041: Sober Travel: Navigating Alcohol-Free Vacations with Jen Hirst of Lighthouse Sobriety

Have you ever wondered how you can travel and avoid alcohol without sacrificing fun and adventure? Jen Hirst, founder of Lighthouse Sobriety, shares her powerful story of overcoming addiction and provides actionable tips for embracing an alcohol-free life while traveling. In this episode of the Transform with Travel podcast, Jen discusses her journey to sobriety, the impact of alcohol on personal growth, and how to navigate vacations without drinking. Jen shares her journey to sobriety – from seeking help through AA and various outpatient programs, to eventually dedicated herself fully to recovery. Many people associate travel with alcohol. Whether it's enjoying a drink on the beach, attending a wine tasting, or partying at local hotspots, alcohol seems intertwined with the concept of vacation. However, Jen highlights the problems this relationship can cause, particularly for those looking to embrace a sober lifestyle.For Jen, the true essence of travel lies in experiencing the world fully present. Alcohol, she explains, can dull these experiences, leaving travelers missing out on the simple joys of connecting with new places and cultures.Jen shares her key strategies to enjoying your alcohol-free vacation to the fullest.We talk about:00:00 Intro01:57 Jen’s Early Struggles with Alcohol13:01 Seeking Help and Sobriety17:53 Life After Sobriety: Rebuilding and Thriving21:00 The Impact of Alcohol on Travel and Life27:14 Understanding Alcohol's Effects on the Body and Mind34:43 Empowerment Through Sobriety36:22 Strategies for Navigating Alcohol-Free Vacations37:59 Reframing FOMO to JOMO40:56 Visualization and Planning for Sober Travel45:01 Setting Boundaries and Communicating with Travel Companions49:02 The Importance of Alcohol-Free CommunitiesConnect with Jen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenleehirst/?hl=enMembership: https://joinlighthousesobriety.com/lhsmembershipJoin Jen’s 3rd Annual Retreat by joining her monthly membership program: Lighthouse Sobriety!Connect with meFollow the Podcast on IG: http://www.instagram.com/transformwithtravel   Follow Kelly Tolliday on IG: http://www.instagram.com/kelly.tolliday Travel with RNR: https://transform-with-travel.captivate.fm/travelwithrnr Thanks To Our Sponsors:Yoga Trade: Head to Yoga Trade's Website for more information. Use Code TRANSFORM20 for 20% off your first annual subscription. Follow Yoga Trade on Instagram at @yogatrade Website: https://transform-with-travel.captivate.fm/yogatrade Byte & Coffee: Check out Byte & Coffee for delicious Aussie coffee located in Lighthouse Point, Florida. Mention TRANSFORM WITH TRAVEL at checkout for 10% off your order. Follow Byte on Instagram at @bytencoffeeWebsite: https://transform-with-travel.captivate.fm/byteandcoffee