Ben's Bold Journey: From Southern Comfort to Sobriety
Episode Overview
Acceptance is crucial for recovery. Family and friends play a vital role in support. Cultural perceptions can challenge sobriety. Building time in sobriety helps maintain progress. New hobbies can replace old habits.
"I realised now that I actually don't need to drink to be the same person that I am"
Meet Ben, a man who's turned his life around and is here to share his incredible journey to sobriety on the 'Addict in the Attic' podcast. At 46, Ben takes us through his early days of drinking, the struggles he faced, and how he came to accept his alcoholism. With a dash of humour and a lot of heart, Ben paints a vivid picture of life before and after sobriety.
From drinking Southern Comfort at 14 to becoming a proud father who's present for his daughters, Ben's story is both relatable and inspiring. Ben talks candidly about the role of family and friends in his recovery, emphasising the importance of having a supportive tribe. He also touches on the cultural challenges of being sober in Australia, where not drinking can sometimes be seen as odd.
But Ben's not letting that stop him; he's found new hobbies like pickleball and is thriving without alcohol. He shares how he found acceptance in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and how those little coins marking his sobriety milestones became symbols of his resilience. For Ben, it's about more than just staying sober—it's about living a life that's true to himself and his loved ones.
The episode also highlights Dan's six-year sobriety journey, where he outlines the five key steps that have kept him on track. Both Ben and Dan offer practical advice for anyone looking to change their relationship with alcohol. If you're seeking a dose of motivation or just want to hear an honest account of what it's like to live alcohol-free, this episode is a must-listen. Are you ready to embrace your own journey?