Your Sober Sweet Spot

In this episode I sit down with Ros Thompson to explore the emotional ups and downs that come with staying sober during the festive season. I talk openly about my own early sobriety, how frightened I used to feel at Christmas and the pressure of being around people who expected me to drink. Ros’s calm, grounded approach to Bach flower remedies brings a soothing clarity to the conversation, and I share how tools like these supported me during the moments when triggers were everywhere.I also talk honestly about the early years of my recovery, the fear of failing again and the strategies I still lean on today. From boundaries to planning ahead to choosing the right environments, I explore how I stay steady through a time that used to overwhelm me. Ros explains which remedies help with fear, confidence and emotional overload, especially when family dynamics or social events stir up old patterns.Highlights:(01:40) Ros’s story of discovering flower remedies through a feisty pony(05:55) How emotional patterns respond to Bach flower support(09:58) Why winter and Christmas amplify stress and old wounds(15:22) My early sobriety struggles and fear of relapse(19:43) The strategies I use to protect my recovery at gatherings(26:26) Ros’s go to remedies for calm, confidence and festive overwhelmConnect with Ros:[email protected]://www.facebook.com/ros.thompson.12https://www.linkedin.com/in/ros-thompson-menopausetrainer-bachflowerpractitioner/Connect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode, I’m joined by Deborah Mendez for an honest conversation about the addictions we rarely talk about. Not just substances, but achievement, exercise, validation and even community. Deborah shares her journey through exercise addiction, burnout and corporate misalignment, and how those experiences reshaped the way she leads today.We also talk about the difference between hustle and flow, doing inner work without getting stuck in it, and why authentic leadership starts with self awareness and compassion.Highlights: (02:10) When exercise crossed the line from coping to burnout (05:45) The hidden addictions we praise, achievement, status and hustle (09:30) Losing your sense of agency is the real warning sign (13:40) What alignment actually feels like in your body and energy (17:55) Why inner work is about evolution, not fixing yourself (22:10) Leading with compassion without burning yourself outFind out more about Deborah:WebsiteLinkedInPhone: 07989 584084Email: [email protected] with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode, I am joined by Matt and Sara from Solutions Makers for a clear and relatable look at why we get in our own way. We talk about burnout, habits, and the brain’s tendency to pull us back into old patterns, even when we want better for ourselves.What I love about this conversation is how simple and doable their advice feels. No pressure, no perfection, just real guidance on taking small steps that genuinely shift your day to day life.Highlights:(01:38) Burnout and rebuilding life(06:12) Why knowing better does not mean doing better(14:05) The brain’s reward loops and self sabotage(23:47) Morning rituals that protect energy(31:10) Tiny steps that build real change(38:52) Understanding identity and habit patternsFind out more about Matt and Sara:WebsiteLinkedInInstagramOur Solutions Manual (podcast, articles, courses)Connect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this heartfelt conversation with Ian Fee, we talk honestly about what it means to rebuild trust after years of chaos, regret and emotional distance. Ian shares the turning point that shifted his recovery from trying to fix everything for everyone else to finally choosing himself, and how that decision reshaped his relationships, especially with his children. His story is full of warmth, humour and grounded wisdom, offering reassurance that steady actions, open communication and genuine presence can rewrite even the most painful family patterns.Highlights:(02:10) Stacking rock bottoms before the final turning point(07:45) Realising recovery had to begin with looking inward(14:20) The spark behind writing Ian's book and sharing his story(19:55) Rebuilding trust with children through everyday consistency(26:40) Breaking old emotional patterns and learning to talk openly(32:10) School talk and the impact on young peopleFind out more about Ian Fee:Email: [email protected]: 2065713068WebsiteLinkedInFacebookBookConnect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode, RJ Zimmerman returns to share how naming your emotions can completely shift the way you relate to yourself. We talk about the moment that pushed him into deep self discovery, why fear softened when he finally acknowledged it, and how his emotional glossary helps people break old reactive patterns. RJ explains why anger often signals a boundary that needs attention, what anxiety is trying to protect us from, and how reconnecting with the body brings you back to your most grounded and authentic self, all through small, consistent steps that fit into real life.Highlights:(03:44) RJ shares the life moment that forced him to choose a different path(09:22) The turning point that helped him stop fighting his own fear(17:10) Why naming emotions breaks destructive patterns(24:03) Anger as a message, not a flaw(30:54) What anxiety is really trying to protect you from(42:11) How tiny, consistent steps make emotional change sustainableFind out more about RJ Zimmerman:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInConnect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode, I explore a kind of loneliness that goes far deeper than a quiet Friday night in. It is the quiet ache that follows many people into recovery, even when life looks full on the outside. I talk about the two ideas that changed my own understanding of healing, Ubuntu and Salbona, and how they offer a way back to belonging when willpower alone simply is not enough.I also look at what it truly means to be seen in recovery, not as a version you perform but as the person you are right now. When connection becomes the medicine, everything shifts. If you have ever felt that you were supposed to do this alone, this conversation might just ease that weight.Highlights: (01:48) - The hidden loneliness so many people carry (03:32) - Why modern recovery pressures us to fix ourselves in isolation (05:20) - Ubuntu and a new way to understand healing through connection (07:14) - How being witnessed can break cycles of shame (09:02) - Deep listening and becoming a safe space for others (10:25) - The universal human truth that we heal in communityConnect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode, I’m talking about something that often gets overlooked on the sober journey -certainty. Not the kind that comes from having a plan or proof, but that quiet inner knowing that everything will be okay, even when it looks like it won’t. I share how I first experienced it nearly two decades ago, why it’s different from trust or faith, and how you can strengthen it through simple, sacred daily pauses.This one’s about finding calm in chaos, building inner steadiness, and remembering that your light is always there… even when life feels dark.Highlights: 02:15 – The difference between trust, faith, and true certainty 04:30 – How to build certainty when everything feels unstable 06:10 – The power of sacred appointments with yourself 08:00 – Staying steady when chaos hits 09:20 – A simple daily practice to anchor into your inner calmConnect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this conversation with psychotherapist and author Jason Shiers, we explore what it really means to heal beyond addiction.Jason shares how a spiritual awakening transformed his understanding of recovery - from fixing what’s broken to remembering what’s always been whole. We talk about the power of self-awareness, the myths of traditional therapy, and how freedom begins when we stop trying to perform healing and start embodying it.It’s honest, eye-opening, and surprisingly hopeful.If you’ve ever wondered whether lasting recovery is truly possible, this one will shift something in you.Highlights:01:35 – From brokenness to awakening: Jason’s raw journey through trauma and addiction07:20 – The moment everything changed — and what he realised about true healing14:35 – Why traditional therapy can keep people stuck (and what works instead)21:50 – Healing as remembering: finding the self beneath the story29:00 – When helpers need healing too — the truth about transformation in therapy35:00 – Living from freedom, not fear: Jason’s message for anyone ready to come home to themselvesConnect with Jason:www.infiniterecoveryproject.com https://www.wideworldcoaching.com/https://www.tiktok.com/@infiniterecoveryprojecthttps://www.instagram.com/infiniterecoveryproject/https://www.youtube.com/@infiniterecoveryprojectConnect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this week’s episode of Your Sober Sweet Spot, I’m joined by Neil Jordan - an incredible guest whose story is nothing short of remarkable. From addiction and homelessness in his teens to studying with yogis in India, Neil’s journey is proof that transformation is always possible. He now helps business owners harness the power of the mind to reach their full potential. We talk about his new book, and explore how thoughts, energy, and action all work together to shape the lives we create.Highlights:(03:09) Neil shares his journey from addiction to awareness(11:27) The moment that changed everything(18:38) Discovering the power of the mind(29:38) Why energy, thoughts and actions must align(47:17) The simple ‘GRUB’ method for managing your mindFind out more about Neil: WebsiteFacebookGood Thinking Club Facebook PageConnect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode, I’m sharing something that completely changed not just my recovery, but how I think about healing in everyday life. We’ll talk about Reiki - not in a mystical way, but in a really practical, grounding way that anyone can try. I’ll walk you through the five simple principles that became a foundation for my own wellness, and show you how small daily choices can create powerful shifts over time.Highlights:(2:13) My first unexpected Reiki session experience(4:39) Healing through simple, daily self-care choices(6:07) Practising “just for today, I release anger”(8:11) Gratitude and mindfulness as daily anchors(10:47) How Reiki principles guide gentle self-compassionConnect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode of Your Sober Sweet Spot, I’m welcoming back Christopher Paul Jones - phobia specialist, author, and all-round expert in helping people face the fears that hold them back. We’re talking about hidden blocks like fear of success, imposter syndrome, and those moments of self-sabotage that creep in just when things are going well. Christopher shares his seven-step system and shows us how to separate who we are from what we achieve - a vital shift for anyone in recovery.Highlights:(06:47) Discovering childhood beliefs behind hidden fears(13:39) Perfectionism as a mask for self-sabotage(20:28) Family ties and the pull to stay small(27:11) How the body reveals what the mind hides(34:03) The trap of anticipatory anxiety loops(41:38) Chris shares his seven-step ICS systemFind out more about Christopher HERE.Connect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

This week I’m joined by the wonderful Jennifer Taylor, who shares her journey from breakdown to breakthrough and how she discovered that healing had to happen at a soul level. We talk about moving from codependency into what she calls sovereign soul remembrance, learning to trust your own energy, and finding love from within rather than searching for it outside yourself. Jennifer also gives us a fascinating look at her work with essential oils and angelic healing frequencies, and what it really means to remember who you’ve always been.Highlights:(10:13) Discovering healing beyond therapy and medication(20:329) Awakening the living scroll within us(29:42) Why grounding practices keep us centred daily(40:08) The power of essential oils in healing(50:22) Choosing self-validation over external approvalFind out more about Jennifer: WebsiteKo-fi Shop (Workshops, Botanical Aura Sprays & Activations)108 Healing Senses Podcast (Subscribe & Watch)Skool Community (Build Your Dreams)Socials:@108HealingSensesConnect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

What if your home or workspace was quietly shaping how you feel every day? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr Shira Mansaray, a lawyer turned researcher who shares how light, nature, and even the shape of your furniture can transform your mental health and recovery journey. From curved sofas to fish tanks, her insights will make you look at your surroundings in a whole new way.Highlights:(06:01) Why natural light boosts your healing journey(10:07) The surprising power of a curved sofa(13:11) Simple lighting swaps that lift your mood(16:00) How to set clear work and rest boundaries(22:17] Clutter, letting go, and welcoming in new energy(30:42) Fire, ritual, and reconnecting with childhood calmResource for this episode available to download HEREConnect with Dr Shira MansarayLinkedInEmail - [email protected] with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

This episode is a guided meditation designed to help you reconnect with your future self and gather the wisdom, strength, and calm you already carry within.Autumn offers a natural pause, a chance to release the noise of summer and set fresh intentions. Together, we’ll journey through a golden door, meet the version of you who has walked through challenges and found balance, and bring that energy back into your present life. Think of it as a gentle reset for your mind, body, and spirit, giving you clarity and focus for the path ahead.Here are the Highlights:00:42 – Why September feels like a fresh start04:29 – Settling into your safe space in nature04:53 – Discovering the golden door to your future07:42 – Meeting the future version of yourself09:22 – Receiving wisdom and guidance you need right now10:47 – Absorbing the energy of your future self11:32 – Carrying this strength into your daily lifeConnect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

This week I’m joined once again by the brilliant Rebekkah Hall, and we’re talking about something that affects so many of us - self-worth and relationships. Rebekkah shares her own story of moving from destructive patterns to finding love later in life, and the lessons she’s poured into her new book. We get into boundaries, people-pleasing, and that inner critic that tells you you’re not enough. If you’ve ever felt like you lose yourself in relationships, this conversation will really speak to you.Highlights:(03:15) Engagement news and new beginnings(09:45) The mirror effect of self-worth(19:31) Setting boundaries without guilt(29:16) Intensity versus intimacy explained(39:02) Finding safety in relationships(48:48) Knowing when to let goFind out more about Rebekkah Hall:WebsiteBooksAmazon booksConnect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode of Your Sober Sweet Spot, I’m joined by James Mansaray, a purpose coach with an incredible story of transformation. James shares how discovering his own sense of purpose changed everything, and why so many of us feel lost when life shifts in unexpected ways. We talk about finding your authentic self, breaking old patterns, and how presence, energy, and curiosity can open the door to a more meaningful life.Highlights:(03:15) James shares how his wife’s journey inspired his own(12:41) Asking “Who are you?” opens up true self-discovery(21:07) How childhood stories can shape self-sabotage(32:10) Finding purpose with framework(41:33) Signs someone is stepping into their authentic self(50:18) Why purpose may shift, but essence staysFind out more about James Mansaraywww.purposefulcoach.coTel:+447702850480Connect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode, I’m joined by the remarkable Rianna Scipio - a trailblazing authenticity consultant who’s made it her mission to help high achievers shake off inherited shame and step fully into who they are. From breaking barriers at the BBC to guiding leaders through nervous system work and ancestral healing, Rianna brings honesty, wisdom, and a refreshing perspective on what it really takes to feel safe in your own skin and shine without waiting for anyone’s approval.Highlights:(04:22) Breaking barriers as the BBC’s first Black weather presenter(13:58) Navigating sobriety after years of high-functioning drinking(27:41) Why “wealth identity” starts with self-acceptance(46:09) Letting go of the need for validation(01:02:17) Holding money without shame or guilt(01:19:45) The courage it takes to be seenFind out more about Rianna Scipio:WebsiteYouTube Podcast "Of Course That's Her" Imposter syndrome tootlkitConnect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In today’s episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Dr Byron Cole - a best-selling author and entrepreneur who knows exactly what it takes to bounce back from setbacks and build a life (and business) that feels truly meaningful. We’re talking about the real stuff - how to handle failure without it knocking you off course, rebuilding trust when bridges have been burnt, and keeping your sobriety solid while chasing those big business goals. Byron’s story is powerful, practical, and exactly the kind of inspiration we all need when the path gets wobbly.Highlights:(02:10) Byron’s journey from council estate to entrepreneur(07:45) Handling failure without losing your focus(13:30) Rebuilding trust after burning bridges(18:05) Staying grounded and avoiding burnout as a founderFind out more about Dr Byron Cole:Email: [email protected] with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

This week, we’re talking about one of the most underrated tools in your recovery toolkit: sleep. I’m joined by the brilliant Kerry Davies, a sleep coach with a background in nursing and a real passion for helping people feel better by getting proper rest. We’re unpacking why sleep isn’t just a ‘nice to have’ -  it’s a non-negotiable. Kerry shares the science, the simple shifts that make a difference, and why waking up at 3am doesn’t mean your brain is broken. Whether your sleep’s a bit patchy or you’re lying awake with a racing mind, this episode’s for you.Highlights: (02:10) Why sleep is a non-negotiable in recovery(05:45) Kerry’s first ever client that changed everything(12:22) What really happens to your brain at night(16:51) The real reason you wake at 3am(21:40) Sleep hygiene that actually works for real life(28:15) Simple habit shifts that actually help you sleepFind out more about Kerry:Kerry Davies is a globally recognised sleep coach and CBT-I therapist with over 13 years of experience helping adults overcome insomnia and improve their sleep for good. She’s the founder of The Sleep Fixer, on a mission to make sleep support accessible to everyone, whether you're burnt out, busy, or have tried everything else. Through her 1:1 coaching, digital sleep resets, and workplace workshops, Kerry combines science, simplicity, and compassion to help people finally get the rest they deserve.WebsiteEmail: [email protected]: @thesleepfixerLinkedIn: Kerry Davies | The Sleep FixerConnect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

If you’ve ever hit a wall with stress or burnout and thought, “Is it just me?” - this one will make you feel seen. In today’s episode, I’m joined by Sara Farwell and Matt Zatonski to unpack what’s actually going on in our brains when we push too hard for too long - and why willpower alone isn’t enough to stop the spiral. We’re talking emotional resilience, autopilot habits, burnout cycles, and the science of starting to feel like yourself again. It’s a big conversation, and a really important one.Highlights:(07:11) Burnout isn’t about the job, it’s emotional(14:03) Your brain will always choose the familiar(21:35) The pause is where your power lives(35:48) Willpower runs out faster than you think(58:12) Chronic stress rewires your brain over time(01:24:56) Routines save energy - autopilot drains itFind out more about  Sara Farwell & Matt Zatonski: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramOur Solutions Manual (podcast, articles, courses)Connect with Dr. OlubunmiInstagramLinkedInWebsiteFuture Life ProgressionThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio