Have you ever received frightening news from your doctor?

Did it spur you into action?

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

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

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

TAKEAWAYS

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

WHAT WE DISCUSS:

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

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

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Learn More About Melissa!

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

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