Sober Friends
The Sober Friends Podcast is a weekly show where you can listen to inspiring and honest conversations about sobriety, recovery, and wellness. Hosted by Matt J who has been there and done that, this podcast is for anyone who wants to learn more about living a sober and fulfilling life. Whether you’re sober curious, in recovery, or just looking for some motivation and support, this podcast is for you. Tune in every week to hear from guests who share their stories, struggles, and successes on their sober journey. You’ll also get tips, resources, and advice on how to stay sober and thrive in all areas of your life. The Sober Friends Podcast is your go-to source for sober inspiration, education, and entertainment. Subscribe now and join the sober friends community!
We speak for no 12 step program but we do try to remain anonymous.
Sober Friends
E236: Angels with Dirty Faces: Amber Hollingsworth on Seeing the Good in Addiction
What if the person you love isn’t broken—just buried under addiction?
In this powerful episode, I sit down with addiction counselor and YouTube creator Amber Hollingsworth of Put The Shovel Down to talk about something we don’t hear enough in recovery: how to actually help a loved one struggling with addiction—without enabling or playing the villain.
Amber shares insight from two decades of working with addicts and their families, including:
- Why tough love often backfires
- The dangers of playing the “bad guy” role
- How denial is a defense mechanism, not defiance
- The strategy she teaches to gently nudge someone toward recovery
- What really motivates change—and what pushes people away
Whether you’re sober yourself or trying to help someone who isn’t, this conversation will shift your mindset and give you tools you can use today.
🔗 Check out Amber’s YouTube channel: Put The Shovel Down
Love the show? Stay connected between episodes with the Sober Friends Dispatch—our Substack newsletter packed with real stories, honest reflections, and tools to help you live your best sober life.
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