Addiction Unlimited Podcast

Why January 1 Isn’t the Answer — and What Actually Moves You Forward It’s New Year’s Eve, and if you’re feeling that familiar pressure—that maybe-this-year-will-be-different energy—I want you to take a deep breath and listen up. Whether you’re planning to drink tonight (even though you don’t really want to), or you’re already sober but looking at 2026 like it’s some kind of test you have to pass… I see you. And here’s what I need you to know: You’re not broken. You’re not behind. You’re just in a stage. In today’s episode, I’m walking you through the Stages of Change—a professional framework used in psychology and addiction recovery that’s going to help you figure out exactly where you are in your journey. Because once you know your stage, you’ll know exactly what to do next. No more spinning your wheels. No more beating yourself up. Just clarity, action, and a path forward. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The 5 stages are: Pre-ContemplationContemplationPreparationActionMaintenance (Spoiler: If you’re listening to this podcast, you’re already past stage 1. But where are you really?) Why people get stuck in contemplation (and the one thing that moves you forward—hint: it’s not more research) The difference between preparation and action (and why support is the bridge between the two) Why January 1st isn’t going to save you (but action will) How to avoid burnout in maintenance (and why my 90-Day Focus Planner is built to help you actually make progress) 🎉Why This Episode Matters Right Now If you’ve been beating yourself up for “not having it figured out yet,” this episode is going to shift everything for you. You’re not failing. You’re not lacking willpower or motivation. You’re just doing the wrong work for the stage you’re in. And once you understand that? Everything changes. 🔗Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Dry January Bootcamp – 31 days of structure, support, and figuring out who you are without alcohol. 90-Day Focus Planner – Built for people who want to make real progress without burning out. Three goals at a time. Coaching with Angela – If you’re ready to stop effing around with starts and stops, book your consultation call and let’s get you the support you need. Join the Facebook Group

Healing, growth, and personal transformation — with or without a label. This episode is the final conversation in The Unlimited Life™ Starter Series — The 10 most powerful episodes from the Addiction Unlimited archives to help you rebuild your rhythm, structure, and emotional peace. And I saved this one for last for a reason. Because what Ian Morgan Cron and I talk about here goes beyond sobriety… Beyond addiction… Beyond labels. This is about transformation. The truth is, everyone has patterns. Whether it’s alcohol, perfectionism, food, control, or people-pleasing — we all have behaviors we use to cope. And the 12 steps offer a framework to heal the emotional root — not just the habit on the surface. You don’t have to be an alcoholic to feel overwhelmed. You don’t have to be a drug addict to crave peace. And you don’t need a label to want something more. This episode is your reminder that you belong in the work of healing — no matter how it looks on the outside. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why the 12 steps work for any human — not just those in addiction What it means to transform your character, not just your habits The truth about higher power — and why you might already have one without realizing it What to do when you feel like you’re “not sick enough” to belong How the 12-step framework helps with emotional sobriety, identity work, and deep personal growth In this episode, I sit down with Ian Morgan Cron, author of The Fix, to talk about how the 12 steps aren’t just for addicts — they’re for humans. 🔥 Links Mentioned: Join the Dry January Bootcamp Book a Call Ian’s Book: The Fix — How the 12 Steps Offer a Surprising Path of Transformation🎧 Original episode post: → addictionunlimited.com/healing-growth-and-freedom-the-12-steps-for-everyone

Exhausted from overthinking everything before you even start? You’re not alone. Well, my friend, I’m going to be really honest with you today – after 400+ episodes, I had absolutely no idea what to talk about for this one. And you know what? That’s actually the most honest thing I could share with you on Christmas Eve. Here’s the truth: Even after 20 years sober, I’m still an alcoholic. I still overthink everything. I still doubt myself. My brain still goes to worst-case scenarios sometimes. The only real difference between me and someone newer to recovery? I’ve had more practice—and I know that everything will be okay. So if you’re exhausted from trying to have it all figured out before you start, if you’re burnt out on constant self-improvement, or if you’re just… tired—this episode is for you. No five-step plan. No worksheets. Just real talk about what it actually looks like to show up when you don’t have all the answers. In this episode, you’ll hear all about: 00:13: Why I had no idea what to talk about today (and why that’s the most honest thing I could share) 02:30: What showing up actually looks like when you’re tired, confused, and a little bit lost 05:40: THE REAL WORK – How we burn through all our energy overthinking before we even start 07:34: Taking it one minute at a time with you, me, and my microphone 09:45: What long-term recovery actually looks like – not the absence of doubt, but the absence of panic about it Listen in, and remember: you’re allowed to just be tired. You’re allowed to not have the answers. And you’re allowed to show up anyway. Welcome to the club, my friend – you’re in great company. Links Mentioned in This Episode: • Dry January Bootcamp – Facebook group opens next week! Get structure, support, and direction one day at a time. addictionunlimited.com/bootcamp (VIP upgrade option available for weekly group coaching) • Book a Call with Angela – Tired of the BS? Tired of crying? Ready for real relief? Let’s talk about working together: addictionunlimited.com/call

Practical tools to manage stress, set boundaries, and stay sober during the most overwhelming time of year. In this episode, we’re talking about why the holiday season is such a perfect storm for stress, exhaustion, and relapse risk — and what actually helps you stay grounded, calm, and sober when everything feels like too much. This isn’t about “just don’t drink” or powering through with willpower. It’s about planning ahead, setting real boundaries, managing your energy, and protecting your sobriety like it actually matters — because it does. These tools are timeless and incredibly relevant right now — especially as we head into the final stretch of the year. HERE ARE THE 3 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE: 1️⃣ Holiday Stress Isn’t the Problem — Lack of Planning Is The holidays don’t sneak up on us. They come at the same time every year. When you plan ahead — for your schedule, your energy, and your triggers — you dramatically reduce overwhelm and vulnerability. 2️⃣ Boundaries Are a Sobriety Tool, Not a Personality Flaw Boundaries around time, conversations, commitments, and how long you stay at events aren’t selfish — they’re how you stay regulated, present, and sober when stress is high. 3️⃣ Rest, Connection, and Support Are Non-Negotiable Sleep deprivation, emotional exhaustion, and isolation make cravings louder. Staying connected to your sober support and refueling your energy keeps you strong when willpower runs out. We’re days away from Christmas. If your energy is low and your stress is high, that doesn’t mean you’re failing — it means it’s time to slow down, simplify, and protect what matters most. Take what you learn today and use it. Planning, boundaries, rest, and connection aren’t optional extras. They’re how sobriety lasts. Links Mentioned in This Episode: 👉 Dry January Bootcamp If you’re done white-knuckling your way through the holidays and into January, Bootcamp gives you structure, support, and a clear plan to protect your sobriety and start the new year strong. 👉 Book a Call If you want personalized support and clarity on next steps, book a call to talk through your options. 👉 Join the Free Facebook Group Connect with others who get it — support, encouragement, and real conversations about sobriety.

If you’re a high-functioning drinker waiting for rock bottom to give you permission to quit, this episode will change everything. Most people think rock bottom is an external event—a DUI, job loss, or divorce. But that’s not what rock bottom actually is, and this misunderstanding is keeping you stuck in a cycle that never ends. In this episode, I break down the real meaning of rock bottom and why waiting for external proof is preventing you from taking action on what you already know. You’ll learn why comparing your life to other people’s disasters keeps you drinking longer, what to listen for in recovery meetings (hint: it’s not the external details), and why the question “Do I really need to quit?” is actually your answer. What You’ll Learn: Key Takeaways: Rock bottom is internal, not external. It’s not about what happens to you—it’s about the moment you realize you can’t live like this anymore, even if your life still looks good from the outside. You’re comparing the wrong things. When you compare your life to other people’s disasters, you’ll always feel like you’re “not that bad.” But when you compare your internal experience—the exhaustion, the mental gymnastics, the constant negotiation with yourself—that’s when you recognize the real problem. External events don’t create clarity—they force action. Most dramatic rock bottom moments are years in the making. There are a million smaller red flags that get rationalized away before the big event happens. You don’t have to wait for the big event. If you’re asking the question, that’s your answer. People without drinking problems never wonder if they need to quit. They don’t think about alcohol constantly, plan their days around it, or spend energy managing and moderating it. If you’re here listening to this, you already know. Episode Highlights: [00:12] The common misunderstanding about rock bottom that keeps high-functioning drinkers stuck [02:00] Why “I’m not that bad” only works if rock bottom is external (spoiler: it’s not) [05:50] The AA meeting trap: comparing external details instead of internal feelings [09:33] What rock bottom actually is: internal, emotional, and the moment you realize you can’t live like this anymore [11:00] My two-year rock bottom and why I waited so long to take action [14:42] If you want to wait until things get worse, they will (and here’s what that looks like) [16:30] The small red flags we rationalize away that lead to bigger disasters [17:50] A client’s rock bottom moment: choosing a drink over playing with his son [19:19] Why asking “Do I really need to quit?” is actually your answer [21:31] The takeaway: You already know. Stop waiting for permission. 🔗 Links Mentioned in This Episode 💥 Dry January Bootcamp (Free!) Get structure, support, and a clear plan to start your alcohol-free life with power. 👉 addictionunlimited.com/bootcamp 🎯 Book a Private Call Ready to stop screwing around and get real results? Let’s talk. 👉 addictionunlimited.com/call 🧣 Cozy Earth – My Favorite Gift to Give (and Receive!) Bedding + loungewear that calms and elevates your space. Use code ANGELA 👉 cozyearth.com

Here’s something nobody tells you about long-term sobriety: your brain doesn’t forget its relationship with alcohol just because you stop drinking. After 19+ years sober, I can still walk into a restaurant and automatically glance at the bar. I can spend 10 minutes with my best friend analyzing five drinks in a hotel cooler. I notice who’s drinking at parties when my non-alcoholic mom never does. And that’s exactly how I know – even after almost two decades – that I still can’t drink. In this episode, I’m breaking down the ONE thing that tells you with 100% certainty whether you can drink again after sobriety. Spoiler: it’s not about time. It’s not about willpower. It’s about how much mental real estate alcohol still occupies in your brain. What You’ll Discover: The “mind space test” – how aware are you of alcohol even when you’re not drinking? Why “normal” drinkers never think about alcohol (and why you can’t stop) How alcohol becomes your higher power without you realizing it Real stories from my own journey – including that champagne bottle I saved to celebrate 30 days sober (yep, I did that) The difference between your brain and a non-alcoholic brain – and why it matters more than sobriety time Why the fact that you’re even asking “can I drink again?” is actually your answer The Bottom Line: Non-alcoholic people don’t wonder if they drink too much. They don’t count down to their next drink. They don’t notice the bar when they walk into restaurants. They don’t plan their social lives around alcohol availability. If you’re still hyperaware of alcohol – whether that’s craving it, avoiding it, or constantly thinking about it – your relationship hasn’t changed. Time doesn’t fix this. Only honesty with yourself does. Struggling with the starts and stops? Book a free call with Angela to explore your options (not a free coaching session, but a real conversation about what might help): addictionunlimited.com/call Connect: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited@addictionunlimited

Why 5pm Feels Impossible (And What To Do About It) Let’s talk about the hardest part of early sobriety: that predictable window of time when the craving hits like a wave and you’re not sure you can ride it out. Maybe it’s 5pm on a Tuesday. Maybe it’s Friday night when everyone’s posting their wine glasses on Instagram. Maybe it’s standing in the parking lot at your kid’s soccer game watching all the other moms with their Stanley cups. In this episode, I’m breaking down what I call the witching hour—that specific time when staying sober feels almost impossible. But here’s the truth: it’s not about the drink. It never was. The drink was the solution you were using for something else—exhaustion, overwhelm, loneliness, anxiety, boredom. I’ll walk you through the four different types of witching hours, what you’re really craving during each one, and most importantly—what to actually DO about it. Because willpower alone won’t get you through this. You need a plan. And if you’re doing nothing, you’re planning to drink. 3 Key Takeaways From This Episode: 1️⃣ The Drink Was Never the Point — When you say “I want a drink,” what you’re actually saying is “I’m exhausted and need to turn my brain off” or “I’m anxious and need relief right now.” Understanding what you’re really craving changes everything. 2️⃣ Different Witching Hours Need Different Tools — The daily 5pm decompression requires different strategies than weekend FOMO or emotional overwhelm. Once you know your type, you can prepare accordingly. 3️⃣ Doing Nothing IS a Plan—It’s a Plan to Drink — If you know your hardest time is Friday at 5pm and you’re sitting back with no strategy, you’re not being neutral. You’re setting yourself up to give in. Proactive planning is non-negotiable. And, if you’re struggling with that daily 5pm crash? I did an entire episode on breaking that specific habit: How to Break the 5PM Drinking Habit Without Losing Your Mind Want structured support to actually implement these strategies? My Recovery Starter Kit walks you through exactly how to set up your environment, calm your mind when triggers hit, build real support, and create a daily rhythm that makes sobriety feel steady instead of shaky. It’s $197 for instant access—plus 30 days free in my Sober Society community. Perfect if you’re white-knuckling it through the holidays and need more than just willpower. And this Friday, a bonus drop from the Unlimited Life Starter Series — the 10 most powerful episodes to rebuild your rhythm, structure, and emotional peace. Is Angela the right Coach for you? Book A Call Here to find out Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited MORE FROM ME Follow me on Instagram @addictionunlimited

You Put Down the Drink, But Now You Can’t Stop Thinking About Food. Here’s Why. If you’ve traded your nightly wine for nightly ice cream binges, you’re not alone. And no, it’s not just about willpower or “getting your act together.” In this episode, I sit down with Ali Shapiro, creator of the Truce with Food methodology, to unpack the real reasons we turn to food and sugar in recovery—and it goes way deeper than you think. Ali shares her personal journey from childhood cancer and pesticide exposure to developing a complicated relationship with food that mirrored so many of the patterns we see in addiction. We dive into the difference between food addiction and disordered eating, why belonging (not hunger) drives most of our food choices, and the four emotional triggers that send us straight to the pantry. This conversation will change how you think about food forever. We talk about the TAIL framework (Tiredness, Anxiety, Inadequacy, Loneliness), why protein is your secret weapon against sugar cravings, and how self-trust—not perfection—is the real foundation of recovery from any substance. If you’ve ever felt crazy around food, ashamed of your eating habits, or wondered why you can’t just “eat normal,” this episode is for you. HERE ARE THE 3 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE: 1️⃣ Food Isn’t the Problem—Belonging Is — Understanding this invisible string changes everything. 2️⃣ The TAIL Framework Reveals Your True Triggers — When you can identify what job food is doing for you, you can address the real need underneath. 3️⃣ Protein Is Your Anti-Craving Superpower — It’s not about willpower—it’s about physiology. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Ready to get serious about transformation? Book a free consultation call to explore how we can work together. Join the Addiction Unlimited Facebook Community — facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited Explore Angela’s Programs + Tools — From courses to coaching, find the right support for your recovery journey. Related Episode: What No One Tells You About Your Eating Habits — Food and fitness expert, Adam Gilbert, sets the record straight on the most common pitfalls of making lifestyle changes and how to overcome them.

How to Stay Sober When You Can’t Control Your Family The holidays don’t threaten your sobriety. Your addiction to control does. In this episode, we’re tossing out the traditional holiday survival guides — no more tips about mocktails or leaving early. Instead, we’re talking about the real threat to your peace: the compulsive need to manage everything and everyone around you. Because if you’re honest, it’s not just Uncle Bob at the punch bowl stressing you out — it’s your internal pressure to make everything go just right. This isn’t about avoiding triggers. It’s about mastering yourself. You’ll learn 8 things you need to STOP trying to control this season — and the ONE thing you can control that changes everything. If you’re ready to protect your peace and stop abandoning yourself in the name of keeping the peace, this is your guide. 🎯 In this episode: • How trying to control others’ drinking is still an addiction behavior • The emotional cost of managing everyone’s comfort but your own • How to set boundaries without apologizing or backtracking • Why “perfect holidays” are a trap — and what success actually looks like • The ONE thing you can control that makes sobriety sustainable This is your permission slip to let go of chaos and reclaim your sanity. You don’t need a strategy. You need ownership. 🎁 Free Resource: Grab the Sober Holiday Podcast Playlist — your go-to episodes on cravings, boundaries, family dynamics, and sober socializing. 👉 addictionunlimited.com/holidayplaylist 👥 Join the Facebook Group: A private space for high-level support, real conversations, and structure after sobriety. 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited 📞 Book a Free Call with Angela: Ready to stop starting over and get serious about relief and recovery? Let’s talk about your next best step. 👉 addictionunlimited.com/call 🚨 BONUS: Don’t miss this Friday’s drop from The Unlimited Life™ Starter Series — 10 powerful episodes to rebuild your rhythm, structure, and emotional peace before the New Year.

Avoid these traps so your recovery doesn’t become a revolving door. Sobriety is just the beginning… and these 6 traps are the exact reason why so many people relapse even when they’re trying to stay sober. In this episode, Angela Pugh breaks down the most common early recovery mistakes that sabotage your progress, wreck your structure, and chip away at your confidence. You’ll learn how to shift from barely hanging on to leading yourself with clarity, consistency, and personal power. Whether you’re 2 weeks in or 2 years sober — this is a must-listen if you want long-term peace without chaos. 🔑 HERE ARE THE 3 KEY TAKEAWAYS: 1️⃣ Recovery Is Biological — Not Just Emotional PAWS (Post-Acute Withdrawal Symptoms) can hijack your energy, mood, and motivation for months. Learn how to support your brain and body so you stop spiraling and start stabilizing. 2️⃣ Bartering = Relapse in Disguise That inner voice that says “just one won’t hurt”? That’s not logic — that’s addiction bartering. You’ll learn exactly how to shut it down with truth and structure. 3️⃣ Fun Isn’t a Luxury — It’s a Requirement You won’t stay sober if you hate your life. This episode gives you permission (and strategy) to build joy into your routine — so recovery feels rewarding, not restrictive. 💡 Resources Mentioned in This Episode: 🎁 Free Recovery Recipe™ Your personal structure for strong sobriety — built around life domains. Download here → addictionunlimited.com/recipe 🗂️ The 90-Day Focus Planner addictionunlimited.com/planner🎧 Related Episode: Are You Being Private About Your Recovery… or Keeping It a Secret? Listen here → addictionunlimited.com/are-you-being-private-about-your-recovery-or-keeping-it-a-secret🧠 Google This Term: Anhedonia — the inability to feel pleasure after quitting drinking. Knowing this one word could explain everything you’re experiencing. 🛠️ Want Support? Book a call with me for private coaching, check out my online course or join the Sober Society community. Learn more → addictionunlimited.com/coaching 🔁 More from Angela: Follow Angela on Instagram → @addictionunlimited Listen to more episodes → addictionunlimited.com/episodes

Waiting to Feel Ready? Why Confidence Follows Action — Not the Other Way Around Still waiting to feel ready before you take that next step?Spoiler alert: that moment may never come — and that’s exactly why this episode is here to shake you out of hesitation and into momentum. Inside this powerful episode of Addiction Unlimited, we'll break down: Why readiness is a myth (and how to stop waiting for it), How confidence is built through action, not preparation, And the daily discipline of doing what needs to be done — even when you don’t feel like it. You’ll walk away with clarity, practical tools, and a renewed sense of ownership over your goals, your emotions, and your next move. This episode is your call to stop waiting, start building, and trust that the path reveals itself as you move. 💡 3 Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ Readiness is Built, Not FoundIf you’re waiting to feel ready — for sobriety, a hard conversation, or your next big step — you’re stuck in a cycle that won’t break itself. Readiness comes after action, not before. 2️⃣ Confidence Follows ActionConfidence doesn’t come from thinking. It comes from doing. And the only way to feel more capable is to show up and prove it to yourself, one action at a time. 3️⃣ Discipline is the BridgeMotivation is fleeting. Discipline is how you stay consistent. Angela shares how to build the muscle of follow-through — even when your brain is throwing every excuse in the book. 💬 Mentioned In This Episode: Book a Coaching Call – In honor of Black Friday, I'm offering exclusive bonuses for those ready for serious transformation.🎁 Mention “Black Friday Bonuses” when we talk!👉 addictionunlimited.com/call Cozy Earth Holiday Picks – Use code ANGELA to stack up to 40% off the world’s softest pajamas, blankets, and gifts.👉 Shop Now 🎧 Bonus Drop This Friday:Don’t miss the next drop from the Unlimited Life Starter Series — 10 powerhouse episodes to rebuild rhythm, structure, and emotional peace.

Sobriety gets you stable — emotional intelligence gets you unstoppable. If you’ve ever felt like you got sober… then life got louder, messier, and more emotionally demanding — this episode is your roadmap. I’m joined by my friend and emotional intelligence powerhouse, Noble Gibbens, to break down why EQ isn’t a nice-to-have in recovery — it’s the foundation of building a life you’re actually proud to live. Noble’s story is wild: military, high performer, “business cult,” decades of people-pleasing… and then a full-blown wake-up call that forced him to confront emotional immaturity head-on. What he learned rebuilt his marriage, rewired his relationships, reshaped his career, and transformed his entire identity. And listen — if you’re sober, even for a day, you know exactly why this matters.Alcohol numbed everything. Sobriety brings all of it back.EQ is how you handle it. This episode is loaded with tools, book recommendations, emotional vocabulary tips, and straight-up truth bombs to help you grow stronger, calmer, and more resilient in your day-to-day life. Plus, I created a full companion guide for you — every resource mentioned in this episode is inside it. Here are 3 Key Takeaways From This Episode: 1️⃣ Emotional Intelligence Is a Skill — Not a Personality Trait You weren’t born knowing how to navigate emotions. No one handed you a manual. EQ is learned, practiced, strengthened, and refined over time — and it becomes your competitive advantage in sobriety and in life. 2️⃣ Self-Awareness Is the First Step (and It’s Usually the Hardest) Most people think they’re self-aware… until they start naming their emotions, tracking their triggers, and seeing how much of their behavior is fueled by fear, people-pleasing, or old survival patterns. Awareness is the doorway to freedom. 3️⃣ Growth Requires Discomfort — But Discomfort Builds Power You can’t emotionally mature without running straight into the stuff you’ve been avoiding for years. But the moment you start doing the work, everything shifts — your relationships, your confidence, your boundaries, your entire sense of self. LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Download the EQ Resource Guide: addictionunlimited.com/eq Book a Free Call with Angela: addictionunlimited.com/call Join the Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited

The Hard Truth About Being "The Helper" (And Why It's Keeping You Stuck) In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood patterns in relationships: codependency. If you've ever felt exhausted from being "the strong one," guilty when you prioritize yourself, or frustrated when someone doesn't take your advice, this conversation is for you. I break down how codependency masquerades as love but is actually a hidden form of control—and how the need to be needed keeps both you and the people you care about stuck. You'll learn to recognize the subtle daily patterns that signal codependency, from checking your phone for someone else's emotional weather to canceling your own plans when someone seems "off." Then, I walk you through the practice of detachment with love—caring deeply while releasing your grip on outcomes. This isn't about being cold or distant. It's about trusting that others have their own path, their own lessons, and their own capacity to grow. I share practical steps like setting real boundaries (yes, you can not respond to every text), tolerating discomfort, and offering support without attachment. Finally, we dive into personal responsibility and emotional independence. You'll discover how to build your own sense of meaning that doesn't depend on being needed, practice self-compassion with the same kindness you give others, and reclaim the energy you've been pouring into everyone else's lives. 🔗 Links Mentioned in This Episode 🎧 Related Episode: Why Your Inner Voice Is So Mean — And How It Affects Your Recovery 💬 Coaching with Angela: Book a Free Solution Call 👥 Community: Join us in the Facebook group

The Same Tool Used by Olympic Athletes & Top Performers to Change Your Life If you’ve ever wondered how elite athletes, top entrepreneurs, and high-performers create insane results… this is it. And no — it’s not woo, it’s not wishful thinking, and it’s not pretending life is perfect. It’s science. And when you learn to use it to rewire your subconscious, override old limiting beliefs, and shift the way you feel about your life… everything changes. Here’s the wild part: Science says 95% of your brain activity is unconscious. That means almost everything you do — your habits, reactions, decisions, fears, beliefs — is driven by the part of your mind you don’t even realize is in control. It’s running old programs.Old stories.Old beliefs you didn’t choose. So the question becomes: How do you work with your subconscious mind to rewrite those stories so you can get MORE of what you want in life… and LESS of what you don’t? This episode breaks the whole thing down for you. You’ll learn: 👉 The neuroscience behind why visualization works(And why your brain treats imagined events like real ones) 👉 How your Reticular Activating System filters your entire life(And how to reprogram it so it works for you) 👉 Why fear + anxiety are just negative visualizations(and how to interrupt that pattern instantly) 👉 A super-simple visualization process you can start todayNo crystals. No chanting. No drama. Just actual science you can use right now. If you’ve been stuck in the start–stop cycle… doubting yourself… or fighting the same old patterns over and over… This tool changes everything. Grab your headphones and let’s dive in, my friend — you’re going to love this one. 🔗 Links Mentioned Book a Call With Angela: https://addictionunlimited.com/call Join the Private Facebook Group: https://facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited Grab the Daily Plan Worksheet: https://addictionunlimited.com/plan

You Might Be a Perfectionist (And It’s Stealing Your Peace) If you’re constantly overthinking, procrastinating, or beating yourself up for not doing “enough” — this episode is going to hit home. Because perfectionism isn’t about having high standards.It’s about control, fear, and anxiety — and it’s quietly running your life behind the scenes. In this episode, we’re exposing how perfectionism shows up in real life (even if you don’t think you’re a perfectionist), where it really comes from, and how to start breaking the cycle. If you’ve ever said: “I just want it to be good…” “I’ll start when I feel ready…” “I can’t screw this up…” …then this one’s for you. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: Why perfectionism is actually a coping mechanism for anxiety How it shows up as procrastination, irritability, people-pleasing, and control Why so many high-functioning sober people feel stuck — even years into recovery How to spot the perfectionist pattern before it steals your peace 6 powerful mindset and structure shifts to move forward without the shame spiral You’ll also hear a personal story from me that cracked this wide open — and gave me a whole new lens on my own fear and vulnerability. If this episode called you out in the best way, share it with a friend, and DM me on Instagram! 💥 Mentioned in this Episode: 🔥 Book a Free Call with Angela --> addictionunlimited.com/call 👉 The Daily Plan to Stay SoberYour daily structure to regulate anxiety, create momentum, and keep your head clear — one page, five minutes, every day. 🛍️ Cozy Earth — Early Black Friday Sale!Get up to 40% off sitewide + stack my code ANGELA at checkout.Shop now at CozyEarth.com

You already know better.So why do you keep saying yes to what you’ll regret tomorrow? In this episode, Angela gets brutally honest about why you keep making decisions that don’t align with who you want to be — and how instant gratification is keeping you stuck in the cycle. This isn’t just about drinking.It’s about how you handle discomfort.Fear, frustration, boredom, anxiety — you’ve trained your brain to escape instead of lead. And that habit?It’s wrecking your confidence, your progress, and your peace. Inside this episode: How instant gratification fuels bad decisions (even sober ones) Why your “first thought” is often the wrong one — and what to do instead What real commitment looks like when you want to protect your peace The power of delayed gratification — and how it builds self-trust You don’t need more willpower.You need structure, discipline, and the courage to lead yourself differently. 🔗 Links List 📅 Book a Free Consultation Callhttps://addictionunlimited.com/call 💬 Join the Facebook Group (Sober Society)https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited 📝 Download my Free Daily Planhttps://addictionunlimited.com/plan

If you're thinking about drinking again — that's the clearest sign you still can't. Maybe you’ve been sober for a while… and you’re starting to wonder if you could handle drinking again.If that thought has crossed your mind — I want you to pause right here and hit play on this episode. We’re talking about the subtle signs that tell you everything you need to know about your relationship with alcohol — even now. In this episode, I’m sharing the addict traits that still show up in my life after almost 20 years sober — and how they confirm, without a doubt, that I’m not someone who can ever drink normally. We’ll talk about: The "more" mentality — when enough is never enough Overthinking and rumination (AKA emotional avoidance) Feeling “less than” no matter how much you accomplish Being extra in everyday ways (and what that really means) Why avoiding hard things in sobriety is just as dangerous as numbing them And we’ll bring it all back to the biggest red flag of all:Just how much mental energy you’re spending thinking about alcohol. You’ll hear the truth about the addict personality: how it still shows up in overthinking, overdoing, compulsive patterns, and that constant hunger for “more.” Because if you’re fantasizing, negotiating, or justifying a future where you might drink again... that’s not healing. That’s the addiction, whispering in a different voice. 🔗 Links List 📅 Book a Free Consultation Callhttps://addictionunlimited.com/call 💬 Join the Facebook Group (Sober Society)https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited 📝 Download the Free Daily Planhttps://addictionunlimited.com/plan

A step-by-step plan to structure your day after quitting drinking. You didn’t just remove alcohol — you removed the thing that used to shape your day, distract your mind, and give you a false sense of control. So what now? If you’re stuck in the cycle of starting over…Or if you’ve been sober for a while but feel like you’re drifting through your days… This episode is for you. I’m walking you through my exact Daily Plan — the structure I use to stay sober, focused, and grounded in my sober power. You’ll learn:✨ What to do when you wake up✨ How to avoid the afternoon crash✨ Why structure creates peace✨ And the #1 mistake that keeps people in relapse loops This isn’t about willpower — it’s about ownership. 🎯 Your Next Step:Don’t just listen — download the free Daily Plan and start putting structure into action.This is where sobriety becomes your strategy. 🔗 Links Mentioned in This Episode 🎯 Download The Daily Plan (Free Tool):addictionunlimited.com/plan 💬 Join the Conversation in the Facebook Group:facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited 📞 Book a Free Discovery Call with Angela:addictionunlimited.com/call

Why character work never ends -- and how to dismantle the ego patterns and excuses keeping you stuck. You don’t do character work once and ride off into a peaceful sober sunset. You don't quit drinking and magically become the healthiest version of yourself. This work never ends. And if that sentence annoyed you a little -- you're exactly who this episode is for. This episode is a wake-up call if you’ve been sober for weeks, months, or years—and life feels flat, repetitive, emotionally dull, like you're just going through the motions. No joy. No spark. No goals. That's a sign your emotional growth has stalled. You’re not fired up about life. You’re avoiding discomfort instead of growing. And your excuses sound really reasonable… but they’re killing your progress. This is where relapse starts—not always with alcohol, but with chaos, overspending, overeating, overworking, control, drama… anything to feel something. That's why this whole idea that "more time sober = more maturity" is garbage. Character isn't measured in time. It's measured in effort and behavior. And plenty of people have a lot of time sober but stop working on themselves - and they'll get stuck just as quick as someone with 10 days sober. Today, we dig into the real problem: it isn’t alcohol anymore. It’s ego, excuses, and emotional stagnation. 🎧 In this episode: (3:00) Sobriety solves the alcohol problem—not the everything underneath it problem (8:00) What ego really is and why a big ego + low self-esteem are the same thing (16:00) The excuse system: how your mind lies to protect your comfort (23:00) What emotional sobriety actually is (not a meme—real psychology) (30:00) The path forward: emotional fitness tools that create real change Sobriety is the foundation. Character is the house. And character gets built by dismantling ego, eliminating excuses, and developing emotional sobriety—the ability to feel everything without being controlled by it. 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode Book a Call with Angela → https://addictionunlimited.com/call Join the Facebook Group → https://www.facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited Listen to this related episode: #396 – How to Take Action When You Don’t Feel Motivated → https://addictionunlimited.com/396

If you’re tired of starting back at day one, this episode will show you how to rebuild habits that last — with structure, not willpower. You don’t need more motivation. You need a better system. This is one of the most downloaded episodes I’ve ever released — and for good reason. Because when life gets hard, we fall into old routines. We wait for motivation to magically reappear. And we keep starting over — again and again. In this episode, I’m walking you through the exact structure I use (and teach my clients) to create habits that actually stick. No fluff. No trendy hacks. Just real, brain-based strategies that work. You’ll learn: How habits form in your brain — and why they’re so hard to break What the habit loop actually is (cue → routine → reward) How to identify your weak spots and reinforce them Why reframing your goals makes all the difference Simple ways to change your environment to support your new life And if you want more on the motivation piece — go listen to the last episode: “How to Take Action When You Don’t Feel Motivated.” That link is in the show notes, too. 🔗 Links Mentioned in This Episode 💬 Sober Society MembershipYour private community for accountability, structure, and serious transformation.👉 addictionunlimited.com/membership 📣 Join the Free Facebook GroupConnect with other high-functioning sober humans on the same path.👉 facebook.com/groups/addictionunlimited 📅 Book a Free Clarity CallReady to get serious? Let’s talk about your goals and map out your next steps.👉 addictionunlimited.com/call 🎧 Episode 396 – How to Take Action When You Don’t Feel MotivatedIf you want more support with motivation, don’t miss this one.👉 addictionunlimited.com/396