In this farewell-for-now episode of Sobriety Checkpoint, I reflect on the journey of hosting this podcast and how it has been a vessel of growth and learning in both my personal and professional life. As a sober mom and therapist who has navigated the complexities of mental health, spirituality, and sobriety, I've been blessed to share insights and stories that hopefully inspire and resonate with others living a sober lifestyle. Today, I'll share a deeply personal meditation from "Jesus Calling"...
May 10, 2024•10 min
Welcome to another episode of Sobriety Checkpoint, where we explore the intersections of sobriety, mental health, and personal growth. In today's episode, I'm thrilled to have LL Kirchner join us to share her powerful journey of sober living and overcoming significant life challenges. LL is a celebrated author with extensive experience in grappling with faith, spirituality, and sobriety amidst life's unexpected turns. Her insights will offer hope and inspiration to anyone navigating the complex ...
May 02, 2024•21 min
In this heartfelt episode of Sobriety Checkpoint, I explore the riveting continuation of Matt Scoletti's journey through sobriety. Matt opens up about the challenges he faced while grappling with the temptation to drink, despite being an active competitor in endurance sports. Shedding light on mental health and sober living, we navigate through his personal battles with drinking, his epiphany at a Luke Bryan concert, and how he redefines his relationship with alcohol in the aftermath. His story ...
Apr 18, 2024•28 min
Welcome back to another compelling episode of Sobriety Checkpoint, where we explore the multifaceted journey of sober living, all through the lens of mental health, spirituality, and the power of storytelling. I'm elated to introduce you to Matt Scoletti, an individual who exemplifies the transformation that can occur when we wholeheartedly commit to a sober lifestyle. Matt opens up about his personal evolution from battling alcoholism, dealing with divorce, and overcoming obesity to setting wor...
Apr 11, 2024•27 min
Welcome to "Sobriety Checkpoint," where we navigate the complexities of leading a sober lifestyle. In episode 54, we invite you to join me and my special guest Karolina Rzadkowolska. This episode touches on mental health, the transformative power of sobriety, and the pursuit of a purpose-driven life. Listen in as we explore Karolina's personal journey from a cycle of weekday health to weekend heavy drinking and her courageous path to becoming alcohol free. Our discussion uncovers the profound im...
Apr 04, 2024•32 min
Transforming Through the Darkness: A Journey of Sobriety and Spiritual Renewal This episode unveils upcoming changes to focus more on storytelling. Felicia discusses the power of storytelling in recovery, her transition from therapy to coaching, and her plans to launch a YouTube channel for therapists. She reads and reflects on The Promises from the AA Big Book, emphasizing the transformative power of shared experiences in addiction recovery. The episode culminates in a personal testimony of fin...
Mar 28, 2024•29 min
In this powerful episode, I'm joined by my husband, Geoff, to celebrate his 13th sobriety birthday. Geoff opens up about his journey from a tumultuous past of addiction and alcoholism to finding peace and sobriety through faith, perseverance, and seeking the support of the recovery program. We explore the raw and emotional moments that led to Geoff's realization of the need for continuous commitment to the program, the transformative power of facing our truths, and the strength of rebuilding rel...
Mar 21, 2024•15 min
Hey there, sobriety warriors! In this episode, I take a unique approach by revisiting the early days of my recovery journey and sharing how I turned to literature, including the big book and the Bible, for guidance. I discuss the transformative power of the twelve steps and the profound impact they've had on my life, as well as the concept of the "gift of desperation" and its role in my ongoing recovery. As my sobriety anniversary approaches, I reflect on the challenges and triumphs of the past ...
Mar 14, 2024•14 min
In today's episode of Sobriety Checkpoint, we reflect on inspiration and the journey toward sobriety, diving into the principles of the twelve step program and how they have impacted my life. The passing of my grandfather has prompted deep contemplation on family, connection, and intentionality, reminding me to be more present and deliberate in my interactions with loved ones. As I approach my 13th year of sobriety this month, I share the ways in which spiritual disciplines such as prayer, medit...
Mar 07, 2024•22 min
In today's soulful episode of Sobriety Checkpoint, join your host Felicia Hermle as she opens her heart and shares her personal reflections on the complex interplay between faith, religion, and the pursuit of a Higher Power. With almost 13 years of sobriety and a deep passion for spiritual seeking, Felicia invites you into an intimate conversation about the beauty of developing a relationship with something greater than ourselves within the framework of twelve-step programs and beyond. Felicia c...
Feb 22, 2024•15 min
In this inspiring episode of Sobriety Checkpoint, we welcome you to a journey of self-discovery and affirmation with your host, Felicia Hermle. Today, she delves into the transformative practice of crafting a positive inventory, drawing wisdom from Kevin Griffin's "One Breath at a Time," a book that integrates Buddhism with the twelve steps. Felicia candidly discusses the challenge of recognizing our virtues amidst the shadow of self-criticism—a hurdle that many Westerners face, yet one that is ...
Feb 15, 2024•17 min
Alysse Bryson, Founder + CEO of The Sober Curator, is a strong woman in recovery, an innovative media maven, marketing guru, and gal about town. With 17+ years of consistent sobriety, this sober gal has a humorous outlook on life and a fierce determination to succeed. The back of Alysse’s baseball card highlights 25 years of traditional media, with nearly a decade running Seattle Met magazine and six years at KING 5 NBC. She’s thrown 100s of parties in Seattle, rubbing elbows with local celebs a...
Feb 09, 2024•24 min
In this heartfelt continuation of Sobriety Checkpoint, host Felicia Hermle rejoins Marci Hopkins for part two of her poignant narrative, following the release of her book "Chaos to Clarity: Seeing the Signs and Breaking the Cycles." If you missed the beginning of Marci's story, rewind to episode 46 for an introduction to her gripping tale of addiction, motherhood, and the quest for sobriety. This week, Marci dives deeper into the pivotal moments that led to her realization of alcohol use disorde...
Feb 08, 2024•26 min
In this profoundly moving episode of Sobriety Checkpoint, host Felicia Hermle welcomes Marcy Hopkins, author of "Chaos to Clarity: Seeing the Signs and Breaking the Cycles"—a compelling narrative that resonates with anyone battling the challenges of sobriety and motherhood. As Felicia opens up about the visceral impact of Marcy's words, we're invited into a raw and intimate space where vulnerability meets strength. Marcy's story unfolds from a turbulent childhood marked by abandonment and abuse ...
Feb 01, 2024•24 min
In this episode of Sobriety Checkpoint, host Felicia Hermle delves into the topic of cell phone addiction and its impact on mental health, productivity, and relationships. Reflecting on her own struggles with compulsive phone use, Felicia shares her journey of making changes to her phone habits, including turning her iPhone into a "dumb phone." She discusses the ways in which excessive screen time can interfere with being present for her children and emphasizes the importance of finding a health...
Jan 25, 2024•16 min
Hey there, in this episode of Sobriety Checkpoint, Felicia Hermle sits down with a very special guest – her husband, Geoff. Together, they open up about their personal journeys through sobriety, marriage, and spirituality. They share the ups and downs, from their time before recovery to the transformative power of faith and living one day at a time. Their honesty and candid reflections make for a touching and inspiring conversation. So, grab a cup of coffee and join them as they share their expe...
Jan 11, 2024•23 min
In this episode of Sobriety Checkpoint, host Felicia Hermle shares a heartfelt reflection on family, memories, and gratitude as she ushers in the new year. As she recounts the busy holiday season spent with loved ones and caring for her children, she also delves into her grandmother's poignant writings and the valuable lessons she's learned from them. Touching on the importance of community and connection, she invites listeners to join her in the Facebook group to continue the conversations spar...
Jan 04, 2024•24 min
Today, I'm joined by J.P. Cifelli, who shares the significance of his routine in physical fitness, meditation, spirituality, and his professional pursuits, highlighting therapy's role in maintaining mental health. We'll discuss moving past resolutions and embracing the power of showing up in our daily lives. Together, we'll tackle the idea of balance—between showing up and knowing when to step back. J.P. will walk us through his AA journey, the challenges of seeking support, and the unexpected j...
Dec 28, 2023•33 min
In this episode of Sobriety Checkpoint, host Felicia Hermle sits down with Tee Ballin, a guest who shares his powerful and raw journey from prison to recovery. Tee opens up about his struggles with addiction, hitting rock bottom, and finding his way back to sobriety through faith and the support of his twelve-step program. His honesty and authenticity shed light on the challenging path to recovery and the importance of staying connected to a higher power. Join us as we dive into Tee's remarkable...
Dec 21, 2023•28 min
Welcome back to Sobriety Checkpoint! In this episode, we delve into part two of Frank Somerville's powerful story of recovery and transformation. . Frank Somerville is a five time Emmy award winning former main anchor for KTVU in the Bay Area. During the course of his career he witnessed two executions at San Quentin Prison, watched an autopsy, flew with the Blue Angels (and threw up mid flight), and was embedded with the Alameda County Sheriff’s Swat Team during a 48 hour non-stop competition (...
Dec 14, 2023•28 min
In this episode of Sobriety Checkpoint, we are joined by Frank Somerville, who shares his powerful story of addiction, recovery, and personal transformation. . Frank Somerville is a five time Emmy award winning former main anchor for KTVU in the Bay Area. During the course of his career he witnessed two executions at San Quentin Prison, watched an autopsy, flew with the Blue Angels (and threw up mid flight), and was embedded with the Alameda County Sheriff’s Swat Team during a 48 hour non-stop c...
Dec 07, 2023•23 min
Welcome back to Sobriety Checkpoint! In this powerful episode, we continue our conversation with Janice Dowd, a licensed master social worker, author, speaker, recovering alcoholic, and mother. Join our host, Felicia Hermle, as she delves into Janice's journey from addiction to recovery, focusing on the important topic of repairing the bonds of family and self. Janice shares her personal experiences, struggles, and triumphs, offering valuable insights and guidance for those who have faced simila...
Nov 30, 2023•29 min
Welcome back to Sobriety Checkpoint, the podcast that explores the journey of sobriety and recovery. In today's episode, we have a special guest joining us, Janice Dowd, a licensed master social worker, author, speaker, and most importantly, a recovering alcoholic and mother to four children. Janice shares her powerful story of late-in-life drinking, the impact it had on her role as a mother, and the journey she took to find sobriety. She discusses the challenges she faced in prioritizing her ow...
Nov 23, 2023•26 min
I think it’s really normal in our culture to struggle with asking for help. We’re supposed to do it all, wear all the hats and do everything perfectly. We’re supposed to know how to do it even though we never got the instruction manual. There is no instruction manual for life or for parenting. In this episode I’m asking for your help. I want to make this podcast even better for you. I want to know what you want to hear about, what topics are relevant to your life, do you like the interviews? Tel...
Nov 16, 2023•15 min
Steffen is a certified life coach, devoted father, passionate about life and nature, love and kindness. He has always wanted to help people and now as a life coach he can focus on helping other parents have a more loving and fulfilling relationship with themselves. Outside of coaching and other work, he loves spending time with his daughter. He loves going on big and small adventures together, be it exploring in nature, dancing and being silly in the grocery store or a movie night at home. Steff...
Nov 09, 2023•29 min
Thais Gibson joins me today on an episode about The Power of the Subconscious Mind. In this 2-part series, we discuss attachment theory, attachment styles, and how to become more secure in your relationships. Thais Gibson is a Ph.D. candidate with over 13 certifications in modalities such as CBT, NLP, somatic experiencing, internal family systems, and shadow work. She has nearly a decade of experience running a successful private practice and engaging with over 30,000 clients through individual ...
Nov 02, 2023•25 min
Thais Gibson joins me today on an episode about The Power of the Subconscious Mind. In this 2-part series, we discuss attachment theory, attachment styles, and how to become more secure in your relationships. Thais Gibson is a Ph.D. candidate with over 13 certifications in modalities such as CBT, NLP, somatic experiencing, internal family systems, and shadow work. She has nearly a decade of experience running a successful private practice and engaging with over 30,000 clients through individual ...
Oct 26, 2023•21 min
On today’s episode, Stewart Lee is back for another Morning Meditation. Today’s reading is from Alcoholics Anonymous, Daily Reflections for October 5: Yesterday’s Baggage. **It’s time for that desperately sought after solo Target run.. Grab your keys and let’s go for a drive... There’s no judgment (or breathalyzer) at this Sobriety Checkpoint.** . . . . . . Linktree - linktr.ee/sobrietycheckpoint.co Facebook Community - bit.ly/sobrietycheckpointcommunity Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/...
Oct 19, 2023•26 min•Ep. 70
GREGG CHAMPION Gregg Champion, a TEDx speaker and former branding expert, has worked with top consumer brands (Gap, Mattel, Doritos, Pokemon, NIKE), major television networks (NBC, FOX, and Fox Sports), and professional sports teams during the first 15 years of his career. He now focuses his energy on selective start-up ventures as an entrepreneur, advisor, educator, and start-up coach. Gregg has helped, supported, and career coached over a 100 Millennials and Gen Z’s helping them successfully l...
Oct 12, 2023•24 min•Ep. 4
Gregg Champion, a TEDx speaker and former branding expert, has worked with top consumer brands (Gap, Mattel, Doritos, Pokemon, NIKE), major television networks (NBC, FOX, and Fox Sports), and professional sports teams during the first 15 years of his career. He now focuses his energy on selective start-up ventures as an entrepreneur, advisor, educator, and start-up coach. Gregg has helped, supported, and career coached over a 100 Millennials and Gen Z’s helping them successfully land their first...
Oct 05, 2023•24 min•Ep. 6