The Real Sober Stories with Mario Bencivenga
Jane sits down with Mario Bencivenga, a 25 year old writer from Long Island, New York. Mario shares his journey to sobriety, detailing the influences that led him to alcohol, the moment he realized he had a problem, and the support he received from family and friends. He discusses the importance of creativity in his recovery, the power of words, and the significance of sharing his story to inspire others. Mario emphasizes the need for self-reflection regarding alcohol consumption and the growing sober curious movement. He also touches on his upcoming book, which aims to provide hope and connection to those struggling with similar issues.
KEY POINTS
KEY POINTS
- Mario's journey to sobriety began on January 20th.
- He was not very open about his drinking problem initially.
- Alcohol was always present in family gatherings, but not heavily consumed.
- Mario felt excluded during his childhood, which contributed to his drinking.
- His first drink was a Jack and Coke at a funeral at age 14.
- He realized he had an issue after a night of heavy drinking at a Yankees game.
- Creativity became a significant outlet for Mario after getting sober.
- Family support played a crucial role in his recovery process.
- Mario emphasizes the importance of sharing his story to help others.
- He believes in the power of words and their impact on mental health.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Mario's Journey
Introduction to Mario's Journey
03:04
Early Experiences with Alcohol
Early Experiences with Alcohol
06:58
Recognizing the Downside of Drinking
Recognizing the Downside of Drinking
10:17
The Turning Point: Realization of an Issue
The Turning Point: Realization of an Issue
14:36
The Role of Creativity and Music
The Role of Creativity and Music
18:56
Support from Family and Friends
Support from Family and Friends
23:44
The Sober Curious Movement
The Sober Curious Movement
28:47
Sharing His Story and Future Aspirations
Are you inspired by what you've been learning on Mindful Sobriety The Podcast? We'd love the opportunity to meet you in person at one of our upcoming retreats! There's still a few spots available for Living Your Purpose: Simplified Bali Retreat! Secure your spot today! Mention this episode for a $400 discount when you sign up by November 15! You'll find all the details here!
Follow @janewballard and @dfwyogagirl on Instagram to stay in touch! And as always, be sure to rate, review and subscribe so we can continue to spread our message far and wide. We are so incredibly grateful for the support of our listeners!
Learn more about Mario!
Mario Bencivenga, age 25, celebrates his sober date of January 20, 2024, after an 8-year struggle with alcohol. Mario's journey is one of resilience, encompassing triumph, loss, love, and pain. As a young man in recovery, he believes his story can connect deeply with adolescents and others grappling with substance use. Mario brings a raw, authentic perspective to the conversation, offering inspiration to those seeking hope and healing.
You can connect with Mario on Instagram @mario_bencivenga
Sharing His Story and Future Aspirations
Are you inspired by what you've been learning on Mindful Sobriety The Podcast? We'd love the opportunity to meet you in person at one of our upcoming retreats! There's still a few spots available for Living Your Purpose: Simplified Bali Retreat! Secure your spot today! Mention this episode for a $400 discount when you sign up by November 15! You'll find all the details here!
Follow @janewballard and @dfwyogagirl on Instagram to stay in touch! And as always, be sure to rate, review and subscribe so we can continue to spread our message far and wide. We are so incredibly grateful for the support of our listeners!
Learn more about Mario!
Mario Bencivenga, age 25, celebrates his sober date of January 20, 2024, after an 8-year struggle with alcohol. Mario's journey is one of resilience, encompassing triumph, loss, love, and pain. As a young man in recovery, he believes his story can connect deeply with adolescents and others grappling with substance use. Mario brings a raw, authentic perspective to the conversation, offering inspiration to those seeking hope and healing.
You can connect with Mario on Instagram @mario_bencivenga
Creators and Guests
Host
Jane W Ballard
Jane Ballard, LCSW-S, CEDS, PMH-C, is a licensed psychotherapist and Alcohol Free Life coach. She is the founder of Jane Ballard Wellness, a private practice offering in-person counseling services in Dallas, TX and virtual individual and group coaching to women in the United States and beyond. After waking up to the realization that alcohol was a barrier to living her purpose, she set out to make information, support and connection more accessible to like minded women.
Guest
Mario Bencivenga
Mario Bencivenga, age 25, celebrates his sober date of January 20, 2024, after an 8-year struggle with alcohol. Mario's journey is one of resilience, encompassing triumph, loss, love, and pain. As a young man in recovery, he believes his story can connect deeply with adolescents and others grappling with substance use. Mario brings a raw, authentic perspective to the conversation, offering inspiration to those seeking hope and healing.