Episode 11: Andi Wardrop
Understanding the Impact of Addiction, Grief, and the Strength of Gratitude
In this extended episode, Andi shares her unique story of growing up with an alcoholic mother and the challenges she faced in advocating for her mother's health and safety. The conversation covers themes of childhood joy, the impact of addiction on family dynamics, the struggle to protect her mom with addiction, and the importance of compassion. Andi's journey takes her through university, where she studies criminal justice and public policy, and eventually leads to a pivotal moment of caring for her mother during a dangerous withdrawal period. Throughout the conversation, Andi emphasizes the need for empathy, acceptance, and open dialogue when it comes to addiction and mental health. Andi also dives into her own career transition into videography, what pushed her to move out west, and how a lot of time in the backcountry made her realize that she was meant to move to Vancouver Island.
Andi touches on the last visit she had in Tofino with her mother before her passing and the emotions she experienced during that time. She also shares her experience with grief and how it has shaped her perspective on life. That’s not all… we discuss her sister's severe biking accident in Ucluelet and the emotional challenges she faced during that period, as well as her love for Ukee and the supportive community she has found there. Andi also shares how getting a *very special* dog, Nova, during her recovery brought joy and healing to her sister Emma.
We talked about Andi’s journey of reevaluating her relationship with alcohol and the stigma towards medication. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, navigating her anxiety, and the lessons she learned from her past relationship. She shares her plans for the future and the importance of being present and enjoying life.
To contact Andi, you can reach her via: andiwardrop@gmail.com
Follow Andi: @andiwardrop
Thanks to our sponsors:
This episode is sponsored by Bryan Pudney. If you’re interested in living in Tofino, contact him at bpudney@rennie.com or shoot him a text at +1 778 558 2414.
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Resources From Andi
Podcasts:
Making Sense with Sam Harris #104: The Lessons of Death
All There Is with Anderson Cooper
Videos:
Books & Links:
When things fall apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times - Pema Chödrön
The Five Invitations: Discovering What Death Can Teach Us About Living Fully - Frank Ostaseski
The Year of Magical Thinking - Joan Didion
Dog Songs by Mary Oliver for anyone grieving the loss of a dog
The Power of Now - Eckhart Tolle
Love Warrior - Glennon Doyle
Wherever You Go, There You Are - Jon Kabat-Zinn PhD
Waking Up by Sam Harris
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