In this raw and unscripted episode of Addiction Unmasked, I share my journey as a digital nomad with my girlfriend, Beth.

We planned to settle in Spain, but visa issues led us to travel through various countries instead.

Running a coaching business on the move is challenging. Adapting to new cultures, managing unexpected events, and maintaining consistency can be tough. There are moments of isolation and homesickness, but it's incredibly rewarding overall.

Takeaways:

• Nomadic life is exciting and rewarding but also challenging.
• Visa issues can disrupt plans, requiring adaptability.
• Cultural differences and isolation can be tough.
• Appreciate the comforts and connections of home.

Here’s a breakdown of what we cover:

00:00 Welcome to Addiction Unmasked

00:26 Personal Insights and Podcast Philosophy

01:09 The Freedom Creator Workshop

01:40 Podcasting Challenges and Authenticity

03:51 Life in Greece

05:09 The Digital Nomad Visa Journey

07:04 Challenges with the Spanish Visa

10:27 Adventures in Albania

13:29 Navigating the Schengen Area

22:51 Settling in Greece

23:29 Reflections on the Nomadic Lifestyle

27:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

28:45 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

On this weeks podcast episode, I talk with my community client Conor Martin.

Conor started drinking young and like myself, used cocaine.

Despite appearing okay, he struggled deeply.

His lowest point was attempting to end his life.

This was his wake-up call...

He went to rehab and joined AA, but still felt unhappy.

Together, we uncovered that his deep sadness came from unresolved childhood trauma.

Conor felt:

- Shame

- Inadequacy

- Low self-worth

Here are the 3 steps we took to Freedom:

Step 1: Uncover and Resolve Trauma

→ We explored his past so he could find peace.

Step 2: Reframe Negative Thoughts

→ He learned he is good enough.

Step 3: Build Confidence

→ Conor became more outgoing and happy.

Conor now shares the importance of therapy and urges others to seek help.

Inspired by our work, he trained as a coach and now helps people with addictions alongside his job in recruitment.

Key Takeaways:

1. Overcoming addiction is ongoing and involves addressing emotional issues.
2. High-functioning addicts can appear okay but struggle internally.
3. Change doesn’t require rock bottom, just dissatisfaction and desire.
4. Shame and guilt are common but crucial to address for healing.
5. Hope is vital as a motivator in overcoming addiction.
6. Therapy and coaching help heal past traumas and gain new perspectives.
7. Self-doubt and low self-worth are common but manageable with therapy.
8. Seeking help is essential for personal growth and overcoming addiction.
9. Helping others can maintain sobriety and be fulfilling.

Charlie used to drink two bottles of wine each day. Now, she's been sober for over six months and is a qualified sober coach with ambitions to help others beat addiction.

What We Talk About This Episode:

• Even though she did everything right, Charlie felt sad and alone.
• When her daughter went to college, Charlie knew she needed to change.
• With help from Dan, she stopped using alcohol to feel better.
• Now, she works better and wants to help people full-time.
• She fought feelings of shame and guilt and now feels good about herself.
• She believes in sharing her healing stories and encourages others to love their journeys.

Key Points:

• Sometimes, people who seem okay are struggling inside.
• Finding what you love to do can change your life.
• It’s important to let go of bad feelings to be happy at work and home.
• Talking to someone who understands can really help.
• When you get better, you might want to help others feel better too.
• Loving who you are helps you enjoy life and do what you love.

Learn More About Charlie:

Charlie's LinkedIn

Listen to her story and see how changing yourself can help change others too.