The One Day At A Time Recovery Podcast

Today I am joined by my dear friend Michelle Ferriss, a licensed marriage family therapist. She's been on the podcast two other times because she's awesome! Her area of expertise is on dealing with codependency, how to escape narcissistic relationships and overcoming anger issues. In this episode, we're going to talk about toxic friendships, how to know if you're in one, ways to improve them, and steps to take to escape them. This is such an important topic because as we grow, evolve and change, so do the relationships we have. And with people feeling more disconnected and lonelier than ever, we need to know how to make new friends too. Before we jump in, last week I started a new segment called "I have a question for you!" and the question was "how do you feel about the word Alcoholic?" On Instagram, one person wrote: "It took a while to be able to openly call myself an alcoholic. I attached very negative and generalized connotations to it until I identified it. Now, I embrace it because it was crucial to me getting sober." Another wrote: I think it keeps people that are sober curious from stepping fully into their sobriety because they think they have to call themselves an Alcoholic . In our society it has a negative connotation. They do not picture the soccer mom at the park with wine in her yeti cup who is still suffering. So, whatever you need to call it . The most important thing is that you don't have to label it at all. You can make a decision based on the results you're getting from drinking alcohol." Thank you all who wrote in! I think the big take away here is that it's all perspective based on the information you have or don't have. In the end, take what you like, and leave the rest. This week's question it tied to the topic of this episode, which is: "Can you still be friends with your old drinking or using friends after you're sober?" Let me know what you think on instagram @arlinaallen So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! Guest Contact Info: 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: https://www.soberlifeschool.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick https://www.makesobrietystick.com Subscribe So You Don't Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website HERE. You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-one-day-at-a-time-recovery-podcast/id1212504521 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4I23r7DBTpT8XwUUwHRNpB Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a8eb438c-5af1-493b-99c1-f218e5553aff/the-one-day-at-a-time-recovery-podcast

My guest today is Dr. Hector — a psychiatrist who specializes in helping people heal from addiction, PTSD, anxiety, and depression through a trauma-informed approach. He blends neuroscience, medication, and therapy with nutrition and lifestyle tools to support whole-person healing. What I love about his work is that it's not just clinical — it's deeply compassionate. He helps people understand how their brain and body work together so they can build resilience, recover from addiction, and truly heal from the inside out. He shares why most people relapse not because of willpower, but because trauma remains unresolved. From the role of GABA in calming the nervous system to how EMDR helps reprocess trauma, this episode is packed with practical tools and compassionate wisdom for anyone on the healing path. Before we jump in, I have a new segment, called "A question for you!" Today I want to know how you feel about the word "Alcoholic". I was interviewed on another podcast today and the host told me he thought it was a shame label. If you know me even a little bit, you'll know that the way I define it - it's a badge of honor, but also, it doesn't matter to me what you call yourself, as long as you get the support you need to heal and break free from addiction. So what do you think? Leave your comment under this episode at odaatchat.com Or leave a comment on my Instagram: @arlinaallen Next week I'll share some of your responses! Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out. And with that, please enjoy this episode with Dr Hector. Guest Contact Info: doctorhector.com 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: https://www.soberlifeschool.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick https://www.makesobrietystick.com Subscribe So You Don't Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website HERE. You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-one-day-at-a-time-recovery-podcast/id1212504521 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4I23r7DBTpT8XwUUwHRNpB Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a8eb438c-5af1-493b-99c1-f218e5553aff/the-one-day-at-a-time-recovery-podcast

🎉 400 Episodes! In this special milestone conversation, I sit down with my friend for a warm, nostalgic, and inspiring reflection on the journey so far — and a vision for the future. In this episode, we celebrate the incredible guests who shaped the conversation around sobriety, share behind-the-scenes stories you've never heard, reflect on the evolution of the recovery movement, and highlight YOUR listener stories that made a difference. Whether you've been here since episode 1 or you're just joining, this is a beautiful moment to pause, reflect, and look forward to what's next. 👉 In this episode we cover: 🎧 Top guests & unforgettable lessons 😂 Funny and touching behind-the-scenes stories 🌍 How sobriety conversations have evolved over time 💌 Listener stories that changed everything 🧠 What I'd tell my past self when starting this journey 🚀 Dreams and vision for the next 100 episodes 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: https://www.soberlifeschool.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick https://www.makesobrietystick.com Subscribe So You Don't Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website HERE. You can also watch the interview on YouTube. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-one-day-at-a-time-recovery-podcast/id1212504521 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4I23r7DBTpT8XwUUwHRNpB Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a8eb438c-5af1-493b-99c1-f218e5553aff/the-one-day-at-a-time-recovery-podcast

Have you ever felt like asking for help is just not an option—especially when it comes to quitting drinking? In this episode, we break down the real subconscious reasons why high-achievers struggle to reach out, how childhood conditioning shapes this pattern, and why asking for help is actually the key to lasting sobriety. You'll learn: Why relying on "figuring it out" alone keeps you stuck How subconscious beliefs fuel resistance The emotional cost of fierce independence A powerful mindset shift inspired by Albert Einstein How to ask for help safely and effectively This is your reminder: You are not a burden. Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. 🎧 Listen now to start shifting this powerful pattern. 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: https://www.soberlifeschool.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick https://www.makesobrietystick.com Subscribe So You Don't Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website HERE. You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-one-day-at-a-time-recovery-podcast/id1212504521 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4I23r7DBTpT8XwUUwHRNpB Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a8eb438c-5af1-493b-99c1-f218e5553aff/the-one-day-at-a-time-recovery-podcast

In this powerful conversation, investigative journalist Shoshana Walter exposes the dark underbelly of America's rehab industry. Drawing from her eight years of research for Rehab: An American Scandal, she reveals how court-ordered rehab programs have exploited vulnerable people by sending them to work unpaid in dangerous jobs — all under the guise of "treatment." We discuss: The shocking origins of these labor-based rehabs and how they became so widespread Why our mainstream treatment system often fails people — and in some cases, increases overdose risk Real-life stories of individuals like Chris, April, and Wendy that illustrate both the broken system and the resilience of those fighting for change How loopholes and lack of oversight allow unethical rehabs to thrive Practical ways families can identify quality treatment programs and avoid predatory ones Despite the heavy subject, this episode ends with hope: a growing community of advocates and storytellers pushing for systemic change. Before we jump in, I just wanted to give you a little update on what I've been up to, and share a new meeting I'll be hosting. After creating and teaching a course called "Inner Compass", I was feeling super burned out, so I decided to take some time off. I called it my "Self-Care Summer". I didn't do any new interviews, take on any new clients, or do any social media. It was a time to reset, heal and think about the direction of my work. My guiding thoughts were centered around one question: "What does God want for my life?" I was practicing total surrender, and I gotta tell you, it was a leap of faith, but then something interesting happened. Two podcasters published interviews I gave, and I realized something. I truly love sharing what I've learned in recovery. It really fills my heart with joy. That's why I've been doing the Sobriety Reset series for those who are coming back from another "Day 1". Also I was invited to partner with OpenRecovery, a free app centered around recovery, to start a new community there. This means I'll be hosting free meetings that will make 12 principals accessible to my fellow skeptics, by providing a path around common obstacles. I'll leave links in the show notes so you can download the app, and there will be announcements for the launch date. I've been wanting to host a meeting since I published the book, and OpenRecovery is providing me with the platform! I'm really excited about it and I hope you'll join me. One last thing, if you enjoy this episode, it would mean the world to me if you leave a review on Apple Podcasts. It might surprise you to know that according to the analytics, less than 1% of our audience will actually leave a review. By leaving a review, it helps others who are suffering to find the podcast and get the life saving resources they need to get and stay sober. You can even think of leaving a review as an act of service! So thank you so much for your support! So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: https://www.soberlifeschool.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick https://www.makesobrietystick.com Subscribe So You Don't Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website HERE. You can also watch the interview on YouTube. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-one-day-at-a-time-recovery-podcast/id1212504521 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4I23r7DBTpT8XwUUwHRNpB Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a8eb438c-5af1-493b-99c1-f218e5553aff/the-one-day-at-a-time-recovery-podcast

If you're navigating the early days of sobriety, one of the hardest parts can be figuring out what to say to friends, family, and coworkers about your decision not to drink. In this episode, Arlina breaks down simple, empowering language you can use in different social situations, so you can protect your boundaries without shame or awkwardness. You'll learn how to talk to "safe" vs. "unsafe" people, how to prepare for social events in advance, and what practical steps you can take to avoid pressure and stay grounded in your choice. Whether you're participating in Sober October, No Booze November, Detox December, or Dry January, this conversation will give you the confidence to own your decision and feel supported every step of the way. 👉 If you're ready to ditch the guilt, communicate with clarity, and set yourself up for a strong alcohol-free season, this episode is for you. 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: https://www.soberlifeschool.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick https://www.makesobrietystick.com Subscribe So You Don't Miss New Episodes!

In this raw and moving episode, Josh shares his unbelievable journey through addiction, violence, and grief — and how he found his way to sobriety. From being stabbed and shot, to losing his brother to fentanyl, to nearly ending his own life, Josh's story is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Through therapy, music, gratitude, and the 12 steps, he's learned how to take life "one day at a time." This episode is really a story of survival, resilience, and hope. Before we jump in, I have a big announcement! I am partnering with OpenRecovery, a free app designed to act as your 24/7 AI Recovery Coach. They are launching a new community feature where you can join online meetings to meet others just like you, who are on the path of recovery. I'll be hosting meetings focused on doing 12 step work in a safe, compassionate and empowering space. The meeting is scheduled for later this month and if you're interested in joining, just download the app for free! I'll leave links to the Apple App Store and Google Play in the show notes. Just visit odaatchat.com And in case you didn't know, I have several free resources you can download on my main website at soberlifeschool.com So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! Apple App Store link : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/openrecovery-addiction-help/id6446251140 Google Play link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.twelve_steps.twelve_steps&hl=en_US Guest Contact Info: https://joshdatant.com/ 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: https://www.soberlifeschool.com 🎁Free Journaling Exercise: How To Get Unstuck, Be Consistent & Reach Your Goals Download Here: https://www.innercompassprogram.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick https://www.makesobrietystick.com Subscribe So You Don't Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website HERE. You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-one-day-at-a-time-recovery-podcast/id1212504521 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4I23r7DBTpT8XwUUwHRNpB Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a8eb438c-5af1-493b-99c1-f218e5553aff/the-one-day-at-a-time-recovery-podcast

👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: https://www.soberlifeschool.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick https://www.makesobrietystick.com Subscribe So You Don't Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website HERE. You can also watch the interview on YouTube. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-one-day-at-a-time-recovery-podcast/id1212504521 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4I23r7DBTpT8XwUUwHRNpB Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a8eb438c-5af1-493b-99c1-f218e5553aff/the-one-day-at-a-time-recovery-podcast

Hey friend, Thanks for downloading this episode! My name is Arlina and I'll be your host. And if you haven't yet, check out our YouTube channel and subscribe! You'll find it by searching "The One Day At A Time Recovery Podcast". Obviously. Y'all I don't know what got into me when we recorded this episode. Maybe it was too much coffee, but I was having such a good day that I was a little loose shall we say?? Anyway I really enjoyed this conversation with psychotherapist and recovery coach Errol McCaffrey. We explore her journey of sobriety, the role of spirituality versus religion, building sustainable self-care practices, and practical tools to manage anxiety. Eryl shares what it was like growing up with an alcoholic parent, her own struggles with drinking, and the lessons she's carried into her work helping others heal. The discussion highlights the paradox of sobriety (freedom and overwhelm), the importance of simple daily rituals, why community matters, and body-based practices that help regulate anxiety and stress. If you enjoy this episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and share with a friend. Reviews are how we consistently rank in the top 1% and how you can help others to break free from addiction. Thank you so much for all your support!! So without further delay, please enjoy this episode, and let me know what you think! Guest Contact Info: https://www.erylmccaffrey.com/higherselfhappyhour Instagram: @erylmccaffrey 👊🏼Need help applying this information to your own life? Here are 3 ways to get started: 🎁Free Guide: 30 Tips for Your First 30 Days - With a printable PDF checklist Grab your copy here: https://www.soberlifeschool.com 🎁Free Journaling Exercise: How To Get Unstuck, Be Consistent andamp; Reach Your Goals Download Here: https://www.innercompassprogram.com ☎️Private Coaching: Make Sobriety Stick https://www.makesobrietystick.com Subscribe So You Don't Miss New Episodes! Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music, or you can stream it from my website HERE. You can also watch the interview on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@theonedayatatimepodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-one-day-at-a-time-recovery-podcast/id1212504521 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4I23r7DBTpT8XwUUwHRNpB Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a8eb438c-5af1-493b-99c1-f218e5553aff/the-one-day-at-a-time-recovery-podcast

The Three Phases of Sobriety: From Foundation to Lasting Change Sobriety isn't just about putting down the drink—it's about building a life that supports staying sober. In this episode of Sobriety Reset, I broke down the three phases of getting sober: building a foundation, uncovering and discarding old patterns, and creating lasting change. Phase 1: Building a Foundation The first step in sobriety is setting yourself up for success. This begins with looking at your family history and early survival strategies, which often don't serve us well in adulthood. From there, it's about learning new skills: Setting boundaries: Learning what you can and can't tolerate, and teaching others how to treat you. Clarifying your values and goals: Aligning your daily actions with what you truly care about. Preparing your environment: Removing alcohol, stocking healthy snacks (especially protein for willpower), and setting up positive supports like books, podcasts, and tools. Building a sober toolkit: This can include journaling, meditation (even just 12 breaths), supportive community, and strategies for managing emotions. Identifying triggers: Noticing what sparks the urge to drink and creating plans for how to respond. Phase 2: Uncover, Discover, Discard This phase is about doing deeper inner work to clean house. Using journaling, inventories, or therapeutic methods, you uncover resentments, discover the root causes, and discard what's no longer serving you. Make a list of resentments and the specific causes. Notice the patterns—especially how coping strategies like people-pleasing or anxious attachment may actually recreate the very situations you fear. Clarify what's truly your responsibility and what isn't. Get support from a sponsor, coach, or therapist for deeper trauma-related work. Phase 3: Creating Lasting Change Long-term sobriety rests on consistent self-care and connection. It's about turning healthy practices into lifestyle habits. Morning practice: Gratitude lists, journaling, meditation, and movement. Physical self-care: Hydration, regular exercise (start small if needed), nourishing foods. Spiritual practice: Whether it's prayer, meditation, or simply connecting with energy and love, find what sustains your spirit. Community: Surround yourself with sober people. Science shows we adopt the behaviors and beliefs of those closest to us. Sobriety lasts when you layer tools, heal root causes, and stay connected. These three phases give you a roadmap not just to get sober—but to make sobriety stick. Action Items Journal about your family history and early survival strategies. Write down your top 5 values and compare them to how you actually spend your time. Prepare your environment: remove alcohol, stock healthy snacks, and add sober resources. Start a sober toolkit: include journaling, meditation (try 12 breaths), supportive podcasts, and people you can call. Identify your triggers by looking back at your last few drinking episodes. Make a plan for how to respond. Make a resentment list: name the person, the cause, and how it affected you. Get clarity on what's your responsibility and what isn't. Seek professional support for trauma-related issues. Begin a daily gratitude list (5–12 items). Commit to consistent self-care: exercise, hydration, meditation, and journaling. Join or re-engage with a sober community, online or in person.