In this episode, we have Melissa, who opens up about her upbringing in Appleton, Wisconsin and how a great childhood led to struggles with alcohol. Despite not encountering drinking in her family, Melissa recounts her early experiences with alcohol, the toxic relationships, and the eventual descent into binge drinking and drug use. Melissa shares her turning point after a series of attempts at sobriety, including several 'dry Januarys,' in February of 2024, Melissa starts to reclaim her life. Her journey from the chaos of addiction to trusting the process. This is Melissa’s story on the Sober Motivation podcast.

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00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:16 Melissa's Childhood and Family Background

01:21 High School Experiences and Early Relationships

03:22 College Life and Introduction to Alcohol

10:34 Post-College Life and Moving to D.C.

17:36 Return to Wisconsin and Weight Loss Journey

20:17 Struggles with Alcohol and Social Drinking Culture

24:51 Reflecting on Drinking Habits and Health

27:41 Dry January and the Impact of COVID-19

31:52 Reflecting on the Party Lifestyle

33:08 Questioning Drinking Habits

34:14 The Hip Injury Incident

37:37 YOLO Summer and Escalation

39:48 Christmas Chaos and Realizations

46:12 Attempting Moderation

47:52 Embracing Sobriety

56:06 Trusting the Process