Why Safety Is the Sexiest Thing You Never Knew You Needed

Why do you automatically move to the side when a man walks toward you?

In this raw Boozeless Book Club episode, Dr. Sarah join guest Anne Marie to unpack Florence Given's Women Don't Owe You Pretty — a cultural wake-up call about codependency, consent, and the systems that keep women fighting each other instead of the patriarchy. From why sobriety unlocks the capacity to see oppression clearly, to the devastating realization that asking for what you need still feels revolutionary, this conversation digs into the connection between people-pleasing, safety, and self-abandonment.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Sobriety creates the cognitive space to recognize and challenge oppressive systems you couldn't see before

• The lack of safety women navigate daily — from walking to parking lots to doctor's offices — is normalized trauma

• Internal bias against other women and mom-shaming culture are intentional tools of division

• Medical systems often dismiss, minimize, or assault women — especially those in marginalized bodies

• Consent isn't just about sex — it's about reclaiming agency in every area of life

• The real work isn't just setting boundaries — it's unlearning the belief that your needs are less important than anyone else's comfort

NOTABLE QUOTE

"After years of being objectified, nothing feels sexier than feeling safe." — Florence Given

GUEST BIO

Anne Marie is a recovery coach, course creator, and advocate for women navigating sobriety and chronic illness. She brings deeply personal insight into medical trauma, body liberation, and the overlooked intersections of addiction and patriarchal systems.

Leaving CrazyTown is a raw, real-talk podcast hosted by Finn and Dr. Sarah Michaud, two recovering addicts turned relatable guides on the wild ride of codependency healing. With a unique blend of humor, honesty, and clinical insight, this show tackles the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and boundary disasters — while offering practical tools, powerful storytelling, and a roadmap for emotional freedom. Weekly episodes on YouTube (@leavingcrazytown) and all major podcast platforms.