In this conversation, Amanda and Annie Clark discuss Annie's journey to becoming alcohol-free and her experiences in the recovery community. They explore the challenges of early sobriety, the role of therapy, and the importance of self-love and acceptance. Annie shares insights on the impact of psychedelics in healing and the transformations seen in clients during retreats. The discussion emphasizes the shift in societal views on alcohol and the importance of authentic connections in recovery.

Takeaways

• Annie Clark is a licensed professional counselor with over 10 years of experience.
• Her journey into the alcohol-free community began through her work in residential treatment.
• The first year of sobriety can feel very raw and uncomfortable.
• Self-criticism and shaming do not lead to recovery or improvement.
• Psychedelics can play a significant role in healing and self-discovery.
• Community support is crucial for those on the alcohol-free path.
• The medical community is increasingly recognizing the dangers of alcohol consumption.
• Self-love is an actionable commitment, not just a feeling.
• Authenticity in therapy can enhance the therapeutic relationship.
• Transformational retreats can lead to profound personal growth.

Sound Bites

• "I became really, really passionate alcohol-free."
• "The first year was like being naked."
• "I don't see a place for alcohol in my life."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Annie Clark and Her Journey

03:04
Exploring the Alcohol-Free Community

05:35
The Challenges of Early Sobriety

08:01
The Role of Recovery Dharma

10:56
Therapeutic Insights from Personal Experience

13:33
The Impact of Alcohol on Relationships

16:08
The Debate on Alcohol's Place in Society

18:38
Psychedelic Retreats and Their Transformative Power

21:33
Client Transformations Through Psychedelics

23:40
Self-Love and Acceptance in Recovery

26:10
Advice to the Younger Self

30:27
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30:38
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In this conversation, Amanda interviews Eugene, who is connected to The Phoenix, a sober active movement. Eugene explains that The Phoenix is a welcoming community for anyone in recovery, whether long-term or short-term, and even for allies and those who are sober curious. The Phoenix offers a variety of events and activities, from CrossFit to rock climbing to social events like coffee socials and karaoke. Eugene shares his personal journey of finding The Phoenix through a Google search and how it has helped him in his recovery. He also discusses his career as a ballet dancer and the challenges he faced, as well as his experience with addiction and the decision to leave the ballet world. Eugene shares his journey of addiction and recovery, highlighting the importance of having someone who truly knows and cares about you. He talks about hitting rock bottom and the moment his mother made him realize the despair and death that awaited him if he didn't change. Eugene emphasizes the significance of surrendering and seeking help, and how it transformed his life. He also discusses the value of staying present, accepting where you are, and trusting the journey. Eugene shares his daily self-care routine and the importance of prioritizing relationships.

Keywords

The Phoenix, sober active movement, recovery, community, events, activities, ballet, addiction, career, addiction, recovery, rock bottom, surrender, seeking help, transformation, present moment, self-care, relationships

Takeaways

• The Phoenix is a sober active movement that welcomes anyone in recovery, including allies and those who are sober curious.
• The Phoenix offers a wide range of events and activities, from fitness classes to social gatherings, providing a supportive and inclusive community for individuals in recovery.
• Eugene found The Phoenix through a Google search and was drawn to its mission of connection and breaking the stigma around physical activity and recovery.
• Eugene shares his personal journey as a ballet dancer and the challenges he faced, including the pressure to perform and the impact of addiction on his career.
• Leaving the ballet world and finding The Phoenix allowed Eugene to embrace a new path of recovery and personal growth. Having someone who truly knows and cares about you can be a catalyst for change.
• Surrendering and seeking help are crucial steps in the recovery journey.
• Staying present, accepting where you are, and trusting the journey are key to personal growth.
• Prioritizing self-care and relationships is essential for overall well-being.

Titles

• Leaving the Ballet World: A New Path of Recovery
• Finding Support and Connection through The Phoenix Prioritizing Self-Care and Relationships in Recovery
• Embracing the Present Moment and Trusting the Journey

Sound Bites

• "The Phoenix is a sober active movement... welcoming everyone."
• "Getting active is such a vital part of recovery."
• "I came through The Phoenix through a Google search."
• "I just want someone to tell me that you're messing up."
• "Once you know what it feels like to begin to heal or to love yourself a little bit in the beginning, you'll always know if we do return to use, we'll always know this is maybe not for me."
• "The people we love, like your coworkers at Macy's that were continuing to advance you clearly cared about you, but they didn't really know what was going on in your heart, like your mom did."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to The Phoenix

02:30
The Benefits of Getting Active in Recovery

04:55
Discovering The Phoenix Through a Google Search

10:00
From Ballet Dancer to Recovery Advocate

13:12
The Power of Support and Love in Recovery

30:42
The Power of Surrender

32:32
The Emotional, Mental, and Spiritual Toll of Addiction

33:53
The Role of Relationships in Recovery

36:59
Prioritizing Self-Care and Following Your Energy

46:12
Finding Support: The Phoenix and Beyond the Bar

56:25
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Jane sits down with Katie Butler, creator of Alcohol Free in Dally and influencer of alcohol free fun in Dallas and beyond. Katie shares her transformative journey to wellbeing, detailing the challenges and triumphs of living an alcohol-free life. She emphasizes the importance of mental health, community support, and the role of fitness in her recovery. Katie squashes any remaining stigman surrounding sobriety, particularly in social situations and dating, and highlights the positive impact of social media in connecting with others on similar journeys. Katie shares her secrets to thriving alcohol free without giving up on nightlife, excitement and fun. Katie wants you to know that we all have the power to change our circumstances and we must take part in our how happiness.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Katie's journey to sobriety began after a pivotal moment with her sister.
• Alcohol had a significant negative impact on Katie's mental health.
• Navigating social situations without alcohol can be challenging but rewarding.
• Dating while sober requires honesty and can lead to more genuine connections.
• Fitness became a crucial coping mechanism for Katie after she stopped drinking.
• Building a supportive community is essential in the alcohol-free journey.
• Social media can be a powerful tool for connection and support in sobriety.
• It's important to redefine one's identity beyond alcohol consumption.
• Katie encourages others to take control of their happiness and circumstances.
• The journey to sobriety can lead to greater self-awareness and personal growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Meeting Katie
04:20 The Impact of Alcohol on Mental Health
07:20 Navigating Social Situations and Dating Without Alcohol
09:49 Finding Fulfillment Outside of a Corporate Career
13:23 Fitness as a Coping Mechanism in Sobriety
29:14 The Importance of Community
33:40 Embracing Fitness and Weightlifting
35:28 Finding Support in Fitness Studios and Social Media
38:38 Building a Community in the Alcohol-Free Space
41:30 Prioritizing Personal Happiness and Making Choices
46:35 Advice to 20-Year-Old Self

Sober October is almost here! Join Jane for Sober October (and November), along with a group of like-minded, wellness oriented women for 8 weeks of community, connection, guidance and inspiration. Head over to janewballard.com for all the details.

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