What makes Bria Wildly Capable?

“Briana is a local community leader who has been raising awareness on drug addiction and resources for sobriety. She has lost close loved ones to their battle against addiction, and she recognizes that Oklahoma ranks among the highest in the nation for addiction. She is devoted to making a community impact.” VERONICA WISNIEWSKI

What makes you feel proud?

1,560 days of no alcohol and being a mother... a sober mother! I recover out loud, and I try to be an outlet for others who may be silently suffering. I want people to know they don’t have to be silent and don’t have to suffer alone. I also try to put group events together for people that don’t include alcohol.

What’s been the biggest obstacle in your life so far?

I lost my dad unexpectedly in 2013 and the grief caused me to hit the self destruct button. Alcoholism is a progressive disease and it grasped me tightly. I struggled for years falling off the wagon over and over. I was a bartender at the time and realized how unrealistic it was to get sober behind a bar. I did a big job change at the end of 2018, took my first sober breaths in 2020, and stuck with it. The world shut down right when I finally kicked alcohol to the curb. Quarantine with my mother and my husband helped me do a ton of reflection and start a new way of life.

What keeps you up at night?

I sleep pretty well these days. I used to stay up wanting to change my life and quit drinking. I sleep better than I ever have today (unless I have an upset baby)!

Who is the biggest influence in your life? Why?

Addicts and alcoholics who are in recovery, but also those who aren’t quite there yet. I always hear something I need to from other alcoholics or addicts, especially strong and sober women!

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

Stay in the moment because everything is temporary.

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