Thriving in recovery: These business owners are carving their own paths as sober entrepreneurs

finding Solace and Success: The Rise of Sober Entrepreneurship

Brooke RobichaudS journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of finding purpose, even in the face of unimaginable loss. As a single mother of three, she was navigating the complexities of a challenging pregnancy, a arduous postpartum period, and the grief of losing her brother to a drug overdose. The added weight of the COVID-19 pandemic, with its isolating effects, felt overwhelmingly heavy. Yet, amidst this storm, Robichaud found solace in her podcast, where she shared stories of individuals overcoming addiction and mental health challenges.

The pain of losing her brother, though, was particularly profound. “A year and a half into the podcast, my brother passed, and it just broke me – especially because he was doing so well in his recovery journey. I just wanted to stop everything I was doing,” she recalls.

But fate had other plans. Michelle Smith, founder of the blog “Recovery is the New Black,” reached out to Robichaud to design her website. This unexpected connection sparked a new vision within her – Sober Biz Collective, a platform dedicated to supporting sober entrepreneurs.This community provides a safe and empowering space for individuals in recovery to build businesses and leverage their unique experiences for success.

Sober Biz Collective is more than just a business network; it’s a beacon of hope, demonstrating that recovery is not just about overcoming addiction but about building a fulfilling and meaningful life. It’s a testament to the power of entrepreneurship to drive positive change and inspire others on their own journeys of healing and growth.

Thriving in Recovery: Entrepreneurs building Businesses and Empowering Others

The world of entrepreneurship is often painted as a relentless race, demanding long hours, unwavering dedication, and the ability to handle immense pressure. While these elements certainly hold true, the stories of those who find success while navigating the challenges of recovery add another dimension to the narrative. These individuals,driven by a profound sense of purpose and empowered by their journeys,are not only building thriving businesses but also creating inspiring ripples of change.

Natasha Robichaud, founder of Sober Biz Collective, perfectly embodies this spirit. In her own words, “I was so lucky that Michelle was my first client,” Robichaud explains. “Having that business gave me a sense of purpose and something to get up for each day.” Her organization shines a light on the unique struggles women face in their journeys of alcohol recovery.

Societal pressures, trauma, and the constant demands of caregiving frequently enough push women towards alcohol as a coping mechanism. Research consistently highlights that women utilize alcohol more frequently to manage stress and trauma, including experiences of domestic violence and the burdens of caregiving.

While the “sober curious” movement advocates for mindful drinking and more inclusive social norms, alcohol remains deeply embedded in many aspects of our lives, particularly in the workplace. This can make abstaining from alcohol a particularly difficult path, especially for those in professional settings where alcohol is often the default social lubricant. It creates a scenario where individuals in recovery may feel isolated, constantly needing to justify their choices or navigate uncomfortable situations.

This is precisely the challenge Elena Fordham, a business strategist and PR professional based in Aurora, Colorado, faced. “As I was preparing to leave my high-pressure PR job, I realized I didn’t fit the mold anymore,” Fordham explains. “The constant ‘booze cart’ culture wasn’t enduring for me, especially early in my sobriety.” Her solution? A complete career shift. Her story underscores the fact that finding a work environment that supports your recovery journey is crucial, and sometimes that means being brave enough to forge a new path.

It’s critically important to note that navigating work environments where alcohol is prevalent doesn’t have to mean an automatic career change. Addiction medicine specialist Lisa Lefebvre, assistant professor in psychiatry at the University of Toronto, emphasizes that while challenges exist, “Some people who’ve maintained sobriety for years have figured out effective ways to navigate these situations without issue.” Practical strategies can be incredibly helpful, especially for those new to sobriety or facing increased risk of relapse.

Dr. Lefebvre suggests several helpful tactics:

• Having a trusted individual at work events who understands your situation can be invaluable. This person can act as a buffer, redirecting unwanted attention or offering support when things get challenging.
• Readiness is key. Mentally rehearsing potential scenarios and having pre-planned responses can definitely help prevent feeling caught off guard.
• Always having non-alcoholic beverages readily available is another helpful tool.
• Some individuals choose to avoid alcohol-centric events altogether or suggest alternative activities where alcohol isn’t the focal point.

Dr. Lefebvre also highlights the critically important work being done by the Canadian Center on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA). CCSA research extensively documents the serious health risks associated with alcohol consumption, including its link to certain cancers, particularly breast cancer in women. Dr. Lefebvre emphasizes, “This highlights the urgent need to challenge alcohol’s normalization and foster more inclusive, ‘abstinence-amiable’ workplaces. Deconstructing the romanticization of alcohol, especially as a stress relief mechanism, could benefit not only those in recovery but society as a whole.”

For women entrepreneurs navigating the often isolating world of business ownership, finding a supportive community can be crucial. The stories of women like Robichaud and Fordham demonstrate the remarkable power of entrepreneurship as a tool for recovery, resilience, and empowerment. They are living proof that it is possible to build accomplished businesses, leave a lasting impact, and inspire others, all while prioritizing personal well-being.

Sobriety & Success: A Look at Entrepreneurship in Recovery

Today, we speak with Natasha Delany, founder of Delany Enterprises and a coach dedicated to empowering Indigenous women entrepreneurs. Her story is a testament to finding purpose and resilience through sobriety and the transformative power of business.

Delany’s journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. Overcoming the challenges of racism, abuse, and foster care, she discovered strength and resilience through Alcoholics Anonymous, traditional ceremonies, and a supportive network. “Connecting with peers who shared their experiences with mental health and addiction made her feel like they were all ‘in this together,’” she recalls.

“To experience real change, you need profound moments that shift the way you feel. That’s what happened when I entered sobriety. I saw others who were sober and happy, and I knew that’s what I wanted. I hope the women in my coaching program experience similar transformations.”

— Natasha Delany

Delany’s entrepreneurial spirit blossomed after helping organize an Indigenous fashion show, leading to the creation of Indigenous Projects and Events. This experience ignited a passion within her to provide a platform for Indigenous women in business, ultimately leading to the launch of Delany enterprises and its specialized coaching program.She sees her program as more than just business advice; it’s about empowering women to rewrite their narratives and embrace their potential.

Her foundation for sobriety rests on spirituality and personal growth. Audiobooks, prayer, and traditional practices like sweat lodges provide tools for navigating difficult times. “If I’m struggling, I know I need to attend a meeting, participate in a sweat, or simply pray and ask for help,” she shares.

Building a Business on a Foundation of Sobriety

The path to entrepreneurship is often paved with long hours, demanding decisions, and unique challenges. For those in recovery, navigating the business world while maintaining sobriety can feel like an even steeper climb. Yet, a growing number of individuals are proving that success and sobriety can coexist, creating inspiring examples for aspiring business owners everywhere.

One entrepreneur, Ms. Robichaud, shares her outlook: “Embracing sober culture and prioritizing my well-being are invaluable assets in the frequently demanding world of entrepreneurship.”

Ms. robichaud’s journey highlights the importance of self-care and aligning oneself with a supportive community. Maintaining sobriety in a business environment where alcohol might be present requires mindful strategies. “Staying connected to my spiritual practices and my support network is crucial,” she emphasizes. “If I’m struggling,I know I need to attend a meeting,participate in a sweat,or simply pray and ask for help.”

Beyond personal resilience, building a supportive team environment is paramount. “Building a team of like-minded individuals who respect and understand my sobriety journey is essential,” she explains.”Openly communicating my boundaries and expectations helps create a supportive and inclusive environment.”

For entrepreneurs who are struggling with addiction or navigating early sobriety while building a business, Ms.Robichaud offers this powerful advice: “Remember that you are not alone. There are resources available to support you, and seeking help is a sign of strength.Prioritizing your well-being should always come first. Nurture your support network, find healthy coping mechanisms, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Business success is ultimately built on a foundation of health and happiness, both personally and professionally.”

these insights paint a picture of hope and possibility, demonstrating that recovery and entrepreneurship are not mutually exclusive goals. By prioritizing well-being, building a supportive network, and embracing candid dialog, entrepreneurs can pave the way for a fulfilling and successful journey.

How does Natasha Delany’s background in foster care, abuse, and racism influence her approach to coaching Indigenous women entrepreneurs?

Sobriety & Success: A Look at Entrepreneurship in Recovery

Today, we speak with Natasha delany, founder of Delany Enterprises and a coach dedicated to empowering Indigenous women entrepreneurs. Her story is a testament to finding purpose and resilience through sobriety and the transformative power of business.

Delany’s journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. Overcoming the challenges of racism, abuse, and foster care, she discovered strength and resilience through Alcoholics Anonymous, customary ceremonies, and a supportive network. “Connecting with peers who shared their experiences with mental health and addiction made her feel like they were all ‘in this together,’” she recalls.

“To experience real change, you need profound moments that shift the way you feel. That’s what happened when I entered sobriety. I saw others who were sober and happy, and I knew that’s what I wanted. I hope the women in my coaching program experience similar transformations.”

— Natasha Delany

Delany’s entrepreneurial spirit blossomed after helping organize an Indigenous fashion show,leading to the creation of Indigenous Projects and Events. This experience ignited a passion within her to provide a platform for Indigenous women in business, ultimately leading to the launch of delany enterprises and its specialized coaching program.She sees her program as more than just business advice; it’s about empowering women to rewrite their narratives and embrace their potential.

Her foundation for sobriety rests on spirituality and personal growth. Audiobooks, prayer, and traditional practices like sweat lodges provide tools for navigating tough times. “If I’m struggling, I know I need to attend a meeting, participate in a sweat, or simply pray and ask for help,” she shares.