

Addiction Unlimited Podcast
Angela Pugh
Are you ready to ditch daily drinking, reclaim your confidence, and create a life of freedom? Each week, Angela combines no-nonsense advice, personal stories, and science-backed strategies to tackle the challenges of sobriety. Angela Pugh is a globally-ranked Life Coach and podcast host, a professional Interventionist, and entrepreneur with more than 18 years of personal sobriety, helping people rebuild their lives since 2008. From navigating relationships to managing triggers, you’ll discover practical tools, empowering insights, and real-world solutions to thrive in sobriety. It’s time to stop feeling stuck and start feeling unlimited. Listen now for the inspiration, tools, and support you need to live a sober, confident, and happy life.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 3, 2022 • 28min
Strategies You Need To Turn The Tables On Wine O’Clock
Wine O'Clock
A successful recovery has everything to do with how you plan your day and approach your challenges.
Imagine this scenario:
You've been alcohol-free for a minute, and you really want to continue waking up without a hangover and having a clear head. You're getting through the days, you're on track, and overall, you're feeling pretty proud of your accomplishment.
But let’s be real -- you’re also feeling a little bit burnt out from pouring every ounce of your energy into fighting cravings, and some things are starting to slip because… you’re human.
Maybe you’re packing your days so tight that you have absolutely no room to think about wine, or you’re struggling to focus on the day in front of you because your mind is constantly going into future things and stressing about upcoming events. Or maybe, you're just feeling overwhelmed and lost, and have no idea what the heck to do. Sound familiar?
I don’t know about you, but I definitely had a 'witching hour' when I would get a little frazzled and start to lose focus on the goals and intentions I set for myself and my new life.
And if you’ve been a listener for some time, you probably know that having a plan in place sets the tone for my entire life -- and if I want to be successful in my intentions, I keep my plans front and center. Even if they just stare at me blankly as I daydream about a nap.
In this episode, I’m sharing powerful strategies you can do to avoid getting sucked down the rabbit hole of wine o'clock so that you can stay on top of your game and move forward with a clear mind and a grateful heart that you didn't give in to the craving and wreck all the good progress you've made.
It’s time to tighten up, my friend -- are you ready?
Book a call with me here.
Join the Facebook group here.

Jul 27, 2022 • 36min
How to Stay Engaged and Inspired In Your Life
How to stay engaged in life
Get ready to tackle the uninspired daily grind and uncover this not-so-secret framework that I use in my life (and with my clients!) to stay engaged in your life and feel inspired.
Let's be real: kids, jobs, sobriety, households, yoga, and everything else you try to do to have a happy life can take a lot of time out of an already busy day.
Just when you think you're on top of everything, you feel a nagging reminder in the back of your head that you aren't feeling super happy.
Sometimes it can feel like you're just running from one thing to the next thing and you can't even catch your breath. You're in good company, my friend - many power players just like you are in the same boat.
That's why in this podcast episode, I'm tackling that underlying feeling of discontent so you can start ramping up the inspiration in your life and start living the life you want.
Not only will you get some behind-the-scenes sneak peeks on how I stay engaged, feel inspired and fulfilled but you'll also get the inside scoop on the framework I use to stay balanced.
Here's what you'll get:
How to use this framework to create an engaged life so it's exciting and creates a sense of clarity and happiness
Ways you might be missing huge pieces of your life and a simple solution to help across the board
Getting past the dreaded excuses you'll make to talk yourself out of taking action so you can build the life you want
Get ready to break through that irritable, restless, and discontent barrier and get into an action-based state of mind - this episode is ready for you.
If you are struggling with solutions and want some pointers on what to do, join us in the Facebook group where you'll have a whole community of people to support you, share their experiences, and offer solutions to all the problems.
And for all my goal-getter action takers out there, if you're thinking about working with me as your Coach, you can book a call with me to get all the info and start working with me ASAP. Book here: addictionunlimited.com/call

Jul 20, 2022 • 33min
How To Conquer Mental Resistance and Energize Your Life
Mental Resistance
Stop getting trapped in mental resistance.
And right now, you may be saying, "But Angela, you don't know my life and how hard things are. I don't have support, I have kids and activities and work...."
Oh boy. Do I hear you. I've had the same thoughts a thousand times.
But I also want to challenge you on how that resistance is working against you…and that's exactly what I'm doing on this episode.
In this episode, I want to talk to you about recognizing resistance, even when it is totally logical and real, and starting to change that thought process to better serve you.
Mental resistance comes up in many different ways. It’s laziness, procrastination, telling yourself you can’t do something, you can’t afford it, you don’t have time, now isn’t the right time, you aren’t strong enough, you don’t have enough support. Or, it’s overwhelm, or fear.
I want you to lean into what might feel uncomfortable, but also actually may create more strength underneath all that discomfort.
And I want to challenge you in an area that you’re probably doing yourself a great disservice and staying stuck.
My friend, I am happy to help you gain as much courage as you need — and you'll find some in this episode — overcome mental resistance and put it to bed for good in your life so that you can step fully into this version of you that you are today, and continue to grow into the amazing human you are destined to be.
You can start to overcome mental resistance right now by joining me in the Facebook group!
If you've been thinking about doing a private coaching package with me and want to book a call, click here.

Jul 13, 2022 • 42min
Unlock the Meaning of Self-Sabotage & Helpful Ways to Overcome It
Self-Sabotage Meaning
The title says it all. Let's start with self-sabotage meaning:
Self-sabotage occurs when we destroy ourselves physically, mentally, or emotionally or deliberately hinder our own success and wellbeing by undermining personal goals and values-
But why do we do it, and what does it mean?
I think the best explanation I’ve ever gotten for this was from my friend, Adam Gilbert, from My Body Tutor. He said: usually, people self-sabotage because the thought of maintaining the thing they are trying to achieve is more overwhelming than staying the same.
So let’s dig into some self-sabotaging behaviors so that you can recognize it and start breaking it down. Remember, when you want to break something down you have to directly counteract it with an opposite behavior.
In this episode you'll learn:
the most common self-sabotaging behaviors
they 'why' behind your own self-sabotage
how to start changing TODAY
Self-sabotage isn’t an inherent part of your character, nor does it define who you are as a human being. Why do we self-sabotage?
Self-sabotage is typically fear based. And that fear plays into toxic perfectionism or habitual procrastination. And that, increases anxiety and takes you into future tripping with all the what-ifs.. what if this thing happens... or what if that thing happens.
Or, you catastrophize and go straight to worst-case scenarios. These are distorted beliefs and they are exactly the thing that perpetuates the fear and causes you to self-sabotage.
Self-sabotage isn’t a character flaw; it is nothing more than a set of behaviors, usually arising out of fear-based negative beliefs, that are preventing you from achieving your goals.
Be patient with yourself and reach out for help if you feel stuck. These are all the things we work on in Coaching and, if you’re thinking about working with me as your Coach, you can book a call with me to ask questions and get more information.
Book A Call here.
Join us in the Facebook Group!

Jul 6, 2022 • 23min
Build A Simple Foundation For Successful Sobriety
Whether you are getting sober, going through a breakup, or just look at yourself in the mirror one day and recognize it’s time to make some changes because you aren’t feeling great about who you are or how you’re treating people.
You have to have stellar coping skills, the ability to adapt, and the ability to change when you’ve gotten stuck in some habits that don’t serve you.
In this episode, we'll get into some of the specifics about what it takes to be successful in sobriety.
I know you want to have a lifestyle you enjoy. You want to be engaged in your life, have less anxiety, and have confidence in yourself.
So how the heck do you pull that off?
If you want to feel better you have to take action.
And one of the easiest and best ways to start taking action is working on that inner dialogue you are having with the committee in your head all day long.
Here's what we are covering in this episode:
You are your own CEO, responsible for the good and the bad
How to manage your mindset and not beat yourself up
Recognizing limitations and learning to work around them
The key in all of this is to be successful in the changes you want to make. No one is perfect! It takes practice to build these skills and that's why it's important to be an action-taker!
The greatest thing you can do today is to GET STARTED!
If you want support and fun in a no-pressure zone, join us for the Dry July Event: 30 Days to Wellness. This is an excellent way to get a jumpstart on yourself and have fun while you do it!
When you are in full-tilt action-taker mode and you want to do private Coaching with me, you can book a call here.

Jun 29, 2022 • 51min
Simple Formulas That Will Build Powerful Sobriety
Powerful Sobriety
One of my Addiction Unlimited besties is the textbook definition of a recovery warrior. He's in his second year sober, has been a valuable member of our Facebook group and Sober Society Membership community, and is an incredible example of how to get through sobriety, know yourself, and learn how to set boundaries to protect your recovery.
I respect and admire Michael so much because he's all about supporting other goal-getters to understand the activities needed to go from having multiple 'day one again' to powerful, fun recovery. And what I find most impressive about him is his willingness to look at his life and habits and recognize where and how he needs to protect his recovery and make it his number one priority.
In this episode, Michael shares his best tools and advice for creating a life and sobriety that lights you up -- and you know this is so important as a recovering person. You'll learn:
How to be resourceful and find the tools that work for you
Tools to manage social situations and put your recovery and comfort FIRST
How to get involved in online communities (like Sober Society!) to build relationships and have fun
Ways to look at yourself, be resilient, and stick with recovery even when it takes multiple tries
Not only will you get some powerful insights on how to become the best sober version of yourself possible, but I know you'll walk away feeling super empowered by Michaels's recovery and honesty about his journey.
Get more here:
Join Addiction Unlimited Facebook group here.
Sign up for my Dry July Event: 30 Days to Wellness here!
Interested in having your very own recovery community and safe place to learn about yourself and sobriety? Check out my Sober Society membership community :-)

Jun 22, 2022 • 29min
Reliable Tips To Survive When Your Routines Are Disrupted
There are two kinds of people in this world. Those who have routines, and those who don't. Especially when dealing with addiction because we tend to only have two modes... 100% enthralled... or completely uninterested.
I definitely have routines in every area of my life and it's a good mix of wellness, Henry, and family. #auntielife
I'm not here to tell you how to create your routine or what it *should* be.
On today's podcast, I'm going to share with you how challenging it can be when our routines get totally disrupted and what you can do to get back on track. What you should know is, everyone has their own routine and no two are the same. And did I mention that you can have successful routines even when you are super busy, like we all are, with a lot on your plate?
You get to design your own life and you get to call the shots with what routines are important to you and how you recalibrate when you get thrown off because, we all know, life is going to get in the way and throw you a curve ball.
Whether it's travel, work, getting sick, moving, or an unexpected death in the family I hope this episode inspires you to look at your routines a little differently and know that getting off balance is normal, and perfectly okay.
Join me in the Facebook group here so I can answer your questions and support you in your journey.

Jun 15, 2022 • 48min
Quickly See What Happens With Unresolved Trauma
"Machines are built to work 24/7, but not human beings."
This is a fantastic quote from Marie Forleo that has always stood out to me because most humans aren't very good at balancing all the areas of life to be sane and healthy.
And that goes for our mental wellness, too.
We have to be aware of how we set boundaries around our time and energy, but also our mental wellness.
In this episode with Ashley Sperber-Hirsch, we take a deep dive into the connection between our emotional and physical well-being. If you don't take care of your emotional struggles and resolve those things that are unresolved that angst and dis-ease will manifest with physical symptoms.
If I'm honest, I haven't always been great at setting boundaries, or sticking to them. In fact, I had to learn the hard way when I wore myself down to a point of almost being hospitalized.
Over the years, I've definitely come to understand the importance of being aware of my mental wellness, just as much as I'm aware of my need for exercise, dog kisses, and time with my family. It's required, not optional.
But before you can make strides to nourish your beautiful emotional mind, there's one thing I know for sure... you have to understand how important it is in your daily life that you take care of yourself. You have to know the WHY.
Take a moment and answer these questions for yourself.
Why do you want to make a commitment to better mental wellness?
Why do you want to stay with it day in and day out?
Why is it important to you? (and your family)
Getting crystal clear on why you are doing this is imperative if you want to make your mental health and self-care a priority and make it work for you.
Join me in the Facebook group for more conversation, support, and healthy living. ❤️

Jun 9, 2022 • 41min
Guaranteed Results When Your Social Life Is Stalled
Stalled Social Life
It's Friday night and you're home, alone, zero invitations to go anywhere, it's just you, your seltzer, and Netflix. Again.
You feel like your social life is stalled, you're stuck in a rut of boring, and your regular activities just aren't doing it for you right now.
But what do you do? How do you "have more fun"? And what about the crippling social anxiety you get when you go places where other people are??
Well, you're in the right place, my friend, because in this episode we aren't only talking about how to find more things to do, but I'm also giving you the lowdown on how to get your anxiety in check once you get there.
If that little voice in your head is saying:
What the heck do I do now?
Everything I do involves drinking.
Everyone I know, drinks.
How do I have fun, if I’m not drinking?
Then you'll want to listen up, because I'm giving you all the answers. Not only are we taking a deep dive in some powerful ways to find fun things to do, but I'm giving you a step-by-step checklist on how to start breaking down your anxiety so that you can start planning fun events without that feeling of sheer panic.
I'm the master of faking a headache to leave early because my anxiety has all the power. But with a few simple actions, I put my anxiety on the back burner and I'm going to teach you how to do the same.
When you want to get out in the world, have fun and meet people it's important to make sure you are doing things you love and not getting stuck in people-pleasing mode.
As a bonus, I'm going to give you a couple of quick questions to ask yourself to make sure you are doing things for yourself and not for others.
Then we'll talk about strategies to break down your anxiety on a daily basis so that you feel confident going out in the world, and then we dig into some super simple strategies to get you out of your pajama pants and surrounded by two-legged friends who actually speak your language.
And then there's a special bonus for you in the Facebook group, if you're not a member you can join here.

Jun 1, 2022 • 34min
One Woman’s Wonderful Journey With Sex Addiction And Healing
Sex Addiction
What kind of life do you dream of living?
What type of impact do you want to have on your family and the people you love?
If you don't think it's possible to get crystal clear on how to take your sex addiction, or any addiction, and leverage it into massive purpose, recovery and impact after just one podcast episode... you've never met Jace Downey.
Jace is a busy lady who passionately splits her time between sharing her journey with sex addiction, practicing multiple modalities of healing and nurturing her life, and working toward creating a rural healing community for people to live and find peace.
Jace is on a mission to help passionate recovering souls to shed that shame-filled view on sex addiction and trauma, find inspiration, and change their lives.
Just like she has.
And let me give you fair warning... Jace is a force to be reckoned with.
She's a loving dog mom, loves dance and somatic healing, and learning how to work a farm and live off-the-grid... that's just an average day for Jace.
And in this episode, Jace is breaking down how healing and exploration guides her in life, and in business. And we have some great book recommendations for you if you are struggling with sex addiction and trauma healing!
If you want more support and tools, join us in the Facebook group by clicking here.
Find all the free videos Jace was talking about here: www.youtube.com/jacedowney