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Working in construction can come with a heavy drinking culture, but for Liam, the pressure to drink was just one layer of his young life so far. In this episode, he opens up about his complicated relationship with his mother, experiencing homelessness, struggling with body image issues, and how he's finally found a sense of belonging at the gym. Above all, this conversation is about Liam’s unwavering commitment to breaking generational trauma and forging a new path. Follow Liam on Instagram Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of substance abuse and domestic violence. Please listen with care and prioritise your well-being. Help is listed below; The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015 https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/articles/support/national-alcohol-other-drug-hotline Creator & host- Julia Rangiheuea Video producer- Beaudene Perussich Image & logo- Jasmine Rule In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
How Childhood Trauma Shaped Stony's World (Part 1)
It feels like an injustice to Stony's story to try and capture her life in one single interview. From as early as she can remember, Stony's witnessed and been victim to violence and struggled with the presence of addiction in her family. Today In part 1, Stony talks about being sexually assaulted as a child from someone known to her, running a trap house and selling a commercial supply of drugs. Along the way, she faced domestic violence, an unwanted pregnancy and watched the beheading of someone.
The common thread that ties all of these horrific events together, is drugs and alcohol.
Trigger Warning: This episode discusses themes of trauma, violence, substance abuse, assault and abortion. Please listen with care.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Drunk with a Newborn: How Lizzy Became the ZeroProofMum
I’ve never heard a new mum be as open and honest as Lizzy is in this episode.
From breastfeeding while drunk and passing out, to grappling with postnatal depression and feeling resentful towards her son in those early days.
Lizzy is now sober after years of struggling with alcohol abuse. Growing up in Perth, her energy feels so familiar to me. I was able to open up about my own experiences, and I’m deeply grateful that Lizzy did the same.
Trigger Warning: This episode discusses sexual assault. Please listen with care.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Mick is a 'classic' Aussie dad with three daughters. He enjoys going to the gym and spending time with his wife, Katie. Mick is also a recovering alcohol and gambling addict. Mick shares the powerful story of the day he walked out of his family home, his partner calling after him to come back, as he made his way to a wharf with plans to end his own life.
What’s striking about Mick’s journey is that he didn’t experience mental health issues before his addiction. It was the substance abuse that led him down such a dark path.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
What happens to the children of addicts who can no longer care for them?
For many children, the effects of a parent's addiction are profound, far-reaching, and often invisible. Tony, also known as Tony Vlogs, now in his late twenties, is one of those children. His mother struggled with addiction and mental health issues, while his stepfather subjected him to both physical and emotional abuse. At the age of six, Tony was placed into the state’s care, moving between foster homes.
Despite the weight of these struggles, Tony has found a way to share his story. Through his platform, he speaks openly about his ongoing mental health journey, shedding light on the impact of his past and the long, difficult process of healing.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
This might be my most controversial episode yet. Nick Blair is the founder of Mind Health Bender, an early intervention initiative dedicated to enhancing mental health and promoting a balanced approach to alcohol and recreational drug use. Nick is here to help those people who can usually moderate their alcohol intake but find themselves slipping up every now and then. They want to learn how to be more accountable, stick to the plans they made while sober and say no to bags when it get's to that point in the night. Follow Nick on Instagram VOTE FOR ME RØDE CREATOR OF THE YEAR
Want to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Faye is a twenty-something Brit living in the eastern suburbs of Sydney. I initially wanted to chat to Faye about making friends in a new country while being sober, but as soon as we met, it felt like I was catching up with an old friend. Being a recovering party girl herself, we effortlessly started swapping stories whilst (playfully) cringing at our past behaviour.
In this episode we dive into the selfishness of our drinking, the heartache we brought to our families, and what learning to forgive ourselves looks like today.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Karim was a master at concealing his addictions while working a high-profile fashion job in the heart of Sydney. From the outside, it seemed like he was living the dream. However, beneath that façade was a raging gambling addiction that began at just 17 years of age.
In our conversation, Karim shares the pain of being disowned by his father and recounts a shocking sting operation that brought him to his knees, ultimately leading him to confront his issues with alcohol and drugs. Want to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au Creator & host- Julia Rangiheuea Video producer- Beaudene Perussich Image & logo- Jasmine Rule The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015 https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/articles/support/national-alcohol-other-drug-hotline
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
A Sister's Fight to Keep the Family Together (Part 2)
Jasmine's story is unique among my interviews. She grew up witnessing the impact of addiction first hand on not one, but two of her older siblings. From visiting them in juvenile correctional facilities as teenagers to ultimately taking custody of their children, Jas' loyalty has never wavered.
This is a powerful story of resilience, tenacity, and love. This is part 2 of 2.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
A Sister's Fight to Keep the Family Together (Part 1)
Jasmine's story is unique among my interviews. She grew up witnessing the impact of addiction first hand on not one, but two of her older siblings. From visiting them in juvenile correctional facilities as teenagers to ultimately taking custody of their children, Jas' loyalty has never wavered.
We connected through a Facebook group called "Māori in Sydney," and out of all the responses, she was the only one who not only agreed to the interview but was also willing to be filmed. In the Polynesian culture, discussing addiction is often taboo, so I’m incredibly grateful for her openness.
This is a powerful story of resilience, tenacity, and love. This is part 1 of 2.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Ivy Sardi was still out on bail when we recorded this episode. A former drug dealer, Ivy was awaiting sentencing for commercial drug supply.
In our conversation, Ivy shares how he never touched drugs until his mid-twenties. From then, it was a rapid decline, leading to suicidal ideations, jail time, run-ins with the Raptor Squad, and waking up in hospital not knowing if he had killed someone.
I'm incredibly grateful to Ivy for being so authentic in his storytelling, particularly regarding his mental health struggles.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Who Am I Without Drinking? with Addiction Coach Conrad Tracey
I can't express how important this episode with Conrad Tracey is, an addiction coach, consultant, and mentor. But most importantly, Conrad is a former drug addict who speaks from experience.
I ask Conrad some of the big questions around addiction and sobriety: Who am I without drinking? How can you approach a loved one struggling with drug or alcohol abuse? What practical tools can help you push through cravings when they hit hardest? And so much more.
At the end of this episode, Conrad has a special gift exclusively for Soberly Speaking listeners. This is extremely limited, so click below to claim your bundle!
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of substance abuse. Please listen with care and prioritise your well-being. Help is listed below;
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Mel Watkins was the first sober account I ever followed. A retired party girl, she's now an alcohol and love addiction therapist, which is why I wanted to have her on early in the season.
In today’s episode, we discuss how drinking and heavy drug use were encouraged and praised throughout her career, infidelity under the influence, her missed diagnosis of bipolar disorder and her partner refusing to marry her during active addiction.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
It wouldn’t be right to start this new series without baring my soul first. In this debut episode, I share the 14 years I spent consumed by alcohol and partying. From taking pills in high school to living as a high-functioning alcoholic in Sydney. Drinking was so deeply intertwined with my false identity, I didn’t want to know who I was without it.
Joining me for the second half of the podcast is my partner Beau, we openly discuss almost losing our relationship to alcohol, going to couples therapy, getting sober together and the biggest regret he’s ever faced due to substances.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Trailer
26 Sep 2024
00:00:52
COMING TUESDAY OCTOBER 1ST
Welcome to Soberly Speaking, stories from everyday people sharing their darkest moments that lead to sobriety. Shedding light on our struggles to help those still finding their way out. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday morning.
Imagine this: you're 21 years old at kick-ons, surrounded by friends, music, and drinks. You're offered a line of white powder, which you snort, only to accidentally slip into drug-induced psychosis. You hear voices, can't leave your house, can't go to work and are overwhelmed by an unbearable urge to tear your skin off. This was Jade's real-life nightmare. What started as binge drinking and clubbing soon escalated to aggressive behaviour and a night of being so badly injured it was enough to scare her into sobriety. Follow Jade on Instagram Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of substance abuse. Please listen with care and prioritise your well-being. Help is listed below; The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015 https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/articles/support/national-alcohol-other-drug-hotline Creator & host- Julia Rangiheuea Video producer- Beaudene Perussich Image & logo- Jasmine Rule In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Zeak grew up on a tiny island in the South Pacific Ocean, just off the coast of Australia: Norfolk Island. Life in small, rural communities often has its own unique rhythm, and Zeak's story is no exception. Raised by parents who openly used drugs, he learned early on how to navigate a world that was anything but conventional. Adding to this complexity was the secret he carried, his sexuality.
When Zeak kissed a boy for the first time and experienced the rush of MDMA on the same night, it sparked an unforgettable high. That euphoric moment became the benchmark he chased relentlessly in the years that followed, diving headfirst into the world of drugs and partying.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of substance abuse. Please listen with care and prioritise your well-being. Help is listed below;
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Natasha Ended Up in Detox After Her Doctor Prescribed Oxy
What if your drug dealer was your doctor? After giving birth to her daughter, Natasha was prescribed Oxy to manage the debilitating symptoms of endometriosis, something that had been dormant her entire life until childbirth. In this episode, Natasha opens up about her struggles; begging her street dealer to stop answering her calls, pleading with doctors to take her seriously and ultimately turning to her family for help to get into detox. That decision saved her life. Follow Natasha on Instagram Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of suicide and substance abuse. Please listen with care and prioritise your well-being. Help is listed below; The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015 https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/articles/support/national-alcohol-other-drug-hotline Creator & host- Julia Rangiheuea Video producer- Beaudene Perussich Image & logo- Jasmine Rule In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Bikies, Domestic Violence and Sex Work: How Nicole Escaped Death
By the age of 10, Nicole was already weighing drugs for bikies at clubhouses. She experienced child abuse from a young age and had no family or friends surrounding her. This led Nicole to put her trust in the wrong hands, becoming the victim of a horrific crime in high school. Years later, she married her ex-husband, entering an abusive relationship so violently destructive that she knew staying would eventually cost her life. Fleeing with nothing but the clothes on her back, Nicole found herself once again immersed in the world of drugs and sex work. It wasn’t until a motel room overdose that everything change... Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of substance abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, child abuse, and animal abuse. Please listen with care and prioritise your well-being. Help is listed below; The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015 https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/articles/support/national-alcohol-other-drug-hotline Call 1800 737 732 for the 24-hour national sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line for any Australian who has experienced, or is at risk of, family and domestic violence and/or sexual assault.
Individuals can also access local support services and search the internet using Daisy, a free app developed by 1800RESPECT that protects user privacy.
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Sophie Was 3 Years Sober, Until Her Wedding Day...
Sophie was over 3 years sober when she thought she could moderate her drinking. What started as a few drinks spiralled, with her wedding becoming the catalyst for falling back into old habits. Going into this episode, I assumed we’d focus on that turning point, but as I spoke to Sophie, I realised her story ran so much deeper. An eating disorder that began in her teenage years. Postnatal depression that led to multiple suicide attempts. A lingering sense of shame and resentment towards herself.
Trigger warning: This episode discusses postnatal depression, suicide, eating disorders, and substance abuse.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
To kick off a brand new season I bring boyfriend Beau back on the podcast to talk about how year two of sobriety felt compared to our first year. We’re owning up to our downfalls, navigating intimacy as a sober couple and answering your questions on addiction. The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015 https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/articles/support/national-alcohol-other-drug-hotline Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au Creator & host- Julia Rangiheuea Video producer- Beaudene Perussich Image & logo- Jasmine Rule In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
How Childhood Trauma Shaped Stony's World (Part 2)
This is Part 2 and the final chapter of Stony's whirlwind journey—using meth with people in power, battling a relapse that threatened her sobriety, and learning how to heal and forgive after such a tumultuous life. This is the last episode of Season 1, I’ll be taking a very short break, returning on Tuesday, January 7th, 2025. Please take care of yourselves during this time, the National Drug and Alcohol Hotline is available if you need support. The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015 https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/articles/support/national-alcohol-other-drug-hotline Trigger Warning: This episode discusses themes of trauma, violence and substance abuse. Please listen with care.
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Davey Lloyd: Straight off a Bender to The Bachelorette
What happens when a party boy struggling with addiction goes on reality TV?
Davey Lloyd was on Season One of The Bachelorette with Sam Frost — and in true Davey style, he showed up straight off a bender, going on to become one of the biggest kooks in Australia.
Always feeling like he was living in his late brother’s shadow, Davey found his place in the party scene, where he finally received the love and adoration he’d been chasing his whole life.
I really enjoyed this chat with Davey. His origin story felt eerily close to my own. So much so, I even shared a little secret I never thought I’d give oxygen to…
Trigger warning: This episode contains themes of substance abuse and descriptions of an overdose.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Taylor started sleeping with men when she was just 16 years old. From a young age, she was hanging around older boys for drugs and what began as one man to fund her addiction quickly escalated to posting herself on a sugar baby website.
Taylor lives with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and currently has two parents in recovery. She hopes sharing her story sheds light on the glamorised version of sex work young girls are seeing on platforms like TikTok. It’s not the full picture, and it’s not all it’s cracked up to be.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of sexual assault, suicide, substance abuse, domestic violence, and includes graphic descriptions of certain events. Please take care while listening.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
I've been following Michael Lappin on social media for a while now and even reached out to him when Soberly Speaking first launched, hoping to have him on as one of my guests. Weeks passed without a reply—until I came across a video where he shared he had relapsed.
Michael's story, and this interview, really show how messy and non-linear addiction can be: time in and out of jail, broken promises, and having to start over again—sometimes more than once.
What makes this conversation even more important is who Michael is. He's this big, burly guy—when I hugged him at the interview, I even joked about how big his muscles were. And yet here he is, openly sharing his struggles. It’s so important for other men to see someone like him being vulnerable and reaching out for external help.
Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions of substance abuse, violence, and criminal offences, including attempted murder.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
How One Year Without Alcohol Changed Julia Vogl’s Life
Julia Vogl never identified with having a drinking problem, but she realised alcohol was holding her back and capping her potential. It’s a story so many can relate to, knowing something isn’t good for you, not being addicted to, yet continuously crawling back to it. Growing up confused about her sexuality and living with internalised homophobia, she would kiss girls while drunk, only to spiral into shame afterward, keeping her stuck in a cycle of self-hatred. Taking a six-month break from drinking turned into a year, then a lifestyle. She found purpose, saved a small fortune, and witnessed how one person quitting drinking can lift up those around them.
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of substance abuse.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Fearing Sobriety More Than Death with Patrick Kennedy
Patrick’s struggle wasn’t just with alcohol and drugs, they were symptoms of a much deeper issue: his inability to sit with discomfort. For years, he convinced himself that, “Once my mental health is under control, I’ll stop drinking.” A lie I’m sure we’ve all told ourselves at some point. In the beginning, alcohol seemed like the solution, the only way to do the things he felt he couldn’t do on his own. But as his addiction spiralled, he suddenly realised where it was inevitably leading; death. His parents dropped him off at rehab, and it was there that a counsellor spoke three simple words that changed everything for him.
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of substance abuse.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
This is my most controversial episode to date — and it’s now live on The Unspoken, Soberly Speaking’s new membership on Patreon.
After being abused by a family member as a child, Zoe’s life was chaos from early childhood. She fell into addiction young and remained trapped in a cycle of substance abuse and extreme domestic violence. Her first son was removed by Child Protective Services which then led to her using ice daily throughout her next pregnamncy. she was being beaten frequently even when she was full term with bub and"didn't care if the baby lived or died- due to the addiction and DV, Her second child was born- with both physical and cognitive disabilities.
Zoe is sober now and trying to live a good, clean life so if her kids ever come looking for her. she'll be there.
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of child sexual abuse, substance abuse, domestic violence and harm toward an unborn child.
If you're currently pregnant, please consider whether this episode is right for you at this time.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Andrew Moses grew up as a closeted Jewish gay boy, feeling immense pressure to be academically successful, marry a Jewish woman, and have Jewish children, all while battling the belief that something was fundamentally wrong with him. To fit in, he started using party drugs, masking his true identity and trying to convince everyone, including himself, that he was straight. Over time, his opioid use evolved into a secret crystal meth addiction. It wasn’t until a trip to Costa Rica for his birthday, where he used ayahuasca, that everything changed. Today, Andrew helps other gay men struggling to come off drugs and chem sex, and when asked what advice he would give to a closeted queer person struggling with addiction, his response is not only beautiful but deeply moving. TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of sex, substance abuse, internalised homophobia, and the emotional impact of being closeted. Please take care while listening.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
These are the stories people don’t believe until they hear them. The unimaginable lives. Told with courage, by some of the most resilient humans I’ve ever sat across from. This is The Unspoken.
Starting this Thursday, 5th June 2025, Thursday episodes become The Unspoken — and will live on Patreon.
This isn’t about gatekeeping. It’s about survival. It’s about giving the stories people try to silence a safe place to exist, without fear, without dilution.
Until July 2nd 2026 For $4.99 a month, you’ll get:
A weekly exclusive episode
The chance to pitch guest ideas and questions before some interviews
A space to talk about each episode once it drops
Early access
No fluff. No confusing levels. Just one tier for all of us.
I’m so excited to have a sacred space we’ll get to call ours x
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Last week, we heard from Tiana Wadsworth, and throughout her story, there was one name that kept coming up. Today, we meet him.
As a kid, Klayton was infatuated with the drug addicts who hung around his local train station. While other kids looked away, Klayton felt drawn in. To him, they looked like his people.
Mirroring someone close to him, Klayton tried drugs at just 12 years old,and quickly became hooked, using every single day.
What came next? homelessness, crime sprees, and one devastating choice: taking custody from his own mum without even realising it.
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses themes of violence and substance abuse.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Jacintha Survived 15 Years of DV, Now She Heals Families
Jacintha Field spent 15 years in a violent relationship, an experience that shaped her into the healer she is today. Her story is one so many can relate to, growing up feeling unseen and unheard, carrying deep-seated low self-worth into adulthood, and seeking escape in toxic relationships and substances. A recovering people-pleaser, she once tried to return to drinking after a period of sobriety, only to end up sick over a toilet bowl, realising this wasn’t the mother she wanted to be. Today, she helps families heal, guiding parents and children toward deeper connection and understanding. TRIGGER WARNING: This episode includes discussions of trauma, including domestic violence and substance use.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
For Dean, addiction has always been about seeking pleasure, whether through sex, drugs, or alcohol. But it wasn’t until he quit alcohol and drugs that he and his therapist realised that sex was his primary addiction all along.
His journey has been about breaking free from the need to constantly feel good, and today, he’s found peace in genuinely liking the person he is.
His approach is simple yet powerful: "Just get through today."
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses themes of substance abuse and sex.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
For Ash Butterss, addiction was a constant pursuit of more: more thrill, more chaos, more ways to avoid the emptiness. It started with sugar in childhood, then alcohol at 12, and drugs by 14. She moved from one addiction to another, telling herself she didn’t have a problem as long as she had periods of sobriety.
On the outside, her life looked impressive. She owned a home in Bondi, did early-morning HIIT classes, managed a team, and kept getting promoted. It wasn't until she hit what she calls "the gift of desperation" that she became willing to get sober.
Giving up alcohol meant facing painful truths, including the reality that her marriage was built around shared addiction.
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses themes of substance abuse and suicide.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Escaping Prison Through a Skylight: Kyle Quilausing
Once dubbed Hawaii’s most wanted criminal, Kyle Quilausing was a golf prodigy by age 10, competing on the PGA World Tours alongside Tiger Woods. He had a full ride to America’s most prestigious colleges.
But one split-second decision changed the course of his life.
Addiction. Crime. A high-profile prison escape.
Then, three years alone in solitary confinement. No human contact. No conversation. Just silence.
This isn’t my normal style of interview. Kyle has a story to tell the world- a raw, unfiltered account of how fast life can unravel when drugs take over.
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses themes of substance abuse and violence.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
You might know Kate Forster for her sharp TikTok opinions, but who was she before becoming a popular author and our favourite fashion critic? In this episode, we revisit Kate’s childhood, growing up with a father battling severe alcoholism. She shares how his struggles led to a suicide attempt, one she witnessed firsthand, and how alcohol ultimately took his life just 11 weeks after his diagnosis. This is a conversation about love, loss, and the lasting impact of addiction, told with the raw honesty Kate is known for.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Welcome back to part two of Glen’s story. If you haven’t listened to part one yet, go back and catch up now.
In today’s episode, we follow Glen as his girlfriend’s murder sends him spiralling into a 35-year heroin addiction. He tries to end his life—twice— and hear how jail, against all odds, became the best thing that ever happened to him.
Today, Glens charity, The Leg Up Project, is helping others who are doing it tough on the streets.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains themes of child abuse, substance abuse, violence, and suicide.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Glen’s childhood was something no one should ever have to experience. His father was a predator, and his mother a heroin addict who later turned to alcohol. Throughout this two part interview you'll hear Glen be abused by many people- the first was being raped by a close family friend at just nine years old. one year later, he was already trying to escape the abuse, running away from home, institutions, and boys' homes, where he faced further sexual assault and bullying.
Glen's dad then went on to abandon him on Oxford Street in Sydney, leaving him homeless at just 13. With nowhere to go, he became a street kid of Kings Cross.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains themes of child abuse, child sexual abuse, substance abuse and violence. Please please listen with care
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses substance abuse. Please listen with care.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Forced to Inhale Glen 20 Spray While Pregnant: Tracey-Lee
Tracey-Lee was only four years old when a male family member abused her. Throughout her childhood, the trauma was compounded by denial: She was told a version of events that didn’t match the truth she felt in her body. This rewriting of her reality left a deep and lasting fracture in her sense of self. By the time she reached adulthood, this broken trust in herself made her vulnerable, almost a target. She met a man on an internet forum who would become the father of her child. What followed was a devastating chapter marked by relentless abuse. He set her on fire, ripped out her hair, and forced her to inhale Glen 20 disinfectant spray while she was pregnant. and in more recent years, Tracey-Lee met someone new and became addicted to ice. Despite the addiction, she and her partner managed to parent, take family holidays, and appear to function normally, a myth she’s determined to bust, shedding light on the hidden realities of addiction and family life. Trigger warning: we discuss substance abuse, domestic violence, child sexual abuse, and coercive control.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Dionne’s life was shaped by chaos from the start. She grew up with a father who drank heavily and cheated on her mother, and she was forced to move schools after relentless bullying. She was desperate to be loved by the time she met her ex-husband, He battled his own addictions, and together, their lives unraveled. Dionne lost her home in a fire, drowned in debt, and discovered her husband was having affairs even whilst she was pregnant.
Her drinking escalated, even her children were begging her to stop. “You’re an alcoholic, you’re disgusting,” they would scream, hiding her car keys to stop her from having accidents.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses substance abuse. Please listen with care.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Jane had the picture-perfect life—married, two kids, a white picket fence, and a home in a nice suburb. But behind closed doors, she was stuck in an unhappy marriage and secretly drowning in alcohol addiction, blacking out every night after finishing breastfeeding her youngest. Despite seeking help through therapy and AA, the cravings were relentless. It took a family intervention, a breaking point, and the right doctor to finally push her toward sobriety.
Just four weeks of not drinking and with newfound clarity, she found the courage to walk away from her old life.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses substance abuse and miscarriage. Please listen with care. The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015 https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/articles/support/national-alcohol-other-drug-hotline Creator & host- Julia Rangiheuea Video producer- Beaudene Perussich Image & logo- Jasmine Rule In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
David’s Manic Episode Led to $3 Million in Damages
I came across David on TikTok, where he’s known as Bipolarguylovinglifeand he instantly caught my attention. Sitting in his car, talking to the camera about his ex-cocaine dealer, who he moved into his spare bedroom in hopes of getting a discount. I was hooked.
For the first 27 years of his life, David’s world looked very different. He didn’t drink, didn’t touch drugs, went to Bible college, and married the girl he had promised himself to at 21.
But at 27, his bipolar disorder could no longer be contained. Mania took over, and the fallout was huge; trying to marry a foreign nanny while still married to his first wife, buying a nightclub on impulse, falling for someone who had to wear an ankle monitor, and committing his biggest regret: white-collar crime, with damages estimated in the millions.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses domestic violence, self-harm, substance abuse, and suicide. Please listen with care.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Kara’s earliest memory is of her father’s addiction and the police at their home, trying to restore order. As she grew older, she found herself caught in a similar cycle; Xanax consuming her life, self-harm becoming routine, and her mother quietly preparing for her funeral. But everything changed the night she was sexually assaulted on a beach and woke up in a random hotel room, where a kind stranger was bathing her.
In that moment, Kara realised she didn’t want to die. She wanted to live—desperately.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses sexual assault, self-harm, substance abuse, and suicide. Please listen with care.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
If you’ve been sitting on the fence about giving up alcohol, or even just taking an extended break, then this is the episode for you. Dominique Ellisa is going alcohol-free for 2025, and trust me, her energy around it is contagious.
Going into this interview, I knew two things—Dom is a stunning model, and she’s committing to a year without alcohol. But what I didn’t expect was just how electrifying her perspective would be. Her excitement about sobriety is magnetic, and the way she talks about feeling truly aligned will have you rethinking everything.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses themes of substance abuse. Please listen with care.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Casey, a proud Aboriginal woman, used alcohol to mask her ADHD and autism, hiding her creative and quirky side for years. In this episode, she opens up about how alcohol became the foundation of her long-term, codependent relationship, which began to fall apart after a traumatic assault.
She also shares a mind-blowing rule she set for herself around drinking last year, could you stick to it? Now fully sober, Casey is navigating the world of dating and friendships as a non-drinker.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses themes of substance abuse and sexual assault. Please listen with care.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Richard Galvan grew up in LA, born into a world of substance abuse, violence, selling drugs and gangs.
He became an alcoholic at just 12 years old, which quickly spiralled into a heroin addiction before he understood the gravity of his situation. Richard experienced a sliding doors moment on Skid Row whilst doing crack cocaine, he chose to detox in jail and got someone pregnant in rehab.
Despite generational trauma and the chaotic influences around him, Richard now celebrates nearly two decades of sobriety. He’s also the author of 'The Addict'purchase to read below;
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses themes of domestic violence, violence, and substance abuse. Please listen with care.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Maxi Shield is a Sober Drag Queen: The Untold Story
Maxi Shield has been a drag queen since the 90s, a true Sydney icon. You might’ve seen him perform on Oxford Street or caught him on RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under. But in today’s episode, I want to introduce you to the unknown Maxi, the one who grew up with 12 siblings, lost his mum at just 10 years old, and endured regular beatings from a step-parent.
We chat about performing drag multiple nights a week completely sober and the resurgence of homophobia in 2025.
Maxi reminds us how essential it is to step into the world as a sober person and build a strong, supportive community around you.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses themes of domestic violence, violence, and substance abuse. Please listen with care.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Alice openly shares her experience of applying for bankruptcy at just 20 years old, drowning in debt, and stealing from multiple jobs to fund her party lifestyle.
After an abusive relationship and an unplanned pregnancy from a one-night stand, she then went on to meet her now partner, who gave her a final ultimatum. It was then that she finally began to reevaluate her drinking.
Alice considers herself sober curious, admitting she’s never been able to reach the one-year sober mark. Her story is one so many can relate to—knowing the damage alcohol causes but still struggling to let it go completely.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of substance abuse and domestic violence. Please listen with care and prioritise your well-being. Help is listed below;
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Shelley Was Brutally Attacked by a Stranger (Part 1)
I don’t say this lightly, but this is one of those stories that stays with you for days, maybe even weeks.
We begin with Shelley as a child, witnessing her older brother accidentally take his own life while they were playing. But somehow, that’s not the most traumatic part of her story.
Shelley grew up in Housing Commission while both her parents battled addiction. She was exposed to, and a victim of, domestic violence. She started running away from home — and it was during one of those nights, when she was just in Year 9, that her life changed forever. She was assaulted by multiple boys.
Over In part two, we hear what happens after Shelly runs for her life — and the huge, chaotic night that follows.
But it unfortunately it dosen't end there, Shelley is still a teenager when she’s attacked by a complete stranger during a walk and dragged under a house to be sexually assaulted.
Part two of Shelley’s story is up now over on The Unspoken. It’s free to join for the first 7 days, and you can cancel anytime. I’ll pop the link in the show notes — or you can join directly through your Apple Podcasts or Spotify app now.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of sexual assault, domestic violence, violence and substance abuse.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Breaking the Cycle of Alcoholic Fathers: Zac Swanton
All Zac ever wanted was to be his dad’s best friend. As a kid, he longed for the kind of closeness he saw between his friends and their own fathers, but his own reality couldn’t have been more different. Zac was known as the outgoing, loveable party boy — traits that gave his addiction a nod of approval to continue. After eight overdoses, toxic relationships, and a moment of deep embarrassment in front of his new partner, he knew he was heading down the exact same path as his father… In this episode, we talk about father wounds, healing, and what it means to be a man when yours never showed you how.
Trigger Warning: we discuss themes of substance abuse in this episode.
Ready to share your story? Email hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au
Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have not been independently verified. Soberly Speaking and its host, Julia Rangiheuea, do not take responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information shared. Listener discretion is advised.
The National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone service that provides counselling, advice, and information for those struggling with addiction. Call 1800 250 015
In the spirit of reconciliation Soberly Speaking acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.