PODCAST · health
Soberful
by Veronica Valli & Chip Somers
Veronica Valli and Chip Somers are experts on recovery. Chip Somers was most recently described by Russell Brand in his book 'Recovery' as a 'right social liability.' Together they have been sober for almost 50 years and have a LOT of stories, messes, experience and occasionally helpful advice to share on living in sobriety. They bring all of that (and more) to the Soberful podcast. This podcast is for anyone who wants to live an alcohol-free life, is struggling to get sober or who is in long-term recovery.
Episodes
-
371: Leaving the Darkness and Finding the Light With Lindsay Brooke
Veronica Valli speaks with Lindsay Brooke, a former adult entertainment actress who shares her journey of addiction, recovery, and self-discovery. Lindsay discusses her experiences in the industry, the impact of addiction on her life, and the challenges she faced in her personal relationships.…
more -
370: Youth Recovery with Doug Smith
In this episode of the Soberful Podcast, Veronica Valli speaks with Professor Doug Smith about youth recovery from substance use. They discuss the evolution of recovery models, the importance of peer support, and the challenges faced by young people in recovery. Doug shares insights from his...
-
369: Under the Influence with Lucy Rocca
In this episode of the Soberful Podcast, Veronica Valli delves into the intricate relationship between thoughts, emotions, and drinking behaviors. She emphasizes that many individuals mistakenly focus on willpower to combat their drinking problems, neglecting the underlying thoughts and feelings...
-
368: This Much I Know Is True About Sobriety
In this episode, Chip shares his extensive wisdom and experience regarding sobriety, emphasizing the simplicity of the recovery process, the importance of taking risks, and the need to address childhood trauma at a manageable pace. He discusses family dynamics and reassures listeners that they…
more -
367: How Your Thoughts Lead to Drinking
In this episode of the Soberfall Podcast, Veronica Valli delves into the intricate relationship between thoughts, emotions, and drinking behaviors. She emphasizes that many individuals mistakenly focus on willpower to combat their drinking problems, neglecting the underlying thoughts and feelings...
-
366: Managing Illness in Sobriety
In this conversation, Chip and Veronica delve into the profound themes of mortality, acceptance, and the importance of human connection. Chip shares his personal struggles with health and the reality of aging, reflecting on the wake-up calls that life presents. The discussion highlights the...
-
365: Why Did Brad Pitt Go Back to Drinking With Alysse Bryson
In this episode of The Soberful Podcast, Veronica Valli and Alysse Bryson discuss the complexities of sobriety, particularly in the context of celebrity culture. They delve into Brad Pitt's recent public admission of returning to drinking after years of sobriety, exploring the implications of…
more -
364: What Happens to Friendships When We Stop Drinking
You may have noticed that when you stop drinking your friendships change in this episode Chip and Veronica talk about how and why friendships change and how to navigate those changes. To learn more, visit the show notes.
-
363: Resentments
"Resentments are the number one offender." In this episode, Chip and Veronica discuss the nature of resentments, how they are like drinking poison and wanting the other person to die. How they seduce us into staying stuck and block us from growing. They confess their own resentments and the…
more -
362: Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Sobriety
Have you fever felt anxious? Have you ever used alcohol to deal with social anxiety? You are not alone. Anxiety and problems with alcohol go hand in hand. We drink to take the 'edge' off and get through social situations, but the booze just makes everything worse. You may have even experienced a...
-
361: Why People Relapse
Why do people find it so hard to stop drinking? What leads to a relapse? Veronica and Chip answer all these questions and give their opinion on what risky situations to avoid in early recovery. To learn more, visit the show notes.
-
360: The Four People You Meet When You Stop Drinking
When we get sober, the world takes it personally. There are four types of characters you may meet when you stop drinking: 'The overnight addiction expert, 'the drunk persuader, the 'moving the goalposts friend,' and the 'fun police.' Chip and Veronica talk you through how each one will approach...
-
359: Adult Children of Alcoholics
In this episode, Chip and Veronica discuss Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOA). ACOA's have particular characteristics that they carry into adulthood, particularly in their intimate relationships. To learn more, visit the show notes.
-
358: Can I Drink In Moderation?
The Holy Grail of anyone with an alcohol use disorder is moderation. In this episode, Chip and Veronica look at why moderation (or social drinking) is very rarely achievable. We discuss the energy and effort that people put into trying to achieve it. The reason that we struggle with moderation is...
-
357: The Normalization of Abnormal Drinking
We discuss how the alcohol industry has tricked us into believing alcohol is harmless and beneficial to us. And how they have convinced us that without alcohol we are missing out on something. We challenge the myths and assumptions that have lead to the normalization of abnormal drinking. To…
more -
356: Veronica's Story Part 2 - Healing
The biggest challenge Veronica faced was dealing with romantic relationships. At 3 years sober she was suicidal again. With nothing left to lose she had to find a way to deal with old demons and stay sober. To learn more, visit the show notes.
-
355: Veronica's Story Part 1
In this episode, we cover Veronica's story. How she became an alcoholic, what happened, and what led her into sobriety. To learn more, visit the show notes.
-
354: Chip's Story Part 2 - Healing
*Trigger warning* Discussion of overcoming childhood sexual abuse. How do you heal from abuse and trauma? Can you overcome childhood abuse and go on to have a happy life and fulfilling relationships? Chip explains exactly how he did that. To learn more, visit the show notes.
-
352: Chip's Story Part 1
*Trigger warning* Discussion of childhood sexual abuse. In this episode, Chip tells his incredible story of recovery. He grew up in an upper-class British family with no love or warmth, was abandoned to a boarding school at age seven where he was bullied. By 18 he was sticking needles in his…
more -
352: The Summer Sessions
In this episode of the Soberful podcast, Veronica Valli discusses the challenges of staying sober during the summer, a season often associated with fun and drinking. She shares personal experiences and insights on how to navigate the summer without alcohol, emphasizing the importance of...
-
351: When Your Drinking Crosses the Line With Sus Silvius
In this episode of the Soberful podcast, Veronica Valli interviews Suze Silvius, who shares her extraordinary journey from a troubled childhood in Canada to her struggles with alcohol and eventual path to recovery. Suze discusses her early relationship with alcohol, the emotional angst she felt...
-
350: Getting Sober and Finding Purpose with Ian Young
In this episode of the Soberful podcast, Veronica Valli interviews Ian Young, a long-time friend and colleague in the treatment industry. Ian shares his incredible journey from a troubled youth in North London to a life of addiction, counterculture, and ultimately recovery. He discusses his...
-
349: The Difference Between Recovery and Sobriety With Randy Haveson
In this episode of the SoberFull podcast, Veronica Valli interviews Randy Haverson, who shares his remarkable journey of sobriety spanning over 42 years. Randy discusses his early struggles with addiction, the turning point that led him to seek help, and the profound difference between simply…
more -
348: The Truth About Emotional Sobriety Nobody Tells You
In this episode of the Soberful podcast, Veronica Valli delves into the often overlooked concept of emotional sobriety, emphasizing its critical role in maintaining long-term sobriety. She shares her personal journey, highlighting the challenges of emotional management after quitting alcohol and...
-
347: What is a normal drinker?
What is a normal drinker? This is a question most people ask themselves on their journey to sobriety. The truth is that how we drink is shaped by our peers and culture. To learn more, visit the show notes.
-
346: How Patricia Heaton Quit Drinking and Changed Her Life
Patricia is a three-time Emmy Award-winning actress known for her work in The Middle and Everybody Loves Raymond. She has been alcohol-free for eight years and has just launched her alcohol free brand Solubrae. (Use code Soberful20 to get 20% off) Patricia shares her inspiring journey of going...
-
345: How a Little Becomes a Lot
In this insightful interview, Eric Zimmer shares his transformative journey from heroin addiction to sobriety and discusses his new book, 'How a Little Becomes a Lot.' The conversation explores the power of small, consistent actions, the nature of change as a skill, and how our perceptions shape...
-
344: Travel With the Sober Single Mum
Explore the transformative journey of Lauren Brunesson as she navigates life from Northern Ireland to global adventures, embracing sobriety and self-discovery. This episode delves into cultural insights, the power of intuition, and the rise of sober travel communities. Join us for an inspiring...
-
343: Quitting Smoking With Dr. Judy Rosenberg
In this insightful interview, Dr. Judy Rosenberg discusses the deep-rooted psychological causes of smoking and vaping, emphasizing the importance of addressing childhood wounds and emotional dysregulation to achieve lasting change. Discover how addiction is linked to the hole in the soul and…
more -
342: Addiction, Trauma and the Older Population
This conversation explores addiction, trauma, and mental health issues in the older population, highlighting the unique challenges and societal perceptions faced by those over 65. Polly Kaiser shares her extensive experience working with older adults, addressing topics like ageism, substance...
-
341: How Much Does America Really Drink? With Mike Marshall
In this episode of the Soberful podcast, Veronica Valli interviews Mike Marshall from the US Alcohol Policy Alliance. They discuss the pervasive influence of alcohol in society, the power of the alcohol lobby, and the need for better public health policies regarding alcohol consumption. Mike…
more -
340: How to Heal Your Body When You Stop Drinking With Samantha Lander
In this conversation, Veronica Valli and Samantha Lander discuss the journey of recovery from addiction, focusing on the importance of health and nutrition in sobriety. Samantha shares her personal story of addiction, the challenges she faced, and how she transitioned to a healthier lifestyle.…
more -
339: How to get Emotionally Sober
Veronica Valli discusses the journey to emotional sobriety, emphasizing the importance of consistent personal development, boundaries, managing resentments, and reprogramming the subconscious mind. She shares practical insights and invites listeners to a two-day immersive training to master...
-
338: What is a Dry Drunk?
Veronica Valli discusses the concept of 'dry drunk' and emotional sobriety, exploring how emotional regulation and personal development are crucial for lasting sobriety and a fulfilling life. She shares insights on emotional unwellness, control issues, and practical tools for emotional sobriety.…
more -
337: How to Help Your Addicted Child With Brenda Zane
Brenda Zane started Hopestream community after years of trying to save her son from desperate drug addiction. She discusses the resources parents need when they have a child struggling with addiction and provides hope when those parents feel like they are the only ones going through this. To…
more -
336: Black Out Drinking
What is blackout drinking, and when is it a problem? To learn more, visit the show notes.
-
335: How to Grow Roots in Sobriety
Veronica explains how to grow roots in sobriety. To learn more, visit the show notes.
-
334: From Homeless to Millionaire With Brandi Jones
In this episode, Veronica chats with Brandi Jones, a woman she considers to be one of the most impressive people she has ever met. Listen in as Veronica learns unknown parts of Brandi's life story that leave her both horrified and in awe of this incredibly inspiring woman. To learn more, visit…
more -
333: The Truth About Porn About Porn Addiction With Jeremy Lipkowitz
Jeremy Lipkowitz joins Veronica to discuss his descent into porn addiction, how it made him depressed and isolated, and how he now helps other men break free. To learn more, visit the show notes.
-
332: Is family estrangement the answer?
In this episode, Veronica and Chip delve into the complex topic of family estrangement and the concept of going no contact. They explore the importance of boundaries in relationships, the impact of emotional well-being on family dynamics, and the cultural implications of severing ties with kin.…
more -
331: There's Always Stuff to Deal With
In this episode of the Soberful podcast, hosts Veronica Valli and Chip discuss the significance of sobriety milestones, particularly Chip's 41 years of sobriety. They explore the ongoing journey of recovery, emphasizing the importance of emotional growth, personal development, and maintaining...
-
330: Things That Changed Our Lives This Year
In Veronica and Chip's traditional end-of-year episode, they discuss all the things that changed their lives this year. To learn more, visit the show notes.
-
329: How to Deal With Anger in Sobriety
Chip and Veronica discuss how anger manifests in sobriety. What lies beneath anger? Is it purely fear? How do you manage your own anger and that of others? To learn more, visit the show notes.
-
328: Dealing With Feelings in Sobriety
Veronica and Chip respond to a listener's question and talk about how to manage all the new feelings you experience in sobriety. To learn more, visit the show notes.
-
327: A 6 day alcoholic coma DIDN'T stop her drinking! with Kate Lewis
At 32 years of age, Kate Lewis was grappling with alcohol withdrawal, and she had a severe alcohol fit. This led to her being placed in a medical coma for six days. Surprisingly, this didn't halt her drinking. It was the subsequent events that finally put an end to her alcoholism. Kate, now a...
-
326: The Sober Mom Life with Suzanne Warye
When Suzanne went into blacked out drunk with a 3-month-old baby, she knew her drinking had passed the point of no return. She had spent years trying to moderate and manage her drinking to no avail. Now, her mission is to spread the word about how fun and freeing sobriety can be. To learn more,...
-
325: Uncorked - What Happens When You Put the Drink Down With Mary Alice Stephens
Mary Alice Stephens loved alcohol; she drank every day and made sure her social life was full of opportunities to drink. Coming from a large Irish Catholic family, drinking was normalised and celebrated. She joins Veronica to discuss what happens after you put the drink down. To learn more, visit...
-
324: Dealing With Difficult People
Veronica discusses the universal challenge of dealing with difficult people in our lives. She emphasizes that understanding the emotional unwellness of others can foster empathy, while also highlighting the importance of maintaining boundaries and managing expectations. Veronica provides insights...
-
323: Regaining Trust
Chip joins Veronica to discuss how to regain trust when you get sober. They discuss regaining the trust of your children and partner. Trust is something sacred and when broken it takes time and patience to earn it back. To learn more, visit the show notes.
-
322: Filling the Void That Alcohol Filled
Veronica and Chip discuss what it feels like when you first stop drinking. At the beginning, it feels like a void with loads of time to fill. Over time, sobriety creates purpose and meaning, and you wonder that you ever had time to drink. To learn more, visit the show notes.
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
Veronica Valli and Chip Somers are experts on recovery. Chip Somers was most recently described by Russell Brand in his book 'Recovery' as a 'right social liability.' Together they have been sober for almost 50 years and have a LOT of stories, messes, experience and occasionally helpful advice to share on living in sobriety. They bring all of that (and more) to the Soberful podcast. This podcast is for anyone who wants to live an alcohol-free life, is struggling to get sober or who is in long-term recovery.
HOSTED BY
Veronica Valli & Chip Somers
Loading similar podcasts...