Straight Edge The Podcast

"It's not where the pebble falls, but the ripples all around it" - The Truth about Codependency with Hilary Leigh

A self confessed Codependent and a Workaholic who also liked a drink, Hilary has been a long respected member of the Hair Industry for 5 Decades.
"Codependency refers to a psychological construct involving an unhealthy relationship that people might share with those closest to them."
(reference; https://positivepsychology.com/codependency-definition-signs-worksheets/#overcome-codependency)
Owning 2 of her own Salons, she also worked for well known Hair company’s and began climbing the corporate ladder.
She finally hit rock bottom / burn out and attended Rehab in Sydney's prestigious Northern Beaches for 3 months, which gave her deep insight on her behaviours and learn how to change her life around. 
Hilary's recommendations below:
 
South Pacific Private: Alcohol & Drug Rehab Sydney NSW
 
https://www.southpacificprivate.com.au/
 
meditation HQ https://meditationhq.com.au/community/
 
Co dependency  no more / The language of letting go by author Melody Beattie

He came at me with the knife and I thought my days were done - The Role of Drugs in Abusive Behaviour with ANONYMOUS

TRIGGER WARNING and ANONYMOUS
In this episode, Amie interviews someone, who shares her personal story of growing up in a broken home and being in a codependent and abusive relationship. She opens up about the physical and emotional abuse she endured in her relationship and the challenges of leaving. She also talks about the role of drugs, particularly ice, in her ex-husband's behaviour and the effect it had on their relationship. Despite the abuse, she stayed in the relationship, partly because of her love for her child and the hope that her partner would change. She emphasises the importance of seeking therapy and surrounding oneself with a supportive community. 
 
If you are anyone you know needs support there are many services that can help
https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/guide/domestic-and-family-violence
https://aa.org.au
https://www.whiteribbon.org.au/helplines/
https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/need-help/family-and-domestic-violence/
 
 
 

"I have the MTHFR Gene & ADHD" - The Connection between Genetics and Addiction with LISA CONWAY

In this episode, Clive and Amie chat to Lisa Conway. A renowned member of the Hair Industry.
Lisa Conway is a Salon Professional Extraordinaire and Author of tell-all book, The Naked Salon – An Essential Guide to Time, Team and Money for Salon Owners. With genuine passion and boundless energy, she heads up The ZING Project, a business dedicated to teaching Salon Owners how to step-up and transform their businesses.
We discuss Lisa's journey of sobriety and her experience with ADHD. Lisa shares how growing up in a family with a history of alcoholism influenced her relationship with alcohol. She also talks about the connection between neurodiversity and addiction, highlighting the role of dopamine in seeking external stimulation. Lisa emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and understanding one's own needs, rather than relying solely on medication. The conversation touches on the challenges of ADHD, the impact on personal relationships, and the strategies Lisa has implemented to manage her symptoms.
She discusses the impact of menopause, divorce, and her son's mental health struggles on her well-being.
Lisa's story is relatable and inspiring, showing that it's never too late to make positive changes in life. She emphasises the need for kindness, authenticity, and self-care in navigating life's challenges.
 
Takeaways
Growing up in a family with a history of alcoholism can influence one's relationship with alcohol.
There is a connection between neurodiversity, such as ADHD, and addiction, as individuals may seek external stimulation to compensate for a lack of dopamine.
Self-awareness and understanding one's own needs are crucial in managing ADHD symptoms, and medication may not be the only solution.
ADHD can present challenges in personal relationships, but it can also be a superpower, providing exceptional problem-solving abilities.
It is important to create strategies and systems to help manage ADHD symptoms and improve overall functioning. Taking care of oneself is crucial for overall well-being
Seeking help and support is important during challenging times
Hormone replacement therapy and supplements can have a positive impact on mental and physical health
It's never too late to make positive changes in life Open communication and self-acceptance are key in navigating the challenges of ADHD and brain health.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be beneficial for women going through menopause.
Kindness, authenticity, and self-care are essential in living a fulfilling life.
Challenges and struggles can lead to personal growth and self-discovery.
Focusing on the positive aspects of life and embracing imperfections can lead to a more joyful existence.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Catching Up
09:22 The Impact of ADHD on Personal Relationships
14:21 The Connection Between Neurodiversity and Addiction
22:25 Understanding and Managing ADHD
25:44 Strategies for Coping with ADHD
35:32 The Impact of Menopause, Divorce, and Mental Health Struggles
45:32 Making Positive Changes in Life
49:00 Navigating ADHD and Brain Health
52:28 Life's a Donut: Embracing Imperfections