The Lost Years: How Alcohol, Shame, and Self-Discovery Shape Who We BecomeThe Lost Years: How Alcohol, Shame, and Self-Discovery Shape Who We Become
1000 Days Sober Podcast
Lindsey Van Wagner discusses how reframing addiction as an illness led to self-compassion and healing. She shares insights on honesty, willingness, and personal growth.
1:03:46•3 Nov 2025
The Lost Years: Finding Grace and Freedom Beyond Addiction
Episode Overview
- Reframe addiction as an illness to unlock self-compassion.
- Focus on winning today instead of obsessing over forever.
- Honesty liberates you from the burden of lies.
- Small, repeatable experiments can foster meaningful change.
- Embrace willingness and surrender to aid recovery.
“"I felt like I was possessed, doing things I had no control over, like watching a scary movie unfold."”
Curious about how others navigate their sobriety journey? This episode of the 1000 Days Sober Podcast features a candid conversation with Lindsey Van Wagner, author of Spirit Vigilante. Lindsey shares her tumultuous journey through the 'Lost Years'—a decade marked by chaos, shame, and the challenges of living with bipolar II disorder. She reveals how reframing her addiction as an illness rather than a moral failing opened the door to self-compassion and healing.
Lindsey and host Lee Davy tackle the 'Forever Question'—how to stop obsessing over never drinking again and focus on winning today. They discuss the mental load of maintaining lies and the liberation that comes with honesty. Lindsey's story is a testament to the power of small, repeatable experiments in fostering change and self-exploration as a means to combat denial. The episode also touches on the importance of surrendering control and embracing willingness as key components in the recovery process.
Lindsey's insights into shedding societal expectations and internalising self-worth provide listeners with practical strategies for personal growth. Whether you're on your own path to sobriety or simply interested in understanding the complexities of addiction, this episode offers a fresh perspective on how our 'lost years' can be a stepping stone to a more fulfilling life. What will you discover about yourself when you let go of shame and embrace your true potential?
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