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.

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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