Meredith Atwood: The Power of No Nonsense in Sobriety
Going through the motions like it was so bad that my mother-in-law, my stepmother-in-law, bought my kids a book for easter called who is Jesus. And I don't even know where I fall on Christianity at this point. But I will say to them: you have not been at the bottom like I have been, perhaps, because when you're at the bottom, they look a little different.
Ever felt like you're just hanging on by a thread? Meredith Atwood knows that feeling all too well. In this episode of The SHAIR Recovery Podcast, she opens up to host Omar Pinto about her intense journey from addiction to sobriety. Meredith, a former attorney and now a podcaster and author, didn't have the luxury of a higher power or 12-step program to guide her. Instead, she went cold turkey, facing her demons head-on.
Growing up in a religious cult added another layer of complexity to her struggle, making the idea of surrender nearly impossible for her to grasp. Meredith's story is raw and real. She talks about how she tried to fill the void with extreme sports like triathlons and Ironman competitions, only to realize that true healing required sitting with her emotions—a terrifying prospect.
She describes the early days of her sobriety as feeling like a 'caged animal', constantly searching for something to numb the pain. But through sheer determination and a no-nonsense approach, she began to peel back the layers of her past and confront the uncomfortable truths she'd been avoiding. One of the most compelling parts of Meredith's journey is her emphasis on connection.
She candidly shares how isolating herself only made things worse and how learning to communicate openly with those around her has been a game-changer in her recovery. Her book, 'The Year of No Nonsense', serves as a guide for anyone looking to cut through the clutter in their lives and focus on what truly matters. If you're struggling with addiction or know someone who is, Meredith's story offers a beacon of hope.
It's not just about quitting alcohol; it's about reclaiming your life and finding joy in the process. Tune in to hear Meredith's inspiring journey and discover how you too can embrace a no-nonsense approach to your own recovery.