An Interview With Wanda Malhotra
Building a Supportive Network: Sustaining sobriety has been about surrounding myself with supportive people who respect and reinforce my decision to remain sober. Over time, the clarity and joy that sobriety brings have made it not just a choice but a cherished way of life. This network, both personal and professional, serves as a constant reminder of the life I’ve chosen and the life I’ve left behind.
In a world where the journey towards sobriety is often challenging and deeply personal, understanding the pathways and strategies for achieving and maintaining sobriety is crucial. This series aims to provide insight, encouragement, and practical advice for those who are on the road to recovery, as well as for their loved ones and support networks. As a part of this series, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Amy Singleton.
Amy Singleton is a dynamic entrepreneur and the visionary behind HITE Digital Norman, a digital marketing agency that empowers businesses to thrive online. With a background as a registered nurse and a personal journey through recovery, Amy brings a unique blend of professional expertise and compassionate insight to her work. She is also the Vice President of the Virtue Center, a nonprofit in Oklahoma dedicated to providing addiction counseling and recovery support, showcasing her commitment to fostering wellness and sobriety in her community.
Thank you so much for joining us! Before we dive in, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your ‘backstory’?
Absolutely, and thank you for having me. My journey to where I am today has been anything but linear. Originally, I embarked on a career in healthcare, dedicating years of my life to nursing, specifically in the operating room, where the stakes were high and the rewards, profound. However, life had its twists and turns. Personal challenges, including a significant health crisis and a deeply personal journey through addiction and recovery, led me to reevaluate my path. This period of introspection and healing not only transformed my personal life but also redirected my professional aspirations. It was during this time of rebuilding that I found my true calling in the realm of digital marketing, where I could blend my passion for helping others with my creative and strategic skills. Alongside my husband, Joseph, we founded HITE Digital Norman, aiming to bring trust and transparency to the digital marketing space. My story is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of sobriety, and the belief that it’s never too late to redefine your life and pursue your passions.
Can you share with us the most interesting story from your career? Can you tell us what lessons or ‘takeaways’ you learned from that?
One of the most pivotal moments in my career came unexpectedly and from a place of personal vulnerability. After leaving nursing due to my health issues and embarking on the uncertain path of entrepreneurship, I found myself at a networking event, feeling like a fish out of water. Here I was, a former nurse with no formal business training, trying to pitch digital marketing services. I remember fumbling through my introduction when someone asked, “What makes you different from all the other marketing agencies out there?”
In that moment, I decided to be brutally honest. I shared my story of personal struggle, my journey through addiction and recovery, and how it taught me the value of transparency, resilience, and genuine connections. To my surprise, this vulnerability didn’t push people away; it drew them in. It was a turning point for me and my business.
The lesson was profound yet simple: Authenticity is your greatest asset. People connect with stories, with real human experiences. In a world where everyone is trying to ‘sell’ something, being genuine and transparent can set you apart. This experience taught me that my backstory, with all its ups and downs, wasn’t a liability but a strength. It’s something I carry into every aspect of my work and life.
You are a successful individual. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
Certainly, navigating through life’s challenges and building a successful career has taught me the importance of several key character traits:
Taking Personal Responsibility:
The end of my marriage was a pivotal moment in my life. My first husband, whom I had been best friends with since age 12 and with whom I shared two beautiful children, came out as gay. While this wasn’t my fault, it was a reality I had to face and navigate through. It taught me the essence of personal responsibility — not for the actions of others, but for my response and the path forward. This experience forced me to reevaluate my life, make tough decisions, and ultimately, take charge of my own happiness and future.
Loving Myself:
For the longest time, I struggled with the belief that I was “too much” — too loud, too ambitious, too emotional. It was a journey to realize that these very traits were my strengths, not flaws. Embracing my authentic self was liberating. This self-love empowered me to pursue my dreams fearlessly, start my business, and stand on stages I once only dreamed of. It’s a reminder that we are all perfectly imperfect, and in that imperfection lies our unique power.
Collaborative Mindset:
Starting a business can feel like a solitary journey, but I quickly learned the power of community and collaboration. From leaning on my faith in Jesus Christ to drawing strength from every team member’s contribution, I understood that success is a collective effort. My team, my clients, my support network — they all play integral roles. This collaborative mindset has not only fueled the growth of my business but has also enriched my life with meaningful relationships and a sense of belonging.
Each of these traits — taking personal responsibility, loving myself, and embracing collaboration — has been instrumental in overcoming personal adversities and achieving professional success. They remind me daily that while the journey might start alone, true growth and fulfillment come from walking together with others.
Are you working on any exciting new projects now? How do you think that might help people?
Oh, man YES! I’m so excited about this: We’re on an exciting path that addresses a gap we identified in our local business ecosystem. Despite the strong network and collaborative spirit among business owners in our area, many still face challenges in connecting directly with their end consumers. To bridge this gap, my partner and I have launched a hyper-local online magazine dedicated to shining a spotlight on the entrepreneurs and business owners within our community. Our goal is to tell their interesting “lean-in” stories, celebrate their successes, and foster a deeper connection between local businesses and residents.
In addition to the magazine, we’ve created a Facebook group to facilitate engagement and interaction among community members, local businesses, and ourselves. This platform serves as a vibrant space for dialogue, support, and even a bit of fun, with weekly giveaways to local restaurants, adding an extra layer of community spirit.
On a more personal note, my husband and I share a hobby of baking sourdough bread, which has unexpectedly become part of our project. We’ve started delivering our homemade bread to the businesses we feature, symbolizing our commitment to ‘breaking bread’ and building relationships within our community. This initiative, while a simple gesture, embodies our belief in the power of local connections and the impact of personal touch in today’s digital world. Through this free resource, we aim to not only promote local businesses but also to strengthen the fabric of our community by bringing people together, one story and one loaf of bread at a time.
Ok, thank you for all that. Now let’s shift to the main focus of our interview. How would you advise individuals who are contemplating the journey to sobriety but might be hesitant or unsure about taking the first step? Are there key considerations or strategies that can make this initial phase more manageable?
Embarking on the journey to sobriety is undeniably one of the most pivotal decisions one can make, and it’s natural to feel hesitant or unsure about taking that first step. From my own experience, being in recovery for almost six years, I’ve learned that the path to a sober mind truly begins with the mastery of a sober body. This understanding is crucial, yet bridging the gap between the two can be immensely challenging.
The first step, albeit daunting, is acknowledging the need for change. This acknowledgment doesn’t come easy; it requires deep introspection and a willingness to confront often painful truths about one’s relationship with substances. It’s about recognizing that the path you’re on is no longer serving you and that a different, healthier path is not only possible but necessary.
One key strategy that helped me was setting small, achievable goals. Sobriety can seem like an insurmountable mountain from the foothills of addiction. You’ll hear “one day at a time” from your mentors & leaders in your journey, but for me, it was sometimes one second at a time. One second turns into minutes, and minutes finally turn into days that start to change your life’s trajectory.
Another non-negotiable is seeking support. Sobriety is not a journey to be undertaken alone. Whether it’s through a formal recovery program, support groups, or trusted friends and family, having a support network can provide the encouragement, accountability, and understanding needed to navigate the initial phase of recovery.
Lastly, be kind to yourself. The gap between a sober body and a sober mind can be fraught with setbacks and challenges. It’s important to practice self-compassion and recognize that every day you choose sobriety, you’re taking a significant step toward healing. Celebrate your victories, learn from the setbacks, and remember that the journey to sobriety is not just about removing something from your life, but about creating a new, fulfilling life in its place.
Sobriety often comes with its unique set of challenges. Can you share insights on how individuals can effectively navigate obstacles or triggers that may arise during their journey? Are there specific tools or support systems that you find particularly helpful in overcoming these challenges?
Sobriety is like navigating through a storm; it’s tough, unpredictable, and full of surprises. In my own journey, I leaned on some of the tools from a 12-step program and found great value in meetings and mentors. But, if I’m being totally honest, the real game-changer for me was my husband. We took on sobriety together, which is pretty rare, but with each other’s support and a whole lot of faith, we made it through. It’s been an incredible journey that we’ve shared, every step of the way.
One of the biggest things about getting sober is learning to feel all over again. When you’re used to numbing everything with substances, facing your emotions head-on is like learning a new language. It’s all about opening up, really talking things out, and picking up healthier habits that support a sober life.
Another wild strategy I use, that seems probably strange, is to VIVIDLY remember the hell I was in during my last bender with alcohol. That physical, emotional, and spiritual pain is ever present as a reminder that I won’t lean back toward that grave. It’s not about dwelling on the past; it’s about remembering what I’ve overcome and how much better life is now.
So, yeah, sobriety is full of challenges, but with the right people by your side and some solid strategies, it’s possible to navigate through them and come out stronger on the other side. It’s about taking it one day at a time, being kind to yourself, and always remembering why you started this journey in the first place.
Maintaining sobriety is a long-term commitment. From your experience, what are the essential factors that contribute to the sustained success of individuals on this journey? Are there lifestyle adjustments or mindset shifts that prove crucial for the ongoing pursuit of sobriety?
Keeping sobriety going is definitely a marathon, not a sprint. It’s all about the long game, and from what I’ve lived and learned, there are a few key things that really make a difference in staying on track.
First up, it’s about never stopping the learning process. Understanding why we do what we do, the why behind our behaviors and choices, that’s huge. It’s like being a detective in your own life, always digging deeper, asking questions, and getting to the heart of things. This kind of self-awareness is a game-changer.
And then there’s the whole idea of being a lifelong learner, not just about yourself, but about sobriety, mental health, and wellness in general. The world’s always changing, and there’s always something new to discover that can help you on your journey. Whether it’s a new coping strategy, a fresh perspective on wellness, or the latest research on addiction, staying informed keeps you armed with the tools you need to succeed.
Making lifestyle adjustments and shifting your mindset are also part of the deal. It might mean changing up your routines, finding new hobbies that support your sobriety, or even reevaluating your social circle. And the mindset shift — seeing sobriety not as a restriction but as a choice for a healthier, fuller life — that’s powerful.
Based on your research or experience, can you please share your “5 Things You Need To Begin, Navigate, & Sustain Sobriety”?
- Taking the First Step: The journey to sobriety began in a place of deep despair, separated from my children and grappling with suicidal thoughts, hardly leaving my couch. The turning point came unexpectedly when an acquaintance intervened, taking me out for l/unch at a time when self-care was a foreign concept to me. After that forced lunch, the initial steps I took were literal — walking to my mailbox, making a piece of toast — tiny acts of self-care that reignited a flicker of hope. These small steps were monumental, marking the beginning of a journey back to myself.
- Navigating Social Situations: One of the subtler challenges of sobriety surfaces in social situations, particularly in business settings where the offer of a drink is commonplace. I learned that a simple ‘no thanks’ or a request for a mocktail often suffices, and most people respect your choice without prying. It’s a reminder that your sobriety journey is personal, and sharing it is at your discretion.
- Building a Supportive Network: Sustaining sobriety has been about surrounding myself with supportive people who respect and reinforce my decision to remain sober. Over time, the clarity and joy that sobriety brings have made it not just a choice but a cherished way of life. This network, both personal and professional, serves as a constant reminder of the life I’ve chosen and the life I’ve left behind.
- Embracing Lifestyle Changes: Sobriety has been a gateway to a world of positive lifestyle changes. Rediscovering the joy of living has led me to embrace outdoor activities, healthier eating, and hobbies like breadmaking and bike riding. These changes have not only enhanced my physical well-being but have also brought clarity and purpose to my mindset, transforming every aspect of my life.
- Adopting a New Mindset: The most significant shift was in my mindset — realizing that I had suffered enough and that my life, as it was, was unmanageable. Acknowledging my worthiness of a better, sober, and joyous life was pivotal. It became clear that fulfilling my purpose in life was nearly impossible through the haze of substance abuse. This realization wasn’t just a turning point; it was the foundation upon which I rebuilt my life.
Community support plays a vital role in the journey to sobriety. How can individuals find and engage with supportive communities or resources that align with their specific needs and goals? Are there online platforms, local groups, or initiatives that you recommend for fostering a sense of connection and understanding during this process?
Finding the right community support is crucial in the journey to sobriety. It’s about connecting with people and resources that truly understand the challenges and triumphs of this path. In the Oklahoma City metro area, The Virtue Center stands out as a beacon of hope. It’s an outpatient nonprofit with a 50-year legacy of guiding individuals towards recovery and resilience. Located at 457 Wilcox Dr, Norman, OK, it’s a place where anyone seeking help and hope can find open doors until 6 PM, with a supportive team ready at (405) 321–0022.
But support isn’t confined to local boundaries. The digital age brings the power of connection right to our fingertips. Online platforms and groups offer a space where individuals from all walks of life can share their stories, challenges, and victories.
Websites like https://www.findtreatment.gov/ serve as invaluable portals, directing people to the resources they need, tailored to their specific circumstances.
The SAMHSA National Helpline (1–800–662–4357) is another critical resource, offering confidential, free assistance. It’s not just about finding treatment; it’s about finding understanding, empathy, and a community that stands with you, every step of the way.
Engaging with these communities, whether locally at places like The Virtue Center or through national resources and online platforms, provides a network of support that is vital for anyone on the journey to sobriety. It’s about knowing you’re not alone, and there’s a world of help and hope, just waiting to be reached.
What is the best way for our readers to continue to follow your work online?
The best place to connect with me is www.amysingleton.net where you can find all my social links, speaker bio sheets, learn about my podcast Queens Lead & connect with my marketing agency, Hite Digital.
This was very inspiring. Thank you so much for the time you spent on this. We wish you only continued success.
Thank you so much, it’s a joy & my responsibility to share that addiction is real & recovery is possible for everyone.
About the Interviewer: Wanda Malhotra is a wellness entrepreneur, lifestyle journalist, and the CEO of Crunchy Mama Box, a mission-driven platform promoting conscious living. CMB empowers individuals with educational resources and vetted products to help them make informed choices. Passionate about social causes like environmental preservation and animal welfare, Wanda writes about clean beauty, wellness, nutrition, social impact and sustainability, simplifying wellness with curated resources. Join Wanda and the Crunchy Mama Box community in embracing a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle at CrunchyMamaBox.com .
Amy Singleton Of Hite Digital On How to Begin, Navigate, & Sustain Sobriety was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.