Navigating Sobriety with Rachael Shephard
Episode Overview
Rachael's early drinking years led to frequent blackouts. Motherhood increased drinking as a stress coping mechanism. Sobriety timeline offers hope through structured recovery phases. Tribe Sober provides community and resources for alcohol-free living. Understanding the health impacts of alcohol motivates change.
Ditching the drink is like climbing a mountain. It's hard, it takes courage and grit, and an experienced guide.
In the latest episode of Tribe Sober, host Janet Gorand welcomes sobriety coach Rachael Shephard to discuss her transformative journey from heavy drinking to living a sober lifestyle. Rachael, who is also the author of 'Sober Mama,' shares her insights on the challenges and rewards of sobriety, particularly as a mother of two young boys. Her story begins with early drinking years characterized by excess and frequent blackouts, a time when alcohol seemed as anticipated and joyous as Christmas.
However, as she approached her late 30s, the excitement faded, leaving her exhausted and sick from continuous drinking. A pivotal moment during a boozy holiday became her wake-up call. Rachael realized she needed to stop when she found herself shaking in the mornings. Motherhood further complicated her relationship with alcohol, as she used drinking as a mechanism to cope with stress.
The podcast delves into the importance of a sobriety timeline, a tool Rachael believes is crucial for those who find it difficult to envision happiness beyond the initial challenging weeks of sobriety. Janet Gorand emphasizes the need for a supportive community, noting that Tribe Sober is a resource for individuals at all stages of their alcohol-free journey. The podcast offers recovery stories, expert advice, and a membership program designed to help individuals thrive without alcohol.
Rachael's experience underscores the health risks associated with alcohol, from cancer to various diseases, and the societal pressures that often downplay these dangers. Rachael's journey reflects a broader narrative of personal growth, where quitting alcohol becomes a pathway to improved mental health, increased energy, and better relationships with her children. Tribe Sober aims to provide this guidance and support, ensuring that those who choose sobriety are not alone in their journey.
The episode is an inspiring call to action for listeners to reconsider their relationship with alcohol and seek the support they need to make lasting changes.