss. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources. Episode Highlights 00:01:00 – Marsha shares her transition from kinesiology to coaching and NLP 00:02:45 – Her experience with teen substance abuse and how it changed her family’s story 00:04:10 – The truth about resilience: why it doesn’t mean doing it alone 00:05:30 – How storytelling became a guidebook for others in similar struggles 00:07:15 – Recognizing the generational silence around addiction and shame 00:08:20 – Forgiving herself and reframing past failures 00:09:40 – Difference between telling your story “in it” vs. “on it” 00:11:10 – Wounds vs. scars: why healing requires more than time 00:13:30 – Writing a book while still in the story and how to cope 00:15:10 – Using humor to loosen the subconscious grip of painful stories 00:17:20 – How emotions live in the body and why they last only 90 seconds 00:20:10 – Identifying trigger emotions and patterns 00:23:15 – How unprocessed emotions manifest as physical illness 00:25:30 – Shame, trauma, and how blocked emotions limit joy 00:28:15 – The difference between feeding and feeling emotions 00:29:40 – What happens when people in sobriety stop numbing emotions 00:33:00 – Curiosity as a tool to manage cravings and triggers 00:36:20 – What NLP is and how it rewires subconscious beliefs 00:40:00 – The role of language in reinforcing or breaking down beliefs 00:57:00 – Visualization, manifestation, and acting “as if” Marsha’s Links 🔗 Marsha’s Website 📸 Marsha on Instagram SIS Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram

Sex after 50 doesn’t have to mean slowing down — it can mean leveling up. On this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen sit down with Karen Bigman, a Certified Sex Educator and Sex & Dating Coach who hosts Taboo to Truth: Life & Sex After 50. Karen isn’t afraid to talk about what really goes on in the bedroom. With humor and zero shame, she helps women in midlife ditch outdated scripts, embrace their desires, and create hotter, more connected relationships — no matter their age. They talk about all the things we wish someone had told us sooner: what changes during menopause, how to redefine intimacy, what dating looks like after divorce, and why pleasure and connection don’t come with an expiration date. Sonia asks Karen the tough (and often taboo) questions: How do you rebuild sexual confidence after a breakup? What role do hormones play in libido? How do you navigate kinks, red flags, and sober dating in midlife? They'll give real-world insights on topics like hormone replacement therapy, the role of testosterone in women’s sexual health, how to reset after a painful sexual experience, and the importance of communication when it comes to intimacy. Karen also shares practical advice on using lube, understanding your body, exploring non-sexual intimacy, and setting healthy expectations in relationships and dating. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks and resources. Time-Stamped Highlights [00:01:00] Karen’s journey from divorce coach to launching Taboo to Truth [00:02:30] The book club moment that sparked her mission to break sexual taboos [00:03:20] Why an old flame’s comment about “women your age” lit a fire under her [00:04:00] Struggling with orgasm and the surprising role of testosterone [00:05:00] The doctor’s appointment — and the vibrator — that changed her life [00:06:00] Finding inclusivity and growth in the Sexual Health Alliance community [00:07:20] How a lingerie photo shoot helped her feel more comfortable in her body [00:08:30] The importance of rejecting the outdated “I’m done with sex” script [00:09:40] Hormone replacement therapy — benefits and misconceptions [00:11:00] Body acceptance, aging, and wearing bikinis anyway [00:12:30] Non-sexual intimacy and rebuilding after divorce [00:14:00] What menopause really does to your vulva and clitoris [00:15:30] The realities of dating in your 40s, 50s, and 60s [00:17:30] Red flags to watch for when reentering the dating scene [00:18:20] Dating sober vs. dating with “beer goggles” [00:20:00] How to talk about STIs, sobriety, and other “taboo” disclosures [00:23:00] Why communication about sex and money is non-negotiable [00:26:00] Decoding kink, fantasies, and consent in midlife dating [00:32:00] Resetting after painful or disappointing sexual experiences [00:36:00] How to stop falling into “duty sex” patterns [00:41:00] Why sexual incompatibility might mean relationship incompatibility [00:42:00] Karen’s next taboo to explore: sex parties Karen’s Links Instagram: @taboototruth YouTube: @taboototruthpodcast Karen Bigman on LinkedIn SIS Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram  

In this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen are joined by Jessica Miller, clinical therapist and host of Mind Your Boundaries on YouTube. Jessica is a passionate boundary enthusiast who helps peacekeepers and people-pleasers set and maintain healthy boundaries with challenging family members. Together, they dive into the intersection of boundaries, emotional maturity, and sobriety—exploring how clear limits can protect recovery and build healthier relationships. Jessica, Sonia, and Kathleen explore questions like: How do you know when a relationship is draining and could threaten your sobriety? What’s the difference between a healthy boundary and punishment? When is guilt helpful, and when is it just old conditioning? They talk about estrangement, reconciliation, and why emotional maturity matters when setting boundaries with parents, partners, and friends. By the end of this episode, you’ll have practical tools to: Spot when resentment is building and use boundaries to keep relationships strong Tell the difference between a request and a true boundary (and why that difference matters) Recognize emotional immaturity—both in others and in yourself Reframe guilt so it stops running the show Use kind but firm language to hold your boundaries without turning it into a fight Sonia and Kathleen share real-life examples of what it looks like to set boundaries with family during early sobriety, including tough moments around holidays and parenting decisions. Jessica opens up about her own two-year estrangement with her in-laws, how they reconciled, and the peace that comes from replacing resentment with clarity. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks and resources. Episode Highlights [00:01:00] Why Jessica started Mind Your Boundaries and the gap she saw during the pandemic [00:03:00] Her personal journey from “too nice” peacekeeper to boundary-setting advocate [00:04:00] The painful estrangement with her in-laws that became a turning point [00:05:00] Reconciling after two years and doing it intentionally, step by step [00:07:00] Sonia and Kathleen share a family birthday story that triggered years of no-contact [00:09:00] Direct vs subtle boundaries—why sometimes you can just act instead of announce [00:10:00] Examples of modern parenting boundaries, like holding a baby to prevent unwanted kisses [00:12:00] Why someone else’s reaction to your boundary is about their maturity level [00:13:00] Healthy vs punitive boundaries and how they protect relationships [00:14:00] Sonia on how getting sober exposed just how few boundaries she had [00:15:00] Kathleen’s “24-hour rule” with her mom and how the body signals a limit [00:17:00] Early sobriety: why you can simply decline invitations without a big explanation [00:18:00] The difference between avoidance and capacity-based boundaries [00:19:00] Temporary breaks vs permanent cutoffs—and how to heal without an apology [00:22:00] Preparing mentally and emotionally before you set or enforce a boundary [00:24:00] Parenting examples: turning requests into real boundaries with action steps [00:26:00] The “sandwich” script formula: attachment → limit → benefit [00:27:00] Long-term benefit: resentment melts away and relationships feel lighter [00:28:00] Healthy guilt vs conditioned guilt—and why picking guilt prevents resentment [00:31:00] Hallmarks of emotional immaturity: deflection, lack of accountability, me-centered reactions [00:34:00] Self-check: spotting moments when we might be emotionally immature [00:38:00] Exercises for growing emotional maturity: journaling, voice notes, nervous system regulation [00:39:00] Jessica’s printable resource: 13 common sobriety boundary scenarios with scripts Jessica’s Links 🎥 MYB YouTube 🧰 Boundary Breakthrough Toolkit SIS Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram  

In this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen sit down with bestselling author, storyteller, and coach Kristen McGuiness. Kristen is the author of 51/50: The Magical Adventures of a Single Life, her memoir about 51 dates in 50 weeks as a sober thirty-something navigating heartbreak, healing, and reinvention in Los Angeles. Today, she’s the CEO of Rise Literary and writes for outlets like The New York Times, Rolling Stone, and Marie Claire.  The conversation explores how Kristen created fun in early sobriety, what it took to spot red flags in dating, and how recovery can reshape your ideas of community, love, and marriage. She reflects on her wild twenties, the moment she decided enough was enough, and the role that therapy and 12-step programs played in helping her get sober for good. Kristen shares powerful insights about creating a social life without alcohol, redefining intimacy, and staying grounded through parenting, marriage, and running a seven-figure business. She opens up about what sobriety looks like for her today, how she maintains a spiritual practice, and why community remains at the heart of her recovery. Sonia and Kathleen also share their own dating stories and thoughts on marriage, space, and independence, making this a raw, real, and relatable episode for anyone rethinking what love and partnership look like in sobriety. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks and resources. Time-Stamped Highlights [00:01:00] Kristen introduces herself and shares her messy twenties before getting sober [00:03:00] Stories of nightlife, risky behavior, and the moment she realized things had to change [00:06:00] How therapy and 12-step programs became her entry point into sobriety [00:09:00] Family intervention: the moment her uncles offered her a lifeline [00:10:00] Kristen reflects on her fear of losing fun when she first got sober [00:11:00] Building a foundation of fun in sobriety—clubbing sober and creating costumes [00:13:00] Community as the secret weapon for staying sober and rewiring habits [00:15:00] Loving life sober—how recovery became about joy, not just abstinence [00:16:00] The origin story of 51/50 and how dating became a creative project [00:18:00] Combining therapy, shamanic healing, and deep self-work while dating [00:20:00] Redefining what she wanted in relationships and how her uncles modeled healthy masculinity [00:23:00] Growing up emotionally in recovery and feeling “ten years behind” [00:25:00] Realization that being single was the real adventure—not just a bridge to marriage [00:28:00] Reinventing marriage rules: two homes, more freedom, and honest conversations [00:30:00] Kristen’s perspective on ethical non-monogamy, open relationships, and independence [00:31:00] The role of sex in dating—when it’s meaningful and when it’s just fun [00:34:00] How intimacy has shifted in a long-term marriage and parenting partnership [00:38:00] Raising kids in sobriety and passing on values of service and generosity [00:43:00] Sobriety today—spiritual practices, community, and why meetings aren’t her mainstay [00:46:00] The importance of honesty, accountability, and spiritual tools in long-term recovery Kristen's Links Rise Literary website   SIS Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram  

This episode of Sisters in Sobriety dives into sober sex, desire, and rebuilding intimacy without substances with guest Taylor McConnachie - Registered Psychotherapist, AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, and Certified Sexologist, founder of Embodied Sexual Wellness & Psychotherapy in Simcoe, Ontario. Taylor specializes in holistic sex therapy that blends science, somatics, and the sacred to help people heal shame, navigate desire discrepancies, and cultivate empowered sexuality. The answer questions that many sober (and sober-curious) listeners ask: What actually changes about desire and arousal in sobriety? How do somatic practices, mindful masturbation, and body scans help you get out of your head and into your body? What if there’s a desire discrepancy in a long-term relationship—or you’re dating for the first time sober and can’t tell whether you’re attracted? And how do we redefine intimacy when performance anxiety, shame, or old narratives show up? They'll talk about clear, trauma-informed steps to rebuild sexual wellbeing: using body scans to notice sensation without judgment; practicing mindful masturbation to shift from performance to presence; understanding spontaneous vs. responsive desire (and why sobriety often tilts toward responsive); approaching erectile concerns and arousal blocks through reconnection rather than quick fixes; and reframing “frequency goals” to reduce pressure and increase genuine sexual satisfaction. Expect grounded strategies that integrate attachment, somatics, and practical communication skills. Taylor also shares personal and clinical stories—from her own journey with pelvic pain and endometriosis in a rural community with few resources to real-world examples of couples rediscovering vulnerability as the engine of intimacy. Sonia opens up about her “sober sexual debut,” fumbling, and learning to feel desire without the shortcut of alcohol. They'll unpack the grief for what sex used to feel like and the hope of what it can become with curiosity and compassion. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks and resources. 00:00:43 — Why sex therapy needs to be its own specialty (and why many therapists aren’t trained to talk about sex) 00:03:10 — Taylor’s path: pelvic pain, endometriosis, and building the practice she needed but couldn’t find 00:05:02 — When a couples therapist refers to a sex therapist (scope, overlap, and teamwork) 00:07:12 — Certification matters: what AASECT tells you about training and safety 00:09:18 — Only ~14 AASECT-certified sex therapists in Canada—why that scarcity matters for care access 00:10:20 — From CBT to somatics: helping clients get out of their heads and into their bodies 00:12:05 — “Science meets the sacred”: honoring evidence while rejecting rigid pathologizing 00:14:52 — Movement as medicine: reconnecting with arousal and erection through embodied practice 00:16:48 — Pleasure after shame: the first time a client truly feels what their body can do 00:18:07 — Sober sex 101: noticing more (and why that can feel overwhelming and beautiful) 00:20:02 — Mindful masturbation as foundational homework for sober intimacy 00:22:31 — Presence over performance: rewiring dopamine loops without substances 00:23:14 — Performance anxiety myths: why sobriety can improve erectile function 00:26:12 — Spontaneous vs. responsive desire—and why sobriety often shifts the balance 00:29:05 — Grieving the old high: processing disappointment when sober sex feels different 00:31:22 — Normalize the fumble: reducing shame to unlock curiosity and desire 00:34:18 — Emotional intimacy as the gateway to sexual intimacy (and how to build it) 00:37:05 — Practicing vulnerability in bite-size reps to increase safety and trust 00:40:02 — Desire discrepancy is common: moving from urgency to understanding 00:45:02 — Taking sex off the pedestal: experiments that reveal what’s really holding a relationship together 00:46:18 — First step if you feel disconnected: body scans, zero judgment, gentle repetition Taylor's Links 📸 Instagram: @embodiedsexualwellness 🌐 Website: embodiedsexualwellness.com SIS Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram

In this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen dig into what it really takes to move from white-knuckling it to building a life rooted in calm, purpose, and—yes—joy. They’re joined by Cheryl Pasieka, author of Climbing the Stairs: My Journey from Addiction to Pure Joy, who shares how rehab, mindfulness, and a fierce commitment to self-care helped her stop hiding behind alcohol and start living on her own terms. Cheryl brings hard-won wisdom and practical tools for women in recovery. Across the conversation, they explore the fears that surface in early sobriety (What if I fail? What will people think?), how to set boundaries with negative energy, and what it means to choose sustainable joy over short-term relief. They touch on midlife purpose, rebuilding self-esteem, creating accountability, and why sharing your story can become someone else’s survival guide. Expect talk of relapse risk, root causes, nervous-system regulation, and using community, routine, and self-inquiry as anchors. Listeners will learn about reflective journaling (and the game-changer of rereading old entries), building a sobriety plan you revisit every six months, using mindfulness, yoga, and meditation to regulate stress, and creating accountability check-ins with trusted friends. Cheryl explains how to identify triggers, let go of resentments, and replace people-pleasing with “put your own oxygen mask on first.” You’ll also hear a refreshing definition of joy—a daily practice of noticing, gratitude, and positive reframing—that helps prevent drift into rumination or “I’ll just have one” thinking. Cheryl opens up about losing her mother, the spiral that followed, and the decision to go to rehab on Vancouver Island—phone surrendered, excuses stripped away. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our substack for extra tips, tricks and resources. 00:00 – Toronto roots, quick hellos, and Cheryl’s book intro, Climbing the Stairs 02:05 – “I wanted sustainable joy”—why grief and stress made moderation impossible 03:10 – Vancouver Island rehab: no phone, no running, just the work 04:12 – The first two years: fear of failure, meetings, yoga, and perseverance 05:06 – “What if I fail publicly?”—accountability and shame in early sobriety 06:02 – Why “just cut back” advice from some doctors misses the disease entirely 07:20 – Oxygen mask first: releasing people-pleasing and caring less what others think 08:05 – The quote that sparked the memoir and a surprising push from a psychic 09:18 – From private journaling to “maybe this can help one person” publishing mindset 10:45 – Telling family and friends—acceptance, boundaries, and letting some people drift 12:02 – Owning the past: divorces, resentments, and the freedom of self-acceptance 15:04 – Root causes: self-esteem, secrets, and climbing into the hole when alone 16:10 – Defining joy: reframing the day, gratitude, and the Tim Hortons “rain vs spring” story 18:02 – Calm as part of joy: taking things as they come instead of spiraling 19:06 – Protecting energy: stepping back from chronic negativity without guilt 21:02 – The morning stack: journal, meditation, movement, and a girlfriends’ daily check-in 22:40 – Weekly accountability now, occasional counseling as needed—right-sizing support 23:36 – “Planting my own garden”: self-care as not waiting for permission (or flowers) 24:12 – Midlife meaning: six-month reviews, giving back, quilting for folks in need 27:02 – The power of rereading journals: past you showing present you the way through Cheryl's Links www.journeytopurejoy.ca SIS Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations

Sonia and her guest, Dr. Jyothi Rao, are diving into the kind of whole-body wellness that actually sticks. Dr. Rao is the Medical Director of Shakthi Health and Wellness Center in Maryland, blending science and compassion to help people get to the root of what’s going on in their bodies. She has over 25 years of experience helping patients turn their health around—plus she’s the author of Body on Fire and Body on Fire Cookbook. They’re talking about the big picture: why your energy might still be low even after ditching alcohol, how stress and sleep are secretly running the show, and what small daily shifts can make the biggest difference. Expect an easy-to-follow chat about inflammation, gut health, circadian rhythm, and what’s really going on with midlife hormones. Dr. Rao breaks down what actually works when it comes to lowering inflammation, balancing blood sugar, and building the kind of energy you can count on. You’ll learn how light exposure affects your sleep, why protein timing matters, and how things like strength training, hydration, and even acupuncture can help your body feel like yours again. This isn’t about overhauling your whole life—it’s about finding simple, doable steps that build on each other. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks and resources. Episode Highlights (time-stamped) 00:00 — Why integrative medicine matters in sobriety 02:18 — Dr. Rao’s journey from conventional to functional medicine 05:12 — What “root cause” care actually means 07:45 — The inflammation–fatigue connection after alcohol 10:03 — Balancing blood sugar without overcomplicating meals 12:26 — Mitochondria and how to get your energy back 14:58 — Light, timing, and your circadian rhythm 17:40 — How to set yourself up for better sleep 20:22 — The gut–brain link and how it impacts cravings 23:05 — Staying hydrated without overdoing water 25:41 — Navigating perimenopause symptoms with lifestyle tweaks 28:09 — How stress affects your body (and how to calm it) 30:52 — When acupuncture can help 33:17 — Why strength training is a game changer in midlife 36:01 — Functional lab tests: worth it or not? 38:34 — What “liver detox” really means 41:10 — A real-life patient success story 44:02 — Habit stacking to make changes stick 47:19 — Building your own healthcare dream team 50:11 — Using wellness habits to help prevent relapse 53:28 — Quick recap: small steps, big wins Dr. Rao Links https://www.sarahkleinerwellness.com/all-free-resources https://mycircadianapp.com/ SIS Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations

If you’ve ever swallowed your anger to keep the peace, lost yourself in someone else’s needs, or swapped drinking for late-night snack binges, this episode is for you. On this week’s Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia is joined by Michelle Farris—psychotherapist, codependency expert, and anger management specialist—to talk about the deeper emotional work that comes with recovery. Michelle is known for her relatable approach and tools that help people stop people-pleasing, speak up for themselves, and finally build relationships that feel safe and real. What happens when we suppress anger in sobriety? How do we even recognize it if we were never taught what healthy anger looks like? Can we be codependent on someone who isn’t codependent on us? In this episode, Sonia and Michelle unpack what anger can teach us about ourselves, how codependency often hides behind “being nice,” and why food addiction recovery is often the next frontier in sobriety. Michelle shares practical strategies for identifying emotional triggers, creating healthy boundaries, and noticing the early signs of resentment before it explodes. You'll learn how to reframe your inner dialogue and develop self-talk that actually helps regulate intense emotions. Michelle also opens up about her own story—getting sober from food addiction at 20, what it was like dating someone in active addiction while working her own program, and the unexpected friendship breakup that made her realize she was still making other people her higher power, and how the desire to be loved can sometimes override our own sense of safety. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources. Episode Highlights (Timestamps) 00:00 – Meet Michelle Farris, psychotherapist and codependency expert 01:45 – Why she started teaching anger management (and how it cracked her open) 03:15 – What healthy anger actually looks like—and why it’s not yelling 04:40 – Stuffing your feelings vs. naming your hurt 06:00 – Why journaling is the safest place to let your rage out 07:30 – “Anger is rocket fuel”—how to recognize the heat before it explodes 08:45 – The connection between negative self-talk and emotional regulation 10:00 – What resentment really is (and why it’s sneaky) 11:20 – How suppressing anger can sabotage recovery 12:30 – Can you be angry and make amends? What recovery programs miss 14:15 – When anger turns inward—it often looks like guilt or shame 15:00 – Using mindfulness to stay present with your emotions 16:40 – Michelle’s story of getting sober through OA at age 20 18:00 – How food was her comfort and first addiction 19:30 – The sugar trap: what often happens in early sobriety 21:00 – Physical hunger vs. emotional hunger—how to tell the difference 22:15 – Why surrender, not control, is the key to food addiction recovery 23:30 – Trigger foods, writing a food history, and the power of structure 25:00 – Is it okay to wait before addressing food issues in recovery? 26:45 – Codependency 101: what it is, how it shows up, and why it’s a cycle 28:00 – Can you be codependent with a friend? (Michelle’s raw story says yes) 29:30 – Boundaries that work: why “I” statements are your best friend 31:00 – The people-pleasing trap: when kindness costs you your peace 32:15 – Flexible or codependent? The litmus test 34:00 – How to stop saying “yes” when your gut says “no” 35:30 – Michelle’s favorite recovery tools for emotional resilience 36:45 – The power of in-person meetings, especially post-COVID 38:00 – One last reminder: you’re allowed to take up space, feel your anger, and still be sober. Michelle Farris Links 🌐 Website: counselingrecovery.com 📺 YouTube: @MichelleFarrismft 📸 Instagram: @counseling_recovery SIS Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations

Ever feel like you're running on fumes, forgetting everything, and wondering if everyone else got the life manual you missed? In this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen sit down with Christina Crowe, a Registered Psychotherapist and founder of Dig a Little Deeper, to unpack how ADHD—especially when undiagnosed—can shape our mental health, relationships, and recovery. Christina brings her clinical expertise and lived experience with ADHD to this conversation. Together, they explore questions like: Could undiagnosed ADHD be fueling your anxiety or substance use? Why is it so commonly missed in women? They also talk about how impulsivity, self-medicating, and the pressure to hold it all together affect women differently—and how to spot the signs that something deeper might be going on. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of how ADHD can show up in everyday life, why it often gets mistaken for depression or anxiety, and what tools actually work. Christina gets personal, talking about her own late-in-life diagnosis, how her son’s journey opened the door to her own, and what it’s like to finally have words (and support) for what never quite made sense before. This is Sisters in Sobriety—the support system helping women change their relationship with alcohol and rediscover themselves in the process. For more resources, journal prompts, and mocktail magic, check out our Substack. Episode Highlights [00:01:00] Christina’s career pivot: from biotech to therapy [00:03:30] How her son’s ADHD diagnosis helped her see her own [00:05:10] The “invisible” nature of ADHD symptoms [00:06:45] Why so many people with ADHD turn to substances like cocaine, cannabis, or food [00:08:30] What makes ADHD-related substance use different [00:09:50] Why it’s not that hard to diagnose ADHD—if you know what you’re looking for [00:11:30] How substance use can mask ADHD (and delay treatment) [00:12:50] Christina breaks down the fear of taking stimulants in recovery [00:14:15] The difference between addiction and dependence (and why it matters) [00:16:00] The potato chip aisle: a metaphor for cravings and impulse control [00:17:45] Real talk about impulsivity and Amazon carts [00:20:30] Why women often get missed—or misdiagnosed—for years [00:23:00] SSRIs, dopamine, and feeling “stuck” [00:25:15] Hormones and ADHD: how estrogen impacts symptoms [00:27:10] Tips for navigating the health system when you have executive dysfunction [00:30:30] How to talk to your doctor about ADHD (and what might be getting lost in translation) [00:32:15] The three-legged stool: meds, therapy, and executive function support [00:34:25] How to find a therapist who truly gets it [00:36:00] The post-diagnosis “reckoning” (aka rethinking your entire life) [00:38:00] Mindfulness for ADHD brains—yes, it can actually work (with the right approach) Christina's Links 💡 Christina Crowe – Dig A Little Deeper, Psychotherapy & Counselling SIS Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations

This week on Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen delve into the intersection of intimacy, sexuality, and recovery. They’re joined by the incredible Carlyle Jansen—a sex educator, registered psychotherapist, and founder of Good For Her, Toronto’s groundbreaking sexuality shop and workshop space. Carlyle is also the author of Sex Yourself and Anal Sex Basics, and she brings over two decades of experience helping individuals and couples reclaim pleasure, navigate intimacy, and communicate more effectively. Today, she helps us better understand how our sexual selves evolve in recovery, and how we can reconnect with our bodies and desires—without shame. Together, we'll explore questions many of us have: What happens to libido after quitting substances? How do we navigate physical connection when sober sex feels so unfamiliar? What do terms like “responsive desire” actually mean, and why do they matter in recovery? This conversation helps deconstruct cultural shame, normalize sexual differences, and guide the path back to pleasurable living. Carlyle offers practical techniques like mindfulness, post-intimacy debriefs, and body exploration exercises. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources. Episode Highlights [00:01:00] Meet Carlisle Jansen: therapist, author, and founder of Good For Her [00:03:00] Carlisle shares her first experiences with sex, shame, and trying to orgasm [00:04:30] How a bridal shower kickstarted her career in sex education [00:06:30] Why she opened a retail shop alongside her workshops [00:08:00] The impact of growing up in a sex-silent household [00:10:00] How family history and shame shaped her relationship with sexuality [00:12:00] From workshops to therapy: how her work evolved [00:15:00] The most common issue in her practice: mismatched libidos [00:16:30] What changes sexually during addiction recovery [00:18:00] What is sexual anorexia? And how is it different from sexual numbness? [00:20:00] Trauma’s impact on sexual function and emotional availability [00:21:30] Internal Family Systems (IFS) and the parts that show up during sex [00:23:00] Why partners need to “start over” after sobriety [00:25:30] How to rebuild trust and emotional safety during physical intimacy [00:27:30] Navigating unpleasant emotions and sexual discomfort [00:29:30] How to rethink consent and boundaries post-recovery [00:31:30] Why kissing should not be a gateway to sex—and how to communicate about it [00:34:00] Debriefing after intimacy: how to reflect and stay connected [00:36:00] How to approach sober dating with clarity and boundaries [00:40:00] The role of masturbation in recovery and reconnection [00:44:00] Sex addiction, love addiction, and how to tell if it’s compulsive or just shame [00:47:00] Why we seek validation through relationships—and how to unlearn it [00:49:00] Tips to maintain long-term sexual connection with a partner [00:52:00] Spontaneous vs. responsive desire—and how to honor your sexual blueprint [00:55:00] Pressure kills arousal: why expectation ruins the moment [01:01:00] Expanding what sex means: intimacy without intercourse [01:03:00] Closing thoughts and how to keep showing up for your evolving self Carlyle's Links Links: carlylejansen.com TEDx talk: https://youtu.be/12d2o8e9cSU?si=3DcVS-4uiexd4cdC SIS Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations

What if the key to resilience isn’t eliminating stress—but embracing the right kind of it? This week on Sisters in Sobriety, we take on the fascinating world of cellular health, good stress, and regenerative wellness with Dr. Sharon Bergquist—a Harvard-trained physician, Yale biophysics grad, and pioneering force behind Emory’s Lifestyle Medicine and Wellness program. Dr. Bergquist is the author of the upcoming book The Stress Paradox, which challenges everything you thought you knew about aging, health, and how to build a body that thrives. In this conversation, we'll explore essential questions: What makes some stress beneficial—and how can we harness it without burning out? Why does modern comfort leave us more fragile, and how does plant-powered eating reshape the trajectory of chronic disease? They also explore what lifestyle medicine actually is, and how behavior change works from the inside out—at the cellular level. You'll come away with actionable insight into how to reframe stress, build long-term resilience, and slow aging with everyday tools like circadian fasting, thermal therapy, interval training, and plant-based nutrition. Dr. Bergquist explains the science behind dopamine recovery in sobriety, the myth of needing to do it all at once, and why stacking "good stress" needs to be a gentle. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks and resources. Episode Highlights 00:01 – Why Dr. Bergquist fell in love with the human body 03:20 – How seeing long-term patient outcomes changed her approach 05:15 – Why standard medical care misses the root cause of disease 07:10 – The five “good stressors” that help your cells regenerate 09:50 – The difference between toxic stress and beneficial stress 12:30 – Why numbing stress with alcohol creates a dopamine deficit 14:40 – How good stress like cold exposure gives you dopamine without burnout 17:20 – Over-optimizing for comfort—and how that backfires 19:00 – Pick your discomfort: cold, heat, exercise, or emotional growth 21:15 – What stress actually does to your brain and cells 24:45 – What we’ve lost in the modern world (hint: it’s not just screen time) 26:30 – Why we must reintroduce discomfort strategically 28:00 – The link between resilience and meaning 30:30 – Can you stack stress? Not in early sobriety 33:20 – Why sobriety itself is already a stressor—and that’s OK 35:10 – When and how to add other good habits without overwhelming yourself 37:50 – The science behind a plant-powered diet 40:15 – Why it's not “plants vs meat”—and the real stats on fiber and phytochemicals 43:00 – How to start eating plant-forward without going broke or gourmet 45:10 – The secret sauce (literally) that makes veggies taste good 48:05 – Debunking the protein panic: what research really says 52:00 – Why labels like “vegan” or “carnivore” miss the point 54:30 – The real takeaway: 1 in 10 Americans get enough fruits and veggies 56:00 – What Dr. Bergquist is building at Emory—and her vision for health systems 59:00 – Making lifestyle medicine mainstream and accessible Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations

We're diving into part two of my sober dating diary—a real-life story that involves a cute date, an unexpected trip to a cannabis shop, and a bath bomb that turned into a major wake-up call. Dating after divorce is awkward enough. But when you're sober and your date casually suggests a relaxing soak in a "CBD" bath—you learn pretty quickly who respects your boundaries and who treats your sobriety like a buzzkill. I also share: The truth about "California sober" and why it doesn't work for me How people-pleasing and old patterns can sneak back in, even after years of sobriety Why I walked away and what it taught me about owning my sobriety, unapologetically   This story is for anyone who's ever compromised a little too much to seem “chill,” or needed a reminder that you're allowed to have boundaries—and you're allowed to walk away when someone crosses them. ✨ Your sobriety isn’t just “okay”—it’s powerful, it’s valid, and it deserves to be honored. 🔔 Like, comment, and subscribe for more stories from the sober dating trenches, plus tips, real talk, and radical honesty every week. 📬 Want more? Head to sistersinsobriety.substack.com for behind-the-scenes content, journal prompts, and community support. Highlights [00:00] First dates after divorce—applying mascara for the first time in years and meeting someone who doesn’t drink [01:10] When a park stroll turns into a casual detour to a cannabis shop (um, red flag?) [01:55] What “California sober” really means—and why it’s not part of my recovery [02:50] The power of “playing the tape forward” and how it helps me avoid old traps [04:00] He says it’s just a CBD bath bomb. I ask (repeatedly) if it has THC. He says no. [05:10] Ten minutes into the tub and I’m feeling like a human gummy bear [06:00] The bold print truth: Delta-8 THC. And a sinking feeling—literally. [06:45] Why I ignored my instincts to be the “cool girl”—and what it cost me [07:45] The moment I knew I’d never see him again (and why that mattered) [08:20] Sober dating isn’t just about tolerance—it’s about respect, celebration, and self-trust   Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations

This week on Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen turn the tables on their popular mini-series about sober dating, sex, and relationships. After hearing from past guests on what dating without alcohol looks like, the sisters are sitting down to answer the same ten questions themselves. From green flags and red flags to playlist picks and sober date ideas, they’re bringing personal reflections, and honest takes. How do you navigate dating someone who drinks when you don’t? What’s the go-to answer when someone asks why you’re not drinking? And how do you build connection without the lubrication of alcohol? Sonia and Kathleen unpack the real-life challenges and unexpected joys of dating while sober. Find out why communication and emotional regulation are the new sexy, how to set boundaries around alcohol in relationships, and how to create connection without compromising sobriety. The episode also explores cultural norms around drinking, coping strategies for first sober dates, and what "choosing each other" really means in long-term partnerships. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks and resources. Episode Highlights [00:01:10] Sonia’s power washer as a symbol of freedom post-divorce [00:02:30] Setting the scene for the mini-series wrap-up: 10 questions revisited [00:04:00] Kathleen's first sober date: a nuanced look at alcohol vs. drug sobriety [00:05:45] Dating someone who drinks—how Kathleen navigated early discomfort [00:07:15] Caitlin’s story: being 90 days sober and her date ordering her favorite drink [00:08:45] NA beer and whether it fits into Sonia’s sober lifestyle [00:09:30] Food and body issues on early dates—what Ally Shapiro shared [00:10:25] What do you say when someone asks why you don’t drink? [00:11:15] The challenge of drinking cultures within a partner’s family [00:12:45] Green flags: emotional regulation, curiosity, and thoughtful check-ins [00:15:00] Red flags: love addiction, criticism, and white lies [00:17:50] Favorite sober date ideas: hiking, kayaking, concerts, and coffee [00:19:30] Advice for your first sober date: have a plan, tell someone, and stay present [00:21:00] How much drinking is too much in a partner? Setting comfort levels [00:22:15] Alcohol in the house—yes, no, or it depends? [00:23:15] Who do you call after a fight or a great first date? (Hint: it’s not always your sister) [00:24:30] The breakup playlist that kept them going—hello, Florence + the Machine [00:26:15] From "dicked down in Dallas" to Taylor Swift: the love life soundtrack [00:28:00] “I used to think love was a fairytale, now I know it’s a choice.” [00:30:15] Romantic love is conditional—and why that’s actually a good thing Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations

In this episode, Sonia and Kathleen are joined by sisters Patti and Karin Clark for a conversation about breaking the cycle of intergenerational addiction and reclaiming personal identity. Patti is an award-winning author whose books blend emotional sobriety and self-reflection, and Karin is a counselor and educator with decades of experience in trauma and addiction recovery. Together, the sisters reflect on how their upbringing shaped them—and how recovery allowed them to rewrite their own stories. We talk about the roles we unconsciously play in dysfunctional families—hero, rebel, mascot—and how these survival strategies can carry into adulthood, often laying the groundwork for addiction, codependency, and emotional suppression. And we tackle some big questions: How do family dynamics influence substance use? Can breaking generational trauma actually stop the cycle? What happens to sisterhood when sobriety enters the room? Patti and Karin share personal stories of relapse and reconciliation, how their relationship as sisters evolved through recovery, and the beautiful ways their sobriety has rippled through their families. You'll hear about the grief and rage they had to walk through in order to reach forgiveness—not just for others, but for themselves. Their shared journey highlights what happens when we name the truth, do the work, and choose connection over silence. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources. Episode Highlights (Timestamps) [00:02:00] Patti shares a tribute to Karin’s steady presence after their mother’s death [00:03:45] Karin explains family roles and the origin of the “hero” label [00:05:00] Patti opens up about being the mascot and diffusing family tension with humor [00:07:45] A painful memory of being compared at the dinner table [00:08:30] Food as a first addiction and internalized shame [00:10:15] Karin outlines the family role model (hero, scapegoat, lost child, mascot) [00:11:00] Both sisters share how their roles shifted over time [00:13:30] Roundtable discussion: Which family role is most prone to addiction? [00:15:00] The hidden addiction behaviors that often go overlooked [00:17:30] Patti and Karin reflect on their first experiences with substances [00:20:00] Karin recalls when drinking shifted from fun to fear [00:22:00] Patti describes the subtle but powerful interventions that helped her quit [00:26:00] Tracing addiction and denial through both sides of the family tree [00:29:00] The myth of the “poor Patty and Karen” narrative within the family [00:30:15] How their sisterhood changed through recovery and ACOA work [00:33:30] Relapsing, boundaries, codependency, and coming back together [00:36:30] Karin and Patti explain the emotional dynamics of their old arguments [00:39:00] The cultural addiction of capitalism and constant productivity [00:41:30] When relapse happens: fear, enabling, and permission [00:44:00] “Safe drinking” lies we tell ourselves in the gray area [00:46:00] Did we break the cycle? Parenting, legacy, and sober modeling [00:49:00] Creating a new lineage of openness, healing, and choice [00:51:30] What does forgiveness really look like in recovery? [00:53:00] Patti explains the danger of skipping grief and going straight to forgiveness [00:54:30] Karin shares how compassion helped her process resentment [00:56:00] Forgiveness doesn’t always mean reconciliation [00:57:30] Closing reflections on sisterhood, healing, and sharing the tools Connect with Patti Clark Website: www.patticlark.org Substack: https://patticlarkwriter.substack.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfahpJhfHNNHUqtIjR39OdQ Connect with Karin Clark Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KarinClarkCommunications Website: www.karineclark.com Email: info@karineclark.com SIS Links 💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen 📬 Sisters In Sobriety Email 📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram 🌐 Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast 📸 Kathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations