Podcast appearances and mentions of jean mccarthy

The holidays are here—a time for joy, connection, and celebration. But if you're navigating the festive season alcohol-free, you might be wondering how to handle all the challenges that come with it. How do you stay sober at holiday parties filled with champagne toasts and boozy eggnog? What do you say to family and friends who question why you're not drinking? How do you protect your sobriety during stressful moments or navigate traditions that have always involved alcohol? In this episode, I'm joined by Jean McCarthy, author of The Unpickled Holiday Survival Guide and host of The Bubble Hour Podcast, to share all the practical strategies, tools, and mindset shifts you need for a joyful and stress-free sober holiday season. 4 Ways I Can Support You In Drinking Less + Living More Join The Sobriety Starter Kit, the only sober coaching course designed specifically for busy women. My proven, step-by-step sober coaching program will teach you exactly how to stop drinking  — and how to make it the best decision of your life. Save your seat in my FREE MASTERCLASS, 5 Secrets To Successfully Take a Break From Drinking  Grab the Free 30-Day Guide To Quitting Drinking, 30 Tips For Your First Month Alcohol-Free. Connect with me for free sober coaching tips, updates + videos on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and TikTok @hellosomedaysober. Connect with Casey McGuire Davidson To find out more about Casey and her coaching programs, head over to www.hellosomedaycoaching.com

What an honour to have the legendary and wonderful Jean McCarthy for our first ever interview episode recorded in front of a live audience.Jean is a writer and recovery advocate from Alberta in Canada. She has covered all of the bases of in the sober world.Sober since 2011, Jean shared her story in her blog Unpickled, she has listened to the sobriety stories of hundreds of others in her Bubble Hour podcast which stretched over a fantastic 10 series and has over 5 million global downloads. She has even written 5 books on the subject!Bubble Hour was the first sobriety podcast Vic ever listened to - and she would go onto be one of the final guests the podcast ever had!!Hame learnt more in one hour of speaking to Jean than he has in over 70 hours of speaking to Vic. Mind you...there were a few less sexual innuendos or references to root vegetables!Enjoy! Show Noteshttps://jeanmccarthy.cahttps://unpickledblog.comhttps://www.instagram.com/jeanmccarthy_writes/https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jean-McCarthy/author/B0813VD6TV?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true www.soberawkward.comJOIN PATREON! and buy us a Cuppa so we can keep being awkward!https://www.patreon.com/user?u=81897291www.cuppa.community – The Free Social Network for the Sober and Sober Curious - Sober Events – Therapy – Sobriety Courses – Sober Groups, Tea and loads more.@soberawkward @drunkmummysobermummy@cuppa.community @hamishadamscairns @patreon @spotifyIf you are struggling with your relationship with alcohol please reach out to your local doctor, a therapist, AA Group or just chat to a close friend. Don't feel shame, just get the help you deserve. Contact us! If you have a topic you'd like us to cover then please email us -vicandhamish@soberawkward.comCheck out our website at: https://www.soberawkward.com#soberawkward #soberawkwardpodcast #drunkmummysobermummy #cuppa.community #sober #sobermom #sobermummy #sobriety #soberaf #sobermovement #sobercurious #alcoholfree #mummybloggers #writersofinsta #soberfamily #greyareadrinking #addiction #soberissexy #soberwomen #sobermomtribe #sobrietyrocks #soberlifestyle #alcoholfreelife #wedorecover #sobernation #mumblog #mentalhealth #motherhood #wineoclock #sobermums #selfcare #womeninrecovery #sobercommunity #soberdads #1000sundays Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Jean McCarthy reflects on alcohol-free living and the impact of surprise triggers. She recounts a recent social outing that caused a (momentary!) sober wobble and how she protected her recovery in that *sticky* situation. Want to see those sparkly shoes Jean talks about? Visit The Bubble Hour on Instagram to see more.  Support Tiny Bubbles and The Bubble Hour by joining us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/thebubblehour or Buy Me a Coffee Purchase Take Good Care: Recovery Readings Inspired by The Bubble Hour at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1999299981/ Still drinking and wondering how to get started on sober life? This book is for you: UnPickled Prepare to be Alcohol-Free: Tips and Insights to Ease the Transition All books by Jean McCarthy are available at www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Visit Jean's Blog UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com    

Guest Virgina Kerr considers the power of personal story telling to inpact others and reflects on protecting her early recovery like a fragile treasure. Resources in this episode: The Bubble Hour (Season 7, Episode 8) Virginia Kerr https://www.blogtalkradio.com/bubblehour/2019/02/20/guest-virginia-kerr Support Tiny Bubbles and The Bubble Hour by joining us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/thebubblehour or Buy Me a Coffee Purchase Take Good Care: Recovery Readings Inspired by The Bubble Hour at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1999299981/ Still drinking and wondering how to get started on sober life? This book is for you: UnPickled Prepare to be Alcohol-Free: Tips and Insights to Ease the Transition All books by Jean McCarthy are available at www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Visit Jean's Blog UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com    

This little boost of sober inspiration comes with a dash of pumpkin spice, as we reflect on the changing seasons and keeping life simple. Host Jean McCarthy shares how learning to step back from people pleasing has been a lesson in her recovery. We also revisit Maria's story from The Bubble Hour Season 7. You can hear the rest of that episode on the website or via Apple Podcasts. All books by Jean McCarthy are available at www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Learn more about The Bubble Hour and listen to the archives at www.thebubblehour.com Support Tiny Bubbles and The Bubble Hour by joining us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/thebubblehour or Buy Me a Coffee Purchase Take Good Care: Recovery Readings Inspired by The Bubble Hour at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1999299981/ Visit Jean's Blog UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com

There's no one right or perfect way to talk about our recovery, but gahhh the vulnerability hangover of knowing we've overshared when trying to explain alcohol-free life to a normie. Host Jean McCarthy reflects on feeling awkward at a party recently and perhaps holding back a little too much for fear of turning small talk into a monologue. Resources in this episode: "Update With Ellie"  episode on The Bubble Hour (2017)   Listen on Apple Podcasts  Listen from Website  The Ember Ever There: Poems on Change, Grief, Growth, Recovery, and Rediscovery by Jean McCarthy  UnPickled Prepare to be Alcohol-Free: Tips and Insights to Ease the Transition All books by Jean McCarthy are available at www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Learn more about The Bubble Hour and listen to the archives at www.thebubblehour.com Support Tiny Bubbles and The Bubble Hour by joining us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/thebubblehour or Buy Me a Coffee Purchase Take Good Care: Recovery Readings Inspired by The Bubble Hour at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1999299981/ Visit Jean's Blog UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com

The CHIME model is a worthwhile addition to your recovery toolkit. CHIME is an acronym for common components found in various pathways to recovery success: community, hope, identity, meaning, and empowerment. Learn more about CHIME here. Download a free CHIME checklist and wallpaper for your smartphone here. Also in this episode: Shelley-Anne McKay on The Bubble Hour Season 5 Episode 41 Anna's Story on The Bubble Hour Season 7 Episode 11 Learn more about The Bubble Hour and listen to the archives at www.thebubblehour.com Support Tiny Bubbles and The Bubble Hour by joining us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/thebubblehour or Buy Me a Coffee See all books by Jean McCarthy: www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Purchase Take Good Care: Recovery Readings Inspired by The Bubble Hour at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1999299981/ Visit Jean's Blog UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com

Travelling as a person in recovery takes a little extra thought and care. Let's talk about the perks of travelling alcohol-free, and share a few precautions.  We hear expert tips and insights from Margaret Ward of Alcohol-Free Adventure Retreats (A.F.A.R.), and revisit her interview on The Bubble Hour in Season 8. Follow A.F.A.R on Facebook Learn more about The Bubble Hour and listen to the archives at www.thebubblehour.com Support Tiny Bubbles and The Bubble Hour by joining us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/thebubblehour or Buy Me a Coffee See all books by Jean McCarthy: www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Purchase Take Good Care: Recovery Readings Inspired by The Bubble Hour at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1999299981/ Visit Jean's Blog UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com (please note that some links may be affiliate referrals that afford a small commission to this podcast at no additional cost to purchasers)

Are resentments holding back your recovery? When do opinions or differences morph into resentment? What can you do to dial them back, and why should you? Resources in this episode: Maestro George Marriner Maull on The Bubble Hour: https://jeanmccarthy.ca/2020/06/22/the-bubble-hour-s8e24-maestro-george-marriner-maull/ Nicole Cameron on The Bubble Hour Season 9, Episode 16: https://jeanmccarthy.ca/2021/04/26/the-bubble-hour-s9e16-nicole-cameron/ The Language of Letting Go by Melody Beattie UnPickled Holiday Survival Guide by Jean McCarthy Learn more about The Bubble Hour and listen to the archives at www.thebubblehour.com Support Tiny Bubbles and The Bubble Hour by joining us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/thebubblehour or Buy Me a Coffee See all books by Jean McCarthy: www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Purchase Take Good Care: Recovery Readings Inspired by The Bubble Hour at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1999299981/ Visit Jean's Blog UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com (please note that some links may be affiliate referrals that afford a small commission to this podcast at no additional cost to purchasers)  

Are you intentional about the language you choose to talk about recovery? The same phrases that feel accurate and comfortable in some situations can be misunderstood by a wider audience. Does being a non-drinker mean a person is sober? Does sobriety always equal recovery? Today's show aims to help you find the right words to accurately reflect your recovery perspective. In this episode: Jean reads from her book UnPickled Prepare to be Alcohol-Free: Tips and Insights to Ease the Transition (2022) Greg Williams, director of The Anonymous People (2014) documentary  Greg William's Bubble Hour interview is available via Patreon   The Bubble Hour S9E10: Ruby Warrington, Author of Sober Curious and The Sober Curious Reset Sober Curious by Ruby Warrington The Sober Curious Reset by Ruby Warrington "Addictionary" recovery language from Recovery Research Institute Learn more about The Bubble Hour and listen to the archives at www.thebubblehour.com Support Tiny Bubbles and The Bubble Hour by joining us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/thebubblehour or Buy Me a Coffee See all books by Jean McCarthy: www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Purchase Take Good Care: Recovery Readings Inspired by The Bubble Hour at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1999299981/ Visit Jean's Blog UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com (please note that some links may be affiliate referrals that afford a small commission to this podcast at no additional cost to purchasers)  

Jean McCarthy returns to the show to talk about her book, “Take Good Care”  which is a collection of encouragement, reflections, and inspiration for sober living. Jean is an award-winning author, blogger, and podcaster who is best known as a voice of recovery advocacy. In this episode, we talk about the pros and cons of recovering out loud, as well as, Jean's decision to end The Bubble Hour podcast and how in doing so, she created a special documentary and book that catalogs her ten-year journey as a podcaster and recovery advocate.  PLUS, we are doing a BOOK GIVEAWAY! Win a copy of Jean's book, “Take Good Care!” Be sure to listen to this episode to find out how.  Featured Topics: Getting grounded in her highest and authentic self is how Jean describes her recovery (6:46) We talk about Jean's decision to end the Bubble Hour podcast after ten years and how her book, Take Good Care, was released in tandem with the show's final season (12:35) Recovering out loud: The pros and cons of being open about recovery and recovery advocacy in today's world (33:28) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You might want to check in on Gran. She could be drinking more than you know. Many factors increase the risk for addiction as we age, while symptoms are easily masked or hidden entirely. The good news, of course, is that recovery is possible at every age. It's never too late to go alcohol-free! We revisit A Letter from Ella on The Bubble Hour (2018)  to hear how one woman's drinking changed after menopause and retirement. (Click here to listen on Apple Podcasts) Resources and Support: Take Good Care: Recovery Readings Inspired by The Bubble Hour Learn more about The Bubble Hour and listen to the archives at www.thebubblehour.com Support Tiny Bubbles and The Bubble Hour by joining us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/thebubblehour or Buy Me a Coffee See all books by Jean McCarthy: www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Visit Jean's Blog UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com

10 years ago, when I was first questioning my relationship with alcohol and trying to stop drinking, I discovered The Bubble Hour Sobriety Podcast. On The Bubble Hour I heard real people, telling real stories about addiction and recovery.  When I was first trying to get a handle on my nightly bottle of wine drinking habit, I didn't know a single person who was sober.  All of my friends drank, my husband drank, and I had so many fears about what people would think if I stopped drinking, what my life would be like and how I would relax, socialize and celebrate without alcohol. On The Bubble Hour sobriety podcast I found hope in the stories of women like me.  Over the last 10 years the Bubble Hour released over 300 episodes about addiction and recovery from drinking and was downloaded 4.2 million times. And today my guest is the host of The Bubble Hour Podcast, Jean McCarthy. For full shownotes and to access resources mentioned in the episode, head over to www.hellosomedaycoaching.com/155 Ready to drink less + live more? Join The Sobriety Starter Kit, the only sober coaching course designed specifically for busy women.  My proven, step-by-step sober coaching program will teach you exactly how to stop drinking — and how to make it the best decision of your life. Grab the Free 30-Day Guide To Quitting Drinking, 30 Tips For Your First Month Alcohol-Free. Connect with Casey McGuire Davidson To find out more about Casey and her coaching programs, head over to her website, www.hellosomedaycoaching.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What role does shame play in your recovery motivation? Old perspectives and programming can be so hard to spot. Shame might help keep us sober, but it isn't a great tool in the long run. Resources in this episode: From The Bubble Hour archives: Season 5 Episode 21 (2017) Sober Julie on life Straight Up  She Recovers Everyday by Dawn Nickel Take Good Care: Recovery Readings Inspired by The Bubble Hour Learn more about The Bubble Hour and listen to the archives at www.thebubblehour.com Support Tiny Bubbles and The Bubble Hour by joining us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/thebubblehour or Buy Me a Coffee See all books by Jean McCarthy: www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Visit Jean's Blog UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com

On Today's episode, we have award winning author, Gigi Langer, to discuss her second book, Love More Now; Facing Life's Challenges with an Open Heart." As it states on the backcover of her book, Gigi "illustrates how she overcame alcoholism, codependency, and trauma to discover the love at her center." She "shows you how to become a loving, open-hearted person (with firm boundaries). Langer holds a PhD from Standford University and has been sober for 37 years." It was a pleasure to have her back again to talk about her second book where you can "learn how to dissolve the negative beliefs restricting love for yourself and others." Jean McCarthy of "The Bubble Hour" Podcast says that Gigi "lays out a framework for change that is insightful and useful, without being prescriptive or overbearing." She first visited us in Season 1 Episode 10 ( https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/mtTxpPHYoyb ) where we learn about her own personal experiences with alcoholism and sex addiction. To purchase her book, visit gigilanger.com Blog - GIGI LANGER Love More Now: Facing Life's Challenges with an Open Heart: Langer PhD, Gigi: 9780999122051: Amazon.com: Books Amazon.com: 50 Ways to Worry Less Now: Reject Negative Thinking to Find Peace, Clarity, and Connection (Audible Audio Edition): Gigi Langer PhD, Robin Waters, Possum Hill Press: Audible Books & Originals If you feel you are in crisis, please dial 911 or go to Lifeline (988lifeline.org) If you would like to connect with me, email me at sobergratitudes@gmail.com I would love to hear from you. Warmly, Sarah --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sobergratitudes/message

We reflect on marking milestones as Jean celebrates her 12th recovery anniversary. There are many different ways to acknowledge the passing of time as we move through life as sober people, and it's important to remember that it isn't always cakes and rainbows. Sometimes the reminders of why we quit drinking can be bittersweet. It's important to celebrate our success in recovery and be prepared for the other emotions that can come with the occasion. And let's not forget gratitude! Hear the full interview with Dennis Berry here: https://jeanmccarthy.ca/2020/09/01/the-bubble-hour-s8e32-dennis-berry/ Learn more about The Bubble Hour and listen to the archives at www.thebubblehour.com Support Tiny Bubbles and The Bubble Hour by joining us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/thebubblehour or Buy Me a Coffee See all books by Jean McCarthy: www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Purchase Take Good Care: Recovery Readings Inspired by The Bubble Hour at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1999299981/ Visit Jean's Blog UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com

Can others make us feel a certain way? Living alcohol-free can make us feel pretty vulnerable at times, and navigating our emotions becomes even trickier when we feel confronted, judged, or rejected. This week, we revisit Bubble Hour interviews with Veronica Valli and Andrea Owen to explore this topic. Resources in this episode: Veronica Valli on The Bubble Hour in 2017 Soberful - book, podcast, and online group Andrea Owen on The Bubble Hour in 2017 Andrea Owen website: https://andreaowen.com/ Jean McCarthy website: www.jeanmccarthy.com The Bubble Hour website: www.thebubblehour.com Support Tiny Bubbles and The Bubble Hour by joining us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/thebubblehour SUPPORT THIS PODCAST WHEN YOU PURCAHSE RESOURCES VIA THESE AFFILIATE LINKS: How to Stop Feeling LIke Sh** by Andrea Owen Soberful by Veronica Valli The Ember Ever There by Jean McCarthy    

We are one week into January....how are your resolutions working out? Jean offers some gentle reminders to reassess and get back on track. Whether you are new to recovery, going alcohol-free for the first time, or sober but trying to make other changes, you will find comfort in this episode.  We hear a clip from The Bubble Hour Season 2 Keeping It Simple In the New Year Jean mentions her book UnPickled Prepare to be Alcohol-Free Learn more about The Bubble Hour at www.thebubblehour.com Support Tiny Bubbles and The Bubble Hour by joining us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/thebubblehour See all books by Jean McCarthy: www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Purchase Take Good Care: Recovery Readings Inspired by The Bubble Hour at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1999299981/ Visit Jean's Blog UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com    

When I quit drinking in 2011, I thought life after alcohol would be glum and boring. I thought the work of sobriety was learning to tolerate a life sentence of abstinence form alcohol. Boy was I wrong. Life is better! What a happy surprise!  Sobriety doesn't guarantee happiness. It takes effort to learn new patterns and habits, and life is not always perfect because, well, it's life. But breaking free of alcohol's grip on life creates so much extra space and time to fill with other things! Sobriety creates space for recovery, which means healing those underlying reasons for drinking in the first place. Links for this episode: Recovery Research Institute Newsletter Study on Quality of Life and Level of Abstinence UnPickled Prepare to be Alcohol Free by Jean McCarthy Learn more about The Bubble Hour at www.thebubblehour.com Support Tiny Bubbles and The Bubble Hour by joining us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/thebubblehour See all books by Jean McCarthy: www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Purchase Take Good Care: Recovery Readings Inspired by The Bubble Hour at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1999299981/ Visit Jean's Blog UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com

Jean McCarthy is the host of the podcasts, The Bubble Hour and Tiny Bubbles.  Jean is also the author of Take Good Care, The Ember Ever There and the Unpickled series of recovery books.Jean was terrified to walk into an AA meeting when she got sober.  It was an epiphany for Jean to quit drinking when she was ahead, instead of waiting until she lost it all.  She was active and visible in her community and was concerned about what people would think about her.  She learned later when she finally attended 12 step meetings, that no one really cared about her terminal uniqueness.Jean decided to start a secret blog called Unpicked about recovery to keep the story together and that she would document what it was like.  She also felt, maybe this can help someone else who feels like me.Jean did not go to her first meeting until she was 8 years sober because she was looking for fellowship first and was afraid she'd be kicked out.  Jean met a fellowship online from all over the world, but felt disconnected and alone in her own community.  She learned in AA that she could take what she liked and leave the rest.Jean shared a powerful story about her son's wedding and how, when in the grips of alcohol addiction, she could only think about booze and how if her family realized who she really was, Jean would lose their love.Jean talked about why she is ending the hugely successful Bubble Hour podcast and her reason will shock you.  It's the antithesis of her terminal uniqueness in addiction and a sign of her continued health in recovery.We were so blessed to have Jean McCarthy share her story of hope and recovery and know you will be affected like we were.You can find Jean McCarthy at https://jeanmccarthy.ca/Cantina Blues - Take the Lead by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100407Artist: http://incompetech.com/Support the showIf you love our podcast, SMASH that follow button! Give us a review on Apple Podcasts and a rating on Spotify. Follow us on Instagram @soberfriendspod. Connect with the show at soberfriendspod.com. On Post.News @soberfriendspod. Your financial support at Buymeacoffee/Soberfriendspod, keeps the show in the ears of the new guy and gal.

Many of us are inclined to shoulder far too much on our own, and need a little nudge to seek and accept help from others. We also need to reassess our supports from time to time. We learn more about this from psychotherapist and sober coach, Kathy Robbins. Listen to the full interview with Kathy Robbins from Season 8 of The Bubble Hour  Then we revisit The Bubble Hour Season 1 Episode 5, as guest Carissa shares how she went about building support. Jean reads a poem from her book "The Ember Ever There: Poems on Change, Grief, Growth, Recovery, and Rediscovery". Learn more about The Bubble Hour at www.thebubblehour.com Support Tiny Bubbles and The Bubble Hour by joining us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/thebubblehour See all books by Jean McCarthy: www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Purchase Take Good Care: Recovery Readings Inspired by The Bubble Hour at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1999299981/ Visit Jean's Blog UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com

When we change ourselves, everything around us will shift as a result. In this episode, we hear form Sarah Allen Benton, Author of Understanding the High Functioning Alcoholic: Breaking the Cycle and Finding Hope  Jean mentions a great resource, Repeat After Me workbook by Claudia Black We also hear from the wonderful Victoria Vanstone of Drunk Mummy Sober Mummy and the Sober Awkward Podcast. Listen to Victoria's full Bubble Hour interview here: https://jeanmccarthy.ca/2021/07/13/the-bubble-hour-s9-e23-victoria-vanstone/ Learn more about The Bubble Hour at www.thebubblehour.com Support Tiny Bubbles and The Bubble Hour by joining us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/thebubblehour Books by Jean McCarthy: www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Purchase Take Good Care: Recovery Readings Inspired by The Bubble Hour at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1999299981/ Visit Jean's Blog UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com

It's the first epsiode of Tiny Bubbles!  We start with a few words from Lotta Dann of Living Sober  and Mrs D is Going Without Also a great reminder to be where we are today, and take as small of steps as needed to keep moving forward. Rememeber to check out the new book Take Good Care and Patreon - you'll find the links here via The Bubble Hour. Visit Jean's Blog UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com and see all her books at www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books

Welcome to Tiny Bubbles, quick little bursts of recovery inspiration brought to you by The Bubble Hour. Each 15-minute episode is packed with encouraging messages and insights about life after alcohol. Hosted by Jean McCarthy of The Bubble Hour podcast and UnPickled blog/books. Subscribe today!

100 Episodes of the Confident Sober Women podcast. I still can't believe it.Someone with more knowledge of this stuff than me told me that only 10% of podcasters make it to 100 episodes and only 1% make it to 200! Wow if that isn't motivating I don't know what is!So this is cause for celebration. In this episode, I meet with three of my most downloaded guests to get an update on what has been going on since their episode when live.Our first guest is Jean McCarthy. I first talked with Jean on Episode 21 about Simple Daily Habits on February 17, 2021. Jean is the creator of The Bubble Hour podcast which has 256 episodes (including one with me Season 9, Episode 2) and 4 million downloads. WOW. She is also the author of The Unpickled books with a new one coming out in November, you can check them out right on her website. Jean shares some real-life struggles she has had since our time together and how she has been dealing with the big emotions, while also staying sober and building her business. I am so thankful for Jean's work and all she is doing to advocate for everyone in the recovery community. Next, is Deb Masner, who appeared March 1, 2022 on episode 67 called The Positive Parts Of Not Drinking. Deb is the creator of Alcohol Tipping Point where she supports women who are questioning their drinking and might be ready to take a break. She created what she calls the Alcoholiday and offers resources as well as a podcast. You can check out our conversation on her podcast on March 23, 2022. Deb is raising two kids and she recently celebrated a milestone anniversary with her husband. She shared about the joys she is having in all of that and her gratitude for sobriety. You can follow her on Instagram @alcoholtippingpoint and check out her podcast. Her energy and spirit are infectious.Last but not least I spent time with Jen Kautsch from Sober Sis. Jen was featured on the Confident Sober Women podcast on Episode 32 on May 5, 2021. Since then Jen has hit a milestone birthday and is truly coming into her own at 5 years sober! She is building her business helping sober curious women practice not drinking. She shares how being emotionally available has been such a blessing for her adult children.Jen offers a 21-day reset, workshops and she has MERCH! Jen is writing her first book and is planning her first live event. How exciting. You can follow Jen on Instagram @sobersis to keep up with all the things she has coming up. Thank you to everyone for listening for 100 episodes and being here to help build emotional sobriety. Be sure you are part of the Confident Sober Women Facebook group, that is our community.Also, if you are ready to do this work but don't know where to start or want some help, the Sober Freedom Inner Circle is your next step. If you like what you are getting on this podcast please leave a rating and review, it goes a long way to helping our show be successful! Thank you again so much for being here. 

Find out more about Jean McCarthy and her blog UnPickled here: https://unpickledblog.com/ What else have Dr Marry and I been up to: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_lUkv8ujQ7vynBtfPn6dCTI-azbnUREp. #DailyDose #Addiction​ #Sobriety #DrMarryandme​ #extraordinary #addictionrecovery #joyfulmarriage #NoMoreShame #alcoholism #mugsofdailydose #normalizeNAdrinking #moderation #celebratesobriety

How do you prepare to be alcohol-free before you stop drinking completely?  If you have realized that alcohol is not working in your life and are tapping into resources like this podcast, you've already moved from precontemplation to contemplation and into action. But it's likely you're not sure exactly how to put down the wine glass, build up sober momentum and set yourself up for long-term success. We're here to help.  My guest today is Jean McCarthy, author of the book UnPickled - Prepare To Be Alcohol-Free.    Ready to drink less + live more?   Take my FREE MASTERCLASS on Five Secrets To Taking a Break From Drinking Sign up here to save your seat: https://hellosomedaycoaching.com/class    If you're ready to change your relationship with alcohol join The Sobriety Starter Kit.  It's my signature sober coaching course for busy women to help you drink less + live more.  To enroll go to www.sobrietystarterkit.com.   Join The Grab the  Free 30-Day Guide To Quitting Drinking, 30 Tips For Your First Month Alcohol-Free   Connect with Casey McGuire Davidson Find out more about Casey and her coaching programs, head over to her website, www.hellosomedaycoaching.com  

Unpickled with Jean McCarthy If you have been sober for a while and are ever tempted to drink just “one glass of wine” then it's worth remembering this well known saying "You can change a cucumber into a pickle, but you can't turn a pickle back into a cucumber” – in other words once we have crossed that line into alcohol dependence there is not going back – we must go forward and create a life we don't want to escape from. My guest this week was obviously inspired by the pickle analogy as her blog is called “Unpickled” and I'm sure many of you have listened to her awesome podcast the “Bubble Hour” which has been going for almost a decade. I began by asking Jean to introduce herself In this Episode Jean was a teenage drinker, going to bars at 15 years old as she looked older She got married and had her children young – got into the mommyjuice culture Her drinking escalated throughout her 20's and 30's By the time she got to her 40's her children were teenagers, her career was demanding and wine was her “off” button She went from one glass to two to a few – to opening a bottle the moment she got home from work Like many of us she would wake up and think “I won't drink today but by lunchtime that thought was gone” Since her teenage years she had an inkling that alcohol was not doing her any favours but by her 30's she was trying to make a change and setting “the rules” which of course she promptly broke She finally quit at 43 – which led us to discuss the Tempest Study - that the average time it takes people – “from realising they had a problem to actually quitting” was eleven years. One of the things that kept Jean stuck in her drinking was that she was labouring under the misconception that one had to reach “rock bottom” before making a change – a myth that keeps many from ditching the booze That myth kept Jean from going to AA – not only was she worried about being recognised but she also felt that she couldn't fit – that she would be seen as a lightweight because she hadn't lost everything So let's take a moment to debunk the rock bottom fallacy – if your drinking is on your mind and you have a suspicion that you would be healthier and happier without it then just do it. No need to keep digging… There has never been a better time to give up drinking. There are many online sobriety groups like Tribe Sober, not to mention a plethora of alcohol free drinks.  Go to tribesober.com and check us out if you'd like to meet other people who have decided to avoid rock bottom and ditch the booze before they get there! So Jean didn't go to AA but she did confide in one friend and that made all the difference – she got empathy from that friend and it made her accountable. Sometimes just telling one person is all it takes – so if you're stuck then that's a great place to start and if you feel there is no one in your friendship circle who would understand than check out tribesober.com and join our international community To beat those early cravings Jean had a whole list of things to do when she felt a craving – for example she would eat an ice cream, or orange slices or take the dog around the block or drive to the store. Doing her grocery shopping in the evenings took some of the pressure of her schedule the next day. She started her unpickled blog – anonymously like Clare Pooley – and just like Claire she got responses and realised that she was not alone in this With the perspective of a decade of sobriety Jean is able to look back and see that for the first 2 years she was “white knuckling” it During those early years she stayed sober because she was ashamed of the possibility of relapse – that stopped her healing and also prevented her from experiencing the “fullness of recovery” as she puts it Jean was on this journey alone for the first two years and it was only when she discovered a sober community that her recovery really started – we often get people joining Tribe Sober who have been sober for a while but are feeling isolated and miserable because they feel lonely and don't realise that recovery is about so much more than “not drinking” She went on a sober retreat and sat in a sharing circle for the first time – that's when the magic of recovery started for Jean – she cried constantly during that retreat and came through the other side. We talked about the money we spend on beauty and anti ageing products when the best thing of all we can do for our health and our beauty as we get older is to ditch the booze Staying hydrated is so important for our skin – yet for every glass of wine we drink we lose the equivalent of four glasses of water Many of us feared that sobriety would mean a life of deprivation but as Jean says the reality is that is a life of abundance – and that is the joy of a sober community – you will meet people further down the line who can confirm that is the case! Jean explained that recovery helped her to stop doing things that weren't serving her – which made me think about a discussion we had in one of our chat rooms recently - many of us realised that we were drinking to make other people more interesting and had wasted far too much time hanging out with people who we didn't really connect with. I asked Jean to share some of her tips with us:- Find alternative ways to comfort yourself, tell someone, decide that whatever happens no you will not drink – and join a sobriety group We talked about the magazine Hola Sober and how wonderful it is to be part of this modern recovery movement So do take a look at Jean's blog which is called “Unpickled”, if you don't already listen to the Bubble Hour then there are plenty of episodes to catch up with! You heard her reading that beautiful poem about recovery circles from her book “The Ember Ever There” which is available on Amazon More Info Subscription membership – you can join up HERE. To access our website, click HERE. If you would like a free copy of our “Annual Tracker” or our e-book 66 Days to Sobriety, please email janet@tribesober.com. If you would like to come to our Saturday afternoon Zoom Cafe as a guest and meet our community, just email janet@tribesober.com. Episode Sponsor This episode is sponsored by the Tribe Sober Membership Program.  If you want to change your relationship with alcohol then sign up today Read more about our program and subscribe HERE Book a Discovery Call with me to find out if our membership would help you Help us to Spread the Word! We made this podcast so that we can reach more people who need our help.  Please subscribe and share. If you enjoyed the podcast, then please leave us a 5-star review on Apple podcasts. Take a screenshot of your review, and DM it to Tribe Sober's Instagram page – see PS below for instructions. We'll send you something special to say thank you! We release a podcast episode every Saturday morning. You can follow Tribe Sober on Facebook, Twitter, TikTok and Instagram. You can join our private Facebook group HERE.   PS: How to Leave a Rating/Review in Apple Podcasts (on an iOS Device) Open the Podcasts app. EASY. Choose “Search” from the bottom row of icons and enter the name of the show (e.g. Recover Like a Mother) into the search field. Select the show under Shows (not under Episodes). Scroll down past the first few episodes until you see Ratings & Reviews. Click Write a Review underneath the displayed reviews from other listeners. You'll then have the option to rate the show on a 5-star scale and write a review (you can rate without writing too but it's always good to read your experience).

Hi Friend,   Thank you for downloading the podcast, my name is Arlina, and I'll be your host.   In case we haven't met yet, I am a certified Recovery Coach and Hypnotist. I help people get sober, stay sober and go deeper through scientifically proven tools and spiritual practices.   I have been practicing abstinence from drugs and alcohol since 4/23/94 and I've seen recovery grow and evolve over the years with a lot of different options. I encourage you to explore it all and find what works for you.    Today my guest is Jean McCarthy, the podcast host of The Bubble Hour, with over 4 million downloads! She is also the author of the award winning blog “Unpickled”, and author of the Unpickled book series. Today we are talking about her latest book, Unpickled - Prepare to be alcohol free. Insights and tips to ease the transition.   Jean is so talented and has such a huge heart. The book is very thoughtful, super practical and I know it will help many many people on their alcohol-free journey.   Before we jump in, I want to ask you, do you struggle with stubborn issues like self-confidence, weight loss, smoking or chronic pain? If you do, then you might want to consider hypnosis. Hypnosis has been around since the 18th century, and institutions like Stanford University School of Medicine, and the  These issues are rooted in the subconscious mind and hypnosis is how you can reframe and rewire your brain, so that you can feel more confident, lose weight, quit smoking and manage pain without drugs. Not sure if you can be hypnotized? There is actually a eye test to determine how hypnotizable you are. If you're curious, just visit soberlifeschool.com and book a free consultation to see if hypnosis is right for you.    So that's it for the intro. Please enjoy this episode with Jean! Connect with Jean McCarthy Here! Visit Website: https://unpickledblog.com/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanmccarthy_writes/ Watch on YouTube: ​​https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNuRolkOZ7X8fCEFCDYd5tg   Subscribe So You Don't Miss New Episodes!  

Jean McCarthy is an award-winning blogger and podcaster who is best-known as a voice of recovery advocacy. She's a light and she's got experience on what it's like to stop drinking when your outsides look great but inside you're falling apart. Jean has another book coming out and is just a joy to talk with. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jean shares a new poem to encourage anyone starting fresh for the new year, and reflects on important milestones and decisions for The Bubble Hour. Download a copy of Jean's poem, 'The Pivot' at https://unpickledblog.com/2021/12/30/new-year-new-beginnings/ Learn more about host Jean McCarthy at http://www.jeanmccarthy.ca and order her books at http://www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books

This is a special episode intended for listeners in recovery to share with normie friends and family who want to understand how to make us more comfortable at their events. The list of tips is directed towards people who are not in recovery, but it can also be a resource for sober folks looking for ways to self-advocate. Listen alone and take notes. Or listen together, hit pause after each tip, and discuss. Forward to a friend or share on social media. Let's talk about sober socializing--what helps and what doesn't? The list can be downloaded as an image from Jean's blog, UnPickled. Click here: https://unpickledblog.com/2021/12/20/10-tips-for-hosting-a-sober-guest/ Learn more about Jean McCarthy at www.jeanmccarthy.ca Order books via www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books

Whether it's your first year of sobriety or you have decades of experience, the holidays can be a trying time. Here are a few things to consider as you make your way through the weeks ahead. This is an audio version of a post on Jean McCarthy's blog UnPickled. You can find the original post here: http://unpickledblog.com/2021/12/12/encouragement-for-the-holidays/

Tribe Sober - inspiring an alcohol-free life! This week my guest is Kate from the Sober School About 7 years ago when I was casting about for help with my own drinking problem I stumbled upon a blog by Kate who had already been sober for a couple of years.  She was the first person I ever heard suggesting that sobriety could be fun – rather than the grey and miserable place many drinkers imagine it to be.  I now know that she was absolutely right of course so it was a real pleasure to chat to Kate about her own drinking story and the work she is doing these days.   In this Episode When Kate looks back she realises that at University she used to drink alone in her room – even though there were numerous bars and opportunities to drink with other students! If you enjoy drinking alone then that's a bit of a red flag because it means that you are not using it to “socialise” – you are using it to relax or perhaps to try to calm your anxiety. As you heard Kate cleverly gave up drinking at the tender age of 30 but for many of us the pattern seems to be that we DO use alcohol to socialise in our 20's and 30's and then as we get into our 40's and 50's it often turns more into self medication and that when we enjoy drinking alone. Kate had been worrying about her drinking for years before she actually did anything which is not at all unusual – A recent study highlighted the fact that it takes an average of 11 years between realising that you have a bit of a “problem” and actually doing something about it. This is a shame because for many of use our dependence and our unhappiness worsen during this period.  I think it takes such a long time to tackle our drinking for two reasons:-  1. As Kate said society tells us that we are either a “normal” drinker or we are a raging alcoholic –if we are a raging alcoholic we must to go AA – if not then we are fine.  We do see articles about “cutting down” which make it sound simple but of course once we've crossed a line with our drinking that becomes impossible.  Personally I spent my 11 years of procrastination trying to “cut down” so that I wouldn't have to quit completely! 2. Second reason we resist reaching out for help is that we don't know where to find it. Many of us don't want to go to AA or we try it and it doesn't work – then we just get stuck.  But times are changing and the modern recovery movement means there are many online solutions these days.  Solutions which work for the millions of people who are not “raging alcoholics” but they are not “normal drinkers” either.  Kate had been sober for 8 years and back then there was very little help around. However she discovered a blog – (the blog was Unpickled by Jean McCarthy) and it resonated with her.  For the first time she felt that there was someone out there “just like her” – which is exactly how I felt when I discovered Kate's blog.  So it's all about “finding your people” – that's the first step in the journey. Her own journey to sobriety began with a blog where she connected with others on the same path and did a 100 day challenge – she felt a “shift” after those 100 days and found herself reflecting on whether she could make sobriety enjoyable – rather than something to be “endured”. We both agreed that doing a Dry January is too short to experience any benefits of sobriety so by gritting our teeth and getting through all we teach ourselves is that sobriety is a miserable place to be! We discussed the value of of writing a Goodbye to Alcohol letter - you can check some out here I loved Kate's Breakthrough story when she was organising her 30th birthday party in early sobriety. Rather than organising a big party she decided to do it completely differently.  Accepting the fact that she actually didn't like socialising in big groups she organised several small gatherings – and loved them.  She realised that she'd been using alcohol to squeeze herself into what society expected her to be! This happens to SO many of us and in fact a whole book has been written about the subject! Do get hold of a copy of the book Quiet by Susan Cain which explains that roughly 50% of society are introverts but society favours extravert behaviour which leaves many of us using alcohol as a coping mechanism – fascinating!  The subtitle of Susans book is:- The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking and she argues that:  modern Western culture misunderstands and undervalues the traits and capabilities of introverted people, leading to "a colossal waste of talent, energy, and happiness". So if you ARE an introvert and use alcohol to help you cope then please read this book – it will help you understand yourself – and your power – so much better! Kate explained that the impact of quitting alcohol is deep – we lose our shame, guilt, worry which is SO freeing. We also free up our mental space and start keeping our promises. We agreed that another advantage of dealing with our drinking problem is that we get to know ourselves so much better than people who have never had to deal with addiction issues. Sobriety also means we start reflecting on what we really want out of life:- If we are an introvert and have been using alcohol to cope we may decide to embrace our introvert side and make some lifestyle changes Kate completely changed her lifestyle – she swopped her life in the city as a tv producer for a life in the country running the Sober School which helps other women to stop drinking. You can find Kate's blog and more info about the Sober School on her website which is thesoberschool.com More info Subscription membership for Tribe Sober is just R85 (£4/$6/$8AUS) a month - you can join up HERE To access our website click HERE If you would like a free copy of our "Annual Tracker" or our e-book "66 Days to Sobriety" please email janet@tribesober.com If you would like to come to our Saturday afternoon Zoom Cafe as a guest and meet our community just email janet@tribesober.com Episode Sponsor           This episode is sponsored by the Tribe Sober Membership Program.  If you want to change your relationship with alcohol then                 sign up today           Read more about our 7-step program and subscribe HERE           Book a Discovery Call with me to find out if our membership would help you            Help us to spread the word! We made this podcast so that we can reach more people who need our help.  Please subscribe and share. If you enjoyed the podcast then please leave us a 5 star review on Apple podcasts, take a screenshot of your review and DM it to Tribe Sober's Instagram page - see PS for instructions - we'll send you something special to say thank you! We release a podcast episode every Saturday morning. You can follow Tribe Sober on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram  You can catch our FB live on Saturday mornings (11am SAST) and you can join our private Facebook group HERE Thank you for listening!  Till Next Week Janet x PS   How to leave an rating/review in Apple Podcasts (on an iOS device) 1. Open the Podcasts app. EASY. 2. Choose "Search" from the bottom row of icons and enter the name of the show (i.e., "Recover Like A Mother") into the search field. 3. Select the show under Shows (not under Episodes). 4. Scroll down past the first few episodes until you see Ratings & Reviews. 5. Click "Write a Review" underneath the displayed reviews from other listeners. You'll then have the option to rate the show on a 5-star scale, and write a review (you can rate without writing, too but it's always good to read your experience).

Before her recovery, Jean McCarthy ran a very successful and high profile business in her community. Even though she's helped thousands of people, written and published books, has a successful podcast with millions of downloads, almost nobody in her town has any clue.______If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction, depression, trauma, sexual abuse or feeling overwhelmed, we've compiled a list of resources at secretlifepodcast.com._____Jean McCarthy is an award-winning blogger and podcaster who is best-known as a voice of recovery advocacy.In June 2020, her collection of poetry “The Ember Ever There: Poems on Change, Grief, Growth, Recovery, and Rediscovery“ was released worldwide.Jean recently released “UnPickled Holiday Survival Guide: Staying Alcohol-Free During the Festive Season,” a resource about sobriety for people in recovery and their families.To connect, read or listen to more of Jean: https://jeanmccarthy.caInstagram: https://instagram.com/jeanmccarthy_writes______To find out more information about Brianne's book Secret Life of a Hollywood Sex & Love Addict, check out the website: https://secretlifenovel.com or At Amazon______HOW CAN I SUPPORT THE SHOW?Tell Your Friends & Share Online!Subscribe, Rate & Review: Apple PodcastsFollow & Listen  Spotify |  Stitcher | Google PodcastsSpread the word via social mediaInstagramTwitterFacebook#SecretLifePodcastDonateYou can also support the show with a one-time or monthly donation via PayPal (make payment to secretlifepodcast@icloud.com) or at our WEBSITE.Connect with Brianne Davis-Gantt (@thebriannedavis)Official WebsiteInstagramFacebookTwitterConnect with Mark Gantt (@markgantt)Main WebsiteDirecting WebsiteInstagramFacebookTwitter

"I know now that alcohol was not my friend," says Kim Bellas. Kim quit drinking to model alcohol-free living for her teenaged son, who has a medical condition that will require him to do the same. She didn't think her drinking was problematic until she experienced how great she felt with alcohol out of her life.  Kim created a website www.soberisthenewcool.org to spread positive messages and encouragement to others who endeavor to be sober. Sales of merchandise support The Douglas Foundation IG: https://www.instagram.com/sober.is.the.new.cool/ * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soberisthenewcool.org/ * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_tmHjBMjRmRj-HECQ3_Feg * Email: sober.itnc@gmail.com * Learn more about host Jean McCarthy, plus check out her books, and blog UnPickled by visiting her website at www.jeanmccarthy.ca  

Sherry Hoppen is the founder of She Surrenders, a ministry encouraging women into faith-based recovery. As a Christian woman who has lived through the nightmare of addiction to alcohol, she helps others battling addiction through writing, speaking, coaching. Sherry leads weekly meetings for faith-based recovery in the group she started, Joyful Surrender. She regularly shares her journey with her trademark honesty and humor at women's events, Bible studies, recovery retreats, and podcasts. In her book, Sober Cycle (New Hope Publishing, 2021), she shares her personal story of alcohol addiction and the nonsensical things she did to escape it.  An avid reader and cyclist, Sherry and her husband enjoy traveling and loving on their three grandsons. * Visit host Jean McCarthy's website www.jeanmccarthy.ca for more links and information about this episode and The Bubble Hour.

Host Jean McCarthy returns from an unplanned 3-week break and shares stories and insights from her time away. Plus information from Recovery Research Institute on the effectiveness of various recovery programs, celebrating and recognizing Bubble Hour milestones, listener letters, and thoughts on the one-year anniversary of the release of The Ember Ever There by Jean McCarthy.

Jean McCarthy is articulate, honest, and very talented. She has chronicled her alcohol-free lifestyle since her first day of sobriety in 2011. Thousands of readers credit her blog, UnPickled, as a motivating factor in their decision to quit drinking. Jean joined The Bubble Hour podcast as a co-host in 2013 and took over the weekly program as its sole producer and host in 2016. The show has a devoted and enthusiastic listenership with more than 75,000 monthly downloads, so you know she has a message worth hearing! I hope you enjoy our frank conversation about addictions, sobriety, and healing. http://www.jeanmccarthy.ca IG @jeanmccarthy_writes FB @thebubblehour and @unpickled Blog: UnPickled www.unpickledblog.com Podcast: The Bubble Hour www.thebubblehour.com Books: UnPickled Holiday Survival Guide (2019) and The Ember Ever There: Poems on Change, Grief, Growth, Recovery and Rediscovery (2020)

Jean McCarthy is an award-winning blogger, podcast, and the author of 2 books about recovery. She began chronicling her adventures in life-after-alcohol on her first day of sobriety in 2011 in her blog, UnPickled. Every week she holds space for others in recovery as host of the podcast The Bubble Hour. Jean lives in Alberta, Canada.

If you have been sober for a little while or are curiously exploring your options, The Bubble Hour Podcast is a place you need to be! Jean McCarthy brings the heat with people walking the walk every sing week!Today we share stories of our own sober journeys with a special focus daily habits and routines we use to support and care for ourselves.  Jean calls them comforts. AND she offers some ideas I had never thought of before.Sit back and enjoy, this episode is longer than our usual recordings but very worth it!  If you want to learn more about Jean you can find her at https://jeanmccarthy.ca/Transforming daily habits and routines so that you can build a better relationship with yourself, have healthy boundaries and have the confidence to let go of anything that no longer serves you is HUGE recovery work. And exactly what we do in the Sober Freedom Inner Circle. When you join you will have access to the most amazing content but better than that the support of me, the other women in there and the guest experts that come in every month.  All for less than a dinner out of a new pair of shoes.  Still unsure? Give it a try of 1/2 off the first month. Use the code HALFOFF2021 at checkout. If you aren't part of the Confident Sober Women Facebook group come on over and join us.

Jean McCarthy is an award-winning author, blogger, and podcaster. She is best-known as a voice of recovery advocacy. She created a blog called UnPickled which began in 2011. Her blog narrates her journey towards achieving sobriety. She even turned UnPickled into a book entitled: UnPickled Holiday Survival Guide: Staying Alcohol-Free During the Festive Season. Many of her readers credit UnPickler as a motivating factor in their decision to quit drinking. She also wrote another book called The Ember Ever There: Poems on Change, Grief, Growth, Recovery, and Rediscovery. This book contains poems regarding personal growth and recovery. Aside from her books, she also has a podcast as part of her advocacy in promoting sobriety. She is the co-host of the podcast calledThe Bubble Hour. in 2017, Jean Mccarthy received the SHeRecovers Hope Award for her efforts to help others achieve positive change in their lives. Buy her book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07ZXK4J9B/ref=dbs_a_def_awm_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i0 Blog: https://unpickledblog.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unpickled/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanmccarthy_writes/ ------------------------- Thanks for watching The Funky Brain Podcast with Dennis Berry. Dennis is a Life Coach for Addiction Recovery and Life Mastery. If you are struggling with any type of addiction like alcohol, food, porn, drugs, or shopping, reach out for help. Asking for help is the first step in solving the addiction puzzle. Maybe you're not struggling with an addiction, but you are simply “stuck” in life and don't know how to push through. Dennis is the master in helping people get laser-focused, accomplishing their goals and dreams, and achieving life mastery on every level. Dennis works with people worldwide and currently has clients in England, Australia, and India. Zoom is a beautiful tool for helping people all over the world. If you like what you see, and you'd like to hire Dennis to speak at your next event, he is the best motivational keynote speaker on the planet. He brings a ton of energy, experience, motivation, and inspiration to the table. His fun, witty, unique spin on life, with a touch of humor, will leave you motivated to get out there and improve yourself. Website: https://www.DennisBerry.com Email: contact@dennisberry.com LinkedIn: dennisberry1 Facebook: @LifeCoach.DennisBerry You can buy his best-selling book on Amazon - Funky Wisdom: A Practical Guide to Life

The holidays are both a wonderful time of year as well as a time that can trip up women who have stopped drinking, from those in early sobriety to those that might have quit months (or years) earlier.    A lot of us might get to November and December and think, I've been doing this not drinking thing for a while now. I've got this.    But the holidays are a unique combination of back-to-back drinking events + occasions, family dynamics, memories of previous years drinking, physically being surrounded by alcohol with powerful emotional and social triggers.     The holiday season can undermine your recovery if you're not prepared to navigate it in a way that supports your sobriety.   In this episode, Jean and I share all the tips and tricks to having a wonderful holiday season without drinking.    We talk about: How to socialize sober +  reduce stress and anxiety around attending holiday gatherings Specific strategies for navigating Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas + New Year's Eve Practical advice on attending + hosting holiday parties, traveling + staying with family or having family members stay with you What you can share with family + friends so they can make not drinking easier for you during the holidays Why annual traditions and the specific expectations around what events happen during the holiday season, who hosts, what is served, how long people are together, who travels + for how long, can lead to resentments + challenges for your sobriety  Why it's important to identify your expectations around the holidays + evaluate how they might impact you physically, mentally and emotionally How to say no, modify traditions + set boundaries without feeling like you're high maintenance The fun stuff: why to set up a seasonal or holiday ‘bucket list' with ideas of how to make the most of this special time that's not centered around alcohol Ideas for new traditions that can make the season more joyful, memorable + fulfilling   About Jean McCarthy Jean McCarthy is the host of the Bubble Hour Podcast, an award winning blogger + recovery advocate. Jean is an author of two books.  Her book, The Unpickled Holiday Survival Guide - staying alcohol free during the festive season is a wonderful resource about sobriety for people in recovery and for their families.  Her collection of poetry, The Ember Ever There - Poems on change, grief, growth, recovery and rediscovery was published in early 2020. I interviewed Jean for this podcast in episode nine about her poetry and her story.  Jean started her blog, Unpickled in 2011, and has continued to chronicle her alcohol free lifestyle. Since her first day of sobriety, thousands of readers have credited Unpickled as a motivating factor in their decision to quit drinking. SHOWNOTES: www.hellosomedaycoaching.com   Links and resources mentioned   Connect with Jean Mccarthy Link to buy Jean's Holiday Survival Guide and The Ember Ever There books: www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Instagram @jeanmccarthy_writes Facebook pages for Unpickled (www.facebook.com/unpickled) and The Bubble Hour (www.facebook.com/thebubblehour)  Also websites: https://jeanmccarthy.ca/,  https://unpickledblog.com/, https://jeanmccarthy.ca/the-bubble-hour/,  https://www.amazon.com/dp/1999299906 Connect with Casey McGuire Davidson   Grab your  Free Sober Girls Guide To Quitting Drinking   Get support during the holiday season from women who are on the alcohol-free path with the guide on How to find and join my Favorite Private Sober Facebook groups   Website: www.hellosomedaycoaching.com Instagram: Casey @ Hello Someday Coaching (@caseymdavidson)

Join host Lori Windfeldt as she interviews the interviewer, ladled with her usual trenchant commentary and charm. Omar was 10 years into his sobriety when he took a chance and launched what is today considered one of the most successful recovery podcasts on iTunes. The SHAIR Podcast has over 2 million downloads and listeners from all over the world. A while back he was introduced to Life Coaching, Recovery Coaching and Personal Development and he hasn't looked back since! Coaching was the turning point that allowed Omar to get out of his own way, becoming the person he was always meant to be.   This episode includes discussion on: All things Omar SHAIR – The meaning behind the podcast and recovery community SHARING HELPS ADDICTS IN RECOVERY SHARING HELPS ALCOHOLICS IN RECOVERY SHARING HELPS ALL IN RECOVERY Most important word is sharing. That is what we do. Being open honest vulnerable and giving people opportunity to heal When is the right time to start a podcast? The 11th tradition of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Living life, recovery and sobriety OUTLOUD Helping and healing through storytelling Sobriety vs being clean and/or sober Holistic recovery was important from the beginning of SHAIR Recovery Community (SRC) group inception. Not just 12-step (NA or AA) but all recovery paths. SRC members use their moral compass & their intuition to run meetings in this private group. They know what to say…. The right thing to say. What in the freaking world is neuro linguistic programming (NLP)? Programming and brainwashing – have our brains been hacked? Have you questioned whether or not you'd like to take a leap of faith in becoming a coach…. Listen to Omar's story of service turned career. What is your value as a coach. Not just money and time… what is your value? Well, also money and time. Omar talks ‘pricing your worth' when it comes to charging for service. Religious childhood trauma – raised in dogmatic/religious/cult like environments Eat shit sandwiches, accept your gift as a healer, eat more shit sandwiches and all will be right in your world. If you didn't get enough of our guests Omar Pinto, you can find LOADS more information here: Omar the Coach  https://omarpinto.com/ The SHAIR Podcast https://theshairpodcast.com/ The SHAIR Recovery Community https://theshairpodcast.com/join-the-src/ Omar's Blog: “10 Top Recovery Podcasts That Will Boost Your Sobriety” still looks like there is one missing here… AND lastly, shout out to Jean McCarthy @thebubblehour https://jeanmccarthy.ca/

In this episode I talk to Jean McCarthy author of UnPickled and host of The Bubble Hour about her wakening moment when she realized it was time to quit drinking. She explains how she got through the early days of sobriety, how The Bubble Hour came about and how her life has changed beyond measure since quitting alcohol for good.

Jean Mccarthy is a decorated blogger and podcaster, best known for her recovery advocacy. Jean recently published “UnPickled Holiday Survival Guide: Staying Alcohol-Free During the Festive Season,” a book on achieving sobriety and battling addiction.Jean has also completed her first novel, a work of upmarket fiction for mainstream audiences. Unpickled, Jean Mccarthy's blog, started in 2011 and has continued to narrate Jean's sober lifestyle since her first day of her journey. In 2013, she joined the Bubble Hour as co-host. She became the sole host in the program in 2016. Jean used to be a songwriter, having composed two albums. Avid listeners of her podcast are familiar with show's theme song “I Own It,” a single from Jean's 2008 album, "Blessings and Burdens". Jean was recognized as recipient of the 2017 SheRecovers Hope Award for her efforts to aid other people to improve their lives. She currently resides in Alberta, Canada with her husband Ross. Website: https://jeanmccarthy.ca/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unpickled/ https://www.facebook.com/thebubblehour/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanmccarthy_writes/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeanMcCarthy_ca Books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Jean-McCarthy/e/B0813VD6TV/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1 ------------------------- Thanks for watching The Funky Brain Podcast with Dennis Berry. While Dennis has been working in different areas of life, he has decided to shift the focus of the Podcast to Addiction Recovery and Sobriety for men, since that is his background. If you, or somebody you know, is struggling with any type of addiction, please reach out to Dennis anytime. If you like what you see, and you'd like to hire Dennis to speak at your next event, he is the best motivational keynote speaker on the planet. He brings a ton of energy, experience, motivation, and inspiration to the table in every event he contributes to. He is your leadership coaching professional. As a best-selling author and an award-winning sales & marketing professional, life coach, and business coach, he knows what it takes to take you and/or your organization, business, or corporation to the next level. His fun, witty, unique spin on life, with a touch of humor, will leave you motivated to get out there and improve yourself. Website: https://www.DennisBerry.com Email: dennis@dennisberry.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennisberry1/ Facebook: @FunkyBrainPodcast Book on Amazon: "Funky Wisdom: A Practical Guide to Life" https://www.amazon.com/Funky-Wisdom-Practical-Guide-Life-ebook/dp/B07L4SPC7S/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

Many women know Jean McCarthy as an award-winning blogger, the host of the Bubble Hour Podcast, and through her work in recovery advocacy. But in today's episode we get to know a more personal and intimate side of Jean through her poetry. Jean describes putting out this book of poetry as if she is saying “Here's what the inside of my head looks like. Here's the voice no one else hears.” In this episode Casey and Jean dive into her new collection of poetry “The Ember Ever There: Poems on Change, Grief, Growth, Recovery, and Rediscovery” which is being released worldwide on June 19, 2020.  As Jean describes the collection she says, “This isn't the story of addiction and recovery. This is the story of losing myself and finding myself again”.   Jean goes on to describe her addiction to alcohol as a symptom of her lost self - the person behind the people pleasing, good girl syndrome and losing herself behind the masks she was wearing.   In this episode, you'll learn: What Jean wants to say to the thousands of women who reach out to her and say “I want to quit, but I can't right now”. How Jean felt in the very beginning of her own sobriety journey The story behind when and why Jean wrote  the song “I own it”, the intro song to The Bubble Hour How women can stop playing small and embrace their true self    About Jean McCarthy In addition to being the host of the Bubble Hour Podcast and an award-winning blogger, Jean is also the author of “UnPickled Holiday Survival Guide: Staying Alcohol-Free During the Festive Season,” a resource about sobriety for people in recovery and their families. Her blog UnPickled began in 2011 and has continued to chronicle Jean's alcohol-free lifestyle since her first day of sobriety. Thousands of readers credit UnPickled as a motivating factor in their decision to quit drinking. Jean joined The Bubble Hour podcast as a co-host in 2013. She took over the weekly program as its sole producer and host in 2016.  Jean is a former performing songwriter with two albums of original music to her credit. Fans of the podcast are familiar with the show's theme song “I Own It,” a single from Jean's 2008 album, “Blessings and Burdens.” At a gala in New York City, Jean was named recipient of the 2017 SheRecovers Hope Award in recognition of her efforts to help others seek positive changes in their lives. She lives in Alberta, Canada with her husband Ross and dog Scout. Show Notes: https://hellosomedaycoaching.com/9/ Connect with Jean Mccarthy Link to buy book or further information:www.jeanmccarthy.ca/books Instagram @jeanmccarthy_writes Facebook pages for Unpickled (www.facebook.com/unpickled) and The Bubble Hour (www.facebook.com/thebubblehour)  Also websites: https://jeanmccarthy.ca/,  https://unpickledblog.com/, https://jeanmccarthy.ca/the-bubble-hour/,  https://www.amazon.com/dp/1999299906 Connect with Casey McGuire Davidson www.hellosomedaycoaching.com Casey @ Hello Someday Coaching (@caseymdavidson) Get the guide on how to find and join these groups: https://hellosomedaycoaching.com/sober-facebook-groups/ The Free Sober Girl's Guide to Quitting Drinking – 30 Tips For your First 30 Days Casey's interview by Jean McCarthy on The Bubble Hour

Quick - what does the word 'vulnerability' mean to you? Does it have positive or negative connotations for you?  Or both? The dictionary defines vulnerabitly as this:  "the inability to withstand the effects of a hostile environment".  Other definitions include: "reduced defensive measures" or "susceptible to physical or emontional attack". Doesn't sound so good, right? So why is vulnerability such a cornerstone to recovery? How do we navigate its potentially treacherous waters?  Why is it so pivotal? Listen Lisa, Amanda and Ellie, co-hosts of The Bubble Hour, as we have an open (and, yes, vulnerable) conversation about the topic of vulnerability.   Through the power of story and shared experience, we discuss what vulnerability means to us, and how it continues to evolve for us as women in recovery from alcoholism. (Note: This is a condensed version of the original conversation. Join us on Patreon at patreon.com/thebubblehour to hear the FULL epsiode!) Links and resources including online support (The BFB) Buy TAKE GOOD CARE: Recovery Readings Inspired by The Bubble Hour Podcast  Listen to our spin-off podcast, TINY BUBBLES Please follow @thebubblehour on Facebook and Instagram  Theme music is "I Own It" by Jean McCarthy