EP 49: Codependency & Alcohol: Understanding the Fear, Control, and Recovery Cycle with Dr. Sarah Michaud

Why do so many sober women still struggle with people pleasing and codependency, even after years of recovery?In this powerful episode, Kate sits down with Dr. Sarah Michaud, clinical psychologist, author of Co-Crazy, and more than four decades sober, for a brutally honest conversation about the invisible emotional patterns that quietly drive addiction. Together, they explore the fears, childhood wounds, and survival strategies that keep women trapped in the cycle of pleasing, fawning, shutting down, and drinking to cope.Dr. Sarah brings compassion, science, and humor to this massive topic, breaking down why codependency isn’t what you think it is and why it shows up even for women with long-term sobriety and successful careers. This episode is a masterclass in emotional literacy, nervous system regulation, and taking your power back.In this episode, they discuss:The real definition of codependencyWhy women are conditioned to people please and fear disappointing othersHow childhood dynamics shape adult relationshipsThe link between codependency, resentment, and drinkingThe shutdown, fawn, and freeze responsesHow to recognize your interpersonal fears in real timeWhy identifying your needs feels impossible for so many womenHow to get back into your body during conflictPractical steps for speaking up, setting boundaries, and choosing yourselfWhy anger can be a healthy and necessary part of recoveryDr. Sarah’s wisdom reminds us that recovery starts long before the drink and continues long after. The work is learning to come home to yourself.Her Bio:Dr. Sarah Michaud is a clinical psychologist, author, and co-host of Leaving CrazyTown. For more than thirty years, she has worked in the field of addiction and codependency recovery, blending professional expertise with the hard-earned lessons of her own journey. Sober from alcohol and cocaine since 1984, she knows firsthand the pain of addiction—and the freedom that comes with recovery.Rewired Sober Group Coaching Space Is Now Open: Start anytime and get 3 months of guidance designed for women in sobriety. You’ll get instant access to the full program, plus weekly live coaching sessions to help you rewire your brain, heal old patterns, and stay consistent. Enroll here: https://kate-vitela.mykajabi.com/rewired-sober-coaching-programConnect with Kate @rewiredsober on all social media platforms: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rewiredsober/Connect with today's guest Dr. Sarah Michaudwebsite: https://drsarahmichaud.com/Mentioned in this episode:Rewired Sober Group Coaching Programhttps://kate-vitela.mykajabi.com/rewired-sober-coaching-program