Sun & Moon Sober Living Podcast

Learn more about our upcoming Women's Hiking Retreat in Moab, Utah: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/moab-retreat/Access a free mindfulness meditation to help manage cravings and regulate emotions: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/easemeditationFollow along on Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving ___Nina Pick is a somatic practitioner focused on helping individuals with early relational wounds live full, embodied, and connected lives. In recovery since 2009, she is the author of The Mind-Body Guide to the Twelve Steps: Finding Joy, Sensuality, and Pleasure in Recovery, and she facilitates groups on somatics, attachment, and recovery. She received an MA in counseling psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute and an MA in comparative literature from UC Berkeley, and has certifications in a range of mind-body modalities, including NeuroAffective Touch, Somatic Attachment Therapy, Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy, the Safe and Sound Protocol, the Havening Techniques, and Reiki. Based in Western Massachusetts, she loves cats and is always up for a good dance party. In this episode, we discuss:Nina's recovery journeyHealing shameThe power in surrenderThe connection between trauma & addictionNervous system regulationA mind-body guide to recoveryFinding "God in the Body"Regaining access to joy and pleasureTo find out more, visit: www.ninapick.comOrder Nina's Book, The Mind-Body Guide to the Twelve Steps: Finding Joy, Sensuality, and Pleasure in Recovery: https://www.amazon.com/Mind-Body-Guide-Twelve-Steps-Recovery-Integrative/dp/1623179408/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Learn more about our upcoming Women's Hiking Retreat in Moab, Utah: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/moab-retreat/Access a free mindfulness meditation to help manage cravings and regulate emotions: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/easemeditationFollow along on Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving ___Megan Wilcox is the visionary behind SobahSistahs Sobriety and the host of the SobahSistahs Podcast, a platform dedicated to empowering women on their journey to sobriety. SobahSistahs was recently named BEST Sober Community by the Sans Bar Academy Awards. With a wealth of expertise as a Certified Recovery Coach, Certified Mindset and Success Coach, Certified NLP Practitioner, and Certified Hypnotherapy Practitioner, Megan brings a holistic, empathetic approach to her coaching. She draws from over 13 years of experience in a Level One Trauma Hospital in Boston, where she witnessed the alarming rise in alcohol-related health issues particularly among women. This experience inspired her to take a closer look at her own relationship with alcohol.After getting sober at the end of 2020, Megan founded SobahSistahs in June 2021. She has since launched the SobahSistahs Empowerment Club, designed for women new to sobriety and those seeking meaningful connections in their alcohol-free journey.Megan has also hosted transformative retreats for alcohol-free women worldwide, including in Bali, Punta Cana, and Vermont. She is passionate about helping women recognize that living alcohol-free is a powerful choice, not a punishment.Topics explored in this episode include:Megan's recovery journeySeeing sobriety as a power moveCommunity & connectionABC - Always Be CreatingContinuous growth & learningBreaking through limiting beliefsEntrepreneurshipProgress over perfectionCreating structure & routineMisconceptions about alcoholNatural dopamineRetreatsMegan has generously donated a 30-day free trial to the SobahSistahs Empowerment Club. Click the link below to join!https://sobahsistahs.mn.co/plans/1431074?bundle_token=6a052d07cb7280c2a414425a7f47689b&utm_source=manual__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Learn more about our upcoming Women's Hiking Retreat in Moab, Utah: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/moab-retreat/Access a free mindfulness meditation to help manage cravings and regulate emotions: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/easemeditationFollow along on Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving ___Sarah Treacy is the founder of The Sober Adventure Collective and creator of the Sobriety is the New Epic virtual speaker series. She helps others turn recovery into their greatest adventure — reigniting passion, building community, and living with purpose. Sarah is currently developing an adventure-based coaching program and in-person retreats rooted in connection and challenge.Topics explored in this episode:Sarah's Recovery Story Rewiring old beliefs about alcoholEstablishing healthy habits, structure & routineEmbracing a sober identity Overcoming shameThe slippery middleCreating a new life of adventureFinding purposeThe importance of communitySobriety is the New Epic Speaker SeriesLinks to connect with Sarah & learn more about her work:Website: https://soberadventurecollective.com/IG: @thesobersherpa__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Brittany Piper is an internationally renowned speaker, author, Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner, and expert in sexual violence prevention and trauma-informed care. Over the past 13 years, she has delivered more than 400 programs across three continents. Her work has been recognized by the U.S. Army, the Department of Justice, the Laura Bush Institute for Women's Health, Cosmopolitan, Elite Daily, and others. As a rape survivor and leading advocate on sexual violence prevention, Brittany speaks to tens of thousands each year. She is also a forensic neurobiology expert, conducting trauma-informed trainings with the U.S. Army and Sex Crimes Detectives. Creator of @healwithbritt and founder of the internationally acclaimed Body-First Healing Program, Brittany continues to inspire and lead in the field of trauma recovery. In her transformative new book, Body-First Healing: A Revolutionary Guide to Nervous System Recovery (launching March 25, 2025), Brittany shares her compassionate, science-backed roadmap for trauma recovery and nervous system regulation. She teaches readers how to break free from survival mode and reclaim their lives using simple yet effective somatic practices.In this episode, we discuss:Brittany's story Healing from sexual violenceAttachment TraumaPolyvagal TheorySomatic ExperiencingWhy the goal is not to have a “calm” nervous systemThe Five Stuck StatesInternal Family Systems / Parts WorkAddiction RecoveryTools for HealingLinks to connect with Brittany and learn more about her work:Website: https://www.bodyfirsthealing.com/Book: https://www.bodyfirsthealing.com/the-bookProgram: https://www.bodyfirsthealing.com/programInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/healwithbritt/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@healwithbritt__SUN & MOON SOBER LIVINGLearn more about our upcoming Women's Hiking Retreat in Moab, Utah: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/moab-retreat/Access a free mindfulness meditation to help manage cravings and regulate emotions: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/easemeditationFollow along on Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving __Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Learn more about our upcoming Women's Hiking Retreat in Moab, Utah: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/moab-retreat/Access a free mindfulness meditation to help manage cravings and regulate emotions: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/easemeditationFollow along on Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving __Paige Tornow began her career in corporate sustainability, helping some of the world's largest companies to use their businesses as a force for good. Even though she was in her dream role, she struggled to feel fulfilled amidst the pressure to perform, and realized she was burnt out. She went on a years-long journey to understand & heal her own burnout, eventually becoming a Burnout Coach, dedicated to helping ambitious women discover sustainable success. Through her unique framework of the "7 Burnout Types," she supports women in identifying and addressing the root causes of their burnout through group and one-on-one coaching. Since 2019, Paige has called Boulder home, where she hosts a monthly Women's Circle aimed at providing a safe space for authentic, vulnerable conversations. She is an amateur bird-watcher, enjoys long walks accompanied by a good podcast, and loves spending hours reading and working in Boulder's cozy coffee shops.In this episode, we discuss:Paige's burnout storyThe 7 types of burnoutThe root cause of burnoutCommon misconceptions about burnoutBody-based approach to healingResources for working through burnout__See links below to connect with Paige and find out more about her work.Instagram: @paigetornowTake Paige's Burnout Quiz: https://tally.so/r/m6rMjALearn more about Paige's signature program Better After Burnout: https://paigetornow.com/better-after-burnout__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Learn more about our upcoming Women's Hiking Retreat in Moab, Utah: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/moab-retreat/Access a free mindfulness meditation to help manage cravings and regulate emotions: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/easemeditationFollow along on Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving __Ep. 109 with Rachel KingAt just 24 years old, Rachel knew her substance use had surpassed just having fun on the weekends. It had grown into her primary coping mechanism that led her down a path of disconnection from self and the world around her. She hid her addiction for years, suffering in silence, while presenting an image of happiness, sheltered by her achievements and the facade of a normal life. Her recovery journey was on and off for almost 6 years until she found freedom through sobriety a few months before her 31st birthday. The pain of active addiction had finally come to head for her and outweighed the fear of change and a life without alcohol and drugs. Now, Rachel is a dedicated sober and wellness coach who specializes in helping high-achieving individuals struggling with their relationship with alcohol. She integrates health and fitness into her coaching, viewing them as key pillars in both her own recovery and the journeys of those she helps. Rachel takes a progressive approach to alcohol, seeing substance abuse as a spectrum. She believes that you don't need to hit a dramatic “rock bottom” to make the choice to remove alcohol from your life. Whether you're exploring the benefits of an alcohol-free lifestyle or facing deeper struggles, Rachel supports her clients in breaking free from the toxic cycle of drinking. Through self-awareness, inner-child work, and rewiring the subconscious mind, she empowers them to create lasting change.In this episode, we discuss:Rachel's story Why we don't need a "rock-bottom" to get soberAlternative recovery roadmaps outside of AA / NASubconscious programming around alcoholInner child workThe connection between trauma & addictionReplacing substances with new coping mechanismsHelping others on their sober journeySee links below to connect with Rachel and find out more about her work.Website: coachwithrach.comInstagram: @soberfitrach__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Learn more about our upcoming Women's Hiking Retreat in Moab, Utah: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/moab-retreat/Access a free mindfulness meditation to help manage cravings and regulate emotions: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/easemeditationFollow along on Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving __This week, we have Gretchen Seymour sharing about her alcohol-free journey on the podcast!In this episode, we discuss:Listening to that "little voice" insideGoing against the grain and living alcohol-freeSobriety as a processPlanning ahead for social eventsNavigating relationships and social lifeReplacement strategiesCommunityGretchen Seymour grew up in Florida, enjoyed a career in the commercial insurance industry and has lived in suburbs north of Chicago for over 25 years with her husband and two daughters.  An avid sailor, Gretchen is the Commodore of the Lake Bluff Yacht Club and travels the country racing Sunfish, and co owns a Pearson 36 sailboat.  Her other passion is knitting and teaching people to knit. Gretchen helped found Art Impact Project's Knitting Communities Together as a small way to help heal the Highland Park community after the parade shooting in July of 2022.  She's proud that this group has grown and expanded, continuing to bring people together to experience community through knitting.   She makes a pretty killer granola, loves the MountainFilm Festival, and has a wild idea about sailing around the world.  She co-hosts the KnittingAF podcast with her bestie Kate. You can find them on youtube https://www.youtube.com/@knittingaf, and also Instagram @knitting.af.  __Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Welcome to the Sun & Moon Sober Living Podcast!Learn more about our upcoming Women's Hiking Retreat in Moab, Utah: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/moab-retreat/Access a free mindfulness meditation to help manage cravings and regulate emotions: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/easemeditationFollow along on Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving __Sophie Dear is a transformational women's coach, yoga and meditation teacher, and founder of The Self-Worth School. With over nine years in the wellness industry, she specializes in helping individuals build confidence and purpose by transforming their relationship with themselves. Through coaching, international retreats, and online courses, Sophie empowers clients to overcome their inner critic and embrace their true potential.In this episode, we discuss:Recovering from burnoutAuthenticity & attachmentBoundariesAnxietySelf-WorthRelationshipsLetting go of stress over timelinesLinks to find out more about Sophie's work:Self-Worth School: https://www.sophiedear.com/the-self-worth-school-self-communityFree Workshop - Reclaim Your Voice: https://www.sophiedear.com/reclaim-your-voiceSelf-Worth Quiz: https://www.sophiedear.com/the-self-worth-school-self-community__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Learn more about our upcoming Women's Hiking Retreat in Moab, Utah: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/moab-retreat/Access a free mindfulness meditation to help manage cravings and regulate emotions: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/easemeditationFollow along on Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving __Alia Sebben is a Yoga Teacher and the owner of Yoga Pearl, a studio in Boulder, Colorado that is about to open its second location. Since 2014, Alia has led thousands of hours of yoga classes, teacher trainings, she's taught at yoga festivals, created content for Gaiam's Yoga Studio app, written articles and worked as an editor for Yoga Journal magazine.In this episodeAlia's Yoga journeyWhy she started to re-evaluate her relationship with alcoholThe health benefits of sobrietyThe importance of communityJuggling entrepreneurship & parentingYoga philosophyFind out more & connect with Alia:Yoga Pearl Website: https://www.yogapearl.com/Instagram @yogapearl @alia_sebben__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Access a free mindfulness meditation to help manage cravings and regulate emotions: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/easemeditationLearn more about our upcoming Women's Hiking Retreat in Moab, Utah: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/moab-retreat/Follow along on Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving _Chris Janssen is a board-certified coach with a master's in counseling psychology and over 25 years of experience working with hundreds of sought-after athletes, creatives, soldiers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses. She excels in helping high-achieving perfectionists navigate performance pressure, overcome self-sabotage and rewrite narratives. Chris trained with and worked on Tony Robbins' team of results coaches at the #1 personal development and peak performance strategy company in the world. Topics explored in this episode include:Chris's journey to finding freedom from alcoholBouncing back from a slip-upHow to overcome perfectionismRewriting the stories we tell ourselvesHow to find communityOvercoming perfectionismChris's framework for harmful self-talkNavigating relationships in sobrietyHow to find communityLearn more about Chris's work: https://www.chrisjanssencoaching.com/Pre-order Grace Yourself: How to Show Up for the Sober Life You Want - https://www.graceyourselfbook.com/__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Access a free mindfulness meditation to help manage cravings and regulate emotions: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/easemeditationLearn more about the Sun & Moon Sober Living Community and upcoming retreats: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/Follow along on Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving _Katherine Quayhagen is a C-IAYT Yoga Therapist, Wellness Director, and Yoga Nidra Instructor. After spending four years teaching hatha and perinatal yoga as a 500 Hour RYT in studios and underserved community spaces around New Orleans, Katherine was given the opportunity to construct a yoga-centric wellness department with Longbranch Healthcare, a dual diagnosis and holistic treatment organization. She now oversees a team of Wellness practitioners that provide yoga therapy and other healing modalities to over 100+ patients on a daily basis. Topics explored in this episode:Katherine's journey with yoga Serving in the Peace CorpsBringing yoga therapy into a clinical settingHow to find a teacherWhat makes yoga therapy differentYoga for addiction recoveryThe window of toleranceSpirituality and recoveryLearn more about Katherine's work: https://katherinequayhagen.com/__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Anjali Deva is a globally renowned Ayurvedic practitioner and educator who brings profound expertise in holistic wellness and traditional healing modalities. She is the founder of the Mādhya Way School for Ayurveda, where students learn traditional foundations of Ayurveda from classical texts and how to apply that knowledge in a manner best suited to contemporary life. Some key principles of Anjali's Integrative Ayurveda philosophy include understanding trauma, using local & sustainable herbs, honoring social justice, making Ayurveda accessible, incorporating Yoga & Buddhist teachings, & rooting Ayurvedic teachings in compassion for self & others.Topics explored in this episode:What is AyurvedaSamskarasWorking with an Ayurvedic practitionerA trauma-informed approachAyurveda for addiction recoveryEmbracing simplicityThe importance of communityHealing in natureFind out more: https://www.rootedrasa.com/__SUN & MOON SOBER LIVINGInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberlivingLearn more about the Sun & Moon Community Membership & Upcoming Retreats: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.comEverest Base Camp - Elevate Your Recovery Retreat: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/everest-base-camp/__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

John Beede has climbed to the top of the tallest mountain on every continent, including Mount Everest. He's a worldwide adventurer who has traveled to 67 countries and given  presentations to nearly 1 million live audience members. He's also the author of 3 books, the newest is called The Warrior Challenge: 8 Quests for Boys to Grow Up with Kindness, Courage, and Grit.In this episode, we discuss:How peer pressure led to a passion for hikingThe spiritual experience of hikingThe benefits of time in natureMentorship & teamworkRights of passageHow to build resilienceChoosing to live alcohol-freeLinks to connect with John:https://climbonsuccess.com/https://www.instagram.com/johnbeede/__SUN & MOON SOBER LIVINGInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberlivingLearn more about the Sun & Moon Community Membership & Upcoming Retreats: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.comEverest Base Camp - Elevate Your Recovery Retreat: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/everest-base-camp/__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Esther Kasenda is a multidimensional artist, dancer and dance therapist. As a survivor of childhood trauma, Esther has personal experience with the profound transformation made possible through body-oriented therapy and healing modalities. In this vulnerable conversation, she shares about her own journey with mind-body healing, and how she supports others through her work as a dance therapist.Some of the topics explored in this episode include:Esther's storySymptoms of traumaMind-body healingHealing trauma stored in the body Establishing healthy boundariesEmbracing  changeManaging triggersDance therapyFinding safety in the bodyHow to get startedConnect with Esther on Instagram: @estherkasenda__SUN & MOON SOBER LIVINGInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberlivingLearn more about the Sun & Moon Community Membership & Upcoming Retreats: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Amanda Kuda is an alcohol-free lifestyle expert, holistic life coach, speaker and author living, working and playing in Austin, TX. As a coach, Amanda helps ambitious, soul-centered women stop drinking and start manifesting the life they deserve and desire.She teaches a modern approach to personal development, self-actualization and spiritual enlightenment through the lens of elective sobriety. Amanda's first book, Unbottled Potential: Break Up With Alcohol And Break Through To Your Best Life is out now (Penguin Random House / Avery) is available now wherever books are sold.In this episode, we chat about:Elective SobrietyThe Myth of ModerationAlternative questions to “do I have a problem?”Reclaiming energy in sobrietyHow to tell someone you're not drinkingManaging emotions without alcoholSpiritual curiosity To connect with Amanda and find out more about her work, check out the links below:Website: https://amandakuda.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandakuda/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amanda.kudaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandakudaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandakuda/Book - Unbottled Potential: https://amzn.to/3MTmW2SQuiz - Are You A Comfort Zone Drinker: https://amandakuda.com/quiz Free Mini-Course - Awakened without Alcohol: https://amandakuda.podia.com/awakened-without-alcohol-free-seriesUSE CODE: MARY__SUN & MOON SOBER LIVINGInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberlivingLearn more about the Sun & Moon Community Membership & Upcoming Retreats: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.comEverest Base Camp - Elevate Your Recovery Retreat: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/everest-base-camp/__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Nicole Pietrandrea Hough is the founder and editor-in-chief of AFTER Magazine and founder of Mocktailquest.com, a search engine for all things alcohol-free. Nicole is passionate about the beauty that is created AFTER saying good-bye to alcohol and about sharing information about creating an alcohol-free life with others.In this episode, we discuss:Filling a void with alcoholHigh-functioning alcohol useThe joys & challenges of life after alcoholTrusting your intuitionEmbracing many pathways to sobrietyUnlocking energy & creativity in sobrietyCreating the first Alcohol-Free MagazineAFTER Magazine: https://aftermagazine.com/Mocktail Quest: https://mocktailquest.com/__SUN & MOON SOBER LIVINGInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberlivingLearn more about the Sun & Moon Community Membership & Upcoming Retreats: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.comEverest Base Camp - Elevate Your Recovery Retreat: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/everest-base-camp/__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Dr. Arielle Schwartz is a licensed clinical psychologist, award-winning author, wife, and mother in Boulder, CO.  She offers trainings for therapists and maintains a private practice, where she provides psychotherapy, consultation, and supervision. Dr Schwartz is the developer of Resilience-Informed Therapy which applies research on trauma recovery to form a strength-based, trauma treatment model that includes Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), somatic psychology, mindfulness-based therapies, and time-tested relational psychotherapy. She has also been teaching therapeutic yoga since 2008 with an emphasis on applied polyvagal theory. In this episode, we discuss:Somatic (body-centered) psychology TraumaRelational healingHow to build resilience Addiction recoveryPractices for Post-Traumatic GrowthTo connect with Dr. Schwartz and access her resources visit:Website: https://drarielleschwartz.com/IG: @arielleschwartzboulder__SUN & MOON SOBER LIVINGInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberlivingJoin our online membership community: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Everest Base Camp - Elevate Your Recovery Retreat: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/everest-base-camp/__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

"Today, 46 million Americans suffer from substance use disorder. Of those, 70% are employed. This costs the economy $81BN a year. Substance use disorder is impacting 2 out of 3 families. We are not doing enough to reach these employees and their families who are seeking care for a highly stigmatized and often shame filled chronic condition. We believe that the existing approach to substance use disorder in the workplace is inadequate - this is not a sub-bullet condition and it deserves its own dedicated solution. Sobrynth provides 24 x 7 assistance for employees and their families who are seeking support with immediate substance use disorder needs and for those employees who are sober curious. We marry that support with a recovery ready workplace strategy. We understand that return to work is an integral part of a person's journey, so as a core part of our services, we supply a world class sober Employee Resource Group framework. We know that a recovery friendly workplace is key to an employee's successful sobriety journey. We help employers create that safe and trusting workplace. Choosing to be sober today is personal. Sobrynth is here to help people figure out their own journey – at home and at work."Find out more: https://sobrynth.com/Meet our podcast guests:Marin Nelson, Co-Founder and CEO15 years enterprise sales career delivering 320% YoY growth, 8 figure SAAS deals.  Leader at Salesforce, health tech and social impact startups. Co-founder of Soberforce. 19+ years in recovery.​ Ingrid Nelson, Co-Founder and CEOEx Customer Experience Officer for Cigna & Prime. Serial founder. 25 years of brand, marketing and product experience primarily focused on the consumerization of healthcare with a focus on making health care more human.__SUN & MOON SOBER LIVINGInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberlivingJoin our online membership community: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Everest Base Camp - Elevate Your Recovery Retreat: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/everest-base-camp/__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Mandy helps women heal from their current or past partner's porn use, infidelity, and betrayal traumaAfter discovering that her partner who she lived with had a porn and sex addiction and was living a secret second life, Mandy has been on a mission to help raise awareness about porn's harms and to empower women navigating betrayal trauma. She is certified as a Women's Empowerment Life Coach, Advanced Trauma Relationships Coach, Trauma-informed Somatics Breathwork Facilitator, and Meditation & Mindfulness Teacher.Mandy is also the podcast host of “WTF Do I Do Now?” on Spotify & Apple Podcasts, which raises awareness about partner betrayal trauma, the scientific research behind porn and how p*rn is scientifically rewiring people's brains and negatively impacting relationships as a result. In this episode, we discuss:Mandy's story The impact of porn on the brainHow porn affects relationshipsNavigating self-blame and shameSexual violence in pornHow to address concerns about a partner's porn use Healing from betrayal traumaHow to talk to kids about pornTo learn more about Mandy's coaching services, visit: https://www.wtfdoidonow.com/ You can also follow along for more resources on TikTok and Instagram:TikTok: @wtfdoidonowcoaching Instagram @wtfdoidonowcoaching__SUN & MOON SOBER LIVINGInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberlivingJoin our online membership community: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Everest Base Camp - Elevate Your Recovery Retreat: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/everest-base-camp/__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Dave Herz is the Founder of Wonder. Team Wonder's  expertise lies in helping families work through a large range of behavioral and emotional challenges that have impacted their ability to find safe and healthy connections with each other.  Their modern, dynamic approach to therapy and coaching empowers families to connect, heal, and evolve in a way that promotes long lasting change.In this episode, we discuss:Family-first approach to therapyWhy parenting teens is "warrior work"Teens who struggle with behavioral, mental health and substance misuse issuesAction therapy Building confidence in teensSide-by-side coachingThe importance of self-care for parentsTo learn more about Wonder, visit: https://teamwonder.org/__SUN & MOON SOBER LIVINGInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberlivingJoin our online membership community: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Everest Base Camp - Elevate Your Recovery Retreat: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/everest-base-camp/__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Madeline Forrest is a sober content creator and podcast host. She runs a virtual sober community called the Happiest Sober Hub and hosts sober group trips around the world. Madeline got sober in November 2020 after a decade of gray area drinking and discovered that life is so much happier for her without alcohol in it. Now she's passionate about sharing that message and inspiring others on their sober journeys. In this episode, we discuss:Madeline's storyGray-area drinkingLearning to embrace discomfortGrieving alcoholNavigating friendships in sobrietyDating soberSober travelTo connect with Madeline:Website: https://www.happiestsober.com/Instagram: @happiestsober___SUN & MOON SOBER LIVINGInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberlivingJoin our online membership community: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Everest Base Camp - Elevate Your Recovery Retreat: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/everest-base-camp/__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Nancy McKay is a Certified Wayfinder Life Coach, Certified Equus Coach Master Facilitator®, and a SHE RECOVERS® Coach.  She is passionate about helping women heal and her favorite way to do that is with the help of horses. She recovers out loud and does her best to smash the stigma.Nancy has been in recovery from alcohol use disorder since 2009 and is an ovarian cancer survivor. She founded Amazing Outlook Coaching, LLC in 2018 at 61.She is also a two-time international best-selling author and speaker, sharing her inspiring recovery story and creating a new life after cancer. In this episode, we discuss:Nancy's storyThe wisdom of the bodyMindset shifts in recoveryListening to your intuitionRecovering from people-pleasingLiving in integrity Healing with horsesYou can connect with Nancy at https://www.amazingoutlookcoaching.comFacebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/amazingoutlookcoachingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/amazingoutlookcoaching/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancymckay/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtngVhVK8dcneQyJjDDWMag/__SUN & MOON SOBER LIVINGInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberlivingJoin our online membership community: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Everest Base Camp - Elevate Your Recovery Retreat: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/everest-base-camp/__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Arlina Allen is a Certified Life & Sober Coach and Hypnotist, and host of the award winning recovery podcast "The One Day At A Time Recovery Podcast" since 2016. Arlina is the founder of Sober Life School where she works with women to achieve sobriety, and create a life they love. She brings 30 years of research and personal experience to help others become the best version of themselves. She is from Sunnyvale, CA and now lives near Boise, ID with her husband, two sons, and her English Bulldog, Teddy.In this episode, we discuss:Common misconceptions about 12-Step RecoveryThe difference between the AA fellowship and the 12-StepsCommon barriers people face with 12-Step RecoveryHow Arlina has shifted her mindset around words like "alcoholic," "powerless," and "God" that often deter people from the programHow working the steps has transformed Arlina's lifeThe process of self-examinationThe sponsor / sponsee relationshipBeing of serviceDisclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment__Sun & Moon Sober LivingJoin our online membership community: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving__Links to learn more and connect with Arlina:The 12-Step Guide for Skeptics: https://the12stepguideforskeptics.com/Sober Life School- http://www.soberlifeschool.comReinvent - Self Esteem Course http://www.selfesteemcourse.comPodcast http://www.odaatchat.comSocial Media:Facebook Page: facebook.com/odaatchatInstagram: @odaatpodcast @arlinaallen 

Jesse Harless is a coach and facilitator in trauma-informed facilitation, addiction recovery, and mental health space. He facilitates training and events for companies, recovery community organizations, non-profits, accountability/drug/recovery court programs, addiction treatment, and mental health centers from around the country. His training is helping create recovery supportive workplaces and empowering organizations into deeper connection, regulation, safety, and resilience. He's worked with thousands of individuals ranging from entrepreneurs, corporate clients, and moms. You can learn more about Jesse's story and toolkit in his new book called If Not You, Then Who? on Amazon.In this episode, we discuss:Jesse's recovery journeyThe relationship between trauma & addictionSeeking safety in substancesMorning routines & habit changeEntrepreneurs in RecoveryPsychological safetyRecovery-informed workplacesLanguage & stigmaThe power of meditationThe many ways addiction shows up in the modern worldWhat it means to be “in recovery”To connect with Jesse and learn more about his work, visit: https://www.jesseharless.com/__Sun & Moon Sober LivingJoin our online membership community: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Find out more the Spring Sober Women's Retreat: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/spring-mountain-retreatInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

An internationally recognized clinician, organizational consultant, lecturer, and author, Dr. Covington is a pioneer in the field of addiction and trauma. For more than 35 years, she has created gender-responsive and trauma-informed programs and services for use in public, private and institutional settings. Her extensive experience includes consulting for and developing programs for numerous U.S. and international agencies and designing women's services at the Betty Ford Center. Dr. Covington has also developed programs for people in criminal justice settings and has conducted seminars for behavioral health professionals, community organizations, criminal justice professionals and recovery groups in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Mexico, Europe, Africa, Iceland, Brazil, and New Zealand. She has published extensively, including twelve gender-responsive, trauma-informed treatment curricula. Dr. Covington wrote the first manualized treatment program for substance use disorder treatment and authored the best-selling book, A Woman's Way through the Twelve Steps, which has a new 30th Anniversary edition. Her latest book is the well-received Hidden Healers: The Unexpected Way Women Help Each Other Survive Prison.In this episode, we discuss:How addiction impacts women differentlyThe role of stigmaThe connection between trauma & addictionThe need for trauma-informed, gender-sensitive treatmentA Woman's Way Through the 12-StepsThe impact of languageHealing in communityWomen in prisonFlaws in the criminal justice systemTo learn more about Dr. Covington's work, please see the links below:Website: www.stephaniecovington.comInstagram: @StephanieCovingtonOfficialA Woman's Way through the Twelve Steps, 2nd edition (book, workbook and facilitator guide): https://www.stephaniecovington.com/books/bookstore/a-womans-way-through-the-twelve-steps-2nd-edition/Hidden Healers: The Unexpected Ways Women in Prison Help Each Other Survive: https://www.stephaniecovington.com/books/bookstore/hidden-healers-the-unexpected-ways-women-in-prison-help-each-other-survive/__Sun & Moon Sober LivingJoin our online membership community: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Find out more the Spring Sober Women's Retreat: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/spring-mountain-retreatInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Becky Vollmer is a speaker, yoga teacher, and creator of You Are Not Stuck, a movement that empowers people to pursue the lives they most deeply desire. She guides a global community on social media that is several hundred thousand strong, teaches online courses about empowerment and choice, and leads sold-out programs that combine movement, breathwork, self-exploration, and action planning at yoga and wellness centers across the country. A former newspaper journalist, Becky writes on topics including personal growth, relationships, mental health and wellness, mindfulness, meditation, and spirituality. She also is a leading voice in the sobriety and recovery community. Becky lives in St. Louis, Missouri, with her husband, their four children, three pets, and more flowers that one person should be allowed. In this episode, we discuss:Becky's powerful work “You Are Not Stuck”Freeing yourself from societal expectationsEmbracing your spiritual selfThe path of yogaHow to work with fearSoul-guided choicesLaughter as medicineRedefining your own metrics for successTo connect with Becky and learn more about her work:website: youarenotstuck.comIG: @youarenotstuck__Sun & Moon Sober LivingJoin our online membership community: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Find out more the Spring Sober Women's Retreat: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/spring-mountain-retreatInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

RJ Zimmerman is a This Naked Mind certified coach, podcast host and proud father of 2. With over 10 years of sobriety under his belt, RJ is passionate about helping others find freedom from alcohol and fostering connection within the sober community.In this episode, we discuss:The reasons why we drinkStrategies for staying soberThe benefits of journalingDeveloping emotional literacyShifting from self-hatred to acceptanceCelebrating winsBreaking the generational cycleTo connect with RJ & learn more about his work:Website: www.untappedkeg.com/IG: @untappedkeg____Sun & Moon Sober LivingJoin our online membership community: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Find out more the Spring Sober Women's Retreat: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/spring-mountain-retreatInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Oliver Browne is a qualified Mountain Leader and the Founder of True Summit Adventures. He has competed in many marathons, duathlons and climbed many mountains of 4, 5 and 6,000m including European Classics, Mont Blanc and Grand Paradiso, Andean Classics, Vallunaraju, Cotopaxi, Antisana and Chimborazo, Toubkal and Kilimanjaro in Africa, Lobuche East and Mera Peak in Nepal as well as touching Camp 3 on Mount Everest in Spring 2021, before becoming unwell with Covid19.6 weeks after leaving hospital in Kathmandu he won the NOMAN, Barcelona to Ibiza rowing race in 93 hours and came second in the 2022 edition of the Talisker Atlantic Challenge in the 8th fastest time of all time.In this episode, we discuss:Oliver's recovery storyCreating accountabilityTransfer addictionThe importance of physical challengesFinding purposeBuilding an adventure businessThe compounding effectLearning to say “yes” to adventureNature as a vehicle for transformationTo connect with Oliver & learn more:Website: https://www.truesummitadventures.com/Instagram: @truesummitadventures __Sun & Moon Sober LivingJoin our online membership community: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Find out more the Spring Sober Women's Retreat: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/spring-mountain-retreatJoin the waitlist for the 2025 Nepal Retreat: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/retreat-waitlistInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Rachel Bilski is a qualified yoga therapist, manager of the UK's national PTSD charity, supervisor to yoga therapists in training and philosophy lecturer for The Minded Institute, one of the leading Yoga Therapy institutions worldwide."I began living yoga and mindfulness after a life-changing retreat helped shift me out of chronic depression and debilitating anxiety. Little did I know at the time that these conditions were in fact expressions of Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD); probably why a decade of Prozac and talking therapy did little other than make me feel completely inadequate as a human being. Broken beyond repair." In this honest and insightful conversation, Rachel shares how she found healing through a somatic approach to recovery from C-PTSD. Today, Rachel's mission is to empower others to discover their own innate capacity for healing, growth and personal transformation. In this wide ranging conversation, we discuss:What is Complex-PTSD?Emotional flashbacksAttachment trauma Building healthy relationships with C-PTSDTrauma & addictionA somatic approach to healingRecovery as a processEmbracing all of our partsDance therapy Visit the links below to connect with Rachel and learn more about her work:Website: www.downtoearthyogatherapy.comInstagram: @downtoearth.yogatherapy___Join the Spring Hiking Retreat in Colorado: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/spring-mountain-retreat/Follow Sun & Moon Sober Living on Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode, we discuss:The three drinking archetypesWhy alcohol & wellness don't mixHow alcohol impacts the brain, gut microbiome and hormone balanceThe relationship between nutrition and mental healthCurbing alcohol & sugar cravings with nutritionThe importance of proteinThe gifts of sobrietyDr. Brooke Scheller is a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, the founder of Functional Sobriety, and the author of How to Eat to Change How You Drink.After finding freedom from alcohol in 2021, Dr. Brooke took her experience in sobriety and applied her expertise in nutrition and functional medicine to help others change their relationship with alcohol. Her approach results in improved brain health, mood, energy, focus, gut health, and hormone balance.Her launch of Functional Sobriety led to the development of her online community, the Functional Sobriety Network, and several online programs with members across the globe. Functional Sobriety offers the first-ever custom supplement program for the sober and sober-curious. As a motivational speaker, Dr. Brooke helps to spread the word about functional nutrition, alcohol-free wellness, and the power of sobriety.Links:Website: www.functionalsobriety.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbrookescheller/?hl=enBook Website: www.functionalsobriety.com/bookAmazon: How to Eat to Change How You Drink – https://a.co/d/6hjCXTE____Connect with our Sun & Moon Sober Living community:Join the Virtual Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode, we discuss:Scott's recovery from childhood trauma & addictionFinding community through fitnessThe benefits of communityShifting your mindset around slip-upsCreating psychological safety at eventsThe story of The PhoenixWelcoming allies into recovery spacesScott's vision for the futureScott Strode, sober for over 25 years, is the Executive Director of The Phoenix, a transformational nonprofit he founded in 2006. The Phoenix harnesses the power of connection to ignite a movement that's changing how society looks at addiction and recovery. The Phoenix provides free programs both in-person and virtually, across the globe, including yoga, climbing, music, CrossFit, art, and more. The only cost to participate is 48 hours of sobriety. Scott says, “It might be the activity that brings someone in, but it's the community of sober friendships that keeps them coming back.” This spark of hope for recovery, that Scott himself experienced, has continued to grow and help thousands rise from addiction. Not limited to those in recovery, The Phoenix movement is for anyone who has been impacted by substance use disorder — because the solution to the addiction crisis lives in all of us. This is our movement!To learn more, or to connect with The Phoenix community, volunteer, or donate, please go to thephoenix.org. Download The Phoenix App to explore virtual and online events.__Connect with our Sun & Moon Sober Living community:Join the Virtual Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode, we discuss:Ashish's story How to master your inner worldShifting from fear to freedomThe intersection of positive psychology, neuroscience and spirituality 9 practices to overcome stressHow to find purpose (without quitting your job)The transformative power of gratitudeAshish Kothari is the author of Hardwired for Happiness and the Founder and CEO of Happiness Squad, a Boulder-based company focused on helping individuals and organizations catalyze human flourishing to unlock their full potential. Prior to this venture, he was Partner with McKinsey, based in Denver focused on leadership development at scale, top team effectiveness and helping companies drive organizational change especially in context of transformations.To learn more, visit: https://happinesssquad.com/__Connect with our Sun & Moon Sober Living community:Join the Virtual Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode, we discuss:Pamela's recovery journeyDrinking to cope with traumaMultiple pathways to recoveryRelapseCo-dependency Moving beyond victimhoodHealing generational trauma & cultural shamePamela RuedaRecovery Mentor | Speaker | Latina Mental Health AdvocateCertified Recovery Coach, SHE RECOVERS Coach (English/Spanish)Born in Mexico, Pamela survived armed violence at a young age. Upon moving to the U.S., she struggled with cultural uprooting and immigration trauma. To cope, she dove into alcohol and toxic relationships, resulting in decades of addiction. In 2009, she got sober and in 2017, she began the journey of healing from codependency and PTSD. Today, Pamela's mission is to help humans get free from the patterns that keep them voiceless and small. Through compassion, clarity, and ownership, she empowers them to recover their voice and reclaim the pen that writes their story. She sees recovery as the path “back home to our heart and the door to our (r)evolution.”You can find Pamela's mentorship on her platform, My Badass Recovery, and on Insight Timer. Access Pamela's resources:Site: https://www.mybadassrecovery.com/Courses: https://www.mybadassrecovery.com/courses_mainFree Mentorship call: https://www.mybadassrecovery.com/mentorshipPodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-badass-recovery/id1567445631IG: https://www.instagram.com/mybadassrecovery/Insight Timer: https://insighttimer.com/mybadassrecovery__Connect with our Sun & Moon Sober Living community:Join the Virtual Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode, we discuss:Anticipatory GriefConceptualizing what happenedThe confusion of griefDistraction & denialHow to support those who are grievingFinding joy & laughterThe timeline of griefHealing through the bodyGetting sober in NYCEmbracing your true selfKimberly Owens is a photographer and writer based in New York City. Originally from Arizona and a graduate of University of Oregon, she has called NYC home for 9 years. It wasn't until the death of her sister six years ago that Kimberly started realizing her creative pursuits needed an outlet beyond her corporate life, in which Dear Lady June was born. Kimberly finds her purpose through seeing the light in others with her lens and writing about how grief has impacted her life.  As of 7 months ago, she chose sobriety in hopes to further help her heart heal her grief and find deeper meaning.Website: https://www.dearladyjune.com/IG: @dearladyjune__Connect with our Sun & Moon Sober Living community:Join the Virtual Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode, we discuss:The current mental heath & addiction crisisShifting the focus from an individual to collective issueThe stigma of eating disorders & addictionThe benefits of yoga for recoveryPotential harms of the wellness industryThe story of Eat Breathe ThriveChelsea Roff is the Founder and Director of Eat Breathe Thrive. A yoga therapist, researcher, and educator, she has spent nearly a decade pioneering integrative health programs for people with mental health challenges.In 2011, Roff offered the first Yoga for Eating Disorders program to clients at a treatment center where she had once been treated for anorexia. This later became the heart of Eat Breathe Thrive: a seven-week program that combines yoga, meditation, and psychoeducation to help people recover from eating disorders. Two years later, she raised $50,000 in fifty days to kickstart Eat Breathe Thrive. Since its inception, she has brought the program to scale in thirty-two U.S states and seven countries.Prior to her work in the charitable sector, Chelsea worked as a researcher and grant writer in a psychoneuroimmunology laboratory. Her early research focused on how yoga affects the immune systems of people with HIV/AIDs and cancer. She is currently overseeing a multi-study research initiative on yoga in the prevention and treatment of eating disorders, which includes two randomized controlled trials.In 2020, Chelsea took on an additional role as Director for the Give Back Yoga Foundation UK. She is currently spearheading an initiative to bring therapeutic yoga programs to scale in healthcare systems in the United Kingdom and throughout Europe. Chelsea is an avid swimmer and triathlete, and in her spare time studies Arabic and travels in her campervan.To access the Yoga & Recovery Symposium: https://give-back-yoga-foundation.thinkific.com/courses/yoga-and-recovery-symposium-2023__Connect with our Sun & Moon Sober Living community:Join the Virtual Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Retreat Waitlist: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/retreat-waitlistInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode, we discuss:Tim's addiction recovery journeyShifting from self-centeredness to a life of serviceRebuilding after losing everythingMental, emotional, spiritual and physical fitnessNatural dopamine sourcesThe importance of who you surround yourself withTim Westbrook is the Founder & CEO of  Camelback Recovery, an organization with an impressive track record in helping individuals achieve lifelong sobriety.Tim is not only a survivor of substance addiction but also a passionate advocate for recovery. With a background in business and a Master's in Addiction Counseling, Tim's story is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the power of community.Website: https://www.camelbackrecovery.com/ Instagram: @camelbackrecovery___Connect with our Sun & Moon Sober Living community:Join the Virtual Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Retreat Waitlist: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/retreat-waitlistInstagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode:Vimalasara's recovery journeyThe relationship between sexual trauma and eating disordersMindfulness training for recoveryNervous system regulationEight Step Recovery: Using the Buddha's teachings to overcome additionBeing of service in recoveryThe Hungry Ghost Advice for those still strugglingPoet, author, and public speaker Valerie Mason-John (Vimalasara) is the award-winning author/editor of ten books. Their debut novel, Borrowed Body, won the 2006 Mind Book of the Year Award. They co-authored the award-winning book Eight Step Recovery: Using the Buddha's Teachings to Overcome Addiction. And authored Detox Your Heart Meditations for Emotional Trauma. They are one of the founding facilitators of  Dr. Gabor's Mate's Compassionate Inquiry, and have curated ten conversations on the  Psychedelics as a Path to Freedom: A New Frontier for Mental Health Treatment Their most recent book, published in 2020, I Am Still Your Negro: An Homage to James Baldwinhas won critical acclaim. They began writing as an international correspondent covering Aboriginal deaths in custody and land rights in Australia. They are a senior teacher in the Triratna Buddhist Community and one of the leading African descent voices in the field of mindfulness for addiction. In 2024 A First Aid Kit for The mind: Working with habitual behaviours will be published. They  work as an international public speaker and professional trainer in the field of mindfulness approaches for addiction and trauma.They live on the Sunshine Coast, British Columbia, and can be found online at valeriemason-john.com___See links below to join the Sun & Moon Community and learn more about upcoming events:Retreat Waitlist: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/retreat-waitlistVirtual Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Welcome back to the Sun & Moon Sober Living Podcast! Below are the links mentioned in the intro:Retreat Waitlist: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/retreat-waitlistVirtual Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Episode 77: The Elephant in the Room with Kezia CalvertIn this episode, we discuss:Parenting & recoveryThe myth of wine as “self-care”Shame, secrecy & hidingBeing a highly sensitive personFinding communityTrue belongingWriting for recoveryLiving in alignmentKezia is the founder of her creative business, Kezia Calvert Creative where she guides people on a journey of self-discovery through writing. Many of Kezia's students are in recovery, and people from all paths and programs are welcome. Kezia's writing workshops are safe spaces for people to find their place of belonging in the world. Kezia utilizes a variety of techniques including writing prompts, sharing and witnessing, group discussions and debates, among others. Kezia is also passionate about her own writing projects such as her space on Substack. When she's not busy putting pen to paper Kezia is a busy wife and mother of two (one of whom is a newborn!). She loves fitness, being outdoors, and reading. You can find out more about Kezia and her work at: www.keziacalvertcreative.com and on IG @thesoberelephantchronicles__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode, we discuss:Dr. Higgins' StoryIs addiction genetic?The fascinating discoveries of epigeneticsHow to work with your DNAHow trauma changes our physiologyThe relationship between mental health challenges & additionHow to get testedFounder and CEO of Wired For Addiction®, Dr. Evelyn Higgins is a recognized international expert in the epidemiology of addiction.  As a Certified Addictionologist, Diplomate of the American College of Addictionology and Compulsive Disorders, and Diplomate of the American Board of Disability Analysts specializing in pain management, Dr. Higgins has had the honor of advising the U.S. Surgeon General, producing and hosting a Gracie Award winning nationally syndicated health and wellness terrestrial radio program, and serving as a 1996 Olympic Team Doctor and Olympic torch bearer.   With 35 years in clinical practice, Dr. Higgins has designated over 16 years to Research and Development in the science of addiction recovery. A TEDx Speaker (her TEDx Talk can be found here), panelist at the 2022 International Society of Substance Use Professionals Annual Conference in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, the 2022 International Gambling Conference in Auckland, New Zealand, and a 2021 Nominee for Modern Healthcare's Top 25 Innovators in Healthcare, Dr. Higgins finds herself at the nexus of epigenetics, neuroscience, and addiction.To learn more, visit: https://www.wiredforaddiction.com/__To join the Sun & Moon Community Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Follow on IG @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode, we discuss:Donny's addiction recovery journeyRecovering from relapseSmall shifts that amount to big changeRedefining success in recoveryBeing of serviceEmbracing vulnerability Pain as part of the shared human experienceThe power of communityDonny Starkins is an international yoga instructor, mindfulness teacher, speaker, personal development coach and host of the Comeback Stories podcast. As a former D1 Baseball player, his journey into mindfulness and personal Development started after seven knee operations and an addiction to pain killers. He has been sober for over 10 years and now helps others get unstuck, find purpose, and live a more present life.See the links below to connect with Donny and learn more about his work:Website: https://donnystarkins.com/Instagram: @donny_starkinsPodcast: Comeback Stories_To join the Sun & Moon Community Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Follow on IG @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode, we discuss:Addiction in the familyPeople-pleasing & perfectionism The “hole in the soul”Ash's experience in rehabHow to live authenticallyThe benefits of yoga & meditation Finding the right guidance & supportAshleigh Butterss is a well-being mentor and the creator and host of Behind The Smile – a recovery podcast designed to expose and remove the stigma around mental health, trauma and addiction. After making the decision to get sober in 2020, Ash set out on a mission, quitting her corporate job and diving deeply into the world of self-development and recovery. Her mission is to smash through the stereotype that surrounds addiction and to help people live a fulfilled life connected to their purpose.  Website: https://www.ashbutterss.com/ Instagram: @ashbutterssPodcast: Behind the Smile__To join the Sun & Moon Community Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Follow on IG @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode, we explore:Dr. Steve's recovery journeyA trauma-informed approach to the 12-StepsThe relationship between trauma and addictionEMDR TherapyA Buddhist approach to recoveryIncorporating Step 0Expressive arts Dr. Steve Dansiger is a master EMDR Therapist and provider of EMDR Training and Advanced Topics Courses with the Institute for Creative Mindfulness, and is a pioneer in the Buddhist recovery field. He is the creator and founder of the MET(T)A Protocol (Mindfulness and EMDR Treatment Template for Agencies) which utilizes both Buddhist psychology and EMDR therapy to create an agency's primary clinical practice system. He is the author of Clinical Dharma: A Path for Healers and Helpers, EMDR Therapy and Mindfulness for Trauma-Focused Care (coauthored with Jamie Marich), Mindfulness for Anger Management and also coauthored Trauma and the 12 Steps: A Trauma Responsive Workbook and Trauma and the 12 Steps: Daily Meditations & Reflections - both companion pieces to the updated Trauma and the 12 Steps by Dr. Jamie Marich, for which he wrote the foreword. His most recent book (with Dr. Marich) is Healing Addiction with EMDR Therapy: A Trauma Focused Guide. He blogs and podcasts on topics related to mental health, recovery, and mindfulness. Besides maintaining a private practice in Los Angeles, he travels internationally speaking and teaching on Buddhist mindfulness, EMDR therapy, the MET(T)A Protocol, trauma, Buddhist approaches to treating mental health issues, and clinician self-care. He has been practicing Buddhist mindfulness for over 30 years (including a one year residency at a Zen monastery), and teaches dharma classes regularly in Los Angeles and other centers internationally. Learn more about Dr. Steve Dansiger at his website: http://www.drdansiger.com/In this episode, we speak about the new edition of Trauma and the 12-Steps: a Trauma Responsive Workbook now available for pre-order. __To join the Sun & Moon Community Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Follow on IG @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode, we discuss:The prevalence of porn addictionHow to know if you're addictedThe hidden costs of watching pornA holistic approach to recoveryEmbracing discomfortMindfulnessBehavioral architectureNavigating slip-upsJeremy Lipkowitz is a meditation teacher, coach, and digital habits expert on a mission to empower men to reclaim their minds, thrive in relationships, and live with integrity. Featured in Men's Health Magazine and Livestrong, his impactful work includes helping men overcome porn addiction and live with purpose. With over a decade of teaching experience, Jeremy created the Unhooked Recovery program, which offers a 30-day reboot for addiction. Having triumphed over addiction himself through mindfulness meditation, he's shared techniques globally, including at universities, recovery centers, and organizations, such as Microsoft and The United Nations. With Genetics and Genomics degrees and progress towards a Duke University PhD, Jeremy transitioned fully to mindfulness teaching in 2015. Trained as a Buddhist monk and ICF-certified Executive Coach, he blends science, spirituality, and self-compassion for self-mastery and high performance living.Website: https://www.jeremylipkowitz.com/Podcast: Unhooked: A Breaking Porn Addiction PodcastIG: @jeremylipkowitz__To join the Sun & Moon Community Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Follow on IG @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode:Celeste's recovery journeyAddiction as a spectrumEating disorder recoveryEmotional sobrietyThe bigger issue with "Mommy Wine Culture"Solutions for overwhelmed mothersThe true impact of alcoholPractical tips for getting soberSober mom advocate Celeste Yvonne is a writer and certified recovery coach (IAPRC) with over 20 years of experience as a communications professional in corporate America. Her essays on parenting, the mental load of motherhood, mommy wine culture, and sobriety resonate with mothers everywhere and have been featured in the Washington Post, Good Morning America, Today Show, and Refinery 29, among others. She is also a contributing writer to the Wall Street Journal and Publishers Weekly bestseller So God Made a Mother. Over five years sober and a founding host of the Sober Mom Squad, Celeste advocates for mothers who struggle with addiction and mental health. She is a recipient of the Windfelt Inspire Award by the Dry Society Social Club, as well as 2x winner of Red Tricycle's Spoke Challenge for best writing. She lives in Reno, Nevada, with her husband and two children.Website: https://www.celesteyvonne.com/Instagram @theultimatemomchallengeOrder Celeste's New Book:It's Not About the Wine: The Loaded Truth Behind Mommy Wine Culture__To join the Sun & Moon Community Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Follow on IG @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode, we discuss:Living with ADHD Maya's experience with Adderall Using alcohol & cannabis to manage symptomsPerfectionismThe connection between the menstrual cycle  and ADHD symptomsCycle Tracking, Yoga Therapy & Ayurveda to manage ADHDThe gifts of ADHDYoga Therapy for Addiction RecoveryMaya is a Level Three Optimal State Yoga Therapist & Integrative Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor. She specializes in embodied mental health practices and provides whole-person, compassionate care to individuals with symptoms of trauma, addiction, anxiety, and depression.Maya works as a Yoga Therapist at a virtual Intensive Outpatient Program for adolescents and young adults and sees individual clients virtually through her private practice, Integrated Mind Body Therapy. To connect with Maya and learn more about her work:Website: https://www.integratedmindbodytherapy.com/Instagram: @integratedmindbodytherapy__To join the Sun & Moon Community Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Follow on IG @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode:How Jeannine accidentally got strung out on heroinRebuilding from rock-bottomThe gifts of recoveryThe importance of having a purpose3 mindset shifts in early sobrietyJeannine's "spin snacks"Post-traumatic growthJeannine Coulter's story is a powerful and inspiring journey of transformation and redemption. For fifteen years, Jeannine battled with addiction, leading to multiple arrests, homelessness, finally spending her last days of shooting meth and heroin in a literal doghouse before getting sober in January of 2015. Today, Jeannine is a force to be reckoned with and is a successful entrepreneur, a popular TikTok creator, and co-host of the popular recovery podcast, "Chasing Heroine." Less than three weeks after getting sober, she started teaching at a fitness studio that would transform her life and eventually bought that same studio at four years sober. Business exploded during Jeannine's ownership and she recently sold it for double what she paid for it, sparking her interest in entrepreneurship and creating a community. Jeannine is on a mission to help addicts transform their deepest pain and shame into meaning, purpose, and gratitude. Jeannine's message is clear: addicts in active addiction should never feel left behind.The title of this episode is inspired by a quote Jeannine shared during the conversation that allowed her to shift her mindset from one of shame and regret to one of immense gratitude:“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more." -Melody Beattie __To join the Sun & Moon Community Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Follow on IG @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

In this episode, we discuss:What you need to know about the brainPracticing "fire drills"Emotional regulationUnderstanding anxiety Addiction recoveryAdult friendshipsIFS Therapy / Parts WorkHow to get unstuck Britt Frank is a licensed neuropsychotherapist and trauma expert who is trained in IFS (Internal Family Systems) and SE (Somatic Experiencing). In addition to her private practice, Britt is a speaker and an award-winning adjunct instructor at the University of Kansas, where she's taught classes on ethics, addiction, and clinical social work. She is also the author of the book The Science of Stuck.See links below to learn more and connect with Britt:https://www.scienceofstuck.com/IG @brittfrank_To join the Sun & Moon Community Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Follow on IG @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

In this episode:Brian's recovery storyThe wisdom of the 12-StepsTranscending addiction with yogaBuddhist principles for recoveryEmbodying the teachingsThe gift of presenceThe importance of communityBrian Hyman, RYT, is an accomplished and certified yoga therapist, meditation guide, dharma teacher, author, father, and addiction recovery activist with more than 13 years of personal recovery from addiction, and over 11 years of professional experience facilitating thousands of yoga classes, meditation sessions, and process groups at a prominent treatment center for addiction recovery in Southern California. He has been a contributing writer for numerous publications including Whole Life Times, Mantra Wellness, and Yoga Digest, and has been interviewed by Origin, Malibu Times, and Recovery 2.0.  Brian has shared his insightful and experiential perspective about yogic philosophy, Buddhist psychology, and addiction recovery on the podcasts This is Yoga Therapy, Sober Gratitudes, Sobriety Corps, Inspiring Stories of Joy, and Yoga and Recovery. His yoga classes, breathing tutorials, and guided meditations were featured for many years on Yoga30, and his video course Meditation for Everyone: Calm, Balance, and Peace has been completed by thousands of students around the world on Udemy.  Brian is the creator of the 30-day audio course Recovery: Principles for a Purposeful Life on Insight Timer, along with numerous others. His book Recovery with Yoga: Supportive Practices for Transcending Addiction (Shambhala Publications) will be released in 2024. For more information, visit brianhymanyoga.com__To join the Sun & Moon Community Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Follow on IG @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

In this episode:Brad's recovery journeyMental health challengesAttending a wilderness rehabilitation programHeroin addictionIncarcerationRecovering from rock-bottomCreating Sober MotivationPractical tips for recoveryBrad McLeod is the Founder of Sober Motivation, an online recovery community that has reached one million people across channels. "I firmly believe that stories have the potential to bring about profound changes. When we are alone, we can easily deny our struggles and convince ourselves that everything is fine. However, when we encounter a story that resonates with our own experiences, a light bulb moment occurs. We begin to see what is truly possible, and the feelings of isolation gradually dissipate." -Brad McLeodBrad has  been in recovery since Jan 11, 2010 and considers it to be the best thing he's ever done for his life. Today, he's a proud husband and father of 3 incredible humans. IG: @sobermotivationPodcast: Sobermotivationhttps://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/sobermotivation/id1650658049__To join the Sun & Moon Community Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Follow on IG @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

In this episode, we discuss:Matt's sober storyRethinking “rock-bottom”A modern take on traditional recoveryThe wisdom of the 12-StepsPracticing emotional sobrietyBeing of serviceMultiple pathways to recoveryMatt Jerr is the host of the Sober Friends Podcast. Matt came from a long line of alcoholics. Knowing his dad was an alcoholic and abusive, he swore never to be like him and control his drinking, never knowing this mindset was already problematic. Matt quit drinking on March 21, 2014 and comes from a 12 step tradition. Podcasting is a full circle turn, having done radio right after college. He's a dad of three and tries to be the best husband he can.Instagram: @soberfriendspodPodcast: Sober Friends Podcast__To join the Sun & Moon Community Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Follow on IG @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

In this episode:Courtney's storyGrieving alcoholCoping skills for sobrietyYou're not lazy!Family dynamics in recoveryNational Sober DayThe myth of a “normal drinker”Friendships & romantic relationshipsPracticing self-compassionCourtney Andersen is a sober life coach, podcast host, and author. She is the founder of Sober Vibes and National Sober Day. She helps high-achieving women quit drinking alcohol and thrive in sobriety.See links below to connect with Courtney and learn more about her work:Website: https://www.courtneyrecovered.com/IG: @sober.vibes__To join the Sun & Moon Community Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Follow on IG @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.