Sober Motivation: Sharing Sobriety Stories

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Don shares his journey growing up with an alcoholic father to his own struggles with addiction and eventual sobriety. Don recounts the turning moments that led him to realize the depth of his addiction, including his near-death experiences and the kindness of strangers who helped him find his way. He discusses how sobriety opened doors to unexpected opportunities, including a role in a Netflix show and a thriving career in building hot rods. Don's story is a testament to the power of resilience, support systems, and a higher power in creating a new, fulfilled life.  Don on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donabenante/ 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:32 Don's Childhood and Early Exposure to Alcohol 02:05 Memories of Don's Father 04:19 The Impact of Don's Father's Death 06:39 Don's Struggle with Alcohol Begins 09:48 Life as an Alcoholic and Career Challenges 12:18 Hitting Rock Bottom and Seeking Help 16:00 The Turning Point: Finding Sobriety 21:52 Rebuilding Life and Embracing Sobriety 29:17 The Struggle with Sobriety 29:38 The Turning Point 30:07 The Battle with Kratom 32:19 Support Systems and Sobriety 34:08 Finding Peace in Sobriety 37:21 Embracing Sobriety as a Superpower 40:17 The Journey to Self-Acceptance 45:25 Career and Sobriety 46:21 The Netflix Opportunity 48:04 Building a New Life 01:00:15 Final Thoughts on Sobriety  

In this episode, I connect with Sam, a listener of the podcast. Sam shares his story growing up in Northern Virginia, where sports and family played significant roles, transitioning to a college life filled with heavy drinking and partying. After moving to Florida, Sam realized that alcohol prevented him from pursuing his passions and living a fulfilling life. A significant wake-up call from his boss helped Sam make the critical decision to stop drinking. Sam discusses his journey through sobriety, the importance of support systems like AA and podcasts, and how focusing on his hobbies and improving his mental health has changed his life. Sam now channels his energy into helping others and setting personal goals, celebrating one year of sobriety with a renewed sense of purpose and clarity.   Sam on IG: https://www.instagram.com/sammysharks9/   00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:40 Sam's Childhood and Upbringing 02:21 Early Experiences with Alcohol 03:40 High School Drinking Culture 09:37 College Life and Escalation of Drinking 14:00 Consequences and Realizations 17:44 Post-College Reflections 24:35 Health Issues and Denial 27:20 Seeking Help and Self-Reflection 34:19 Breaking the Cycle and Growth 35:15 The Unexpected Journey to Sobriety 35:41 Life in Tampa: Bars, Beaches, and Martial Arts 38:18 The Turning Point: Realizing the Impact of Alcohol 40:09 The Decision to Quit: Work and Personal Life Collide 42:52 The First Steps: AA and Early Sobriety 46:28 Transformations: Physical and Mental Health Improvements 48:20 Finding New Passions: Fishing and Fitness 49:07 Supporting Others: The Power of Community 01:00:45 Reflecting on the Journey: Advice and Encouragement  

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, host I welcome Logan, who shares his powerful story of sobriety from alcohol and gambling addiction at a young age. Logan talks about his early experiences with alcohol, the challenges of growing up with ADHD, and the impact of his upbringing on his addictive behaviors. He recounts his struggle with substance abuse, the consequences he faced, and his transformative journey through detox and rehab. Logan also discusses the importance of support systems, the role of faith in his recovery, and the hard choices he made to change his life. ------------- Logan's IG: https://www.instagram.com/newgenerationsobriety

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, I sit down with Andy to discuss Andy's incredible journey to sobriety. We jump into Andy's childhood, his early relationship with alcohol, his struggles, and the moments that made him decide to seek help. Andy shares his experiences with the Sober Motivation community and highlights the positive changes that have come from his sobriety. This episode offers an honest and inspiring look at the challenges and changes of living a sober life. -------- Support the Show: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation The Sober Motivation Community: https://sobermotivation.mn.co/ Andy's IG: https://www.instagram.com/aaernie/

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, the host welcomes Britt, who shares some of her struggles growing up in a household affected by addiction in South Florida. Britt talks about her relationship struggles and attempting to be the fixer of others. As life went on, Britt experienced domestic violence in her marriage, and alcohol became a way to numb and escape. With time, they both progressed until she left with her 3 kids and became homeless overnight.  Her drinking kept going as the shame and guilt compounded. On Sept 27th, 2018, a prayer was answered, and her sober journey began. This is Britt’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast. Support the Show: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Join the Sober Motivation Community: https://sobermotivation.mn.co/ Britt on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brittbrandonofficial/

In this episode, we reconnect with Will, who shares his remarkable journey from a life-threatening situation due to alcoholism to thriving in sobriety. Will recounts how he initially connected with the host through social media and outlines the depth of his struggles, including undergoing liver and kidney transplants. We discuss the importance of maintaining ongoing support to avoid the pitfalls of complacency in sobriety. Will shares how he used various practices like gratitude exercises and physical wellness to stay grounded. The episode also highlights the emotional struggles and ultimate triumphs in Will's life, capturing the transformative power of sobriety. 00:55 The Journey of Sobriety 02:07 Challenges and Relapses 03:35 Community and Support 04:39 Personal Reflections and Family 10:06 Will's Story: A Year of Growth 11:39 Overcoming Adversity 13:02 Maintaining Sobriety 19:10 Acting As If: The Power of Mindset 25:26 Emotional Breakdown and Realization 26:10 The Struggles of Alcoholism 26:42 Finding Hope and New Possibilities 27:10 Coping with Social Situations 28:04 The Importance of Support Systems 30:00 Reflecting on the Journey 30:48 The Role of Confidence and Self-Work 31:43 Building a Meaningful Life 32:16 Family and Relationships 35:04 Gratitude and New Perspectives 42:52 Paying It Forward 43:34 Conclusion and Gratitude

In this powerful episode, Brad welcomes Faye to share her journey through childhood, family dynamics, and the challenges of alcohol use. Faye opens up about growing up around parties, the impact of her parents’ separation, and how alcohol became a coping mechanism. She discusses her experiences with blackouts, social anxiety, ADHD, and the turning point that led her to sobriety. We explore the process of self-discovery, the importance of building healthy relationships, and the significance of community in recovery. Faye on IG: https://www.instagram.com/fayelouise_____/

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, host Brad welcomes Blake, who shares his journey from growing up in a small town with a drinking culture to becoming nearly one year sober. Blake discusses his initial experimentation with alcohol, the challenges of moderation, and the fork in the road moments that led him to quit drinking. He also dives into the impact of alcohol on his mental health, relationships and other areas of his life. Blake highlights the importance of a support system, replacing alcohol with healthier habits, and his aspiration to break the cycle. Contact Blake on IG here: https://www.instagram.com/blakeupmann/ 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:22 Blake's Early Life and High School Experience 00:55 The Start of Drinking 06:18 College Years and Career Path 08:21 Challenges in Law Enforcement 12:57 Struggles with Alcohol 16:46 Journey to Sobriety 33:07 Support and Reflections 33:58 Struggles and Support in Sobriety 34:57 Breaking Free from Alcohol 35:25 The Journey to Sobriety 36:10 Reflecting on the Past 37:00 The Turning Point 38:27 Embracing a New Life 42:04 The Importance of Routine and Discipline 45:45 Building a Support System 54:10 The Challenges of Moderation 58:37 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, host Brad celebrates his 38th birthday by sharing a powerful conversation with Jordan.. Despite growing up in a supportive, alcohol-free household, Jordan encountered alcohol in her late teens and faced a tumultuous journey through her twenties. She found herself struggling with alcoholism but ultimately discovered the courage to seek sobriety after experiencing a series of transformative moments, including the birth of her children and guidance from a sober coach. Jordan, now nearly two years sober, shares how sobriety has revitalized her life, strengthened her marriage, and enhanced her business ventures. Tune in to hear Jordan's inspiring story of finding peace, purpose, and personal growth through sobriety.   Support the show here: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Jordan on IG: https://www.instagram.com/iamjordanpruitt/

In this episode, I reconnect with two guests, Dave G and Les, from the Sober Motivation Community. Dave G shares his journey to becoming 2056 days sober, detailing his struggles with alcohol and its impact on his life and family. He reflects on how sharing his story has been cathartic and has helped others. Les, who has been sober since 1981, discusses his journey from being a daily blackout drinker to finding a sense of belonging in the sobriety community. He emphasizes the importance of continuous progress and learning in maintaining long-term sobriety.   00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:19 Dave G's Sobriety Journey Begins 01:47 The Struggles and Realizations 05:02 The Turning Point 06:58 Maintaining Sobriety and Reflections 11:05 Challenges and Coping Mechanisms 23:26 Community and Personal Growth 26:37 Final Thoughts and Reflections 29:21 Embracing Life's Journey 30:50 The Power of Sobriety 32:55 Les's Sobriety Journey 48:43 Finding Community and Support 55:54 Maintaining Progress and Moving Forward 01:08:13 Concluding Thoughts and Community Spirit

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, I talk with guest Steve, who shares his story of growing up surrounded by alcohol. Steve recounts his childhood in 1970s and 1980s Michigan, where drinking was a cultural norm, and how this environment shaped his early relationship with alcohol. He discusses his high school years, during which his house became a hub for parties.  Steve explains how his seemingly casual drinking habit evolved into a daily routine and a coping mechanism for marital stress and life's pressures. He details his journey through the world of craft beer, the financial and health toll it took on him, and the turning point that led him to pursue sobriety.   Link for the Sober Motivation Prints: buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation/e/443476 Steve on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craftfreepodcast/ 00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Steve 00:14 Steve's Childhood and Family Background 03:24 Teenage Years and Early Drinking Experiences 07:14 Post-High School Adventures in California 10:11 Marriage and Moving to Florida 11:31 Developing a Craft Beer Hobby 13:51 Marital Problems and Increased Drinking 17:33 Life in St. Pete and Brewing Culture 18:40 Reflections on Drinking and Community 25:34 The Decline of the Beloved Pub 27:33 Realizing the Problem 28:07 Failed Attempts at Moderation 29:56 The Physical Toll of Alcohol 33:10 A Turning Point: New Year's Resolution 34:22 The Journey to Sobriety 35:38 Reflections and Moving Forward 40:52 The Podcast: Craft Free 42:47 Concluding Thoughts    

In this episode of The Sober Motivation Podcast, Laura shares her story of growing up with lots of rules and a strong spiritual background in a small town in West Virginia. Struggling with anxiety and perfectionism throughout her childhood and high school years, Laura's life took a turn when she started drinking in college. She describes how alcohol initially seemed to provide relief and confidence but quickly led to blackout episodes and further emotional and legal troubles. Laura discusses her journey toward sobriety, and then having a relapse, to getting back at it. This is Laura’s story on the sober motivation podcast.   Join the Sober Motivation Community (30 Day Free Trial): https://sobermotivation.mn.co Laura on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/recoveringwithlaura/   00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:18 Laura's Childhood and Upbringing 02:51 High School Years and Early Struggles 05:18 College Life and First Experiences with Alcohol 09:46 The Double Life: Therapist and Addict 15:58 Grad School Challenges and Legal Troubles 20:46 Working in Addiction Treatment While Struggling 33:38 Facing the Fear of Quitting 35:10 The Cycle of Guilt and Hangovers 41:37 The Turning Point: May 2023 44:38 Navigating Early Sobriety 53:41 Relapse and Reflection 01:01:25 Rediscovering Sobriety 01:03:55 Encouragement for the Journey  

In this episode, we have Aaron Goodvin, who talks about his experiences growing up in a small town in Alberta, Canada, and how he developed a deep love for country music. Aaron shares the influence of his family's love for music and campfires. He discusses his journey with alcohol, starting from weekend drinks with his band to facing a DUI in Nashville. Aaron reveals how the threat of losing everything, including his wife and career, became a turning point for his sobriety. He emphasizes the importance of asking for help and finding support. And this is Aaron’s story on the sober motivation podcast.   Donate to support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Aaron on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aaronjgoodvin/  

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, host Brad welcomes Jane, who shares her compelling journey of growing up surrounded by alcohol, struggling to fit in, and eventually becoming dependent on alcohol herself. She recounts her early experiences with alcohol, the impact of her father's drinking, and her own struggles with binge drinking and blackouts. Jane talks about her attempts to moderate her drinking, the escalation in her twenties and thirties, and the impact on her relationships and motherhood. Despite the normalization of drinking in her circle, Jane eventually seeks help, leading her to Alcoholics Anonymous and ultimately finding sobriety with the help of Naltrexone. Now over two years sober, Jane discusses how she changed her life, started a business, and is helping others, particularly the youth, navigate their own journeys with alcohol.   ----------- Jane's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letsgetapedi/

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Cody shares his journey from growing up in New Jersey to battling severe alcoholism and addiction, drinking alcohol for the first time at 12 years old. Despite various attempts to manage his addiction, including a stint in rehab, Cody found himself repeatedly falling back into his old habits. A near-fatal accident, where he almost lost his leg, became the eye-opening moment that led him to surrender to a higher power and fully commit to sobriety. Now over a year sober, this is Cody’s story on the sober motivation podcast. Cody's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/menkster_/