The Sober Connection

**** Please note - this episode contains open & honest conversations around sexual trauma and domestic abuse. There are resources at the bottom of these show notes for anyone that may need them.

In this episode of The Sober Connection, host Abi King speaks with Danielle Naborisi, who quit drinking at the age of 19. They discuss the reasons behind Danielle's decision, the impact of peer pressure, and the role of trauma in al...

Why is it so hard to answer the simple question, “Why aren’t you drinking?”
In this episode, Abi breaks down one of the most uncomfortable parts of early sobriety — navigating other people’s reactions.

She shares how her own responses evolved over time, why we tend to over-explain, and what this moment often reveals about boundaries, people-pleasing, and self-trust. You’ll learn how to hold your ground with confidence, protect ...

In this episode, Abi King sits down with David Millar — who went from relapsing through his teens to becoming a neurosurgery student and ultra-marathoner — to unpack what sobriety can make possible when you stop getting in your own way.

David opens up about early recovery, the reality of staying sober on a college campus, the mindset shifts that changed everything, and the unexpected doors sobriety opened in academics, sport, and li...

In this episode of The Sober Connection, Abi delves into the intricate relationship between dopamine and alcohol, explaining how the anticipation of drinking creates a powerful dopamine loop that can lead to dependence. 

She discusses the emotional flatness often experienced in early sobriety and emphasises the importance of understanding the brain's reward system. 

Abi provides insights into how to naturally boost dopamine leve...

In this engaging episode of The Sober Connection, host Abi King chats to Dawn Comolly, widely known as Sober Fish, to explore the transformative journey of living an alcohol-free life. 

Dawn shares her candid experiences of overcoming the challenges of sobriety, the unexpected joys that come with it, and the empowering nature of solo travel. The conversation delves into the role of social media in spreading the message of sobriety a...

In this episode, Abi explores the identity shift that comes with sobriety — the grief, the uncertainty, and the powerful rediscovery that happens when we finally meet our true selves. She shares how letting go of alcohol isn’t the end of who you are, but the beginning of becoming who you were always meant to be.

If you’ve ever felt lost without your “drinking self,” this episode will help you see that the space left behind isn’t emp...

In this episode of the Sober Connection podcast, host Abi King speaks with midlife mentor Meegan Care about the challenges women face during perimenopause and menopause, particularly regarding the impact of alcohol on their health. 

They discuss how hormonal changes affect women's emotional well-being and coping mechanisms, the importance of self-awareness, and the need for open communication in relationships. 

Megan shares insi...

In this episode, Abi, a sobriety coach, explores the concept of sober curiosity, emphasising its significance as a starting point for many on their journey to alcohol-free living. 

She discusses the growing trend of sober curiosity among millennials and Gen Z, the fears and myths surrounding it, and practical steps to begin exploring a life without alcohol. 

Abi highlights the benefits of sober curious, including improved mental clar...

In this episode of The Sober Connection, host Abi King engages in a candid conversation with Heps, who is navigating the complexities of wanting to quit drinking while still being drawn to it. 

They explore Heps' experiences with alcohol, the impact of his DJ career on his relationship with drinking, and the social dynamics surrounding alcohol consumption. 

The discussion delves into the benefits of sobriety, including increased...

In this episode, Abi shares her transformative experience of a sober holiday in Bali with her teenage daughters. She contrasts the typical drunk holiday experience with the benefits of traveling without alcohol, highlighting how sobriety enhances connection, memory, and overall enjoyment. 

Abi provides insights into the unexpected advantages of sober travel, including financial savings, health benefits, and the opportunity to create...

In this episode of The Sober Connection, host Abi King interviews Lencha Nastova, who shares her transformative journey from cocaine addiction to sobriety and wellness coaching. 

Lencha discusses her early experiences with addiction, the pivotal moment that led her to seek help, and the challenges she faced during her recovery. She emphasises the importance of self-discovery, emotional healing, and the role of community support in m...

In this episode, Abi welcomes listeners to Season 2 of The Sober Connection, focusing on the Sober October movement. She discusses the challenges and benefits of going alcohol-free for a month, emphasising the importance of mindset, building new routines, and the health benefits that come with sobriety.

Abi encourages listeners to approach the month with curiosity and to celebrate their wins, while also providing tips for maintainin...

Join Abi in the final episode of season 1 as she sits down with Wez Pollock, a New Zealander celebrating nearly five years of sobriety. In this candid conversation, Wez shares his experiences growing up in a home with alcoholic parents and his journey to breaking the generational cycle of addiction. 

They discuss the challenges and triumphs of living a sober life, the societal norms surrounding alcohol, and the importance of self-aw...

In this episode of The Sober Connection, Abi explores the profound effects of alcohol on various relationships, including romantic partnerships, family dynamics, friendships, and the relationship individuals have with themselves. 

She discusses how alcohol can erode communication, trust, and intimacy, leading to significant challenges in parenting and social interactions. 

Despite these challenges, Abi emphasises the potential for he...

In this episode of the Sober Connection, host Abi King interviews Dave Wilson, known as Sober Dave, who shares his journey of sobriety since 2019. Dave discusses his early experiences with alcohol, the challenges he faced, and the transformative impact of sobriety on his life. 

He emphasises the importance of self-awareness, emotional sobriety, and the need for genuine connections in recovery. The conversation also touches on the so...

In this episode, Abi delves into the pervasive issue of shame surrounding alcohol consumption. She explores how shame can become a barrier to seeking help and shares personal insights and statistics to highlight the commonality of this struggle. 

Abi offers practical steps to break the cycle of shame and encourages listeners to reach out for support.

Get in touch:

Abi

Website www.levelupsobrietycoaching.com

Instagram @levelup_sobriety O...

In this compelling episode, host Abi King engages in a heartfelt conversation with Luke Jones, a sobriety coach from the Isle of Man. Luke opens up about his personal journey from a life of excessive drinking to becoming a guiding light for others seeking sobriety. 

He shares the pivotal moment when his son asked, "Are you an alcoholic?"—a question that sparked a profound transformation. Now, as a sobriety coach, Luke help...

In this episode, host Abi King delves into the intricate relationship between anxiety and alcohol. Discover why the common belief that alcohol reduces anxiety is a misconception, and learn about the physiological effects of alcohol on anxiety levels. 

Abi shares personal insights and practical tools for managing anxiety without alcohol, including mindfulness, movement, and community support.

Get in touch:

Abi

Website www.levelupsobriet...

In this episode of The Sober Connection, host Abi King interviews Hinenui Wano-Bryant, who shares her inspiring journey of sobriety. Recently having celebrated one year sober, Hinenui reflects on her past experiences with alcohol, the impact of sobriety on her mental health, and the importance of support systems. 

She discusses the challenges of navigating social situations, the emotional healing that comes with sobriety, and the ro...