Sobriety: The One Day At A Time Recovery Podcast

On this podcast, guests share their personal stories of what happened, how they overcame their addictions, and the exact strategies they used to stop drinking, doing drugs and gain control over their lives. Please subscribe and share so we can help as many people as possible. Visit soberlifeschool.com for more free resources.

411 The Neuroscience of Anxiety, Addiction, Over Eating, And How To Break The Habit Loop With Dr Jud Brewer 01/01/2026

411 The Neuroscience of Anxiety, Addiction, Over Eating, And How To Break The Habit Loop With Dr Jud Brewer Anxiety Isn’t the Problem — It’s the Habit Loop Behind It I recently had a conversation with psychiatrist and neuroscientist Jud Brewer that stopped me in my tracks — not because it was abstract or inspirational, but because it finally explained something I’ve lived with for decades. Even in long-term sobriety. Even with years of self-work, therapy, meetings, journaling, and personal development. That thing is anxiety — and more specifically, how anxiety quietly turns into habits like worrying, overthinking, scrolling, information hoarding, procrastinating, and self-judgment. What Dr. Brewer helped me see is this: Anxiety isn’t a personal flaw. It’s a learned habit loop. And once I saw that clearly, everything changed. Worry Is a Behavior — Not a Personality Trait One of the most powerful reframes from our conversation was this: Worry isn’t just a feeling — it’s something we do. Anxiety shows up as a sensation in the body. Worry is the mental behavior we use to try to control that sensation. And here’s the trap: Worry feels productive. It feels like we’re doing something. That tiny sense of relief is enough to reward the brain — which means the loop gets reinforced. Anxiety → Worry → Temporary relief → Repeat Over time, this becomes automatic. So automatic we don’t even realize we’re doing it. That’s the definition of a habit. Why “Why Am I Like This?” Keeps Us Stuck As someone in recovery, I’m very familiar with the idea of “getting to the root cause.” Childhood trauma, identity, shame, conditioning — all of that matters. But here’s what surprised me: Dr. Brewer says the “why” is often the least important part when it comes to changing anxiety. Not because the past doesn’t matter — but because focusing on why often keeps us stuck in our heads instead of helping us change what we’re doing right now. When anxiety hits, the more helpful question isn’t: “Why am I like this?” It’s: “What am I getting from this behavior?” That question shifts us from self-blame to curiosity — and curiosity is where real change begins. The Default Mode Network (AKA: The Overthinking Machine) We also talked about the brain’s default mode network — the system that activates when we’re not focused on a task. This network lights up when we: Worry about the future Replay the past Judge ourselves Compare ourselves to others Crave, resist, or ruminate In other words: it’s the “me, me, me” network. When fear (an urge to act now) gets crossed with planning (thinking about the future), we get anxiety. Anxiety doesn’t help us act. It freezes us. That’s why so many high-achievers know exactly what to do — and still don’t do it. The Three Gears of Change (This Is the Part That Actually Helps) Dr. Brewer’s work focuses on a simple but profound process he calls the three gears: ⚙️ Gear 1: Awareness Notice the behavior. Worrying. Scrolling. Self-judging. Avoiding. No fixing. No shaming. Just noticing. If it’s automatic, it’s a habit — and habits can be changed. ⚙️ Gear 2: Ask “What Am I Getting From This?” This is the most overlooked step. Not: “What should I be doing?” “What’s wrong with me?” “Why can’t I just stop?” But: What is this giving me right now? Safety? Distraction? Avoidance of shame? Temporary relief? When we see clearly that the reward is small — and the cost is high — the habit starts to lose its power. ⚙️ Gear 3: Find the Bigger, Better Offer This is where things shift. Instead of numbing, distracting, or fighting anxiety, we learn to meet it differently — and that feels better than the habit itself. That’s where the RAIN practice comes in. RAIN: A Way to Be With Anxiety Without Escaping It RAIN stands for: R – Recognize what’s happening A – Allow it to be there I – Investigate with curiosity (What does this feel like in my body?) N – Note what’s happening moment to moment Here’s the surprising part: When we stop trying to get rid of anxiety and simply observe it, it often passes on its own. Cravings peak and fall. Sensations rise and fade. Even when they feel like they’ll last forever — they don’t. Action Steps (Try This This Week) If anxiety, overthinking, or procrastination are showing up in your life, try this: Catch the Habit Notice when anxiety turns into worrying, scrolling, or self-judgment. Ask One Question What am I getting from this right now? Practice RAIN Don’t fix. Don’t flee. Just observe. Change the Language Instead of “I am anxious,” try: “I’m noticing anxiety in my body.” Let the Wave Pass You don’t have to do anything for it to end. Resources Mentioned Unwinding Anxiety by Jud Brewer Trigger–Habit–Outcome Mapping (free worksheet referenced by Dr. Brewer) RAIN mindfulness practice Going Beyond Anxiety program (Dr. Brewer’s advanced work) Final Thought You’re not broken. You’re not failing. You’re not missing some secret piece of information. Your brain learned a habit — and habits can be unlearned. With awareness, curiosity, and kindness, anxiety doesn’t have to run your life. It can become a signal — not a sentence. 💛 Guest Contact Info: 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/39560180

410 Managing Intrusive Thoughts, Anxiety, and Depression In Sobriety 12/25/2025

410 Managing Intrusive Thoughts, Anxiety, and Depression In Sobriety One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation with Emma is that anxiety, depression, and burnout aren’t character flaws—they’re nervous system responses to feeling unsafe. We talked about how depression often mirrors the nervous system’s shutdown response, and how anxiety shows up as fight-or-flight. When your body feels overwhelmed for too long, it doesn’t motivate you—it protects you. Why Worry Keeps You Stuck Emma explained that worry is actually reinforced behavior. When we worry and nothing bad happens, our brain learns, “That worked—do it again.” Over time, worry becomes automatic. This is why telling yourself to “just stop worrying” never works. One Tool That Can Reduce Anxiety by Up to 80% One of the most practical tools we discussed is Scheduled Worry: Instead of worrying all day, you train your brain to worry at a specific time—usually 10–15 minutes in the afternoon. Outside of that window, you gently remind yourself, “I’ll deal with this at 5pm.” This retrains the brain instead of fighting it. Burnout and Fear-Based Fuel Emma shared how she burned out after years of pushing herself—weekly YouTube videos, pregnancy, parenting, and running a business. What stood out most was this idea: Fear is a dirty fuel source. When we’re driven by fear—of failure, not being enough, or letting others down—we eventually crash. Healing often means switching fuel sources to trust, values, and self-permission to slow down. ✅ Action Steps for Listeners Set a daily check-in alarm (once an hour) to notice: What am I thinking? What am I feeling? What’s happening in my body? Practice willingness instead of avoidance Let the feeling exist without trying to fix it. Try Scheduled Worry for 7 days 10–15 minutes/day, written out. Clarify your locus of control Separate what you can control from what you can’t. Choose one value-aligned action Small, doable, and grounded—not fear-driven. 🔗 Resources Mentioned Therapy in a Nutshell (YouTube) Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) Burnout by Emily Nagoski Slow Productivity by Cal Newport The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry Guest Contact Info: https://therapyinanutshell.com/ 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/39523890

409 From Elite Athlete to Inmate: The Wake-Up Call That Changed His Life 12/18/2025

409 From Elite Athlete to Inmate: The Wake-Up Call That Changed His Life Choosing Yourself Isn’t Selfish — It’s Necessary In this episode of The One Day at a Time Recovery Podcast, I sit down with Hakeem to talk about what happens when performance, substances, and distractions can no longer protect us from unresolved pain. Hakeem shares how the death of his younger brother, years of buried grief, elite athletics, addiction, and eventually incarceration led him to a moment of total reckoning. Sitting alone in a jail cell — without substances, screens, or distractions — he was finally forced to face himself. What stood out to me most is Hakeem’s belief that recovery isn’t just about abstinence. It’s about returning to our natural state — mentally, emotionally, and physically. Key Takeaways From Our Conversation 1. Addiction Is About Toxic Consumption Many people quit drinking but replace it with sugar, gambling, porn, caffeine, or overworking. The substance changes, but the avoidance doesn’t. 2. The Work Has to Happen Before the Trigger If the inner work isn’t done first, triggers become breaking points. When the work is done, triggers become opportunities for growth. 3. The TEFIC Framework Triggers – noticing what activates you Environment – what and who surrounds you Foundation – sleep, routines, structure Invest – time, energy, and money into growth Contribution – giving from overflow, not depletion 4. Community Is Where Healing Accelerates There’s something powerful about being seen and understood by people who have lived it — not just professionals talking at you, but peers walking alongside you. Action Steps I Encourage You to Try Identify one “acceptable addiction” you might be using to avoid discomfort Build a minimum daily foundation you can keep even on hard days Journal on this question: What keeps showing up as a trigger in my life — and what might it be pointing to? Seek connection, not just more information 📚 Books & Resources Mentioned Choose Yourself to Be Chosen — Hakeem Bourn McFarlane The Untethered Soul — Michael A. Singer The Way of the Superior Man — David Deida Outwitting the Devil — Napoleon Hill Can’t Hurt Me — David Goggins Atomic Habits — James Clear (referenced) So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! Guest Contact Info: Instagram: @ 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/39430010

408 Overcoming Betrayal And Suicidal Depression In Sobriety 12/11/2025

408 Overcoming Betrayal And Suicidal Depression In Sobriety How Journaling, Community & Self-Compassion Can Transform Recovery: A Conversation with Sonia In this episode, Sonia from Sisters in Sobriety joins us for a deeply honest conversation about recovery, journaling, trauma, and rebuilding life after addiction. Sonia shares how her drinking escalated from teenage experimentation to daily wine-drinking as a high-functioning professional. While she never had the “traditional” external bottom, she described being emotionally bottomed out — chronically ill, blacking out, and unable to imagine a future. What finally shifted? A moment of clarity at brunch, when she said “no” to a mimosa for the first time. From there, she began exploring sobriety through AA literature, community support, and eventually the practice that changed everything: journaling. Key topics we covered: Moderation vs. abstinence: Some people can moderate; some can’t. Addiction exists on a spectrum. Trauma and dissociation: Many of us learned early to ignore our intuition and numb discomfort. Healing through writing: Journaling processes emotions the same way talking to a friend does. Different journaling styles: Morning pages (The Artist’s Way) Gratitude lists Emotional processing Prompt-based journaling Somatic/body-scan journaling Rebuilding after betrayal: Journaling helped Sonia reclaim her identity after divorce. The importance of community: A network of supportive women helped her through the darkest moments. ACTION ITEMS FOR LISTENERS ✔️ Try morning pages for 7 days — write 3 pages of unfiltered thoughts every morning. ✔️ Start a nightly gratitude list focusing on 3 things from that day. ✔️ Practice a weekly “body-scan journal session” and write about physical sensations + emotions. ✔️ Identify 3 people you can call when you’re struggling — and practice willingness calls. ✔️ Reflect on the question: Can I moderate? — and be honest with your evidence. BOOKS MENTIONED Blackout — Sarah Hepola Running with Scissors — Augusten Burroughs The Artist’s Way — Julia Cameron The Power of Two-Way Prayer — Father Bill W. Radical Self-Acceptance — Tara Brach The Obstacle Is the Way — Ryan Holiday 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/39346760

407 The Brutal Truth About Why You Stay Stuck And How To Break Free With Brett Eaton 12/03/2025

407 The Brutal Truth About Why You Stay Stuck And How To Break Free With Brett Eaton Today I am joined by Brett Eaton, who is a motivational speaker, high performance coach, and the best selling author of "Uncomfortable Either Way: The Blueprint For Building Confidence Through Discomfort”. You might think that he doesn’t fit the typical guest profile, but Brett’s expertise on building confidence, behavior change, identity shifts, and building momentum - are the foundational building blocks of sobriety. In this episode we talk about: ✅ How accepting discomfort leads to change ✅ The importance of micro-commitments ✅ Why focusing on the wins is critical to recovery ✅ The antidote to perfectionism ✅ How to rebuild self-trust after years of self-betrayal And so much more! He was so much fun to talk to, his energy is so contagious, I can’t wait for you to meet him! Before we jump in, just a quick announcement: I am hosting a new meeting through the OpenRecovery App! It’s like having an AI sober coach in your pocket, but now has a HUGE community feature with some of the most influential thought leaders in the recovery space. Sign up for free and join “The 12 Step Group For Skeptics”. It’s a safe space to explore challenging topics, intended to help you make progress in the steps, and make some new sober friends in the process. It’s every Wednesday on Zoom at 4pm PST / 7pm EST. Some of the groups have a ton of members, and I’m super competitive, so join me and help me win this imaginary race! I can’t wait to see you there! Guest Contact Info: bretteaton.com Buy The Book: 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/39245510

406 The Midlife Unraveling: How Julie Rebuilt Her Life After Addiction, PTSD & Burnout 11/27/2025

406 The Midlife Unraveling: How Julie Rebuilt Her Life After Addiction, PTSD & Burnout In today’s episode, I sit down with my dear friend Julie Bloom - She’s a coach, mental health trainer, multilingual communicator, and survivor of childhood abuse, and severe workplace trauma. Julie shares her remarkable story of navigating PTSD, burnout, trauma, addiction, and a complete midlife unraveling… and how she rebuilt her identity through emotional regulation, nonviolent communication, and deep personal healing. Together we explore: ✨ Why emotional regulation is the foundation of all healing ✨ What actually happens in the brain during triggers ✨ How to respond instead of react ✨ The surprising power of compassionate communication ✨ The connection between trauma, addiction, and high achievement ✨ How sobriety opened the door for Julie’s personal transformation ✨ Tools like the RAIN method, journaling, two-way prayer, adaptive thinking, and more If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by your emotions, stuck in old patterns, or unsure how to communicate your needs… this episode will give you hope and real strategies you can use today. Before we jump in, I want to wish all who are celebrating a Happy Thanksgiving! This episode will be released on a day where many of us spend the day with family, for better or worse. For those who find Thanksgiving to be a challenging day, whether it’s due to being around people who push your buttons, or the loneliness that comes from distance or estrangement, I wanted to offer some practical advice on getting through the day sober - both physically and emotionally. First, start your day with self-care for your body, mind and spirit. Even if you can only spend 30 minutes in the morning doing it, the return will be well worth the investment. Think of it like this, if you have to travel a long distance, you’d put gas in your car first so that you could go the distance. Same thing with challenging or high emotion days. Be sure to fill your tank with inspirational literature, or content before venturing out. Also, be sure to boost your positive feel good neurotransmitters like oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins. Go for a walk, do some yoga, or get a workout in too. The physical exercise will burn off anxious energy, and help you to respond instead of react in stressful moments. Lastly, have an exit strategy. Give yourself permission to make an excuse to leave whenever you need to. Remember, your sobriety and your feelings take priority over someone else’s expectations. And who knows, if you run the experiment, maybe you’ll have a completely different experience of the holidays! If you find this episode helpful, please share it with a friend. So that’s it from me today. Please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! Find Julie on Instagram at @juliebloomworld 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/39174145

405 Breaking Generational Trauma and Finding Recovery With David Shamszad 11/20/2025

405 Breaking Generational Trauma and Finding Recovery With David Shamszad In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, I sit down with David Shamszad, author of I Am Someone You Know: The Fight for Recovery and Mental Health, to talk about the hidden pain behind high-functioning addiction, growing up in an alcoholic home, and the courage it takes to heal. David shares his journey through childhood trauma, undiagnosed bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, and eventual recovery, revealing how vulnerability and self-care became his path to freedom. We explore the power of telling your story, breaking cycles of generational trauma, and how choosing courage—moment by moment—can transform a life. 👉 If you’ve ever felt “high-functioning but secretly falling apart,” this episode will speak directly to your soul. Before we get to it, it’s time for “I have a question for you!” where you get to share your thoughts with the thousands of people listening to the podcast, across the world. Last week I asked about self-forgiveness with the question “What do you need to let go of?” What was interesting about the responses, is that they ALL came through DM’s! I think there’s still a lot of shame about things that are hard to let go of, but here are some of the responses. James sent me a DM on Instagram saying “Things I did before I got sober. There are people I can’t make amends to.” Tammy messaged me to say “Anger towards my ex! I wish he wasn’t so controlling. He always makes everything so hard!” Ezra shared “I have to let go of the idea that I'll ever be able to drink normally.” We all struggle with letting go at times, but the old cliche is true. The level of our serenity is in direct proportion to the level of our acceptance. For me, self-forgiveness is a practice that helps me let go of things I can’t control. This week’s question is about family. Thanksgiving is next week and for a lot of people, it’s a stressful time. There’s an old saying that family can push your buttons because they’re the ones that installed them. So my question for you is “If you’re spending Thanksgiving with your family, how will you take care of yourself if you feel triggered?” Share your thoughts on instagram and follow my account arlinaallen or odaatpodcast So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/39103510

404 Healing After Tragic Loss Addiction and Public Shame 11/12/2025

403 Sean Dadashi On Not Belonging, Suicidal Depression, and Tools For Healing 11/05/2025

402 Recognizing and Escaping Toxic Friendships 10/30/2025

402 Recognizing and Escaping Toxic Friendships Today I am joined by my dear friend Michelle Ferriss, a licensed marriage family therapist. She’s been on the podcast two other times because she’s awesome! Her area of expertise is on dealing with codependency, how to escape narcissistic relationships and overcoming anger issues. In this episode, we’re going to talk about toxic friendships, how to know if you’re in one, ways to improve them, and steps to take to escape them. This is such an important topic because as we grow, evolve and change, so do the relationships we have. And with people feeling more disconnected and lonelier than ever, we need to know how to make new friends too. Before we jump in, last week I started a new segment called “I have a question for you!” and the question was “how do you feel about the word Alcoholic?” On Instagram, one person wrote: “It took a while to be able to openly call myself an alcoholic. I attached very negative and generalized connotations to it until I identified it. Now, I embrace it because it was crucial to me getting sober.” Another wrote: I think it keeps people that are sober curious from stepping fully into their sobriety because they think they have to call themselves an Alcoholic . In our society it has a negative connotation. They do not picture the soccer mom at the park with wine in her yeti cup who is still suffering. So, whatever you need to call it . The most important thing is that you don’t have to label it at all. You can make a decision based on the results you’re getting from drinking alcohol.” Thank you all who wrote in! I think the big take away here is that it’s all perspective based on the information you have or don’t have. In the end, take what you like, and leave the rest. This week's question it tied to the topic of this episode, which is: “Can you still be friends with your old drinking or using friends after you’re sober?” Let me know what you think on instagram @arlinaallen So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! Guest Contact Info: 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/38835575

401 Beat Addiction For Good - The Neuroscience of Sobriety 10/23/2025

401 Beat Addiction For Good - The Neuroscience of Sobriety My guest today is Dr. Hector — a psychiatrist who specializes in helping people heal from addiction, PTSD, anxiety, and depression through a trauma-informed approach. He blends neuroscience, medication, and therapy with nutrition and lifestyle tools to support whole-person healing. What I love about his work is that it’s not just clinical — it’s deeply compassionate. He helps people understand how their brain and body work together so they can build resilience, recover from addiction, and truly heal from the inside out. He shares why most people relapse not because of willpower, but because trauma remains unresolved. From the role of GABA in calming the nervous system to how EMDR helps reprocess trauma, this episode is packed with practical tools and compassionate wisdom for anyone on the healing path. Before we jump in, I have a new segment, called “A question for you!” Today I want to know how you feel about the word “Alcoholic”. I was interviewed on another podcast today and the host told me he thought it was a shame label. If you know me even a little bit, you’ll know that the way I define it - it’s a badge of honor, but also, it doesn’t matter to me what you call yourself, as long as you get the support you need to heal and break free from addiction. So what do you think? Leave your comment under this episode at Or leave a comment on my Instagram: @arlinaallen Next week I’ll share some of your responses! Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out. And with that, please enjoy this episode with Dr Hector. Guest Contact Info: 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/38749715

400: Behind The Mic-Untold Stories From 400 Episodes 10/16/2025

399 Sobriety Reset: Why Its So Hard To Ask For Help (And What To Do About It) 10/12/2025

398 Unpaid Labor, Loopholes & Lost Lives: The Dark Truth About Rehabs 10/09/2025

398 Unpaid Labor, Loopholes & Lost Lives: The Dark Truth About Rehabs In this powerful conversation, investigative journalist Shoshana Walter exposes the dark underbelly of America’s rehab industry. Drawing from her eight years of research for Rehab: An American Scandal, she reveals how court-ordered rehab programs have exploited vulnerable people by sending them to work unpaid in dangerous jobs — all under the guise of “treatment.” We discuss: The shocking origins of these labor-based rehabs and how they became so widespread Why our mainstream treatment system often fails people — and in some cases, increases overdose risk Real-life stories of individuals like Chris, April, and Wendy that illustrate both the broken system and the resilience of those fighting for change How loopholes and lack of oversight allow unethical rehabs to thrive Practical ways families can identify quality treatment programs and avoid predatory ones Despite the heavy subject, this episode ends with hope: a growing community of advocates and storytellers pushing for systemic change. Before we jump in, I just wanted to give you a little update on what I've been up to, and share a new meeting I’ll be hosting. After creating and teaching a course called “Inner Compass”, I was feeling super burned out, so I decided to take some time off. I called it my "Self-Care Summer". I didn't do any new interviews, take on any new clients, or do any social media. It was a time to reset, heal and think about the direction of my work. My guiding thoughts were centered around one question: "What does God want for my life?" I was practicing total surrender, and I gotta tell you, it was a leap of faith, but then something interesting happened. Two podcasters published interviews I gave, and I realized something. I truly love sharing what I've learned in recovery. It really fills my heart with joy. That's why I've been doing the Sobriety Reset series for those who are coming back from another “Day 1”. Also I was invited to partner with OpenRecovery, a free app centered around recovery, to start a new community there. This means I'll be hosting free meetings that will make 12 principals accessible to my fellow skeptics, by providing a path around common obstacles. I’ll leave links in the show notes so you can download the app, and there will be announcements for the launch date. I’ve been wanting to host a meeting since I published the book, and OpenRecovery is providing me with the platform! I’m really excited about it and I hope you’ll join me. One last thing, if you enjoy this episode, it would mean the world to me if you leave a review on Apple Podcasts. It might surprise you to know that according to the analytics, less than 1% of our audience will actually leave a review. By leaving a review, it helps others who are suffering to find the podcast and get the life saving resources they need to get and stay sober. You can even think of leaving a review as an act of service! So thank you so much for your support! So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on . Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/38518140

398 Sobriety Reset - What To Say When You First Quit Drinking 10/07/2025

397 Addiction, Violence, and Losing His Brother: Josh's Path To Healing 10/02/2025

397 Addiction, Violence, and Losing His Brother: Josh's Path To Healing In this raw and moving episode, Josh shares his unbelievable journey through addiction, violence, and grief — and how he found his way to sobriety. From being stabbed and shot, to losing his brother to fentanyl, to nearly ending his own life, Josh’s story is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Through therapy, music, gratitude, and the 12 steps, he’s learned how to take life “one day at a time.” This episode is really a story of survival, resilience, and hope. Before we jump in, I have a big announcement! I am partnering with OpenRecovery, a free app designed to act as your 24/7 AI Recovery Coach. They are launching a new community feature where you can join online meetings to meet others just like you, who are on the path of recovery. I’ll be hosting meetings focused on doing 12 step work in a safe, compassionate and empowering space. The meeting is scheduled for later this month and if you’re interested in joining, just download the app for free! I’ll leave links to the Apple App Store and Google Play in the show notes. Just visit And in case you didn’t know, I have several free resources you can download on my main website at So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! Apple App Store link : Google Play link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.twelve_steps.twelve_steps&hl=en_US Guest Contact Info: https://joshdatant.com/ 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: 🎁Free Journaling Exercise: How To Get Unstuck, Be Consistent & Reach Your Goals Download Here: https://www.innercompassprogram.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/38430750

396 Sobriety Reset: The #1 Thing You HAVE To Do To Stay Sober 09/30/2025

396 Healing Childhood Wounds and Breaking Free from Anxiety and Shame 09/25/2025

396 Healing Childhood Wounds and Breaking Free from Anxiety and Shame Hey friend, Thanks for downloading this episode! My name is Arlina and I’ll be your host. And if you haven’t yet, check out our YouTube channel and subscribe! You’ll find it by searching “The One Day At A Time Recovery Podcast”. Obviously. Y’all I don’t know what got into me when we recorded this episode. Maybe it was too much coffee, but I was having such a good day that I was a little loose shall we say?? Anyway I really enjoyed this conversation with psychotherapist and recovery coach Errol McCaffrey. We explore her journey of sobriety, the role of spirituality versus religion, building sustainable self-care practices, and practical tools to manage anxiety. Eryl shares what it was like growing up with an alcoholic parent, her own struggles with drinking, and the lessons she’s carried into her work helping others heal. The discussion highlights the paradox of sobriety (freedom and overwhelm), the importance of simple daily rituals, why community matters, and body-based practices that help regulate anxiety and stress. If you enjoy this episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and share with a friend. Reviews are how we consistently rank in the top 1% and how you can help others to break free from addiction. Thank you so much for all your support!! So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! Guest Contact Info: https:// Instagram: 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: 🎁Free Journaling Exercise: How To Get Unstuck, Be Consistent andamp; Reach Your Goals Download Here: https://www.innercompassprogram.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/38343940

Sobriety Reset: The 3 Phases Of Getting Sober 09/22/2025

Sobriety Reset: The 3 Phases Of Getting Sober The Three Phases of Sobriety: From Foundation to Lasting Change Sobriety isn’t just about putting down the drink—it’s about building a life that supports staying sober. In this episode of Sobriety Reset, I broke down the three phases of getting sober: building a foundation, uncovering and discarding old patterns, and creating lasting change. Phase 1: Building a Foundation The first step in sobriety is setting yourself up for success. This begins with looking at your family history and early survival strategies, which often don’t serve us well in adulthood. From there, it’s about learning new skills: Setting boundaries: Learning what you can and can’t tolerate, and teaching others how to treat you. Clarifying your values and goals: Aligning your daily actions with what you truly care about. Preparing your environment: Removing alcohol, stocking healthy snacks (especially protein for willpower), and setting up positive supports like books, podcasts, and tools. Building a sober toolkit: This can include journaling, meditation (even just 12 breaths), supportive community, and strategies for managing emotions. Identifying triggers: Noticing what sparks the urge to drink and creating plans for how to respond. Phase 2: Uncover, Discover, Discard This phase is about doing deeper inner work to clean house. Using journaling, inventories, or therapeutic methods, you uncover resentments, discover the root causes, and discard what’s no longer serving you. Make a list of resentments and the specific causes. Notice the patterns—especially how coping strategies like people-pleasing or anxious attachment may actually recreate the very situations you fear. Clarify what’s truly your responsibility and what isn’t. Get support from a sponsor, coach, or therapist for deeper trauma-related work. Phase 3: Creating Lasting Change Long-term sobriety rests on consistent self-care and connection. It’s about turning healthy practices into lifestyle habits. Morning practice: Gratitude lists, journaling, meditation, and movement. Physical self-care: Hydration, regular exercise (start small if needed), nourishing foods. Spiritual practice: Whether it’s prayer, meditation, or simply connecting with energy and love, find what sustains your spirit. Community: Surround yourself with sober people. Science shows we adopt the behaviors and beliefs of those closest to us. Sobriety lasts when you layer tools, heal root causes, and stay connected. These three phases give you a roadmap not just to get sober—but to make sobriety stick. Action Items Journal about your family history and early survival strategies. Write down your top 5 values and compare them to how you actually spend your time. Prepare your environment: remove alcohol, stock healthy snacks, and add sober resources. Start a sober toolkit: include journaling, meditation (try 12 breaths), supportive podcasts, and people you can call. Identify your triggers by looking back at your last few drinking episodes. Make a plan for how to respond. Make a resentment list: name the person, the cause, and how it affected you. Get clarity on what’s your responsibility and what isn’t. Seek professional support for trauma-related issues. Begin a daily gratitude list (5–12 items). Commit to consistent self-care: exercise, hydration, meditation, and journaling. Join or re-engage with a sober community, online or in person. /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/38301465

394 How To Quit Drinking Alcohol Without Hitting Rock Bottom 09/18/2025

394 How To Quit Drinking Alcohol Without Hitting Rock Bottom In this powerful and thought-provoking conversation, meditation teacher and author Billy Winn shares his journey from heavy drinking to finding peace and fulfillment through Zen Buddhist practice. Billy talks about the pivotal moment that led him to stop drinking, the lessons he learned from opening (and later closing) an alcohol-free bar, and the transformative power of meditation in rewiring the brain. He opens up about childhood adversity, workaholism, burnout, and how he ultimately found freedom by realizing he was already enough—without needing to do more or be more. We also discuss his new book The Empty Path: Finding Fulfillment Through the Radical Art of Lessening and his work shaping psychedelic-assisted therapy policy in Colorado. This is a must-listen for anyone curious about sobriety, mindfulness, or how to find peace in a busy world. Before we jump in, I wanted to let you know I am about to publish the second episode of “Sobriety Reset” which will be focused on what I think are the 3 phases of recovery, and this is after 31 years of personal research and experience. I’m going to cover everything from how to rebuild self-esteem and why that’s important, how to identify the root causes that may compel you to drink, and of course, emotion management to make sobriety stick. Please be sure to subscribe to the YouTube Channel. There will be a link in the show notes at , and if you enjoy this episode, it would mean the world to me if you leave a review on Apple Podcasts. It might surprise you to know that according to the analytics, less than 1% of our audience will actually leave a review. By leaving a review, it helps others who are suffering to find the podcast and get the life saving resources they need to get and stay sober. You can even think of leaving a review as an act of service! So thank you so much for your support! And without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! Guest Contact Info: 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: 🎁Free Journaling Exercise: How To Get Unstuck, Be Consistent andamp; Reach Your Goals Download Here: https://www.innercompassprogram.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/38258445

393 Addiction, Sobriety, and the Fight for a Better Life with Edward Latimore Jr 09/11/2025

393 Addiction, Sobriety, and the Fight for a Better Life with Edward Latimore Jr Today I’m speaking with Edward Latimore—author of “Sober Letters to My Drunken Self”. He’s a former professional boxer, and in this episode, we explore his powerful journey from growing up in the projects, his life of addiction, and how he is now living a life of sobriety, self-mastery, and success. Edward’s story is about resilience, personal accountability, and the power of writing and community as tools for healing. Before we jump in, let’s talk a little bit about recovery resistance. It’s a term I use to describe that feeling of rebelliousness when we hear suggestions of things we could do for our recovery. It could be anything from journaling every morning, to spending 30 minutes meditating, letting go of toxic relationships, or even attending 12 step meetings, just to name a few. I actually dedicated a whole chapter in my book “The 12 Step Guide For Skeptics: Clearing Up Common Misconceptions Of A Path To Sobriety”. The truth is, we experience internal resistance for a good reason, which is ultimately rooted in our subconscious need for safety. But there comes a point when we recognize that some of our habits actually threaten our safety, like addiction, and we need to take action to change that. This is where it gets sticky. You might be aware that you need to change, so you seek answers, but actually taking action - like the exercise, meditation, self-reflection, step work, therapy etc - we balk. We get distracted. We procrastinate. To combat this resistance, I have a few solutions listed in the book, but here’s a quick 4 step process to help you close the gap between knowledge and action. Recognize that resistance or procrastination is a stress response. Try to give yourself some compassion. Practice a technique called “chunking”. Take the task at hand and break it down into tiny little steps. Commit to taking action for 2 minutes at a time Do a 3 second countdown and MOVE. Don’t think, just act on that first 2 minute chunk. That’s it! And chances are, once you start taking action, momentum will carry you through. If that feels helpful to you, please be sure to get a copy of my book through Amazon. It’s full of mindset shifts, little bits of wisdom I’ve picked up over the years, and some practical suggestions on how to get and stay sober. So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! Guest Contact Info: 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: 🎁Free Journaling Exercise: How To Get Unstuck, Be Consistent andamp; Reach Your Goals Download Here: https://www.innercompassprogram.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/38174095

392 Sobriety Reset: 3 Ideas To Get You Through Your First 30 Days 09/09/2025

391 Dr. Jason Giles: How a Physician Overcame Fentanyl Addiction and Found Recovery 09/04/2025

391 Dr. Jason Giles: How a Physician Overcame Fentanyl Addiction and Found Recovery Hi Friend, Thanks for downloading this episode, my name is Arlina and I’ll be your host. To contribute to recovery awareness, I am going to be publishing a series of weekly mini episodes for those who are thinking about getting sober or those who need a little bit of a sobriety reset. In fact, that’s what I’m going to call it: Sobriety Reset. They will be short episodes focusing on the basics of sobriety. Everything from how to prepare for your first week sober, how to talk to family andamp; friends about it, and what to do when you feel overwhelmed by cravings. This idea is to present the mindset, tools, and practices that will help you reach 100 days and make sobriety stick! I’ll post these to Youtube as well, so be sure to subscribe andamp; share with a friend! In this conversation, I’m speaking with Dr. Jason Giles, author of Outsmart Your Addiction. Dr Giles shares his powerful journey from fentanyl addiction to 25 years of recovery as a physician. What really struck me about his story is that you can be very smart, extremely ambitious, successful by all accounts, and still be vulnerable to addiction. He opens up about battling imposter syndrome, the belief that life without substances meant “the fun was over,” and the turning points that led him to seek help. Dr. Giles reflects on the role of spiritual awakening, the importance of asking for help, and the lessons he’s learned about recovery, neuroscience, and resilience. The discussion highlights how shifting our internal narrative can be the key to lasting change and why he remains hopeful about the future of recovery. So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! Contact Dr Giles: Book: Learn the Powerful System Developed by a Doctor to Conquer his own Fentanyl Habit 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: 🎁Free Journaling Exercise: How To Get Unstuck, Be Consistent andamp; Reach Your Goals Download Here: https://www.innercompassprogram.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/38076645

390 How To Reclaim Self-Worth Through Sobriety 08/28/2025

389 Freedom Through Surrender: The Unexpected Power of Letting Go 08/21/2025

389 Freedom Through Surrender: The Unexpected Power of Letting Go “The degree of magic you experience in your life will be in direct proportion to the degree you surrender and let go.” Hey friend, My name is Arlina and I’ll be your host. I actually have a quick story for you to tell you about today’s guest. You may have heard me say that I’ve been feeling burned out, so I decided to take time off to do a “self-care summer”. I had 3 months worth of amazing interviews pre recorded, I wasn’t taking on new clients and the plan was to focus on quieting my mind so that I could listen for God’s will for me and to pay attention to what brings me joy. Really, I have been in a state of surrender. This is where it gets interesting. Sometimes I have to book guests months in advance, and that’s what happened with today’s guest. So imagine my surprise when it’s finally time to interview today’s guest Kute Blackson, and guess what… his message is all about the magic of surrender! He said so many things that have absolutely been haunting me, but like in a good way. For instance he said that sometimes our wants come from wounds, which struck me like a lightening bolt. I can see how we want certain things like success or love, but if it comes from a place of an unhealed wound, that it carries an energy of neediness, grasping, chasing, and dysfunction. So anything that we create from that place, is ultimately not going to feel fulfilling - because the wound still exists! Emotional wounds are like a black vortex. There is no amount of drugs, alcohol, romantic love or achievement that will fill that hole. It needs to be healed. Such a powerful lesson! To give you a little more background on today’s guest, Kute Blackson is a transformational teacher, inspirational speaker, and bestselling author of The Magic of Surrender and You.Are.The.One. Known for his deeply spiritual yet down-to-earth approach.. His work has been featured on Larry King Now, NPR, and Impact Theory. Kute empowers people to break free from the conditioning of the past, embrace their true nature, and live authentically—starting with the courage to surrender. So without further delay, please enjoy this episode with Kute, and as always, let me know what you think! 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: 🎁Free Journaling Exercise: How To Get Unstuck, Be Consistent andamp; Reach Your Goals Download Here: https://www.innercompassprogram.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/37895815

388 Addiction Recovery Evolved: How Psychedelics and TMS Are Changing the Game 08/14/2025

388 Addiction Recovery Evolved: How Psychedelics and TMS Are Changing the Game Hey friend, Thank you for downloading this episode! In case we haven’t met yet, my name is Arlina, and I’ll be your host. I’m sure you have noticed that when you start on the path of being sober, that’s when the real work begins. Relationships shift, career goals change, and the old habits that no longer work, need to be rebuilt from the ground up. That’s exactly where my client John found himself—knowing he needed better work-life balance, but stuck in a cycle of constantly dealing with one crisis or another. Weekly coaching gave him the clarity, structure, and accountability to finally set boundaries at work, exercise regularly, and be fully present for his family. You didn’t get sober just to survive, you got sober to build a better life. Don’t wait for things to “settle down.” Your new life starts now. Book your free clarity call today at soberlifeschool.com. In this wide-ranging conversation with Dr. Martha Koo, we dive into the evolving and sometimes controversial role of psychedelic-assisted therapies in addiction recovery. We explore the tension between traditional 12-step abstinence models and emerging treatments like psilocybin, ketamine, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Dr. Koo shares insights from decades in psychiatry and addiction medicine, including work with MAPS on MDMA therapy for PTSD, and explains how tools like TMS can transform brain patterns, reduce cravings, and improve quality of life—without medication side effects. We discuss how to decide if these therapies are right for you, why environment and community matter, and the importance of pairing peer support with professional guidance. Whether you’re in long-term sobriety, newly sober, or just curious about modern approaches to mental health, this episode will challenge old assumptions and open new possibilities for healing. So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: 🎁Free Journaling Exercise: How To Get Unstuck, Be Consistent andamp; Reach Your Goals Download Here: https://www.innercompassprogram.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/37806145

386 Rewiring the Brain for Sobriety: Ayahuasca, Trauma, and Transformation 08/07/2025

386 Rewiring the Brain for Sobriety: Ayahuasca, Trauma, and Transformation Before we jump in, I do want to mention that I have a lot of free recovery resources on my website at . There’s a guide called “How to quit drinking: 30 tips for your first 30 days” with tips on how to beat cravings, how to answer the inevitable questions about why you’re not drinking, how to manage stress, and still have fun! Cuz we are all about having fun, just without the hangover. And one request: If you enjoy this episode, please rate and review on Apple podcasts and share it with a friend. It helps to get the message of hope to those who need it most. Since I started the podcast over 9 years ago, I have talked with hundreds of people, many of them medical experts in a variety of disciplines, about how to heal the underlying issues that cause addiction. The overwhelming data suggests that psychedelic assisted therapy, done in the right setting with professionals can lead to profound healing. However it is not for everyone and for certain people it’s actually contraindicated. These are powerful compounds and the use of them should not be taken lightly. By way of a disclaimer, I’m obviously not a doctor and I don’t play one on the internet, which is why today I am speaking with an actual doctor. This conversation is not to be taken as medical advice. It is for educational purposes only. The reason I decided to interview Dr Jeff McNairy is because I know compounds like Ayahuasca are being discussed among people in the sober community and I wanted to present information to those considering it, both risks and potential benefits. In this episode, Dr. Jeff shares his remarkable journey from studying medical anthropology to becoming a licensed psychologist working at the intersection of trauma, neuroscience, and ancient healing practices. We also discuss who should not participate in ayahuasca, what safe preparation and integration really look like, and why this plant medicine is being called “10 years of therapy in one night.” 💡 You’ll hear: How trauma gets stored in the amygdala—and how ayahuasca helps release it What Dr. Jeff has learned from over 20,000 participants (including veterans, doctors, and trauma survivors) Why integration is just as important as the ceremony itself What the research says about ayahuasca’s effect on neuroplasticity, and addiction. So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: 🎁Free Journaling Exercise: How To Get Unstuck, Be Consistent andamp; Reach Your Goals Download Here: https://www.innercompassprogram.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/37712600

386 Healing After Narcissistic Parenting: From Survival Mode to Self-Love 07/30/2025

386 Healing After Narcissistic Parenting: From Survival Mode to Self-Love Hi Friend, If you’re new to the podcast, my name is Arlina, I’ve been sober for 31 years, I’m a recovery coach, a bestselling author, and I’ll be your host. If you’re a long time listener, you may have noticed I recently enabled ads at the beginning of each episode. Something I haven’t done before in the 9 years that I’ve been hosting the podcast. With the growing expenses of hosting, and the podcast production team, combined with a decrease in donations, I decided to give ads a try. If you would like to hear ad free episodes, you can join my YouTube membership for as little as $1.99 per month. I will also have an additional membership level that includes private community chat rooms, live stream Q&A and Recovery Coaching with me, so you can overcome obstacles, keep you motivated, and on track. Just visit my youtube channel “the One Day At A Time Recovery Podcast” or you can find a link in the show notes at So, what happens when you grow up with an alcoholic father and a narcissistic mother—and no safe adult in sight? In this powerful and revealing conversation with Pi Venus, we explore what it’s like to grow up in a home where you’re told, in words or in silence, that your needs are a burden. My guest shares her story of early emotional abandonment, internalized shame, and the moment she poured her first drink at age 12… and the long road to reclaiming her power, identity, and joy. We talk about the real root causes of addiction, why recovery doesn’t stop at quitting substances, and how to reparent the parts of ourselves that still carry fear, shame, and longing. She shares what it’s like to heal from narcissistic abuse—first from her mother, then from a romantic partner who mirrored her childhood patterns—and the tools that helped her finally feel safe in her own skin. You'll also hear about: The subtle signs of covert and overt narcissistic abuse Her "spontaneous sobriety" moment and what made it stick How losing everything became a path to finding her true self Why peace can feel boring—and how to get comfortable with it The role of daily ritual, play, and myth in deep healing Her book Mother Medusa and how ancient stories help us rewrite our own This one is for anyone healing from dysfunctional family systems, narcissistic abuse, or unresolved childhood trauma. It’s vulnerable, validating, and ultimately empowering. So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: 🎁Free Journaling Exercise: How To Get Unstuck, Be Consistent & Reach Your Goals Download Here: https://www.innercompassprogram.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/37613405

385 The Molecule of More: Addiction, Behavior and What Really Fills the Void With Author Michael Long 07/24/2025

385 The Molecule of More: Addiction, Behavior and What Really Fills the Void With Author Michael Long Why do we always want more, even when we know it won’t make us happy? In this episode, I speak with Michael Long, co-author of The Molecule of More and author of Taming the Molecule of More, about the true nature of dopamine, craving, and how to reclaim our power from the constant chase for the next hit—whether it's drugs, sugar, social media, or even achievement. We explore: The surprising truth about what dopamine actually does Why the feeling of “wanting” hijacks the brain—and how it relates to addiction How GLP-1 medications (like semaglutide) may help reduce cravings—and why they’re not a magic fix The 6 tools from ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy) that help us create space between craving and choice What Victor Frankl got right about meaning—and how to find your own Why "enoughness" in the present moment is the antidote to always wanting more If you struggle with addiction, compulsive behavior, or the nagging sense that you’re never quite satisfied—this episode offers insight, hope, and actionable tools to reclaim peace, purpose, and presence. 📘 Learn more or join Michael’s book club at tamingthemolecule.com So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: 🎁Free Journaling Exercise: How To Get Unstuck, Be Consistent & Reach Your Goals Download Here: https://www.innercompassprogram.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick Subscribe So You Don’t Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on , , or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website . You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: Spotify: Amazon Music: /episode/index/show/odaatchat/id/37487130

384 The Woman Who Saved My Life: A Tribute to My First Sponsor 07/17/2025

Sobriety: The One Day At A Time Recovery Podcast

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