Episodios

  • When You Can’t Moderate Anymore: A Conversation About Binge Drinking & Becoming Free with Colleen
    Nov 21 2025
    In this episode of Mindful Sobriety: The Podcast, Jane is welcomes back a beloved returning guest, Colleen Clifford—binge-drinking survivor, commercial fisherwoman, and alcohol-free & health coach.Jane and Colleen recorded their first conversation almost exactly a year ago, and since then Jane has reached 1,000 days alcohol-free and Colleen has continued to build a beautiful, full life in her 60s—anchored in sobriety, service, and deep connection.Together they dive into the realities of binge drinking, the terror and science of blackouts, the language we use around suicide, and the courage it takes to ask for help. Colleen shares about her late husband’s death by suicide, her ongoing healing, and how her upcoming book Life Beyond Binge Drinking is part love letter, part wake-up call for anyone caught in the binge cycle. They also talk about Bali retreats, horses, inner child joy, and why life can actually feel more vibrant, playful, and hopeful without alcohol.In This Episode, We Explore:A podcast & sobriety milestoneJane celebrates 1,000 days alcohol-free on the summer solsticeHow growth and self-discovery keep unfolding well beyond the first sober yearColleen’s story: from binge drinking to “life beyond”Her 40-year relationship with alcohol and why she calls herself a “binge drinking survivor”The moment she woke up after driving home drunk with one eye closed—and knew something had to changeWhy the 2% of the time she couldn’t moderate kept her stuck for yearsBlackouts & the brainWhat actually happens in the brain during a blackoutWhy those memories truly are not recoverableHow blackouts fuel denial, shame, and confusion for drinkers and loved onesTalking honestly about suicide & alcoholWhy Colleen uses the language “died by suicide” instead of “committed suicide”How binge drinking can push someone over the edge, especially with underlying mental health strugglesThe compassion of seeing suicide as a tragic outcome of illness, not a moral failingAsking for help when you’re the “strong one”Colleen’s struggle with independence, pride, and the belief that she had to do everything aloneHow hard it can be to receive support when you’re used to being the helperReframing asking for help as an act of courage and a compliment to the people you trustLife at 62: full-hearted, alcohol-free, and evolvingWhy Colleen is genuinely excited about agingRedefining success beyond income: impact, connection, and legacy moments people “never forget”Volunteering with hippotherapy, horses, and the healing power of animal connectionInner child joy & alcohol-free livingHow sobriety reopens space for play, creativity, and natureBali retreat memories, laughing in the water, flowers, animals, and letting the inner child leadGiving yourself permission to be a beginner again and follow what lights you upPractical hope for anyone stuck in a binge cycleThe shame spiral of “I know better, so why can’t I stop?”Gentle first steps: lurking in online groups, turning camera off in meetings, or simply listeningHow coaches, communities, and peer support can help you untangle your “ball of yarn” and take one tiny step forwardResources Mentioned988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.) – Call or text 988 for 24/7 confidential support if you or someone you love is in emotional distress or thinking about suicide.Women for Sobriety – A free, women-centered recovery community and meeting platform.Recovery communities & support options (examples you can link):Recovery DharmaSMART RecoveryAlcoholics Anonymous (AA)Al-Anon (for loved ones of those struggling with addiction)Online alcohol-free communities – Facebook groups and online forums where you can start by simply reading and noticing what resonates.Connect with ColleenEmail: Colleen@purepotential.healthWebsite: purepotential.healthInstagram: @purepotentialhealthLinkedIn: Search “Pure Potential Health – Colleen Clifford”Connect with Jane & Mindful SobrietyInstagram: @janeballardwellnessPodcast: Mindful Sobriety: The Podcast (wherever you listen)Website: www.janewballard.com If You’re Struggling Right NowIf binge drinking, grief, or any kind of binge behavior is weighing on you, you are not alone—and there is real hope. Your first step doesn’t have to be perfect or public. It might be:Listening quietly to an online meetingCreeping in a Facebook group and reading others’ storiesSending a short email to a coach or therapistTelling one trusted person, “I think I need some help”Tiny steps count.Enjoying the Podcast?If this conversation resonated with you, it would mean so much if you would:Follow / Subscribe to Mindful Sobriety: The PodcastRate & review the show on your favorite podcast platformShare this episode with a friend who might need a little hope todayYour support truly helps this message reach more people who are quietly struggling and reminds them that a beautiful, alcohol-free life is absolutely possible. 💛
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    38 m
  • Why Parents are Embracing the Sober-Curious Movement
    Oct 31 2025
    🎙️ Mindful Sobriety with Jane Ballard (stay tuned for more episodes with Amanda Cable coming soon!!)Episode: Why Parents Are Embracing the Sober-Curious MovementHost: Jane Ballard, LCSW-S, CEDS, PMH-C In this solo episode, Jane shares her answers to questions from health journalist Melissa Daly for TheBump.com about why today’s parents—especially millennials and Gen Z—are drinking less and embracing the sober-curious lifestyle.Jane explores how cultural shifts, mental health awareness, and the realities of parenting are influencing a generation to rethink alcohol. With warmth and clinical insight, she breaks down the science behind alcohol’s effects on stress, mood, and attachment—and why choosing to live alcohol-free may be one of the most powerful gifts you can give your children.🌿 Key TopicsWhy “mommy-wine culture” is losing its appealHow alcohol affects attachment and emotional presence in parentingThe physiological and emotional cost of alcohol on stress, mood, and sleepThe rise of alternative connection and wellness practices (like breathwork and sound healing)Practical strategies for decompressing without alcoholWhat it really means to parent with presence, patience, and self-compassion🧠 Jane’s Clinical InsightsAlcohol is a Group 1 carcinogen (in the same category as tobacco and asbestos). There is no safe level of alcohol consumption.For parents, alcohol dulls emotional attunement—making it harder to be responsive, accessible, and engaged (R.A.R.E.), the foundation of secure attachment.Choosing to reduce or eliminate alcohol supports emotional regulation, nervous system balance, and deeper connection with your children.💡 In This Episode, You’ll LearnWhy the sober-curious movement is more than a trend—it’s a cultural shift toward health, connection, and clarity.How to find your community of alcohol-free or sober-curious parents online and in person.Simple ways to decompress in the moment (breathing, movement, fresh air, rest).How to recognize and respond to intrusive thoughts and other perinatal mental health challenges.📚 Mentioned Resources & RecommendationsQuit-Lit (Books for the Sober-Curious)We Are the Luckiest by Laura McKowenPush Off from Here by Laura McKowenQuit Like a Woman by Holly WhitakerThis Naked Mind by Annie GraceWellness Practices Jane MentionsSound Healing & Breathwork: Look for local events or facilitators in your city (try searching “sound healing + [your city]” on Instagram)Insight Timer App: Free meditations and guided breathwork (Jane mentions Taylor Somerville’s work, praised by Elizabeth Gilbert)🌍 Global Perinatal Mental Health ResourcesNo matter where you are, support is available. Below are trusted organizations offering help for postpartum anxiety, depression, and intrusive thoughts:United StatesPostpartum Support International (PSI) — Free helpline: 1-800-944-4773 (text “HELP” to 800-944-4773)CanadaPostpartum Support Canada — Directory of mental health professionals across provincesUnited KingdomPANDAS Foundation — Free helpline and peer support for perinatal mood disordersMind – Perinatal Mental Health — Information and support options for pregnancy and postpartumAustralia & New ZealandPANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) — Helpline: 1300 726 306Mothers Helpers NZ — Postnatal depression programs and online supportIndia & South AsiaPostpartum Support Network India — Education and local counselor directoryThe Mindful Life Practice — Yoga and mindfulness programs for alcohol-free women (founded by Alexandra McRobert)Global & OnlinePostpartum Support International Global Directory — Find certified perinatal mental health providers worldwideMaternal Mental Health Alliance — International nonprofit advancing maternal mental health awareness and policy🕊️ Closing Message“Being alcohol-free isn’t deprivation—it’s liberation. It’s the freedom to show up calm, consistent, and emotionally present for yourself and your family.” — Jane Ballard🔗 Connect with JaneInstagram: @janewballardWebsite: janewballard.comEmail: jane@janewballard.comPodcast: Mindful Sobriety with Jane & AmandaIf this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to like, rate, and review Mindful Sobriety wherever you listen. Your support helps us reach more women and parents who are curious about living with greater clarity, connection, and purpose. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.
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    25 m
  • Finding Friendship and Connection on the Sober Curious Path with Renee and Mara
    Oct 9 2025

    Mindful Sobriety: Friendship, Playfulness & Trust with Renee Adams & Mara DeMauro

    "It’s not about not caring what people think—it’s about not letting it control you."

    Episode: Our first-ever returning-guest duo!

    Guests: Renee Adams & Mara DeMauro

    What You'll Hear: how a decade-long friendship evolved into sober curiosity, business partnership, and a playful approach to growth.

    Episode summary

    Renee and Mara return, this time together, to share the story of a friendship that began in grad school and bloomed into mutual mentorship, a joint podcast, and supportive sobriety paths. We talk about shifting from “am I drinking?” to “how do I want to live?”, navigating social events alcohol-free, what to do when moderation doesn’t stick, and why trust (not certainty) becomes the anchor. Expect honesty, laughter, and plenty of permission to be playful, weird, and fully yourself.

    Highlights & takeaways

    • Seeds take time. One sober wedding reel lit a spark that reshaped Renee’s choices months later. Plant seeds; they sprout when they’re ready.
    • From sober to playful. Mara’s lens has moved from alcohol status to aliveness—silliness, creativity, surfing, and juice-making as present-moment rituals.
    • Sober-ish is valid. Renee names “sober-ish/mindful” as her lane and explains why learning about alcohol’s effects made longer AF stretches feel natural.
    • Community ≠ a crowd. Sometimes it’s just one person who “speaks your language.” Their multifaceted bond—friends, mentors, business partners—keeps each moving.
    • If moderation keeps failing… Treat it as data, not defeat. Scale back triggers, build an “exposure ladder,” and practice discomfort tolerance.
    • Clarity vs. certainty. Sobriety can bring clarity, but it’s trust—in yourself and your path—that carries you through uncertain moments.
    • Rebuilding self-trust. Keep small promises (mocktail plan, leave-early option, walk at craving time). Each follow-through repairs confidence.

    Practical tips mentioned

    • Go in with a plan: check menus for mocktails, have a default order (sparkling water + lime, Coke Zero), and a ride-home/leave-early option.
    • Rehearse out loud: practice how you’ll respond when asked “you’re not drinking?” so it feels authentic in the moment.
    • Reduce load for a season: skip high-trigger settings while you build skills; loneliness/grief are normal—tend to them, don’t white-knuckle.
    • Swap, don’t stop: movement, fresh air, fruit/juicing, creativity, and “four rooms” check-ins (spiritual, creative, physical, mental) as daily anchors.


    Timestamps

    • 00:02 Welcome & why this duo matters
    • 01:47 Mara’s update: from AF focus to playfulness
    • 03:43 Renee’s update: sober-ish, movement, purpose
    • 07:05 Origin story: grad school to co-creators
    • 08:57 The “sober wedding” seed & authenticity
    • 14:25 Practice over perfection: caring without attachment
    • 16:06 Why one true ally beats a big crowd
    • 25:14 Tricky situations & conflict with compassion
    • 27:18 Mocktail plans, rehearsing lines & “data points”
    • 31:01 Exposure ladders, grief, and scaling triggers
    • 36:32 Clarity vs. certainty; choosing trust
    • 38:00 Rituals, the “four rooms,” and playful healing
    • 44:01 Where to find Renee & Mara


    Thank you for listening. We hope you enjoyed this episode!

    Follow @janewballard and @dfwyogagirl on Instagram to stay in touch! And as always, be sure to rate, review and subscribe so we can continue to spread our message far and wide. We are so incredibly grateful for the support of our listeners!

    Connect with our guests

    • Renee Adams: Instagram @coach_radams (Coach_radams) • Website reneeadamscoaching.com
    • Mara DeMauro: Instagram @maradimaro • Website maradimaro.com
    • Their podcast: Nosedive — email topics to nosedivethepod@gmail.com


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    41 m
  • S2 E62 Self Trust 101: The Journey to Inner Peace
    May 16 2025

    In this episode of Mindful Sobriety, Amanda discusses the critical role of self-trust in recovery and personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of rebuilding self-trust through practical steps and mindful practices, encouraging listeners to start small and be consistent. The conversation highlights the journey of self-trust as a process of remembering one's true self and cultivating inner peace.

    Sound Bites

    • "Self-trust allows us to stay grounded."
    • "Start small, trust grows from consistency."
    • "Lean into love instead of fear."

    Takeaways

    • Self-trust is essential for recovery and personal growth.
    • Lack of self-trust can lead to inner chaos and shame.
    • Rebuilding self-trust involves making and keeping small commitments.
    • Mindful pauses can help in recognizing fear versus love in decision-making.
    • Daily affirmations can reinforce self-trust and positive thinking.
    • Consistency is key to rebuilding self-trust over time.
    • Journaling can help identify areas of misalignment and promote self-awareness.
    • Compassion is crucial in the journey of rebuilding self-trust.
    • Self-trust is a journey, not a destination.
    • It's important to show up for yourself in every moment.


    Chapters

    00:00
    Rebuilding Self-Trust in Recovery

    04:14
    Practical Steps to Rebuild Self-Trust

    10:30
    The Journey of Self-Trust

    11:51
    Mindful Sobriety Pod Intro .mp4

    11:52
    outro_ready to publish_riverside.mp4

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    12 m
  • Grace, Self-Worth & Sobriety: Rewriting the Recovery Narrative with Author Chris Janssen
    May 5 2025

    In this powerful episode of Mindful Sobriety, Jane sits down with author and advocate Chris Jansen to explore the deeply personal journey behind her book Grace Yourself. Chris shares her experience navigating addiction, the struggle with moderation, and how sobriety became a path back to joy, freedom, and authenticity.

    Together, we unpack the transformative power of grace, self-compassion, and community, and why self-worth is the foundation for lasting recovery. Chris speaks candidly about the danger of limiting beliefs, the liberation in rewriting your story, and why addiction is not a moral failure.

    Whether you're on your own path of recovery or supporting someone you love, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and empowerment. You are worthy. You are not alone. And healing is always possible.

    ✨ What You’ll Hear:

    • Why grace is a radical act of self-love
    • The harm of moderation for some and the freedom of abstinence
    • How to reframe limiting beliefs and reclaim your narrative
    • Why community is a cornerstone of sustainable sobriety
    • The cultural shift happening around alcohol—and how we can lead it
    • A reminder that you were born worthy

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction to Chris Jansen and Her Journey

    01:49
    The Inspiration Behind 'Grace Yourself'

    06:08
    Understanding Self-Worth and Addiction

    10:22
    The Concept of Grace and Self-Compassion

    15:13
    Chris's Relationship with Alcohol

    20:49
    Finding Freedom in Sobriety

    23:04
    Understanding Limiting Beliefs About Alcohol

    25:46
    Rewriting the Narrative: Changing Your Story

    28:58
    The Power of Community in Recovery

    31:11
    Navigating Different Recovery Paths

    36:08
    The Importance of Agency and Choice

    39:48
    Cultural Shifts Around Alcohol Consumption

    41:39
    Recognizing Inherent Worth Beyond Addiction

    Thank you for listening. We hope you enjoyed this episode!

    Follow @janewballard and @dfwyogagirl on Instagram to stay in touch! And as always, be sure to rate, review and subscribe so we can continue to spread our message far and wide. We are so incredibly grateful for the support of our listeners!

    Meet Chris!

    Chris Janssen, MA, BCC, is a USA Today bestselling author and board-certified performance and mindset coach. With a master’s in counseling psychology and experience on Tony Robbins’ elite coaching team, Chris helps high-achieving perfectionists overcome self-sabotage and thrive under pressure. Her work has been featured in USA Today, Newsweek, Thrive Global, and more. A California native, Chris lives with her husband Scott and enjoys skiing, golf, horses, and outdoor adventures.

    Connect with Chris at chrisjanssencoaching.com or follow her for more inspiration on Instagram! Grab your copy of Grace Yourself today!

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    42 m
  • Empty Nest, Full Heart: Mel’s Journey to Alcohol-Free Living
    Apr 17 2025
    In this heartfelt episode of Mindful Sobriety, Jane sits down with the radiant Mel Warrener to explore her powerful and personal path to alcohol-free living. Mel opens up about her earliest memories with alcohol, the moment she knew something had to change, and the beautiful unfolding of her life in sobriety. They talk about the ripple effects of healing—how her family relationships shifted, how she reconnected with her true self, and how she's now supporting other women through coaching. Her story is a testament to the power of community, the necessity of self-awareness, and the truth that it’s never too late to rewrite your story.Whether you're sober curious, newly alcohol-free, or deep into your journey, Mel’s insight will meet you where you are—with empathy, grace, and a whole lot of encouragement.💡 Takeaways from Our Conversation:Mel’s wake-up call came with a simple truth: “I can’t live like this anymore.”She found strength and solace in a community of women who got it.Sobriety was her turning point—and everything changed from there.Self-awareness became her superpower in understanding her patterns.Life after alcohol brought her clarity, deeper relationships, and purpose.A strong toolkit of coping skills helps her navigate triggers and tough days.Her family life shifted in the best ways once she embraced sobriety.Mel reminds us that connection is the antidote—we’re not meant to do this alone.Ongoing growth and healing are part of the journey—there’s no finish line.Her story proves that it's never too late to choose joy, presence, and freedom.🔖 Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome to Mindful Sobriety 02:16 – Mel’s Journey to Alcohol-Free Living 10:41 – Family Dynamics Before & After Sobriety 16:32 – The Moment Everything Changed 22:22 – Navigating Social Situations Without Alcohol 29:22 – Finding Support in Community 30:32 – A Life Transformed 33:39 – Rediscovering Who She Is Without Alcohol 36:17 – Confidence, Courage, and Change 39:15 – The Ripple Effects on Family 43:46 – Redefining Relationships Through a Sober Lens 49:19 – Joy, Peace, and Presence 53:17 – Awareness, Growth, and the Power of Connection 01:00:12 – Wrapping UpThank you for listening. We hope you enjoyed this episode!Follow @janewballard and @dfwyogagirl on Instagram to stay in touch! And as always, be sure to rate, review and subscribe so we can continue to spread our message far and wide. We are so incredibly grateful for the support of our listeners!Meet Mel! Mel is a former daily wine drinker turned alcohol-free coach who helps women break free from alcohol and navigate life after drinking to build a life they truly want and love.Once stuck in a cycle of stress, exhaustion, and feeling controlled by wine, Mel believed she had entered her era of decline—lacking ambition and resigned to a life where alcohol played a central role. But everything changed.Now, Mel craves adventure, connection, and community. She has emerged from the grip of alcohol as a powerful, accountable woman who no longer needs alcohol to cope. Her lived experience fuels her coaching, where she supports women through every stage of alcohol-free living—whether they’re just curious, taking a break, or quitting for good.Mel guides her clients to see, feel, and hear what life without alcohol can be—because it’s not just possible, it’s incredible.If you're ready to live with freedom, a fresh outlook, and the energy to create a life you truly love, Mel is here to help.Mel's favorite inspirational reads:The Well Lived Life by Gladys McGarey, MDAny book by Brene BrownWisdom at Work by Chip Conley How to reinvent the second half of your careerThe Motivation Manifesto: 9 Declarations to Claim Your Personal Power by Brendon BurchardBook yourself solid by Michael Port. A great book for anyone going into a service-based businessEuphoric: Ditch Alcohol and Gain a Happier, More Confident You by Karolina RzadkowolskaConnect with Mel on Instagram or find her at https://www.melwarrener.com.au/
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    51 m
  • What is Spirituality & Why it Matters with Suzie Jari
    Apr 3 2025

    In this conversation, Suzie Jary shares her journey from a career in dance to becoming a licensed clinical social worker, emphasizing the importance of community, spirituality, and personal growth in recovery. She discusses her experiences in the theater, the role of sobriety in her professional life, and the significance of finding a supportive community. Suzie also reflects on the challenges of acceptance and loss, the power of self-inquiry, and the hope that comes from resilience in recovery.


    • Suzie's journey into social work was influenced by her personal experiences with addiction.
    • Community and support are crucial in the recovery process.
    • Sobriety can coexist with a fulfilling professional life in creative fields.
    • Education plays a vital role in becoming a licensed counselor.
    • Spirituality can be a guiding force in recovery.
    • Different recovery paths work for different individuals.
    • Acceptance of loss is a significant part of healing.
    • Self-inquiry and humility are essential for personal growth.
    • Hope and resilience are key themes in recovery.
    • Finding the right community can make a significant difference in one's journey.


    • "Go where it's warm."
    • "I always was seeking that."
    • "I didn't get my way."
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    24 m
  • How The Sober New Yorker Turned a Health Scare into the Best Decision of Her Life
    Mar 20 2025

    Have you ever received frightening news from your doctor?

    Did it spur you into action?

    Today Jane sits down with alcohol-free speaker, podcaster and life coach Melissa McGovern, also known as The Sober New Yorker, to share her transformative journey from gray area drinking to a vibrant, alcohol-free life. Melissa opens up about how grief and personal loss influenced her drinking habits, the pivotal moment when a doctor’s warning about her liver health became a wake-up call, and the profound changes she experienced after choosing sobriety.

    The conversation explores the power of community in sobriety, the unexpected joys of traveling alcohol-free, and the ways in which quitting drinking has strengthened her relationships—including her marriage. Melissa emphasizes the importance of trusting the process, seeking support, and embracing the possibility of a life richer and more fulfilling than she ever imagined.

    This episode offers inspiration and encouragement for anyone questioning their relationship with alcohol or seeking a fresh perspective on what’s possible in an alcohol-free life.

    TAKEAWAYS

    • Sobriety is not just about quitting drinking; it's about reclaiming your life.
    • Loss and grief can significantly impact drinking habits.
    • Community support is crucial in the journey to sobriety.
    • Health warnings can serve as a wake-up call for change.
    • An alcohol-free lifestyle can lead to improved physical health.
    • Building alcohol-free friendships can create deeper connections.
    • Traveling sober can enhance experiences and connections with others.
    • It's important to trust your future self in the journey of sobriety.
    • Embracing sobriety can strengthen relationships and improve family dynamics.
    • Finding joy and fulfillment in life is possible without alcohol.

    WHAT WE DISCUSS:

    00:00 Introduction to the Alcohol-Free Journey
    03:03 Living in New York City: A Unique Perspective
    05:41 The Journey to Alcohol-Free Living
    08:10 The Impact of the Pandemic on Drinking Habits
    10:51 Facing Loss and Its Consequences
    13:43 Turning Point: A Decision for Change
    16:19 Seeking Help and Medical Guidance
    19:06 The Road to Recovery and Transformation
    21:52 Finding Purpose and Motivation
    24:25 Honoring a Friend's Memory Through Change
    26:04 Embracing a New Life After Alcohol
    27:09 Finding Community and Empowerment
    29:20 The Depth of Alcohol-Free Friendships
    30:27 The Journey to Sobriety: Timing and Acceptance
    31:29 The Power of Social Media in Sobriety
    32:23 Building New Habits and Routines
    33:49 Empowerment in Midlife: A New Perspective
    35:46 Healing Through Retreats and Travel
    41:43 Marriage and Relationships in Sobriety
    47:17 Advice to My Younger Self

    Thank you for listening. We hope you enjoyed this episode!

    Follow @janewballard and @dfwyogagirl on Instagram to stay in touch! And as always, be sure to rate, review and subscribe so we can continue to spread our message far and wide. We are so incredibly grateful for the support of our listeners!

    Learn More About Melissa!

    Melissa considered herself a classic gray area drinker who from the outside seemed to have it all together. Her drinking ramped up in the pandemic when she lost her best friend and a routine visit to the doctor revealed some startling blood test results. She decided to turn her setback into a comeback, ditched the booze, made drastic behavioral changes and completely turned around her health in just three short months. She felt so good that she kept going and today she is a certified alcohol free mindset coach helping women like herself make the badass choice to live and thrive in an alcohol free life. She has made NYC her home for the last 30 years and now proudly goes by the title "The Sober New Yorker". When she isn't helping revolutionize the world, you can find her taking in a Broadway show, walking in Riverside Park, or spending time with her two grown children and husband John.

    Connect with Melissa on Instagram @thesobernewyorker or find her at thesobernewyorker.com!

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    51 m