Episode 16: Staying Sober as a Salesperson on the Road: A Journey to Wellness

We're thrilled to bring you the latest episode of the Sober Life Rocks podcast, **"Staying Sober as a Salesperson on the Road"**. This week, Margy Schaller and Greg Essenmacher share their challenges and triumphs of maintaining sobriety while navigating the professional world, especially as a traveling salesperson. *Highlights from this Episode:* - **Internal Struggles and Finding Genuine Connections**: - Greg reflects on his deep-seated desire to be included in work events and how he managed the social pressures by engaging with like-minded individuals and fostering genuine conversations. - **Alternative Networking Spaces**: - Margy emphasizes the benefits of quieter, more intimate networking environments that allow for deeper connections without the backdrop of alcohol. - **Event Planning Strategies**: - Greg provides insightful recommendations for event planners, such as implementing per-drink payment options or allocating a portion of the event budget to charitable causes. - **Supporting Newcomers**: - Both hosts discuss the critical role of encouragement and support for those new to navigating social and professional settings without alcohol. - **Personal Journeys and Triumphs**: - Greg shares his personal battles with alcohol and drug addiction, his path to sobriety at 33, and the challenges he faced in maintaining sobriety in a career filled with travel and social events. - **Promoting Sober Choices**: - Greg and Margy delve into the importance of normalizing sober choices and creating supportive spaces where individual decisions about sobriety are honored. - **Strategies for Sober Socializing**: - Practical advice from Greg on managing alcohol-focused work cultures, including relying on trusted friends, choosing alcohol-free companies, and advocating for more inclusive event planning. This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with sobriety in social and professional environments, offering practical advice, personal anecdotes, and a strong message of support and inclusivity.