Podcasts about alcoholic

In this episode of the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, Molly continues the series “When Drinking Less Feels Hard” by looking at one of the most common places drinking less can feel difficult: social situations where alcohol feels like part of the fun and everyone else is drinking.This episode explores two powerful Alcohol Core Beliefs: alcohol makes things more fun and alcohol creates connection. These beliefs often show up around dinners out, parties, weekends, vacations, celebrations, and those moments when you had a plan—until you were surrounded by other people drinking.Molly explains why the challenge is not simply being in a bar, at a restaurant, at a party, or on vacation. The deeper issue is that your brain may have learned to associate alcohol with belonging, ease, confidence, playfulness, and connection. When that belief is running in the background, choosing to drink less can feel like choosing a lesser version of the experience.But alcohol is not the source of your humor, warmth, courage, or ability to connect. Those parts of you already exist.In this science-forward episode, Molly breaks down how alcohol expectancies, social cues, dopamine, reward prediction, and alcohol myopia can make drinking feel automatic in social settings. She also shares how to challenge the thoughts that make alcohol feel necessary and how to build new evidence that fun, connection, and belonging are still fully available when you drink less.You'll learn how to use the 4S process—See, Soothe, Separate, and Shift—to question the belief that alcohol makes everything better. Instead of relying on willpower in the moment, Molly encourages you to create a doable drink plan ahead of time, protect your awareness before alcohol narrows it, and practice proving to your brain that you can enjoy social situations without giving alcohol all the credit.In This Episode, You'll Learn:Why social situations can make drinking less feel harder than drinking less at homeHow the beliefs “alcohol makes things more fun” and “alcohol creates connection” fuel desireWhy “everyone is drinking” can feel so powerful, even when you genuinely want to drink lessHow alcohol expectancies shape what you believe a drink will do for youWhy familiar cues like restaurants, vacations, Friday afternoons, and celebrations can trigger urgesWhat alcohol myopia is and why “I'll decide later” is often not a strong enough planHow to separate the facts of a social situation from the story your brain is tellingHow to use the 4S process to challenge old beliefs and practice new onesWhy alcohol may be present during fun and connection without being the cause of either oneKey Takeaway:Alcohol may be present during fun, connection, celebration, and belonging—but that does not mean alcohol created those things.When you stop giving alcohol full credit for the experience, you can begin reclaiming your own confidence, humor, warmth, playfulness, and ability to connect. Drinking less is not about having less fun. It is about learning that fun was never dependent on alcohol in the first place.Mentioned in This Episode:Mostly Dry July: The Daily begins July 1st.Join Molly for daily support, coaching, and practical tools to help you create a peaceful relationship with alcohol throughout the month of July.Learn more at: https://mollywatts.com/mostlydryjuly/Resources:Join the Alcohol Minimalist Facebook group for support, conversation, and real-life strategies for changing your drinking habits.Learn more about Molly's programs and resources at mollywatts.com.Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

Homeowner in Minneapolis is suing the folks he bought his house from for not disclosing that their neighbor was a jerk? Fake online stores are being used in South Korea to help shopping addicts 'save money'... Guy from Texas busted in Florida for going 90mph on I-75 abd having 34 open can of White Claw in vehicle, Not to be outdone, we have a super speeder busted in Brevard after driving rented Lamborghini 107 mph, told cops he was 'celebrating a big day'See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Think Thursday, Molly explores a fascinating concept from Jim Collins' newest book, What to Make of a Life: encodings—the unique interests, abilities, and areas of engagement that make us come alive.Using the remarkable story of NFL legend and Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Alan Page, Molly examines how our lives may hold more possibilities than we realize and why the person we are today is not the final version of ourselves.Drawing connections to Benjamin Hardy's Personality Isn't Permanent and the science of neuroplasticity, this episode challenges the belief that our identities are fixed and invites us to remain curious about who we might still become.In This Episode: What Jim Collins means by "encodings"  The surprising second career of Alan Page  Why identity is more flexible than we think  How neuroplasticity supports lifelong growth and discovery  The difference between your history and your potential  Why changing your relationship with alcohol can create space for new possibilities  How curiosity may be more important than finding a single purpose Key TakeawayYour past tells the story of what you've experienced so far. It does not define everything you're capable of becoming. There may be strengths, interests, and opportunities still waiting to emerge—and your next chapter may reveal a side of yourself you haven't yet discovered.Resources MentionedWhat to Make of a Life by Jim CollinsPersonality Isn't Permanent by Benjamin HardyListen in and consider this question: What if the most interesting part of your story hasn't happened yet? ★ Support this podcast ★

An international group of scientists have released a new, jaw dropping study that suggests if you consume 2 drinks a day, you have a 1 in 25 increased risk of premature death from alcohol related disease or injury. Results from this latest study challenge the Trump Administration’s newest, vague guidelines, which only suggest Americans “consume less alcohol for better overall health.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An international group of scientists have released a new, jaw dropping study that suggests if you consume 2 drinks a day, you have a 1 in 25 increased risk of premature death from alcohol related disease or injury. Results from this latest study challenge the Trump Administration’s newest, vague guidelines, which only suggest Americans “consume less alcohol for better overall health.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An international group of scientists have released a new, jaw dropping study that suggests if you consume 2 drinks a day, you have a 1 in 25 increased risk of premature death from alcohol related disease or injury. Results from this latest study challenge the Trump Administration’s newest, vague guidelines, which only suggest Americans “consume less alcohol for better overall health.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does God do with a childhood full of addiction, loss, and rage? Jeff McFarlane grew up in rural New Hampshire in a home where alcohol was everywhere — in every room, every car, every memory. By the time he was a teenager, he was stealing from his dad, planning his death, and watching his family fall apart piece by piece.Today Jeff is a licensed counselor and the founder of Restoration Counseling Services. But the road from that New Hampshire farmhouse to here wasn't a straight line.In this conversation, Jeff shares the moments that cracked something open in him — a brother who sent a letter to his law school confessing to cheating, a Sunday night church service where he told God to go ahead and break both his legs, and the decades it took to finally stop hiding his story.This episode is for anyone who's wondered whether their past disqualifies them, whether faith is enough, or whether real change is actually possible. Jeff doesn't wrap it up neatly — and that's exactly what makes it worth your time.Native Exiles, a podcast from Alderwood Community Church, where we talk about following Jesus in the tension of being in the world but not of it. We want to help you think through how to walk with Jesus in a world that is seemingly walking the opposite direction. We want to equip you to engage the world without disengaging from Jesus.For more questions and inquiries, reach us at reachus@amcc.org or visit us on our website at nativeexiles.com.

An international group of scientists have released a new, jaw dropping study that suggests if you consume 2 drinks a day, you have a 1 in 25 increased risk of premature death from alcohol related disease or injury. Results from this latest study challenge the Trump Administration’s newest, vague guidelines, which only suggest Americans “consume less alcohol for better overall health.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Alcohol Minimalist podcast, Molly kicks off the series When Drinking Less Feels Hard, inspired by real responses from the Alcohol Minimalist community about the hardest parts of changing drinking habits.Today's episode focuses on one of the five Alcohol Core Beliefs: Alcohol Helps Me Relieve Stress.Alcohol can feel like relief in the moment because it creates a short-term shift in the brain and body. But that does not mean it is actually reducing stress. Molly explains how alcohol can disrupt sleep, increase next-day anxiety, and keep the brain stuck in the loop of believing alcohol is necessary for relaxation. This episode helps you look at stress drinking with curiosity instead of shame, and offers a practical way to challenge the belief that alcohol is the best or only way to unwind.In This Episode Why alcohol feels calming at first  The difference between a state change and real stress relief  How alcohol can affect sleep, anxiety, and next-day resilience  Why the brain learns to associate alcohol with relief  How to use See, Soothe, Separate, and Shift to challenge the urge to drink Key TakeawayWanting relief is human. But alcohol often borrows calm from tomorrow instead of creating real relief today.Listener PracticeBefore drinking in response to stress, pause and complete this sentence:“I need a drink because…”Then use the Alcohol Core Beliefs process:See: I'm having the thought that alcohol will relieve this stress. Soothe: Of course my brain is offering this; I've practiced this pattern. Separate: The fact is I'm stressed. The story is that alcohol is required. Shift: I can create real relief before I decide what to drink.Choose one action that actually addresses the need underneath the urge.Resources Mentioned:Alcohol Core Beliefs MindmapSee, Soothe, Separate, ShiftWhen Drinking Less Feels Hard seriesLow risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

What was your 1st alcoholic drink? Murphy teaches an organization lesson. Grateful Friday! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Think Thursday episode, Molly revisits the past episode on why habits can feel unbreakable—and why the real issue is often not the behavior itself, but the story we keep repeating about it.Your brain is not broken. It is designed to recognize patterns, conserve energy, and repeat what feels familiar. But when familiar patterns are fueled by negative self-talk, change can feel harder than it needs to be.Molly explains how the negativity bias keeps us focused on what went wrong and shares a simple framework to help interrupt old thought patterns: See, Soothe, Separate, and Shift.What You'll Learn Why your brain defaults to familiar habits.  How negative self-talk keeps old patterns alive.  Why one mistake can feel bigger than five wins.  How to separate facts from stories.  How to practice a next-best thought that supports change. Key TakeawayYour habit is not unbreakable. It is learned.And if your brain can learn one pattern, it can learn another. Changing your relationship with alcohol starts with changing the story you tell yourself about what is possible.Mentioned in This EpisodeThink Thursday Negativity bias  Negative self-talk  Habit change Alcohol Minimalist Facebook GroupMaking Peace with AlcoholUntil next time, choose peace. ★ Support this podcast ★

Christina found her way to AA through Marijuana Anonymous, where she discovered a path out of her addiction. An articulate writer and speaker, she brings clarity to the simplicity and effectiveness of the program. Her humility and self-reflection create an immediate sense of trust and connection.Sobriety Date: 11/15/2011Referred by: Website Contact InstagramFacebook

In this revisited episode of the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, Molly explores the connection between ADHD and alcohol use. For many people with ADHD, alcohol can seem helpful at first—quieting a busy brain, easing anxiety, or creating a sense of calm—but it can also worsen impulsivity, sleep, emotional regulation, and decision-making over time. Molly explains why ADHD may increase vulnerability to overdrinking, binge drinking, and using alcohol as a coping tool. She also discusses why it's important to be thoughtful about drinking when taking ADHD medications and why support, planning, and self-compassion matter.In This Episode What ADHD is and how symptoms can show up differently  Why alcohol may feel temporarily useful for ADHD symptoms  How alcohol can make ADHD challenges worse  The role of dopamine, impulsivity, and emotional regulation  Why ADHD medication and alcohol can be a concerning combination  Practical supports like a Doable Drink Plan, mindfulness, therapy, coaching, and medical guidance Listener ReflectionAre you using alcohol to quiet your brain, regulate emotions, reduce restlessness, or make life feel more manageable?Noticing the pattern is not a reason for shame. It is a starting point for change.DisclaimerThis episode is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about ADHD, alcohol use, or medication interactions.Until next time, choose peace.Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

Eden L got sober in 1994 she is telling her story in 2015 at the Sunday Night Speaker meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous held in Seattle. Support Sober Cast: https://sobercast.com/donate Email: sobercast@gmail.com Sober Cast has 3200+ episodes available, visit SoberCast.com to access all the episodes where you can easily find topics or specific speakers using tags or search. https://sobercast.com

What if alcohol was never really the problem? In this episode of That Sober Guy Podcast, Shane Ramer dives into identity, addiction, purpose, and why he no longer identifies as an “alcoholic.” From recovery culture and the disease model of addiction to faith, connection, masculinity, and personal responsibility, this is an honest and controversial conversation about what real freedom actually looks like. If you've ever felt stuck in labels, shame, or the endless cycle of escape, this episode will challenge the way you think about sobriety, and yourself. Sobriety gave me clarity. Purpose gave me freedom. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this final Think Thursday episode for Mental Health Awareness Month, Molly explores the difference between emotional regulation and emotional suppression — and why so many high-functioning people are carrying emotional stress they've never fully acknowledged.You'll learn how the nervous system continues responding to emotions even when we try to override or ignore them, why coping behaviors often emerge when emotions go unnamed, and how becoming more aware of your thoughts and feelings can create powerful emotional agency and lasting behavior change.This episode also explores: The neuroscience of emotional suppression and stress  Stanford psychologist James Gross's research on emotion regulation  UCLA research on “affect labeling” and calming the nervous system  Why thoughts — not circumstances — create emotional experiences  How awareness creates space, and space creates choice  The connection between emotional honesty, nervous system health, and behavior change If you've been feeling emotionally flat, chronically overwhelmed, unusually reactive, or disconnected from yourself, this conversation is an invitation to slow down, get curious, and begin listening to what your nervous system may be trying to tell you.Resources & Research Mentioned: James Gross, Stanford University — Emotion Regulation Research  Matthew Lieberman, UCLA — Affect Labeling & Emotional Processing ★ Support this podcast ★

Have you struggled with setting boundaries with the marijuana smokers in your life?  Do you wonder if it should be okay with you when it is not okay with you? The increase in the use of pot is related to its legalization in many states. With that comes its normalization. Many now believe that is less harmful than alcohol. It isn't easy to tells someone that you don't approve of its use when they can argue that it is accepted and no big deal. Making decisions about marijuana are easier when you know the facts about it. This video will review a recent article about a meta-study on it's effects on the brain, especially if it is link to an increase in psychosis. It also presents other facts about marijuana that will help you decide. Watch this video to help you decide whether you need boundaries with pot smokers.  #boundariesinrelationships   #addictionrecovery #christianrelationshipadvice #marijuanaabuse #christianboundaries  Karla Downing's passion is to see individuals, marriages, and families set free from dysfunction, scriptural misunderstanding, and emotional pain personally and relationally. Her Christian relationship advice includes messages, books, and classes that provide practical solutions grounded in biblical truths, bringing balance and clarity to life and relationship issues. She also desires to equip ministry leaders and counselors to reach out more effectively to those struggling with difficult relationships, including abuse. Written copy of this "Boundaries with Marijuana Users" https://www.changemyrelationship.com/christian-relationship-devotional-boundaries-with-marijuana-users/   "Detaching With Love From an Alcoholic or Drug Addict"   https://www.changemyrelationship.com/christian-relationship-devotional-detaching-with-love-from-an-alcoholic-or-drug-addict/   Website: https://www.changemyrelationship.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChangeMyRelationship YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@changemyrelationship Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3BH1f85dvpg

Do you have a family member/loved one struggling with addiction? Join Our FREE WEBCLASS! https://familyreconnectprogram.com/optin-page Cliff is 49 years old. Nine months ago he was living in a friend's garage in California, knocking on death's door from end-stage alcoholism. He had cirrhosis, esophageal varices, acute pancreatitis, and a doctor who told him he had a year, maybe two. He had lost everything — his home, his health, his hope. He was having seizures so severe he punched through a window just to get outside. He was done. Then something shifted. He heard a Mind Pump podcast, called a number he didn't think would lead anywhere, and ended up on a plane to South Florida — alone, sick, and with almost nothing to his name. Today Cliff is sober, working, painting, surfing, and helping other people in recovery find their footing. This episode covers his full story — growing up as a military kid moving from country to country, how drinking took hold early and never let go, the years of relapses and hospitalizations, a parasitic infection that left him paralyzed for three months, smoking meth in the final stretch, and what finally brought him to the point of real surrender. This is what recovery actually looks like. Not a clean story. Not a straight line. But proof that no matter how far down the scale you've gone, there is a way back.

Amanda is facing emotional and practical challenges while trying to cope with her relationship with her mother, who struggles with alcohol addiction. Call 1-800-DR-LAURA / 1-800-375-2872 or make an appointment at DrLaura.com Follow me on social media: Facebook.com/DrLaura Instagram.com/DrLauraProgram YouTube.com/DrLaura Join My Family!! Receive my Weekly Newsletter + 20% off my Marriage 101 course & 25% off Merch! Sign up now, it's FREE! Each week you'll get new articles, featured emails from listeners, special event invitations, early access to my Dr. Laura Designs Store benefiting Children of Fallen Patriots, and MORE! Sign up at DrLaura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Christina Dent interviews Jon Seidl about his journey as a Christian who began struggling with alcohol addiction long after he became a Christian. They explore the power of storytelling, radical honesty, and practical steps for communities to support people on recovery journeys. Resources: Jon's Website: https://www.jonseidl.com/ Jon's Book: https://a.co/d/0bF1vCjY Veritas Recovery: https://www.veritasrecovery.org/ Keywords: faith, addiction, storytelling, recovery Christianity, mental health, sanctification, sobriety, church, vulnerability

In this episode of the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, Molly revisits one of the show's most popular topics: buffering.Buffering is what we do when we use alcohol, food, shopping, scrolling, or other distractions to avoid uncomfortable emotions. It is not a character flaw—it is a human coping strategy driven by a brain wired to seek pleasure and avoid pain.Molly explains how alcohol can become a buffer for stress, boredom, insecurity, or discomfort, and why temporary relief often leads to more anxiety, regret, or overconsumption later. The goal is not to feel good all the time. The goal is to build awareness, feel your feelings, and stop using alcohol to escape your life. In This EpisodeYou'll learn: What buffering is  Why alcohol is commonly used to avoid emotions  How the lower brain seeks quick relief  Why buffering creates temporary pleasure but long-term consequences  How awareness helps you change your drinking habits  Why feeling discomfort is part of creating a peaceful relationship with alcohol Key TakeawayBuffering does not solve uncomfortable emotions—it only delays them. When you stop using alcohol to numb, distract, or escape, you can begin to understand what you are actually feeling and create real, lasting change.Reflection QuestionThe next time you want a drink, pause and ask:“What am I feeling right now, and what am I trying not to feel?”Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

Do you ever reach the end of the day feeling mentally exhausted but wonder what you actually accomplished? You're not imagining it. What we often call multitasking is actually rapid task switching, and every shift in attention comes with a hidden cost.In this Think Thursday episode, Molly explores the neuroscience behind attention, cognitive fatigue, and why modern life constantly pulls our brains in more directions than they were designed to handle. You'll learn why your brain can feel drained even when you haven't done anything physically demanding and why protecting your attention may be one of the healthiest things you can do.In this episode:• Why multitasking is mostly a myth • The concept of “attention residue” and how it impacts focus • The role of the prefrontal cortex and working memory • Why novelty and dopamine keep pulling us toward distractions • How modern technology competes for your attention • A simple 20-minute experiment to help reclaim your focusThink Thursday Experiment:Choose one thing and give it 20 uninterrupted minutes. Close the extra tabs, silence the notifications, and notice what changes.Referenced in this episode:• Research on Attention Residue by Sophie Leroy • Cognitive shifting and attention science • Previous Think Thursday episode on Cognitive Shuffling and Sleep  ★ Support this podcast ★

Joel, an alcoholic-addict living a happy, joyous, and free life in Arkansas, once had more than 13 yrs sober before losing it to the secrets he began collecting. In this recording, Joel shares his story—truly storytelling his Experience, Strength, and Hope—to help the next person ready to receive it.Sobriety Date: 2/2/2022Referred by: Website Contact InstagramFacebook

Everyone tells you to set boundaries. What nobody talks about is how to know when those boundaries are no longer working and when you've reached the point where nothing is changing no matter how much love, patience, support, or sacrifice you give. In this episode, Amber dives into one of the hardest and most emotionally loaded questions families face when dealing with addiction or destructive behavior: How do you know when it's truly time to walk away? This is not a conversation built on guilt, anger, or fear. It's about understanding the clearest sign that tells you the relationship dynamic has crossed into a place where cutting ties may be the only healthy option left. Amber explains why so many people stay stuck in the waiting phase, hoping for a breakthrough, searching for the “right” answer, or waiting for permission to finally let go. You'll also hear why the things you've done up until now were not weakness or failure. They were survival strategies that made sense based on the information, hope, and emotional reality you were living in at the time. Amber breaks down how people slowly reach the point where boundaries stop creating change and start becoming empty lines that only drain your emotional energy. This episode is for the people carrying the weight of impossible decisions. The ones wondering if they are giving up too soon, staying too long, or losing themselves in the process of trying to save someone else. If you've been searching for clarity, this conversation will help you better understand the difference between healthy hope and painful denial. Additional Resources:

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and for many of us, summer brings familiar alcohol cues: barbecues, beach trips, camping weekends, and backyard gatherings.In this episode, Molly shares how to head into holiday weekends and summer events with more clarity, confidence, and peace. You'll learn how the habit loop of cue, behavior, and reward can show up around seasonal drinking, why cravings are not a sign that you're powerless, and how to make a simple plan that supports the version of you who wants to drink less.Whether you plan to drink or not, this episode will help you stay curious, avoid shame, and create more conscious choices around alcohol all summer long.Resources Mentioned: Unwinding Anxiety by Dr. Jud Brewer The Craving Mind by Dr. Jud Brewer Dopamine Nation by Dr. Anna Lembke Sunnyside Med The Alcohol Minimalists: Change Your Drinking Habits Facebook groupKey takeaway: You don't need rigid rules to change your summer drinking habits. You need awareness, curiosity, and a peaceful plan.Choose peace.Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

On this Think Thursday episode of the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, Molly explores the strange kind of exhaustion that happens when your brain is overstimulated but your body has barely moved.Inspired by a TED Talk from journalist Manoush Zomorodi and research from Dr. Keith Diaz at Columbia University, this episode looks at how prolonged sitting, constant screen input, and disconnection from body signals can affect focus, energy, mood, and nervous system regulation.The takeaway: your brain is not just a thinking machine. It is part of a moving biological system, and even small movement breaks can help you feel more clear, calm, and connected. What You'll Learn Why screen-based work can leave you mentally drained  What interoception is and why it matters  How small movement breaks support focus, energy, and mood  Why movement is not just exercise, but a way to reconnect with your body Try ThisToday, interrupt sitting with five minutes of gentle movement. Walk, stretch, stand outside, or take a lap around the house.The goal is not intensity. The goal is reconnection.Reflection Question: Where in your day are you ignoring your body's signals because your brain is busy chasing the next task, email, or scroll? ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, Molly revisits the powerful belief so many people carry: “I come from a long line of drinkers.” Whether that story comes from family history, cultural identity, holiday traditions, or growing up with a parent who struggled with alcohol, it can quietly shape the way we think about our own drinking.Molly shares how her mother's alcohol use impacted her life, her relationship with alcohol, and the narrative she carried for years about genetics and inevitability. But while genetics may play a role in alcohol use disorder, Molly reminds listeners that your future relationship with alcohol is not predetermined by your family, your heritage, or your past.This episode is an invitation to look at the stories you learned about alcohol and decide which ones you want to keep, which ones you want to question, and which ones you're ready to leave behind. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why “I come from a long line of drinkers” may be a story worth questioning  How family history and cultural traditions can influence your desire to drink  The difference between genetic predisposition and predetermined outcomes  Why awareness of science, society, family patterns, and the alcohol industry matters  How alcohol-related beliefs can be passed down without ever being intentionally taught  Why discomfort at family gatherings is not the same thing as a true trigger  How to begin creating a new path toward a peaceful relationship with alcohol Key TakeawayYour family history may explain how some of your alcohol beliefs were formed, but it does not have to decide your future. You can honor your family, your heritage, and your traditions while still choosing a different relationship with alcohol.Listener ReflectionBefore your next family dinner, holiday, celebration, or social event, ask yourself:What story am I telling myself about why alcohol needs to be part of this experience?Then get curious. Is that story absolutely true? Is it helping you create the relationship with alcohol you want? Or is it simply a belief you've practiced for a long time?Mentioned in This Episode: Episode 46: Alcohol and Genetics  Previous discussion on the ALDH2 genetic variant  Episodes featuring Dr. David Nutt and Dr. Eddie Jaffe Breaking the Bottle Legacy Sunnyside Med and naltrexone support  The role of media and family culture in normalizing alcohol use Action StepPut on your “scientific observer” hat at your next family or social gathering. Notice the thoughts that come up around drinking, especially thoughts like: “This is just what we do.”  “I need a drink to get through this.”  “It won't be the same without alcohol.”  “Everyone in my family drinks.” You do not need to argue with those thoughts. Just notice them, question them, and practice choosing the next best thought that supports the relationship with alcohol you actually want.Changing your drinking habits and creating a peaceful relationship with alcohol is possible. You can stop worrying, stop feeling guilty about overdrinking, and become someone who desires alcohol less.To learn more about working with Molly, visit the website or reach out directly by email.Until next time, choose peace.Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

Sponsors: Mending the Fracturing Church (https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/mending-the-fracturing-church-9798881806651/); Gardner-Webb University School of Divinity (www.gardner-webb.edu); Baptist Seminary of Kentucky (www.bsk.edu); Baylor's Garland School of Social Work; The Community Transformation Center at Palm Beach Atlantic University (www.pbactc.org); The Center for Congregational Health (healthychurch.org); and The Baptist House of Studies at Union Presbyterian Seminary (www.upsem.edu/). Join the listener community at www.classy.org/campaign/podcast-…r-support/c251116. Music from HookSounds.com.

What happens when the escape you turn to begins to take over your life? How do you begin to heal the deeper wounds that often lie beneath addiction?For author and podcaster Jonathon Seidl, the descent into alcoholism was rooted in unresolved childhood pain. After experiencing his father leaving at a young age, navigating an often difficult relationship with his stepfather, and enduring childhood sexual abuse, alcohol became a way to numb what he hadn't yet faced—or invited Jesus to heal.In his book Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic: A Candid Conversation on Drinking, Addiction, and How to Break Free, Jonathon shares his raw and honest journey through disordered drinking and his path toward freedom.In this episode, Davey sits down with Jonathon to explore the connection between escapism and addiction, the impact of trauma, and what recovery can look like through a Gospel-centered lens.If you or someone you love has struggled with alcohol—even as a believer—this conversation offers a powerful reminder: there is hope. When we stop avoiding our pain and bring it honestly before Jesus, true healing can begin. Website: https://www.jonseidl.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonseidl Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonathonmseidl Book: Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic: A Candid Conversation on Drinking, Addiction, and How to Break Freehttps://a.co/d/086ThOXx Not living the story you expected? Pain changes us but doesn't have to define us. Find out how to begin your healing journey today: nothingiswasted.com/starthere Looking for help in navigating the valley of pain and trauma? Our Nothing is Wasted coaches can help: nothingiswasted.com/coaching Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sleep, Mental Health, and the Science of FlourishingThis week on Think Thursday, Molly revisits a topic that has shown up many times on the podcast: sleep. But this conversation takes a different angle in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month.Drawing from recent research from the National Sleep Foundation, Molly explores the connection between sleep and “flourishing” — not just the absence of anxiety or depression, but the ability to feel emotionally well, resilient, hopeful, connected, and capable in daily life.In this episode:Why sleep is foundational to emotional regulation and mental healthHow sleep deprivation impacts the amygdala and prefrontal cortexThe relationship between sleep, dopamine, impulsivity, and behavior changeWhy exhaustion has become normalized in modern cultureMolly's personal experience tracking sleep with an Oura ringHow alcohol impacts REM sleep, recovery, and sleep qualityThe concept of “sleep debt” and why recovery sleep mattersA fascinating sleep technique called cognitive shuffling and how it may help calm an overactive brain at nightKey takeaway:Sometimes what feels like a motivation problem, mindset problem, or emotional resilience problem may actually be an exhausted nervous system asking for restoration.Referenced research:National Sleep Foundation Sleep in America Polls (2023 & 2025)If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. It helps more people discover the show and supports the mission of helping people better understand their beautiful, brilliant human brains. ★ Support this podcast ★

Chris once believed he was beyond help. After 24 treatment centers, prison, homelessness, and hospitalizations, he never imagined the life he has today. Just two years sober and he's unrecognizable from the man who first walked through the doors — now a sponsor, partner, business owner, and someone his parents are proud of.Sobriety Date: 1/1/2024Referred by: Jarred (Episode #294)InstagramFacebook

Alcoholic writer goes to a haunted hotel - stop us if you've heard this one before... We saw Hokum at the cinema, so we're talking about it. Spoiler-free until 41.45! Support Final Transmission: Join our Patreon - for just $5 a month, you get (almost) unedited and raw video versions of every new episode Rate and review us wherever you're listening  Email us with your thoughts, questions, and FT slash fiction Follow us on Instagram, Bluesky and TikTok Check out Red Scare Industries

In this episode of the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, Molly revisits episode 100: “5 Things I Had to Change Before I Changed My Drinking.” Originally released in November 2022, this conversation is just as relevant today because lasting change doesn't begin with the perfect drink plan. It begins with mindset.Molly shares the five foundational shifts she had to make before she could create a peaceful relationship with alcohol. From giving up the need to know she would succeed, to no longer using fear, failure, timing, or life circumstances as reasons to stay stuck, this episode is a practical and compassionate reminder that changing your drinking habits starts with learning how to work with your beautiful, brilliant human brain. This episode is especially timely for Mental Health Awareness Month because it focuses on the thinking patterns, beliefs, and emotional habits that often keep people trapped in the cycle of overdrinking, guilt, and self-doubt. Molly reminds listeners that fear and doubt are normal—but they don't have to be in charge. In This Episode, You'll Learn Why you don't need to know you'll succeed before you begin.  How fear and faith both ask you to believe in something you can't yet see.  Why telling yourself “this is going to be so hard” makes change feel even harder.  How to trade all-or-nothing thinking for small, doable steps.  Why waiting for the “right time” keeps you stuck in conditional success.  How to stop letting mistakes, disappointment, and failed attempts derail you.  Why complaining about your genetics, history, job, stress, or life circumstances keeps the focus on the problem instead of the solution. Key Takeaways1. You don't need certainty to get started.Molly shares that when she first began changing her drinking habits, she had plenty of evidence from her past that suggested she might fail. The shift came when she stopped treating fear and doubt as reasons not to act. Instead, she chose to move forward one day at a time.The question becomes: What can I do today that is just a little bit better than yesterday?2. Stop rehearsing how hard change will be.When you repeatedly tell yourself changing your drinking will be miserable, impossible, or too hard, your brain naturally wants to avoid trying. Molly encourages listeners to meet themselves where they are and ask a more useful question:What can I do to make this easier?That question opens the door to education, small wins, and doable plans instead of all-or-nothing pressure. 3. Stop waiting for the perfect time.There will always be holidays, stress, travel, hard days, celebrations, and unexpected challenges. Molly calls out the trap of “conditional success”—believing life has to calm down before you can take care of yourself.Instead, she encourages “deliberate success”: deciding how you will support yourself no matter what is happening around you. 4. Failure cannot be the reason you stop.Mistakes are not proof that you can't change. They are information. Molly reminds listeners that they get to try as many times as they want, and that disappointment is already present when you aren't trying.The goal is not to avoid every mistake. The goal is to have a plan for how you will respond when things don't go as planned.5. Quit using your life as the reason you overdrink.Molly shares that she had to stop complaining about her genetics, her mom, her history, her job, and her life. Not because those things didn't matter, but because focusing only on the obstacles kept her from finding solutions.Changing your habits is not just about counting drinks. It is about what is happening in your mind.Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

Sam and Sierra answer a letter from someone who wants to maintain a normal relationship with her alcoholic parents Join us on Patreon for an extra weekly episode, monthly office hours, and more! SUBMIT: justbreakuppod.com FACEBOOK: /justbreakuppod INSTAGRAM: @justbreakuppod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode SummaryWhat is it like to live with someone who is struggling with their mental health?In this Think Thursday episode, Molly explores the often-overlooked experience of living alongside mental illness—and how growing up with or caring for someone with emotional unpredictability can shape the way your brain processes safety, relationships, and control.This conversation is especially relevant as we enter Mental Health Awareness Month, offering both insight and compassion for those navigating these complex environments.What You'll Learn The difference between having mental illness and living alongside it  How emotional unpredictability shapes the nervous system  Why you may feel hyper-aware of other people's moods  The role of the reticular activating system in “reading the room”  How neuroplasticity reinforces patterns like monitoring, anticipating, and adjusting  The critical difference between being responsive and feeling responsible How to begin shifting from external control to internal grounding Key Takeaways Your brain adapts to the environment it experiences  Growing up with or living alongside mental illness can wire heightened awareness  Emotional sensitivity is not a flaw—it is adaptation  You can care deeply about someone without taking responsibility for their emotional state  Awareness is the first step toward creating new patterns and responses Resources MentionedIf this episode resonated with you, support is available:988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24/7 National Alliance on Mental Illness Education, support groups, and resources for individuals and families Mental Health America Free mental health screenings and tools for self-care and support Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for substance use and mental health resources World Health Organization Global data and resources on mental health Connect + Next StepsIf this episode spoke to you, share it with someone who might need it.And as we move into Mental Health Awareness Month, take a moment to check in—not just with others, but with yourself. ★ Support this podcast ★

When someone you love is in recovery, the pressure can feel overwhelming. You want to say and do the right thing, hoping to prevent a setback, yet beneath that is a quiet fear that you might make things worse. In this episode, Carol talks with Caroline Beidler, author of When You Love Someone in Recovery, about how to walk alongside someone without losing yourself, addressing the tension many families feel between wanting to help and fearing they might hurt. Caroline reframes a powerful truth: God never asked you to control someone else’s healing. He invites you to love faithfully, set wise boundaries, and trust Him with what you cannot control. If you’ve been carrying guilt or living with ongoing fear, this conversation brings clarity on support versus enabling—and the freedom to love without trying to control the outcome. Resource discussed: When You Love Someone in Recovery: A Hopeful Guide to Understanding Addiction by Caroline Beidler Connect with Caroline Beidler: On her website On Instagram On Facebook Follow her writing on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

As Alcohol Awareness Month comes to a close, Molly reflects on what alcohol awareness really means and why it is about more than fear, labels, or all-or-nothing thinking. Drawing on this month's episodes about alcohol facts, moderation support, and alcohol-free alternatives, she reframes awareness as something empowering: a way to make more honest, informed choices about your relationship with alcohol. In this episode, Molly explores why awareness begins with informed truth, why the “middle ground” of drinking deserves more attention, and how support does not have to be one-size-fits-all. She also shares how alcohol-free alternatives can help preserve ritual while supporting change. The result is a hopeful conversation about clarity, choice, and taking the next right step. In this episode, Molly discusses: What Alcohol Awareness Month really means  Why awareness is about honesty, clarity, and choice rather than labels  Why the drinking “middle ground” deserves more attention  What Molly took away from her conversations with Moderation Management and Curious Elixirs How alcohol-free alternatives can support change  Why learning what a standard drink actually is can be a powerful first step  How awareness helps us move beyond cultural myths and into a more honest conversation about alcohol's role in our lives Key takeaways Awareness is not punishment. It is power.  You do not need a label to begin paying attention.  You do not need a dramatic story to deserve support.  The next right step does not have to be dramatic.  Information creates choice, and choice is what allows change to begin. Resources mentionedModeration ManagementNIAAA Alcohol Treatment NavigatorCurious ElixirsSunnyside Med Molly's coaching and support options Questions to consider after listening What is alcohol costing me?  What do I believe alcohol gives me?  What am I defending?  What would change if I stopped waiting until it got worse?  What kind of relationship with alcohol actually fits the life I want to live?Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

This week on Blocked and Reported, Jesse and Katie discuss a new Atlantic exposé, journalistic norms, FBI Director Kash Patel's (alleged) blowouts at the Poodle Room and his long history of suing journalists. And losing. Kash Patel's Erratic Behavior Could Cost Him His Job - The AtlanticKakistocracy: Why Populism Ends in DisasterA Big-time Neuroscientist Threatened to Sue Me -- Science of UsCOURT OF APPEALS OF VIRGINIAFBI head Kash Patel suing MSNBC's Frank Figliuzzi over nightclub hopping claimsEnter “Patel, Kashyap” in the name field here: https://eapps.courts.state.va.us/CJISWeb/CaseDetail.doPam Bondi May Be Just the Beginning of Trump's Purge - The AtlanticMSNBC retracts wild accusation about FBI Director Kash Patel on-air | Fox News This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.blockedandreported.org/subscribe

Your brain doesn't wait to tell a story about your life—it creates one in real time.In this Think Thursday episode, Molly builds on the foundational concept of “the gap and the gain” and takes it one step further. Instead of focusing on how we reinterpret our past, she explores how the brain assigns meaning in the moment—and how those interpretations quietly shape identity, behavior, and long-term change.By understanding how your brain predicts, labels, and stores experiences, you can begin to create space between what happens and what you decide it means—unlocking a more effective and sustainable approach to behavior change.What You'll Learn: Why your brain is constantly interpreting—not just observing—your experiences  How predictive processing shapes the meaning you assign to events  The role of the amygdala and emotional tagging in forming your personal narrative  Why you don't remember what happened—you remember what you decided it meant  How repeated interpretations become identity over time  The connection between dopamine, motivation, and perceived progress Why missed goals aren't the problem—but how you interpret them might be Key Takeaway:Behavior change doesn't just depend on what you do—it depends on the meaning your brain assigns to what you do.The moment something doesn't go as planned isn't the problem. The story you tell about that moment is what determines what happens next.A Simple Practice to Try This Week:The next time something doesn't go the way you planned: Notice your immediate interpretation  Pause before labeling it as “good” or “bad”  Ask yourself: “Is that the only way to see this?”Creating that small amount of space allows you to choose a more useful interpretation—one that keeps you engaged instead of shutting you down.Final Thought:The gap and the gain help you reinterpret your past.But the real shift happens when you recognize that you are shaping that story in real time—moment by moment, meaning by meaning. ★ Support this podcast ★

In episode 2044, Jack and guest co-host Blake Wexler are joined by comedian, musician, author of The Advice King Anthology, and host of Cold Brew Got Me Like, Chris Crofton, to discuss… Kash Patel Is Somehow Even More Incompetent Than We Thought and more! The FBI Director Is MIA The F.B.I. Is Using Polygraphs to Test Officials’ Loyalty Keystone Kash Unravels Over ‘Hit Piece Lies’ About Boozing Kash Patel says he is filing defamation lawsuit against The Atlantic Monday Bartiromo: “Tomorrow you will be dropping a lawsuit against The Atlantic ?” Patel: “Yes I will. For defamation.” Keystone Kash’s Attorney Outs Even More Devastating Claims FBI Director Kash Patel sues the Atlantic claiming false reporting about drinking, absences LISTEN: Ganja Farmer by Marlon AsherSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, Molly talks with J.W. Wiseman, founder of Curious Elixirs, about the rise of craft non-alcoholic cocktails and why they matter so much for people who want a more peaceful relationship with alcohol. J.W. shares how his own desire to drink less led him to create one of the earliest brands in the non-alcoholic beverage space, long before “sober curious” became a mainstream term. Together, Molly and J.W. explore the idea that drinking less does not have to mean settling for something boring, basic, or deprived—it can still feel elevated, flavorful, social, and deeply satisfying. From the origins of Curious Elixirs in 2015 to the role of functional herbs, adaptogens, and intentional drink design, this conversation offers a fresh look at how non-alcoholic beverages can support people across the sobriety spectrum. Molly also challenges the common belief that a drink needs alcohol to be worth enjoying, reminding listeners that taste, ritual, and experience matter too. In This Episode, You'll Hear: Why J.W. started Curious Elixirs before the term “sober curious” even existed  How non-alcoholic beverages can support a more intentional relationship with alcohol  Why flavor, ritual, and connection matter more than alcohol itself  How Curious Elixirs helped pioneer the craft, functional non-alcoholic cocktail category  The role of herbs and adaptogens in creating drinks that feel sophisticated and supportive  Why “less alcohol” does not have to mean “less fun”  How J.W.'s own drinking habits pushed him to rethink what he wanted alcohol to do in his life Key TakeawaysJ.W. explains that people do not need alcohol to have fun—they need connection, intention, and something that genuinely feels good in their body. That idea aligns beautifully with the Alcohol Minimalist philosophy: creating a relationship with alcohol that is conscious, peaceful, and free from all-or-nothing thinking. This episode also highlights an important mindset shift: non-alcoholic drinks are not “less than.” They can be crafted, complex, beautiful, and worthy of the same appreciation people often reserve for alcoholic beverages. Molly and J.W. discuss how that reframe opens up more options for people who want to drink less without feeling like they are missing out. And finally, J.W.'s story is a reminder that change often starts with curiosity. What began as a personal effort to cut back and reset his tolerance eventually became a company built to help others find more freedom and flexibility in how they drink. About the GuestJ.W. Wiseman is the founder of Curious Elixirs, one of the early leaders in the non-alcoholic cocktail movement. Before launching the company in 2015, he worked across media, marketing, and hospitality, including roles with NBC, Broadway, Thrillist, and Skillshare, before founding his own agency, Good Business. Mentioned in This EpisodeCurious Elixirs The “sober curious” movement  Functional herbs and adaptogens Curious Red The Curious Elixirs flavor quiz  Molly's idea of living “mostly alcohol-free” Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

Sherry recently passed away, but shortly before leaving her body she gave the world of recovery this most beautiful tale of living a full and free life by walking the steps and living the principals of the Program. Please enjoy her gift – add it to your favorites – and listen again when you need a dose of hope and love from beyond.Sobriety Date: 4/20/1981Quotes“There is never a time when I forget that I am an alcoholic and Alcoholics Anonymous has given me the way to get freer and freer from all the things that have blocked me.”“It doesn't matter what you believe in, what matters is the effect that your belief has.”Referred by: Sara O. (Episode #235)InstagramFacebook

In this Think Thursday episode, Molly revisits a timely conversation on mindset, neuroscience, and the biology of belief. Drawing on the work of Stanford health psychologist Dr. Alia Crum, she explores how our thoughts and expectations can influence physical outcomes, stress responses, and even the way we experience cravings and behavior change. The episode connects that research directly to becoming an alcohol minimalist by showing that lasting change is not just about behavior. It is also about how we think about our behavior. In This Episode, You'll Hear Why mindset matters so much during stressful or uncertain seasons  How repetition and consistency help reshape the brain through neuroplasticity  The story that sparked Dr. Alia Crum's research into the biology of belief  What the hotel housekeeper study revealed about belief and physical change  How reframing stress can change the way the body responds  What the “milkshake study” teaches us about expectation, biology, and perception  Why changing your relationship with alcohol is about more than willpower  How small decisions can reinforce a new identity and a more peaceful path forward Key Takeaways Your mindset acts like a filter that shapes how you interpret and respond to life.  Beliefs can influence physical outcomes, not just emotions or motivation.  Stress is not always the enemy. How you frame stress can affect how you experience it.  Alcohol change work becomes more sustainable when it moves from restriction to intention.  Reframing “I can't drink” into “I'm choosing not to drink because it aligns with my goals” creates a very different internal experience.  Every small choice matters. Each decision is a chance to reinforce who you are becoming. Studies and Ideas DiscussedThe hotel housekeeper study Housekeepers who were told their physically demanding work counted as exercise experienced measurable physical improvements without changing the work itself. The difference was their belief about what they were already doing. Stress mindset research Participants who viewed stress as something that could support performance reported fewer negative physical symptoms and felt more engaged. The milkshake study Participants drank identical shakes, but their bodies responded differently based on what they believed they were consuming, highlighting how expectation can influence biology. Practical Tools Molly Shares Reframe challenges as opportunities to build resilience  Meet cravings with compassion and curiosity instead of judgment  Use visualization for 2 to 3 minutes each morning to mentally rehearse the person you want to become  Practice empowering affirmations  Repeat: “Every choice is a chance”  Keep a simple mindset journal or daily “gains” journal to reinforce progress Memorable Themes Mindset can shape physical reality  Belief influences biology  Small repeated thoughts become beliefs  Beliefs drive feelings, actions, and results  Lasting alcohol change is built through consistent, intentional thinking  Your brain is not broken. It can learn, adapt, and change Listener Reflection What belief can you shift today that would move you closer to your goals?  What would change if you saw each craving as an opportunity to practice resilience?  What might become possible if you treated every decision as a vote for the person you want to be? ClosingThis episode is a reminder that your thoughts matter, your beliefs matter, and your brain is always listening. When you practice new thoughts consistently over time, you create new beliefs. And those beliefs can help build a more peaceful relationship with alcohol, one choice at a time. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, Molly shares 8 evidence-based facts everyone should know about alcohol. From cancer risk and “safe” drinking limits to binge drinking, sleep, tolerance, and decision-making, this conversation is designed to cut through myths and mixed messages and help you think more clearly about your relationship with alcohol.This episode is not about fear, shame, or labels. It is about awareness. Because when we understand alcohol more clearly, we can make more honest, informed choices.In this episode, Molly discusses: Why alcohol is a known carcinogen and how alcohol use increases cancer risk  Why there is no guaranteed safe amount of alcohol for anyone  What a standard drink actually is  Why many people unintentionally underestimate how much they drink  How binge drinking is defined by amount, not by whether you black out or pass out  Why most people who drink excessively are not alcohol dependent  How alcohol may make you sleepy but still disrupt sleep quality  The way alcohol affects judgment, reaction time, and decision-making  Why being able to “hold your liquor” is not a sign that alcohol is safer for you Also mentioned in this episode:Sunnyside, Molly's top recommendation for a mindful drinking app  How positive reinforcement and honest tracking can support behavior change  Molly's reflection questions for Alcohol Awareness MonthQuestions to consider after listening: What is alcohol costing me?  What am I defending?  What do I want for my health?  What do I want for my peace?  What kind of relationship with alcohol actually fits the life I want to live? Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

We would love to pray for you! Please send us your requests here. --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

DOPEYWOOD TICKETS: http://events.leapevents.com/event/dopeywood-2026 Patreon: www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast Dave tees up a Greatest Hits episode featuring Hasnie, a belly dancer turned first responder alcoholic with a wild, emotional story. Before that, we get a classic Dopey email about a reckless dealer named King who jumps out a window during a raid and later crashes a car doing whippets.   Then shit gets real when Matt calls in mid-show ready to relapse. Dave and Ray talk him off the ledge in real time — and somehow even his dealers tell him not to use.   Hasnie's story is intense: early chaos, booze, pills, sex, trauma, sending her kids away, and hitting bottom hard. She gets sober after a moment of clarity, goes to rehab, and finds her footing in Gay AA and SLAA.   She rebuilds her life, gets her kids back (including rescuing her daughter from Ukraine during war), becomes a first responder, and stays sober through COVID and real-life trauma. ALL THAT AND MORE ON A NEW YET STILL OLD EPISODE OF DOPEY! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this Think Thursday episode, Molly explores Brené Brown's ideas on paradox and why emotional resilience is less about certainty and more about our capacity to hold two truths at once. When we stop forcing life into either/or thinking, we create space for growth, self-compassion, and lasting behavior change.This episode looks at why the brain prefers simple answers, how paradox shows up in everyday life, and why allowing both sides of a tension to exist can make us stronger, more grounded, and more emotionally mature.In This Episode What paradox really means  Why the brain prefers certainty and simplicity  How either/or thinking can keep us stuck  Why behavior change often feels contradictory  How both/and thinking builds emotional resilience  A reflection question to help you apply this in your own life Key TakeawayEmotional resilience is not about eliminating discomfort. It is about increasing your capacity to stay grounded in complexity without rushing to escape it.Reflection QuestionWhere in your life are you forcing an either/or answer when what is really being asked of you is the emotional resilience to hold both/and? ★ Support this podcast ★

Text and Be HeardFun isn't the opposite of recovery, it's one of the strongest signs it's working. I sit down with Elise from Seattle, proudly branded as the “Director Of Fun,” and we dig into what 20 years of sobriety actually looks like when the goal isn't just abstinence, but a life you genuinely want to wake up to.We talk about sober fun in real-world terms: why the first 10 to 15 minutes at a party can feel painfully awkward, how to ride that wave without bolting, and how small choices (like a seltzer in your hand and a good question for a stranger) can unlock connection. Elise also shares how humor helps us metabolize old stories without getting stuck in shame, and why finding “your room” matters when recovery jokes only land with the right people.From there we zoom out into long-term recovery and storytelling. Elise breaks down the idea of progressive recovery, why our toolset has to grow over time, and how service can look far beyond a meeting hall, including building sober community events and showing up for local nonprofits. We also get honest about mental health: depression, PTSD, and the unfair expectation that the “fun person” should always be on, even when they're struggling.If you're sober curious, newly sober, or deep into long-term sobriety and craving more joy, this conversation is for you. Subscribe for more recovery stories, share this with someone who needs a little hope, and leave a review with the one thing you do to make sober life more fun.Support the showRecovery is Beautiful.   Go Live Your Best Life!!Facebook Group - Recovery Freedom Circle | FacebookYour EQ is Your IQYouTube -    Life Is Wonderful   Hugo VRecovery Freedom CircleThe System That Understands Recovery, Builds Character  and Helps People Have Better Relationships.A Life Changing Solution, Saves You Time, 18 weekswww.lifeiswonderful.love  Instagram -  Lifeiswonderful.LoveTikTok -  Lifeiswonderful.LovePinterest -   Lifeiswonderful.LoveX -     LifeWonderLoveLinkedIn -   Hugo Vrsalovic    LinkedIn -   The 1% in Recovery

DopeyWood Tickets: https://www.showclix.com/event/dopeywood-2026 Ad Free on $8 and up on Patreon - www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast This week on Dopey!  Lots of good stuff with TRANS, CRUST PUNK, AlCOHOLIC SUPERSTAR - EARLY BRUNNER! We play a voicemail about someone burying a dead lizard with meth and later digging it up to do lines on the coffin! Spotify Comments! Someone questions my ibogaine/sublicad/vivtrol experience! Then we are joined by Early Brunner! Early describes growing up in Wisconsin feeling socially different and isolated, later identifying as autistic and queer. They begin using substances at a young age, first alcohol and cigarettes, then marijuana, finding that drugs helped them connect with others. In high school and early adulthood, their use escalates. After moving to Milwaukee for college, they drop out, develop a heavy alcohol problem, and become addicted to nitrous oxide. They attempt to stop drinking briefly but quickly relapse. They move to Austin, where their drinking worsens and leads to alcohol-induced psychosis, compounded by lack of sleep and unstable work. After a breakdown, they leave and move to Florida, where their drug use expands and their life becomes increasingly unstable and survival-focused. Early becomes fully immersed in a punk/crust lifestyle tied to substance use and identity. Over time, they begin recognizing the negative impact of addiction but continue using. Later, they become an EMT and witness deaths related to inhalant abuse, which they say is rarely discussed and carries significant shame. The episode ends with Early discussing their current recovery and work with “Recovery Demystified,” followed by Dave reflecting on the interview, addressing a critical listener comment, and closing with gratitude and show announcements. All that PLUS TONS MORE on this weeks new episode of the brand new Friday episode of the good old Dopey Show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.