In this episode I sit down with John, known online as The Sober Dad, for a powerful and deeply honest conversation about recovery, fatherhood and the emotional work that happens once you put the drink down.

John shares his story with such clarity and humility, and I talk about the moments in my own sobriety when the holidays felt overwhelming and why this season feels different now. Together, we explore what it means to break generational patterns, repair relationships and learn how to show up as the parent you always wanted to be.

We also talk about emotional sobriety, identity shifts and the simple but brave daily actions that keep recovery steady. John’s story is raw and moving, and his commitment to helping others is felt in every word.

My hope is that this conversation gives you strength, hope and a reminder that you do not have to hit rock bottom to decide you are ready for a different life.

Highlights:

(01:42) Introducing John, The Sober Dad, and his story of emotional sobriety

(04:15) The progression of drinking and the moment John saw the truth

(08:52) Why willpower alone was never going to work

(12:40) The relapse that became a turning point in his recovery

(17:18) Fatherhood, identity and the version of you your kids grow up with

(22:55) How John built community, purpose and a sober life that works

Connect with John:

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Soberdadcoaching@gmail.com

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In this episode, I revisit one of the most powerful conversations I have ever recorded about staying sober through the holidays. I share what my drinking used to look like this time of year, how tightly I tied alcohol to celebration, and what it felt like to break a habit I had repeated for decades.

I talk openly about my first sober Thanksgiving, the nerves, the awkwardness, the surprises, and the pride I felt the next morning when I woke up clear and present for the first time in years.

I also walk you through how I approach the holidays now, nearly six years into sobriety. From planning mocktails to setting boundaries to giving myself permission to leave early or take breaks, these tools have helped me feel grounded even when everyone around me is drinking.

My hope is that my story helps you feel less alone and reminds you that you never regret not drinking the next day. Staying sober through the holidays is not easy, but it is absolutely possible, and it can be one of the most meaningful gifts you give yourself.

Highlights:

(01:10) Why alcohol and celebration always felt intertwined for me

(04:22) My first sober holiday season and the anxiety that came with it

(07:15) The small wins that helped me trust I was on the right path

(10:48) Hosting, parties and learning that no one cares what is in my glass

(13:55) My go to strategies for staying sober at holiday events

(17:22) How six years of sobriety changed the way I show up for family and joy

Connect with Kaitlin:

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This episode with Sarah Siegel Kolodziejski is for anyone who has ever thought, this just is not working anymore, even if everything appears fine on the outside.

Sarah is the founder of Pure Clarity and a certified alcohol free and mindset coach who chose to stop drinking in her late 40s, guided not by a dramatic rock bottom but by a quiet, steady inner voice.

Today she supports women 35 and up who want to break the toxic cycle of alcohol and create a life that feels aligned, intentional and emotionally grounded. Sarah shares the private moments that pushed her toward change, the fear of imagining life without alcohol and the emotional spaciousness she discovered once she said enough.

We explore mindful living, wellness practices, the rise of sober curiosity and why alcohol free lifestyles are becoming a cultural shift rather than a passing trend.

If you have been questioning your relationship with alcohol, this conversation offers both understanding and encouragement.

Highlights:

(01:52) The private despair that friends never noticed

(04:26) Why the quiet inner knowing is often the turning point

(07:58) The July Fourth moment that changed everything

(10:33) Finding support when no one seems to understand

(14:50) What sobriety feels like when emotions finally rise

(18:45) Creating Pure Clarity and building a mindful, alcohol free community

connect with Sarah:

www.pureclaritynow.com

Instagram: @pureclaritynow

$500 off any coaching service: https://www.pureclaritynow.com/services-1

Promo code: Stepzero500

Connect with Kaitlin:

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

YOUTUBE CHANNEL

TIKTOK