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Slaying Sober
James Date
30 episodes
2 hours ago
Where we tell stories of addiction, recovery and hope.
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Self-Improvement
Education
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All content for Slaying Sober is the property of James Date and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Where we tell stories of addiction, recovery and hope.
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Self-Improvement
Education
Episodes (20/30)
Slaying Sober
Jasmine - So close to help, but still drowning

Jasmine shares her raw journey from childhood trauma and weekend partying in Melbourne to a devastating Mother's Day crisis that sparked her path to recovery on Slaying Sober. Her story challenges addiction stereotypes, proving anyone can get clean—no matter the mold.

Discover tools like NA meetings, boundaries, andsober love that fueled her transformation.

Childhood Roots: Single mum's sacrifices amid poverty, absent dad, family losses like stillborn sibling.

Teen Beginnings: First sips at 9-10, binge drinking by 16, daily weed with best friend worsening anxiety/depression.

Trauma Spiral: Family violence, assaults, abusive partner; drugs as escape, escalating to pills, speed, coke, ketamine post-breakup.

Rock Bottom: Mother's Day 2025—manipulating friends for drugs, suicidal thoughts, dad/step-mum rescue; feeling trapped despite knowing resources.

Recovery Wins: First NA meeting shatters loneliness, sober partner via Hinge, therapy, gym/nature, selective social drinking; boundaries with using dad.

 

01:51– Mum's sacrifices, pure love despite poverty.

03:21– Fond memories: free activities, quality time.

06:50– First alcohol at 9, weed/partying escalation.

09:59– Trauma unpacked: dad's absence, assaults, violence.

14:44– Post-18 drug rampage, controlling ex's ultimatum.

21:42– Mother's Day breakdown, suicide contemplation.

29:15– NA breakthrough, meeting sober partner.

33:55– Tools: boundaries, gym, nature, community.

40:59– Advice: Go all-in on recovery, no mold required.

 

Sobriety journey, addiction recovery Melbourne, trauma healing, party girl clean, NA meetings beginners, Mother's Day rock bottom, sober dating Hinge, setting boundaries dad, weekend warrior sober, mental health drugs anxiety.

 

 

"Party girl ends up in carpark with strangers on Mother's Day—her suicide scare that saved her [Listen Now]"

 

 

Slaying Sober delivers unfiltered Aussie recovery tales—like Jasmine's—that shatter "hardcore addict only" myths, blending trauma truths, practical tools (NA, boundaries, nature), and hope for weekend warriors. Perfect for Melbourne party scene survivors seeking real, relatable paths to freedom without total booze bans.

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5 days ago
42 minutes 46 seconds

Slaying Sober
Nicole - The Co-dependents Guide to Walking Beside Addiction

Summary

In this conversation, Nicole shares her journey of healing alongside her husband's battle with addiction. She discusses the challenges faced by families of addicts, the importance of self-care, and the need for open communication. Nicole emphasizes the significance of understanding co-dependency and the impact of trauma on relationships. The discussion also highlights the process of rebuilding trust and making amends, as well as the necessity of creating safe spaces for vulnerability and connection.


Takeaways

Both partners in a relationship affected by addiction have their own healing journeys.

Codependency can lead to neglecting one's own needs and well-being.

Trauma can stack and complicate the healing process for families.

Open communication is essential for rebuilding trust in relationships.

Self-care is crucial for those supporting loved ones with addiction.

Recognizing signs of addiction can be challenging, especially with silent struggles.

Creating safe spaces for vulnerability fosters connection and healing.

Making amends requires transparency and accountability from the recovering partner.

Emotional sobriety is as important as physical sobriety in recovery.

The ripple effect of addiction impacts not just the individual but their entire family.




Show more...
2 weeks ago
1 hour 4 minutes 49 seconds

Slaying Sober
Christmas Bonus Episode- Chats with Sammy

In this conversation, James and Sammy discuss their experiences with sobriety during the festive season, sharing personal stories and insights on navigating Christmas parties without alcohol.

They emphasize the importance of being present with family, preparing for holiday gatherings, and supporting one another in their recovery journeys.

The discussion also touches on the emotional challenges that can arise during this time of year, as well as practical tips for thriving at Christmas parties.



Show more...
2 weeks ago
44 minutes 26 seconds

Slaying Sober
S3 E9 - Ashley Smith - Breaking the Cycle Tassie - A Story of Resilience

Summary

In this conversation, Ashley Smith shares his journey from addiction to recovery, discussing the challenges he faced growing up in Tasmania, his struggles with substance abuse, and his commitment to helping at-risk youth. He emphasizes the importance of breaking the cycle of addiction and the role of community support in fostering resilience and hope. Ashley also highlights his recent initiatives to empower young people and create positive change in his community, showcasing his passion for making a difference.


Takeaways

Breaking the cycle of addiction is crucial for personal and community healing.

Conversations about addiction and mental health are more accepted today than in the past.

Ashley aims to empower at-risk youth through mentorship and community events.

His childhood was marked by struggles with family addiction and mental health issues.

Ashley experienced severe consequences from his addiction, including multiple hospital visits and prison sentences.

A turning point in his life came after a near-fatal overdose.

He found purpose in helping others, which aids his own recovery.

Ashley emphasizes the importance of community support in overcoming addiction.

He is committed to creating non-profit initiatives to support youth in Tasmania.

Ashley believes that true happiness comes from meaningful connections and helping others, not material wealth.




Show more...
3 weeks ago
39 minutes 51 seconds

Slaying Sober
S3 E8 - Faye -Blackouts, Heartbreak and the moment Faye finally chose herself.

In this conversation, Faye Louise Hughes shares her journey of sobriety, discussing the impact of alcohol on her life, relationships, and mental health. She reflects on her childhood associations with drinking, the challenges of navigating social situations without alcohol, and the profound changes she has experienced in her relationships and self-love since becoming sober. Faye emphasizes the importance of focusing on what one gains from sobriety rather than what is lost, and she highlights the significance of emotional sobriety and self-reflection in her recovery journey.

Takeaways

Podcasts were crucial in my sobriety journey.

Alcohol-free drinks can be triggering for some.

Celebrating milestones in sobriety is important.

Childhood experiences shape our relationship with alcohol.

Family dynamics can influence drinking habits.

Anxiety often follows a night of drinking.

Sobriety allows for deeper connections with family.

Self-love is a key component of recovery.

The first 100 days of sobriety are transformative.

Focusing on gains rather than losses is essential.




Show more...
1 month ago
47 minutes 57 seconds

Slaying Sober
S3 Ep. 7 - Jared - Bed Wetters Vs Bag Snatchers

What the conversation covers

  • Jared’s “normal” Aussie upbringing, love of surfing and metal music, and early experiences with alcohol.​

  • How drinking escalated in his late teens and 20s around clubs, footy, bands, and mates, leading to blackouts, fights, guilt, relationship breakdown, and large unpaid fines.​

  • The point nine years earlier where he decided to stop drinking after another destructive binge and ongoing shame, including how publicly declaring his intent to quit and a court decision wiping $62,000 in fines became a turning point he sees as a “higher power” moment.​

  • Jared initially tried to stay sober mostly on his own, attending a few AA meetings, taking some tools, then “white‑knuckling” it for about seven years, still carrying a lot of self‑hate and ego.​

  • Returning to 12‑step meetings as a support person for his partner humbled him; finding a sponsor and doing the steps shifted him from merely not drinking to actually healing emotionally and spiritually.​

  • He describes the steps as a way of living that reduced his anger (for example, road rage), helped him forgive himself, and allowed him to genuinely like and love who he is.​

  • Jared and James talk about the stigma of addiction and how many people in recovery hide their past because they feel shame, even after getting sober.​

  • Jared founded “University of Sober Living” as a clothing brand and community to give people in recovery a visible, pride‑based identity, plus a website where people can reach out for support outside formal 12‑step rooms.​

  • Both men emphasise “recovering loudly so others don’t die in silence,” and how being open about sobriety prompts others at footy clubs, gyms, or social circles to quietly ask for help.​

  • Jared explains how alcohol contributed to the breakdown of his relationship with his children’s mother and how he prioritised drinking over family, though he avoided drinking directly in front of his kids.​

  • He and his current partner are both in recovery; she is also a carer for a severely disabled child, experienced carer burnout and rehab, and is now building services to support other special‑needs parents.​

  • Their household focus is now on service and community—supporting people with addiction and carers in distress—because recovery has given them a “second life” they want to share.​

  • Jared still plays Super Rules footy (over‑35s), noting that many teammates deal with health issues, addiction, or major life stress and often seek someone with lived experience to talk to.​

  • His week in recovery usually involves around five meetings across both AA and NA, which he compares to ongoing “spiritual fitness” and a source of connection and emotional reset.​

  • He and James stress that you can fully enjoy team sport and camaraderie while sober—celebrating with soft drinks, conversation, and community instead of relying on alcohol.

Recovery and the 12-step journeyService, community, and “University of Sober Living”Family, partners, and helping othersLife in ongoing recovery

Show more...
1 month ago
40 minutes 36 seconds

Slaying Sober
Special: James reflect on 2 Years Sobriety

James reflect on 2 Years Sobriety

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1 month ago
4 minutes 27 seconds

Slaying Sober
Bonus Episode - Chats with Sammy

Old drinking buddies, sharing war stories, laughs and sober inspiration.

Get ready to laugh, and maybe cry, as Sammy and James chat about their


Summary

In this episode, James and Levvo reconnect over their shared experiences of sobriety and reminisce about their wild days living in a pub in Bristol. They explore the impact of alcohol on their lives, the friendships formed during that time, and the entrepreneurial spirit that emerged from their drinking culture. Through humorous anecdotes and reflective insights, they discuss the challenges of navigating sobriety and the lessons learned from their past. In this conversation, Levo and James Date discuss their journeys of sobriety, the challenges they faced, and the rewards they have experienced since giving up alcohol. They explore the social aspects of drinking, the struggle with moderation, and the importance of self-reflection and honesty in their recovery. The discussion also touches on the impact of sports culture on drinking habits and the fulfillment they find in their lives post-alcohol. They emphasize that anyone can achieve sobriety and that the journey is worth it, sharing personal anecdotes and insights along the way.


Takeaways


We shared an enthusiasm for sobriety.

Living in a pub created lifelong friendships.

Drinking was a daily routine without fail.

We were enablers in our drinking culture.

The Naked Bacon Bet was a wild experience.

The 10 Quid Challenge showcased our creativity.

Induction at the cider bar was a rite of passage.

Alcohol was deeply ingrained in our social lives.

Sobriety has led to self-discovery and growth.

Reflecting on past behaviors brings both laughter and shame. Sobriety can feel foreign, especially in social situations.

Non-alcoholic beers can be a social alternative.

The decision to stop drinking can lead to profound personal rewards.

Self-reflection is crucial in the journey of sobriety.

Moderation can be a difficult battle for many.

Past experiences shape our current perspectives on alcohol.

Finding fulfillment outside of alcohol is possible and rewarding.

Honesty with oneself is key to recovery.

Sports culture can heavily influence drinking habits.

The journey of sobriety can inspire others to make changes.




Show more...
1 month ago
1 hour 15 minutes 41 seconds

Slaying Sober
S3 Ep. 6 - Jake - A safe place to be vulnerable

Summary

In this conversation, Jake shares his transformative journey from prison to recovery, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, daily practices, and helping others. He reflects on his past, the significance of his relationships, particularly with his grandmother, and the spiritual symbolism of his experiences. Jake highlights the power of community and support in overcoming addiction and encourages others to take steps towards a better life.


Takeaways

Jake was given a second chance after prison.

He faced a pivotal moment to change his life.

Vulnerability is key to forming connections.

Rehab taught him the importance of honesty.

He experienced a spiritual awakening during recovery.

Daily practices like breath work are essential for him.

Helping others is a crucial part of his recovery.

His relationship with his grandmother is foundational.

Symbolism in his life events helped him heal.

Jake believes dreams can come true with effort.





Show more...
1 month ago
33 minutes 53 seconds

Slaying Sober
S3 Ep. 5 - Gary - Wanted to be something different

Welcome to Slaying Sober. Today, James speaks with Gary, whose early life was inspired by the gangster lifestyle and led him to time in max security prison. Gary’s journey of breaking free from addiction and crime in Perth proves that no cycle is unbreakable, and hope is always within reach.

Takeaways:

Gary shares his journey of addiction and recovery.

He emphasizes the importance of self-love in overcoming addiction.

The role of environment and relationships in addiction is crucial.

Gary discusses the challenges of staying sober after recovery.

He highlights the significance of community support in recovery.

Nature and mindfulness are key tools for healing.

Gary's story illustrates the impact of trauma on addiction.

He believes in the power of personal stories to inspire others.

Gary's relationship with his partner has been a source of strength.

He stresses the need for internal work to achieve lasting sobriety.


Summary


In this conversation, Gary shares his profound journey from addiction to recovery, emphasizing the importance of self-love, community support, and the role of nature in healing. He discusses the challenges faced during his addiction, the impact of his environment, and the significance of relationships in his recovery process. Gary's story serves as an inspiration for those struggling with addiction, highlighting the internal work required to achieve lasting sobriety.


Chapters


00:00 Introduction and Early Reflections

07:51 Breaking the Cycle of Addiction

10:51 Life After Prison

13:32 The Turning Point: Finding Love

22:26 Self-Love and Recovery

23:57 Articulation and Connection in Recovery

24:37 The Journey to Sobriety: Personal Experiences

25:40 Changing Environments for Recovery

26:25 Building Community in Recovery

27:23 Strength Through Overcoming Addiction

28:12 Daily Practices for Recovery

29:11 Celebrating Progress in Recovery

30:04 The Role of Social Media in Recovery

31:48 Expectations of Praise in Sobriety

32:55 Facing Criticism and Naysayers

34:09 The Reality of Addiction Recovery

37:04 Nature as a Healing Tool

38:42 Childhood Joys and Their Role in Recovery

41:56 The Importance of Community Support

42:52 Gratitude for Supportive Relationships

44:24 OUTRO SS.wav




Show more...
2 months ago
44 minutes 57 seconds

Slaying Sober
S3 Ep. 4 - Nicki - Mummy wine time

Summary

In this conversation, Nicki shares her inspiring journey of overcoming alcohol addiction, detailing her experiences from childhood through to her current nine months of sobriety.

She discusses the early signs of her drinking habits, the escalation into dependency, the impact on her marriage, and the pivotal moment that led her to seek help.

Nicki emphasizes the importance of community support, self-love, and the ongoing nature of recovery, highlighting the positive changes in her life since becoming sober.

Takeaways

  • Nicki has been sober for nine months and feels amazing.
  • She experienced early drinking habits as a way to gain confidence.
  • Alcohol became a coping mechanism for her anxiety.
  • Nicki's marriage was affected by both partners being heavy drinkers.
  • She sought help after realizing her drinking was unmanageable.
  • Rehab provided her with tools to face her problems without alcohol.
  • Nicki emphasizes the importance of gratitude in her recovery.
  • She encourages others to seek help and not to do it alone.
  • Her children are now proud of her journey and recovery.
  • Nicki believes that the journey of recovery is beautiful and transformative.

Chapters


00:00 Introduction and Early Sobriety Journey

04:34 First Experiences with Alcohol

06:07 Escalation into Substance Use

07:43 Motherhood and Alcohol's Role

09:15 Anxiety and Reliance on Alcohol

11:27 Social Drinking and Community Expectations

12:48 Realization of Drinking Problems

13:28 Marriage Breakdown and Alcohol's Impact

14:23 Attempts to Seek Help

16:36 Understanding Addiction and Its Progression

18:38 The Turning Point to Sobriety

22:50 Final Steps to Recovery

23:58 The Decision to Seek Help

25:48 Experiences in Rehab

27:55 The Importance of Support

30:54 Overcoming Guilt and Embracing Recovery

33:03 Role Modeling for Children

35:51 Finding Happiness in Sobriety

37:52 Tools for Ongoing Recovery

41:40 The Power of Vulnerability and Community

45:52 OUTRO SS.wav





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2 months ago
46 minutes 24 seconds

Slaying Sober
S3. -BONUS Episode - Sam - the dark side

We discuss the downside of a bikie lifestyle, drugs in prison, psychosis, guns, suicide and desperation.

As well as some witty insights from Sam.

Summary

In this conversation, Sam shares his journey from addiction to recovery, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and personal stories in helping others.

He discusses the glamorization of gang life and the harsh realities of addiction, highlighting the need for a more effective rehabilitation system.

The conversation also touches on generational trauma and the impact of societal perceptions on individuals struggling with addiction.



Show more...
2 months ago
17 minutes 45 seconds

Slaying Sober
S3 Ep. 3 - Sam -is Unbreakable

Summary

In this conversation, Sam shares his journey from addiction to recovery, emphasizing the importance of healing past traumas and the role of mentorship in helping others.

He discusses his early experiences with drugs, the escalation of his addiction, and the realization that true peace comes from within rather than from external sources.

Sam reflects on the sense of belonging he found in unhealthy environments and the turning point that led him to seek help in rehab. In this conversation, Sam shares his profound journey of recovery from addiction, emphasizing the importance of compassion, support, and understanding the roots of addiction.

He discusses the role of somatic therapy in emotional healing and the significance of establishing a daily routine to maintain sobriety. Sam highlights the transformative power of relationships, particularly with his mother and wife, and reflects on the importance of self-love and positive self-talk in the recovery process.

The conversation culminates in a celebration of personal growth and the impact of recovery on family dynamics.


Takeaways


Unbreakable means healing past traumas and fears.

Helping others transition from broken to unbreakable.

Service to others is crucial in recovery.

Childhood experiences shape our future behaviors.

Drugs initially provided a sense of peace.

Chasing happiness can lead to disappointment.

Finding true connection is essential for recovery.

Addiction manifests in various forms beyond drugs.

Belonging can be found in unhealthy environments.

Trust and compassion can spark change. Sam's journey of recovery involved breaking trust with his mother.

Compassion from others helped Sam learn to be compassionate to himself.

Understanding the root causes of addiction is crucial for recovery.

Somatic therapy can help release trauma stored in the body.

Establishing a daily routine is essential for maintaining sobriety.

Self-love and positive self-talk are powerful tools in recovery.

Compassionate relationships can significantly aid in the healing process.

Recovery is about more than just meetings; it's about daily actions.

Sam emphasizes the importance of being present for his children.

The gifts of recovery include deeper connections with loved ones.




Chapters


00:00 From Broken to Unbreakable: Sam's Journey

08:08 First Encounters with Drugs and Alcohol

13:06 Escalation into Drug Culture

19:05 The Cycle of Addiction and Seeking Acceptance

22:43 The Brotherhood and Comradery of the Bike Club

28:06 The Turning Point: Compassion and Trust in Recovery

32:15 The Struggles of Rehabilitation and Self-Discovery

36:11 The Role of Family Support in Recovery

41:14 Navigating Recovery: Justifications and Challenges

46:22 Reframing Childhood Trauma

51:44 Establishing a Healing Routine

52:12 Practicing Gratitude and Self-Love

54:27 Mindfulness and Presence in Daily Life

56:47 Compassion and Understanding in Recovery

57:10 The Role of Family in Recovery

01:02:09 Celebrating Growth and Connection

01:04:48 Reflections on School and Early Life

01:05:28 The Business of Drug Dealing

01:06:12 OUTRO SS.wav



Show more...
2 months ago
1 hour 6 minutes 44 seconds

Slaying Sober
S3 Ep. 2 - Andrew - is 40 years Sober!

Summary

In this conversation, Andrew shares his profound journey from addiction to recovery, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery, community, and the role of golf in his life. He reflects on his early experiences, the challenges he faced, and how he found solace and purpose through therapy and vulnerability. Andrew discusses the significance of surrendering to life's challenges and the opportunities that arise in recovery, ultimately leading to a fulfilling life as a professional golfer.


Takeaways


Golf is a metaphor for life and self-discovery.

Serenity enhances performance in challenging activities.

Addiction often stems from unresolved trauma.

Community support is crucial in recovery.

Therapy plays a vital role in healing past wounds.

Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.

Surrendering to circumstances opens up new opportunities.

Recovery is about taking responsibility for one's life.

Building a new life requires effort and commitment.

Finding passion can lead to personal fulfillment.


Chapters

00:00 The Challenge of Golf and Mindfulness

03:02 Navigating Life and Sobriety

05:54 Reflections on Early Sobriety

08:40 Childhood and Adoption

12:03 The Impact of Trauma

15:00 The Journey into Alcohol and Drugs

17:47 The First Experience with Alcohol

20:35 Consequences of Addiction

23:58 Life in the Cycle of Addiction

26:49 Incarceration and Its Lessons

29:31 The Turning Point to Recovery

37:40 The Journey to Rehab

40:36 Life in Rehab: Structure and Community

44:48 Transitioning to Life After Rehab

48:02 The Role of Responsibility in Recovery

55:43 Surrender and Acceptance in Recovery

01:00:56 Finding Freedom Through Vulnerability

01:08:28 The Power of Therapy and Community

01:12:56 Pursuing Passions: Golf and Personal Growth

Show more...
2 months ago
1 hour 14 minutes 26 seconds

Slaying Sober
Season 3 - Ep. 1 - Dolly - is not mediocre

In this conversation, Dolly shares her journey from loneliness and addiction to recovery and empowerment.

She discusses the creation of SOS Melbourne, a community aimed at supporting women in sobriety, and reflects on the impact of her upbringing and relationships on her drinking habits.

Dolly emphasizes the importance of faith in her recovery, the rewards of being a present parent, and the need for social spaces that do not revolve around alcohol.

The discussion highlights the growing movement against the normalization of drinking culture, particularly among mothers.

Takeaways

  • Dolly created SOS Melbourne to fill a gap in sobriety support for women.
  • She felt lonely in her recovery journey and sought community.
  • Dolly's childhood experiences shaped her relationship with alcohol.
  • Binge drinking was normalized in her social circles, complicating her perception of addiction.
  • Finding love and starting a family prompted Dolly to reassess her drinking habits.
  • COVID-19 intensified the pressures of 'mummy wine culture'.
  • Dolly's faith played a crucial role in her recovery process.
  • She emphasizes the importance of being a reliable parent post-recovery.
  • Dolly's community events focus on socializing without alcohol.
  • The movement against alcohol normalization is gaining momentum.

Chapters


00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene

03:06 Creating a Supportive Community for Women in Sobriety

06:08 Personal Journey: Growing Up with Alcoholism

09:00 The Role of Alcohol in Social Life

11:53 Recognizing the Problem: A Turning Point

14:25 Navigating Recovery: AA and Beyond

15:46 Navigating Recovery and Support Systems

16:31 The Role of Faith in Personal Transformation

18:22 Finding Peace Through Faith

20:13 The Journey of Recovery and Relapse

21:49 Rediscovering Self and Purpose

23:14 The Impact of Sobriety on Parenting

25:43 Challenging Societal Norms Around Alcohol

27:33 Building a Supportive Community

29:22 Creating Meaningful Connections Without Alcohol

30:53 OUTRO SS.wav

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3 months ago
31 minutes 26 seconds

Slaying Sober
S2 E5 - Simon -from chaos to connection

In this conversation, Simon shares his profound journey through addiction, recovery, and personal transformation. He reflects on the pivotal moments that led him to sobriety, the importance of spirituality, and the role of literature in his life.

Simon discusses his early experiences with substances, the escalation of his addiction, and the impact on his relationships, particularly with his children and their mother. He emphasizes the significance of community, the 12-step program, and the ongoing process of making amends and finding balance in recovery.

Ultimately, Simon highlights the gift of recovery as a pathway to love, connection, and a fulfilling life.


Take Aways:

  • Your outlook on life will change through recovery.
  • Reading can be a healthy escape from reality.
  • Celebrating milestones in sobriety is important.
  • Spiritual connections can provide strength in recovery.
  • First experiences with substances often shape future behaviors.
  • Addiction can escalate quickly and impact relationships.
  • Recovery often requires multiple attempts and support.
  • Living the steps is a continuous process in recovery.
  • Finding balance in life is crucial for sustained sobriety.
  • The journey of recovery can lead to deeper connections with family.
  • Transformative Reflections on Sobriety
  • The Power of Reading and Escaping Through Books


"I just wanted the head to stop."

"I was a narcissistic asshole."

"I just didn't want to die."

Chapters

00:00The Journey to Fitness and Recovery

02:09Navigating AA and NA: A Personal Perspective

04:40Spirituality and Connection: The Role of Faith

11:20First Encounters with Substance: A Path to Addiction

21:29The Descent into Addiction: A Personal Story

28:38Family Life and Addiction: The Struggle Within

32:41Struggles with Promises and Self-Realization

35:37Escaping Reality: The Downward Spiral

40:14The First Attempt at Recovery

45:32Lessons from Rehab: Listening and Learning

50:05Navigating Early Recovery: Meetings and Support

56:15The Role of the Steps in Recovery

01:01:26Making Amends and Building Relationships

01:14:46Finding Love and Acceptance in Recovery

01:15:27OUTRO SS.wav

01:16:00Slaying Sober Disclaimer.wav

Show more...
4 months ago
1 hour 16 minutes 48 seconds

Slaying Sober
S2 E4 - Jess Kennedy - ADHD & Addiction
  • - Jess Kennedy shares her journey with addiction and recovery.
    • Her first experience with alcohol was at age 12, linked to trauma.
    • Growing up with ADHD, Jess felt out of place in her environment.
    • She became a high functioning addict, masking her struggles.
    • The stigma of addiction often overlooks high functioning individuals.
    • Jess's overdose at work was a pivotal moment in her life.
    • Detoxing during COVID-19 presented unique challenges.
    • Reaching out for help was a crucial step in her recovery.
    • Jess was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and PTSD during her recovery.
    • She emphasizes the importance of understanding mental health in addiction. Navigating psychotic episodes can lead to profound realizations about one's mental health.
    • Receiving a diagnosis can be a relief, shifting the perception from being an addict to being someone in need of help.
    • Medication can stabilize bipolar disorder, but finding the right one can take time.
    • Complex PTSD can stem from various traumas, including addiction and societal pressures.
    • Building a supportive network is crucial for recovery, even if it means losing some friends along the way.
    • Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining recovery and mental health.
    • Celebrating milestones in recovery can reinforce positive changes and connections.
    • Relationships can change significantly during recovery, revealing true friends and support.
    • Advocacy for mental health awareness is vital to reduce stigma and promote understanding.
    • Language matters; terms like 'neuro-spicy' can undermine the seriousness of ADHD and other conditions.
    • There is a significant correlation between ADHD and addiction, highlighting the need for proper diagnosis and treatment.
    • Access to ADHD diagnosis and treatment is crucial for preventing addiction and improving lives.
    • Children with ADHD face unique challenges that require understanding and support from parents and educators.
    • Finding purpose in advocacy can help others navigate their mental health journeys.


    In this conversation, Jess Kennedy shares her profound journey through addiction, beginning with her early experiences with alcohol at the age of 12, linked to trauma.

    She discusses her struggles with ADHD, feeling out of place, and how she became a high functioning addict, masking her issues while maintaining a successful career.

    Jess recounts a pivotal moment when she overdosed at work, leading to a turning point in her life.

    Throughout her recovery, she faced the challenges of detoxing during the COVID-19 pandemic and the stigma surrounding addiction.

    Jess emphasizes the importance of understanding mental health, as she was later diagnosed with bipolar disorder and PTSD, which stemmed from her experiences.

    Her story is one of resilience, highlighting the complexities of addiction and the journey towards healing.

    In this conversation, Jess Kennedy shares her journey through mental health challenges, including bipolar disorder, ADHD, and complex PTSD.

    She discusses the importance of receiving a proper diagnosis, the role of medication in managing her conditions, and the significance of building a supportive network during recovery.

    Jess emphasizes the need for advocacy in mental health awareness, the impact of language on perceptions of mental health, and the correlation between ADHD and addiction.

    Through her experiences, she highlights the importance of setting boundaries, celebrating milestones, and finding purpose in helping others navigate their mental health journeys.

    Show more...
    4 months ago
    1 hour 17 minutes 45 seconds

    Slaying Sober
    S2 E3 - Michael - the Gift of Desperation

    In this raw and heartfelt conversation, we follow Michaels powerful journey through addiction, rock bottom, and the road to recovery.

    From the early influences of family, sports like footy, and the rebellious spirit of punk rock—to the dark periods of COVID isolation, 8am bottle shop runs, and car crashes.

    With unflinching honesty, our guest opens up about the pain, the pivotal moments of change, and the small victories that led to lasting transformation.

    This episode is more than just a story — it’s a message of hope.

    Listeners will discover how vulnerability, community, and self-awareness can become lifelines in the darkest moments, and how recovery is both a daily challenge and a deeply rewarding gift.

    If you’ve ever struggled with addiction, loved someone who has, or simply want to understand the human side of recovery, this conversation will leave you inspired and uplifted.


    Key Takeaways from the Episode

    • Addiction can grow from a mix of life experiences — including family dynamics, early passions, and personal struggles.

    • Every “rock bottom” is unique — there is no one-size-fits-all turning point.

    • True recovery thrives on connection, community, and support.

    • Vulnerability and honesty are powerful tools for lasting change.

    • Substance use often hides deeper pain or unresolved emotional wounds.

    • Recovery is not a destination — it’s an ongoing journey that requires daily commitment.

    • Awareness of addiction’s consequences can be a catalyst for transformation.

    • Music and sports can be vital sources of identity and healing.

    • Our upbringing and family environment shape how we relate to substances.

    • Finding meaning, purpose, and hope in recovery can inspire others and spark change.

    Show more...
    4 months ago
    1 hour 26 minutes 32 seconds

    Slaying Sober
    S2 E2 P2 - Cath - Breaking the Cycle - a survivor, and her dog. Part 2

    Part Two of Caths Amazing Story

    • In this powerful episode of Slaying Sober, Cath opens up about her deeply personal journey through addiction, relationships, and the road to recovery. From the early days of experimenting with substances in her social circles, to finding escape through sports and eventually facing life-altering injuries, Cath’s story is one of resilience and transformation.

    She shares candid reflections on codependency, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and her struggles with mental health and substance use. Listeners will hear how moments of comfort—like her bond with her dog—provided hope amidst chaos, and how her lowest points led to criminal behavior and difficult choices.

    Cath describes the pivotal moment of discovering her pregnancy, which inspired her to turn her life around. She takes us through the challenging yet transformative experience of asking for help, the importance of family support, and the invaluable lessons learned in rehab.

    This episode highlights the lifelong commitment that recovery requires, the importance of building new, healthy relationships, and the strength found in spirituality and self-care. Cath’s journey is a testament to the healing power of community, vulnerability, and never giving up.

    Tune in to Slaying Sober for an honest, relatable, and ultimately inspiring episode about overcoming addiction, reclaiming purpose, and the daily dedication needed to slay sober.


    Show more...
    5 months ago
    54 minutes 16 seconds

    Slaying Sober
    S2 E2 - Cath - Breaking the Cycle - a survivor, and her dog. Part 1
  • In this powerful episode of Slaying Sober, Cath opens up about her deeply personal journey through addiction, relationships, and the road to recovery. From the early days of experimenting with substances in her social circles, to finding escape through sports and eventually facing life-altering injuries, Cath’s story is one of resilience and transformation.
  • She shares candid reflections on codependency, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and her struggles with mental health and substance use. Listeners will hear how moments of comfort—like her bond with her dog—provided hope amidst chaos, and how her lowest points led to criminal behavior and difficult choices.

    Cath describes the pivotal moment of discovering her pregnancy, which inspired her to turn her life around. She takes us through the challenging yet transformative experience of asking for help, the importance of family support, and the invaluable lessons learned in rehab.

    This episode highlights the lifelong commitment that recovery requires, the importance of building new, healthy relationships, and the strength found in spirituality and self-care. Cath’s journey is a testament to the healing power of community, vulnerability, and never giving up.

    Tune in to Slaying Sober for an honest, relatable, and ultimately inspiring episode about overcoming addiction, reclaiming purpose, and the daily dedication needed to slay sober.

  • Show more...
    5 months ago
    35 minutes 32 seconds

    Slaying Sober
    Where we tell stories of addiction, recovery and hope.