Michelle Smith discovered that alcohol provided an escape from all of life’s responsibilities and it took her to a very dark place.

Michelle Smith (recoveryisthenewblack) who shares openly about her late-onset addiction to alcohol and turbulent journey to sobriety. Growing up in a household filled with alcoholism, she focused on academics and her career before gradually slipping into alcohol dependency due to life's pressures. Following multiple hospital visits, rehab stays and a significant personal realization, she committed to sobriety in 2016. We also explore the societal stigma of addiction, the challenges of early recovery, and the power of connection, community, and constant personal work on the road to recovery.  The episode underscores that addiction does not discriminate and recovery is possible for everyone willing to take the necessary steps. This is Michelle Smith’s story on the sober motivation podcast. ------------------ Follow Michelle on IG: https://www.instagram.com/recoveryisthenewblack/ FREE 30- Day Trial to SoberBuddy: https://community.yoursoberbuddy.com/plans/368200?bundle_token=8d76ca38d63813200c6c1f46cb3bdbed&utm_source=manual Donate the support the show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/sobermotivation Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobermotivation/   00:14 Introduction: Michelle's Struggle with Addiction 00:47 The Sober Motivation Podcast and Sober Buddy App 01:50 Michelle's Childhood and School Life 05:08 Michelle's College Life and Career Path 10:26 Michelle's Journey into Alcoholism 18:38 Michelle's Road to Recovery 23:40 The Million Dollar Question: How to Get Sober? 25:11 The Power of Decision: Choosing Sobriety 26:05 The Struggle: Society's Perception of Addiction 27:19 The Turning Point: Realizing the Need for Change 28:29 The Journey: From Addiction to Recovery 28:53 The Importance of Support: Building Your Dream Team 29:28 The Stigma: Breaking the Silence Around Addiction 34:54 The Reality: Addiction Doesn't Discriminate 36:23 The Commitment: Embracing Sobriety 39:36 The Transformation: From Shame to Empowerment 43:18 The Impact: Sharing the Journey to Inspire Others 48:30 The Message: Keep Fighting for Your Recovery 49:22 Conclusion: The Power of Sharing Your Story