All right, my friend. Don’t even try to deny it—you know the feeling I’m talking about.

You start out with the best intentions, maybe after a particularly rough night or an emotional moment of clarity, and you tell yourself, This is it. I’m going to stop drinking, and everything will fall into place.

But then, reality sets in.

The road feels harder than you imagined. You’re not seeing the changes as quickly as you’d hoped, and before you know it, you’re wondering if you’re even doing it right.

You’re not alone.

These struggles are incredibly common, and they often stem from three big pitfalls: unrealistic expectations, a lack of direction or plan, and that deep desire to escape uncomfortable feelings.

These challenges are not a reflection of your strength or your willpower—they’re just part of the journey.

In today’s episode, I’m going to walk you through each of these pitfalls, step by step.

💡We’ll talk about how to reset your expectations so you can embrace progress instead of perfection.

💡I’ll show you how to create a simple plan to stay grounded and focused, even when life throws you curveballs.

💡And we’ll unpack the real reason behind cravings—spoiler alert: it’s not actually about the drink—and how you can handle them with confidence.

And as always, stick around until the end because I’ve got a bonus for you: a free resource that will help you put today’s tips into action and keep moving forward with clarity and confidence.

So, grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and let’s dive into these common pitfalls and, more importantly, how you can overcome them to build a strong, empowered recovery.

You’ve got this, and I’m here to help.

 

Links mentioned in this episode: 

Is Angela the right Coach for you? Book A Call Here to find out : addictionunlimited.com/call

Get my Daily Plan: addictionunlimited.com/plan

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited

 

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want.  Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

I wholeheartedly believe that learning to enjoy social situations without alcohol is one of the most empowering gifts you can give yourself.

It’s a skill that brings freedom and joy, allowing you to show up as your authentic self—without a drink in hand.

But as you probably already know, it’s not always easy.

Whether it’s handling those awkward questions, navigating a wedding or happy hour, or simply feeling like you don’t fit in, sober socializing can feel daunting.

In fact, social anxiety is considered one of the biggest hurdles for people who quit drinking.

And I’ll be honest—this is something that hits close to home for so many of us.

That’s why I invited Ellie, one of my 6-week program alumni, to join me for this episode.

Ellie knows firsthand how tricky it can be to navigate social situations in early sobriety, and she’s here to share how she handled those challenges from day one so her friends new exactly what was going on, where she was, and what to expect.

Ellie brings incredible insights and practical tips to help you feel confident, calm, and ready to face any social situation.

In this inspiring conversation, Ellie shares how to:

• Prepare for events and gatherings so you feel empowered and in control.
• Create meaningful connections with others without relying on alcohol.
• Stay grounded and true to yourself—even in high-pressure situations.

Plus, Ellie reflects on the lessons she’s learned since my 6-week program and the tools that continue to help her thrive in her sober life.

I’ll go ahead and call it now—this episode is going to be a favorite. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

 

Links mentioned in this episode: 

Thinking about working with Angela? Book A Free Call Here to learn more: addictionunlimited.com/call

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited

 

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want.  Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Have you ever felt completely overwhelmed by the journey to quit drinking, like there are a million things to figure out all at once?

Or maybe you’ve wondered why it feels like a game of Whac-a-Mole with new habits popping up to replace old ones.

If so, you’re not alone, and you’re definitely in the right place.

In this episode, I’m breaking down three surprising traps that no one talks about when it comes to quitting drinking.

These sneaky obstacles can easily keep you stuck, frustrated, and questioning your progress.

But today, we’re getting into what they are—and more importantly, how to avoid them.

1. The “Advanced Topic” Trap:  We’ll talk about how to stay focused on the “now” without getting distracted by what’s miles down the road.
2. The “Fix Everything” Trap: Overloading yourself with too many changes at the same time only adds stress.
3. The “Compulsion Replacement” Trap: Here’s a big one. Your brain naturally looks for ways to soothe, distract, or reward itself—and when alcohol isn’t an option, it’s common to replace it with other compulsive habits, like food, shopping, or even social media. I’ll share tips on how to recognize this tendency, so you can create healthier coping mechanisms and feel empowered to stay on track.

Each of these traps can quietly hold you back, but with a little insight and the right tools, you can recognize them and break free.

So, if you’re ready to quit drinking and finally feel in control without feeling overwhelmed by distractions and pitfalls, this episode is a must-listen.

It’s time to give yourself grace, simplify the journey, and know that every small step is a win on the path to a sober, fulfilling life.

 

Links mentioned in this episode: 

Is Angela the right Coach for you? Book A Call Here to find out : addictionunlimited.com/call

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited

Sober Society (private member community):  addictionunlimited.com/community

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want.  Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

 

Recovery isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey—it’s deeply personal, especially when you’re working to find what truly clicks for you.

On this episode, I’m sitting down with Jason Wahler to dig into the power of a solid recovery plan, the strength it takes to get sober in the public eye, and the importance of finding your unique way to stay on track for the long term.

Here’s what we’re diving into with Jason:

• Why finding what works for you is key – and how the right recovery approach can help you create a life that feels true, balanced, and fulfilling.
• Facing every intoxicated moment in the spotlight – and how Jason turned public challenges into opportunities for powerful personal growth.
• Building a strong recovery plan for the long haul – because resilience comes from knowing you’re set up for success in the real world.

Jason has walked this path, and his story shows how resilience and authenticity can help you stand strong through even the hardest days.

If you’re serious about your sobriety or just looking to strengthen the path you’re already on, this episode is for you.

Together, we’re breaking down the real-life recovery tools you need to make every day a win—and to keep building that life you truly deserve.

 

Links mentioned in this episode: 

Change Your Brain Foundation: https://www.changeyourbrain.org/

Is Angela the right Coach for you? Book A Call Here to find out : addictionunlimited.com/call

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited

 

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want.  Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

How are you feeling about your next social event?

Calm, confident, and ready to connect?

(Or did that question just stir up a wave of anxiety and second-guessing?)

And what about your body?

Tense, tight shoulders? Racing heartbeat?

(If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.)

The reality is that social anxiety can be incredibly overwhelming, especially when you’re newly sober. The situations that used to feel easier with a drink in hand—work events, family gatherings, even vacations—now seem daunting without that familiar crutch.

But here’s the good news: you don’t have to feel stuck or alone in these situations.

In this episode, we’re diving deep into how you can manage and overcome social anxiety without alcohol.

As someone who used to drink to relax and feel more comfortable around others, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to navigate social situations without alcohol. But trust me when I say, it’s not only possible, it’s empowering.

Today, I’ll share 5 proven strategies to help you build confidence, ease anxiety, and enjoy social gatherings without relying on alcohol. By the end of this episode, you’ll have real, actionable tools to help you handle those tricky situations with grace and confidence.

You deserve to feel comfortable in your own skin, no matter the setting.

 

Links mentioned in this episode: 

Is Angela the right Coach for you? Book A Call Here to find out : addictionunlimited.com/call

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited

 

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want.  Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

If you’ve ever found yourself asking, ‘Why do I keep spending when I know it’s not helping?’—you’re not alone.

Many of us fall into the trap of trying to fill emotional gaps, manage stress, or escape uncomfortable feelings by shopping and buying more than we need.

But that momentary buzz from clicking ‘add to cart’ quickly fades, leaving you feeling worse, not better.

Today, we’re not just talking about what’s happening on the surface—we’re diving into the real reasons behind overspending and how to break free from that cycle for good.

And to help us on this journey, I’m joined by a very special guest: Paige Pritchard.

Paige is the inspiring voice behind the Overcoming Overspending movement, which has grown to millions of followers on social media.

She’s also the host of the Money Love Podcast, where she empowers women to leave financial self-sabotage behind and unlock their full financial potential.

I’ve also created something just for you to support your journey: The Emotional Cost of Overspending: Simple Steps to Regain Your Money & Your Mind.

This free resource gives you all of Paige’s expert insights and strategies in one place.

In this episode, Paige will share her expert insights into what drives those spending impulses and how to develop practical strategies to regain control.

Together, we’ll explore:

🚨the emotional roots of overspending

🚨the mindset shifts needed for lasting transformation

🚨and actionable steps you can take today to build a healthier, more empowered relationship with money.

So if you’re ready to stop wondering, ‘Why do I keep doing this?’ and start finding your financial freedom—this episode is for you.

Links mentioned in this episode: 

Free Resource: Simple Steps to Regain Your Money & Your Mind – addictionunlimited.com/overspending

Paige Pritchard, Money Love Podcast:  https://overcomingoverspending.com/podcast

Is Angela the right Coach for you? Book A Call Here to find out : addictionunlimited.com/call

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited

 

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want.  Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Did you know that relapse can actually be a pivotal moment in your recovery journey?

It’s a reality that many people face when quitting alcohol, but here’s the good news—it doesn’t mean you’ve failed.

In fact, it can be one of the most powerful opportunities for growth and long-term success.

In today’s episode, I’m walking you through how to view relapse as a stepping stone rather than a setback and why embracing it can actually strengthen your commitment to sobriety.

 

✅ How to reframe relapse as a learning opportunity, not a failure.

✅ Recognizing your triggers and stressors that led to relapse, and how to prevent them in the future.

✅ Building resilience after relapse and why it makes you stronger for the next stage of your sobriety.

✅ Developing an actionable plan to bounce back quickly and confidently after relapse.

✅ Tools and strategies for responding to cravings and stressors, so you can keep moving forward.

 

And SO much more!

Relapse doesn’t erase your progress—it’s a sign that you are still committed to change, and you now have an opportunity to improve your tools, awareness, and support systems.

So listen in to these valuable insights on how to turn relapse into a growth moment and continue thriving in your sober life.👇

 

Links mentioned in this episode: 

Recovery Roadmap Workbook: addictionunlimited.com/roadmap

Is Angela the right Coach for you? Book A Call Here to find out : addictionunlimited.com/call

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited

 

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want.  Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Have you ever thought about leveling up your personal development?

Growing your emotional intelligence and emotional maturity can open the door to incredible transformations, both personally and professionally.

And today, my amazing guest is the perfect example of how expanding your emotional toolkit can be your best move ever.

I’m thrilled to welcome my new friend and emotional intelligence guru, Noble Gibbens, to the show.

Noble didn’t just improve his emotional intelligence; he went ALL IN on growing his emotional maturity, redefining his relationships, career, and life in the process.

And he’s here to share his journey—how understanding and regulating his emotions empowered him to become a better husband, father,  entrepreneur, and mentor.

Honestly—can you imagine navigating relationships or your career with the emotional skills you had as a teenager?

No way!

We all grow emotionally over time, and Noble’s story is a powerful example of how emotional intelligence is a key part of that growth.

If I think about the difference between my emotional capacity in my first few years of sobriety compared to today, the transformation is massive!

Whether you’re just beginning to explore emotional intelligence or have been working on personal growth for years, this conversation is filled with valuable insights on self-awareness, emotional resilience, and the often overlooked power of emotional maturity.

Today you’ll hear about:

>>  (4:13) Noble talks about his emotional fitness journey

>> (6:15) Understanding emotional maturity and how it affects your life

>> (11:17) Noble breaks down being over 40, married, and having zero understanding of feelings and emotions

>> (20:32) How building your emotional vocabulary is a key factor in growth and healing

>> (23:00) The manipulation behind people-pleasing addiction

>> (35:34) Taking ownership of your growth and change

Listen in if you’re feeling ready for the next chapter of your recovery and your life.

 

Links mentioned in this episode: 

Get the Resource Guide for this episode here: https://addictionunlimited.com/eq

Is Angela the right Coach for you? Book A Call Here to find out : addictionunlimited.com/call

EQ Gangster Podcast: https://www.eqgangster.com/podcast

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited

 

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want.  Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

I know this is going to ruffle some feathers because the world is embracing mocktails in full force right now.

And I know alcohol-free drink options are a welcome alternative for many people and there’s nothing wrong with that.

This is NOT going to be a conversation about if it’s RIGHT or WRONG.

Because it’s neither.

This isn’t about making a judgment on your choice or mine.

I want to share with you the research, my personal experience, and some of the issues you’ve probably never considered that create unexpected risks.

Especially if you are pretty early in sobriety because there are a lot of insights that you probably aren’t aware of yet.

While you may not get the buzz, these alcohol imposters can still be harmful and I’m going to give you some alternative ways to think about the risks associated with non-alcoholic drinks so that you can make a smart and informed decision as to what’s best for your recovery.

I’m going to share some deeper insights and advanced recovery concepts that you’ve probably never thought of when you’re considering drinking NA beer or not.

 

Links mentioned in this episode: 

Is Angela the right Coach for you? Book A Call Here to find out : addictionunlimited.com/call

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited

3 Stages of Relapse episode:  addictionunlimited.com/260

 

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want.  Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

There’s only one thing you need to know, to understand you still can’t drink in a healthy way, even after a period of sobriety.

It doesn’t  matter if you quit for a week, months, or years. I’m going to tell you how you know with 100% certainty that you still can’t drink.

Over all the years of my own sobriety, and helping thousands of people navigate their own sober journey’s, one thing has always stood out that makes it clear to me our relationship with alcohol is different.

And it will continue to be different for the rest of my life, no matter how long I go without a drink.

I want you to understand why it’s such a mess when you quit drinking for awhile then decide you can probably drink again.

I get it! I fell into the same trap the first time I ever took a break from alcohol – which is also something ‘normal’ drinkers don’t do, by the way.

So what is the one thing? The thing that makes you and me different from those weirdos who sip on one glass of wine for an hour, or leave half a glass sitting on the table and walk away?

Your brain will tell you everything you need to know… grab your earbuds and tune in to save yourself some time and drama.

Links mentioned in this episode: 

Is Angela the right Coach for you? Book A Call Here to find out : addictionunlimited.com/call

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited

Follow me on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/addictionunlimited/

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want.  Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

  What if the little things—traffic jams, work deadlines, or even family gatherings—are quietly sabotaging your sobriety? These everyday stressors could be leading you closer to relapse without you even realizing it. People say, I don’t even know how it happened, or, it was a split second decision, but that is really never the case. The point of this episode is to understand how and why you are compromised and weakened in a daily basis, and how that leads you to relapse without you knowing it's happening. The number one thing I want you to understand in the addiction recovery equation is that it’s all emotion-based. Not to say that’s the only component, because it’s not. At the core of addiction is a desire to change how you feel. Whether it’s making your happy happier, quieting the noise in your head so you can relax, taking the edge off of stress, or numbing what you don’t want to feel at all. Craving isn’t about the substance, it’s about wanting to feel different. You are compromised every day by life’s daily stressors, and if you don’t do anything to feel better, to regulate your nervous system so that you can make better decisions... ...then you will always be prey for alcohol.   Links mentioned in this episode:  Is Angela the right Coach for you? Book A Call Here to find out : addictionunlimited.com/call Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited 3 Stages of Relapse:  addictionunlimited.com/260   Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts “I love Angela & Addiction Unlimited Podcast.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to keep moving forward to the recovery lifestyle they want.  Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!