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Join us on this episode of the Sober Living Stories podcast as we welcome Amy Colliton, a former childhood actor and founder of her own theater company, who celebrates 42 years of sobriety today. From her first encounter with alcohol at just 11 years old to her involvement in Alateen, Amy's journey is a true example and inspiration to listeners looking to make a change. She shares candid moments from her life, including the challenges of navigating trust issues within her family dynamic and the lifestyle of a young professional actor.

Getting sober at the young age of 21 years old, her colorful story talks about her wild lifestyle in New York City, up until sobriety took hold and changed her life.  She also touches on family alcoholism as a generational component. Our conversation is relatable, fun, and filled with insights about long-term sobriety.

Through vivid storytelling, Amy highlights the pivotal roles of various supportive figures, her heartfelt reunion with her father, and the transformative experiences that paved the way for her 42-year recovery. Her narrative is a testament to the power of community and the vital importance of complete abstinence in maintaining long-term sobriety.

As we discuss deeper, Amy opens up about the generational impact of alcoholism, the importance of addressing deep-seated family issues, and the role of altruism in her recovery. She discusses the emotional growth that comes from breaking free of codependency and secrecy, and the challenges and hopes of parenting while sober.

Amy now lives on the West Coast and enjoys sober living among friends and family.  To connect with Amy Colliton:
https://www.facebook.com/carlsbad123/
https://www.instagram.com/amyc.113/?hl=en
https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-colliton-2b421b263/

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Join us as we welcome Nick Padlo, an Iraq war veteran and accomplished business professional who openly shares his personal story from military and business success to battling addiction and depression.

Throughout this episode, Nick opens up about his darkest moments and the pivotal steps he took to reclaim his life, ultimately leading him to establish rehabilitation centers and advocate for mental health and recovery.

We discuss the story behind Nick's decision to open Sophros Recovery | Addiction Treatment Center in Jacksonville, FL, and  Sophros Recovery | Addiction Rehab Center | Tampa, FL (sophrosrecoverytampa.com) in Tampa, Florida.  He talks about a transformative trip to Cambodia that inspired a mission to address the gaps in post-residential treatment care. This discussion highlights the critical need for comprehensive support that goes beyond abstinence, addressing both addiction and underlying mental health issues to foster lasting recovery.

Nick and I discuss practical advice on identifying personal triggers and developing healthy coping mechanisms, from new hobbies to supportive relationships. Discover the strategies for managing codependency, insecure attachment, and people-pleasing tendencies in relationships, which often lead to emotional turmoil and relapse.

This episode emphasizes the significance of geographical changes breaking old patterns, the continuous journey of self-improvement, and the profound role of empathy and advocacy in the path to sustained sobriety and recovery. 

To connect with Nick Padlo:
Sophros Recovery | Addiction Treatment Center Jacksonville FL
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/sophrosrecovery/
(26) Sophros Recovery: Overview | LinkedIn
Sophros Recovery (@sophrosrecovery) • Instagram photos and videos

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Have you ever wondered how nutrition and holistic health can completely transform your life? 

Tune in to another episode of The Sober Living Stories Podcast with Jessica Stipanovic.  This week, she sits down with Lizzie Nelson, an integrative nutritionist to discuss the healing powers of food, stress management, sleep hygiene, community, and movement. 

Lizzie went from enjoying a happy and healthy childhood growing up on the East Coast to facing severe health issues in her early 20s, driven by prolonged stress and poor diet. She recounts her transformative experience after being hospitalized, revealing how she turned her life around and found her calling in helping others achieve better health through nutrition and wellness. 

Discover the critical interplay between nutrition, mental health, and overall well-being as Lizzie introduces her five pillars of wellness: nutrient-dense nutrition, stress management, sleep hygiene, daily movement, and community. Lizzie emphasizes the importance of self-sufficiency and intuition in making health decisions, challenging the reliance on continuous coaching, medications, and traditional practices.

Learn how Lizzie’s holistic approach empowers her clients and underscores the significant impact of sleep quality, environmental factors, and social connections on mental health and happiness. Don't miss this episode filled with transformative insights and the importance of authenticity and personal experience in healthcare.

To sign up for her newsletter, visit Lizzie Nelson:  Design emails people love to get. (flodesk.com)
or connect with her throughout the week: IG: Lizzie Nelson I Integrative Nutritionist I Ketamine Advocate (@lizzienelsonwellness) • Instagram photos and videos

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Can growing up in an alcoholic household shape your future for the better?

Claire George's extraordinary journey answers that question with a resounding yes. Join us on this heartfelt episode of Sober Living Stories, where Claire, a health habits coach holding two master's degrees, shares her personal story.

From her early years in rural England, influenced by a strong-willed mother and an alcoholic father, to her passion for helping others transform their lives, Claire offers a deeply personal narrative that highlights the importance of living life through your heart. 

Claire opens up about the complexities of her childhood, detailing how her father's alcoholism deeply affected her family dynamics and personal development. You'll hear how she and her siblings each found their ways to cope with the chaos, and how these early experiences steered her toward a career in health and habit coaching. This episode offers a broader look at the impacts of alcoholism, providing valuable insights for anyone struggling within a family system.

But Claire's story doesn’t end there. She also shares about falling sick with with Lyme disease and emphasizes the healing power of exploring the world, volunteering, tennis and connecting with nature, offering actionable tips for fostering holistic health.

Her story is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and practical advice on overcoming adversity. Tune in and be inspired by Claire's unwavering spirit. 

To connect with Claire George:
www.theHealthHabitsCoach.com
email:[email protected]
Facebook
Clare George (@thehealthhabitscoach) • Instagram photos and videos
LinkedIn

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At only four years old, Kyle Robinson’s life changes dramatically—a man he calls Big Bad Ben, or Triple B becomes his stepfather. Over the next decade, Kyle and his siblings live in terror daily, trying anything to escape his physical and emotional abuse. With nobody to turn to, Kyle’s urge to escape reality leads him to unhealthy relationships, destructive habits, and multiple run-ins with the law. Still in high school, Kyle is arrested, facing jail, and forced to defend himself in court—altering the course of his life.

When the odds were against him, Kyle Robinson didn't just survive; he thrived. 

Our conversation highlights how Kyle became an attorney and author who overcame a childhood of abuse and troubled youth to achieve success and inspire others. His memoir, "The Wandering Spark," highlights his hard-won accomplishments, showing that it counts not where you start but where you end up. 

Kyle's story demonstrates that every challenge holds the potential for advantage. In our open conversation, he discusses his darkest moments and the turning points that led him to success. From defending himself in court as a teenager to the influence of unseen mentors and his ultramarathon adventures, Kyle's experiences highlight the power of encouragement and second chances.

Kyle also shares how writing "The Wandering Spark" was a therapeutic process, helping him make peace with his past. Kyle Robinson's life proves that with resilience and courage, a future full of success and purpose is possible.

Check out Kyle Robinson's memoir Wandering Spark at the website: https://kylevrobinson.com/

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Have you ever realized that a seemingly harmless habit has taken over your life?

Marci Rossi's relatable sobriety story unfolds as she details her transformative journey from drinking culture to a life of joy and intention.  As I sit down with this inspiring coach, we unwrap the complexities of alcohol dependency that hides behind success and achievement. This issue resonates with many who struggle in silence.

With Marci's narrative as our backdrop, we venture into the realities of addiction and the allure of control it promises.  She opens up about the personal battle with alcohol that stayed behind closed doors of her high-functioning exterior, and how breaking free led her to find her true calling in guiding others. Our conversation explores alternative pathways to recovery, emphasizing the life-altering impact of personalized coaching over traditional rehab methods. Her insights offer hope and strategies for sober curious women who desire to transform their relationship with alcohol.

This episode is not just about overcoming alcoholism; it's a way out for those seeking a vibrant, alcohol-free lifestyle. Marci shares practical tips for embracing social situations without alcohol and the freedom that follows no longer being under the influence.  She underlines the importance of dismantling the pervasive 'mommy wine culture' and taking responsibility for life choices. 

Listen in and let Marci Rossi's sobriety story inspire your path to freedom with an alcohol-free lifestyle.

 Marci Rossi is a 4x certified success coach who helps people redefine their relationship with alcohol. Once a near-daily drinker, Marci has completely reframed her perspective on alcohol so that she no longer desires it, and now she helps others do the same. She is passionate about continually learning and offering science-backed strategies so that her clients get the best results. To learn more about Marci and how she might be able to help, visit https://www.marcirossi.com/ where you can grab a FREE guide of the 5 Things To Do BEFORE You Quit Drinking or on IG @CoachMarciRossi. 

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If you or a loved one has ever suffered from addiction or mental health challenges, this episode is one you will not want to miss. 

Meet Darren Serwas who with seven years of health and sobriety shares about his journey from the depths of addiction and bipolar disorder to a life of sobriety and faith. 

This episode is a narrative of Darren's life-changing moments, from being introduced to alcohol at a young age, to run-ins with the law and time spent in psych wards to sanity divine interventions, and a life of freedom. Darren's story, steeped in spirituality and personal growth, isn't just his own—it echoes the losses and hard wins of many who've walked the line between chaos and peace.

The road to recovery is often paved with hardships—relapse, incarceration, and mental health challenges are just a few that Darren faced head-on. As we get into his narrative, we uncover the support systems and spiritual awakenings that rekindle hope for a new life.  From the guiding influence of a former NA sponsor to a mother's unwavering tough love, these narratives showcase the transformative impact of embracing a higher power as you understand it and taking steps toward discovering your true self.

Spirituality isn't just a concept for Darren; it's the cornerstone of his newfound peace. Darren is currently living out his creative talents by writing a track that helps other addicts and alcoholics avoid temptation and find freedom.   

If you are seeking daily inspiration, subscribe for new episodes. Women can follow here: Facebook or connect with me (2) Facebook or visit https://www.jessicastipanovic.com

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 JoJo was brought up in the gang-infested neighborhoods of LA and witnessed the deadly results of drive-by shootings at a young age.  Although raised in a disciplined home, JoJo still took to the drug-filled streets and at 16 was arrested which eventually led to him being tried as an adult in the state of California.  At the age of 18, he was sentenced to 45 years to life in prison the very same day his child was born.

 As a reformed gang member, he describes to listeners the ease of drugs and crime on the streets and inside the prison itself.  He demonstrates the powerlessness of living a life outside of the morality in which he was raised and details the brutal nature of life being locked up.  He goes on to share about the unending support of his wife at a young age even when she believed he was not coming home.  

JoJo talks further about spiritual incidences and people placed strategically in his life to guide him to a place of peace amidst violence and chaos.   His words are raw yet reveal the powerful hand of God in his life that led him back to himself and to his eventual release and return to his family.     

Lean in to hear his powerful narrative about how his escape from the gang culture and a life sentence in prison led him to his life’s purpose where he became the founder and CEO of Trapped Families, an online community where he supports families who experience the hurt and struggle of losing loved ones to incarceration and who battle alcohol and drug addictions.    

Today Jose Godinez is a sought-after motivational speaker, gospel preacher, author, podcast host, and CEO.  In Jojo's talks, he shares his powerful story of transformation through grace, from being a hardcore gang member from the streets of Los Angeles leading to a condemned life sentence in prison to becoming a community leader and recognized Life Coach.  Jojo has earned many titles such as chaplain, behavior modification counselor, mentor, and gang preventionist.  Jojo leaves audiences with hope and encouragement that "one's past does not have to be their future".  

Jojo is inspirational from start to finish and will have you at the edge of your seat wanting more...

His ongoing commitment to assisting families through his initiative, Trapped Families, displays the profound impact of his journey and stands as a powerful reminder that every individual has the capacity for restoration.

 To connect with Jose Godinez:
YouTube: (3) Trapped Families - YouTube
Website: TRAPPED FAMILIES
IG: Jojo Dalia Godinez (@trappedfamilies) • Instagram photos and videos
Email: [email protected]

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After years of attending self-help groups and battling addictions, listen to how my guest Barb found healing and spirituality in 12-step recovery programs. Join us as she shares her sobriety story in this powerful episode.

From her transformative experience in Codependents Anonymous and Adult Children of Alcoholics, Barb's anecdotes and wisdom shed light on the power of self-awareness and the importance of support groups in overcoming challenges. 

Discover how spirituality played a crucial role in Barb's recovery, even without belief in God, and how it can enrich your journey. Don't miss this episode filled with inspiring stories and practical strategies for personal growth, setting boundaries, and living a purposeful life.

In the first chapter, we discuss her early days of substance abuse to her ultimate realization of her codependent behavior. Barb shares her journey from agnosticism to developing her conception of a higher power.  The impact was so profound she turned it into her life's work and founded Higher Power Coaching and Consulting, LLC.  Discover how these programs provide a unique approach to healing, offering a path to spirituality.  

In the final chapter, Jessica and Barb share the power of personal responsibility and how it plays an important role in maintaining long-term recovery.  Learn strategies for fostering self-reliance in others and setting boundaries in various aspects of life.  Listen further to discover how to find serenity in your daily life by accepting imperfections in yourself and others. 

Barb Nangle is a boundaries coach, speaker, author, Founder of Higher Power Coaching and Consulting, LLC, and host, of "Fragmented to Whole: Life Lessons from 12 Step Recovery."

FREE RESOURCE: This page on my website has a free article, handout, and link to the playlist of 30+ podcast episodes specifically about boundaries.

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Have you ever struggled with emotional eating?

Today, I have a heartfelt conversation with Jennifer Schrappe, where she talks about her experience with eating disorders and how her struggles with food addiction shaped her career in counseling others toward healing.

Jennifer uncovers the harsh edges of bullying, loneliness, and the paradox of teaching others while wrestling with her demons, as so many counselors do.  It's a conversation that defines food addiction and gives practical advice to those who desire positive change.

Together, we navigate the principles of Bright Line Eating, dissecting the complexities of addiction as a coping mechanism and the process of restoring one's emotional health. We talk about the power of holding oneself accountable, the fine line between nourishment and emotional fulfillment through food, and how maintaining progress can be a triumph in its own right.

Jennifer's journey serves as a testament to the transformative potential within us all, and our conversation is an inspiration for anyone seeking to find freedom from compulsive behavior and step into a life with purpose and connection.

Click below for your FREE Find Peace and Hope with Money mini-course   https://www.simplytakethatstep.com/phwm-mini-course

Visit her website Home (chrysalis.enterprises) or connect with Jennifer Schrappe during the week, click below: Peace and Hope with Money FB page: (5) Facebook

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