Latest / The Realtor Who Wines / Sobriety in the Business World - The Shifting Culture Around Alcohol
Transcript
- 0:00Welcome to the Realtor Who Wins podcast.
- 0:02I'm Rachelle New meyer, your hostess with the most as a student of life, a connector, a passionate wine enthusiast, and your local favorite guide.
- 0:10Join me as we explore the vibrant Pacific Northwest.
- 0:14Savor the finest wines and champion the spirit of entrepreneurship.
- 0:18Each episode I'll sit down with inspiring guests, supporting business ownership and uncovering the stories that make this community unique.
- 0:25So grab a glass of wine, settle in, and let's embark on a journey of discovery and connection together. Cheers! Thank you so much for tuning in to episode eight of The Realtor Who Wines.
- 0:37I'm Rachelle and today I have Kelly McLeod with me.
- 0:40I'm so happy you're here.
- 0:41Cheers, Kelly. Thanks.
- 0:43Thank you for joining me. Thank you for having me.
- 0:48So Kelly and I have been friends for a long time, and we are paths.
- 0:52It was like we were destined to be friends, actually, because our paths just kept crossing and crossing and crossing.
- 0:57And finally we were like, I think we're friends or I think we're friends now.
- 1:02So we're both in real estate.
- 1:04We both are in leadership within a very large networking organization.
- 1:09We both live in the same area.
- 1:10We both have daughters in the same school system.
- 1:12And like just all the things we both love sports.
- 1:14We definitely love a good basketball game.
- 1:17So we just connect on so many levels.
- 1:19And so I wanted to have you on because we can talk about so many great topics that not everybody always talks about.
- 1:26And one topic I definitely want to dive into today is sobriety.
- 1:30Because even though I'm the realtor who wines, I think drinking responsible is really important.
- 1:35And then also as a woman in business and in the business field, talking about alcohol within working and like the business sector too.
- 1:44So thank you so much for joining me today.
- 1:46Really appreciate. It. Well, thanks for having me.
- 1:48Yes. Exciting.
- 1:49This is one of my favorite things to talk about.
- 1:52Get which we have.
- 1:53I love that because some people think sobriety is like a dirty word or they like or shy about it or.
- 1:59And that's some of the stuff I wanted to talk to you about today and also how people should react when they, like, are having a conversation with someone that's sober.
- 2:07I feel like they treat it almost like, ooh, you know, and you're like, what?
- 2:10Yeah.
- 2:11Why? Yeah. What are you doing?
- 2:12Yeah. Enjoy your beverage.
- 2:14Yeah. I'm not impacting you, but.
- 2:15Yeah.
- 2:16Before we dive into that stuff, do you mind sharing a little bit of your journey and your story and, and then.
- 2:22Yeah, we'll go from there.
- 2:22Yeah.
- 2:23Well, this will be boring for you because some of it you've already heard.
- 2:26But it's okay. I love, I do love talking about it.
- 2:29So I just celebrated nine years sober at the end.
- 2:33Whoop, whoop. February. And, you know, some people envision, a person's decision to get sober based on some sort of rock bottom, you know?
- 2:45Sure.
- 2:46Like I woke up in a ditch somewhere. Yeah.
- 2:48It was get sober or die.
- 2:50Yeah, yeah, and that's not always the case. It's not for a lot.
- 2:53It can be.
- 2:54But, I woke up one morning and I was just really tired of being tired.
- 3:00I was tired of being disappointed in myself.
- 3:02I was tired of not feeling well.
- 3:04I was tired of just feeling the shame and just knowing that I could be more.
- 3:09And that I wanted more for myself.
- 3:13My daughter was nine at the time, and I was also very aware that before I knew it, we were going to be having conversations with her about drugs and alcohol, and I was feeling like a fraud.
- 3:25So am I going to have these conversations with my daughter when I'm struggling as much as I am? Yeah.
- 3:30And so it just I just can I swear, I just get tired of my my own bullshit.
- 3:35Yeah. You know, and, so there was a rock bottom for me, but it wasn't like what everybody.
- 3:43Thinks is more like your own mental state.
- 3:43Yeah.
- 3:45You know, just really, really tired of it.
- 3:47So, tired of myself.
- 3:49So I just kind of white knuckled through the, the whole process.
- 3:55And so you made that decision.
- 3:58You're like, you know, enough's enough.
- 3:59This obviously isn't a good relationship for me as far as my relationship with alcohol.
- 4:04I'm going to go cold turkey.
- 4:06I did I went cold turkey, which I would say to anybody out there, you know, make sure that you talked to a doctor and you, you know, you do things the right way so that it's safe for you.
- 4:20Everybody knows their.
- 4:21Own. Well, just like any journey, everybody has their own.
- 4:24Yeah, yeah, yeah.
- 4:27I did not go through a program.
- 4:29I didn't go to rehab.
- 4:30I didn't go to AA.
- 4:33Reflecting back on my the start of my journey, I wish that I would have, you know, because community is such an important thing.
- 4:40Sure. As you were. Yeah.
- 4:41You and I both know. Yeah.
- 4:43And I feel like there is a lot that I probably could have learned early on through that community, but.
- 4:48And just to have that different support system when you are having harder times, like the hard days. Yeah.
- 4:54But there was so much shame around alcohol.
- 4:58I was 40 years old and like, this is embarrassing.
- 5:00I'm a 40 year old woman, like, I need to get it together.
- 5:03So I didn't feel, I just was embarrassed.
- 5:07Yeah. You know what's now looking back to you now?
- 5:10You know, you shouldn't have that.
- 5:11Yeah, yeah, yeah.
- 5:13And now that's part of why I choose to talk about it.
- 5:17Because I don't want somebody not to get the help they need.
- 5:22Absolutely.
- 5:22To make a different decision because they feel that shame.
- 5:25I don't care how old you are, you can always improve yourself.
- 5:28You can always.
- 5:28100%.
- 5:30Decision and you can do that tomorrow you know.
- 5:33Yeah.
- 5:33So I think that's why I'm such a big advocate just well I mean you and I talk about everything like.
- 5:40Yeah, if you're talking honestly and with good intentions and in good faith, I think you can talk about anything.
- 5:46And that's how I feel about this.
- 5:48Too, when I think things that are talked about more than their.
- 5:52That eliminates the shame. Yeah.
- 5:54You know, and so that's why I really thought it was important to have this conversation with you and share it with my listeners, but then also just share it with anybody that might be listening that knows that they need to get sober and hasn't taken that step, or knows somebody that needs to.
- 6:09And so I just think we should talk about it.
- 6:11And I do think, I don't know if you've noticed this, and maybe if I'm only noticing it because it's more mindful for me now.
- 6:17But I do feel like mocktails are absolutely huge right now. And, also talking about sobriety, the Gen Zers are not really interested.
- 6:28And the toxic relationship with alcohol, which has been interesting as I interview a lot of winemakers and stuff, they're talking about how it's changed a little bit just because messaging around alcohol has changed, or how the younger generations are looking at alcohol like they are.
- 6:43If they consume, it's at a limited amount.
- 6:43Yeah.
- 6:45Which is healthy, right?
- 6:45We don't want to encourage different.
- 6:48Yeah.
- 6:48But I do think now it feels, at least to me, becoming more and more common to have the conversation.
- 6:55So I do think that's good.
- 6:58One thing.
- 6:59So how you kind of brought it up, for me, like I made my mental awareness around it was we were she wasn't even talking to me.
- 7:09I was just listening.
- 7:10I was like, what was that?
- 7:13No, but we were in a networking group and we were talking about and it's with a group full of women from different industries calling at both just happened to be in real estate.
- 7:22And but she had mentioned it's really tough being in an industry where all the socialization trainings, connections are around alcohol, like happy hours.
- 7:32Mama says all those things and it made me sit back and reflect.
- 7:36She wasn't speaking to me directly or at the time, I was, president elect for Women's Council of Realtors in Oregon and or in Portland.
- 7:45And I was like, oh, and I started going through our events calendar, and I was like, oh yeah, that does have alcohol.
- 7:50That was alcohol. That was alcohol.
- 7:53I wonder how many other agents are coming to this stuff.
- 7:56Yeah, because there's alcohol.
- 7:58And it's not because you can't say no or it's a temptation, but for you, it's just like an annoyance, like, well, I don't want to stand around while everyone's getting drunk and they're not going to remember my name.
- 8:07Yep. Ten days later. Yeah.
- 8:10You know, and so I thought, So we actually, because of that comment you made at a totally different networking group, that wasn't to me, I went back to Women's Council.
- 8:18I was like, hey, let's change our calendar a little bit and let's make some of these morning things that are what, like coffee only type stuff.
- 8:24But talk about that a little bit and your frustrations or how you've noticed that a lot, especially in the real estate industry.
- 8:30But I was a corporate kid and it was the same way with corporate too, like so it's everywhere.
- 8:35But it really is everywhere.
- 8:36And it's just it's interesting to me because I try to be really careful and, and we've talked about this like, I don't want to put my relationship with alcohol on to anybody else.
- 8:45Right.
- 8:46So maybe for everybody else, being at a CEO class at 11 a.m.
- 8:52with mimosas is just how they're going to get through it.
- 8:54I just don't love it.
- 8:56Like, I just think it's odd, like there aren't a lot of jobs that would be
- 9:01encouraging you at 11: 00 on a Tuesday.
- 9:04encouraging you at 11: Sure, have a drink and then get out there and go do your work.
- 9:07encouraging you at 11: Go drive around and do showings.
- 9:09encouraging you at 11: Like it just it's such an odd thing for me, but I'm always very careful.
- 9:13encouraging you at 11: Like, again, my relationship with alcohol is mine and I don't want it, but it sure is.
- 9:18encouraging you at 11: Just not.
- 9:19encouraging you at 11: I just don't like to be around it.
- 9:21encouraging you at 11: I just don't think it's necessary.
- 9:23encouraging you at 11: I question whether or not we are, We are our best selves in those moments.
- 9:31encouraging you at 11: Then if you're having a couple of drinks while you're trying to learn something, that's meant to help you be better for your clients.
- 9:39encouraging you at 11: I mean, not that people are necessarily just getting hammered, but also.
- 9:43encouraging you at 11: Like, yeah, they're it's not like keg stands going out or anything.
- 9:46encouraging you at 11: Yeah, I don't know.
- 9:46encouraging you at 11: To me it just feels unnecessary. And so that was part of it is just I just don't think it's necessary in that environment.
- 9:58encouraging you at 11: But it is hard to be the only kid in the room that's that's not drinking and trying to have those conversations.
- 10:05encouraging you at 11: Thankfully, it is much more common now, and I think people receive it differently than than they used to. Right?
- 10:11encouraging you at 11: Yeah, it was kind of like though I argue, and I think people are better now at just taking it at face value.
- 10:19encouraging you at 11: Yeah.
- 10:20encouraging you at 11: Well, no, it's not like you're saying to like alcohol should never be included at any work event.
- 10:25encouraging you at 11: But it is very true, especially in our industry, that like, they are trying to attract people to come to learn about a certain topic, right, by being like, and there's wine or like and there's order or whatever.
- 10:38encouraging you at 11: Yeah.
- 10:38encouraging you at 11: So instead of just people coming to talk about the topic or learn about the topic and I agree with you.
- 10:43encouraging you at 11: There has been times where I wasn't partaking in any beverages because of what I had going on afterwards, and then by the end of it, you're like, do you even know my name?
- 10:53encouraging you at 11: We've been talking for 20 minutes and I am pretty sure you can't tell me my name right?
- 10:58encouraging you at 11: Yeah, I had those moments where, and again, I'm not I do not worry about myself.
- 11:03encouraging you at 11: Sure.
- 11:04encouraging you at 11: Yeah.
- 11:04encouraging you at 11: And I and I want people to have fun, you know, do do their thing.
- 11:08encouraging you at 11: But, I definitely have left events going.
- 11:10encouraging you at 11: I'm never going to hear from that person again.
- 11:12encouraging you at 11: Yeah, yeah.
- 11:14encouraging you at 11: Well, and everybody's journey is different too.
- 11:17encouraging you at 11: So, like, you're in a different place with your journey where you can go to a networking thing that's in a winery and you're not having withdrawals or wondering, like wanting to do anything, but there's other people that are just starting their journeys or something like that.
- 11:30encouraging you at 11: So that's all I, I do think it's something that all businesses should think about when they're hosting a work related thing, like, can you have beverages?
- 11:38encouraging you at 11: Sure.
- 11:38encouraging you at 11: But should it be at every single training?
- 11:41encouraging you at 11: Should it be the focus of the training to get people at the training, like maybe pick really great content, or you don't have to use alcohol to draw people to come to it.
- 11:50encouraging you at 11: And I do wonder how many people were the same class, just so many of them.
- 11:59encouraging you at 11: Yeah, the same thing offered, but without the mimosas.
- 12:02encouraging you at 11: Is someone truly showing up only because there's mimosas?
- 12:05encouraging you at 11: I, I don't know. Yeah.
- 12:07encouraging you at 11: I think it's a half and half.
- 12:08encouraging you at 11: But I. Really do. Yeah.
- 12:10encouraging you at 11: Like, well, maybe we, I think it's a topic.
- 12:13encouraging you at 11: Well, especially now in-person classes.
- 12:15encouraging you at 11: I think that's how they're trying to get people back to be like in person.
- 12:19encouraging you at 11: Yeah. So they're like, the class isn't enough.
- 12:21encouraging you at 11: We need free lunch or we need this or that or whatever.
- 12:24encouraging you at 11: Yeah.
- 12:25encouraging you at 11: But yeah, I just don't think it's necessary all the time.
- 12:29encouraging you at 11: Yeah.
- 12:29encouraging you at 11: And and then when you said that too, like, it creates this weird conversation when people are like, oh, did you need a drink?
- 12:37encouraging you at 11: Yeah. And then you're like, oh no, I'm good.
- 12:38encouraging you at 11: I don't drink.
- 12:39encouraging you at 11: And they're like, oh, oh, you know, like, oh, what's her story?
- 12:44encouraging you at 11: I wonder what she's up to.
- 12:45encouraging you at 11: And I could be like a ton of stuff.
- 12:47encouraging you at 11: We have a another really good friend of ours that's allergic to alcohol.
- 12:50encouraging you at 11: Like she has like a huge breakout, but she has to explain that every time she goes anywhere, instead of just being like, no, I'm good, thank you.
- 12:58encouraging you at 11: People. But people want to know why. Yeah, but it's weird.
- 13:01encouraging you at 11: If you order seven drinks, no one is like, why?
- 13:03encouraging you at 11: Right? Right.
- 13:06encouraging you at 11: You said there was a comedian that talked about, you know, if you don't get mayonnaise on a sandwich, nobody's like, bugging you about you have mayonnaise on your sandwich.
- 13:14encouraging you at 11: Like, why is alcohol the thing that everybody is like?
- 13:16encouraging you at 11: It's a trigger for some reason.
- 13:18encouraging you at 11: Yeah, especially a certain age groups.
- 13:20encouraging you at 11: I'm glad to see that the younger generation as a as focused on that.
- 13:23encouraging you at 11: Yeah. Me too.
- 13:24encouraging you at 11: I've started to say, no, I don't drink on purpose.
- 13:28encouraging you at 11: Yeah, that usually stops people or they'll look at me and go, what's that mean?
- 13:31encouraging you at 11: And then I'll tell them like, oh, it just celebrated whatever it is.
- 13:34encouraging you at 11: Yeah, oh that's great.
- 13:35encouraging you at 11: And then we move on like just so that it doesn't, we don't need to drag it out.
- 13:40encouraging you at 11: And sure like.
- 13:42encouraging you at 11: Yeah that that I just I don't drink.
- 13:44encouraging you at 11: Thank you. Yeah.
- 13:46encouraging you at 11: What were some of your fears like when you were thinking about like you knew I need to get sober.
- 13:53encouraging you at 11: I need to make this choice.
- 13:55encouraging you at 11: What were some of your fears that were keeping you besides the shame?
- 13:58encouraging you at 11: Yeah.
- 13:58encouraging you at 11: Where?
- 13:58encouraging you at 11: There other things that you're worried about that was keeping you from making that decision?
- 14:03encouraging you at 11: So it's really interesting.
- 14:05encouraging you at 11: When you are drinking, you have an off switch.
- 14:11So it's 5: 00. You have a drink.
- 14:13So it's 5: You feel I'm saying you.
- 14:16So it's 5: I felt, like that was my permission to sort of end my day right?
- 14:23So it's 5: I think a lot of people do, if they have a drink.
- 14:25So it's 5: While they wind down. Yep. Exactly.
- 14:27So it's 5: And so, it again, it was just it was an off switch.
- 14:34So it's 5: And so I think I was really afraid that, I wouldn't have that off switch.
- 14:41So it's 5: I wouldn't be allowed to wind down.
- 14:46So it's 5: I would have to be productive all the time.
- 14:49So it's 5: And I still struggle with that a little bit because, I mean, especially with what we do, there's just stuff going on all the time.
- 14:57So it's 5: So it's really hard to balance.
- 15:01So it's 5: Not being productive.
- 15:02So it's 5: You're in business for yourself. Yeah.
- 15:05So it's 5: Because you feel like you can always be doing more.
- 15:07So it's 5: And so alcohol was a very good way to, like, shut my brain off.
- 15:12So it's 5: Yeah. And just take a step back. Yeah.
- 15:14So it's 5: And it just again, it was that permission at the end of the day to just not working anymore. I'm not, you know, so I think it was afraid it was going to have to like always be doing, doing, doing, which I do kind of feel.
- 15:28So it's 5: But I know alcohol would not make that better.
- 15:30So it's 5: Right.
- 15:33So it's 5: I think, well, I was definitely scared that I wouldn't be able to do it.
- 15:39So it's 5: Right.
- 15:39So it's 5: Like I was afraid that I was going to be one of those people that would fail my whole life.
- 15:44So it's 5: Yeah.
- 15:44So it's 5: And that would have been I think that's why I didn't talk about it for the first few years, because I was afraid that if I did and I relapsed, that.
- 15:54So it's 5: You had shame either way.
- 15:55So it's 5: Oh my God.
- 15:56So it's 5: Yeah, I was going to feel like an idiot no matter what I did. Right?
- 16:00So it's 5: And it's still something anybody that has ever had any kind of addiction knows getting complacent and being so sure that you're never going to relapse is a very dangerous place to be.
- 16:10So it's 5: So, but I'm much more confident, like I don't even after my going through everything I did with my brother, being in the hospital and passing and all that.
- 16:20So it's 5: Not once was I thinking, gosh, I would sure like a drink.
- 16:24So it's 5: In fact, it was quite the opposite.
- 16:25So it's 5: Yeah, so thankful because I was fully present for the whole thing.
- 16:30So it's 5: And, and.
- 16:31So it's 5: And you could show up for the rest of your family.
- 16:33So it's 5: Absolutely. Yeah.
- 16:34So it's 5: And it it's just, you know, alcohol, taking alcohol out of your life doesn't suddenly turn everything to rainbows.
- 16:42So it's 5: Right. Like it. It doesn't it. Certainly it stops making your life harder or worse.
- 16:47So it's 5: But it doesn't.
- 16:49So it's 5: You have to be the one to make it better.
- 16:51So it's 5: You have to take steps every day to make better decisions.
- 16:55So it's 5: And the first has to be, the way alcohol or whatever your choice is or, you know.
- 17:00So it's 5: Yeah.
- 17:02So it's 5: So I think early on, I was just really afraid that I wouldn't, I wouldn't be successful.
- 17:07So it's 5: I wouldn't be able. To do it.
- 17:08So it's 5: Yeah. For sure.
- 17:09So it's 5: I mean, anybody that's trying to change make any kind of lifestyle change, that's always a major fear.
- 17:14So it's 5: Like, can I actually do this?
- 17:16So it's 5: What happens if I put it out into the universe and I don't do it, or I don't do it?
- 17:19So it's 5: Well, and then, yeah, I had, you know, well, you know, I have someone in my life that also got sober, and the last few years.
- 17:29So it's 5: And one of her biggest concerns was, are my friends going to still want to hang out with me?
- 17:32So it's 5: Because so many of the things that we would do is like, go to a winery or when we'd have Girls Night, it'd be like board game night and drinks and dinner or whatever.
- 17:42So it's 5: And I wasn't always like focused around alcohol, but obviously alcohol was part of it.
- 17:45So it's 5: Right. And pleasantly, she's been pleasantly surprised, actually, how like, no one cared.
- 17:53So it's 5: Good. Like everyone's like, okay, great. Yeah.
- 17:55So it's 5: And then or just pivoting activities like you and I've talked about this before too, like as someone that obviously I'm the realtor Hawaiian.
- 18:03So it's 5: So I go to wineries, I try my wineries all the time.
- 18:07So it's 5: I'm very active and social person.
- 18:09So it's 5: When you and I were first becoming friends, there were certain events I was having.
- 18:13So it's 5: That was at a winery that wasn't winery like specific, but it was at a winery, and I didn't know yet where you were in your journey.
- 18:20So it's 5: I just knew that you were sober.
- 18:22So it's 5: Yeah.
- 18:22So it's 5: And I was like, do I invite her so she knows I want her there?
- 18:26So it's 5: Or is it insensitive if I invite her?
- 18:28So it's 5: So talk a little bit about how someone like in my position back then finally I just asked you.
- 18:34So it's 5: Yes, obviously.
- 18:35So it's 5: I just said probably the best thing.
- 18:35So it's 5: Yeah, yeah.
- 18:37So it's 5: I was just like, I really want you at this, but I don't want to be a dick either. Oh, sorry about that.
- 18:41So it's 5: But like, you know, like, I don't want to ask you to come to this and then have you be like, why would you invite me to this?
- 18:47So it's 5: You're so insensitive when really I was like, I just want you to know, I want you there, and I appreciate you.
- 18:53So it's 5: Yeah.
- 18:53So it's 5: So what should someone that's trying to support somebody in their sobriety, like, what are some ways that they can support them or include them?
- 19:01So it's 5: I think it's just exactly what you did, which is like, hey, I really want you.
- 19:04So it's 5: There it is at a winery.
- 19:04So it's 5: How does that feel for you?
- 19:07So it's 5: Were you good with it?
- 19:08So it's 5: You know, I usually give the example of, like, if we're going to a winery in the activity is wine tasting like that is the purpose that we're there?
- 19:17So it's 5: Yeah. Then I'm probably going to sit it out. Sure.
- 19:19So it's 5: Because, like, I don't want to drink soda water and watch you guys talk about.
- 19:23So it's 5: How the wine taste. Yeah. Or whatever.
- 19:25So it's 5: Yeah. It's like, smell it.
- 19:27So it's 5: You're like nothing.
- 19:29So it's 5: Yeah. It's it.
- 19:30So it's 5: But if it was like painting at a winery.
- 19:32So it's 5: Absolutely.
- 19:33So it's 5: Then you can come because it's like there's another activity.
- 19:35So it's 5: Yeah. Like we're, we're they're doing something else.
- 19:38So it's 5: It just happens to be at a winery. But yeah, I think for people that have loved ones or friends that are sober, I think it's really just asking the question, like, we really want you around, but we also want you to feel comfortable.
- 19:53So it's 5: So no, it's totally okay.
- 19:56So it's 5: Is there something else that we could do?
- 19:58So it's 5: One of the worst parts about being sober is like being the friend that people feel like they have to, like, make special arrangements for.
- 20:07So it's 5: Like, sure, you're.
- 20:08So it's 5: Not going to be comfortable where we can go someplace else.
- 20:10So it's 5: You're like, okay, it's going to be fine.
- 20:12So it's 5: Yeah.
- 20:12So it's 5: And people are trying to be thoughtful, but then you're like, am I the reason they're not going to have fun or, you know, yeah.
- 20:18So it's 5: People ask, is it okay if I drink?
- 20:20So it's 5: And you know, which again, being super, super sensitive and very thoughtful, but it also does suck because you kind of feel like you're in my, like, buzzkill.
- 20:29So it's 5: Right?
- 20:29So it's 5: You know, like, yeah, you can't have fun because I'm here.
- 20:32So it's 5: Like, that's a terrible feeling. Yeah.
- 20:34So it's 5: But that I.
- 20:35So it's 5: Think like why I prefer you didn't because you drove.
- 20:38So it's 5: Right? Right. Exactly.
- 20:40So it's 5: You drove me here. Yeah. Arrive alive, you guys.
- 20:42So it's 5: That being said.
- 20:43So it's 5: I, I think because I got sober later in life.
- 20:46So it's 5: I also like, I didn't really have a bunch of friends that were just like big partiers anyway. Right. You know what I mean?
- 20:53So it's 5: It's totally different when you're like especially when we were in college. Yes.
- 20:57So it's 5: It was a lot different than yes.
- 20:58So it's 5: What I'm hearing is like today in college.
- 21:00So it's 5: But yeah, if I had been in my late 20s, early 30s, it might have been I might have had a different feeling for sure.
- 21:07So it's 5: Everybody that I know is all kind of in a similar situation.
- 21:11So it's 5: So yeah, there wasn't a whole lot of like, we're just out being crazy, right?
- 21:17So it's 5: It's just going nuts. Yeah. So, and maybe that's part of why I waited for so long, because it finally felt like I wasn't going to be missing out on a ton of stuff.
- 21:29So it's 5: Well, in your daughter, like you already mentioned, she was a huge part of your decision.
- 21:32So it's 5: Yeah, that the timing of that was was huge.
- 21:36So it's 5: I just I just I just kept coming back to that.
- 21:38So it's 5: Like how many how am I going to be able to help her make good decisions or save when I'm not even doing it for myself?
- 21:44So it's 5: Right.
- 21:45So it's 5: It just I just couldn't yeah.
- 21:47So it's 5: I just couldn't see past that.
- 21:49So it's 5: If someone, I do want to talk about a couple other things, but if someone is thinking about getting sober and doesn't know where to start, what's a piece of advice that you would give them?
- 22:01So it's 5: I would definitely reach out to somebody.
- 22:05So it's 5: To me, anybody.
- 22:08So it's 5: I think being willing to have the conversation and just say to somebody else, say the words to somebody else, hey, I'm really struggling here.
- 22:18So it's 5: I think that that's really important.
- 22:20So it's 5: The first few times you say it's really scary and then suddenly it it's like, okay.
- 22:24So it's 5: Yeah, that, that, that went well, you know, and just start having conversations.
- 22:30So it's 5: Depending on the, you know, the type of recovery that you might be interested in.
- 22:36So it's 5: Certainly look for a community, whether that's AA, whether they're different online options.
- 22:45So it's 5: And there really is a lot more online options.
- 22:47So it's 5: I didn't realize I think a lot of people, again, were so like manipulated and skewed by movies and all that stuff where we just think like it's one thing, but it's not like a dirty church basement.
- 22:58So it's 5: Yeah, that's like, you know, like there's like all these meeting places all over, including online, where you can just hop on a zoom and have that kind of community.
- 23:06So it's 5: Yeah. And like listen in. Yeah.
- 23:08So it's 5: And there are so many books now.
- 23:09So it's 5: Some are very like science based, super heavy into the, the why of, you.
- 23:14So it's 5: Know, the chemistry.
- 23:16So it's 5: Yeah. Exactly.
- 23:17So it's 5: And then some are, are much more mindset related. And I'm very much a believer that it is a disease.
- 23:23So it's 5: I don't think this is a willpower issue.
- 23:25So it's 5: So if someone out there is feeling like, why can't I just tackle it?
- 23:28So it's 5: It's it's not that easy, right?
- 23:31So it's 5: You know. Yeah.
- 23:32So it's 5: Well I think there's different correct me if I'm wrong, obviously, but what I've noticed now, having different friends like yourself that have gone through different sobriety journeys or had different relationships with alcohol to cars that is, different types of alcoholism, because, again, my naive ness at the time was just picturing somebody like I've seen in the movies that like, is hiding alcohol all over the house, like can't function without a drink.
- 23:59So it's 5: But now I've known so many people are like, oh no, I could go weeks without drinking.
- 24:03So it's 5: It's just when I drank, I couldn't stop.
- 24:05So it's 5: After two or whatever.
- 24:07So it's 5: Or there's just like different relationships with it to, you know, whatever.
- 24:11So it's 5: But I just think of somebody that is trying to support somebody in their sobriety, just being really mindful.
- 24:18So it's 5: Like all the journeys are different.
- 24:20So it's 5: Yeah, there's totally different levels of alcoholism in relationships with alcohol.
- 24:25So it's 5: And I think if somebody tells you that they are struggling, the best thing to do is just ask, how can I help?
- 24:32So it's 5: Yeah, it is, it is not.
- 24:34So it's 5: I've had some friends that are like, I had no idea you drank or you had a problem.
- 24:38So it's 5: And I think what they were trying to be was supportive.
- 24:40So it's 5: Like for me, like, you always seem so together.
- 24:43So it's 5: And you're like, that was the booze, babe, right?
- 24:45So it's 5: Here's the thing.
- 24:46So it's 5: And that's kind of what it is.
- 24:47So it's 5: It's like, if someone I see this all the time, like there is no quiz that you can take.
- 24:52So it's 5: Like if you think you have a problem with alcohol, you have it.
- 24:55So it's 5: Right? Yeah.
- 24:56So it's 5: Like, you know.
- 24:56So it's 5: Doesn't matter if you drink every day or once every six.
- 24:59So it's 5: Just like if you can't put the ice cream bar down, you have a problem with ice cream, right?
- 25:03So it's 5: It's like what?
- 25:03So it's 5: You know what your problems are. Exactly.
- 25:06So it's 5: And I think that's the biggest, the biggest way you can support somebody is if they say they're struggling with whatever it is, whether to call or brownies.
- 25:14So it's 5: In my case, but it's just to accept that and that that's true.
- 25:19So it's 5: That is something that's difficult for them and ask how you can support them.
- 25:23So it's 5: Yeah.
- 25:24So it's 5: And, I mean, that's why I genuinely say, like, I will talk to anybody and everybody about, alcohol.
- 25:31So it's 5: Somebody, a dear friend of mine from college was sober for five years and posted about it on social media, and I had lost touch with her, but it was because she was talking about it that I finally felt comfortable to reach out to her.
- 25:44So it's 5: And that's where it all started for me.
- 25:46So it's 5: Yeah.
- 25:47So it's 5: And so the decision that I made once I made the decision, was I wanted to be that person first.
- 25:55So it's 5: Yeah, I love that.
- 25:57So it's 5: Even just.
- 25:57So it's 5: A phase.
- 25:57So it's 5: Like, they don't ever have to talk to me, but know that it can be done right.
- 26:01So it's 5: Absolutely. Well.
- 26:02So it's 5: And that's why when I was talking to you.
- 26:04So it's 5: Because, again, we talk a lot about everything.
- 26:06So it's 5: And I was like, I want to start this podcast.
- 26:08So it's 5: I'd love to have you on. And you're like, what?
- 26:10So it's 5: You're the realtor that whines that I go, yeah, but I think it's important to have these kind of conversations, like, you and I have this conversation all the time.
- 26:17So it's 5: Let's open that door for other people to have that conversation.
- 26:21So it's 5: Yeah.
- 26:21So it's 5: And just how to interact as a professional at industry events.
- 26:26So it's 5: If someone says they're sober, don't act like they have leprosy.
- 26:29So it's 5: Like be kind is, you know, like it's no big deal.
- 26:33So it's 5: Move on or don't ask 22 questions about it.
- 26:36So it's 5: Yeah. So like, oh, cool.
- 26:37So it's 5: So where are you working at these days or whatever?
- 26:40So it's 5: Like talk to them about how you would talk to them if they were holding a beer or like I don't know why that has to be the focus.
- 26:45So it's 5: Yeah it does.
- 26:46So it's 5: It can get very awkward.
- 26:47So it's 5: Which is which is now why I've said like, yeah, we usually we, we can move on from there. But, yeah, there is a little bit of like, I promise I'm still fun.
- 26:56So it's 5: Like I'm a joy to be around, I think.
- 27:00So it's 5: Yeah.
- 27:01So it's 5: Yeah, I, I would agree, I would agree, I know that we don't have a ton of time left, but I do want to talk a little bit just because we both network a lot.
- 27:09So it's 5: And about women collaborating over competition and our industry.
- 27:13So it's 5: And so, you and I talk about this too, is like to completely pivot networking and like how it's an art and like how some people don't.
- 27:24So it's 5: I didn't realize until we were in the leadership positions that were and that like, because I'm a natural, like social butterfly, so I can just walk up and ask 22 questions.
- 27:33So it's 5: But how?
- 27:36So it's 5: Some people don't know how to network or how to, like, put themselves out there, have those conversations.
- 27:40So it's 5: So what kind of advice would you give someone that's trying to, like, get out and about and make some connections?
- 27:45So it's 5: Yeah, I think it's getting really clear on your intention for networking and whether it's for each event, you kind of hang yourself up like, what do I want to get out of this event?
- 27:55So it's 5: What do I need from this event?
- 27:56So it's 5: And whether it's, you know, I want to meet somebody that is in the social media marketing space or I want to connect with a new winery or what?
- 28:07So it's 5: Yeah. Clear on your intention.
- 28:07So it's 5: Why are you going?
- 28:10So it's 5: So that that can kind of be your Northstar as you're having these different have focus. Yeah. You do need to focus.
- 28:18So it's 5: In general.
- 28:18So it's 5: And I think this is where you and I connect a lot.
- 28:21So it's 5: I don't necessarily network, for the transaction.
- 28:24So it's 5: I never know how they do business so that when I am giving a referral or I'm asking for a referral.
- 28:33So it's 5: Yeah, I, I know the person well enough to know they are going to get the job done. Yeah.
- 28:39So it's 5: And so mine is entirely based on the, on the relationships and getting somebody, getting to know somebody well enough to feel good about giving that referral.
- 28:47So it's 5: And that does take time. Yeah.
- 28:48So it's 5: And so it's finding the right space.
- 28:51So it's 5: Like if you don't have time truly to get to know people and build those relationships, that might be a different kind of networking that you need to do.
- 28:58So it's 5: You might need to do more of the BNI style where there's, you know.
- 29:02So it's 5: It's very transactional.
- 29:03So it's 5: No offense to be honest, but it's just our structure. Yeah.
- 29:06So it's 5: But yeah, just looking for again, it's you getting clear on your intention.
- 29:10So it's 5: Like what do you really need from networking and making sure that you're doing that in the right group in the right space?
- 29:15So it's 5: Yeah.
- 29:16So it's 5: Because I think people can get really confused everywhere.
- 29:19So it's 5: Absolutely.
- 29:20So it's 5: I think too, like, as in real estate, we're connectors.
- 29:24So it's 5: And so we get asked all the time, like, do you have a roofer?
- 29:26So it's 5: Do you have a plumber?
- 29:27So it's 5: Do you have a mechanic?
- 29:27So it's 5: Do you have a good dentist especially?
- 29:29So it's 5: I help a lot of relocation families and so they don't know anybody.
- 29:33So it's 5: And so I'm helping them find a hairdresser like all the things.
- 29:36So it's 5: And so that's why I network.
- 29:38So it's 5: I'm never out there to be like, give me business.
- 29:40So it's 5: Give me business.
- 29:41So it's 5: I'm more there to be like, I need you for my client.
- 29:43So it's 5: I need you for a client, I need you for a client.
- 29:45So it's 5: And I think that just totally changes to.
- 29:48So it's 5: Yeah.
- 29:48So it's 5: To your point, it's funny, we had, greeters here this morning, and I wasn't here, but I talked to an agent when I came in, and I was like, how was it?
- 29:57So it's 5: And he was like, yeah, it's the same old stuff.
- 29:58So it's 5: I just went around and introduced ourselves.
- 30:00So it's 5: I go, well, you got to network with intention, bro.
- 30:02So it's 5: You got to walk in and be like, hey, yeah, I'm so-and-so.
- 30:05So it's 5: How can I help your business grow this year?
- 30:07So it's 5: Or how, you know, like, let's collaborate, let's partner.
- 30:10So it's 5: Tell me more about you.
- 30:11So it's 5: And I was like, you're such a coach.
- 30:15So it's 5: I know I can't help but you.
- 30:17So it's 5: Feel like after the number of years that we've been doing this, I mean, we've been networking together for, what, probably four years now?
- 30:23So it's 5: Yeah.
- 30:25So it's 5: That really is the single best piece of advice I could give somebody clear on your intention for that event.
- 30:30So it's 5: Yeah. Within that group.
- 30:31So it's 5: And I think you'll see a different kind of success.
- 30:34So it's 5: Yeah.
- 30:35So it's 5: You really can dig into, like, what do you need out of this and then start asking for it.
- 30:40So it's 5: Yeah.
- 30:40So it's 5: And just for anybody brand new out there, if this.
- 30:44So it's 5: I can only speak for myself.
- 30:44So it's 5: I know you feel exactly the same way.
- 30:46So it's 5: If you walk up to me and you hand me a business card before you tell me your name or shake my hand, I'm never calling you, okay?
- 30:53So it's 5: Keep your.
- 30:54So it's 5: Course.
- 30:54So it's 5: Likely not, because that is so transactional.
- 30:57So it's 5: And that's just not who I am or how I operate.
- 31:00So it's 5: And it's crazy to me how often that happens.
- 31:02So it's 5: Or people walk up and be like, oh, I know, you know, a lot of people, can you introduce me to ten people?
- 31:06So it's 5: And I'm like, hi, I'm Rachelle. Yes.
- 31:09So it's 5: And you are like, I can't just introduce you to ten people who are you?
- 31:13So it's 5: Yeah, like, so start off with more connections and building like, don't just like dollar sign, dollar sign, dollar sign.
- 31:20So it's 5: You know. Yeah.
- 31:20So it's 5: Nobody wants to work with that person, by the way.
- 31:23So it's 5: I want it to be I want there to be that reciprocal like benefit thing where we're kind of in this together.
- 31:29So it's 5: Yeah. Right.
- 31:31So it's 5: When I, when I get a, when I get a great referral for you, I will happily give it to you and hope that we know each other well enough that you would trust me with your referral.
- 31:41So it's 5: Absolutely. Whatever.
- 31:42So it's 5: Yeah.
- 31:42So it's 5: Whatever the case may be.
- 31:43So it's 5: So, yeah, I'm I'm not good at that.
- 31:46So it's 5: I oftentimes in our group, I forget to tell people that I'm a real estate agent.
- 31:50So it's 5: Yeah, I just I enjoy it.
- 31:50So it's 5: You're building a relationship.
- 31:52So it's 5: Yeah. I just love seeing. Yeah.
- 31:54So it's 5: The women that we're working with.
- 31:55So it's 5: Growing their business and have to be reminded like, oh, yeah, I'm here for.
- 31:59So it's 5: Right? Yeah. Oh.
- 32:01So it's 5: Shoot. Why was. I here?
- 32:02So it's 5: Yeah, that's what I thought. I was here for this tax.
- 32:06So it's 5: Right.
- 32:08So it's 5: Well, and with that being said, too, another way that we connect with the networking is we are both big believers in networking within your own industry and outside of it.
- 32:16So it's 5: Yeah.
- 32:17So it's 5: Again, the collaboration over competition.
- 32:20So it's 5: Yeah.
- 32:20So it's 5: We could have easily met the very first time in.
- 32:23So it's 5: But like she's at a different brokerage, she's going to compete in this group for the same business.
- 32:28So it's 5: But neither one of us ever thought that.
- 32:31So it's 5: And I have just found like collaborating and within real estate.
- 32:36So it's 5: And it's very empowering.
- 32:38So it's 5: It's nice to partner with other agents or to bounce ideas off of other agents to understand what goes into real estate, the behind the scenes, and then turn around and ask people outside of your industry, hey, what do you think about this?
- 32:50So it's 5: Would this be appealing to you?
- 32:52So it's 5: But to your point of what you just said is like, I can't handle every transaction, you can't handle every transaction.
- 32:57So it's 5: You're going to be well versed at something.
- 32:59So it's 5: We've given referrals to each other and we live like ten minutes from each other.
- 33:04So it's 5: So we cover the same area.
- 33:05So it's 5: Yeah, but we have we've partnered up together and then we've also bounced like, you know what that would be.
- 33:11So it's 5: You would be great with Kelly. Yeah.
- 33:13So it's 5: And or vice versa or whatever.
- 33:15So it's 5: And so I just think that's really special.
- 33:17So it's 5: And a lot of people go into networking with blinders like, oh, you're my field.
- 33:21So it's 5: You can't look at you, can't talk to you, you know, or if you see somebody talking, I've seen people do this, especially in real estate, where they see one realtor talking to somebody else, and then they won't ever go talk to that person because they're like, oh, that agent already talked.
- 33:35So it's 5: To, right. Hello.
- 33:37So it's 5: That's not about yeah, that's not how it works.
- 33:39So it's 5: Plus, you might need that person for something else.
- 33:41So it's 5: So like again.
- 33:43So it's 5: The number of agents that we know I can't I can't serve everybody and I don't want oh my gosh, I don't want to go out to Northeast Portland.
- 33:50So it's 5: Most like.
- 33:50So it's 5: Yeah that's not your.
- 33:52So it's 5: Area dear friends that work out there would love to refer them because they're going to be better able to serve that client for you to try to get out to.
- 33:59So it's 5: Northeast Portland is going to take far too long.
- 34:02So it's 5: I can't be spontaneous with that one.
- 34:04So it's 5: You don't know the area as well.
- 34:06So it's 5: So as soon as they're like, where's that good coffee shop?
- 34:08So it's 5: You're going to be like, Dear Google, where's a good coffee shop?
- 34:11So it's 5: But yeah, like I think being able to admit that, like the integrity that it takes for people to admit I know I'm not the best fit, I truly believe that will come back or yeah, that karma will come back around and serve you in that.
- 34:24So it's 5: Like I want what's best for you.
- 34:25So it's 5: And I'm not that.
- 34:27So it's 5: Yeah, yeah. I'm okay. Admitting that.
- 34:29So it's 5: Absolutely.
- 34:30So it's 5: Said we wouldn't have the relationships that we have to say.
- 34:34So it's 5: But I know somebody that's amazing out in that area.
- 34:37So it's 5: Let me give you that number.
- 34:38So it's 5: Right.
- 34:38So it's 5: If you were never networking within your own industry, yeah.
- 34:41So it's 5: You were closed off to that.
- 34:42So it's 5: You wouldn't have confidence. Yeah.
- 34:46So it's 5: I have three I have four families under contract right now.
- 34:50So it's 5: Three of them were referred to me by other realtors from building relationship.
- 34:54So it's 5: One is, a realtor I did a transaction with in Coos Bay.
- 34:58So it's 5: Talk about not knowing my area.
- 35:00So it's 5: For those of you listening, I don't normally cover Coos Bay.
- 35:03So it's 5: It's 4.5 hours from where I live, but it's kind of a story.
- 35:07So it's 5: I do cover Lincoln City, which is only an hour from where we live, also on the coast, and they were like, my clients are just like on a whim, can we just go look at this one in Coos Bay?
- 35:17So it's 5: And I was like, oh, okay.
- 35:19So it's 5: I didn't want to say no because I was like, well, what if we go to Coos Bay one time and then they end up buying in Lincoln City?
- 35:24So it's 5: I'm just, you know, I'll take a Saturday.
- 35:26So it's 5: It's fine. Rylan went with me. Yeah.
- 35:28So it's 5: We made a whole weekend out of it.
- 35:29So it's 5: But the point is the realtor.
- 35:31So it's 5: So they ended up buying in Coos Bay.
- 35:33So it's 5: And so the realtor on the other side of that transaction, she's like, girl, what are you doing out here?
- 35:37So it's 5: And I was like, it's a story.
- 35:38So it's 5: It's yeah, but I didn't want to say no because again, I was putting my client first and I told them I was like, I don't normally cover this area.
- 35:44So it's 5: And they're like, we get it.
- 35:45So it's 5: And they appreciated that.
- 35:46So it's 5: I went, yeah, but I befriended that agent and now her and I refer people back and forth all the time.
- 35:51So it's 5: So two of the transactions I'm in right now, we're clients.
- 35:55So it's 5: She referred to me.
- 35:56So it's 5: And so it's just building those relationships and working together.
- 35:59So it's 5: And then she is same way.
- 36:01So it's 5: She's like, I'm not driving 4.5 hours.
- 36:03So it's 5: It's the abundance.
- 36:04So it's 5: Yes. It's just the abundance mindset that there's going to be enough.
- 36:07So it's 5: Your your client will find you that, you mentioned Ryland.
- 36:12So it's 5: And I think part of the other reason that I got sober, obviously, I've talked about my daughter, but I think the reason that we probably network the way we do and probably just part of who we are is to be examples for our daughter.
- 36:24So it's 5: Absolutely.
- 36:25So it's 5: It's yeah, if I am not a good example for my daughter, I'm not a good example.
- 36:30So it's 5: Yeah.
- 36:30So it's 5: I always want her to see because like the time period that we grow up was, women were pointed at each other.
- 36:38So it's 5: Even in corporate America.
- 36:39So it's 5: You also had an office job before you got into real estate.
- 36:42So it's 5: And it was just like if you were the token female in the group that made it to the boardroom, you probably slept with somebody, even if you didn't. Right?
- 36:49So it's 5: But that was what was going on.
- 36:51So it's 5: I've been accused of that multiple times, and I was like, the numbers speak for themselves, folks, you know?
- 36:56So it's 5: But it's hard.
- 36:57So it's 5: And so like, women were pitted at each other.
- 36:59So it's 5: And so I'm already trying to show Rylan that's not the way.
- 37:03So it's 5: Yeah, we all make it to the boardroom when we work together.
- 37:06So it's 5: Yeah.
- 37:07So it's 5: Like instead of like, oh no, I, you know, kind of a thing.
- 37:10So it's 5: So I love you and I do both have that mindset of like, what are the girls seeing?
- 37:15So it's 5: How are we behaving?
- 37:15So it's 5: I mean, I've spent my time multiple times because Brandon was standing next to me.
- 37:19So it's 5: Yeah.
- 37:20So it's 5: You know, I was just like, rise to the occasion.
- 37:23So it's 5: Don't say it. Yes.
- 37:24So it's 5: Don't say. It.
- 37:25So it's 5: Yes. No, I yeah, I just I want her to see that that.
- 37:29So it's 5: Yeah things can be done a different way.
- 37:31So it's 5: Totally like compete where you need to compete.
- 37:33So it's 5: Yeah. Also don't worry.
- 37:33So it's 5: Yeah I need to, you know.
- 37:35So it's 5: Yeah.
- 37:36So it's 5: So yeah obviously you and I could talk all day.
- 37:39So it's 5: In fact, actually we do talk every day.
- 37:42So it's 5: And we still always have so much to say.
- 37:45So it's 5: I appreciate you being on.
- 37:46So it's 5: I hope that you'll come back for another episode.
- 37:49So it's 5: But thank you.
- 37:50So it's 5: Thank you, I appreciate it. I'm so excited.
- 37:52So it's 5: I will tag Kelly's information and the podcast and on YouTube.
- 37:57So it's 5: So depending on where you are watching or listening, if you have questions, she really is open to you.
- 38:02So it's 5: Reaching out to especially about sobriety stuff.
- 38:04So it's 5: Yeah, but not real estate.
- 38:06So it's 5: Yeah, only I sell real estate.
- 38:08So it's 5: Reach out to her for everything.
- 38:11So it's 5: Thank you.
- 38:12So it's 5: Cheers. Cheers.
- 38:14So it's 5: Thanks for watching and listening.
- 38:16So it's 5: We'll see you next week.