Sisters In Sobriety

In this episode of "Sisters in Sobriety," Sonia and Kathleen dive into the often unexpected twists and turns that accompany the journey of sobriety. They'll guide you through understanding the far-reaching impacts of choosing a sober lifestyle, revealing both the challenges and triumphs that come with this significant life change. This episode poses critical questions: What changes, both anticipated and surprising, occur when one adopts a sober lifestyle? How does sobriety affect relationships, personal values, and daily routines? The conversation delves into these aspects, exploring how sobriety can reshape one's life, identity, and interactions with others. You will gain insights into the complex interplay between sobriety and personal development. The episode highlights how sobriety can lead to a deeper understanding of one’s values, the importance of coping mechanisms, and the impact of sobriety on physical and mental health. These educational takeaways provide a comprehensive view of the transformative journey of sobriety. Sonia shares her personal story of sobriety, detailing how it led to significant changes in her relationships and self-perception. This segment provides a heartfelt glimpse into the realities of navigating life's changes while maintaining sobriety, offering listeners both inspiration and relatable experiences. This is "Sisters in Sobriety," a podcast brought to you by EverBlume, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. 00:00:00 | Introduction to the podcast and topic of discussion 00:00:12 | Discussion about Christmas celebrations 00:01:51 | Importance of being organized and sticking to routines 00:02:33 | Conversation about expectations people have of sobriety 00:04:00 | Introduction to the challenges and unexpected changes in sobriety 00:05:00 | Detrimental effects of high expectations on sobriety 00:06:00 | Advice for those considering sobriety and managing expectations 00:08:00 | Importance of ongoing effort and seeking support in recovery 00:09:00 | Discussion about the reality of sobriety compared to expectations 00:10:00 | Personal experiences and surprises in sobriety revealed 00:10:37 | Disappointment with using alcohol to numb emotions during divorce 00:11:21 | Realization that sobriety is an ongoing process 00:11:50 | Unexpected loss of friends due to sobriety 00:12:47 | Underestimation of shame and emotional impact of sobriety 00:16:10 | Physical benefits of sobriety, such as increased energy and better sleep 00:17:21 | Positive surprises of sobriety, including more free time and discovering new hobbies 00:19:27 | Transformation of relationships, health, and daily routine through sobriety 00:21:34 | Need for therapy and treatment of anxiety and depression 00:21:55 | Whole world opening up through the process of transformation 00:21:55 | Transformation process and its impact on relationships, health, and routine 00:23:30 | Self-medicating mental health issues and addiction 00:25:22 | Physical improvements after quitting alcohol 00:26:28 | Possibility of transferring addiction to other areas 00:28:00 | Addressing underlying issues and having support to prevent addiction transfer 00:30:00 | Importance of daily routine and habits for relief 00:32:19 | Mixed impact of sobriety on relationships 00:33:00 | Shift in values as a result of clarity 00:33:24 | Desire to help others get sober and embrace second chances 00:34:34 | Transformation and growth in sobriety 00:35:20 | Lifestyle incompatibility led to growing apart and abrupt separation for Sonia 00:36:12 | Experiencing pain and feeling alienated by partner's new lifestyle 00:38:00 | Importance of valuing and supporting sobriety in relationships 00:38:59 | Changes in values and the impact on relationships in sobriety 00:39:46 | Difficulty reconciling personal growth with partner's choices 00:40:52 | Negative effects on relationships due to lifestyle differences and emotional changes 00:42:53 | Challenges in relationships due to different priorities and codependency 00:44:00 | Realization that sobriety reveals true values and identity [00:45:28] | Fear of sharing narrative about husband leaving due to sobriety [00:45:45] | Reframing the reason for the marriage ending [00:46:10] | Values were revealed and not in alignment [00:46:29] | Acceptance became easier after realizing the misalignment in values Links: Sisters In Sobriety | EverBlume Website Sisters In Sobriety | EverBlume Instagram Sisters In Sobriety | EverBlume Email Kathleen’s Website *Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast* Kathleen’s LinkedIn Kathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s episode, we dive into the timely topic of “Dry January” - a month dedicated to abstaining from alcohol. Kathleen will share her inspiring journey, emphasizing how a period of abstinence from drugs was the catalyst for her sobriety, and the unique challenges that alcohol presented due to its social acceptance. Sonia will explore the various drinking patterns and the importance of recognizing when alcohol may be more than just a casual habit. We'll unpack the importance of medical advice, seeking further abstinence, and finding the right support systems. Kathleen reminds us to do our research and reflects on her all-or-nothing approach to life's indulgences, sharing how an eight-week cleanse from substances dramatically shifted her perspective. We will chat about the benefits that come with a break from booze: the joys of waking up clear-headed, the potential for weight loss, and the overall boost to your health and relationships. But it's not all smooth sailing, as we'll also talk about the potential for a pendulum swing back to binge drinking. We don't just theorize. We are also putting our taste buds to the test with a couple of mocktail reviews. Will the complex flavor profile of the St. James 101 bitter aperitif spritz win the day, or will the fruity notes of the Hiyo peach mango drink with natural nootropics and adaptogens come out on top? Kathleen and I have our opinions, and we're excited to sip and share. So, grab your favorite non-alcoholic beverage, and let's explore the ins and outs of Dry January together. Maybe you'll be inspired to join the movement or simply gain a deeper understanding of your own relationship with alcohol. And as always, we welcome your stories and insights. Be sure to find us on social media and let's continue the conversation. Ready? Let's get into it! 0:01:48 | Explanation of dry January and its benefits 0:03:20 | Tips and strategies for starting dry January 0:05:12 | Importance of reflection and goal-setting for dry January 0:06:14 | Questions to ask oneself during dry January 0:07:10 | Personal experiences with periods of abstinence 0:08:02 | Challenges and triggers for going back to drinking 0:09:44 | Factors influencing the decision to drink or be abstinent 0:12:06 | Possible outcomes of dry January: positive and negative [0:12:47] | Epic return to drinking after abstinence discussed [0:14:08] | Positive effects of abstinence: improved sleep, weight loss, better skin, improved relationships [0:15:32] | Different experiences during dry January: some find it easy, others struggle [0:16:09] | Kathleen's experience with abstinence from drugs and alcohol [0:18:00] | Can't go a month without drinking: possible problematic drinking [0:19:20] | Various unhealthy patterns of drinking discussed [0:19:40] | Recommendations for those concerned about their relationship with alcohol [0:22:23] | Reflection and mindfulness during abstinence [0:23:24] | Discussion on the potential of dry January as a gateway to sobriety 0:25:14 | Kathleen describes the Sir James 101 Spritz beverage 0:25:36 | Kathleen and Sonia discuss the complexity and refreshing nature of the drink. 0:26:13 | They agree that the drink would be suitable for ordering at a bar. 0:27:14 | Kathleen rates the likelihood of recommending the drink as 8 or 9 out of 10. 0:28:23 | They try the Hiyo peach mango drink and discuss its taste and ingredients. 0:30:00 | Kathleen mentions the marketing of the drink towards people living a sober lifestyle. 0:31:23 | Sonia rates the likelihood of recommending the drink between 5 and 8 out of 10. 0:32:09 | Kathleen expresses that she would not consider the Hiyo peach mango drink a mocktail. 0:32:16 | They conclude that the Sir James 101 Spritz is the winner. Links: EverBlume Website EverBlume Instagram EverBlume Email - [email protected] Sonia’s LinkedIn Kathleen’s Website *Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast* Kathleen’s LinkedIn Kathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey there, lovely listeners! It's that time of the year again, and Sonia and Kathleen are here to chat about the glitter and tinsel of the holiday season, all while keeping our glasses alcohol-free. They’re sharing our own stories and tips on how to stay sober and joyful during this festive time. The holidays can be a jolly jumble of joy and stress, right? From the aroma of mulled cider to the clinking of glasses, we're surrounded by cheerful temptations. But fear not, they’ve got some tricks up our sleeves to stay on the merry path of sobriety. They'll delve into those sneaky triggers, like the endless parties, the sometimes overwhelming family gatherings, and even those off-hand comments from Uncle Joe about why you're not having a drink. Mindfulness is our holiday mantra. They're talking about staying present and savoring each moment, whether it's the twinkle of Christmas lights or the laughter of friends, all without that extra glass of eggnog. And let's not forget about those surprise triggers that pop up like unannounced carolers. They've both been there and will share how they learned to navigate these situations with grace and a good sense of humor. Setting boundaries is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket. They discuss why it's okay to say no to certain events or to step away for a bit of quiet time. It's all about taking care of you. Lastly, they chat about creating new traditions that don't center around alcohol. From festive mocktails to winter walks, there are so many ways to celebrate that keep the spirit high and the spirits low. As a special treat they have a review of two alcohol-free bellinis - Cipriani White Peach Bellini and Mingle Blackberry Hibiscus Bellini! Join them as they laugh, share, and sip a mocktail or two! Let's make this holiday season one filled with warmth, connection, and sober celebrations! This is Sisters in Sobriety, a podcast brought to you by EverBlume, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Highlights: 0:30 | Reasons why the holiday season can be difficult for those avoiding alcohol 3:14 | How mindfulness can help with triggers 4:47 | Unexpected triggers during the holidays 5:58 | Kathleen's struggles during her first sober holiday 8:54 | Sonia's struggles during her first sober holiday 10:37 | Sonia's epic drunken Christmas fail in 2007 12:18 | Triggers for binge drinking during the holidays 13:36 | Coping mechanisms and setting boundaries to avoid binging 16:37 | How to stay sober when you’re having a tough year 17:26 | Importance of showing up and using your tools for sobriety 20:00 | Creating new traditions during holidays 21:17 | Seeking support wherever you can get it 23:32 | Alcohol-free alternatives 25:00 | The need to address isolation and seek support if feeling isolated. 25:23 | Having a plan before entering difficult situations is crucial. 25:50 | The importance of having a plan to stay sober on New Year's Eve. 26:00 | A review of 2 Christmas Bellinis! Links: EverBlume Website EverBlume Instagram EverBlume Email - [email protected] Sonia’s LinkedIn Kathleen’s Website *Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast* Kathleen’s LinkedIn Kathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At the heart of every sobriety journey, there is a support community. Be it friends, family, or regular community groups… We all get by with a little help! So in this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen discuss what true support looks like in sobriety, and how to find it. As with everything else in sobriety, support is personal; there is no one size fits all solution. So today, Kathleen and Sonia will cover key questions to help you identify your needs: can friends and family be your main support system? What should you do if they’re not helping? What’s the difference between AA and other support communities? Is it normal to feel really uncomfortable in a group setting? And perhaps most importantly: what are the signs that you have found your people? Throughout this episode, you will hear about different types of support systems, from in-person groups, to online communities. You will learn how accountability and story-telling can help your recovery, and understand better the difference between coaching and therapy. Last but not least, your hosts will be sharing the fourth and final chapter of their personal story of growth, family and sobriety. Previously, Sonia and Kathleen have told you about their youth, how they became sober, and supported each other through thick and thin. Now, they share how divorce and grief can still lead to a perfect moment, made of undying strength, new life trajectories, and a whole lot of family love. You will hear it at every turn: it takes a village to stay sober in a very non-sober world. This is Sisters in Sobriety, a podcast brought to you by EverBlume, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Highlights: What does a sobriety support system look like? (2:05) Finding support through big life transitions (3:48) How Kathleen became a life coach and psychotherapist (5:20) When Sonia’s sobriety broke her marriage (6:23) How Sonia’s system helped her maintain sobriety during her divorce (7:33) “I was with her every step of the way”: support seen from the other side (8:44) Hearing people’s stories to find motivation (10:07) Sobriety support comes in many shapes and sizes (11:24) Understanding the different types of sobriety groups (12:40) What’s the difference between therapy and coaching? (13:47) Signs that a group is right for you (16:55) How Sonia got the idea of EverBlume (19:05) Becoming a recovery coach and kicking business into action! (20:36) What EverBlume looks like today (22:18) Back to present time: “You stick together, you get stronger” (23:12) How to recognise that you need additional support (24:53) Accountability as a tool in recovery (27:58) A slip doesn’t mean you are back to square one (29:20) The role of friends and family in sobriety support (30:35) What your close circle should not do (33:36) Kathleen and Sonia’s personal takeaways (35:00) Links: EverBlume Website EverBlume Instagram Sonia’s LinkedIn Kathleen’s Website Kathleen’s LinkedIn Kathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You’ve heard of early sobriety, you’ve felt the very real changes of physical sobriety… But have you come across “emotional sobriety” yet? No? Well this is your chance to learn! Welcome back to Sisters in Sobriety, the podcast that talks about sobriety, addiction and everything in between. In this new episode, Kathleen and Sonia discuss the somewhat elusive, yet life-transforming concept of “emotional sobriety”. And if you’re not sure what that means; worry not! Today, Sonia and Kathleen help you figure out what emotional sobriety might look like for you. They also give you the tools you need to reframe your emotional mindset, acquire better coping mechanisms… And make your white-knuckling days feel like a distant nightmare! As they discuss their own experiences with emotional sobriety, Kathleen and Sonia will also wonder: Do you have to be emotionally sober all the time? What happens if you’re not? How can you change your approach to sobriety with new routines, and mindful practices? What are the signs that you might be losing your balance in sobriety? And how can you turn the hard times into the stuff that keeps you going? As they walk you through these delicate questions, Kathleen and Sonia also share a new chapter in their personal story of growth, as sisters-in-law and sisters in sobriety! Today, they tell you how they came together as a family, and stood side by side, through the good times and the bad. Brace yourself for an episode rich with emotions, and life-long lessons. This is Sisters in Sobriety, a podcast brought to you by EverBlume, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Highlights: Defining “emotional sobriety” (1:46) Emotional sobriety as a very personal thing (3:25) Sonia’s first steps towards emotional sobriety (6:28) From “white knuckling it” to finding support in recovery (7:45) When Kathleen becomes a mom… (9:24) …And Sonia, an auntie (again!) (10:32) Sonia’s first sober vacation: learning to trust yourself again (12:12) Kathleen and Sonia become family (13:50) Learning to practice emotional sobriety (15:57) Kathleen’s day-to-day meditation tips (18:14) “Turning pain into purpose” (20:36) A fateful holiday to Hawaii (22:14) The end of a marriage (26:00) Navigating significant relationships through a divorce (28:33) When relapse feels like grief (29:36) Being “dry drunk”: how emotional sobriety plays into relapse (31:31) Signs you might not be emotionally sober (32:35) How to encourage someone to work on their emotional sobriety? (36:03) “One minute at a time” (38:20) Sonia and Kathleen’s personal takeaways (40:14) Links: EverBlume Website EverBlume Instagram EverBlume Email Sonia’s LinkedIn Kathleen’s Website Kathleen’s LinkedIn Kathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Kathleen and Sonia talk about early sobriety, a chapter of your journey that will come with many changes! From new physical sensations, to heightened senses, early sobriety is a time for reset, and stripping your mental health to the bones. So today, your hosts help you navigate this period of vulnerability and sober reinvention. For both Sonia and Kathleen, early sobriety was synonymous with vivid new emotional experiences and personal reckonings. So they’ll set out to answer the questions you might be pondering yourself: is quitting alcohol a “once and for all” kind of business? Or is moderate drinking an option? How to minimize situations that trigger cravings? How to continue socializing without drinking? What happens if you slip? Do you have to call that “relapse”? And during this transition, what does a good support system look like? Let Kathleen and Sonia walk you through your first steps into sobriety, as you get acquainted with a whole new alcohol-free life! Throughout the episode, you’ll hear about healthier coping mechanisms, sober routines, mindfulness techniques, goal-setting and sobriety support networks. This week, you will also hear the second chapter of Kathleen and Sonia's personal story of growth! Last episode, they told you about their early adult years, and Kathleen’s life-changing “rehab” experience. Today, join them again on their journey of family and sobriety, as they tell you how they met! Spoiler alert: Sonia’s brother had something to do with it. But there was still a long way to become family. This is Sisters in Sobriety, a podcast brought to you by EverBlume, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Highlights: Defining early sobriety (1:30) Kathleen’s first dry date (4:53) Sonia on her brother’s sobriety (7:01) When Kathleen meets Sonia (9:04) A whirlwind romance (10:52) Understanding the goal of early sobriety (12:19) What a healthier lifestyle looks like (15:12) Why the “all or nothing” method does not work (16:25) The ins and outs of seeking professional help (18:00) “Triggers are everything” - how to renew your social environments (20:11) When Kathleen’s engagement wreaks havoc (22:09) Drinking to cope with family feuds (24:18) How to host a sober wedding (24:59) Connecting as a family: when Kathleen gets pregnant (26:06) Sonia’s early thoughts on sobriety (29:03) What to do on a hard day (30:13) Why a slip carries valuable information (32:39) The role of self-compassion in a slip (33:56) Boundaries and a support system: your barrier against a slip (35:32) Personal takes on milestones and anniversaries (36:50) Sonia and Kathleen’s personal takeaways (38:34) Links: EverBlume Website EverBlume Instagram Sonia’s LinkedIn Kathleen’s Website Kathleen’s LinkedIn Kathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Sisters in Sobriety! In this very first episode, meet your hosts, Kathleen and Sonia, as they bring you to the start of your sobriety journey and discuss the big question: what does it mean to quit drinking? Quitting is the first step of many to embrace sobriety! It is your first moment of recognition and empowerment; to let go of what is holding you back, and start building a healthier life, without alcohol. Today, your hosts cover the questions that everyone in the sober community grapples with: what does quitting mean, actually? Is it a once-and-for-all decision? What kind of drinking is considered “problematic”? How can you tell if someone is struggling with their alcohol consumption? And is an intervention a good idea? (Spoiler alert: maybe not!) In this episode, Kathleen and Sonia also unveil their personal story of growth! Step back in time, to hear their unique tale of family and sobriety. Today, your hosts look back on their early years, reflecting on how they built their own consumption habits in childhood and young adulthood. Between their student life at the University of Toronto, blooming careers fueled by the “work hard play hard” method, and a fateful yoga retreat in Mexico… There is a lot to tell. Stay tuned for insights into what grey area drinking is, how habit-stacking works, what constitutes a healthy sober environment, and how you can test out sobriety on your own terms! Because in the end, what matters is that you get there, “whatever it takes” as Sonia would say. This is Sisters in Sobriety, a podcast brought to you by EverBlume, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Highlights: What does it mean to “quit” drinking? (00:59) Sonia’s early experiences with self-medicating (03:08) How Kathleen grew up as an only child (04:40) Using alcohol to socialize as a student (06:01) Spotting the signs of an alcohol use disorder (08:02) The importance of being honest with yourself (10:11) Why drinking doesn’t work (11:40) Unpacking the concept of “habit stacking” (12:55) How environment impacts your drinking and cravings (15:22) When dental school tamped down Sonia’s drinking (18:52) Kathleen’s corporate career and associated parties (20:56) Sonia’s slow descent into drinking (22:40) A sober awakening: when Kathleen’s life took a turn (24:38) The benefits of rehab (27:30) Defining the concept of “grey area drinking” (29:03) How to talk to a loved one about their drinking? (31:12) Values as a roadmap to sobriety (33:26) Sonia and Kathleen’s personal takeaways (35:46) Understanding that your life can improve so much (37:10) Links: EverBlume Website EverBlume Instagram EverBlume Email Sonia’s LinkedIn Kathleen’s Website Kathleen’s LinkedIn Kathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You know that sinking feeling when you wake up with a hangover and think: “I’m never doing this again”? We’ve all been there. But what happens when you follow through? Sonia Kahlon and Kathleen Killen will tell you, because they did it! They went from sisters-in-law, to Sisters in Sobriety. In this podcast, Sonia and Kathleen invite you into their world, as they navigate the ups and downs of sobriety, explore stories of personal growth and share their journey of wellness and recovery. Get ready for some real, honest conversations about sobriety, addiction, and everything in between. Wherever you are on your sobriety journey, join them! And enjoy a weekly dose of vulnerability, mutual support... And much needed comic relief. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.