Ep. 47 Resilient, Empowered, Alcohol-Free: Toni Will's Ultimate Success Story

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 Discovering Strengths Through Adversity and Support

In the latest episode of the "Feel Lit Alcohol-Free Podcast," hosts Ruby Williams and Susan Larkin welcomed Toni Will, a trailblazing figure in men's professional hockey, mindfulness coach, and advocate for an alcohol-free lifestyle. Toni's journey, marked by resilience and personal growth, serves as an inspiring testament to overcoming self-doubt, harnessing inner strength, and supporting others in their pursuit of authenticity.

Navigating Self-Doubt and Preparing for a TED Talk

At the start of the episode, Toni Will candidly shared her experiences with self-doubt and overthinking, emotions that surfaced as she prepared for an upcoming TED Talk. For Toni, the intensity of this preparation parallels the rigorous training for an Ironman race, requiring meticulous planning and a focused mindset. She emphasized the importance of peaking at the right moment, a crucial aspect whether delivering a powerful speech or competing in an endurance event.

Host Susan Larkin resonated with Toni's sentiment, reminding listeners that meaningful goals often come with discomfort and that embracing such challenges can lead to profound achievements.

Redefining Strength and Success as a Female Leader

Toni's story stands out for her groundbreaking role as the first female General Manager on the ECHL Board of Governors for the Kalamazoo Wings hockey team. In a predominantly male domain, Toni's alcohol-free lifestyle and position as a female leader are her badges of honor rather than vulnerabilities. She shared her approach to leadership, emphasizing the need for women to be bold and proud, refusing to shrink themselves to fit societal expectations.

Her mission extends beyond her own accomplishments. Toni aims to inspire the next generation of women to overcome barriers and reduce shame, encouraging them to see their unique attributes as strengths rather than impediments.

The Power of a Support System and Organized Living

Throughout her journey, Toni found immense strength in her support system at home and at work. Her husband, working from home, provides unwavering support, and she benefits from a teamwork approach in her professional life. She highlighted the importance of clear communication and mutual understanding in maintaining balance amidst a busy lifestyle.

Toni meticulously organizes her life, both professionally and personally, using a color-coded calendar to manage her responsibilities efficiently. This structured approach allows her to allocate time for self-care, family, and work, ensuring that she doesn't lose sight of her priorities.

Adopting an Alcohol-Free Lifestyle and Overcoming Shame

A significant part of Toni's transformation involved embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle. Despite the strong drinking culture around her, Toni found the courage to quit drinking through multiple attempts, ultimately succeeding during the pandemic. She credits her journey to adopting the "This Naked Mind" methodology, which provided a modern approach to understanding and overcoming addiction.

Toni shared the emotional struggles and initial shame associated with her diagnosis of alcohol use disorder. She highlighted the non-intuitive path to recovery, which involves self-compassion and surrender. By openly discussing her experiences, Toni hopes to dismantle the stigma surrounding addiction and empower others to seek help.

The Importance of Morning Routines and Self-Care

A cornerstone of Toni's well-being is her morning routine, affectionately dubbed "Tony time out." She dedicates three hours before work to activities that nourish her mind and body, such as listening to audiobooks, meditating, working out, and having a healthy breakfast. This routine significantly boosts her productivity and mental clarity, setting a positive tone for the day.

Toni and the hosts agreed on the crucial role of routines in managing stress and anxiety. Techniques like yoga, breathing exercises, and openly discussing feelings emerged as essential tools for sustaining mental health and emotional balance.

Supporting and Lifting Other Women: A Shift to Abundance

In line with her belief in abundant opportunities, Toni emphasized the importance of supporting and uplifting other women. She encouraged a shift from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance, where women celebrate each other's successes and work together to break barriers. This collective empowerment can lead to more significant achievements and a stronger, more supportive community.

Looking Ahead: TED Talk, Book Release, and Podcast Ventures

As Toni prepares for her TED Talk, scheduled for release around the end of December, she continues to expand her influence through various platforms. She recently launched a podcast celebrating women's achievements and is working on a book set to release on November 25. Toni's commitment to sharing her journey and insights serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those navigating similar paths.

Conclusion: Embracing Authenticity and Resilience

Toni Will's story on the "Feel Lit Alcohol-Free Podcast" underscores the power of resilience, authenticity, and community. Her unwavering commitment to living alcohol-free, championing women, and cultivating a supportive environment exemplifies the transformative impact of embracing one's true self.

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Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/

Follow Coach Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching