In this episode, Brandi shares her powerful journey from being a school superintendent to facing public humiliation due to alcoholism and a traumatic experience. She discusses the spiral into addiction, the impact on her family, and the turning point that led her to seek help. Brandi emphasizes the importance of community, acceptance, and the healing process, ultimately finding purpose in helping others who have faced similar struggles. Her story is a testament to resilience and the belief that healing is possible, no matter how far one has fallen.
Takeaways

• Brandi's story highlights the importance of acknowledging trauma and its effects.
• Alcoholism can affect anyone, regardless of their background or achievements.
• Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
• Community support is crucial in the recovery process.
• Acceptance of one's flaws is the first step towards healing.
• Brandi's experience shows that purpose can emerge from pain.
• Honesty and transparency are vital for personal growth and recovery.
• Shame can be diminished by sharing one's story with others.
• Recovery is a journey that requires ongoing effort and support.
• Helping others can be a powerful part of one's own healing process.

Content Warning: This episode includes discussion around sexual assault and healing from trauma. Please take care of yourself while listening. If you need to, pause, step away, or come back later. We’re sharing this story with deep respect for anyone who’s experienced pain like this, and with the hope that it helps remind you: healing is possible, and you’re not alone.

Connect with Brandi:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pricebrandi
Connect with The SoulFire Collective:
Website: thesoulfire.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoulfireco/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577017224180
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-soulfire-collective/

Resources:

Substance Abuse and Mental Health National Helpline: https://www.samhsa.gov/ Women-Only Program: https://womenforsobriety.org/
Sober Mom Squad: https://www.instagram.com/sobermomsquad/
Alcoholics Anonymous: https://www.aa.org/
Sexual Assault Hotline: https://rainn.org/help-and-healing/hotline/
Celebrate Recovery: https://celebraterecovery.com/
Suicide & Crisis Hotline: https://988lifeline.org/