A New York Minute ⏱️

I was in NYC for a New York minute (48 hours) this week. 

In the elevator of my (super cute) hotel, a guy asked if I was there for work or fun. I was stumped by the question and finally said, "My work is so fun. And also both." I was off to NJ to record a podcast. 

It might sound strange to say something as serious as sober life coaching is fun, but I am enjoying myself while witnessing people heal, rise, and soar. It is magical work that I get to be a part of, and I am having the time of my life doing it. It's not all rainbows and unicorns, but omgosh there are so many rainbows and unicorns when you have the eyes to see! And I think I am a realist in saying this. You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one. 

I work with my clients' each week to create a life (and a career) that feels rich and aligned. There are many ways to measure success. I love helping clients' figure out what that means for them. For me, it's autonomy in my schedule, creative expression, making a positive impact, building community, witnessing growth and healing up close and personal, and getting paid for my valuable offerings. Curious about business, life, or sober coaching? I'd love to connect with you. 

Schedule your 🔗 complimentary call.

Wednesday for me was an especially fun workday because I was the podcast guest, and I got to talk about all the things I love in person with someone that I really admire. Together we confirmed a new project that is another one of my (dare to) dreams come true. More coming soon. Let's just say I am feeling like the Carrie Bradshaw I always wanted to be.

I was on a solo adventure to get there and back. I went from Wall Street to NJ to Times Square using only public transportation. I wasted $6 and was 15 minutes late to dinner, which made me feel as plucky and resourceful as Little Orphan Annie. It was wonderful to be figuring things out on my own and building my confidence. I started the day with a meditation to keep me calm, and it worked! 

I met with partners and clients while I was there. I saw a Broadway show about a woman (Idina Mendez, aka Elsa) who heals through the power of trees (redwoods) and later learned through Facebook that Barri Lerner Grant (our expert instructor in the Insider Grief Masterclass) was at the same show on the same night. In her words, "Holy crap." 

The last time I was at a Broadway show in NYC, I was with my kids "moderating" my wine intake and praying I wouldn't overdo it, while also wanting to drink enough to feel like this was a special event and like I was "treating" myself. As usual with wine and me, it was impossible to stay present in anything when my mind was hijacked by thinking about drinking and/or not drinking. This time I was fully immersed in the experience because I am fully immersed in my sober, awakened life. I was sitting next to someone special, and the story had a great impact on us. I was glad to experience it together.

The next morning, I went on a I took a field trip with my husband. He was also there for work (and fun). We saw Lady Liberty. She's a stunner, and every woman needs a fire, a crown, and a tablet, if you ask me.

I found my family in the registry at Ellis Island. It was especially meaningful because I am the owner of our family trunk that came through Ellis Island more than a century ago (thanks, Aunt Joan). I tease that I knew a thing or two about hardship and leaving things behind because for the first time in my life I packed a carry-on only. Thank you for the applause. 

One evening we went to a fancy steakhouse for dinner, and I ordered the alcohol-free rosé. I got a mini sidecar of extra wine on ice. I loved that touch! 

Now that I'm home, those public transportation germs are catching up to me. I had a full day of client calls to fit in with my modified travel schedule. I also managed to get the podcast out because of the prep I did before I left. This is such a good one and so timely. The guest is an absolute dream guest of mine. Amy Allen Clark, you might know her as @momadvice 

She's a celebrity to me and has been since the early 2000s. Spoiler alert. She's now sober.

She was an early Pinterest influencer, a how-to-live-the-good-life-for-less kind of crafter, cook (big Aldi fan), and book lover! She's been a spokesperson for huge brands like Walmart, Kenmore, and Jack's Pizza. She's been featured in Martha Stewart Everyday, Redbook, Parent's Magazine, The New York Times, and more.

In this episode of the Peripeteia podcast, host Heather interviews Amy Allen Clark, an influential Instagram personality and founder of the Book Gang. Amy shares her journey from studying dietetics in college to becoming a stay-at-home mom and eventually launching a successful website during the 2008 recession. Known for her frugal living tips, especially shopping at Aldi, Amy's story took a significant turn when she was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a condition that affects connective tissues. She discusses how this diagnosis, along with a struggle with chronic pain, led to her reliance on alcohol, which she later overcame. Amy also reveals her successful transition to focusing on a bookish community and podcasting to cope with her condition. The conversation explores themes of resilience, adapting to life's changes, and the importance of community and advocacy.

Listen here 🔗 or anywhere you listen to podcasts. If you like it, please rate and review so more can find it. If you don't like it, keep it to yourself, please. 

Reminder: Book Club with the Author of The Sober Lush: A Hedonist's Guide to Living a Decadent, Adventurous, Soulful Life, Alcohol - Free is Tuesday at 6 pm CST, and you can join for FREE. Here's your 🔗 link to sign up.

XO!

-Heather