S2E44: Beyond Labels: Addiction, Identity and Forgiveness

Friends,

What happens when the label that once helped you heal begins to hold you back?

In this follow-up to S2E43: Alcohol, the Brain and the Holidays, I continues my conversation with Christie Walker, the Catholic Sobriety Coach, who has been sober for nearly 29 years. What began as a practical talk about staying alcohol-free during the holidays evolved into a deeper reflection on identity, faith, and forgiveness.

We explore the powerful question:

“Do you still identify as a recovering alcoholic after nearly three decades of sobriety?”

The answer opens the door to a heartfelt discussion about how recovery — like trauma healing — transforms not just our habits, but our sense of self. Together, we examine how forgiveness, grace, and spiritual growth help us release old labels and embrace who we’ve become.

In This Episode

• The Catholic Sobriety Coach’s honest perspective on long-term recovery and identity
• How labels like addict or survivor can help at first — but limit us later
• Why forgiveness allows us to release shame and embrace a new self-concept
• The role of faith and grace in transforming identity
• Parallels between addiction recovery and trauma healing

Christie Walker's Links:

Website: http://thecatholicsobrietycoach.com/

IG: @thecatholicsobrietycoach

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-catholic-sobriety-podcast/id1658622848

5 Day FREE Sobriety Kickstart: https://the-catholic-sobriety-coach.myflodesk.com/5-day-sobriety-kick-start

Connect with Dr. Carron

1. Link to my weekly newsletter.

1. Need someone to accompany you on your journey to freedom in a shame-free, nonjudgmental space? Come into coaching with me. To schedule a free consultation click on this link and let's chat!

Note: Opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their personal opinions and do not necessarily represent those of the host. The host understands that guests have the right to freedom of expression.

If the Forgiveness is for YOU podcast resonates with you, please rate, share on social media, write a review, and subscribe.

Apple Podcasts Link:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/forgiveness-is-for-you-overcome-trauma-through-forgiveness/id1721956839

How to write a review on Apple Podcast App

1. Open Apple Podcast App
2. Search for Forgiveness is for You: Overcome Trauma…
3. Click on the SHOW, not the episode
4. Scroll all the way down to “Ratings and Reviews”
5. Click on “Write a Review”

Podcast Editor: Dr. Carron Silva

Cover Art Designer: Dr. Carron Silva

Music Provided by: Kode M @kodemaster90

Thank you, and remember Friend, Forgiveness is for YOU!