Sisters In Sobriety

This special Q&A episode of "Sisters in Sobriety" focuses on navigating social situations while maintaining sobriety. Sonia, answers listener questions about handling events like work happy hours and bachelorette parties without alcohol. Key advice includes mental preparation, having non-alcoholic drinks handy, setting time limits, having a support system, and practicing self-care. Sonia emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's recovery goals and celebrating personal victories in sobriety.

Links

• Sisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and community

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to an uplifting episode of "Sisters in Sobriety"! Your hosts, Sonia and Kathleen, are here to sprinkle some fun and wisdom into the discussion of sobriety and relationships. They're bringing their own brand of humor and heartfelt advice to help you navigate the world of love and friendship without alcohol. Whether you're single, dating, or in a long-term relationship, this episode is all about finding joy and connection in sober living.

Today, Sonia and Kathleen are diving into some of the big questions that come up when alcohol is no longer the third wheel in your relationships. How does becoming sober change your dating life? What happens to friendships when you're the only one not drinking? They'll tackle these questions with a mix of personal stories and listener experiences, making sure to keep the conversation light-hearted yet insightful.

Get ready to walk away with some tangible advice and a fresh perspective on sober socializing. Our hosts will share their top tips for navigating social gatherings alcohol-free, maintaining meaningful connections, and even enhancing relationships with honesty and vulnerability. It's all about embracing the positives that come with a sober lifestyle and how it can lead to deeper, more authentic relationships.

In our personal story segment, Sonia and Kathleen open up about their own journeys through sobriety and how it's impacted their romantic and platonic relationships. They'll share the laughs, the awkward moments, and the heartwarming realizations they've had along the way. It's a candid look at the ups and downs of navigating love and friendship while staying true to your sober self.

This is "Sisters in Sobriety," your friendly neighborhood podcast for keeping life fun and fulfilling in sobriety. For more stories, laughs, and tips, be sure to check out our substack.

 Highlights

• [1:19] Sonia shares her personal struggles with relationships and sobriety.

Links

• Sisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and community

• Sonia's EverBlume Website

• Kathleen’s Website *Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast*

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Get ready for a heart-to-heart on something we all think about but rarely chat about – our personal values! In this episode of "Sisters in Sobriety," your hosts Sonia and Kathleen are here to be your guides in a lively discussion. They'll help us uncover how our values can change and grow, especially through the ups and downs of sobriety. It's all about finding what truly matters to you and how it can light up your life in the most unexpected ways.

So, what's on the table today? We're diving into all things values – those little nuggets that steer our lives. Ever wondered how our values shape who we are, especially when life throws us a curveball like sobriety? How do we even figure out what our true values are, and what happens when they clash with what others expect of us? Sonia and Kathleen are ready to tackle these big questions with a mix of humor and heart.

In today's chat, you're not just listening; you're taking away some real gems to think about. We're breaking down how to spot your core values and why they're the secret sauce to making choices that really feel right. There's a little bit of soul-searching, a sprinkle of psychology, and a whole lot of real talk about how our values shift and grow, especially through the journey of recovery.

Sonia opens up about her own rollercoaster ride – from chasing what she thought she should value to discovering what truly makes her heart sing. She recounts her journey from adopting externally imposed values, such as success and financial achievement, to discovering and embracing her true values during her sobriety journey.  It's a story many of us can relate to, full of twists, turns, and those lightbulb moments that change everything.

Join Sisters in Sobriety on Substack for exclusive access to practical worksheets, insightful tips and tricks, and a supportive community

00:02:00 | Importance of listening to one's body and slowing down

Links

• Sisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and community

• Sonia's EverBlume Website

• Kathleen’s Website *Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast*

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Kathleen and Sonia discuss the importance of self-compassion in sobriety and everyday life. They explore the concept of self-compassion, its role in personal growth, and practical tips for implementing self-compassion practices. The conversation highlights the need to treat oneself with kindness, understanding, and forgiveness, and how self-compassion can lead to healthier relationships and boundaries. The episode emphasizes the power of self-compassion in overcoming setbacks and embracing one's humanity.

In today's discussion, we tackle essential questions: How do we define self-compassion in the context of recovery? What makes it different from self-indulgence or self-pity? Sonia and Kathleen explore these themes, delving into the psychology behind self-compassion and its impact on healing and growth. They discuss how self-compassion can be a transformative tool in the recovery journey, helping individuals to overcome setbacks and build resilience.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of key concepts such as the balance between self-compassion and accountability, the role of mindfulness in recognizing self-critical thoughts, and strategies for nurturing a compassionate inner voice. These insights are grounded in real-life experiences and psychological principles, providing listeners with practical and empathetic approaches to integrating self-compassion into their recovery process.

Sonia and Kathleen share their own experiences with self-compassion in their sobriety journey and the challenges and victories in practicing self-kindness.

By the end of the episode, listeners will have a richer understanding of self-compassion's role in recovery, equipped with strategies and insights to apply in their own journey toward healing and growth.

Highlights:

00:03:45 | Definition of self-compassion and its importance in sobriety

Links:

• Sisters In Sobriety | EverBlume Website

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to "Sisters in Sobriety," where hosts Sonia and Kathleen dive into the vital topic of self-care, especially in the context of sobriety. Your hosts Sonia and Kathleen explore the essential theme of self-care in sobriety. In today’s episode, they will guide you, our dear listeners, through understanding and implementing self-care practices that nurture your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

In this episode, they delve into pressing questions. They take self-care beyond the conventional ideas of relaxation. What role does self-care play in the journey of sobriety? And how can self-care practices evolve and adapt to life’s changes?

You'll learn about the critical aspects of self-care, including the importance of setting boundaries, the challenge of finding joy in activities outside of alcohol, and the significance of community and support in maintaining sobriety.

Get ready for a personal story segment, where Sonia and Kathleen share their own experiences with self-care. They discuss how their self-care practices have evolved over the years, especially in relation to their sobriety journey.

This is "Sisters in Sobriety," a podcast brought to you by EverBlume, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol.

• Sisters In Sobriety | EverBlume Website

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode poses critical questions: What changes, both anticipated and surprising, occur when one adopts a sober lifestyle? How does sobriety affect relationships, personal values, and daily routines? The conversation delves into these aspects, exploring how sobriety can reshape one's life, identity, and interactions with others.

You will gain insights into the complex interplay between sobriety and personal development. The episode highlights how sobriety can lead to a deeper understanding of one’s values, the importance of coping mechanisms, and the impact of sobriety on physical and mental health. These educational takeaways provide a comprehensive view of the transformative journey of sobriety.

Sonia shares her personal story of sobriety, detailing how it led to significant changes in her relationships and self-perception. This segment provides a heartfelt glimpse into the realities of navigating life's changes while maintaining sobriety, offering listeners both inspiration and relatable experiences.

This is "Sisters in Sobriety," a podcast brought to you by EverBlume, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol.

• Sisters In Sobriety | EverBlume Website

• Kathleen’s Website *Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast*

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s episode, we dive into the timely topic of “Dry January” - a month dedicated to abstaining from alcohol. Kathleen will share her inspiring journey, emphasizing how a period of abstinence from drugs was the catalyst for her sobriety, and the unique challenges that alcohol presented due to its social acceptance.

Sonia will explore the various drinking patterns and the importance of recognizing when alcohol may be more than just a casual habit. We'll unpack the importance of medical advice, seeking further abstinence, and finding the right support systems. Kathleen reminds us to do our research and reflects on her all-or-nothing approach to life's indulgences, sharing how an eight-week cleanse from substances dramatically shifted her perspective.

We will chat about the benefits that come with a break from booze: the joys of waking up clear-headed, the potential for weight loss, and the overall boost to your health and relationships. But it's not all smooth sailing, as we'll also talk about the potential for a pendulum swing back to binge drinking.

We don't just theorize. We are also putting our taste buds to the test with a couple of mocktail reviews. Will the complex flavor profile of the St. James 101 bitter aperitif spritz win the day, or will the fruity notes of the Hiyo peach mango drink with natural nootropics and adaptogens come out on top? Kathleen and I have our opinions, and we're excited to sip and share.

So, grab your favorite non-alcoholic beverage, and let's explore the ins and outs of Dry January together. Maybe you'll be inspired to join the movement or simply gain a deeper understanding of your own relationship with alcohol.

And as always, we welcome your stories and insights. Be sure to find us on social media and let's continue the conversation. Ready? Let's get into it!

0:01:48 | Explanation of dry January and its benefits

Links:

• EverBlume Website

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this uplifting episode of "Sisters in Sobriety," hosts Kathleen and Sonia bring a light-hearted touch to the serious topic of staying sober during New Year's Eve. With warmth and humor, they recount their own past holiday experiences, marked by not-so-glamorous moments of substance abuse, and compare them to their now joy-filled, sober celebrations.

Kathleen and Sonia take us through the often overwhelming social pressures and emotional challenges that come with the holiday season, yet they keep the mood buoyant by sharing their favorite alternative sober celebration ideas. Whether it's hosting a cozy get-together, enjoying a lively sober event, or simply taking in the beauty of nature, they remind us that there are countless ways to make New Year's Eve special and memorable without alcohol.

The duo emphasizes the shift in perspective that sobriety brings, turning New Year's Eve from a potential obstacle into an opportunity for gratitude and reflection. They sprinkle their conversation with encouraging and hopeful quotes, like Sonia's humorous take on relearning how to party sober and Kathleen's expressions of deep gratitude for the new life she has found in sobriety.

Listeners are invited to join in on this heartfelt yet light-hearted conversation, where laughter and wisdom go hand in hand. Kathleen and Sonia show that sobriety doesn't mean missing out on fun—it means rediscovering joy in a more meaningful and fulfilling way. Tune in for a dose of positivity and inspiration on how to turn New Year's Eve into a celebration of new beginnings and true happiness.

00:00:00 | Celebration of download milestone!
00:02:16 | Reasons why New Year's Eve is tough to stay sober
00:04:00 | Importance of having a plan for a sober New Year's Eve
00:04:43 | Ways to reframe the idea of New Year's Eve
00:07:00 | Sonia's experience of being sober on New Year's Eve
00:08:00 | Kathleen's experience of being a messy drinker on New Year's Eve
00:09:00 | Story of Kathleen's New Year's Eve where she found herself high, cold, and stranded 
00:10:00 | Reflection on the past and commitment to sobriety
00:11:00 | Conclusion and end of the transcript
00:11:48 | Risky behavior and addiction to risk-taking
00:15:21 | Shift in priorities after getting sober
00:17:15 | Drug and alcohol-free New Year's Eves
00:19:32 | New Year's Eve as a time for reset and renewal
00:20:22 | New Year's resolutions and gratitude
00:22:00 | New Year's Eve activities and possibilities
00:23:29 | New Year's Eve retreat ideas
00:25:37 | Exploring alternative plans for staying sober on New Year's
00:26:00 | Hosting a sober gathering with a friend and kids
00:27:58 | Emphasizing the freedom and possibilities of being sober
00:28:14 | Reflecting on the gratitude of being in control and sober

Hey there, lovely listeners! It's that time of the year again, and Sonia and Kathleen are here to chat about the glitter and tinsel of the holiday season, all while keeping our glasses alcohol-free. They’re sharing our own stories and tips on how to stay sober and joyful during this festive time.

The holidays can be a jolly jumble of joy and stress, right? From the aroma of mulled cider to the clinking of glasses, we're surrounded by cheerful temptations. But fear not, they’ve got some tricks up our sleeves to stay on the merry path of sobriety. They'll delve into those sneaky triggers, like the endless parties, the sometimes overwhelming family gatherings, and even those off-hand comments from Uncle Joe about why you're not having a drink.

Mindfulness is our holiday mantra. They're talking about staying present and savoring each moment, whether it's the twinkle of Christmas lights or the laughter of friends, all without that extra glass of eggnog. And let's not forget about those surprise triggers that pop up like unannounced carolers. They've both been there and will share how they learned to navigate these situations with grace and a good sense of humor.

Setting boundaries is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket. They discuss why it's okay to say no to certain events or to step away for a bit of quiet time. It's all about taking care of you.

Lastly, they chat about creating new traditions that don't center around alcohol. From festive mocktails to winter walks, there are so many ways to celebrate that keep the spirit high and the spirits low.

As a special treat they have a review of two alcohol-free bellinis - Cipriani White Peach Bellini and Mingle Blackberry Hibiscus Bellini!

Join them as they laugh, share, and sip a mocktail or two!  Let's make this holiday season one filled with warmth, connection, and sober celebrations! This is Sisters in Sobriety, a podcast brought to you by EverBlume, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. 

Highlights:

• EverBlume Website

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At the heart of every sobriety journey, there is a support community. Be it friends, family, or regular community groups… We all get by with a little help! So in this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen discuss what true support looks like in sobriety, and how to find it.

As with everything else in sobriety, support is personal; there is no one size fits all solution. So today, Kathleen and Sonia will cover key questions to help you identify your needs: can friends and family be your main support system? What should you do if they’re not helping? What’s the difference between AA and other support communities? Is it normal to feel really uncomfortable in a group setting? And perhaps most importantly: what are the signs that you have found your people?

Throughout this episode, you will hear about different types of support systems, from in-person groups, to online communities. You will learn how accountability and story-telling can help your recovery, and understand better the difference between coaching and therapy.

Last but not least, your hosts will be sharing the fourth and final chapter of their personal story of growth, family and sobriety. Previously, Sonia and Kathleen have told you about their youth, how they became sober, and supported each other through thick and thin. Now, they share how divorce and grief can still lead to a perfect moment, made of undying strength, new life trajectories, and a whole lot of family love. You will hear it at every turn: it takes a village to stay sober in a very non-sober world.

This is Sisters in Sobriety, a podcast brought to you by EverBlume, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol.

Highlights:

• What does a sobriety support system look like? (2:05)

Links:

• EverBlume Website

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.