EPISODE 6 — From the Grip of Alcohol to a Life of Clarity & Choice w/ Jacki Fleniken

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of The RETURN Project, Bryan White sits down with Jacki Flennigan, a woman who courageously pulled herself from the depths of alcohol addiction to reclaim a life of purpose, clarity, and authenticity.

Jacki opens up about her early alcohol exposure, how it became a coping mechanism in her youth, and how that relationship with drinking escalated into a full-blown addiction in her 50s. But everything changed when a close friend tragically passed away from alcoholism — a sobering wake-up call that sparked Jacki’s decision to turn her life around.

With honesty and vulnerability, Jacki walks us through the steps she took to transform her life — from recognizing that she was using alcohol to numb her emotions, to diving deep into self-education, building daily habits that support her recovery, and embracing the power of conscious choice.

“I didn’t get sober to live a dull life. I got sober to live a real one — one that I don’t have to escape from.” — Jacki Fleniken

Today, Jacki is living her best life — not because it’s perfect, but because it’s hers. Filled with gratitude, clarity, and purpose, she now supports others who are navigating similar struggles, reminding us all that recovery isn’t about shame — it’s about returning to yourself.

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If Jacki’s story resonated with you, share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. Be part of the conversation. Let’s break the silence around addiction, recovery, and healing — together.

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