SET FREE SISTERHOOD-how to stop drinking, over drinking, binge drinking, christian sobriety podcast, quit drinking, sobriety, christian women

317 \\ Shedding the Shame, Unlearning Silence: A Roadmap to Deeper Intimacy and Empowered Conversations with Therapist Anna Kingsley.

Hey there, friends. I'm so excited to share my conversation with therapist Anna Kingsley. As many of you know, I've been on my own journey of healing and growth, and Anna's insights really resonated with me in a deep way.

One of the key things that stood out was Anna's emphasis on normalizing the challenges we face around addiction, intimacy, and relationships. So often, we feel ashamed to admit when we're struggling - whether it's with alcohol, our bodies, or the vulnerability required for true connection. But Anna reminded me that these are incredibly common human experiences.

She shared the story of a client couple who were able to turn their relationship around by approaching the issues with compassion, rather than judgment. The wife was able to reduce her drinking, which had become a barrier. But the real transformation happened when they created a safe space to openly discuss their feelings and needs.

Anna said something that really stuck with me - that 99% of sexual and intimacy issues can be improved through open communication and understanding. How powerful is that? So often we avoid these conversations out of fear, when the path forward is right in front of us.

I know many of you are in a similar place - wanting more intimacy and connection in your relationships, but feeling stuck in patterns of shame, distance, or self-medicating. I encourage you to take a page from Anna's playbook. Be gentle with yourself, and give yourself permission to seek support, whether that's through therapy, coaching, or simply opening up to a trusted friend or partner.

The journey isn't always easy, but the rewards of reclaiming your power, your voice, and your capacity for deep, nourishing relationships are immense. I'm cheering you on every step of the way. Let me know what resonates with you, and I can't wait to hear your stories.

You can find her at https://olivebranchmethod.com/.

If you're ready to take this step but need a little extra support, I want you to know that I'm here for you. Email me at michelle@setfreesisterhood.com to learn more about how we can work together.

Anna Kingsley is a British psychotherapist specializing in addiction, sexual and relationship problems. You can find her at www.olivebranchmethod.com and read articles she writes about these challenges at annakingsley.substack.com

316 \\ Working from home may be a drinking trigger. Here's how to know and what to do about it.

As someone who's experienced the unique challenges of both working in a salon and from home, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to maintain healthy habits when your work and personal life start to blend together. And I know so many of you listening are in that same boat, struggling with things like over-drinking as you navigate this new remote work landscape.

That's why I wanted to dedicate this episode to unpacking some of the key reasons why working from home can make it so easy to slip into unhealthy patterns. Things like the blurred boundaries, lack of accountability, and the way drinking culture is so normalized on social media - it can all contribute to that slippery slope. And I get it, when no one's watching, it's so tempting to just pour that glass of wine at the end of the day. But I also know how isolating and discouraging that cycle can feel.

So in this episode, I'm sharing a toolbox of practical strategies to help you break free. We start with the importance of establishing an intentional morning routine - something that sets the tone for your whole day and allows you to really check in with yourself. Then we talk about structuring your workday with focused blocks and transition rituals, so you're not just bleeding from one task into the next. Incorporating midday self-care breaks, trying out non-alcoholic alternatives in the evenings, and ending your day with intention - these are all key pieces of the puzzle.

And the overarching theme here is taking it one step at a time. Don't try to overhaul everything at once - just pick one or two changes and commit to them consistently. That's where the real magic happens, when these new habits start to become a part of your identity.

Because at the end of the day, I want you to know that I see you. I've been there myself, and I'm here to support you in any way I can. So if you're ready to make 2025 the year you reclaim your health and wellbeing, shoot me an email at michelle@setfreesisterhood.com. Let's chat about how my coaching program can help you break free from those drinking habits for good and create an alcohol-free future that fills you with purpose and joy. Y

ou've got this, my friend. I believe in you.

315 \\ Developing Emotional Intelligence for Healthier Relationships with DR. Bianca.

Wow, you all are in for a real treat with this episode! I had the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Bianca Ramos Rio, a private practice owner and nonprofit founder who uses equine therapy to help clients heal from trauma, depression, anxiety, and more.

Dr. Bianca has such an incredible personal story - from moving from Germany to South Korea to Alabama, and how that journey ultimately led her to a career in psychology and marriage/family therapy. Her resilience and faith are truly inspiring.

But what I found most fascinating was learning about Dr. Bianca's work with equine therapy. She shared how the gentle, non-judgmental presence of horses can have such a profound impact on people struggling with PTSD, emotional numbness, and other mental health challenges. Apparently, horses have the biggest magnetic field of any animal, and just being around them can actually help sync your heartbeat and calm you down. How cool is that?

We also dove deep into the importance of emotional intelligence - being able to identify and communicate your feelings. Dr. Bianca uses these awesome "feeling wheels" with her clients to help them put words to what they're experiencing. I think that's such a valuable tool, especially for women who may have been taught to suppress their emotions.

And of course, we talked about the role of faith in Dr. Bianca's own life, and how she leans on God (and the Lord's Prayer in German!) to help her through the tough times, especially when it comes to worrying about her daughter's health issues. Her vulnerability and authenticity were so refreshing.

If you're looking for new ways to approach mental health and personal growth, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Bianca has such a unique perspective, and I walked away feeling inspired and hopeful. Grab a pen and paper - you're going to want to take some notes!

You can find Dr. Bianca and her resources at https://www.thefaithworksstablefoundation.com/

https://www.instagram.com/mental_wealth_by_tcl/

Enjoy, my friends!
Michelle

314 \\ What's the one thing you may be missing that is holding you back from success in your life?

Hey there, my beautiful friends! In this episode, I'm diving deep into the importance of making time for quiet reflection and connection with the Lord. This is something that has been weighing heavily on my heart lately, and I know it's an area that so many of you struggle with as well.

You see, I used to be the queen of busyness and overwhelm. I would use distractions and even alcohol as coping mechanisms to avoid dealing with my thoughts and emotions. And let me tell you, that never ended well. I always felt disconnected, depleted, and unfulfilled.

But when I finally got intentional about spending that quality time with God each day - even if it was just 5-10 minutes in the morning - everything started to shift. I found more peace, clarity, and direction. I was able to be more self-aware and deal with the things weighing on my heart, instead of just numbing out.

In this episode, I share my personal journey with this and why I believe it's so crucial for our emotional, spiritual, and relational well-being. I also provide practical tips and strategies for how you can implement this into your own life, even if you're feeling maxed out.

Some of the key topics I cover include:

• The benefits of quiet time with God (peace, clarity, identity, self-awareness, resilience, etc.)

• How to overcome the crutch of busyness, overwhelm, and unhealthy coping mechanisms

• Creating a comfortable, distraction-free space for your quiet time

• Breathing techniques and using prompts like meditation apps or devotionals

• Practicing gratitude and dependence on God

• My personal experiences and struggles with this, and how I've grown

By the end of this episode, my hope is that you'll be inspired and empowered to make this a consistent priority in your life. Because I truly believe it has the power to transform every area of your world.

If you're ready to take this step but need a little extra support, I want you to know that I'm here for you. Email me at michelle@setfreesisterhood.com to learn more about how we can work together.

Let's do this, my friend. I'm cheering you on!

Xoxo,
Michelle

313 \\ The truth about alcohol and cancer! How does this affect your decision now?

Hey my beautiful friends,

In this episode, I'm diving deep into the sobering new advisory from the Surgeon General about the direct link between alcohol consumption and preventable cancer. The statistics are alarming - over 70,000 cancer cases worldwide were attributed to alcohol in 2020 alone. And it's not just heavy drinking that puts us at risk. Even moderate consumption of 2-4 drinks per day can lead to over 200,000 cancer cases annually.

I know this news may feel overwhelming, but awareness is the first step towards taking back control of our health. That's why in this episode, I'm sharing:

- The scientific evidence on how alcohol acts as a carcinogen, disrupting our hormones, DNA, and causing oxidative stress
- Practical steps you can take to learn more about the alcohol-cancer link and make informed decisions
- My personal journey of overcoming chronic drinking and the importance of gut health
- Why support and community are crucial when making changes to long-held habits
- Guidance for addressing common concerns and misconceptions about quitting alcohol

This is a wake-up call we can't ignore. But I also want you to know that you don't have to face this alone. I'm here to walk alongside you, my dear sisters, and support you every step of the way.

If you're ready to take action, please don't hesitate to reach out to me at michelle@setfreesisterhood.com. I would be honored to connect with you and help you navigate this journey.

Your health and wellbeing are worth fighting for. Let's do this together.

With love and determination,
Michelle

Key Takeaways:
- The Surgeon General has issued a new advisory on the direct link between alcohol and preventable cancer
- Even moderate drinking (2-4 drinks per day) can significantly increase cancer risk
- Understanding the science behind how alcohol impacts our bodies is crucial for making informed decisions
- Taking practical steps like tracking intake, seeking support, and experimenting with alcohol-free alternatives can help facilitate change
- Progress, not perfection, is the goal - be patient and compassionate with yourself throughout the process
- Michelle is here to support you on your journey towards better health and wellbeing

Resources Mentioned:
- Dr. Mark Hyman
- Dr. Brooke Scheller
- michelle@setfreesisterhood.com

312 \\ Are you blocking your own peace? How to release the things you are holding tight that are keeping you stuck.

As we step into a new year, I want to share a message that has been weighing heavily on my heart. During the holiday season, I found myself struggling with a range of emotions - from irritation and isolation to a deep sense of disconnection. Rather than pushing these feelings aside, I made the choice to sit with them, to explore them through journaling, and to seek the wisdom and guidance of the Lord.

What I discovered was a need to release the burdens I had been carrying - burdens that were not truly mine to bear. Whether it was the decisions of a loved one, the fears about the future, or the feelings of discontentment in my relationships, I realized that I had been clinging to these things, preventing myself from fully receiving the peace and joy that God desires for me.

In this message, I invite you to join me on a journey of release and renewal. I encourage you to take the time to reflect on your own experiences, to identify the burdens you may be carrying, and to find the courage to hand them over to the One who promises to give us rest.

Through a series of journaling prompts, I will guide you through a process of self-discovery, helping you to uncover your true desires, your vision for the year ahead, and the promises you want to keep to yourself. This is not a quick fix or a simple checklist, but rather a deep, soulful exploration that has the power to transform your life.

My hope is that as you engage in this process, you will find the freedom to let go of what is not yours, to embrace the peace and purpose that God has for you, and to step into the new year with a renewed sense of joy and excitement.

I am here to walk alongside you, to support you, and to cheer you on as you embark on this transformative journey. Let us move forward together, one step at a time, as we release what is not ours and embrace the abundant life that God has in store.

With love and blessings,
Michelle

Join the January Support Sisterhood 2025 here: https://setfreesisterhood.com/support-sisterhood

311 \\ Healing and Wholeness: Belinda's journey to freedom from alcohols grip and finding herself in the process. Client Spotlight!

In this episode, I had the honor of sitting down with my dear friend and client, Belinda, to hear her incredible story of transformation. Belinda bravely shared her journey of going from feeling lost, angry, and trapped in a daily drinking habit, to discovering a path of healing, wholeness, and freedom.

What struck me most about Belinda's story was the power of community and the role our Support Sisterhood played in her process. Belinda spoke about how being part of a supportive, non-judgmental group of women was a game-changer. They lifted each other up in prayer, carried each other's burdens, and celebrated the small wins together.

Belinda also highlighted the deep personal growth she experienced through our coaching work. She discovered tools to better identify and process her emotions, gained clarity on her core values, and learned to approach herself and others with more compassion. These insights went far beyond just addressing her drinking - they facilitated a holistic transformation.

If you're a Christian woman seeking freedom from alcohol and wholeness in your life, I hope Belinda's story inspires you. It's a powerful reminder that you don't have to walk this road alone. The sisterhood is here to support you every step of the way.

Action Steps:

1. Reflect on your core values and how they may have shifted or become misaligned over time. Make a list of the values that are most important to you.

2. Practice self-compassion. When you notice yourself being overly critical, try speaking to yourself with the same kindness and gentleness you would use with a dear friend.

3. Reach out to me to learn more about our Support Sisterhood community. This supportive group of women is here to walk alongside you, pray for you, and celebrate your progress.

Your healing and transformation are worth fighting for. I'm here to support you on this journey.

 

Join the January Support Sisterhood 2025 here: https://setfreesisterhood.com/support-sisterhood

 

310 \\ Finding Freedom Through Community: Navigating Life's Challenges with the Set Free Sisterhood Community.

In this episode, I'm opening up about the real-life challenges I've been navigating this month - from recovering from a virus, to preparing for Christmas and a wedding, to supporting one of my teenagers.

Through it all, I've learned the power of being present, prioritizing rest, and leaning on my community for support. That's why I'm so passionate about inviting you to join the Support Sisterhood Program and Community starting January 6th.

In this 7-week program, you'll get the structure and accountability to address your relationship with alcohol, but more importantly, you'll find a sisterhood of women who "get it." We'll share our struggles and victories, pray for each other, and learn how to show up as our most authentic selves.

I share testimonials from women who have already experienced the transformative power of this community - from finding the strength to stop drinking, to gaining clarity on their values and priorities.

This isn't about perfection, it's about progress. We'll celebrate the wins and learn from the slip-ups, because that's where the real growth happens.

If you're ready to remove alcohol from your life so you can see yourself more clearly, I invite you to join us. Head to http://setfreesisterhood.com to sign up today. I can't wait to connect with you in the new year!

309 \\ The Truth About The Pursuit of Happiness: Redefining Joy, Connection, and Contentment.

In this episode, I'm diving deep into the topic of happiness and challenging the common misconceptions we often have about what it means to truly thrive and find fulfillment in life.

Too often, we get caught up in chasing external markers of success - material possessions, validation from others, or the promise of a "happily ever after" moment. But as I've learned through my own journey, lasting joy and contentment come from nurturing meaningful relationships, finding purpose, and cultivating a deep spiritual connection.

I share personal anecdotes and research-backed insights on why the pursuit of happiness can actually lead us to miss out on the full range of human emotions and experiences that make life rich and meaningful. We discuss:

• The difference between happiness, joy, and contentment, and why it's important to redefine what we're really seeking

• The role that emotions play in our journey towards freedom and authenticity

• Common myths about what brings happiness (material possessions, external validation, instant gratification, etc.)

• The research-backed factors that truly contribute to overall well-being and fulfillment

• The vital importance of relationships, purpose, physical/mental health, autonomy, and spiritual connection

If you've been feeling like the "happiness" you're chasing is elusive or unsatisfying, this episode will provide a fresh perspective and practical steps you can take to cultivate more joy, intimacy, and wholeness in your life.

I also share an exciting update about the next round of my Support Sisterhood program starting January 6th, and how this community can be a game-changer for those seeking support and accountability on their personal growth journey.

So grab a pen and paper, and get ready to redefine what it means to truly thrive. Let's dive in!

JOIN THE JANUARY 2025 SUPPORT SISTERHOOD HERE:

https://setfreesisterhood.com/support-sisterhood

 

Email: michelle@setfreesisterhood.com

 

308 \\ Navigating Social Events Alcohol-Free: Your Holiday Toolkit.

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a whirlwind of social events, family gatherings, and plenty of opportunities to be around alcohol. Navigating these situations can feel daunting, but I'm here to equip you with a toolkit to thrive. In this episode, I share real experiences from the women in our Set Free Sisterhood community and the strategies they've used to successfully enjoy social events without compromising their sobriety. We dive into the importance of understanding your personal energy levels, creating a plan of action, and leaning on your support system. You'll learn:

• How to identify your "energy vampires" and "energy boosters" so you can manage your state before events

• Practical tips for having a plan - from what you'll drink to who you'll spend time with

• The power of having a "wingman" to provide accountability and support

• Ways to shift your mindset and focus on what you find truly fun, rather than feeling obligated

• The role of inner work and emotional regulation in overcoming triggers

Whether you're new to sobriety or a seasoned pro, this episode is your guide to making the most of the holiday season while staying true to your values. Grab a pen and paper - you're going to want to take notes! As always, I'm here to support you every step of the way. If you're interested in joining our next Support Sisterhood program starting in January 2025, email me to get on the waitlist.

It’s michelle@setfreesisterhood.com

I can't wait to connect with you and see the transformation that's possible when we do this work together.

 

Wishing you a joyful, peaceful, and empowered holiday season, my friend.

 

Xoxo, Michelle