Summary
In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Gina Economopoulos, a first-time author and former nun, about her tumultuous journey through health struggles, the loss of her mother, and her battle with alcoholism. Gina shares her experiences of finding faith, becoming a nun, and ultimately navigating the complexities of addiction and recovery. Her memoir, 'Shake the Dust Off Your Feet and Walk,' serves as a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of community in healing. The conversation delves into the importance of self-discovery, the impact of grief, and the ongoing journey of recovery, emphasizing that no one is alone in their struggles.
Check her website out here: https://www.ginaecon.com/
Takeaways
Gina's journey reflects the struggle of losing foundational aspects of life.
Health issues shaped Gina's identity and perspective on life.
The loss of her mother at a young age led to a deep search for meaning.
Gina's experience in the convent was both a spiritual journey and a struggle with addiction.
Relationships can complicate recovery, especially when addiction is involved.
Gina's path to sobriety involved confronting her past and embracing faith.
Writing her memoir was a cathartic process for Gina.
Gina emphasizes the importance of community and support in recovery.
The game segment highlighted Gina's insights on personal growth and decision-making.
Gina's story is a testament to resilience and the power of hope.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Gina's Journey
02:28 Health Struggles and Family Dynamics
05:28 Loss and Grief: The Death of a Mother
08:27 Finding Faith and Becoming a Nun
11:19 Love and Loss: The Story of Danny
14:20 Descent into Darkness and Seeking Help
17:54 The Struggle with Alcohol in the Convent
21:04 Writing My Story
25:11 The Journey of Self-Discovery
26:55 The Importance of the Steps
29:18 Deprogramming and Reprogramming Faith
32:43 Spiritual Awakening in Recovery
34:02 Facing the Pain of Alcoholism
36:31 Finding Freedom in Recovery
38:00 The Common Denominator of Pain
38:46 The Journey of Healing and Faith
40:31 The Ongoing Process of Recovery
44:06 Tools for Managing Life's Challenges
44:48 Shake the Dust: A Game of Choices
51:24 Retrieving Sanity: Living in Gratitude
#alcoholicnun #recovery #addictionrecovery #faithwounds #healingjourney #loss #grief #triumph #overcomingstory
Call 988 if you are experiencing ANY mental crisis!
Want to be a guest on Retrieving Sanity: A Mental Health Podcast? Send Keegan Read a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/retrievingsanitypodcast
