<p>In this episode, Ash sits down with husband, father, and business owner James Date to explore what life looks like after addiction—and how recovery has reshaped the way he moves through the world.</p><p><br></p><p>James shares how community, service, and genuine connection became the anchors of his sobriety, transforming what once felt like isolation into a life rich with meaning and purpose. He speaks openly about the power of vulnerability, the role of daily routines and prayer in keeping him grounded, and how embracing honesty has deepened his relationships at home and beyond.</p><p><br></p><p>Together, Ash and James confront the lingering stigma around addiction and discuss the strength it takes to ask for help. Through moments of reflection and gratitude, James reveals the quiet joy found in showing up authentically each day—a reminder that recovery isn’t just about living without substances, but about rediscovering who you are underneath it all.</p><p><br></p><p>Episode Chapters:</p><p>00:00 Introduction to James Date and His Journey</p><p>02:54 The Importance of Connection and Community in Recovery</p><p>05:52 Daily Routines and Spiritual Practices</p><p>08:58 The Role of Surrender in Recovery</p><p>11:58 Compassion and Kindness in Daily Life</p><p>15:01 Finding Joy in Service and Helping Others</p><p>17:57 The Impact of Sponsorship in Recovery</p><p>21:03 The Struggles of Identifying as an Addict</p><p>24:03 Behind the Smile: A Photo Reflection</p><p>26:53 The Journey to Acknowledging Addiction</p><p>30:08 Understanding the Roots of Addiction</p><p>32:54 The Ongoing Journey of Recovery</p><p>36:18 Understanding Alcoholism and Addiction</p><p>38:30 Rock Bottom Moments</p><p>42:14 Finding the Right Rehab</p><p>49:34 The Journey of Outpatient Recovery</p><p>51:23 The Importance of Vulnerability</p><p>56:54 Reconnecting with Self and Family</p><p>01:02:25 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling Life</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Connect with James below:</strong></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/slayingsoberpod/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">@slayingsober</a></p><p>Podcast: Slaying Sober - <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2vEnsIdIy2aZafvoqURbfx?si=a42588dd814146d5" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">listen on Spotify </a></p><p><br></p><p>Follow and connect with Ash on: </p><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ashbutterss/%20%E2%81%A0" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">⁠Instagram⁠</a> @ashbutterss</p><p><a href="http://www.ashbutterss.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Website⁠ <strong>www.ashbutterss.com</strong></a></p><p><br></p><p><strong>Upcoming Workshops:</strong></p><p><strong>A Return To You | One Day Retreat </strong></p><p>Sunday 22nd February, 2026</p><p><a href="https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/a-return-to-you-one-day-retreat-tickets-1855565048009?aff=oddtdtcreator" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Tickets available here. </a></p><p><br></p><p><strong>Join Ash on retreat in 2026!</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.ashbutterss.com/the-embodied-woman-retreat" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">The Embodied Woman Retreat | Gold Coast | May 2026 </a></p><p><a href="https://www.ashbutterss.com/bali-retreat-2026" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Rest and Renew Holistic Retreat in Bali | August 2026</a></p><p><br></p><p>Watch Ash’s <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfclluaXT4Q" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">TEDx Talk here</a>!</p><p><br></p>