Sober Motivation: Sharing Sobriety Stories

Many people believe they have to lose everything before they quit drinking.Matt’s story proves otherwise.From the outside, he looked like he had it all—a successful career, a loving wife, three boys, and a normal suburban life. But behind the scenes, alcohol slowly became the center of everything. Weekend binge drinking turned into nightly drinking, blackouts became more common, and he found himself living at only 40% of the husband and father he wanted to be.In this conversation, Matt shares how anxiety, social drinking, parenting, and years of justifying alcohol kept him stuck until he realized he didn’t need a dramatic rock bottom to change his life.In this episode we discuss:• Gray area drinking • Binge drinking and blackout drinking • Anxiety and alcohol • Drinking culture and parenthood • Why many people never hit a traditional rock bottom • Dry January and failed attempts to quit • Therapy and emotional sobriety • Life after alcohol • Building a meaningful sober lifeWhether you’re sober, sober curious, or questioning your relationship with alcohol, this episode offers hope that change is possible before everything falls apart.Matt on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darthsober/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alcohol didn’t almost take Marty’s life overnight—it happened one drink at a time.What started as partying with friends slowly became drinking alone, daily alcohol use, multiple ER visits, and eventually liver damage so severe his skin turned yellow.Doctors warned him that another drink could send him back into liver failure.In this powerful conversation, Marty shares:Why drinking alone was the turning pointThe warning signs he ignored for yearsLiving with liver damage caused by alcoholWhy he quit drinking without rehabWhat early sobriety really felt likeBuilding a new identity after addictionThe mindset that keeps him sober todayWhether you’re questioning your own drinking, supporting someone in recovery, or looking for hope, Marty’s story is a reminder that change is possible—even when it feels impossible.If this episode resonates with you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who needs to hear it.Marty on Instagram: Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is alcohol really costing you?In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Mike shares how alcohol slowly became part of his daily life without obvious warning signs. He kept his job, raised a family, and looked successful on the outside—but after quitting drinking, he realized alcohol had quietly taken far more from him than he ever imagined.We talk about growing up as a preacher’s kid, chasing acceptance, becoming a functioning daily drinker, and why you don’t have to hit rock bottom to question your relationship with alcohol. Mike also opens up about the moment he finally stopped drinking, what surprised him most about sobriety, and why being fully present with his family is worth more than any drink.If you’ve ever wondered whether alcohol is holding you back, if you’re exploring sobriety, or if you’re trying to quit drinking, this conversation is for you.In this episode:Why functioning drinking can be hard to recognizeThe hidden cost of alcoholWhy people drink beyond just having funGray area drinking and daily alcohol useWhat changes after quitting alcoholLiving fully present in sobrietyWhether you’re sober, sober curious, in early recovery, or supporting someone with an alcohol problem, we hope this episode reminds you that you don’t have to lose everything before choosing a different path.Mike On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikekinnebrew/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At 28 years old, Mailinn was preparing to die.She was drinking up to 4 liters of vodka a day, vomiting blood daily, and losing the ability to walk. Doctors had run out of answers. Her family was bracing for the worst.Then her body shut down.In 2020, Mailinn was placed into a coma with multi-organ failure and given little chance of survival. What happened next would completely change the course of her life.Today, Mailinn is six years sober.In this episode of Sober Motivation, Mailinn shares her powerful recovery story, from early drinking and alcohol addiction to waking up from a coma, learning to walk again, and discovering a life she never thought was possible.Whether you’re questioning your relationship with alcohol, struggling with addiction, or supporting someone in recovery, this conversation is a powerful reminder that no one is ever too far gone.In this episode:• Starting to drink at 12 years old • The early warning signs of alcoholism • Drinking up to 4 liters of vodka a day • Hiding alcohol use from family and friends • Vomiting blood and severe health complications • Multi-organ failure and a medically induced coma • Learning to walk again • Life after alcohol • Recovery, gratitude, and finding purposeRecovery is possible. Mailinn’s story is proof.Mailinn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soyli91/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Elisa drank alcohol for 30 years.What started as relief from childhood trauma slowly turned into alcohol addiction, DUIs, broken relationships, and a life she says she barely remembers.At eight years old, Elisa testified in court against someone in her own family. Growing up afraid and feeling like she didn’t belong, alcohol became the thing that finally quieted the fear.In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Elisa shares her recovery story—how childhood trauma shaped her addiction, why alcohol felt like the answer, her struggles with alcoholism, and the spiritual and emotional healing that helped her get sober.We also discuss recovery, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), EMDR therapy, relapse, grief, and what it means to build a life worth staying sober for.If you’re struggling with alcohol, questioning your drinking, or looking for hope in recovery, this episode is for you.Elisa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elisansaunders/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“I genuinely thought I was a hopeless alcoholic addict with no chance of return.”That’s where Gio found himself.After years of success as a hockey player—including a Division I scholarship and a professional career—addiction slowly took over. What started as drinking and partying became something much darker, leading Gio to a gas station parking lot where he finally called his dad and admitted:“I can’t stop using.”In this episode, Gio shares his journey through hockey culture, addiction, opiates, losing his identity after hockey, multiple treatment stays, relapse, and how he found hope after believing he was too far gone.If you’ve ever wondered whether recovery is possible, or felt like you’ve gone too far to change, this episode is for you.Gio on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gflamminio/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manny grew up in New Orleans surrounded by alcohol, but after watching the damage drinking caused in his own family, he wanted nothing to do with it.That changed later in life.After marriage, business success, cocaine, alcohol, Hurricane Katrina, divorce, depression, day drinking, and eventually drinking four to five bottles of wine a day, Manny found himself isolated, physically broken, and barely able to walk. What started as social drinking became full-blown alcohol addiction.In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Manny shares his powerful story of addiction, rehab, relapse, recovery, forgiveness, and what it really takes to quit drinking and rebuild your life.We talk about high-functioning alcoholism, losing everything after Katrina, the fear of who you are without alcohol, relapse after years sober, repairing family relationships, and why sobriety has to become more than just not drinking.If you are questioning your drinking, trying to quit alcohol, sober curious, in early recovery, or coming back after a relapse, Manny’s story is a reminder that it is never too late to change.Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

He had a loving family, a private school education, great friends, and every opportunity in front of him. Yet by age 33, Gary was drinking in 7 a.m. bars in Spain, waking up in hostels with no money, and wondering how his life had fallen apart.In this episode of Sober Motivation, Gary Mairs shares how alcohol slowly took over despite what many would consider the perfect childhood. From teenage binge drinking in England to years of anxiety, financial chaos, broken relationships, and undiagnosed ADHD, Gary opens up about the reality of alcohol addiction and the moment he finally decided enough was enough.In this episode:• Growing up in England and early binge drinking culture • When alcohol started feeling different • Living with undiagnosed ADHD • Alcohol addiction and self-medication • University drinking and drug use • Financial struggles caused by alcohol • Moving to Spain and taking the problem with him • Drinking at 7 a.m. bars • The emotional rock bottom that changed everything • Finding recovery through AA and daily habits • Rebuilding confidence, purpose, and self-respect • Why sobriety became the foundation for everything elseIf you’re struggling with alcohol, questioning your relationship with drinking, or searching for hope in recovery, this conversation is a powerful reminder that change is possible.Download the Sober Motivation App: www.sobermotivation.comGary on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobernsound/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Todd looked like he had it all together. He had a good job, a family, a home, and no major public consequences from drinking. But inside, alcohol was taking up more space than he wanted to admit.In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Todd shares how weekend drinking, binge drinking, hangxiety, shame, and constantly thinking about the next drink made him question his relationship with alcohol. He talks about trying to moderate, why quitting felt extreme at first, and the moment his son asked if they needed an Uber home from a baseball game.That question changed everything.Todd opens up about what it was like to stop drinking as a dad, why life without alcohol did not become boring, and how sobriety helped him become calmer, more present, and more connected with his family.If you are sober curious, trying to quit drinking, questioning your alcohol use, or wondering if your drinking is “bad enough” to stop, this conversation will hit home.In this episode:Questioning your relationship with alcoholWeekend drinking and binge drinkingHangxiety and the shame cycleTrying to moderate drinkingSobriety as a parentQuitting drinking before rock bottomWhy alcohol steals time, energy, and connectionLearning how to have fun without alcoholTodd is the author of I Didn’t Believe It Either: One Dad’s Discovery That Everything Is Better Without Alcohol.Connect with Todd on IG: https://www.instagram.com/tkinney111/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“I never got a DUI. I never got arrested. I never lost my job. So how could I possibly have a problem with alcohol?”Mateja didn’t drink until she was 21. She had a successful career, a good family, and from the outside looked like someone who had it all together. But behind the scenes, alcohol was becoming harder to ignore.In this episode, Mateja shares her journey through college drinking, restaurant culture, blackouts, anxiety, and the realization that you don’t have to hit rock bottom to quit drinking.We discuss high-functioning alcoholism, sober curiosity, recovery, AA, social pressure, anxiety, and what life looks like after alcohol.If you’ve ever wondered whether your drinking is “bad enough” to quit, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now and discover what’s possible when alcohol is no longer running the show.Mateja on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mateja_violinistSober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For years, JB thought he could manage his drinking.What started as binge drinking slowly turned into drinking every day, hiding alcohol, drinking on the way home, anxiety, shame, and feeling completely trapped inside the cycle.In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, JB shares his full sobriety story — growing up in chaos, starting alcohol and cigarettes at a young age, struggling with addiction, daily drinking, panic attacks, suicidal thoughts, and what finally pushed him to quit drinking alcohol for good.This is an honest conversation about alcohol addiction, recovery, sober living, mental health, anxiety, shame, fatherhood, and learning how to live life without alcohol.If you’re sober curious, struggling with daily drinking, trying to stop drinking alcohol, or looking for recovery motivation, this episode is for you.Topics covered: • daily drinking • alcohol addiction • sober motivation • quitting alcohol • sobriety journey • recovery community • anxiety and alcohol • shame and addiction • sober podcast • getting sober • alcohol recovery storyDownload the Sober Motivation app for daily meetings, community support, sober tracking, journaling, and connection with others living alcohol-free.JB on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloodworthey/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the outside, Jessica looked like she had it all together. But behind closed doors, she was drinking 3 bottles of wine every night, blacking out, throwing up before work, and quietly falling apart while trying to convince herself everything was fine.In this episode of The Sober Motivation Podcast, Jessica shares her journey through hidden alcoholism, mommy wine culture, trauma, undiagnosed ADHD, addiction in motherhood, and the moment she finally realized she couldn’t keep living that way anymore.We talk about: • using alcohol to finally feel accepted • the loneliness behind addiction • high tolerance and hidden drinking • blackouts and trying to moderate • postpartum depression and emotional isolation • recovery, connection, and rebuilding life without alcoholIf you’ve ever felt trapped in the cycle, exhausted from hiding your drinking, or wondered whether life without alcohol could actually get better, this episode is for you.Sobriety gave Jessica something alcohol never could: peace, presence, and connection.🎙️ The Sober Motivation Podcast shares real stories from people who have quit drinking alcohol and rebuilt their lives in recovery.Jessica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicaguerrieriauthor/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Luke spent 14 years selling alcohol while it was slowly killing him. Three rounds of rehab. Hospital visits. Drinking in the morning. On December 30, 2018, he had his last drink.In this follow-up, Luke walks Brad through what changed in the seven years since. The scene with his daughter screaming "Dad, don't go" as he drove away in tears. The AA foundation that carried him through year three. The therapist who leaned in and asked the one question nobody had ever asked him: what about you?You'll hear about: working in the liquor industry while drinking yourself to death; getting sober as a divorced dad; outgrowing AA without losing the gratitude; the daily self-care pillars that hold long-term sobriety together; what 7 years alcohol-free actually feels like.Connect with Luke on IG: https://www.instagram.com/dadonthemockSober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jimmy used to drive his car around the corner, sit alone, and drink vodka all day instead of going to work. At home, he hid bottles behind the sink and inside the toilet cistern, sneaking off mid conversation to top up.He started drinking at 14. By his mid twenties he was going through three bottles of wine a night. A miscarriage, lost jobs, and a spontaneous flight to Mallorca all came and went. Nothing stuck until he hit a hospital detox at 40, during COVID lockdown, and decided he was done.Six years later, he's married, working as a gardener and photographer, and showing up for his life.You'll hear about: the cough medicine trick he used to manage withdrawal; what hiding vodka really did to his relationships; the AA member who told him he wasn't an alcoholic; what 6 years sober actually feels like; the one thing that finally stuck.If you've ever hidden your drinking, this one's for you.Find support: www.sobermotivation.comJimmy on IG: https://www.instagram.com/recovery_jimmy/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephanie never thought she had a serious drinking problem. She was successful, working in healthcare, maintaining relationships, and doing everything she could to keep life together on the outside. But behind closed doors, alcohol slowly became the way she coped with anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, and major life changes.What started as gray area drinking eventually turned into hiding alcohol, drinking alone in parking lots, blackouts, hospital visits, rehab, and feeling completely trapped inside her own mind.In this episode, Stephanie shares her powerful sobriety story, including growing up around alcohol, trying to moderate her drinking, relapsing after rehab, and the heartbreaking moment her father stayed beside her through withdrawal without judgment. She also opens up about how sober community and connection finally helped her stop fighting alone.This conversation is for anyone questioning their relationship with alcohol, struggling to quit drinking, battling anxiety tied to alcohol use, or wondering if life without drinking can actually get better.In this episode:Gray area drinkingAlcohol addiction and recoveryAnxiety, depression, and alcoholRehab and relapseLearning how to cope without alcoholThe progression of drinking over timeSober community and connectionRebuilding life through sobrietyIf you’re trying to quit drinking or stay sober, this episode will remind you that recovery is possible — even when things feel hopeless.Stephanie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steph_kan_do_this/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ian Madsen grew up in Australia around heavy drinking and alcoholism, Ian shares how alcohol became normalized early in life after losing his mother and how that pattern followed him into professional sprint car racing in America. What started as partying and fitting in slowly turned into isolation, hiding alcohol use, treatment stays, losing relationships, and nearly losing himself completely.In this episode, Ian opens up about the reality of high-functioning alcoholism, trying to moderate drinking, the fear of quitting alcohol, and the moment he realized he had to get sober for himself.Support the show HEREIan also shares how sobriety helped him rebuild his life, reconnect with people, and find purpose again after years of feeling trapped.Topics Covered:Growing up around alcoholismLosing his mother at a young ageAlcohol culture in Australia and racingHigh-functioning alcohol addictionIsolation and drinking aloneFailed moderation attemptsTreatment and recoveryFear of quitting alcoholSobriety and rebuilding lifeFinding community in recoverySober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You don't need a rock bottom to quit drinking. No DUI. No lost job. No moment where everything blows up. For Paula, life looked great from the outside, a beautiful home in South Florida, two kids, a marriage built in the alcohol industry, and a career soaked in alcohol. Nothing was falling apart on the outside or so she thought. She made every soccer practice. She was the homeroom mom. But the hangovers were getting worse, the blackouts had started, and her kids were beginning to see two different versions of her.In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Paula shares what she calls the "miserable middle" of drinking. The place so many high-functioning drinkers get stuck. Nothing is bad enough to quit, but nothing feels right either. She talks about growing up with a normal relationship to alcohol, building her entire career around it, falling into the mommy wine culture trap, and how managing her drinking became more exhausting than the drinking itself.After 30 years of drinking and four years of being sober curious, it was her teenage daughter's words that finally broke through: "I can't take these two different people." That was Paula's day one. November 2, 2022.We cover:Quitting drinking without a rock bottomHigh-functioning alcoholism and the gray area drinkerMommy wine culture and how it sneaks up on youWhy managing your drinking is exhaustingAnxiety, hangxiety, and the cortisol crashHow alcohol affects your kids even when you think they don't noticeThe "miserable middle" between drinking and sobrietyWhat the first year of sobriety actually looks likeIf you've been sober curious, gray area drinking, questioning your relationship with alcohol, or wondering if your drinking is "bad enough" to quit — this episode is for you. You are not alone, and you don't have to wait for things to fall apart to choose something better.Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the outside everything looked perfect. Behind the scenes alcohol addiction was taking over and one night it nearly ended everything. In this episode Lauren shares her sobriety story from having her first drink at just 10 years old to years of hiding alcohol addiction behind a life that looked put together.Her drinking escalates over time leading to serious consequences and a life changing moment that forces everything into the open.After quitting drinking and starting her recovery journey things begin to improve. But a legal substance called kratom unexpectedly pulls her back into addiction and nearly costs her everything in just a few months.This episode is an honest look at alcohol addiction relapse and the risks of substances that many people assume are safe.Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bri is almost one year sober. For the year before that she tried to quit drinking over and over, racking up day ones nobody knew about. Two months sober, then a slip. Two months again, another slip. From the outside she was the picture perfect mom. Accountant, wife, two little boys, a pool in the backyard. Behind closed doors it was shots from the freezer on Christmas, weekend blackouts at her own pool parties, and crying in the shower when everyone went home. Then on Easter she pulled her one year old son aside and told him he'd never see her drunk or hungover again. She hasn't had a drink since.In this episode Bri shares what gray area drinking looks like for a working mom; why her two month sobriety cycles kept breaking; the blackouts she hid from everyone; her first sober tax season; and what one year sober actually feels like. If you keep restarting, this one is for you.Bri's Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@briinsobrietyBri on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brimarshallll/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Donald Crowe was telling patients they needed to stop drinking. Then he'd go home, open two bottles of wine, and pass out. Every single night. A physician with 40 years in medicine, Donald started drinking in college and spent the next two decades convincing himself it couldn't be that bad because his career was still moving forward.A possible ALS diagnosis at 40 gave him the excuse to drink harder. He lost his first marriage. He chose alcohol over her. When legal consequences finally forced him into treatment, three months of sobriety cracked open a truth he'd been hiding from: "I wasn't drinking to feel better. I was drinking to feel less bad."You'll hear about: the bitters experiment that proved his brain was wired differently; defending your drinking as an early warning sign; why consequences aren't the real measure of a problem; building a life where resistance is unnecessary.If you've ever told yourself it can't be that bad because things are still working, this one's for you.Dr. Donlad Crowe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SecondactrecoverySober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On New Year's Eve 2003, Martin Lockett ran a red light drunk and killed two women, and severely injured a third. They where all long-time members of Portland's recovery community, one 16 years sober, one 17. They were returning home from a clean and sober New Year's Eve party. Martin served 17 and a half years in prison. Today he's 22 years sober, a certified substance abuse counselor, and a national speaker who's devoted his life to preventing the tragedy he caused.In this raw, unforgettable episode, Martin takes us back to his first drink at 14, the identity struggles that drove him to alcohol as a shy Black kid in 1980s Portland, the night his own twin brother begged him to slow down, and the newspaper article four days after the crash that changed everything.You'll hear about: what it's like to learn who your victims were; the DUI stop three months before the fatal crash; the "alcoholic's brain" that still whispers at 22 years sober; and Martin's warning for anyone who thinks one more drive home is fine.Martin on Instagram: HereSober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Quit drinking is not about willpower. It is about the moment you realize you cannot keep living like this anymore.For over 25 years, alcohol was part of Paul’s life. From the outside, everything looked fine.But inside, the anxiety was building, the anger was growing, and he was slowly becoming someone he didn’t recognize.There was no rock bottom.Just a quiet realization that something had to change.In this episode, Paul shares what it really looks like to live that way for decades, the denial that keeps people stuck, and the moment he finally chose to quit drinking.If you have ever questioned your drinking or felt stuck in the cycle, this one will stay with you.Paul on Instagram: Click HereGet Support. Get ConnectedSober Motivation WebsiteSober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You don’t have to lose everything to question your drinking.In this episode, I sit down with Ash Butterss to talk about the moment she realized something needed to change—and why you don’t need a traditional “rock bottom” to quit drinking.Ash shares her sobriety journey, from living a life that looked fine on the outside to realizing she wasn’t truly happy or showing up as her authentic self. We talk about sober curiosity, emotional growth, and what it really takes to build an alcohol-free life.This conversation dives into the reality of quitting alcohol, learning how to deal with emotions without drinking, and why comparison and expectations can keep people stuck.Ash also opens up about the early days of sobriety, navigating major life changes, and how sobriety helped her reconnect with who she truly is.If you’re questioning your relationship with alcohol, trying to stop drinking, or wondering if life could be better without it—this episode will resonate.Ash on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashbutterss/For support visit: https://www.sobermotivation.com/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eric returns to share an update on his sobriety journey after nearly two decades of daily drinking.From 2008 to 2021, alcohol was part of his everyday life. What started as normal slowly turned into something much more serious—leading to severe withdrawal, hallucinations, and even seizures when he tried to stop.In this episode, Eric opens up about what it was really like living in that cycle, the denial that kept him stuck, and the moment everything changed.We talk about the dangers of alcohol withdrawal, why asking for help can save your life, and what it takes to rebuild after years of drinking.Now approaching 5 years sober, Eric shares what life looks like today, how he handles cravings, and why sobriety has given him something alcohol never could.If you’re questioning your drinking, stuck in the cycle, or wondering if change is possible—this conversation will hit home.YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sobermotivationpodcastSober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've tried to quit drinking and keep relapsing, this episode is for you.Jason Wahler is known from Laguna Beach, The Hills, and Celebrity Rehab, but behind the cameras he was battling severe alcohol addiction for years. He went through 13 treatment centers, faced arrests, survived suicide attempt, and kept relapsing even when life looked successful from the outside. He also lived with OCD, which made the cycle of addiction even harder to break.In this raw and honest conversation, Jason shares what relapse actually feels like, and what finally helped him get sober and stay sober long term.This episode covers:How to quit drinking when you feel completely stuckWhy alcohol addiction is so hard to break, even with professional helpWhat relapse really looks like behind the scenesHow OCD and mental health affect addiction and recoveryWhat actually works for long-term sobriety after years of tryingWhether you're struggling with alcohol addiction, trying to get sober, or supporting someone who is, you'll find real answers here, not just the usual recovery talking points.You are not alone, and there is a way forward.Get More Support: HereCheck out the YouTube Channel: HereSupport the show: HereJason on Instagram: HereCheck out sobrsafe: HereSober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to finally quit drinking when your entire life revolves around it?In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Megan shares her powerful sobriety journey, opening up about growing up around addiction, losing her father to alcoholism, and how her own drinking slowly escalated into hidden alcohol dependence.From the outside, everything looked fine — successful career, family, motherhood. But behind the scenes, alcohol became a daily coping mechanism.This episode dives deep into:Mommy wine culture and how it normalizes drinkingThe progression from social drinking to alcohol addictionUsing alcohol to cope with stress, anxiety, and traumaThe reality of hiding drinking and living with shameWithdrawal, rock bottom moments, and asking for helpWhy quitting drinking requires full commitmentHow community, AA, and support changed everythingRebuilding confidence, identity, and life in sobrietyMegan’s story is a raw and honest look at how alcohol can slowly take over — and how it’s possible to take your life back.If you’ve ever questioned your drinking, struggled to stop, or feel stuck in the cycle, this episode will show you that recovery is possible.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megan_on_the_rocks/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’re trying to quit drinking or wondering if you have an alcohol problem, this story will hit home.Greg shares how a good childhood and successful career turned into alcohol addiction, denial, psych wards, and jail—and how he finally got sober.In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Brad sits down with Greg to talk about the reality of high-functioning alcoholism and how quickly things can escalate.On the outside, Greg had everything together. But underneath, he struggled with not feeling like he fit in—and alcohol became the solution.Over time, drinking went from social to something he relied on. Denial and ego kept him stuck, even as things got worse. After a series of personal losses, everything spiraled—leading to isolation, mental health struggles, and eventually being arrested and spending six months in jail.Even then, he didn’t believe alcohol was the problem.In this episode, we cover:High-functioning alcohol addiction and denialThe role of ego in drinking and recoveryMental health, psych wards, and rock bottom momentsWhat it takes to finally quit drinkingHow to rebuild your life in sobrietyIf you’re struggling with alcohol, questioning your drinking, or looking for real sobriety stories, this episode is for you.Check out this episodes Sponsor: https://sobrsafe.com/pages/sobrsureGreg on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregdownscoach/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Jane shares her powerful alcohol addiction recovery story and how she finally quit drinking after alcohol slowly took over her life.What started as drinking in high school escalated into blackouts, hiding alcohol, drinking in the morning, and living with the chaos of alcoholism. Jane talks about the shame, insecurity, and hopelessness that came with alcohol addiction, including one terrifying night when she rear-ended a car while drunk and fled the scene.After years of struggling with alcoholism and addiction, hospital visits, and hitting rock bottom, Jane realized she couldn’t stop drinking on her own. She made the decision to seek help, enter treatment, and begin her sobriety journey.Jane has now been sober since February 2nd, 1997. In this conversation she shares how sobriety, recovery, support groups, and taking life one day at a time helped her rebuild her life after alcohol addiction.If you’re struggling with alcohol, trying to quit drinking, or searching for sobriety, this episode is a powerful recovery story that shows lasting change is possible.—🎙 Sober Motivation PodcastThe Sober Motivation Podcast shares real sobriety stories, alcohol addiction recovery journeys, and conversations about quitting drinking and rebuilding life after addiction.Subscribe for more sobriety motivation, addiction recovery stories, and interviews with people who have found freedom from alcohol.Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alcohol addiction doesn’t always look like rock bottom.In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, John shares his story after more than 20 years of drinking and drug use — and the painful realizations that came when he finally got sober.From the outside, his life looked normal. No arrests. No dramatic collapse.But inside, alcohol was shaping decisions, regrets, and memories he would carry for decades.This conversation explores grief, shame, regret, and the realization that some of the biggest consequences of alcohol aren’t the ones people see.They’re the ones we carry internally.Today John is over seven months sober and sharing his story to help others realize they don’t need to hit rock bottom to question their drinking.John on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/withorwithoutbacon/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jerzey Mike rode the alcohol train all the way to the last stop. A liter of vodka a day, yellowing eyes, a coma, and doctors who weren't sure he'd make it. In this raw and deeply honest conversation, Mike walks us through the earliest warning signs of liver failure, what life looked like at his absolute worst, and the shame that nearly stopped him from getting help. If you've ever wondered how bad it can really get — or if you're quietly wondering whether you're heading down this road yourself — this episode is for you. Mike survived the last stop. He's sharing his story so you don't have to go there.Mike On IG: https://www.instagram.com/jerzeymike/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jess spent years blacking out from alcohol and convincing herself it was normal. After losing her mom at just 19, drinking became the way she coped — until everything finally caught up with her.In this episode she shares the reality of alcohol blackouts, addiction, relapse, and the moment she finally admitted she needed help.Today Jessica is over 20 months sober and rebuilding a life she once believed was impossible.Topics: alcohol addiction, alcohol blackouts, sobriety, recovery.https://www.instagram.com/wmmsjustjess/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jon (The Tired Dad) is back with a sobriety update — now 3+ years sober. We talk Dry January to kick things off and why the first year can be the hardest, why moderation didn’t work, parenting as the turning point, and how to build real tools instead of masking emotions. Plus, Jon shares the story behind his upcoming book 100 Reflections on Showing Up for What Matters Most. Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ashley Jo shares her story of high-functioning alcoholism, grief, shame, and sobriety after years of mommy wine culture and secret binge drinking.A Christian mom, executive, and outwardly successful woman, Ashley struggled privately with addiction and suicidal ideation before choosing sobriety on August 14, 2020.This episode covers:Functional alcoholism, Comparing your drinking to others, Mommy wine culture, Faith and recovery, Self-forgivenessIf you feel like you “should know better” but can’t stop, this conversation will resonate. Links: Support Show HereJoin the Sober Motivation Community Ashley Jo on Instagram  Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Phillip Barbb shares how a DUI at 22 became the turning point that led to 18 years of sobriety. This is a powerful conversation about alcohol addiction, anxiety, grief, and long-term recovery.Phillip opens up about using alcohol to silence anxiety, growing up under pressure, and how ego and perfectionism kept him stuck. What started as drinking to cope eventually led to arrests and legal consequences — and ultimately a decision to quit drinking for good.We discuss:• DUI and the wake-up call that changed everything• Alcohol addiction and anxiety• Ego in recovery• The role of community and support meetings• What long-term sobriety really requiresIf you’re struggling with alcohol, thinking about quitting drinking, or looking for insight into long-term sobriety, this episode offers real perspective and hope.----------Phillip on IG: https://www.instagram.com/phillipbarbb/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Casual Drinking to Liver Failure: Jacob’s Story of Alcoholic Cirrhosis, Sobriety, and Second ChancesIn this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Jacob shares his powerful journey from a normal upbringing and moderate drinking to developing alcoholic liver cirrhosis after a slow, 10-year descent into alcohol dependency.Growing up in Wisconsin with a loving family, sports, and strong values, Jacob never saw alcohol as dangerous. Drinking started socially and casually — a beer here, wine at dinner, fun with friends. But as stress increased through marriage, business responsibilities, and parenting, alcohol quietly shifted from celebration to coping.In 2023, Jacob was hospitalized with severe abdominal swelling (ascites), jaundice, and ultimately diagnosed with alcoholic liver cirrhosis. Doctors gave him a grim prognosis and discussed palliative care.But this is not a tragedy story. It's about what Jacob is doing with his second chance. -----------Support the Show: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationJoin the Sober Motivation Community: https://sobermotivation.mn.co/Jacob in Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feel_sober_good/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alcohol didn’t crash into Antoine’s life — it slowly became normal.In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Antoine shares how drinking started at just 12 years old, was reinforced through culture, school, and social life, and quietly followed him for three decades. From boarding school overseas where alcohol was normalized, to college, hospitality, and years of “functioning” drinking, his story shows how easy it is to miss the warning signs when everyone around you is doing the same thing.We talk about the pressure to fit in, living with ADHD, blackouts that were brushed off, and the moment in Apex, North Carolina that forced him to take a hard look at his relationship with alcohol. Antoine opens up about trying to cut back, why that didn’t work, and what finally made sobriety stick.This episode is for anyone who’s questioning their drinking, feels stuck in the cycle, or wonders what life could look like without alcohol.You don’t have to hit rock bottom to choose a different path.One story at a time—you’re not alone. --------------Join the Sober Motivation Beta Platform FREE: https://sobermotivation.net/Connect with Antoine on IG: https://www.instagram.com/asavageslife/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Derek shares a raw, unforgettable sobriety story: growing up in a chaotic home, learning early that alcohol was “dangerous,” and still getting pulled into a cycle of binge drinking, DUIs, and arrests. He opens up about the restaurant industry drinking culture, people-pleasing, shame, and how secrecy (“what happens in this house stays in this house”) fueled isolation.Eventually, alcohol dependence escalated to 25–30 beers per day, severe withdrawal, grand mal seizures, and DTs, leading to hospitalization and a medically critical turning point. Learn how he turns it all around.We also talk about Derek’s book The Dog Bowl—a fictional story built from real addiction pain and real recovery truth.----------Derek On IG: https://www.instagram.com/dpaquette1/ Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“How do I get sober?”It’s the most common question people ask when they’re struggling with alcohol — and it’s a fair one. But in this solo episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Brad challenges the idea that how is the real problem.Instead, he offers a powerful reframe drawn from 16 years of personal recovery and 14 years of supporting people in sobriety:👉 The real question isn’t how do I get sober — it’s what are you willing to do to get sober and stay sober?In this honest and reflective episode, Brad explores why so many people feel stuck when trying to quit drinking, even after trying rehab, meetings, therapy, books, podcasts, and recovery programs. He explains how the search for the “right way” to get sober often becomes a form of avoidance, and why willingness — not information — is what actually leads to lasting change.This episode covers:Why asking how to get sober can keep people stuckThe role willingness plays in quitting alcohol and staying soberWhy many people believe they’re “different” — and how that belief blocks recoveryThe fear of discomfort and change in early sobrietyWhy alcohol feels like it “worked” for so longThe importance of changing routines, environments, and relationshipsWhy doing sobriety alone rarely worksHow shame and ego prevent people from asking for helpWhy support and connection matter more than willpowerSober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Brad sits down with Destiny for a raw and powerful conversation about addiction, recovery, and the moment everything changed.Destiny grew up carrying responsibility far too young, learned early how to survive chaos, and spent years believing she was “different” — that addiction wouldn’t take her where it had taken others in her life. What started as partying slowly escalated into something much darker, affecting her relationships, her identity, and her ability to show up as a mother.A near-fatal overdose became a turning point — not because someone forced her to change, but because she was finally ready. Destiny shares what didn’t work for years, what finally did, and why community and belonging became the foundation of her recovery.-----------Destiny on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xo_des97/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Brad sits down with Nicole to share a powerful and honest sobriety story. Nicole grew up in California in a home affected by alcoholism, struggled with anxiety and a deep sense of not belonging, and discovered early that alcohol could instantly change the way she felt. What started as weekend drinking eventually became daily drinking, secrecy, relationship chaos, and escalating consequences. Nicole opens up about how she used alcohol for energy, confidence, and relief—until it stopped working and her life hit a devastating turning point in July 2022. She shares what finally created true willingness, why her first rehab stay didn’t stick, and how treatment, sober living, meetings, sponsorship, and rebuilding trust helped her stay sober. Today, Nicole is approaching four years sober, has rebuilt her relationship with her family, and is focused on living a life rooted in connection, service, and self-respect. If you’ve ever wondered how to get sober, how to stop secret drinking, or how to rebuild after relapse, this episode will hit home.-------------Nicole on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cargonicole/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Brad sits down with Ashton to talk about sobriety, party culture, and what happens when alcohol becomes tied to identity, confidence, and belonging.Ashton shares how growing up in Johannesburg, South Africa normalized drinking as a “rite of passage,” and how a chaotic childhood shaped his ability to adapt—but also made real attachment and emotional safety difficult. He opens up about using alcohol and cocaine to socialize, manage anxiety, and feel confident—until the consequences caught up.This conversation goes deep into shame, anger, trauma, public backlash, mental health, and the moment Ashton realized alcohol wasn’t the real problem—it was the tool he used to avoid what needed healing. He also explains the recovery shift that made sobriety stick: rebuilding discipline, changing environments, and addressing the physiology of recovery (dopamine, nervous system regulation, gut health, blood sugar, genetics, brain fog).If you’re sober curious, trying to stop drinking, stuck in “weekend-only” drinking, or rebuilding after regret—this episode is a real blueprint for growth.----------------Links:Ashton on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ashtonpienaar/Support The Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationSober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Brad sits down with Tanya to talk about what it really looks like to get sober and stay sober when your journey isn’t linear. Tanya shares how she grew up with a stable home and little exposure to alcohol—but still struggled with insecurity, belonging, and wanting to feel “cool,” which made alcohol feel like the solution. What started as binge drinking and partying progressed into DUIs, escalating consequences, and the painful truth many people discover: once the addiction wiring is there, moderation feels like torture.This conversation goes deep into relapse, grief, identity, relationships, resentment, and recovery—plus the power of community, AA, faith, service work, and learning to build self-worth from the inside out. Tanya also shares how she stayed sober through devastating loss and what helped her reach one year sober.If you’re sober curious, trying to quit drinking, rebuilding after relapse, or looking for real tools to protect your sobriety long-term, this episode will hit home.-------------Just Between Us Podcast Sign Up: app.helloaudio.fm/feed/07bfba32-e173-41c6-973e-ceee488187c7/signupSober Motivation 30 Day Free Trial: https://sobermotivation.mn.coSober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gray Area Drinking, Binge Drinking, Alcoholism, Alcohol Use Disorder or Problem Drinking? How Do You Know When Alcohol Is the Issue.In this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, Brad sits down with Shaz to share a raw and honest story of alcohol's role, blackouts, secret drinking, and pandemic-era daily drinking. This conversation is for anyone who doesn’t see themselves as fitting with a label, but still feels uneasy about their relationship with alcohol.Shaz walks through how alcohol shifted from social use to binge drinking, how gray area drinking quietly escalated, and how secrecy, rationalization, and comparison kept him stuck for years. You’ll hear why waiting for a diagnosis or label delayed real change—and how sobriety, connection, and community support became the turning point.If you’re sober curious, questioning your drinking, or wondering whether life would feel better without alcohol, this conversation offers clarity, validation, and a path forward—without shame or judgment.Contact Shaz on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shazman07/ Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final episode of 2025, Brad sits down with Brian, who share's a raw and honest sobriety story that spans decades.Brian opens up about growing up in Spokane, Washington surrounded by alcoholism, violence, and instability — and how hockey became his escape. As a teenager, alcohol quickly became more than “weekend fun,” turning into blackout drinking, fights, arrests, and a dangerous spiral that ended in a moment that forced everything to change.Brian shares what finally made him ask for help, why leaving his environment was a key part of getting sober, and what it took to rebuild identity, friendships, and confidence without alcohol. Brian’s last drink was December 28th, 1991 — and today he reflects on 34 years sober, life in Germany, and the mindset that helped him protect his recovery for the long haul.In this episode, we cover:•Childhood trauma, absent father, and growing up around addiction•Hockey as an outlet for anger, pain, and survival•Early drinking, escalation, blackouts, and legal consequences•The turning point that forced Brian to choose recovery•Treatment, relocating, and why “new environment” mattered•Rebuilding identity without alcohol (social life, confidence, dating)•Long-term sobriety tools: honesty, boundaries, and an exit plan•What 34 years sober has taught Brian about freedom and control Join the Sober Motivation Community: Click here for 30 Days freeBrian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrbrianpiper/ Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jess is a former Air Force sergeant, mom of three, and survivor who came back from a suicide attempt to build a life she once thought was impossible. After eight years in the military and a medical retirement, she spiraled into prescription pill addiction, Ambien abuse, and untreated trauma. In June 2016, her daughter came home from school with a stomach ache and found her unconscious on the bed.This is the exact story of how a stay-at-home mom with no friends and a 400 credit score ended up in a recovery house in York, Pennsylvania, lost custody of her kids, lost her marriage, and rebuilt everything from the ground up. She now has 9 years sober and is five months from finishing her PhD in psychology.You'll hear about: childhood trauma, hidden assaults, Ambien addiction, prescription opiates, a near-fatal overdose, the doctor who believed in her first, and what it took to forgive herself.If you've been through more than the people in your life know, this one's for you.Jess On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessosborn0824/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chester and Rick Duff share a special friendship, one that was once fuelled by drinking and addiction. They both joined me in the studio to share the full story of the different places addiction took them to and how they have been able to break the cycle. For Chester is was more daily drinking, which triggered a true hatred towards himself and Rick Duff was more of the weekend warrior but sobriety has changed things completely. We go over many "Rock Bottoms" and failed attempts at sobriety to Chester reaching 9 months sober on the date this episode goes live. ----------Chester on IG: https://www.instagram.com/chester_alarie/Rick Duff on IG: https://www.instagram.com/rickduffmusic/ Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Sober Motivation Holiday features Jess Lopez, Megan, and Nisha, who share their collective experiences and expert insights on maintaining sobriety through the holiday season. Hosted by Brad, the discussion includes practical tips on planning for sobriety at social events, embracing joy and gratitude, handling grief, and supporting loved ones on their recovery journeys. The guests highlight the importance of community, self-care, and intentional living as essential tools for thriving in sobriety during the festive period.-----------Jess: https://www.instagram.com/mysobersunrise/Nisha: https://www.instagram.com/nishapatelcoaching/Megan: https://www.instagram.com/meganeileen3/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Why can’t I stop?” or felt trapped by shame, this one hits deep. Brad sits down with Jermaine Dante’ Burse, a Bay Area native (Vallejo, California) whose drinking didn’t start as party chaos; it was quiet, functional, in-house alcoholism that escalated over a decade into withdrawal seizures, pancreatitis, liver failure symptoms, jaundice, a coma, and life support. Today, Jermaine is 12 years sober. wU8vxHo2GK1Lfb22s3Yq-------------The Sober Motivation: Just Between Us Podcast: Click HereJermaine on IG: https://www.instagram.com/jermainedante_art/ Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of the Sober Motivation Podcast, I talk with Olivia about her sobriety journey, choosing an alcohol-free life, and what it really took to get sober after years of pain. Olivia opens up about growing up with severe OCD (intrusive thoughts/compulsions), trauma, and using alcohol as self-medication to quiet anxiety, feel confident, and fit in. She shares how addiction, BPD, and escalating alcohol + cocaine use led to chaos, toxic relationships, rehab attempts, and a near-fatal car crash that became her turning point toward sobriety. A “miracle” phone call led to the right opportunity, where she learned self-awareness, accountability, and built a sustainable, sober, alcohol-free life. This episode is for anyone trying to get sober, stay sober, and keep going. Proof that recovery and sobriety create a ripple effect for family, healing, and hope.-------------Oliva on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobercoasterlife/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brittany joins the Sober Motivation Podcast to share her powerful story of growing up in Minnesota with a father who struggled with alcoholism, living with clinical depression, and using alcohol to cope with trauma, loneliness, and shame. She talks about becoming a “high-functioning” drinker—doing well at work and school while secretly relying on alcohol every day. Brittany also opens up about getting trapped in an abusive relationship, the trauma bond that kept her stuck, and the moment everything changed after a violent incident. On January 3rd, she chose sobriety, learned to ride out cravings, and started rebuilding a life filled with real joy, self-respect, and emotional healing. If you’re questioning your relationship with alcohol, stuck in toxic patterns, or wondering if change is possible, this recovery story will give you hope and motivation to keep going.----------------Support the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationSober Motivation Community:  Click HereBrittany on IG:  https://www.instagram.com/innatedivinity/Sober Motivation Mobile App: https://apps.apple.com/app/sober-motivation-app/id6759266291Sober Motivation Website: https://www.sobermotivation.comSupport the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivationContact me anytime: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.