Why 31 Years Sober Still Wasn’t Enough—Arlina Allen on the Deeper Secret of Recovery

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After 31 years without a drink, bestselling author and recovery coach Arlina Allen realized something powerful: sobriety alone doesn’t guarantee freedom.

In this episode of the Get Unhooked Podcast, Jason Coombs sits down with Arlina to explore what recovery really means beyond abstinence. Arlina shares her journey of hitting bottom at 25, the tough love that saved her, and the simple daily practices that keep her grounded today. Together, they unpack why the 12 steps are so often misunderstood, why emotional sobriety matters just as much as physical sobriety, and how to move from merely surviving to truly living.

What you’ll learn in this conversation:

• Why abstinence doesn’t automatically equal recovery
• The role of mentors and hope in long-term healing
• How “I statements” can transform relationships
• Practical routines that keep recovery sustainable (without perfectionism)
• The real gift of emotional sobriety—and why it matters for families, too

About Arlina Allen:
Arlina is a Certified Coach, bestselling author of The 12-Step Guide for Skeptics, and host of The One Day At A Time Recovery Podcast. She is also the founder of Sober Life School, where she helps people achieve sobriety and create lives they love. With 30 years of research and personal experience, Arlina brings deep insight to the process of transformation. Originally from Sunnyvale, CA, she now lives in Idaho with her husband of 30 years, their two sons, and their silly English Bulldog, Teddy.

Whether you’re in recovery yourself or love someone who is, this episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and practical takeaways you can start using right away.

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📍 Learn more at the12stepguideforskeptics.com

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