Through The Glass Recovery Podcast: Recent Episodes

Through the Glass

Welcome to Through the Glass Recovery Podcast, where we believe that connection is the opposite of addiction, vulnerability is the antidote to shame, and that recovery isn’t just rewarding, but also a lot of fun. Listen as we get together with friends to shed light on the hard things, talk about the other side of addiction, and how we create a life so full there’s no space left for alcohol.

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

We're doing something a little different for this season finale.

Before we take our annual summer break, Julie and Steve sit down for an honest conversation about what's been happening behind the scenes, the lessons life has been teaching lately, and what it means to truly practice life instead of just moving through it.

In this episode, we talk about:

What "practicing life" means to us
• Major life changes, including divorce and empty nesting
• What sobriety made possible this year
• Fear, growth, and doing things before you feel ready
• Why connection matters more than almost anything else
• Healing, happiness, and the lessons we're still learning
• Public speaking, self-doubt, and personal growth
• The adventures we're looking forward to this summer
• Why we're taking a break and what's coming next

One of the biggest themes that kept showing up throughout this conversation was this:

You don't have to have life figured out to fully participate in it.

Thank you for spending another season with us. Whether you've listened to one episode or all of them, we're grateful you're here.

We'll be taking a break from releasing new episodes over the summer, but you can still connect with us through our Monday night Zoom meetings, newsletters, and social media.

Stay in touch with us:

👉 Join our free weekly Zoom support group (safe, supportive, not AA):
https://noalcoholneeded.net/meeting-faqs/

👉 Private, individual coaching:
https://createalifesofull.com/online-sober-coaching/

Why do some of us feel responsible for everyone else’s emotions?

Why can’t we relax unless everyone around us is okay first?

In this episode, we’re talking about codependency, people pleasing, emotional exhaustion, self-worth, and the hidden ways many of us lose ourselves trying to keep everyone else comfortable.

We discuss:

what codependency actually is (and what it isn’t)
why so many people mistake it for “being caring”
how these patterns develop in childhood
the connection between codependency and alcohol use
why sobriety often exposes unhealthy relationship dynamics
resentment, self-abandonment, and losing your identity
how boundaries and self-worth begin healing these patterns

If you’ve ever struggled with guilt, conflict, people pleasing, overthinking, or feeling emotionally drained all the time, this conversation will likely feel very familiar.

This episode features Julie Miller, Steve Knapp, Sean Rollinson, and Janice Dowd.

—

Resources we offer:

👉 Join our free weekly Zoom support group (safe, supportive, not AA):
https://noalcoholneeded.net/meeting-faqs/

👉 Get to know the people behind the voices of No Alcohol Needed:

https://noalcoholneeded.net/meet-the-voices/

👉 Private, individual coaching:
https://createalifesofull.com/online-sober-coaching/

Why does struggling with alcohol feel so shameful?

In this episode, we talk honestly about alcohol and shame, the stigma surrounding alcohol addiction, and why so many people stay silent far longer than they need to.

Julie, Steve, Matt, and Kristyna share personal experiences with hiding their drinking, fearing judgment, and believing they should be able to “just stop” on their own. They explore how secrecy keeps people stuck, why hearing “I’ve been there too” can be life-changing, and what actually helps people feel safe enough to ask for support.

We also talk about:

Why alcohol problems feel uniquely embarrassing
The stereotypes society still holds about addiction
The emotional exhaustion of hiding
How shame fuels more drinking
The fear of opening up about sobriety
Why visibility and honesty matter in recovery
Small ways everyday people can help reduce stigma
What a less shame-filled culture around alcohol could look like

If you’ve ever felt alone in your struggle with alcohol, this episode is a reminder that you are far from the only one.

—

Resources we offer:

👉 Join our free weekly Zoom support group (safe, supportive, not AA):
https://noalcoholneeded.net/meeting-faqs/

👉 Get to know the people behind the voices of No Alcohol Needed:

https://noalcoholneeded.net/meet-the-voices/

👉 Private, individual coaching:
https://createalifesofull.com/online-sober-coaching/

Summer can feel intimidating when you stop drinking.

BBQs, concerts, vacations, patios, camping trips, lake days, and holidays often seem completely tied to alcohol. If you’re heading into your first sober summer wondering how you’re supposed to enjoy any of it without drinking, you are not alone.

In this episode, we talk honestly about:

the fear of missing out
social anxiety in sobriety
awkward first sober events
feeling left out
discovering what you actually enjoy
finding joy without alcohol
and what makes a sober summer genuinely fulfilling

We share real stories from our own early sober summers, including the parts that were hard, the parts that surprised us, and the moments that made sobriety feel worth it.

If you’ve been afraid summer is going to feel miserable without alcohol, this conversation is for you.

sobriety #soberlife #summersobriety #alcoholfree

Resources we offer:

👉 Join our free weekly Zoom support group (safe, supportive, not AA):
https://noalcoholneeded.net/meeting-faqs/

👉 Get to know the people behind the voices of No Alcohol Needed:

https://noalcoholneeded.net/meet-the-voices/

👉 Private, individual coaching:
https://createalifesofull.com/online-sober-coaching/

Are you wondering whether you really need to quit drinking… even though your life still looks “fine” from the outside?

In this episode, we talk about high functioning drinking, gray area alcohol use, and the subtle signs that alcohol may be affecting your life more than you realize. We discuss why it’s so easy to rationalize drinking when you’re still managing responsibilities, the emotional toll alcohol takes long before rock bottom, and how to honestly reflect on whether drinking is helping or hurting your life.

We also talk about:

emotional numbness and losing connection with yourself
using alcohol to cope with anxiety, stress, or social discomfort
why people struggle to stop even when consequences seem “small”
what alcohol quietly takes away over time
how to know when it’s time to seriously look at your relationship with alcohol

If you’ve ever Googled “am I a functioning alcoholic?” this conversation is for you.

–

Resources we offer:

👉 Join our free weekly Zoom support group (safe, supportive, not AA):
https://noalcoholneeded.net/meeting-faqs/

👉 Get to know the people behind the voices of No Alcohol Needed:

https://noalcoholneeded.net/meet-the-voices/

👉 Private, individual coaching:
https://createalifesofull.com/online-sober-coaching/

In this episode, Julie, Steve, Mike, and Christen have a deeply honest conversation about what happens when you stop drinking… but still feel lost.

A lot of people expect sobriety to immediately make life feel meaningful again. But for many of us, quitting alcohol shines a light on the emptiness, anxiety, hopelessness, and identity struggles that were there underneath all along.

We talk openly about:

Why sobriety can still feel emotionally painful
The difference between not drinking and emotional recovery
Feeling purposeless and disconnected after alcohol
Why this stage can feel dangerous for people in recovery
Suicidal thoughts, shame, and asking for help
How purpose changes throughout life
Why meaning is often found in small daily actions, not one huge “calling”
Learning to know yourself honestly and build a life aligned with your values

This is one of the most vulnerable conversations we’ve had on the podcast, and if you’ve ever wondered:
“Why doesn’t life feel better yet?”
or
“How do I find purpose after quitting drinking?”
…this episode is for you.

If you’re struggling right now, please reach out to someone you trust. In the U.S. & Canada, you can also call or text 988 for immediate support.

Resources & Support

Join our weekly Zoom meeting (safe, supportive, not AA):
https://noalcoholneeded.net/meeting-faqs/

Get to know the people behind the voices of No Alcohol Needed: https://noalcoholneeded.net/meet-the-voices/

Private, individual coaching:

https://createalifesofull.com/online-sober-coaching/

Loving someone who struggles with alcohol can feel overwhelming.

You want to help. You want to fix it. You want to take the pain away.

But nothing seems to work… and somewhere along the way, you might start losing yourself in the process.

In this episode, we’re talking about what it really looks like to support a loved one with alcohol addiction - without taking on responsibility that isn’t yours.

This is an honest conversation from both sides of the experience: what helps, what doesn’t, and how to navigate the line between supporting and enabling.

In this episode, we cover:* Why trying to “fix” someone’s drinking doesn’t work * The difference between helping and enabling * How codependency can quietly take over * Why lectures, pressure, and logic often backfire * What actually helps when someone is struggling * How to set boundaries without feeling like you’re giving up * Ways to find relief when you feel consumed by someone else’s addiction

Resources mentioned: Codependent No More* by Melody Beattie * Al-Anon (support groups for friends and families of alcoholics)

Resources we offer:

Join our weekly Zoom meeting (safe, supportive, not AA):
https://noalcoholneeded.net/meeting-faqs/
Get to know the people behind the voices of No Alcohol Needed:

https://noalcoholneeded.net/meet-the-voices/

Private, individual coaching:
https://createalifesofull.com/online-sober-coaching/

Why do people go back to drinking after years without alcohol?
And more importantly… would you see it coming if it were happening to you?

In this episode, we’re talking about what actually leads to relapse after long-term sobriety. Not the obvious moments, but the harder to notice patterns that build over time.

If you’ve ever wondered:

“Could this happen to me?”
“Why does sobriety still feel hard sometimes?”
“Am I missing something?”

This conversation is for you.

We break down the early signs most people don’t recognize, what tends to slip first, and why “just not drinking” isn’t enough to make this sustainable long-term.

This isn’t about fear. It’s about awareness—and learning how to stay connected to your life so you don’t feel pulled away from it.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

Why relapse after years doesn’t come out of nowhere
The subtle signs that things are starting to drift
What often goes missing in long-term sobriety
Why life can start to feel flat again
What sustainable sobriety actually looks like

—

Resources & Support

Join our weekly Zoom meeting (safe, supportive, not AA):
https://noalcoholneeded.net/meeting-faqs/

Get to know the people behind the voices of No Alcohol Needed:

https://noalcoholneeded.net/meet-the-voices/

Listen to the full podcast archive:
https://noalcoholneeded.net/meet-the-voices/

If you’re stuck replaying things you’ve done in the past…

Feeling like you don’t deserve the life you have now…

Or wondering if you’ll ever be able to truly move forward…

This episode is for you.

Shame has a way of lingering long after the drinking stops. It shows up as self-doubt, disconnection, and the lingering belief that you’re not worthy of happiness.

In this conversation, we break down what it actually looks like to learn to forgive yourself - without pretending the past didn’t happen, and without getting stuck in it forever.

In this episode, we cover:* Why shame feels so heavy and hard to let go of * The critical difference between guilt and shame * Why keeping your past hidden makes things worse * What self-forgiveness actually looks like in real life * How to stop punishing yourself and start moving forward * Letting go of past versions of yourself * Why forgiveness doesn’t mean “it was okay”

🔗 Resources & Support👉 Join our weekly Zoom meeting (safe, supportive, not AA):
https://noalcoholneeded.net/meeting-faqs/

👉 Get to know the people behind the voices of No Alcohol Needed:

https://noalcoholneeded.net/meet-the-voices/

👉 Learn about private, 1:1 coaching:

https://createalifesofull.com/online-sober-coaching/

Is this as good as it gets?

It’s a question a lot of people ask after they stop drinking - when life looks better on paper, but doesn’t actually feel better.

Nothing feels fun after drinking.
Things that used to excite you feel flat.
And it can leave you wondering if sobriety is really worth it.

In this episode, we’re talking about why that happens - and what’s actually going on beneath the surface.

We get into the brain chemistry behind that “blah” feeling, the expectations that set people up to feel disappointed, and the deeper work that has to happen if you want to actually enjoy your life without alcohol.

This is the part of sobriety that doesn’t get talked about enough.
The part where you realize quitting drinking didn’t magically fix everything.

And it’s also the part where things can start to shift - if you know what to look for.

–

Check out all the resources we offer to support your alcohol free life:

One-on-One coaching
Free weekly support group on Zoom
180+ episode archive

Find it all here:

https://noalcoholneeded.net

You quit drinking. So why does it still feel like something’s missing?

A lot of people expect life to feel better right away after quitting alcohol. And in some ways, it does. But there’s another side of sobriety that doesn’t get talked about enough.

That feeling of not knowing who you are anymore.

In this episode, we’re talking about identity after alcohol and why so many people feel lost, disconnected, or unsure of themselves after they stop drinking.

This is a real, unfiltered roundtable conversation with Julie Miller, Steve Knapp, Barclay Mullins, and Mike Coyne. We get into what it actually feels like to rebuild your identity, why it can feel so uncomfortable, and how to start finding your way back to yourself.

We talk about:

Why sobriety creates an identity gap
The difference between who you were told to be and who you actually are
Why it’s easier to figure out who you’re not first
The fear of being seen and accepted without alcohol
How to start rebuilding your identity one step at a time

If you’ve ever thought, “I quit drinking… now what?” this episode is for you.

—

Check out all the resources we offer to support your alcohol free life:

One-on-One coaching
Free weekly support group on Zoom
180+ episode archive

Find it all here:

https://noalcoholneeded.net

Parenting teens and adult children after addiction is not something people talk about enough.

You get sober… and suddenly you're face to face with the damage, the guilt, and relationships that don’t feel the way you hoped they would.

In this episode, we’re having an honest conversation about what it looks like to parent older kids in recovery. The guilt that shows up. The fear of rejection. The question of whether you’ve already done too much damage. And one of the hardest parts… how to set boundaries when you feel like you don’t have the right to.

We also talk about what’s actually possible. How trust gets rebuilt. What helps relationships heal (and what makes it worse). And how to keep showing up when it’s messy and takes longer than you want it to.

If you’re trying to figure out how to parent teens or adult children after addiction, this episode will help you feel less alone - and give you a clearer path forward.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode* How to parent teens and adult children after addiction * How to handle guilt in sobriety without letting it run your life * Why boundaries matter (even when it’s hard) * How to rebuild trust with your child over time * What to do when your child pulls away or won’t talk to you

—

Check out all the resources we offer to support your alcohol free life -

One-on-One coaching
Free weekly support group on Zoom
180+ episode archive

Find it all here:

https://noalcoholneeded.net

Why do I feel lonely, even when I’m surrounded by people?

In this episode, we talk about the deeper kind of loneliness that comes from people pleasing, shape shifting, and trying to fit in instead of truly belonging.

We share our own experiences of losing ourselves in relationships, how sobriety changed our connections, and why loneliness can actually get louder before life starts to feel more connected.

We also explore what it takes to stop chasing approval, how relationships evolve when you start growing, and what real belonging actually feels like.

If you’ve been feeling disconnected or like you don’t quite fit anywhere, this conversation will meet you right there.

—

If you want support in your alcohol-free life, join our Monday night Zoom meeting. You can get the link at noalcoholneeded.net

Get Better At Handling Stress - Without Alcohol. A free, live virtual workshop to help you stop feeling like you’re one bad day from falling apart. Learn more here: https://createalifesofull.com/manage-stress-without-alcohol/

Why is it so hard to try the things that matter most to us?

In this episode of No Alcohol Needed, Julie Miller and Steve Knapp are joined by Sean Rollinson and Matt Shambo to talk about why so many people struggle to overcome fear of failure.

Most of the time, the fear isn’t really about failing. It’s fear of judgment, shame, or proving our worst thoughts about ourselves true.

For people in sobriety, this fear can feel even stronger. Without alcohol to numb uncomfortable emotions, we have to learn how to deal with anxiety without alcohol, face uncertainty, and take risks anyway.

In this conversation we explore:

Why fear of failure often shows up as procrastination
• The surprising link between fear of failure and fear of success
• How perfectionism keeps people stuck
• Why confidence only comes after facing fear

If you’ve ever wondered “What if I try and fail?” this episode will help you see fear differently and move forward anyway.

—

Click here to save your spot for the free workshop "Get Better At Handling Stress Without Alcohol" - https://createalifesofull.com/manage-stress-without-alcohol/

Connect with us and meet the No Alcohol Needed team:

Website: https://noalcoholneeded.net

Burnout doesn’t usually happen all at once.

Most of the time, it builds slowly until overwhelm, exhaustion, and frustration start affecting your mood, your work, and your relationships.

So how do you know if you’re dealing with normal stress or full burnout?

In this episode of No Alcohol Needed, Julie Miller and Steve Knapp are joined by Chrissy Janiga and Joshua Pair for an honest, down to earth conversation about the warning signs of burnout, how burnout is different from stress, and what actually helps when you feel like you’ve pushed yourself too far.

The group shares personal experiences with burnout, the emotional patterns that lead to it, and practical ways to recover before things completely crash.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or like you’re constantly pushing harder without relief, this conversation will help you understand what’s really going on and how to reset.

In this episode, we talk about:

The early signs of burnout most people ignore
• The difference between stress vs burnout
• Why people-pleasing and perfectionism often lead to burnout
• Emotional warning signs like irritability, exhaustion, and hopelessness
• The role of control and unrealistic expectations
• Practical ways to recover from burnout and restore balance
• Why rest and self-care are necessary for emotional health

Burnout can show up even after people stop drinking or start working on themselves. Removing alcohol often brings clarity that makes it easier to recognize when life has become unsustainable.

This episode explores how to recognize burnout early and how to respond in healthier ways before exhaustion takes over.

—

Connect with us and meet our guests

https://noalcoholneeded.net

Have you ever thought, “My life looks great… so why do I still feel empty?”

In this episode of No Alcohol Needed: the Podcast, we unpack one of the most overlooked parts of emotional wellness — emotional needs.

We talk about:
• What emotional needs actually are
• Why most of us were never taught about them
• How unmet emotional needs show up as anxiety, anger, people-pleasing, or loneliness
• Why sobriety alone doesn’t fix emotional emptiness
• And how to start identifying and meeting your needs in healthy ways

If you’re alcohol-free but still feel disconnected, restless, or unfulfilled… this conversation might explain why.

Understanding emotional needs is a game-changer for recovery, relationships, and long-term wellbeing.

👇 Resources mentioned:
– Join our Monday night Zoom meeting: https://noalcoholneeded.net/meeting-faqs/
– Connect with Mike Coyne + worksheets: https://www.curevine.com/
– Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown

If you’re new here:

At No Alcohol Needed we talk about emotional intelligence, self-worth, sobriety, and how to build a life you don’t wish you could escape from.

Learn more about the podcast and the work we do:
https://noalcoholneeded.net

Meet our guests: https://noalcoholneeded.net/meet-the-voices/

Most people don’t drink again because they miss alcohol.
They drink again because they don’t know how to deal with difficult emotions.

In this episode of No Alcohol Needed, Julie Miller, Steve Knapp, Matt Shambo, and Sean Rollinson unpack what’s really happening when emotions feel overwhelming - and why trying to escape them actually makes them even harder to deal with.

You’ll learn:

Why suppressing emotions backfires
How to identify what you’re actually feeling
What it means to “sit with” an emotion (without spiraling)
Practical tools for handling big feelings in sobriety
How emotional intelligence protects long-term sobriety

If you’ve ever thought, “I can stay sober… I just hate how it feels,” this conversation is for you.

Life without alcohol doesn’t have to feel like a fight.

—

If you’re new here:

At No Alcohol Needed (formerly Through the Glass Recovery Podcast) we talk about emotional intelligence, self-worth, sobriety, and how to build a life you don’t wish you could escape from.

Learn more about the podcast and the work we do:
https://noalcoholneeded.net

Meet our guests: https://noalcoholneeded.net/meet-the-voices/

Social media affects mental health more than most of us realize. And now that AI-generated content is everywhere, it’s becoming harder to tell what’s real, what’s performative, and what’s draining us.

In this episode of No Alcohol Needed, Julie Miller and Steve Knapp are joined by Robbie Pike and Kristyna Holler for a candid conversation about loneliness, doom scrolling, AI content, and what real connection actually looks like in an alcohol-free life.

If you’ve ever:

Scrolled for “just a few minutes” and felt worse after
Compared yourself to someone online and felt inadequate
Gotten angry in a comment section
Felt strangely lonely after spending hours on social media
Wondered whether AI is changing how we relate to each other

This conversation is for you.

We talk about how social media affects mental health, how AI is reshaping authenticity online, and why so many people feel more disconnected than ever - even while constantly “connected.”

And most importantly, we talk about how to protect real human connection in a world that keeps pushing us toward screens.

Whether you’re sober, sober-curious, or simply trying to build a healthier emotional life, this episode will challenge how you think about social media and connection.

At No Alcohol Needed (formerly Through the Glass Recovery Podcast) we’re hanging out at the intersection of emotional wellness, personal growth, and living an alcohol-free life.

We talk about emotional intelligence, self-worth, sobriety, and how to build a life you don’t wish you could escape from.

Learn more about the podcast and the work we do:
https://noalcoholneeded.net

Meet our guests:

https://noalcoholneeded.net/meet-the-voices/

You can be doing everything “right” in your relationships - showing up, being agreeable, staying committed - and still feel deeply lonely.

In this episode of No Alcohol Needed, hosts Julie Miller and Steve Knapp are joined by Mike Coyne and Christen Miller for an honest conversation about why relationships often feel empty even after you’ve stopped drinking and started working on yourself.

This isn’t a conversation about fixing your partner or trying harder. It’s about the patterns many of us learned early on - performing, people-pleasing, staying quiet, avoiding conflict - and how those habits quietly block real connection.

Together, they explore:

Why effort doesn’t automatically create intimacy
How performative relationships keep us feeling unseen
The difference between being partnered and being connected
Why vulnerability feels so risky - and why it matters
How healthier relationships support emotional stability and happiness

This episode is for anyone who is emotionally aware, doing the work, and still wondering, “Is this really as good as it gets?”

If this conversation resonates and you’re feeling stuck in “emotionally aware but still lonely,” you’re not alone.

You can explore more episodes and resources here:
https://noalcoholneeded.net

Stress doesn’t go away just because you stop drinking - or just because you do the ‘self care’ stuff that someone told you to do.

In this episode of No Alcohol Needed, we talk about how to handle stress without alcohol in a way that actually works in real life. Not bubble baths. Not pretending everything is fine. Not dumping positive thinking on top of real stress and hoping it goes away.

Self-care - the kind that works - helps regulate your nervous system, build self-trust, and move through overwhelm instead wishing you could numb out.

Julie Miller and Steve Knapp are joined by Janice Dowd and Amber Fenner for an honest conversation about:

Why stress feels so overwhelming
Why self-care often “doesn’t work”
How stress shows up physically and emotionally
What real self-care looks like in daily life and in crisis
How learning to handle stress builds confidence and self-trust

This episode is for anyone who feels overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or tired of relying on alcohol or other numbing habits to cope.

If you’re new here…At No Alcohol Needed (formerly Through the Glass Recovery Podcast) we’re hanging out at the intersection of emotional wellness, personal growth, and living an alcohol-free life.

We talk about emotional intelligence, self-worth, sobriety, and how to build a life you don’t wish you could escape from.

Learn more about the podcast and the work we do:
https://noalcoholneeded.net

Want support beyond the podcast?Free weekly group sessions on Zoom
Real conversations that go beyond the alcohol
https://noalcoholneeded.net/meeting-faqs/

Ready for deeper support?Private coaching to guide you toward the joy and purpose you’re looking for.
https://noalcoholneeded.net/recovery-coaching/Explore moreJulie’s writing on sober living and emotional growth:
https://createalifesofull.com

Browse the full library of podcast episodes:
https://noalcoholneeded.net/category/blog/

People pleasing doesn’t usually feel like a problem at first.
It feels like being helpful, generous, and kind. Being easy to be around. Being the one who keeps everything running smoothly.

But over time, it can lead to anxiety, resentment, burnout, and a loss of self.

In this episode of No Alcohol Needed, Julie Miller, Steve Knapp, Mike Coyne, and Amber Fenner unpack how people pleasing actually works, why so many people don’t recognize it in themselves, and what starts to change when you stop organizing your life around other people’s emotions.

This conversation is especially relatable for people who’ve started questioning their relationship with alcohol, but it’s not limited to that. Anyone who feels responsible for keeping everyone else comfortable will recognize themselves here.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

How people pleasing often starts as a survival skill
Why it creates anxiety, resentment, and emotional exhaustion
The connection between people pleasing, perfectionism, and over-apologizing
Why saying no can feel so threatening
What changes when you stop living for approval
How relationships shift when you begin choosing yourself

If you’re new here…At No Alcohol Needed (formerly Through the Glass Recovery Podcast) we’re hanging out at the intersection of emotional wellness, personal growth, and living an alcohol-free life.

We talk about emotional intelligence, self-worth, sobriety, and how to build a life you don’t wish you could escape from.

Learn more about the podcast and the work we do:
https://noalcoholneeded.net

--CHECK OUT OUR OTHER RESOURCES--

Free weekly gathering on Zoom
Real conversations about more than just not drinking.
https://noalcoholneeded.net/meeting-faqs/

Private sobriety & emotional wellness coaching
Personalized support to help you redesign life without alcohol.
https://noalcoholneeded.net/recovery-coaching/Julie’s writing on sober living and emotional growth:
https://createalifesofull.com

In this episode of No Alcohol Needed, Julie Miller and Steve Knapp are joined by Christen Miller and Sean Rollinson for a candid, emotionally honest conversation about overcoming victim mentality and what it really means to take responsibility for your thoughts, emotions, and reactions - without blaming yourself or denying real pain.

This is not a surface-level discussion. The group digs into why victim mentality can feel protective, how blame and shame quietly keep people stuck, and why taking responsibility often feels unfair at first - especially if you’ve actually been hurt.

This episode will challenge the way you think about control, self-worth, and emotional freedom, and it will show you how to take your power back.

In this episode, we talk about:* What overcoming victim mentality really looks like in daily life * Why radical responsibility can feel confronting — and why it matters * The difference between being harmed and staying stuck * How blame and shame fuel emotional distress and addiction * Why anger often hurts us more than the person we’re angry at * How thoughts shape emotions and drive behavior * The connection between responsibility, confidence, and self-esteem * What emotional regulation actually looks like without numbing * Small, practical ways to start taking responsibility this week

Connect with today’s guests:https://noalcoholneeded.net/meet-the-voices/

–SOBRIETY SUPPORT & RESOURCES–

WORK WITH US - Personalized private coaching

Redesign a life without alcohol - with support.

https://noalcoholneeded.net/recovery-coaching/

FREE SUPPORT GROUP ON ZOOM

Real conversations. No judgment.

https://noalcoholneeded.net/meeting-faqs/

JULIE’S SOBER LIVING BLOG

Stories and reflections on rebuilding life after alcohol.

https://createalifesofull.com

FULL LIBRARY OF PODCAST EPISODES

Explore every No Alcohol Needed conversation.

https://noalcoholneeded.net/category/blog/

Most of us have parts of ourselves we don’t like to look at.

The reactions we regret.
The thoughts we don’t say out loud.
The behaviors driven by shame, fear, or old coping patterns.

In this episode of No Alcohol Needed, Julie Miller and Steve Knapp are joined by Robbie Pike and Matt Shambo for an honest conversation about what it really means to face the “dark side” or shadow self, and why learning to integrate those parts of ourselves is essential for emotional growth.

They’re not trying to make the shadow disappear. They’re talking about understanding where these behaviors came from, recognizing how they once protected you, and learning how compassion makes real change possible.

Together, they explore:

What people mean when they talk about shadow work
How shame quietly drives many unhealthy reactions
Why awareness without compassion can lead to self-punishment
How to recognize shadow behaviors in real time
The connection between recovery work and emotional healing
Why integration leads to freedom, not self-rejection

If you’ve ever felt stuck repeating patterns you don’t fully understand, or ashamed of parts of yourself you wish you could change, this conversation offers perspective, reassurance, and a path forward.

—

Connect with today’s guests:https://noalcoholneeded.net/meet-the-voices/

–SOBRIETY SUPPORT & RESOURCES–

WORK WITH US - Personalized private coaching

Redesign a life without alcohol - with support.

https://noalcoholneeded.net/recovery-coaching/

FREE SUPPORT GROUP ON ZOOM

Real conversations. No judgment.

https://noalcoholneeded.net/meeting-faqs/

JULIE’S SOBER LIVING BLOG

Stories and reflections on rebuilding life after alcohol.

https://createalifesofull.com

FULL LIBRARY OF PODCAST EPISODES

Explore every No Alcohol Needed conversation.

https://noalcoholneeded.net/category/blog/

Why routines matter more than motivation in January

January is often when motivation fades and real life settles back in.

In this episode of No Alcohol Needed, Julie Miller and Steve Knapp are joined by Janice Dowd and Kristyna Holler for a grounded, honest conversation about healthy habits for mental health, consistency, and routines that actually support emotional wellness.

This episode is not about perfection, productivity, or rigid morning routines. It’s about the small, repeatable habits that help regulate the nervous system, protect mental health, and create stability during difficult seasons of life.

While alcohol isn’t the focus of the conversation, the episode reflects an alcohol-free lens, exploring how routines become especially important when alcohol is no longer used to cope, unwind, or transition through the day.

In this episode, you’ll hear:* Why disrupted routines are strongly linked to increased anxiety and depression * How habits support emotional regulation when motivation is low * Morning routines that help calm the nervous system rather than overwhelm it * Why consistency matters more than willpower * How to use “half habits” and micro-steps when time or energy is limited * The role of self-compassion in building sustainable habits * How boundaries and saying no protect your routines * How habits and routines can carry you through grief, stress, and dark seasons * Practical ways to interrupt negative self-talk and build emotional resilience

This episode is for anyone who:

struggles to stay consistent with healthy habits
feels overwhelmed by traditional self-improvement advice
is focused on mental health and emotional wellness
is living alcohol-free or beginning to question their relationship with alcohol
wants routines that support real life, not ideal life

Whether you’re sober, sober-curious, or simply looking for habits that help you feel more grounded, this conversation offers perspective, reassurance, and practical tools you can use right away.

Resources mentioned: Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?* by Dr. Julie Smith

Connect with today’s guests:https://noalcoholneeded.net/meet-the-voices/

–SOBRIETY SUPPORT & RESOURCES–

WORK WITH US - Personalized private coaching

Redesign a life without alcohol - with support.

https://noalcoholneeded.net/recovery-coaching/

FREE SUPPORT GROUP ON ZOOM

Real conversations. No judgment.

https://noalcoholneeded.net/meeting-faqs/

JULIE’S SOBER LIVING BLOG

Stories and reflections on rebuilding life after alcohol.

https://createalifesofull.com

FULL LIBRARY OF PODCAST EPISODES

Explore every No Alcohol Needed conversation.

https://noalcoholneeded.net/category/blog/

Thinking about doing Dry January or already in the middle of it and wondering why it feels harder than you expected?

You’re not alone. Millions of people try Dry January every year, and many struggle not because they’re doing it wrong, but because they don’t have the right support, mindset, or tools going in.

In this episode, Julie and Steve are joined by Charles and Amber for an honest, no frills conversation about how to approach Dry January in a way that actually feels doable. This isn’t about willpower or white-knuckling your way through 30 days. It’s about understanding what makes this challenge hard and learning how to make it easier.

We talk about:

Why thinking about “forever” makes Dry January feel overwhelming
How approaching Dry January as an experiment changes everything
Common emotional reactions like anxiety, shame, and fear of missing out
Why planning beats hope when it comes to cravings and social situations
How changing routines can reduce triggers, especially in the evenings
What to replace alcohol with so you’re not just removing something
The surprising physical and emotional benefits many people notice after 30 days
How to reflect on your experience so Dry January actually gives you clarity
Why slipping doesn’t mean you failed, it just gives you information

Whether you’re sober-curious, trying Dry January for the first time, or questioning your relationship with alcohol, this episode will help you feel less alone and more capable.

You don’t have to decide anything about the future. You just have to get through today.

–SOBRIETY SUPPORT & RESOURCES–

WORK WITH US - Personalized private coaching

Redesign a life without alcohol - with support.

https://noalcoholneeded.net/recovery-coaching/

FREE SUPPORT GROUP ON ZOOM

Real conversations. No judgment.

https://noalcoholneeded.net/meeting-faqs/

JULIE’S SOBER LIVING BLOG

Stories and reflections on rebuilding life after alcohol.

https://createalifesofull.com

FULL LIBRARY OF PODCAST EPISODES

Explore every No Alcohol Needed conversation.

https://noalcoholneeded.net/category/blog/

After over three years and 172 episodes, Through the Glass Recovery is officially entering a new chapter.

In this episode, Julie Miller and Steve Knapp share the story behind the podcast rebrand and what’s coming next. Starting in January, the podcast will be known as No Alcohol Needed, with a new tagline that reflects the heart of the work they’ve been doing all along: How to Be Happy - No Alcohol Needed.

This conversation is an honest look at growth, burnout, values, and what happens after you’ve figured out how to stop drinking but still don’t feel fulfilled. Julie and Steve talk about why they almost quit the podcast, what helped them recommit, and how their own sobriety journeys have shifted toward emotional intelligence, connection, and long-term happiness.

They also share what listeners can expect in the new year, including:

A deeper focus on life after early sobriety
Conversations about emotional intelligence, personal growth, and fulfillment
A rotating group of familiar voices and trusted friends joining the show
Continued weekly Monday night community meetings
A brand-new website and updated social presence

This episode is both a thank-you to longtime listeners and an invitation to anyone searching for a sobriety podcast that goes beyond just quitting alcohol.

In this episode, you’ll hear: Why the podcast almost ended and what changed * The meaning behind the new name No Alcohol Needed* * What “how to be happy” really means in sobriety * Why joy doesn’t always look bubbly or easy * Who the new regular contributors are * How the podcast is evolving to support long-term recovery * How to get involved in the Monday night community meetings

Helpful links:* New website (launching soon): https://noalcoholneeded.net * Go back and listen to Episode 0 to hear where it all began: https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/introepisode/

–SOBRIETY SUPPORT & RESOURCES–

WORK WITH US - Personalized private coaching

Redesign your life without alcohol - with support.

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/recovery-coaching/

FREE SUPPORT GROUP ON ZOOM

Real conversations. No judgment.

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/meeting-faqs/

JULIE’S SOBER LIVING BLOG

Stories and reflections on rebuilding life after alcohol.

https://createalifesofull.com

FULL LIBRARY OF PODCAST EPISODES

Explore every Through the Glass Recovery conversation. https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/

You know the thought. That thought that sneaks in...

Maybe I can drink again.
Maybe I can keep it under control now.
Maybe just one.

In this episode of Through the Glass Recovery Podcast, Julie Miller and co-host Steve Knapp are joined by Lucy, Brenton, and Bry for an honest conversation about what happens when you try to moderate drinking. Not just in theory, but their actual, lived experience.

They talk about what the moderation voice sounds like, why it’s so convincing, and what actually happened when some of them tried it. They also explore the mental exhaustion of constantly negotiating with alcohol and the relief that comes when the decision is finally taken off the table.

If you’ve ever wondered whether moderation could work for you, this episode offers clarity and perspective.

In this episode, we talk about:

The “maybe I can have just one” voice and why it shows up
Why moderation takes so much mental and emotional energy
How nostalgia can distort our memories of drinking
What happened when some of the guests tried moderating
Why stress, grief, or anxiety often blow moderation apart
Taking the decision off the table and reducing decision fatigue
What freedom, peace, and self-trust can look like in sobriety

This is not about shame or scare tactics. It’s about understanding your own patterns and knowing that struggling with this question doesn’t mean you’re failing.

New to Through the Glass Recovery? Learn more about us at https://throughtheglassrecovery.com

Hosts: Julie Miller & Steve Knapp
Guests: Lucy Linger, Brenton Sconce, Bry Bleau

Learn more about our guests:

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/moderate-drinking/

–SOBRIETY SUPPORT & RESOURCES–

WORK WITH US - Personalized private coaching

Redesign your life without alcohol - with support.

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/recovery-coaching/

FREE SUPPORT GROUP ON ZOOM

Real conversations. No judgment.

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/meeting-faqs/

JULIE’S SOBER LIVING BLOG

Stories and reflections on rebuilding life after alcohol.

https://createalifesofull.com

FULL LIBRARY OF PODCAST EPISODES

Explore every Through the Glass Recovery conversation. https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/

People talk about “doing the work” in sobriety, but most of us start out not even knowing what that means. In this episode, Julie and Steve sit down with Dave Rushing and licensed therapist Sean Rollinson for an honest conversation about emotional sobriety, early misconceptions, and the deeper work that begins after the alcohol is gone.

Inside this episode you’ll hear:

Why quitting drinking is only the beginning
• What emotional sobriety really looks like
• How self-reflection becomes a life-changing skill
• What courage and connection offer in recovery
• How to build confidence, authenticity, and self-worth after alcohol

Whether you’re in early sobriety or years into recovery and wanting more clarity, this episode will help you understand the real path toward a full, grounded life.

Read the full episode summary and get to know our guests: https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/doing-the-work-in-sobriety/

–SOBRIETY SUPPORT & RESOURCES–

WORK WITH US - Personalized private coaching

Redesign your life without alcohol - with support.

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/recovery-coaching/

FREE SUPPORT GROUP ON ZOOM

Real conversations. No judgment.

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/meeting-faqs/

JULIE’S SOBER LIVING BLOG

Stories and reflections on rebuilding life after alcohol.

https://createalifesofull.com

FULL LIBRARY OF PODCAST EPISODES

Explore every Through the Glass Recovery conversation. https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/

For a lot of people, AA is the only recovery path they’ve ever heard of. But what happens when you walk into a meeting and it just doesn’t feel right? What if you tried it, didn’t connect with it, or couldn’t see yourself adopting the identity or structure it requires? On this episode, Julie and Steve sit down with returning guests Alexandra McRobert and Barclay Mullins to talk honestly about how to get sober without AA, what worked for them, and what to do when you need a different path.

In this episode:* What each person expected AA to be and what their real experience was * How to know when AA isn’t the right fit for you * The pressure and identity struggles that can come with the program * Why some people thrive in AA and others don’t * The role of language, labels, and self-identity in recovery * How to build your own recovery path without meetings * Community options outside AA and why connection is still essential * Internal work, spiritual practices, and tools that supported early sobriety * Alternative resources like quit lit, apps, online groups, yoga, journaling, and coaching * One small step you can take today if you want to get sober without AA

If you’re new here…

Through the Glass Recovery is a podcast for people who want a life that feels happy and full, not miserable. We talk about emotional wellness, sobriety, self worth, and building a life you don’t wish you could escape from.

Learn more about us: https://throughtheglassrecovery.com

For full show notes: https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/getting-sober-without-aa/

Sign up for Julie's values workshop - https://createalifesofull.com/values-workshop-for-sobriety/

–SOBRIETY SUPPORT & RESOURCES–

WORK WITH US - Personalized private coaching

Redesign a life without alcohol - with support.

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/recovery-coaching/

FREE SUPPORT GROUP ON ZOOM

Real conversations. No judgment.

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/meeting-faqs/

JULIE’S SOBER LIVING BLOG

Stories and reflections on rebuilding life after alcohol.

https://createalifesofull.com

FULL LIBRARY OF PODCAST EPISODES

Explore every Through the Glass Recovery conversation. https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/

The holidays can feel overwhelming when you are sober. Family dynamics, financial pressure, busy schedules, and old memories all collide. For many people in early sobriety, this season brings up fear, loneliness, and the anxiety of navigating everything without a drink.

In this episode, Julie and Steve sit down with guests Janice Johnson Dowd and Kristian Nylund to talk honestly about what sober holidays look like. They share real stories about their own first alcohol-free Christmases and Thanksgivings, how uncomfortable those early days felt, and what eventually made the season easier and more meaningful.

In this episode:

Why the holidays felt so tied to alcohol
The worry of feeling left out or judged when you stop drinking
What the first sober holiday is really like
Why triggers are not failure and what they are trying to show you
How to handle family gatherings when people expect you to drink
The power of preparation and having a plan
Letting go of old expectations and creating new traditions
Watching other people drink and why it can change your perspective
How presence becomes the best part of sober celebrations
Why community support matters during the holidays
What makes the holidays feel magical again in sobriety
How to find peace, connection, and meaning even if the season looks different now

Check out all the resources we offer:

Full podcast episode library : https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/
Free Zoom virtual support group : https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/meeting-faqs/
Affordable one on one recovery coaching : https://createalifesofull.com/support-options/
Julie’s blog for alcohol free living : https://createalifesofull.com/category/blog/

Socializing without alcohol is possible - and full of connection, fun, and real confidence. In this episode of Through the Glass Recovery Podcast, we dig into how to rebuild your sober social life, stop relying on “liquid courage,” and rediscover joy in gatherings, friendships, and parties - without the booze.

We’ll cover how to handle those awkward first outings, what to say when people ask why you’re not drinking, how to find new friendships in sobriety, and how to show up confidently without the drink in your hand. Whether you’re newly sober or still figuring out what happens after quitting drinking, this is for you.

What you’ll get in this episode:

A deep look at socializing without alcohol and the fear that “everyone’s watching me.”
Honest stories from women in long-term recovery about rebuilding a sober social life.
Practical strategies to make friends, attend parties, and feel comfortable in social settings while staying sober.
How to shift from relying on alcohol for confidence to showing up as your true self- finding confidence without alcohol.
Tips for meaningful connection and authentic belonging - because sobriety doesn’t mean isolation.

For full show notes, visit

throughtheglassrecovery.com/how-to-socialize-without-alcohol/

---SOBRIETY SUPPORT & RESOURCES---

WORK WITH US – Personalized private coaching

Redesign a life without alcohol - with support.

throughtheglassrecovery.com/recovery-coaching/

FREE SUPPORT GROUP ON ZOOM

Real conversations. No judgment.

throughtheglassrecovery.com/meeting-faqs/

JULIE’S SOBER LIVING BLOG

Stories and reflections on rebuilding life after alcohol.

createalifesofull.com

FULL LIBRARY OF PODCAST EPISODES

Explore every Through the Glass Recovery conversation. throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/

When we quit drinking, emotions we’ve spent years numbing suddenly come bubbling (or roaring) to the surface - and few feel as uncomfortable or overwhelming as anger. For many of us, it’s an emotion we were never taught to handle, let alone express in a healthy way. In this honest roundtable conversation, we explore what anger really is, why it shows up, and how to deal with anger without landing in fear, shame, or regret.

In this episode, Julie and Steve are joined by Lester Vaskin and Mike Coyne, who share their personal experiences and insights from recovery, relationships, and real life. Together, they unpack the hidden layers beneath anger - fear, disappointment, and unmet expectations - and discuss how learning to sit with and respond to anger can become one of the most powerful tools for growth in sobriety.

In This Episode:

Why anger feels so overwhelming in early sobriety
How childhood conditioning shapes the way we express (or suppress) anger
Understanding anger as a secondary emotion
The difference between reacting and responding
How the “pause” - or “meta moment” - helps your rational brain catch up
Using anger as a motivator for positive change
When anger masks fear, sadness, or hurt
Why avoiding anger keeps us stuck - and how feeling it sets us free
Realistic tools (that you'll actually use) for handling anger in healthy ways

Check out all the resources Through the Glass Recovery offers:* Full podcast episode library * Free Zoom virtual support group * Affordable one-on-one recovery coaching * Julie's blog for alcohol-free living

Dating after giving up alcohol is a whole new world - one that needs you to show up with honesty, self-awareness, and a little bit (or a lot!) of courage. How do you meet people without the bar scene? What if you feel awkward or anxious? And how do you navigate intimacy without dulling the nerves?

In this week’s episode of Through the Glass Recovery Podcast, Julie, Steve, Amber, and Matt open up about the messy, hilarious, and very human experience of dating sober. From rediscovering emotional and physical intimacy to recognizing red flags, this brutally honest conversation reminds us that healthy relationships start with the relationship we have with ourselves.

Whether you’re newly sober, sober curious, or just working on showing up more authentically in your connections, this episode will leave you feeling seen, hopeful, and inspired to keep growing.

In this episode:

How to tell if your sobriety is solid enough to start dating
Navigating dating apps and the questions about drinking alcohol
Red flags to look for that could threaten your sobriety
How sober dating reveals your emotional triggers and teaches you to listen to your gut, not your anxiety
What it means to feel safe with someone emotionally, and how honest communication changes every part of a relationship
Why sex without alcohol can be awkward at first - and ultimately more connected, present, and real
Taking responsibility for your patterns and growth instead of blaming past partners
How heartbreak can lead to growth, and why meaningful relationships start with showing up for yourself first
Releasing the fear of being alone

For full show notes and more information about this week's guests visit https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/sober-dating-101/

And be sure to check out all the other resources Through the Glass Recovery has to offer:* Full podcast episode library * Free Zoom virtual support group * Affordable one-on-one recovery coaching * Julie's blog for alcohol-free living

Are you feeling isolated after quitting drinking? This is one of the most common challenges expressed by people in early sobriety. In this episode, we explore the challenges of losing friends when you quit drinking and what you can do to rebuild meaningful connections.

In this episode:

Why friendships often change after getting sober
How to invite people into your struggles without fear
The importance of patience and giving your social life time to adjust
How strangers and sober communities can become your strongest support
Real stories of hope, vulnerability, and reclaiming your friendships

If you’re wondering, “I lost all my friends when I quit drinking - now what?” this episode is for you. You’ll hear firsthand experiences from people who rebuilt their lives, created authentic relationships, and found joy in sobriety.

Join our free Monday night Zoom support group to talk to people who truly understand your journey: https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/meeting-faqs/

Read the full show notes here: https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/lost-friends-when-i-quit-drinking/

--

Check out all the resources Through the Glass Recovery offers:* Full podcast episode library * Free Zoom virtual support group * Affordable one-on-one support services * Julie's blog about alcohol-free living

When anxiety sets in, it can feel like there’s no way to escape the spiral - especially if you used to rely on alcohol to take the edge off. In this honest, practical conversation, Julie Miller and Steve Knapp sit down with Nadine, Melissa, and Ryan to talk about what anxiety really feels like in recovery, why it shows up, and how to navigate it without falling back into old coping patterns.

This episode is packed with real life stories and lessons learned, with actionable tools that actually help when your mind won’t stop racing. If you get frustrated with anxiety and have a hard time coping without turning to drinking, this one is for you!

In This Episode:

How to recognize when your anxious thoughts are lying to you
Why anxiety often gets louder after you quit drinking - and what to do about it
The connection between boundaries, routines, and emotional regulation
Small daily habits that can help reduce anxious spirals
Why “talking it out” can instantly quiet the noise in your head
When to consider medication or professional support
Grounding techniques that help bring your body back to calm
How to build emotional resilience so anxiety doesn’t control your sobriety

View the full show notes and learn more about our guests: https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/anxiety-after-quitting-drinking/

SOBRIETY SUPPORT & RESOURCES:

Work with us (coaching): https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/recovery-coaching/

FREE Support Group on Zoom: https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/meeting-faqs/

Julie’s Sober Living Blog: https://createalifesofull.com

Full Library of Podcast Episodes: https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/

Conflict is one of those things most of us try to avoid - especially when we’re sober and trying to protect our peace. But avoiding conflict doesn’t make it go away; it just creates more problems and pain that we have to deal with later. In this episode, Julie, Steve, Rachel, and Azure sit down to talk about what healthy conflict looks like in sobriety - and how learning to face it with healthy skills, boundaries, and emotional maturity can actually make sobriety feel like something you want to do, not something you have to do.

They get real about people-pleasing, anxious attachment, overreactions, guilt, and what it means to speak up honestly without losing your cool. You’ll walk away from this one feeling seen, equipped, and encouraged to show up for yourself - even in hard conversations.

In this episode:

Why conflict is not a sign of failure - it’s a chance to strengthen relationships
The difference between reacting emotionally and responding with intention
How sobriety changes the way we handle uncomfortable conversations
People-pleasing, anxious attachment, and fear of being rejected
The importance of emotional preparation before tough talks
How to know when to engage - and when to just let something go
Why authenticity sometimes means not being liked by everyone

Conflict is an opportunity to make a relationship better. Every single time.

Learn more about our guests and view the full show notes: https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/conflict-resolution-in-recovery/

Check out all the resources Through the Glass Recovery offers:* Full podcast episode library * Free Zoom virtual support group * Affordable one-on-one support services * Julie's blog: Create A Life So Full

Planning your first trip without alcohol can feel intimidating. Imagining the airport, the activities, the culture might leave you wondering, "Can I even enjoy this?" In this episode, Julie and Steve sit down with Darci, Sarah, and Corina to share their experiences, sprinkled with honest, practical advice for traveling alcohol-free while still having fun, feeling connected, and enjoying every moment - without the hangover or the anxiety.

In this episode:

How to redefine adventure so your sober vacation leaves you feeling connected and fulfilled.
How to plan and prepare for an alcohol-free vacation to set yourself up for success.
Understand the let-down effect so it doesn't sabotage your sobriety.
Mindset and reframes so you don't struggle with FOMO while traveling without alcohol.
A sober travel toolkit to leave you confident that you'll have the time of your life, no alcohol needed.

Your first sober vacation may feel unfamiliar at first, but with planning, support, and a little perspective, it can be even more fun, adventurous, and memorable than it ever was when you were drinking.

You can read more about the Let Down Effect that comes after a sober vacation on Julie's blog: https://createalifesofull.com/let-down-effect-sobriety/

For full show notes and to learn more about our guests, visit the episode webpage: https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/sober-travel-without-alcohol/

Find all the sobriety resources that Through the Glass Recovery offers:

Free virtual support group
Full library of podcast episodes
1-on-1 personalized coaching for sobriety and recovery
Julie's blog

If you’ve ever wondered, “Why does sobriety feel so hard? Will it ever get easier?” - this is your episode. Julie and Steve sat down with three sober creators (Dave @djsobershorts , Ness @soberinlaketahoe , and Yliana @alcoholfreesoul ) who have walked through the hardest parts of early recovery and found what actually helps. Their honesty, humor, and hard-earned wisdom will remind you that sobriety doesn’t just get easier - it gets better.

In this episode:

The surprising mindset shifts that make sobriety feel less overwhelming
Daily habits that help you stay grounded when cravings hit
Why support and community matter more than sheer willpower
How to take sobriety one hour, one day at a time without getting lost in the “forever”
The hidden gifts sobriety gives back once you stick with it long enough

This episode is for anyone asking themselves, “Can I really do this?” - the answer is yes, and here’s how.To learn more about our guests and for full show notes, visit our website:

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/what-makes-sobriety-easier/

Check out all the other resources we offer to support your alcohol free life:

Full podcast episode library
Free Zoom virtual support group
Affordable one-on-one support services
The No Alcohol Needed blog by Julie Miller

We all compare ourselves to others sometimes - no matter how hard we try not to. And in recovery, comparison can feel unavoidable. Whether it’s scrolling through social media, sitting in a meeting, or just noticing how someone else’s life looks... better, comparison can sneak in and leave us feeling “less than.”

In this episode, we're joined by Gina (Modern Day Monk) and Kristin (The Alcohol-Free Alchemist) to talk about how we find ourselves comparing our recovery to someone else's, and how it impacts the way we see ourselves. We're here with some honest conversation and some tips and tools to help you free yourself from comparison and start doing your recovery your way.

In this episode:

Why social media can fuel insecurity in sobriety.
The difference between comparison that inspires and comparison that destroys.
How to turn comparison into compassion.
Why your recovery will never look exactly like anyone else’s.
The one person you should compare yourself to.

"As soon as you start saying 'should'... you're comparing yourself."If you find it hard to stop comparing your recovery to someone else's, be sure to check out these episodes, too:

Social Media and Addiction

Comparing Ourselves to Others

--

Learn more about our guests and read the full show notes on our website

Early sobriety can feel like a rush of relief and excitement - the infamous “pink cloud” we hear about. But what happens when that high fades and you find yourself feeling flat, restless, or stuck in sobriety? In this honest and powerful conversation, Julie, Steve, Rachael, and Chad dig into the reality of plateaus in recovery, how to recognize them, and what it takes to move through - so you don't end up finding yourself slipping backward instead.

In This Episode

The pink cloud effect - why it feels so good at first, and why it eventually fades
How we confuse boredom with peace after living in chaos for so long
Chad’s raw story of breakup, therapy, and rediscovering his spark
The addictive side of “doing the work” and why action matters more than knowledge
How objective truth-tellers (friends, therapists, coaches) help us see what we can’t
Choosing responsibility over victim mode, even when life feels unfair
Practical tools to move from stagnation into growth

“If I feel bored or flat, I take responsibility - it’s my life, and if I’m bored, I’m not doing enough with it.”Learn more about our guests and read the full show notes:

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/sobriety-feels-flat/

Check out all the resources Through the Glass Recovery offers:* Full podcast episode library * Free Zoom virtual support group * Affordable one-on-one support services * The No Alcohol Needed blog by Julie Miller

Welcome back to Season Four of Through the Glass Recovery!

We’re kicking off this season with a conversation that gets to the heart of what so many of us wrestle with: how do you actually create a life so full there’s no space left for alcohol?

You’ve probably seen the quotes and memes: “Create a life you don’t want to escape from.” It sounds amazing, but what does that really look like in day-to-day life? How do you start to enjoy life after quitting drinking? In this episode, Julie, Steve, Amber, Matt, and Robbie share the real and practical ways they’ve discovered joy, connection, and meaning in sobriety - along with the things they’ve had to let go of.

This isn’t just about staying sober.It’s about learning to live fully awake, present, and grateful for the moments - big and small - that make life worth showing up for.

In this episode, we talk about:

Why connection is the foundation of a meaningful sober life
How concerts, adventures, and family experiences feel richer without alcohol
The surprising truth about activities that aren’t as fun when you’re sober - and why that’s okay
The power of small joys, like a cup of tea, nature, or laughter with friends
How sobriety changes the way we feel emotions - making both the hard and beautiful moments deeper
Why removing clutter, noise, or old habits can be just as important as adding new experiences
Stories of rediscovering hobbies and passions with fresh meaning in sobriety

Whether you’re early in recovery or years into your journey, this conversation is filled with encouragement, laughter, and real talk about building a life that feels vibrant, fulfilling, and most importantly - like your own.

Learn more about our guests by visiting the full show notes on our website: https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/enjoy-life-after-quitting-drinking/

Check out all the resources Through the Glass Recovery offers:* Full podcast episode library * Free Zoom virtual support group * Affordable one-on-one recovery coaching * The No Alcohol Needed blog by Julie Miller

Welcome to Season 4 of Through the Glass Recovery Podcast!

After taking a longer summer break than normal, we're back with some real conversation about burnout, rest, and why this podcast matters so much to us. In this episode, we catch up, reflect on a summer filled with grief, joy, persistence, and adventure, and share how recovery tools continue to carry us through real life.

From moments of heartbreak to moments of magic, this conversation reminds us that recovery is about learning to face everything life throws at us without numbing. And with that comes deeper joy than we ever imagined possible.

"Learn to rest. Not quit."Takeaways:

Taking breaks is essential for mental health and creativity.
Vulnerability leads deeper connections with others.
Managing stress requires tools and strategies.
Grief is a process that cannot be rushed or prepared for.
Simple moments of joy can be healing and transformative.
Recovery is about facing life's challenges with clarity and strength.
The journey of sobriety continues to reveal deeper levels of joy.
Sharing experiences can help others feel less alone in their struggles.

"What I thought was joy when I was drinking was nowhere close to what real joy feels like."We’d love to hear from you! Send us your feedback at throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com or connect on Instagram. And if this episode resonates with you, please share it with a friend, leave a review, or subscribe to our new YouTube channel to watch the conversations in action.

We’re bringing back one of our most popular episodes this week while we get ready to launch brand new content. This conversation about perfectionism and recovery struck a chord with so many of you, and for good reason - it’s real, relatable, and packed with wisdom. Enjoy this re-release, and we’ll be back next week with fresh episodes you won’t want to miss.

In this powerful episode, our group dives deep into the connection between perfectionism and addiction and how striving to be flawless can sabotage sobriety, self-worth, and emotional healing. Jessica, Sarah, Erica, Hope, Julie, and Steve share raw and honest stories of how perfectionism shaped their drinking, and what it looks like to work through those tendencies in recovery.

From redefining success and learning to sit with mistakes, to practicing self-compassion and choosing authenticity over image, this conversation is full of insight, laughter, and “me too” moments for anyone struggling with not feeling good enough.

Key Topics in this Episode:

Defining our own standards of “good enough”
Authentic connection requires allowing others to see our imperfection
How perfectionism and overachieving go hand in hand to sabotage your mental wellbeing and sobriety
The intertwined journeys of recovery and how they all affect one another
Perfectionism as a sense of control
Recovering from perfectionism is an ebb and flow – some days are easier than others
The tools of sobriety also support recovering from perfectionism
Being a perfectionist can stop you from self reflecting, not wanting to admit your flaws and shortcomings – and therefore stopping you from ever working on them.

To learn more about our guests, visit the full podcast show notes:

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/perfectionism-and-alcoholism/

For access to all of the resources Through the Glass Recovery has to offer, including

FREE live virtual support group
1:1 coaching
Informative blog articles
A full podcast episode library

visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

We’re nearing the end of our summer break, but we’re still sharing some of our favorite episodes with you through the end of August. This week’s replay is one that resonates with so many in recovery: rebuilding trust after you stop drinking. It’s a topic that hits close to home for nearly everyone on this journey - because even after we put down the drink, our relationships and our own self-trust don’t heal overnight.

For many of us, our actions and behaviors have left our family and loved ones no longer trusting us, even after we’ve stopped drinking. So that begs the question – how do you regain trust after quitting alcohol? We’ve gathered Rachael, founder of Addict with Purpose; Michael, founder of SoberPress; and our adventurous friend Nadine to talk about what regaining trust from others – and in ourselves – has looked like in our lives.

You start getting trust back when you start telling the truth.In this episode:

Learning to trust oneself
Consistency and time as the foundation of trust
Learning to do things that build trust
The value of authenticity in trust building
Honesty is a core component of trust
Living the apology
Understanding that we can’t put a timeframe on someone else’s trust
How to apologize with action
Learning to trust yourself through the hard times
Humility and its role in building trust
Also: learning to trust others

For all of the resources we offer at Through the Glass Recovery, including:

FREE weekly support group on Zoom
A full library of over 150 podcast episodes
blog articles
1:1 coaching

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

We’re continuing our summer re-release series while we take a short break from new episodes until September. This week, we’re bringing back a powerful conversation about something almost every sober person wrestles with at some point: boredom. If you're sober but struggling to fill your time or feeling like life has lost its spark, this episode is for you.

--

When you’ve been sober for a bit, boredom seems to be one of the first challenges that shows up. How to fill all that free time? This is especially true if you don’t have any hobbies, or if your social life revolved around drinking.

In this episode, we’re joined by Adriana from Dear Recovery, Jason from Sober Gangster, and sober rapper Gina (Modern Day Monk) to talk about how we dealt with boredom in early sobriety, and how we deal with it now that we’ve been doing this for awhile.

If you struggle to fill your time and find yourself wishing away the hours in the day, this episode is for you!

--

“Boredom creates a willingness to try new things.”In this episode:

Loneliness and boredom sometimes go hand in hand
Connecting with others is an almost instant cure to boredom
Rediscovering hobbies that alcohol had pushed aside
Learning not to overwhelm yourself with activities and to-do lists
Exploring the link between creativity and drinking
New hobbies and activities help build recovery skills
Boredom is not a bad thing!
Boredom is the door to creativity and trying new things
Learning to appreciate the stillness and quiet
Boredom encourages self reflection and “doing the work” of recovery
Asking yourself, “Where’s the void in my life?” and having the courage to address it
Discovering “biohacks” to make life – and sobriety – easier and more comfortable

Want to learn more about the EFT tapping that Adriana mentions? Check out this link.

The group also discusses the benefits of cold plunging.

If you’re still struggling with boredom in sobriety, check out this past episode, where a different group of people share their experiences.

--To learn more about our guests, visit the original show notes on our website:

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/boredom-in-sobriety-2/

For tons of sobriety resources, including free support meetings, blog articles, a full library of podcast episodes, and 1:1 coaching, visit our official website:

throughtheglassrecovery.com

We’re bringing back one of our all-time favorite episodes this week. If you’ve ever struggled with self doubt or felt uncertain about your purpose, this one’s going to stick with you.

In this conversation, we’re joined by sober motivational speakers Jacob Brown and Martin Lockett, along with the always powerful voice of Through the Glass regular, Molly. Together, we explore how self doubt creeps in, how it holds us back, and how we can move through it with courage, clarity, and community.

You’ll hear stories of facing fear, letting go of old narratives, and learning to live in alignment with personal values. We talk about what it means to define purpose, how to connect with your own "why," and why having support around you matters so much.

If you’ve ever told yourself you’re not ready, not good enough, or not qualified, this episode is your reminder that those thoughts are just part of the process. You’re not alone, and you’re not stuck.

A few of the topics we cover:

Recognizing how self doubt and impostor syndrome show up
Giving yourself permission to try
Living by your values instead of fear
The power of positive self talk and affirmations
Why vulnerability and connection are key to finding purpose
Speaking your goals into reality
The Japanese concept of Ikigai
Letting go of who you think you’re supposed to be, so you can become who you are

One of our favorite quotes from this episode:
“Self doubt and impostor syndrome only come right before something amazing is about to happen.” – Jacob Brown

This re-release is full of wisdom, heart, and powerful perspective shifts. We’re so excited to share it with you again.

To learn about this week’s guests, visit the official show notes:

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/finding-purpose-recovery/

For tons of free sobriety resources, visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com or click any of the following links:

A full library of podcast episodes
Free sobriety support group on Zoom
1:1 Coaching with Julie or Steve
Julie’s sobriety blog - No Alcohol Needed

This week, we’re re-releasing one of our most downloaded and talked-about episodes: What if AA Doesn’t Work for You?

Alcoholics Anonymous is often the first (and sometimes only) option people hear about when they decide to get sober. But while AA has helped many people build lasting recovery, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. And if it didn’t work for you - or didn’t feel like quite enough - you’re not alone.

In this conversation, our guests share what led them to AA, what they found there, and why they eventually sought something different. Whether you’ve tried the 12 steps and felt out of place, or you’ve been wondering if there are other paths to sobriety, this episode is a powerful reminder that there’s no single right way to recover.

It’s okay to want more support, a different approach, or a path that better fits who you are. Recovery isn’t about fitting into a mold - it’s about finding what actually works for you.

To learn about this week’s guests, visit the official show notes:

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/what-if-aa-doesnt-work/

For tons of sobriety resources, visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com or click any of the following links:

A full library of podcast episodes
Free sobriety support group on Zoom
1:1 Coaching with Julie or Steve
Julie’s sobriety blog

We’re taking a summer break from recording new episodes, and while we recharge, we’re bringing back some of our most important conversations - like this one.

This week’s episode explores something we don’t talk about enough: the connection between eating disorders and alcohol use disorder. Research shows that up to 50% of people with an eating disorder will also struggle with substance abuse, often as a way to cope with trauma, stress, and deep emotional pain.

In this honest and vulnerable conversation, three brave women share how their disordered eating and alcohol use were connected - and what recovery has looked like when facing both. Whether you’ve dealt with one, the other, or both, their stories offer hope, insight, and a reminder that you’re not alone.

“It’s honestly harder to talk about the eating disorder than it is to talk about the alcohol.”Key Topics in This Episode:

How food keeps you silent
Eating disorders and alcohol abuse are both related to trauma and stress
Overcoming shame as a key component in the recovery of each
Eating disorders as a way to deal with difficult emotions, when you don’t have the right tools
Fitting in, trying to be attractive, and it’s impact on your relationship with food
Alcohol urges and cravings are similar to the binge/purge urges
When you body is off balance – learning to recognize hunger cues and feeling full
Overexercise as a symtpom of addictive behavior
Learning how to feel
Body scanning and body mapping as tools for recovery
Learning to catch emotions before they become unhealthy
How dopamine fits into the picture

To learn more about this week's guests, visit the full show notes at https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/eating-disorders-and-alcoholism/

Visit our website for tons of sobriety resources:

A full library of podcast episodes
FREE support group on Zoom
1:1 coaching with Julie or Steve
Julie's blog

Talking to your kids about your addiction is hard and it’s scary, but it’s also necessary. When you’re a parent and you’re working through addiction and recovery, it’s a challenge to know how much to share, and how to share it, with your children.

In this re-released groundbreaking episode, we have a conversation with Matt and Rachael about how we’ve approached talking to our own kids – of all ages – about our recovery. This is also a very personal episode, because Julie’s teenage daughter Cora joins us, to share with our listeners what it’s like from her perspective.

If you’ve got kids, this episode is a MUST listen.

In this episode:

Preparing for the hard questions your kids WILL eventually ask you
Allowing our kids to share what they experienced, without getting defensive or upset
The value of letting your kids see your flaws
Making your kids feel safe enough to ask for help
Creating a space where families can talk about addiction and recovery without shame or fear
How sharing our experiences with alcohol can affect the decisions they make when they’re confronted with it
Co-parenting with different viewpoints
Resources are available to support your kids, if you don’t feel capable right now

To learn more about our guests, check out the full show notes

Visit our website for tons of sobriety resources:

A full library of podcast episodes
FREE support group on Zoom
1:1 coaching with Julie or Steve
Julie's blog

We're continuing our summer re-release series with one of our favorite conversations—this week, we're diving into the ever-relatable experience of FOMO after you stop drinking. Whether you're early in sobriety or years alcohol-free, the fear of missing out can sneak in and make you question everything. But there's more waiting for you on the other side than you might think. Tune in as we revisit this honest and hope-filled episode with Eliza, Sherralyn, and Alex.

Feeling like you’re being left out – or worrying about missing out – is soooo common when you’re sober. Some things just aren’t the same after you quit drinking, and it takes some time to get comfortable with that. And of course, sometimes we’re worrying far too much about things that end up not being an issue at all anyway. Join us as we chat with Eliza, Sherralyn, and Alex about FOMO – what it means, and how we overcome it so we don’t feel like we’re missing out on anything at all.

“You’re taking tomorrow’s joy and using it right now.”In this episode:

It all gets easier with time
Jomo – the joy of missing out on the regret and embarrassment
Friends that matter will still invite you, and are still fun to be around
Risk vs. Benefit analysis to decide whether it’s worth it
Honestly, nobody cares if you’re drinking or not
Alcohol companies’ effects on why we believe we need alcohol to have fun
Mommy wine culture
Modeling sober fun for our kids and ending the cycle

“What about worrying about missing out on the rest of your life?”---

To learn more about our guests, check out the full show notes

Visit our website for tons of sobriety resources:

A full library of podcast episodes
FREE support meetings on Zoom
1:1 Sobriety coaching with Julie or Steve
No Alcohol Needed blog

As we continue our re-release schedule for the summer, we're excited to bring back this super important topic that seems to affect nearly all of us. If you find yourself wrestling with the pros and cons of social media now that you've created an alcohol free lifestyle, this episode will shine a light on the challenges and help you see everything more clearly.

One “transfer addiction” that gets overlooked all too often is social media. And while social media has many benefits, it certainly also poses many dangers, especially when it comes to addiction recovery and mental health. In this week’s episode, we’re chatting with our friends Robbie, Britt, and Vanessa about how social media shows up in our lives, in our recoveries, and its impact on our emotional and mental wellbeing.

Key topics in this episode:

Taking a break from social media
The dopamine hits that come with posting and getting interactions
How to curate your feed to create a positive experience
Using social media to find true connection
Recognizing the different between real connection and surface connection online
The hidden dangers of external validation
Using social media to create drama and chaos when sobriety feels boring
Tools for managing social media use
Setting your intention when using social media
How comparing yourself to others on social media can damage mental health
AI and its detrimental effects on creativity, emotional intelligence, and relationships

To learn more about our guests, check out the full show notes

Visit our website for tons of sobriety resources:

A full library of podcast episodes
FREE support meetings on Zoom
1:1 Sobriety coaching with Julie or Steve
No Alcohol Needed blog

We're continuing our summer re-release schedule with a throwback all the way to Episode 7 from 2022.

This conversation was so good we didn't want to stop, and ended up releasing it as a two part series. If you love the first half (and we know you will) you can find the second half here.

We hope you enjoy it! Make sure you subscribe to Through the Glass Recovery Podcast so you don't miss the rest of our summer re-releases, and the new episodes we've got coming in September.

Everything we wish someone would’ve told us in the first 30 days of sobriety.

The first 30 days are some of the hardest on the recovery journey. In this episode – the first of a two part series – we talk with John, Kris, and Ashley about early sobriety. Everything we wish someone would’ve told us as we headed into the first 30 days of getting sober.

We talk a lot about the work of sobriety here on Through the Glass. But before anyone gets to the point of doing that emotional work, they’ve got to get through the early days – the days when withdrawals are wearing them down, cravings are constant and brutal, and it seems like you think about drinking – or not drinking – about once every minute.

It’s hard, but it’s not impossible.Listen as we share what worked for us, and what didn’t. We talk about withdrawals – the physical misery that accompanies a decision to quit drinking, and the emotional struggles as well. Steve and Julie talk about fearing just leaving the house, wondering how they’d find the strength to drive past the liquor store instead of stopping. Kris talks about the importance of sleep, and needing more than she expected. Everyone agrees that there is a lot of crying that often happens in the early days, and that crying is where the healing begins, no matter how uncomfortable it is.

Julie and Steve talk about deciding to tell others in your life or not. Julie didn’t tell anyone, Steve told everyone. They discuss the pros and cons of both options and how they affected their sobriety early on. Ashley shares about her worries that life wouldn’t be fun anymore, when alcohol is everywhere and permeates every part of life, especially for the younger crowd. Julie talks about wondering who she is at all without alcohol, and Steve says it felt like losing his best friend.

Everyone agrees that finding support in a recovery community was the most important part of getting through the early days of recovery – and continues to be the most important part of their recovery paths. As John says, “It’s really hard to be facing that kind of eternity without someone there.”

Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for access to our weekly sober support meeting on Zoom, and weekly insights and advice to support your recovery. You can sign up at throughtheglassrecovery.com.

We're continuing our summer re-release schedule, where we repost our most popular episodes from the past three years of recording.

In this podcast episode, we dive deep into the hidden challenges of cross addiction and transfer addiction. You’ve worked hard to get sober, but now a new struggle may arise - swapping one addiction for another. Transfer addictions often sneak into our lives without us even realizing it. Stay tuned for a conversation with Daniel, Robbie, and Nadine, where we uncover some cross addictions and talk about how to tackle those, now that alcohol is out of the picture. We’ll help you recognize the signs of cross addiction, understand why it happens, and explore proven strategies for overcoming it.

“You can do anything alcoholically.”In this episode:

What it means to have an “addictive personality”
Recognizing the patterns when addictive behaviors show up
Why society tries to tell you that “healthy addiction” is okay
Facing what’s under the addiction
Temporary fixes and why they don’t work
The implications and dangers of social media addiction
Finding a balance with behavioral addiction
Escaping by helping others so you don’t have to face your own problems
Shedding unhealthy behaviors and continuing to grow
Recognizing when something is no longer serving you

To learn more about our guests, click here.

Visit our website for tons of sobriety resources:

A full library of podcast episodes
FREE support meetings on Zoom
1:1 Sobriety coaching with Julie or Steve
No Alcohol Needed blog

People often say they drink alcohol to calm their anxiety. As we start to understand that alcohol actually contributes to our anxiety, we have to start learning healthy ways to cope with it. It’s not easy. In this episode, we talk with Travis, Antje, and Zoe about how we deal with anxiety in recovery, and we all walk away with some valuable new ideas. We hope you do, too.

“Anxiety is like being nervous, but with teeth.”Some of the concepts we cover include:

How to stop ruminating
The power in identifying anxiety
Learning to name feelings
Using creativity to cope and to explore feelings
Signs of childhood anxiety
Skin picking
Tools for dealing with anxiety
Recognizing what doesn’t work
Self care as crisis prevention
Medication assisted treatment

“I’ve had to learn to make friends with my anxiety.”Travis mentions grounding exercises often used for anxiety. You can find more info here.

Julie mentions the I Am Sober app. You can learn more about the app on their website.

Antje and Julie talk about how much the book Alcohol Explained by William Porter helped them understand the connection between anxiety and alcohol.

Meet Our Guests:

Antje first discovered drinking as a way to “fix” her eating disorder. She thought that drinking was more acceptable than binging and purging all of her meals. When drinking grew more and more out of control, she reluctantly considered sobriety in January of 2022. Soon after, she found connection and support in an online sober community. She is so glad to that she took that first, scary step and gave sobriety a chance.

Get in touch:

Visit our website for tons of free resources including

Free weekly zoom support group

Full library of podcast episodes

Weekly sobriety inspiration newsletter

1:1 recovery coaching

About your hosts:

Julie Miller is the founder of No Alcohol Needed, a recovery community supporting women in all stages of recovery from newly sober to recreating the life that's been waiting for them. She is a certified Recovery Coach Professional and has been coaching since 2023. Visit her website at noalcoholneeded.net

Steve Knapp is a men's mental health advocate. He's the co-host of the Forged in Silence podcast and he is passionate about helping men develop the emotional intelligence and resiliency to create meaningful, connected lives.

“Dating sober isn’t any easier.”If you’ve ever dated sober, or intend to start dating sober, this is the episode for you! We turn the show over to five of our friends who are all active in the sober dating world, and give them a chance to tell all. They talk about everything from dealing with getting rejected and breaking up, to recognizing red flags and deal breakers, to the awkwardness of sober intimacy. Listen and laugh with us… and you’ll probably learn some things along the way, too!

Key topics in this episode:* Online dating apps * Being uncomfortable when your date drinks * Your date being uncomfortable when you don’t drink * Recognizing an unhealthy need for attention and validation * Learning to communicate honestly and effectively * Addressing a partner’s substance use * Higher standards for conversation and connection * Struggling with insecurity * The older you get, the harder it seems to get * Showing up authentically, flaws and all * Taking things slowly * Learning to appreciate solitude * Learning to cope with loneliness

“Sometimes the wrong person feels right. You've gotta learn to know the difference.”Visit our website for tons of free resources including:

Free weekly zoom support group

Full library of podcast episodes

Weekly sobriety inspiration newsletter

1:1 recovery coaching

About your hosts:

Julie Miller is the founder of No Alcohol Needed, a recovery community supporting women in all stages of recovery from newly sober to recreating the life that's been waiting for them. She is a certified Recovery Coach Professional and has been coaching since 2023. Visit her website at noalcoholneeded.net

Steve Knapp is a men's mental health advocate. He's the co-host of the Forged in Silence podcast and he is passionate about helping men develop the emotional intelligence and resiliency to create meaningful, connected lives.

(This episode was first published June 2, 2024)

With summer upon us, it seems everyone is wondering is to have sober fun – without missing alcohol! The warm weather seems to bring its own set of triggers. We invited Rich and Shana to join us this week, to talk about how they’ve learned to not just survive summer, but to truly enjoy it.

In this episode:

How mocktails can still make summer events feel special
Preparation: how to know you’re ready for whatever it is you’re wanting to do
JOMO – letting others be your reminder for why you’re glad you’re sober
Working through the fear of upcoming situations
Sharing your goals with others for increased accountability
Painting a new picture: it’s always looked the same, but now is your chance to decide how it will look going forward
Sober travel – how to make it fulfilling
The value of an adrenaline rush when you’re sober
How to make sure you still have fun, so you don’t feel like you’re missing out

Meet our guests: https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/how-to-have-sober-fun/

Want more inspiration for having fun without alcohol? Check out this blog post: https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/how-to-have-fun-when-youre-sober/

Come hang out with us on Zoom on Monday nights: https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/meeting-faqs/

Need one on one support? We can do that, too! Get more info here:

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/recovery-coaching/

It's just Steve and Julie this week, and we're talking about the past and the future of Through the Glass Recovery Podcast.

We're getting ready to take a summer break - a longer one that usual - and we'll take the time to discuss the evolution of TTG. As we both move down new paths and our own recovery stories continue to evolve, so will the podcast. We'll still be here behind the scenes though, and we'll still keep most of our free and paid resources available.

From our hearts to yours, thanks to all of our incredible, loyal listeners for always supporting us as we continue this journey. We wouldn't be doing this if it weren't for all of you.

Through the Glass Recovery Resources:

Monday night Zoom support group (free)
Facebook page
Instagram
Blog
Podcast episodes
1:1 Recovery coaching

Julie's resources:

No Alcohol Needed blog
Get the free 40-page e-book

Steve's podcast:

Forged In Silence

What does spirituality really mean in recovery—and do you have to be religious to be spiritual? In this heartfelt and wide-ranging conversation, Julie and Steve are joined by Matt, Corina, and Jamie for an honest, down-to-earth exploration of how spirituality shows up in their sober lives.

From Buddhist philosophy and Bible stories to daily rituals and unexpected symbols of peace, each guest shares a unique path toward meaning, connection, and healing. Whether you’re religious, spiritual-but-not-religious, or just curious—this episode will meet you where you are.

In this episode, we talk about:

Redefining spirituality outside of religion
Daily practices that connect us to something greater
Accidental spiritual awakenings
Finding meaning in suffering and recovery
How different faith traditions shaped our sobriety journeys
The importance of curiosity, open-mindedness, and community
Using spiritual tools to stay grounded in sobriety

This one is warm, funny, and full of insight. If you’ve ever wrestled with the idea of spirituality in recovery—or avoided it altogether—this is a gentle invitation to explore what might be waiting for you.

To learn more about our guests, view the full show notes at https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/spirituality-and-sobriety/

For information about 1:1 Recovery Coaching, visit https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/recovery-coaching/

In this powerful episode, our group dives deep into the connection between perfectionism and alcoholism and how striving to be flawless can sabotage sobriety, self-worth, and emotional healing. Jessica, Sarah, Erica, Hope, Julie, and Steve share raw and honest stories of how perfectionism shaped their drinking, and what it looks like to work through those tendencies in recovery.

From redefining success and learning to sit with mistakes, to practicing self-compassion and choosing authenticity over image, this conversation is full of insight, laughter, and “me too” moments for anyone struggling with not feeling good enough.

Key Topics in this Episode:

Defining our own standards of "good enough"
Authentic connection requires allowing others to see our imperfection
How perfectionism and overachieving go hand in hand to sabotage your mental wellbeing and sobriety
The intertwined journeys of recovery and how they all affect one another
Perfectionism as a sense of control
Recovering from perfectionism is an ebb and flow - some days are easier than others
The tools of sobriety also support recovering from perfectionism
Being a perfectionist can stop you from self reflecting, not wanting to admit your flaws and shortcomings - and therefore stopping you from ever working on them.---To learn more about our guests, view the full show notes at https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/perfectionism-and-alcoholism/

For information about 1:1 Recovery Coaching, visit https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/recovery-coaching/

Feeling insecure when you get sober is completely normal, and even expected. Insecurity is a loud companion in early sobriety, and in life. In this episode, we’re talking about it honestly. So often, when we put down alcohol, we find that we no longer have a way to quiet the inner critic... or in some cases, it fuels the insecurity even more. The key to moving through insecurity is to find ways to do it without the shame and avoidance we used to use. Now we use new tools, new mindsets, and the newfound confidence of sobriety.

Chris, Emily, Julie, and Steve gather for a heartfelt conversation about how insecurity showed up for them after putting down the drink, and what it’s looked like to build confidence from the ground up.

"You're just a speck on a giant floating rock."Key topics discussed:

Feeling like the odd one out in social settings without alcohol
Why insecurity often starts way before our first drink
How journaling, mindset shifts, and reframing help quiet the inner critic
The vicious cycle of guilt, stress, and alcohol
What happens when you stop numbing and start facing hard feelings
Why confidence isn’t a feeling—it’s something you build
Insecurity is a natural part of being human, not something to always be avoided.
Digging into the why: Why do you feel insecure? What fear is beneath the insecurity?

This episode is full of real talk, personal stories, and a few laughs (including talk of Steve’s future AI bobblehead 😄). Whether you’re early in recovery or just feeling shaky in your skin, this one’s for you.

To learn more about our guests, view the full show notes at https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/feeling-insecure-when-you-get-sober/

For information about 1:1 Recovery Coaching, visit https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/recovery-coaching/

In this raw and honest episode, Julie and Steve sit down with Trevor and Barclay for a heartfelt conversation about the messy overlap between alcohol abuse and depression, and the long road to healing.

Each of them opens up about their personal struggles—what it feels like to hit emotional rock bottom, how they found their way back, and the daily practices that help them stay grounded. You’ll hear stories of isolation, humor used as a lifeline, and the slow, patient work of rebuilding mental health without alcohol.

There’s no toxic positivity here—just real talk about how hard it can be to keep going when nothing seems to be working, and why showing up for yourself (and others) matters more than you think.

Please note: Multiple guests discuss their experiences with suicidal ideation. Please exercise caution when deciding to listen to this episode.

Key points in this episode:

Hitting emotional rock bottom and the loneliness that comes with it
Why depression can be so sneaky, especially in sobriety
Using humor to cope without bypassing the pain
How to keep taking action—even when it feels pointless
The power of medication, therapy, and reaching out for help
Learning to sit with emotions without drinking to escape
Why listening without judgment can be the most powerful thing we offer each other

If you’ve ever felt like you “should” be okay but you’re not, this one’s for you. You are not alone.

To learn more about our guests, view the full show notes at https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/alcohol-abuse-and-depression/

If you are struggling with depression or suicidal ideation, please contact SAMHSA. They are trained to help you. 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

For information about 1:1 Recovery Coaching, visit https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/recovery-coaching/

If you've been sober for a bit, you know that "burnout" feeling that we're talking about. It's that feeling of, "I don't want to have to think about alcohol and sobriety all the time. I don't want to have to feel like every ounce of energy is going toward this. I just want to live my life!" In case no one has told you - it's totally normal to feel that way.

We're here with Amber, Michael, and Collin today to talk about what to do when you get to that burnout point - and even better, how to avoid it. It's all about finding a balance between doing the work of recovery, and giving yourself space to enjoy that freedom you've worked so hard to achieve.

"When I made my sobriety my identity, that's when I started feeling burned out."Key topics in this episode:

People who struggle with addiction often struggle with moderation in ALL things - including sobriety work
Trial and error: figuring out what works, and what is just wasted effort
Keeping the work of recovery enjoyable
Processing the fear that if you give yourself space that you'll fall back in
Taking on "recovered" as your entire identity has the potential to cause burnout

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com for full bios and information about this week's guests!

Failure doesn't feel good. Or at least, it doesn't until you change the way you think about it. Too often, people put so much time and energy into avoiding experiencing failure that they fail to move forward at all. That can be said for life in general, but it's especially true in recovery - when fear of failure holds you back from even trying to quit, and then keeps holding you back from making the other changes that need to be made, too.

In this podcast episode, we're chatting with Katie (recovery coach for Peer180 RCO), Matt (host of Till The Wheels Fall Off podcast), and Elizabeth (host of Intelligence on the Rocks podcast) to talk about how fear of failure has shown up in our sobriety journeys, and how we've learned not just to face the fear, but embrace it.

Key points in this episode:

Redefining success in order to redefine failure
Turning failure into opportunities for growth that you can be proud of
The danger in not telling anyone your goals in an attempt to hide any failure that might come
Big fears - like failing our children
2 kinds of failure - the useful kind, and the not so useful kind
When fear of failure shows up as procrastination
Is it fear of failure, or fear of what people will think?
Developing shame resilience
The danger of keeping the bar so low that you can never fail

Learn more about our guests and find the full show notes for this episode at

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/fear-of-failure/

Loved this conversation? Let’s keep it going.Failure isn’t the end—it’s part of the process. If today’s episode resonated with you, here are a few ways to take the next step:

Join our free recovery support meeting on Monday – because you don’t have to figure this out alone. Click Here
Follow us on social media for daily encouragement and real talk about sobriety. @throughtheglassrecovery on IG
Subscribe to our newsletter for more insights, stories, and support straight to your inbox. Subscribe Here
Leave a rating & review – your words help more people find this podcast and start their own journey.

Whichever step you take, just know this—you’re not failing, you’re learning. And you’re not alone in it.

One "transfer addiction" that gets overlooked all too often is social media. And while social media has many benefits, it certainly also poses many dangers, especially when it comes to addiction recovery and mental health. In this week's episode, we're chatting with our friends Robbie, Britt, and Vanessa about how social media shows up in our lives, in our recoveries, and its impact on our emotional and mental wellbeing.

Key topics in this episode:

Taking a break from social media
The dopamine hits that come with posting and getting interactions
How to curate your feed to create a positive experience
Using social media to find true connection
Recognizing the different between real connection and surface connection online
The hidden dangers of external validation
Using social media to create drama and chaos when sobriety feels boring
Tools for managing social media use
Setting your intention when using social media
How comparing yourself to others on social media can damage mental health
AI and its detrimental effects on creativity, emotional intelligence, and relationships

To learn more about our guests and for the full show notes, click here.

Come check out our FREE weekly sober support group on Zoom!

Schedule a free discovery call with Julie or Steve to talk about our one-on-one sober coaching programs.

Research suggests that up to 50% of patients with an eating disorder will abuse alcohol or an illicit substance, compared with 9% of the population. We really don't talk about this enough... until today.

We've got three courageous women joining us today for a conversation about how their disordered eating habits have tied into their addiction - and recovery - from alcohol. The two are closely intertwined, and if you're struggling with both, it helps so much to understand how one affects the other. Each of these women has fought her unique battle courageously, and has gained wisdom and compassion to share with the rest of the world.

Join us for this honest, very real conversation about navigating an eating disorder alongside alcohol use disorder.

"It's honestly harder to talk about the eating disorder than it is to talk about the alcohol."Key Topics in This Episode:

How food keeps you silent
Eating disorders and alcohol abuse are both related to trauma and stress
Overcoming shame as a key component in the recovery of each
Eating disorders as a way to deal with difficult emotions, when you don't have the right tools
Fitting in, trying to be attractive, and it's impact on your relationship with food
Alcohol urges and cravings are similar to the binge/purge urges
When you body is off balance - learning to recognize hunger cues and feeling full
Overexercise as a symtpom of addictive behavior
Learning how to feel
Body scanning and body mapping as tools for recovery
Learning to catch emotions before they become unhealthy
How dopamine fits into the picture

Meet our guests: https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/eating-disorders-and-alcoholism/

Join the conversation:The online recovery community is an amazing space to make new friends. Come check out our Monday night Sober Happy Hour on Zoom, or join our Facebook group Recovery Your Way, and let’s continue the conversation!

Free Sober Support Meetings on Zoom:

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/meeting-faqs/

Learn more about one on one sober coaching:

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/recovery-coaching/

Without systems in place to fill your new time, and a plan to create a supportive sober tribe, recovery from alcohol addiction can feel really boring and lonely. The good news is - it doesn't have to be that way. All you need to do is some creative planning and a bit of mustering up some courage, and you'll find that recovery is actually intensely rewarding. But without any direction, it can be hard to know where to start.

In this week's episode of Through the Glass Recovery Podcast, we're chatting with Brenton (@officerecovery), Charles (@charlessharrisonjr) and Josh (@josh.quits.forever) about how they've filled up the free time that sobriety gave them, and how they've built up a support system that keeps them accountable and provides them with the connection we all need when we decide to create a life that is free from alcohol.

Key topics in this episode:

Nurturing relationships that are created in rehab or treatment programs
The comforting realization that the recovery community is incredibly accepting
The value of social media in creating a sober tribe
The importance of finding people who will challenge you instead of pull you down to their level
The value of creating new habits and routines, and how to get started
Hobbies to fill your time - and find friends with similar interests
Using platforms like Craigslist, MeetUp, and Facebook to find people with common interests
Finding the courage to get out of your comfort zone
The value of finding your authentic self, and choosing to stop trying to be what others want you to be in favor of being your true self.

The eternal quest of the individual human being is to shatter his loneliness. - Norman CousinsFor further listening about filling free time and finding new friends, be sure to check out these other episodes:

E104: Sober and Bored: How to Fill All That Free Time You Just Found

E68: When You're Sober and Lonely

E39: How Loneliness Affects Recovery

To learn more about our guests, visit https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/make-new-friends-sober/

For information about our free support group on Zoom, visit https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/meeting-faqs/

Long term sobriety requires establishing healthy habits that become a part of your daily routine. Figuring out what your habits need to be is an important part of the recovery exploration process - what works for one person may not work for another. But what we do know is that routines and habits are key for maintaining recovery for the long term.

In this podcast episode, we invite Matt, Ian, and Meghan to join us in a conversation about how they've found a set of habits that fit their lifestyle and their sobriety. Listen, and you'll walk away with a whole stack of ideas for things to try, and ways to incorporate them into your life. And maybe most importantly, how to stay motivated to keep the habits no matter what's going on in your life.

"You can do hard things and make life easier, or you can do easy things and make life harder."Key topics in this episode:

Incorporating fitness into your life, in ways that are sustainable (even if you hate exercise!)
How books about personal development - not just quit lit - support long term sobriety
The power of prioritizing - choosing one thing to focus on at a time instead of trying to do it all
Baby goals - tiny steps in the right direction are better than giant steps that overwhelm you
How to find YOUR thing
The value of routines in recovery
Trying new things isn't a lifelong committment. You're allowed to stop doing the things that don't work.
Start the day with some wins - little accomplishments that make you feel great.

Resources:

To dowload Julie's e-book about authenticity and self discovery, click here.

For a list of great personal development books that will support your long term sobriety, check out this blog post.

Meet Our Guests:

Matt Shambo (shamman780), is a 40 year old father of two from Burnt Hills, New York. He celebrated two years sober on February 5, the day after this podcast was recorded. Matt always believed he would get sober but at the same time feared it may never come. He spent five and half years stuck in the up and down battle with alcoholism before finding a better way. He wants to thank you everyone for sticking with him through all this.

Matthew would like people to know that substance abuse and mental health issues do not discriminate and that if you are struggling there are people out there who want to and who will help you.

Be kind to those who are still struggling. Sobriety is hard, but it’s worth it.

soberdaddoingsoberdadthings

After losing everything due to overdrinking from a very young age, Ian reached a breaking point and began his journey to reclaim his life. Today, Ian is a successful author, entrepreneur, and the creator of Make It Great (MIG).

Proudly sober since 2017, he has dedicated himself to personal growth, family, and living a life of purpose and clarity. His journey from addiction to empowerment has become his mission: to help others trapped in the same cycle of self-destruction break free and embark on their own transformative path to health, passion, and a renewed mindset.

Through his book, Wild Ride To Sobriety, Ian aims to inspire others to overcome their struggles and embrace a life of balance, success, and fulfillment.

Hey, I’m Meghan Melin—wife, mom of two (8 & 6), former personal trainer who used to preach health while secretly binge drinking, and now a sober coach changing lives. I know firsthand what it’s like to feel stuck in a cycle that no longer serves you. I quit drinking, rebuilt my mindset, and now I help others do the same. Through Sober Strong, my coaching, and my YouTube channel, I’m here to show you that sobriety isn’t boring—it’s powerful.

https://beacons.ai/soberstrong

Join the conversation:What habits have helped you the most in your recovery? Come join us on instagram @throughtheglassrecovery or in our Facebook group Recovery Your Way, and let's continue the conversation!

In a world where drinking alcohol is glorified as a coping tool for difficult parenting moments, staying sober and raising kids is definitely a challenge. Each age group comes with it's own conflicts and struggles, but many parents find the teen years in particularly to be emotionally exhausting. If you're in recovery, chances are you already have a hard time managing emotions sometimes. Adding the stress of teenagers to the mix can really throw you for a loop.

On the other hand though, your recovery gives you an incredible opportunity to really show up for your kids. In today's episode, we chat with Amos, Seija, and Robbie about how their sobriety has affected their parenting, and what they've learned since showing up sober for their teens.

Robbie Pike started his sobriety journey due to being sick of the same old story he would put himself though. He found his cannabis and alcohol use getting worse as the years went on. He used them to cope with everything and anything. He is now over two years sober, and couldn’t be happier with his decision to take on this new journey.

My name is Seija, I am a grateful recovering alcoholic. I have been sober since April 10, 2015. I grew up in the Chicagoland area and we moved to the Denver suburbs in 2014. I am the proud Mom to three sweet young adults; Jackson (23), Maya (19) and Lincoln (14). I am also thankful to be walking this recovery journey with my partner, Greg, and grateful to do life with him.

I am fortunate to be able to be of service in many ways in my life - my career in an assisted living community, volunteer work as a victim advocate with a local police department and a proud Board member at our recovery club.

I am thankful to be able to work with many women in sobriety, honored to be trusted with their story and watch them grow & glow.

If I could share one bit of advice, I’d remind people in early sobriety that nothing will change if nothing changes. I can’t expect the results to come from the work I don’t do - in every area of my life. Just keep going, I promise life only gets better in sobriety!

Amos Dupuis has been sober for 29 months, embracing a new life filled with opportunities beyond imagination. He attributes his journey to the guidance of his higher power, giving gratitude for the doors that have opened—and the ones that have closed with purpose. With a renewed sense of love and possibility, he is experiencing a life that feels truly limitless.

"That's the goal: to help our kids exceed us."

Episode Highlights:

How to show up when our kids are going through hard times
The added pressure of single parenting
Learning to balance being the friend with being the parent
Helping our kids cope with their own trauma
Supporting them without absorbing their emotions
How to work through all of the regrets we have about our drinking days
Taking to teens about your recovery
How your recovery community will also benefit your teens
Setting the example
Keeping conversations open - even when they're difficult conversations

If you need more support and advice for parenting, make sure you check out Episode 87: Talking to Your Kids About Your Addiction.

We'd love to hear about your experiences with raising teenagers now that you're sober. Come join the conversation on Instagram or Facebook!

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is the most widely known path to recovery from addiction, and often it's the only option people are aware of when they decide they're ready to stop drinking. While AA works well for many people, it doesn't always provide what someone needs to achieve lasting sobriety. Our goal is to bring to light how many different options there are for recovering from alcohol use disorder.

Our guests share what their experience in AA was like, how it shaped their recovery, and what they did when they realized they needed something different.

"AA does not have a monopoly on changing your life for the better."

Episode Highlights:

AA offers a "cookie cutter" recovery plan, but humans are not suffering from "cookie cutter" addictions.
Validating reasons that AA isn't always possible, such as difficulty getting to meetings
Using "quitlit" books to support your recovery
Finding a sense of community outside of Alcoholics Anonymous
AA offers an instruction manual that can be a good foundation for recovery, but some people find they need more
Health and wellness as a foundation for recovery
The people of AA is the core - it's what makes it so valuable.
Some groups lean heavily on a higher power, others don't. Sometimes it takes trying a few groups to find one that does fit.
Our recovery needs change based on the seasons of our lives
Scientific, contemplative, and reflective practices as a basis for a recovery plan

"Take what you need and leave the rest."

Rich Sullivan and his wife run a local sober and sober curious community on Facebook called Clear + Present Strangers. You can find the group by searching. Also check out their Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clearandpresentstrangers/

They also offer a self guided coaching course and 1:1 coaching, as well as promote local alcohol-free events, feature restaurants that offer great NA options.

Rachel Collins is a licensed clinical professional counselor and founder of Stride Forward Counseling. She is LGBTQIA+ affirming and her mission is to empower you to lead a more meaningful life. Rachel is trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-basedcognitive therapy (MBCT). She has a special interest in working with individuals who are struggling with substance abuse, addiction, and that are highly sensitive.

Visit her website at https://strideforwardcounseling.com

Check out Rachel's podcast:

Self-improvement Book Club by Rachel

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-improvement-book-club-by-rachel/id1647601481

Dr. Joanne Ketch LPC: I’ve walked through most of the major seasons of adult life sober. My own journey inspired me to dedicate my career to transforming the treatment of substance use disorder. Through my master’s and doctoral work, I developed a passion for empowering people to own their recovery and breaking down misinformation and stigma around addiction. I believe recovery is about building a full, rewarding life, and I’m honored to share a bit of my story today. You can find more of my work at www.drjorecoverycoaching.com.

Resources:

Rewired by Erica Spiegelman - a recovery program based on self reflection and journaling.

We would love to hear about your experience with AA! We know it works for a lot of people, and it doesn't work for others, and we're always open to hearing stories from both sides of the fence. Come share your thoughts on Instagram: @throughtheglassrecovery or on Facebook

Find full show notes and other resources on our website: throughtheglassrecovery.com

Rewired: A Bold New Approach To Addiction and Recovery

"Anger is what stood in front of me to protect me."In this roundtable discussion, we dig into the topic of anger. We know that anger can be a driving force behind alcohol use, which means we need to not only understand why we get so angry, but also have the tools to deal with our anger in productive ways. Listen as five people share what they've learned about managing anger in recovery.

Key topics in this episode:* Facing the shame and guilt surrounding anger * Specific tools to release anger * Learning to see anger as a signal, and listen to it * Projecting anger toward others, when we are really angry with ourselves * Taking responsibility for your part of the anger you experience * The practice of forgiveness and how it impacts the way we experience anger * Using anger as an excuse for drinking or other unhealthy behaviors

"I can have a healthy relationship with anger."Tools for coping with anger:

Write a goodbye letter to anger
Practice taking time outs - sooner rather than later
Learn to name anger when it arises
Validate your anger so that you aren't fighting it

Do you struggle with managing anger in recovery? Share your story with us on Instagram @throughtheglassrecovery

Meet our guests:

My name is David and I am 20 months into my recovery journey. I had an unhealthy relationship with alcohol for 20 plus years. I started in rehab and began putting in the work. I believe everyone can choose their own path in recovery. Through support from family, friends, community, sharing, and counseling, I have been able to begin healing from childhood traumas. It is an honor to be a part of such a beautiful community of people. I didn’t know how lost I was until I found myself. One love!

-

At 18, I entered prison. At 19, facing a potential 10+ years for parole violation, a pivotal decision changed my life. In a jail cell on October 12, 1996, at 3 a.m., I swore off mind-altering substances. The 21st encounter with handcuffs pushed me to break free. Living clean and sober for 27 years, I’ve found genuine freedom—earned through work, willingness, and honesty. Sobriety, my most gangster feat, opens doors to a life beyond imagination. – Jason Williams aka Sober Gangster

https://www.instagram.com/sober.gangster

https://www.facebook.com/Sobergangster

-

My name is Amy and I am a recovering alcoholic that currently resides in Texas. I have dealt with varying degrees of my alcoholism in the 33 years that I was active in my addiction. I took my first drink with the intent to “get drunk” at 13. In January 2024, I started my healing and sobriety journey.

I am grateful to be in recovery and hope to help others along in their journey by sharing my story authentically. You are welcome to reach out to me through social media or email.

Email: aamymay24@gmail.com

Tiktok: The Sober Amy May @kittykitty_no-no

In this Valentine's Day episode, we've asked our guests how love shows up differently now that they're sober. Not just in romantic relationships, but also in relationships with family and friends, and - perhaps most importantly - how love shows up in their relationships with themselves.

"I always equated love with approval."

When we stop drinking alcohol and we start showing up differently in our lives, we start seeing that how we showed and accepted love wasn't healthy, and it often wasn't realistic. Learning how to love ourselves, so we can share that love with others, is one of the most fulfilling aspects of living a sober life.

Listen as we chat with Sarah Jane and Will about love and relationships in recovery.

In this episode:

Self hatred vs. self love
Understanding who you are
Mirror Talk - what it is, and how it's done
Making personal ammends and practicing self-forgiveness
That moment when you realize that drinking isn't self love at all
Relationships must constantly evolve together - even moreso in recovery
The childhood messages we received from parents defines the way we see love today
People pleasing to gain approval is, in fact, not the same thing as being loved
We must love our whole selves - including our flaws and shortcomings
Love leaves space for genuine connections.
You can't shame yourself into lasting change; you can only love yourself there.

Will Gordon – a Boston native and middle school teacher whose hard-fought battle with alcohol addiction led to total organ failure and a life-saving double transplant in 2023. Through the gift of organ donation and unwavering support from my wife and family, I found my way back from the edge. Today, I share my journey from rock bottom to recovery with raw honesty and hard-earned hope hosting TheWillpowerPodcast, reminding others that even our darkest chapters can lead to meaningful change.

Sarah-Jane is the founder of Content Healers, a business dedicated to helping individuals restore balance and well-being through sound healing and energy healing practices. With 4 years of personal sobriety, Sarah-Jane brings a deep sense of resilience and commitment to healing into her work. A proud mother of four boys, she understands the importance of nurturing both oneself and others.

She uses her expertise to guide others on their journey to physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness, offering transformative healing experiences for those ready to make lasting changes in their lives.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dtbvq1KhG

https://www.instagram.com/content_healers?igsh=aXJ3NWh5OXhwajYx

Contenthealers.co.uk

For most people, the idea of recovering out loud fills them with anxiety and incites an instant cringe. All those stories, all that shame... why would you share it with others? But often, at some point in one's journey, they realize that their story has the potential to lead others to the same freedom they've found.

When you've found freedom from addiction, it's natural to want to help others find their way there, too.

In this episode, we're joined by John, Corey, Kristyna, and Jeff, who have all chosen to talk openly about their journey to sobriety. Some have gone fully public, talking about it in front of huge audiences. Others have quietly shared bits and pieces with people close to them. These are their stories - the fears they faced, the fulfillment they gained, and how their experiences with recovering out loud turned out.

In this episode:

The pros and cons of the anonymity factor of Alcoholics Anonymous
What it's like to "come out" as sober in a drinking culture
Knowing when you're ready to share
How our society is changing, and becoming more open and supportive of the choice to be alcohol free
Overcoming shame and embarrassment
The difference between sharing and oversharing
Sharing information about your recovery at work, with bosses or HR
Defining "stigma" and what it means to recovering out loud
The language we use surrounding addiction recovery goes a long way in making it more comfortable for others

"One day, you will tell your story of how you overcame what you went through, and it will become someone else's survival guide." - Brene' Brown---

John began drinking to manage social anxiety and perfectionism present all his life. As his drinking escalated, he appeared on the outside to be functioning - married, two kids, a practicing physician. But on the inside he was struggling to hold it all together. It took him years of trying to moderate before he realized he had to quit drinking, then many tries to actually stop drinking. He’s now sober over 3 years and more at peace than ever.

Kristyna is a 45-year-old fierce woman, wife, and mother of 2 boys, ages 8 & 9. She is a born and raised SOUTH Jersey girl – GO BIRDS! Kristyna grew up around alcohol and had her first drink at 12 or 13 years old. From then on it was pretty much drinking whenever possible. In her 20’s she began to really feel the
negative effects of her drinking. She was drinking till she blacked out every weekend and doing things she would never have done sober. But it was just a weekend thing – no big deal! It continued like that for years. She even tried to learn how to prevent blackouts; not by quitting drinking though! Then in 2014, she had enough; enough of the shame and the guilt, she quit. Kristyna had her sons in 2015 and 2016 and stayed sober. Then, slowly, she got sucked into the mommy wine culture which, eventually,
spiraled out of control. Then in 2024, after 2 to 3 years of daily drinking till blackout and constant depression, anxiety, shame, and guilt, she was ready to try again. At the recommendation of her therapist, she decided to try 30 days alcohol free. That was on June 2, 2024 and she never thought she would make it to day 30 and today she is over 7 months alcohol free and never going back.

Jeff Breedlove serves as strategic policy advisor for the Georgia Council for Recovery
and the Georgia Addiction Counselors Association as well as CEO for the American
Addiction Recovery Association.
Jeff serves on the Board of Directors for the Georgia School of Addiction Studies, the
Georgia Faith & Recovery Collaboration, and the Regional Advisory Board for the
Rx Summit.
Jeff was announced as a member of the 2023 Atlanta Business Chronicle Power 10:
Health Care List as one of the 10 most powerful health care leaders in Georgia.
Jeff was awarded a personal proclamation from Governor Brain Kemp in September
2023 as an outstanding advocate for peer led recovery in Georgia.

Jeff is married to Kathryn Ballou; they reside in the Grant Park neighborhood in Atlanta.
They have a son, Lawrence Foster “Jack” Breedlove, who was born in Gansu, The
People’s Republic of China. He is a person in long-term recovery with a passion to
share his story so others know Recovery is real.

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

We tend to use the words recovery and sobriety interchangeably. Reality is that they are two very different things.

Generally sobriety is defined as not using a mind altering substance. Recovery is doing the healing and processing necessary to remain free of the substance and live a happy and fulfilling life without it.

In this podcast episode, we have invited Steve, Mike, and Will to join us for a conversation about what recovery has looked like in their lives. Recovery looks different for every person, based on their life experiences and their needs. Listen as these three men - plus your hosts, Steve and Julie - share how they figured out what needed healing, and the steps they took to do the work of recovery.

"Alcohol allowed me to tolerate things I should never have tolerated. Recovery requires me to make changes so that I'm not tolerating anymore."In this episode:

"Sober is a state of mind"
How to find your why
Using therapy, journaling, internet support systems to aid in self discovery
Letting go of the identity of "drinker"
The unseen dangers of the functioning alcoholic
Post Traumatic Stress vs. Post Traumatic Growth
How a 30 day committment could be your answer

My name is Mike and I recently celebrated 6 years of sobriety, my sober date is 01/17/18. I publish a newsletter for men living a sober lifestyle called Own Sobriety. It can be found at ownsobriety.com and @ownsobriety on Instagram, Facebook & X (Twitter). I also post sober lifestyle content on my personal Instagram, @mikeunwasted.

I was an all-the-time drinker for 9 years, from age 25 to 34. Every aspect of my life revolved around alcohol and I suffered from several physical & mental health issues. It took several attempts to make sobriety stick, but my life is completely different today. I’ve been able to hold a job and advance my career, address health issues head-on, and create a stable, happy lifestyle. I have recovered out loud from the beginning of my sober journey and credit the decision to my long-term success.

Through Own Sobriety, I am able to connect with other men who are living a sober lifestyle which keeps me grounded to my own sobriety. Building a sober community and maintaining a support system has been critical to keeping me on track in sobriety. Even after 6 years of sobriety, I do my best not to take a single day for granted and constantly remind myself how bad it was. I worked my ass off in early sobriety to get to this point and build a life that no longer has room for or a need for alcohol.

Will Gordon - a Boston native and middle school teacher whose hard-fought battle with alcohol addiction led to total organ failure and a life-saving double transplant in 2023. Through the gift of organ donation and unwavering support from my wife and family, I found my way back from the edge. Today, I share my journey from rock bottom to recovery with raw honesty and hard-earned hope hosting TheWillpowerPodcast, reminding others that even our darkest chapters can lead to meaningful change.

Get in touch with Steve and Julie:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Dealing with difficult emotions is the number one reason that people report turning back to alcohol after they've stopped drinking.

When you've used alcohol for many years to numb all of the feelings that come up in life, facing them sober feels overwhelming. The highs are incredible - joy, excitement and happiness like you haven't experienced in years. But the lows are exhausting, and can oftentimes come out of seemingly nowhere.

When alcohol was your only coping mechanism for a long time, learning new skills to handle emotions sober can feel more than a little bit daunting.

In this episode, we've invited Dr. Joanne Ketch, author Jon Siedel, and Rachael Pioltini, creator of the Addict With Purpose community to join us in a conversation about what it means to be "emotionally sober" - how to move through big emotions in healthy ways. There are two parts to emotional sobriety - understanding why you react to certain things the way you do, and then finding new ways to respond so that you aren't causing yourself even more heartache.

This conversation is for anyone who finds themselves feeling overwhelmed by emotions sometimes, to make it just a little easier to get through them.

As promised, click here to dowload the worksheet Julie mentions that will help you understand and process your emotions.

"Recovery is having a healthy emotional response to what the world gives me."In this episode:

Holding it together in front of others - masking - when necessary
Correctly identifying emotions is key to processing them
"Spiritual Bypass", the hidden form of avoiding emotions
Vulnerability - talking about emotions in order to cope and heal
There's a time to distract, and a time to process
Embracing the Eastern philosophy of non-attachment as a coping skill
Self validation and self compassion as tools for processing emotions
Recover is getting to the point where your natural emotional response is a healthy one

Joanne Ketch: I’ve walked through most of the major seasons of adult life sober. My own journey inspired me to dedicate my career to transforming the treatment of substance use disorder. Through my master’s and doctoral work, I developed a passion for empowering people to own their recovery and breaking down misinformation and stigma around addiction. I believe recovery is about building a full, rewarding life, and I’m honored to share a bit of my story today. You can find more of my work at www.drjorecoverycoaching.com.

drjorecovery@soberinthecsuite.com
www.joanneketch.com
LinkedIn: Joanne Ketch LPC | Instagram: @drjorecovery | YouTube: Dr. Jo Recovery | TikTok: @dr.jo.recovery

Jon writes, speaks, and consults on the power of storytelling, radical vulnerability, faith, mental health, and addiction. His personal story—from spiraling into addiction to how he climbed out of it— is the focus of his next book, “Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic,” slated for release in the fall of 2025. His previous book on anxiety, “Finding Rest,” instantly became a #1 Amazon bestseller, topping the charts in several categories like anxieties and phobias, mood disorders, and obsessive compulsive disorder. Originally from Wisconsin, he now resides in Frisco, TX, with his wife and two kids.

jonseidl.com

theveritasdaily.com

https://www.instagram.com/soberwisconsin

https://www.instagram.com/jonseidl

My name is Rachael and I’m a proud to say I’m in long term recovery from both drugs and alcohol. My recovery date is 7/30/2017. I have chosen not to be anonymous and to use my voice and passion to help others like me find a solution. I am a harm reductionist and a certified peer support specialist in 2 states as well as recovery advocate. I am passionate about helping and inspiring others to better themselves which is why I created my page Addict with Purpose. https://www.facebook.com/addictwithpurpose/

Keep in touch with Julie & Steve at throughtheglassrecovery.com

You'll find a full list of podcast episodes, free resources, blog articles, and information about private sober coaching.

For most people, when they decide to stop drinking alcohol, they do it quietly. It's not something they want to talk about, it's not something they want to share with all their friends and loved ones. It's embarrassing, right? We never thought this is where we'd end up, and it's hard to accept that it is. We just want to quietly conquer the alcohol demon and get on with living our lives.

Except that's not how it works.

As we explore in this podcast episode - talking about it is exactly what we need to be doing.

Talking about the things we're embarrassed and ashamed of is how we get on the other side of that shame and really start healing. It's how we connect with others in a meaningful way, and finally fill that void that loneliness has been creating for so long. Vulnerability is the key to sobriety - and it's not talked about enough.

Listen as we chat with Jennifer, Michael, and Nicole about how vulnerability has made recovery from alcohol abuse a reality in our lives.

The opposite of connection is addiction. And without vulnerability, there is no connection.In this episode:

Humility and the role it plays in vulnerability
Learning how to let your guard down, when it's been up for so long
Vulnerability is the key to creating genuine relationships
Asking for help is one of the most vulnerable things you'll ever do.
Vulnerability is the link between connection and addiction
Being vulnerable is a risk, and people have to earn the right to our vulnerability
Sharing your story with others takes tremendous courage.
Healing is going to be uncomfortable - and that's okay.
How vulnerability improves the relationships in your life.

"Say the words that burn when they leave your mouth." - Andy GrammerIt seems that men have an even harder time (in general) with vulnerability. If that resonates, make sure you check out this episode about vulnerability as well.

My name is Jennifer Gerroir, and you can find me on Instagram @dropkicksober. My sober date
is August 27, 2021. As a base brat I grew up all over Canada. My hubby and I are in the
Canadian Armed Forces and are currently stationed in Wainwright, AB. Our daughter graduates
high school this year and will be off to college in the fall.
I was well aware for years that my relationship with alcohol was problematic. After 32 years of
drinking I found my way to the sober community on Instagram. More and more sober content
began showing up in my newsfeed. As I viewed, I started to pull at the thread that should have
been ripped out years ago. I thank God each day for every person who has decided to recover out
loud (seriously, you saved my life).
For years I felt so much shame, self-hatred, and blame for not being able to manage to moderate.
I’m so incredibly grateful that I found the sober community when I did. Now that I know that
recovery is possible, I want to be sure to shine my own sober light for anyone who may be
struggling with their own relationship with alcohol. As a self proclaimed Bible nerd, I also share
a mix of Scripture along with my own recovery journey, other sober content, as well as anything
else that inspires me. Not every day in sobriety is magical, but even my ‘worst’ day sober far
outshines what I would have considered my ‘best’ day while I was still drinking. ODAAT, one
foot in front of the other.

Hello! My name is Mike, I’m an alcoholic, dog person, designer, and human.

My quit date is April 9, 2019.

I’m originally from New Orleans and have lived in the south most of my life. However, I did live in Portland, Oregon for a while, where I started my career as an advertising Art Director.

I now live in Austin, TX where I continued my career working for a large ad agency.

I resigned from that job to pursue a career in freelancing. Just a few months after I got sober.

Being newly sober and embarking on a whole new lifestyle was a bit crazy to make such a huge change early in sobriety, but I did it. It was a calculated decision. My counselor in IOP, my private counselor, and a social worker strongly recommended it as it was a trigger for my drinking and using weed.

I founded SoberPress during the pandemic. It was an endeavor that helped me stay clean as I navigated being in isolation because of COVID-19. In August of 2020, I launched my Instagram page: @soberpress, and serendipitously found an amazing supportive community online. At the same time, I was working on establishing a blog soberpress.org where I would soon feature stories of recovery from around the world.

I’m very much involved in the community holding ambassadorships, appearing in podcasts, running SoberPress on Facebook, and helping with SoberHope.

Links:

Website: https://www.soberpress.org/

Instagram: @soberpress https://www.instagram.com/soberpress/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3509692239095770

Sober Hope-Austin Texas: https://www.facebook.com/groups/616558783253253

Connect with Julie & Steve!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Fighting the urge to drink alcohol is exhausting. And exhaustion leads to drinking.

In this episode, we chat with Mary, DeeAnn, and Billie about how to curb alcohol cravings. Whether you're working your way through Dry January and it's turning out to be tougher than you thought, or you're just starting out on a life long sober journey, we're armed with the tools and mindset shifts you need to get through the cravings and urges, take back your power, and gain the strength you need to keep moving forward.

In this episode:

Changing patterns and disrupting old routines
Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) including Naltrexone
Finding a therapist to overcome trauma that causes cravings
Learn to ride the roller coaster without fighting it
Cravings are signals and information about unmet needs
Find someone to talk to about the urges
Shifting to a healing mindset
Understanding the physiological and mental effects of alcohol and withdrawal
Take the option to drink away
Building sober muscles - gaining strength from each craving
Learning to change your language to create empowerment
Changing the associate with certain activties and alcohol
The "Alcohol Monster" tool for making cravings feel empowering

Looking for more tools to fight cravings? Check out these other podcast episodes to support your sobriety!

DeAnn is a human in recovery for just under 5 years. She has a non-profit committed to advocacy for those struggling with substance use disorder. Her podcast, Show Up and Stay, focuses on the space between recovering from a substance and starting the steps to healing your life. She also has a special project underway: Sober Positive Workplace, which focuses on helping organizations normalize recovery and substance-free individuals in our workplaces and other shared spaces. DeAnn is currently working on her Masters with Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies and is especially focused on integrated recovery options and counseling services inclusive of resources for co-occurring disorders.

Sober Positive Workplace showcase page on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/96108017/admin/feed/posts/

https://www.instagram.com/showupandstayorg

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deann-knighton2079

Billie hails from the great state of Oregon in the greater Pacific Northwest. After a career in law enforcement, she now works as a professional elder justice subject matter expert, as well as an instructor in Oregon’s law enforcement academy. She is also a domestic violence advocate for her local police department and meets with survivors of intimate partner violence to provide resources and safety planning options. Billie continues her advocacy by being involved in her states suicide prevention and awareness programs and facilitates her local chapter of a suicide bereavement group for families who have lost their loved ones to suicide. She is wife, mom to two wonderful kids and an avid dog lover.

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

When you're starting out in sobriety, the unknown of it all can feel really overwhelming. Each day that goes by comes with questions like, "Is this normal?" and "Will it always be like this?" Sometimes it feels impossible to imagine what life will look like a month or a year from now, and that can cause some real anxiety.

We get it. We've been there - and we've felt all those things. So we decided to gather up some people to have a conversation about what we wish we'd known in early sobriety. In this chat with Alex McRobert (Sober Yoga Girl Podcast host) and Lucy Linger (film writer/director/producer), our hope is that we'll set your mind at ease, make this all feel a little more possible, and let you know you're not alone.

"You might feel worse before you feel better."In this episode:

You're going to have to experience your own journey and learn your own lessons
There are tons of options for support, outside of AA.
There are medication options to help with withdrawals, to make them more comfortable and safer
Your experience doesn't have to look like anyone else's
Your life is REALLY going to change - for the better.
Health benefits abound - both mental and physical health
Sobriety allows you to develop resilience you never knew you were capable of
Your relationships are going to start changing - some for the better, some for the worse.
All emotions eventually pass on their own, with no action from you required
Nostalgia is real - and it can trick you into drinking if you're not aware of it.
Go find a hobby... and then find more.
Learn how to experience emotions instead of fighting them.

Lucy is a writer-director-producer working in theatre, film, and TV. She has been directing for over 20 years and her work has been seen at theatres and film festivals in the UK, Europe, and the USA receiving 5 stars and glowing reviews from renowned critics such as The Stage, Time Out, and The Independent and featuring on the British Comedy Guide. She is the Artistic Director of Threadbare Theatre Company and Linger Longer films.

You can visit her website at lucylinger.com

Alexandra McRobert is a 500-hour registered yoga teacher educator, certified life coach, and holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Education from Queen’s University in Canada. She has lived overseas since she was twenty three in Kuwait, Abu Dhabi and Bali, Indonesia. Alex founded The Mindful Life Practice, a worldwide community for those seeking connection and spirituality on a recovery journey - whether that is recovery from alcohol addiction or something else. Alex teaches yoga online and in-person in Bali, and she leads retreats in Bali and around the world. She also runs 200-hour and 300-hour yoga teacher trainings. Alex is the host of the Sober Yoga Girl Podcast. In her free time, she writes, plays guitar, and likes to spend time with her cat, Princess.

Visit Through the Glass Recovery for free resources, support, and more!

throughtheglassrecovery.com

Is sobriety worth it? You hear all the time that it's the battle of a lifetime. That it's a lifelong journey of emotional growth and 'doing the work'. Is it really worth pouring that much time and energy into staying sober?

When you're in the thick of the struggle, it can be tough to remember why you're fighting. This episode is meant to remind you what life is like on the other side of that craving, or that hard situation, or that tough emotion. Listen, and then bookmark this episode so you can come back to it the next time you're not sure if it's really worth it.

"Living sober means I get to create memories that never would have been made otherwise."In this episode:

Sobriety is "The Ability To..."
Be present; get healthy; save money
Facing the issues on the inside that you've avoided for too long
Emotions - understanding and allowing them
Self discovery and authenticity
How relationships improve with sobriety
Experiences keep getting better the longer you're sober
Understanding happiness and how to achieve it
The health benefits of sobriety - and no longer worrying

Chris Cardone, owner of Continuous Beverage Solutions, boasts 24+ years in bartending and hospitality, consulting for NYC’s top bars and restaurants. A 2017 Diageo World Class Bartending US Champion, he placed 5th globally and now judges the competition. Featured in Epicurious and major publications, Chris also educates with DiageoBarAcademy.com, partners on Astreaus Gin, and pioneers "healthy mixology." A flair bartending finalist and trainer to stars, he’s shaped the industry with expertise and passion.

Chris Cardone

Founder @ Continuous Beverage Solutions

Chief Mixologist @ Via Carota Craft Cocktails

Director of Mixology @ Astraeaus

2017 Diageo World Class US Bartender of the Year

Matt (shamman780), a 39 year old father of two from Burnt Hills, New York is 19 months sober. He always believed he would get sober but at the same time feared it may never come. He spent five and half years stuck in the up and down battle with alcoholism before finding a better way. He wants to thank you everyone for sticking with him through all this.

He’d like people to know that substance abuse and mental health issues do not discriminate and that if you are struggling there are people out there who want to and who will help you. Matthew Perry always said to people who are struggling “It’s not your fault”, but this Matthew believes it’s your responsibility. It’s your responsibility to acknowledge, to accept and to treat it every day, just like you would any other disease.

Be kind to those who are still struggling. Sobriety is hard, but it’s worth it.

Get in touch with Steve and Julie:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings. We also have a Facebook Group where our friends and listeners can offer support to one another. Come join us!

Self care isn't just for crisis. It's what creates a life where alcohol has no place. Self care is how we make emotional regulation a natural part of our lives, and it's how we provide maintenance for our sobriety. It can also be a challenge to give ourselves permission to take the time for self care, in a world where self care is often seen as selfish.

In this sobriety podcast episode, we chat with Antje and Lester about how they've incorporated self care into their lives on a daily basis. We all share tips and examples of what works in our lives, and how we continue to make self care a priority in our lives every day, without guilt.

Questions to ask yourself to identify self care
Meeting your basic needs
Self care is a requirement, not an option
How to know if self care is working
Relaxing looks different for everyone. Learn how it looks for you.
The healing quality of nature
Connection acts as self care
Self care evolves as you evolve
Work/life balance and how it pertains to self care
Self care as part of routines
Savoring, meditation, mindfulness, and gratitude

Want to learn more about alcohol and self care? Check out this article about self care mistakes you might be making in sobriety, and what to do instead.

Antje first discovered drinking as a way to “fix” her eating disorder. She thought that drinking was more acceptable than binging and purging all of her meals. When drinking grew more and more out of control, she reluctantly considered sobriety in January of 2022. Soon after, she found connection and support in an online sober community. She is so glad to that she took that first, scary step and gave sobriety a chance.

Lester Vaskin is a Criminal Justice Recovery Coach at Peer 180 Recovery Community Organization and a State Opioid Response (SOR) Grant Recovery Coach. He lives in Grad Junction, Colorado.

He is a man in active sustained recovery, which means to him that since December 14th, 2021 he has abstained from any mind altering substance to experience life and all it has to offer, both good and bad, without having to run from it. His life in recovery is a life full of joy with his girlfriend Miranda and their dog Max.

Follow Through the Glass Recovery on Facebook and Instagram.

For more free resources, including information about our free weekly Zoom support group, visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

You hear the word "boundaries" all the time in recovery. They're obviously an important piece of staying emotionally and mentally healthy. But what does the word "boundaries" actually mean? How do you set a boundary?

In this episode of Through the Glass Recovery Podcast, we have invited certified recovery coaches Jamie and Nele, and Jessica, author of Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea, to join us in a conversation about what boundaries have actually looked like in our lives. You'll hear real life examples and experiences that you can easily apply to your own life - and give you the courage and strength to set boundaries of your own.

If you're a people pleaser, and put others' needs before your own in order to keep the peace - this episode is for you.

In this episode:

How to determine your "no's"
The idea that boundaries are a practice, not a skill to be learned and checked off
Learning by example - find strong mentors
Getting comfortable with disappointing people
Getting past your people pleasing instincts
Boundaries can create conflict - and that's okay
It's all about telling people what IS welcome in our lives
Crossed boundaries can bring a chance for deeper connection
Setting boundaries with yourself (which is tough, but necessary.)
Navigating boundaries in a relationship when your spouse drinks

Other episodes you might love:

Managing conflict in recovery
How to stop people pleasing
More about setting boundaries

Originally from the Bay Area, Jessica lives in Northern California with her husband and 3 young daughters. Jessica has a background teaching special education but she left the field to pursue her passion for writing and to raise her girls. She is a vocal advocate for addiction recovery with over 11 years of sobriety.

Her debut literary book club fiction novel “Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea,” won the Maurice Prize for fiction from her alma matter UC Davis. It is a devastating and poignant novel that meditates on the often-unspoken costs and sacrifices of motherhood, relationships between women, and the slippery slope of using alcohol to take the edge off.

Available now for preorder and in bookstores everywhere May 13, 2025.

https://a.co/d/au9W8c8

Jamie Woodall is an entrepreneur and (Still Here) trained Recovery Coach who is passionate about personal transformation.

She trained as a Therapeutic Tutor for children with Dyslexia, helping them to see their own strengths and self-advocate. Jamie spent over a decade with the experiential education company, Where There Be Dragons, designing and instructing programs in the Himalayas and Indonesia for high school and gap-year students.

She also co-founded the Odyssey Institute in Bali, which focused on environmental studies, leadership, and global citizenship.

Jamie is fascinated by experiences which push boundaries and inspire introspection, self-awareness, and personal growth.

Currently based on Bowen Island, BC, Canada, she is raising two teenagers, has recently learned to DJ, and is living her best life.

Nele is the Recovery Program Coordinator at The Health Partnership. Check out her work at: Thehealthpartnership.org

For more great resources, podcast episodes, recovery meetings, and support groups, check out throughtheglassrecovery.com

You know that ADHD and alcohol abuse are related; that alcohol intensifies ADHD symptoms. But what is it really like to quit drinking when you have ADHD? What are some of the biggest challenges - and how do you over come them?

In this episode, four people with ADHD share their experience of what it was like to quit drinking alcohol while still navigating ADHD symptoms. By the end of the episode, you'll be armed with tools proven to work for your unique challenges.

In this episode:

Alcohol made it easy to avoid dealing with ADHD symptoms
The caffeine/alcohol cycle that many peopel fall into
The benefit of understanding that certain behaviors are related to ADHD
Dealing with the emotional dysregulation aspect of ADHD
The benefits and challenges of medication
The remarkable strengths of ADHD
Decision fatigue
The struggle with planning ahead

ADHD resources discussed in this episode:Delivered from Distraction: Getting the Most Out of Life with Attention Deficit Disorder by Edward Hallowell

Scattered Minds: The Origins and Healing of Attention Deficit Disorder by Gabor Mate

BrainFM app for focus

Senior Database Architect by day. Husband, Father, Musician, Photographer, Artist, Internet DJ, Astrologer, Designer and Writer by night.
Born and raised in Ottumwa, Iowa and later in Cedar Rapids, moved to Illinois in the 80s to go to DeVry. And never left.
With many attempts at quitting drinking through the pandemic, it finally worked for me on the 20th of March 2023 and I have not looked back since.

My Website:
https://www.davidbrucedavis.com/
My YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@davidbdavis

Hello, my name is Amber and I just recently celebrated 2 years alcohol free on Christmas Eve. I live alone with my cats in Rhode Island and work a FT and PT job, saving money, rebuilding my credit and learning how to live an honest and full life.

Growing up as an only child in a toxic family dynamic with alcoholism and undiagnosed mental health disorders running the show, I developed complex trauma that I wouldn’t be aware of until the day I took my last drink and began to uncover the lies that alcohol had me believing for so long. I lacked self love and self worth and believed I was just not built for the kind of life that I desired.

Come to find out I had the power to build that life all along, but alcohol robbed me of the ability to see it. Sobriety has allowed me to see an alternative path in life and recovery is providing the tools that enable me to walk that path. I am in the process of finding my voice and discovering where I can be of service to others who are still stuck in the lie. I hope to someday run a sober living community on a working farm where others can unplug from their toxic environments and truly heal.

Antje first discovered drinking as a way to “fix” her eating disorder. She thought that drinking was more acceptable than binging and purging all of her meals. When drinking grew more and more out of control, she reluctantly considered sobriety in January of 2022. Soon after, she found connection and support in an online sober community. She is so glad to that she took that first, scary step and gave sobriety a chance.

Ben is 46 years old, married with two boys ages 11 and 13. He lives in New Hampshire. Ben was diagnosed with ADHD at age 43. He quit drinking alcohol one month after that diagnosis, after openly discussing addiction with his primary care doctor and beginning ADHD medication. Ben still considers himself an ADHD rookie, and continues to educate himself through books, podcasts, and conversations with friends, family, and medical professionals.

Visit throughtheglassrecovery.com for a full list of episodes, and dozens of other free sobriety resources!

Delivered from Distraction: Getting the Most out of Life with Attention Deficit Disorder

None

Alcohol addiction is often surrounded by feelings of shame, guilt, and regret. The result is painfully low self esteem that doesn't just go away once you've gotten sober. Building self esteem in recovery takes intention and effort. In this week's podcast episode, we're joined by Cassie and Brenton, who share how they've taken action to build their self esteem in recovery, and the ways their action has impacted their lives.

In this episode:

The best self help books to build self esteem in recovery
Ditching others' opinions to make room for our own
All the things you are doing to create a false sense of self esteem
What a failure really is, and why you're not one
Knowing your value and potential, and embracing it
Finding the courage to raise your standards

"Self worth comes from keeping promises to yourself."Need more insight on Self Esteem in Recovery? Check out these other episodes:

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/self-esteem-and-sobriety/

https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/self-worth/

A former Pastor with over a decade in ministry, Brenton has been on a recovery journey since July 2022. He founded the Instagram account @OfficeRecovery to blend humor and healing, helping others smile, learn to laugh again, and take the next right step forward. With an MBA in leadership underway, he's passionate about creating supportive spaces in faith and recovery communities. Available for speaking and writing engagements, he focuses on faith, sobriety, and inclusive, compassionate leadership.

Cassie Bollinger is a full-time student, entrepreneur, and podcast host dedicated to inspiring and supporting others. As a growing Scentsy business owner and host of Who Nose Best, a podcast for Scentsy Consultants, Cassie shares valuable insights into direct sales and personal growth. With her journey of recovery, she brings a unique perspective on building self-esteem and self-worth, and she’s passionate about helping others discover their potential as they overcome challenges and embrace transformation.

https://beacons.ai/casandrabollinger

Check out all of our free resources on our website: throughtheglassrecovery.com

You know you need help. You've tried everything, and you're still struggling to quit drinking. Rehab is the obvious next step, but the idea of going to inpatient treatment is overwhelming. In this ground breaking episode, you'll hear from four different guests who share what their experience in rehab was like. And not just their experiences, but you'll also hear how they handled telling their employer they were going to treatment; how they got the most out of the experience; what fears they had, and how they faced them.

Rehab has the potential to be a life changing experience. If you or someone you love is considering going to inpatient treatment for alcohol use disorder, we're here to make sure you're equipped with all the knowledge and advice you need to make this less intimidating, and also to make sure you find lasting freedom from alcohol.

In this episode:

What will you tell your employer? Your family?
The danger of comparing yourself to others in rehab
What to expect from medically supervised detox
The value of connection
Giving yourself permission to put yourself first
Facing - and reconciling - your past
What does "doing the work" actually mean?
Going back to your normal life after rehab

Billie hails from the great state of Oregon in the greater Pacific Northwest. After a career in law enforcement, she now works as a professional elder justice subject matter expert, as well as an instructor in Oregon’s law enforcement academy. She is also a domestic violence advocate for her local police department and meets with survivors of intimate partner violence to provide resources and safety planning options. Billie continues her advocacy by being involved in her states suicide prevention and awareness programs and facilitates her local chapter of a suicide bereavement group for families who have lost their loved ones to suicide. She is wife, mom to two wonderful kids and an avid dog lover.

My name is David and I am 20 months into my recovery journey. I had an unhealthy relationship with alcohol for 20 plus years. I started in rehab and began putting in the work. I believe everyone can choose their own path in recovery. Through support from family, friends, community, sharing, and counseling, I have been able to begin healing from childhood traumas. It is an honor to be a part of such a beautiful community of people. I didn’t know how lost I was until I found myself. One love!

Scott: I am a proud father of twin boys. I host The Sober Heathen podcast with
which I document my recovery journey. Although it is sometimes painful
and deeply raw it helps me tremendously to recover honestly and openly!
I have 4 OWI’s, thousands in fines due, no license until the 30’s (2030
:P), I am living back home, and I still have never felt better and in
more control! Recovery is worth it because with it there is always HOPE!

Chris McGuinn served as Policy Advisor for the U.S. Department of Labor on opioid issues. He created the “Make Them Describe, Before They Prescribe” campaign, encouraging claimants to ask important questions when receiving new prescriptions. He has also worked in the addiction treatment field, managing single-site and multi-state operations for various Intensive Outpatient providers in the Washington, DC area. He founded More Than 28 to advocate for longer stays and better insurance coverage for treatment.

www.morethan28.com

Twitter: @morethan28

Instagram: @more_than28

Facebook: www.facebook.com/morethan28

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings. We also have a Facebook Group where our friends and listeners can offer support to one another. Come join us!

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

No matter how long you've been sober, staying sober during the holidays can be tough. So much of our lives revolved around alcohol for so long, and that seems to come on full force when the holiday season hits. Whether it's because you're socializing and celebrating, or because the holidays bring a deep sense of loneliness and grief, we want you to know you're not alone, and you CAN do this - and not just survive the holidays, but thrive through them. Listen as we chat with Austin, Billie, and Jennifer about their experiences with staying sober during the holidays, and what they've learned to make it easier.

In this episode:

Grief during Christmas
Facing hard memories without alcohol
How you can start preparing for the holidays NOW
How to handle the unknown of your first sober holiday season
Learning how to allow it to just be hard
Building new traditions to replace the old, alcohol-infused ones
Start experimenting with new things
Know your limits, and stay home if that's what you need to do.

Billie hails from the great state of Oregon in the greater Pacific Northwest. After a career in law enforcement, she now works as a professional elder justice subject matter expert, as well as an instructor in Oregon’s law enforcement academy. She is also a domestic violence advocate for her local police department and meets with survivors of intimate partner violence to provide resources and safety planning options. Billie continues her advocacy by being involved in her states suicide prevention and awareness programs and facilitates her local chapter of a suicide bereavement group for families who have lost their loved ones to suicide. She is wife, mom to two wonderful kids and an avid dog lover.

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

What causes a relapse? And what are you supposed to do after a relapse, if that's where you find yourself? In this week's episode of Through the Glass Recovery Podcast, we're joined by Patti Clark and Dave Davis, who share their experiences. Patti relapsed after 10 years of sobriety, and shares what she sees now, looking back on that. Dave went through several relapses before finally reaching lasting sobriety, and the lessons he learned from each relapse are what got him to where he is now. Whether you're currently in a relapse cycle, or just want to avoid relapsing in the future, this episode is chock full of everything you need to hear.

In this episode:

The loss of connection as a cause of relapse
Finding people you really feel a connection with - not just any support group, but the right one
Understanding society's influence
Learn about yourself and your challenges so you can move through them
Dealing with the shame after relapse
Sobriety vs. Recovery
Finding the lesson in a relapse
Learning to love yourself enough that you can stay sober
When you're limping along in sobriety, you're likely to relapse

Patti Clark is the award-winning author of This Way Up: Seven Tools for Unleashing Your Creative Self and Transforming Your Life. Her own experience as a middle-aged woman in recovery is deeply reflected in her new book, Recovery Road Trip: Finding Purpose and Connection on the Journey Home.

Patti was born and raised in Northern California, lived in New Zealand for many years, and is now living in Portugal.

Online

https://www.patticlark.org

https://www.facebook.com/PattiClarkAuthor

https://www.instagram.com/patticlarkauthor

Senior Database Architect by day. Husband, Father, Musician, Photographer, Artist, Internet DJ, Astrologer, Designer and Writer by night.
Born and raised in Ottumwa, Iowa and later in Cedar Rapids, moved to Illinois in the 80s to go to DeVry. And never left.
With many attempts at quitting drinking through the pandemic, it finally worked for me on the 20th of March 2023 and I have not looked back since.

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

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Facing fear in recovery can feel overwhelming. When you're still using alcohol, it's easy to drink your way through what would be a scary situation. But in sobriety, facing fear means developing resiliency, building confidence and courage, and knowing how to face fear head on.

In this episode, we explore how fear has affected us now that we're in recovery. We talk about what things make us feel afraid or anxious and why. We also share everything we've learned about moving through fear in ways that don't make us want to turn back to alcohol. Join us as we chat with Kenny (Recovery Hill); Corina, and Amber, and share our insights and advice on dealing with fear in recovery.

In this episode:

Getting sober gives you the confidence to face anything
Social anxiety and the fear of public speaking
"Suck it up and just do it."
Healthy fears vs. unhealthy fears - how to tell the difference
Fear is about assumption and uncertainty
The foundation of dysregulation is fear
Fear can either lead you to worse version of yourself or a better version of yourself - it's up to you.
Dealing with the fear of major change
How others influence our fear
Authenticity decreases the effect that fear has on us
The more fears you face, the more confident you become
Fear and excitement are physiologically the same experience
How to make friends with fear
Talking about fears helps to release their hold on you
The process of building resiliency
Fear has value - and we would be wise to stop avoiding it.

A large number of people who have an alcohol use disorder are using alcohol, at least in part, to self medicate symptoms of anxiety. For many, they don't realize that the alcohol is actually fueling and perpetuating their anxiety, because in the short term, it feels like alcohol is the quickest way to settle racing thoughts and a pounding heart. Removing alcohol from your life will immediately decrease your anxiety levels, but for some people, they're still left with some of the rumination and worry that kept them in a drinking cycle for so long. Learning tools that you can use in place of alcohol is fundamental in sobriety - without these tools, you'll be at risk of relapse.

In this episode, Taylor and Sarah join Julie and Steve to talk about coping with anxiety after quitting alcohol. They offer tips and tools that you can use right now, in addition to some mindset shifts that will be helpful for you to adopt. If you've ever suffered from anxiety - even in small doses - this is an episode you won't want to miss.

For more conversations about anxiety after quitting drinking, check out these previous epsiodes:

How to Cope With Anxiety In Recovery

Social Anxiety and Alcohol

In this episode:

Panic attacks
Supplements that help with anxiety after quitting alcohol
Understanding that drinking actually causes anxiety
Developing good habits that bring peace (and realizing alcohol counters those habits)
Mindfulness as an anxiety tool
Why imagining the worst isn't always a bad thing
Therapy to increase coping skills
The subconscious' effect on anxiety
Why authenticity is at the core of overcoming anxiety

My name is Taylor! I embarked on my sober journey in January of 2024 after being sober curious for about a year. After years of using alcohol to cope with trauma from abuse, anxiety, OCD & panic attacks, I took the final leap into healing and gave it up.

I am from small town Wisconsin and spend most of my days on the farm with my fiance taking care of our crops, chickens and cows. I am passionate about helping others, traveling, writing, and growing in my faith by participating in Bible study and spending time at our local church. I share my alcohol free journey with others to inspire and build community on TikTok through Tay’s Sober Journey.

Sarah Siegel-Kolodziejski, originally from a small town
in England, relocated to the
United States around 30 years
ago. With a background in
fashion, real estate, and clean beauty,
she started her passion project,
Pure Clarity, under the motto “mindful
drinking, mindful living.”
Drawing from her personal
journey with an unhealthy relationship with alcohol to an alcohol-
free lifestyle 3 years ago, her goal was to
create a platform for inspiring leaders, wellness and
consumers in the zero-proof
movement to come together. Through retreats,
classes, and collaboration with
alcohol-free brands, she hosts
events in southern California
for a community dedicated
to celebrating an alcohol-free
lifestyle fueled by mindful living. Whether for a lifetime, a day, a month or......

Connect with Julie & Steve:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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In this episode, we’re diving into a topic that so many of us face on our sobriety journey: the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO). Julie and Steve sit down with Gina (Modern Day Monk), art therapist Heather, and their long time friend Raul, for a great conversation, sharing personal experiences and insights on navigating social events, friendships, and lifestyle changes while staying alcohol-free. Together, they unpack the emotional challenges, offer practical tips, and explore how to create a fulfilling life without the need to "keep up" with the drinking culture. Whether you’re new to sobriety or years into your journey, this conversation is sure to resonate and inspire. Tune in, and let’s tackle FOMO together!

"You can do anything, but not everything."In this episode:

You'll have to grieve your past life - and that's okay
We tend to romanticize drinking... but romanticizing is not reality
Learning to socialize without alcohol
Fear of missing out on real life instead of fear of missing out on drinking
Learn how to have fun without alcohol
Create a recovery where fomo doesn't exist
Find new ways to celebrate
True joy only happens without alcohol
Addressing the parts of you that make you want to avoid being present
Finding "JOMO"
Find people who make you want to do better

"Create a life so full there's no space left for alcohol."---

Hello my people!

My name is Gina Murillo also known as Modern Day Monk. I'm a strong woman in long term sustained recovery and I live a wonderful life as a result of that. I consider myself a vibe influencer, a recovery rapper, and recovery speaker. I teach Muay Thai kickboxing and train Brazilian Jiu-jitsu at the best gym in Grand Junction called Grand Valley Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. I'm also a full time student at Colorado State University and spend my free time helping others in all kinds of ways. My intention is to share my experience, strength, and hope with the world to help empower those around me. You can find some of the life lessons that I have learned on my social media, as I share them to inspire others. Thank you for taking the time to check out my journey. All love.

https://moderndaymonkmusic.com

Connect with Julie & Steve:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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Facebook

In this episode of Through the Glass Recovery Podcast, we take a look into the ripple effects sobriety can have on personal relationships. Often, the road to recovery isn't just about changing your habits—it's about transforming the way you interact with the people closest to you. Whether it's mending broken trust, fostering deeper connections, or navigating difficult conversations, sobriety will profoundly impact your connections. In this episode, you'll hear real-life stories from author Patti Clark and Kerryann, finance professional and student of psychology, who have experienced these shifts firsthand, sharing their insights, struggles, and successes in rebuilding bonds and fostering healthier relationships in their journey to sobriety.

"I get to show up now."In this episode:

The painful reality of letting certain relationships go
Choosing relationships carefully
How your spouse can support you
Different people will react to your sobriety in different ways
How to respond when people think you're boring
Dealing with the friction when you stand up for yourself
Removing expectations from relationships
Relationships with teen children
Codependency, and how to disconnect with love
Connected relationships shine a light on the empty ones

Patti Clark is the award-winning author of This Way Up: Seven Tools for Unleashing Your Creative Self and Transforming Your Life. Her own experience as a middle-aged woman in recovery is deeply reflected in her new book, Recovery Road Trip: Finding Purpose and Connection on the Journey Home.

Patti was born and raised in Northern California, lived in New Zealand for many years, and is now living in Portugal.

https://www.patticlark.org

Connect with Julie & Steve:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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In this episode of Through the Glass Recovery Podcast, we focus on one of the most crucial phases of recovery: your first 30 days sober. Five people share what they experienced during this transformative period, offering an honest look at the challenges, triumphs, and lessons they’ve learned. If you're in the early stages of your own sober journey and are wondering what to expect, these stories provide powerful insights, encouragement, and practical advice. Tune in for raw, real-life reflections on navigating sobriety’s beginning steps and learn how to thrive, not just survive these first 30 days.

"I went from, 'I don't want to die' to 'I want to really live.'"In this episode:

Setting small goals
Finding support in a community
How your partner can support you
Overcoming the shame that comes with addiction
The benefits of therapy
Doing it for you - instead of for someone else
Making it your only job - no matter what, all that matters is that you don't drink
Dealing with emotions in early sobriety
Withdrawals
Giving yourself grace and patience
Permission to be selfish for awhile

If you're making your way through early sobriety, or are ready to quit drinking, make sure you check out these episodes also:

What to Expect In Early Sobriety

What We Wish We Knew About the First 30 Days of Sobriety

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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In this podcast episode, we dive deep into the hidden challenges of cross addiction and transfer addiction. You've worked hard to get sober, but now a new struggle may arise—swapping one addiction for another. Transfer addictions often sneak into our lives without us even realizing it. Stay tuned for a conversation with Daniel, Robbie, and Nadine, where we uncover some cross addictions and talk about how to tackle those, now that alcohol is out of the picture. We’ll help you recognize the signs of cross addiction, understand why it happens, and explore proven strategies for overcoming it.

"You can do anything alcoholically."In this episode:

What it means to have an "addictive personality"
Recognizing the patterns when addictive behaviors show up
Why society tries to tell you that "healthy addiction" is okay
Facing what's under the addiction
Temporary fixes and why they don't work
The implications and dangers of social media addiction
Finding a balance with behavioral addiction
Escaping by helping others so you don't have to face your own problems
Shedding unhealthy behaviors and continuing to grow
Recognizing when something is no longer serving you

Daniel Tate, Akron Ohio, married with 2 children that are active supports of journey, was computer engineer and now patent attorney writing computer/electrical patents for large companies (self driving autonomous cars, all the electronics in your phone, etc.). October 4th sobriety day. Created Slay Slay the Poison Dragon ~ IWNDPWYT we have 2.7k members and focus on a safe and non-judgement space where we authentically share as friends (sober group, but more focused on life group since life causes us to drink), have everyone from sober curious to years of sobriety.

After 20 years of heavy drinking, I finally found the courage to stop in the fall of 2020. At 38 years old, I am chipping away at bettering myself and finding out who I truly am. I work at a resort in Olympic Valley. While I'm not currently in the field, I am passionate about farming and sustainable food systems. I love attending and helping out with live music events. I'm currently attempting to play the ukulele, but for now will leave the live performing up to the professionals. I enjoy swimming and cold river plunges. I love anything I can do with the husky dog Mulligan including: hiking, mountain biking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, gardening, and reading. I so enjoy coffee, bubble water, and chatting with anyone who will listen/engage about sobriety. Connection truly does beat addiction. @dinaplaysoutside

Robbie: I started my sobriety journey due to being sick of the same old story I would put myself though. I found my cannabis and alcohol use getting worse as the years went on. I used them to cope with everything and anything. I'm now nine months sober, I couldn't be happier with my decision to take on this new journey

https://www.podbean.com/pa/pbblog-ua75n-e24517

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Are you tired of getting in your own way on the path to sobriety? It’s often said that we’re our own worst enemy, and that rings especially true when it comes to problematic alcohol use. If you’ve ever found yourself making progress, only to suddenly stumble and fall back into old patterns, self-sabotage could be the culprit. Understanding how self sabotage and addiction recovery are related is the key to overcoming these self destructive behaviors.

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the many faces of self-sabotage—because it comes in more forms than you might think. We’re joined by Sean, Rick, and Leah, who open up about their own struggles with self-sabotage during recovery. Together, we’ll not only share our personal stories but also offer insights and strategies to help you recognize your own self-destructive tendencies and break free from them.

Ready to stop tripping yourself up? Tune in and take the first step toward reclaiming your recovery journey.

In this episode:

Admitting and accepting that you have a problem with alcohol
Learning to be honest with yourself
Uncovering and processing childhood trauma
Masking, self abandonment, people pleasing and perfectionism
How to find a community so you can stop trying to overcome addiction alone
Understanding why we self sabotage
Lack of vulnerability as self sabotage
Calling out procrastination and seeing it for what it really is
The myth of the "high functioning alcoholic"
Avoiding discomfort as a symptom of self sabotage
Allowing space for grace and patience in the process of recovery

Leah lives in Corona Del Mar, CA with her husband “Cheese” and mini labradoodle Coral. She has been alcohol free since 1/1/24 and independent of cannabis since 4/4/24. Leah retired from teaching elementary music and has stepped into the healing world to discover yoga, reiki, meditation and breathwork. Sobriety is her superpower and she is grateful for communities like Through the Glass and I am Sober to provide support in recovery.

Rick - M.A. and Ph.D. in History and History Education, college and staff advisor for Alcohol Use Disorder. He leads sobriety support meetings for the Luckiest Club, an online group. He has been active in the I am Sober app community for almost five years. Sober date 27 July 2019.

Rick teaches History at Wabash, a small college in Indiana and writes mostly about food in history. His first career was in the kitchen as a professional chef in Vermont and California, and he continues to cook for special events and teaches cooking in his history classes. Hence, he is often seen on The Luckiest Club sobriety meetings meets as "Chef Prof Rick" and his handle on the I Am Sober app is Chef56.

Sean has been in sustained recovery since the day he blew zeroes in detox on 12-3-21. He has been living in an Oxford House since 12-16-21, began his recovery service work in Chapter and State level officer roles with them, and was hired as an Outreach Worker for Oxford House, Inc. in July of 2023. He currently lives at Oxford House Ashrise in Rifle, CO. He enjoys gaming (both digital and analog), being outdoors in the Colorado mountains, exploring new cities by scooter when he travels, zen Buddhist studies, lounging at home with his murder muffins, and especially cherishes spending time with his daughters.

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

You know it's important to keep moving forward in your recovery, keep doing the work. So what do you do when you start to feel stuck? What do you do when it feels like you're just treading water and you really don't know which direction to go next? Lasting sobriety depends on continuous forward momentum.

We've invited TTG regular Matt, sober instagram influencer Katie, and recovery community organizer Johanna to join us in a conversation about how we deal with feeling stuck. No matter where you're at in your sober journey, we know you're going to relate to what you hear.

In this episode:

Authenticity, and letting life guide personal development instead of trying to force it.
Self sabotage and how to overcome it
The need for continuous self-reflection to prevent relapse
The internet pressure for growth, even when external circumstances remain the same
Uncertainty about the future, especially during and after big changes in life
Feeling stuck due to emotional suppression
Feeling stuck due to unresolved trauma, personal issues, and dissatisfaction with life
The three reasons for feeling "stuck"

Hi! I’m Katie and I’m an alcohol free advocate. My goal is to create an alcohol free community locally, as well as building connections online. I want to show people who are struggling with their drinking that living without alcohol can be even more fun and exciting than with it. We’re sober, NOT boring.

Matt (shamman780), a 39 year old father of two from Burnt Hills, New York is 19 months sober. He always believed he would get sober but at the same time feared it may never come. He spent five and half years stuck in the up and down battle with alcoholism before finding a better way. He wants to thank you everyone for sticking with him through all this.

He’d like people to know that substance abuse and mental health issues do not discriminate and that if you are struggling there are people out there who want to and who will help you. Matthew Perry always said to people who are struggling “It’s not your fault”, but this Matthew believes it’s your responsibility. It’s your responsibility to acknowledge, to accept and to treat it every day, just like you would any other disease.

Be kind to those who are still struggling. Sobriety is hard, but it’s worth it.

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

When alcohol filled all of your free time, it's hard to find ways to fill that time up, once you remove alcohol from the equation. The result can be some loooong nights, watching the clock and waiting for time to pass, while that little voice in your head pipes up, "I know exactly what you can do to entertain yourself!" Ugh.

For our first episode of Season 3, we've invited some folks we've met in Facebook groups to join us to talk about how they filled their time, once they quit drinking alcohol. Meet Peggi, Ian, and Ben, and listen as they share what it was like for them in their early days and how they dealt with the inevitable boredom of early sobriety.

"Fill your time with your evolution."In this episode:

Activities to help fill time, including books, podcasts, meetings, and journaling
The value of time spent with family
Permission to go to bed early!
Helping and supporting others in their recovery
Finding new hobbies
What to do when you don't feel like doing anything
Changing mindset and thinking patterns
Finding purpose and finding yourself
The feeling of chasing something

Peggi Cooney is an author, speaker and sobriety advocate. She holds a MSW and has 26 years of experience in Child Welfare and Adult Protective Services. She is currently a social work instructor/coach for UC Davis: Professional and Continuing Education. In 2018, Peggi received an Outstanding instructor Award. Peggi published her first book, This Side of Alcohol: Random Thoughts and Candid Words of Pain, Hope, Humor and Love – and All that is Possible in Sobriety. She is also the Chief Connections Officer for award-winning Zero Proof Experiences/Sober in the City where she partners with founder Susie Streelman to provide alcohol free social experiences all over the world. Peggi is currently working on her next book about work-related stress in the helping and caregiving fields. She resides with her husband Paul in West Sacramento and Lake Almanor, California.

peggicooney@gmail.com

thissideofalcohol@gmail.com

thissideofalcohol.com

IG: @thissideofalcohol

Facebook: Facebook.com/groups/thissideofalcohol

zeroproofexperiences.com

This Side of Alcohol is available wherever books are sold.

Ben is just a average dude trying to stay sober and help others along the way.

He is starting the process of writing his first book, trying to relaunch and grow FlipSockz with a mission to help support vets and first responders, and starting a sober hiking group. In addition, Ben created a Facebook group called Sober and Loving Life.

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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Facebook

Our final re-release for our summer break is here! This will forever be one of our favorite episodes. It's meaningful, poignant, and you'll never forget these stories.

Do I really need to stop drinking? Do I really have a problem?

So many people google these questions that there are dozens of quizzes to help you decide whether your drinking is really bad enough that you need to stop. So our conversation today is about exactly that – how did you know that you really needed to stop drinking? And how do you deal with the idea of quitting forever, once you make the decision?

Listen to this gripping and poignant conversation we have with Melissa (aka The Sober New Yorker) and author and motivational speaker Martin Lockett, about how their journeys got them to the point of choosing to stop drinking, and what they wish they had known before they got to that point. Each of them shares their journey to recovery, and while their stories could not be more different, commonality is found beneath the surface, when we realize how important connection and compassion are when it comes to sharing our stories.

This episode is unlike any other we’ve ever recorded. As we end Season 2, we want to thank each of our listeners for sharing this adventure with us. Be sure to follow along on social media as we explore new ways to deepen the sense of community that Through the Glass is fostering, and we’ll be back in September for Season 3, with all new episodes and guests so that we can all continue to grow and learn on this path we call recovery.

Martin Lockett is a writer and speaker whose words have impacted thousands of people, even before leaving prison. He served almost 18 years for manslaughter, caused by an accident one New Year’s eve where he drank excessively and drove through a stop light, colliding with a car carrying three people. Upon learning that the two people who died that night were volunteers in the drug and alcohol recovery community, Martin chose to honor them by dedicating his life to helping others through addiction counseling and drinking and driving prevention.Now released, Lockett continues his mission and message by helping those in need of counseling for mental health and substance use disorders and sharing his powerful story at DUI victim impact panels, high schools, conferences, and highway safety classes across the country.

Continuing our re-releases for the summer months. This episode was one of our most listened to in Season 2 and for good reason - no one makes it through life without experiencing grief. It's a complicated set of emotions, and moving through grief sober is even more of a challenge.

Grief and alcohol don’t mix. We all know this… and yet, when grief strikes, it’s hard not to want to numb the pain. We get it.

In this sober podcast episode, we gathered some very special people with poignant stories together to share what they’ve learned about navigating grief sober. Polly has lost not one, but two husbands. Dave’s step daughter passed away suddenly last year when he was 8 months sober. And Corina shares about the grief of divorce, along with the grief of losing loved ones.

Listen as they share their stories in this very honest, open conversation about why grief and alcohol don’t belong together, and how to move through grief in healthier ways instead.

“The tools we use for sobriety aren’t just for sobriety – they’re tools for life.”In this episode:

The fear of facing grief, and how it leads to even more alcohol use
Everyone experiences grief differently, and that’s okay
Drinking only postpones the feelings that eventually must be felt
Allow space for things that make you smile amidst the grief
Grieving relationships – friendships, divorce
Dealing with the anger and bitterness that come with grief
Facing the fear of the unknown after experiencing a loss
Learning to surf the waves of grief, similar to surfing the waves of cravings
Using the tools of sobriety to cope with grief in healthy ways

We're continuing to re-release episodes throughout our summer break, choosing our most popular episodes from Season 2 to share with you throughout the months of July and August. If you've got kids, this episode will prove to be invaluable. Be sure to have a listen - or listen again!

Talking to your kids about your addiction is hard and it’s scary, but it’s also necessary. When you’re a parent and you’re working through addiction and recovery, it’s a challenge to know how much to share, and how to share it, with your children. In this groundbreaking episode, we have a conversation with Matt and Rachael about how we’ve approached talking to our own kids – of all ages – about our recovery. This is also a very personal episode, because Julie’s teenage daughter Cora joins us, to share with our listeners what it’s like from her perspective.

If you’ve got kids, this episode is a MUST listen.

In this episode:

Preparing for the hard questions your kids WILL eventually ask you
Allowing our kids to share what they experienced, without getting defensive or upset
The value of letting your kids see your flaws
Making your kids feel safe enough to ask for help
Creating a space where families can talk about addiction and recovery without shame or fear
How sharing our experiences with alcohol can affect the decisions they make when they’re confronted with it
Co-parenting with different viewpoints
Resources are available to support your kids, if you don’t feel capable right now\

Matt, a 39 year old father of two from Burnt Hills, New York is14 and a half months sober. He always believed he would get sober but at the same time feared it may never come. The past five and half years have been a battle with alcohol that he wishes upon no one. Along the way he has had the constant support of his family, friends and so many he has met along the way to help him achieve sobriety. He wants to thank you all for sticking with him through all this.

He’d like people to know that substance abuse and mental health issues do not discriminate and that if you are struggling there are people out there who want to and who will help you. Matthew Perry always said to people who are struggling “It’s not your fault”, but this Matthew believes it’s your responsibility. It’s your responsibility to acknowledge, accept and treat it every day, just like you would any other disease.

Be kind to those who are still struggling. Sobriety is hard, but it’s worth it.

shamman780 – instagram

Ben Meyer Recovery Foundation Youtube Video

My name is Rachael and I’m a proud to say I’m in long term recovery from both drugs and alcohol. My recovery date is 7/30/2017. I have chosen not to be anonymous and to use my voice and passion to help others like me find a solution. I am a harm reductionist and a certified peer support specialist in 2 states as well as recovery advocate. I am passionate about helping and inspiring others to better themselves which is why I created my page Addict with Purpose. https://www.facebook.com/addictwithpurpose/

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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Facebook

Tiktok

100 episodes! When this journey started, we had no idea where it was going to lead. We just knew we wanted to start sharing these conversations with others, in hopes that they would feel less alone, and a bit inspired.

The result? We've now created an online recovery community with a weekly meeting on Zoom, a Facebook group, and a weekly newsletter. We've become certified as recovery coaches and now offer individualized one-on-one support to anyone seeking a fulfilling, alcohol-free life. And we still produce our Top 5% podcast every Monday - the foundation and core of everything we do.

In this episode, we talk about where we started, how we got to where we are, and where we see Through the Glass Recovery heading as we make our way into Season 3, and into our 4th years of sobriety. We share the wins, the challenges, and the dreams. Our hope is that you'll get a bit of an inside look into what it's like to do what we're doing. So many of you have been listening since we started this podcast in September of 2022, and we want to invite you in and let you know what it's like behind the scenes - what we're excited about, what we're nervous about, and what it's taken to get from where we started to where we are now.

I would love to waltz in here and tell you all your friendships are going to be even better when you get sober. Unfortunately, that's not the case. Losing friends when you quit drinking is one of those challenges that nearly everyone has to learn to cope with, and it can be a very real struggle. It's painful to lose friendships, or even to watch them change as we move into this new, alcohol free phase of our lives.

We've gathered three fantastic guests to join us on this episode, to share what they've experienced and also what they've learned. Jason (Sober Gangster); Lisa (Hart2Heart Coaching); and our good friend Monica get real about how they're navigating a whole new social experience, sans alcohol. Have a listen - you'll walk away knowing you're not alone, and with some new ideas and perspectives to help you on your own journey of sobriety.

In this episode:

How your circle shrinks as you get older, and especially in recovery - and how that's a natural process
Exploring how your standards change as you begin the work of emotional sobriety
Dealing with surface level, superficial friendships
Being intentional with where you put your energy
How to be a real friend
Navigating friendships with people who aren't sober
How to find people that are on a similar path
Surprising fact: losing friends who ARE in your recovery circles is quite common
Grieving lost friendships
How to build a core community - no matter how long you've been at this
Understanding that recovery changes us - and our friends have to learn to work through that, too
How to use the internet to find people to build connections with

Want to hear more about friendships? Check out this episode from last season!

--

At 18, I entered prison. At 19, facing a potential 10+ years for parole violation, a pivotal decision changed my life. In a jail cell on October 12, 1996, at 3 a.m., I swore off mind-altering substances. The 21st encounter with handcuffs pushed me to break free. Living clean and sober for 27 years, I’ve found genuine freedom—earned through work, willingness, and honesty. Sobriety, my most gangster feat, opens doors to a life beyond imagination. – Jason Williams aka Sober Gangster

https://www.instagram.com/sober.gangster

https://www.facebook.com/Sobergangster

--

Hi, I’m Monica! I’m 54, reside in southern New Jersey, USA, and I am over 3.5 years sober. On Dec. 31, 2019, I woke up with my last hangover. I was finally done making life harder on myself, hurting my relationships, and slowly killing myself. I’ve learned that sobriety is a never-ending
journey to becoming the person you were meant to be. It’s been incredibly hard, at times, but the gifts that sobriety have given me are much bigger than any hurdles I’ve overcome. I’ve worked to heal from my past, strengthened my relationships with my kids and husband, built a thriving massage practice, and made forever friends in recovery. I wouldn’t trade my sober life for anything.

--

My name is Lisa Hart Anderson. I am a sober woman in her 5th decade reinventing her life in this beautiful world of recovery. I am a Certified Recovery Coach where my passion is to help others stay on the sober path and find joy and fun again in this new life of sobriety.
I have been married 33 years, have 3 grown sons, and embracing the empty nester world as I continue to help and encourage others. Throughout my life, I have been an educator, mentor,instructor and coach. It has always been in my heart to teach, guide and inspire with compassion and empathy.
Insta and TikTok- hart2heartcoaching
Website -harttoheart.coach.

--

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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When your liquid courage goes away, how do you get past the social anxiety when you get sober? First, just know you're not alone. So many people struggle with this! Remember when you walk into a situation that a lot of other people there are feeling just as awkward as you are.

We gathered some folks together who have all struggled with social anxiety, and they share their experiences and their wisdom, so you’ll walk away from this episode with more confidence and a deeper understanding of what it takes to move through social anxiety without alcohol. Join us as we chat with Robbie (host of Golden Hour Adventures podcast); Gina (also known as rapper Modern Day Monk); and Through the Glass regular Matt, as we wade into all those feelings of awkwardness and insecurity.

"The only way to get comfortable doing things sober... is to do things sober."In this episode:

Actionable tips to help you change your thought patterns in social situations
How some of our guests made social anxiety go away completely
Learning to make friends in sobriety
Recognizing (and learning) your lacking social skills
How to embrace the awkward
Insecurity about appearance
How Covid affected drinking, sobriety, and social interactions
Overcoming the cycle of anxious thoughts
Anxiety over how people are going to react to your decision to stay sober
Facing the fear by pushing through it
Letting people get to know the new, sober version of you
Connection and vulnerability are the key to social anxiety (I mean, aren't they basically the key to everything?)
Most people aren't hyper aware of others. I promise.
Getting comfortable with yourself will give you the confidence to be comfortable with others

"Alcohol worked for me... until it didn't."--

My name is Gina Murillo also known as Modern Day Monk. I'm a strong woman in long term sustained recovery and I live a wonderful life as a result of that. I consider myself a vibe influencer, a recovery rapper, and recovery speaker. I teach Muay Thai kickboxing and train Brazilian Jiu-jitsu at the best gym in Grand Junction called Grand Valley Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. I'm also a full time student at Colorado State University and spend my free time helping others in all kinds of ways. My intention is to share my experience, strength, and hope with the world to help empower those around me. You can find some of the life lessons that I have learned on my social media, as I share them to inspire others. Thank you for taking the time to check out my journey. All love.

https://moderndaymonkmusic.com

--

Robbie: I started my sobriety journey due to being sick of the same old story I would put myself though. I found my cannabis and alcohol use getting worse as the years went on. I used them to cope with everything and anything. I'm now nine months sober, I couldn't be happier with my decision to take on this new journey

https://www.podbean.com/pa/pbblog-ua75n-e24517

--

Matt, a 39 year old father of two from Burnt Hills, New York is14 and a half months sober. He always believed he would get sober but at the same time feared it may never come. The past five and half years have been a battle with alcohol that he wishes upon no one. Along the way he has had the constant support of his family, friends and so many he has met along the way to help him achieve sobriety. He wants to thank you all for sticking with him through all this.

He'd like people to know that substance abuse and mental health issues do not discriminate and that if you are struggling there are people out there who want to and who will help you. Matthew Perry always said to people who are struggling “It’s not your fault”, but this Matthew believes it’s your responsibility. It’s your responsibility to acknowledge, accept and treat it every day, just like you would any other disease.

Be kind to those who are still struggling. Sobriety is hard, but it’s worth it.

shamman780 - instagram

Ben Meyer Recovery Foundation Youtube Video

--

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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We're continuing to re-release our favorite episodes from Season 2 while we enjoy our summer break.

--

In this Valentine's Day episode, we invite our guests to share their thoughts on love. We share what we've learned about love and how it affects our relationships in recovery. You'll hear from sober influencer Amber, Jared Blaine - host of the Blaklist Podcast, and sober influencer Jennifer, about how their understanding of love has changed as they've worked on healing and understanding themselves. Each of us walked away with a new understanding of love, and we know you will, too.

"I had this idea that love was giving all of yourself, no matter what."In this episode, you'll hear about:

Sobriety allows us to show up in loving relationships in the way that others deserve.
Understanding attachment theory and how it pertains to our relationships is helpful.
Our upbringing models love to us, and creates our definition of love.
Learning to embrace solitude when you're single
Discovering and understanding emotional needs, and how to meet them.
It is possible to be loved by someone, but not feel loved by them.
Love is an action, and it requires constant practice.
Loving someone from afar, or leaving in love, can both be healthy solutions.
How codependency and love are interrelated.
Conflict in love - what it looks like, and determining healthy vs. toxic relationships in recovery.

In this episode, we mention the following books and resources:

Codependent No More by Melody Beattie

Rewired by Erica Speigelman

The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman (Click the link to take a quiz and discover your own love language!)

If you loved this conversation and want to learn more about how our understand of love changes in recovery, be sure to check out this episode.

--

For 15 years, Jared Blaine battled the grip of addiction, a relentless struggle that eventually led him into a perilous world intertwined with the Mexican cartel.
However, October of 2018 marked a turning point in Jared's life. Fueled by an unyielding determination to break free from the shackles of addiction, he embarked on a pathway to sobriety.

Jared's commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those battling addiction and mental health issues led him to launch The Blaklist Podcast.

Through this platform, he shares stories of triumph, insights into recovery, and invaluable resources the guide individuals toward treatment, interventions, and sober living homes. As a fervent advocate for recovery and mental health, Jared strives to spread hope and positivity, one episode at a time.

--

My name is Jennifer Gerroir, and you can find me on Instagram @dropkicksober. My sober date
is August 27, 2021. As a base brat I grew up all over Canada. My hubby and I are in the
Canadian Armed Forces and are currently stationed in Wainwright, AB. Our daughter graduates
high school this year and will be off to college in the fall.
I was well aware for years that my relationship with alcohol was problematic. After 32 years of
drinking I found my way to the sober community on Instagram. More and more sober content
began showing up in my newsfeed. As I viewed, I started to pull at the thread that should have
been ripped out years ago. I thank God each day for every person who has decided to recover out
loud (seriously, you saved my life).
For years I felt so much shame, self-hatred, and blame for not being able to manage to moderate.
I’m so incredibly grateful that I found the sober community when I did. Now that I know that
recovery is possible, I want to be sure to shine my own sober light for anyone who may be
struggling with their own relationship with alcohol. As a self proclaimed Bible nerd, I also share
a mix of Scripture along with my own recovery journey, other sober content, as well as anything
else that inspires me. Not every day in sobriety is magical, but even my ‘worst’ day sober far
outshines what I would have considered my ‘best’ day while I was still drinking. ODAAT, one
foot in front of the other.

--

Hello, my name is Amber and I just recently celebrated 2 years alcohol free on Christmas Eve. I live alone with my cats in Rhode Island and work a FT and PT job, saving money, rebuilding my credit and learning how to live an honest and full life.

Growing up as an only child in a toxic family dynamic with alcoholism and undiagnosed mental health disorders running the show, I developed complex trauma that I wouldn’t be aware of until the day I took my last drink and began to uncover the lies that alcohol had me believing for so long. I lacked self love and self worth and believed I was just not built for the kind of life that I desired. Come to find out I had the power to build that life all along, but alcohol robbed me of the ability to see it. Sobriety has allowed me to see an alternative path in life and recovery is providing the tools that enable me to walk that path. I am in the process of finding my voice and discovering where I can be of service to others who are still stuck in the lie. I hope to someday run a sober living community on a working farm where others can unplug from their toxic environments and truly heal.

--

Get in touch with Steve and Julie:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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Rewired: A Bold New Approach To Addiction and Recovery

None

The question, "How has getting sober affected your life?" brought about an incredible conversation about the benefits of a sober life. Join us as we chat with a few of our good friends (and Through the Glass regulars) - John, Antje, and Derrick - about how our lives have changed in recovery. The benefits are incredible - from the small changes and little wins, to life changing growth.

"We fail, we get up, we learn from that failure. That's what recovery is."Some of the benefits of a sober life that you'll hear us talk about include:

Learning emotional regulation, so our emotions don't run away this us anymore
Healthy coping skills for stress management
We're forced to learn new habits and new mindsets, and it's a gift
Stopping to look back and appreciate the wins
Letting go of self loathing and learning to love yourself
Recovery is about a lot more than just not drinking
Deeper, more meaningful relationships
Finally being able to tell the truth, and being free from a life of lies
Finding new, different friends that support our new lifestyle
Learning to own mistakes and learn from failure
Getting good at being bad at things; being okay with being a beginner
How "One Day At A Time" applies to more than just not drinking
Finally learning to be present in our lives
Truly experiencing joy and gratitude
Growing in courage and in confidence
Gaining clarity about why we are the way we are
Finding the strength to get through the hard times, from grief to depression, without drinking

"Whatever I'm going through, I know I'm not going out of my way to make it worse now."--

Antje first discovered drinking as a way to “fix” her eating disorder. She thought that drinking was more acceptable than binging and purging all of her meals. When drinking grew more and more out of control, she reluctantly considered sobriety in January of 2022. Soon after, she found connection and support in an online sober community. She is so glad to that she took that first, scary step and gave sobriety a chance.

--

Derrick Deidel is 3 years sober. He has come from the depths of addiction, trauma, mental health , prison and homelessness to be a light in this world. He loves recovery and is a huge advocate for it and those seeking help. He works for Mile High Recovery Center managing the Residential treatment house, he is a peer recovery coach and personal trainer. He tries to be kind and gracious to everyone cause that same stuff changed his life.

--

Get in touch:Sign up for our newsletter at throughtheglassrecovery.com for sober tips, tools, and motivation, and get access to our free weekly sober support meetings.

Find us on:

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It doesn’t matter if you’re a few days sober or ten years sober – cravings happen. At their best, they are annoying. At their worst, they sneak up on you when you least expect it and smack you upside the head and suddenly everything is spinning and you don’t know which way is up. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a whole new stack of tools to add to your sober toolbox, and you’ll realize that cravings aren’t actually something to fear or feel bad about at all.

“You won’t feel this way forever.”Besides learning how to beat alcohol cravings, we help you work through:

Coping with FOMO when it shows up as a trigger
Creating and using a sober toolbox
Surviving even the hardest cravings without giving in
Breaking the habit of situational triggers
Alcohol and social situations
Giving yourself permission to put your sobriety first
Cognitive dissonance – the argument inside your brain
Finding the courage to talk about the hard things
Recognizing the physical symptoms of triggers before it gets out of hand
Romanticizing the old days
Understanding that cravings aren’t a sign of a failing recovery

“Never make a permanent decision based on a temporary emotion.”Katie talks about the toolbox that she uses to help her stay sober. Here’s her list of tools:

Call my sponsor
Call my husband
Go to a meeting
Take a walk with my dog
Call/text sober support people
Watch recovery Tiktok
Write a prayer to put in my God box
Set a 10 minute timer
Meditate/breathing exercises
Pray and let go of my will

Robbie started his sobriety journey due to being sick of the same old story he would put himself though. He found his cannabis and alcohol use getting worse as the years went on. He used them to cope with everything and anything. Robbie is now nine months sober, and couldn’t be happier with his decision to take on this new journey. Robbie co-hosts Golden Hour Adventures podcast and can be found on Instagram @runshills605.

Katie B is 42 years old from Dallas, Texas but currently lives in Everett, WA. She has a handsome husband of 7 years with 1 16 year old son, Jakob, and 2 bonus kids, Layla, 15 and Isaac, 20. For the last 2.5 years she’s worked at the same rehab facility where she got sober. Her sobriety date is March 16th, 2016 after 28 1/2 years of active addiction and alcoholism.

Matt is a 38 year old father of 2 from Burnt Hills, NY who works in State government. He’s an avid outdoorsman, and his favorite times are those he gets to spend with his children playing games, reading, and coaching his son’s sports teams. Matt has attempted both inpatient and outpatient treatment multiple times in the past 5 years,and last year had the opportunity to experience residential sober living at Release Recovery in Westchester County. He encourages people who are still struggling to reach out and know it’s ok to ask for help. You can find Matt on Instagram @shamman780

Watch Matt’s story on YouTube here.

Get in touch with Julie & Steve:throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

Find us on: Instagram Facebook Tiktok

Do I really need to stop drinking? Do I really have a problem?

So many people google these questions that there are dozens of quizzes to help you decide whether your drinking is really bad enough that you need to stop. So our conversation today is about exactly that - how did you know that you really needed to stop drinking? And how do you deal with the idea of quitting forever, once you make the decision?

Listen to this gripping and poignant conversation we have with Melissa (aka The Sober New Yorker) and author and motivational speaker Martin Lockett, about how their journeys got them to the point of choosing to stop drinking, and what they wish they had known before they got to that point. Each of them shares their journey to recovery, and while their stories could not be more different, commonality is found beneath the surface, when we realize how important connection and compassion are when it comes to sharing our stories.

This episode is unlike any other we've ever recorded. As we end Season 2, we want to thank each of our listeners for sharing this adventure with us. Be sure to follow along on social media as we explore new ways to deepen the sense of community that Through the Glass is fostering, and we'll be back in September for Season 3, with all new episodes and guests so that we can all continue to grow and learn on this path we call recovery.

Martin Lockett is a writer and speaker whose words have impacted thousands of people, even before leaving prison. He served almost 18 years for manslaughter, caused by an accident one New Year’s eve where he drank excessively and drove through a stop light, colliding with a car carrying three people. Upon learning that the two people who died that night were volunteers in the drug and alcohol recovery community, Martin chose to honor them by dedicating his life to helping others through addiction counseling and drinking and driving prevention.

Now released, Lockett continues his mission and message by helping those in need of counseling for mental health and substance use disorders and sharing his powerful story at DUI victim impact panels, high schools, conferences, and highway safety classes across the country.

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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To move through shame, guilt and regret after quitting drinking, it's first necessary to understand the difference. Only then can we learn how to deal with each emotion in a way that is helpful and healthy. In this episode, we are joined by Brittany, co-creator of The Mocktails Made Us, and Joel, founder of The Sober Sessions, to chat about how we deal with shame and regret in a way that allows us to move forward and continue to thrive.

In this episode:

Last change comes from love, not shame
The book "Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself"
Finding the courage to have hard conversations
Making amends - not the AA way
Coping with parenting regrets
Dealing with shame using journaling
The value of guilt and regret - because they aren't "bad" emotions

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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What if we told you that authenticity is the foundation of lasting sobriety? That being vulnerable enough to allow your true self to be seen by others is where recovery starts? In this episode, we're joined by Eliza, CRO of Pretaa; Chelsey, founder of Lighthouse Recovery; and Gary, host of The Begin Again podcast; as we explore the links between authenticity, vulnerability, connection, and addiction.

In this episode:

Authenticity is an ongoing process, and it evolves as we do
Vulnerability - openly speaking about our flaws and mistakes - is how the shame lifts, and how we find connection
Authenticty is tied to shame, which is tied to self worth
The value of journaling to develp self awareness
Fear is at the foundation of inauthenticity
Recovering out loud
Finding your identity and your purpose
What do you really enjoy? How to figure it out.
Feeling "not good enough" and how authenticity changes that
Finding your authentic recovery path

Eliza Foltz is in long-term recovery after struggling with opioid addiction for over a decade after a sports injury. She is the CRO at Pretaa, a behavioral analytics company that improves the continuity of care for those with SUDs or behavioral health challenges and aims to predict relapse and notify caregivers so they can provide the right intervention at the right time. She lives outside of Boston, MA with her husband (also in recovery), two children, and bulldog, Bean.

Learn more about Pretaa at their website: www.pretaa.com and follow Pretaa on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/70412213/

You can also follow Eliza on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/eliza-foltz-a97000134

Gary Menkes is a dedicated advocate for sobriety and personal transformation. Sober for 18 years, Gary has triumphed over childhood trauma and an early tumultuous and troubled past, using these experiences to flip the script and to fuel a passion for helping others. Now, Gary hosts The Begin Again Podcast that provides inspiration, support, encouragement, and practical advice to those on their journey to sobriety. Through candid conversations and insightful interviews, Gary aims to inspire and empower individuals to overcome their past and build a brighter future.

Name: Chelsey Kai Laterra

Age: 48

I am living in southern Rhode Island (3 year's) my husband is from here. I was raised in Boulder Colorado. Born in Connecticut so I feel like I came back to my roots.

I am a Certified Recovery Advisor, I work for Aware Recovery Care for in-home addiction treatment.

My Website is: http://www.lighthouserecovery.com

I started a Facebook, Twitter and instagram pages,

5 years ago to inspire, support, and hold space for people.

I hold two private Facebook groups under Lighthouse Recovery Page, called Lighthouse Recovery Group and Yoga of the 12-steps.

I have had continual sobriety for almost 9 years, July 7th, 2015 is my sober date.

I volunteered in the Eagle County Jail system back when I was in Colorado for two years and bought AA Meetings in there for the women.

My background is Yoga 200 YTT, Meditation training, Yoga of the 12-Steps training.

I love the outdoors grew up camping and backpacking since the age of 5.

I have climbed 16 14,000 peaks in Colorado. Six of them were on my sober anniversaries!

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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With summer upon us, it seems everyone is wondering is to have sober fun - without missing alcohol! The warm weather seems to bring its own set of triggers. We invited Rich and Shana to join us this week, to talk about how they've learned to not just survive summer, but to truly enjoy it.

In this episode:

How mocktails can still make summer events feel special
Preparation: how to know you're ready for whatever it is you're wanting to do
JOMO - letting others be your reminder for why you're glad you're sober
Working through the fear of upcoming situations
Sharing your goals with others for increased accountability
Painting a new picture: it's always looked the same, but now is your chance to decide how it will look going forward
Sober travel - how to make it fulfilling
The value of an adrenaline rush when you're sober
How to make sure you still have fun, so you don't feel like you're missing out

Meet Shana Epps, a warrior who battled alcoholism for most of her life. After struggling through various traditional methods like rehab and counseling without success, she finally discovered her unique toolbox nearly three years ago. Since then, she has been thriving in her recovery journey. With two decades of experience in the treatment industry, Shana's passion lies in helping women and mothers struggling to not only achieve sobriety but also to craft a fulfilling life in recovery. Drawing from her own experiences, she founded Controlled Chaos, a fittingly named business where she serves as a certified sobriety, health, and wellness coach. Shana also leads a supportive women's group where you can find tips and support regarding all things life and sobriety. Additionally, she hosts a podcast where she delves into conversations about recovery journeys and life beyond addiction under the Controlled Chaos umbrella. You can book a free sobriety start call with her, or become part of her women’s group, on her website www.controlledchaoscoaching.com. For those seeking inspiration and insights, tune in to Controlled Chaos: A Recovery Podcast available at https://www.buzzsprout.com/2287816/share

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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Emotional intelligence (or "EQ") is the ability to perceive, interpret, demonstrate, control, evaluate, and use emotions. Described this way, it's easy to see the link between emotional intelligence and addiction. Dealing with challenging emotions is the number one cause of relapse, and for many of us who struggle with addictive behaviors, we never developed the skillset necessary to cope with these emotions in healthy ways.

We've invited Nick (The People DisPleaser); Mike, founder of Sober Press, and sober author Ginelle to share what they've learned about emotional intelligence. Anyone who is actively in recovery from addiction knows they need to develop their EQ. Listen to this podcast episode all about the value of emotional intelligence, and how to develop the skills and mindset necessary to stop the emotional struggle.

In this episode:

Learning to recognize feelings and emotions
How Atlas of the Heart by Brene Brown helped us learn to name emotions
Using somatic exercises to develop intuition, aligning the heart and the mind
Finding the courage to learn and practice vulnerability
The value of talking to others, either in the recovery community or in counseling
Kindness and honesty as emotional skills
How our natural reactions evolve over time
Recognizing the physiological and emotional value of crying
Learning to allow feelings to be exactly what they are
How feelings and emotions are influenced by others
the 5 parts of emotional intelligence

This week’s podcast guests are:

Nick, the People DisPleaser

Mike, creator of SoberPress

Ginelle, author of Make a Home Out of You

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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When your subconscious, underlying beliefs conflict with what you've learned to be actually true (cognitive dissonance), it becomes very difficult to permanently overcome addiction. But what does that mean? How does it work? And most importantly, how do you fix it?

In this sobriety podcast episode, we've invited Angie B, director of Peer180 RCO in Grand Junction, CO, and Matt, co-creator of The Mocktails Made Us, to share their experiences with rewriting old narratives surrounding alcohol. They share what beliefs they used to carry, and how they've worked to rewrite them, so that they can thrive in long-term sobriety.

In this episode:

The belief that you can't trust yourself
Changing it up - using skills learned from trauma to serve others
Allowing others to share their perspectives and differing beliefs
Breaking out of societal norms
The belief that drinking is what you're "supposed to do"
Asking for help - it's not weak!
Expressing emotions, even when you were taught not to
Understanding the link between cognitive dissonance and addiction
Reframing conflict to be something you welcome, instead of something you fear

Matt is one-half of "The Mocktails Made Us" duo alongside his girlfriend, Brittany. As an alcohol-free couple living in Las Vegas, they advocate for the benefits of an alcohol-free lifestyle, proving that if they can avoid alcohol in "Sin City," it's possible anywhere.

After spending 20 years in a destructive cycle of alcohol use, Matt had his last drink on New Year's Eve 2022, initially committing to a dry January. Feeling great thereafter, he decided to embrace an alcohol-free lifestyle permanently. Join Matt and Brittany on their journey @themocktailsmadeus on Instagram and on their "The Mocktails Made Me" podcast at https://rss.com/podcasts/themocktailmademe."

Angie B. Grew up in Detroit, Ml, spent 3 years in Minneapolis MN and moved to Grand Junction in 1987. She loves being in the Grand Valley-away from the cold!
Angie has a Bachelor's Degree in Operational Management. She spent 10 years working with the National Council on Alcoholism/Drug Abuse and her next 15 overseeing the Mesa County AmeriCorps Project. She started with Peer 180 Recovery Community Organization as a Board Member in 2020, Volunteered as Exec. Director Nov. 2020 and was hired as Exec. Director in May 2021. A Recovery Coach herself, she has since become an Academy Trainer in order to help others get their foot in the
door. In May 2022 Peer 180 acquired the old Union Station Building to rent and has become a Recovery Community Center.
Angie is in long term sustained recovery- 43 years and has maintained a recovery assistance home for 25 of those. Her passions are riding her Harley, her dog (Clutch), camping, organizing recovery events, helping others and developing a Flower Farm to retire to.

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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Grief and alcohol don't mix. We all know this... and yet, when grief strikes, it's hard not to want to numb the pain. We get it.

In this sober podcast episode, we gathered some very special people with poignant stories together to share what they've learned about navigating grief sober. Polly has lost not one, but two husbands. Dave's step daughter passed away suddenly last year when he was 8 months sober. And Corina shares about the grief of divorce, along with the grief of losing loved ones.

Listen as they share their stories in this very honest, open conversation about why grief and alcohol don't belong together, and how to move through grief in healthier ways instead.

"The tools we use for sobriety aren't just for sobriety - they're tools for life."

In this episode:

The fear of facing grief, and how it leads to even more alcohol use
Everyone experiences grief differently, and that's okay
Drinking only postpones the feelings that eventually must be felt
Allow space for things that make you smile amidst the grief
Grieving relationships - friendships, divorce
Dealing with the anger and bitterness that come with grief
Facing the fear of the unknown after experiencing a loss
Learning to surf the waves of grief, similar to surfing the waves of cravings
Using the tools of sobriety to cope with grief in healthy ways

If you're facing tough emotions and could use some more guidance in doing it sober check out these other podcast episodes:

Cope With Emotions (Without Alcohol)

Managing Negative Emotions in Recovery

Corina is currently living her best sober life with her partner Greg and their rescue animals (2 former street cats from Egypt and a wild puppy monster from Edmonton’s SPCA). She works locally as a special education teacher and spends her free time enjoying nature walks or bike rides along the ocean or on the many trail systems nearby. Her healing journey in sobriety has come with beautiful gifts including authenticity, acceptance, compassion, and peace with others as well as herself. As the adventure continues, she gratefully looks forward with to more opportunities for discovery believing that “Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.”

— Brené Brown, Rising Strong

Hello world!
I am Dave. After an over 20 year drinking career it was time to retire. I am growing and learning about myself everyday. Presence with family is my favorite gift recovery has given me. I didn’t know it also came with a community of beautiful people and connection. My hope is to inspire and support others with sharing my story through Instagram and fb. Follow my journey, @djsobershorts.

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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Talking to your kids about your addiction is hard and it's scary, but it's also necessary. When you're a parent and you're working through addiction and recovery, it's a challenge to know how much to share, and how to share it, with your children. In this groundbreaking episode, we have a conversation with Matt and Rachael about how we've approached talking to our own kids - of all ages - about our recovery. This is also a very personal episode, because Julie's teenage daughter Cora joins us, to share with our listeners what it's like from her perspective.

If you've got kids, this episode is a MUST listen.

In this episode:

Preparing for the hard questions your kids WILL eventually ask you
Allowing our kids to share what they experienced, without getting defensive or upset
The value of letting your kids see your flaws
Making your kids feel safe enough to ask for help
Creating a space where families can talk about addiction and recovery without shame or fear
How sharing our experiences with alcohol can affect the decisions they make when they're confronted with it
Co-parenting with different viewpoints
Resources are available to support your kids, if you don't feel capable right now

Matt, a 39 year old father of two from Burnt Hills, New York is14 and a half months sober. He always believed he would get sober but at the same time feared it may never come. The past five and half years have been a battle with alcohol that he wishes upon no one. Along the way he has had the constant support of his family, friends and so many he has met along the way to help him achieve sobriety. He wants to thank you all for sticking with him through all this.

He’d like people to know that substance abuse and mental health issues do not discriminate and that if you are struggling there are people out there who want to and who will help you. Matthew Perry always said to people who are struggling “It’s not your fault”, but this Matthew believes it’s your responsibility. It’s your responsibility to acknowledge, accept and treat it every day, just like you would any other disease.

Be kind to those who are still struggling. Sobriety is hard, but it’s worth it.

shamman780 – instagram

Ben Meyer Recovery Foundation Youtube Video

My name is Rachael and I’m a proud to say I’m in long term recovery from both drugs and alcohol. My recovery date is 7/30/2017. I have chosen not to be anonymous and to use my voice and passion to help others like me find a solution. I am a harm reductionist and a certified peer support specialist in 2 states as well as recovery advocate. I am passionate about helping and inspiring others to better themselves which is why I created my page Addict with Purpose. https://www.facebook.com/addictwithpurpose/

Connect with Julie & Steve:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

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I would love to waltz in here and tell you all your friendships are going to be even better when you get sober. Unfortunately, that's not the case. Losing friends when you quit drinking is one of those challenges that nearly everyone has to learn to cope with, and it can be a very real struggle. It's painful to lose friendships, or even to watch them change as we move into this new, alcohol free phase of our lives.

We've gathered three fantastic guests to join us on this episode, to share what they've experienced and also what they've learned. Jason (Sober Gangster); Lisa (Hart2Heart Coaching); and our good friend Monica get real about how they're navigating a whole new social experience, sans alcohol. Have a listen - you'll walk away knowing you're not alone, and with some new ideas and perspectives to help you on your own journey of sobriety.

In this episode:

How your circle shrinks as you get older, and especially in recovery - and how that's a natural process
Exploring how your standards change as you begin the work of emotional sobriety
Dealing with surface level, superficial friendships
Being intentional with where you put your energy
How to be a real friend
Navigating friendships with people who aren't sober
How to find people that are on a similar path
Surprising fact: losing friends who ARE in your recovery circles is quite common
Grieving lost friendships
How to build a core community - no matter how long you've been at this
Understanding that recovery changes us - and our friends have to learn to work through that, too
How to use the internet to find people to build connections with

Want to hear more about friendships? Check out this episode from last season!

At 18, I entered prison. At 19, facing a potential 10+ years for parole violation, a pivotal decision changed my life. In a jail cell on October 12, 1996, at 3 a.m., I swore off mind-altering substances. The 21st encounter with handcuffs pushed me to break free. Living clean and sober for 27 years, I’ve found genuine freedom—earned through work, willingness, and honesty. Sobriety, my most gangster feat, opens doors to a life beyond imagination. – Jason Williams aka Sober Gangster

https://www.instagram.com/sober.gangster

https://www.facebook.com/Sobergangster

Hi, I’m Monica! I’m 54, reside in southern New Jersey, USA, and I am over 3.5 years sober. On Dec. 31, 2019, I woke up with my last hangover. I was finally done making life harder on myself, hurting my relationships, and slowly killing myself. I’ve learned that sobriety is a never-ending
journey to becoming the person you were meant to be. It’s been incredibly hard, at times, but the gifts that sobriety have given me are much bigger than any hurdles I’ve overcome. I’ve worked to heal from my past, strengthened my relationships with my kids and husband, built a thriving massage practice, and made forever friends in recovery. I wouldn’t trade my sober life for anything.

My name is Lisa Hart Anderson. I am a sober woman in her 5th decade reinventing her life in this beautiful world of recovery. I am a Certified Recovery Coach where my passion is to help others stay on the sober path and find joy and fun again in this new life of sobriety.
I have been married 33 years, have 3 grown sons, and embracing the empty nester world as I continue to help and encourage others. Throughout my life, I have been an educator, mentor,instructor and coach. It has always been in my heart to teach, guide and inspire with compassion and empathy.
Insta and TikTok- hart2heartcoaching
Website -harttoheart.coach.

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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When your liquid courage goes away, how do you get past the social anxiety when you get sober? First, just know you're not alone. So many people struggle with this! Remember when you walk into a situation that a lot of other people there are feeling just as awkward as you are.

We gathered some folks together who have all struggled with social anxiety, and they share their experiences and their wisdom, so hopefully you walk away with some more confidence and a deeper understanding of what it takes to move through social anxiety without alcohol. Join us as we chat with Robbie (host of Golden Hour Adventures podcast); Gina (also known as rapper Modern Day Monk); and Through the Glass regular Matt, as we wade into all those feelings of awkwardness and insecurity.

"The only way to get comfortable doing things sober... is to do things sober."In this episode:

Actionable tips to help you change your thought patterns in social situations
How some of our guests made social anxiety go away completely
Learning to make friends in sobriety
Recognizing (and learning) your lacking social skills
How to embrace the awkward
Insecurity about appearance
How Covid affected drinking, sobriety, and social interactions
Overcoming the cycle of anxious thoughts
Anxiety over how people are going to react to your decision to stay sober
Facing the fear by pushing through it
Letting people get to know the new, sober version of you
Connection and vulnerability are the key to social anxiety (I mean, aren't they basically the key to everything?)
Most people aren't hyper aware of others. I promise.
Getting comfortable with yourself will give you the confidence to be comfortable with others

"Alcohol worked for me... until it didn't."

Hello my people!

My name is Gina Murillo also known as Modern Day Monk. I'm a strong woman in long term sustained recovery and I live a wonderful life as a result of that. I consider myself a vibe influencer, a recovery rapper, and recovery speaker. I teach Muay Thai kickboxing and train Brazilian Jiu-jitsu at the best gym in Grand Junction called Grand Valley Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. I'm also a full time student at Colorado State University and spend my free time helping others in all kinds of ways. My intention is to share my experience, strength, and hope with the world to help empower those around me. You can find some of the life lessons that I have learned on my social media, as I share them to inspire others. Thank you for taking the time to check out my journey. All love.

https://moderndaymonkmusic.com

Robbie: I started my sobriety journey due to being sick of the same old story I would put myself though. I found my cannabis and alcohol use getting worse as the years went on. I used them to cope with everything and anything. I'm now nine months sober, I couldn't be happier with my decision to take on this new journey

https://www.podbean.com/pa/pbblog-ua75n-e24517

Matt, a 39 year old father of two from Burnt Hills, New York is14 and a half months sober. He always believed he would get sober but at the same time feared it may never come. The past five and half years have been a battle with alcohol that he wishes upon no one. Along the way he has had the constant support of his family, friends and so many he has met along the way to help him achieve sobriety. He wants to thank you all for sticking with him through all this.

He'd like people to know that substance abuse and mental health issues do not discriminate and that if you are struggling there are people out there who want to and who will help you. Matthew Perry always said to people who are struggling “It’s not your fault”, but this Matthew believes it’s your responsibility. It’s your responsibility to acknowledge, accept and treat it every day, just like you would any other disease.

Be kind to those who are still struggling. Sobriety is hard, but it’s worth it.

shamman780 - instagram

Ben Meyer Recovery Foundation Youtube Video

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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Is it possible to stay sober, when your spouse still drinks? This is one of the most common challenges our listeners have shared with us, so we've rounded up some guests to share their experiences with it. Of course, the answer is very personal and unique to your situation. But we hope that with some added perspective, maybe you'll find some tips and tools to navigate this situation in your home, if it's one you are struggling with.

Join us as we chat with Kate (Walking The Straight Line), Jordana (Executive Director of a healthcare organization) and Through the Glass regular Sherralynn about how our partner's drinking has affected our sobriety, and how we've learned to handle it.

In this episode:

Understanding that you aren't the problem - it's not your fault
Codependency and enmeshment, and how they affect our marriages
You can't fix or save anyone, no matter how much you love them
Prioritize building a support community
You can't get sober for someone else - and that applies to your spouse as well
Shifting away from being "drinking buddies" and finding a new identity within the marriage
Making the decision to separate
Knowing and communicating boundaries
Understanding what is your responsibility, and not taking on more than that
Finding the courage to communicate your needs
Learning to prioritize yourself and your sobriety

Meet our guests:

My name is Jordana Blesa sober 11 years. Sobriety date 12.27.12. I was born in South America (Argentina) raised in sunny California. I was born into a family of Medical Professionals who were very successful in the medical field. I struggled with school growing up and was labeled with several mental health diagnoses so I believed for a long time “I was and am a problem”. Through my journey of recovery I see that mental health is a “super power” and with the appropriate tools, resources and authentic relationships

I am more than capable and competent.

As a young adult I was home schooled and placed in sports: Gymastics and Figure Skating. I excelled at sports and travelled the world as a professional figure skating representing the USA. After several traumatic events I walked away from the sport and went down a journey of self-sabotage, self-imposed crisis and overcame all obstacles and barriers by grace. Through anger and “proving a point” I was able to obtain my Bachelors degree in business and my MBA. All my experiences have led me to work in the behavioral health field. I currently work as an Executive Director for a healthcare organization and have been for the past 4 years helping family members, loved ones, dependent individuals and showing them with a team how recovery is beautiful, rewarding and life is meant to be lived. My mantra is “your past does not define you”. Personally I am an advocate for recovery, live my truth, help others in the recovery community and try my best plant the seed that recovery is possible. I am 39 years old, married and living in Baltimore, Maryland pursuing my dreams in healthcare with a robust team by building from the ground up a 300 bed substance abuse/ mental healthcare facility revolutionizing treatment for Marylanders.

My goal is to continue to disrupt the industry of healthcare, continue planting seeds that recovery is possible and being a living example that recovery is possible. “Together we can change the world”.

Social media-

Instagram- jordy_84-https://www.instagram.com/jordy_84?igsh=Nmp5bnp2Y2h1YnJ0&utm_source=qr

Facebook- Jordana Blesa-https://www.facebook.com/TiAmoMiAmore?mibextid=AEUHqQ

Linked In- Jordana Blesa-https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordana-blesa-a05b15b4?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Non-profit Director for f#ck the Stigma

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fukthestigma?igsh=MXNwMzM4b2Y2MHc3eA==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FTStigma?mibextid=AEUHqQ

YouTube- https://youtube.com/@fthestigma?si=q5BY8ji_lax3J3Wy

Kate Taylor is a seasoned writer and editor, having worked in London, New York and Rome and with companies such as Disney and the United Nations. She is a big voice on Instagram where she talks about her sobriety and the journey from drinking wine on a nightly basis to where she is today. You can follow her at @walking_the_straight_line

Sherralynn is a bookish, Anglo-French mum of three who is currently between jobs, but a communicator by profession. She was raised in Norfolk, UK and lives near Paris, France with her French family and cat. Sherralynn’s sober journey began in 2016 after discovering This Naked Mind, and becoming “sober curious”. One baby and several other breaks from alcohol later, she found her sober tribe in August 2022, including Julie and Steve, and hasn’t looked back since. She can be found at @sober_af_for_today on Instagram, or on IAS under Motivated_AF.

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com for more information about all of the sobriety resources we offer!

Honesty is one of those topics that seems pretty simple and clear cut at first, but starts getting a little squirmier the more you dig into it. There's layers there, too. Many of us tend to think we're pretty honest folks, but as we work more and more on our recovery, we start recognizing areas of our lives where we'd actually been quite dishonest... and that's especially true when it comes to being honest with ourselves. We've invited three inspiring people in long term recovery to come chat with us, and reflect on how honesty has played in a role in their recovery from alcoholism... and how that's evolved over the course of time. Listen as we talk with Kenny, Emily, and Adam and get real about honesty.

"Recovery meant getting honest with myself about my contentment and quality of life. I had to realize I was settling for less than my full potential."In this episode:

Honesty with yourself - and how that evolves with greater self awareness
Excuses and lies of omission
Using lies to hide and cover up addictions, imperfections, mistakes and flaws
Dishonesty and perfectionism
Advocating for yourself as a part of honesty
Recognizing the physical reaction that happens when you are dishonest
How ego applies to honesty
Understanding - and getting honest about - underlying subconscious beliefs
The freedom that comes with living an open and honest life

"I always believed it was okay, as long as I didn't get caught."---

About our guests:

Kenny Hill is a combat veteran who has been sober for 17 years. He now works as a therapist with addiction and trauma in his private practice, called Recovery Hill.

Beyond his professional life, Kenny has a podcast called Patina’d Podcast, where resilience is the underlying theme as guests discuss their origin stories. This podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcast.

https://www.youtube.com/@PatinadPodcast/featured

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/patinad-podcast/id1728582206

He also put together a mini-documentary series specific to addiction called “Story Of.” Each guest has sustainable recovery, and shares their experience and personal tips for long-term sobriety. Here is the link for ‘Story Of’:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZhkvLzyf87EjpTsLguktlPllq_kJmM2m

Kenny's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kenny_from_recoveryhill/

And Patina’d Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patinad_podcast/

Adam Head spent the majority of adulthood running from a life that he found unfulfilling by drowning it in vodka and peppermint schnapps. This eventually landed him in the hospital with a diagnosis of acute alcohol induced liver failure. Fast forward through five rehabs, hundreds of meetings and a divorce, and he still found himself drinking. Until he discovered CBT, Spirituality, and the power of identity. He now lives a life he describes as overflowing with joy and is "effortlessly sober."

X - @theadamhead

www.adamthead.com

As always, you can find more information about our guests, as well as all of the other resources Julie and Steve offer, at throughtheglassrecovery.com

For many of us, our actions and behaviors have left our family and loved ones no longer trusting us, even after we've stopped drinking. So that begs the question - how do you regain trust after quitting alcohol? We've gathered Rachael, founder of Addict with Purpose; Michael, founder of SoberPress; and our adventurous friend Nadine to talk about what regaining trust from others - and in ourselves - has looked like in our lives.

You start getting trust back when you start telling the truth.In this episode:

Learning to trust oneself
Consistency and time as the foundation of trust
Learning to do things that build trust
The value of authenticity in trust building
Honesty is a core component of trust
Living the apology
Understanding that we can't put a timeframe on someone else's trust
How to apologize with action
Learning to trust yourself through the hard times
Humility and its role in building trust
Also: learning to trust others

To learn more about Nadine, Rachael, and Mike, click here

Visit our website at Through the Glass Recovery for access to weekly zoom support meetings, our weekly newsletter, and other resources to support your sobriety.

Let's chat about self esteem and sobriety - and why it's so important. Life doesn't automatically just get easy when you quit drinking. Uncomfortable emotions still crop up from time to time, and one of the best things we can do is develop the skills to move through those emotions in a healthy way. One of the emotions that throws people for a loop is insecurity, so that's what we're gonna tackle today.

In this episode, we've invited sober influencer Azure, sober podcaster Brianna, and sober influencer Ginelle to come share with us how they've dealt with insecurity, and what they've done to increase their self esteem since they stopped drinking. If we can learn healthy ways to step out of insecurity and into confidence, we'll be able to handle life that much better. Stay tuned for some great insight and some helpful tips that you'll be able to use the next time insecurity gets the best of you.

"This isn't a game I play alone."In this episode, you'll hear about:

The difference between external and internal self esteem
The value of trusting and believing in your own intuition
Letting go of living to impress others, and finding the courage to stop being fake
How to define realistic expectations so you can reasonably lower your standards
Learn the importance of small, esteemable acts and how to incorporate them into your life
Understand how excessive apologizing minimizes our value and lowers self worth
How to cope when regret is the source of your insecurity
The value of therapy - not just in sobriety, but in building self esteem
The interconnectedness of shame, vulnerability, and healthy self esteem

To learn more about Ginelle, Azure, and Brianna, click here

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com for access to weekly zoom support meetings, our weekly newsletter, and other resources to support your sobriety.

The stereotypical "alcoholic" is seen as selfish. Always focused on their own gain, getting their needs met, and using other people to make that happen.

But... it's actually far more common for people struggling with alcohol misuse to be people pleasers. They bend over backward, taking care of everyone, keeping everyone happy, to the point where they find themselves exhausted, empty, and full of resentment. People pleasing can be a huge pitfall in maintaining lasting sobriety. Today we're joined by Robbie, co-host of Golden Hour Adventures podcast; Leah, sober yoga instructor; and Daph, recovery coach and sober companion, to chat about what people pleasing looks like in our lives, how it affects us, and how we've found the courage to say no more often.

"Sometimes I forget to check in with myself."In this episode, you'll hear about:

People pleasing as the desire to be liked and to fit in
Understanding the pressure that people pleasing places on us in our daily lives
Saying yes when we really mean no, and how that leads to resentment, which leads to drinking
Boundaries and how to set them if you're a people pleaser
People pleasing to avoid conflict
Dealing with the guilt and resentment that we carry from decisions made from people pleasing
Learning - and remembering - to check in with yourself
Early sobriety requires a certain amount of being 'selfish'
Working through the fear of disappointing others

To learn more about Robbie, Leah, and Daph, click here

Visit our website at Through the Glass Recovery for access to weekly zoom support meetings, our weekly newsletter, and other resources to support your sobriety.

We hear from a lot of people who are struggling with finding purpose in recovery. That feeling of being lost, of just floating through life, can be frustrating and can even lead to thoughts of drinking again. We know that if you have found your purpose in life, and you've found the courage to live out that purpose, maintaining lasting sobriety becomes achievable. So we've gathered together a group of folks to share their experiences in finding their purpose, and how it's looked in their lives. You'll hear from sober podcast host Michal, sober influencer Gary, and John, who is a sober ultra runner. We hope you're inspired to dig a bit deeper, and take the steps necessary to live out your own purpose.

"The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose in life is to give it away." -Pablo PicassoIn this episode, we talk about...

Defining our values so that we can more clearly understand our purpose
Allowing your purpose to evolve with you
How sobriety provides the clarity necessary to discover your purpose
Everyone has a gift. To know your gift is to know your purpose - or at least get you pointed in the right direction.
Purpose is nearly always centered in helping others in some way
Don't overcomplicate it! Your purpose is likely something quite simple.
Finding purpose in recovery means you must first discover your true identity
Experiment with what works. Keep an open mind and be willing to change directions often.
What to do if you know your purpose, but you're too afraid to say it out loud

"I know what my purpose is today. I don't need to commit to that for eternity."

If you're feeling alone in your sober journey, if you're wishing you had some extra sobriety support, this sober podcast episode is for you. We've gathered three inspiring women to share with us how they've built a sober support network that works for them. The conversation explains perfectly how no one recovery journey is the same as any other, and how our needs for support in recovery are as unique as our journeys. Listen as we chat with TikToker Taylor, Courtney, author of The One Brought Back , and Through the Glass regular Sherralynn, and discovery many new resources that you can use to build a sobriety support network of your very own.

"Online strangers saved my life."In this episode, you'll hear about:

The I Am Sober app and community where Steve, Julie, and Sherralynn all met
Why it's important to find people who are also in recovery, so they can relate to your experiences
How to find online meetings (like the ones we host!)
The pros ad cons of telling your immediate family and friends right away
Courtney's journey through court ordered rehab, AA, and other recovery programs and how it was helpful for her
How your church family can provide sobriety support
Figuring out where you feel the most safe, so that you can be vulnerable
How people who aren't in recovery just don't understand, and how that's okay
The importance of continuing to experiment with new sources of support, as you continue to grow on your journey
Not knowing what to expect at a support meeting, and what it's really like when you finally do show up

"I didn't want to be the kind of person who needed to go to meetings."To learn more about Sherralynn, Courtney, and Taylor, visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

There, you can also sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

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"The Alcohol Voice was telling me, 'You don't have to feel this way.'"Urges and cravings to drink alcohol look different for everyone, but most of us can agree on one thing: there's a voice that pipes up inside our head, trying to convince us to drink. That voice sounds a lot like our own, and it gets really creative and tricky, trying to find ways to get you to give in and have the drink you've been working so hard to avoid. It's not unlike the angel on one side and the devil on another. In this podcast episode, we're joined by sober influencer Elle (@soberinthesprings) and Rich, a recovery coach, to talk about what that voice sounds like inside our heads. We share some practical tips and tricks to shut the voice down and manage the urgest and cravings so common in early sobriety.

"You will never regret choosing to stay sober."In this episode:

Knowing when you've reached a limit
Giving yourself permission to do whatever you must, to put your sobriety first
The alcohol voice is a bully
How alcohol marketing gives alcohol its voice
Learning to confront and question thoughts
The drinking voice is an alarm - let's talk about how to respond to it.
Mental tips and tricks to move through an urge to drink
How we compare our problems to others and use that to justify our drinking
Our #1 tool for dealing with the drinking voice

To learn more about our guests, visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

Get in touch with Steve and Julie:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

So it turns out, a lot of us were really bad at communicating. And then we got sober, and realized we couldn't just hide from difficult conversations and conflict anymore. We had to actually learn how to handle it. And it started with learning healthy communication skills in recovery. In this podcast episode, we dig into communication, and how to handle conflict effectively, after you get sober. We're joined by Mike, creator of Own Sobriety; Chris, creator of More Than 28; sober influencer Higgy, and our friend Melissa for a conversation about how we've learned healthy communication skills in recovery.

"I had to learn how to tolerate discomfort."In this episode:

Finding the courage to say what you need to say
Learning to identify and then express needs
Understanding that conflict in relationships is normal
Facing the shame of forgetting drunken conversations
Developing active listening skills
Recognizing when you are being heard
You must know yourself in order to communicate effectively
Recognizing and unlearning unhealthy behaviors (i.e. manipulation)
Honesty and communication skills in recovery
How to communicate without the "lubricant" of alcohol
Gaining confidence and self awareness in sobriety allows for improved communication
Identifying and communicating boundaries

To learn more about our guests, visit our webite at throughtheglassrecovery.com

Get in touch with Steve and Julie:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

In this Valentine's Day episode, we invite our guests to share their thoughts on love. We share what we've learned about love and how it affects our relationships in recovery. You'll hear from sober influencer Amber, Jared Blaine - host of the Blaklist Podcast, and sober influencer Jennifer, about how their understanding of love has changed as they've worked on healing and understanding themselves. Each of us walked away with a new understanding of love, and we know you will, too.

"I had this idea that love was giving all of yourself, no matter what."In this episode, you'll hear about:

Sobriety allows us to show up in loving relationships in the way that others deserve.
Understanding attachment theory and how it pertains to our relationships is helpful.
Our upbringing models love to us, and creates our definition of love.
Learning to embrace solitude when you're single
Discovering and understanding emotional needs, and how to meet them.
It is possible to be loved by someone, but not feel loved by them.
Love is an action, and it requires constant practice.
Loving someone from afar, or leaving in love, can both be healthy solutions.
How codependency and love are interrelated.
Conflict in love - what it looks like, and determining healthy vs. toxic relationships in recovery.

In this episode, we mention the following books and resources:

Codependent No More by Melody Beattie

Rewired by Erica Speigelman

The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman (Click the link to take a quiz and discover your own love language!)

If you loved this conversation and want to learn more about how our understand of love changes in recovery, be sure to check out this episode.

To learn more about our guests visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

Get in touch with Steve and Julie:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

Rewired: A Bold New Approach To Addiction and Recovery

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Vulnerability is one of the hardest pieces of a strong recovery foundation, but it's also one of the most important. Without embracing the discomfort, you'll never find the connection that is truly the key to thriving once you quit drinking. In this podcast episode, we are joined by Justin from The Hope Shot, Casey from F-around and Recover, and our friend Matt to talk about the challenges they have faced when it comes to showing up vulnerably. We talk not only about the wins, but also the struggles, especially when it comes to men and facing society's beliefs surrounding vulnerability.

Connection is the opposite of addiction. Vulnerability is how we find connection.In this episode:

Showing and receiving love feels vulnerable
It takes time to break down walls and let people in
Drinking numbs our emotions; vulnerability is allowing ourselves to feel them
Calculated risk: knowing when you're ready to face something vulnerable
Despite society's beliefs, vulnerability is strength and courage
Being vulnerable with strangers is sometimes easier
Ownership of our mistakes and flaws is vulnerability
How honesty pertains to vulnerability
Why the people close to us are the hardest to be vulnerable with
Facing fear and standing up for yourself
Misplaced vulnerability - finding the right person with whom to share your truth

Today February 5th, Matt celebrates one year of Sobriety. This is something he always believed would happen but at the same time feared may never come. The past five and half years have been a battle with alcohol that he wishes upon no one. Along the way he has had the constant support of his family, friends and so many he has met along the way helping him achieve sobriety. He wants to thank you all for sticking with him through all this.

He'd like people to know that substance abuse and mental health issues do not discriminate and that if you are struggling there are people out there who want to and who will help you. Matthew Perry always said to people who are struggling “It’s not your fault”, but this Matthew believes it’s your responsibility. It’s your responsibility to acknowledge, to accept and to treat it every day, just like you would any other disease.

Be kind to those who are still struggling. Sobriety is hard, but it’s worth it.

Casey Jordan is a recovery advocate and father of 2 from Hillsboro, Ohio. When Casey made the choice to get sober in May of 2022, he quickly became passionate about spreading hope to others in active addiction. He started the online recovery community “F Around & Recover” shortly after finishing an inpatient rehab program as a way to connect with other sober individuals and inspire anyone struggling to take the first step toward recovery. Since founding F Around & Recover, Casey has increasingly focused his energy on spreading the message that recovery is NOT “one size fits all”, feeling strongly that people shouldn’t be shamed for using different paths to sobriety. His dream is to play a role in recovery and sober living programs being implemented in rural communities. When Casey isn’t running “F Around & Recover”, he can usually be found spending time with his young kids.

Get in touch with Steve and Julie:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

For many of our listeners, Dry January is coming to a close, and you're starting to think about maintaining sobriety going forward. If you've decided you want to keep going, but you're not sure what that needs to look like, this episode is just for you. We've invited Chuck LaFlange, host of the Ashes to Awesome podcast, Jason Williams of Sober Gangster, and sober influencer Hayley Delashmit to dig into what it looks like after you've gotten used to not drinking, and are ready to start moving forward into really building an alcohol free life. We ask them the question, "What Now?" and they all share their very different, very valuable experience.

"When it gets easy, I get complacent. And complacency is almost scarer than turmoil."In this episode:

Periods of growth come and go, ebb and flow. That's normal.
How to avoid complacency - tips and tools for maintaining sobriety long term
Finding your purpose, understanding that it will shift as time goes on
Keep doing the things that work
Start uncovering the reasons why you drank
Learning to stay in the moment - the power of mindfulness
Creating intention in day to day actions

Bonus topics:

Dealing with the shame of relapse
The power of social media in maintaining sobriety

"When I get stagnant, I get slippery."At 18, I entered prison. At 19, facing a potential 10+ years for parole violation, a pivotal decision changed my life. In a jail cell on October 12, 1996, at 3 a.m., I swore off mind-altering substances. The 21st encounter with handcuffs pushed me to break free. Living clean and sober for 27 years, I’ve found genuine freedom—earned through work, willingness, and honesty. Sobriety, my most gangster feat, opens doors to a life beyond imagination. – Jason Williams aka Sober Gangster

https://www.instagram.com/sober.gangster/

https://www.facebook.com/Sobergangster

Chuck's 25-year struggle with addiction, marked by relapses and PTSD, took a turn following his father's death and his mother's constant reminder, "You are loved." This led to his recovery and the creation of the Ashes to Awesome Podcast. Alongside co-hosts Ryan Bathgate, and Dr. Lisa, the podcast addresses addiction and mental health, promoting hope, love, and acceptance. It's a platform for sharing stories and support, not only for those in recovery but also for their families, embodying a message of transformation and understanding.

Hi ya’ll I am Hayley Delashmit or “Giggles”. I was raised in Nashville, TN. I did take a random adventure and moved to Buffalo, NY in 2010 for 2 and a half years.(GO BILLS) . I currently live in a small farming and trucking town in Munford, TN.

My sober birthday is January 11,2023. I recover out loud just so people know that they are seen and they matter. God gave me the strength and the voice to speak with kindness, grace and understanding just so I can let people know there is HOPE and that they are not ALONE. This next chapter of my sober journey will be by Gods grace I get placed on the Liver Transplant list and in the meantime I will spread hope and smiles because smiles and laughter are contagious! I am mostly found on Facebook but I also have a tik tok & both are under my name, Hayley Delashmit!

Get involved in the Through The Glass Recovery community!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings. We also have a new Facebook Group where our friends and listeners can offer support to one another. Come join us!

You can also find us on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

Sobriety vs. Recovery. You hear the words "sobriety" and "recovery" used interchangeably all the time, but there's a distinct difference, and if you're wanting to live a fulfilling life without alcohol, it's important that you understand what these words mean. In this episode, Steve is joined by Robbie, (host of Golden Hour Adventures podcast), Jon (author of Parables: Musings from an Addict on the Journey Toward Wholeness), Johnny Joy (creator of Sobritree app), and sober influencer Hayley to discuss what recovery has looked like in their lives, and how it differs from being "sober".

"There are a whole lot of sober people that are still very far from recovery."* Creating a recovery maintenance plan that suits your needs * The value of connection in recovery * Getting to know your authentic self * What does, "dry drunk" mean? * Growth as the foundation for recovery * The benefits of the social media recovery community * Learn to leave space for mistakes; recovery is trial and error * It's about what works for you - this is YOUR journey * Taking ownership of your recovery instead of placing blame * Recovery doesn't mean giving up everything you enjoy

Want more insight on sobriety vs. recovery? Check out Episode 32: Are Sobriety And Recovery The Same?

"Recovery is clearing up the mess that caused everything to go haywire in the first place."This week's guests:

Johnny Joy. Yes that’s my real name. I am the founder of SobriTree, a resource guide for sobriety your way. I am a 4th generation Colorado Springs native, father of 2 amazing girls and husband to one incredible woman. I am a recovered drunk and pill addict, 10 years in March. My goal for the second half of my life is to help as many people save their own as possible, whenever I can, wherever possible. I am the luckiest guy I know and sobriety is the single most powerful thing that I have ever done. I want to share that message with the world.

Robbie started his sobriety journey due to being sick of the same old story he would put himself though. He found his cannabis and alcohol use getting worse as the years went on. He used them to cope with everything and anything. Robbie is now over a year sober, and couldn’t be happier with his decision to take on this new journey. Robbie co-hosts Golden Hour Adventures podcast and can be found on Instagram @runshills605.

Hi ya'll I am Hayley Delashmit or "Giggles". I was raised in Nashville, TN. I did take a random adventure and moved to Buffalo, NY in 2010 for 2 and a half years. (GO BILLS) . I currently live in a small farming and trucking town in Munford, TN.

My sober birthday is January 11,2023. I recover out loud just so people know that they are seen and they matter. God gave me the strength and the voice to speak with kindness, grace and understanding just so I can let people know there is HOPE and that they are not ALONE. This next chapter of my sober journey will be by Gods grace I get placed on the Liver Transplant list and in the meantime I will spread hope and smiles because smiles and laughter are contagious! I am mostly found on Facebook but I also have a tik tok & both are under my name, Hayley Delashmit!

Get in touch with Steve and Julie:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings. We also have a new Facebook Group where our friends and listeners can offer support to one another. Come join us!

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

None

Nearly everyone experiences shame in recovery… and it seems many of us drank to try to avoid feeling shame in the first place. "I drank to avoid feeling the shame of drinking," is a familiar concept to many of us. The shame cycle perpetuates, keeping us going round and round and never quite knowing how to stop. In this episode, we address dealing with shame in recovery. We're joined by social media sober influencers Benjamin Lerner and Sonya Johnson, and CEO of Camelback Recovery Tim Westbrook as we talk about how shame held us trapped in our addictions, and how overcoming that was key to staying successfully sober.

"I drank to avoid feeling the shame from drinking."

In this episode:

Using honesty to combat shame
Avoiding the feeling of shame by drinking, lying, and other unhealthy habits
Talking about what you're ashamed of is ultimately how you'll set yourself free
Finding the right people to share your truth with is imperative
Allowing someone to walk alongside you in the hardest of times
Trying to avoid feeling shame with perfectionism
How perfectionism can lead to relapse
Learning to live in the "gray" area of life, as opposed to black and white thinking
Understanding that lifting shame makes us stronger in our recovery

"I thought I was a bad person because I couldn't stop. That just continued the shame cycle."

To learn more about our guests, visit out website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

Get in touch with Steve and Julie:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings. We also have a new Facebook Group where our friends and listeners can offer support to one another. Come join us!

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

When you've been sober for a bit, boredom seems to be one of the first challenges that shows up. How to fill all that free time? This is especially true if you don't have any hobbies, or if your social life revolved around drinking. In this episode, we're joined by Adriana from Dear Recovery, Jason from Sober Gangster, and sober rapper Gina (Modern Day Monk) to talk about how we dealt with boredom in early sobriety, and how we deal with it now that we've been doing this for awhile. If you struggle to fill your time and find yourself wishing away the hours in the day, this episode is for you!

"Boredom creates a willingness to try new things."In this episode:

Loneliness and boredom sometimes go hand in hand
Connecting with others is an almost instant cure to boredom
Rediscovering hobbies that alcohol had pushed aside
Learning not to overwhelm yourself with activities and to-do lists
Exploring the link between creativity and drinking
New hobbies and activities help build recovery skills
Boredom is not a bad thing!
Boredom is the door to creativity and trying new things
Learning to appreciate the stillness and quiet
Boredom encourages self reflection and "doing the work" of recovery
Asking yourself, "Where's the void in my life?" and having the courage to address it
Discovering "biohacks" to make life - and sobriety - easier and more comfortable

Want to learn more about the EFT tapping that Adriana mentions? Check out this link.

The group also discusses the benefits of cold plunging.

If you're still struggling with boredom in sobriety, check out this past episode, where a different group of people share their experiences.

"The things I learned when I got sober 27 years ago are still the things I apply to my life today."Hello my people!

My name is Gina Murillo also known as Modern Day Monk. I'm a strong woman in long term sustained recovery and I live a wonderful life as a result of that. I consider myself a vibe influencer, a recovery rapper, and recovery speaker. I teach Muay Thai kickboxing and train Brazilian Jiu-jitsu at the best gym in Grand Junction called Grand Valley Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. I'm also a full time student at Colorado State University and spend my free time helping others in all kinds of ways. My intention is to share my experience, strength, and hope with the world to help empower those around me. You can find some of the life lessons that I have learned on my social media, as I share them to inspire others. Thank you for taking the time to check out my journey. All love.

https://moderndaymonkmusic.com

Jason Williams:

At 18, I entered prison. At 19, facing a potential 10+ years for parole violation, a pivotal decision changed my life. In a jail cell on October 12, 1996, at 3 a.m., I swore off mind-altering substances. The 21st encounter with handcuffs pushed me to break free. Living clean and sober for 27 years, I've found genuine freedom—earned through work, willingness, and honesty. Sobriety, my most gangster feat, opens doors to a life beyond imagination. - Jason Williams aka Sober Gangster

https://www.instagram.com/sober.gangster/

https://www.facebook.com/Sobergangster

Adriana is a person in long-term recovery that was born and raised in Europe, but lives in NY. For the last half a decade, Adriana has been working in the Mental Health and Addiction field. She has a few different certifications as a Sr Peer Specialist, and is also licensed as a Counselor. Adriana is the Founder & Creator of Dear Recovery, a Clothing Brand & Social Media platform that starts conversations and helps ends the stigma surrounding Mental Health and Addiction.

Facebook.com/DearRecovery

@DearRecovery on Facebook, instagram and TikTok.

DearRecovery.com

"You never have to feel this way again."Early sobriety is filled with challenges. It means getting through cravings, making huge changes in your life and in your mindset, and sticking with the promise you made to yourself to stop drinking alcohol. When you have no idea what to expect, so many different things can throw you off course in those first 30 days. So we've gathered some people to talk about what the first 30 days looked like for them, to give you some insight, so you can go into this prepared for the challenges.

"The way you build self worth is by keeping promises to yourself."In this episode:

Freedom from the hiding and the lies that create so much anxiety
Practicing gratitude
Making healthy choices to support your sobriety
Finding a mentor to support you
Building self respect and self worth
Why you shouldn't wait to make changes
Focusing on one thing at a time
Understanding that there's no one size fits all recovery method
Junk food is 100% acceptable
Admitting you have a problem is where you'll find freedom
Asking for (and accepting) help is key

If you've decided 2024 is your year to take back your life from alcohol, check out the following:

Episode 52: How To Beat Alcohol Cravings

Episode 18: Dealing With Cravings and Triggers

The Through the Glass Recovery blog

Meet our guests:

Meet Brandon Kaitschuck, a 29-year-old who decided to make a drastic change in his life one year ago. Since getting sober, he's lost 50 pounds and conquered an Ironman triathlon! When he's not helping others on their path to recovery, he's either studying Mandarin, performing with “Toed”, or crushing workouts. Professionally, Brandon works as a software salesman & enjoys meeting new people. Keep an eye out for Brandon's new music with “Toed” & upcoming podcasts on Viral Downtown !

https://instagram.com/alignyourminds?igshid=M2RkZGJiMzhjOQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

https://instagram.com/toed_jamz?igshid=M2RkZGJiMzhjOQ==

https://instagram.com/viraldowntown?igshid=M2RkZGJiMzhjOQ==

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-kaitschuck-65477815b

Get in touch with Steve and Julie:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings. We also have a new Facebook Group where our friends and listeners can offer support to one another. Come join us!

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

In this episode:

Authenticity and vulnerability are risks, but they allow for real connection
Learning to have healthy relationships
Presenting a false front, "masking", prevents connection
Learn to let yourself be truly seen
Putting on a social mask creates loneliness
Emotionally unavailable people have a damaging effect
Seek out people who are emotionally available
We are capable of rewiring our thought patterns
Urgency pushes us to do the work of emotional sobriety and healing
We become addicted to our thoughts, which leads to substance use disorder
Having the power to affect positive change in our children, in future generations

How often did you drink because you thought it helped you relax? We hear a lot of people say that's one of the things they miss about alcohol - the relaxing effect it seemed to have, or the way it temporarily quieted their mind. The thing about alcohol is that - while it works for a short time - in the end it only makes the anxiety and stress and racing mind even worse. If you have trouble relaxing and calming down your thoughts now that you're sober, this episode is for you!

Join us as we have a conversation with Kim (Sober Is The New Cool), Brad (Sober Motivation) and Brit (Sober Flatlander) about how we've learned to relax without alcohol, and quiet our minds when they just can't seem to stop.

"You are human. You don't always have to have it al figured out."In this episode:

Quitting alcohol means less anxiety in general
CBT - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy tools to quiet the mind
Coping with insecurities in healthy ways
A long list of coping skills and tools to help you relax
Finding the right people
Creating a routine and schedule to keep life flowing smoothly
Learning to forgive yourself
Understanding the concept of boundaries and how to use them

"It's about being willing to try all the things and see what works for you."Meet our guests:

I'm Brit - a former grey area drinker who found sobriety in March of 2021. I live in small town Saskatchewan with my husband, two kids, and 4 dwarf bunnies. I’m the creator of a website and Instagram page called Sober Flatlander, which I use to share my journey in sobriety and advocate for those struggling with substance use disorders and mental health battles. It’s my hope that by being honest and authentic about the reality of alcohol culture, we can create a healthier future for our society and youth.

Kim - My journey began in 2013, I decided to make the commitment to stop drinking for 3 months in order to support my son Matthew who had been diagnosed with epilepsy. Sober Is The New Cool was created as I quickly realized the social pressures surrounding not only myself, but what my son would encounter.

Follow Kim on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soberisthenewcool.ca

-Extending love, compassion, and support.

-Collaborating with other support groups to foster a sense of community.

-Using our story to bring people together around the globe.

-Bringing awareness to end the stigma associated with mental health and addiction.

As well as devoting her time to making Sober Is The New Cool more present in the sober community, Kim enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, golfing, running, and meditating.

Kim has been referred to as the "matriarch" of the sober community and plans to continue this journey by empowering others. Kim's outreach is strongly felt locally through such initiatives as forming a local group of women called, "Les Femmes du Quebec" but also internationally through her strong following of social media messages. Kim donates a portion of SITNC merchandise to The Douglas Foundation.

Get in touch with Steve and Julie:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings. We also have a new Facebook Group where our friends and listeners can offer support to one another. Come join us!

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

ng with regret can be exhausting, frustrating, disheartening, and even dangerous. But it can also be motivating and empowering, if you choose to look at it that way. How we learn to live with regret is a choice that we get to make. We can let it fuel our growth and our purpose, or we can let it hold us down forever. Which will you choose?

In this episode, we are joined by author and motivation speaker Martin Lockett, sober podcast host Scott (The Sober Heathen), and sober influencer Chris (IOHO2) to talk about the regrets we are living with, and ways we've found to cope so the regret can fuel us and not consume us.

"I made bad choices. I'm not a bad person."In this episode:

The difference between guilt and shame
What it means to "investigate" your thouhts
Finding purpose and meaning through regret
Learning from our mistakes instead of drowning in them
Coping with the regret of lost time
Coming to terms with missing memories
Empowerment or victimhood? It's your choice.
Living with attention, living your ammends

"You get to decide if that's where your story ends, or if you're going to write a whole second book."Martin Lockett is a substance abuse counselor, author, public speaker, and advocate for reducing DUI fatalities. He spent 17.5 years in prison for a DUI fatality that claimed two lives and severely injured another. Lockett devoted the rest of his life to honoring his victims’ legacies by helping others who struggle with substance abuse. While incarcerated, Martin earned a BS in sociology, MS in psychology, and acquired state certification as a substance abuse counselor, and published two books. Now released, Lockett continues his mission and message by helping those in need of counseling for mental health and substance use disorders and sharing his powerful story across the country.

Christian is responsible for the Facebook recovery page with the funny letters and numbers in it's name, IOHO2. His first go at this new way of living was in 2015-'17 when he also kept a Facebook journal known as #itonlyhurtsonce, (IOHO). Then, as he admittedly states, sobriety lost its priority. Christian has traded in his taxi-cabs to be your local delivery guy these days, and celebrates 15 months sober with us on November the 12th!!

Scott: I am a proud father of twin boys. I host The Sober Heathen podcast with
which I document my recovery journey. Although it is sometimes painful
and deeply raw it helps me tremendously to recover honestly and openly!
I have 4 OWI's, thousands in fines due, no license until the 30's (2030
:P), I am living back home, and I still have never felt better and in
more control! Recovery is worth it because with it there is always HOPE!

Get in touch with Steve and Julie:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings. We also have a new Facebook Group where our friends and listeners can offer support to one another. Come join us!

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

Discovering your identity after addiction is an adventure all in itself. One of the most common things we hear people say in coversations about recovery is, "I quite drinking and I didn't even know who I was!" Join us as we have a great conversation with sober comedian Trevor Keveloh, talk show host Marci Hopkins, and sober influencer Matt Shambo about how we've found our authentic selves now that we're sober.

"I had this persona that I created. I was too scared to uncover who I really was."Some of the concepts you'll hear about in this episode include:

Discovering what you really enjoy
Letting down walls to allow for connection
"Masking" and how it hinders authenticity
Not allowing others to define you
Exploring hobbies and finding your unique style
Finding your purpose
The difference between sobriety and recovery
Releasing insecurity to thrive as your true self

"Being a person of value is more important than being a person of success."Get in touch with Steve and Julie:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

The messages we receive from the people in our lives - going all the way back to childhood - shape the way we see ourselves, and unfortunately for a lot of us, that means we find ourselves often facing the challenge of self loathing. We tell ourselves we're not good enough, we're not worthy, we'll never succeed, and that we're failures. Listen as we chat with Greg (Mindbody Matters podcast host), and Instagram influencers Keith and Hali about what self loathing has looked like in our lives, and more importantly, how we've worked through it and learned to undo the messaging and start loving ourselves.

"We get to rewrite the messages we've received. We get to decide what to believe."In this episode, we'll share our thoughts on the following:

How the message we receive from others shapes the way we see ourselves
Turning to faith to create a sense of self love
The effect that our childhood has on our inner voice
Learning to recognize these messages so we can start to undo them
Defining our own standards to live up to, instead of allowing others to define them for us
The importance of keeping promises to ourselves
Finding fulfillment in purpose
Positive affirmations - how to use them, and how they work
Allowing others in, so that they can lift us up when we're struggling
Self loathing as the foundation of depression
Rewriting our beliefs about ourselves
Not feeling worthy of love, grace, and compassion
Learning to accept compliments
The fear of pridefulness holding us in a place of self loathing for the sake of humility

" 'I'm not good enough' fueled the self loathing."Get in touch with Steve and Julie:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

With the holidays just around the corner, we invited our guests to come share their experiences about how they have found enjoyment in sober holidays. Join us as we chat with Rachel, host of Recovery Daily podcast, and Tiktok sober influencers Stephen and Katherine about what holidays look like for them now that they aren't drinking. We share some tips, as well as some honest struggles and experiences.

"For some it's partying, for others it's suffering, but the holidays can be hard for everyone."Some of the things you'll hear in this episode include:

Making good choices about who we spend time with
It gets easier with time
Giving yourself permission to grieve past memories
Playing the tape forward as a tool to get through tough times
Stay present, be prepared for what's coming, and know you'll be okay.
Fomo (fear of missing out)
Protect yourself in whatever way you need to
Creating new traditions
Receiving alcohol as a gift
Check your motives - why are you going? Is it for a positive, healthy reason?
Give yourself permission to not go, or to leave early.

"I'm really fond of my peace. I'll take my peace on Christmas or New Year's over whatever 'fun' I was trying to create when I was drinking."Want more help and support to get you through your holiday season? Check out our Season 1 episode on Sober Holidays here.

The question, "How has getting sober affected your life?" brought about an incredible conversation about the benefits of a sober life. Join us as we chat with a few of our good friends (and Through the Glass regulars) - John, Antje, and Derrick - about how our lives have changed in recovery. The benefits are incredible - from the small changes and little wins, to life changing growth.

"We fail, we get up, we learn from that failure. That's what recovery is."Some of the benefits of a sober life that you'll hear us talk about include:

Learning emotional regulation, so our emotions don't run away this us anymore
Healthy coping skills for stress management
We're forced to learn new habits and new mindsets, and it's a gift
Stopping to look back and appreciate the wins
Letting go of self loathing and learning to love yourself
Recovery is about a lot more than just not drinking
Deeper, more meaningful relationships
Finally being able to tell the truth, and being free from a life of lies
Finding new, different friends that support our new lifestyle
Learning to own mistakes and learn from failure
Getting good at being bad at things; being okay with being a beginner
How "One Day At A Time" applies to more than just not drinking
Finally learning to be present in our lives
Truly experiencing joy and gratitude
Growing in courage and in confidence
Gaining clarity about why we are the way we are
Finding the strength to get through the hard times, from grief to depression, without drinking

"Whatever I'm going through, I know I'm not going out of my way to make it worse now."Get in touch:Sign up for our newsletter at throughtheglassrecovery.com for sober tips, tools, and motivation, and get access to our free weekly sober support meetings.

Find us on:

Instagram Facebook Tiktok

What happens to family relationships in recovery? It's no secret that addiction affects entire families, but we thought it would be good to also talk about navigating family relationships after you've stopped drinking. Spoiler alert: it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Of course there are positives, like more meaningful connections and rebuilding trust. But there are struggles, too. In this sober podcast episode, we're joined by DeAnn from Show Up And Stay, Ali from The Sober Witch, and our friend Kernie, to talk about what relationships look like, now that we're sober and working on healing ourselves.

"First I had to heal myself, before I could heal my relationships."In this episode:

We all thought we were hiding our drinking from our families
We pushed everyone away to "protect" them from us.
Discovering the very real need for connection
Creating new beliefs around intimacy
Developing the maturity to have healthy relationships
Other people aren't ready to change just because you are, and that's hard to accept sometimes.
Finding connection in recovery communities is an important part of recovery
Our growth is going to make our families uncomfortable
We discover new identities, and have to introduce our families to the new "us"
Where you are at now - in your relationships and in life - is not where you'll always be.

"It's really hard to do the thing that is best for you, and disappoint the people that you care about."

It's Halloween season and we're here to talk about all the spooky, scary sober stuff - the things that scared us about getting sober, and how we get past our fears.

We cover everything from fear of relapse to fear of rejection, fear of shame and fear of sober vacations. We talk about how we've learned to face the fears and move through them, so fear doesn't have as much power to hold us back.

Listen as we chat with Rachael from Addict With Purpose and Through the Glass regular Corina about all the spooky sober stuff in this slightly silly, honest conversation about fear.

"I'm done being afraid of being afraid."In this episode:

The fear of relapse is a healthy fear
Fear of admitting we had a problem
The fear of living life without alcohol
Fear of failure and success
Fear of grief
Fear of rejection, judgment, and shame
Fear of loneliness
Fear of vacationing sober
Anxiety and excitement produce the same physiological reaction
Learning to "make friends" with fear and use it as motivation

"Attitude is the difference between an ordeal and an adventure."Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

Dealing with change in recovery can bring about all kinds of challenges and emotions. From excitement and anticipation, to anxiety and fear of the unknown, navigating change can be overwhelming. Listen as we are joined by our friends Sherralyn, Dan, and Kate, and we discuss the changes we've experienced since getting sober. We talk about the changes within ourselves, and also navigating changes that life has thrown at us. And most importantly, we share what we've learned about moving through change without drinking.

"You can view change as a challenge, or as an opportunity."In this episode:

The most significant change is the one inside ourselves.
We can choose to be excited by the changes happening in us, instead of afraid.
Learning to view the unknown with wonder and curiosity instead of fear
The people in our lives change as we move through our recovery journeys
Coping with change includes releasing the need for control.
Choosing to use change as a change to grow instead of running from it.
Learning how to embrace the emotions that come with change.
Dealing with external changes out of our control in a healthy way.
Learning to lean on your support system.
The longer we are in recovery, the more confidence we gain in our ability to cope with difficult situations.
Our relationships will also change, as we change.

"Because we change inside, things around us change, too."Get In Touch!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

You hear the word "boundaries" get thrown around a lot in recovery circles, but what does it actually mean? And more importantly - why do you need to understand it? We're going to dig into boundaries today, and our guests will share some examples of boundaries they've had to set in their own lives, as well as why it's been important for their recovery journeys. Meet Richard, who works with youth and their families; Nicole, a sober influencer we met on Instagram; and Sean, author of Going Dry; and listen as we chat about everything we've learned about how boundaries affect our lives and relationships now that we're sober.

"When you start setting boundaries, you get closer to peace."In this episode:

You are the only one in control of your boundaries
Defining and setting our boundaries for ourselves first
Having a willingness to be honest with yourself
Taking ownership of what you can control and are responsible for
Growing up without boundaries sets the stage for our adult lives
How to communicate boundaries
Setting boundaries with people who don't understand them
Dealing with the pain of enforcing boundaries
Practicing with boundaries by starting small
Accepting boundaries with others with wisdom and grace
Sharing the skills we learn in recovery with others in our lives

"If someone works up the courage to set a boundary with you, they really care about you."Get In Touch!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

Feeling like you're being left out - or worrying about missing out - is soooo common when you're sober. Some things just aren't the same after you quit drinking, and it takes some time to get comfortable with that. And of course, sometimes we're worrying far too much about things that end up not being an issue at all anyway. Join us as we chat with Eliza, Sherralyn, and Alex about FOMO - what it means, and how we overcome it so we don't feel like we're missing out on anything at all.

"You're taking tomorrow's joy and using it right now."In this episode:

It all gets easier with time
Jomo - the joy of missing out on the regret and embarrassment
Friends that matter will still invite you, and are still fun to be around
Risk vs. Benefit analysis to decide whether it's worth it
Honestly, nobody cares if you're drinking or not
Alcohol companies' effects on why we believe we need alcohol to have fun
Mommy wine culture
Modeling sober fun for our kids and ending the cycle

"What about worrying about missing out on the rest of your life?"

Negative self talk is seriously dangerous when it comes to recovery. Whether it's how we talk to ourselves when we're first starting out, or the things we say later as we start rebuilding our lives, we have to learn to quiet the inner critic, and show ourselves kindness. The cycle of negativity will only hold us back from achieving our goals, no matter what they are. It's easier said than done though, to learn how to catch those thoughts and change them. Join us in this podcast episode as we talk with Marc, Dave, and Corinna about how we've learned to stop negative self talk and give ourselves the chance to thrive.

"The story I tell myself is the story I'm going to believe."In this episode:

Changing "I can't" to "I can"
Negative people affect your self talk
The Stop Thought technique
Learning to look for solutions, not problems
Finding ways to see the positive
Gaining awareness so you can stop negative self talk
Pay attention to what you surround yourself with
You can't shame yourself into change
Negative self talk as a trauma response
Being authentic is the only way to create a positive self image
Discover your power of choice
The importance of self forgiveness
Choosing the right thoughts to reprogram with

"You can't shame yourself into changing. You must love yourself into changing."For more about our guests, visit https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/podcast/stop-negative-self-talk-in-recovery/

Let’s connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on: Instagram Facebook Tiktok

It is absolutely possible to have fun socializing while sober! If you are trying to figure out socializing sober and are finding it super awkward and frustrating - you are so not alone! Navigating your social life - sober - is hard, when all you've known for most of your adult life is pre-gaming before parties, drinking to feel confident, and all of your social events revolved around how much drinking you'd be able to do. In this episode we talk about learning how to socialize sober - social awkwardness and all.

"How many things did I do that I had to drink to enjoy?"In this episode:

Asking friends to help keep you accountable
Facing pressure from others to drink, after you've said no
Talking to others about your sobriety
Choosing supportive friends
Alternatives to going out for drinks
Dealing with society's assumption that everyone drinks
Coping with social anxiety
How our standards for friendships change
Replacing things you no longer enjoy with new things
The power of virtual recovery pathways
The value of internet friendships and connections

"Everything I did revolved around drinking."Get in touch:throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

Find us on: Instagram Facebook Tiktok

Not knowing how to cope with emotions is one of the most common causes of relapse. In this episode, we are joined by sober influencer Hadley, and our friends Monica and Michal, as we talk about how we've gone from trying to escape from our emotions to being able to sit through them. From social discomfort to grief, to happiness and joy, listen as we explore what that's looked like in each of our separate journeys.

"You don't have to drink to make emotions go away. That happens on its own."In this episode:

Discomfort of social anxiety and introvertedness
Discovering your identity - sober
The effects of not learning to cope with emotions in our youth
Learning to pause and understand the emotion before acting
Observing emotions and situations from the outside
Mommy wine culture and its lies
The emotional roller coaster of early sobriety
Understanding that you won't feel this way forever
Self parenting techniques
Navigating happiness and joy is also a challenge

"When I drank to numb an emotion, I only felt better for like, 5 minutes."Keep in touch with Through the Glass Recovery:Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on: Instagram Facebook Tiktok

Dealing with stress in recovery can be one of the most difficult challenges that many people face. In this episode, we're joined by Mike and Bill, hosts of the Sober Not Mature podcast, and Nancy McKay, a certified life coach. Together we talk about some of the stressful situations we've been faced with, and how we learned to move through them now that alcohol is no longer an option. Listen as we share our best tips and advice for handling stress in healthy ways.

"I have the power to change my thoughts about anything."In this episode, you'll hear about the following:

A huge list of tips and tools for getting through stressful moments
"Triggered" really just means feeling discomfort
Ways to distract or sideline thoughts about stress
The value of reaching out for help
Acute vs. Chronic stress in recovery
Recognizing some of the physical symptoms of stress
Learning not to minimize the "small" stressors in each day
Helping others can relieve stress on both sides
Understanding how to change your perspective to move from stress to gratitude

"There's nothing wrong with being uncomfortable sometimes. It's called life." Nancy J. McKay is a Certified Wayfinder Life Coach, Certified Equus Coach® & Master Facilitator. She is f*ing passionate about helping women face difficult life challenges head-on with courage, curiosity and grit so that they can get to the other side faster, feeling confident, stronger and more resilient. Nancy has been in recovery from alcohol addiction since 2009 and is an ovarian cancer survivor since 2015. She founded Amazing Outlook Coaching, LLC in 2018 at the age of 61. Nancy is also a two-time international best-selling author and speaker, sharing her inspiring story of recovery and creating a new life after cancer. She lives in Lakewood, Colorado with her husband and their two rescued Westies. You can connect with Nancy at
https://www.amazingoutlookcoaching.com

Mike and Bill have both been sober since April, 2010 and they met at a sober living facility in Cleveland, OH. Through that facility, they were introduced to Alcoholics Anonymous and they continue to practice those principles to this day. They have a weekly podcast, Sober Not Mature, that can be found anywhere that podcasts are heard or you can visit their website, www.sobernotmature.com.

Let's connect!Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.

You can also find Julie and Steve on: Instagram Facebook Tiktok

Join us as we kick off Season 2 with an incredible conversation about how to beat alcohol cravings.

"You won't feel this way forever."Besides learning how to beat alcohol cravings, we help you work through:

Coping with FOMO when it shows up as a trigger
Creating and using a sober toolbox
Surviving even the hardest cravings without giving in
Breaking the habit of situational triggers
Alcohol and social situations
Giving yourself permission to put your sobriety first
Cognitive dissonance - the argument inside your brain
Finding the courage to talk about the hard things
Recognizing the physical symptoms of triggers before it gets out of hand
Romanticizing the old days
Understanding that cravings aren't a sign of a failing recovery

"Never make a permanent decision based on a temporary emotion."Katie talks about her toolbox, that she uses to help her stay sober. Here's her list of tools:

Call my sponsor
Call my husband
Go to a meeting
Take a walk with my dog
Call/text sober support people
Watch recovery Tiktok
Write a prayer to put in my God box
Set a 10 minute timer
Meditate/breathing exercises
Pray and let go of my will

Meet our guests:

Robbie started his sobriety journey due to being sick of the same old story he would put himself though. He found his cannabis and alcohol use getting worse as the years went on. He used them to cope with everything and anything. Robbie is now nine months sober, and couldn't be happier with his decision to take on this new journey. Robbie co-hosts Golden Hour Adventures podcast and can be found on Instagram @runshills605.

It doesn't matter if you're a few days sober or ten years sober - cravings happen. At their best, they are annoying. At their worst, the sneak up on you when you least expect it and smack you upside the head and suddenly everything is spinning and you don't know which way is up. By the end of this episode, you'll have a whole new stack of tools to add to your sober toolbox, and you'll realize that cravings aren't actually something to fear or feel bad about at all.

Katie B is 42 years old from Dallas, Texas but currently lives in Everett, WA. She has a handsome husband of 7 years with 1 16 year old son, Jakob, and 2 bonus kids, Layla, 15 and Isaac, 20. For the last 2.5 years she's worked at the same rehab facility where she got sober. Her sobriety date is March 16th, 2016 after 28 1/2 years of active addiction and alcoholism.

Matt is a 38 year old father of 2 from Burnt Hills, NY who works in State government. He’s an avid outdoorsman, and his favorite times are those he gets to spend with his children playing games, reading, and coaching his son's sports teams. Matt has attempted both inpatient and outpatient treatment multiple times in the past 5 years,and last year had the opportunity to experience residential sober living at Release Recovery in Westchester County. He encourages people who are still struggling to reach out and know it's ok to ask for help. You can find Matt on Instagram @shamman780

Watch Matt's story on YouTube here.

Get in touch:throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

Find us on: Instagram Facebook Tiktok

"Say No Without Feeling Guilty" is our last re-release for the summer, before we get back to producing new episodes! We've had an amazing couple of months off, and we're also so excited to get back to regularly producing new content to help support you, no matter where you are in your recovery journey.

In this episode, we chat with Antje, Kelsey, and Sonia about overcoming people pleasing and learning how to say no without the guilt. It’s easy to want to keep everyone else happy, but we do so the expense of our own happiness. We agree to things we don’t want to, out of fear that we will disappoint others, and the result is that we disappoint ourselves.

“I was everything to everybody and nobody to myself.”

Some of the points and topics we cover include:

Over-explaining ourselves
Finding out who really supports our recovery
Honoring ourselves by making our own decisions
Choosing authenticity over meeting expectations
Allowing others to say no to us, also
Not apologizing unnecessarily
Getting angry at ourselves for letting others walk all over us
Fear of disappointing others (and then realizing that’s their problem.)
Start with easy conversations to practice for the hard ones
Demonstrating to our kids and others that saying no is okay
Learning to honor ourselves, our feelings, and our wants
Learning to sit with discomfort
Learning to avoid engaging in toxic conversations and behaviors
Dealing with the consequences of saying yes when we didn’t want to
Pausing before responding to allow ourselves time to think
Valuing our time enough to say no

"Saying yes when we really want to say no leads to resentment."

Meet our guests:

Kelsey started a TikTok account to share her sober journey and inspire others. Since she started, she’s gained 23,000 followers. You can find her at https://www.tiktok.com/@kelseygoessober and on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_sorensen_/

Sonia is the creator and owner of EverBlume, a recovery resource that places members in small support groups based on their specific needs and situations. For more information, visit joineverblume.com or visit Sonia’s Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/joineverblume/

Antje first discovered drinking as a way to “fix” her eating disorder. She thought that drinking was more acceptable than binging and purging all of her meals. When drinking grew more and more out of control, she reluctantly considered sobriety in January of 2022. Soon after, she found connection and support in an online sober community. She is so glad to that she took that first, scary step and gave sobriety a chance.

Keep in touch!

throughtheglassrecovery.com

throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Instagram – @through_the_glass_recovery

Are perfectionism and addiction connected? Join us we we dive into how perfectionism is linked to addiction, and how we've overcome it in recovery. We’re joining recovery coach and Instagram sober superstar Daph, the host of Creating Ripples podcast, Alex, and our good friend John to talk about how perfectionism shows up in our recovery. It seems like some people struggled with perfectionism, and it was one of the causes of their drinking. And others fight perfectionism now that they’re in recovery, wanting to make up for lost time. Either way, we’re diving into perfectionism into this episode, sharing what we’ve learned and sharing where we’ve struggled.

“I realized I lived my whole life by expectations.”

Some of the concepts we cover include:

Trying to ‘perfect’ our recovery
Learning to embrace where we are right now
Parenting and perfectionism
Learning to accepting being ‘good enough’
Finding balance in the all or nothing mentality
People pleasing and becoming a doormat
The opposite of perfectionism – where we don’t even bother to try
Trying to get people to like us
Discovering our own expectations
Communicating and knowing our limits
The tendency to quit things we can’t do perfectly
Talking to ourselves like we would if we were children

“We shouldn’t ‘should’ our lives away.”

In this episode, as we explore the idea of rebuilding trust in addiction recovery, we learn that we must always start with learning to trust ourselves again. Listen as we are joined by Debs, Brian, and Antje in what was our first official Through the Glass Recovery Podcast episode. We were still figuring out what we were doing, but this conversation was raw and honest and beautiful and filled with wisdom, and it's an honor to be able to share it with you. It remains one of our favorite and most powerful podcast episodes, and we're excited to re-release this remastered copy.

In this episode:

Trusting yourself to maintain sobriety
It's our job to show others that they can trust us
Overcoming the damage caused by lies
Lying by omission
Understanding the other person's point of view
Recognizing that it takes time for our growth to be visible to others
Rebuilding trust with our children in addiction recovery
The freedom of no longer feeling like a fraud
Learning to trust others with our stories
Trusting our own authenticity - that we will be accepted just as we are
Keeping promises to ourselves must be the priority.

Join in the conversation! We would love to hear your thoughts:

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

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In this episode, we discuss what we've learned about managing negative emotions in recovery. Most of us with alcohol problems used drinking to numb the emotions we didn't otherwise know how to deal with. The hard ones - grief, sadness, depression, anxiety, regret, dread. When we decide to get sober, we have to find ways to deal with those emotions, without turning them off. Listen as we are joined by Molly, Chelsea, and Brian to share how we've learned to accept our emotions and move through them in healthy ways.

Healthy distraction as a coping mechanism
Tools for distracting
Learning to give space to our emotions
Validating vs. invalidating emotions
Learning to treat yourself kindly
The trial and error process of developing coping skills
How to take breaks from hard emotions without using substances
EMDR therapy
Finding community and learning to share the hard things
Accepting that being uncomfortable is part of the process

Let's Connect!

throughtheglassrecovery.com

throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Instagram - @throughtheglassrecovery

Authenticity is the pathway to healthy friendships in recovery

When we quit drinking, one thing we worry about is how our relationships and friendships are going to change. It can be intimidating. Will we be any fun to hang out with anymore? Will our friends support our decision? Are we going to lose friends? Listen as we share our experiences with all of these questions, and a lot more. In this episode, we talk with Debs, Brian, and Ben about how nurture healthy friendships in recovery

Other aspects of friendships in recovery that we discuss include:

How we've inspired others by being honest about our recovery
Learning to let go of friendships that no longer serve our values
Discovering new and more meaningful friendships
How we make new friends now that we are sober
Discussing how our standards for friendships have grown
How we are better at being good friends
Realizing that vulnerable, meaningful conversation creates true connection
Honoring ourselves by saying no and being careful about choosing what events we attend

What we end up realizing is that we used to drink to feel like we fit in. Now we share our sober, authentic selves and we learn where we truly belong. As Brene Brown says, "Fitting in is the greatest barrier to belonging."

Join in the conversation!

We would love to hear your thoughts:

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

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How honest are you, really?

Let's chat about the importance of honesty in recovery. Have you ever hidden a bottle of alcohol from your partner and worried all day that they’d find it? Told someone you’d quit drinking, but just hid it from them instead? Have you ever told the hair dresser you love your new style, when inside you’re cringing?

Honesty seems easy… until we really get honest with ourselves. In this episode, we talk with Brian, Antje, and Michal, with special guest Corina, about honesty in recovery. Most of us consider honesty to be an important value in our lives, but the more we dig into it, the more we realize the places where we tend to be more dishonest than we thought – lying to make others feel better, lying by omission, lying to ourselves. Listen as we dig into honesty, and talk about some of the areas we struggle, and what we’ve learned.

Other areas of honesty in recovery that we discuss in this episode include:

Being brutally honest with ourselves is the foundation of recovery
Can honesty be self-serving?
Lying about likes/dislikes to fit in
Saying “I’m fine” when we’re not
Misplaced honesty and vulnerability
Perfectionism – omitting truths to maintain the “perfect” appearance
Lying is based in shame and fear
Taking the time to discover our own truth
There’s an enormous sense of freedom in being honest
Lying to avoid hurting others’ feelings or disappointing them
In-depth discussion about journaling effectively as a sobriety tool

“Awareness of the problem is the first step to the solution.”

In the introduction to the topic, Julie mentions the book Rewired by Erica Spiegelman. Rewired is the book that Julie used to jump-start her recovery journey, and reinforces the importance of honesty in recovery. For more information about the book and the author, visit www.ericaspiegelman.com

We’d love to hear from you!

Sign up for our newsletter at throughtheglassrecovery.com for sober tips, tools, and motivation, and get access to our free weekly sober support meetings.

Find us on:

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Supporting a loved one with addiction adds a whole new dimension to our own recoveries. Sadly, for many people recovering from alcohol and other drug addictions, supporting a family member who is also struggling is a dynamic they must also face. When this episode was first released, we were overwhelmed with the comments from listeners who appreciated so much the people in the episode who were willing to share their journeys. We're re-releasing it today to make sure the words of wisdom and encouragement in this episode make it to all of the people that need to hear it. If that's you - know you're not alone, and that with the right support and the right mindset, you'll be able to take care of yourself, while still supporting your loved one in a way that's healthy for both of you.

The helplessness and hopelessness that comes with having a family member in addiction is heart wrenching, and our guests share some of the wisdom they’ve gained with their own experiences with this. But we also get a glimpse into what it was like for our families, while we fought our own addictions. Listen as we learn what it means to find healthy ways to help those we love who are struggling with addiction.

“I feel like it’s harder on this side, than it is being the addict.”

Some of the ideas we talk about include:

Understanding what our own families went through
Grieving our loved ones even though they are still alive
Being the example for our children
Setting and maintaining boundaries with family members in addiction
Caring for ourselves, maintaining our own recovery
Knowing when and when not to try to save them
Recognizing enabling actions and behaviors
Releasing control allows them to blossom and thrive
Symptoms of codependency and enmeshment
Understanding that others’ recovery journeys are their own

“We can never control another person’s recovery.”

For the most complete explanation of codependency we've ever seen, check out Melody Beattie's book, Codependent No More.

Meet our guests:

Derrick Deidel is 3 years sober. He has come from the depths of addiction, trauma, mental health , prison and homelessness to be a light in this world. He loves recovery and is a huge advocate for it and those seeking help. He works for Mile High Recovery Center managing the Residential treatment house, he is a peer recovery coach and personal trainer. He tries to be kind and gracious to everyone cause that same stuff changed his life.

Jenn is from Arizona. She is 51 years old and coming up on 2 years May in her sobriety! She works in early childhood education as a preschool teacher and has 2 adult children who also struggle with alcohol. She's faced lots of changes in her life since she's been sober. It’s been one challenge after the other but she is determined to stay sober not just for herself but to help support and guide her children in the right direction.

Ann lives in Pennsylvania and will be 2 years alcohol-free on May 6, 2023. She believes in community, daily meditation, and reading everything you can get your hands on about recovery, sometimes over and over again. With alcoholism in her immediate family, she is a member of Al-Anon to support her recovery and wellbeing. For her, detachment with love is a magical tool, and life is too short and too amazing to dilute with alcohol.

Raul is so thankful for the sober community and he is involved in many different platforms. His foundation/bedrock is the AA program. As it relates to this pod cast, his son went to a 30 day in person recovery facility in California as he was given an ultimatum at work. Raul's recovery afforded him the opportunity to be present and to let his son know he loves him. Raul said he would love his son no matter what he decided, but this was all his decision to make and he decided to go.

Get in touch:

Sign up for our newsletter at throughtheglassrecovery.com for sober tips, tools, and motivation, and get access to our free weekly sober support meetings.

Find us on:

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None

“With big love comes big feelings”

We originally released this episode for Valentine's Day, but understanding and redefining love is necessary every single day once we are in recovery. As we continue to re-release our favorite episodes from Season 1 throughout the summer, we hope you find new nuggets of wisdom and new things that you can apply in your life, wherever you are in your recovery journey.

In this episode, we explore what love means to us, now that we are in recovery. Many of us stopped maturing emotionally in our teens due to substance abuse, and so our understanding and grasp of love stopped developing, too. We explore everything from romantic love, to love between a parent and child. We talk about emotional safety and availability and what that looks like, and we put words to the feeling that is always so hard to understand and describe.

Other topics we cover include:

How we practice self love in recovery
Unhealthy attachment in place of real love
How our childhood experiences color our understanding of love
How vulnerability plays a part in love
What love looked like in active addiction
How we show our spouses, partners, and children love
Learning how to receive love in recovery

“When we numb our emotions, we can’t really feel love.”

Meet our guests:

Lynn: “You can find me pretty much every day @thesobergrandmaroadtrip and I invite your listeners to click on my IG bio link for bits of my story and my fav resources. My very first podcast guest appearance and the one I always invite people to checkout is the one titled “Thesobergrandmaroadtrip is born” because it chronicles step-by-step every resource and action I took in my very early days alcohol FREE.” https://linktr.ee/thesobergrandmaroadtrip

Michael : My name is Michael, I’m just a regular guy, I do regular things. I’m an entrepreneur and employed. I run lots and lots of miles and I read a lot of books, mostly horror stories. I know a few things about a few things and am grateful for 4 years trauma informed conscious and sober. I believe we help ourselves by helping others.

Alex: Outside of being a mother of four, Alex is a sober warrior She started her intentional journey in February of 2022 after dealing with legal issues and being tired of the power she allowed alcohol to hold over her life. She deeply connected with a sober community through the I Am Sober app. Sobriety has been a learning journey of honesty with self and others, authenticity and mostly, what true self love and worth looks like and she wants to share what she has learned and the joys of sobriety along with creating a new sober life with others.

Join in the conversation!

We would love to hear your thoughts:

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

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Anxiety in recovery is a battle so many of us must face. For some people, anxiety almost goes away with the alcohol. In fact, I've talked to people who thought they had generalized anxiety disorder, but then they stopped drinking and realized it was just the effect alcohol was having on their nervous system.

But for others of us, the anxiety sticks around. It's the real deal, and while it's decreased significantly, we have to learn other ways to cope with it, since numbing it with alcohol is no longer an option (and never really worked anyway.)

We're re-releasing "How to Cope With Anxiety in Recovery" this week, because it's chock full of tips and ideas on how to work with your anxiety, instead of working against it. For me, the conversation was so helpful in reframing anxiety and turning it into fuel, instead of something I just felt like I was constantly battling. It's not easy, but every little bit of information helps.

"Anxiety is like being nervous, but with teeth."

Some of the concepts we cover include:

How to stop ruminating
The power in identifying anxiety
Learning to name feelings
Using creativity to cope and to explore feelings
Signs of childhood anxiety
Skin picking
Tools for dealing with anxiety
Recognizing what doesn't work
Self care as crisis prevention
Medication assisted treatment

"I've had to learn to make friends with my anxiety in recovery."

Travis mentions grounding exercises often used for anxiety. You can find more info here.

Julie mentions the I Am Sober app. You can learn more about the app on their website.

Antje and Julie talk about how much the book Alcohol Explained by William Porter helped them understand the connection between anxiety and alcohol.

Meet Our Guests:

Antje first discovered drinking as a way to "fix" her eating disorder. She thought that drinking was more acceptable than binging and purging all of her meals. When drinking grew more and more out of control, she reluctantly considered sobriety in January of 2022. Soon after, she found connection and support in an online sober community. She is so glad to that she took that first, scary step and gave sobriety a chance.

Let's Connect!

throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

Find us on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

While we are on a break from recording, we're re-releasing some of our favorite episodes. We will be back with new content in September!

How much have you let self doubt hold you back in life? How often do you dream about the life you want, but you let fear stop you from making it happen?

In this episode, we've invited sober motivational speakers Jacob Brown and Martin Lockett, along with the always amazing Through the Glass regular Molly, to share their experiences of self doubt, and their thoughts on overcoming it. Listen as we also discuss defining and understanding our purpose in life - by first identifying our values, and then implementing them with the support of the people around us.

If you've ever let a lack of confidence stop you from chasing your dreams, and could use some inspiration, this episode is for you!

"My biggest impediment was myself." -Martin Lockett

Some of the many concepts you'll hear us talk about include:

Overcoming societal beliefs and narratives
Understanding that other people's reactions are a reflection of them
Dealing with others' negativity
Recognizing growth
Working through Impostor Syndrome
Allowing ourselves to try new things
Allowing ourselves the freedom to live a full life
Faith in what you don't know
Actions aligned with values come with less self doubt
Understanding the commonality - that we are all on the same journey
Knowing and recognizing our purpose in life
The importance of connection in manifesting our purpose
Ikigai - the Japanese concept of life purpose
Speaking your goals to create your reality
The effects of self-talk and positive affirmations
Vulnerability - allowing others to support us

"Self doubt and impostor syndrome only come right before something amazing is about to happen." - Jacob Brown

For more information about the people and concepts discussed in the episode, check out the following links:

Jacob mentions Chris Gardner and his quote, "Speak what you seek until you see what you said."

Jacob also talks about how Brene Brown's talk about the Man in the Arena (a speech by Theodore Roosevelt) inspired him.

Molly shares what she's learned about the Japanese concept of Ikigai - find your life's purpose.

For more information about defining and living by your values, visit this article by Berkley Wellbeing

To learn more about the biopsychosocial-spiritual model that Martin refers to, visit this article by Hope Recovery and Healing.

Meet our guests:

Martin Lockett is a substance abuse counselor, author, public speaker, and advocate for reducing DUI fatalities. He spent 17.5 years in prison for a DUI fatality that claimed two lives and severely injured another. Lockett devoted the rest of his life to honoring his victims' legacies by helping others who struggle with substance abuse.

While incarcerated, Martin earned a BS in sociology, MS in psychology, and acquired state certification as a substance abuse counselor, and published two books.

Now released, Lockett continues his mission and message by helping those in need of counseling for mental health and substance use disorders and sharing his powerful story across the country.

Find Martin on Instagram @martinllockett

Jacob Brown is a former NFL athlete turned entrepreneur, transformational speaker, and writer. He is the Chief Transformational Officer for PurposePoint and the Co-Founder of Varlo, a cycling and triathlon apparel brand.

Jacob is mostly known for his thought leadership on LinkedIn, #FailForward posts, and inspirational videos. He travels globally speaking to corporations, colleges, and sports teams about how to take failure and turn it into fuel.

He is a family man - a husband of one and a father of four. Jacob can also be found on LinkedIn and Instagram

Molly adores pajama days on the couch with her Nintendo Switch as much as hiking local trails and camping in state parks. Alcohol free since Nov 8, 2020, she got sober on the hospital frontlines during peak Covid and is now a traveling medical imaging technologist who loves exploring the US and its natural and human diversity. Sobriety has gifted her wellness in every sense, and she doesn’t intend to waste it. Sober on!

Join in the conversation!

We would love to hear your thoughts! Join in the conversation on social media, or send us an email.

throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

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If you have ever struggled with feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, and burned out, this is the episode for you. We've gathered some amazing ladies to share their experiences and the things they've learned about coping with burnout, and also preventing it from happening in the future. Our goal is always to keep ourselves as far away from a drink as possible, and burnout can create a danger zone if we're not careful. So listen as we dig into how and why we let ourselves reach the point of burnout, and learn how we've dealt with it - and hopefully walk away with some new ideas to apply in your own life.

"If you don't make time for your wellness, your body will force you to make time for your illness."

It's easy to fall into a state of burnout, when we're trying to keep up with all of the things we're expected to do, and burnout can be a very dangerous place when we're sober. When we aren't careful, we might find ourselves at the point where we convince ourselves that we "need" a drink or "deserve" a drink for getting through all the stressful, busy days. So how has feeling burned out affected your recovery? What have you learned about coping with or prevent it?

In this episode:

Depression as a symptom of burnout
Recognizing and shutting down the "shoulds"
Realizing that sometimes we create our own chaos
Spotting danger zones early
Understanding and then changing the narratives we carry through life
Learning to correctly prioritize
Staying ahead of burnout by preventing it
Knowing your values to prevent misalignment, and to know your purpose
Learning how to ask for help (even if it sucks)

"We weren't really taught how to rest."

Steve mentions Scott Stillman's concept of the universe giving us "nuggets", if only we remember to be open to finding them. Learn more about Scott and his books at scottstillmanblog.com (Our favorite book is I Don't Want to Grow Up. It's been hugely inspirational for both of us!)

"Be a human being, not a human doing."

About our guests:

Brittany Storti is a recovering addict and has been sober since January 29, 2017, Her voice first became public on The Doctor Oz Show in 2012 for her eating disorder and has been in the recovery community for a total of 11 years. She is the founder and CEO of The Bridge Coaching services. She is a certified professional coach and addiction recovery coach, specializing in eating disorders, substance abuse, and women empowerment. She’s on a mission to empower others to go from feeling never enough to realize they are already enough. There is no shame in her game. Her primary purpose is to be of maximum service to others.

How to contact Brittany:

-Website: thebridgecoachingservices.net

-Email: brittanystorti@thebridgecoachingservices.net

-Instagram handle: @building_the_bridge

Sonia is the founder of EverBlume, which provides small group recovery meetings where members are matched into groups based on what they are struggling with. The goal is for members to find connection through conversation and get meaningful support and feedback from eachother.

Sonia is an orthodontist and built and sold a successful multi-location practice in 2016 and got sober in 2017. Since then, she become a recovery coach and has dedicated her life to making a difference with social impact investing, volunteering with the incarcerated, formerly incarcerated, and victims of sex trafficking. And now, she hopes to create her biggest impact by leveraging the power of peer support to create community for those on their recovery journey.

https://www.joineverblume.com/

https://www.instagram.com/joineverblume/

https://www.facebook.com/EverBlume

https://medium.com/@everblume

https://www.tiktok.com/@everblume

Kaitlin is a wife, mother, and wild woman on a mission of self actualization with the hopes of spreading that vibration to those she encounters along her journey. She walked away from the life of self destruction from her addiction and traumas 2 years ago, and has embraced the path of undoing, rebuilding, and healing ever since. May we all stop to smell the flowers, observe the breeze, and lend each other a loving hand when we meet on the path of growth. You are never alone, and so loved! Shine on! You can find Kaitlin's sober content on Tiktok here.

Get in touch with Julie & Steve:

throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

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One of the emotions that comes up often in conversation is anger in recovery. Most of us never learned to regulate our emotions in our youth, so emotions come on big and strong, and anger is one that can lead us to doing things that we regret, and can even lead us back to wanting to have a drink. We've invited sober podcast host Dan from Hard Knox Talks and our friends Ryan and Dan to join us in a conversation about how we deal with anger now that we are sober.

"Anger isn't an emotion. It's a response to an emotion."

In this epsidode:

Fear of rejection
Using anger as fuel for positive growth
Anger at oneself
The value of therapy to overcome anger
Using anger to deflect blame vs. owning our mistakes and faults
Bottling up anger, and then experiencing rage
Coping mechanisms that work for anger in recovery
The value of connection and venting frustration
Using music and journals to reflect and learn from our past
Letting go vs. carrying a grudge
Using anger as protection
Setting boundaries
Communicating needs to avoid resentment
Validating our anger and understanding its purpose

"Anger is a good indicator of where your boundaries need to be."

Julie mentions the book Codependent No More by Melody Beattie

Get in touch:

throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

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In this episode, we talk about the affects that loneliness has on alcholism recovery. We've invited sober influencer Rachael (Addict with Purpose), sober podcast host Scott (The Sober Heathen), and our dear friend Coryn to talk about how loneliness has played a part in both their addiction and their recovery. It seems nearly everyone has struggled with loneliness at times, and while it may look different for each person, we share some very relatable ways to cope.

"I'm not asking for too much, I'm just asking the wrong person."In this episode:

Lack of parental connection
Poor quality friends when in active addiction
Feeling lonely when you're not alone
Taking initiative to establish relationships
Willingness to risk rejection
Realizing some people can't connect the way you want them to
Our needs will evolve with time
Letting yourself be truly seen
Isolation vs. solitude
Loneliness as a lack of identity
Finding the wrong people
Growth is necessary for connection
Reaching out for help
People pleasing
Learning not to pre-judge people

"Loneliness is a lack of reciprocal emotional connection - with someone else, or even with yourself."Julie and Steve mention Brene' Brown - like they always do. Visit her website at www.brenebrown.com and check out her books and videos. It really will change your life.

If you're looking for a place to connect with others in recovery, visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com for information on our weekly Zoom meetings.

Coryn is a 38 year old accountant in Southern California who stubbornly won an argument with her ex-husband by committing to take a year off from drinking and unexpectedly found the strength to create a life she no longer needed to escape from. After quitting drinking on June 23, 2021 she found her community on the I Am Sober app, and has connected with people all over the world who realize the toll alcohol takes on our health.

Scott is a proud father of twin boys. He hosts The Sober Heathen podcast with which he documents his recovery journey. Although it is sometimes painful and deeply raw, it helps him tremendously to recover honestly and openly! He has 4 OWI's, thousands in fines due, no license until the 30's (2030), he is living back home, and he still has never felt better and in more control! Recovery is worth it because with it there is always HOPE!

Rachael is proud to say I’m in long term recovery from both drugs and alcohol. My recovery date is 7/30/2017. I have chosen not to be anonymous and to use my voice and passion to help others like me find a solution. I am a harm reductionist and a certified peer support specialist in 2 states as well as recovery advocate. I am passionate about helping and inspiring others to better themselves which is why I created my page Addict with Purpose.

Get in touch:throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

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It's common to find that yourself hitting a plateau in recovery. A time when recovery feels stagnant, like you aren't moving forward anymore the way you were before. Sometimes it's just uncomfortable, sometimes it can be a danger zone and can lead to relapse. We've invited our dear friend Corina, and sober influencers Eric and James to talk about how they've handled plateaus in their recovery.

"You can't stay clean on yesterday's recovery. You've got to do something different."In this episode:

Hitting a rut
Recognizing and appreciate peace after the chaos of addiction
Growth looks different at different times
Reflecting and appreciating how far you've come
Habits that strengthen recovery
Avoiding complacency
Service in recovery
Learning to live in a new normal
Identifying the source of discomfort
The value of connection and community during a plateau
Where to find community - both anonymous and not

"It takes self awareness to know the difference between a state of peace and a state of dangerous stagnation."Eric mentions the book A New Pair of Glasses by Chuck C Chamberlain.

Corina talks about how helpful the I Am Sober app has been for her recovery.

Eric gives a shout out to Covenant Hills Treatment Center in San Clemente, CA.

Corina D is an educator living in Edmonton, AB with her two rescue feral pharoahs. A full time compassionate soul whose real journey of discovery (recovery) began at the emotional heap in Cairo after the collapse of her volatile second marriage. She has been known to wander in broad daylight carrying a lantern earnestly searching for truth and honesty. You can follow Corina on Instagram @cdn_grl

James Fox is fromTwin Falls, Idaho. He's 17 years clean from cocaine and meth and got sober from alcohol on 12.06.2020. An alcoholic for 20 years before seeking sobriety. He's just out there raw doggin sobriety and encouraging others on their sobriety journey. You can find James on TikTok here.

Get in touch!throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

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For a full transcript of this episode, visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

A New Pair of Glasses

"There are 3 different voids - the time void, the emotional void, and the void of purpose."In this episode, we explore the voids that alcohol leaves behind, and how we've gone about filling the void. We dig into filling the extra time, wading through the emotional void, and also how we've found ways to fulfill our purpose, so that we can create a meaningful life that is aligned with our values. Listen as we share our thoughts and ideas on how we turn a life that felt empty into a life where alcohol is irrelevant and our souls are full.

In this episode:

The "all or nothing" mentality common to many people who abuse substances
The danger of swapping one addiction for another
The benefits of exercise
Filling the void with positives instead of taking things away
Focusing on the future instead of dwelling in the past
Drinking as a social lubricant
Filling the emotional void with community
Learning to connect with self - solitude
Discovering our purpose and finding ways to fulfill it

"When you're in alignment with your values and your self, the actions that you're taking, the choices that you're making, are in alignment with whatever your values are, then you can start feeling all those different voids start to fill with something meaningful instead of just trying to ignore them or dump alcohol into them and hope that that fills it up."Maggie Jenson has been free from addiction for three years. After 15 years of addictive drinking, she employed out-of-the-box tactics in order to Think Different to Drink Different. She now lives a sober-ish lifestyle where alcohol is irrelevant. She's recreated her identity to one of health and personal growth. Since creating her alcohol-freedom, she's founded Magnify Progressive Wellness to help clients find themselves - and success - again, too. Find Maggie on Instagram and YouTube. Download Maggie's "Happy Habits Guide for Listeners" here.

Ben Tuff is record holding ultramarathon swimmer who will inspire and educate about his previous experience dealing with addiction. Just over ten years ago, Ben gave up the bottle and taught himself to swim. Ben’s goal is to destigmatize the idea of addiction and help people learn to follow their dreams. His documentary “Swim Tuff: How I Swam my Way Out of the Bottle” is is about to be completed. Ben looks to informative and inspires each and every person to take a growth mindset and bring change or new challenges to their lives one stroke at a time.

Matt Gardiner is a Recovery Coach & Storywork Coach who has helped numerous people get out of their 'stuck stories' and manage their addictions to effectively integrate sobriety into their lives. His coaching method focuses on breath awareness, inner dialogue word choice, and reframing the stories you've been attaching to the events of your life. Matt is also a lifelong musician and Sound Therapist, which compliments his work as a Coach. 'Beyond Recovery' is a podcast hosted by Matt, where guests come on to share their journeys of recovery. Find Matt on Instagram @recoveryroadmap.me, and on YouTube and Facebook @mattgardinerLIVE.

Get in touch:throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Find us on:

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Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com for a full transcript of this episode.

"What lenses am I wearing? How am I interpreting the world?"In this episode, we explore the science behind negative emotions, and talk about some of the ways we can cope with those times when we feel like we're stuck in the dark. We are joined by ER physician Dr. Andrew; Debs, who is studying to become an addictions specialist; and Britt, who is a recovery coach by hobby. We dig into finding ways to see the positive in what are usually considered "negative" emotions, and discuss different ways we've learned to grow through those dark times.

Some of the ideas we cover in this episode include:

The science behind emotional reactions
Tips for distracting yourself when it's the best option
"Negative" emotions aren't a bad thing - they serve a purpose
Understanding where our self talk comes from
Choosing the lens through which we see the world
Neuroplasticity - creating new neural pathways
Finding opportunity in the darkness
The physical reaction to sadness can be healing
Increasing your emotional capacity
The value of connection in recovery
Recognizing the stories we tell ourselves

"It turns out, negative emotions pass on their own. That was news to me."Debs is from Melbourne Australia and has had a successful global career in Sales & Management. On Jan 9 2021, Deb decided she had had enough and was determined break the hamster wheel cycle and eliminated alcohol from her life. Today at 837 days sober she enjoys a calm and content life and is changing careers studying to become an Addiction specialist. Her life goal is to help people be the healthiest version of themselves by abstaining from drugs and alcohol and to know they do not have to do this alone.

Dr. Andrew Seefeld is the Medical Director of the Emergency Department at Speare Memorial Hospital in Plymouth, New Hampshire. He is uniquely qualified as a leader in the field of Addiction Medicine considering his own personal experience battling addiction. Dr. Andrew is a champion of Emotional Sobriety, focusing on the upstream thoughts & emotions & how they relate to downstream behavioral patterns. You can follow him on Twitter at @sobER_doctor.

Keep in touch!throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

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For a full transcript of this episode, visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

We've heard so many people say they quit drinking and they realized they didn't even know who they were. As we make our way through life without alcohol defining us, we get to redefine ourselves. We're joined by author and podcaster Jean McCarthy, Andrew from Palm Beach Recovery Center, and podcast host Steph to talk about the process of discovering our identity after addiction.

"Jumping out of a burning airplane, hoping the parachute is going to open. That's what it felt like for me."You'll hear us talk about the following points:

Drinking to fit in
Grieving the loss of our old identity
Drinking to keep others comfortable
Realizing we have beliefs that aren't really ours
Discovering the freedom that comes with authenticity
Embracing our flaws and making friends with them
Learning to be honest with ourselves
Figuring out where our expectations come from
Codependency
Doing the work to heal and realign
Discovering likes and dislikes

"I just didn't even exist to myself."We've heard so many people say they quit drinking and they realized they didn't even know who they were. As we make our way through life without alcohol defining us, we get to redefine ourselves. We're joined by author and podcaster Jean McCarthy, Andrew from Palm Beach Recovery Center, and podcast host Steph to talk about the process of discovering our identity after addiction.

"Jumping out of a burning airplane, hoping the parachute is going to open. That's what it felt like for me."You'll hear us talk about the following points:

Drinking to fit in
Grieving the loss of our old identity
Drinking to keep others comfortable
Realizing we have beliefs that aren't really ours
Discovering the freedom that comes with authenticity
Embracing our flaws and making friends with them
Learning to be honest with ourselves
Figuring out where our expectations come from
Codependency
Doing the work to heal and realign
Discovering likes and dislikes

"I just didn't even exist to myself."Get in touch:throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Find us on:

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

For a full transcript of this episode, visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

The helplessness and hopelessness that comes with having a family member in addiction is heart wrenching, and our guests share some of the wisdom they've gained with their own experiences with this. But we also get a glimpse into what it was like for our families, while we fought our own addictions. Listen as we learn what it means to find healthy ways to help those we love who are struggling with addiction.

"I feel like it's harder on this side, than it is being the addict."Some of the ideas we talk about include:

Understanding what our own families went through
Grieving our loved ones even though they are still alive
Being the example for our children
Setting and maintaining boundaries with family members in addiction
Caring for ourselves, maintaining our own recovery
Knowing when and when not to try to save them
Recognizing enabling actions and behaviors
Releasing control allows them to blossom and thrive
Symptoms of codependency and enmeshment
Understanding that others' recovery journeys are their own

"We can never control another person's recovery."Meet our guests:

My name is Derrick Deidel. I am 3 years sober. I have come from the depths of addiction, trauma, mental health , prison and homelessness to be a light in this world. I love recovery and am a huge advocate for it and those seeking help. I work for Mile High Recovery Center managing the Residential treatment house, I am a peer recovery coach and personal trainer. I try to be kind and gracious to everyone cause that same stuff changed my life.

Hi , I'm Jenn from Arizona. 51 years old and coming up on 2 years May in my sobriety! I work in early childhood education as a preschool teacher and have 2 adult children who also struggle with alcohol .Lots of changes in my life since I've been sober. It's been one challenge after the other but I am determined to stay sober not just for myself but to help support and guide my children in the right direction.

Ann lives in Pennsylvania and will be 2 years alcohol-free on May 6, 2023. She believes in community, daily meditation, and reading everything you can get your hands on about recovery, sometimes over and over again. With alcoholism in her immediate family, she is a member of Al-Anon to support her recovery and wellbeing. For her, detachment with love is a magical tool, and life is too short and too amazing to dilute with alcohol.

Raul: I am so thankful for the sober community and I am involved in so many different platforms. My foundation/bedrock is the AA program. As it relates to this pod cast, my son went to a 30 in person recovery facility in California as he was given an ultimatum at work. He almost opted to find another job because his ego took a tremendous hit. It is obvious to everyone that he has a drinking problem except for him apparently. My recovery afforded me the opportunity to be present and to let him know I love him. I said I would love him no matter what he decided but this was all his decision to make and he decided to go. Thank you for my recovery.

Get in touch:throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

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For a full transcript of this episode, visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

In this episode we explore the feeling of rejection. We are joined by musician Benjamin Lerner, Becki, the founder of the soberlife.love sober dating website, and Steve's friend Andrea. Listen as we share how rejection has affected our patterns of thinking and behavior over the years - even starting in childhood - and how we're learning to live with the feelings instead of drinking them away.

"If I felt rejection, I internalized it deeply. I rejected myself, rejected who I was."Some of the points we cover include:

The beginning of our unhealthy coping mechanisms, going back to our teens
Internal rejection - when we start rejecting authentic selves
Feeling left out and excluded
Reframing the stories we tell ourselves - changing the narrative
Undoing the chameleon effect - becoming who "they" want you to be
Fitting in vs. Belonging
Learning not to take things personally
Recognizing and releasing our desire to control things
Refuting negative self talk
Having the courage to share tough experiences with others
The shame that rejection causes
Discovering our true identity
The reality that our growth might make others uncomfortable

"I thought of all the times I had held myself back from growth in order to not be rejected."Benjamin Lerner, the Great-grandson of Irving Berlin (composer of such iconic tunes as “God
Bless America” and “White Christmas”), is a Vermont-based Composer, Writer, Radio Host, and
Recovery Advocate. Benjamin started his musical career as a classical piano prodigy. By his early
twenties, he was an IV heroin and crack cocaine addict. Now sober since June 13, 2016, he
journals his journey in addiction and sobriety in his piano-raps, which combine classical piano
and rap. Benjamin credits his continued success in recovery to his ability to express his
emotions relating to his struggle through word and song.
Benjamin has had the pleasure of performing for the National Academy of Medicine and The
Aspen Institute. In 2019, he was the composer-in-residence at 1761 Arts, in 2021, he appeared
on legendary Hip Hop DJ Funkmaster Flex’s Unsigned Cypher Vol. 2 and performed a rap about
recovery and he made his Carnegie Hall debut in April 2022 as part of the Indie Collaborative.
Benjamin’s debut album, CLEAN, was released in February 2020. It was produced at Old Mill
Road Recording in East Arlington, Vermont. Benjamin regularly posts recovery-affirming videos
on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, which have accrued millions of views.
Benjamin’s weekly column, also entitled, CLEAN, is published weekly in the Vermont News
Guide. In January 2021, Benjamin started hosting CLEAN Jams on 102.7 WEQX, an innovative
radio program that shines a spotlight on rap, hip-hop, and recovery. CLEAN Jams is sponsored
by Old Mill Road Media. The Composer and Inspirational Speaker has received significant
acclaim for his efforts. The Vermont Commissioner of Health, Dr. Mark Levine, stated:
“Benjamin Lerner’s ability to articulate his life struggling with addiction – and the challenges of
Recovery – is truly remarkable. I am inspired by his commitment to sharing his story and
advocating for those engaged in the same struggle. As we unite to confront the disease of
addiction, we must focus not only on the challenges we face, but also recognize and take
inspiration from those who, like Benjamin Lerner, are succeeding against all odds.”

Becki is an inspiring individual who achieved a remarkable milestone on 6.8.2020 when she chose to get sober at the age of 50. Her journey towards sobriety was not an easy one, but Becki's determination and strength allowed her to rebuild her life and achieve a healthier and happier future.

In addition to her personal journey, Becki has also made a significant impact in the lives of others. She recognized a need for a supportive community for individuals in recovery who are seeking meaningful relationships and founded Soberlife.love, a sober dating website.

Through her website, Becki has created a safe and supportive environment for individuals in recovery to connect with others who share similar experiences and values.

Let’s Connect!throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

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Find a full transcript of this episode at throughtheglassrecovery.com

Sobriety and recovery are often used interchangeable, but are they the same? Have you ever wondered what the difference between them actually is? Have you ever wondered what people actually mean when they talk about their "recovery"? We are joined by sober influencer Ryan from The Sober Mountain; recovery mentor Dana, founder of The Yarn Consolery LLC; and author and motivational speaker Martin Lockett to explore the meanings of these two words, and the importance in understanding the difference. We'll also dig into what the word "recovery" means to each of us, and how we apply that in our own lives.

"Recovery is equal parts healing and growth."Some of the other concepts we touch on include:

"Who Am I?" Discovering and rebuilding your new identity in recovery
Defining recovery as a continuous lifestyle
The biopsychosocial spiritual model of recovery
Developing a naturally healthy emotional response to situations
Finding the emotional wound, uncovering the root, and working to heal it.
Recovery should consist of things you find enjoyable
The value of developing a recovery plan
Rewired by Erica Spiegelman
Honesty with self - authenticity
Breaking down old responses and rebuilding them with intention
Learning to deal with incorrect thinking
Coping with suppressed emotions starting to surface

"The #1 reason people relapse is due to negative emotional states."Meet our guests:Martin Lockett is a substance abuse counselor, author, public speaker, and advocate for reducing DUI fatalities. He spent 17.5 years in prison for a DUI fatality that claimed two lives and severely injured another. Lockett devloted the rest of his life to honoring his victims' legacies by helping others who struggle with substance abuse. While incarcerated, Martin earned a BS in sociology, MS in psychology, and acquired state certification as a substance abuse counselor, and published two books. Now released, Lockett continues his mission and message by helping those in need of counseling for mental health and substance use disorders and sharing his powerful story across the country.

Ryan is passionate about helping people in their 20's and 30's naviage the challenges of sobriety in a culture that encourages dirnking. Getting sober in your 20's is weird, is' fun, it's difficult, but it's worth it. He truly believes that on the other side of sobriety, your talents, passions, and most authentic self are waiting for you. Find Ryan on Instagram @thesobermountain

Dana's chased recovery for 30 years. Arrests/the legal system didn't get her sober. Using drugs/alchol she completed her Masters degree and married; only briefly getting clean during pregnancy. Through therapy, meditation, quit lit, the I Am Sober app, contributing to Sobertown Podcasts, brainspotting, trauma yoga, facilitiating Rewired support groups, starting the Yarn Consolery, LLC and crisis training, she recovered. Cravings after having a NICU baby reignited her passion for life over addiction. Find Dana on Instagram @theyarnconsoleryllc

Resources:Dana and Julie discuss the book Rewired by Erica Speigelman and how it's benefitted their recovery.

Martin refers to the biopsychosocial spiritual model. Click here for more information.

Let’s connect!throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

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Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com for a full transcript of this episode.

People often say they drink alcohol to calm their anxiety. As we start to understand that alcohol actually contributes to our anxiety, we have to start learning healthy ways to cope with it. It's not easy. In this episode, we talk with Travis, Antje, and Zoe about how we deal with anxiety in recovery, and we all walk away with some valuable new ideas. We hope you do, too.

"Anxiety is like being nervous, but with teeth."Some of the concepts we cover include:

How to stop ruminating
The power in identifying anxiety
Learning to name feelings
Using creativity to cope and to explore feelings
Signs of childhood anxiety
Skin picking
Tools for dealing with anxiety
Recognizing what doesn't work
Self care as crisis prevention
Medication assisted treatment

"I've had to learn to make friends with my anxiety."Travis mentions grounding exercises often used for anxiety. You can find more info here.

Julie mentions the I Am Sober app. You can learn more about the app on their website.

Antje and Julie talk about how much the book Alcohol Explained by William Porter helped them understand the connection between axiety and alcohol.

Meet Our Guests:

Antje first discovered drinking as a way to "fix" her eating disorder. She thought that drinking was more acceptable than binging and purging all of her meals. When drinking grew more and more out of control, she reluctantly considered sobriety in January of 2022. Soon after, she found connection and support in an online sober community. She is so glad to that she took that first, scary step and gave sobriety a chance.

Let's Connect!throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

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For a full episode transcript, visit our website at www.throughtheglassrecovery.com

Getting honest with ourselves and taking ownership and responsibility for our actions is one of the hardest and most important parts of the recovery journey. In this episode, we are joined by Jason, Robbie, and Dave as we take a vulnerable dive into taking responsibility and taking action, to make the changes necessary to live a full and healthy life.

Some of the concepts we cover include:

Acknowledging and owning that we have a drinking problem and taking action
Determining what is our responsibility and we need to let others own
Remembering why we chose to take action
Apologies in recovery
Taking responsibility for our mental health and emotions
Noticing when we blamed others for our drinking
Recognizing changes we need to make
Sharing the stories that bring us shame
The importance of community
Increasing meaningful connection in relationships
Self forgiveness

"Taking responsibility means taking an action."Robbie is 44 years old, from Rapid City, South Dakota and he's been sober 120+ days. He's a trail endurance athlete and running coach, and Robbie is also the host of the Golden Hour Adventures Podcast.

Dave is 7 months sober from his over 20 year relationship with alcohol. He went to rehab on August 12th, 2022. His Rock Bottom didn’t look like losing everything or a long path of destruction, but it was his bottom. He has suffered from childhood trauma, and comes from a long line of addiction. Breaking the cycle and healing is his new goal. He hopes to inspire others, while sharing his daily story through social media.

Jason is father of two boys and an experienced executive and entrepreneur. He is an active public speaker, philanthropist, and has held board of directors seats at various non-profits and educational institutions throughout New England.Jason’s recovery began on December 27, 2022 and included overcoming alcohol abuse as well as multiple mental/emotional health disgnoses. He continues to lean on his sober network and close friends for support while giving back to the community through hosting meetings and offering assistance where he can. Jason prides himself on authenticity and being true to himself.

Get in touch!throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

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For a full episode transcript, visit our website at www.throughtheglassrecovery.com

We're joined by recovery coach and superstar Daph, the host of Creating Ripples podcast, Alex, and our good friend John to talk about how perfectionism shows up in our recovery. It seems like some people struggled with perfectionism, and it was one of the causes of their drinking. And others fight perfectionism now that they're in recovery, wanting to make up for lost time. Either way, we're diving into perfectionism into this episode, sharing what we've learned and sharing where we've struggled.

"I realized I lived my whole life by expectations."Some of the concepts we cover include:

Trying to 'perfect' our recovery
Learning to embrace where we are right now
Parenting and perfectionism
Learning to accepting being 'good enough'
Finding balance in the all or nothing mentality
People pleasing and becoming a doormat
The opposite of perfectionism - where don't even bother to try
Trying to get people to like us
Discovering our own expectations
Communicating and knowing our limits
The tendency to quit things we can't do perfectly
Talking to ourselves like we would if we were children

"We shouldn't 'should' our lives away."Meet Daph: I have been sober since July of 2018, after 6 days of detox then door to door intensive inpatient treatment for 90 days. I use a personal recovery path which includes AA & Refuge Recovery. I recover out loud trying being the voice I never heard but needed. After covid hit, to fill my spare time, I decided to learn all I could about this disease.I enrolled in online virtual classes and I am now a Nationally Certified Sober Coach, Sober Companion, Safe Transport, Relapse Prevention Professional. I share my experience, strength and hope with everyone to show that recovery is possible. I put the same effort and time into recovery as I did my drinking.

Alexandra Zauner is a life experimenter with a mission to create ripples in the world. 8.5 years ago Alex removed alcohol from her life and that change has impacted her life in more ways than she could have ever imagined. A journey that initially was met with resistance ended up being exactly what she needed to guide her on an exploration of self & provided her with many lessons & learnings. Alex has a mission to guide others on a journey of self exploration, adventure and personal growth to bring you back home to self. Alex enjoys spending her time with her family relaxing at the lake, playing with her kids, traveling and exploring new places, hosting her podcast Creating Ripples, spending quality time with her people, coaching, moving her body and creating sober opportunities for others to discover the magic of sobriety.

Let's connect!throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

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Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com for a full transcript of this episode.

You hear over and over in the recovery community that resentment leads to relapse. And while that might be a bit harsh, it's also not far from the truth. Carrying around resentment can build up all kinds of negative feelings inside of us that can lead us to want to escape. In this episode, we talk with Eliza, Matthew, and Alex about letting go of resentment by practicing forgiveness.

"There is no timetable for forgiveness."Some of the topics we cover include:

Forgiving ourselves
We can only quit drinking for ourselves
Society's tendency to see addiction as a moral failing
the controversy surrounding MAT
Learning not to play the victim
Taking responsiblity for our choices and actions
Believing that we deserve forgiveness
Accepting that some people won't forgive us
Showing we have changed through our actions
Rebuilding trust
Fake versus real apologies
You don't get to blame the booze
Learning acceptance when forgiveness isn't possible
Not allowing yourself to be a doormat

"Forgiveness is a two way street. Acceptance is a one way street."Eliza mentions MAT, which is Medication Assisted Treatment. You can read more about it here.

Alex mentions the book This Naked Mind, which has helped thousands of people recover from addiction. Learn about the book, and author Annie Grace at thisnakedmind.com

Eliza Foltz is in long-term recovery after struggling with opioid addiction for over a decade. She is the CRO at Pretaa, a behavioral analytics company that improves the continuity of care for those with SUDs or behavioral health challenges and aims to predict relapse and notify caregivers so they can provide the right intervention at the right time. She lives outside of Boston, MA with her husband (also in recovery), two children, and dog Bean.

Matthew is a former executive chef who grew up in the orchestrated chaos of the culinary world under belly. He now travels as a Director of Operations for a hospitality company in the Senior Living division across the U.S. He got sober Nov 4th 2020 after chronic relapses, jails and institutions. Matthew enjoys learning about others sober journey, recovery and addiction as he fly’s around the country. His favorite quote is “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” C.S. Lewis

Alex: Born in Iowa, raised in McAllen, Texas, current resident of Omaha, NE. Sober for 126 days after 12 years of being an advocate for alcohol use/ consumption. Believer that kindness and vulnerability goes a long way for the general human condition. Be a good person and good things will happen.

Get in touch!throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

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Today, we're going to dig into self worth, and all of the ways that a lack of self worth can affect our recovery and affect our lives. This one's for you, you've ever struggled with people pleasing, with setting boundaries, with fear of failure, or if you've ever found yourself wondering, "Who am I?"

We have invited fellow sober podcaster Tim (The Sober and Happy Podcast), sober blogger Jessica, and our good friend Christina to talk about their struggles with self worth and how they've faced them in recovery. The conversation turns toward finding and embracing our identity after we put down the bottle, which can be an adventure in itself!

Some of the topics you'll hear about include:

Understand and setting boundaries
Facing a fear of failure
Earning validation from others
Finding hobbies and activities that increase our self worth
Taking the time to do things just for us
Dealing with unsupportive people
Letting go of limiting beliefs
Social media and it's effect on self esteem
Allowing other people to support us
Authenticity, allowing ourselves to be truly seen
New ways to look at bad days
The often over-looked value of introverts
Learning to work through negative emotions

For more information on things mentioned in this episode:

Tim also recommends the book Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain

Julie mentions the book Rewired by Erica Speigelman

Christina talks about social media addicton

Jessica mentions a previous episode she was on about Finding Hope After Addiction

Meet Our Guests:Tim has over a decade of sobriety and has gone through the journey from rehab to 12-step programs, to finally discovering his own path to recovery and happiness. He has transformed from the daily battle of trying to stay sober to learning to love himself and his life so much that he no longer needs to drink. He hosts the Sober and Happy Podcast, where you will learn how to discover yourself and blaze your own path, methods to help you along your journey to recovery, and motivation to help live a sober and happy life.

My name is Jessica. I’m a married mom of two from Connecticut, and I’ve been sober since August of 2022. I’m the youngest of 3 girls, I married the guy I fell in love with when I was 15 and I’m a huge true crime buff. My highest priority is to be the very best mom to my children that I’m able to be, so I live every day working hard to break unhealthy cycles.

We would love to hear from you!throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

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How much have you let self doubt hold you back in life? How often do you dream about the life you want, but you let fear stop you from making it happen?

In this episode, we've invited sober motivational speakers Jacob Brown and Martin Lockett, along with the always amazing Through the Glass regular Molly, to share their experiences of self doubt, and their thoughts on overcoming it. Listen as we also discuss defining and understanding our purpose in life - by first identifying our values, and then implementing them with the support of the people around us.

If you've ever let a lack of confidence stop you from chasing your dreams, and could use some inspiration, this episode is for you!

"My biggest impediment was myself." -Martin LockettSome of the many concepts you'll hear us talk about include:

Overcoming societal beliefs and narratives
Understanding that other people's reactions are a reflection of them
Dealing with others' negativity
Recognizing growth
Working through Impostor Syndrome
Allowing ourselves to try new things
Allowing ourselves the freedom to live a full life
Faith in what you don't know
Actions aligned with values come with less self doubt
Understanding the commonality - that we are all on the same journey
Knowing and recognizing our purpose in life
The importance of connection in manifesting our purpose
Ikigai - the Japanese concept of life purpose
Speaking your goals to create your reality
The effects of self-talk and positive affirmations
Vulnerability - allowing others to support us

"Self doubt and impostor syndrome only come right before something amazing is about to happen." - Jacob BrownFor full show notes, links, and transcript, visit throughtheglassrecovery.com

When you quit drinking, it suddenly feels like days are 143 hours long. How do you fill all that time?

In this episode, we talk with Rai, Jessie, and Jamie about dealing with boredom in sobriety. We talk about what it feels like in early recovery to start filling all that new found free time, and discuss some of the ways we did that. We talk about finding new hobbies, how to deal with previously fun activities starting to feel boring, and we chat about how finding meaningful connections has helped fill our time in a positive way.

Other things we talk about include:* Learning how to do normal tasks sober * Being careful not to replace one addiction with another * Restlessness * Fear of being alone with our thoughts * Realizing we used alcohol to create drama * Trying new things and the fear of failure * Moving past limiting beliefs * Boredom creates potential and creativity * Authenticity - discovering who you really are * Deciding what is actually worth your time and energy * The value of play

"There's no harm in doing something new and being bad at it."Jessi is 32 and spent her 20s wandering New York City until she found her passion for healthcare. She now lives back home in Texas with her wife and animal babies. She’s been sober since 11/22/22 and spends her insomnia hours enjoying time with her first love: drawing.

Get in touch!We would love to hear your thoughts! Join in the conversation on social media, or send us an email.

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In this episode, we talk with Dan, Liz, and Alex about comparing ourselves to others, and how that affects our recovery. A lot of self worth issues - the ones we used to drink away - stem from comparing ourselves to other people. We get honest and share some of our stories where comparing ourselves to others led us to unhealthy emotions, and we also talk about some of the ways we've learned to stop comparing ourselves so we can live with confidence.

Some of the points we cover include:* Feeling out of place in social situations * Making assumptions about what others are thinking about us * Shame and the role it plays in social comparison * Figuring out who we are now that we are in recovery * Surrounding yourself with the right people * Seeking external validation * Comparing ourselves to others on social media * Allowing comparison to paralyze us * Feeling like a failure or a fraud * Vulnerability and its place in self worth

Julie mentions Brene Brown in this episode. Learn more about Brene and the incredible research she does about emotions at brenebrown.com

"The only true comparison is the one to ourselves."We would love to hear your thoughts! Join in the conversation on social media, or send us an email.

throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

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"With big love comes big feelings"In this episode, we explore what love means to us, now that we are in recovery. Many of us stopped maturing emotionally in our teens due to substance abuse, and so our understanding and grasp of love stopped developing, too. We explore everything from romantic love, to love between a parent and child. We talk about emotional safety and availability and what that looks like, and we put words to the feeling that is always so hard to understand and describe.

Other topics we cover include:* How we practice self love in recovery * Unhealthy attachment in place of real love * How our childhood experiences color our understanding of love * How vulnerability plays a part in love * What love looked like in active addiction * How we show our spouses, partners, and children love * Learning how to receive love in recovery

"When we numb our emotions, we can't really feel love."Meet our guests:

Lynn: "You can find me pretty much every day @thesobergrandmaroadtrip and I invite your listeners to click on my IG bio link for bits of my story and my fav resources. My very first podcast guest appearance and the one I always invite people to checkout is the one titled “Thesobergrandmaroadtrip is born” because it chronicles step-by-step every resource and action I took in my very early days alcohol FREE." https://linktr.ee/thesobergrandmaroadtrip

Michael:

Alex:

Join in the conversation!We would love to hear your thoughts:

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"Dating sober isn't any easier."If you've ever dated sober, or intend to start dating sober, this is the episode for you! We turn the show over to five of our friends who are all active in the sober dating world, and give them a chance to tell all. They talk about everything from dealing with getting rejected and breaking up, to recognizing red flags and deal breakers, to the awkwardness of sober intimacy. Listen and laugh with us... and you'll probably learn some things along the way, too!

Some of the topics we cover:* Online dating apps * Being uncomfortable when your date drinks * Your date being uncomfortable when you don't drink * Recognizing an unhealthy need for attention and validation * Learning to communicate honestly and effectively * Addressing a partner's substance use * Higher standards for conversation and connection * Struggling with insecurity * The older you get, the harder it seems to get * Showing up authentically, flaws and all * Taking things slowly * Learning to appreciate solitude * Learning to cope with loneliness

"Sometimes the wrong person feels right."Meet Our Guests:

My name is Derrick Deidel I will have 3 years sober on 02/24/20202. I have come from the depths of addiction, trauma, mental health , prison and homelessness to be a light in this world. I love recovery and am a huge advocate for it and those seeking help. I work for Mile High Recovery Center managing the Residential treatment house, I am a peer recovery coach and personal trainer. I try to be kind and gracious to everyone cause that same stuff changed my life.

Chris Wallace Age: 36Lives in Los AngelesEast coast transplant who runs up and coming pizza restaurant, @ozzysapizza, in Los Angeles while balancing the day job grind, comedy aspirations, and full time dog dad duties. Grateful every day that sobriety allows me to do everything that I truly love.

Liz is a native North Carolinian whose journey to recovery began when she saw a post featuring a sobriety-app screenshot from a celebrity she didn’t know she was following while drunkenly scrolling Instagram. After decades of using alcohol to cope with depression, anxiety, loneliness, and despair, she’s now learning to get comfortable with the uncomfortable so she can better show up for her son, her dogs, the world at large, and herself.

Melissa has been practicing sobriety for several years and has had nearly a year completely alcohol free. She lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina with her puppy dog where she works as a beer rep, artist, musician, and is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She is passionate about grief and trauma therapy, delightfully existential conversations, nature, and awkward humor

Corina D is a Canadian educator currently living and working in Edmonton, AB with her two rescue feral pharaohs. A full-time compassionate soul whose real journey of discovery (recovery) began at the bottom of an emotional heap in Cairo after the collapse of her volatile second marriage. She has been known to wander in broad day light carrying a bright lantern earnestly searching for truth and honesty.

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If you've quit drinking, and you're wondering... "What now?" you're going to love this episode. We are joined by Dan, Melissa, and Kelsey to talk about gaining forward momentum in recovery. From learning how to ask for help, to understanding that your needs and tools evolve with your recovery, doing the work is the foundation of sobriety. We discuss dealing with boredom in sobriety, and we talk about how exciting it can be to face the hard things, knowing something great will be on the other side.

Doing the Work: Keep Practicing Until Your Natural Emotional Response is a Healthy OneSome of the points we make in this episode:

Find a community and ask for help
Remember to take life one day at a time
Tell your truth, and accept feedback
Watch others, and learn from their experiences
Be willing to ask yourself hard questions
Beware of complacency
Milestones can sometimes be triggering - be prepared for them
Our needs change and evolve with our recovery, and that's okay
Find the lesson in every experience
Let yourself be truly seen

Shame can't live in the lightIn this episode, Julie talks about how the book Rewired by Erica Spiegelman helped move her recovery journey forward. You can learn more about Erica, and her many recovery resources, by visiting www.ericaspiegelman.com

Dan mentions Brene' Brown, whose research and books are helpful for anyone looking to understand themselves better, whether in recovery or not. Visit her website at www.brenebrown.com

Meet our guests:

Melissa has been practicing sobriety for several years and currently has nearly a year completely alcohol free. She lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina with her puppy dog where she works as a beer rep, artist, musician, and is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She is passionate about grief and trauma therapy, delightfully existential conversations, nature, and awkward humor.

Keep In Touch!throughtheglassrecovery.com

throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

How honest are you, really?Have you ever hidden a bottle of alcohol from your partner and worried all day that they'd find it? Told someone you'd quit drinking, but just hid it from them instead? Have you ever told the hair dresser you love your new style, when inside you're cringing?

Honesty seems easy... until we really get honest with ourselves. In this episode, we talk with Brian, Antje, and Michal, with special guest Corina, about honesty in recovery. Most of us consider honesty to be an important value in our lives, but the more we dig into it, the more we realize the places where we tend to be more dishonest than we thought - lying to make others feel better, lying by omission, lying to ourselves. Listen as we dig into honesty, and talk about some of the areas we struggle, and what we've learned.

Other areas of honesty in recovery that we discuss in this episode include:* Being brutally honest with ourselves is the foundation of recovery * Can honesty be self-serving? * Lying about likes/dislikes to fit in * Saying "I'm fine" when we're not * Misplaced honesty and vulnerability * Perfectionism - omitting truths to maintain the "perfect" appearance * Lying is based in shame and fear * Taking the time to discover our own truth * There's an enormous sense of freedom in being honest * Lying to avoid hurting others' feelings or disappointing them * In-depth discussion about journaling effectively as a sobriety tool

"Awareness of the problem is the first step to the solution."In the introduction to the topic, Julie mentions the book Rewired by Erica Spiegelman. Rewired is the book that Julie used to jump-start her recovery journey. For more information about the book and the author, visit www.ericaspiegelman.com

We'd love to hear from you!throughtheglassrecovery.com

throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

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In this episode, we chat with Antje, Kelsey, and Sonia about overcoming people pleasing and learning how to say no. It's easy to want to keep everyone else happy, but we do so the expense of our own happiness. We agree to things we don't want to, out of fear that we will disappoint others, and the result is that we disappoint ourselves.

Some of the points and topics we cover include:

Over-explaining ourselves
Finding out who really supports our recovery
Honoring ourselves by making our own decisions
Choosing authenticity over meeting expectations
Allowing others to say no to us, also
Not apologizing unnecessarily
Getting angry at ourselves for letting others walk all over us
Fear of disappointing others (and then realizing that's their problem.)
Start with easy conversations to practice for the hard ones
Demonstrating to our kids and others that saying no is okay
Learning to honor ourselves, our feelings, and our wants
Learning to sit with discomfort
Learning to avoid engaging in toxic conversations and behaviors
Dealing with the consequences of saying yes when we didn't want to
Pausing before responding to allow ourselves time to think
Valuing our time enough to say no

Saying yes when we really want to say no leads to resentment.As Kelsey says, "I was everything to everybody and nobody to myself." Recovery is a great time to take back your time and energy and use it in a way that honors ourselves!

Meet our guests:Kelsey started a TikTok account to share her sober journey and inspire others. Since she started, she's gained 23,000 followers. You can find her at https://www.tiktok.com/@kelseygoessober and on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_sorensen_/

Sonia is the creator and owner of Ever Blume, a recovery resource that places members in small support groups based on their specific needs and situations. For more information, visit joineverblume.com or visit Sonia's Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/joineverblume/

Keep in touch!throughtheglassrecovery.com

throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Instagram – @through_the_glass_recovery

In this episode, we explore different ways to cope with alcohol cravings and triggers. We've invited Keith, Summer, and Melissa to share their experiences and wisdom, which includes developing mental strength, exercising self compassion, and eating ALL the junk food. We talk about learning how to lean on others to get through the hard times, allowing ourselves to just be uncomfortable sometimes, and we also learn how to check in with ourselves and ask, "What is my body actually needing right now?" Because if we find healthy ways to meet our needs, we won't feel so compelled to use alcohol.

Alcohol cravings are our body telling it that it needs something. Our job is to figure out what it needs.Other topics we explore in this episode include:

Breaking routines
Learning to sit with cravings instead of acting on them
Staying mindful
Recognizing our danger zones and learning to ask for help
Building relationships with others so we have support
Playing the tape forward
Embracing ourselves as we are; self compassion
Developing tools and coping mechanisms
Learning new ways to respond to feelings

Meet our Guests:Keith Williamson can be found creating inspiring sober content on Instagram @soberinspirationbykeith and on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@soberinspirationbykeithwil4419

Let’s get connected!throughtheglassrecovery.com

throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Instagram – @through_the_glass_recovery

In this episode, we are joined by Peter, Jessica, and John and we share about finding hope after addiction. We share how we maintain hope even when things get hard. You'll hear us talk about looking back to see how far we've come, and looking forward to the future, being able to recognize the potential. We discuss how we gained hope from others' stories, and how that inspires us to share our own. Hope is what keeps us going, even when we aren't sure it's worth it.

Hope means allowing others to show us that the hard work is worth it.Other topics covered in this episode include:

How community and connection influence hope
Knowing when you're ready to quit
Taking time to reflect, to acknowledge how far you've come
Listening to stories of people further along
Sharing our own stories to give hope to those who are struggling

Jessica talks about This Naked Mind by Annie Grace, a favorite book in the recovery community. Find out more about it at https://thisnakedmind.com/

Meet Our GuestsPeter can be found @youre_better_than_the_steps on Instagram where he shares inspiring content related to sobriety. Go check him out!

Jessica tells her story on Instagram @imperfect_sobermom - it's honest, relatable, and real. Follow her as she navigates early sobriety and shares her experience with the world.

Let’s get connected!throughtheglassrecovery.com

throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Instagram – @through_the_glass_recovery

Sobriety is the pathway to authentic friendshipsIn this episode, we talk with Debs, Brian, and Ben about how our friendships have changed in sobriety. When we quit drinking, one thing we worry about is how our relationships and friendships are going to change. It can be intimidating. Will we be any fun to hang out with anymore? Will our friends support our decision? Are we going to lose friends? Listen as we share our experiences with all of these questions, and a lot more.

How we've inspired others by being honest about our recovery
Learning to let go of friendships that no longer serve our values
Discovering new and more meaningful friendships
How we make new friends now that we are sober
Discussing how our standards for friendships have grown
How we are better at being good friends
Realizing that vulnerable, meaningful conversation creates true connection
Honoring ourselves by saying no and being careful about choosing what events we attend

What we end up realizing is that we used to drink to feel like we fit in. Now we share our sober, authentic selves and we learn where we truly belong. As Brene Brown says, "Fitting in is the greatest barrier to belonging."

Get in Touch!throughtheglassrecovery.com

throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

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In this episode, we talk with Jane, Nat, and Elaine about setting boundaries in recovery. It turns out, all five us were raised without ever understand what boundaries are, so we've had to learn all about them in recovery. We talk about our successes and our failures, and share bits of wisdom learned along the way. Some of the topics we cover include:

Putting sobriety first by setting personal boundaries
People pleasing - diminishing ourselves by failing to set boundaries
Say "I'm sorry" with intention
Learning to not make others' needs and expectations more important than our own
Realizing that saying no doesn't make you a bad person, it just saves you from overcommittment.
Setting boundaries saves us from harboring resentment
Creating healthy boundaries about how we treat and talk to ourselves
How we honor and enforce our boundaries, even when it gets painful

Boundaries teach people how to treat us.We may have grown up believing that boundaries are optional, but in recovery, boundaries are absolutely required.

Meet Our Guests:Elaine Skylar Neal is a website designer and content creator with over two years of sobriety from alcohol.https://www.championcreatives.com/

Join in the conversation! We'd love to hear from you.throughtheglassrecovery.com

throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

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In this episode, we talk with Derrick, Liz, and Corinna about what it's like to go public with recovery - what we sometimes call "Recovering Out Loud". We cover topics such as

Getting over the fear of judgement
Working to change the stigma of addiction
Being an example to show others it can be done
Deciding where it's safe to share your story, and where it might not be
Gaining the opportunity to connect with others in sobriety
Knowing that it's okay to recovery quietly, too

When we're proud of all of the work we've done in recovery, and when start reaping the benefits, we often find we want to share our stories. LIsten as we share our experiences of recovering out loud.

Let's get connected!

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throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Instagram - @through_the_glass_recovery

Special thanks to Derrick https://www.instagram.com/ddeidelsoberfit/ for his contribution to this episode! Be sure to check out his inspiring reels on Instagram and follow him for some great sober content!

In this episode, we talk with Kate , James, and Lacey about how we deal and cope with regret in sobriety. We talk about ways we've changed our focus from the past to the future, to allow ourselves to heal.

Move from the past to the future

Focus on gratitude for being alive
Focus on gratitude for the opportunity to change
Be proud of who you are now
Work to show the people you love that you are no longer the person you were before
Accept blame where appropriate
Deal with shame by sharing your story with others who won't judge you
Work to forgive yourself by treating yourself as though you are a friend.

Learning to put the past behind us in a healthy way allows us to truly value and look forward to the future. We owe it to ourselves to give ourselves the freedom to move forward!

Join in the conversation:

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Get to know Kate on Instagram @Walking_The_Straight_Line

In this episode, we talk with Chelsea, host of The Recovered Life podcast, Molly, and Brian about navigating difficult emotions. We talk about how we find validation for our emotions, and how we've learned to cope with them, either by distracting ourselves or learning to sit with them. We talk about coping tools such as sharing the burden with others, taking care of ourselves, and even EMDR therapy for overcoming trauma. We talk about learning to be okay with being uncomfortable and acknowledge that emotions won't kill you, but the way you deal with them could.

If you'd like to get to know Chelsea better, you can check out her Instagram profile @recoveredlife and look for her podcast, Recovered Life, on Apple and Spotify.

Let's Connect!

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throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Instagram - @through_the_glass_recovery

How have your standards changed?

In this episode, we talk with Denge, Mary, and Michal about our standards and expectations in recovery. As we move further along in our recovery journeys, we often find that our standards change - as they should. Our self worth increases, and we realize we are no longer willing to settle for what we used to. So we ask the question, "How have your standards changed in sobriety?"

We discover several ways our expectations change:

-eating healthier, taking care of ourselves both mentally and physically

-setting, communicating, and enforcing boundaries and expectations with others

-boundaries at work, with friends, and with children and spouses

-how we value and use our time and energy

-standards in friendships

We teach others how to treat us, and now that our standards have changed, we may have to re-teach them.

Denge, Michal, and Mary are all friends we've made in the I Am Sober community. You can find out more about the I Am Sober app at iamsober.com

Join the conversation!

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The holidays are always a big source of anxiety and temptation for people who are in recovery. So we wanted to do an episode on what things to watch out for, share some of our anxieties, and share some of our tried and true tips for surviving the holidays sober. We all have very different families and traditions, so we've gathered what we think is a great mix of folks in this episode to try to share several different perspectives.

We talk about the stress of the whole holiday season, from having money to buy gifts to going to events. We go on to discuss setting boundaries, figuring out what you're able to spend, where you're willing to go, what expectations you're willing to meet and which ones you aren't. And we talk about sticking to those boundaries.

We share our experiences with giving and receiving alcohol as gifts, and how we handled those situations. We also offer tips and ideas for what to say when offered a drink, or when you're asked why you don't drink. We talk about how to plan ahead for social situations, and things we've learned along the way that help make them a little more comfortable. We discuss how to handle serving alcohol to family and friends when we are the ones hosting the gatherings. And we also talk about all of the reasons choosing to stay sober through the holidays is the best decision we've made. The holidays should be a time of joy, and of connection, and of memories made. Let's stay sober, and give ourselves the chance!

Get to know Zoe on her Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoberoldsoul

Join in the conversation!

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throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

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In this episode, we talk with our friends Robert and Michal about changing the narrative, what it means to change the stories we've held onto throughout our lives. We talk about the stigma of alcoholism and how it stops people from getting the help we need. We talk about changing spiritual beliefs and religious narratives. We also share about the narratives we hold about ourselves, and how that affects both us and the people in our lives. Listen as we discuss ways to change the lens through which we see the world.

In this episode we continue our discussion about the challenges of early recovery.

The first 30 days are some of the hardest on the recovery journey. In this episode - the second of a two part series - we continue our talk with John, Kris, and Ashley about early sobriety - everything we wish someone would've told us as we headed into the first 30 days of getting sober.

We talk a lot about the work of sobriety here on Through the Glass. But before anyone gets to the point of doing that emotional work, they've got to get through the early days - the days when withdrawals are wearing them down, cravings are constant and brutal, and it seems like you think about drinking - or not drinking - about once every minute.

We would love to hear from you! Keep in touch: throughtheglassrecovery.com throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086119626783 https://www.instagram.com/through_the_glass_recovery/

Everything we wish someone would've told us in the first 30 days of sobriety

The first 30 days are some of the hardest on the recovery journey. In this episode - the first of a two part series - we talk with John, Kris, and Ashley about early sobriety - everything we wish someone would've told us as we headed into the first 30 days of getting sober.

We talk a lot about the work of sobriety here on Through the Glass. But before anyone gets to the point of doing that emotional work, they've got to get through the early days - the days when withdrawals are wearing them down, cravings are constant and brutal, and it seems like you think about drinking - or not drinking - about once every minute. Listen as we share what worked for us, and what didn't.

We would love to hear from you! Keep in touch: throughtheglassrecovery.com throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086119626783 https://www.instagram.com/through_the_glass_recovery/

3 million people die each year from alcohol. Have you ever wondered how to help? How you can serve others in addiction? It turns out that often, the best person to help an alcoholic is another alcoholic.

In this episode, we talk with Drifter from Sobertown Podcast, our friend Molly from the I Am Sober app community, and Michelle from The Sobriety Playbook about what it means to serve others in recovery.

We would love to hear from you! Contact us: throughtheglassrecovery.com throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086119626783 https://www.instagram.com/through_the_glass_recovery/ Get to know Michelle better at https://blinq.me/jiKDc5G5jnNSx87CEJoE Check out Drifter's podcast at sobertownpodcast.com Get to know Molly at https://www.sobertownpodcast.com/sober-podcast-episodes/episode-80-ten-seconds-1

Getting sober is hard. Staying sober can be even harder.

In the second episode of this two part series, we continue our conversation with Molly, John, and Liz about the things we find to be the most difficult parts of emotional sobriety. You'll hear how Molly learned to fall in love with failure. Julie talks about learning to deal with big, difficult emotions, and the others chime in, talking about learning how to not let anger or other feelings to take over in the heat of the moment. Liz shares about struggling to have the confidence to reach out, to be willing to take up space and let someone else help. As always, the best part of the discussion is the way everyone shares their own personal experience to help support the others. Because connection really is the opposite of addiction.

If you'd like to get to know Molly better, you can listen to her story: https://www.sobertownpodcast.com/sober-podcast-episodes/episode-80-ten-seconds-1

Julie and Steve talk about Atlas of the Heart by Brene' Brown: https://brenebrown.com/book/atlas-of-the-heart/

And we would love to hear your own stories – what is the hardest part of sobriety for you? Leave a comment on our website at

https://www.throughtheglassrecovery.com

or join in the conversation on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/Through-The-Glass-Recovery-108545488674813

https://www.instagram.com/through_the_glass_recovery/

Recovery is different for everyone, bringing unique challenges to everyone who makes the decision to leave alcohol behind. And while we all have our own individual struggles, there's always someone who can relate and who can share the wisdom they've gained from their own experiences.

In this two part series, Julie and Steve chat with Molly, John, and Liz about what they consider to be the hardest part of their recovery. As each person shares stories of their own struggles - from mommy wine culture, to boredom, to trusting in and handling difficult emotions - everyone else is able to offer their own wisdom and advice based on their own experiences. Listen as John and Steve discuss how to handle free time once drinking is no longer an option. Molly and Liz talk about how frustrating it is that alcohol is found in seemingly every advertisement and TV show. You'll hear the group discuss learning to trust their own emotions instead of always second guessing the way they feel, or believing they "should" be feeling some other way.

And we would love to hear your own stories - what is the hardest part of sobriety for you? Leave a comment on our website at

https://www.throughtheglassrecovery.com

or join in the conversation on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/Through-The-Glass-Recovery-108545488674813

https://www.instagram.com/through_the_glass_recovery/

Living intentionally is no longer optional - it's a requirement. One thing we've all learned as we make our way through the process of recovery is that we no longer get to just float through life. We don't get to sit back and let life do what it will while we watch from the sidelines. Recovery is about building a life of intention, of purpose. What does living with intention mean to you, what does that look like in your life?

In this episode, we invite our friends Paula, Alex, and Brian to explore with us the idea of building a life of intention. We explore the ideas of authenticity, defining our values and priorities, making choices that reflect our intentions, and how that all works for us in recovery.

Brian shares this list he's made while journaling, that details all the aspects he believes make up living intentionally.

Taking responsibility and ownership
Creating my own reality
Deciding who I want to be and not be
Making a plan or having a vision and then doing what you need to do to see it through
Setting priorities
Subscribing to self-care and nurture
Seeking clarity
Being in the moment , stop trying to escape or numb out
Really listening
Paying attention to the world around me (sounds, smells, nature, all that jazz)
Embracing quiet
Just Breathing
Connecting
Taking a beat before acting
Considering the consequences
Establishing boundaries
Avoiding triggers
Keeping perspective
Understanding what to let go of and when to let go
Going all in
Making a real difference
Living ODAAT

Julie mentions Rewired by Erica Spiegelman. You can find more information about the book and related resources at https://www.ericaspiegelman.com/

To hear Paula's sobriety story, visit https://www.sobertownpodcast.com/sober-podcast-episodes/episode-07-pollys-story-segment-1

To learn more about personal values and start discovering your own core values, check out the best list we found at https://www.minessence.net/pdfs/values_definitions.pdf

Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

Let us know what you think! Send comments or topic suggestions to throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Or connect with us on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/Through-The-Glass-Recovery-108545488674813

https://www.instagram.com/through_the_glass_recovery/

We hear people talk about "emotional support", and we know it's important to our sobriety... but what does emotional support actually look like? How can it help? In this episode, we talk with our friends Dan and Liz about how to support one another emotionally as we make our way through sobriety, and through life. One of the hardest parts of recovery is facing our emotions without trying to numb them. One of the greatest tools we can use is leaning on others in our lives to support us as we start facing those emotions and learning how to deal with them. For a lot of us, we come into sobriety having no idea what emotional support is even supposed to look like. Whether it's how to ask for and accept emotional support, or how to give it... we're here to talk about it.

Listen as Dan explains how he learned to let people be there for him and to let them see his emotions, especially when men risk being seen as weak if they let their emotions show. Julie shares how she overcame feeling like a burden when she needed to reach out to someone for support. You'll hear the group explore the differences in the emotional needs of men and the emotional needs of women. We also discuss empathy, vulnerability, emotional validation, and other types of emotional support.

Steve mentions the "Playing Catch" analogy. You can read more about it on our blog at https://throughtheglassrecovery.com/category/blog/

Visit our website and blog at https://www.throughtheglassrecovery.com

Let us know what you think! Send comments or topic suggestions to throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Or connect with us on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/Through-The-Glass-Recovery-108545488674813

https://www.instagram.com/through_the_glass_recovery/

In this episode, you'll hear from our friends Debs, Brian, and Antje as we chat with them about rebuilding trust now that we're in recovery - which, we all know, isn't easy to do. Brian shares what he's doing to work on rebuilding trust in his marriage after infidelity. Antje talks about how she found the courage to talk to her husband about an eating disorder, which helped her later when she needed to talk with him about her struggle with alcohol. Steve talks about how he's seen the trust rebuilding in his relationship with his kids, and Julie tells us how she learned that before you can ask someone else to trust you, you need to be able to trust yourself. The group also talks about how to trust the decision to quit drinking.

Julie mentions the book Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis. More information about the book and the author can be found at https://msrachelhollis.com/ Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com

Let us know what you think! Send comments or topic suggestions to throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com Or connect with us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/Through-The-Glass-Recovery-108545488674813 https://www.instagram.com/through_the_glass_recovery/

In their debut episode, Steve and Julie explain the premise of Through the Glass Recovery Podcast. They share some of their own stories, providing a background for listeners before diving into the content in the official episodes. Find out what to expect, and how Through the Glass Recovery Podcast can help you gain more momentum in your own recovery.

Steve mentions the I Am Sober app and community. More information about the app can be found at iamsober.com

Let us know what you think! Send comments or topic suggestions to throughtheglassrecovery@gmail.com

Or connect with us on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/Through-The-Glass-Recovery-108545488674813

https://www.instagram.com/through_the_glass_recovery/