Ep. 95 The Sobriety Awakening with Tamar Routley

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Breaking Free and Finding Purpose: Tamar Routly’s Journey to Sobriety and Impact

How one woman transformed her life through recovery, found meaning in helping others, and built a thriving business in the sober community

On Episode 95 of the Sober & Lit Podcast, Tamar Routly joined hosts Ruby and Susan to share her powerful story about overcoming alcohol addiction and finding purpose beyond recovery. Tamar’s journey began in her teenage years, using alcohol as a way to ease shyness and fit in. “I started drinking in high school because it was fun,” Tamar recalls, describing that initial feeling as “liquid gold” that made her worries dissolve and allowed her to feel included.

Like many, her relationship with alcohol evolved from social drinking to dependency. Seeking to fill an internal void and lacking self-esteem, Tamar looked to external milestones—marriage, a home, material comforts—to bring happiness, only to find herself more lost and spiritually bankrupt. Eventually, Tamar’s drinking escalated to the point where she became a functioning alcoholic, maintaining a successful corporate career while privately struggling.

The Turning Point: Hitting Rock Bottom and Choosing Change

The transformative moment in Tamar’s recovery came after a particularly low episode. “I was sitting on the floor...I had a bottle of pills in my hand because I was like, I can't do this anymore,” she shares. In that moment of despair, Tamar asked for help—her first sincere prayer—motivated by the empathy of her dog and a sense that her life was meant for more.

Initially hesitant to acknowledge the magnitude of her problem, Tamar tried to “fix” her life with external solutions like joining a gym. However, it was the connection with a personal trainer—someone she remembered from high school—who laid the groundwork for her recovery. Her trainer’s casual admission, “I don’t drink,” and invitation to attend support meetings planted seeds that Tamar would follow when she was finally ready. “Your higher power puts people in your life at the right time,” Tamar says, highlighting the importance of community and openness in recovery.

Rediscovering Identity and Purpose: Life After Sobriety

Once sober, Tamar faced new challenges and opportunities. The first year involved major changes, including a divorce and personal growth. She tapped into her spirituality and built a support network, understanding that recovery was not just about abstaining from alcohol but about rebuilding her identity and discovering new passions.

Inspired by her own transformation, Tamar leaned into community and service. She began helping others reclaim their health, purpose, and confidence. “When I got hired on as a contractor...Dan Rogers had this vision of building community: redeeming work,” Tamar recounts. She found fulfillment not just in earning a living but in making work purposeful and being of service—core principles both in her business and her recovery.

Building Impact Through Podcasting and Publishing

Tamar’s story took a creative turn when she ventured into podcasting and authorship. Encouraged by peers in podcast groups and the realization that her journey resonated with many high-functioning women, Tamar founded Podcast Impact Studios and later co-authored Sober for Dummies. The opportunity arose unexpectedly, from a “persistent” publisher who recognized the value in Tamar’s humorous and relatable approach.

Her message is clear: recovery stories vary widely, and sharing them helps break stereotypes and stigma. “It doesn’t matter how you get sober, it just matters that you stay sober,” Tamar emphasizes. Her work, from hosting podcasts to writing books, aims to empower others to believe in themselves and embrace the possibilities that come with sobriety.

The Power of Community, Coaching, and Hope

A central theme throughout Tamar’s journey is the power of community and coaching. She credits mentors and peers with helping her clarify vision and confidently pursue new goals. Tamar describes her unique ability as helping people “see what they can’t recognize in themselves.” Whether it’s writing books, starting podcasts, or taking a career leap, Tamar believes everyone is capable of more than they imagine—especially when they connect with others and trust the process.

Coaches help you tap into your own wisdom and uncover purpose. Tamar encourages listeners and readers to reflect on how far they’ve come, surround themselves with inspiring people, and reach out for help rather than isolating in shame.

Living Lit: Giving Back and Embracing Possibility

Today, Tamar finds joy in supporting others through creative work and service. “I like helping people and I create. If I can make them look good and sound good, that lights me up,” she says. The entrepreneurial journey has included challenges, but Tamar’s perseverance and faith in herself have led to a thriving business and a fulfilling life.

Her message to women in recovery? “You’re capable of so much more than you think.” By building honest relationships, seeking out positive communities, and exploring their unique gifts, anyone can move beyond addiction and step into a life filled with hope, purpose, and impact.

Conclusion:  

Tamar Routly’s story proves that sobriety is not just an absence of alcohol—it’s a gateway to self-discovery, meaningful work, and inspiring others. Her experience reminds us that help is available, growth is possible, and every story matters.
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Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/

Follow Coach Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching
Email: [email protected]

Grab your copy of our FREE WineFree Weekend Guide to help you on your alcohol free journey. https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/WineFreeWeekend