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He was laid off in COVID, down to his last penny, and taught himself to code on the night shift of a barbed-wire Colombian gold mine. Now he builds AI employees that run entire businesses. The lesson underneath it: while everyone chases the shiny agents, he mastered the fundamentals first — and that's the whole game.
🎧 Close more by striving less. Rewire your nervous system with the free DreamState audios → https://www.dreamstatelivin.com/future-authoring (or comment STATE on Instagram and I'll send them).
In this episode, Dan Gauerke breaks down the real path from zero to AI operator: how he went from make.com automations to building LeadLock (his voice-AI platform) and Big Dog (the AI employee that runs his go-to-market). We get into RAG, context engineering, the 3 stages of AI, why 80–90% of the work is planning, sub-agents and orchestrators, cron jobs and daemons, and where voice AI is headed in the next 12 months.
You'll walk away knowing exactly where you actually are on the AI curve — and the next move to make instead of getting overwhelmed and quitting.
⏱️ CHAPTERS
00:00 From the gold mine to the frontier of AI
00:30 20 on, 10 off: life inside an armored Colombian mine
01:48 No TV, no distractions: teaching himself code on the night shift
02:20 ChatGPT lands (Nov 2022) and everything shifts
02:50 Contract ends — forced into entrepreneurship
05:19 The path: make.com → n8n → agents → Claude Code
06:34 First client Max Toro & building the whole infrastructure
07:32 RAG explained: 400 videos into an AI that answers in your voice
09:32 The voice-AI gap → building LeadLock
10:20 Why emotion-aware speech-to-speech is the future
12:07 What LeadLock actually does for agencies
13:02 Voice agents for appointment setting: keep the scope small
15:26 AI employees & the trust problem: automate the boring admin first
18:02 What actually makes an agent an agent (tools, sub-agents, orchestrator)
21:06 Context engineering: why most of the work is planning
27:16 Beating overwhelm: think in systems, first principles
29:34 The 3 stages of AI — and where you actually are
32:29 Stage 3: commanding AI employees from your phone
37:12 Meet Big Dog: building a go-to-market AI employee
40:25 Rebuilding Big Dog inside the agentic OS (the 15-stage plan)
44:42 How agents run for hours: /loop, /goal & daemons
48:09 Where AI goes in the next 12 months
50:03 Are they getting us addicted? Fable, pricing & the honest close
🔗 GUEST — DAN GAUERKE
Instagram: https://instagram.com/danielgauerke
🛠️ TOOLS MENTIONED
Claude Code · Apify · ElevenLabs · Higgsfield · NotebookLM · S
👇 CONNECT WITH DREAMSTATE
Subscribe for more conversations on AI, state control & closing without the grind.
Book a call: https://www.dreamstatelivin.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/ethantryx
Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qqtjisw9huL8HkxkXIRpy
#AIagents #ClaudeCode #AIautomation #DreamState #highperforman
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Spotify variant (shorter)
Dan Gauerke taught himself to code on the night shift of a barbed-wire Colombian gold mine after being laid off in COVID. Now he builds AI employees
that run entire businesses. In this episode he breaks down theI operator — his voice-AI platform LeadLock, Big Dog (hisgo-to-market AI employee), RAG, context engineering, the 3 stages of AI, and where voice AI is headed next. The through-line: master the fundamentals
before you chase the shiny agents.
Close more by striving less — get the free DreamState audios: in.com/future-authoring (or comment STATE on IG).
Guest: Dan Gauerke — https://instagram.com/danielgauerke
Book a call: https://www.dreamstatelivin.com
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Every once in a while I bring a guest on the podcast and we just bounce off each other and I don’t run out of questions to ask. This conversation with Mike was one of them.
Mike Romano came on and we went deep on faith, surrender, identity, manifestation, stillness, sales, and what it really means to live in alignment with God.
We talked about the trap of trying to control everything, the illusion of “creating your own reality” without surrender, and why real power comes when you stop forcing and start listening. Mike shared the story of missing a major milestone in his solar career by one, how that shattered his identity, and how it ultimately led him into a deeper walk with God and a more aligned path.
We also got into Be. Do. Have., servant-led sales, dopamine detox, intuition vs logic, Neville Goddard, Abraham Hicks, visualization, and the difference between building from ego versus building from divine flow.
This one’s for anyone who’s felt that tension between ambition and surrender… between grinding for the life you want and trusting there may be a better one waiting for you.
Hope you guys enjoy the conversation.
Follow @ethantryx & @themikeromano for more content like this.
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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How do you actually live the righteous path as a man today?Stay connected:Instagram: @DreamStateLivinInstagram: @EthanTryXInstagram: @LawOfAttraction850Twitter/X: @ZamboGoHardIn this episode, Andrew Zambetti breaks down what it really means to live with discipline, faith, and intention — without falling into the traps that most people never escape.We talk about building real confidence through action, not talk. Cutting out distractions. And understanding that the same habits that can destroy you can also be redirected into power, focus, and purpose.This isn’t about sacrifice.It’s about alignment.When your actions match your values, everything starts to move — your health, your relationships, your money, your peace.Andrew shares his daily practices, the role of God in his life, and how discipline in one area transfers into every other area.If you’re serious about becoming someone you respect… this is for you.What we cover:What the “righteous path” actually meansWhy discipline creates real confidenceHow to eliminate distractions and take controlThe truth about addiction and redirected energyDaily habits that build strength, clarity, and purposeKey takeaway:Living the right way doesn’t take from you — it multiplies everything.
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This one went deep.Ste is back for round 2, and this wasn’t just another podcast… this turned into a real conversation about life, responsibility, and what it actually means to grow.We started with a simple idea:Why do we train?And it led into something much bigger.⸻We talked about: • Training your body and mind to become more response-able in life • The gap between reaction and response—and how most people live stuck in reaction • Why being in your head is killing your peace (and how to come back to your heart) • Parenting, pressure, and how most people are unconsciously passing down trauma • Letting go of control and raising children with trust instead of fear • The difference between information vs. implementation (and why most people stay stuck) • Masculine vs. feminine energy—and why the world is out of balance right now • What real wealth actually is (and why money alone isn’t it)⸻This conversation is about awareness.It’s about stepping out of autopilot…Getting out of your head…And actually living your life with intention.Drop a comment and let us know if you want Ste back for round 3.⚡ Join DreamStatewww.dreamstatemastermind.com🔗 Connect with Ste: • Instagram: @thestelane • Podcast: Radical Health Radio (@radicalhealthradio)
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In this episode, I sit down with Mike Rosenfeld — peak performance coach and co-founder of Centrada — whose mission is to rewire high performers from reactivity to regulation so they can execute with clarity, live in flow, and achieve real success.Mike has worked with world-class performers like Novak Djokovic, professional fighters, and Jamie Foxx, helping them access flow state and operate at the highest level.But this isn’t just about performance.We dive into Mike’s past — his struggles with addiction, the internal battles he faced, and how that path shaped who he is today.This is about getting out of chaos…and learning how to operate from clarity and control.⸻🔗 Connect with Mike: • https://www.centrada.co • Instagram: @mikejrosenfeld⸻🔥 Join DreamState:→ www.dreamstatemastermind.com@Dreamstatelivin on IG
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In this episode of the DreamState Livin Podcast, Clayton Muehlstein shares his raw and transformative journey through adversity — including his time in LA County Jail and the lessons that led him to write Why Me.This conversation goes deep into the idea of mental jails — the invisible prisons created by fear, judgment, and self-perception — and how self-awareness is the key to breaking free.Clayton explains why pain is inevitable, but suffering is a choice, and how embracing discomfort, discipline, and self-love can completely reshape your life. We also explore his experiences living with monks, pushing physical limits, and why never quitting on yourself is the real difference between stagnation and transformation.If you’re navigating hardship, feeling stuck, or questioning your path — this episode will challenge your perspective and remind you what’s possible when you stay in the fight.⸻🔑 Topics Covered: • Overcoming adversity and personal hardship • Life lessons from LA County Jail • Breaking free from mental prisons • Self-awareness and self-love • Discipline, sacrifice, and growth • Living with monks and learning detachment • Physical challenges and mental resilience • Why perseverance changes everything
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🚀 Breaking Free from the Rat Race — Living Life on YOUR Terms in Colombia 🇨🇴
Richard is one of those people I met while living in Colombia that I instantly connected with. One of the guys that reminds me why I love living abroad — you meet someone from a different upbringing, different culture… and somehow you vibe immediately. You learn from each other, challenge each other, and you are building a life in the same country for the same reason: freedom.
In this episode, I sit down with Rich (@richardcawkill) to break down what it really looks like to walk away from the rat race and design a life you actually want to live.
We get into:
• Escaping the 9–5 grind
• How remote work buys back your TIME
• Why Colombia is a hotspot for entrepreneurs
• Lower cost of living = higher creativity + courage
• The privilege of living abroad & giving back
• Cultural differences, presence, and slowing life down
• How lifestyle directly fuels productivity, purpose, and growth
If you’ve ever felt the pull to live differently… to break out of autopilot… to actually design your life… this one is for you.
Press play. Your new chapter might start here.
— Ethan (@DreamStateLivin) 🎙️
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For the last 10 months I’ve been living a dream I wrote about years ago:
Leave the States. Move to South America. Learn Spanish. Build my own thing.
In this episode, I break down the real story behind that dream – the good, the brutal, and the sacred. This isn’t a travel vlog. It’s a debrief of a man redesigning his life from the ground up.
In this episode I talk about:
Landing in Colombia for a DreamState event and never really going back
Santa Marta, Cartagena, Bogotá, Medellín – what I honestly think of each city
Why Laureles > Poblado for the way I live
My month in Bogotá: loneliness, culture shock, and being forced into Spanish
Falling in love with Medellín – community, CrossFit, routine, and feeling “home”
Running a brutal 75K ultra in San Juan, Argentina (and getting cut at 50K)
Getting stuck at La Paz immigration at 4 a.m. after an ultra and using ChatGPT to escape
La Paz, Bolivia – altitude, training like a savage, and climbing Pequeño Alpamayo in pure fear
Hosting one of my favorite DreamState retreats in Peru and why that event was so special
Coming back to Medellín for three of the most challenging months of my life
We also go deep on:
The whole “passport bro” conversation: cost of living, respect, and gentrification
How to live abroad without becoming a disrespectful caricature of a foreigner
Learning Spanish as a 30-year-old: humiliation, brain fatigue, and tiny wins that change everything
Dating in South America – language barriers, heartbreak, hyper-feminine women, and masculine tests
The difference in femininity between Latin culture and the modern West
Making friends abroad: run clubs, gyms, coffee shops, saying “yes” to life
The dark side of cheap rent: when comfort turns into quiet laziness
Being far from family, and why I’d rather be fully alive and present for 2 weeks a year
The question I ask myself: What will 75-year-old me say about the life I chose?
This episode is for you if:
You’ve thought about moving to Medellín, South America, or living abroad
You’re curious about cost of living, danger, dating, and culture from someone actually living it
You feel the pull to live a life by design, but you’re scared of leaving comfort
You’re a man working on your emotional intelligence, purpose, and masculinity
If you want a deeper breakdown of a specific city (Medellín, Buenos Aires, La Paz, Bogotá, Quito, Cusco, etc.) drop a comment with the city name and I’ll film a dedicated episode.
🔔 Subscribe to DreamState Livin for more real conversations on Dharma, travel, masculine growth, retreats, and building a life that actually feels like yours.
👍 If this episode hits home, like the video and share it with a friend who keeps talking about “moving abroad someday.”
living in Medellin, living in Medellin Colombia, living in South America, expat life South America, digital nomad Medellin, Laureles vs Poblado, living in Bogotá, Cartagena vs Medellin, La Paz Bolivia altitude, Pequeño Alpamayo climb, Buenos Aires travel, running a 75k ultra marathon, San Juan Argentina ultra, DreamState Livin podcast, Ethan Tryhubczak, life by design, emotional intelligence for men, dating in Colombia, dating in South America, passport bros explained, cost of living Medellin, learning Spanish in Colombia, masculine and feminine energy, leaving the matrix, designing your life, remote work in South America, Medellin safety, Laureles neighborhood guide
#DreamStateLivin #Medellin #SouthAmerica #DigitalNomad #LifeByDesign #LearningSpanish #MensWork #EmotionalIntelligence
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I came across Ste @thestelane a while back after he had my friend Steve co-owner of Nads on his podcast. I loved Ste’s delivery, his grounded energy, and the way he spoke with truth.Recently, after we both had Jacob Donahue on our podcasts, we connected deeper — and this conversation felt like meeting a future version of myself… just with a British accent.In this episode, we dive into what it really means to live life by design, the courage to face fear, and the power of vulnerability and community in healing. We talk about emotional expression, the illusion of separateness, and how physical challenges like CrossFit can forge resilience and connection.This one humbled me. It reminded me how much I still have to learn — and how beautiful that realization is.🎧 Follow Ste’s show: Radical Health Radio (@radicalhealthradio) (@thestelane) on instagram🎙 Follow DreamState Livin (@dreamstatelivin) and Ethan (@ethantryx)
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Uncomfortable truths, Relentless discipline, Unforgettable life lessons.
In this episode, I sit down with my brother Steve Peck to dive into his journey from the Marine Corps into the police academy. What really stood out to me in this conversation is how training, whether it’s in the Marines or in the academy, gives you structure and discipline — but the focus and intensity are completely different. We talk about how mental toughness is often the biggest hurdle to overcome in high-stress environments, and how sobriety has given Steve more clarity, sharper performance, and an edge in both his personal and professional life.
We don’t shy away from the hard parts either. Policing carries an emotional toll that most people on the outside don’t see, and we dig into how important it is to acknowledge that reality while building emotional intelligence and empathy. We also explore how social media shapes public perception of law enforcement, and why physical fitness standards need to be addressed in a profession that demands so much from the body and mind.
For me, this conversation is about more than just careers or training. It’s about the commitment to personal goals, and how that commitment leads to growth. It’s about why real-world experience and the people you surround yourself with can often be more valuable than a degree. And ultimately, it’s about empathy — choosing to understand people, to connect, and to serve in a way that elevates both yourself and the community around you.
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Today, August 26th, marks one full year since I made the decision to stop drinking alcohol. What started as a commitment turned into the best decision of my life.
In this episode, I share the biggest lessons I’ve learned over the past 12 months of living sober—insights that you can apply in your own life. One of the core takeaways we dive into early on is this: if you feel like you’re leaving something on the table—like you’re leaving life on the table—cutting out alcohol might be the single most powerful move you can make to reach the next level.
I’m excited to share this journey with you. I hope the lessons inspire you, challenge you, and give you a new perspective on what’s possible.
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In the EP I sit down with Jacob—creator of the MUSE, and a living embodiment of what it means to walk your purpose. This conversation dives deep into the connection between muse, fitness, mental clarity, and personal growth.
We talk about the power of having a muse—something that fuels your fire and keeps you aligned. For Jacob, it’s fitness. But the deeper message is that your muse can be anything that brings you back to yourself. We break down how to find it, how to stay consistent with it, and why it’s essential for building a life that actually feels good—not just looks good.
We cover everything from overcoming fear, dropping distractions, and “tinkering” with your interests until something clicks… to the importance of community, saying no to alcohol, and training your body as a gateway to mental clarity.
This episode is about more than reps or routines—it’s about building a life on purpose.
If you’re trying to find direction, or you already know your path and just want to go deeper… this one’s for you. -
Today I sit down with Dan Fleyshman — someone I’m proud to call a mentor and a friend.Dan is the youngest founder of a publicly traded company, a massively successful entrepreneur, and one of the most generous humans I know. But what makes this conversation so powerful isn’t just his business success — it’s his heart, his mindset, and his obsession with giving back.In this episode, we dive deep into: • His journey from a tough upbringing to building an empire • How he discovered his Dharma and why purpose matters more than money • Why obsession isn’t a bad thing — it’s necessary for greatness • The power of positive affirmations and rewiring your mind for success • How introverts can win in networking • The role of social media in creating opportunity • His mission to build free grocery stores and shelters for the homelessThis one’s packed with wisdom, especially if you’re on the path of growth, service, and success — but want to do it with meaning.Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway, and don’t forget to subscribe for more DreamState Livin episodes.I hope you enjoy— Ethan
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In this episode, I sit down with my new friend Edward Simberg to dive into what it really means to live a digital nomadic lifestyle in today’s world. We talk about the freedom and friction that come with constant travel, and how staying consistent with your health, mindset, and growth can create a solid foundation—no matter where you are.
We also explore how AI is transforming the way we build side businesses and sharpen our skills, and how simply being dedicated to learning can put you in the top 10% of your field. I share a funny story about my gym in La Paz (spoiler: it feels like training at an elite private club), and we go deep into the social dynamics of meeting new people, breaking through defense mechanisms, and forming real connections while traveling.
This conversation covers everything from the Law of Giving and Receiving, to staying calm in a noisy world, to the philosophical rabbit hole of whether or not we’re living in a simulation. It’s raw, real, and full of gems for anyone on the path of growth and freedom.
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In this episode, I sit down with my friend Zack Farr (@biofarr) to dive deep into the journey of self-discovery, entrepreneurship, and the importance of awareness in growth. We talk about the transition from corporate life to building your own path, the role of mentorship, and how some of life’s most painful moments lead to the biggest breakthroughs.
Zack shares his experience in the cannabis and agriculture industries, and we get into the real potential of biochar—how it can impact everything from farming to infrastructure to the environment. We also touch on sales, intuition, relationships, and what it really takes to prioritize the things that matter in business and life.
If you’re on your own journey—building, evolving, or just waking up—this conversation is for you.
Follow us on Instagram:
@biofarr
@ethantryx
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🎧 Connect with Us & Support a Cause That Matters
Follow us on Instagram:
🔹 Ethan: @ethantryx
🔹 Nico: @nicolassandoval
🔹 Fundación Alalay: @fundacionalalaybo
🌐 Donate or learn more: www.fundacionalalay.org
At the end of this episode, we highlight Fundación Alalay—an incredible nonprofit founded by Nico’s mom when she was just 18 years old. Their mission is to support and transform the lives of street-connected children in Bolivia. If you’re inspired by this conversation, please consider donating or sharing their work.
In this episode, Nicolas and I unpack what it really means to “live like a king.” Not in the flashy, material sense—but in how we lead, serve, and show up. We talk about giving back, staying grounded in gratitude, and building a life that’s not just successful, but meaningful. We share thoughts on how upbringing and humility shape us, why to value a tight-knit team over a bloated one, and how Bolivia’s culture continues to teach lessons what real richness looks like.
Key Takeaways:
• Living like a king means giving more than you take.
• Success isn’t about status—it’s about service.
• Gratitude is fuel for both growth and peace.
• The right team makes all the difference.
• Legacy > quick wins.
• Taking ownership = transformation.
• Humble roots build unshakable character.
• There’s enough abundance for everyone.
• One person can change lives—Nico’s mom is living proof.
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In this episode, Marshall and I dive deep into the raw and real questions that shape our lives—what’s the purpose of it all, and how do we actually find happiness? We talk about what it means to be in the arena—fully engaged in life rather than sitting on the sidelines—and how facing fear with faith is essential to growth.
We open up about cognitive dissonance, the struggle of navigating life without a clear map, and the lessons learned from transformative experiences like serving a mission. We also touch on language learning, passion, and how chasing your dreams often requires getting uncomfortable.
Marshall shares powerful insights on financial success, the truth behind money and self-worth, and the importance of managing finances with wisdom. We explore the impact of relationships, the fuel of creativity, and how all of it ties into fulfillment. Toward the end, Marshall breaks down his coaching program, which is all about helping people discover their strengths and take aligned, meaningful action.
This one’s a journey. Tune in.Marshall's Instagram - @m__tuten
Ethan's Instaram @Ethantryx
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I sit down with Andrew Zambetti, a good friend and fellow truth-seeker, to dive into one of the most insightful conversations I’ve had about life’s big questions. Together, we explore everything from the laws of the universe that govern truth to the daily practices that keep us grounded. This episode is deeply personal – we share stories of our own journeys in self-discovery, discuss moments of spiritual awakening, and talk about how embracing authenticity has shaped our paths. It’s a reflective and raw discussion that left me feeling both humbled and inspired. I’m excited to share it with you and hope it sparks something in you as well.
What We Cover in This EpisodeTruth as the fundamental laws of the universe – understanding how universal truths guide our lives and why aligning with them brings peace
Reprogramming the mind – how I’ve been breaking free from old conditioning, resetting my mindset, and pursuing self-mastery in thought and behavior
Detachment from outcomes – learning to let go of obsessing over results and instead finding joy in the journey itself
Enjoyment and passion as keys to fulfillment – why doing what you love (and loving what you do) is the real secret to feeling fulfilled and successful
Selfishness vs. self-care – distinguishing caring for yourself from being selfish, and how prioritizing your well-being actually helps everyone around you
Training through low states and sober socializing – my approach to building resilience during tough times and the growth I’ve experienced by socializing without alcohol
The illusion of alcohol and redefining happiness – why I gave up drinking, how it shattered the illusion that alcohol equals happiness, and what true joy looks like now
Living with purpose and authentic connection – the importance of living deliberately, staying true to my purpose, and forming genuine relationships along the way
Introduction to the Warrior’s Retreat – a sneak peek into my upcoming Warrior’s Retreat and how it’s designed to help you step into your own growth journey
This conversation with Andrew really encapsulates what my journey has been about lately: finding purpose, living in my truth, and helping others do the same. I also share more about the vision behind the Warrior’s Retreat – an experience born from everything we talk about, where we can put these ideas into practice in a supportive, challenging, and transformative environment. By the end of our talk, I felt more aligned with who I am and where I’m going. I left the conversation uplifted and filled with a renewed sense of passion and clarity about my purpose. I’m truly grateful for the insights Andrew brought out of me during this chat.
I invite you to join us in this episode. It’s warm, wise, and full of real moments. Listen in and walk away with insights to reprogram your mind, nurture your spirit, and live life with more authenticity and passion. I hope you find it as enlightening as I did. Enjoy the episode!- Ethan
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In this episode of the DreamState Livin’ podcast, I share the raw, transformative story of when I lived with monks in Thailand at age 22. From arriving in Southeast Asia without a plan to immersing myself in the stillness of monastery life, this experience shaped my inner world in ways no book or podcast ever could.
I open up about the daily routines, the battle with my own monkey mind, and the breakthrough that brought me a deep, unshakable peace. We talk mindfulness, the illusion of fulfillment from the outside world, and the real work—bringing that monk-like awareness back into the chaos of modern life.
Key Takeaways:
The monastery isn’t about converting—it’s about remembering who you are.
True fulfillment doesn’t come from chasing—it comes from sitting still.
Peace is found in presence, but integration is the real challenge.
DreamState was born to bring that inner stillness into everyday life.
Tune in for a story that’ll make you slow down, breathe deeper, and maybe even question what you’re really chasing.
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In this episode, I share my personal journey with alcohol—from my first drink at 14 to the years I spent in industries where drinking was just part of the culture. I open up about the moments that forced me to look in the mirror and the decision I made to go sober for a full year.
It wasn’t easy. I faced social pressure, identity shifts, and the discomfort of feeling like the “odd one out.” But on the other side of that challenge, I found clarity, deeper relationships, stronger self-trust, and a life that actually feels aligned.
This is more than just about quitting alcohol—this is about waking up. It’s about reclaiming your energy, your truth, and your purpose in a world that often encourages the opposite.
If you’re sober curious, questioning your habits, or just ready to level up, this one’s for you.
What I Talk About:
My personal experience with alcohol
The culture of drinking in restaurants and sales
The identity shift that came with sobriety
How sobriety impacted my work, confidence, and relationships
Letting go of unhealthy coping mechanisms
Navigating dating, friendships, and events without alcohol
Attracting high-frequency, aligned relationships
Building self-trust and inner peace
- Visa fler