In this episode of the Way Out Podcast, host Charlie LeVoir speaks with Barney Whiter, who shares his journey of sobriety and recovery from alcohol addiction. They discuss the cultural implications of alcohol, the importance of living in the present moment, and the process of recovery as a journey of discovery. Barney reflects on his health scares that prompted him to quit drinking and the role of disconnection in addiction. The conversation emphasizes that any motivation to seek recovery is valid and highlights the significance of sharing personal experiences to support the recovery community. In this conversation, Barney From The Escape Artist shares his journey from a high-stress corporate finance job to achieving financial independence and recovery from alcohol dependency. He discusses the impact of corporate life on health, the importance of confidence in making life changes, and the costs associated with chasing financial success. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-awareness and the courage to break free from self-imposed limitations.

Takeaways:

• Barney has been sober since August 20, 2022, counting his days of sobriety.
• Recovery is often about taking it one day at a time.
• Living in the present moment is crucial for recovery.
• Alcohol was a significant part of Barney's life for 35 years.
• Barney serves the recovery community by sharing his journey and experiences.
• Recovery is a process of discovery rather than just a return to baseline.
• Disconnection from oneself can lead to serious health issues.
• Health scares can serve as a wake-up call to change one's life.
• Any reason to seek recovery is a valid reason.
• Barney identifies as sober but does not define his entire identity around it. Barney quit his corporate job at 43 due to health issues.
• He used alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress.
• The FIRE model helped him achieve financial independence.
• Health and emotional wellness were key factors in his decision to leave corporate life.
• He emphasizes the importance of confidence in making life changes.
• Barney helps others escape their self-imposed prisons through financial coaching.
• Money can provide freedom, but confidence is essential to escape toxic situations.
• The cost of success can be detrimental to health and relationships.
• Self-awareness is crucial in recognizing when to make a change.
• Recovery can lead to unexpected opportunities and fulfillment.

Reach out to Barney Whiter | Creator of the Escape ArtistBlog | Financial Coach | Person in long Recovery:

https://theescapeartist.me/

Recovery Literature (Quit-Lit) Recommendations:

The Biology of Desire: Why Addiction Is Not a Disease byMarc Lewis PhD - https://a.co/d/iMH3jwf

Alcohol Explained by William Porter - https://a.co/d/7zXSpoM

Best piece of Recovery advice: Your ability to endureaddiction will allow you to thrive in Recovery.

Song that symbolizes Recovery to Barney:

Hold On by Wilson Phillips - https://youtu.be/uIbXvaE39wM?si=UXYlBbfUgM3EShnE

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