Episode 23: Having sober support sisters with Leia Baez

In this episode of the Stack'n'Days podcast, host Ray Donovan welcomes Leia Baez, an author, speaker, and sobriety advocate. Leia shares that she has been sober for four years and talks about her journey overcoming childhood trauma and the societal expectation to drink alcohol. 

Struggles with binge drinking and unhealthy relationships 

Leia opens up about her experiences with binge drinking and partying, starting in high school and continuing into college. Despite maintaining good grades and receiving a full scholarship, she had a darker side involving substance abuse. She also noticed herself gravitating towards unhealthy relationships and making poor decisions. Leia's struggle with alcohol began at the age of 13 and continued until she quit drinking in 2019.

Relationship between trauma and substance abuse 

Leia discusses the connection between trauma and substance abuse. Growing up in a Mexican American household religion and resilience were the main coping mechanisms Leia was taught about, rather than therapy and healing. However, she later realized that she was hurting and had been holding in emotions from childhood trauma. She used alcohol to sooth this pain. 

Overcoming alcohol addiction 

Leia’s path to overcoming alcohol addiction was not always smooth. She had several moments that showed her how important it was that she give up alcohol but she didn’t fully commit until she was diagnosed with a tumour and had to undergo a hysterectomy. Her uncle had recently passed away due to complications from cancer involving alcohol. While Leia was out for the surgery she had a vision of her uncle appearing and told her she didn't have to drink. She felt that this was a spiritual awakening in her life. 

Denial and addiction 

Leia discusses her struggle with alcohol addiction and her initial denial of being the problem. She mentions losing custody of her daughter, moving back in with her parents, and feeling demoted in life. Leia admits to using alcohol as a way to grieve but not taking responsibility for things. It is only through therapy and spiritual experiences that she begins to acknowledge her addiction.

Overcoming trauma and finding freedom 

Leia shares her personal journey of losing custody of her daughter, going through a divorce, and facing the impact of alcohol on her life. She discusses how therapy helped her uncover past trauma. Leia also talks about experiencing “drunk dreams” and being diagnosed with PTSD. She emphasizes the importance of healing and owning your story, even if it takes years to do so.

Finding support in sobriety 

Leia emphasizes the importance of having mentors and support systems in various aspects of life, including sobriety. She mentions her "sober support sisters", who all help each other on their journeys. Leia highlights the comfort and empowerment she felt being surrounded by successful women who acknowledged their struggles and the importance of admitting to having a problem.

Key components in the sobriety journey

Leia discusses her journey of sobriety and the purpose she found along the way. She talks about her book A Star for Stella. Leia emphasizes the importance of finding the why to live sober and the healing process. 

Leia discusses the importance of being a positive role model for her daughter and not succumbing to alcoholism. She admits that while she doesn't have the desire to drink, certain triggers, such as holidays and being alone, can affect her mood and make her feel emotional. Leia copes with these triggers by going to the gym and trying not to dwell on regrets or shame.

Leia’s details:

Book: A Star for Stella 

Website: LeiaBaez.com

Instagram: @leia_baez

Facebook: leiabaezspeaks

Twitter: @LeiaBaez
LinkedIn: Leia Baez, MPA

Contact the show:

Website: stackndays.com

Email: rdg@stackndays.com

Instagram and TikTok: @stackndays