Episode 25: Family, fitness, and karaoke: leading a full and joyful life without alcohol with Charles Harrison Jr.

In the last episode of season 1 of the Stack’n’Days podcast host Ray speaks to Charles Harrison Jr. Charles shares his experience of quitting alcohol before quite hitting rock bottom- although he did lose his marriage to his addiction, about why it is important for people to come to sobriety themselves, and how the support of the people around him was so important in his journey. 

Charles’ background

Charles is a 46-year-old postal employee who has been with the post office for 20 years.

He shares his passion for going to the gym and creating content for YouTube and Instagram, particularly related to sobriety and motivation.

Charles emphasizes the importance of spending time with family, including his two-year-old granddaughter.

Early relationship with alcohol

Charles recalls his first experiences with alcohol, starting with having sips of people’s beer as young as a toddler. He describes how when he was a teenager drinking gave him courage and allowed him to be more outgoing and boisterous. Charles shares how he would go to great lengths to find alcohol, even sneaking drinks and risking legal consequences.

Consequences of drinking

Charles discusses the legal issues he faced, including multiple DUIs and losing his license. He reflects on the impact of his drinking on his job, relationships, and overall well-being. Charles acknowledges that he initially focused on avoiding consequences rather than addressing the underlying issue of his drinking.

Seeking help 

Charles shares the turning point when he realized he needed help and decided to seek treatment. He talks about his experience in an outpatient program and the importance of community support. Charles highlights the role of the gym and fitness in his sobriety journey, as well as the positive impact of sharing his story on social media.

Supportive relationships

Charles mentions the support he received from a close friend who understood his journey and accompanied him to events without pressuring him to drink.

He emphasizes the importance of having a supportive community and the positive feedback he received when opening up about his sobriety.

Misconceptions about sobriety

Charles addresses the misconception that sobriety means not having fun, emphasizing that it is possible to have a fulfilling and enjoyable life without alcohol. He challenges the belief that one needs to be older or give up too much in life to stop drinking, highlighting the benefits and personal growth that come with sobriety.

Charles’ contact details 

Instagram and YouTube: @soberfitdad

Contact the show:

Website: stackndays.com

Email: rdg@stackndays.com

Instagram and TikTok: @stackndays

Stack’n’Days podcast will return for season 2 in Fall 2023.