<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:psc="http://podlove.org/simple-chapters" xmlns:podcast="https://podcastindex.org/namespace/1.0"><channel><title><![CDATA[SLAYINGSOBERPOD]]></title><description><![CDATA[We tell stories of Addiction, Recovery and Hope]]></description><link>https://riverside.com</link><generator>Riverside.fm (https://riverside.com)</generator><lastBuildDate>Sat, 16 May 2026 01:14:49 GMT</lastBuildDate><atom:link href="https://api.riverside.com/hosting/JAMMrKXr.rss" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><author><![CDATA[James Date]]></author><pubDate>Tue, 16 Sep 2025 05:30:22 GMT</pubDate><copyright><![CDATA[2025 James Date]]></copyright><language><![CDATA[en]]></language><ttl>60</ttl><category><![CDATA[Education]]></category><category><![CDATA[Health & Fitness]]></category><itunes:author>James Date</itunes:author><itunes:summary>We tell stories of Addiction, Recovery and Hope</itunes:summary><itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type><itunes:owner><itunes:name>James Date</itunes:name><itunes:email>james@zero3.net.au</itunes:email></itunes:owner><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:category text="Education"/><itunes:category text="Health &amp; Fitness"/><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><item><title><![CDATA[Groomed By A Celebrity Overdosed at 19, and Stayed Silent for 25 Years | Mark Porter ]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>At 19, Mark Porter trusted an older mentor he met through a support line.</p><p>What happened next would shape the next 25 years of his life.</p><p></p><p>In this deeply emotional episode of Slaying Sober, Mark shares his story of grooming, sexual assault, addiction, overdose, depression, and the long journey toward healing and recovery.</p><p></p><p>The man he says assaulted him would later become a nationally known football personality — while Mark suffered in silence.</p><p></p><p>This episode is raw, confronting, and ultimately hopeful.</p><p></p><p>Topics discussed:</p><p>• Childhood &amp; identity struggles</p><p>• Grooming &amp; abuse trauma</p><p>• Addiction &amp; overdose</p><p>• Mental health battles</p><p>• Silence, shame &amp; survival</p><p>• Recovery &amp; healing</p><p></p><p> Trigger Warning: Sexual abuse, addiction, overdose, depression, suicide, and trauma.</p><p></p><p>If this conversation moved you, please subscribe, like, and share to help more people feel less alone.</p><p></p><p>Follow Slaying Sober for more powerful stories of recovery and resilience.</p><p></p><p>#SlayingSober #MarkPorter #Podcast #TraumaRecovery #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #SurvivorStory #HealingJourney #RecoveryPodcast #TrueStory #EmotionalInterview #MentalHealthMatters #OverdoseAwareness #SpeakYourTruth #PodcastEpisode #LifeStory #RecoveryJourney #YouAreNotAlone #AustralianPodcast #Storytelling</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">5876d4c3-0b95-4c97-9bc8-ddc8aa4811f4</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 04:02:36 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/11c251fad517ce48f504cce645e99897e38e4db750b4244b8ccf306af174ba70/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiI1ODc2ZDRjMy0wYjk1LTRjOTctOWJjOC1kZGM4YWE0ODExZjQiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNmEwNTQ3YjFmNzUxMWZlNGZjNjYwMGNjL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTUtMTRfXzUtNTUtMjkubXAzIn0=.mp3" length="53712918" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/episodes/5876d4c3-0b95-4c97-9bc8-ddc8aa4811f4/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;At 19, Mark Porter trusted an older mentor he met through a support line.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What happened next would shape the next 25 years of his life.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this deeply emotional episode of Slaying Sober, Mark shares his story of grooming, sexual assault, addiction, overdose, depression, and the long journey toward healing and recovery.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The man he says assaulted him would later become a nationally known football personality — while Mark suffered in silence.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This episode is raw, confronting, and ultimately hopeful.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Topics discussed:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Childhood &amp;amp; identity struggles&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Grooming &amp;amp; abuse trauma&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Addiction &amp;amp; overdose&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Mental health battles&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Silence, shame &amp;amp; survival&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Recovery &amp;amp; healing&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt; Trigger Warning: Sexual abuse, addiction, overdose, depression, suicide, and trauma.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If this conversation moved you, please subscribe, like, and share to help more people feel less alone.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Follow Slaying Sober for more powerful stories of recovery and resilience.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#SlayingSober #MarkPorter #Podcast #TraumaRecovery #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #SurvivorStory #HealingJourney #RecoveryPodcast #TrueStory #EmotionalInterview #MentalHealthMatters #OverdoseAwareness #SpeakYourTruth #PodcastEpisode #LifeStory #RecoveryJourney #YouAreNotAlone #AustralianPodcast #Storytelling&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:27:58</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:title>Groomed By A Celebrity Overdosed at 19, and Stayed Silent for 25 Years | Mark Porter </itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Magic Of Soberity | Fame, Alcohol, Hope & Curiosity | Ben Murphy ]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>Alright—here’s a more high-impact, “top YouTuber style” description (think storytelling + hooks + retention + SEO):</p><p></p><p></p><p>---</p><p></p><p>YouTube Description:</p><p></p><p>What if the life everyone envies… is the one quietly breaking you?</p><p></p><p>In this episode of Slaying Sober, magician, illusionist, and media personality Ben Murphy reveals the truth behind the spotlight—where sold-out shows, red carpets, and celebrity status collide with loneliness, addiction, and inner chaos.</p><p></p><p>From being a bullied kid searching for belonging…</p><p>to becoming a global performer living the “rockstar lifestyle”…</p><p>Ben shares how alcohol slowly became his escape—and his prison.</p><p></p><p>But here’s the turning point:</p><p>After hitting rock bottom, Ben chose a different path. Today, he’s over 6 years sober—and his perspective will challenge everything you think you know about happiness, success, and control.</p><p></p><p>💬 “Even my worst day sober is better than my best day drunk.”</p><p></p><p>This conversation is raw, funny, emotional—and real. If you’ve ever felt lost, overwhelmed, or stuck in a cycle you can’t break… this one’s for you.</p><p></p><p></p><p>---</p><p></p><p>⚡ Why You Should Watch: • The dark side of fame no one talks about</p><p>• How addiction rewires your thinking</p><p>• The truth about loneliness and identity</p><p>• A real, honest sobriety journey (no filters)</p><p>• Practical mindset shifts that can change your life</p><p></p><p></p><p>---</p><p></p><p>📢 If this hits you… Subscribe for more real stories. Share it with someone who needs it. You might change a life.</p><p></p><p></p><p>---</p><p></p><p>🔍 Keywords (SEO):</p><p>addiction recovery story, sobriety motivation, mental health podcast, inspirational life story, alcohol addiction help, self improvement mindset, emotional storytelling, success vs happiness</p><p>#AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #MentalHealth #Motivation #PodcastClips #SelfImprovement #Inspiration #LifeStory #Healing #StayStrong</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">007629cc-41c0-4220-9aa4-da14ed1bd899</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 02:55:17 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/a5b3dcb71774f050c2f72666fc0b79404548d2eca17ffbecdd9ba5cf888e5655/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiIwMDc2MjljYy00MWMwLTQyMjAtOWFhNC1kYTE0ZWQxYmQ4OTkiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjlmNjhhNmJiMTgzZTA2NGVkY2E1YTdkL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTUtM19fMS0zNi0xMS5tcDMifQ==.mp3" length="111031841" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/episodes/007629cc-41c0-4220-9aa4-da14ed1bd899/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;Alright—here’s a more high-impact, “top YouTuber style” description (think storytelling + hooks + retention + SEO):&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;---&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;YouTube Description:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What if the life everyone envies… is the one quietly breaking you?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this episode of Slaying Sober, magician, illusionist, and media personality Ben Murphy reveals the truth behind the spotlight—where sold-out shows, red carpets, and celebrity status collide with loneliness, addiction, and inner chaos.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;From being a bullied kid searching for belonging…&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;to becoming a global performer living the “rockstar lifestyle”…&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Ben shares how alcohol slowly became his escape—and his prison.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;But here’s the turning point:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;After hitting rock bottom, Ben chose a different path. Today, he’s over 6 years sober—and his perspective will challenge everything you think you know about happiness, success, and control.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;💬 “Even my worst day sober is better than my best day drunk.”&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This conversation is raw, funny, emotional—and real. If you’ve ever felt lost, overwhelmed, or stuck in a cycle you can’t break… this one’s for you.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;---&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;⚡ Why You Should Watch: • The dark side of fame no one talks about&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• How addiction rewires your thinking&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• The truth about loneliness and identity&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• A real, honest sobriety journey (no filters)&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Practical mindset shifts that can change your life&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;---&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;📢 If this hits you… Subscribe for more real stories. Share it with someone who needs it. You might change a life.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;---&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🔍 Keywords (SEO):&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;addiction recovery story, sobriety motivation, mental health podcast, inspirational life story, alcohol addiction help, self improvement mindset, emotional storytelling, success vs happiness&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #MentalHealth #Motivation #PodcastClips #SelfImprovement #Inspiration #LifeStory #Healing #StayStrong&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:57:50</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:title>The Magic Of Soberity | Fame, Alcohol, Hope &amp; Curiosity | Ben Murphy </itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bleeding out To Breaking Free from Pain to Purpose | Catilin Story]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>Now I have a thorough understanding of the full episode. Here's the SEO-optimised YouTube description with timestamps:</p><p></p><p>---</p><p></p><p>**She Was Stabbed, Bled Out, and Saw the White Light — Then She Chose Recovery | Caitlin's Story**</p><p></p><p>Caitlin spent 17 years buried in addiction, crime, and survival mode — dealing to get by, using to cope, and convinced her life would end in a jail cell or a coffin. Then one night, it almost did.</p><p></p><p>Set up by her supposed best friend, Caitlin found herself in a fight that ended with a knife. Her arm was slashed open, her shoes were filling with her own blood, and as a former first responder, she knew exactly how close to death she was. In the back of an ambulance, high and bleeding out, she saw the white light — and heard her dad's voice.</p><p></p><p>She came back. But recovery didn't start there. That came later, after more chaos, more pain, and a courtroom that gave her one final chance.</p><p></p><p>Today, Caitlin is one year clean. She's building Caitlin 2.0 — a woman who's found real connection, fellowship, serenity, and a reason to actually want to be alive.</p><p></p><p>This is one of the most raw, real, and redemptive stories we've ever shared on Slaying Sober.</p><p></p><p>---</p><p></p><p>⚠️ *Trigger Warning: This episode contains honest discussion of drug use, violence, self-harm ideation, and addiction. Please take care of yourself.*</p><p></p><p>---</p><p></p><p>**⏱️ Timestamps**</p><p></p><p>00:00 – Introduction &amp; Caitlin's story teaser</p><p>02:20 – Trigger warning</p><p>02:38 – Meet Caitlin — where it all began</p><p>03:17 – A chaotic childhood: an addicted father &amp; constant fear</p><p>04:16 – First drink, first drugs — and dealing at school in Year 8</p><p>07:00 – Biological dad's influence and early criminal exposure</p><p>18:37 – The night she was set up — and the knife</p><p>20:22 – The fight, the stabbing, and bleeding out in her shoes</p><p>21:41 – "I knew I had minutes to live" — a former first responder saves herself</p><p>22:09 – Blood in her shoes, guiding others to save her life</p><p>29:30 – Mixing heroin, ice, and GHB to cope with the trauma</p><p>30:38 – Waking up in the ambulance and begging them not to resuscitate her</p><p>31:07 – Seeing the other side — and not wanting to come back</p><p>31:51 – Rehab, the pink cloud, and choosing life</p><p>32:21 – What sobriety has given her: connection, belonging, identity</p><p>38:43 – "If I can do it, anyone can" — 17 years of crime and chaos to 1 year clean</p><p>39:23 – The court case: trafficking charges, a CCO, and her last chance</p><p>41:33 – Sharing your story IS recovery — one person, one life changed</p><p>42:22 – What would you say to little Caitlin?</p><p>43:07 – Closing thoughts &amp; thank you</p><p></p><p>---</p><p></p><p>🎙️ **Subscribe to Slaying Sober** so you never miss a story that could change someone's life.</p><p>📲 Follow us on Instagram: [@SlayingSoberpod](https://instagram.com)</p><p>🔔 Hit the bell so these stories find the people who need them most.</p><p></p><p>---</p><p></p><p>\#SlayingSober #AddictionRecovery #SoberLife #RecoveryStory #DrugAddiction #TrueStory #SoberCommunity #PutTheShovelDown #NarcoticsAnonymous #RecoveryPodcast #AddictionAwareness #CleanAndSober #SoberInspiration #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryIsPossible</p><p></p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">974ee531-9ba9-4fc2-a1f4-5391255dc8e3</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/4d2867aa1e08b6082b1731ca9305546ec6cd90d7686bf1bf8a49ab5bbf59b42c/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiI5NzRlZTUzMS05YmE5LTRmYzItYTFmNC01MzkxMjU1ZGM4ZTMiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjlmMmQyMmFhZDk3NWVlMDdjZWY0M2YyL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTQtMzBfXzUtNTMtMTQubXAzIn0=.mp3" length="83053653" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/episodes/974ee531-9ba9-4fc2-a1f4-5391255dc8e3/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;Now I have a thorough understanding of the full episode. Here&apos;s the SEO-optimised YouTube description with timestamps:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;---&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;**She Was Stabbed, Bled Out, and Saw the White Light — Then She Chose Recovery | Caitlin&apos;s Story**&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Caitlin spent 17 years buried in addiction, crime, and survival mode — dealing to get by, using to cope, and convinced her life would end in a jail cell or a coffin. Then one night, it almost did.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Set up by her supposed best friend, Caitlin found herself in a fight that ended with a knife. Her arm was slashed open, her shoes were filling with her own blood, and as a former first responder, she knew exactly how close to death she was. In the back of an ambulance, high and bleeding out, she saw the white light — and heard her dad&apos;s voice.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;She came back. But recovery didn&apos;t start there. That came later, after more chaos, more pain, and a courtroom that gave her one final chance.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Today, Caitlin is one year clean. She&apos;s building Caitlin 2.0 — a woman who&apos;s found real connection, fellowship, serenity, and a reason to actually want to be alive.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This is one of the most raw, real, and redemptive stories we&apos;ve ever shared on Slaying Sober.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;---&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;⚠️ *Trigger Warning: This episode contains honest discussion of drug use, violence, self-harm ideation, and addiction. Please take care of yourself.*&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;---&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;**⏱️ Timestamps**&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;00:00 – Introduction &amp;amp; Caitlin&apos;s story teaser&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;02:20 – Trigger warning&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;02:38 – Meet Caitlin — where it all began&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;03:17 – A chaotic childhood: an addicted father &amp;amp; constant fear&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;04:16 – First drink, first drugs — and dealing at school in Year 8&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;07:00 – Biological dad&apos;s influence and early criminal exposure&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;18:37 – The night she was set up — and the knife&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;20:22 – The fight, the stabbing, and bleeding out in her shoes&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;21:41 – &quot;I knew I had minutes to live&quot; — a former first responder saves herself&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;22:09 – Blood in her shoes, guiding others to save her life&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;29:30 – Mixing heroin, ice, and GHB to cope with the trauma&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;30:38 – Waking up in the ambulance and begging them not to resuscitate her&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;31:07 – Seeing the other side — and not wanting to come back&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;31:51 – Rehab, the pink cloud, and choosing life&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;32:21 – What sobriety has given her: connection, belonging, identity&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;38:43 – &quot;If I can do it, anyone can&quot; — 17 years of crime and chaos to 1 year clean&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;39:23 – The court case: trafficking charges, a CCO, and her last chance&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;41:33 – Sharing your story IS recovery — one person, one life changed&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;42:22 – What would you say to little Caitlin?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;43:07 – Closing thoughts &amp;amp; thank you&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;---&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🎙️ **Subscribe to Slaying Sober** so you never miss a story that could change someone&apos;s life.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;📲 Follow us on Instagram: [@SlayingSoberpod](https://instagram.com)&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🔔 Hit the bell so these stories find the people who need them most.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;---&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;\#SlayingSober #AddictionRecovery #SoberLife #RecoveryStory #DrugAddiction #TrueStory #SoberCommunity #PutTheShovelDown #NarcoticsAnonymous #RecoveryPodcast #AddictionAwareness #CleanAndSober #SoberInspiration #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryIsPossible&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:43:15</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:title>Bleeding out To Breaking Free from Pain to Purpose | Catilin Story</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Slaying Sober | You Don't Have to Lose Everything | Amber M. Hollingsworth]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>.</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">0d78f244-b90c-410b-a02b-c55ebd732a25</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 11 Apr 2026 03:25:06 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/68048848cec3667544cee3e6c499c4a371404edf258c3b0260d315ba2bbdc052/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiIwZDc4ZjI0NC1iOTBjLTQxMGItYTAyYi1jNTVlYmQ3MzJhMjUiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjlkOTFjNWNiZDczMDFlYWQwNzdiZDcxL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTQtMTBfXzE3LTUwLTUyLm1wMyJ9.mp3" length="66661921" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/episodes/0d78f244-b90c-410b-a02b-c55ebd732a25/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:46:18</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:episode>36</itunes:episode><itunes:title>Slaying Sober | You Don&apos;t Have to Lose Everything | Amber M. Hollingsworth</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[From $220k Loss To Lifelong Recovery ]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>He turned $2,000 into a $220,000 loss… and almost lost his life.</p><p></p><p>What started as a “safe bet” on a winning horse spiraled into a devastating gambling addiction that destroyed savings, trust, and nearly everything he loved.</p><p></p><p>In this raw and emotional episode, Shaun shares how one decision in 2018 triggered a downward spiral — losing $90,000 in savings, draining his future, and battling the darkest moments of his life.</p><p></p><p>But this isn’t just a story about loss…</p><p>It’s a story about addiction, survival, and fighting back.</p><p></p><p>Real story of losing $220,000 in just 3 years</p><p></p><p>The hidden truth about online gambling addiction</p><p></p><p>What actually happens inside a gambler’s mind</p><p></p><p>From rock bottom → recovery and hope</p><p></p><p>Lessons that could save YOU or someone you love</p><p></p><p>🚨 This Episode Covers</p><p></p><p>The moment everything changed</p><p></p><p>Chasing losses &amp; the “winning illusion”</p><p></p><p>How addiction rewires your thinking</p><p></p><p>Impact on family, trust &amp; mental health</p><p></p><p>Suicide attempts &amp; hitting rock bottom</p><p></p><p>Recovery tools that helped him survive</p><p></p><p>Gambling isn’t just entertainment.</p><p>It’s a silent addiction that can take everything from you before you even realize it.</p><p></p><p>If this story resonates with you, you are NOT alone.</p><p></p><p>❤️ Support &amp; Share</p><p>If this episode helps even one person… it’s worth it.</p><p>👉 Like, Comment &amp; Subscribe</p><p>👉 Share with someone who needs to hear this</p><p></p><p></p><p>#GamblingAddiction #AddictionRecovery #TrueStory #MentalHealth #LifeLessons #StopGambling #RecoveryJourney #RealStory #PodcastClips #SelfControl #Motivation #Awareness #DarkTruth #YouTubeShorts</p><p></p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">ede41fce-e588-4e7b-966e-bd0f2399a4b7</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 05:25:22 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/2c7e0af3c0b93b21a6ecace6f07ce3dbe56641a14f42a5ebed0f2f87cf063123/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJlZGU0MWZjZS1lNTg4LTRlN2ItOTY2ZS1iZDBmMjM5OWE0YjciLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjljYWM4YWZiZWQxZDNlMThhOGVhNWQ4L2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTMtMzBfXzIxLTItNy5tcDMifQ==.mp3" length="68907615" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/episodes/ede41fce-e588-4e7b-966e-bd0f2399a4b7/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;He turned $2,000 into a $220,000 loss… and almost lost his life.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What started as a “safe bet” on a winning horse spiraled into a devastating gambling addiction that destroyed savings, trust, and nearly everything he loved.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this raw and emotional episode, Shaun shares how one decision in 2018 triggered a downward spiral — losing $90,000 in savings, draining his future, and battling the darkest moments of his life.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;But this isn’t just a story about loss…&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;It’s a story about addiction, survival, and fighting back.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Real story of losing $220,000 in just 3 years&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The hidden truth about online gambling addiction&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What actually happens inside a gambler’s mind&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;From rock bottom → recovery and hope&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Lessons that could save YOU or someone you love&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🚨 This Episode Covers&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The moment everything changed&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Chasing losses &amp;amp; the “winning illusion”&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;How addiction rewires your thinking&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Impact on family, trust &amp;amp; mental health&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Suicide attempts &amp;amp; hitting rock bottom&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Recovery tools that helped him survive&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Gambling isn’t just entertainment.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;It’s a silent addiction that can take everything from you before you even realize it.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If this story resonates with you, you are NOT alone.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;❤️ Support &amp;amp; Share&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If this episode helps even one person… it’s worth it.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 Like, Comment &amp;amp; Subscribe&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 Share with someone who needs to hear this&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#GamblingAddiction #AddictionRecovery #TrueStory #MentalHealth #LifeLessons #StopGambling #RecoveryJourney #RealStory #PodcastClips #SelfControl #Motivation #Awareness #DarkTruth #YouTubeShorts&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:47:51</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>35</itunes:episode><itunes:title>From $220k Loss To Lifelong Recovery </itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[I Thought I'd Die On Meth ]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>🔥 He had everything — a career, a family, a future…</p><p>Then one addiction destroyed it all.</p><p></p><p>What happens when success turns into homelessness, crime, and near death?</p><p></p><p>This is one of the rawest addiction stories you’ll ever hear.</p><p></p><p>In this powerful episode of Slaying Sober, Warren Clarke shares how meth addiction took over his life — turning a successful nurse and father of four into someone battling homelessness, jail time, and suicidal thoughts.</p><p></p><p>From sleeping in parks…</p><p>To losing everything he worked for…</p><p>To arriving in a new city with no phone, no money, and no hope…</p><p></p><p>This isn’t just a story about addiction — it’s about rock bottom… and the fight to come back.</p><p></p><p>💔 He lost his career</p><p>💔 He lost his family</p><p>💔 He lost himself</p><p></p><p>But what happened next will change the way you see recovery forever.</p><p></p><p>Unlike typical interviews, this is completely unfiltered, brutally honest, and real. No sugarcoating — just truth.</p><p></p><p>If you’ve ever struggled… or know someone who has… this could change a life.</p><p></p><p>👉 LIKE this video to support real stories</p><p>👉 SUBSCRIBE for powerful conversations</p><p>👉 Comment “RESPECT” if you believe in second chances</p><p></p><p>📌 Share this with someone who needs hope today.</p><p></p><p>No matter how far you’ve fallen… you’re never too far gone to come back.</p><p></p><p>#AddictionRecovery #MethAddiction #SobrietyJourney #LifeStory #Motivation #MentalHealth #RecoveryIsPossible #Inspiration #PodcastClips #SlayingSober #RealStories #NeverGiveUp</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">dc36a185-2325-484d-92ed-692861d99166</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 03:34:20 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/9630d581c13fdb3083015e2307bda01454e605bb230db0199b66ad6a8b6b86d2/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJkYzM2YTE4NS0yMzI1LTQ4NGQtOTJlZC02OTI4NjFkOTkxNjYiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjljMzFkZGNmMzA0MDU2YWI5YzFiYTFiL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTMtMjVfXzAtMjctMjQubXAzIn0=.mp3" length="85552737" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/episodes/dc36a185-2325-484d-92ed-692861d99166/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;🔥 He had everything — a career, a family, a future…&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Then one addiction destroyed it all.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What happens when success turns into homelessness, crime, and near death?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This is one of the rawest addiction stories you’ll ever hear.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this powerful episode of Slaying Sober, Warren Clarke shares how meth addiction took over his life — turning a successful nurse and father of four into someone battling homelessness, jail time, and suicidal thoughts.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;From sleeping in parks…&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;To losing everything he worked for…&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;To arriving in a new city with no phone, no money, and no hope…&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This isn’t just a story about addiction — it’s about rock bottom… and the fight to come back.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;💔 He lost his career&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;💔 He lost his family&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;💔 He lost himself&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;But what happened next will change the way you see recovery forever.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Unlike typical interviews, this is completely unfiltered, brutally honest, and real. No sugarcoating — just truth.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If you’ve ever struggled… or know someone who has… this could change a life.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 LIKE this video to support real stories&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 SUBSCRIBE for powerful conversations&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 Comment “RESPECT” if you believe in second chances&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;📌 Share this with someone who needs hope today.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;No matter how far you’ve fallen… you’re never too far gone to come back.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#AddictionRecovery #MethAddiction #SobrietyJourney #LifeStory #Motivation #MentalHealth #RecoveryIsPossible #Inspiration #PodcastClips #SlayingSober #RealStories #NeverGiveUp&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:59:25</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>34</itunes:episode><itunes:title>I Thought I&apos;d Die On Meth </itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[From Ram RAIDs to Recovery TikTok]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>He nearly died… multiple times.</p><p>After his dad passed during COVID, he stopped caring if he lived or not.</p><p>This is one of the rawest addiction recovery stories you’ll ever hear.</p><p>Jordan went from daily drug use, jail, and homelessness…</p><p>to rebuilding his life from NOTHING.</p><p>But the breaking point?</p><p>👉 Losing his father during COVID</p><p>👉 Spiraling into reckless drug use</p><p>👉 Living like nothing mattered anymore</p><p>This isn’t a highlight reel.</p><p>This is the real truth about addiction, relapse, and recovery.</p><p>In this episode of Slaying Sober Podcast, we dive into:</p><p>• How addiction starts at a young age</p><p>• The reality of jail, drugs, and survival</p><p>• Losing control after personal tragedy</p><p>• The moment everything changed</p><p>• How he rebuilt his life step by step</p><p>• The truth about relapse (no one tells you this)</p><p>• Why most people fail recovery — and how to avoid it</p><p>Jordan now shares his story to help others escape the same cycle.</p><p>If you’re struggling… or know someone who is…</p><p>this conversation could genuinely save a life.</p><p>⚠️ Stay until the end — what finally made him change will hit hard.</p><p>👇 Comment “RECOVERY” if you believe change is possible</p><p>👍 Like &amp; Share this with someone who needs hope</p><p>🔔 Subscribe for real stories of addiction, recovery &amp; transformation</p><p>#addictionrecovery #sobriety #recoveryjourney #mentalhealth #podcast #motivation </p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">402ad07a-0e71-4b3d-8f2c-fc4e6ef03172</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 01:10:13 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/6723931b34f11f7847943dc5f9db9d2bfc390c20a4f86167bbf9d9fb392f1f0e/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiI0MDJhZDA3YS0wZTcxLTRiM2QtOGYyYy1mYzRlNmVmMDMxNzIiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjliYjEzYTE2NmFhODRlOGMyMDcyMDBjL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTMtMThfXzIyLTUtMzcubXAzIn0=.mp3" length="52595295" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/episodes/402ad07a-0e71-4b3d-8f2c-fc4e6ef03172/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;He nearly died… multiple times.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;After his dad passed during COVID, he stopped caring if he lived or not.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This is one of the rawest addiction recovery stories you’ll ever hear.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Jordan went from daily drug use, jail, and homelessness…&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;to rebuilding his life from NOTHING.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;But the breaking point?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 Losing his father during COVID&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 Spiraling into reckless drug use&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 Living like nothing mattered anymore&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This isn’t a highlight reel.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This is the real truth about addiction, relapse, and recovery.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this episode of Slaying Sober Podcast, we dive into:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• How addiction starts at a young age&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• The reality of jail, drugs, and survival&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Losing control after personal tragedy&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• The moment everything changed&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• How he rebuilt his life step by step&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• The truth about relapse (no one tells you this)&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Why most people fail recovery — and how to avoid it&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Jordan now shares his story to help others escape the same cycle.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If you’re struggling… or know someone who is…&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;this conversation could genuinely save a life.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;⚠️ Stay until the end — what finally made him change will hit hard.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👇 Comment “RECOVERY” if you believe change is possible&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👍 Like &amp;amp; Share this with someone who needs hope&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🔔 Subscribe for real stories of addiction, recovery &amp;amp; transformation&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#addictionrecovery #sobriety #recoveryjourney #mentalhealth #podcast #motivation &lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:36:31</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>32</itunes:episode><itunes:title>From Ram RAIDs to Recovery TikTok</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[From Self Destruction to Self Discovery ]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>What if waking up without guilt, shame, or dread… became your new normal? </p><p></p><p>Before today’s powerful episode of Behind the Smile, Ash shares something deeply personal — her 2026 retreat experiences designed to help you reconnect, reset, and remember who you truly are beneath the noise.</p><p></p><p>✨ Return to You – A one-day immersion blending science and spirituality. Breath, movement, stillness, and soul. Perfect if you’re overwhelmed and craving presence.</p><p></p><p>✨ Embodied Woman Retreat (with holistic psychologist Laura Corcoran) – A transformational weekend of psychology, somatic healing, emotional release, nervous system work, and feminine embodiment.</p><p></p><p>✨ Rest &amp; Renew – Bali – A luxury nervous system reset in paradise. Slow days. Intentional practices. Deep exhale energy.</p><p></p><p>Each retreat is created with heart, intention, and a space for profound reconnection.</p><p></p><p>Then we dive into a raw and honest conversation with James Day — husband, father, business owner, and host of Slaying Sober.</p><p></p><p>Based on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula, James shares his journey from 25 years of blackout drinking and isolation to living a life of service, sobriety, and spiritual grounding.</p><p></p><p></p><p>They unpack:</p><p></p><p>The freedom of waking up with a clear conscience</p><p></p><p>The “who did I text?” morning-after dread</p><p></p><p>The power of the Step Three prayer</p><p></p><p>Handing your will over instead of fighting life</p><p></p><p>Why service and sponsoring others keeps recovery alive</p><p></p><p>Kindness as a daily spiritual practice</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>This is vulnerability, wisdom, and lived experience — without filters.</p><p></p><p>✔️ Real recovery talk from two people who’ve lived it</p><p></p><p>✔️ Spirituality explained in grounded, relatable language</p><p></p><p>✔️ Practical insight into nervous system healing + 12-step principles</p><p></p><p>✔️ Hope that sobriety is not only possible — it’s joyful</p><p></p><p>If you’re ready to reset your nervous system, deepen your connection, or explore sobriety in a new way — explore the 2026 retreats via the link in bio or ashbutters.com.</p><p>And if this episode resonates, share it with someone who needs to know they’re not alone.</p><p></p><p>#BehindTheSmile #SlayingSober #SobrietyJourney #AddictionRecovery #WomensRetreat #EmbodiedWoman #NervousSystemHealing #SpiritualGrowth #RecoveryIsPossible #OneDayAtATime</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">84b34e43-3a1b-4722-bdea-f0b2bb6a2c6c</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:34:58 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/caa9b4dd9639d633100f72108fcb7aeed665bac64ed2530c6139f25a8fdbee9e/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiI4NGIzNGU0My0zYTFiLTQ3MjItYmRlYS1mMGIyYmI2YTJjNmMiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjlhNzkzZDg1NmExY2JjYTVhNWZiYTY4L2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTMtNF9fMy03LTIwLm1wMyJ9.mp3" length="99139230" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/episodes/84b34e43-3a1b-4722-bdea-f0b2bb6a2c6c/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;What if waking up without guilt, shame, or dread… became your new normal? &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Before today’s powerful episode of Behind the Smile, Ash shares something deeply personal — her 2026 retreat experiences designed to help you reconnect, reset, and remember who you truly are beneath the noise.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✨ Return to You – A one-day immersion blending science and spirituality. Breath, movement, stillness, and soul. Perfect if you’re overwhelmed and craving presence.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✨ Embodied Woman Retreat (with holistic psychologist Laura Corcoran) – A transformational weekend of psychology, somatic healing, emotional release, nervous system work, and feminine embodiment.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✨ Rest &amp;amp; Renew – Bali – A luxury nervous system reset in paradise. Slow days. Intentional practices. Deep exhale energy.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Each retreat is created with heart, intention, and a space for profound reconnection.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Then we dive into a raw and honest conversation with James Day — husband, father, business owner, and host of Slaying Sober.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Based on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula, James shares his journey from 25 years of blackout drinking and isolation to living a life of service, sobriety, and spiritual grounding.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;They unpack:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The freedom of waking up with a clear conscience&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The “who did I text?” morning-after dread&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The power of the Step Three prayer&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Handing your will over instead of fighting life&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Why service and sponsoring others keeps recovery alive&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Kindness as a daily spiritual practice&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This is vulnerability, wisdom, and lived experience — without filters.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✔️ Real recovery talk from two people who’ve lived it&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✔️ Spirituality explained in grounded, relatable language&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✔️ Practical insight into nervous system healing + 12-step principles&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✔️ Hope that sobriety is not only possible — it’s joyful&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If you’re ready to reset your nervous system, deepen your connection, or explore sobriety in a new way — explore the 2026 retreats via the link in bio or ashbutters.com.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;And if this episode resonates, share it with someone who needs to know they’re not alone.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#BehindTheSmile #SlayingSober #SobrietyJourney #AddictionRecovery #WomensRetreat #EmbodiedWoman #NervousSystemHealing #SpiritualGrowth #RecoveryIsPossible #OneDayAtATime&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>01:08:51</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:title>From Self Destruction to Self Discovery </itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[From Self Destruction to Self Doscovery]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>What if waking up without guilt, shame, or dread… became your new normal? 🌅</p><p></p><p>Before today’s powerful episode of Behind the Smile, Ash shares something deeply personal — her 2026 retreat experiences designed to help you reconnect, reset, and remember who you truly are beneath the noise.</p><p></p><p>✨ Return to You – A one-day immersion blending science and spirituality. Breath, movement, stillness, and soul. Perfect if you’re overwhelmed and craving presence.</p><p></p><p>✨ Embodied Woman Retreat (with holistic psychologist Laura Corcoran) – A transformational weekend of psychology, somatic healing, emotional release, nervous system work, and feminine embodiment.</p><p></p><p>✨ Rest &amp; Renew – Bali – A luxury nervous system reset in paradise. Slow days. Intentional practices. Deep exhale energy.</p><p>Each retreat is created with heart, intention, and a space for profound reconnection.</p><p>Then we dive into a raw and honest conversation with James Day — husband, father, business owner, and host of Slaying Sober.</p><p>Based on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula, James shares his journey from 25 years of blackout drinking and isolation to living a life of service, sobriety, and spiritual grounding.</p><p></p><p>They unpack:</p><p>The freedom of waking up with a clear conscience</p><p>The “who did I text?” morning-after dread</p><p>The power of the Step Three prayer</p><p>Handing your will over instead of fighting life</p><p>Why service and sponsoring others keeps recovery alive</p><p>Kindness as a daily spiritual practice</p><p></p><p>This is vulnerability, wisdom, and lived experience — without filters.</p><p>✔️ Real recovery talk from two people who’ve lived it</p><p>✔️ Spirituality explained in grounded, relatable language</p><p>✔️ Practical insight into nervous system healing + 12-step principles</p><p>✔️ Hope that sobriety is not only possible — it’s joyful</p><p></p><p>If you’re ready to reset your nervous system, deepen your connection, or explore sobriety in a new way — explore the 2026 retreats via the link in bio or ashbutters.com.</p><p></p><p>And if this episode resonates, share it with someone who needs to know they’re not alone.</p><p></p><p>#BehindTheSmile #SlayingSober #SobrietyJourney #AddictionRecovery #WomensRetreat #EmbodiedWoman #NervousSystemHealing #SpiritualGrowth #RecoveryIsPossible #OneDayAtATime</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">225b220d-b02e-416d-9580-f8f9e577fef4</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:19:58 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/c0f15444812a7833cdf2c120da7300d2e80cd4aac6d255827948b0f224caee52/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiIyMjViMjIwZC1iMDJlLTQxNmQtOTU4MC1mOGY5ZTU3N2ZlZjQiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjlhNzllMjk5YmIzZjM3NjkwOTA2YjdlL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTMtNF9fMy01MS0yMS5tcDMifQ==.mp3" length="99139127" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/episodes/225b220d-b02e-416d-9580-f8f9e577fef4/transcripts.txt" type="text/plain"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;What if waking up without guilt, shame, or dread… became your new normal? 🌅&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Before today’s powerful episode of Behind the Smile, Ash shares something deeply personal — her 2026 retreat experiences designed to help you reconnect, reset, and remember who you truly are beneath the noise.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✨ Return to You – A one-day immersion blending science and spirituality. Breath, movement, stillness, and soul. Perfect if you’re overwhelmed and craving presence.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✨ Embodied Woman Retreat (with holistic psychologist Laura Corcoran) – A transformational weekend of psychology, somatic healing, emotional release, nervous system work, and feminine embodiment.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✨ Rest &amp;amp; Renew – Bali – A luxury nervous system reset in paradise. Slow days. Intentional practices. Deep exhale energy.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Each retreat is created with heart, intention, and a space for profound reconnection.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Then we dive into a raw and honest conversation with James Day — husband, father, business owner, and host of Slaying Sober.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Based on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula, James shares his journey from 25 years of blackout drinking and isolation to living a life of service, sobriety, and spiritual grounding.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;They unpack:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The freedom of waking up with a clear conscience&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The “who did I text?” morning-after dread&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The power of the Step Three prayer&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Handing your will over instead of fighting life&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Why service and sponsoring others keeps recovery alive&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Kindness as a daily spiritual practice&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This is vulnerability, wisdom, and lived experience — without filters.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✔️ Real recovery talk from two people who’ve lived it&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✔️ Spirituality explained in grounded, relatable language&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✔️ Practical insight into nervous system healing + 12-step principles&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✔️ Hope that sobriety is not only possible — it’s joyful&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If you’re ready to reset your nervous system, deepen your connection, or explore sobriety in a new way — explore the 2026 retreats via the link in bio or ashbutters.com.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;And if this episode resonates, share it with someone who needs to know they’re not alone.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#BehindTheSmile #SlayingSober #SobrietyJourney #AddictionRecovery #WomensRetreat #EmbodiedWoman #NervousSystemHealing #SpiritualGrowth #RecoveryIsPossible #OneDayAtATime&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>01:08:51</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:title>From Self Destruction to Self Doscovery</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[From Psychosis and
CTOs to Kindness and
Clarity  -Part 2]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>He was at rock bottom. Heavily medicated. In and out of psych wards. On a Community Treatment Order.</p><p>One act of kindness changed everything.</p><p></p><p>This is the raw, unfiltered story of how compassion, NA meetings, relapse, spirituality, and daily commitment rebuilt a life that was once spiraling toward destruction.</p><p></p><p>🎥 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:</p><p>The turning point moment in a hospital bed</p><p>Facing doctors who said, “You must stay medicated”</p><p>Walking into an NA meeting after relapse</p><p>Admitting “I’m not clean today”</p><p>Getting 30, 60, 90 days… then six months</p><p>Relapse after complacency — and the courage to come back</p><p>Coming off all medications</p><p>Discovering spirituality and higher power</p><p>Learning service, gratitude, and self-love</p><p>From psych wards to daily NA meetings.</p><p>From drug-induced psychosis to clarity.</p><p>From shame to service.</p><p></p><p>✨ Why This Story Is Different</p><p></p><p>This isn’t a polished recovery highlight reel.</p><p></p><p>This is:</p><p>Honest relapse talk</p><p>The reality of medication battles</p><p>The power of NA community support</p><p>A spiritual awakening after addiction</p><p>Owning the devastation addiction causes families</p><p>Choosing meetings every single day</p><p>It’s messy. It’s brave. It’s real.</p><p>If you’ve ever thought:</p><p>“I’ve relapsed, so what’s the point?”</p><p>“I’ve hurt too many people.”</p><p>“Maybe I’m too far gone.”</p><p>“Is there hope after psych wards?”</p><p></p><p></p><p>This episode is for you.</p><p>🕊 Key Message</p><p></p><p>Addiction is isolation.</p><p>Recovery is connection.</p><p></p><p>When he walked into that NA meeting and said,</p><p>“I’m not clean today”…</p><p>He expected judgment.</p><p></p><p>He got:</p><p>“Welcome back. We’ve got you.”</p><p></p><p>That’s recovery</p><p>🔥 If You’re Struggling Right Now</p><p></p><p>You are not alone.</p><p>Relapse does NOT erase your progress.</p><p>You can walk back into a meeting today.</p><p></p><p>One day at a time. One person at a time.</p><p></p><p>👉 If this story moved you, LIKE this video.</p><p>👉 SUBSCRIBE for real recovery stories every week.</p><p>👉 Comment below: What are you grateful for today?</p><p></p><p>And if someone you love is struggling — share this with them.</p><p></p><p>Hope is real. Recovery is possible. And kindness can save a life. 💙</p><p></p><p>#RecoveryJourney</p><p>#AddictionRecovery</p><p>#NarcoticsAnonymous</p><p>#NARecovery</p><p>#RelapseRecovery</p><p>#CleanAndSober</p><p>#Sobriety</p><p>#OneDayAtATime</p><p>#SpiritualAwakening</p><p>#HigherPower</p><p>#MentalHealthRecovery</p><p>#PsychWardSurvivor</p><p>#FromRockBottom</p><p>#HopeAfterAddiction</p><p>#HealingJourney</p><p>#ServiceToOthers</p><p>#GratitudePractice</p><p>#RecoveryIsPossible</p><p>#YouAreNotAlone</p><p>#RecoveryCommunity</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">f4520f0b-b1a6-4135-8707-b644408ec2ec</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 03:24:03 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/b6629d5cb2e382fecb303c9937c5cc328c1c26e3ec633de8727fae2b0bdfd7b5/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJmNDUyMGYwYi1iMWE2LTQxMzUtODcwNy1iNjQ0NDA4ZWMyZWMiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjlhMGI0ZTgyM2NjZjg1ZWQ2MThiODY1L2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTItMjZfXzIyLTItMzIubXAzIn0=.mp3" length="40325477" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;He was at rock bottom. Heavily medicated. In and out of psych wards. On a Community Treatment Order.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;One act of kindness changed everything.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This is the raw, unfiltered story of how compassion, NA meetings, relapse, spirituality, and daily commitment rebuilt a life that was once spiraling toward destruction.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🎥 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The turning point moment in a hospital bed&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Facing doctors who said, “You must stay medicated”&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Walking into an NA meeting after relapse&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Admitting “I’m not clean today”&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Getting 30, 60, 90 days… then six months&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Relapse after complacency — and the courage to come back&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Coming off all medications&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Discovering spirituality and higher power&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Learning service, gratitude, and self-love&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;From psych wards to daily NA meetings.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;From drug-induced psychosis to clarity.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;From shame to service.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✨ Why This Story Is Different&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This isn’t a polished recovery highlight reel.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This is:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Honest relapse talk&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The reality of medication battles&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The power of NA community support&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;A spiritual awakening after addiction&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Owning the devastation addiction causes families&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Choosing meetings every single day&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;It’s messy. It’s brave. It’s real.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If you’ve ever thought:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“I’ve relapsed, so what’s the point?”&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“I’ve hurt too many people.”&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“Maybe I’m too far gone.”&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“Is there hope after psych wards?”&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This episode is for you.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🕊 Key Message&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Addiction is isolation.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Recovery is connection.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;When he walked into that NA meeting and said,&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“I’m not clean today”…&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;He expected judgment.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;He got:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“Welcome back. We’ve got you.”&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;That’s recovery&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🔥 If You’re Struggling Right Now&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;You are not alone.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Relapse does NOT erase your progress.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;You can walk back into a meeting today.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;One day at a time. One person at a time.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 If this story moved you, LIKE this video.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 SUBSCRIBE for real recovery stories every week.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 Comment below: What are you grateful for today?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;And if someone you love is struggling — share this with them.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Hope is real. Recovery is possible. And kindness can save a life. 💙&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#RecoveryJourney&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#AddictionRecovery&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#NarcoticsAnonymous&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#NARecovery&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#RelapseRecovery&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#CleanAndSober&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#Sobriety&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#OneDayAtATime&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#SpiritualAwakening&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#HigherPower&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#MentalHealthRecovery&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#PsychWardSurvivor&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#FromRockBottom&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#HopeAfterAddiction&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#HealingJourney&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#ServiceToOthers&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#GratitudePractice&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#RecoveryIsPossible&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#YouAreNotAlone&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#RecoveryCommunity&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:28:00</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:title>From Psychosis and
CTOs to Kindness and
Clarity  -Part 2</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[From Psychosis and
CTOs to Kindness and
Clarity ]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>The conversation delves into Ty's early exposure to drugs and alcohol, the escalation of his addiction and criminal behavior, the impact of personal loss on his addiction and mental health, and the challenges he faced during rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The conversation delves into the challenges of the mental health system and the impact of trauma, including experiences of delusions, hospitalization, and shock therapy. It also explores the struggles of forced medication, addiction, and recovery, as well as the challenges of substance use in jail. The journey of seeking sobriety and the role of support in recovery are also highlighted, shedding light on the complexities of navigating the mental health system and seeking help.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Early exposure to drugs and alcohol</li><li>Escalation of addiction and criminal behavior</li><li>Impact of personal loss on addiction and mental health</li><li>Challenges of rehabilitation and reintegration Mental health system challenges</li><li>Struggles with addiction and recovery</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Challenges of Rehabilitation and Reintegration</li><li>23:42 Forced Medication and Recovery</li><li>32:04 Support and Recovery</li></ul>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">abc9d16f-feba-451e-95a0-28c5a763f615</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 09:01:06 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/682fffcd9e138728ee95ce0287bafaa4ebf7e6d24ced84fe8d984b014f2973c8/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJhYmM5ZDE2Zi1mZWJhLTQ1MWUtOTVhMC0yOGM1YTc2M2Y2MTUiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjk5ZDYwZjBhMGZmODU1ZWUyNDc4YjQyL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTItMjRfXzktMjctMjgubXAzIn0=.mp3" length="59187557" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;The conversation delves into Ty&apos;s early exposure to drugs and alcohol, the escalation of his addiction and criminal behavior, the impact of personal loss on his addiction and mental health, and the challenges he faced during rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The conversation delves into the challenges of the mental health system and the impact of trauma, including experiences of delusions, hospitalization, and shock therapy. It also explores the struggles of forced medication, addiction, and recovery, as well as the challenges of substance use in jail. The journey of seeking sobriety and the role of support in recovery are also highlighted, shedding light on the complexities of navigating the mental health system and seeking help.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Takeaways&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Early exposure to drugs and alcohol&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Escalation of addiction and criminal behavior&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Impact of personal loss on addiction and mental health&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Challenges of rehabilitation and reintegration Mental health system challenges&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Struggles with addiction and recovery&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Chapters&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;00:00 Challenges of Rehabilitation and Reintegration&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;23:42 Forced Medication and Recovery&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;32:04 Support and Recovery&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:41:06</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>31</itunes:episode><itunes:title>From Psychosis and
CTOs to Kindness and
Clarity </itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Drug Smuggler, Author, 
Queer History Maker]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>Kate Rowe shares her incredible journey of redemption, from drug smuggling and addiction to sobriety and seeking help. Her memoir, 'How the Fuck Would I Know?' captures the challenges and triumphs of her life's journey, offering hope and inspiration to others. The conversation delves into Kate Rowe's journey of facing mental collapse, recovery, and self-discovery. It explores her experiences with sobriety, acceptance, and finding hope. Additionally, it touches on her journey of self-discovery, sexuality, and the liberation movement in the 70s. The conversation also highlights the importance of community and the sobriety journey, leading to a sense of contentment and self-acceptance.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Redemption</li><li>Life's Journey Recovery and sobriety</li><li>Acceptance and self-discovery</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Sobriety and Seeking Help</li><li>22:11 Finding Hope and Self-Discovery</li><li>27:27 Sexuality and Liberation in the 70s</li><li>37:51 Contentment and Self-Acceptance</li></ul>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">d14d5402-816b-4ee2-ab1f-6f066f1f4978</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 04:42:21 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/8d8c08db750eb5f9ac75c46e4643fc6667d4327ec63f8dd3d6184c4f2e490c51/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJkMTRkNTQwMi04MTZiLTRlZTItYWIxZi02ZjA2NmYxZjQ5NzgiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjk5MmFkMWZjMDMzMTI1ZWFlMWI1ZDNkL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTItMTZfXzYtMzctMzUubXAzIn0=.mp3" length="62354224" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;Kate Rowe shares her incredible journey of redemption, from drug smuggling and addiction to sobriety and seeking help. Her memoir, &apos;How the Fuck Would I Know?&apos; captures the challenges and triumphs of her life&apos;s journey, offering hope and inspiration to others. The conversation delves into Kate Rowe&apos;s journey of facing mental collapse, recovery, and self-discovery. It explores her experiences with sobriety, acceptance, and finding hope. Additionally, it touches on her journey of self-discovery, sexuality, and the liberation movement in the 70s. The conversation also highlights the importance of community and the sobriety journey, leading to a sense of contentment and self-acceptance.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Takeaways&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Redemption&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Life&apos;s Journey Recovery and sobriety&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Acceptance and self-discovery&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Chapters&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;00:00 Sobriety and Seeking Help&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;22:11 Finding Hope and Self-Discovery&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;27:27 Sexuality and Liberation in the 70s&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;37:51 Contentment and Self-Acceptance&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:43:18</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>30</itunes:episode><itunes:title>Drug Smuggler, Author, 
Queer History Maker</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Joe - Taming the Monster Part 2]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>The conversation delves into the transformative power of forgiveness and the journey of healing and redemption. It also explores the importance of balancing the body, mind, and spirit for personal growth and fulfillment.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Power of forgiveness</li><li>Balancing body, mind, and spirit</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Journey of Forgiveness</li><li>18:06 Balancing Body, Mind, and Spirit</li></ul>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">98290da5-f330-4125-9d33-7270bf4df258</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:50:04 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/ad7b94a71e9082b3eaeff132958beea2afcd190db10884f4c420f749d491a69f/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiI5ODI5MGRhNS1mMzMwLTQxMjUtOWQzMy03MjcwYmY0ZGYyNTgiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjk4OWE4MTFhNTE1ZmZjNDA2NjIzODhlL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTItOV9fMTAtMjUtMzcubXAzIn0=.mp3" length="35145081" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;The conversation delves into the transformative power of forgiveness and the journey of healing and redemption. It also explores the importance of balancing the body, mind, and spirit for personal growth and fulfillment.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Takeaways&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Power of forgiveness&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Balancing body, mind, and spirit&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Chapters&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;00:00 The Journey of Forgiveness&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;18:06 Balancing Body, Mind, and Spirit&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:24:24</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>29</itunes:episode><itunes:title>Joe - Taming the Monster Part 2</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Joe - Taming the Monster: From Bouncing & Bashings to Balance & Bushido]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>The conversation delves into Joe's background, struggles with identity, adolescence, substance use, functional drug use, and the impact of childhood trauma. It also explores Joe's journey of vengeance and transformation, highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped his life. The conversation delves into the dark path of trauma, addiction, and self-destruction, leading to a journey of recovery, self-discovery, and transformation. It explores the themes of trauma's impact, addiction, recovery, and the virtues of the warrior's path, culminating in taking ownership and making amends.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Functional drug use</li><li>Impact of childhood trauma Trauma and its Impact</li><li>Addiction and Self-Destruction</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction and Background</li><li>06:07 Functional Drug Use and Emotional Control</li><li>19:04 Vengeance and Transformation</li><li>26:15 The Journey to Recovery</li><li>31:34 Courage and Self-Control</li><li>43:22 Taking Ownership and Making Amends</li></ul>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">b82b83cf-388b-4d5d-8691-3ceb043a5e7e</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 09:45:45 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/af4a373935e089d7f4edbb3ffb11a50729771695492d607a85646883ad0d9efd/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJiODJiODNjZi0zODhiLTRkNWQtODY5MS0zY2ViMDQzYTVlN2UiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjk4OWExZDhmZDdjZTliYTgxYTZhZTM4L2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTItOV9fOS01OS00Lm1wMyJ9.mp3" length="69992846" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;The conversation delves into Joe&apos;s background, struggles with identity, adolescence, substance use, functional drug use, and the impact of childhood trauma. It also explores Joe&apos;s journey of vengeance and transformation, highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped his life. The conversation delves into the dark path of trauma, addiction, and self-destruction, leading to a journey of recovery, self-discovery, and transformation. It explores the themes of trauma&apos;s impact, addiction, recovery, and the virtues of the warrior&apos;s path, culminating in taking ownership and making amends.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Takeaways&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Functional drug use&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Impact of childhood trauma Trauma and its Impact&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Addiction and Self-Destruction&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Chapters&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;00:00 Introduction and Background&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;06:07 Functional Drug Use and Emotional Control&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;19:04 Vengeance and Transformation&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;26:15 The Journey to Recovery&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;31:34 Courage and Self-Control&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;43:22 Taking Ownership and Making Amends&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:48:36</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>29</itunes:episode><itunes:title>Joe - Taming the Monster: From Bouncing &amp; Bashings to Balance &amp; Bushido</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[A Professional Drug Addict For 33 Years]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>John - A Professional Drug Addict for 33 years</p><p></p><p>From Chaos to Clarity: A 33-Year Addiction, Rock Bottom &amp; Real Recovery</p><p>What does rock bottom really look like when addiction lasts 33 years?</p><p>In this raw and deeply honest episode of Slaying Sober, host James Date sits down with John, a recovering addict who doesn’t sugarcoat anything — from gang life and bullying to jail, suicide attempts, and the brutal insanity of addiction.</p><p>John shares how addiction isn’t a character flaw — it’s an emotional response.</p><p>And how real recovery doesn’t come from shortcuts… it comes from hardcore commitment.</p><p>This is not a “feel-good” recovery story.</p><p>This is a real one.</p><p></p><p>What Makes This Episode Different</p><p></p><p>A 33-year addiction broken down honestly — no filters</p><p>Real talk on 12-step recovery, sponsors, and fellowship</p><p>Addiction explained beyond substances — behaviors, thinking, and identity</p><p>A grounded, relatable take on spirituality without labels</p><p>Recovery framed like a football game — every quarter matters</p><p></p><p>Powerful Takeaways</p><p></p><p>“Addiction is an emotional response — not a moral failure.”</p><p>“If I’m serious, I have to give it everything I’ve got.”</p><p>“Rock bottom for an addict is death.”</p><p>Recovery is about honesty, awareness, and connection</p><p>Gratitude for hard times is part of spiritual mastery</p><p>You don’t need to call it God — it’s about understanding yourself</p><p></p><p>Episode Chapters</p><p></p><p>00:00 – John’s story begins</p><p>00:57 – Childhood, bullying &amp; belonging</p><p>04:44 – Addiction takes over</p><p>08:27 – Jail, chaos &amp; consequences</p><p>13:51 – What rock bottom really is</p><p>18:52 – Relapse, pain &amp; truth</p><p>29:59 – Hardcore recovery explained</p><p>35:15 – Spirituality without labels</p><p>44:18 – Words, perception &amp; reality</p><p>55:45 – Growth, service &amp; rebuilding life</p><p></p><p>Who This Episode Is For</p><p></p><p>Anyone struggling with addiction or relapse</p><p>People curious about 12-step programs &amp; recovery</p><p>Listeners interested in mental health, spirituality, and personal growth</p><p>Anyone who needs hope without hype</p><p></p><p>#SlayingSober</p><p>#AddictionRecovery</p><p>#RecoveryJourney</p><p>#12StepProgram</p><p>#Sobriety</p><p>#MentalHealthAwareness</p><p>#RockBottom</p><p>#LifeAfterAddiction</p><p>#HealingJourney</p><p>#PersonalTransformation</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">43e554e4-1c77-4d51-bdc6-ffc34108347a</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:02:47 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/6e8c75bfd860a88cfd19dd690f7eb541bef5de32e945f3861e76d5fb853f0d8c/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiI0M2U1NTRlNC0xYzc3LTRkNTEtYmRjNi1mZmMzNDEwODM0N2EiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjk4MDU0MDMwMmY3MDAxMGExMWExMDA0L2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTItMl9fOC0zNi0zNS5tcDMifQ==.mp3" length="41461223" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;John - A Professional Drug Addict for 33 years&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;From Chaos to Clarity: A 33-Year Addiction, Rock Bottom &amp;amp; Real Recovery&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What does rock bottom really look like when addiction lasts 33 years?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this raw and deeply honest episode of Slaying Sober, host James Date sits down with John, a recovering addict who doesn’t sugarcoat anything — from gang life and bullying to jail, suicide attempts, and the brutal insanity of addiction.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;John shares how addiction isn’t a character flaw — it’s an emotional response.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;And how real recovery doesn’t come from shortcuts… it comes from hardcore commitment.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This is not a “feel-good” recovery story.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This is a real one.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What Makes This Episode Different&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;A 33-year addiction broken down honestly — no filters&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Real talk on 12-step recovery, sponsors, and fellowship&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Addiction explained beyond substances — behaviors, thinking, and identity&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;A grounded, relatable take on spirituality without labels&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Recovery framed like a football game — every quarter matters&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Powerful Takeaways&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“Addiction is an emotional response — not a moral failure.”&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“If I’m serious, I have to give it everything I’ve got.”&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“Rock bottom for an addict is death.”&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Recovery is about honesty, awareness, and connection&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Gratitude for hard times is part of spiritual mastery&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;You don’t need to call it God — it’s about understanding yourself&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Episode Chapters&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;00:00 – John’s story begins&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;00:57 – Childhood, bullying &amp;amp; belonging&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;04:44 – Addiction takes over&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;08:27 – Jail, chaos &amp;amp; consequences&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;13:51 – What rock bottom really is&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;18:52 – Relapse, pain &amp;amp; truth&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;29:59 – Hardcore recovery explained&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;35:15 – Spirituality without labels&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;44:18 – Words, perception &amp;amp; reality&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;55:45 – Growth, service &amp;amp; rebuilding life&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Who This Episode Is For&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Anyone struggling with addiction or relapse&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;People curious about 12-step programs &amp;amp; recovery&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Listeners interested in mental health, spirituality, and personal growth&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Anyone who needs hope without hype&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#SlayingSober&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#AddictionRecovery&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#RecoveryJourney&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#12StepProgram&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#Sobriety&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#MentalHealthAwareness&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#RockBottom&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#LifeAfterAddiction&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#HealingJourney&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#PersonalTransformation&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:58:34</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>28</itunes:episode><itunes:title>A Professional Drug Addict For 33 Years</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Suzie Browne — From Chaos to Clarity. Sober at 63.]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>The conversation delves into Susie's journey from chaos to clarity, chronicling her life from a memoir perspective. It explores the concept of the 'Hole in the Soul' and the redemption and spiritual awakening that led to her recovery. The discussion also touches on the challenges of relapse and the search for meaning and faith in the recovery process. The conversation delves into the journey of recovery and transformation from alcoholism, shedding light on the impact on relationships, family, and self-esteem. It also explores the challenges faced during the Bird Rock Cafe experience, legal issues, and the impact on family and relationships. The discussion touches on early life experiences, love and sex addiction, seeking validation, and the joy of sobriety and laughter.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>The journey from chaos to clarity</li><li>The power of faith and spirituality Recovery and Transformation</li><li>Impact of Alcoholism on Relationships</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Search for Meaning and Faith</li><li>26:18 Turning Point and Transformation</li><li>32:04 Alcoholism and Self-Esteem</li><li>37:18 Seeking Validation and Acceptance</li><li>43:13 Alcoholism and Discrimination</li></ul><p></p><p>#AddictionRecovery #SobrietyStories #NeverTooLate #HealingJourney #RealTalk #FromChaosToClarity #SlayingSober</p><p> </p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">163ab0b9-3bc5-4fc6-aa6d-e57ff75e2b02</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 19 Jan 2026 04:56:06 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/4140cfc7430eb1cd79ef2b01e69a188edabb58718d82f9b5c2b0641981551068/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiIxNjNhYjBiOS0zYmM1LTRmYzYtYWE2ZC1lNTdmZjc1ZTJiMDIiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjk2ZGIwMGM2OGZmNGFiM2Q0MjVkZTY2L2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTEtMTlfXzUtMTYtMTIubXAzIn0=.mp3" length="37501577" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;The conversation delves into Susie&apos;s journey from chaos to clarity, chronicling her life from a memoir perspective. It explores the concept of the &apos;Hole in the Soul&apos; and the redemption and spiritual awakening that led to her recovery. The discussion also touches on the challenges of relapse and the search for meaning and faith in the recovery process. The conversation delves into the journey of recovery and transformation from alcoholism, shedding light on the impact on relationships, family, and self-esteem. It also explores the challenges faced during the Bird Rock Cafe experience, legal issues, and the impact on family and relationships. The discussion touches on early life experiences, love and sex addiction, seeking validation, and the joy of sobriety and laughter.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Takeaways&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;The journey from chaos to clarity&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;The power of faith and spirituality Recovery and Transformation&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Impact of Alcoholism on Relationships&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Chapters&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;00:00 The Search for Meaning and Faith&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;26:18 Turning Point and Transformation&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;32:04 Alcoholism and Self-Esteem&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;37:18 Seeking Validation and Acceptance&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;43:13 Alcoholism and Discrimination&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#AddictionRecovery #SobrietyStories #NeverTooLate #HealingJourney #RealTalk #FromChaosToClarity #SlayingSober&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:53:34</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>14</itunes:episode><itunes:title>Suzie Browne — From Chaos to Clarity. Sober at 63.</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Boys Do Cry: You Get What You Earn]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>The conversation delves into the role of family and fitness in bringing joy, the influence of alcohol on childhood and adolescence, the escalation of alcohol use, isolation and shame in alcohol use, the impact of alcohol on mental health, challenges in the workplace and setting boundaries, recognizing alcohol addiction and seeking support, and the commitment to sobriety and self-reflection. The conversation delves into the themes of embracing vulnerability, the impact of addiction on family and relationships, the journey to sobriety and self-discovery, and the support and growth in relationships. It highlights the power of sharing and support in the recovery process and the profound impact it has on personal growth and relationships.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Family brings joy</li><li>Fitness and strength training for mental health</li><li>Alcohol as a coping mechanism</li><li>The impact of alcohol on relationships Embracing vulnerability</li><li>The power of sharing and support</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Finding Joy in Family and Fitness</li><li>06:57 The Escalation of Alcohol Use</li><li>14:57 Recognizing Alcohol Addiction and Seeking Support</li><li>22:45 Commitment to Sobriety and Self-Reflection</li><li>27:45 Embracing Vulnerability and Recovery</li><li>35:51 Journey to Sobriety and Self-Discovery</li><li>49:19 Support and Growth in Relationships</li></ul>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">b57a6ba0-dd53-4d42-ab57-be33b7a0df0a</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2026 07:13:46 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/94aec2f5b0ac03f80ea760d257c1c701d3da962fd23b580788962938caa7f036/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJiNTdhNmJhMC1kZDUzLTRkNDItYWI1Ny1iZTMzYjdhMGRmMGEiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjk2NWU4YzM3NjhmMDNkY2MzM2I5YWY5L2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTEtMTNfXzctNDAtMy5tcDMifQ==.mp3" length="30612144" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;The conversation delves into the role of family and fitness in bringing joy, the influence of alcohol on childhood and adolescence, the escalation of alcohol use, isolation and shame in alcohol use, the impact of alcohol on mental health, challenges in the workplace and setting boundaries, recognizing alcohol addiction and seeking support, and the commitment to sobriety and self-reflection. The conversation delves into the themes of embracing vulnerability, the impact of addiction on family and relationships, the journey to sobriety and self-discovery, and the support and growth in relationships. It highlights the power of sharing and support in the recovery process and the profound impact it has on personal growth and relationships.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Takeaways&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Family brings joy&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Fitness and strength training for mental health&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Alcohol as a coping mechanism&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;The impact of alcohol on relationships Embracing vulnerability&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;The power of sharing and support&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Chapters&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;00:00 Finding Joy in Family and Fitness&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;06:57 The Escalation of Alcohol Use&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;14:57 Recognizing Alcohol Addiction and Seeking Support&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;22:45 Commitment to Sobriety and Self-Reflection&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;27:45 Embracing Vulnerability and Recovery&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;35:51 Journey to Sobriety and Self-Discovery&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;49:19 Support and Growth in Relationships&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:53:23</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>13</itunes:episode><itunes:title>Boys Do Cry: You Get What You Earn</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Amber | From Ice House To Sober At 19 | Part-2]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>The conversation delves into the struggles of addiction, the journey to recovery, and the celebration of sobriety. It highlights the emotional intelligence of the speaker and the transformative power of sharing one's story. The chapters cover the speaker's experiences with addiction, the decision to share their story, the journey to recovery, and the celebration of sobriety.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Recovery and Sobriety</li><li>Emotional Intelligence</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Struggles with Addiction</li><li>13:36 Journey to Recovery</li><li>33:19 Celebrating Sobriety</li></ul><p></p><p>#AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthMatters #SobrietyJourney #TraumaHealing #RecoveryPodcast<br />#RealLifeStories #HealingJourney</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">10ddc8e9-ab8a-40d2-b0bd-1f5cceaf6a18</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 05 Jan 2026 19:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/0947a21f64d12ac5846851dc25d9b892ec78dd2697432a9dbab312c68356b460/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiIxMGRkYzhlOS1hYjhhLTQwZDItYjBiZC0xZjVjY2VhZjZhMTgiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjk1OTg2ZjRlNzJlNWEzNGI0NjE0MGIzL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTEtM19fMjItMTUtMzIubXAzIn0=.mp3" length="35041227" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;The conversation delves into the struggles of addiction, the journey to recovery, and the celebration of sobriety. It highlights the emotional intelligence of the speaker and the transformative power of sharing one&apos;s story. The chapters cover the speaker&apos;s experiences with addiction, the decision to share their story, the journey to recovery, and the celebration of sobriety.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Takeaways&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Recovery and Sobriety&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Emotional Intelligence&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Chapters&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;00:00 Struggles with Addiction&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;13:36 Journey to Recovery&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;33:19 Celebrating Sobriety&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthMatters #SobrietyJourney #TraumaHealing #RecoveryPodcast&lt;br /&gt;#RealLifeStories #HealingJourney&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:46:08</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:title>Amber | From Ice House To Sober At 19 | Part-2</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Amber | From Ice House Hell To Sober At 19 | Part-1]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>The conversation delves into the early exposure to alcohol and drugs, the impact of peer pressure and emotional unavailability, coping mechanisms, recovery, positive pursuits, and the transition to drug use and addiction. It also explores the themes of exploitation, empowerment, sex addiction, and living in an unsafe environment.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Early exposure to alcohol and drugs can significantly influence an individual's relationship with substance use.</li><li>Peer pressure and emotional unavailability can lead to coping mechanisms that involve dishonesty and people-pleasing.</li><li>Recovery and positive pursuits play a crucial role in rewiring the brain and overcoming addiction.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Early Exposure to Alcohol and Culture</li><li>06:00 Peer Pressure and Coping Mechanisms</li><li>12:13 Recovery and Rewiring the Brain</li><li>18:43 Neurodiversity and Stimulants</li><li>27:26 Sex Addiction and Drug Use</li><li>32:27 Transition to Intravenous Drug Use</li></ul><p></p><p>#AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthMatters #SobrietyJourney #TraumaHealing #RecoveryPodcast<br />#RealLifeStories #HealingJourney</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">24e29c7d-eb73-4a60-9ea2-a23345ff76ae</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 04 Jan 2026 19:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/58ca37d20fc41a3d52f79c389c42374c6eb2a66cb48bac6906799043b698c257/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiIyNGUyOWM3ZC1lYjczLTRhNjAtOWVhMi1hMjMzNDVmZjc2YWUiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjk1OTg0M2M5NjVkNGRlYWU0ZmY1MTEyL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI2LTEtM19fMjItMy01Ni5tcDMifQ==.mp3" length="27042536" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;The conversation delves into the early exposure to alcohol and drugs, the impact of peer pressure and emotional unavailability, coping mechanisms, recovery, positive pursuits, and the transition to drug use and addiction. It also explores the themes of exploitation, empowerment, sex addiction, and living in an unsafe environment.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Takeaways&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Early exposure to alcohol and drugs can significantly influence an individual&apos;s relationship with substance use.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Peer pressure and emotional unavailability can lead to coping mechanisms that involve dishonesty and people-pleasing.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Recovery and positive pursuits play a crucial role in rewiring the brain and overcoming addiction.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Chapters&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;00:00 Early Exposure to Alcohol and Culture&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;06:00 Peer Pressure and Coping Mechanisms&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;12:13 Recovery and Rewiring the Brain&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;18:43 Neurodiversity and Stimulants&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;27:26 Sex Addiction and Drug Use&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;32:27 Transition to Intravenous Drug Use&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthMatters #SobrietyJourney #TraumaHealing #RecoveryPodcast&lt;br /&gt;#RealLifeStories #HealingJourney&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:35:52</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:title>Amber | From Ice House Hell To Sober At 19 | Part-1</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jasmine Story: So Close to Help But Still Drowning ]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>Jasmine shares her raw journey from childhood trauma and weekend partying in Melbourne to a devastating Mother's Day crisis that sparked her path to recovery on Slaying Sober. Her story challenges addiction stereotypes, proving anyone can get clean—no matter the mold. Discover tools like NA meetings, boundaries, and sober love that fueled her transformation.</p><p></p><p></p><p>Childhood Roots: Single mum's sacrifices amid poverty, absent dad, family losses like stillborn sibling.</p><p>Teen Beginnings: First sips at 9-10, binge drinking by 16, daily weed with best friend worsening anxiety/depression.</p><p>Trauma Spiral: Family violence, assaults, abusive partner; drugs as escape, escalating to pills, speed, coke, ketamine post-breakup.</p><p>Rock Bottom: Mother's Day 2025—manipulating friends for drugs, suicidal thoughts, dad/step-mum rescue; feeling trapped despite knowing resources.</p><p>Recovery Wins: First NA meeting shatters loneliness, sober partner via Hinge, therapy, gym/nature, selective social drinking; boundaries with using dad.</p><p></p><p>01:51 – Mum's sacrifices, pure love despite poverty.</p><p>03:21 – Fond memories: free activities, quality time.</p><p>06:50 – First alcohol at 9, weed/partying escalation.</p><p>09:59 – Trauma unpacked: dad's absence, assaults, violence.</p><p>14:44 – Post-18 drug rampage, controlling ex's ultimatum.</p><p>21:42 – Mother's Day breakdown, suicide contemplation.</p><p>29:15 – NA breakthrough, meeting sober partner.</p><p>33:55 – Tools: boundaries, gym, nature, community.</p><p>40:59 – Advice: Go all-in on recovery, no mold required.</p><p></p><p>Sobriety journey, addiction recovery Melbourne, trauma healing, party girl clean, NA meetings beginners, Mother's Day rock bottom, sober dating Hinge, setting boundaries dad, weekend warrior sober, mental health drugs anxiety.</p><p></p><p></p><p>"Party girl ends up in carpark with strangers on Mother's Day—her suicide scare that saved her [Listen Now]"</p><p></p><p></p><p>Slaying Sober delivers unfiltered Aussie recovery tales—like Jasmine's—that shatter "hardcore addict only" myths, blending trauma truths, practical tools (NA, boundaries, nature), and hope for weekend warriors. Perfect for Melbourne party scene survivors seeking real, relatable paths to freedom without total booze bans.</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">2e38336d-a85d-4565-84c9-3791d859e802</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 29 Dec 2025 07:42:48 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/866d93d4c93a155106d6746d58f664d729932fff1e231fc6873f5ad263877733/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiIyZTM4MzM2ZC1hODVkLTQ1NjUtODRjOS0zNzkxZDg1OWU4MDIiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjk1MjAwM2U5ZjJlYjRjNDI4MTliMGQyL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTEyLTI5X181LTE0LTU0Lm1wMyJ9.mp3" length="33524854" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;Jasmine shares her raw journey from childhood trauma and weekend partying in Melbourne to a devastating Mother&apos;s Day crisis that sparked her path to recovery on Slaying Sober. Her story challenges addiction stereotypes, proving anyone can get clean—no matter the mold. Discover tools like NA meetings, boundaries, and sober love that fueled her transformation.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Childhood Roots: Single mum&apos;s sacrifices amid poverty, absent dad, family losses like stillborn sibling.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Teen Beginnings: First sips at 9-10, binge drinking by 16, daily weed with best friend worsening anxiety/depression.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Trauma Spiral: Family violence, assaults, abusive partner; drugs as escape, escalating to pills, speed, coke, ketamine post-breakup.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Rock Bottom: Mother&apos;s Day 2025—manipulating friends for drugs, suicidal thoughts, dad/step-mum rescue; feeling trapped despite knowing resources.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Recovery Wins: First NA meeting shatters loneliness, sober partner via Hinge, therapy, gym/nature, selective social drinking; boundaries with using dad.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;01:51 – Mum&apos;s sacrifices, pure love despite poverty.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;03:21 – Fond memories: free activities, quality time.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;06:50 – First alcohol at 9, weed/partying escalation.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;09:59 – Trauma unpacked: dad&apos;s absence, assaults, violence.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;14:44 – Post-18 drug rampage, controlling ex&apos;s ultimatum.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;21:42 – Mother&apos;s Day breakdown, suicide contemplation.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;29:15 – NA breakthrough, meeting sober partner.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;33:55 – Tools: boundaries, gym, nature, community.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;40:59 – Advice: Go all-in on recovery, no mold required.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Sobriety journey, addiction recovery Melbourne, trauma healing, party girl clean, NA meetings beginners, Mother&apos;s Day rock bottom, sober dating Hinge, setting boundaries dad, weekend warrior sober, mental health drugs anxiety.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&quot;Party girl ends up in carpark with strangers on Mother&apos;s Day—her suicide scare that saved her [Listen Now]&quot;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Slaying Sober delivers unfiltered Aussie recovery tales—like Jasmine&apos;s—that shatter &quot;hardcore addict only&quot; myths, blending trauma truths, practical tools (NA, boundaries, nature), and hope for weekend warriors. Perfect for Melbourne party scene survivors seeking real, relatable paths to freedom without total booze bans.&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:42:46</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:title>Jasmine Story: So Close to Help But Still Drowning </itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[ Nicole - The Codependents Guide to Walking Beside Addiction]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>When addiction enters a family, it doesn’t just affect one person—it changes everyone.</p><p></p><p>In this powerful episode of Slaying Sober, James Date sits down with Nicole, who shares her story from the often-unspoken side of addiction: the partner who stays, survives, and heals.</p><p></p><p>Nicole opens up about supporting her husband through gambling addiction, a suicide attempt, and recovery—while carrying her own trauma, raising three children, and holding life together. She explains why loved ones need recovery too, how trauma lives in the body, and why talking alone isn’t always enough to heal.</p><p></p><p>This conversation explores resentment, codependency, survival mode, and the moment Nicole realised she had to choose herself—not instead of her family, but for them.</p><p></p><p>Why this episode matters:</p><p>• A rare and honest perspective from the partner of someone in addiction</p><p>• Insight into somatic therapy and nervous system regulation</p><p>• Real conversations about guilt, shame, and silent suffering</p><p>• Practical tools for long-term healing and emotional safety</p><p></p><p>If you’ve ever loved someone in addiction, felt invisible, or put yourself last for years—this episode is for you.</p><p></p><p>👉 Watch till the end to hear why five minutes a day of self-regulation can genuinely change your life.</p><p></p><p>Like this episode, subscribe to Slaying Sober, and share it with someone who needs to know they’re not alone.</p><p>Drop a comment below—what part of Nicole’s story resonated with you most?</p><p></p><p>#SlayingSober #AddictionRecovery #FamilyHealing #LovedOnesOfAddicts #SomaticTherapy #MentalHealthMatters #TraumaRecovery #Codependency #RecoveryJourney</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">ab555c54-b8fc-44e4-8201-a3b71cd2d089</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 17 Dec 2025 04:13:40 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/3ac6cd39f5e548030161b3c5210aceac3f1d7e69efae6c0edb3afa8584108b50/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJhYjU1NWM1NC1iOGZjLTQ0ZTQtODIwMS1hM2I3MWNkMmQwODkiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjkzZmY2OTQyMWVmZjRmOGRjMTNjNGUzL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTEyLTE1X18xMi01Mi01Mi5tcDMifQ==.mp3" length="47943060" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;When addiction enters a family, it doesn’t just affect one person—it changes everyone.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this powerful episode of Slaying Sober, James Date sits down with Nicole, who shares her story from the often-unspoken side of addiction: the partner who stays, survives, and heals.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Nicole opens up about supporting her husband through gambling addiction, a suicide attempt, and recovery—while carrying her own trauma, raising three children, and holding life together. She explains why loved ones need recovery too, how trauma lives in the body, and why talking alone isn’t always enough to heal.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This conversation explores resentment, codependency, survival mode, and the moment Nicole realised she had to choose herself—not instead of her family, but for them.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Why this episode matters:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• A rare and honest perspective from the partner of someone in addiction&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Insight into somatic therapy and nervous system regulation&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Real conversations about guilt, shame, and silent suffering&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Practical tools for long-term healing and emotional safety&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If you’ve ever loved someone in addiction, felt invisible, or put yourself last for years—this episode is for you.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 Watch till the end to hear why five minutes a day of self-regulation can genuinely change your life.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Like this episode, subscribe to Slaying Sober, and share it with someone who needs to know they’re not alone.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Drop a comment below—what part of Nicole’s story resonated with you most?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#SlayingSober #AddictionRecovery #FamilyHealing #LovedOnesOfAddicts #SomaticTherapy #MentalHealthMatters #TraumaRecovery #Codependency #RecoveryJourney&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>01:04:49</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>10</itunes:episode><itunes:title> Nicole - The Codependents Guide to Walking Beside Addiction</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Top 3 Alcohol Free Drinks for the Silly Season (and beyond)]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>🎄 Sober at Christmas? This Conversation Might Change Everything.</p><p></p><p>What really happens when you walk into a Christmas party and don’t drink?</p><p>The looks. The questions. The confidence. The triggers. The quiet wins.</p><p></p><p>In this special festive edition of Slaying Sober, James Date and Sammy sit down for an honest, funny, and deeply real conversation about navigating the Christmas season alcohol-free — without hiding, explaining, or missing out.</p><p></p><p>🔥 What you’ll get from this episode:</p><p></p><p>Real talk on attending Christmas parties without drinking</p><p></p><p>How confidence (not excuses) shuts down awkward questions</p><p></p><p>The “golden hour” that proves you made the right decision</p><p></p><p>Handling triggers, temptation, and old habits — even inside a bottle shop</p><p></p><p>Why staying sober can quietly inspire others to ask for help</p><p></p><p>Laughs, reflections, and stories that hit close to home (without glamorising)</p><p></p><p></p><p>💡 Why this matters:</p><p>This isn’t preachy sobriety talk. It’s two mates sharing lived experience — the wins, the discomfort, the funny moments, and the emotional weight of Christmas when alcohol used to run the show.</p><p></p><p>If you’re sober-curious, newly AF, or just tired of the festive hangover cycle — this episode is for you.</p><p></p><p>👉 Watch now and take something practical into your next Christmas party.</p><p>👍 Like, 💬 comment if this resonated, and 🔔 subscribe to Slaying Sober for more raw, real conversations that start the dialogue.</p><p></p><p>You’re not alone — and you don’t have to drink to belong.</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">54e0055a-9d40-4053-ada2-3b345b012ede</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 15 Dec 2025 03:43:34 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/a36b77d31eec890472f7a46f78c8f2c04ecc369cbaa0020c2c3e8498a074c00f/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiI1NGUwMDU1YS05ZDQwLTQwNTMtYWRhMi0zYjM0NWIwMTJlZGUiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjkzZjUyN2RjZTkzNDgyMjQzMzdhZWY2L2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTEyLTE1X18xLTEyLTQ1Lm1wMyJ9.mp3" length="33734748" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;🎄 Sober at Christmas? This Conversation Might Change Everything.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What really happens when you walk into a Christmas party and don’t drink?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The looks. The questions. The confidence. The triggers. The quiet wins.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this special festive edition of Slaying Sober, James Date and Sammy sit down for an honest, funny, and deeply real conversation about navigating the Christmas season alcohol-free — without hiding, explaining, or missing out.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🔥 What you’ll get from this episode:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Real talk on attending Christmas parties without drinking&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;How confidence (not excuses) shuts down awkward questions&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The “golden hour” that proves you made the right decision&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Handling triggers, temptation, and old habits — even inside a bottle shop&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Why staying sober can quietly inspire others to ask for help&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Laughs, reflections, and stories that hit close to home (without glamorising)&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;💡 Why this matters:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This isn’t preachy sobriety talk. It’s two mates sharing lived experience — the wins, the discomfort, the funny moments, and the emotional weight of Christmas when alcohol used to run the show.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If you’re sober-curious, newly AF, or just tired of the festive hangover cycle — this episode is for you.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 Watch now and take something practical into your next Christmas party.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👍 Like, 💬 comment if this resonated, and 🔔 subscribe to Slaying Sober for more raw, real conversations that start the dialogue.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;You’re not alone — and you don’t have to drink to belong.&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:44:27</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:title>Top 3 Alcohol Free Drinks for the Silly Season (and beyond)</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Ashley Smith - Breaking the Cycle Tassie - a story of resilience]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>From homelessness, violence, addiction, overdoses, prison sentences and a house fire… to hope, healing and helping at-risk youth.</p><p>In this raw and deeply human episode, Ashley Smith opens up about the darkest chapters of his life and how he finally broke the cycle.</p><p></p><p>We talk about:</p><p>• Growing up in Tasmania in housing commission</p><p>• Alcohol addiction starting at 14</p><p>• Drinking 6–7 litres of goon a day</p><p>• Ice addiction, street life &amp; 70+ hospital visits</p><p>• Prison sentences &amp; living with trauma</p><p>• Witnessing violence at home</p><p>• Becoming homeless in his own town</p><p>• Attempting to burn down his childhood house</p><p>• His third overdose — 90 pills — and the moment everything changed</p><p>• The judge who saw a human being, not a criminal</p><p>• How fitness, isolation, and purpose helped him rebuild</p><p>• Why he now helps at-risk youth &amp; the homeless through Breaking the Cycle Tassie</p><p></p><p>This is one of the most honest and emotional conversations we’ve had on Slaying Sober Podcast.</p><p>Ashley’s story proves that no matter how far down you go, recovery is possible — and turning your pain into purpose can transform lives.</p><p></p><p>👉 Watch till the end — there are moments in this story that could save someone’s life.</p><p>👉 Subscribe for weekly unfiltered sobriety stories, tools &amp; inspiration.</p><p>👉 If this episode hits you, share it with someone</p><p> who needs to hear it.</p><p></p><p>#SlayingSober #BreakingTheCycle #SobrietyJourney #AddictionRecovery #RealStories #HomelessToHope #AustralianPodcast #IceAddiction #RecoveryCommunity #MentalHealthMatters #TasmaniaStories #InspirationPodcast</p><p></p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">cc116fe1-f5ff-4e50-bd4b-8624bb96c29a</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 09 Dec 2025 20:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/8c353cf0b3a6cde708335c78fcbca49c7f8fc0388125ae2f74138ea2b37c7f47/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJjYzExNmZlMS1mNWZmLTRlNTAtYmQ0Yi04NjI0YmI5NmMyOWEiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjkzODVjNThkNThhMGEyZDhjZjFhNWEyL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTEyLTlfXzE4LTI4LTU2Lm1wMyJ9.mp3" length="27146001" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;From homelessness, violence, addiction, overdoses, prison sentences and a house fire… to hope, healing and helping at-risk youth.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this raw and deeply human episode, Ashley Smith opens up about the darkest chapters of his life and how he finally broke the cycle.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;We talk about:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Growing up in Tasmania in housing commission&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Alcohol addiction starting at 14&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Drinking 6–7 litres of goon a day&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Ice addiction, street life &amp;amp; 70+ hospital visits&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Prison sentences &amp;amp; living with trauma&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Witnessing violence at home&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Becoming homeless in his own town&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Attempting to burn down his childhood house&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• His third overdose — 90 pills — and the moment everything changed&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• The judge who saw a human being, not a criminal&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• How fitness, isolation, and purpose helped him rebuild&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Why he now helps at-risk youth &amp;amp; the homeless through Breaking the Cycle Tassie&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This is one of the most honest and emotional conversations we’ve had on Slaying Sober Podcast.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Ashley’s story proves that no matter how far down you go, recovery is possible — and turning your pain into purpose can transform lives.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 Watch till the end — there are moments in this story that could save someone’s life.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 Subscribe for weekly unfiltered sobriety stories, tools &amp;amp; inspiration.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 If this episode hits you, share it with someone&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt; who needs to hear it.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#SlayingSober #BreakingTheCycle #SobrietyJourney #AddictionRecovery #RealStories #HomelessToHope #AustralianPodcast #IceAddiction #RecoveryCommunity #MentalHealthMatters #TasmaniaStories #InspirationPodcast&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:39:51</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>9</itunes:episode><itunes:title>Ashley Smith - Breaking the Cycle Tassie - a story of resilience</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[BLACKOUTS HEARTBREAK.
THE MOMENT FAYE FINALLY 
CHOSE HERSELF ]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>What happens when blackout drinking, shame, trauma, and cultural pressure finally lead you to say, “Enough is enough”?</p><p>In this raw and deeply human conversation, Faye Louise Hughes opens up about her 1,000-day alcohol-free journey — the blackouts, family patterns, ADHD, regret, lost memories, and the moment she chose self-love over self-destruction.</p><p></p><p>Together, Faye and James dive into the reality of addiction, why not everyone experiences blackouts, how alcohol impacts emotional control, and how sobriety rebuilt Faye’s relationship with her mum, her identity, and her joy.</p><p>This episode also reveals an unexpected moment — when James shares his own trauma linked to blackout drinking.</p><p></p><p>If you're sober curious, struggling with shame, or searching for a sign… this might be the conversation that shifts everything.</p><p></p><p>You’ll hear:</p><p>• The truth about blackouts &amp; emotional regulation</p><p>• ADHD + alcohol — the connection most people never talk about</p><p>• How sobriety created a powerful bond between mother and daughter</p><p>• Why “keep the ritual, change the ingredient” helps in recovery</p><p>• How Faye relearned self-love, celebration, and identity</p><p>• The breaking point moment on Valentine’s Day 2023</p><p>• How to cope when your partner still drinks</p><p>• And the real-life consequences of years spent drinking to escape</p><p></p><p>This isn’t just a sobriety story — it’s a story of courage, healing, and reclaiming your life.</p><p></p><p>#Sobriety #AlcoholFree #RecoveryJourney #AddictionRecovery #SlayingSober #SoberCommunity #TraumaHealing #MentalHealth #ADHD #SelfLoveJourney #Healing #QuitAlcohol #SoberStories #Motivation #Transformation</p><p></p><p></p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">49c3e293-9574-4e16-9519-acdb7c18c36c</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 02 Dec 2025 11:39:47 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/993a4368f7db9a7bcc8b921000d7711bcf1dbf68df6dcf09a0c1e51b24a97b4a/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiI0OWMzZTI5My05NTc0LTRlMTYtOTUxOS1hY2RiN2MxOGMzNmMiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjkyZWMxODI2YzAwMjY5YzY4YjEyMzdjL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTEyLTJfXzExLTM3LTU0Lm1wMyJ9.mp3" length="36057903" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;What happens when blackout drinking, shame, trauma, and cultural pressure finally lead you to say, “Enough is enough”?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this raw and deeply human conversation, Faye Louise Hughes opens up about her 1,000-day alcohol-free journey — the blackouts, family patterns, ADHD, regret, lost memories, and the moment she chose self-love over self-destruction.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Together, Faye and James dive into the reality of addiction, why not everyone experiences blackouts, how alcohol impacts emotional control, and how sobriety rebuilt Faye’s relationship with her mum, her identity, and her joy.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This episode also reveals an unexpected moment — when James shares his own trauma linked to blackout drinking.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If you&apos;re sober curious, struggling with shame, or searching for a sign… this might be the conversation that shifts everything.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;You’ll hear:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• The truth about blackouts &amp;amp; emotional regulation&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• ADHD + alcohol — the connection most people never talk about&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• How sobriety created a powerful bond between mother and daughter&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• Why “keep the ritual, change the ingredient” helps in recovery&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• How Faye relearned self-love, celebration, and identity&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• The breaking point moment on Valentine’s Day 2023&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• How to cope when your partner still drinks&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;• And the real-life consequences of years spent drinking to escape&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This isn’t just a sobriety story — it’s a story of courage, healing, and reclaiming your life.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#Sobriety #AlcoholFree #RecoveryJourney #AddictionRecovery #SlayingSober #SoberCommunity #TraumaHealing #MentalHealth #ADHD #SelfLoveJourney #Healing #QuitAlcohol #SoberStories #Motivation #Transformation&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:47:58</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:title>BLACKOUTS HEARTBREAK.
THE MOMENT FAYE FINALLY 
CHOSE HERSELF </itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bed wetters V/S Bag Snatcher]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>What happens when two men in recovery sit down and tell the raw truth?</p><p>In this episode of Slaying Sober, James sits with Jared Threlfall, a man who went from surf-loving teenager… to chaotic binge drinker… to a father fighting to rebuild his life—and is now celebrating 9 years completely alcohol-free.</p><p></p><p>From the infamous NAAA football game (“the bag snatchers vs the bedwetters”) to the darkest nights of guilt, violence, hangovers, broken relationships, anxiety, court fines, and a life spiralling out of control—Jared opens up with honesty that hits hard.</p><p></p><p>This isn’t a polished story—it’s the unfiltered journey of someone who white-knuckled sobriety for seven years, found a miracle in accountability, and rebuilt his life from the ground up.</p><p>His story is proof that anyone can rise from chaos, shame, and addiction—and that recovery doesn’t have to look perfect to be powerful.</p><p></p><p>Jared’s turning point?</p><p>A broken relationship.</p><p>$62,000 in fines.</p><p>A court appearance.</p><p>A moment of surrender he calls a miracle…</p><p>And a decision that saved his life.</p><p></p><p>If you’ve ever struggled with alcohol, felt stuck, or thought you weren’t strong enough—this conversation will hit you right in the heart.</p><p></p><p>If this story gave you hope, hit Subscribe, drop a comment, and share this with someone who needs it.</p><p>Your support helps us bring more real stories from real people fighting the same battle—and winning.</p><p></p><p>Subscribe here → </p><p>Join our mission to break the stigma of addiction and celebrate recovery.</p><p></p><p>#SlayingSober #SoberStories #SobrietyJourney #RecoveryCommunity #SoberLifeMovement</p><p>#SoberInspiration #SoberSupport #AddictionRecovery #HealingTogether</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">aa12239c-795c-46b0-ab16-6129ebc08af4</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 26 Nov 2025 03:23:23 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/1ba637dfde162755fc2cfc37c6581e5a9836487efc5370089b0ce107420a6710/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJhYTEyMjM5Yy03OTVjLTQ2YjAtYWIxNi02MTI5ZWJjMDhhZjQiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjkyNjcxZTEzZmYzZGE0ZWE5YjFlZGMwL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTExLTI2X180LTIwLTEubXAzIn0=.mp3" length="28748412" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;What happens when two men in recovery sit down and tell the raw truth?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this episode of Slaying Sober, James sits with Jared Threlfall, a man who went from surf-loving teenager… to chaotic binge drinker… to a father fighting to rebuild his life—and is now celebrating 9 years completely alcohol-free.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;From the infamous NAAA football game (“the bag snatchers vs the bedwetters”) to the darkest nights of guilt, violence, hangovers, broken relationships, anxiety, court fines, and a life spiralling out of control—Jared opens up with honesty that hits hard.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This isn’t a polished story—it’s the unfiltered journey of someone who white-knuckled sobriety for seven years, found a miracle in accountability, and rebuilt his life from the ground up.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;His story is proof that anyone can rise from chaos, shame, and addiction—and that recovery doesn’t have to look perfect to be powerful.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Jared’s turning point?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;A broken relationship.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;$62,000 in fines.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;A court appearance.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;A moment of surrender he calls a miracle…&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;And a decision that saved his life.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If you’ve ever struggled with alcohol, felt stuck, or thought you weren’t strong enough—this conversation will hit you right in the heart.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If this story gave you hope, hit Subscribe, drop a comment, and share this with someone who needs it.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Your support helps us bring more real stories from real people fighting the same battle—and winning.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Subscribe here → &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Join our mission to break the stigma of addiction and celebrate recovery.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#SlayingSober #SoberStories #SobrietyJourney #RecoveryCommunity #SoberLifeMovement&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#SoberInspiration #SoberSupport #AddictionRecovery #HealingTogether&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:40:36</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>7</itunes:episode><itunes:title>Bed wetters V/S Bag Snatcher</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bonus Episode - Chats With Sammy]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>Join host James Date for a special <b>Bonus Episode</b> as he reconnects with his old drinking buddy, <b>Sammy (Levvo)</b>, for a hilarious and candid chat! Dive deep into their wildest <b>war stories</b> from working and living in a massive <b>Walkabout "Super Pub" in Bristol</b> in the mid-2000s. From legendary snakebites to naked bacon runs, they reminisce on the good, the bad, and the sheer <i>madness</i> of a life fully immersed in <b>alcohol culture</b> before sharing their current perspectives on <b>sobriety</b> and <b>retiring from drinking</b>.</p><p></p><p>James and Sammy shared an intense, alcohol-fueled friendship while living and working together in a bustling Bristol pub—a friendship that has happily continued into their <b>sober lives</b> as fathers.</p><ul><li><b>The Super Pub Life:</b> Hear incredible tales from their time at the 300-year-old <b>Walkabout in Bristol</b>, including its massive capacity, the ridiculous money it made, and the "24/7" drinking culture of the staff who lived there.</li><li><b>Insane Bar Stories:</b> We cover the infamous <b>£1.50 "Snakebite"</b> drink, the <b>"Ten Quid Challenge,"</b> and the bizarre staff initiation involving high-ABV <b>Exhibition Cider</b> at the Coronation Tap.</li><li><b>The Naked Run:</b> The jaw-dropping story of Sammy's <b>£200 naked run</b> across town for bacon and eggs (at 7 AM on a Monday!).</li><li><b>The Sobriety Shift:</b> An honest discussion about the shame, embarrassment, and isolation that came with their heavy drinking, and the strength of their bond now that they are both <b>sober</b> and supporting each other's <b>retirement from alcohol</b>.</li><li><b>Friendships in Sobriety:</b> Do friendships subside once you stop drinking? The hosts discuss why their brotherhood has endured beyond the booze.</li></ul><p></p><h3><b>Connect with the Show:</b></h3><p></p><ul><li><b>Follow Slaying Sober:</b></li><li><b>Listen to more episodes of Slaying Sober:</b> <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://linktr.ee/slayingsober" target="_blank"><b>linktr.ee/slayingsober</b></a></li><li><b>Subscribe to the YouTube Channel!</b></li></ul><p><b>Don't forget to LIKE this video, COMMENT below with your own "retired from drinking" story, and SUBSCRIBE for more honest conversations on sobriety!</b></p><p></p><p>#SobrietyJourney #WalkaboutBristol #PubLifeStories #AlcoholFree #SoberLife #Friendship #SlangSober #BristolPubs #RetirementFromDrinking #Mid2000s</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">e4bedccc-e64d-4ae7-9e9b-88acb2fe3803</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2025 20:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/a73d263f6c8a954f6ed4db73dfde4488e5a6acc5cb75abb7984065e874f565b3/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJlNGJlZGNjYy1lNjRkLTRhZTctOWU5Yi04OGFjYjJmZTM4MDMiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjkxYzY1NmNhYTc1NDg2ZDFiODQ0ZTI3L2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTExLTE4X18xMy0yNC0xMi5tcDMifQ==.mp3" length="57595689" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;Join host James Date for a special &lt;b&gt;Bonus Episode&lt;/b&gt; as he reconnects with his old drinking buddy, &lt;b&gt;Sammy (Levvo)&lt;/b&gt;, for a hilarious and candid chat! Dive deep into their wildest &lt;b&gt;war stories&lt;/b&gt; from working and living in a massive &lt;b&gt;Walkabout &quot;Super Pub&quot; in Bristol&lt;/b&gt; in the mid-2000s. From legendary snakebites to naked bacon runs, they reminisce on the good, the bad, and the sheer &lt;i&gt;madness&lt;/i&gt; of a life fully immersed in &lt;b&gt;alcohol culture&lt;/b&gt; before sharing their current perspectives on &lt;b&gt;sobriety&lt;/b&gt; and &lt;b&gt;retiring from drinking&lt;/b&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;James and Sammy shared an intense, alcohol-fueled friendship while living and working together in a bustling Bristol pub—a friendship that has happily continued into their &lt;b&gt;sober lives&lt;/b&gt; as fathers.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;b&gt;The Super Pub Life:&lt;/b&gt; Hear incredible tales from their time at the 300-year-old &lt;b&gt;Walkabout in Bristol&lt;/b&gt;, including its massive capacity, the ridiculous money it made, and the &quot;24/7&quot; drinking culture of the staff who lived there.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;b&gt;Insane Bar Stories:&lt;/b&gt; We cover the infamous &lt;b&gt;£1.50 &quot;Snakebite&quot;&lt;/b&gt; drink, the &lt;b&gt;&quot;Ten Quid Challenge,&quot;&lt;/b&gt; and the bizarre staff initiation involving high-ABV &lt;b&gt;Exhibition Cider&lt;/b&gt; at the Coronation Tap.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;b&gt;The Naked Run:&lt;/b&gt; The jaw-dropping story of Sammy&apos;s &lt;b&gt;£200 naked run&lt;/b&gt; across town for bacon and eggs (at 7 AM on a Monday!).&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;b&gt;The Sobriety Shift:&lt;/b&gt; An honest discussion about the shame, embarrassment, and isolation that came with their heavy drinking, and the strength of their bond now that they are both &lt;b&gt;sober&lt;/b&gt; and supporting each other&apos;s &lt;b&gt;retirement from alcohol&lt;/b&gt;.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;b&gt;Friendships in Sobriety:&lt;/b&gt; Do friendships subside once you stop drinking? The hosts discuss why their brotherhood has endured beyond the booze.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h3&gt;&lt;b&gt;Connect with the Show:&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;b&gt;Follow Slaying Sober:&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;b&gt;Listen to more episodes of Slaying Sober:&lt;/b&gt; &lt;a rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer nofollow&quot; href=&quot;http://linktr.ee/slayingsober&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;&lt;b&gt;linktr.ee/slayingsober&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;b&gt;Subscribe to the YouTube Channel!&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Don&apos;t forget to LIKE this video, COMMENT below with your own &quot;retired from drinking&quot; story, and SUBSCRIBE for more honest conversations on sobriety!&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#SobrietyJourney #WalkaboutBristol #PubLifeStories #AlcoholFree #SoberLife #Friendship #SlangSober #BristolPubs #RetirementFromDrinking #Mid2000s&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>01:15:41</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>7</itunes:episode><itunes:title>Bonus Episode - Chats With Sammy</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[S3-E6 Jake | A Safe Place to be Vulnerable]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>After years trapped in addiction, crime, and chaos — James Date was given one last chance.</p><p>A magistrate’s words changed everything:<br /><i>“You can either become institutionalised… or picture a new life.”</i></p><p>What followed was a raw, emotional journey through prison, trauma, recovery, and rebirth. From facing childhood pain in rehab to rediscovering vulnerability, James shares his story of <b>redemption, healing, and purpose</b>.</p><p>In this episode, he opens up about:</p><ul><li>His moment of awakening after leaving prison</li><li>Facing buried trauma through vulnerability and breathwork</li><li>The spiritual connection that led him to healing</li><li>Building a life of recovery, hope, and helping others</li></ul><p>🌿 This is more than a story about sobriety — it’s about choosing life, forgiveness, and freedom.</p><p>🎙️ Watch the full episode of <i>Slaying Sober Pod</i> — where real people share real stories of addiction, recovery, and hope.</p><p>🔗 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts &amp; Amazon Music.</p><p></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2vEnsIdIy2aZafvoqURbfx" target="_blank">https://open.spotify.com/show/2vEnsIdIy2aZafvoqURbfx</a></p><p></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/slaying-sober/id1840339664" target="_blank">https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/slaying-sober/id1840339664</a></p><p></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/d316a728-0430-41f1-9040-4f6fe5cd52a9/slaying-sober" target="_blank">https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/d316a728-0430-41f1-9040-4f6fe5cd52a9/slaying-sober</a></p><p></p><p></p><p>#SlayingSoberPod #RecoveryStories #AddictionRecovery #SoberJourney #SobrietyStories #TraumaHealing #PrisonToPurpose #RecoveryPodcast #MelbournePodcast #HealingJourney #HopeAfterAddiction </p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">d6b1d0e0-7e2f-43de-9870-8d4112c7f872</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 11 Nov 2025 20:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/a0a2c3e7c8a9f4a71aa1f994e0093ebe5e1aebc24d78316a9b08933627a117c5/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJkNmIxZDBlMC03ZTJmLTQzZGUtOTg3MC04ZDQxMTJjN2Y4NzIiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjkxMmY2ZWQ1OGJmYWE0ODg3MDBjYjMxL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTExLTExX185LTQyLTIxLm1wMyJ9.mp3" length="24788044" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;After years trapped in addiction, crime, and chaos — James Date was given one last chance.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;A magistrate’s words changed everything:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;i&gt;“You can either become institutionalised… or picture a new life.”&lt;/i&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What followed was a raw, emotional journey through prison, trauma, recovery, and rebirth. From facing childhood pain in rehab to rediscovering vulnerability, James shares his story of &lt;b&gt;redemption, healing, and purpose&lt;/b&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this episode, he opens up about:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;His moment of awakening after leaving prison&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Facing buried trauma through vulnerability and breathwork&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;The spiritual connection that led him to healing&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Building a life of recovery, hope, and helping others&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;🌿 This is more than a story about sobriety — it’s about choosing life, forgiveness, and freedom.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🎙️ Watch the full episode of &lt;i&gt;Slaying Sober Pod&lt;/i&gt; — where real people share real stories of addiction, recovery, and hope.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🔗 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts &amp;amp; Amazon Music.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer nofollow&quot; href=&quot;https://open.spotify.com/show/2vEnsIdIy2aZafvoqURbfx&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;https://open.spotify.com/show/2vEnsIdIy2aZafvoqURbfx&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer nofollow&quot; href=&quot;https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/slaying-sober/id1840339664&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/slaying-sober/id1840339664&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer nofollow&quot; href=&quot;https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/d316a728-0430-41f1-9040-4f6fe5cd52a9/slaying-sober&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/d316a728-0430-41f1-9040-4f6fe5cd52a9/slaying-sober&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#SlayingSoberPod #RecoveryStories #AddictionRecovery #SoberJourney #SobrietyStories #TraumaHealing #PrisonToPurpose #RecoveryPodcast #MelbournePodcast #HealingJourney #HopeAfterAddiction &lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:33:54</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>6</itunes:episode><itunes:title>S3-E6 Jake | A Safe Place to be Vulnerable</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Gary | Wanted To be Something Different]]></title><description><![CDATA[<h3><b>Gary’s Journey: From Addiction to Fatherhood | The Recovery Tapes x Slaying Sober Podcast</b></h3><p>In this emotional and raw episode, <b>Gary</b> sits down with <b>James Date</b> to share his powerful story of transformation — from drug addiction, prison, and street life in Wanneroo, Perth, to eight years of sobriety, fatherhood, and purpose.</p><p>Gary opens up about:<br />💥 His teenage years chasing the “gangster life” and losing control<br />🚔 The reality of addiction, jail, and relapse<br />❤️ The moment that changed everything — seeing his partner pregnant<br />💪 How he rebuilt his life without rehab, found self-love, and started helping others<br />🎧 Why he started <i>The Recovery Tapes</i> and his mission to inspire change</p><p>This episode is for anyone battling addiction, seeking hope, or rebuilding their life after trauma. Gary’s honesty, humility, and strength remind us that recovery isn’t easy — but it’s always worth it.</p><hr /><p><b>🎧 Listen, learn, and share:</b><br />➡️ Subscribe for more real stories of recovery and self-growth<br />➡️ Follow us on TikTok &amp; Instagram: @SlayingSoberPod<br />➡️ New episodes every Wednesday</p><hr /><p><b>#RecoveryJourney #Sobriety #AddictionRecovery #Inspiration #MentalHealth #SlayingSoberPod #PodcastStorytelling #SelfGrowth #RedemptionStory #GaryTheRecoveryTapes</b></p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">e3d86121-d082-4a03-b877-32f98002560a</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 04 Nov 2025 20:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/567e5445af2338d197813cf30cf58f26a135b43a14a223fa41572c3e3b111dba/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJlM2Q4NjEyMS1kMDgyLTRhMDMtYjg3Ny0zMmY5ODAwMjU2MGEiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjkwOWFlOWQxNzJkMjUyMzAxYzFiNmQ2L2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTExLTRfXzgtNDMtMjUubXAzIn0=.mp3" length="25924384" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;h3&gt;&lt;b&gt;Gary’s Journey: From Addiction to Fatherhood | The Recovery Tapes x Slaying Sober Podcast&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this emotional and raw episode, &lt;b&gt;Gary&lt;/b&gt; sits down with &lt;b&gt;James Date&lt;/b&gt; to share his powerful story of transformation — from drug addiction, prison, and street life in Wanneroo, Perth, to eight years of sobriety, fatherhood, and purpose.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Gary opens up about:&lt;br /&gt;💥 His teenage years chasing the “gangster life” and losing control&lt;br /&gt;🚔 The reality of addiction, jail, and relapse&lt;br /&gt;❤️ The moment that changed everything — seeing his partner pregnant&lt;br /&gt;💪 How he rebuilt his life without rehab, found self-love, and started helping others&lt;br /&gt;🎧 Why he started &lt;i&gt;The Recovery Tapes&lt;/i&gt; and his mission to inspire change&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This episode is for anyone battling addiction, seeking hope, or rebuilding their life after trauma. Gary’s honesty, humility, and strength remind us that recovery isn’t easy — but it’s always worth it.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;hr /&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;🎧 Listen, learn, and share:&lt;/b&gt;&lt;br /&gt;➡️ Subscribe for more real stories of recovery and self-growth&lt;br /&gt;➡️ Follow us on TikTok &amp;amp; Instagram: @SlayingSoberPod&lt;br /&gt;➡️ New episodes every Wednesday&lt;/p&gt;&lt;hr /&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;#RecoveryJourney #Sobriety #AddictionRecovery #Inspiration #MentalHealth #SlayingSoberPod #PodcastStorytelling #SelfGrowth #RedemptionStory #GaryTheRecoveryTapes&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:44:58</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>5</itunes:episode><itunes:title>Gary | Wanted To be Something Different</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Nicki’s Story of Recovery & Motherhood]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>After years of struggle, self-doubt, and toxic cycles, Nicki found the courage to take back her life. In this powerful episode of <b>Slaying Sober</b>, she opens up to <b>James Date</b> about her journey from teenage drinking and anxiety to discovering hope, healing, and self-love through sobriety.</p><p>Nicki shares how motherhood, loss, and the pressures of daily life led her deeper into addiction — and how one defining moment pushed her to say <i>“enough.”</i> From rehab to rebuilding relationships, this is a raw, honest conversation about what it means to truly start again.</p><p>✨ <b>In This Episode:</b></p><ul><li>How anxiety and insecurity fed Nicki’s drinking habits</li><li>The truth about “mom wine culture” and binge drinking</li><li>What rehab taught her about self-worth and healing</li><li>The importance of honesty, community, and asking for help</li><li>Rebuilding family bonds through recovery</li></ul><p>💬 <b>Quote:</b> “You deserve to be happy — and you can be.”</p><p>🎧 <b>Listen now and be inspired to start your own sober journey.</b><br />📅 New episodes every week. Subscribe for real, unfiltered recovery stories that remind you—you’re not alone.</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">cdfcf0a3-621f-427b-955e-a5c80562e387</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 26 Oct 2025 20:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/6d667e9b7b84044b224e59538330f553d7c1986ed10efab5d031c6b7df3b6b72/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJjZGZjZjBhMy02MjFmLTQyN2ItOTU1ZS1hNWM4MDU2MmUzODciLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjhmZGQxMTY2OTNmZDIwYTA0MDIyNWM0L2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTEwLTI2X184LTQzLTE4Lm1wMyJ9.mp3" length="36233426" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;After years of struggle, self-doubt, and toxic cycles, Nicki found the courage to take back her life. In this powerful episode of &lt;b&gt;Slaying Sober&lt;/b&gt;, she opens up to &lt;b&gt;James Date&lt;/b&gt; about her journey from teenage drinking and anxiety to discovering hope, healing, and self-love through sobriety.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Nicki shares how motherhood, loss, and the pressures of daily life led her deeper into addiction — and how one defining moment pushed her to say &lt;i&gt;“enough.”&lt;/i&gt; From rehab to rebuilding relationships, this is a raw, honest conversation about what it means to truly start again.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✨ &lt;b&gt;In This Episode:&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;How anxiety and insecurity fed Nicki’s drinking habits&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;The truth about “mom wine culture” and binge drinking&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;What rehab taught her about self-worth and healing&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;The importance of honesty, community, and asking for help&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Rebuilding family bonds through recovery&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;💬 &lt;b&gt;Quote:&lt;/b&gt; “You deserve to be happy — and you can be.”&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🎧 &lt;b&gt;Listen now and be inspired to start your own sober journey.&lt;/b&gt;&lt;br /&gt;📅 New episodes every week. Subscribe for real, unfiltered recovery stories that remind you—you’re not alone.&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:46:25</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>4</itunes:episode><itunes:title>Nicki’s Story of Recovery &amp; Motherhood</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Beyond the Views: The Dark Truth Behind the Bikie Life]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p><b>🎙️ Slaying Sober | Season 3, Episode 4 — “Beyond the Views: The Hidden Cost of the Bikie Life”</b></p><p>In this raw and unfiltered episode of <b>Slaying Sober</b>, <b>Sam Unbreakable</b> opens up about the dark reality behind the glamorized bikie lifestyle — the truth social media never shows.</p><p>“<b>Fu*k the views. All I care about is touching the right person.</b>”<br />That’s how Sam begins — a powerful statement that sets the tone for a conversation about <b>purpose over popularity</b>, <b>truth over image</b>, and the <b>real cost of the streets</b>.</p><p>Sam and host <b>James Date</b> dive deep into the untold side of club life — <b>the violence, paranoia, betrayal, and psychosis</b> that come with chasing status and validation. Sam shares chilling moments of near tragedy, suicide attempts, and psychotic breaks — and how those moments became the catalyst for self-awareness and healing.</p><p>What starts as a story about survival becomes a powerful reflection on <b>addiction, trauma, and the desperate human need to feel worthy and seen</b>.</p><p>🎧 <b>In this episode, you’ll hear about:</b></p><ul><li>The painful truth behind the “bikie brotherhood” myth</li><li>How trauma drives addiction, violence, and self-destruction</li><li>The terrifying realities of psychosis and living in fear</li><li>The broken justice system — and why punishment isn’t rehabilitation</li><li>The importance of love, connection, and community in true recovery</li></ul><p>Sam doesn’t just tell his story — he challenges the system, calling for <b>real change in how we see addiction, incarceration, and healing</b>. His honesty will shake you, but his resilience will inspire you.</p><p>Whether you’re on your own recovery path, supporting someone through theirs, or just seeking to understand the deeper human stories behind the headlines — this episode is one you’ll never forget.</p><p>🔥 <b>Listen now — and be reminded that saving even one life makes it all worth it.</b></p><p>👉 <b>Follow &amp; Subscribe:</b><br />🎧 Spotify | 🎵 Apple Podcasts | 🎙️ Amazon Music<br />📲 Instagram: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://instagram.com/slayingsoberpod" target="_blank">@slayingsoberpod</a><br />💬 Share this episode with someone who needs hope today.</p><hr />]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">ab8b38d5-621d-40b5-808b-0d89676ec272</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 22 Oct 2025 20:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/7e8b546b91140cb6cfb3b184e0fc0bf67f25900d0b56ecfd402671f54aff8c11/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJhYjhiMzhkNS02MjFkLTQwYjUtODA4Yi0wZDg5Njc2ZWMyNzIiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjhmOGE0NzYwMDViOWQyMmQ2MDViYTEyL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTEwLTIyX18xMS0zMS0zNC5tcDMifQ==.mp3" length="13170349" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;🎙️ Slaying Sober | Season 3, Episode 4 — “Beyond the Views: The Hidden Cost of the Bikie Life”&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this raw and unfiltered episode of &lt;b&gt;Slaying Sober&lt;/b&gt;, &lt;b&gt;Sam Unbreakable&lt;/b&gt; opens up about the dark reality behind the glamorized bikie lifestyle — the truth social media never shows.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“&lt;b&gt;Fu*k the views. All I care about is touching the right person.&lt;/b&gt;”&lt;br /&gt;That’s how Sam begins — a powerful statement that sets the tone for a conversation about &lt;b&gt;purpose over popularity&lt;/b&gt;, &lt;b&gt;truth over image&lt;/b&gt;, and the &lt;b&gt;real cost of the streets&lt;/b&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Sam and host &lt;b&gt;James Date&lt;/b&gt; dive deep into the untold side of club life — &lt;b&gt;the violence, paranoia, betrayal, and psychosis&lt;/b&gt; that come with chasing status and validation. Sam shares chilling moments of near tragedy, suicide attempts, and psychotic breaks — and how those moments became the catalyst for self-awareness and healing.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What starts as a story about survival becomes a powerful reflection on &lt;b&gt;addiction, trauma, and the desperate human need to feel worthy and seen&lt;/b&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🎧 &lt;b&gt;In this episode, you’ll hear about:&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;The painful truth behind the “bikie brotherhood” myth&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;How trauma drives addiction, violence, and self-destruction&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;The terrifying realities of psychosis and living in fear&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;The broken justice system — and why punishment isn’t rehabilitation&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;The importance of love, connection, and community in true recovery&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;Sam doesn’t just tell his story — he challenges the system, calling for &lt;b&gt;real change in how we see addiction, incarceration, and healing&lt;/b&gt;. His honesty will shake you, but his resilience will inspire you.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Whether you’re on your own recovery path, supporting someone through theirs, or just seeking to understand the deeper human stories behind the headlines — this episode is one you’ll never forget.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🔥 &lt;b&gt;Listen now — and be reminded that saving even one life makes it all worth it.&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 &lt;b&gt;Follow &amp;amp; Subscribe:&lt;/b&gt;&lt;br /&gt;🎧 Spotify | 🎵 Apple Podcasts | 🎙️ Amazon Music&lt;br /&gt;📲 Instagram: &lt;a rel=&quot;noopener noreferrer nofollow&quot; href=&quot;https://instagram.com/slayingsoberpod&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;@slayingsoberpod&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;💬 Share this episode with someone who needs hope today.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;hr /&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:17:45</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:title>Beyond the Views: The Dark Truth Behind the Bikie Life</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[ From Broken to Unbreakable – Sam’s Powerful Story of Recovery & Peace | Slaying Sober S3 EP3]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Slaying Sober (Season 3, Episode 3), Sam Unbreakable shares his raw and powerful journey — from addiction and pain to purpose, healing, and peace.</p><p></p><p>“Fu*k the views. All I care about is touching the right person.”</p><p>That’s how Sam begins his story — a reminder that helping even one person makes the fight worth it.</p><p></p><p>Sam opens up about childhood struggles, addiction, violence, and the long road toward self-love and peace. He talks about being bullied, chasing happiness through drugs, validation, and material things — and how he learned that true freedom comes from inner peace, not external highs.</p><p></p><p>🎙️ Hosted by James Date, this episode dives deep into:</p><p></p><p>Finding meaning after addiction</p><p></p><p>Healing from trauma and rediscovering self-worth</p><p></p><p>What it means to go from broken to unbreakable</p><p></p><p>The power of service, connection, and storytelling in recovery</p><p></p><p>Why chasing peace matters more than chasing happiness</p><p></p><p></p><p>Whether you’re in recovery, supporting a loved one, or just seeking motivation to grow stronger — this episode will speak to your soul.</p><p></p><p>🔥 Listen now and be inspired by Sam’s journey to becoming truly Unbreakable.</p><p></p><p>👉 Follow &amp; Subscribe:</p><p>🎧 Spotify | 🎵 Apple Podcasts | 🎙️ Amazon Music</p><p>📲 Instagram: @slayingsoberpod</p><p>💬 Share this episode with someone who needs hope today.</p><p></p><p>#SlayingSober #RecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #HealingTrauma #SamUnbreakable #JamesDate #SoberCommunity #PodcastMotivation #SobrietyStories #UnbreakableMindset</p><p></p><p></p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">eacae659-c6d5-4d4f-8b67-cf9889dc75de</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 19 Oct 2025 20:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/a94bf8b30a58b2239649f038b20809dc67cceda1d309c97073020ed9fb2de323/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJlYWNhZTY1OS1jNmQ1LTRkNGYtOGI2Ny1jZjk4ODlkYzc1ZGUiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjhmNGIyN2FmZjA1Y2IwYzVhZWMyY2FlL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTEwLTE5X18xMS00Mi0xOC5tcDMifQ==.mp3" length="49835269" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;In this episode of Slaying Sober (Season 3, Episode 3), Sam Unbreakable shares his raw and powerful journey — from addiction and pain to purpose, healing, and peace.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;“Fu*k the views. All I care about is touching the right person.”&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;That’s how Sam begins his story — a reminder that helping even one person makes the fight worth it.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Sam opens up about childhood struggles, addiction, violence, and the long road toward self-love and peace. He talks about being bullied, chasing happiness through drugs, validation, and material things — and how he learned that true freedom comes from inner peace, not external highs.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🎙️ Hosted by James Date, this episode dives deep into:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Finding meaning after addiction&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Healing from trauma and rediscovering self-worth&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;What it means to go from broken to unbreakable&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The power of service, connection, and storytelling in recovery&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Why chasing peace matters more than chasing happiness&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Whether you’re in recovery, supporting a loved one, or just seeking motivation to grow stronger — this episode will speak to your soul.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🔥 Listen now and be inspired by Sam’s journey to becoming truly Unbreakable.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 Follow &amp;amp; Subscribe:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🎧 Spotify | 🎵 Apple Podcasts | 🎙️ Amazon Music&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;📲 Instagram: @slayingsoberpod&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;💬 Share this episode with someone who needs hope today.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#SlayingSober #RecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #SobrietyJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #HealingTrauma #SamUnbreakable #JamesDate #SoberCommunity #PodcastMotivation #SobrietyStories #UnbreakableMindset&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>01:06:45</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>3</itunes:episode><itunes:title> From Broken to Unbreakable – Sam’s Powerful Story of Recovery &amp; Peace | Slaying Sober S3 EP3</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Emma’s Story: From Trauma & Addiction to Recovery | Slaying Sober Podcast

Part 02]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>Emma’s powerful journey takes us from a childhood filled with trauma and abuse, through years of addiction and devastating loss — to finally finding hope, faith, and recovery.</p><p></p><p>In this episode of Slaying Sober, Emma shares how addiction cost her a marriage, her career, and even her children. But with community, faith, and resilience, she found her way to sobriety and healing.</p><p></p><p>✨ This story is a reminder that no matter how far you fall, recovery is always possible.</p><p></p><p>🌏 If you’re in Australia or anywhere in the world, struggling with addiction or supporting someone who is — this conversation is for you.</p><p></p><p>👉 Subscribe to Slaying Sober for more real stories of addiction, recovery, and hope.</p><p></p><p>#SlayingSober #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryPodcast #SobrietyJourney #AustraliaRecovery #AddictionAwareness #HopeAfterAddiction #SobrietyAustralia</p><p></p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">e2efa5d2-75d4-4e46-9956-b516546f9628</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 22 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/007c1765baabbfd66367b574036c4198e11b28d8c4c62b0b132720ec958845a3/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJlMmVmYTVkMi03NWQ0LTRlNDYtOTk1Ni1iNTE2NTQ2Zjk2MjgiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjhjZjgzZjY5ZjM0N2M0OGMxZDQ5NzQzL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTktMjFfXzYtNDktNTgubXAzIn0=.mp3" length="22490679" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;Emma’s powerful journey takes us from a childhood filled with trauma and abuse, through years of addiction and devastating loss — to finally finding hope, faith, and recovery.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this episode of Slaying Sober, Emma shares how addiction cost her a marriage, her career, and even her children. But with community, faith, and resilience, she found her way to sobriety and healing.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✨ This story is a reminder that no matter how far you fall, recovery is always possible.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🌏 If you’re in Australia or anywhere in the world, struggling with addiction or supporting someone who is — this conversation is for you.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 Subscribe to Slaying Sober for more real stories of addiction, recovery, and hope.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#SlayingSober #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryPodcast #SobrietyJourney #AustraliaRecovery #AddictionAwareness #HopeAfterAddiction #SobrietyAustralia&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:40:04</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:episode>2</itunes:episode><itunes:title>Emma’s Story: From Trauma &amp; Addiction to Recovery | Slaying Sober Podcast

Part 02</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Emma’s Story: From Trauma & Addiction to Recovery | Slaying Sober Podcast
Part 01]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>Emma’s powerful journey takes us from a childhood filled with trauma and abuse, through years of addiction and devastating loss — to finally finding hope, faith, and recovery.</p><p></p><p>In this episode of Slaying Sober, Emma shares how addiction cost her a marriage, her career, and even her children. But with community, faith, and resilience, she found her way to sobriety and healing.</p><p></p><p>✨ This story is a reminder that no matter how far you fall, recovery is always possible.</p><p></p><p>🌏 If you’re in Australia or anywhere in the world, struggling with addiction or supporting someone who is — this conversation is for you.</p><p></p><p>👉 Subscribe to Slaying Sober for more real stories of addiction, recovery, and hope.</p><p></p><p>#SlayingSober #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryPodcast #SobrietyJourney #AustraliaRecovery #AddictionAwareness #HopeAfterAddiction #SobrietyAustralia #Soberlife #Hope #Addiction</p><p></p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">27c33c97-0526-4dc7-89fc-0b00e24e2b7c</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sun, 21 Sep 2025 05:46:20 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/0375240cf21077bd9942c8b8355f26e0b06f9612b6bc06a303932849207878be/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiIyN2MzM2M5Ny0wNTI2LTRkYzctODlmYy0wYjAwZTI0ZTJiN2MiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjhjZjgzYWU4NjU2YmZjZTFiZTg4YmY4L2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTktMjFfXzYtNDgtNDYubXAzIn0=.mp3" length="20662989" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;Emma’s powerful journey takes us from a childhood filled with trauma and abuse, through years of addiction and devastating loss — to finally finding hope, faith, and recovery.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this episode of Slaying Sober, Emma shares how addiction cost her a marriage, her career, and even her children. But with community, faith, and resilience, she found her way to sobriety and healing.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✨ This story is a reminder that no matter how far you fall, recovery is always possible.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;🌏 If you’re in Australia or anywhere in the world, struggling with addiction or supporting someone who is — this conversation is for you.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 Subscribe to Slaying Sober for more real stories of addiction, recovery, and hope.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#SlayingSober #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryPodcast #SobrietyJourney #AustraliaRecovery #AddictionAwareness #HopeAfterAddiction #SobrietyAustralia #Soberlife #Hope #Addiction&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:36:39</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode><itunes:title>Emma’s Story: From Trauma &amp; Addiction to Recovery | Slaying Sober Podcast
Part 01</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[From AFL Pints to Purpose: Tom Rockliff on Sobriety, Mental Health & Life After Footy]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of <i>Slaying Sober</i>, host James sits down with former AFL star <b>Tom Rockliff</b> to dive deep into his powerful journey of sobriety. Tom opens up about the drinking culture in professional football, the struggles of life after retirement, and the turning point that led him to embrace a sober lifestyle.</p><p>He shares how giving up alcohol has brought him <b>mental clarity, resilience, and personal growth</b>, while highlighting the importance of <b>mental health, exercise, and mentorship</b> in recovery. Whether you’re sober curious, navigating life after sport, or seeking inspiration for change, Tom’s story is a raw and motivating reminder that transformation is possible.</p><p>✨ Tune in to hear how one man swapped pints for purpose and found strength beyond the game.</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">91e1c2fe-ec7d-4620-a7e1-7f87b559bd2d</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 20 Sep 2025 03:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/584341641c817eae3280d181e3eefa4fe86a8f53ca4b722b7495931f2c66141f/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiI5MWUxYzJmZS1lYzdkLTQ2MjAtYTdlMS03Zjg3YjU1OWJkMmQiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjhjYmNjZjRhZGNiYzEzMjFiYzAyNmY5L2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTktMThfXzExLTEyLTIwLm1wMyJ9.mp3" length="30290106" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;In this episode of &lt;i&gt;Slaying Sober&lt;/i&gt;, host James sits down with former AFL star &lt;b&gt;Tom Rockliff&lt;/b&gt; to dive deep into his powerful journey of sobriety. Tom opens up about the drinking culture in professional football, the struggles of life after retirement, and the turning point that led him to embrace a sober lifestyle.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;He shares how giving up alcohol has brought him &lt;b&gt;mental clarity, resilience, and personal growth&lt;/b&gt;, while highlighting the importance of &lt;b&gt;mental health, exercise, and mentorship&lt;/b&gt; in recovery. Whether you’re sober curious, navigating life after sport, or seeking inspiration for change, Tom’s story is a raw and motivating reminder that transformation is possible.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;✨ Tune in to hear how one man swapped pints for purpose and found strength beyond the game.&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:43:55</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode><itunes:title>From AFL Pints to Purpose: Tom Rockliff on Sobriety, Mental Health &amp; Life After Footy</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Healing the Inner Child & Finding Strength in Recovery – Macarena’s Journey]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this powerful episode, Macarena opens up about her journey of recovery, healing her inner child, and discovering strength through the 12 steps. She shares how nurturing her wounded inner child transformed her life, gave her the tools to articulate emotions, and helped her break free from destructive generational cycles.</p><p></p><p>From learning to pray and meditate in her own way, to embracing spirituality rooted in her Inca heritage, Macarena shows how recovery is about more than just staying clean — it’s about growth, mindfulness, and passing on a healthier life to her children.</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">2da96e5f-ca0a-4a6e-b3b9-9f557aedb50e</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 19 Sep 2025 03:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/ecfa3af2d6214ba288f3785beef4fead43366e1d7380426d5a756cff56f9bdb1/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiIyZGE5NmU1Zi1jYTBhLTRhNmUtYjNiOS05ZjU1N2FlZGI1MGUiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjhjYWU3YTY1NjQxZjBmZmJlZjQ2MzkzL2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTktMTdfXzE4LTUzLTU4Lm1wMyJ9.mp3" length="19394661" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;In this powerful episode, Macarena opens up about her journey of recovery, healing her inner child, and discovering strength through the 12 steps. She shares how nurturing her wounded inner child transformed her life, gave her the tools to articulate emotions, and helped her break free from destructive generational cycles.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;From learning to pray and meditate in her own way, to embracing spirituality rooted in her Inca heritage, Macarena shows how recovery is about more than just staying clean — it’s about growth, mindfulness, and passing on a healthier life to her children.&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:27:52</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:episode>3</itunes:episode><itunes:title>Healing the Inner Child &amp; Finding Strength in Recovery – Macarena’s Journey</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[From Addiction to Almost 6 Years Clean: Macarena’s Journey Through Recovery & Resilience]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Macarena opens up about her deeply personal journey through addiction, motherhood, domestic violence, and ultimately—recovery. After years of struggle, relapses, and painful losses, she found strength in the 12-step fellowship and a community that showed her unconditional love when she needed it most.</p><p></p><p>Now, with nearly six years of sobriety, Macarena reflects on:</p><p></p><p>Staying clean during pregnancy and the guilt that followed.</p><p></p><p>The turning point that led her back to heroin.</p><p></p><p>Losing her children and the painful cycle of generational trauma.</p><p></p><p>Finding hope, safety, and compassion in Narcotics Anonymous.</p><p></p><p>How recovery has transformed her life and given her purpose.</p><p></p><p></p><p>This raw and inspiring story is a reminder that healing is possible, even in the darkest moments.</p><p></p><p>Listen Also On Spotify and Amazon</p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">08f404b4-dbe0-4146-891a-78d4872c4a67</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 18 Sep 2025 03:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/1dda4b87ef7914765feb17a532b568e765723e29e492761f8cb048f199caad9f/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiIwOGY0MDRiNC1kYmUwLTQxNDYtODkxYS03OGQ0ODcyYzRhNjciLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjhjYWU2OWU3MjIzNTEzNTM1YzliYzM0L2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTktMTdfXzE4LTQ5LTM0Lm1wMyJ9.mp3" length="13824635" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;In this episode, Macarena opens up about her deeply personal journey through addiction, motherhood, domestic violence, and ultimately—recovery. After years of struggle, relapses, and painful losses, she found strength in the 12-step fellowship and a community that showed her unconditional love when she needed it most.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Now, with nearly six years of sobriety, Macarena reflects on:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Staying clean during pregnancy and the guilt that followed.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The turning point that led her back to heroin.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Losing her children and the painful cycle of generational trauma.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Finding hope, safety, and compassion in Narcotics Anonymous.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;How recovery has transformed her life and given her purpose.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This raw and inspiring story is a reminder that healing is possible, even in the darkest moments.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Listen Also On Spotify and Amazon&lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:20:05</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:episode>2</itunes:episode><itunes:title>From Addiction to Almost 6 Years Clean: Macarena’s Journey Through Recovery &amp; Resilience</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title><![CDATA[Episode 01: From Chaos to Courage: Macarena’s Journey Through Addiction, Trauma & Recovery]]></title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this powerful first episode of <i>Slaying Sober</i>, James sits down with <b>Macarena</b>, who courageously opens up about her childhood in Melbourne, growing up in a household filled with violence, addiction, and trauma.</p><p>By the age of nine, Macarena was already experimenting with alcohol and marijuana, and by fourteen, she was addicted to heroin. Her story takes us through the painful realities of domestic violence, life on the streets, criminality, and time in prison—before finding strength in sobriety, motherhood, and healing.</p><p>This is not just a story about addiction—it’s about resilience, survival, and the human spirit’s ability to rise above the darkest of circumstances.</p><p>👉 Whether you’re on your own sobriety journey, supporting someone you love, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation will move you.</p><p></p><p>#SlayingSober #AddictionRecovery #Hope #SobrietyJourney #Healing #TraumaRecovery #SoberLife #PodcastLaunch </p>]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">a74fa501-06d7-4d8d-86f5-b0fb01150736</guid><dc:creator><![CDATA[James Date]]></dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 16 Sep 2025 16:09:14 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.riverside.com/hosting-analytics/media/4aede21450007af1b784a0852ff1390a93d712e950ef18dd13b1cbcbff246883/eyJlcGlzb2RlSWQiOiJhNzRmYTUwMS0wNmQ3LTRkOGQtODZmNS1iMGZiMDExNTA3MzYiLCJwb2RjYXN0SWQiOiI0NTJlM2I5Ni1lMjg1LTRiOTEtOTRjMy1lZmUyN2U0YmY4OGEiLCJhY2NvdW50SWQiOiI2N2ZjNDdiNjUzYTA1NzVhMWExMTY1NDQiLCJwYXRoIjoibWVkaWEvY2xpcHMvNjhjOTg5ZWIwY2MwYTY0Y2NiODJlNzM2L2phbWVzLWRhdGVzLXN0dWRpby1jb21wb3Nlci0yMDI1LTktMTZfXzE4LTEtNDYubXAzIn0=.mp3" length="14321827" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:summary>&lt;p&gt;In this powerful first episode of &lt;i&gt;Slaying Sober&lt;/i&gt;, James sits down with &lt;b&gt;Macarena&lt;/b&gt;, who courageously opens up about her childhood in Melbourne, growing up in a household filled with violence, addiction, and trauma.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;By the age of nine, Macarena was already experimenting with alcohol and marijuana, and by fourteen, she was addicted to heroin. Her story takes us through the painful realities of domestic violence, life on the streets, criminality, and time in prison—before finding strength in sobriety, motherhood, and healing.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This is not just a story about addiction—it’s about resilience, survival, and the human spirit’s ability to rise above the darkest of circumstances.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;👉 Whether you’re on your own sobriety journey, supporting someone you love, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation will move you.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;#SlayingSober #AddictionRecovery #Hope #SobrietyJourney #Healing #TraumaRecovery #SoberLife #PodcastLaunch &lt;/p&gt;</itunes:summary><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:duration>00:21:02</itunes:duration><itunes:image href="https://hosting-media.riverside.com/media/podcasts/452e3b96-e285-4b91-94c3-efe27e4bf88a/logos/88552e36-d1e2-4a58-86c0-c69ea59ca07a.jpeg"/><itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode><itunes:title>Episode 01: From Chaos to Courage: Macarena’s Journey Through Addiction, Trauma &amp; Recovery</itunes:title><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item></channel></rss>