If you’ve stopped drinking and your sleep feels worse instead of better, you’re not alone — and nothing has gone wrong.

In this episode, Abi unpacks why early sobriety often comes with broken sleep, vivid dreams, and early-morning wake-ups, and why this phase is a normal part of recovery, not a sign of failure.

You’ll learn:

• How alcohol sedates rather than restores sleep
• Why REM sleep disruption and rebound affect early sobriety
• The role of cortisol in 3am wake-ups and night-time anxiety

Abi also shares her own experience of sleep struggles after quitting alcohol and offer three gentle ways to support your sleep without pressure: routine, light exposure, and simple wind-down rituals.

If sleep is making you question your relationship with alcohol, this episode will help you understand what’s happening — and remind you to be patient with your body.

Get in touch:

Abi

NEW eBook - 30 Days to Freedom - A Gentle Reset

Available here - www.levelupsobrietycoaching.com/30-days-to-freedom-ebook/

Instagram @levelup_sobriety OR @thesoberconnectionpod

Email hello@levelupsobrietycoaching.co.nz

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Music from #Uppbeat
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Listener note: This episode includes a short, non-graphic mention of suicide within a broader discussion. If this is a sensitive topic for you, please listen in a way that feels supportive.

In this episode of The Sober Connection, host Abi King engages in a candid conversation with Jeremy Maxwell, a co-owner of a CrossFit gym and a person in recovery from addiction.

Jeremy shares his journey from being a high-functioning addict to navigating the complexities of sobriety, including the impact of early trauma, the challenges of relapse, and the importance of community support. They discuss the role of exercise in mental health, the initiative 'Move the Weight' aimed at fostering community and connection, and redefine what recovery truly means.

The conversation emphasises that recovery is not just about abstaining from substances but also about addressing underlying issues and learning to cope with life's challenges without resorting to old habits.

Get in touch:

Abi

NEW eBook - 30 Days to Freedom - A Gentle Reset

Available here - www.levelupsobrietycoaching.com/30-days-to-freedom-ebook/

Instagram @levelup_sobriety OR @thesoberconnectionpod

Email hello@levelupsobrietycoaching.co.nz

Affiliate links:

Terps & Co. www.drinkterps.co.nz - enter code ABI20 for 20% off storewide

I use Riverside.fm for my podcast editing software. Click the link below to find out more!

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My podcast episodes are hosted and distributed by Buzzsprout. Click the link below for a $20 Refer a Friend voucher (T&Cs apply)

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Music from #Uppbeat
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In this episode of The Sober Connection, Abi discusses the transformative journey from coping with sobriety to experiencing genuine joy.

She emphasises the importance of recognising the emotional stages of sobriety, particularly during the hectic festive season, and offers practical steps to intentionally create joy in one's life.

Through personal anecdotes and scientific insights, Abi illustrates how sobriety can lead to deeper connections and a more fulfilling life.

Get in touch:

Abi

NEW eBook - 30 Days to Freedom - A Gentle Reset

Available here - www.levelupsobrietycoaching.com/30-days-to-freedom-ebook/

Instagram @levelup_sobriety OR @thesoberconnectionpod

Email hello@levelupsobrietycoaching.co.nz

Affiliate links:

Terps & Co. www.drinkterps.co.nz - enter code ABI20 for 20% off storewide

I use Riverside.fm for my podcast editing software. Click the link below to find out more!

https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=abi

My podcast episodes are hosted and distributed by Buzzsprout. Click the link below for a $20 Refer a Friend voucher (T&Cs apply)

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Music from #Uppbeat
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**** Please note - this episode contains open & honest conversations around sexual trauma and domestic abuse. There are resources at the bottom of these show notes for anyone that may need them.

In this episode of The Sober Connection, host Abi King speaks with Danielle Naborisi, who quit drinking at the age of 19. They discuss the reasons behind Danielle's decision, the impact of peer pressure, and the role of trauma in alcohol use.

Danielle shares her experiences as a police officer and the social implications of alcohol in society.

The conversation emphasises the importance of support systems, coping mechanisms, and personal growth in the journey of sobriety and healing from trauma.

If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to your local crisis or support service. In New Zealand, you can contact:

• Safe to Talk: 0800 044 334
• Shine Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0508 744 633
• Lifeline: 0800 543 354

If your are outside of New Zealand, please check local support services in your area.

Get in touch:

Abi

NEW eBook - 30 Days to Freedom - A Gentle Reset

Available here - www.levelupsobrietycoaching.com/30-days-to-freedom-ebook/

Instagram @levelup_sobriety OR @thesoberconnectionpod

Email hello@levelupsobrietycoaching.co.nz

Affiliate links:

Terps & Co. www.drinkterps.co.nz - enter code ABI20 for 20% off storewide

I use Riverside.fm for my podcast editing software. Click the link below to find out more!

https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=abi

My podcast episodes are hosted and distributed by Buzzsprout. Click the link below for a $20 Refer a Friend voucher (T&Cs apply)

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Music from #Uppbeat
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Why is it so hard to answer the simple question, “Why aren’t you drinking?”
In this episode, Abi breaks down one of the most uncomfortable parts of early sobriety — navigating other people’s reactions.

She shares how her own responses evolved over time, why we tend to over-explain, and what this moment often reveals about boundaries, people-pleasing, and self-trust. You’ll learn how to hold your ground with confidence, protect your energy in social settings, and stop feeling like you owe anyone a full explanation for prioritising your wellbeing.

Abi also gives you three ready-made scripts you can use at parties, work events, or Christmas gatherings, so you can walk in prepared, calm, and self-assured.

Whether you’re sober curious, newly alcohol-free, or simply wanting a gentler December, this episode will help you communicate your choices without apology — and without overthinking it.

Get in touch:

Abi

**Download my FREE eBook - The Sober Curious Journey - here:

subscribepage.io/LMjh0T

Website www.levelupsobrietycoaching.com

Instagram @levelup_sobriety OR @thesoberconnectionpod

Email hello@levelupsobrietycoaching.co.nz

Affiliate links:

Terps & Co. www.drinkterps.co.nz - enter code ABI20 for 20% off storewide

I use Riverside.fm for my podcast editing software. Click the link below to find out more!

https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=abi

My podcast episodes are hosted and distributed by Buzzsprout. Click the link below for a $20 Refer a Friend voucher (T&Cs apply)

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Music from #Uppbeat
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In this episode, Abi King sits down with David Millar — who went from relapsing through his teens to becoming a neurosurgery student and ultra-marathoner — to unpack what sobriety can make possible when you stop getting in your own way.

David opens up about early recovery, the reality of staying sober on a college campus, the mindset shifts that changed everything, and the unexpected doors sobriety opened in academics, sport, and life.

A grounded, inspiring conversation about resilience, identity, and what happens when you finally give yourself a second chance.

Get in touch:

David

Instagram @david.millar.mindset

Abi

**Download my FREE eBook - The Sober Curious Journey - here:

subscribepage.io/LMjh0T

Website www.levelupsobrietycoaching.com

Instagram @levelup_sobriety OR @thesoberconnectionpod

Email hello@levelupsobrietycoaching.co.nz

Affiliate links:

Terps & Co. www.drinkterps.co.nz - enter code ABI20 for 20% off storewide

I use Riverside.fm for my podcast editing software. Click the link below to find out more!

https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=abi

My podcast episodes are hosted and distributed by Buzzsprout. Click the link below for a $20 Refer a Friend voucher (T&Cs apply)

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Music from #Uppbeat
https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/in-motion
License code: N5GLWPT8QQSRU7D2

In this episode of The Sober Connection, Abi delves into the intricate relationship between dopamine and alcohol, explaining how the anticipation of drinking creates a powerful dopamine loop that can lead to dependence.

She discusses the emotional flatness often experienced in early sobriety and emphasises the importance of understanding the brain's reward system.

Abi provides insights into how to naturally boost dopamine levels through movement, novelty, connection, and purpose, ultimately revealing that sobriety can lead to a richer, more fulfilling life.

Get in touch:

Abi

**Download my FREE eBook - The Sober Curious Journey - here:

subscribepage.io/LMjh0T

Website www.levelupsobrietycoaching.com

Instagram @levelup_sobriety OR @thesoberconnectionpod

Email hello@levelupsobrietycoaching.co.nz

Affiliate links:

Terps & Co. www.drinkterps.co.nz - enter code ABI20 for 20% off storewide

I use Riverside.fm for my podcast editing software. Click the link below to find out more!

https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=abi

My podcast episodes are hosted and distributed by Buzzsprout. Click the link below for a $20 Refer a Friend voucher (T&Cs apply)

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Music from #Uppbeat
https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/in-motion
License code: N5GLWPT8QQSRU7D2

In this engaging episode of The Sober Connection, host Abi King chats to Dawn Comolly, widely known as Sober Fish, to explore the transformative journey of living an alcohol-free life.

Dawn shares her candid experiences of overcoming the challenges of sobriety, the unexpected joys that come with it, and the empowering nature of solo travel. The conversation delves into the role of social media in spreading the message of sobriety and the importance of community support in maintaining long-term sobriety.

Dawn also discusses her approach to coaching, focusing on addressing the underlying issues related to drinking, and offers insights into how sobriety can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life.

Get in touch:

Dawn

Website www.soberfish.co.uk

Facebook https://m.facebook.com/soberfishie

Instagram @soberfishie

Abi

**Download my FREE eBook - The Sober Curious Journey - here:

subscribepage.io/LMjh0T

Website www.levelupsobrietycoaching.com

Instagram @levelup_sobriety OR @thesoberconnectionpod

Email hello@levelupsobrietycoaching.co.nz

Affiliate links:

Terps & Co. www.drinkterps.co.nz - enter code ABI20 for 20% off storewide

I use Riverside.fm for my podcast editing software. Click the link below to find out more!

https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=abi

My podcast episodes are hosted and distributed by Buzzsprout. Click the link below for a $20 Refer a Friend voucher (T&Cs apply)

https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=2404910

Music from #Uppbeat
https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/in-motion
License code: N5GLWPT8QQSRU7D2