Podcast appearances and mentions of paul churchill

Hey friend, welcome to the podcast! I have a special guest today, Paul Churchill from the mega-popular Recovery Elevator, with more than 10M downloads! He is also an author and since I spoke with him last, a new husband and father! We had a wide-ranging conversation, including pushing past fear, new challenges in long-term sobriety, and how the recovery landscape has changed over the years. So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! Subscribe So You Dont Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website HERE. You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https //www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 =J

Veronica interviews Paul Churchill from the Recovery Elevator podcast. We discuss how anything is possible in sobriety and how Paul went from blowing up his life and living in his parent's basement to living his dream life. To learn more, visit the show notes.

In this episode, Paul Churchill shares his personal journey to sobriety as he learned to recognize and address his struggles with alcohol addiction. He delves into the complexities of moderation versus abstinence, highlighting the challenges and failures he encountered along the way. Paul also emphasizes the importance of seeking help and support on the journey to recover the person you were meant to be. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the power of mindset in achieving sobriety and transforming your life Discover the crucial role of community support in overcoming alcohol addiction Explore the impact of labels and identities in your recovery journey Learn the importance of seeking help and support on your sobriety path. Uncover valuable insights into alcohol addiction and recovery that foster self-awareness and inspire positive change To learn more, click here!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Veronica joins forces with three other sober podcasters to discuss getting through the holidays sober.   To learn more, visit the show notes.

Feeling anxious and uncertain about how to stay sober during the holidays? You're not alone, especially if it's your first holiday season alcohol-free.  It's completely normal to feel out of place and crave a drink during those holiday parties and family gatherings.  You're probably used to toasting the New Year with a glass of champagne or sipping red wine around the Christmas fire.  For a long time I knew that I should stop drinking but couldn't imagine office holiday parties, family celebrations and New Year's Eve alcohol-free. The truth is that my first holiday season wasn't easy, but it was good.  After years of regretting drinking too much at big events it was lovely to remember all of New Year's Eve, wake up on Christmas morning without a hangover and replace guilt and regret with peace and pride.  To help you navigate the boozy holiday season alcohol-free, I gathered a trio of experts: Gill Tietz, host of  the Sober Powered podcast, Veronica Valli, author and host of the Soberful podcast, and Paul Churchill host of the Recovery Elevator podcast.  3 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The holiday season is tough when you don't drink. Alcohol is everywhere and it's socially acceptable to drink as much as you want during this time of year. In this episode I was joined by some of my friends Casey Davidson from the Hello Someday Podcast, Paul Churchill from Recovery Elevator, and Veronica Valli from Soberful to discuss their holidays back when they were drinking, what their first sober holiday season was like, and tips for anyone who's not drinking this holiday season. Connect with Paul: https://www.recoveryelevator.com/ Connect with Casey: https://hellosomedaycoaching.com/ https://www.instagram.com/caseymdavidson/  Connect with Veronica: https://www.instagram.com/veronicajvalli Soberful.com Resources I offer: Community & Meetings: Living a Sober Powered Life https://www.soberpowered.com/membership The Sober Mindset Course https://www.soberpowered.com/the-sober-mindset-course (Free Private Podcast) 5 Blocks Holding You Back From Quitting Drinking https://www.soberpowered.com/5blocks Weekly emails on Thursdays where I explain the latest episode in more detail, share images to help you understand the concepts, share announcements, interviews, writing, discount codes and more. https://view.flodesk.com/pages/6107260617e156c4839768b5 Ask a question, it could appear on the show! https://forms.gle/oKubeJKMZimkHvUJA   Thank you for supporting this show by supporting my sponsors. Learn more: https://www.soberpowered.com/sponsors If you enjoyed this episode please consider buying me a coffee to support my work https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberpowered Sources are posted on my website Disclaimer: all of the information described in this podcast is my interpretation of the research combined with my opinion. This is not medical advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura joins fellow podcasters, Gillian Tietz, Eric Zimmer and Paul Churchill for a conversation during which they share their experiences in early sobriety. While each of their journeys is unique, there is also a shared understanding of what it's like in those first days of recovery. This episode will provide helpful insights, inspiration, and hope from those that have lived through such painful experiences and come out on the other side to share what they've learned, including: Their similar and unique experiences in the early days of sobriety How gratitude plays an important role in recovering from addiction Recognizing the shared feelings and emotions when suffering from addiction Learning to be honest and vulnerable Uncovering hope that life will get better Paying attention to what triggers you Why your experience is your greatest asset when dealing with addiction Paul Churchill: https://www.recoveryelevator.com/ Eric Zimmer: https://www.oneyoufeed.net/ Gillian Tietz: https://www.soberpowered.com https://www.instagram.com/sober.powered Watch Laura's new TEDx Talk: Confessions From The Only One In The Room  Special thanks to our sponsors: Voyage et Cie: Voyage et Cie's curator Melanie Apple has cultivated a passion for notable moments using the sense of smell. Voyage et Cie is the ultimate luxury blend of travel, fragrance, and design. Each original fragrance is created by Melanie, 100% organic and natural which will transport you on a journey. Visit https://www.voyageetcie.com/ and enter the code: HON to get your 10% off your purchase! PATREON SHOUT OUTS: Thanks to Kathleen Hahn Cute Booty Lounge is made right here in the USA, by women and for women. The company is incredible, female, and minority-owned and all of their leggings make makes your booty look amazing. Go to https://cutebooty.com/ today! Embrace your body, love your booty! Join our Patreon: Become an Only One In The Room patron by joining us on Patreon! Starting at only $5.00 per month, you'll get bonus content, access to outtakes that the general public will NEVER see, extremely cool merch, and depending on what tier you get, monthly hang time with Scott and Laura. Join our Patreon today at https://www.patreon.com/theonlyonepodcast Be sure not to miss Scott Talks on Wednesdays, our Sunday release called Sunday Edition & our brand new series On My Nightstand releasing on Fridays by subscribing to the show wherever you listen to podcasts.  Join our Only One In The Room Facebook Group if you'd like to ask a question of any of our upcoming guests for this series.  Also visit the website www.theonlyonepod.com for the latest from our host Laura Cathcart Robbins like featured articles and more. We love hearing from you in the comments on iTunes and while you're there don't forget to rate us, subscribe and share the show! All of us at The Only One In The Room wish you safety and wellness during this challenging time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You may look at people in the sober community and think that we have a lot of sober time and that may feel unattainable or too far off. In this special collab episode, you will hear from Eric Zimmer with 16 years of sobriety, Laura Cathcart Robbins with 15 years of sobriety, Paul Churchill with 10 years of sobriety, and me with 3.5 years of sobriety. In this episode we discuss our first months of sobriety, what we did for support in the beginning, how we knew it was time to quit for good, socializing with alcohol in the beginning, what our cravings and triggers were like, and how we learned how to be comfortable with out sobriety. Connect with Laura Cathcart Robbins: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Stash/Laura-Cathcart-Robbins/9781668005330 https://www.instagram.com/lauracathcartrobbins/ https://theonlyonepod.com/ Connect with Paul Churchill: https://www.recoveryelevator.com/ Connect with Eric Zimmer: https://www.oneyoufeed.net/ Resources I offer: Community & Meetings: Living a Sober Powered Life https://www.soberpowered.com/membership The Sober Mindset Course https://www.soberpowered.com/the-sober-mindset-course (Free Private Podcast) 5 Blocks Holding You Back From Quitting Drinking https://www.soberpowered.com/5blocks Weekly emails on Thursdays where I explain the latest episode in more detail, share images to help you understand the concepts, share announcements, interviews, writing, discount codes and more. https://view.flodesk.com/pages/6107260617e156c4839768b5 Ask a question, it could appear on the show! https://forms.gle/oKubeJKMZimkHvUJA   Thank you for supporting this show by supporting my sponsors. Learn more: https://www.soberpowered.com/sponsors If you enjoyed this episode please consider buying me a coffee to support my work https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberpowered Sources are posted on my website Disclaimer: all of the information described in this podcast is my interpretation of the research combined with my opinion. This is not medical advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eric is joined by special guests Gillian Tietz, Laura Cathcart Robbins, and Paul Churchill where they share their experiences in early sobriety. While each of their journeys is unique, there is also a shared understanding of what it's like in those first days of recovery. This episode will provide helpful insights, inspiration, and hope from those who have lived through such painful experiences and have come out on the other side to share what they've learned, including... Their similar and unique experiences in the early days of sobriety How gratitude plays an important role in recovering from an addiction Recognizing the shared emotions and feelings when suffering from an addiction Learning to be honest and vulnerable with people you trust Uncovering the hope that life will get better The importance of finding a supportive community Self-examination and discovering why you are reaching Paying attention to what triggers you How you can't outthink an addiction, but use your past experiences to think forward To learn more, click here!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 438 – Expectations   Today we have something different lined up. Instead of one interviewee, we've got a panel of sober rockstars who have been kicking ass and taking names in this field for a while now. You're going to love it.   Recovery Elevator welcomes our newest sponsor, Athletic Greens.   [02:33] Highlights from Paul:   We are full of expectations. Both for ourselves and other people. Top of that list is we expect happiness in a world where nothing is guaranteed. We have been conditioned throughout our life that any discomfort represents failure, and a certain product, drink or pill will end the suffering.   How do we let expectations go? It's impossible. All you can do is become aware you are expecting something different for yourself or other people.   Another reason why expectations are dangerous is it throws gratitude right out of the window. We also expect the earth to keep providing the natural resources needed for our survival, which are never guaranteed. We definitely need to approach sunshine, fresh drinking water, clean air, and shelter from a stance of gratitude opposed to expecting them to be delivered to us because we deserve them. More on that next week.   “The days in which my gratitude exceeds my expectations are really good days” – Ray Wylie Hubbard.   Better Help:  www.betterhelp.com/elevator - 10% off your first month. #sponsored   [10:54] The interviewees introduce themselves:   Laura Cathcart Robbins, the host of “The Only One in the Room” podcast and author of the book Stash: My Life in Hiding.   Eric Zimmer, the hose of “The One You Feed” podcast and creator of a program called Spiritual Habits.   Paul Churchill, the host of “Recovery Elevator” podcast (who we all know and love).   Gill hosts the Sober Powered podcast and is also a chemistry professor in the Boston area.   Gill wants to talk about early sobriety and what the experience was like for each guest.   [14:33] Laura has almost 15 years in sobriety. She shares that her first month of sobriety was spent in rehab. She hated it and felt resentful of those that enjoyed it. She attended a lot of recovery meetings and felt sentenced and never felt like she fit in initially. Laura remembers the early days often and knows she doesn't want to return there.   [17:18] Eric first got sober from heroin when he was 24. He stayed sober for about eight years but returned to alcohol for a few years. He has since gotten sober again and has been sober for 16 years. What Eric remembers about early recovery is that just quitting substances wasn't enough. He was plagued by the war that went on between using and not using and he feels that after some time in recovery, the turmoil subsides.   [20:08] Paul had a moment of clarity during a wedding he was DJ'ing where he was extremely drunk and had to ask a colleague to finish. He quit drinking a few days later and planned on going to rehab. He decided to wait and try recovery with AA and spending more time in nature.   [22:48] Gill is three and half years sober. She quit because it was affecting her mental health. She was scared to share her issues with anyone initially, so she did the first few months in recovery by herself.    The guests continue to share their experiences around their early sobriety, their readiness to quit drinking and reflect on what helped them in recovery then and what continues to help them now.   Connect with Laura – The Only One in the Room Podcast   Connect with Eric – The One You Feed   Connect with Gill – Sober Powered   Cafe RE  Use the promo code OPPORTUNITY to waive the set-up fee Recovery Elevator YouTube Sobriety Tracker iTunes    Recovery Elevator You took the elevator down, you got to take the stairs back up, you can do this. I love you guys.  

Today's show features an interview with Paul Churchill, founder of the Recovery Elevator podcast. Mathew, Chris, and Paul talk about addiction to alcohol and the recovery journey. Paul encourages us to learn what our addictions are trying to tell us, the underlying stories/triggers/and trauma underneath our behaviors. Paul also mentions that addiction and recovery end up being the best school of life if you choose to depart from the ego and face your inner self. If you are struggling with alcohol, remember that you are not alone. Also in this episode: Chris and Mathew play Would You Rather Chris does a deep dive on low fat vs low carb Mathew introduces a round of Name That Tune Mathew introduces a round of Your Next Move Go to https://betterhelp.com/ineededthat for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help #sponsored Thanks for checking out our podcast and please don't forget to follow along on Instagram at @ineededthatpodcast Connect with Chris Powell, get links to his new app (coming soon) as well as products & speaking info at www.ChrisPowell.com Connect with Mathew Blades, and bring him into speak at www.learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com Bring movement to your company or school with Move 1 Million www.m1m.org If you are struggling with alcohol and need support, find Paul Churchill over at the Recovery Elevator Podcast  

Paul Churchill was a normal drinker in high school and most of college. He loved to drink. He played several sports in high school and football at Chapman University where he majored in Business and Spanish. His love for alcohol led him to Granada, Spain where he bought a bar in January 2006. He walked away from the bar after 34 months since he was drowning himself with alcohol. He attempted the geographical cure, moved back home to Colorado for a year, and then went to graduate school in Seattle at the University of Washington. He then moved to beautiful Bozeman, MT where he currently resides. Paul was alcohol-free from 2010- 2012 but he looks back at that duration of sobriety and says he was a dry drunk and was staying away from alcohol on willpower alone. In 2012, his unconscious mind got the best of him and he drank after being AF for over 2 years. Later that same evening around 2:30 am when gas stations couldn't legally sell alcohol, Paul found himself googling if he could drink rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. Talk about picking up right where he left off. Paul struggled to quit drinking for another couple of years until September 7th, 2014. In the summer of 2014, there was a DUI, a release of employment from a job, and a failed suicide attempt. After reaching out to family, and specific friends, starting a podcast, and a sobriety counter app, selecting a sponsor, eating right, and exercising, Paul Churchill took his last drink of alcohol on September 7th, 2014, and got his life back. Follow Paul: Website Book: Alcohol is Sh!t Podcast Instagram Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/recoveryelevator LinkedIn ANNOUNCEMENTS: Hey Food Junkies listeners! Molly here and I have Clarissa with me!! Before we talk to you about today's episode, we just wanted to thank all of our listeners for helping us to get over 330k downloads and who are continuing to support us toward our next goal of 350k. We also wanted to let you know that our joint venture, Sweet Sobriety has officially launched. We would love to invite you to join us for Unlimited Monthly Coaching for $25 USD each month. We also have educational opportunities and a community platform. We are NOT going to show you before & after pictures We are NOT going to guarantee addiction recovery….No one can do that! We are NOT going to sell you gimmicks, or products or break your bank account. We will NEVER encourage you to take out loans or sell your rare record collection – you don't need to do that! We are NOT going to give you THE FOOD PLAN TO FIX YOU….You are NOT broken We are NOT going to tell you that you can't trust yourself. We WILL teach you the skills to rebuild that trust. We are NOT going to tell you WE have ALL the answers…. You Already have them!! If you want more information – check out the foodjunkiespodcast.com or sweetsobriety.ca websites. The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern.

In this edition of The Way Out I'm ecstatic to bring you my interview with Recovery Coach, Recovery Podcaster, and person in long term Recovery Matt Gardiner. Matt hosts the Beyond Recovery Podcast and it was a true honor to share my journey to and through recovery to this point on his podcast recently, so check that out if you are so inclined and to that end, I've included a handy link to that episode in the show notes. Every once in a great while, you meet someone where everything just seems to click, and this is precisely what happened with Matt and I right off the bat - we quickly hit it off and it truly felt as we were old friends. We found we have so much in common, from our mutual love of great 90's music like Nirvana, to playing guitar and songwriting, and from being bullied in adolescence to having a close friend in Recovery provide that essential helping hand to get into and launch ourselves into recovery. Throw in each of us having multiple attempts at recovery prior to our most recent and with any luck our last and both of us being Recovery Coaches, Recovery Podcasters and people in long term recovery we are indeed brothers from other mothers and our ensuing conversation is absolutely jam packed with spiritual and recovery truth as well as Matt's journey to and through Recovery to this point so listen up. Contact Matt: https://linktr.ee/mattgardiner555 My interview with Matt on his Beyond Recovery Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/user/mattgardiner/audio1348297952 Recommended Recovery Literature (Quit-Lit): Alcohol is SH!T: How to Ditch the Booze, Re-ignite Your Life, and Recover the Person you Were Always Meant to be by by Paul Churchill: https://www.amazon.com/Alcohol-SH-Re-ignite-Recover-Person/dp/1086176545 Best Piece of Recovery Advice: 'The Opposite Of Addiction Is Not Sobriety. The Opposite Of Addiction Is Connection' - Yohann Hari Songs that Symbolize Recovery: Bulls on Parade by Rage Against the Machine: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3L4YrGaR8E4 After the Goldrush by Neil Young: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOMaqe0LOmo Don't forget to check out “The Way Out Playlist” available only on Spotify. Curated by all our wonderful guests on the podcast! https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6HNQyyjlFBrDbOUADgw1Sz (c) 2015 - 2022 The Way Out Podcast | All Rights Reserved Theme Music: “all clear” (https://ketsa.uk/browse-music/) by Ketsa (https://ketsa.uk) licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/the-way-out-podcast/message

Episode 394  - Fixin' to Grow   Today we have Kristie.   She is 47, from Michigan, and has been sober since May 2020.   Ditch the Booze/Mindfulness and AF Photography 101:  https://www.recoveryelevator.com/cafere/   Highlights from Kris   Return to school is here and is the catalyst for conversations about expectations. Growing up, the letter on the report card was the measure of success. Kris has begun to consider praising the work instead of the result.    Neuroscientists have identified two different mindsets:  the fixed mindset and the growth mindset. A fixed mindset looks at intelligence as static. The effort is pointless – you've got it, or you don't. It's all about the result. The growth mindset is more about a learning goal. The effort is seen as a path to mastery.    What is your goal in recovery? Language matters. Think about the metrics. If you are fixed on being alcohol-free and have a slip, you might feel like a failure. Embrace the growth in yourself and let that be enough.    Better Help:  www.betterhelp.com/elevator - 10% off your first month. #sponsored                                                                               [11:29]  Kristie has been surise for two years. The word sober doesn't resonate with Kristy. She wants to be fun and exciting and enjoy every moment. Kristie believes that language creates our reality. Through journaling, she came up with the word surise – it brings her energy, light, and love. Kristie believes surise is yours – the opportunity to be your authentic self.   Kristie is from West Michigan and is an academic advisor. She is married and has two daughters. She loves traveling, the beach, the woods, nature, and connecting with people.   Growing up, her parents rarely drank, but they did smoke. After her parents' divorce, she assumed much responsibility for her younger brothers. She was the conduit between her parents. She was involved in theater, student government, and dancing.    Kristie went to college and was ready to rescind the role of the responsible oldest child. Earning a degree was essential to Kristie. She went to school and partied and enjoyed drinking and being social. She adopted the work hard, play hard mentality and always drank to get a buzz. She put herself into some risky situations and was raped. Alcohol helped numb the pain, and she learned to carry on.   Kristie met her husband in college, and drinking was part of their relationship. Drinking was a coping mechanism for the stress of parenting. Over the years, her drinking progressed from beer to wine to vodka.   After her father died, Kristie's drinking became very dark. Drinking was a reward, a way to avoid loneliness, and it served many purposes.   Several years ago, Kristie's husband announced that he was planning to quit drinking.   He did, and she couldn't follow suit. After her father-in-law died, they were both drinking again and went backward. Kristie read “This Naked Mind” and listened to Annie Grace's podcast. Paul Churchill was Annie's guest, and something clicked for Kristie. She could hear herself in other people's stories. She joined Café RE in 2020 and went to her first women's AA meeting. She quit drinking for several months and returned to drinking when the pandemic began. In May of '20, she found a small group of RE members all over the US, and they held each other accountable.    Kris's Summary   Look at your mindset. Ask yourself without judgment, are you holding on to absolutes? What is your measure of success? Do you find joy in the results or the process? Wherever you are is okay. Show yourself grace. Change the narrative. Surrender to the process. Let go of old ideas.   Upcoming events, retreats, and courses: You can find more information about our events   Resources Connect with Cafe RE - Use the promo code OPPORTUNITY to waive the set-up fee. Recovery Elevator YouTube - Subscribe here! Sobriety Tracker iTunes    Recovery Elevator- We are the only ones who can do this, but we don't have to do it alone. I love you guys.

Kris is one of the hosts of my FAVE sobriety podcast, 'Recovery Elevator'! I am honoured to have him on today to flip the roles to allow him to tell his amazing story.A little about Kris: Kris Oyen is the media coordinator and one of the podcast host for Recovery Elevator. In the summer of 2017 Kris was on the brink of losing his family. His drinking has escalated to a dangerous level, and his behavior was more reckless than ever. With the help of outpatient treatment, 12 step recovery, spiritual mentorship, and an online community, Kris was able to start the process of returning to his true self.His continued involvement in the online support community, Café RE, has led to him taking the mic as one of the hosts of the Recovery Elevator Podcast. He continues to be a leader in the online community, and enjoys meeting up with members face-to-face whenever possible.In his free time, Kris volunteers at his local church by live-streaming services and leading small groups. He loves spending time with his best friend and wife Aimee, their two children, and their dog. They are a camping and boating family who take full advantage of the short North Dakota summers.Find Kris:✅ @krisoyen IG✅ @recoveryelevator IG✅ www.recoveryelevator.comRecovery Elevator has been a huge part of my recovery. I highly recommend you check it out if you haven't.I also highly recommend Paul Churchill's book "Alcohol is Sh*t". (Paul is the founding father of Recovery Elevator).

Join us LIVE as we discuss the journey of alcoholism with Paul Churchill of Recovery Elevator.

Episode 368 – The Mind F&ck of Alcohol   Today we have Stephen. He is from New Jersey and took his last drink on September 15, 2020.   Ditch the Booze:  https://recoveryelevator.com/cafére   Promo Code:  OPPORTUNITY   Highlights from Paul   Paul shares an email from a listener who asks Paul how people without a drinking problem can get help. He talks about the A&E show “Intervention” and how he often watched it while drinking alone, grateful he didn't have a problem with alcohol. The show, Intervention gave Paul countless examples of how alcohol “f&cks” with your mind.   After 276 interventions on the show, 270 accepted treatment, with 151 remaining clean and sober today, which is a 55% success rate. If those numbers are accurate, they are much more optimistic than the broadly accepted low teen success rate you hear from the industry.   Paul reminds listeners that you probably have a drinking problem if you are listening to a sobriety podcast. The point of addiction is to get to know yourself and love yourself.    Better Help:  www.betterhelp.com/elevator                                                                               [13:10] Stephen is 45 and lives in New Jersey. He is a father (a “girl dad”), coach, and owns his own business. He loves coaching, sports, and everything outside.      Stephen's relationship with alcohol evolved over 25 years. Alcohol was his biggest challenge, but he also used marijuana. He dabbled in underage drinking and had fun on the Jersey shore. He managed his drinking well for many years. When his second daughter was born, he began to acknowledge his drinking was problematic. His drinking escalated over the years. He and his wife danced with moderation, and he occasionally took days off drinking. Stephen was the driver of the drinking in his marriage.   Stephen credits Paul Churchill's book with getting him sober. He tried several programs before he found Recovery Elevator. Ultimately, he went to a four-day detox. He was full of energy and enthusiasm after leaving detox. He relapsed a few times but rallied and has been able to stack days. Mismatched drinking habits pushed the end of his marriage. Meditation, journaling, exercise, and accountability are his best sobriety tools.    Value Bombs   Learning that alcohol was the symptom, not the problem, was eye-opening Enjoy the moments Once it gets good (in sobriety), it gets great quickly. Everything compounds.   Odette's Summary   If you are seeking anything outside of self, you are taking the long way home. Odette reminds us that everything we need is inside of us. There is no shame in having doubt. Stay on the path! Remember, you are not alone. Together is always better.   Upcoming events, retreats, and courses: You can find more information about our events   Resources Connect with Cafe RE - Use the promo code OPPORTUNITY to waive the set-up fee. Recovery Elevator YouTube - Subscribe here! Sobriety Tracker iTunes    Recovery Elevator – it all starts from the inside out. I love you guys.

RMA-Episode 66 Show Notes:   Saddle up! Today RMA sits down with Paul Churchill, host of Recovery Elevator and author of the book, Alcohol is Sh*t, How to Ditch the Booze, Re-ignite Your Life, and Recover the Person you Were Always Meant to be. In February 2015 Paul launched the Recovery Elevator Podcast as an accountability tool to quit drinking. Today, the podcast has surpassed 3 million downloads, is in the 95th percentile of all podcasts on iTunes and has been downloaded in all 50 states and over 145 countries. We had a great conversation with Paul, and we're really excited to share it with you.   Plus, Recovery in the News, The Week in Weird, Monksters Speak on a marginally festive, internally focused, royalty-free episode of Recovery in the Middle Ages   LINKS:   Alcohol is Sh!t Amazon Link—> https://amzn.to/3sbkgn7   Recovery Elevator   Recovery in the News:   https://nypost.com/2021/12/11/meet-an-ex-crack-addict-marathon-runner-and-more-extremists/   Lawmakers want to strengthen access to non-religious substance abuse treatment services   The Week in Weird:   https://www.coasttocoastam.com/article/video-crashed-flying-saucer-spotted-on-mars/ Recovery News You Can Use   https://www.soberliningsplaybook.com/   JOIN THE RECOVERY IN THE MIDDLE AGES PATREON AND SUPPORT THE SHOW!! LISTEN TO RMA ON YOUTUBE PLEASE leave us a 5 star review on I-Tunes if you're enjoying the show and SUBSCRIBE to get the latest episodes.    You can reach us by email at: MikeR@middleagesrecovery.com Natx@middleagesrecovery.com   Send comments, complaints, death threats, ideas and requests to be interviewed. We'll talk to anyone! Check out the website: Www.middleagesrecovery.com   While you're there, buy a T-Shirt and support your favorite recovery podcast.   Visit MiddleAgesRecovery.com and tell us your story of your struggles with alcohol and drugs. Fill out the “tell us your story” Form on the website, write your recovery or using story and we will read it on the air! (Anonymity guaranteed).   FOLLOW US ON TWITTER  Join the Facebook Page! Exciting things are happening there!   We also have a Facebook Group! Request to join the group. It's a private space for continuing the discussion of what Nat and Mike talk about on the podcast. Hope to see you there. If you're in trouble with substance abuse and need help, reach out. There are thousands of people who have put problems with addiction in their rear-view mirrors and you can be one of them. While we neither endorse nor condemn any particular program, the sheer number of available AA and NA meetings suggest that reaching out to those organizations would be a good first step on the road to recovery.     https://www.aa.org/ https://www.na.org/meetingsearch/   Marijuana Anonymous (just in case):   This Naked Mind   Addiction Recovery Podcast  

“I'll show you a grim little bit of evidence” [RETI]  Paul Churchill, BSI (“Corot”) delighted in recreating evidence boxes for each Sherlock Holmes story. After his death in 2008, Deborah Clark became their steward. Regular attendees of Watson's Tin Box see evidence boxes at every monthly meeting, but we wanted to give you a peek inside as well. Debbie sat down with us to detail what these evidence boxes are, how Paul created them, and what makes them so special.  The contents inside them (and outside of some of them) are astounding in their reality and detail, bringing the Sherlock Holmes stories to life in a unique way. We have posted . And of course, we have another Canonical Couplet to challenge your acuity. If you are chosen as a winner, you'll get The Sherlock Holmes Scrapbook by Peter Haining. Answers are due by October 14, 2021 at 11:59 a.m. EDT. Information on sponsors, links, and notes are available below.   Please do consider becoming a . Your support helps us to ensure we can keep doing what we do, covering file hosting costs, production, and transcription services.    Sponsors  has a new edition in the McCabe-Cody series: , available on September 28.    is the premier publisher of books about Sherlock Holmes and Arthur Conan Doyle, including Terence Faherty's .    has a number of new Kickstarters that need your attention: , , and .     Would you care to advertise with us? You can find . Let's chat!   Links This episode:  Previous episodes mentioned: Many more links, articles and images are available in our Flipboard magazine at  as well as through our accounts on , , , and .   And would you consider leaving us a rating and review? It would help other Sherlockians to find us.   Your thoughts on the show? Leave a comment below, send us an email (comment AT ihearofsherlock DOT com), call us at (774) 221-READ (7323).   Transcript We are so grateful for your support , which makes our transcripts possible. Every amount helps. A transcript will be available at .   --    

Join us as Paul Churchill shares his experience, strength and hope around today's Daily Reflection, Redoubling Our Efforts. You can find Recovery Elevator at https://www.recoveryelevator.com/Paul's book, Alcohol is Shit: https://www.amazon.com/Paul-Churchill/e/B07WVQQPC8%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_shareAnd The Recovery Elevator Podcast: https://www.recoveryelevator.com/podcasts/REDOUBLING OUR EFFORTSTo a degree, he has already done this when taking moral inventory, but now the time has come when he ought to redouble his efforts to see how many people he has hurt, and in what ways,— TWELVE STEPS AND TWELVE TRADITIONS, p. 77As I continue to grow in sobriety, I become more aware of myself as a person of worth. In the process, I am better able to see others as persons, and with this comes the realization that these were people whom I had hurt in my drinking days. I didn't just lie, I lied about Tom. I didn't just cheat, I cheated Joe. What were seemingly impersonal acts, were really personal affronts, because it was people—people of worth—whom I had harmed. I need to do something about the people I have hurt so that I may enjoy a peaceful sobriety.Need the Daily Reflection Book?Visit our web siteRead about Recovery on our BlogVisit our Facebook GroupFollow us on TwitterSupport the Podcast:- On Patreon: https://patreon.com/dailyreflection- On PayPal: https://paypal.me/dailyreflectionIf you're struggling with alcohol or addiction, or wondering how to stop drinking it's helpful to know that there's a solution that has worked for millions of people. The Daily Reflection Podcast provides hope, and inspiration through the shared experiences of people that have found a way out. 

In this episode, we meet Paul Churchill, author, podcaster, and a person in long-term recovery. When Paul's life went into meltdown in the summer of 2014, he came to a realization that he needed to stop drinking. More importantly, though, he was ready to stop, and he wanted sobriety. Then, after about six months of […]

Episode 334     You're not giving something up, you are getting so much more in return, it's just amazing.    Kevin is 53, from South Carolina and took his last drink on October 6, 2019.  This is his journey of living alcohol free (AF).      Today's show is sponsored by Better Help.    Kevin's interview is with Kris. You guys are going to love Kris's style. He's a grounded, laid back guy from North Dakota who fully gets the importance of connection. Just like you all gave me a chance, and Odette, please focus on the similarities, not the differences and welcome Kris.   Speaking of Kris, we've made 10 YouTube Videos, and some of them are funny, at least that's my opinion.  and our last video was my top 10 favorite recovery books. Go over to YouTube and type Recovery Elevator in the search bar.   I just finished the book “Breath” by James Nestor. The breath is the true foundation for all recovery work. It turns out, 5.5 breaths per minute is the optimal rate. That's 5.5 seconds on the inhale, and 5.5 on the exhale for a total of 5.5 per minute. So next time you're caught up in email apnea, pause and focus on the breath.  I highly recommend this book.  Breath by James Nestor  https://amzn.to/3zOJ1GZ.   Why did Adele cross the road? To say hello from the other side.   Okay, let's get started -   Today I want to talk about the incredible feature film on trauma and addiction by Dr. Gabor Mate. The film is called “The Wisdom of Trauma.” This film needed to be made and will move the needle in a healthy direction in terms of how we view addiction.   Film:  https://thewisdomoftrauma.com/    Book:  “In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts” - Dr. Gabor Mate https://amzn.to/3xOAZx1   This film covers what addiction is. It covers how it happens, when the driving forces behind an addiction take hold in life and it also has practical ideas on how we should address addiction as a society and as the individual struggling with an addiction. On this podcast, you're most likely listening to address a drinking problem, but all addictions, for the most part are interchangeable, and the mechanisms are mostly the same.   Okay, no surprise here, he talks about trauma. And he is noted for saying that all addictions, start with trauma, and the baulk of that happens in adolescence. The start of addiction doesn't happen when you lose your job, but in infancy. Always. We often think that trauma must happen in Afghanistan, or a physically abusive parent but it also happens when we aren't hugged enough as a child or us not getting something we needed when we were young. Parents in the 20th and 21st centuries are pulled in so many directions, that unfortunately, this is common. It's the kiddos that pay the price.   Please don't take any of this energy and steer it towards your parents, etc. They did their best. That's not a healthy way to take this information.   This is an emotional film. I cried during parts of it.     He says that trauma happens when you disconnect with yourself, when you don't have anyone to talk with. When kids are alone with their hurt. Another way to say this is there wasn't a healthy way to move the energy. It got stuck. Humans talking about it, is the equivalent of a duck flapping its wings in nature, and we couldn't do that as a child. So, the body hangs on to the energy. But it's not fun energy to hang on to. In the western world one of the dominant ways this excess of energy manifests itself is through inflammation in the body.   He then talks about how we look at addiction as a poor choice. We, meaning society, and the individual.  Thank you, Mrs.  Regan for adding a couple of thick layers of pinyon pine to the stigma with the “Just say no” campaign from the 80's.  That didn't help much. Gabor, then reframes it by saying, the addiction wasn't a poor choice, it was the solution. I agree completely. In fact, I'd take it even further and say kudos you found a way to survive. It's now time to find healthier ways to cope since alcohol, will mess you up spiritually, mentally, and physically in the long run. Do not beat yourself up for having a drinking problem, you found a way to survive. And now it's time to find a healthier way to connect.  That's all we're doing here.   I like how Gabor calls out capitalism and most modern economies as fueling addictions. We are primed to feel we need to purchase something external for short term inner wholeness. For long term wholeness, this process must be replicated 100's and 1000's of times. This is great for the stock market, but not great for mental health. There's one word to summarize this. It's MORE. We are always looking for more. This is a major pickle in modern societies that we have address ASAP. He talks about how this addiction is destroying the earth. We don't have fix the earth, fix climate change or global warming.   We must fix ourselves and the individual level. Planet earth will be fine when we're gone. Our current way of living, which Eckart Tolle calls insane, is how we are conditioned. It's crazy, and unsustainable. This paradigm is shifting. You all are part of this paradigm shift.     Dr. Mate talks about how we are treating stress and addictions with more stressors. Most western illnesses are treated with steroids and cortisol creams. It's not curing or treating anything.   He talks about the two ways society treats or views addicts. That it's a choice, just say no, and if do say yes, you are warned with catchy commercials, then the user is punished. The penal system at the macro encourages intense shame guilt at the inner the micro level. That it's a disease, and not a choice. He feels this is a better approach, since people can then get treatment like any other disease but ignores why people really get addicted which has nothing to do with a disease. Dr. Gabor Mate is clear on his stance about if a drinking problem is a passed down genetic disease that runs in the family. He says it is not. He believes these adaptive behaviors, addictions, are learned and formed to survive in an environment that isn't conducive to wholeness or happiness. That's a lot to unpack. Seriously. Feel free to hit the pause button on your podcast player. I'm on board with this approach. In fact, I've switched my tune while doing the Recovery Elevator podcast. At first, I thought addiction was a passed down genetic disorder.  But now feel these behaviors are coping mechanisms that allow us to survive in environments that are full of static, car alarms, incorrect passwords, identify theft, violence, backstabbing, sexual abuse, spam phone calls,  and more. And we all must deal with this incoherent energy. Yes, I do believe this inharmonious energy is passed down generationally and we all must deal with it, not just the addicts. In fact, in most native cultures, when one person in a community was sick, the whole community came forth to help. The whole community would even brunt the financial costs because they knew, a sick person within a community, wasn't an outlier, but a representation that something was out of balance within the community. And today, in modern, society, we've got a lot of sick people, with depression being the number one cause of disability worldwide. Dr. Mate says that in the USA, the richest country in the world, 1/2 of its citizens have chronic illnesses, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, addictions etc. Another way to say that, is we got big houses, big guns indeed, but we're disconnected and need help. This is also the point of an addiction. A fear, or a marker of sorts that something is out of balance and needs attention.   So how do we treat this? Dr. Mate says, the modern medical paradigm separates the mind from the body and separates the person from the environment. I think he would agree that we need to use the mind to come into the body, and not leave it or disassociate with it. I know he would agree that we must recognize there's an in imbalance. Sure, it's the first step in all 12 step programs, but science shows this also. You can't make change in anything, until a consciousness is there to witness it, or say “yes, this is here, and I'm going to deal with it.” There is not a right or wrong way to address an addiction, but what I've learned here at RE, is that community must be a component of this. A HUGE component. As in the blades of a helicopter. Or the propeller on a prop plane, or the wheels on a car.   We've all heard what you resist persists. Thank you, psychologist Carl Jung. At the individual level, we must recognize something is out of balance. At the group level, we do the same - and it can be a lot of fun.   At the individual level, you're doing it. You're listening. Which means you're open to a whole new way of living. This is what gets me excited about Recovery Elevator. Its exploring new ways to live, that don't require alcohol to be happy. And we are all figuring this out together.   Before we hear from Kris and Kevin, Let's hear from Betterhelp.   Visit betterhelp.com/ELEVATOR and join the over 1,000,000 people talking charge of their mental health with the help of an experienced professional. Recovery Elevator listeners get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/ELEVATOR.    [12:55] Kris introduces Kevin   Kevin took his last drink on October 6, 2019, he is creeping up on two years and he feels great.  Not every day is great or happy, but he feels better equipped to handle what life throws at him.    [14:02] Give us a little background on you.   Kevin is 53 and lived in Long Island for most of his life.  He now lives in Bluffton, South Carolina.  He is not married, has an awesome girlfriend, and has dogs named Ben and Jerry.  He loves to read; he loves the outdoors, and he loves to work.    [15:39] Tell us about your relationship with alcohol and how did that evolve over time?   Kevin said it had a lifespan.  He started drinking in 8th or 9th grade experimenting.  He moved to Long Island in 4th grade.  He made a lot of friends, but never felt like he fit in.  In the late 80's he was drinking heavily.  At the time, he didn't think it was a problem.  College was a continuation – binge drinking on the weekend.  He drank through snowstorms, nice weather, hiking, etc.  He thought it was normal because everyone else was doing it.    [17:25] Did you have any consequences from your early years of drinking?   Kevin's parents were strict.  His parents knew he was drinking, and his older brother never drank.   He became the project for his older brother.  After college he got married and his drinking slowed down a bit.  Being married and becoming a new Dad, living in a high rent district was stressful.  Kevin describes himself as high functioning.  He had a nice house, nice family and on the weekends, he drank a lot.  In 2009, he got a DUI.  He reflected on rock bottoms and his wife (an attorney) was able to help.  He avoided additional jail time and he slowed down his drinking for a time.    [20:06] You described having a nice house and a job, did your high functioning ever lead you to believe you didn't have a problem?   Kevin said, he looked great on paper.  He had a business, a nice house, he supported charities, he was on the little league board and was a “good dude”.  He knew he had a problem with alcohol.  He was a fun drunk and was a great guy to hang out with.  At 3 AM, he was sweating, his heart was racing, and he knew something wasn't right.    [22:15] Walk us forward, tell us more   Kevin tried to maintain the status quo.  He and his wife got divorced.  He believes his wife deserved better and alcohol had an impact but wasn't the only factor in their divorce.  The alcohol affected his ability to rebuild the marriage.  His drinking reached a new level post-divorce.  He spent a lot of time on his own.  He frequented sports bars and the “type” of drinking escalated.  He felt a lot of guilt and shame.  The salve of alcohol didn't last for more than 20 minutes.  He knew something was wrong.  Kevin put lots of rules on himself – only drink…. He would make a rule, break it, and invent three more.  Only this, only that ….. Annie Grace's book first got him to explore quitting.  Annie's podcast mentioned Paul Churchill.  Kevin has met Paul a few times and says, Paul ruined drinking for him.    Value Bomb – when you are in it, it's so subtle.  It takes a different form than you a realize.    [27:52] Paul ruined it for you, so what happens next?   Kevin was driving home and hit a rumble strip and he thought to himself – I've got good kids, good friends, and a great business.   Two days later he went to a street festival, and he had a beer or two and he decided on 10/6/2019 he knew, this is it!  He had dozens of days one's day 6's and day whatever's.   He knew it was over.    Value Bomb – Your resets are not for nothingness.  They help you establish the willingness to move forward. Dig in, keep learning, it's all growth.   [30:57] What did the first 30/60/90 days look like for you?   Kevin leaned in heavy on Café RE.  He took the advice.  He took naps when he needed them.  He cut back on work a bit. He cut back on engagements.  He learned to set boundaries.  He learned to leave respectfully.  He learned to prepare and had he faked a few gin and tonics.  He embraced NA beer.  He avoided drinking. The cravings dissipated over time.  Kevin craved situations more than the alcohol – college football, Superbowl.  He had the willingness.  Preparation was key.  As people  became aware he wasn't drinking, it became easier.  After a little practice, it became easier every time.  Setting boundaries was huge.   Value Bomb – we grow and learn what situations we want to be in an those we don't.  It's okay to let go of certain situations.    [36:43] How did drinking impact your relationships?   Kevin said his parents were never drinkers, so there wasn't much of an issue.  In his first marriage, he acknowledges drinking made him less patient.  Drinking takes up a lot of your money, your health, and your time.  Kevin now has great relationships with his parents, his sons, and his ex-wife.  He has been able to repair those important relationships and have deeper conversations.  His relationship with his employees evolved and he learned to take a genuine interest and helps others.49:22   [40:22] Walk us though what your recovery looks like now.    Kevin is an early riser.  He carves out 90 minutes every morning and he reads, meditates, and writes.  He spends time with his dogs, goes to work and spends time with friends in the evening.  He travels to New York to spend time with his kids.  Café RE keeps him connected to the community.      [41:45] Rapid Fire Round   What was your AHA or OSM (oh sh!t moment) about controlling drinking? Driving home from a brew pub and hitting the rumble strip became his AHA moment.    What is your plan in sobriety moving forward? My plan is to keep doing what I'm doing.  It's not a linear trip.  He has dip days.  He is going to Café RE meet ups.  The zoom chats help, and he offers words of encouragement.  Staying connected is key.    Regarding sobriety, what's the best advice you ever received? Be kind to yourself.  Look at yourself like your dogs look at you.  Loathing yourself isn't productive.  The journey has a lot of whacky dips and bumps.  Be kind to yourself.    What parting piece of guidance do you have for listeners? You must want to do it and you must do it for yourself.  Figure out your why.  It can't be just for your spouse or your kids. You aren't giving something up.  You are getting so much more in return.    You may have to ditch the booze if …   Kevin didn't want to rupture or end his relationship with his kids, the most wonderful relationships in his life.    Kris's closing comments   Kris talks about the scale going up after he quit drinking.  He talked about the big dreams that come with sobriety.  Patience is key to getting healthy and achieving your goals.  Manage your expectations.  Let the work do its work.  It's okay for some things to take a back seat.  Embrace positive affirmations and gratitude.  Love yourself, you are doing amazing things.  Kris said as he listened to other guests, he learned and has he learned he healed.  He is grateful to other guests and his Café RE family.  kris@recoveryelevator.com.    Upcoming events, retreats, and courses: Bozeman 2021 (August 18-22, 2021) registration opens March 1! This is our flagship annual retreat held in the pristine forests of Big Sky Country, 10 miles south of Bozeman, Montana. During this 5-day event, you'll discover how to expand the boundaries of your comfort zone. You can find more information about our events    Affiliate Link for Endourage: For 10% off your first CBD order with Endourage visit this link and use the promo code elevator at checkout.    Affiliate Link for Amazon: Shop via Amazon using this link.   The book, Alcohol is SH!T, is out. Pick up your paperback copy on Amazon here! You can get the Audible version here!     Resources:  Connect with Cafe RE - Use the promo code OPPORTUNITY to waive the set-up fee. Recovery Elevator YouTube - Subscribe here! Sobriety Tracker iTunes      “Recovery Elevator – Without the darkness you would never know the light - I love you guys”      

Janey chats to Paul Churchill author, podcaster and founder of Recovery Elevator about his journey recovering from being at rock bottom, suicide, DUI et al,  We also chat to Sarah Yate from Sea Arch Drinks who are sponsoring the Janey Loves Platinum Awards on their unique artisan 'not gin'  Sarah has contributed recipes for great af cocktails for Happy Healthy Sober Don't forget to vote for the Alcohol Free Life podcast in the listeners choice of the British Podcast Awards (links to vote for Janey and for Platinum Awards here too) We have spaces on our Sober by the sea retreat afternoon / early eve events in Southend Essex, its all about self care and visioning the new you, spaces on Sat 21st Aug, and register interest in case of cancellation for July 10th and July 25th   Heres all the info, its low cost, amazing value, small group If you love kombucha by the way, learn to make your own, Janey has teamed up with Naturopath Enid Taylor to create a video tutorial to guide you through making your own AF brew  4 vids and workbook  Only £9.99 get yours here Don;t forget to follow Janey on social @janeyleegrace and if you want connection, inspiration, expert content, accountability join us in The Sober Club, its a full member portal with private small fb group where Janey responds to pretty much EVERY post   Join us Here

Today I'm talking about giving up alcohol with Paul Churchill, the founder of Recovery Elevator.  Paul is a leading voice in the world of recovery having launched the podcast, Recovery Elevator, 6 years ago as an accountability tool when he was first getting sober.  The Recovery Elevator podcast has been downloaded over 6 million times in 145 countries and has helped countless women and men give up alcohol and live a better life.  Today, Paul and I discuss how he went from owning a bar in Granada, Spain and blacking out 7 days a week to launching a podcast about alcohol addiction, and using addiction as the fuel to start an online and in-person alcohol-free community and business.  For full show notes, head over to www.hellosomedaycoaching.com/64   Want more support, resources and tools to help you go alcohol-free?   You can Drink Less + Live More today with The Sobriety Starter Kit. It's the private, on-demand coaching course you need to break out of the drinking cycle - without white-knuckling it or hating the process. Grab the  Free Sober Girls Guide To Quitting Drinking, 30 Tips For Your First 30 Days     Connect with Casey Find out more about Casey and her coaching programs, head over to her website, www.hellosomedaycoaching.com Take a screenshot of your favorite episode, post it on your Instagram and tag me @caseymdavidson and tell me your biggest takeaway!

You went into your business as a way to help and support other people. So many of the clients I work with have started their business from a personal passion, and a desire to make a positive change in peoples' lives. Today's episode is different from any other episode I've done before. You may not recognize our guest, but he's a master at online content. I discovered Paul Churchill last summer through his Recovery Elevator podcast. It was right around when I started my health journey and started toying with quitting drinking. In this interview, we talk about the moment when Paul realized that the podcast was so much more than an accountability tool—it was a way to help others and, eventually, to grow a business. I invited Paul onto the podcast to share that your passion CAN become a business.  As you're listening, I would love to have you listen with the lens of...what's your passion? Have you built a business around it? Because your audience is waiting for it!  Tune in!   Mentioned in This Episode Café RE: Use the promo code OPPORTUNITY to waive the setup fee Alcohol is SH!T Podcasters Paradise The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It by Michael E. Gerber Johann Hari Ted Talks “Rat Park” Experiment Episode 61: Take Care of Yourself and Your Business with Allison Jordan Client Journey Ebook The Content Mastery Lab   About Paul Churchill In 2006, Paul Churchill moved to Granada Spain where he purchased a bar. In the following three years he became dependent on alcohol, blacking out close to 7 nights per week. In 2009, Paul walked away from the bar hoping a geographical cure would curtail the drinking but continued to drink for another 5 years.   In February 2015 Paul launched the Recovery Elevator podcast as an accountability tool to stay sober. Today, it's been over 5 years since Paul had his last drink of Alcohol and the podcast has surpassed 5 million downloads, and evolved into a private membership community with over 1,300 members from all over the world.  Paul is the author of the best-selling book Alcohol is SH!T, has delivered two TEDx talks, was a featured speaker at My Brave in Los Angeles, and plans to continue eradicating the stigma surrounding alcohol and addiction. Follow Recovery Elevator on Instagram and Facebook.

Episode 331 – we hear from Laura!   Community is so important.  It is so important to connect with ourselves, our source energy, or other people.  All those things get disconnected with addiction. Reconnecting with the world is an important part of recovery.   On today's podcast we have Laura who is from Austin, TX and took her last drink on September 16, 2019.  This is her journey of living live alcohol free (AF).     Headlines   Laura's Amazing Journey [16:04]– you will hear about Laura's story, and she has some great insights for all of us along this journey to gaining or maintaining sobriety.   Paul Churchill is back! He is using his Kermit the frog impression.   He missed us all and is so grateful to Odette and all of us for giving him a break this past year. Listen to his insights about his key learnings during the last year [11:20]. Paul describes being sick, mentally physically and spiritually.   He is dedicated and energized to continue Recovery Elevator (RE).   Season Three! 52 episodes – Paul will do 46 intros; Odette will do 6 and welcome Chris who will do an interview every month   RESTORE 13 session alcohol free Dry July course! com/restore 75-minute sessions on Monday, Thursday and Sunday with homework sessions including: Calming the mind Building accountability Dealing with intense emotions How to have fun without alcohol Addressing unhealthy thoughts Sound Healing AF Free beverages and more! Day 1 or more and Patrick and Odette are coaching with Paul.   Odette Rocked It and she is still here! Paul gave many stats about how a podcast survives in a pandemic.  Paul also learned so much from listening to Odette take the from seat on the podcast.  His discoveries among many include:   Focus on wholeness Be honest Be vulnerable Time has its own timeline Understanding your relationship with food Expand your team (you are not in this alone) Have Fun! Sobriety is not a curse.      Laura's Story   [16:04] Odette welcomes Laura   Laura's last drink was September 16, 2019.   Laura feels great and has ups and downs and is present and grateful.  She lives in Austin, Texas where she owns a spa and does bodywork and energy work.  She is working with Supernatural Recovery.  She is a single mom to an 8-year-old daughter and loves meditation and yoga.    [17:40]  Tell us about your path with drinking   Laura grew up in an alcohol abusive family.  She started smoking pot and LSD at 14.  She didn't want to drink because of her parent's drinking.  She was raped at 16 and started drinking to overcome her panic attacks.   She was imprisoned, tortured, and sexually abused for two years.  She escaped from her abuser at 18, went to college and her PTSD symptoms became really apparent.  She was hospitalized until she could become mentally stable.  She continued drinking for 20 years.  She was often functioning and often not, it swung back and forth.  She didn't have any rock bottom moments, she lived in rock bottom for several years.  After several false starts she was able to stop drinking in 2019.   [20:57] What was your inner dialogue when you started using alcohol?   Laura realized if she was drunk enough, she didn't have a panic attack.  She was doing things that weren't healthy, but it was how she survived.  She is also in recovery for an eating disorder.  As part of that journey, she realizes she developed a lot of maladaptive coping mechanism that were survival instincts to help her disassociate.   [23:27] How was sharing your abuse with the world?   Laura said she didn't share very much.  She minimized her early trauma.  Integrating her alcohol recovery with heavy trauma therapy has helped her and as her sobriety time increases, more memories surface surfaced.  The heavy trauma therapy helped her understand why it was so difficult for her to get sober.  Her trauma and alcoholism to hand in hand.    [25:29] Have recurring memories of trauma been a trigger for you?   Laura said sobriety has been an awakening process.  She has discovered some radical truths and uncovering new information about her trauma and her family of origin.  Her therapist has helped her reconcile those awakenings.   [26:35] How did you approach your healing journey?   Laura wrote a book about her journey which is part of Supernatural Recovery.  There are four cornerstones including:  caring for your physical body (nutrition, hydration, exercise), trauma relief (body work, energy work, plant medicine, acupuncture), calming your nervous system (finding new ways to handle your body when her nervous system was activated), forgiveness and self-compassion which been the part of it.  She is learning how to enjoy her life and avoid negative relationship patterns.   [29:20] How did you discover these alternative tools?   Laura said because of her body work practice, she is connected to many resources in the Austin recovery community. She learned to release trauma and find new ways to live her life.    [31:14] How was early sobriety for you?    Laura said she did not have a pink cloud.  She cried all day every day for the first 90 days.  Hiking daily, getting outside and the Recovery Elevator podcast were very helpful so she could be vulnerable and honest.  At about 90 days, yoga helped her to feel better.  When she began working with a somatic process, it helped her to become stronger and more committed.  The book, The Energy Codes was helpful and has become a cornerstone of her program.    [34:53] Tell me about the relationship between your alcohol recovery and your eating disorder?   Laura said she played addiction whack a mole for some time.  Healing isn't linear and learning to avoid self-abuse has ups and downs.   [37:20] What role does community have in your healing?   Laura said community is so important.  Reconnecting with your source energy, people, and the world when you are recovering is important.  She dipped her toes in AA and the 12 Steps, and found it wasn't for her.  The Austin based yoga recovery community has yoga and meditation classes that have been instrumental to her recovery.  Café RE was important to her in the early days.   [38:55] Do you still go to therapy?   Laura said yes!  She began therapy before she got sober.  Her therapist specializes in empaths and highly sensitives.  When Laura wanted to stop drinking, worked for a year and a half.   She had several false starts, and her therapist helped her get to the other side.  Her therapist has inspired her to pursue a master's degree in counseling.   [40:42] What has recovery made possible for you?   Laura said what she is building with Supernatural Recovery and writing a book that is about to get published.  Education is a part of her journey.  She has a better handle on her emotional reactions.  Service is also gift in her recovery.   [42:30] Do you still get cravings?   Laura said yes and she currently uses fancy olives.  In her early days she would take a shot of apple cider vinegar.  Calming her body and spending time in nature help.  The disease is to disconnect, and the medicine is to stay present.  Breathwork also helps.  Yoga has helped her train her mind to be her friend.    [44:45] What reactions from others have you experienced since you quit drinking?   Laura said people in her life were relieved, happy, and proud.  She has lost some friends along the way because she wasn't a happy, fun drinker. Sometimes people can't come with you on any awakening journey.  At the end of the day, you must choose yourself.  Letting go with gratitude helps avoid bad blood.    [46:58] Have you been able to identify any triggers?   Laura said her triggers are emotional, worrying about her daughter and getting hungry.  When she thinks she might want a drink, she now can recognize the trigger, let go of the thought and solve it with self-care.  Her daughter is learning to use those tools as well.    [49:14] What does a day in your life look like?   Laura said after dropping her daughter at school, she runs or walks, takes clients, yoga, works on her website or editing her book. On the weekends she spends time outside and hikes with friends.    Teaching her daughter about self-care and handling your emotions is important.  Her recovery has made her strong and help others heal.   [53:57] When does your book come out?   It is slated to be published through the Balboa press within the next 4-5 months.  She is excited share the broad menu of recovery with others.   [55:15] Rapid Fire Round   If you could talk to your younger self, what would you say? It's going to be okay.  You are an incredible, strong person.  You are going to get through this and help others.   What is your favorite NA beverage? Kin Euphorics https://www.kineuphorics.com   What are some of your favorite resources in recovery? Supernatural Recovery, Café RE, and yoga.   What's an unexpected perk of being sober? Her skin, her eyes are brighter and that increases her confidence.   What parting piece of guidance can you give to listeners? Have compassion for yourself.  The healing journey is not linear.  If you are trying and you haven't made it yet, realize the more you beat yourself up, the harder it gets.   You might need to say Adios to booze if … When a bottle is half empty and you go to the store because you are worried about running out.    Odette's Summary   Odette says a heartfelt thank you to those that help with the podcast, the listeners and to Paul for giving her the opportunity to be your host.   Upcoming events, retreats, and courses: Bozeman 2021 (August 18-22, 2021). This is our flagship annual retreat held in the pristine forests of Big Sky Country, 10 miles south of Bozeman, Montana. During this 5-day event, you'll discover how to expand the boundaries of your comfort zone. You can find more information about our events    Affiliate Link for Endourage: For 10% off your first CBD order with Endourage visit this link and use the promo code elevator at checkout.    Affiliate Link for Amazon: Shop via Amazon using this link.   The book, Alcohol is SH!T, is out. Pick up your paperback copy on Amazon here! You can get the Audible version here!     Resources:  Connect with Cafe RE - Use the promo code OPPORTUNITY to waive the set-up fee. Recovery Elevator YouTube - Subscribe here! Sobriety Tracker iTunes   

Paul Churchill: Creator And Host of The Recovery Elevator Podcast and author of "Alcohol is Shit". In this episode James interviews Paul about his journey, how he overcome his struggles with alcohol and started helping others live an alcohol-free life through his work.

Episode 327 – trying to stop and think about, is alcohol serving me?  I don’t have to decide right now, I need to get back to basics.   Chloe took her last drink on June 7, 2020.  She is from the UK and is 32 years old.  This is her journey of living alcohol free (AF).   Odette gave a shout out to Brainwashed Coffee that is one of the sponsors of the Bozeman retreat.  They also donate 50% of their proceeds to those in addiction recovery.  https://www.brainwashedcoffeeco.com/  Promo Code:  elevator for a 20% discount.   Finding Your Better You – Odette’s weekly message.   Odette spoke about growing up with her brother, Charlie and playing lots of video games.  Odette talked about trust and video games.  Trust is earned.  The more you do the next right thing and protect your sobriety, you get to the next level, just the way you level up when playing video games.  Facing recovery with fun instead of fear helps you recognize your increasing skills that come with practice.    [6:09]  Odette introduces Chloe   Chloe took her last drink on June 7, 2020.  She said it has been a crazy journey.  Chloe is 32 and lives in the UK.  She has a dog, and she loves walking the dog, running, anything active.   [7:16] Tell us about your history with drinking?   Chloe started drinking at age 15.  She was a binge drinker like many of her friends.  She didn’t see it as a problem until her mid to late twenties.  She started listening to the Recovery Elevator podcast.  She reached one-year of sobriety and had a relapse that was lengthy.  As of this recording she has 8 months of continuous sobriety.   [8:19] What put you on the trajectory to quit drinking?   Chloe said she wanted to drink more than she could get away with.  As her moderation journey continued, her drinking got worse.  She got depressed and was in a bad relationship.  She attempted suicide and was put into an inpatient program for depression.  She was sneaking alcohol while in the program but didn’t relate the correlation between drinking and her depression, she found AA and discovered she could have a happy life without drinking.   [11:01] Did the doctors treating your depression ask about your drinking?   Chloe said she played down her drinking.  She thought everyone did that.   Alcohol was such a crutch, and it was something she looked forward to, so it was hard to get her head around stopping.    [12:30] How did you end up at your first AA meeting?   Chloe said the more she tried to moderate, the more out of control her drinking became.  She answered yes to every question on an alcohol quiz.  She was able to relate to what people in AA said.  They were able to have a happy, functional life without alcohol.  It helped her change her thinking about drinking and her depression.   [14:49] What happened after your first AA meeting?   Chloe stopped drinking for a bit, then relapsed.  She went into a second treatment program and got sober.  She worked the steps.  She achieved a year of sobriety.  She started drinking after getting into a relationship with someone new.  He was a drinker and she wanted to share that experience.  Over the next 18 months, her drinking became progressively worse.  Her thinking was muddled.  She read Paul Churchill’s book; Alcohol is Sh*t!  She realized she didn’t need to figure out if she was powerless, yet.  She needed to get back to basics and keep trying.  Even one day of sobriety is progress.    [18:08]  Did the desire to fit in influence your relapse?    Chloe said she thought she could have fun with alcohol and stop again.  She didn’t realize how insidious it is to continue starting and stopping over and over. Sobriety is precious.  She felt crazy.   She would listen to sobriety podcasts, then drink at night.  She learned a lot of lessons through drinking.        [21:54] Did you share your sobriety with people outside of AA?   Chloe said she did share her quest for sobriety with the person she was in a relationship with.  She had to get support when she returned to sobriety.  She has great friends in AA and her family is supportive as well.   [23:02] Did sobriety help your depression?   Chloe said about six months into sobriety she noticed the feelings of joy and gratitude that she hadn’t experienced before.  The depression was gone.  Her life had meaning and a reason to go on.    [24:46] What motivated you to quit again?   Chloe said it was during lockdown and things were bad.   Lockdown accelerated her drinking.  She drank three bottles of wine a day, passed out and kept repeating it day after day.  Her last night of drinking, she drank so much, she got into a fight and got violent with her partner at the time.  She called the police, and they took him away.  The next morning, she realized she was the one with the problem and it couldn’t happen again.  The risk was no longer worth it.  She felt done and resigned. She threw everything she had at sobriety.  She went back to AA and attacked sobriety, stacked days and she is grateful it’s working.  The first few months were tough, now she doesn’t have to work so hard to stay sober.   [28:11] Do you realize how amazing it is that you pulled it together?   Chloe said her self-esteem was strengthened.  She knows she can do hard things and other things she didn’t think were possible.    [30:21] Did you start going back to meetings?   Chloe said, not immediately, but now she can attend in person meetings.  She has friends in AA, she connected to people on Instagram, listened to podcasts and joined Café RE.    [31:32] How do you manage cravings?   Chloe said she is learning not to freak out.  She doesn’t overthink the craving.  It’s normal. Cravings are just a thought.  She plays the tape forward,  exercises and reaches out to friends.   [33:55] Do you get any negative feedback from others about your sobriety?   She said, not this round.  In the last round a co-worker said he didn’t trust anyone who didn’t drink.   [34:45] Have you overcome the concern about having fun sober?   Chloe had to rethink her mindset about sobriety and looks at it as a joyful, amazing journey of growth and possibility vs. misery and deprivation.  She has more energy, more enthusiasm, more interests, more people in her life.    [37:34] Have you been able to identify triggers?   Chloe said stress and celebrations are her biggest triggers.  She recognizes that drinking is no longer a celebration.  The pause is so important.     [38:58] Rapid Fire Round   What would you say to your younger self? Keep trying no matter what.   What is your go to response when someone offers you a drink? She hasn’t faced that because of lockdown.  Her planned response is, yes please, I’ll have a sparkling water.   What has recovery made possible for you? Everything.  When she was drinking, she was doing nothing.  She is training for a marathon, starting a new career and happily single.   What is your favorite ice cream flavor? All ice cream.  She hasn’t had a bad one!   What parting piece of guidance would you give to listeners who are considering ditching the booze?   Keep putting in the action, stacking the days and the result will come.   You may have to say Adios to booze if … If you are listening to podcasts about sobriety.    Odette’s Summary   We have your back.  We are your safe container.  The journey comes with different levels.  Hit the save button when you get stuck. Take a breath, ask for help.   Nothing great is ever done on our own, sobriety takes a village.  Have fun along the way and trust the process.    Remember that you are not alone and together is always better.  We can do this! Upcoming events, retreats, and courses: Bozeman 2021 (August 18-22, 2021). This is our flagship annual retreat held in the pristine forests of Big Sky Country, 10 miles south of Bozeman, Montana. During this 5-day event, you’ll discover how to expand the boundaries of your comfort zone. You can find more information about our events    Affiliate Link for Endourage: For 10% off your first CBD order with Endourage visit this link and use the promo code elevator at checkout.    Affiliate Link for Amazon: Shop via Amazon using this link.   The book, Alcohol is SH!T, is out. Pick up your paperback copy on Amazon here! You can get the Audible version here!     Resources:  Connect with Cafe RE - Use the promo code OPPORTUNITY to waive the set-up fee. Recovery Elevator YouTube - Subscribe here! Sobriety Tracker iTunes      “Recovery Elevator – Without the darkness you would never know the light - I love you guys”    

Episode 324 – I guess it’s my pride.  It’s ego which is not a good thing.  It’s almost a year and I realized, OMG, it’s the best year of my life.   Bobbie took her last drink on December 16, 2019.  She is from upstate New York.    This is her journey of living alcohol free (AF).   Finding Your Better You – Odette’s weekly message.   Odette was inspired by Brian who hosted one of the Café RE chats.  Evolution of sobriety isn’t always linear or a straight shot.  We assume it will be an upgrade.  However, sobriety can be messy.  You can feel stuck and get into victim mentality.    Odette compared sobriety to a puzzle.  Sometimes it can feel like we are going backwards.  When looking at the puzzle, we grab different pieces.  Sometimes the piece doesn’t fit, but we make a mental note and later in the journey, the puzzle piece fits.  Traveling backwards is common because the tool or lesson may have not made sense at the time, but it does later in the journey.    Everything has a purpose and it’s there for a reason. We don’t always see the bigger picture.  We need to accept that unlike a puzzle …. the journey never ends.  There is no destination, it’s about the journey.  It’s not about being (un)loveable, morality, making mistakes, it’s about discovering our wholeness.    We don’t quit quitting.  It’s about resilience.    [11:59]  Odette introduces Bobbie     Bobbie took her last drink on December 16, 2019 She lives in snowy upstate New York.  She has family in Connecticut.  She has two business that she launched in 2020.  She loves volleyball, reading, puzzles, Zumba and is learning how to adjust the fun in our new environment.    [13:54] Tell us about your history with drinking?   Bobbie started drinking at 15.  She remembers the first time she got caught for drinking.  Her biological father was an alcoholic.  She knew she shouldn’t drink because she didn’t want to be like her father.    Growing up, Bobbie spent a lot of time with people in recovery because there was a lot of addiction in her family.  She went to Al-Ateen and many AA picnics.  She believes that she developed an addiction to gambling because she was trying to avoid an addiction to drinking.  She resented having to go to these events because it wasn’t her problem.  Now her view has evolved.  She didn’t embrace anything 12-step until 2017.   [17:32]   What was your trajectory of drinking vs. gambling?   Bobbie said she was a truck driver in her early twenties.  She didn’t party when she was driving.  She drank to excess on the weekends which she felt was normal because everyone was doing it. In her thirties she drank with her husband (he was the DD).  She was gambling in the background, but her drinking was a problem.  In 2017 she went to rehab and focused on gambling first.    She went to rehab on her own accord.  She had an executive level job, but all her perceived obstacles were removed.  She owed it to herself to address her addictions.  She was getting in trouble at work events.   [21:06] How long were you at the rehab center?   Bobbie said she was in rehab for 28 days.  Rehab left quite an impression.  She was in the gambling wing.  Her freedom was removed because she couldn’t even choose when to take a shower.  It felt like a cross between summer camp and jail.  She knew she needed to focus on herself and didn’t want to ever lose her freedom again.    [23:51] How did you handle being in the gambling wing versus the drug and alcohol wing of rehab?   Bobbie said that they were not allowed to interact with people in the drug and alcohol wing.  Everything was separate.   Before entering rehab, Bobbie interviewed for a job.   She left rehab at 28 days (vs 30) and went to after care.  She was called out frequently for drinking.  The aftercare team didn’t hold back.  In 2019 Bobbie decided not to use alcohol as a coping mechanism.  She discovered Café RE in 2018 and knew she needed to focus on her drinking.    Bobbie was frustrated that alcohol was a problem when she was doing all the work for her gambling addiction.  She broke up with a guy and was drunk texting her ex and recognized her texts were mean and venomous.  Having another personality was a rock-bottom moment.   Bobbie signed up for the Recovery Elevator Asia trip.  She knew she needed to be sober for 30 days and joined the trip with a little over 30 days of sobriety.  She was following the rules versus deciding not to drink.  When she returned from Asia, she learned that her biological father and grandmother had passed away within a week of each other.  She hosted her father’s funeral the day before the world shut down because of COVID.  She was at a bar when she got a text about her father’s death.  She knew she had to decide how to cope with overwhelming emotions.  She was afraid to drink because she was concerned, she wouldn’t stop.    A friend she met on the Asia trip inspired her to achieve a year of sobriety.  She realized it was the best year of her life because she started a podcast, opened a second company and was so much more productive without drinking.    Bobbie recognizes her journey is different than many others in Café RE because she wasn’t as intentional about not drinking as many others, it happened almost as a side-effect of her gambling addiction.    [35:47] What made you decide to take the Café RE trip?   Bobbie said she knew she needed the trip to quit drinking.  A friend helped her pay for the trip.  When she left rehab, she didn’t make the decision to quit drinking.  The sober trip helped her explore her curiosity about sobriety and laid the foundation for the tools she needed to explore sobriety.   Bobbie said she was mesmerized by the RE community and by Paul Churchill.  Paul inspired her to start her gambling podcast and was her first guest.    [41:55] What do you do now when you have a craving or a trigger?   Bobbie said everything has happened for a reason.  She believes she can overcome anything.  In a few situations (golf, road trips, etc.) she has urges, but now she has a conversation with herself that people can love and accept her without alcohol.  She focuses on what she has learned along the way.  She doesn’t want to return to a destructive life.  She hasn’t committed to quit drinking forever.  She is focused on her goals and sees alcohol as an obstacle to her achieving those goals.  She has gratitude for her drinking career because it withheld some of her opportunities in corporate America.  She is now helping others with addiction.  She feels like she won.   [45:52] What other tools are helpful for you?   Bobbie is active in Gambling Anonymous (GA).  She meditates and does a daily reflection every day.  She likes Recovery Dharma through Café RE.  She has integrated self-care into her everyday life.    Bobbie wasn’t sure what she was supposed to feel and began to understand that resentment over her father helped her move from resentment to neutral and she is working on forgiveness.    The value of community and accountability have been helpful.   Her obligation and accountability to others has helped her push through difficult moments.  She tries to practice what she preaches in her podcast.    [51:02] Rapid Fire Round   What would you say to your younger self? It’s all going to be fine. It all has purpose and will take you where you are meant to be.   What has recovery made possible for you? Everything – from relationships, work, business, transparency, vulnerability – everything.      What is your favorite ice cream flavor? All of them.    What advice would you give to listeners who are thinking about ditching the booze? It’s so worth it.  It may not feel like it in the moment, but stick with it, it’s so worth it.    You may have to say Adios to booze if … Your friends are surprised there is coffee in your cup instead of Long Island iced tea.    Odette’s Summary   Odette challenges us to think about one of the puzzle pieces in your sobriety journey that didn’t make sense recently that now makes sense.  Share what you have learned with a friend.    You are not alone, together is always better!  Odette believes in you!   Upcoming events, retreats, and courses: Bozeman 2021 (August 18-22, 2021). This is our flagship annual retreat held in the pristine forests of Big Sky Country, 10 miles south of Bozeman, Montana. During this 5-day event, you’ll discover how to expand the boundaries of your comfort zone. You can find more information about our events    Affiliate Link for Endourage: For 10% off your first CBD order with Endourage visit this link and use the promo code elevator at checkout.    Affiliate Link for Amazon: Shop via Amazon using this link.   The book, Alcohol is SH!T, is out. Pick up your paperback copy on Amazon here! You can get the Audible version here!     Resources:  Connect with Cafe RE - Use the promo code OPPORTUNITY to waive the set-up fee. Recovery Elevator YouTube - Subscribe here! Sobriety Tracker iTunes      “Recovery Elevator – Without the darkness you would never know the light - I love you guys”    

RMA-Episode 34 Show Notes: This week on RMA, Get Smart With Erin Moore returns to discuss sobriety during the pandemic, and how traditional recovery programs tried to adapt to the new reality of COVID-19. How did they do? Can you help an addict over Zoom?    Also, the guys finish their review of Paul Churchill's Alcohol is Shit and consider whether “Plant Medicine” is really all that it's cracked up to be. Plus, Nat tells a funny acid story and Mike is dodging the parish priest. Don't miss it!   Recovery In The News this week asks why the New York Times seems aggressively interested in keeping people drinking, in this case, right after being vaccinated, and the Week in Weird asks whether spider-human hybrids are scaring dogs in Costa Rica   All this, plus the week in review, and a “Your Story” segment from listener Erick on a post-pandemic, inoculated, re-emerging into the light filled episode of Recovery in the Middle Ages.   You can reach Erin Moore at www.fallingphoenix.com or find her in the RMA Facebook group under the name: girl_recovery.   Hey, if you like the review of Alcohol is S**t and want to read it for yourself, we'd appreciate it if you purchased it through our Amazon affiliate link: PLEASE BUY FROM HERE IT HELPS US A LOT    https://amzn.to/3esP2iF   Recovery Elevator   Recovery in the News   The Week in Weird   Spider-Dog Prank Video:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uV6yEOP8gdc LISTEN TO RMA ON YOUTUBE PLEASE leave us a 5 star review on I-Tunes if you're enjoying the show and SUBSCRIBE to get the latest episodes.  You can reach us by email at: MikeR@middleagesrecovery.com Natx@middleagesrecovery.com   Send comments, complaints, death threats, ideas and requests to be interviewed. We'll talk to anyone! Check out the website: Www.middleagesrecovery.com   Visit MiddleAgesRecovery.com and tell us your story of your struggles with alcohol and drugs. Fill out the “tell us your story” Form on the website, write your recovery or using story and we will read it on the air! (Anonymity guaranteed).   FOLLOW US ON TWITTER  Join the Facebook Page! Exciting things are happening there!   We also have a Facebook Group! Request to join the group. It's a private space for continuing the discussion of what Nat and Mike talk about on the podcast. Hope to see you there. If you're in trouble with substance abuse and need help, reach out. There are thousands of people who have put problems with addiction in their rear-view mirrors and you can be one of them. While we neither endorse nor condemn any particular program, the sheer number of available AA and NA meetings suggest that reaching out to those organizations would be a good first step on the road to recovery.     https://www.aa.org/ https://www.na.org/meetingsearch/   Marijuana Anonymous (just in case):   This Naked Mind

RMA-Episode 34 Show Notes: Another week has gone by and Alcohol is still S**t. Mike and Nat continue their deep dive into Alcohol is S**t, the seminal work penned by the founder of the Recovery Elevator podcast and architect of the Cafe RE movement, Paul Churchill.  Also, Mike gets interviewed by Annie Grace. How did THAT go? Are you your thoughts? Is there a way to silence the self-criticism and endless stream of intrusive thoughts that haunt your daily existence? Can you recover without doing the internal work? Listen and find out! Recovery In The News this week asks why the beer has gone to the dogs, and The Week in Weird is a tale of raptors on the loose in Florida. Don't miss it! All this, plus the week in review, on a mindful, self-aware, bone-broth NA beer flavored episode of Recovery in the Middle Ages Hey, if you like the review of Alcohol is S**t and want to read it for yourself, we'd appreciate it if you purchased it through our Amazon affiliate link: PLEASE BUY FROM HERE IT HELPS US A LOT https://amzn.to/3esP2iF Recovery Elevator Recovery in the News The Week in Weird YOU CAN NOW LISTEN TO RMA ON YOUTUBE PLEASE leave us a 5 star review on I-Tunes if you're enjoying the show and SUBSCRIBE to get the latest episodes.    You can reach us by email at: MikeR@middleagesrecovery.com Natx@middleagesrecovery.com Send comments, complaints, death threats, ideas and requests to be interviewed. We'll talk to anyone! Check out the website: Www.middleagesrecovery.com Visit MiddleAgesRecovery.com where we have a new feature for an upcoming segment on the show, “This is YOUR life!” On the “tell us your story” Form on the website, write your recovery or using story and we will read them on the air! (Anonymity guaranteed). FOLLOW US ON TWITTER  Join the Facebook Page! Exciting things are happening there! We also have a Facebook Group! Request to join the group. It's a private space for continuing the discussion of what Nat and Mike talk about on the podcast. Hope to see you there. If you're in trouble with substance abuse and need help, reach out. There are thousands of people who have put problems with addiction in their rear-view mirrors and you can be one of them. While we neither endorse nor condemn any particular program, the sheer number of available AA and NA meetings suggest that reaching out to those organizations would be a good first step on the road to recovery.   https://www.aa.org/ https://www.na.org/meetingsearch/ Marijuana Anonymous (just in case):

RMA-Episode 33 Show Notes:   Alcohol is S**t. You know it, I know it, and Paul Churchill knows it so well he wrote a book about it. This week Mike and Nat start their deep dive into Alcohol is S**t, the seminal work penned by the founder of the Recovery Elevator podcast and architect of the Cafe RE movement. This week the guys lay the groundwork by discussing the first half of the book, deconstructing Paul's theory on the origin of addiction. Genetics, environment, dopamine and happy rats are all on the menu.   Recovery In The News this week takes a look at the Moderation Management program and asks, “why bother?”   All this, plus the week in weird, and the week in review, on a moderately successful, genetically predisposed, environmentally influenced episode of Recovery in the Middle Ages   Hey, if you like the review of Alcohol is S**t and want to read it for yourself, we'd appreciate it if you purchased it through our Amazon affiliate link: https://amzn.to/2RCEPZj Recovery Elevator YOU CAN NOW LISTEN TO RMA ON YOUTUBE PLEASE leave us a 5 star review on I-Tunes if you're enjoying the show and SUBSCRIBE to get the latest episodes.  You can reach us by email at: MikeR@middleagesrecovery.com Natx@middleagesrecovery.com Send comments, complaints, death threats, ideas and requests to be interviewed. We'll talk to anyone! Check out the website: Www.middleagesrecovery.com   Visit MiddleAgesRecovery.com where we have a new feature for an upcoming segment on the show, “This is YOUR life!” On the “tell us your story” Form on the website, write your recovery or using story and we will read them on the air! (Anonymity guaranteed).   FOLLOW US ON TWITTER  Join the Facebook Page! Exciting things are happening there!   We also have a Facebook Group! Request to join the group. It's a private space for continuing the discussion of what Nat and Mike talk about on the podcast. Hope to see you there. If you're in trouble with substance abuse and need help, reach out. There are thousands of people who have put problems with addiction in their rear-view mirrors and you can be one of them. While we neither endorse nor condemn any particular program, the sheer number of available AA and NA meetings suggest that reaching out to those organizations would be a good first step on the road to recovery.     https://www.aa.org/ https://www.na.org/meetingsearch/   Marijuana Anonymous (just in case):  

Episode 321 – Be kind to yourself. It’s ok to give yourself as much love as you are giving to someone in active addiction.  Give yourself love and grace. It’s ok not to be ok. It’s ok not to have all the answers.   Today’s podcast will be a slight departure from our traditional format.  Today we will hear from Aimee, who is the wife of one of our members.  Aimee will share from the perspective of what it’s like to live with someone struggling with alcohol addiction.   Aimee is the wife of Kris, one of the members of Café RE.   Kris shared his message on episodes 175 and 278.   He also does a lot of work for Café RE. Take a listen.  Kris stands out by helping others and being of service.    https://www.recoveryelevator.com/re-175-anxiety-and-alcohol/ https://www.recoveryelevator.com/re-278-day-one-emotions/   Registration for the Bozeman retreat is open for Café RE members today and will be available for non-members tomorrow.  For details, go to: www.recoveryelevator.com/bozeman .   Odette’s Weekly Message – Finding your better you.   Odette is focusing on loved ones.  She is an adult child of an alcoholic.  She has experienced her own struggles with addiction and married someone who struggles with addiction.   When Odette’s Dad went into treatment, she was advised by the counselor that the whole family would be impacted.  While only one family member has the disease, everyone gets infected at some level.   Being a part of the solution for her Dad was a tough spill to swallow.  Odette attended Al-Anon to learn how to take care of herself while her Dad was treating his addiction.  Odette remembers how scary some of the meetings were because of the number of broken relationships.  Her inclination was to try to fix the problem, but she quickly learned she had to get out of the way and learn to take care of herself.  She is still learning to detach with love by setting boundaries.   [10:33]  Odette introduces Aimee.   Aimee is 37 and lives in North Dakota with Kris and their two kids.  She is a teacher, loves playing piano, singing, and leading worship at her church.      [13:45]  Tell us about your journey and how you experienced life with Kris.   Aimee met Kris her freshman year of college and fell in love right away.  She was so enthralled with him; everything seemed normal. Kris was deployed overseas in the military.  He would call Aimee and was always drinking when he called home to deal with the stress of deployment.  Aimee knew there was a problem.  They got married, and when Kris came back from deployment,  Aimee got pregnant right away.  Kris was deployed again, and Aimee didn’t drink because she was pregnant.  Kris came home ten days before Ava was born, and they were two different people because of the time apart. Kris’s drinking continued to escalate.    They went through ups and downs, and Aimee thought things were getting better.   Their marriage has been a wild adventure because of moves, career changes, etc.  Aimee had a mix of resentment and shame about Kris’ drinking.  At the height of his drinking, he would turn things around on her to avoid being attacked.  As a couple, they tore each other apart.  Aimee tried to protect Kris.  She would set the alarm so she could pick up the beer cans before the kids got up in the morning.  She lied to her pastor about Kris’ absences and recognized she was compromising her values.   Kris’ emotions were intense and amplified when he was hungover.   [10:15]  Did you start second-guessing yourself?   Aimee said she was constantly questioning if she was enough.  She took her marriage vows very seriously and started to become a doormat.  There was a lot of manipulation.  Kris would gaslight Aimee about his drinking, the bank account, and other things.  Engaging in church and prayer was instrumental for Aimee.  She began to realize that being a martyr or savior wasn’t a safe place to be.  She couldn’t compromise her safety.  They went on a road trip, and Kris drove drunk for five hours, and Aimee was overwhelmed and exhausted.  Prayer helped her resolve that she couldn’t live that way anymore.   [22:57]  What did you do when you realized you couldn’t do it anymore?   Aimee said after the road trip, the conversation between them shifted.  She begged Kris to get help.  He asked her who her lawyer was and said he would never love her enough to quit drinking.  It took Aimee a long time to start to forgive him.  She didn’t believe him anymore, and it took a long time to rebuild trust.    [24:13]  Was church a source of support for you?   Aimee said she couldn’t do it on her own.  Her church community never told her what she wanted to hear; they told her what she needed to hear.  The church encouraged her to focus on herself and her next steps.  It was the first time Aimee looked inside and didn’t focus on Kris.    [26:44]  How did you shift from feeling like a victim to looking within?   Aimee said the church worked with both of them separately and helped keep them on the same page.  Aimee prayed and meditated a lot.  Kris surrendered.  They both surrendered at different times.  Aimee had to let go of the bitterness.  She said she was drinking poison and expecting Kris to get sick.  She told Kris she loved him and didn’t know what to do.  It was a shift and became a point of empowerment for her to trust others and do work on herself.  They went to marriage counseling, and Aimee went to counseling on her own.  Aimee did EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) to deal with trauma from her marriage and her past.  Aimee has done a lot of work learning how to build relationships, and the experience has been life-changing.   Aimee still has some flashbacks, particularly on road trips.  All of their positive interactions slowly replace the negative ones of the past.  While it may be a cliché, time does heal   [33:02]  Tell me about the dynamics at home?  How have the kids responded?   Aimee said they have been very open about their story with the kids.  Dinner time is their favorite time now, and it was the worst when Kris was drinking.  Their son wrote a book about the adventures of his sober Dad.  He even quoted Paul Churchill’s book, “Alcohol is Shit!”.  Their son looks forward to hugging his wife now that Kris is demonstrating new behaviors with the family.    Aimee shared that she and Kris have learned emotional and spiritual intimacy as well as physical intimacy.  Their conversations are more vulnerable than the physical connection.  It has been a lot of hard work, but so worth the effort.   [38:27]  How is your experience with Kris in Café RE and other people in sobriety?   Aimee said Kris joined Café Re when they were separated.  She said it was hard at first because Kris was being celebrated for all of his sobriety milestones.  She was envious of his coins – where was her medal?  Aimee has been to a Café RE meet up in Minneapolis, and she prays for all of the people she met.  She supports Kris’s model of “leave nobody behind”.  She doesn’t mind the interruptions, and she supports his efforts with prayer.  Aimee loves how Café RE retreats benefit Kris’ recovery.  She always notices a positive difference when she comes home, and she knows that helps their family.    Café RE feels Aimee’s support through the videos she posts when Kris reaches a milestone.  Aimee said five years ago, she never would have believed they would be where they are today.  She is excited and believes the best is yet to come.   [43:14]  Do you drink?  Are you a normie?   Aimee hasn’t had a drink in 7-8 years, and she doesn’t miss it at all.  She likes tea and doesn’t favor the LaCroix as Kris, and the rest of us do.   [44:06] How were you able to separate that it was not about you?   Aimee said, when she figures it out, she will let us know.  Recovery is like peeling back the layers of an onion.  She encourages all spouses to be kind to themselves. It’s ok not to be ok. It’s ok not to have all of the answers. Lean in on your Faith, regardless of what you call your Higher Power.  You will need it to move through recovery as well.    Odette’s Summary   Odette encourages all family members to check out recommended Al-Anon, Melody Beattie, Smart Recovery for Friends and Family, Pia Melody, and traditional therapy.   Resource Links: https://al-anon.org/ https://www.smartrecovery.org/family/ https://melodybeattie.com/ http://www.piamellody.com/   By helping yourself, you are better at supporting your loved one.   You are not alone, together is always better!   Upcoming events, retreats, and courses: Bozeman 2021 (August 18-22, 2021). This is our flagship annual retreat held in the pristine forests of Big Sky Country, 10 miles south of Bozeman, Montana. During this 5-day event, you’ll discover how to expand the boundaries of your comfort zone. You can find more information about our events    Affiliate Link for Endourage: For 10% off your first CBD order with Endourage visit this link and use the promo code elevator at checkout.    Affiliate Link for Amazon: Shop via Amazon using this link.   The book, Alcohol is SH!T, is out. Pick up your paperback copy on Amazon here! You can get the Audible version here!     Resources:  Connect with Cafe RE - Use the promo code OPPORTUNITY to waive the set-up fee. Recovery Elevator YouTube - Subscribe here! Sobriety Tracker iTunes      “Recovery Elevator – Without the darkness you would never know the light - I love you guys”          

Hey everyone! Launching this episode in preparation to go visit my awesome Cafe RE friends. I am heading to Colorado and will be visiting with Rob (this episode), Taylor (episode 22), Carrie (ep 19) and may even get to meet Paul Churchill, the creator and former host of Recovery Elevator podcast ep 8). I am going to keep this short, but you all have fun and wish my legs luck as they will surely get a workout on the slopes of Winter Park Enjoy! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Dusty took his last drink September 21, 2015. With exactly 5 years away from alcohol, (at the time of recording) this is his story of living alcohol free (AF).   Odette’s weekly installment of: Finding Your Better You…..by Paul Churchill   How to get your 300 Power Stance:   Grab a stick and stand in front of a mirror, put on some good music, bend the knees and ankles. Get low and grip the stick (or rake or broom). Become one with the stick. Look yourself in the eyes (in the mirror) and say, “I’m here, right now, what do you got?”, repeat, louder. Repeat and get lower. Find your stance. Focus on your connection to the earth. Pull up a painful moment from the past and change the script. Bring up the unfinish emotion and feel it. Remind yourself you are safe.   [16:00] Paul introduces Dusty.   Dusty is from Bozeman, MT. He’s a finance director for a local non-profit and just got engaged yesterday! For fun he likes to play rec sports. He goes hunting, camping, hiking and fishing in the beautiful weather he has in Bozeman.   [20:50] Can you give listeners some background on your drinking?   Dusty said the day before his last drink was spent watching sports and he blacked out around 9:30pm. The next day his friend was leaving for an around-the-world trip and he went to her leaving drinks. The bartender that night came up to him and explained that if they were working that night Dusty would have been kicked out for his behavior the night before. Another friend of his, he had kicked in the backside and when he saw her, he saw fear in her eyes when she looked at him. He paid his tab and left the bar. Never touched alcohol again. His losing control was a big motivator for him to stay sober.     [25:34] When did you find community?   Dusty said he’s been very lucky to have known Paul Churchill for a while before he quit. Paul was the first person he told he quit drinking and knew that community would be there for him. At the time Recovery Elevator was just getting started and Dusty participated. He was surprised how easy it was for him to share his story.     [30:11] How have the years changed for you?   Dusty said the 1st year was exactly that, just getting through the 1st year without a drink. In year 2 the real healing began. In 2019 was when he realized alcohol was the symptom, not the problem. He grew up with a verbally abusive father and being scared as a child, his option was to freeze and stay quiet. Coming into year 5 he’s begun therapy to understand the deep stuff that is why he reached for alcohol.   [37:17] What was on your heart yesterday?   Dusty said yesterday reflecting on the timeline of his life and his drinking was a lot for him. There was anger and sadness about the pain he experienced growing up. He was dwelling a little on the negative and he was able to purge it and get it out.     [43:51] How has the relationship with yourself changed over the last 5 years?   Dusty said he loves himself a lot more and continues to work on that. He has more confidence. Loving himself better lets him love the world better as well. Dusty now gives himself grace and is no longer his own worst critic. His physical appearance and health overall has changed drastically for the better.     [46:27] When the shame and guilt from your initial motivator decreased, what filled its place as a new motivator?   Dusty said his pink cloud lasted for years. He could see how much better his life was from walking away from alcohol. Nothing in his life got worse, everything got better. So, the idea of taking one drink he knew would make his life worse again.     [48:55] Do you still get cravings?   Dusty said no, not anymore. Very few moments have made him want to have a drink.     [49:38] What do you do now when life throws you a curveball?   Dusty said exercise works for him. He goes for a run and gets in the zone. He will also try to sit with the emotions and see where it’s coming from. He’s lucky to have close friends and family and he can talk to them.     [54:05] Rapid Fire Round    If you could talk to day 1 Dusty, what would you say?   Dusty, sit with the shame for a while, but don’t dwell on it forever. Use it for fuel. Enjoy the ride, all the ups and downs.   What has recovery made possible for you?   He is more of a leader now.   What’s your favorite ice cream flavor?   Ben & Jerry’s AmeriCone Dream or Cherry Garcia   What book are you reading right now?   He’s reading a book about crows and ravens.     You may have to say adios to booze...    If you are a recurring guest on the Recovery Elevator podcast!   Paul’s recap:   2020- what happened?! As per the Mayan Calendar: there is a gigantic evolutionary leap that the race needs to go through. It’s a leap through consciousness, not a physical leap.   Those with addiction are forced to go within and address our own inner discomfort. Because we didn’t have a choice. Realizing our inner world is more real than the outer world.   Upcoming events, retreats and courses: You can find more information about our events here.     Affiliate Link for Endourage: For 10% off your first CBD order with Endourage visit this link and use the promo code elevator at checkout.    Affiliate Link for Amazon: Shop via Amazon using this link.   The book, Alcohol is SH!T, is out. Pick up your paperback copy on Amazon here! You can get the Audible version here!     Resources:  Connect with Cafe RE - Use the promo code OPPORTUNITY to waive the set-up fee. Recovery Elevator YouTube - Subscribe here! Sobriety Tracker iTunes  Sobriety Tracker Android  Sober Selfies! - Send your Sober Selfie and your Success Story to  -info@recoveryelevator.com   “Recovery Elevator – We took the elevator down, we gotta take the stairs back up, Rule #22, we have to lighten up, we can do this– Go big, because eventually we all go home”

Paul is the founder and former host of the Recovery Elevator podcast. He is also the author of Alcohol Is Sh*t. He recently celebrated five years in September. On this episode we talk about his journey of recovery, his experience with ayahuasca, and a new treatment program he’s starting to build centered around community, plant medicine and connection.

Heidi took her last drink on May 20, 2020. With 19 days (at the time of recording) this is her story of living alcohol-free (AF).   Odette opens today welcoming normal drinkers. It has come to her attention that there are some listeners that are tuning in for educational purposes as a loved one has a problem with alcohol. Question for you normal drinkers: would you be interested in a Café RE group focused on you? Email Odette if you're interested.   One of the most important books in Odette’s life is The Language of Letting Go by Melody Beattie. It was referred to her when her father first went into rehab. Each day is a new passage to read and often she is overcome with the meaning and finds herself wanting to share the meditation for the day with others. While she’s not going to read from this book today, Odette is sharing with you all….   Storytime with Odette! What Do You Do With a Problem? By Kobi Yamada   [8:13] Odette introduces Heidi.   Heidi is 28 years old and originally from San Diego, but she’s lived all over. Right now she’s in Orange County, CA with her new husband. She works in career services with a focus on health and behavioral sciences. She’s an adjunct teacher and a CrossFit coach and group fitness leader. Heidi loves the outdoors and seeing live music, plays, and time with family and friends.   [14:05] Can you give listeners a background on your drinking?   Heidi’s first time really drinking was around the age of 16 / her junior year of high school. At the same time, she was a good student and took her studying and athletics very seriously. She only drank on weekends. In college she continued to be a good student and athlete while drinking, so she never felt that what she was doing should be questioned. At the end of her college career, she mentioned to a coach that she felt she might have a drinking problem. This coach dismissed her concerns because she “doing fine.”   [19:20]  When you expressed concerns to your coach and he was dismissive, did you doubt him a little? Heidi said internally she knew that her drinking was a problem, but at the same time, he gave her a free pass to keep drinking.   [17:16] Walk us through the last year or so of your drinking and what led up to your sober date?   Heidi grew up with obsessive-compulsive tendencies, specifically manifesting in self-harm. When alcohol became an option, it quieted the self-harm aspect. Once Heidi moved back to the West Coast and started working full time, she fell into a routine of grabbing some alcohol on the way home from work. A few glasses of wine became a bottle of wine became a few bottles of wine, then turned to liquor. She started a new job and it turned out to be miserable, so drinking in the evenings was what got her through the days. She and her husband were true drinking partners, so they fed off each other as well. Last summer she noticed relationships with family members and her husband began to crumble and then she began to take a serious look at her drinking. One of the changes she made was signing up for the Recovery Elevator Ditch the Booze course. The accountability provided was what she needed.   [33:49] Tell us about your experience with the Ditching The Booze course and the extra level of accountability.   Heidi craves connection and doesn’t find it overwhelming. Some people in her group check-in daily, some every few days, but the common denominator is everyone has the same struggle. So, everyone already understands. At a moment’s notice, she can give support and get support from the community.   [38:17] How has your family dynamic changed in these last 20 days?   Heidi said that due to the current pandemic there have been fewer social pressures to go out. At home, with her husband, there has been greater levels of connection. She did have a fear that all they had was drinking and that was why they were together. They began to open up and have new and genuine conversations about themselves. She’s having more moments of pure enjoyment with her husband.   [43:43] What possibilities have you excited right now?   Heidi said the increase in liveliness is exciting. She feels like a school kid again and full of hope. Being able to wake up early and coach at her gym without being still drunk or hungover. Being present with her husband and family member. Heidi is also seeing a new resurgence in her artistic side.        [42:20] Rapid Fire Round    If you could talk to Day 1 Heidi, what would you tell her?   You can do things that you don’t think are possible right now but stick with it. You can sit with the uncomfortable feelings of a craving.   What are some of your favorite resources in sobriety?   Café RE, This Naked Mind by Annie Grace, Alcohol is SH!T by Paul Churchill   What parting piece of guidance can you give to listeners?   You already know what that life is like, so why not just try.   You may need to ditch the booze if...    You pride yourself on your Christmas shopping by doing it all in one night with a few bottles of wine and then figure out what you bought when it arrives on your doorstep.   Odette’s challenge this week: Take time this week to notice what you’ve been putting under the category of problems in your mind. Think about those problems and try to reframe. Can you see some opportunities coming out of them? Let yourself feel hopeful about the possibility that problems bring with them. They are there you just have to look at things differently. Remember that you are not alone and that together is always better.   Upcoming events, retreats, and courses: Ditching the Booze - The What, the Why, and the How. We will be offering this again, starting 8/4/2020 and 11/3/20. It’s free for Café RE members. Not a Café Re member? Sign up here and use the code OPPORTUNITY to waive the set-up fee. You can find more information about our events    The book, Alcohol is SH!T, is out. Pick up your paperback copy on Amazon here! You can get the Audible version here!     Resources:  Connect with Cafe RE- Use the promo code OPPORTUNITY to waive the set-up fee. Sobriety Tracker iTunes  Sobriety Tracker Android  Sober Selfies!- Send your Sober Selfie and your Success Story to  -info@recoveryelevator.com   “Recovery Elevator – This isn’t a no to alcohol, but a yes to a better life – I love you guys.” 

In 2006, Paul Churchill moved to Granada Spain where he purchased a bar. In the following three years he became a dependent on alcohol, blacking out close to 7 nights per week. In 2009, Paul walked away from the bar hoping a geographical cure would curtail the drinking, but continued to drink for another 5 years. In February, 2015 Paul launched the Recovery Elevator podcast as an accountability tool to stay sober. Today, it's been over 5 years since Paul had his last drink of Alcohol and the podcast has surpassed 5 million downloads. The Recovery Elevator podcast is in the 97th percentile out of all podcasts on iTunes, has been downloaded in all 50 states and over 145 countries. The Recovery Elevator podcast has evolved into a private membership community with over 1,000 members from all over the world. Paul has spoken to thousands of students about alcohol awareness across the country. Along with putting on alcohol-free wellness retreats and seminars across the country, he hosts sober travel itineraries across the globe. Paul is the author of the best selling book Alcohol is SH!T, has delivered two Tedx talks, was a featured speaker at My Brave in Los Angeles and plans to continue eradicating the stigma surrounding alcohol and addiction. Connect with Paul Churchill: Website: https://www.recoveryelevator.com Paul Churchill paul@recoveryelevator.com www.recoveryelevator.com https://www.facebook.com/recoveryelevator Join us in Making Pittsburgh Healthy: www.makingpittsburghhealthy.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MakingPittsburghHealthy/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makingpittsburghhealthy/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/draarontressler Don't forget to subscribe, rate & review the show! (:

I was glad to have Paul Churchill, host of Recovery Elevator Podcast on with me. Along with his Recovery Elevator podcast, he is also an author of a book titled "Alcohol is Shit", runs Cafe RE a closed Facebook community, was the speaker at two Ted Talks (links below) and hosts multiple sober travel trips throughout the year. Paul talks about his journey from one of few non-mormon kids in Utah, to his ownership of a bar in Grenada Spain and ultimately to his recovery from alcohol addiction. Paul has utilized common recovery methods, such as support communities as well as uncommon methods, such as plant medicine from shaman's in Costa Rica. His story is sure to entertain and teach. Please enjoy and like, follow and even comment on my podcast for support. Links to Paul's info below" Bozeman Ted Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiK7ONxHErY Vail Ted Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMPtJS0cGiY Recovery Elevator website: https://www.recoveryelevator.com/ To connect with me send me a note to recoveryrisingpodcast@gmail.com --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Alcoholism is something that is a lot more prevalent than people realize or want to admit. It is something that most people shy away from talking about because there is still such a stigma around it, but today I want to open up the discussion. To help me cover this important topic, as well as the common link between entrepreneurship and alcohol dependence, is my good friend Paul Churchill of RecoveryElevator.com. As a recovering alcoholic himself, Paul has a lot of knowledge on the subject, so if you have ever had a dependency on alcohol or know someone who does, this episode is not to be missed. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/2K1Gcd8  Interested in our Private Community for 7-Figure Store Owners?  Learn more here.   Want to hear about new episodes and eCommerce news round-ups?  Subscribe via email.

003-Paul Churchill is one of Bobbie's recovery idols. Paul is the host of the Recovery Elevator podcast and shares some of his wisdom and thoughts about addiction. In this episode, Paul along with Bobbie, discusses some of his journeys as alcohol relates to gambling addiction.In addition, Paul has just released his book, "Alcohol is Sh#t", which is now available on Amazon and other places to purchase books.  Here's the link to Paul's podcast, Recovery Elevator: apple.co/2UEbP1KIf you would like to participate in our 30 Day Give Up Gambling Email Challenge, click below.https://www.321nokiddin.com/30-day-give-up-gambling-challenge------------------------------------------------Did you enjoy the show? Please leave us a rate and review!This helps us reach other gamblers who may need to hear recovery messages.-------------------------------------------------Get in touch with me!Email address : bobbie@321NoKiddin.comFacebook          : www.facebook.com/321NoKiddinInstagram         : www.instagram.com/bobbietheawesome_321nokiddinPinterest           : www.pinterest.ph/bobbiemalatestaLinkedIn            : www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiemalatestaYouTube           : www.youtube.com/channel/UCkUV58i4z2Se3jXuDldcXaAWebsite            : www.321nokiddin.com**A super special thanks to Justin Furstenfeld for granting us permission to use his music on the show!Please support and follow the Blue October band on:Facebook  : www.facebook.com/blueoctoberInstagram : www.instagram.com/blueoctoberbandTwitter       : www.twitter.com/blueoctoberYoutube    : www.youtube.com/user/blueoctoberofficialWebsite    : www.blueoctober.comSupport the show9 of us wrote about the concept of Belonging and share our individual stories about how we found belonging.Please check it out in the link below!Link to our book- BELONGING- Secrets to Soothe the Soul https://amzn.to/45qS6pl Get in touch with me! Questions or feedback or just want to connect? Email address : bobbie@321NoKiddin.com Facebook : www.facebook.com/321NoKiddin Instagram : www.instagram.com/bobbietheawesomest Pinterest : www.pinterest.ph/bobbiemalatesta LinkedIn : www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiemalatesta YouTube : www.youtube.com/channel/UCkUV58i4z2Se3jXuDldcXaA Website : www.321nokiddin.com **A super special thanks to Justin Furstenfeld for granting us permission to use his music on the show!Please support and follow the Blue October band on: Facebook : www.facebook.com/blueoctober Instagram : www.instagram.com/blueoctoberband Twitter : www.twitter.com/blueoctober Youtube : www.youtube.com/user/blueoctoberofficial Support the show

003-Paul Churchill is one of Bobbie's recovery idols. Paul is the host of the Recovery Elevator podcast and shares some of his wisdom and thoughts about addiction. In this episode, Paul along with Bobbie, discusses some of his journeys as alcohol relates to gambling addiction.In addition, Paul has just released his book, "Alcohol is Sh#t", which is now available on Amazon and other places to purchase books.  Here's the link to Paul's podcast, Recovery Elevator: apple.co/2UEbP1KIf you would like to participate in our 30 Day Give Up Gambling Email Challenge, click below.https://www.321nokiddin.com/30-day-give-up-gambling-challenge------------------------------------------------Did you enjoy the show? Please leave us a rate and review!This helps us reach other gamblers who may need to hear recovery messages.-------------------------------------------------Get in touch with me!Email address : bobbie@321NoKiddin.comFacebook          : www.facebook.com/321NoKiddinInstagram         : www.instagram.com/bobbietheawesome_321nokiddinPinterest           : www.pinterest.ph/bobbiemalatestaLinkedIn            : www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiemalatestaYouTube           : www.youtube.com/channel/UCkUV58i4z2Se3jXuDldcXaAWebsite            : www.321nokiddin.com**A super special thanks to Justin Furstenfeld for granting us permission to use his music on the show!Please support and follow the Blue October band on:Facebook  : www.facebook.com/blueoctoberInstagram : www.instagram.com/blueoctoberbandTwitter       : www.twitter.com/blueoctoberYoutube    : www.youtube.com/user/blueoctoberofficialWebsite    : www.blueoctober.comSupport the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bobbieawesome/about-me-3-21-no-kiddin)

#003- Bobbie interviews Paul Churchill, one of her recovery idols. Paul discusses with Bobbie some of his journey as alcohol relates to gambling addiction. Paul is the host of the Recovery Elevator podcast and shares some of his wisdom and thoughts about addiction. The link to his show is below. In addition, Paul has just released his book, "Alcohol is Sh#t", which is available on Amazon and other places to purchase books. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/recovery-elevator/id971959728?i=1000456451173

003-Paul Churchill is one of Bobbie's recovery idols. Paul is the host of the Recovery Elevator podcast and shares some of his wisdom and thoughts about addiction. In this episode, Paul along with Bobbie, discusses some of his journeys as alcohol relates to gambling addiction.In addition, Paul has just released his book, "Alcohol is Sh#t", which is now available on Amazon and other places to purchase books.  Here's the link to Paul's podcast, Recovery Elevator: apple.co/2UEbP1KIf you would like to participate in our 30 Day Give Up Gambling Email Challenge, click below.https://www.321nokiddin.com/30-day-give-up-gambling-challenge------------------------------------------------Did you enjoy the show? Please leave us a rate and review!This helps us reach other gamblers who may need to hear recovery messages.-------------------------------------------------Get in touch with me!Email address : bobbie@321NoKiddin.comFacebook          : www.facebook.com/321NoKiddinInstagram         : www.instagram.com/bobbietheawesome_321nokiddinPinterest           : www.pinterest.ph/bobbiemalatestaLinkedIn            : www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiemalatestaYouTube           : www.youtube.com/channel/UCkUV58i4z2Se3jXuDldcXaAWebsite            : www.321nokiddin.com**A super special thanks to Justin Furstenfeld for granting us permission to use his music on the show!Please support and follow the Blue October band on:Facebook  : www.facebook.com/blueoctoberInstagram : www.instagram.com/blueoctoberbandTwitter       : www.twitter.com/blueoctoberYoutube    : www.youtube.com/user/blueoctoberofficialWebsite    : www.blueoctober.comSupport the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bobbieawesome/about-me-3-21-no-kiddin)

On today's awesome episode, I'm speaking with the talented Paul Churchill, author of … Alcohol is SH!T: How to Ditch the Booze, Re-ignite Your Life, and Recover the Person you Were Always Meant to be In 2006, at age 23, Paul moved to Granada, Spain, where he purchased a bar. During the following three years he became addicted to alcohol, blacking out close to seven nights a week. In 2009, Paul walked away from the bar hoping a change in scenery would reduce the drinking, but continued to drink for another five years until he took his last drink in 2014. In 2015 Paul launched the Recovery Elevator Podcast as an accountability tool to quit drinking. Today, the podcast has surpassed 3 million downloads. It is in the 95th percentile of all podcasts on iTunes and has been downloaded in all 50 states and over 145 countries. So, if you are ready to ditch the booze and re-ignite your life, then stay tuned for this episode of the Daily Authors Podcast with Paul Churchill! ... and make sure to pickup Alcohol is SH!T on Amazon! By the way, if you’ve got a story to tell, want to help others, and are ready to write your book, go to Write a Book University to get a free 4 lesson video course to help you on your book writing journey …

​Paul Churchill (@PaulChurchill) is the Founder/Host of Recovery Elevator, an alcohol recovery and sobriety podcast and online community. Since launching the podcast in 2015, ​Recovery Elevator has amassed over 3-million downloads and is in the 95-percentile of all podcasts on iTunes. What We Discuss with Paul Churchill: How Paul’s entrepreneurial spirit put him in a position to develop alcohol dependence. Using a podcast to create accountability and grow a community that values real human connection in sobriety. Why relapses can actually a good thing when someone is dealing with alcohol problems. Thinking about addiction as a byproduct of an increasingly disconnected society. And much more... Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider leaving your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally! (Download Episode Here) ​(Subscribe to the Podcast Here) (Connect with CJ) From the omni-channel marketing and multi-million dollar sponsorships to major sporting events and happy hour, modern society would have you think that alcohol is a harmless beverage that leads to good times, deep connections, and career advancement. Yet, for tens of millions of Americans, and hundreds of millions globally, alcohol has a much darker, life-altering side. In this episode, we talk to Recovery Elevator host Paul Churchill about his path to sobriety and how his personal accountability method created an online recovery community that has since helped thousands of alcoholics across the globe gain the upper-hand on their addiction, get their lives back, find meaning and joy, and much more. Listen, learn, and enjoy! (I've Been Duped by Alcohol from Paul Churchill via YouTube) Please Scroll Down for Full Show Notes and Featured Resources! The Two Rule Foundation helps inspire professionals to live gratefully and commit more of their resources to help those in need. The foundation can help you determine who you should give your money to and how. More About the Show A lot has changed since Paul Churchill got sober and published the first episode of the Recovery Elevator podcast. “When I was in Spain I started DJ-ing clubs, and those were mega clubs,” says Paul. “I was DJ-ing until 7-8am. I’d close my bar at 3am, then go DJ at a club until 7 or 8am.”  “It was the best and worst time of my life. It’s what propelled me forward on what I’m doing now [Recovery Elevator]. Basically what happened is I became addicted to alcohol – I was blacking out 5-7 nights per week. But at the time I was telling myself it was normal. I was 25, 26 years old – that’s what people my age do.” ​“Eventually, I ended up walking away from the bar in Spain. My body was physically shutting down – mentally, physically the signs were there – it got kind of scary there at the end.” ​Shortly thereafter, Paul decided to sell his bar and move back home with his parents, thinking he'd be able to leave the drinking behind him in Spain. He saved up some money, got into grad school, but found the drinking continued to follow him. On January 1, 2010, Paul decided to get sober. Long story short, it only lasted 2.5 years before he was back "field testing" (i.e. relapsed). During this time, Paul was DJ-ing weddings, parties, and school events. By happenstance, he got into operating arcade games at bars and business was booming. "All these businesses just fell into my lap," says Paul, "there were opportunities that if you just walk around life with your eyes open, they will just show up." In mid-late 2014, Paul had gotten sober again, but wasn't interested in joining AA. Instead, he had the idea of starting a podcast focused on sobriety and recovery to help him with his accountability. "I knew if I didn't create accountability, it was going to be rough." On February 12, 2015, Paul uploaded his first podcast to iTunes, where he revealed his struggle with alcohol on the world wide web. In that first show, Paul explains that his motive is selfish–it was his way of creating accountability for himself–and that if he were to relapse, he'd make it known. Thankfully, as of this recording, Paul has uploaded a new episode every week without fail, maintained his sobriety. In the process, he's built a community of people seeking the means to address their issues with alcohol and addiction, culminating in a 700+ member online recovery community and has hosted more than 10 sober travel retreats, with more planned and in the works. Thanks, Paul Churchill! If you enjoyed this show with sobriety advocate and Recovery Elevator podcast Host (and Founder) Paul Churchill, let him know by clicking on the links below and sending him a quick shout out on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. Click here to connect with Paul on LinkedIn Thank Paul on Twitter Like Recovery Elevator on Facebook Follow Paul on Instagram Click here to let CJ know about your number one takeaway from this episode! Mentioned in This Episode: ​​Recovery Elevator Big Sky Arcadia Alcoholics Anonymous Cafe RE Sober Travel Sobriety Tracker Free Course: Navigating Your First 5 Days in Sobriety

Recovery Happy Hour celebrates inspiring stories of recovery from alcohol addiction and what lies beyond the bottle. Introduction: The Success of Failure Interview: Paul Churchill Links: https://www.recoveryelevator.com/ https://www.recoveryhappyhour.com/

Paul Churchill is the founder of the Recovery Elevator podcast. He and I had an amazing conversation about his business, his new quest for balance and how recovery has given him new opportunities for success. Check out his podcast at https://www.recoveryelevator.com

Jason, with 178 days since his last drink, shares his story... “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson   “Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” – Robert Collier   “It’s difficult to believe in yourself because the idea of self is an artificial construction. You are, in fact, part of the glorious oneness of the universe. Everything beautiful in the world is within you.” – Russell Brand   “When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.” – Henry Ford   “If we are facing in the right direction, all we have to do is keep on walking.” – Zen proverb   “It is not easy to find happiness in ourselves, and it is not possible to find it elsewhere.” – Agnes Repplier   “If things go wrong, don’t go with them.” – Roger Babson   “Recovery is not for people who need it, but for people who want it” – Anonymous   “When the past calls, let it go to voicemail. Believe me, it has nothing new to say.” – Unknown   “The greatest mistake you can make in life is to continually be afraid you will make one.” – Elbert Hubbard   “If you can quit for a day, you can quit for a lifetime.” – Benjamin Alire Sáenz   “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” – Oscar Wilde   “I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear.” – Rosa Parks   “When was the last time you woke up and wished you’d had just one more drink the night before? I have never regretted not drinking. Say this to yourself, and you’ll get through anything.” – Meredith Bell   “The Pain you feel today is the strength you feel tomorrow” – Anonymous   “The best way out is always through.” – Robert Frost   “Your heart is leading you in the right direction. Quiet the mind and follow. “ – Paul Churchill   “Every strike brings me closer to the next home run.” – Babe Ruth   “Happiness is where we find it, but rarely where we seek it.” – J. Petit Senn   “Man never made any material as resilient as the human spirit.” – Bernard Williams “What is addiction, really? It is a sign, a signal, a symptom of distress. It is a language that tells us about a plight that must be understood.” – Alice Miller   SHOW NOTES   [11:50] Paul Introduces Jason. Jason is 46-year-old social worker from Connecticut  He's married with two children.  He likes the outdoors, soccer, kayaking, fishing,and hiking.    [14:00] Give listeners an idea of your drinking background. He started drinking in high school.  It escalated when he went into the navy.  After the navy, his drinking settled into a regular pattern which slowly escalated as well.  In mid 30's his drinking started to feel like it was getting to be a problem.  He had a previous 5 year period of sobriety.  He was trying to be health conscious.  He has heart disease in his family.  He tried to stay on top of it.  Around 38, his physical wasn't so great.  He was referred to a cardiologist.  He thought cutting alcohol out would improve his health.  He stopped on NYE of 2010.  He felt a lot better so he kept going.  He did not work a program.  He was hung up on the stigma of being an alcoholic.  He thought that after 5 years he didn't have a problem, and he was feeling healthy and he thought that maybe he could be a normal drinker again.  After relapse, he kept it under control for a while, but shortly thereafter it started escalating again quickly and he began to fall back into the same patterns.  He had a difficult summer, drinking most days, and he realized that he was a better person during his stint in sobriety and decided to go back to being sober.    [27:38] Did you find it difficult to stop the second time?  He could see how bad it would get if he didn't stop.  He was hiding drinks, and every week seemed to get worse.  He knew he was worse than he had been previously.  He thought that his previous bout of sobriety meant he could do it again.  He just had to get back to sobriety.  He feels our society surrounds you with pro-drinking messages.     [32:07] How were you able to quit this time around? The first few weeks were difficult, more difficult than he remembered from before.  This time it felt more ingrained into his routine, making it more difficult.  This time he is consuming more sobriety media and it helps him keep his mind right.    [34:00] Do you think you are addressing more dimensions of sobriety this time? Last time he was too focused on the physical part.  This time he's addressing the mental and spiritual sides of his life.  He's building a meditation practice and doing yoga.  He he has more tools this time than before.  He's trying not to think about the time line as much.  He's trying to stay in the present and focus on what's right in front of him.    [36:37] What's something that you've learned about yourself in sobriety? Honest really helps.  Also, there's nothing to be ashamed of.  Dependence happens to some people quicker than others, but it's nothing to be ashamed of.  He's taking things more gradually and slowly.    [37:22] Have you experienced any cravings? Definitely, in the first few months.  He just tries to ride it out.  They're only about 20 minutes long.  He tries to distract himself realizing that they will pass.    [38:56] If you could go back and change anything about your getting sober, what would it be? He thinks he could have talked to and with more people.    [39:20] What's on your bucket list in sobriety? He wants to travel more, and spend more time with his kids.      [40:00] Rapid Fire Round What was your worst memory from drinking? When he was in the navy, he blacked out and had to walk around ashamed. Did you ever have an “oh-shit” moment? It's a cumulative thing. His many mornings feeling terrible.  Hearing about conversations he didn't remember.  What’s your plan moving forward? To keep taking it slowly. To focus on his meditation and yoga practice.  Be open and honest with people in his sobriety.  What’s your favorite resource in recovery? Recovery Elevator podcast. On Instagram:  Drybe club.  What’s the best advice you’ve ever received (on sobriety)? You do not have to drink. What parting piece of guidance can you give listeners who are in recovery or thinking about quitting drinking? If it's something that's on your mind, just do it. Reach out to people, be honest and find resources.    Resources mentioned in this episode: Drybe Club – an Instagram page about sobriety Connect with Cafe RE- Use the promo code Elevator for your first month free Sobriety Tracker iTunes Sobriety Tracker Android Sober Selfies! - Send your Sober Selfie and your Success Story to info@recoveryelevator.com     “We took the elevator down, we gotta take the stairs back up, we can do this!”  

The Distilled Man - Actionable Advice for the Everyday Gentleman The host of the Recovery Elevator Podcast talks about his own battles with alcohol addiction and his road to recovery.... Read More To view this post on The Distilled Man website, visit Paul Churchill: Recovery Elevator For a Free copy of our 42-page eBook, visit http://www.thedistilledman.com/48-hour-gentleman-ebook/

This week, Paul Churchill guest co-hosts to fill in for Garrett, and he and Tamara discuss the topic of what's next for Recovery Elevator. They then relate to Craig's story and recount their favorite value bombs from his interview.   Please send us an email (we love your emails). liferecoveredpodcast@gmail.com Please take a moment to subscribe, rate and review us on iTunes.   We do this podcast for free. In fact, it costs us money each month. If you like what you hear, consider throwing a couple bucks in to support Life Recovered. We appreciate your generous support! paypal.me/aftertheelevator 

Recovery Happy Hour celebrates inspiring stories of recovery from alcohol addiction and gray area alcohol abuse.  Hosted by Tricia Lewis, we look at life beyond the bottle and what's current in sober culture. Introduction: High Functioning Alcoholics Interview: Paul Churchill Links: https://www.recoveryelevator.com/ https://www.recoveryhappyhour.com/ https://www.rythmia.com/

Paul Churchill is the founder of Recovery Elevator Podcast, which started out as a personal accountability tool and now has over 2 million downloads!  Paul tells Annie about his own struggles with alcohol addiction and what led him to start the Recovery Elevator Podcast.  Paul and Annie discuss the stigma around alcohol addiction and Paul’s mission to help change that stigma in our society.   Episode Links: Recovery Elevator

It's hard to picture Paul Churchill as an active alcoholic. He's nevertheless got the back story to prove it—including years of destructive drinking, a DUI and a suicide attempt. Yet no one could accuse him of resting on his laurels once he found sobriety in September of 2016. No, sir. He launched the podcast Recovery Elevator soon after getting into recovery and then, 20 episodes in, decided to start an accountability group. Now Recovery Elevator is something of an empire—with retreats, groups and more. Still, all didn't become shiny and perfect overnight. Instead, Paul wrestled with plunging too quickly into projects destined to drown him. He's now stepped back slightly but still has the sort of fire that has inspired his followers and fans. In this episode, we discuss the impact pets can have on recovery, how acceptance truly is the answer and launching businesses because we were looking for things that didn't exist, among many other topics. OTE: This episode is from a Facebook Live interview that we did, which means that the audio isn't as sharp as it is on regular episodes. Please bear with that! And please tune into my regular Facebook Live interviews. Make sure you Like my page so stay up on the info!

Have you ever tried to make a New Year's resolution or a life change but needed a way to hold yourself accountable? Having a tool to help you stay on track can be a huge advantage and Paul Churchill discovered just that. Paul moved to Granada, Spain where he purchased a bar. Over the next three years he became dependent on alcohol. Hoping to curtail the drinking with a geographical cure, he walked away from the bar in 2009 but continued to drink for the next five years. In 2015 Paul launched the Recovery Elevator Podcast and used it as an accountability tool to keep him sober. Today, it's been over three years since he has had his last drink alcohol. His podcast has become extremely successful surpassing one million downloads from all over the world.  To learn more about what Paul does and how to quit drinking your way, check out the Recovery Elevator website. "You can't do this alone." Be sure to check out the upcoming retreats Evryman is hosting. Find more information at the website! Show Notes 00:00 Introduction and Evryman retreat info 04:01 Paul and Dan's conversation 01:16:41 Outro and Evryman retreat info      

Presenting a diver deep into TEDxVail talk with Paul Churchill and ‘She’. He will share his wisdom as it relates to all alcohol, addiction, recovery, and the opportunity that exists daily. Learn how alcohol is killing you physically, mentally and spiritually. In addition, he will share the services he offers at Recovery Elevator and the opportunities that are available to you. Embrace Life!Connect with Paul Churchill Recovery ElevatorCAFÉ REPeru 2018TEDxVail

Presenting a diver deep into TEDxVail talk with Paul Churchill and ‘She’. He will share his wisdom as it relates to all alcohol, addiction, recovery, and the opportunity that exists daily. Learn how alcohol is killing you physically, mentally and spiritually. In addition, he will share the services he offers at Recovery Elevator and the opportunities that are available to you. Embrace Life! Connect with Paul Churchill Recovery Elevator CAFÉ RE Peru 2018 TEDxVail Suzanne Toro

Kellie Ideson joins us today on The SHAIR Podcast. Kellie has jumped into recovery with both feet. We met when she was working with Paul Churchill over at Recovery Elevator.  Kellie is a recovery warrior, a mom, a realtor, a marketing guru, wellness advocate, and a budding writer. Join us now as Kellie takes us through her horrific battle with drug addiction and her amazing transformational journey into recovery. Listen in as Kellie shares her story now! Get 20% OFF of Organifi Use code SHAIR at checkout for 20% off your order today! Click Here to go to organifi Now! www.organifi.com Support The SHAIR Podcast: Donate with PayPal -  http://theshairpodcast.com/donate/ Amazon Link - http://theshairpodcast.com/amazon Facebook Private Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/theSHAIRpodcast/

James with 8 days of sobriety shares why he wants to quit. There was a period of time from around 2004-2014 where I could not look at myself in the mirror. I didn't want to admit it, but I was disgusted with myself. I didn't recognize the person standing there and I didn't know what to do about it. I thought the problem was others, I thought the problem was stress, I thought the problem was anxiety and depression. I definitely wasn't ready to examine the problem could possibly be my ally alcohol. No way. Not at all. That couldn't be the problem. Nope. It wasn't until I reached emotional sobriety in 2014 when I started to catch glimpses of the real Paul Churchill in the mirror. It didn't happen day one of sobriety. It didn't happen day 30. But like the seasons change, I was eventually able to look myself in the mirror without total disgust. Fast forward to January 18th, 2016. I embrace that man in the mirror. We challenge each other to be better. To make others better and that man in the mirror is my best friend. Here is the poem a football coach read to us in High School.   The Guy in the Glass by Dale Wimbrow, (c) 1934 When you get what you want in your struggle for pelf, And the world makes you King for a day, Then go to the mirror and look at yourself, And see what that guy has to say. For it isn't your Father, or Mother, or Wife, Who judgement upon you must pass. The feller whose verdict counts most in your life Is the guy staring back from the glass. He's the feller to please, never mind all the rest, For he's with you clear up to the end, And you've passed your most dangerous, difficult test If the guy in the glass is your friend. You may be like Jack Horner and "chisel" a plum, And think you're a wonderful guy, But the man in the glass says you're only a bum If you can't look him straight in the eye. You can fool the whole world down the pathway of years, And get pats on the back as you pass, But your final reward will be heartaches and tears If you've cheated the guy in the glass. Dale Wimbrow 1895-1954 "You might be an alcoholic if"   -your spring cleaning meant clearing out the alcohol hiding spots, nooks and crannies to make room for the new ones -Brandy   -you know more about what's happening in your bartender's life, than in your best friend's. -Sarje   -as the sun rises over the curb, you notice you have one shoe on and aren't sure if you lost a shoe or found one. -Frank   -you do your recycling at 2am in the morning so no one will see you. -Claudia   -you don't remember leaving a bar with a guy, wake up at 2am and find a note from a guy you swear you've never met. You text him. You confirm your worst fear. Then start drinking again. -Kelly E.   "If you can't wait to get home from the corner store, so you start drinking your beer while driving home in the car...you might be an alcoholic." -Alvin     Be sure to join the Recovery Elevator Private Accountability Facebook Group. Be sure to expand your recovery network in Bozeman and Seattle. Dates for NYC, San Francisco, Denver Costa Rica and Norway are coming soon. This episode was brought to you by Sober Nation.

On today's Episode our Sober Podcast panel discussion featuring Paul Churchill from the Recovery Elevator and Shane Ramer from That Sober Guy and O from The SHAIR Podcast answering questions from our listeners and discussing New Years Resolutions Being of Service and Relapse.

In this Episode Shannon, who is a high bottom drunk explains how she made it to nearly 80 days sober. She mentions she loves Karaoke and you can check out Jimmy Cliff's "I Can See Clearly Now" on YouTube because that's how we both feel these days!   While listening to the Bubble Hour Podcast a few weeks ago on my drive home for Thanksgiving, I heard some great ideas on how to stay sober over the Holidays. One of the segments was how to respond when someone offers you a drink at a Holiday party. I heard from great responses, but none of the answers were the truth. What I have learned in recovery, is the best answer is the truth. The truth is liberating and you will be surprised by the lack of questions you will get after telling someone you don't drink. Most people are happy for you, and encourage your decision to not drink. A small percentage will give you flack, and this is a great way to quickly find out who are not your friends. Another small group will become inquisitive and start asking questions like, how much did you used to drink? Or, why are you not drinking? These people are asking for themselves because they have been questioning their own drinking habit. But here are 77 additional tips on how to stay sober over the Holidays. I do not claim for this to be a full and comprehensive list, and with certainty, I can predict leaving out some very important ones. But here ya go.   63 ways to stay sober over the Holidays Hang out with another alcoholic: That guy Bill was on to something there. Dedicate 5 minutes today, 10 minutes tomorrow, 15 minutes the next day and increase by five minutes each day on a dormant hobby that you used to love so much. This could be the guitar, model trains, knitting, or swimming. Endless possibility of fun things to do. Find conduits to your higher power: Forest, Snow, Trans Siberian Orchestra in a Starbucks coffee shop, painting and so much more. Music: Listen to music. Have you heard flamenco? It’s incredible. Write a letter to a friend. Not an email, but place a stamp on an envelope and send it out. Write down 5 things you are thankful for each day. My first sponsor requested this of me, and after 16 days, I had 8 things listed in my gratitude list. Not because I wasn’t thankful for things in life, but because sometimes these small, seemingly infinitesimal tasks were very had. Have a sit down chat with your addiction: Hey Gary, as you know the Holidays are approaching… Call a family member that isn’t immediate family and tell them how much you appreciate them. This could be a cousin, uncle, etc. When in a drive through (preferably not fast food), pay for the person behind you. Cartwheels: 94% of cartwheels result in laughter and a great time. The other 6% are broken coffee tables. Go to a 12-step meeting. Buy paint, a canvas, and start painting Go on a 3-mile walk/hike where there is no cell service. Or make it a point to leave your phone at home. Write down the goal of not drinking over the holidays. And then place this goal in a place you will see everyday like on your bathroom mirror or inside your gym locker (if you work out everyday). Volunteer your time at the animal shelter and walk some dogs. In Montana, you may even be able to walk a pig or goat. Dogs are service animals for a reason. Their company is therapeutic and they also don’t judge. You’re simply the “bees knees” since your taking them on a walk. Affirmation: Remind yourself daily that you will not be drinking because you have an allergy to alcohol. Read a book. More specifically, “A Drinking Story” by Caroline Knapp When someone asks if you want a drink at his or her Christmas Party, you respond with “is your snowmobile insured”? Stay a minimum of 300 feet away from Burger King, McDonalds, Arby’s Wendy’s and other fast food chains at all times. Actually the chili at Wendy’s is okay. But that’s it! Pray Say the serenity prayer out loud while looking into the mirror. Learn the serenity prayer in a different language. Make it a point to get outside of your comfort zone. Be okay with uncomfortable feelings. Take 10 minutes and feel your uncomfortable feelings. Embrace them. Get REal with yourself. Hot tea. Hot Tea Hot Tea. Tea that is not injected full of caffeine if possible. Listen to recovery podcasts. Read: Read and be a sponge. Go through your cabinets and remove anything with over 10grams of sugar on the carton. Also look for bags of sugar, powdered sugar, and stashes of Reece’s pieces. Cook brussel sprouts When someone asks if you would like a drink at his or her holiday party, tell them you don’t drink. When that person asks why you don’t drink, answer their question unequivocally. Ask siri to set the timer to 5 minutes. For the first minute, while in a calm still place, sit down, keep your eyes and just focus on sounds. Minute two, breath in for 5 seconds, and exhale for five seconds. Minutes three, close eyes and tell yourself what you are thankful for. Minute four, pump yourself up with affirmations like Paul Churchill, today we will something great and minute five, envision what you want your life to be like in 1 week, 1 month, 1 year, 5 years and 10 years. Write down your goals. 95% of people don’t write down their goals and 95% of or people, who write down their goals, achieve their goals. Think that one through. Wake up before the sun comes up fro five consecutive days. Put your alarm clock on the other side of the room so you physically have to get out of the bed. Write down who your recovery team is. This doesn’t matter if you are drunk now, or have 10 years of sobriety. Be clear with who is on your team in case of emergency. Have the baby bag packed by the door. Avoid self-loathing: in other words, don’t kick the crap out of yourself over your drinking. Alcohol does a fine job of this already. Get to know your addiction. My addiction is named Gary, and I fully respect him. Whoever or what ever that God thing is, just remember, you’re not it. Find a way to create accountability. Tell someone you are planning to quit drinking, or this Christmas you plan to have less than ten eggnogs. Don’t judge yourself. Be truly accepting of who you are. Call your sponsor and if you don’t have one, get one. Acceptance is the answer. My favorite paragraph in the Big Book. Find a way to accept your current situation. Get creative: Create something with clay, pick up a new instrument, use your mind to create something. Learn a new skill or task. You tube is a great way to learn new things. Remove temptations: There are the obvious ones like that bottle of Tequila in your pantry, but get rid of all the maple syrup in the house while you’re at it. Have an exit strategy at outings. Give up control. Hang out with that group of friends who implausibly seem to be enjoying themselves without alcohol. De-friend 5 negative or non-supportive friends on Facebook. Write goals down: Don’t drink today, build a fence, or write a book. Celebrate: Milestones are huge. Get back up on your feet. Reward yourself with a treat: The treat shouldn’t be booze or consist of more than 92% sugar. Stay busy. Remind yourself the last 256 times you planned to only have a couple beers tonight, didn’t end up as planned. Netflix, HBO, and Hulu Learn a new recipe. One that doesn’t need maple syrup to make it delicious. Check out some animals in their natural environment. Go Carts. Do the steps. Remind yourself, it was my brilliant ideas that got me into this predicament (if you’re in a predicament) so maybe I don’t have all the answers.   This is huge Recovery Elevator. The first Recovery Elevator meetup will be taking place in Seattle on Saturday February 27th, 2016. Details to come. Email info@recoveryelevator.com for more info on this meetup. This podcast was brought to you by Sober Nation.

On today's Episode we have a panel discussion featuring Paul Churchill from the Recovery Elevator, Shane Ramer from That Sober Guy and Micheal Hilton from the UK answering questions from our listeners and discussing Why did we get Sober.

On today's Episode we have a special guest Paul Churchill, the host and founder of The Recovery Elevator Podcast. He holds himself accountable to sobriety by committing to producing a weekly podcast about recovery on the Recovery Elevator. His recovery portfolio includes meetings, sponsorship and carrying the message of recovery. He's a good son, a good friend and with one year sober has an amazing story to share with us, join us now.

Paul Churchill of Recovery Elevator talks to us about the dependency and the links between sobriety and nutrition, exercise and healthy habits. Whatever your personal struggle or goal may be, Paul's tips apply to breaking bad habits and creating lasting change. What We Talk About: - Lifestyle changes that Paul has made to finally give up drinking for good - Creating an environment of accountability - which works no matter what your goal is - The routine Paul sets for himself to set up success every day..."Once I get out of one small routine it effects everything throughout the day; it’s a compound effect" - How Paul got in the best shape of his life without trying to get into the best shape of his life Minutes 0-10 are Announcements from Ella: - The downloadable / printable PDFs for the Juicing, Travel and Cravings Tips are out! If you want your copy, get on the mailing list here or you can even Take the Quiz so I can help target more content for you  - If you've already connected, make sure you check your spam folder for my email (get me out of there!!) - Podcast Tip! You can listen to podcasts on 1.5x speed to save time. This is great for listening to everyone else’s show ;-) I tell you how in this episode. - Your reviews in iTunes - I share some and thank all of you for paying it forward!  - I just got back from vacation, so I'm doing some intermittent fasting to reset. If you want to know more about this, listen to episode 025 with Dr. Sara Solomon! Learn More: www.onairwithella.com and get over to Facebook to join our group there!

Our 50th episode is a fitting one. As you know, a 50th anniversary is typically celebrated with gold. Because we appreciate our listeners so much, we would settle for nothing less than the same.But our gold comes in the form of a scintillating conversation with the two editors of the Baker Street Irregulars' eighth entry in their , , which is a look at the manuscript of "The Adventure of the Golden Pince-Nez." Co-editors Andrew Solberg, BSI ("Professor Coram") and Robert Katz, MD, BSI ("Dr. Ainstree") joined us to discuss just what it is that goes into creating a significant piece of scholarship such as we've come to expect from BSI publications of late.From the history of the manuscript itself, to artifacts from Paul Churchill's famed "evidence boxes," to an in-depth look at the historical background alluded to in the tale, the breadth of topics within the book is impressive. Also included are a number of other analyses on topics ranging from the historical and geographical to the linguistic, religious and medical, by noted Sherlockians Peggy Perdue, BSI ("Violet Westbury"), Denny Dobry, Donald Pollock, MD, BSI ("The Anthropological Journal") former member of the BSI, Albert Silverstein, BSI ("Professor Presbury"), C. Paul Martin, MD, BSI ("Dr. Leslie Armstrong"), Jacquelynn Morris, Richard J. Sveum, MD, BSI ("Dr. Hill Barton"), John Baesch, BSI ("The State and Merton County Railroad"), and William Hyder, BSI ("A Most Valuable Institution").Our discussions range as far and wide as the book itself, and we also cover just a bit of the BSI Weekend festivities from 2013. But more on that in a future episode. This one clocked in at over an hour and 20 minutes, but we think you'll enjoy the conviviality between four Sherlockians as you spend a long evening with Holmes.The Editor's Gas-Lamp: We thought it was fitting to focus on 50th anniversaries, so we took a page from the 50th anniversary year of the Baker Street Journal and read the Editor's Gas-Lamp of Vol. 46, No. 4 from December 1996, with Donald ("I'm not a member of the BSI") Pollock as editor.

Addictions are many things. But to simplify, they represent parts of our personalities that are out of balance. They represent a part of our body, mind, soul, or spirit that needs a lot of attention and that perhaps was neglected in childhood. As we continue using external substances, these imbalances get louder and louder until they have to be dealt with. Eventually, we get stuck in a cycle of shame and guilt that leads to hopelessness.On this episode, Duane speaks with Paul Churchill, the host and founder of Recovery Elevator. In 2015, Paul launched the podcast, which he thought was a risky move having only been six months sober from alcohol. It was a calculated gamble that actually saved his life. Now, it has opened a lot of doors for him to meet great people and impact other people's lives.Paul was a normal drinker for about seven years since he was 15 years old. Soon, he found how the drug alcohol let him overcome his insecurities and fears in early childhood. At 22, after he graduated college, he moved to Granada, Spain and bought a bar. Moving to a foreign country with a drinking problem to buy a bar in Spain at a young age was a total dumpster fire. It was both the best time and the worst time of his life.The tipping point came at the very end when he blacked out for three straight days and realized he was tiptoeing around life and death. In 2010, he decided to go a month without alcohol and ended up going two and a half years without it. He was going forward on willpower. When you're viewing life without alcohol as a sacrifice, your time is limited. So he went back to drinking, stopped again, and then went back to alcohol again. It was a cycle that gave him a sense of hopelessness to the point of him attempting suicide. In 2014, he finally surrendered and stopped fighting.Now, here he is – seven years later. He believes his addiction served a purpose that directed him to move forward in life without alcohol and to go internal instead of external for happiness and support.In this episode, you will hear:Paul's addiction and recovery journeyBeing stuck in a cycle of shame and hopelessnessHow Paul was finding habits or distractions as part of his recoveryAddiction as an adaptive behaviorThe endowment theory that forces us to connect Ending the stigma of addiction itself and getting help for itOvercoming addiction through community and accountabilityKey Quotes:[03:13] - “Addictions are many things. But to simplify them, they represent parts of our personalities that are out of balance.”[04:16] - “Alcohol was a self medicating elixir in it. It worked wonders. The problem was it wasn't sustainable.”[07:11] - “It's a real dangerous cycle that we can get on where we have intense anxiety, alcohol relieves it. And then when alcohol goes away, there's more anxiety.”[10:18] - “Hope is constantly looking into the future for a better world, and that's a trap in itself.”[10:23] - “When you have lost all hope, and you really come crashing down into the present moment, that's where the bulk of the recovery work happens in this present moment.”[14:50] - “A lot of these addictions, especially in modern society, they're adaptive behaviors.”[19:40] - “Overall human beings, they're wired to help. And most human beings are really good people.”[23:08] - “It is a societal issue. And it's not the issue for just the addict or the alcoholic. And it's not even really their fault. A lot of this is generational and passed down.”[24:06] - “How to depart from addiction is complicated... but it can also be as simple as community and accountability.”Subscribe and ReviewHave you subscribed to our podcast? We'd love for you to subscribe if you haven't yet. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.If you really enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at www.theaddictedmind.com to download it.Supporting Resources:https://www.recoveryelevator.com/ In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts by Dr. Gabor Maté Episode CreditsIf you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment.He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world.Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com