So it turns out, a lot of us were really bad at communicating. And then we got sober, and realized we couldn’t just hide from difficult conversations and conflict anymore. We had to actually learn how to handle it. And it started with learning healthy communication skills in recovery. In this podcast episode, we dig into communication, and how to handle conflict effectively, after you get sober. We’re joined by Mike, creator of Own Sobriety; Chris, creator of More Than 28; sober influencer Higgy, and our friend Melissa for a conversation about how we’ve learned healthy communication skills in recovery.
“I had to learn how to tolerate discomfort.”
In this episode:
- Finding the courage to say what you need to say
- Learning to identify and then express needs
- Understanding that conflict in relationships is normal
- Facing the shame of forgetting drunken conversations
- Developing active listening skills
- Recognizing when you are being heard
- You must know yourself in order to communicate effectively
- Recognizing and unlearning unhealthy behaviors (i.e. manipulation)
- Honesty and communication skills in recovery
- How to communicate without the “lubricant” of alcohol
- Gaining confidence and self awareness in sobriety allows for improved communication
- Identifying and communicating boundaries
Chris McGuinn served as Policy Advisor for the U.S. Department of Labor on opioid issues. He created the “Make Them Describe, Before They Prescribe” campaign, encouraging claimants to ask important questions when receiving new prescriptions. He has also worked in the addiction treatment field, managing single-site and multi-state operations for various Intensive Outpatient providers in the Washington, DC area. He founded More Than 28 to advocate for longer stays and better insurance coverage for treatment.
Twitter: @morethan28
Instagram: @more_than28
Facebook: www.facebook.com/morethan28
For 35 agonizing years, Higgy’s life was overshadowed by the dark clouds of addiction. His harrowing journey through the desolation of homelessness in Phoenix, Arizona, a cycle of incarcerations, and the life-threatening grip of overdoses paints a picture of despair. Yet, within this tapestry of challenges, a warrior was forged. Higgy’s transformation from a life marred by addiction to a beacon of hope and change is nothing short of miraculous.
With a heart as vast as his experience, Higgy dedicated his life to the noble cause of guiding others through their darkest hours. Through his influential social media presence, community initiatives, and the profound platform of NoMoreHeroin.org, he stands as a stalwart advocate for those wrestling with the chains of addiction. His efforts extend beyond mere words; they are a clarion call to action, offering resources, education, and unwavering support.
Higgy’s unique approach to healing is encapsulated in his work with “Defying The Oddz group”. Here, the power of music becomes a therapeutic melody, resonating with the hearts of many. His “Defying The Oddz Podcast” further amplifies this message, spotlighting the triumphant narratives of individuals who have navigated the treacherous path of recovery.
Higgy’s service extends to the brave hearts who have served the nation. As a Persian Gulf-era Military Veteran, he founded “A Vision For Veterans Inc.”, a testament to his commitment to supporting fellow veterans battling substance abuse issues. His life’s work embodies the ethos of service, sacrifice, and solidarity.
Website: https://hig20.com/
Website: https://nomoreheroin.org/
Youtube: UCly8ag3uA7VuATcYXFL2b6w
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Higgysdefyingtheoddz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRealHiggy2.0/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/higgyrobin/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoMoreHeroinNonProfit/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@higgy2.0
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/higgy02.0/
My name is Mike and I recently celebrated 6 years of sobriety, my sober date is 01/17/18. I publish a newsletter for men living a sober lifestyle called Own Sobriety. It can be found at ownsobriety.com and @ownsobriety on Instagram, Facebook & X (Twitter). I also post sober lifestyle content on my personal Instagram, @mikeunwasted.
I was an all-the-time drinker for 9 years, from age 25 to 34. Every aspect of my life revolved around alcohol and I suffered from several physical & mental health issues. It took several attempts to make sobriety stick, but my life is completely different today. I’ve been able to hold a job and advance my career, address health issues head-on, and create a stable, happy lifestyle. I have recovered out loud from the beginning of my sober journey and credit the decision to my long-term success.
Through Own Sobriety, I am able to connect with other men who are living a sober lifestyle which keeps me grounded to my own sobriety. Building a sober community and maintaining a support system has been critical to keeping me on track in sobriety. Even after 6 years of sobriety, I do my best not to take a single day for granted and constantly remind myself how bad it was. I worked my ass off in early sobriety to get to this point and build a life that no longer has room for or a need for alcohol.
Get in touch with Steve and Julie:
Visit our website at throughtheglassrecovery.com to sign up for our weekly newsletter, and to gain access to our FREE weekly recovery meetings.
You can also find Julie and Steve on:
- The Ultimate List of Sober Songs: 223 Songs About Sobriety - May 17, 2024
- Navigating Through the Waves of Grief: A Personal Journey of Loss and Perseverance - April 7, 2024
- Our Sobriety Podcast is a Year Old!! - September 24, 2023