Podcast · Health

Soberful

by Veronica Valli & Chip Somers · English · Health

Veronica Valli and Chip Somers are experts on recovery. Chip Somers was most recently described by Russell Brand in his book 'Recovery' as a 'right social liability.' Together they have been sober for almost 50 years and have a LOT of stories, messes, experience and occasionally helpful advice to sh

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 41 min
Latest: 14 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

14 Oct 2026 · 38 minNew

371: Leaving the Darkness and Finding the Light With Lindsay Brooke

Veronica Valli speaks with Lindsay Brooke, a former adult entertainment actress who shares her journey of addiction, recovery, and self-discovery. Lindsay discusses her experiences in the industry, the impact of addiction on her life, and the challenges she faced in her personal relationships. She recounts her rock bottom moment and the transformative path to sobriety, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming her identity and healing from past traumas. In this conversation, Lindsay Brooke shares her transformative journey from a life of addiction and exploitation to one of self-discovery and…

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

E370 · 7 Oct 2026 · 37 min
370: Youth Recovery with Doug Smith
In this episode of the Soberful Podcast, Veronica Valli speaks with Professor Doug Smith about youth recovery from substance use. They discuss the evolution of recovery models, the importance of peer support, and the challenges faced by young people in recovery. Doug shares insights from his research on the current state of youth recovery, the impact of technology on behavior, and the generational differences in substance use patterns. The conversation also touches on public health perspectives regarding cannabis and vaping, highlighting the complexities of these issues. In this…
E369 · 30 Sep 2026 · 38 min
369: Under the Influence with Lucy Rocca
In this episode of the Soberful Podcast, Veronica Valli delves into the intricate relationship between thoughts, emotions, and drinking behaviors. She emphasizes that many individuals mistakenly focus on willpower to combat their drinking problems, neglecting the underlying thoughts and feelings that trigger their desire to drink. Valli explains the concept of activating events and how our perceptions of these events, influenced by past beliefs, shape our emotional responses and subsequent actions. She advocates for developing emotional sobriety skills to better navigate life's challenges…
E368 · 23 Sep 2026 · 34 min
368: This Much I Know Is True About Sobriety
In this episode, Chip shares his extensive wisdom and experience regarding sobriety, emphasizing the simplicity of the recovery process, the importance of taking risks, and the need to address childhood trauma at a manageable pace. He discusses family dynamics and reassures listeners that they can achieve sobriety independently of their family relationships. The conversation highlights the significance of patience and taking recovery one step at a time, focusing on manageable chunks rather than overwhelming oneself with the entirety of the journey. To learn more, visit the show notes .
E367 · 16 Sep 2026 · 23 min
367: How Your Thoughts Lead to Drinking
In this episode of the Soberfall Podcast, Veronica Valli delves into the intricate relationship between thoughts, emotions, and drinking behaviors. She emphasizes that many individuals mistakenly focus on willpower to combat their drinking problems, neglecting the underlying thoughts and feelings that trigger their desire to drink. Valli explains the concept of activating events and how our perceptions of these events, influenced by past beliefs, shape our emotional responses and subsequent actions. She advocates for developing emotional sobriety skills to better navigate life's challenges…
E366 · 9 Sep 2026 · 35 min
366: Managing Illness in Sobriety
In this conversation, Chip and Veronica delve into the profound themes of mortality, acceptance, and the importance of human connection. Chip shares his personal struggles with health and the reality of aging, reflecting on the wake-up calls that life presents. The discussion highlights the transition from denial to acceptance, the emotional toll of feeling isolated, and the uplifting power of friendship and support from loved ones. Ultimately, it emphasizes the significance of being present and cherishing connections with others as we navigate life's challenges. To learn more, visit the…
E365 · 2 Sep 2026 · 37 min
365: Why Did Brad Pitt Go Back to Drinking With Alysse Bryson
In this episode of The Soberful Podcast, Veronica Valli and Alysse Bryson discuss the complexities of sobriety, particularly in the context of celebrity culture. They delve into Brad Pitt's recent public admission of returning to drinking after years of sobriety, exploring the implications of such a decision on public perception and the sober community. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by those in recovery, the role of wealth and fame in addiction, and the importance of humility in maintaining sobriety. They also examine how media narratives shape our understanding of…
E364 · 26 Aug 2026 · 38 min
364: What Happens to Friendships When We Stop Drinking
You may have noticed that when you stop drinking your friendships change in this episode Chip and Veronica talk about how and why friendships change and how to navigate those changes. To learn more, visit the show notes .
E363 · 19 Aug 2026 · 49 min
363: Resentments
"Resentments are the number one offender." In this episode, Chip and Veronica discuss the nature of resentments, how they are like drinking poison and wanting the other person to die. How they seduce us into staying stuck and block us from growing. They confess their own resentments and the methods they use to get free of them. To learn more, visit the show notes .
E362 · 12 Aug 2026 · 47 min
362: Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Sobriety
Have you fever felt anxious? Have you ever used alcohol to deal with social anxiety? You are not alone. Anxiety and problems with alcohol go hand in hand. We drink to take the 'edge' off and get through social situations, but the booze just makes everything worse. You may have even experienced a full-blown panic attack. Veronica suffered from extreme anxiety and regular panic attacks throughout her drinking. In this episode, Chip and Veronica look at the relationship between alcohol and anxiety, how getting sober will change it and give you their strategies for dealing with anxiety when it…
E361 · 5 Aug 2026 · 49 min
361: Why People Relapse
Why do people find it so hard to stop drinking? What leads to a relapse? Veronica and Chip answer all these questions and give their opinion on what risky situations to avoid in early recovery. To learn more, visit the show notes .
E360 · 29 Jul 2026 · 52 min
360: The Four People You Meet When You Stop Drinking
When we get sober, the world takes it personally. There are four types of characters you may meet when you stop drinking: 'The overnight addiction expert, 'the drunk persuader, the 'moving the goalposts friend,' and the 'fun police.' Chip and Veronica talk you through how each one will approach you, what they will say, and how you can deal with them. To learn more, visit the show notes .
E359 · 22 Jul 2026 · 48 min
359: Adult Children of Alcoholics
In this episode, Chip and Veronica discuss Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOA). ACOA's have particular characteristics that they carry into adulthood, particularly in their intimate relationships. To learn more, visit the show notes .
E358 · 15 Jul 2026 · 46 min
358: Can I Drink In Moderation?
The Holy Grail of anyone with an alcohol use disorder is moderation. In this episode, Chip and Veronica look at why moderation (or social drinking) is very rarely achievable. We discuss the energy and effort that people put into trying to achieve it. The reason that we struggle with moderation is because of the perception that alcohol can benefit us when the reality is very different. To learn more, visit the show notes .
E357 · 8 Jul 2026 · 48 min
357: The Normalization of Abnormal Drinking
We discuss how the alcohol industry has tricked us into believing alcohol is harmless and beneficial to us. And how they have convinced us that without alcohol we are missing out on something. We challenge the myths and assumptions that have lead to the normalization of abnormal drinking. To learn more, visit the show notes .
E356 · 1 Jul 2026 · 47 min
356: Veronica's Story Part 2 - Healing
The biggest challenge Veronica faced was dealing with romantic relationships. At 3 years sober she was suicidal again. With nothing left to lose she had to find a way to deal with old demons and stay sober. To learn more, visit the show notes .
E355 · 24 Jun 2026 · 50 min
355: Veronica's Story Part 1
In this episode, we cover Veronica's story. How she became an alcoholic, what happened, and what led her into sobriety. To learn more, visit the show notes .
E354 · 17 Jun 2026 · 46 min
354: Chip's Story Part 2 - Healing
*Trigger warning* Discussion of overcoming childhood sexual abuse. How do you heal from abuse and trauma? Can you overcome childhood abuse and go on to have a happy life and fulfilling relationships? Chip explains exactly how he did that. To learn more, visit the show notes .
E352 · 10 Jun 2026 · 43 min
352: Chip's Story Part 1
*Trigger warning* Discussion of childhood sexual abuse. In this episode, Chip tells his incredible story of recovery. He grew up in an upper-class British family with no love or warmth, was abandoned to a boarding school at age seven where he was bullied. By 18 he was sticking needles in his arms. He spent time in prison and five days on life support. Listen to his amazing story of transformation. In next week's episode, we will discuss how he healed and overcame all of this adversity. To learn more, visit the show notes .
E352 · 3 Jun 2026 · 17 min
352: The Summer Sessions
In this episode of the Soberful podcast, Veronica Valli discusses the challenges of staying sober during the summer, a season often associated with fun and drinking. She shares personal experiences and insights on how to navigate the summer without alcohol, emphasizing the importance of understanding the difference between the fantasy of drinking and the reality. Valli encourages listeners to embrace the gifts of sobriety and to focus on the positive aspects of a sober summer. To learn more, visit the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠show notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ .
E351 · 27 May 2026 · 40 min
351: When Your Drinking Crosses the Line With Sus Silvius
In this episode of the Soberful podcast, Veronica Valli interviews Suze Silvius, who shares her extraordinary journey from a troubled childhood in Canada to her struggles with alcohol and eventual path to recovery. Suze discusses her early relationship with alcohol, the emotional angst she felt throughout her life, and the pivotal moments that led her to seek help. She reflects on the impact of her environment, including her move to Mexico, and how the drinking culture there influenced her habits. Suze's story is one of resilience, vulnerability, and the importance of support in overcoming…
E350 · 20 May 2026 · 50 min
350: Getting Sober and Finding Purpose with Ian Young
In this episode of the Soberful podcast, Veronica Valli interviews Ian Young, a long-time friend and colleague in the treatment industry. Ian shares his incredible journey from a troubled youth in North London to a life of addiction, counterculture, and ultimately recovery. He discusses his experiences with drug smuggling, political activism, and the challenges he faced with family dynamics. Ian reflects on his rock bottom moment and the transformative power of seeking help, leading to his current work in addiction treatment. In this conversation, Ian Young shares his transformative journey…
E349 · 13 May 2026 · 37 min
349: The Difference Between Recovery and Sobriety With Randy Haveson
In this episode of the SoberFull podcast, Veronica Valli interviews Randy Haverson, who shares his remarkable journey of sobriety spanning over 42 years. Randy discusses his early struggles with addiction, the turning point that led him to seek help, and the profound difference between simply being sober and being in recovery. He emphasizes the importance of emotional sobriety, self-discovery, and the strength found in vulnerability. The conversation highlights the ongoing journey of personal growth and the transformative power of connecting with others who share similar experiences. In this…
E348 · 6 May 2026 · 26 min
348: The Truth About Emotional Sobriety Nobody Tells You
In this episode of the Soberful podcast, Veronica Valli delves into the often overlooked concept of emotional sobriety, emphasizing its critical role in maintaining long-term sobriety. She shares her personal journey, highlighting the challenges of emotional management after quitting alcohol and the importance of developing emotional skills. Valli discusses practical strategies for achieving emotional sobriety, including setting boundaries, effective communication, and understanding subconscious beliefs. The conversation underscores that emotional sobriety is a continuous practice essential…
E347 · 29 Apr 2026 · 22 min
347: What is a normal drinker?
What is a normal drinker? This is a question most people ask themselves on their journey to sobriety. The truth is that how we drink is shaped by our peers and culture. To learn more, visit the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠show notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ .
E346 · 22 Apr 2026 · 41 min
346: How Patricia Heaton Quit Drinking and Changed Her Life
Patricia is a three-time Emmy Award-winning actress known for her work in The Middle and Everybody Loves Raymond. She has been alcohol-free for eight years and has just launched her alcohol free brand Solubrae. (Use code Soberful20 to get 20% off) Patricia shares her inspiring journey of going alcohol-free, the cultural influences on drinking, and how it transformed her life. Discover practical insights on overcoming social drinking, the health benefits of sobriety, and innovative alcohol-free alternatives. To learn more, visit the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠show notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ .
E345 · 15 Apr 2026 · 45 min
345: How a Little Becomes a Lot
In this insightful interview, Eric Zimmer shares his transformative journey from heroin addiction to sobriety and discusses his new book, 'How a Little Becomes a Lot.' The conversation explores the power of small, consistent actions, the nature of change as a skill, and how our perceptions shape our reality. Perfect for anyone interested in personal growth, addiction recovery, and meaningful life changes. To learn more, visit the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠show notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ .
E344 · 8 Apr 2026 · 36 min
344: Travel With the Sober Single Mum
Explore the transformative journey of Lauren Brunesson as she navigates life from Northern Ireland to global adventures, embracing sobriety and self-discovery. This episode delves into cultural insights, the power of intuition, and the rise of sober travel communities. Join us for an inspiring conversation on overcoming addiction and living a holistic, adventurous life. To learn more, visit the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠show notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ .
E343 · 1 Apr 2026 · 37 min
343: Quitting Smoking With Dr. Judy Rosenberg
In this insightful interview, Dr. Judy Rosenberg discusses the deep-rooted psychological causes of smoking and vaping, emphasizing the importance of addressing childhood wounds and emotional dysregulation to achieve lasting change. Discover how addiction is linked to the hole in the soul and learn practical strategies to break free from these habits. To learn more, visit the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠show notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ .
E342 · 25 Mar 2026 · 42 min
342: Addiction, Trauma and the Older Population
This conversation explores addiction, trauma, and mental health issues in the older population, highlighting the unique challenges and societal perceptions faced by those over 65. Polly Kaiser shares her extensive experience working with older adults, addressing topics like ageism, substance misuse, and the importance of narrative therapy. To learn more, visit the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠show notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ .

About Soberful

Soberful is a English health podcast from Veronica Valli & Chip Somers. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Veronica Valli & Chip Somers
Language: English
Category: Health
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 41 min
Latest episode: 14 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1371013717
Rights: Soberful 2018

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