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Sisters In Sobriety

By: Sonia Kahlon and Kathleen Killen
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  • Summary

  • You know that sinking feeling when you wake up with a hangover and think: “I’m never doing this again”? We’ve all been there. But what happens when you follow through? Sonia Kahlon and Kathleen Killen can tell you, because they did it! They went from sisters-in-law, to Sisters in Sobriety. In this podcast, Sonia and Kathleen invite you into their world, as they navigate the ups and downs of sobriety, explore stories of personal growth and share their journey of wellness and recovery. Get ready for some real, honest conversations about sobriety, addiction, and everything in between. Episodes will cover topics such as: reaching emotional sobriety, how to make the decision to get sober, adopting a more mindful lifestyle, socializing without alcohol, and much more. Whether you’re sober-curious, seeking inspiration and self-care through sobriety, or embracing the alcohol-free lifestyle already… Tune in for a weekly dose of vulnerability, mutual support and much needed comic relief. Together, let’s celebrate the transformative power of sisterhood in substance recovery! Kathleen Killen is a registered psychotherapist (qualifying) and certified coach based in Ontario, Canada. Her practice is centered on relational therapy and she specializes in couples and working with individuals who are navigating their personal relationships. Having been through many life transitions herself, Kathleen has made it her mission to help others find the support and communication they need in their closest relationships. To find out more about Kathleen’s work, check out her website. Sonia Kahlon is a recovery coach and former addict. She grappled with high-functioning alcohol use disorder throughout her life, before getting sober in 2016. Sonia is now the founder of EverBlume, a digital tool that offers a unique approach to alcohol recovery support. Over the last five years, she has appeared on successful sobriety platforms, such as the Story Exchange, the Sobriety Diaries podcast and the Sober Curator, to tell her story of empowerment and addiction recovery, discuss health and midlife sobriety, and share how she is thriving without alcohol. Her online platform EverBlume launched in February 2023, and was featured in Recovery Today Magazine and deemed an ‘essential sobriety resource’ by the FemTech Insider. The company champions self-improvement and mindful sobriety, with support groups designed by and for women struggling with alcohol. So how can EverBlume help you meet your sober community? By offering deeply personalized support. Members get matched based on their profiles and life experiences, and take part in small group sessions (max. 16 people). In your support group, you will meet like-minded women, discuss your experiences, and gain confidence, knowing you can rely on your peers in times of need. Whether you identify as a binge drinker, someone who developed a habit during the Covid-19 pandemic, a high-functioning alcoholic, or an anxious person using alcohol to self-soothe… There is a support group for you! Current EverBlume members have praised the company’s unique approach to alcohol detox. “No one is judging me for not being sure I want to be sober for the rest of my life” ; “I felt so heard and understood and today I woke up feeling empowered to make the change in my life”. Feeling inspired? Learn more about the EverBlume sobriety community at joineverblume.com, or simply listen to Sisters In Sobriety. Your sobriety success story starts today, with Kathleen and Sonia. Just press play!
    Sisters In Sobriety
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Episodes
  • Navigating Paths to Recovery with Alida Flannery

    Navigating Paths to Recovery with Alida Flannery
    May 13 2024
    In today's episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen are excited to welcome Alida Flannery, a passionate advocate for sobriety and the founder of Epiphany Recovery. Alida brings her unique experience as both a sober companion and recovery coach to the conversation, sharing her inspiring journey from addiction to aiding others on their paths to sobriety. Stay tuned as Sonia and Kathleen delve into Alida's multifaceted approach to recovery.Alida is the Founder of Epiphany Recovery Inc., an organization that provides Recovery Coaching, Companioning, and Case Management services to individuals who are struggling with substance use and disordered eating. She is a Certified Addiction Recovery Coach and Companion, who completed her Intervention training with Earl Hightower in 2018, and has previously worked for several in-patient treatment centres across Canada. Alida is the Co-Founder of SOULBRIETY, a sober collective for women offering retreats, events, and group workshops to those who are sober-curious, sober-exploring and sober-serious. She also works with Amazing Grace Canada, a charity whose mission is to bring recovery to families and communities affected by addiction in developing nations.This episode will explore various paths to recovery, including one-on-one coaching, sober companionship, and the benefits of group support. Alida will address key questions like: What are the unique challenges and benefits of each recovery approach? How can someone determine the best recovery path for their individual needs? These discussions will be enriched with Alida's personal insights and experiences, providing a comprehensive look at addiction recovery.Listeners can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the recovery process, including practical strategies for managing triggers and maintaining sobriety in real-world scenarios. Alida will discuss the importance of creating a supportive environment and how tailored recovery plans can significantly enhance the success of one's sobriety journey. This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Highlights[00:03:10] - Alida's role as a sober companion is explained, highlighting her commitment to 24/7 support for her clients.[00:04:18] - Alida joins the conversation, expressing her gratitude for being part of the podcast.[00:04:33] - Alida shares her personal journey with addiction and the impact of hitting a profound emotional and physical bottom.[00:06:44] - Discussion about the pivotal moments that lead to seeking change and the universal nature of pain in the journey to recovery.[00:07:26] - Alida speaks about the challenges she faced in recovery, particularly the overhaul of her lifestyle centered around substance use.[00:08:39] - The concept of 'rewiring behaviors' in sobriety is explored, discussing the difficulties of adapting to a sober life.[00:10:05] - The personal story continues with Alida discussing how recovery coaching and sober companionship work in practical scenarios.[00:11:57] - Alida discusses the inspiration behind starting Epiphany Recovery, linking her experiences in the corporate and philanthropic worlds.[00:13:49] - Alida recounts her early experiences as a COVID coach during the pandemic, aiding clients in isolation.[00:15:20] - Sonia and Alida discuss the integration of personal recovery experiences into coaching methods, stressing authenticity and relatability.[00:17:15] - The conversation shifts to the importance of not using personal sobriety metrics as a standard for others' recovery.[00:18:12] - Alida and Kathleen discuss misconceptions about addiction, like not having a DUI meaning you don't have a problem.[00:20:11] - The discussion touches on the personal lows and the concept of 'slipping faster than lowering standards' in addiction.[00:22:04] - Alida explains the brain science behind addiction, particularly how substances affect the prefrontal cortex and decision-making.[00:23:32] - How Alida's approach to recovery has evolved over time, emphasizing a need to stay informed about new methods and therapies.[00:25:19] - Closing thoughts on resilience in recovery, discussing whether it's something that can be taught or needs to be embodied and lived.LinksGet In Touch With Alidahttps://www.epiphanyrecovery.com/https://www.soulbriety.ca/info@epiphanyrecovery.comSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSonia's EverBlume WebsiteSonia’s EverBlume InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s Instagram
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    29 mins
  • Your Questions Answered: Create A Summer Sobriety Toolkit

    Your Questions Answered: Create A Summer Sobriety Toolkit
    May 9 2024

    Today, we're addressing a common concern among our listeners—navigating the temptations of summer while maintaining sobriety. This episode is dedicated to answering questions from you, our listeners, about dealing with the triggers that come with warm weather and social gatherings.

    Understanding and Managing Triggers
    Our listener SP from Houston shares her anxiety about summer being a trigger to drink. We start by acknowledging that feeling anxious about seasonal changes is normal and discusses strategies for managing these feelings. Sonia emphasizes the importance of recognizing triggers and preparing mentally, akin to packing sunscreen to protect your skin, to maintain sobriety during challenging situations.


    Proactive Planning for Social Events
    Sonia shares practical tips for planning ahead when attending social gatherings. Suggestions include:

    • Bringing a tasty non-alcoholic drink or a sober-friendly friend to help navigate through drinking pressures.
    • Setting personal boundaries and declining invitations that might jeopardize your recovery.
    • Establishing a support plan with your sober circle to stay strong during tougher times.


    Setting Boundaries

    Understanding when to say no and how to communicate your needs is crucial. The episode covers how to set boundaries effectively:

    • Being honest with yourself and others about your limits.
    • Offering alternatives to typical alcohol-centered activities.
    • Preparing responses for uncomfortable situations to ease pressure.


    Establishing New Traditions

    Sonia encourages listeners to create new, sober-friendly traditions that focus on connection and fun without alcohol. Some ideas include:

    • Morning hikes, sober picnics, group workouts, craft nights, and exploring new recipes.
    • Hosting game or movie nights where the focus remains on fun, not drinks.


    Keeping Non-Alcoholic Options Handy

    The importance of having non-alcoholic beverages available is discussed, with suggestions on how to incorporate them into various social settings effectively.


    Feeling nervous about seasonal changes is normal but manageable with the right tools and support. She encourages all listeners to embrace the summer with confidence, knowing they are equipped to enjoy it sober and strong.

    Links

    • Sisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and community
    • Sisters In Sobriety Email
    • Sonia's EverBlume Website
    • Sonia’s EverBlume Instagram
    • Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast
    • Kathleen’s Instagram
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    17 mins
  • Finding Calm: Self-Soothing in Sobriety

    Finding Calm: Self-Soothing in Sobriety
    May 6 2024

    In today's episode of "Sisters in Sobriety," Sonia and Kathleen take a deep dive into the world of self-soothing and its crucial role in maintaining sobriety. Self-soothing isn't just about keeping calm; it's a vital skill for balancing emotions and preventing relapse, which can be a tricky path to navigate. Join them as they unpack strategies and personal stories, providing you with tools and insights to bolster your recovery journey.


    Throughout the episode, Sonia and Kathleen will explore essential questions that touch the core of self-soothing: What exactly does it mean to self-soothe? Why is it so important, especially during recovery? How can you transition from harmful old habits to beneficial new routines that genuinely support your well-being? They'll also tackle the nitty-gritty challenges many face, like finding the focus to meditate amidst chaos or discovering hobbies that genuinely soothe rather than inadvertently stress you out.

    Listeners can look forward to gaining a richer understanding of emotional regulation, the transformative power of mindfulness, and how to craft a personalized toolkit of strategies for tough times. Whether you’re just starting your sober journey or you’re a seasoned veteran, this discussion is packed with insights on fostering resilience and emotional autonomy.

    Join us at "Sisters in Sobriety," where we mix honest talks with hearty laughter, all while supporting each other in redefining our relationship with alcohol. Don’t forget to check out our substack for a treasure trove of supportive advice and to connect with a community that roots for you every step of the way. Come for the strategies, stay for the stories, and leave feeling empowered!


    Highlights:

    03:19 - Discussion of common pitfalls when trying to meditate and how social media can be a distraction.

    00:03:44 - Sonia and Kathleen address significant questions on beginning the self-soothing process.

    00:04:12 - Kathleen describes various self-soothing techniques and emphasizes the importance of finding what uniquely works for each individual.

    00:05:31 - Sonia relates self-soothing to the concept of infants learning to calm themselves, drawing parallels to adults in recovery.

    00:06:09 - Exploration of how self-soothing helps manage triggers and stressors without resorting to alcohol.

    00:07:00 - Sonia explains the emotional, mental, and physical aspects of self-soothing.

    00:08:11 - Sonia shares a personal story about recognizing the need for self-soothing in challenging moments.

    00:10:05 - Discussion on the transformation from using substances as self-soothing to finding healthier alternatives.

    00:14:06 - The hosts delve into how the journey of self-soothing began with their sobriety.

    00:15:00 - Sonia shares insights into the early difficult days of sobriety and finding things that calmed her mind.

    00:17:20 - Kathleen discusses misconceptions about self-soothing and emphasizes its immediate and practical benefits.

    00:18:35 - Kathleen explains the RAIN technique for emotional awareness and self-soothing.

    00:20:36 - Discussion of specific triggers for self-soothing and personal responses to emotional challenges.

    00:22:31 - Advice on recognizing the need for self-soothing and developing mindful awareness throughout daily activities.

    00:25:20 - Kathleen clarifies that successful self-soothing is about managing, not suppressing, emotions.

    00:28:01 - Sonia shares how self-soothing techniques helped prevent potential relapses during her divorce.


    Links

    • Sisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and community
    • Sisters In Sobriety Email
    • Sonia's EverBlume Website
    • Sonia’s EverBlume Instagram
    • Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast
    • Kathleen’s Instagram
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    45 mins
Psychology Hygiene & Healthy Living Personal Success
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