Finding Freedom: Teresa Heath Wareing's Journey
Episode Overview
Teresa Heath Wareing's struggle with alcohol dependence. The role of therapy in understanding personal challenges. Importance of community in achieving sobriety. Teresa's transition from corporate roles to entrepreneurship. Insights on living a fulfilling life post-recovery.
Ditching the drink is like climbing a mountain. It's hard, it takes courage and grit, and an experienced guide.
In this compelling episode of Tribe Sober, Janet Gorond welcomes Teresa Heath Wareing, a renowned British marketing expert and TED speaker, to discuss her profound journey with alcohol dependence and recovery. Teresa's story begins with the normalization of alcohol in her family, where drinking was a staple in both celebrations and crises. Despite her successful career in high-flying marketing roles, the presence of alcohol was pervasive, even becoming part of her identity.
"G & T with T" was a regular feature of her life, masking the secret struggles she faced. A pivotal moment in Teresa's journey occurred when she found herself too hungover to say goodbye to someone important. This led her to seek therapy, revealing the deep-rooted issues intertwined with her drinking habits. Her therapist provided a revelatory analogy: stopping drinking is like getting off a descending elevator.
If one starts drinking again, they return to the same floor they left, not the top. This insight was transformative for Teresa, who realized the need for change. Teresa's transition from the corporate world to becoming a solo business owner was marked by challenges, especially in the entrepreneurial sphere where alcohol was still prevalent. She shares her experiences of working in environments that encouraged drinking, often leading to moments of reflection and realization.
Through her journey, Teresa emphasizes the importance of community support in recovery. Tribe Sober, led by Janet Gorond, offers a welcoming community for individuals at various stages of sobriety. With resources like sober buddies, trackers, and milestone awards, Tribe Sober provides essential support for those looking to change their relationship with alcohol. Teresa's story is one of hope and resilience, illustrating that recovery is possible with the right support and mindset.
Her experiences serve as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges, highlighting the importance of personal transformation and the power of community. As the episode concludes, Janet encourages listeners to share the podcast, aiming to reach those struggling in silence and shame, and to transform lives through the power of collective support.