Ep. 76 Claire Valera | Food Addiction, Sobriety & Sober Culture | I Am Redemption | Shawn Livingston

Claire Valera’s story is not your typical recovery tale. From years trapped in the cycle of eating disorders, food addiction, and alcohol abuse, Claire’s journey is a testament to resilience, self-discovery, and building community.

In this episode of I Am Redemption, host Shawn Livingston dives deep with Claire (@soberclairity) as they unpack the real, raw experiences that shaped her life, including the now-infamous “naked in a ditch” trailer story from her drinking days. We talk about the dark side of food and alcohol abuse, the emotional toll of culture and religion, and how Claire found her place in the world by creating safe, inclusive spaces for others walking the sober path. Claire’s story is proof that redemption comes in many forms.

Today, she’s a recognized Culture Ambassador, a Dear Dry Drinkery leader, and a Sans Bar Academy Awards finalist, using her platform to change the conversation around sober living.

🎯 Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro: Claire Valera’s personal journey

03:12 - Food addiction, eating disorders & mental health

10:45 - Alcohol abuse & the trailer park “ditch” story

18:30 - Traveling the world & reclaiming self-worth

24:15 - Religion, culture & their impact on recovery

31:40 - Building Austin’s vibrant non-alcoholic scene

40:20 - Dear Dry Drinkery & fostering sober community

47:50 - Social media, influence & sober advocacy

54:00 - Claire’s message to those still struggling

About Shawn Livingston & I Am Redemption: Shawn Livingston is the creator and host of I Am Redemption, a podcast dedicated to raw, unfiltered stories of recovery, resilience, and turning pain into purpose. From addiction to ultra-running, from prison to podiums, we spotlight the underdogs who built something better.

📲 Follow @iam.redemption on Instagram for more.

👉 Connect with Claire: @soberclairity

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