• S1 E41 Early Sobriety, Transformation and Psychedelics with Annie Clark
    Sep 30 2024

    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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    31 mins
  • S1 E40 A Ballet Dancers Story of Surrender & Change with Eugene Barnes
    Sep 23 2024

    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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    57 mins
  • S1 E39 Katie Butler, Retired Party Girl Turned Creator of Alcohol Free in Dally Inspires AF Glamour, Fitness and Fun
    Sep 16 2024

    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.

    Are you inspired by what you've been learning on Mindful Sobriety The Podcast? We'd love the opportunity to meet you in person at one of our upcoming retreats! There's still a few spots available for Living Your Purpose: Simplified Bali Retreat! Secure your spot today! Mention this episode for a $200 discount. You'll find all the details here!

    Follow @janewballard and @dfwyogagirl on Instagram to stay in touch! And as always, be sure to rate, review and subscribe so we can continue to spread our message far and wide. We are so incredibly grateful for the support of our listeners!

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    53 mins
  • S1 E38 Finding Soulful Clarity with Mara DeMauro
    Sep 9 2024

    Jane sits down with Mara DeMauro, a sober curious lifestyle coach. Mara shares her journey of redefining her relationship with alcohol and finding soulful clarity. They discuss the concept of potential and how exploring life without alcohol can open up new layers of potential. Mara also talks about her background and how she got interested in coaching. They touch on the importance of community and support when making changes in one's relationship with alcohol. They also discuss dating while being alcohol-free and the importance of nurturing the relationship with oneself. In this conversation, Mara and Jane discuss the importance of self-love and inner knowing. They emphasize that relying on others for reassurance is insatiable, but having a strong sense of self-worth and contentment is lasting. They also explore the idea of love being all around and not limited to romantic partnerships. Mara shares her experience with psychedelics and how they helped her find self-love and open her heart. They discuss the spiritual aspect of psychedelics and the importance of using them intentionally for growth and healing. Mara offers advice for those who are sober curious and encourages them to explore their relationship with alcohol and be honest with themselves. They also discuss the empowerment of not drinking and the importance of practicing what to say in social situations. Mara provides ways to connect with her and her alcohol-free social meetup called Fish Out of Water.

    IN THIS EPISODE

    • Redefining your relationship with alcohol can lead to soulful clarity and open up new layers of potential.
    • Having a strong community and support system is important when making changes in your relationship with alcohol.
    • Dating while being alcohol-free can be challenging, but it's an opportunity to get to know yourself and nurture the relationship with yourself.
    • Nurturing the relationship with yourself and practicing self-love is empowering and attracts the right people into your life. Relying on others for reassurance is insatiable, but having a strong sense of self-worth and contentment is lasting.
    • Love is all around and not limited to romantic partnerships.
    • Psychedelics can help in finding self-love and opening the heart, but should be used intentionally for growth and healing.
    • Being sober curious involves exploring one's relationship with alcohol and being honest with oneself.
    • Practicing what to say in social situations can help navigate conversations about not drinking.
    • Connecting with others who are on a similar journey can provide support and inspiration.

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction and Background

    03:21
    Unlocking Potential Through Curiosity and Clarity

    05:34
    Redefining Your Relationship with Alcohol

    10:03
    Finding Potential Beyond Career Goals

    19:45
    The Power of Community Support

    25:04
    Self-Discovery: Nurturing Your Relationship with Yourself

    25:43
    The Power of Self-Love and Redefining Relationships

    29:07
    Psychedelics as a Tool for Healing and Spiritual Awakening

    31:50
    The Beauty of Nature and the Outdoors

    35:32
    Empowerment and Standing Out by Choosing Sobriety

    40:27
    Preparing for Questions About Not Drinking

    45:08
    Exploring a Sober Curious Lifestyle for Clarity and Purpose

    Connect with Mara on Instagram @Marademauro or her website www.marademauro.com

    Are you inspired by what you've been learning on Mindful Sobriety The Podcast? We'd love the opportunity to meet you in person at one of our upcoming retreats! There's still a few spots available for Living Your Purpose: Simplified Bali Retreat! Secure your spot today! Mention this episode for a $200 discount. You'll find all the details here!

    Follow @janewballard and @dfwyogagirl on Instagram to stay in touch! And as always, be sure to rate, review and subscribe so we can continue to spread our message far and wide. We are so incredibly grateful for the support of our listeners!

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    49 mins
  • S1 E37 Anxiety & Radical Acceptance
    Sep 2 2024

    In this conversation, Amanda discusses the concepts of acceptance, radical acceptance, and radical self-acceptance. She shares her personal experience with anxiety and how attachment to outcomes can cause anxiety. Amanda explains that radical acceptance involves acknowledging that everything happens as it's supposed to and accepting things without judgment. She also talks about the importance of replacing anxious thoughts with positive ones and trusting that things will work out. Additionally, Amanda explores the idea of radical self-acceptance, particularly in relation to appearance and relationships.

    Keywords

    acceptance, radical acceptance, radical self-acceptance, anxiety, attachment, outcomes, present moment, trust, positive thinking, worst case scenario, gratitude, appearance, weight, body image, relationships

    Takeaways

    • Radical acceptance involves acknowledging that everything happens as it's supposed to and accepting things without judgment.
    • Replacing anxious thoughts with positive ones and trusting that things will work out can help reduce anxiety.
    • Practicing radical self-acceptance involves accepting oneself as they are in the present moment, including appearance and body image.
    • Radical acceptance can also be applied to relationships, allowing people to show their true selves and accepting them as they are.
    • Finding peace and gratitude in the present moment can contribute to overall acceptance and well-being.


    Sound Bites

    • "Today I'm going to be talk about acceptance, radical acceptance, and radical self-acceptance."
    • "I'm able to acknowledge that everything happens exactly the way it's supposed to."
    • "Haven't everything always worked out?"

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction to Radical Acceptance

    02:33
    Practicing Radical Acceptance for Anxiety

    08:20
    Finding Peace and Gratitude in the Present Moment

    08:41
    Radical Self-Acceptance: Beyond Appearance

    10:28
    Radical Acceptance in Relationships

    11:28
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    12 mins
  • S1 E36 The Real Sober Stories with Ashlee Roberts: Stepping Into Her Power Through Elective Sobriety
    Aug 26 2024

    Did you know that you don't have to have a problem with alcohol to quit drinking? Sobriety is available to all, from those diagnosed with alcohol use disorder to the occasional drinker and everyone in between. In this episode Jane sits down with the lovely Ashlee Roberts. Ashlee shares her journey of removing alcohol from her life and the impact it has had on her mental and physical well-being. She started her alcohol-free journey after witnessing her mother's alcohol-induced health scare. Ashlee's approach to sobriety is a softer one, focusing on self-reflection and personal development. Removing alcohol has allowed her to connect with her authentic self, gain confidence, and improve her marriage. She has also delved into mindfulness, therapy, and self-care practices to heal and grow. Ashlee's story highlights the benefits of examining our relationship with alcohol and the potential for transformation when we choose to remove it from our lives. Ashlee shares her experience of discovering her mother's health issues related to alcohol and how it inspired her to go alcohol-free. She talks about her journey of sobriety, the challenges she faced, and the positive changes it brought to her life. Ashlee also reveals her plans to launch her self development coaching practice to help others find transformative healing, build inner confidence and live a joyful life.

    IN THIS EPISODE

    • Removing alcohol can lead to self-discovery and empowerment.
    • Alcohol can hinder personal growth and keep us stuck in unhealthy patterns.
    • Regular check-ins and open communication are important for maintaining a healthy marriage.
    • Alcohol can negatively impact relationships and lead to conflicts.
    • Alcohol industry targets women and perpetuates harmful stereotypes.
    • Retreats and healing practices can be transformative in one's journey towards sobriety.
    • Health issues related to alcohol can be eye-opening and motivate change.
    • Removing alcohol can improve mental health, confidence, and intimacy in relationships. Wernicke's encephalopathy is a condition caused by heavy alcohol consumption that can lead to memory loss and brain damage.
    • Quitting drinking can lead to a deeper connection with oneself and a greater sense of joy in life.
    • Coaching can be a powerful tool for personal growth and helping others on their alcohol-free journey.
    • Finding joy in the little things and reconnecting with spirituality can enhance overall well-being.
    • Support from loved ones is crucial when making the decision to quit drinking.


    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Introduction and Background
    03:11 The Journey to Sobriety
    08:01 Exploring Unhealthy Patterns and Upper Limiting
    12:01 Alcohol's Impact on Relationships
    19:03 The Targeting of Women by the Alcohol Industry
    23:59 Retreats and Healing Practices in Sobriety
    27:06 Health Issues as a Motivator for Change
    31:56 Improving Mental Health and Intimacy through Sobriety
    39:39 Finding Joy in the Little Things
    44:24 Reconnecting with Spirituality

    LINKS/RESOURCES MENTIONED

    Get Ashlee's free guide here! This 22 day alcohol free guide includes daily inspiration to help you get started on your alcohol-free journey! Removing alcohol is about more than saying no to drinking. It’s about living in alignment with what your soul wants. Let get started!

    Learn more about Ashlee on her website and Instagram.

    Are you inspired by what you've been learning on Mindful Sobriety The Podcast? We'd love the opportunity to meet you in person at one of our upcoming retreats! There's still a few spots available for Living Your Purpose: Simplified Bali Retreat! Secure your spot today! Mention this episode for a $200 discount. You'll find all the details here!

    Follow @janewballard and @dfwyogagirl on Instagram to stay in touch! And as always, rate, review and subscribe so we can continue to spread our message far and wide. We are so incredibly grateful for the support of our listeners!

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    54 mins
  • S1 E35 Healing from Compulsive Behaviors
    Aug 19 2024

    In this episode, Quentin discusses his journey with recovery dharma, a Buddhist-inspired approach to recovery from addiction. He shares his experience with substance abuse and behavioral addictions, such as compulsive spending. Quentin explains the core teachings of Buddhism and how they apply to recovery, emphasizing the importance of acting with wisdom and accepting life as it is. He also discusses the challenges of being honest with oneself and the need for accountability in recovery.

    Keywords

    mindful sobriety, recovery dharma, addiction, Buddhist principles, Four Noble Truths, Eightfold Path, suffering, wisdom, accountability, honesty, support

    Takeaways

    • Recovery dharma is a Buddhist-inspired approach to recovery from addiction that focuses on acting with wisdom and accepting life as it is.
    • Addiction can manifest in different ways, such as substance abuse or behavioral addictions like compulsive spending.
    • Being honest with oneself and practicing accountability are important aspects of recovery.
    • Recovery is a journey of continuous improvement, and it's okay to fall down as long as you keep trying.
    • Finding support and connecting with others who are going through similar experiences can be beneficial in the recovery process.

    Sound Bites

    • "It's really about acting with wisdom in such a way that not only taking ourselves out of situations that can cause that suffering or enhance that suffering, but also there's just sometimes in life where it's not something you can avoid."
    • "It's not about just that moment. It's about every moment of being mindful."
    • "Trust your intuition because you've got amazing intuition about things."

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction and Background

    01:36
    Recovery Dharma: A Buddhist-Inspired Approach

    03:12
    Acting with Wisdom and Accepting Life

    11:24
    The Practice of Mindfulness

    16:54
    Childhood and Parenting

    23:36
    Struggles with Addiction and Mental Health

    28:05
    Honesty and Accountability in Recovery

    33:48
    Advice for Those Struggling with Addiction

    38:38
    Conclusion

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    33 mins
  • S1 E34 Breaking The Upper Limit with Sober Curious Life Coach Renee Adams
    Aug 12 2024
    Jane sits down with Renée Adams, former division I athlete, powerlifter, wife, sister, daughter and soon to be certified sober-curious, life coach who specializes in helping high performing women re-define their relationship with alcohol to uncover their deeper purpose, follow their bliss, and achieve success.She quit her corporate job of 7 years in January of 2023 to become a fitness coach, all while still being a “grey area” drinker. Her nights were filled with wine, her mornings were filled with regret, sweat, and anxiety. Drinking and trying to launch a business, needless to say, did not pan out the way she planned and was back in corporate 7 months later.It wasn’t until she changed her own relationship with alcohol September of 2023, did she find her true passion, helping women discover the incredible list of innate abilities that lie within them to make their biggest goals, reality. For her, the failure in her first attempt to help others has built a foundation of resiliency. It forged the path to a life she never thought was possible. She believes when we take a step back from alcohol, it creates a space of opportunity to realize your life purpose and dial in on leveling up your lifestyle.In this episode, Renée shares her journey with sober curiosity and how changing her relationship with alcohol has transformed her life. Renee grew up in a high-achieving household and remembers constantly striving to succeed. Renée started drinking at a teenager to blow off steam and have fun with friends. As she continued to drink through college and adulthood, she realized that alcohol was getting in the way of finding true contentment and joy. The empowering and growth oriented vibe of the Sober Curious movement resonated with Renée. With the help of a nutrition and sober curious coach, Renée changed her relationship with booze and experienced positive changes in her life. Over the last 11 months, she gained clarity, greater confidence, formed deeper connections, and pursued new interests. Becoming sober curious has allowed her to focus on her passion for powerlifting and pursue goals she never thought possible. Renée emphasizes the importance of finding a supportive community and navigating relationships with friends and family who may not understand or support her decision. She also highlights the need to be flexible and open to change, as well as the importance of being present and enjoying the journey.IN THIS EPISODESober curiosity is about questioning your relationship with alcohol and exploring how it fits into your life.Reducing alcohol intake can lead to positive changes in physical and emotional well-being.Getting support from coaches or mentors can be helpful in navigating the journey of sober curiosity.Sober curiosity can open up new opportunities for personal growth and deeper connections with others. Removing alcohol can have a positive impact on physical and mental well-being.Finding a supportive community is crucial in the journey of sobriety.Navigating relationships with friends and family who may not understand or support the decision to remove alcohol can be challenging but empowering.Being flexible and open to change is important in the process of reevaluating one's relationship with alcohol.Being present and enjoying the journey is essential for personal growth and fulfillment.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sober Curiosity02:30 Early Drinking Habits and Social Pressure08:05 Seeking Support and Making Changes12:29 Tracking Alcohol Intake and Realizations16:01 Aligning Life Goals and Removing Alcohol19:26 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Change21:15 Experimenting with Sober Curiosity23:19 Discovering a Passion for Powerlifting25:06 Creating Space for Personal Goals and Aspirations27:12 The Supportive Role of Renee's Husband29:41 Navigating Relationships with Friends and Family31:25 Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Self-Care35:35 The Journey of Personal Growth and Fulfillment39:22 Coaching and Empowering Others in the Sober Curious Community42:07 Advice for Those Starting Their Sobriety JourneyConnect with Renee on Instagram @coach_radams! Be sure to check out Living Your Purpose Bali Retreat 2025 here for early registration! Secure your spot by August 15 to save $300. Flexible payment plans available. Reach out to Jane @janewballard on instagram or email jane@janewballard.com to book a discovery call.Thank you for listening! Be sure to subscribe and rate the podcast to support the ever growing sobriety movement!
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    45 mins