Guilt and regret don’t always disappear when you stop drinking.

In fact, for many people, sobriety brings clarity — and with it, memories, shame, and self-judgement that can feel hard to shake.

In this episode, Abi explores why guilt lingers, the difference between healthy responsibility and toxic shame, and how self-forgiveness becomes a crucial part of moving forward. She shares a personal reflection, talks through when making amends is helpful (and when it isn’t), and offers a short guided journaling prompt to help you relate to your past with compassion instead of punishment.

This episode is for anyone who’s tired of replaying old stories — and ready to release the weight of who they used to be.

Get in touch:

Abi

NEW eBook - 30 Days to Freedom - A Gentle Reset

Available here - www.levelupsobrietycoaching.com/30-days-to-freedom-ebook/

Instagram @levelup_sobriety OR @thesoberconnectionpod

Email hello@levelupsobrietycoaching.co.nz

Affiliate links:

Terps & Co. www.drinkterps.co.nz - enter code ABI20 for 20% off storewide

I use Riverside.fm for my podcast editing software. Click the link below to find out more!

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My podcast episodes are hosted and distributed by Buzzsprout. Click the link below for a $20 Refer a Friend voucher (T&Cs apply)

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Music from #Uppbeat
https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/in-motion
License code: N5GLWPT8QQSRU7D2

In this episode of The Sober Connection, host Abi King speaks with recovery advocate Jimmy Thistle, who shares his journey of overcoming alcoholism.

From his early experiences with drinking in Scotland to the consequences of his addiction, including lost relationships and jobs, Jimmy recounts the pivotal moments that led him to seek help. He discusses his time in rehab during the COVID-19 pandemic, the challenges of relapse, and ultimately finding sobriety.

The conversation highlights the importance of community, personal growth, and the realisation of the dangers of alcohol, culminating in Jimmy's commitment to a sober life and helping others in their recovery journeys.

In this conversation, Abi and Jimmy discuss their personal journeys with alcohol addiction, the challenges of recognising and overcoming their problems, and the importance of community support. They explore societal stigma surrounding addiction, the impact of advertising on drinking culture, and the journey of self-discovery and personal growth that comes with sobriety.

They emphasise that it's never too late to change and that awareness and education are crucial in addressing addiction.

Get in touch:

Jimmy

Instagram @recovery_jimmy

Podcast - After Hours with Jimmy Thistle

Abi

NEW eBook - 30 Days to Freedom - A Gentle Reset

Available here - www.levelupsobrietycoaching.com/30-days-to-freedom-ebook/

Instagram @levelup_sobriety OR @thesoberconnectionpod

Email hello@levelupsobrietycoaching.co.nz

Affiliate links:

Terps & Co. www.drinkterps.co.nz - enter code ABI20 for 20% off storewide

I use Riverside.fm for my podcast editing software. Click the link below to find out more!

https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=abi

My podcast episodes are hosted and distributed by Buzzsprout. Click the link below for a $20 Refer a Friend voucher (T&Cs apply)

https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=2404910

Music from #Uppbeat
https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/in-motion
License code: N5GLWPT8QQSRU7D2

If you’ve stopped drinking and your sleep feels worse instead of better, you’re not alone — and nothing has gone wrong.

In this episode, Abi unpacks why early sobriety often comes with broken sleep, vivid dreams, and early-morning wake-ups, and why this phase is a normal part of recovery, not a sign of failure.

You’ll learn:

• How alcohol sedates rather than restores sleep
• Why REM sleep disruption and rebound affect early sobriety
• The role of cortisol in 3am wake-ups and night-time anxiety

Abi also shares her own experience of sleep struggles after quitting alcohol and offer three gentle ways to support your sleep without pressure: routine, light exposure, and simple wind-down rituals.

If sleep is making you question your relationship with alcohol, this episode will help you understand what’s happening — and remind you to be patient with your body.

Get in touch:

Abi

NEW eBook - 30 Days to Freedom - A Gentle Reset

Available here - www.levelupsobrietycoaching.com/30-days-to-freedom-ebook/

Instagram @levelup_sobriety OR @thesoberconnectionpod

Email hello@levelupsobrietycoaching.co.nz

Affiliate links:

Terps & Co. www.drinkterps.co.nz - enter code ABI20 for 20% off storewide

I use Riverside.fm for my podcast editing software. Click the link below to find out more!

https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=abi

My podcast episodes are hosted and distributed by Buzzsprout. Click the link below for a $20 Refer a Friend voucher (T&Cs apply)

https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=2404910

Music from #Uppbeat
https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/in-motion
License code: N5GLWPT8QQSRU7D2