Ep. 40 Challenging Alcohol Norms: Hadley Sorensen on Social Drinking

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The Journey to Sobriety: Insights from Hadley Sorensen on an Alcohol-Free Life

In Episode 40 of the "Feel Lit Alcohol Free Podcast," hosts Susan and Coach Ruby sat down with Hadley Sorensen, the author of "The Dirty Truth on Social Drinking, Everything in Moderation and Other BS." In this illuminating conversation, Sorensen opened up about her personal journey with sobriety, the challenges she faced in publishing her story, and the broader implications of alcohol use within society. Here's a comprehensive look at the key insights shared during this episode.

The Courage to Write and Publish

Hadley Sorensen’s journey to get her book published was far from easy. Despite facing numerous rejections, she pushed through with determination. Her decision to write about her experiences with alcohol and the steps she took to find an agent and publisher revealed an inspiring narrative of resilience. Sorensen credited a supportive individual who helped her navigate the publishing landscape, ultimately enabling her to bring her work to the public.

This persistence paid off, leading to the release of her book on May 14th. The publication wasn't just a personal triumph for Sorensen but also a significant contribution to literature targeting "gray area drinkers," providing much-needed encouragement and guidance.

Navigating Social Media and Trolls

Sorensen’s large social media following has been both a blessing and a curse. While she has garnered much appreciation from her community, she's also faced negative reactions, particularly to her posts about teenage drinking. Her stance against parents providing alcohol to teenagers triggered hate comments and even death threats.

Despite the backlash, Sorensen remained steadfast in her belief that teaching teenagers to drink responsibly is harmful. She and the hosts discussed the legal and ethical implications of such behavior by parents, advocating for better education and responsible decision-making for both parents and kids.

The Impact of Early Alcohol Use

A recurring theme in the conversation was the detrimental effects of early alcohol use on children. Statistics indicate that children who start drinking before the age of 21 are significantly more likely to develop alcohol use disorders. Sorensen and the hosts emphasized the importance of preventing early alcohol use while educating children about its effects. Coach Ruby highlighted the necessity for natural brain development and social learning unimpeded by alcohol.

Personal Transformation Without Alcohol

Hadley Sorensen delved into her personal narrative, recounting how she started drinking at 14 and felt compelled to maintain a facade of being an extroverted party girl. Her journey toward self-discovery was intertwined with her path to sobriety. She described how quitting drinking allowed her to discover her authentic self and embrace a peaceful, albeit “boring,” lifestyle, which she now finds positive and fulfilling.

Both Susan and Coach Ruby underscored the idea that quitting alcohol is more than just refraining from drinking; it's 80% emotional and psychological healing. Sorensen echoed this sentiment, sharing how sobriety has led to genuine fun and clarity in social situations, contrasting sharply with the artificial sense of enjoyment brought on by alcohol.

Breaking Misconceptions About Social Drinking

One of the most profound discussions during the episode revolved around how society perceives drinking as integral to celebrations and socializing. Sorensen challenged this notion, sharing how she used to envy those whose bodies rejected alcohol through vomiting, while she experienced blackouts — a dangerous sign of her body’s adverse reaction to alcohol. Over time, she and the hosts realized that not drinking often leads to revitalizing social and personal improvements.

The Benefits of an Alcohol-Free Lifestyle

Sorensen also highlighted the significant benefits of an alcohol-free lifestyle. An avid runner, she noted remarkable improvements in her running and exercise routines without the influence of alcohol. Additionally, her participation in the alcohol-free community has brought her immense joy.

Celebrating Sobriety Milestones

Hadley Sorensen and the hosts discussed the importance of marking sobriety milestones. Sorensen shared how she baked a special cake to celebrate 1,000 days of sobriety. They highlighted the necessity of self-created celebrations, affirming that maintaining sobriety is one of their proudest achievements.

Final Thoughts

Hadley Sorensen’s story is not just a personal triumph but also a beacon of hope for others traversing the rocky path of sobriety. Her book, social media presence, and candid sharing on this podcast offer valuable insights and encouragement for anyone grappling with the decision to quit drinking. As Susan rightly noted, alcohol acts as a "soggy wet blanket" that obscures joy, and removing it can lead to a transformative and fulfilling life.
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Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching
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