Veronica Valli & Chip Somers
Veronica Valli & Chip Somers
336: Black Out Drinking
336: Black Out Drinking
336: Black Out Drinking
Wednesday 11th February 2026
Explore the dangers of blackout drinking with Veronica Valli and Chip Somers, who share personal stories and practical advice for recognising red flags.
Explicit
34 minutes
Eye-opening
Informative
Inspiring
Honest
Compassionate
About this podcast
Author:
Veronica Valli & Chip Somers
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Financial Health in Recovery
Creative Recovery Journeys
Links:
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Episodes:
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Get the buttons here!Blackout Drinking: A Sobering Reality Check
Episode Overview
- Blackout drinking is a serious warning sign of alcohol misuse.
- Many people mistakenly normalise blackouts as part of regular drinking.
- Blackouts occur when the brain can't form new memories due to alcohol.
- Recognising blackouts as red flags can prompt reassessment of drinking habits.
- Understanding the difference between blacking out and passing out is crucial.
"If you've had one blackout, you need to wake up and smell the coffee because I think normal people do not experience blackout."
How do people find strength in their journey to sobriety? In this episode of Soberful, hosts Veronica Valli and Chip Somers tackle the often misunderstood topic of blackout drinking. They share their own harrowing experiences and explore the dangers of normalising such behaviour. You'll be surprised to learn that many people casually dismiss blackouts as a regular part of drinking, but the hosts are quick to point out that this is a serious warning sign of alcohol misuse.
Chip shares a chilling anecdote about waking up in a squat surrounded by stolen magazines with no memory of how he got there, illustrating the terrifying reality of blackout drinking. Veronica adds a personal touch with her story of waking up in a stranger's house, underscoring the vulnerability that comes with blackouts, especially for women. The duo explains the science behind blackouts, emphasising how they occur when the brain can't form new memories due to high alcohol levels.
They stress that blackouts are not the same as passing out, and can lead to dangerous situations where individuals appear functional but have no memory of their actions. The episode isn't just about doom and gloom; it offers hope and practical advice. Veronica and Chip encourage listeners to see blackouts as a red flag and an opportunity to reassess their relationship with alcohol.
By sharing both personal anecdotes and broader insights, they aim to dispel myths around 'normal' drinking and highlight the importance of recognising problematic behaviour early on. If you're questioning your own drinking habits or know someone who might be, this episode is a must-listen. It's an eye-opener that challenges perceptions and encourages proactive steps towards recovery. So, how do you view your drinking habits?