Suicide Prevention Month: My Battle with Anxiety, Depression, and Alcohol

In this classic episode of "Sisters in Sobriety," hosts Kathleen and Sonia bring a light-hearted touch to the serious topic of staying sober during New Year's Eve. With warmth and humor, they recount their own past holiday experiences, marked by not-so-glamorous moments of substance abuse, and compare them to their now joy-filled, sober celebrations.Kathleen and Sonia take us through the often overwhelming social pressures and emotional challenges that come with the holiday season, yet they keep the mood buoyant by sharing their favorite alternative sober celebration ideas. Whether it's hosting a cozy get-together, enjoying a lively sober event, or simply taking in the beauty of nature, they remind us that there are countless ways to make New Year's Eve special and memorable without alcohol.The duo emphasizes the shift in perspective that sobriety brings, turning New Year's Eve from a potential obstacle into an opportunity for gratitude and reflection. They sprinkle their conversation with encouraging and hopeful quotes, like Sonia's humorous take on relearning how to party sober and Kathleen's expressions of deep gratitude for the new life she has found in sobriety.Kathleen and Sonia show that sobriety doesn't mean missing out on fun—it means rediscovering joy in a more meaningful and fulfilling way. Tune in for a dose of positivity and inspiration on how to turn New Year's Eve into a celebration of new beginnings and true happiness.00:00:00 | Celebration of download milestone!00:02:16 | Reasons why New Year's Eve is tough to stay sober00:04:00 | Importance of having a plan for a sober New Year's Eve00:04:43 | Ways to reframe the idea of New Year's Eve00:07:00 | Sonia's experience of being sober on New Year's Eve00:08:00 | Kathleen's experience of being a messy drinker on New Year's Eve00:09:00 | Story of Kathleen's New Year's Eve where she found herself high, cold, and stranded00:10:00 | Reflection on the past and commitment to sobriety00:11:00 | Conclusion and end of the transcript00:11:48 | Risky behavior and addiction to risk-taking00:15:21 | Shift in priorities after getting sober00:17:15 | Drug and alcohol-free New Year's Eves00:19:32 | New Year's Eve as a time for reset and renewal00:20:22 | New Year's resolutions and gratitude00:22:00 | New Year's Eve activities and possibilities00:23:29 | New Year's Eve retreat ideas00:25:37 | Exploring alternative plans for staying sober on New Year's00:26:00 | Hosting a sober gathering with a friend and kids00:27:58 | Emphasizing the freedom and possibilities of being sober00:28:14 | Reflecting on the gratitude of being in control and soberLinksSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s Instagram

Ready to kick off the new year with a fresh perspective? On this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen are here to help you plan your best sober year yet. From goal setting to finding balance, they’re sharing ideas to make 2024 your year of growth and intentional living—whether you’re brand new to sobriety or already a few years in.How do you set goals that stick? What’s the secret to staying motivated when things don’t go as planned? And how do you balance everything without burning out? This episode has all the tips and stories to keep you inspired and moving forward.You’ll learn simple strategies like habit stacking, breaking big goals into manageable steps, and why self-care is so much more than bubble baths. Plus, Kathleen and Sonia share how they use tools like planners and trackers to stay on course—and why progress always beats perfection.Sonia and Kathleen also open up about their own journeys, from learning to adapt when life throws curveballs to embracing the quirks that make them who they are. Their stories are full of laughs, lessons, and plenty of inspiration for anyone looking to embrace sobriety with confidence.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Time-Stamped Highlights[00:01:00] Sonia and Kathleen kick off the episode: planning your best sober year yet.[00:01:50] Kathleen’s 2024 goal: prioritizing physical and mental health.[00:03:14] Sonia’s funny habit-stacking method for stretching before Netflix.[00:05:45] Kathleen talks about the lessons she learned from setting unrealistic goals.[00:08:13] Breaking big goals into bite-sized, manageable pieces.[00:10:44] Celebrating small wins in creative ways—popcorn in bed, anyone?[00:12:00] Sonia looks back at years of “moderation” goals that didn’t stick.[00:14:20] Why Kathleen prefers harmony over balance in her sober life.[00:16:59] Plans for a work-life reset: Kathleen is finally taking a vacation![00:19:00] Sonia’s non-negotiable: sleep as the ultimate self-care tool.[00:21:25] Using tech like Apple Watch and Oura Ring to track goals.[00:23:54] The protein-packed breakfast tip that’s changing Sonia’s mornings.[00:25:00] Kathleen’s story about adapting her yoga practice as a single mom.[00:29:00] Sonia reframes her narrative around sobriety and relationships.[00:31:49] Kathleen shares practical ways to flip the script on negative self-talk.[00:33:43] Byron Katie’s four questions for letting go of limiting beliefs.[00:36:00] Self-compassion as the secret to letting go of old narratives.[00:37:15] The connection between self-worth and self-care.[00:38:11] Kathleen’s quirky planner obsession and why it works for her.[00:39:00] Closing thoughts: It’s not about perfection; it’s about progress and intention.LinksSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s Instagram

This week, Sonia and Kathleen dive into the world of non-alcoholic sangrias during the fan-favorite "Mocktail Hour." If you've ever missed the fruity, festive allure of sangria or wondered how non-alcoholic alternatives stack up, this episode is for you!The duo kicks things off with a taste test of two sangrias: the Sangria Señorial, a Mexican soda-style sangria, and the Clever Sangria. Expect honest reviews, accidental spills, and insights into how these drinks could be enhanced or incorporated into festive settings. While one drink sparks nostalgia and creativity, the other leaves the hosts debating its place in the sangria universe. Check out our own sangria recipe on our substack!Did you enjoy the taste test? Have a favorite sangria recipe or another mocktail you'd like us to try? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss a sip of our Mocktail Hour. Join the conversation and explore more recipes, reviews, and sober inspiration on our Substack!Highlights[00:01:54] First Impressions of Sangria Señorial - Sonia and Kathleen taste the Sangria Señorial and share their initial thoughts[00:03:08] Discussion on the sweetness, aftertaste, calorie count, and how it might work as a base for homemade sangria.[00:04:16]Kathleen reflects on why Sangria Señorial doesn’t quite match up to traditional sangria flavors.[00:05:13] Kathleen opens the Clever Sangria, and the duo explores its citrus-forward profile and less syrupy sweetness.[00:05:45] Ideas for enhancing Clever Sangria with spices like cinnamon and clove to make it more festive and complex.[00:06:47] Kathleen shares versatile ideas for serving Clever Sangria, from summer dockside drinks to Christmas brunch.[00:07:52] Sonia and Kathleen give their ratings: Clever Sangria scores high, while Sangria Señorial falls short.[00:09:00] The hosts declare Clever Sangria the winner, while debating whether the two drinks belong in the same category. LinksSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s Instagram

In this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen are joined once again by Ali Shapiro, a health coach, speaker, and creator of the transformative Truce with Food program. Ali’s approach integrates emotional storytelling to help people heal their relationships with food, their bodies, and themselves. A returning guest, Ali also hosts the popular podcast Insatiable, where she delves into the psychology of cravings and the broader narratives around food and body image. Today, Ali, Sonia, and Kathleen tackle timely topics around food, belonging, and self-awareness during the holiday season.How do cultural narratives around food shape our holiday habits? Can traditions and modern health wisdom coexist? In this episode, Ali shares her insights on balancing enjoyment and nourishment during celebrations, navigating holiday pressures, and redefining emotional safety in family dynamics. With key questions like "What role does food play in our sense of connection?" and "How can we honor our health while participating in long-standing traditions?" this discussion offers a fresh perspective on holiday wellness.They get into actionable strategies for balancing blood sugar, managing holiday expectations, and identifying emotional triggers that lead to overeating. Key takeaways include understanding the physiological impact of food choices, the importance of timing meals to avoid cravings, and the role of belonging in emotional eating. With insights into how traditional cuisines naturally align with our seasonal needs, Ali provides a roadmap for mindful eating and resilience during this festive yet often challenging time.Ali opens up about her personal journey, including how family traditions like her grandmother’s fenugreek tea remain a source of comfort and connection. Through stories of her clients’ experiences, she illustrates the delicate balance of maintaining emotional intimacy while setting boundaries during the holidays. With heartfelt examples of how small, thoughtful shifts can transform holiday dynamics, this episode is a blend of practical advice and deep, personal reflection.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Time-Stamped Highlights:[00:00:00] Introduction of Ali Shapiro and her work.[00:01:13] Overview of Ali's previous episodes and themes.[00:02:00] How cultural narratives around food have shifted over the decades.[00:03:23] Discussion of body positivity and the physiological effects of sugar.[00:05:02] Strategies for avoiding extreme diets and quick fixes.[00:06:23] How food symbolizes connection and emotional belonging.[00:07:10] Ali shares her grandmother’s fenugreek tea tradition.[00:09:27] Reconciling cultural food traditions with modern health narratives.[00:11:24] The importance of meal timing and balanced blood sugar.[00:12:50] Managing holiday expectations and body image pressures.[00:15:24] How to discern personal values for the holiday season.[00:16:49] Connecting food and movement to resilience and mood.[00:19:13] Recognizing physiological feedback from food choices.[00:20:18] Differentiating “waves of belonging” and building emotional safety.[00:22:40] Client stories: Finding connection amidst family challenges.[00:24:51] Holding emotional complexity: Flexibility in relationships.[00:26:22] Reflections on the Tao Te Ching and embracing adaptability.[00:27:00] Cultivating self-authored belonging and emotional capacity.[00:28:30] The role of compassion in breaking generational patterns.[00:29:00] Closing remarks and teaser for part two.LinksGet In Touch With Ali - Stop the quick fix cycle (free session!)Free breakfast experimentTruce with Food group programSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s Instagram

Mocktail Hour is back! In this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen are helping you navigate the world of non-alcoholic beverages with their honest review of St. Agrestis mocktails, including the Phony Negroni and Amaro Falso. They’ll roll up their sleeves, sip, critique, and share their favorites, all while keeping things fun and relatable.Ever wondered how the Phony Negroni stacks up against its alcoholic counterpart? Or what makes Amaro Falso a wintery, herbal delight? Sonia and Kathleen dive into the flavor profiles, discuss pairings, and tease out the differences in mouthfeel and aftertaste. They’ll answer questions like: How does the bitterness compare? Can these mocktails hold their own as aperitifs or digestifs? And most importantly, are they worth a spot in your fridge?This episode is packed with insights for the sober-curious and mocktail enthusiasts alike. You’ll learn about the perfect pairings, creative additions to elevate the drinks, and whether these options are right for your next dinner party or cozy night in. Sonia and Kathleen leave no bottle uncorked, providing a thorough breakdown that’s as entertaining as it is educational.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Time-Stamps:00:00:00 – Mocktail Hour kicks off with Sonia and Kathleen’s signature honesty.00:01:00 – Introduction to St. Agrestis Phony Negroni and its origins.00:02:05 – First impressions: color, smell, and initial taste test.00:03:00 – Breaking down the flavor: juniper berry notes and orange peel accents.00:04:00 – Discussing how the Phony Negroni feels like a “sophisticated” drink.00:05:00 – Ideal serving occasions for the Phony Negroni.00:05:54 – Rating the Phony Negroni on a scale of 1 to 10.00:06:00 – Introduction to St. Agrestis Amaro Falso and its unique qualities.00:06:42 – Flavor comparison: herbal and citrus notes of Amaro Falso.00:07:22 – Sonia experiments by adding ginger ale to Amaro Falso.00:08:20 – Describing Amaro Falso as a wintery, moody drink.00:09:00 – Aesthetic appeal: the elegant design of the St. Agrestis bottles.00:09:28 – Rating the Amaro Falso and who might enjoy it.00:10:14 – Comparing aftertastes and complexity between the two drinks.00:10:40 – Sonia reflects on mocktails mimicking alcoholic beverages.00:11:00 – Kathleen shares how the Phony Negroni evokes gin nostalgia.00:11:20 – Head-to-head verdict: Phony Negroni wins as a pre-dinner favorite.00:11:40 – Amaro Falso as a digestif: best for post-dinner sipping.00:12:00 – Plans to explore more of St. Agrestis’ non-alcoholic offerings.00:12:12 – Closing thoughts and a thank-you to listeners.LinksSt Agrestis Beverages Sisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s Instagram4o

The holiday season is upon us, and while it can be a time of joy and celebration, it often presents unique challenges for those navigating sobriety. In this week's episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen are here to help you tackle these hurdles head-on. From grief and estrangement to social pressures, they’re sharing heartfelt insights and actionable strategies to help you find peace and joy in a potentially stressful season.What makes the holidays so difficult for those on a sobriety journey? Is it the abundance of alcohol at every gathering? The intricate family dynamics? Or the emotional weight of grief and estrangement? Sonia and Kathleen dive deep into these questions, exploring everything from setting boundaries and managing triggers to the emotional labor that often falls on one person in a family. This episode is packed with insights and real-life examples to help you feel supported and prepared.Sonia and Kathleen talk about recognizing and managing emotional triggers, practicing gratitude to combat feelings of isolation, and creating new traditions to honor lost loved ones while finding moments of joy. They'll also discuss the importance of self-compassion, realistic expectations, and setting healthy boundaries to protect your peace during this busy time.Personal stories take center stage as Sonia and Kathleen share their experiences with estrangement, grief, and the holiday blues. From Kathleen’s first Christmas after her father’s passing to Sonia’s reflections on navigating family estrangement, these heartfelt anecdotes provide a relatable and comforting perspective for anyone feeling overwhelmed or alone during the holidays.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Time-Stamped Highlights[00:02:00] Sonia shares her love for Christmas and the traditions in Toronto.[00:03:10] Kathleen discusses the pressures and emotional triggers of the season.[00:03:52] Sonia opens up about grief, estrangement, and loneliness during the holidays.[00:05:30] Kathleen reflects on navigating the holidays after losing her father.[00:07:00] Honoring loved ones through traditions and memories.[00:08:48] Tips on avoiding perfectionism and setting realistic expectations.[00:10:12] Sonia explains how journaling and therapy help with estrangement.[00:12:05] Practical advice for setting boundaries during family gatherings.[00:15:00] Comparing estrangement stories to highlight shared struggles.[00:16:28] Kathleen shares her annual photo album tradition for year-end reflection.[00:18:55] How gratitude can transform holiday experiences.[00:20:25] Sonia recounts a tough holiday experience after her divorce.[00:23:30] Strategies for reconnecting or avoiding estranged family members.[00:25:43] Balancing hope and acceptance in family relationships.[00:28:09] Redefining family and creating values-driven holiday traditions.[00:30:10] Coping with holiday triggers and reframing difficult memories.[00:32:00] How to handle grief waves and their unpredictability.[00:34:25] Writing letters as a first step to reconnect with family.[00:37:15] Using humor and realistic expectations to navigate tough situations.[00:40:00] Lessons on navigating sobriety and growth through shared challenges.LinksSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s Instagram

Grief and sobriety—two paths that often intertwine yet feel isolating. In this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen explore how grief transforms when faced with the raw clarity of sobriety. Together, they share personal insights and practical advice to help you navigate the complex emotions of loss while staying grounded in recovery.How does grief feel when faced without substances? What misconceptions about grief might be holding you back? How can we better support others who are grieving in sobriety? From understanding anticipatory grief to exploring the nuances of conflicting emotions, Sonia and Kathleen tackle it all in today’s heartfelt discussion.They talk about:The myth of the "5 stages of grief" and why grief is non-linear.Recognizing and navigating anticipatory grief and cumulative grief.Practical self-care practices to stay emotionally healthy during grief, especially while sober.Why outward mourning and ongoing grief should be normalized.Sonia reflects on the surprising lessons from her divorce and how it continues to shape her sobriety journey. Kathleen opens up about the loss of her father, sharing moments of vulnerability and growth, including how she honors his memory through continuing bonds. Together, they reveal the healing power of connection, honesty, and allowing grief its space.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Highlights[00:01:00] Sonia and Kathleen introduce the topic of grief and sobriety.[00:02:02] "What does grief feel like when sober?" Sonia shares her thoughts on sitting with raw emotions.[00:03:31] Exploring what grief looks like versus societal expectations.[00:06:13] Sonia discusses the mindset shift of “the only way out is through.”[00:08:41] Kathleen opens up about the anticipatory grief she felt before her father’s passing.[00:10:54] Types of grief in sobriety: divorce, loss of identity, and cumulative grief.[00:13:00] Misconceptions about grief: Can you grieve someone still alive?[00:17:03] Kathleen’s strategies for emotional self-care during her grief journey.[00:20:03] Continuing bonds: How Kathleen honors her father’s memory.[00:21:12] Sonia reflects on grieving her old life and navigating uncertainty post-divorce.[00:25:13] "You don’t control life as much as you think," Kathleen shares hard-earned wisdom.[00:28:38] Sonia on self-imposed grief milestones and the challenges of “re-litigation.”[00:30:00] The spectrum of what is “normal” in grieving.[00:32:42] Healthy vs. unhealthy grieving: The role of substances and emotional numbing.[00:34:14] The stigma of mourning in Western cultures and its emotional impact.[00:36:00] Supporting someone grieving while sober: showing presence and offering practical help.[00:38:00] Sonia and Kathleen discuss holding space without pushing for "moving on."[00:39:24] The power of directly asking someone what support they need during grief.[00:41:00] Sonia and Kathleen reflect on lessons learned from grief and how to show up for others.LinksSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website (Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast)Kathleen’s Instagram

This week on Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia sits down with Bella Ferguson, a certified This Naked Mind coach and co-host of the Not Drinking Alcohol podcast. Bella shares how she went from working in high-pressure corporate law, where "work hard, play hard" was the mantra, to embracing a sober lifestyle. Spoiler alert: she’s thriving, and she’s here to inspire anyone who feels stuck in the "mommy wine" spiral or corporate happy hour grind.In this episode, Sonia and Bella chat about the pressures of professional drinking culture, why “mommy wine time” isn’t as harmless as it seems, and how to start rethinking your relationship with alcohol. Is sobriety possible in environments where alcohol feels like the glue that holds everything together? And how do you deal with the awkward moments of being the only sober person at the party?You’ll hear Bella's tips for navigating social situations, finding joy in alcohol-free living, and tackling the emotional baggage that often comes with drinking. Learn how she rebuilt her confidence, discovered tools for emotional sobriety, and why regulating your nervous system is a total game changer. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance sobriety with career, parenting, and friendships, Bella's got the answers.We also dive into Bella’s personal story, including her rock-bottom moment and how she rebuilt her life from the ground up. From dodging awkward small talk with wine-loving moms to rediscovering her passion and purpose, Bella keeps it real about the ups and downs of sobriety—and why it’s so worth it.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women rethink their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Time-Stamped Highlights:[00:01:00] Bella introduces herself and why she ditched the lawyer life.[00:02:13] The “work hard, play hard” drinking culture in corporate law.[00:03:56] How gender roles impact drinking expectations at work.[00:05:35] Why workplace drinking is more than a “work hard” problem.[00:08:51] Juggling kids, stress, and a wine bottle—Bella’s experience with mommy wine culture.[00:12:00] Bella’s wake-up call in the hospital that changed everything.[00:14:18] What happens to your marriage when drinking takes over.[00:17:39] The awkwardness of setting post-rehab boundaries with your partner.[00:21:25] Emotional sobriety: why white-knuckling it isn’t enough.[00:24:03] Helping clients figure out if moderation or quitting is right for them.[00:28:00] Core fears and beliefs that keep people stuck in drinking cycles.[00:32:15] How Bella’s friendships evolved after she chose sobriety.[00:36:00] Bella’s go-to self-care tips (hint: popcorn and trail runs are involved).[00:40:27] Why connecting with others is the secret weapon against isolation.[00:42:08] How ditching alcohol changed Bella’s career and life purpose.[00:45:00] Staying aligned with your values to keep sobriety on track.[00:46:28] What’s next for Bella: alcohol-free challenges and courses.LinksConnect With Bella! https://isabellaferguson.com.auYour Alcohol Revolution Online Programs: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/TheAlcoholRevolutionAlcoholFreeOnlineProgramOverviewFree Do I have a Drinking Problem 3 Day Video Series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/doIhaveadrinkingproblemwithisabellafergusonYour Alcohol Revolution LIVE Program (next in February 2025): https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/alcoholfreedomchallengeInstagram: @alcoholandstresswithisabellaSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website (Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast)Kathleen’s Instagram

Today’s episode of Sisters in Sobriety is all about navigating the ups, downs, and surprising discoveries of early sobriety! Sonia is joined by Courtney Andersen, the founder of Sober Vibes and a seasoned sober life coach who’s been alcohol-free for over a decade. Courtney’s also the author of Sober Vibes: A Guide to Thriving in Your First 90 Days Without Alcohol, a no-nonsense roadmap for getting through those crucial early months. She’s here to share real-life tips and laughs, making the road to sobriety feel a little less intimidating.In this episode, they dive into questions like: What can you do when the “witching hour” hits and cravings come knocking? How can you tell if moderation isn’t cutting it? And what are the realistic expectations for those tough first 90 days?Courtney offers her refreshingly honest take on some key concepts of early sobriety: managing withdrawal, building a support network, and learning to talk to yourself kindly (yep, that’s a big one!). She’ll break down how to replace old habits with new, feel-good routines that keep you steady—and maybe even make you excited about a new way of life.Things get personal as Courtney opens up about her rock-bottom moment, her “aha” pact with the universe, and her journey from feeling lost to finding purpose. If you’re looking for motivation to start or stick with sobriety, Courtney’s story is full of the grit, humor, and hope that will keep you moving forward.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Highlights00:01:15 - A quick look at Courtney’s new book, Sober Vibes, and how it guides readers through the first 90 days.00:02:34 - Courtney shares her “I have to quit” moment and what drove her to finally make the change.00:03:00 - Falling in love with the bar scene and the “fun” side of drinking.00:04:50 - Panic attacks and anxiety kick in as the fun fades.00:06:50 - Courtney’s funny (and frustrating!) attempts at “moderation rules” for drinking.00:09:13 - The sneaky ways emotional dependency shows up when trying to quit.00:10:58 - The endless cycle of bargaining and why it’s exhausting.00:12:40 - Courtney’s rock-bottom night (and a lost cat!) that finally pushed her to quit for good.00:15:35 - Sonia and Courtney chat about how rock-bottom looks different for everyone.00:16:30 - What those first 90 days really feel like and why they’re so tough.00:17:45 - Withdrawal symptoms and the importance of checking in with a doctor.00:20:15 - How having a support network can help you feel less alone.00:21:45 - Redefining routines and how small changes can make a big difference.00:24:00 - Courtney’s “Friday night lights” TV binge for those hard weekend nights.00:26:22 - Easy tips for handling cravings and setting boundaries with friends.00:29:00 - Courtney’s “60-minute rule” for social events and getting home before triggers hit.00:31:50 - How journaling and reflection can help keep your sober mindset strong.00:33:00 - Simple, do-anywhere tools for getting through intense cravings.00:36:30 - How exercise and fresh air can be secret weapons for staying sober.00:37:04 - The underrated power of a good night’s sleep.00:40:00 - What to expect as cravings start to fade and you build a new normal.00:45:00 - Why staying present is the best way to approach your sobriety journey.LinksConnect With Courtney Here! Website- https://www.courtneyrecovered.comIG-  https://www.instagram.com/sober.vibesBook- https://www.courtneyrecovered.com/sober-vibes-pre-orderSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s Instagram

Today, Kathleen and Sonia bring you a fascinating chat with Ali Shapiro –  health coach, speaker, and creator of Truce with Food. Together, they dig into the highs, lows, and everything in between when it comes to cravings, food, and the ways alcohol plays into it all.In this episode, they tackle questions we all ask ourselves: Why do I crave sugar after a long day? What’s really behind that urge to snack? and How can I start eating in a way that feels right for me? Ali shares practical insights on how to understand cravings, balance blood sugar, and build a healthier relationship with food that doesn’t feel like a battle.Listeners will get practical tips about blood sugar balance, ways to know the difference between “I need this” and “I want this,” and how to make food choices that feel natural. Ali also talks about her own journey with food, revealing how a health challenge as a kid shaped her approach to nutrition today. Whether you're struggling with cravings or just looking to feel more in tune with your body, there’s something here for you.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Time-Stamped Highlights[00:01:00] Meet Ali Shapiro and her unique take on food and cravings[00:01:10] How blood sugar and alcohol mess with our cravings[00:02:00] Why emotional cravings happen and how to spot them[00:03:12] The never-ending cycle of caffeine and exhaustion[00:04:15] What’s the difference between wanting a snack and needing one?[00:05:23] Ali’s thoughts on why “intuitive eating” isn’t always so intuitive[00:06:54] Getting real about our emotional ties to food[00:07:52] Food as a way to connect with others – why it matters[00:08:10] Kathleen shares how food helped her through a hard time[00:09:19] How meals can help us slow down and feel more grounded[00:10:12] Finding balance when it comes to emotional eating[00:11:23] Ali’s “three types of hunger” approach – it’s not just about food![00:12:42] How blood sugar balance can reduce cravings[00:13:56] Ali’s breakfast experiment – try it for yourself![00:15:27] Peptides and insulin – breaking down what it all means[00:17:04] Why strength training is a midlife game-changer[00:18:29] Understanding how hormones impact our cravings[00:20:15] Building muscle to support a healthy weight[00:21:59] Busting the myth of calorie-counting diets[00:24:48] Separating health and weight without judgment[00:28:55] Ali’s Truce with Food program – what it’s all about[00:34:43] A sneak peek at Ali’s thoughts on gut healthLinksGet In Touch With Ali - Free breakfast experimentTruce with Food group programSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s Instagram