S2-E10 | What if alcohol blurred your truth until prison made it unavoidable?

Highlight

"For the first time in a long long time I was given the grace of a period of time just to reflect for me it was almost like my body and my head had said right you're not going to stop through your own accord so we're going to stop you for you... the higher power, for me it's a higher power anyway, it works in mysterious ways, very mysterious ways."

Summary

In this conversation, Eleri Haf Cosslett shares her remarkable journey from a successful career as a lawyer and property developer to facing a financial crisis and addiction. She discusses the impact of her experiences, including a financial collapse that led to a criminal trial and her time in prison. Eleri reflects on her recovery, the importance of finding a moral compass, and the role of community and service in her life. She emphasizes the need to challenge societal norms and values, advocating for a more compassionate and understanding approach to individuals in crisis. In this conversation, Eleri Haf Cosslett and Hamish explore the themes of recovery, self-awareness, and innovative thinking in business. They discuss the importance of journaling as a coping strategy, the need for slowing down to process experiences, and the role of community support in empowerment. Eleri shares her vision for Silvertree, an alternative currency platform aimed at building a sustainable economy, while emphasizing the significance of collaboration and open-mindedness in creating solutions for grassroots businesses. The conversation highlights the journey of personal growth and the importance of teamwork in achieving success.

Takeaways

• Eleri's journey illustrates the power of resilience and recovery.
• Financial success can mask underlying issues like addiction.
• The impact of financial crises can be devastating and far-reaching.
• Recovery involves self-discovery and finding a new purpose.
• Rebuilding life after prison requires confronting societal labels.
• Finding a moral compass is essential for personal growth.
• Ego can hinder personal development and recovery.
• Slowing down can lead to better decision-making and clarity.
• Processing experiences is essential for mental well-being.
• Letting go of control can lead to better outcomes.
• Play and creativity are important for learning and development.

Sound Bites

• "I was busy being the world's most successful alcoholic. Very aware that I had a major drinking problem, but I just didn't want to do anything about it."
• "Alcohol distorts completely any moral compass you might have. It's weird how this happens."
• "I can't change this situation. I am powerless. So there's no point fighting an unfair system. The question was, what do I do with this?"
• "How can I live my best life here? What can I do to serve others and serve myself?"
• "Life doesn't work as it should. These institutions don't work with the sole objective of finding the truth."
• "I was given the grace of time just to reflect. My body and head had said 'you're not going to stop through your own accord, so we're going to stop you.'"
• "There's nothing transactional here. It's one person teaching another and watching how their life changes... that is priceless."