Episode 161. What It Really Takes to Get Sober in a Drinking Culture, with Vim Verma

PODCAST

9 Feb

Ep 161. What It Really Takes to Get Sober in a Drinking Culture, with Vim Verma

In this episode, Ash has a raw conversation with husband, father, and sober human Vim Verma as they discuss addiction, identity, and what happens when you finally stop running from yourself. Vim opens up about growing up in a mixed-race culture where drinking was normalised, emotions were rarely spoken about, and asking for help felt almost impossible.

Together, they unpack the quiet pressures of family expectations, the heavy emotional charge of the holiday season, and the stigma that keeps so many people suffering in silence. There are moments of grief, moments of clarity, and Vim’s classic humour, that remind us how human this journey really is.

Vim also shares how his recovery program, meditation, and spiritual practice became a turning point, helping him strip back the noise and reconnect with who he is beneath the coping mechanisms. This is a conversation about breaking cycles, choosing courage over comfort, and discovering that real healing starts on the inside.

If you’ve ever questioned your relationship with alcohol, felt trapped by expectations, or wondered what life could look like if you truly listened to yourself, this episode will land.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Retreats and Self-Discovery

01:34 Vim Verma's Journey to Sobriety

03:45 Navigating Sobriety During the Holidays

04:54 Cultural Influences on Drinking

07:24 The Impact of Family Dynamics

07:53 Getting to Know Vim: Daily Life and Fun

14:06 Hiding Behind a Smile: The Photo Story

16:20 The Progression of Alcoholism

19:05 Consequences of Drinking: Crashing and Bashing

28:18 The Turning Point: Seeking Help

31:44 Experiences in Early Recovery