Sober Journeys: Coffee with Laura Van Antwerp
Episode Overview
Laura Van Antwerp's inspiring sobriety journey. Challenges in finding affordable mental health care. Importance of community support in sobriety. Making connections through shared experiences. Reflecting on personal growth and progress.
"If I had a pickle for every day one, I could garnish every burger in America." - Laura Van Antwerp
In this episode of the Happiest Sober Podcast, host Kim Gravel sits down with Laura Van Antwerp, widely known as Your Sober Pal, to discuss the inspiring journey towards sobriety and the importance of community support. Laura, who has been sober for over six years, shares her experiences and challenges along the path to sobriety, emphasizing that it doesn't matter how many attempts it takes to get sober, as long as one continues to strive for a better life.
Laura's journey is marked by periods of disconnection with herself, exacerbated by her drinking habits. She recounts a time in South Lake Tahoe where her drinking became uncontrollable, leading to feelings of shame and a strong desire for change. Laura's story illustrates the power of perseverance, highlighting her Instagram bio: "If I had a pickle for every day one, I could garnish every burger in America," a humorous yet poignant reminder of her numerous attempts to quit drinking.
The podcast also delves into mental health care accessibility, a vital component of the sobriety journey. Kim discusses the challenges of finding affordable therapy, introducing RULA, a platform that partners with over 100 insurance plans to make therapy more accessible with an average copay of just $15. RULA connects users with a network of over 15,000 therapists and psychiatrists nationwide, ensuring that individuals can find a therapist aligned with their needs and preferences.
Through Laura's story, listeners are encouraged to connect with the sober community, sharing experiences and forming supportive bonds. Laura's retreats and sobriety affirmation card deck serve as tools to foster these connections, providing a sense of belonging and inspiration. This episode is a testament to the transformative power of personal growth and community support in the journey to sobriety. Laura's authenticity and humor shine through, making her an inspiring figure for anyone seeking a happier, sober life.