194- SOBRIETY in the Foreign Service Life
The Big Purple Blob PODCAST
In our episode today, Emily shares her personal journey to sobriety, including her struggles with alcohol and the various resources and support systems she has utilized and continues to utilize throughout her recovery. She discusses her experiences as a sober Foreign Service employee, addressing challenges with medical clearance, navigating social situations, and building a support network within the Foreign Service community. Emily emphasizes the importance of finding community and resources for recovery, treating sobriety as a fragile process, and encouraging open conversations about alcohol...
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193- Moving Stateside in 2025
The Big Purple Blob PODCAST
The Big Purple Blob is here to discuss the hardships and offer helpful ideas for folks moving to the US this year. Find out more at The Big Purple Blob.com
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192- Foreign Service Without Pay?- Financial Hardship 2025
The Big Purple Blob PODCAST
Check out The Big Purple Blob at Talk to Susie at Talk to Angi at Send us your thoughts and share your stories with us at The Big Purple Blob
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191: Downsizing: What to do (and what NOT to do), Foreign Service Life
The Big Purple Blob PODCAST
Moving from a larger living space to a smaller one? One of your family members living seperately for your next tour? Join us to hear from three experienced FSlifers who have faced this challenge. Find out how to work with us directly at Meet Sharoya at Meet Angi at Meet Susie at
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190: Travel and still Stress Less??
The Big Purple Blob PODCAST
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189: Service Work, Purposeful work in Diplo life
The Big Purple Blob PODCAST
Spiritual health is often the most overlooked part of our well-being. But what does it really take to care for our mind, body, and spirit? In this episode, we’re joined by Rev. Heather Taylor, J.D., Managing Director of Bread for the World, who shares how humanitarian work is not just service — it's a spiritual experience. Together, we explore how nurturing the spirit is deeply connected to our emotional and mental health, and how integrating all aspects of our well-being leads to a more purposeful life. Join and for this important discussion with Expert Heather Taylor
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188- Diplo-Divorce: What to Know
The Big Purple Blob PODCAST
Have you ever wondered what details are involved in a thoughtful divorce while living the Diplomatic life? Our guest expert is here with some wise insights. Find out more at:
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187- Lisa Tilstra, Diplo-Expert
The Big Purple Blob PODCAST
Meet Lisa Tilstra and learn from her valuable inisghts into Diplo-life. Find out more at:
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186: RIFs are Looming: Forward Momentum with Uncertainty
The Big Purple Blob PODCAST
When the rug may very possibly be pulled out from under you...how do you manage? When things that you thought were solid are taking a different direction...what can you do for yourself? Join Lisa Tilstra and Angi Solley for this personal discussion. If you could use some extra support, you can work with any of the Blob experts by connecting with us at
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185- EFM Non-Traditional Employment, Outside the Box Options
The Big Purple Blob PODCAST
Susie talks with Lelania Vanderberg about her unexpected path to employment as an EFM. Found out more by connecting with Susie at: Send us your feedback or set up a time to talk with us directly at
info_outlineIn our episode today, Emily shares her personal journey to sobriety, including her struggles with alcohol and the various resources and support systems she has utilized and continues to utilize throughout her recovery. She discusses her experiences as a sober Foreign Service employee, addressing challenges with medical clearance, navigating social situations, and building a support network within the Foreign Service community. Emily emphasizes the importance of finding community and resources for recovery, treating sobriety as a fragile process, and encouraging open conversations about alcohol use while providing healthy coping mechanisms.
List of Resources:
SOBRIETY COMMUNITY SUPPORT
- Alcoholics Anonymous/12-step Meetings:
- Online and in-person meetings. Searching "AA English meetings in [country/place]" will often lead you to the local "intergroup" page with listings. Many areas also have online meetings.
- There is a Foreign-Service-specific online AA meeting open to USDHs, EFMs/MOHs, and contractors of any agency under COM. Email diplomatic.sobriety@
gmail.com for details/questions. - The Luckiest Club: https://www.
theluckiestclub.com/ TLC is a non-12-step, online sobriety support community with meetings on Americas + European timezones.
- Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program (ADAP) For more information email MEDECS@state.gov or call: 202-634-4874. [taken from this Department page]
- The Health Unit or RMOP, if at post
- There are a myriad of recovery-focused and sober-curious podcasts and books. Google "sobriety podcast" or "quit lit" for ideas.
- Int'l Assoc of Professional Recovery Coaches directory: https://www.
directory.iaprc.org/home