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Summer is a time we get out of the house and start socializing.  For those of us without the alcohol crutch, how do you survive?  We talk about it on this week's episode.  Having a 12 step group is helpful because you have a group of people you know.  Even if you don't belong to a fellowship, you can learn some tricks to stay sober and happy!

• Have a plan
• Leave if you have to
• Take two cars
• Bring your own drinks

We talk about how to survive socializing without booze this week.

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In this eye-opening episode we delve into the inspiring origins of Dry July, where three friends’ commitment to sobriety sparked a global movement for health and cancer support. Join us as we explore the profound benefits of pausing alcohol consumption—not just for our bodies but for our minds, wallets, and communities. From a mental health renaissance to economic elevation, discover the transformative impact a dry month can have on every facet of life. Whether you’re seeking better health, questioning your drinking habits, or simply curious about this charitable cause, this episode is your invitation to a journey of clarity, charity, and change. Tune in and find out why Dry July is more than a personal challenge—it’s a collective stride towards a healthier society.

Call to Action: Ready to raise your glass of water in solidarity? Listen now and join the Dry July movement—one day at a time.

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What is service work in recovery?  It's doing a task or a job that helps support others getting sober.  In a meeting, it can be as small as putting chairs away to making coffee.  It can be more involved like being a GSR at District, working at Area or GSO or volunteering for committees.  In the end, it's doing the job that supports others getting sober.  Steve and I are experienced with all kinds of service work and we hope you'll learn a little more about this important part of recovery and maybe even share your own experience.

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Our family of origin can be a cause of stress in recovery.  That's the case for me.  I've had to deal with an unexpected situation around my family of origin this week and I needed my higher power to help me through it.  I shared this stress in a way I hope helps you.  In this episode, we get vulnerable and discuss how the past can show up in the present and how to deal with it.  Steve helps me out in not developing new resentments and how to manage stressful situations with the family.

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In this episode, we delve into the profound yet practical philosophy of “Take the Next Right Action.” This simple mantra holds a world of meaning, especially for those on the journey of recovery. It’s about the courage to confront the challenging tasks we’d rather avoid, the selfless acts of kindness that elevate others at the expense of our own comfort, and the quiet heroism in extending a hand to those who are wrestling with their own battles.

For many, recovery is not just a path to personal healing, but a road paved with opportunities to make a difference in the lives of others. “Doing the next right thing” isn’t about grand gestures; it’s found in the everyday choices that, while they may seem small, create ripples of positive change. Whether it’s choosing honesty over convenience, service over self-indulgence, or hope over despair, these decisions shape the journey of recovery and reflect the heart of this podcast.

Join us as we explore stories of resilience and generosity, and discuss how embracing this mindset can transform not only individual lives but also weave a tapestry of communal support and understanding. Together, we’ll learn that sometimes, the hardest choices are the most rewarding, and helping someone struggling might just be the next right thing for you.

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Relapse is common in sober communities.  Can chronic relapse be disruptive to the group?  If it is, how should it be addressed?  We talk about chronic relapsers and how their presence can actually enhance the sobriety of those who continue with their recovery journey and how they should be treated with empathy.  We discuss some who relapsed for decades, only to finally find continuous sobriety.  We also discuss how to address anyone in a recovery community who is disruptive.

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With summer coming up, it's a great time to talk about the third promise.  Lots from the past give us cause to pause, but we should not regret it but learn from it.  Matt and Steve talk about the past, the harms caused and how to learn from them to make sobriety even better.

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I thought everything would be perfect once we stopped drinking?  WRONG!  Life still happens.  The difference is that you don't have to drink over it and have new tools to get you through the things that happen in life.  This week, Matt had a whole bunch of things happen and I'm sure in 6 months they will be forgotten.  But today, they stink.  

Has this happened to you?  Do you struggle with life on life's terms?  Then this show is for you!

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Join us for an insightful journey as we delve into the nuances of relapse triggers and celebrate wellness milestones! Today, we're opening up about the daunting specter of relapse triggers, sharing personal experiences, and unveiling strategies to fortify your sobriety armor.

But before we dive in, catch up on a candid health update from Matt and how embracing a CPAP machine has been a game-changer in reclaiming restful nights and newfound vitality. 

As we pivot to the heart of our discussion, brace yourself for a raw exploration of relapse fears and the resilience of sobriety. Unpack the realness of stress as a silent saboteur, its insidious allure, and the battle-tested tactics to reclaim inner peace. From yoga's blissful embrace to the transformative power of prayer, uncover an arsenal of coping mechanisms to navigate life's tumultuous waves.

Plus, delve into the pivotal role of community support, the profound impact of therapy, and the unyielding commitment to prioritize mental well-being. Reflect on the poignant moments of resistance, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of a life untethered by addiction.

Tune in for an episode brimming with vulnerability, triumph, and the unwavering resolve to embrace each day with renewed strength and purpose. Don't miss out on this empowering conversation that's as heartwarming as it is enlightening!

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You ever wonder why the old timer with 30 years of sobriety still reads the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous over and over and over again?  Didn't they have reading comprehension and could get it the first time?  We talk about it this week and discuss how we treat the Big Book of AA as a text book and something to aways learn from.  And we discuss how re-reading helps the new guy or gal. 

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📫 Get more honest conversations about sobriety delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to The Sober Friends Dispatch, our weekly newsletter where we go beyond the podcast to share real strategies for alcohol-free living. Join our community by clicking here.