Ep 140: Soulbriety with Dr. Elisa Hallerman
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Ep 140: Soulbriety with Dr. Elisa Hallerman
Episode 140: Show Notes
There is a growing understanding of the roots of addiction and how earlier traumas shape our needs and habits, and as this tide rises, we are able to better serve those on paths to recovery.
Our guest today is the fantastic and inspiring Elisa Hallerman, and we have an amazing conversation about her winding soul journey of self-discovery, and her book, Soulbriety.
Elisa's story is one of finding her way into helping others with the issues she faced, and she talks about the consistent nature of soul work, the roots of her substance abuse issues, the power of storytelling, and letting go of our connection to the ego.
Listeners are guaranteed to come away with fresh perspectives on what it means to confront demons, how to start down a new path of self-inquiry, and why it is so valuable to share the wisdom we have gained with others.
Make sure to catch this stand-out conversation!
Key Points From This Episode:
Looking back at Elisa's early years in Long Island, and the atmosphere of her childhood.
The early signs of addictive tendencies in Elisa.
Elisa looks back at her teenage conceptions of success and how this played into her college ambitions.
The realization that Elisa had about being uncomfortable and in the wrong situation.
Reflections on Elisa's law career and why it was not the path for her.
Leaving an unhealthy relationship and driving out to LA.
How Elisa found her way into show business after working as a cocktail waitress.
The different masks that Elisa wore and what these different personas provided.
The factors that helped Elisa realize she had a problem with substance abuse.
Elisa's big moment with her nephew that shifted her perspective significantly.
Finding sobriety and dealing with the crisis of meaning that followed.
The importance of sober anniversaries as well as the need for different types of celebrations.
Dealing with the person behind the ego and the mask; Elisa talks about disconnection and authenticity.
The decision Elisa made to pursue education and seek out new ideas.
A broadening understanding of addiction and trauma.
Elisa unpacks the message of her book, Soulbriety, and the inspiration for the title.
The target audience for Soulbriety and why Elisa chose to keep this scope wide.
Acknowledging messages and accepting our readiness to embark on a soul journey.
Elisa's important relationship with her editor, coach, and friend, Kelly Notaras.
Closing thoughts on success from Elisa; meaningful achievements and progress.
Tweetables:
“I didn't feel lit up. I didn't feel like myself. Everything felt a little bit more difficult than I think it should have. There were a lot more days where I was unhappy and not comfortable.” — @elisahallerman [0:20:40]
“You think it's going to be really glamorous. You've seen a lot of television shows. Then you're schlepping around to the five boroughs, you're going to the Bronx, you're going to Brooklyn and you're walking into court, and it's anything but glamorous.” — @elisahallerman [0:23:21]
“It's impossible to make a decision just thinking about it. You have to try things. You have to be curious about what is out there. Then you'll know.” — @elisahallerman [0:23:54]
“I just started writing stories. As you're writing stories and as you're really thinking about these times in your life, and you really start to remember a little bit more.” — @elisahallerman [0:36:15]
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: