Podcasts about sober curious

We tend to think of hearing as something that happens in our ears, but hearing is really a partnership between the ears and the brain. And growing research suggests that when hearing begins to decline, it may have implications for cognitive health as well.In this episode of Think Thursday, Molly explores the connection between hearing loss and dementia risk, including what the latest research says about whether hearing aids may help protect cognitive function.You'll learn:Why hearing loss is considered a potentially modifiable risk factor for dementiaHow “effortful listening” may place additional demands on the brainThe role social isolation may play in the hearing–cognition connectionWhat the ACHIEVE trial found about hearing aids and cognitive declineWhy hearing aids cannot currently be said to prevent dementiaSigns that it may be time to have your hearing evaluatedSimple ways to protect your hearing from noise-related damageThe takeaway: protecting your hearing isn't just about preserving sound. It's another practical way to support the connection between your brain and the world around you.Research mentioned:The 2024 Lancet Commission on dementia preventionThe ACHIEVE randomized clinical trial2026 World Health Organization dementia risk-reduction guidance2026 multinational research on hearing aid use and probable dementia ★ Support this podcast ★

What if you keep questioning alcohol for a reason?In this episode, I share why I believe the pull toward an alcohol-free life can be about so much more than drinking. We talk about intuition, identity, the patterns underneath alcohol, and why sobriety can create the clarity to see what you actually want from your life.If you're sober curious, already alcohol-free, or wondering what comes next, this episode will help you stop focusing only on the drinking and start getting curious about where this journey may be leading you.Connect with me: * Learn more about the Sober and Sovereign Membership * Instagram* Buy my book* Webinar: The 3 Shifts that Help Women Break Free From the Alcohol Start-Over Cycle and Wake Up to the Life They're Meant to Live

In this replay of one of the most downloaded episodes of The Sober Mom Life, you'll meet Real Sober Mom Lauren.Texas born Lauren knew how to operate without alcohol. Though she was a heavy drinker in high school, she learned early on through her mother's cancer journey that sometimes sobriety was necessary in order to attend to life's challenges. It wasn't until she was a mom of two that alcohol became a crutch that she consistently leaned on. Lauren chose to leave her career when she had her second child, and the resulting identity crisis she experienced was jarring. She turned to alcohol because it was one of the few things that helped her feel like herself. When Covid hit, alcohol became even more central to her life, but she continued to feel worse and worse. She had a turning point when she listened to the classic Huberman Lab podcast about alcohol's effects. For the first time she wondered: what if alcohol was the problem? Twenty-six days of sobriety seemed to show her the truth. She felt so much better sober, in every way. A girl's trip at the end of her sober stretch resulted in major FOMO, though, and alcohol slipped back into her life. This began a years long teeter totter of sober curiosity until she found Fresh 30 within the Sober Mom Life Cafe. The small group experience gave her the support she needed to feel seen and understood. Lauren has stayed sober since last summer, and has been a regular in the Cafe, Fresh 30, and on the retreat. She is so grateful for the support she's received in this community! Community makes all the difference. Join The Sober Mom Life Cafe for 6+ Peer Support meetings each week and a private Facebook group to connect with sober and sober-curious women. Sign up for our next ‘Fresh 30' and ‘Beyond 30' cohorts. Learn more here! Join me over on my Substack, Sober for Good: https://suzannewarye.substack.com/The paperback version of The Sober Shift with a beautiful redesigned cover comes out on September 29th. Preorder it now! Would you like a signed copy? Order yours here!Follow on Instagram @thesobermomlifeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the biggest obstacle to changing your drinking isn't that you're doing too little—but that you've decided anything less than a dramatic change doesn't count?In this revisited episode of the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, Molly explores the all-or-nothing thinking that can make sustainable change harder than it needs to be.You'll learn why the Doable Drink Plan starts with meeting yourself where you are, how perfectionism can quietly undermine progress, and why small, repeatable changes can help you build trust in yourself.Molly also examines the long-standing belief that abstinence is the only “real” way to change your drinking. Alcohol-free breaks can absolutely be helpful, but the thinking behind the action matters. Are you choosing a break because it supports your long-term goals—or because you believe anything less isn't good enough?In this episode:Why perfectionism can sabotage progressHow “this isn't enough” thinking keeps people stuckWhy small wins matterThe role of the Doable Drink PlanHow to think about alcohol-free breaks without turning them into a testWhy sustainable change is built through continuous improvementThe question isn't simply, “Am I doing enough?”A better question may be:“Is what I'm doing helping me build the skills and confidence I need for sustainable change?”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 ★

Another chance to hear esteemed actor and author DeniseWelch on how alcohol impacts on depression. This was recorded a few years ago, so apologies for references to Loose Women. Denise also wrote the foreword for Happy Healthy SoberConnect with us Thursday 10 Sept in Bloomsbury, 7 ways towellbeing, special guest William Porter 6pm Goody bags included in the ticket ⁠www.thesoberclub.com/events⁠fortickets Been thinking of turning your sobriety to a new purpose?Special offer on the investment ends this weekend so booka call. Join our next free webinar Thursday 17 September 7.30pmRegister here ⁠https://www.thesoberclub.com/explore/⁠Ditched the Booze and want to inspire others? Janey offersholistic sober coach training, our next course starts October 17-18, emailJaney for a chat to see if its right for you – janey at janeyleegrace.comNew to Sobriety? Sober Curious?Join us in The Sober Club for inspiration, and connection.If you join for a year its 3160 off!!Check out The Sober Club, for low cost support,accountability, inspiration, connection and a whole host of content onholistic living. Membership includes and online course Get the Buzz without the Booze, our private non judgemental community online and regular zoom meetings, plus a whole library of exclusive wellbeing contentIf you want to support the workgo to www.buymeacoffee.com/janeyleegraceThank you for listening! Please share, rate and reviewIf you're struggling, always reach out, tell someone you'redoing this! @janeyleegrace  Supplements for recoveryThe BEST Magnesium blend ever is the blend from Clive – ifyou use this link⁠https://clivedecarle.com/?sld=16⁠for everything you buy, a bit goes into our Sober Clubgiveback fund If you can afford it, also get Vit D3, Amino Acids and Iodine (if you're menopausal) Check out my newSubstack, you can be a free subscriberor paid for some juicy extras SobrietyRocks…& TheWoo WorksFollow Janey on social media@janeyleegrace

We often think we need confidence, motivation, or certainty before we act—but the brain usually works in the opposite direction.In this Think Thursday episode, Molly explores how the brain uses prediction, feedback, and experience to update what it believes is possible.You'll learn:Why the brain constantly predicts what will happen nextHow prediction error gives the brain new informationWhat Albert Bandura's research on self-efficacy tells us about building confidenceWhy actually doing something creates evidence that thinking and planning cannotHow feedback can recalibrate confidence over timeWhy uncertainty does not automatically mean a decision is wrongHow small experiments can build both confidence and clarityA simple process to try:Notice the predictionTake the smallest action that can test itLook honestly at the feedbackUpdate what you believeConfidence is not always the entrance requirement. Sometimes it is what your brain builds after you walk through the door.Key takeaway: You don't always act because you know. Sometimes you know because you acted. ★ Support this podcast ★

This week on the Alcohol Minimalist podcast, I'm revisiting one of the most-downloaded episodes from the archives: a conversation about Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), physical dependence, and why labels aren't always the most useful place to start.If you've ever wondered, Do I have a drinking problem? Am I drinking too much? Am I addicted? this episode will help you look at those questions with more clarity and less drama.Alcohol Use Disorder isn't determined simply by how much you drink. It exists on a spectrum from mild to severe and is based on how alcohol is affecting your behavior, health, relationships, and ability to control your drinking.In this episode, we talk about:How Alcohol Use Disorder is definedWhy comparing your drinking to someone else's isn't helpfulThe difference between alcohol misuse, AUD, and physical dependenceWhy withdrawal symptoms require medical guidanceHow labels can sometimes keep us from honestly evaluating our drinkingWhy the better question may be: Is alcohol creating results I actually want in my life?An important safety noteIf you regularly experience withdrawal symptoms such as shakiness, sweating, nausea, racing heart, or seizures when alcohol wears off, seek professional medical guidance before abruptly stopping drinking. Alcohol withdrawal can be serious.You don't need to wait for alcohol to become a severe problem before deciding to change.Pay attention to the data. Look honestly at the results alcohol is creating. Then decide what one small change could move you toward a more peaceful relationship with alcohol.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 ★

Creativity community and confidence with Jake White the co-founder and CEO of Vive18, a national youth drug prevention initiative and movement. He travels across the United States as a high-energy speaker, helping middle school, high school, and college students build confidence, handle peer pressure, and discover how to have fun without alcohol, vaping, or drugswww.vive18.comConnect with us Thursday 10 Sept in Bloomsbury, 7 ways to wellbeing, special guest William Porter 6pm Goody bags included in the ticket www.thesoberclub.com/eventsfor tickets Been thinking of turning your sobriety to a new purpose?Join our next free webinar Tuesday 25 August 7.30pmRegister here https://www.thesoberclub.com/explore/Ditched the Booze and want to inspire others? Janey offersholistic sober coach training, our next course starts October 17-18, emailJaney for a chat to see if its right for you – janey at janeyleegrace.comNew to Sobriety? Sober Curious?Join us in The Sober Club for inspiration, and connection.If you join for a year its 3160 off!!Check out The Sober Club, for low cost support,accountability, inspiration, connection and a whole host of content on holistic living. Membership includes and online course Get the Buzz without the Booze, our private non judgemental community online and regular zoom meetings, plus a whole library of exclusive wellbeing contentIf you want to support the work gotowww.buymeacoffee.com/janeyleegraceThank you for listening! Please share, rate and reviewIf you're struggling, always reach out, tell someone you'redoing this! @janeyleegrace  Supplements for recoveryThe BEST Magnesium blend ever is the blend from Clive – ifyou use this link https://clivedecarle.com/?sld=16for everything you buy, a bit goes into our Sober Clubgiveback fund If you can afford it, also get Vit D3, Amino Acids and Iodine (if you're menopausal) Check out my newSubstack, you can be a free subscriber or paid for some juicy extras SobrietyRocks…& TheWoo WorksFollow Janey on social media@janeyleegrace 

Rumination can feel like problem-solving, but often it's just repetitive thinking that keeps us focused on the problem instead of moving toward a solution.In this revisited Think Thursday episode, Molly explores why our brains get caught in negative thought loops, how rumination can interfere with behavior change, and why overthinking itself can become a habit.In this episode:What rumination is—and how it differs from productive reflectionWhy the brain believes replaying problems will help keep us safeHow rumination contributes to stress, anxiety, self-doubt, and analysis paralysisWhy repeated thoughts about past failures can make change feel impossibleHow shifting from “Why?” to “How?” can move your brain toward solutionsThe value of purposeful distraction for interrupting a thought loopHow self-compassion helps reduce rumination and build resilienceWhy putting a time limit on problem-solving can keep you from overthinkingHow the “name it to tame it” practice creates distance between you and your thoughtsThe takeaway:Your thoughts are not you—and you don't have to follow every thought your brain offers.Learning to notice rumination, interrupt the pattern, and intentionally redirect your thinking is another form of behavior change. The more you practice it, the easier it becomes to stop spinning your wheels and start moving forward.Resources mentioned:Susan Nolen-Hoeksema's research on ruminationEthan Kross, Chatter: The Voice in Our Head, Why It Matters, and How to Harness ItKristin Neff's research on self-compassion ★ Support this podcast ★

What does it actually look like to drink like an Alcohol Minimalist?This week, as part of Summer's Greatest Hits, I'm revisiting one of the most downloaded and foundational episodes of the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, originally released in September 2022.Being an Alcohol Minimalist isn't just about counting drinks or adding more alcohol-free days to your calendar. It's about changing the way you think about alcohol, planning intentionally, paying attention to how alcohol affects your body, and ultimately creating a relationship with alcohol that feels peaceful—not restrictive, stressful, or out of control.In this episode, I'm sharing practical strategies you can use when you choose to drink, including how alcohol by volume affects what actually counts as a standard drink, why eating before you drink matters, and how slowing down can make it easier to stick to your plan.I also talk about an important distinction that sits at the heart of the Alcohol Minimalist approach: I don't drink alcohol with the intention of getting drunk.If intoxication is the primary reason you want to drink—if alcohol is how you escape, let go, numb out, or create fun—that's worth getting curious about. Your most peaceful relationship with alcohol might look different than someone else's, and for some people, that may ultimately mean choosing not to drink at all.In this episode, you'll learn:Why making a drinking plan ahead of time is an act of empowerment—not punishment or deprivationHow small, 1% improvements can help you build evidence that you are capable of changing your drinking habitsWhy checking the alcohol by volume (ABV) matters, especially with higher-ABV beers like IPAsHow choosing lower-ABV beverages or combining alcoholic and non-alcoholic options can reduce your total alcohol intakeWhy drinking on an empty stomach can cause alcohol to be absorbed more quicklyHow food, mixers, carbonation, caffeine, and other factors may influence your experience with alcoholWhy paying attention to your drinking pace mattersHow alternating alcoholic beverages with water or non-alcoholic drinks can help you slow downWhy you never have to finish the drink simply because it's sitting in front of youThe difference between intentionally including alcohol in your life and intentionally drinking to become intoxicatedWhy “alcohol makes things more fun” is a belief worth questioningHow to recognize when your most peaceful relationship with alcohol might actually be no alcohol at allThe Characteristics of an Alcohol MinimalistIn the episode, I also share the eight characteristics I believe define an Alcohol Minimalist.A Question to ConsiderIf the only reason you want to drink alcohol is because you want to feel drunk, what are you actually asking alcohol to do for you?You don't need to answer that question with judgment. Answer it with curiosity.Because becoming an Alcohol Minimalist isn't about following somebody else's rules for drinking. It's about becoming more intentional, understanding your own patterns, and creating a relationship with alcohol that supports the life you actually want to live.Take something you learned from this episode and put it into action. Changing your drinking habits and creating a peaceful relationship with alcohol is possible.Until next time, choose peace.Resources MentionedDownload Characteristics of an Alcohol Minimalist.Join the private Alcohol Minimalists: Change Your Alcohol Habits Facebook community for ongoing support and practical tips.Learn more about Sunnyside Med and its medication-supported approach to reducing alcohol cravings through the link provided with this episode.Learn more about working with Molly and the resources available for changing your relationship with alcohol 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 ★

Another chance to hear the fabulous Clare Pooley live fromClub Soda almost a year ago, it never gets old!   Check out her novels  and of course The Sober Diaries https://amzn.to/4fQGyBM Come and connect  with us to celebrate The Sober Club's 7 birthday at Hello Love in Bloomsbury on Thursday 10 September 6-8pm – go to www.thesoberclub.com/eventsfor tickets New to Sobriety? Sober Curious?Join us in The Sober Club for inspiration, and connection.If you join for a year its 3160 off!!Check out The Sober Club, for low cost support,accountability, inspiration, connection and a whole host of content on holistic living. Membership includes and online course Get the Buzz without the Booze, our private non judgemental community online and regular zoom meetings, plus a whole library of exclusive wellbeing contentIf you want to support the work go towww.buymeacoffee.com/janeyleegraceThank you for listening! Please share, rate and reviewIf you're struggling, always reach out, tell someone you'redoing this! @janeyleegrace Been thinking of turning your sobriety to a new purpose?Join our next free webinar Tuesday 25 August 7.30pmRegister here https://www.thesoberclub.com/explore/Ditched the Booze and want to inspire others? Janey offersholistic sober coach training, our next course starts October 17-18, email Janey for a chat to see if its right for you – janey at janeyleegrace.com Supplements for recoveryThe BEST Magnesium blend ever is the blend from Clive – ifyou use this link https://clivedecarle.com/?sld=16for everything you buy, a bit goes into our Sober Clubgiveback fund If you can afford it, also get Vit D3, Amino Acids and Iodine (ifyou're menopausal) Check out my newSubstack, you can be a free subscriber or paid for some juicy extras SobrietyRocks…& TheWoo WorksFollow Janey on social media@janeyleegrace

Why can it be so hard to change your mind—even when new information suggests an old decision no longer works?In this Think Thursday episode, Molly explores cognitive dissonance and choice-supportive bias, and how the brain can begin defending decisions simply because we've already made them.You'll learn:Why we tend to see chosen options more favorably after making a decisionHow memory can subtly reinforce the choices we've already madeWhy beliefs about ourselves can become conclusions the brain looks for evidence to supportThe important difference between evaluating a decision and defending itWhy a decision can have been right for you then without needing to remain right foreverThree questions to consider:If I were making this decision for the first time today, what would I choose?What evidence am I dismissing because it doesn't fit the decision I already made?Can I allow the old decision to have made sense then without requiring it to make sense now?Changing your mind doesn't necessarily mean you were wrong. Sometimes it simply means you know something today that you didn't know before.Key takeaway: The goal isn't always to be right. It's to stay willing to notice what is true. ★ Support this podcast ★

This week on the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, Molly continues the Summer's Greatest Hits series by revisiting one of the earliest episodes of the show.Last week focused on the science behind alcohol and habit formation. This episode looks at two more powerful influences on your relationship with alcohol: society and the alcohol industry.Drinking is deeply embedded in our culture. We see alcohol connected to celebration, relaxation, friendship, sports, vacations, and nearly every kind of social gathering. Those messages become part of what we unconsciously believe alcohol provides for us.At the same time, alcohol is a massive industry with a financial interest in keeping alcohol attractive, affordable, available—and culturally desirable.The good news? Awareness changes things.Once you begin recognizing the messages you've absorbed about alcohol, you can question them instead of automatically accepting them as truth.In This Episode:Why drinking is treated as the social default while not drinking can still feel unusualHow years of cultural conditioning influence what we believe about alcoholWhy Molly didn't question her own drinking for decades, despite growing up with an alcohol-dependent parentHow advertising and entertainment reinforce positive associations with drinkingWhy the alcohol industry has a vested interest in maintaining alcohol consumptionHow separating facts from cultural and marketing messages gives you more control over your choicesWhy changing your relationship with alcohol requires awareness—not avoiding alcohol for the rest of your lifeKey TakeawayScience, society, and industry can all make changing your drinking habits more challenging—but none of them take away your ability to change.You may always live in a world where alcohol is readily available and socially encouraged. Creating a peaceful relationship with alcohol means learning to see those influences clearly and making conscious decisions based on what you want for your life.Resources Mentioned:Breaking the Bottle Legacy: How to Change Your Drinking Habits and Create a Peaceful Relationship with AlcoholAlcohol Truths: How Much Is Safe?Sunnyside MedLow 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 ★

Janey's guest is ADHD and nutrition coach and expert Carol May – we chat about some lifestyle tips for people with ADHD obviously I would add in quit alcohol if you haven't already!New webinar Explore a career as a sober coach 25 Aug (scroll down) Come and connect  with us to celebrate The Sober Club's 7 birthday at Hello Love in Bloomsbury on Thursday 10 September 6-8pm – go to www.thesoberclub.com/eventsfor tickets New to Sobriety? Sober Curious?Join us in The Sober Club for inspiration, and connection.If you join for a year its £160 off!!Check out The Sober Club, for low cost support,accountability, inspiration, connection and a whole host of content on holistic living. Membership includes and online course Get the Buzz without the Booze, our private non judgemental community online and regular zoom meetings, plus a whole library of exclusive wellbeing contentIf you want to support the work go towww.buymeacoffee.com/janeyleegraceThank you for listening! Please share, rate and reviewIf you're struggling, always reach out, tell someone you'redoing this! @janeyleegrace Been thinking of turning your sobriety to a new purpose?Join our next free webinar Tuesday 25 August 7.30pmRegister here https://www.thesoberclub.com/explore/Ditched the Booze and want to inspire others? Janey offersholistic sober coach training, our next course starts October 17-18, email Janey for a chat to see if its right for you – janey at janeyleegrace.com Supplements for recoveryThe BEST Magnesium blend ever is the blend from Clive – ifyou use this link https://clivedecarle.com/?sld=16for everything you buy, a bit goes into our Sober Clubgiveback fund If you can afford it, also get Vit D3, Amino Acids and Iodine (if you're menopausal) Check out my new Substack, you can be a free subscriber or paid for some juicy extras Sobriety Rocks…& TheWoo WorksFollow Janey on social media@janeyleegrace 

When does persistence help us grow—and when does it keep us stuck?In this Think Thursday episode, Molly explores the effort paradox, effort justification, and the sunk-cost effect. We often value something more because we worked hard for it, but that same tendency can keep us investing in goals, routines, or situations that no longer serve us.You'll learn:Why effort can increase pride, meaning, and commitmentHow cognitive dissonance can cause us to overvalue something we struggled to obtainWhat classic studies involving group initiation and theater tickets revealedWhy previous investments of time, money, and energy can distort future decisionsHow to distinguish healthy persistence from protecting a sunk costThree questions to consider:Would I choose this today if I had not already invested anything?From this point forward, what are the likely costs and benefits?What am I afraid stopping would mean about me?Changing direction does not automatically mean the past was wasted. The experience may have already taught you what you value, what you need, and what you want to choose next.Key takeaway: Is this hard because it matters—or are you making it matter because it has been hard? ★ Support this podcast ★

In this special summer bonus episode of The Food Professor podcast, co-hosts Michael LeBlanc and Dr. Sylvain Charlebois sit down live at the SIAL food innovation show in Montreal with Victoire Guglieri, Founder of Nasdrow, fresh off her win at the startup pitch competition. Energetic, candid, and armed with samples, Victoire takes Michael and Sylvain on a guided tasting tour of her premium non-alcoholic, ready-to-drink cocktail brand and makes a compelling case for why alcohol-free drinks should never be boring. Victoire shares the origin story behind Nasdrow, a brand born from a personal frustration. After a month without alcohol, she discovered that the non-alcoholic beverage options on the market were too sweet, too fizzy, too artificial, or too bitter, and none delivered the complexity and sophistication of a real cocktail. Raised in Bordeaux, France, surrounded by grandparents who taught her the language of wine, and having spent part of her childhood in Poland, she named her company after the festive Polish toast "Na zdrowie," reimagined in English as a non-alcoholic super drink mixed with low alcohol. The result is a line of all-natural, preservative-free, less-sweet ready-to-drink mocktails engineered to deliver the full cocktail experience: the nose, the texture, the taste, and the finish. The tasting begins with Scarlet & Co, Nasdrow's bestseller and a gold medal winner at the World Alcohol-Free Awards in London, a slightly fizzy blend of strawberry, basil, ginger, and lemon. Michael and Sylvain then sample the Mojito Fusion, praising its fresh, fragrant aroma and depth of flavour, before Victoire walks through the rest of the range, including the bone-dry, bubble-free Margarita Salsa and an Espresso Martini that produces a thick foam when shaken in a cocktail shaker. The conversation digs into the forces reshaping the beverage industry: why younger consumers are drinking less alcohol, the influence of health and wellness trends on social media, the lingering effects of COVID on social drinking, and the mounting science around alcohol and health. Victoire notes that roughly one in two consumers is now drinking less, and that 80 percent of Nasdrow's customers also drink alcohol, positioning the brand not as anti-alcohol but as a sophisticated option for moderation, designated drivers, and anyone finishing the night with something lighter. The episode wraps with a look at retail momentum. Nasdrow is already listed in Quebec at Metro, with more listings on the way and national distribution ambitions before year-end, as Victoire works to build an entirely new premium mocktail category alongside retailers and buyers. It is a fun, flavour-forward conversation about entrepreneurship, food innovation, and the fast-growing non-alcoholic beverage market, recorded live on the SIAL show floor, that every retailer, grocer, beverage buyer, and sober-curious listener should hear. About UsDr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Visiting Professor in Food Policy and Distribution at McGill University and a Professor in Food Distribution and Policy in the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University.Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety. He is one of the world's most cited scholars in food supply chain management, food value chains and traceability with over 775 published peer-reviewed journal articles. Dr. Charlebois is also an editor for the prestigious Trends in Food Science Technology journal. He co-hosts The Food Professor podcast, discussing issues in the food, foodservice, grocery and restaurant industries and which is the most listened Canadian management podcast in Canada. Every year since 2012, he has published the now highly anticipated Canadian Food Price Report, which provides an overview of food price trends for the coming year. Furthermore, his research has been featured in several newspapers and media groups, nationally as well as internationally. He has testified on several occasions before parliamentary committees on food policy-related issues as an expert witness. He has been asked to act as an advisor on food and agricultural policies in many Canadian provinces and other countries.With extensive experience collaborating with businesses, governments, and NGOs, Dr. Charlebois combines academic rigor with practical expertise, making him one of the most influential voices in the global agri-food landscape. His work continues to advance the understanding of food systems, fostering innovation and resilience in a rapidly evolving industry. In 2025, he received the prestigious Charles III medal recognizing his tremendous work in informing Canadians about food issues. Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025, and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

For the Alcohol Minimalist Summer's Greatest Hits series, Molly revisits the most downloaded episode in the podcast's catalog.In this episode, she explores one of the biggest challenges to changing your relationship with alcohol: understanding what is happening in your brain.Alcohol affects neurotransmitters involved in relaxation, inhibition, pleasure, and motivation. Over time, repeated drinking teaches the brain to associate alcohol with rewards such as relief, connection, celebration, or escape. Eventually, drinking can become an automatic response to familiar cues—like the end of the workday, the weekend, stress, or uncomfortable emotions.But an automatic habit is not proof that you are broken, powerless, or destined to struggle forever.Your brain learned the habit, and it can learn a new one.In This EpisodeWhy shame and labels can keep people from seeking helpThe difference between a drinking habit and physical dependenceHow dopamine reinforces the desire to keep drinkingWhy alcohol can make you feel better and worse at the same timeHow repeated drinking becomes automaticWhy awareness is the first step toward lasting changeHow your future-focused brain can interrupt reactive urgesKey TakeawayChanging your drinking begins with observing your thoughts and habits without judgment.When you understand what your brain is doing, you can stop treating your drinking as evidence of a personal flaw and start practicing new responses.Awareness is the brain's fuel for change.Resources MentionedThe Sober Truth by Lance Dodes, MD, and Zachary DodesCDC and SAMHSA research on excessive drinking and alcohol dependenceThe Alcohol Minimalist Podcast Listening GuideNext week, Molly continues the conversation by exploring how society and the alcohol industry influence our drinking habits.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 ★

Been thinking of turning your sobriety to a new purpose?There is a FLASH SALE on our Sober Club Accredited CoachTraining programme, if you sign up before end of July it's the lowest price it will ever be,If you missed our free webinar – From Sobriety to Purpose watch an excerpt My guest is Ben Gibbs from @soberboozersclub He is a musician, writer and founder of @soberboozersclubDon't forget – Keep the ritual, change the ingredients!New to Sobriety? Sober Curious?Join us in The Sober Club for inspiration, and connection.Check out The Sober Club, for low cost support,accountability, inspiration, connection and a whole host of content on holisticliving. Membership includes and online course Get the Buzz without the Booze, our private non judgemental community online and regularzoom meetings, plus a whole library of exclusive wellbeing contentIf you want to support the work gotowww.buymeacoffee.com/janeyleegraceThank you for listening! Please share, rate and reviewIf you're struggling, always reach out, tell someone you'redoing this! @janeyleegrace Ditched the Booze and want to inspire others? Janey offersholistic sober coach training, our next course starts October 18-19, email Janey for a chat to see if its right for you – janey at janeyleegrace.com Supplements for recoveryThe BEST Magnesium blend ever is the blend from Clive – ifyou use this link https://clivedecarle.com/?sld=16for everything you buy, a bit goes into our Sober Clubgiveback fund If you can afford it, also get Vit D3, Amino Acids and Iodine (if you're menopausal) Check out my new Substack, you can be a free subscriber or paid for some juicy extras SobrietyRocks…& TheWoo WorksFollow Janey on social media@janeyleegrace

Why can the final moments of an experience shape how we remember the whole thing?In this Think Thursday episode, Molly explores the peak-end rule—the brain's tendency to remember an experience largely through its most emotionally intense moment and the way it ended.You'll learn:What Daniel Kahneman's cold-water experiment revealed about memory and discomfortWhy patients sometimes remembered a longer medical procedure more favorably when it ended more gentlyThe difference between the experiencing self and the remembering selfHow endings influence what the brain expects and whether we are willing to try againWhy a difficult day, conversation, workout, or imperfect attempt does not have to end as a verdictThree questions that can help create a more useful ending:What happened?What did I learn?What is the next best step?The goal is not to pretend that every experience was positive. It is to recognize that endings become part of the story the brain carries forward.Key takeaway: One difficult moment does not have to write the final sentence. Ending with clarity and agency can shape what you remember—and whether you are willing to begin again. ★ Support this podcast ★

Why does the commitment you make over your morning coffee sometimes feel so much harder to keep after dinner?In this episode, Molly explores the neuroscience behind what she calls your Evening Brain—the version of your brain that's been making decisions, solving problems, and managing life all day long. Instead of seeing evening struggles as a lack of willpower, you'll learn why your brain naturally leans toward familiar habits when mental resources are lower, and how planning ahead can become an act of self-support rather than self-control. In this episode, you'll learn: Why your brain makes different decisions in the morning and at night  How mental fatigue influences habits and decision-making  Why planning ahead isn't about restriction—it's about support  A simple mindset shift that can make evenings feel less like a battle  One question to ask yourself each morning to help your future self This Week's TakeawayBefore your day gets busy, ask yourself:What can I do right now that will make tonight a little easier?Supporting your future self isn't about having more willpower—it's about working with the brain you have, not the one you wish you had. Resources MentionedSunnysideSunnyside MedUntil 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 ★

This time last year I was speaking at Latitude fest so thereis another chance to hear a clip with Richard Piper from Alcohol Change and re run of my short chat with Lucy Spraggan I share some tips for festivals et al Been thinking of turning your sobriety to a new purpose?There is a FLASH SALE on our Sober Club Accredited CoachTraining programme, if you sign up before end of July it's the lowest price it will ever be,If you missed our free webinar – From Sobriety to Purpose message me and we will send a replay New to Sobriety? Sober Curious?Join us in The Sober Club for inspiration, and connection.Join now for a year and save lots!Check out The Sober Club, for low cost support,accountability, inspiration, connection and a whole host of content on holistic living. Membership includes and online course Get the Buzz without the Booze, our private non judgemental community online and regular zoom meetings, plus awhole library of exclusive wellbeing contentIf you want to support the work gotowww.buymeacoffee.com/janeyleegraceThank you for listening! Please share, rate and reviewIf you're struggling, always reach out, tell someone you'redoing this! @janeyleegrace Ditched the Booze and want to inspire others? Janey offersholistic sober coach training, our next course starts October 17-18, email Janey for a chat to see if its right for you – janey at janeyleegrace.com Supplements for recoveryThe BEST Magnesium blend ever is the blend from Clive – ifyou use this link https://clivedecarle.com/?sld=16for everything you buy, a bit goes into our Sober Clubgiveback fund If you can afford it, also get Vit D3, Amino Acids and Iodine (if you're menopausal) Check out my new Substack, you can be a free subscriber or paid for some juicy extras SobrietyRocks…& TheWoo WorksFollow Janey on social media@janeyleegrace

In honor of World Brain Day on July 22, this Think Thursday episode celebrates the extraordinary organ behind every thought, memory, feeling, and behavior.Molly explores how the brain functions as:A prediction system that uses past experience to anticipate what happens nextA learning system that changes through attention, repetition, and experienceA protection system that often relies on familiar strategies to reduce discomfortA relationship system shaped by connection, conversation, purpose, and belongingYou'll also learn why automatic responses are not permanent, how neuroplasticity supports meaningful behavior change, and why curiosity is more useful than self-criticism when your brain returns to an old pattern.Your brain is not fixed, and it is not working against you. It is alive, adaptable, protective, connected, and still becoming.Key takeaway: An automatic response is not your destiny. It is something your brain has rehearsed—and with practice, it can learn something new. ★ Support this podcast ★

Send us Fan MailAs long as Matt wasn't drinking like his father—and Steve wasn't as bad as the people he grew up around—they could tell themselves they weren't really alcoholics. There was always someone who had lost more, drank more, or looked more like the stereotype.In this episode, Matt and Steve talk about how comparing your drinking to someone else's worst consequences can keep you stuck. You don't have to lose your job, your family, or everything you own before you're allowed to admit alcohol is hurting your life. The better question isn't whether you look like an alcoholic. It's whether drinking has become a problem for you.Support the show

This week, Molly is revisiting an important episode about drinking alone, drinking secrecy, and what these behaviors may reveal about your relationship with alcohol.Drinking alone does not automatically mean you have a problem. But when drinking becomes automatic, emotionally driven, or hidden, it is worth getting curious.In this episode of the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, Molly explores how these patterns can reinforce alcohol habits, why honest tracking matters, and how to interrupt the cycle without shame or all-or-nothing thinking.You'll learn:Why drinking alone is not the same as having alcohol use disorderWhat subtle drinking secrecy can look likeHow emotional relief strengthens the habit loopSimple ways to create more awareness and choiceThe goal is not perfection. It is noticing the pattern and choosing one small step toward a more peaceful relationship with alcohol.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 ★

You know my mantra – Keep the ritual, change the ingredients – but what does it really mean?In this special summer episode I share the ins and outs ofAlcohol Free Drinks – What does 0.4 per cent mean?  Can we socialise in the early days, How do we navigate weddings and holidays?Been thinking of turning your sobriety to a new purpose?There is a FLASH SALE on our Sober Club Accredited CoachTraining programme, if you sign up before end of July it's the lowest price it will ever be,Join our free webinar – From Sobriety to Purpose on Thursday July 23 at 7.30pm Register here and tell others!  https://www.thesoberclub.com/explore/https://www.thesoberclub.com/events/New to Sobriety? Sober Curious?Join us in The Sober Club for inspiration, and connection.Check out The Sober Club, for low cost support, accountability, inspiration, connection and a whole host of content on holistic living. Membership includes and online course Get the Buzz without the Booze, our private non judgemental community online and regularzoom meetings, plus a whole library of exclusive wellbeing contentIf you want to support the work gotowww.buymeacoffee.com/janeyleegraceThank you for listening! Please share, rate and reviewIf you're struggling, always reach out, tell someone you'redoing this! @janeyleegrace Ditched the Booze and want to inspire others? Janey offersholistic sober coach training, our next course starts October 18-19, emailJaney for a chat to see if its right for you – janey at janeyleegrace.com Supplements for recoveryThe BEST Magnesium blend ever is the blend from Clive – ifyou use this link https://clivedecarle.com/?sld=16for everything you buy, a bit goes into our Sober Clubgiveback fund If you can afford it, also get Vit D3, Amino Acids and Iodine (if you're menopausal) Check out my new Substack, you can be a free subscriber or paid for some juicy extras Sobriety Rocks…& TheWoo WorksFollow Janey on social media@janeyleegrace

Why do we make choices today that we know will make life harder tomorrow?In this Think Thursday episode, Molly explores the science of temporal discounting and future-self continuity—and why the person who will experience the consequences of our choices can sometimes feel more like a stranger than an extension of ourselves.You'll learn:Why immediate rewards often feel more compelling than meaningful future benefitsHow connected you feel to your future self can influence your decisionsWhat researchers discovered by showing people age-progressed images of themselvesHow episodic future thinking makes tomorrow's rewards feel more realA simple “future-self handoff” practice that can make life easier for the person you'll be tomorrowThe goal isn't to sacrifice every pleasure today for some idealized future version of yourself. It's to build a more thoughtful relationship between present-you and future-you—one small act of consideration at a time.Key takeaway: You don't need perfect discipline to make better long-term decisions. Sometimes you simply need to remember who you're making them for. ★ Support this podcast ★

Vacation can be a beautiful break from regular life, but when your normal routine disappears, your intentional choices around alcohol can start to feel less automatic too.In this episode, Molly talks about Vacation Brain: the part of your brain that turns “I'm on vacation” into permission to overdrink. You'll learn why disrupted routines, new cues, and social expectations can make old drinking patterns feel easier to slip into—and how to use the Ideal/For Real framework to stay connected to yourself without being rigid.The goal isn't perfect vacation.It's connected vacation.What you'll learn:Why vacation can trigger permission thoughts around alcoholHow cues and routines shape drinking habitsWhy “I'll just see how it goes” often doesn't workHow to create a realistic For Real planWhy connection does not require consumptionTry this before your next tripAsk yourself:What kind of experience do I actually want to have?Then create your Ideal/For Real plan:Ideal: What would my plan be if everything were easy?For Real: What plan supports me in the real circumstances I'm in?You can be relaxed and intentional. You can be flexible and honest. You can enjoy yourself and still protect your 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 ★

My guest is Nigel Jones founder of 9km by 9am https://www.9kmby9am.com/Join us in The Sober Club for inspiration, and connection.Thought about training to be a sober coach?Get instant access to our free webinar What does it mean tobe a sober coach, dm or email Connection is key   https://www.thesoberclub.com/explore/https://www.thesoberclub.com/events/New to Sobriety? Sober Curious? Join us in The Sober Club for inspiration, and connection.Check out The Sober Club, for low cost support,accountability, inspiration, connection and a whole host of content on holistic living. Membership includes and online course Get the Buzz without the Booze, ourprivate non judgemental community online and regularzoom meetings, plus a whole library of exclusive wellbeing contentIf you want to support the work gotowww.buymeacoffee.com/janeyleegraceThank you for listening! Please share, rate and reviewIf you're struggling, always reach out, tell someone you'redoing this! @janeyleegrace Ditched the Booze and want to inspire others? Janey offersholistic sober coach training, our next course starts October 18-19, email Janey for a chat to see if its right for you – janey at janeyleegrace.com Supplements for recoveryThe BEST Magnesium blend ever is the blend from Clive – ifyou use this link https://clivedecarle.com/?sld=16for everything you buy, a bit goes into our Sober Clubgiveback fund If you can afford it, also get Vit D3, Amino Acids and Iodine (ifyou're menopausal) Check out my newSubstack, you can be a free subscriber or paid for some juicy extras SobrietyRocks…& TheWoo WorksFollow Janey on social media@janeyleegrace

In this revisited Think Thursday episode, Molly explores the paradox of freedom: the idea that more choices do not always create more freedom. In fact, too many options can leave us feeling overwhelmed, mentally drained, and stuck in indecision.Drawing from concepts like the paradox of choice, decision fatigue, and the role of the prefrontal cortex, this episode looks at why unlimited freedom can actually reduce our ability to take intentional action. Molly explains how structure, routines, and personal boundaries can support the brain by reducing cognitive load and freeing up mental energy for what matters most.This episode is a reminder that structure does not have to mean restriction. When chosen intentionally, structure can become a form of self-respect and a powerful tool for creating more clarity, peace, and follow-through.In This EpisodeWhy more options do not always lead to more freedomHow too many decisions can drain the prefrontal cortexWhat decision fatigue has to do with procrastination and old habitsWhy structure can create more mental freedom, not lessHow routines, boundaries, and simple personal rules support long-term goalsA reflection question for creating more clarity in your lifeKey TakeawayFreedom is not always found in keeping every option open. Sometimes, real freedom comes from creating a clear path and making fewer decisions from a place of intention.Reflection QuestionWhere could fewer choices create more freedom in your life?Tune in to revisit this conversation on structure, choice, and the kind of freedom that helps you move forward with more peace and intention. ★ Support this podcast ★

The 24-Hour Reset: What to Do After You Drink More Than You PlannedAfter a holiday weekend, vacation day, barbecue, or ordinary night that turns into more drinking than planned, it's easy to wake up feeling foggy, anxious, disappointed, or stuck in shame.In this episode of the Alcohol Minimalist podcast, Molly introduces the 24-Hour Reset: a practical framework for what to do after an off-plan drinking day. A reset does not mean alcohol's effects are magically erased. It means you stop adding harm and start adding support.Molly explains what happens in the body after drinking more than planned, including how the liver metabolizes alcohol, why hangovers are more than dehydration, and how alcohol can affect sleep, mood, cravings, and next-day anxiety. She also explains why shame may feel like accountability, but often keeps the drinking loop going.You'll learn the five parts of the 24-Hour Reset:Stabilize your body with water, food, rest, and gentle movement.Stabilize your brain by sticking with facts instead of identity attacks.Don't drink to fix the effects of drinking if taking an alcohol-free day is medically safe for you.Do a 10-minute data review to identify when and why the plan changed.Make one next promise that is small, specific, and doable.The goal is not perfection. The goal is repair.Your body knows how to heal, and you know how to help it. Your liver is resilient. Your brain is plastic. Your nervous system can return to balance. But healing is not passive—you participate in it through the next best choice.Important note: If you drink heavily every day, have experienced withdrawal symptoms, or believe you may be physically dependent on alcohol, please consult a medical professional before abruptly stopping or taking alcohol-free days.Resources mentioned:Recovery and Reflection WorksheetSunnyside MedLow 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 ★

If you've ever said, “I'm just trying to figure out my relationship with alcohol,” you're not alone, and you're not doing anything wrong.In this episode of the Sober Vibes Podcast, I break down why this common phrase often keeps women stuck in the moderation cycle longer than they realize.What sounds like curiosity is often actually uncertainty, emotional exhaustion, and years of trying to make drinking “work” in a way that no longer feels sustainable.In This Episode, You'll Learn• why “figuring it out” can keep you stuck in the moderation cycle • the difference between curiosity and avoidance • why restarting rules and breaks rarely leads to lasting change • better questions to ask instead of “Can I drink less?” • how clarity begins when you stop negotiating with alcoholInstead of trying to figure out your relationship with alcohol forever, this episode will help you start getting honest about what's actually happening—and what you want your life to look like instead.Grab Your Free Gift:30 Day Calendar Day & Night RoutineReady for Support? Here Are 4 Ways to Work With Me:Stop Starting Over ProgramPerfect for the self-guided woman who wants a step-by-step roadmap to quit drinking, break the moderation cycle, and build a strong sober foundation at her own pace.Sobriety CircleFor the community girlie who thrives with accountability, connection, monthly coaching, and ongoing support from women who truly understand the journey. Use code "soberjuly" at checkout to save $10 off your first month.1:1 Sober CoachingFor the woman who wants personalized support, deeper transformation, and a customized plan to stop drinking, manage cravings, and build a sustainable alcohol-free life.The After (Emotional Sobriety Program) The next chapter after quitting drinking. Once you've built your sober foundation, it's time to do the deeper work—healing emotional patterns, rebuilding your identity, strengthening self-trust, regulating your nervous system, and creating a life where you no longer need alcohol to cope.Grab My Masterclass:Free access to my $47 masterclass when you leave an Apple review-Gain access to my Masterclass when you submit a review on iTunes. Email me sobervibes@gmail.com with a screenshot of the review, and I will send you the code to unlock my Masterclass for free!Thank you for tuning in!Thank you for listening! Help the show by Rating, Reviewing, and/or Subscribing to the Sober Vibes Podcast.Connect w/ Courtney:InstagramJoin the Sobriety CircleApply for 1:1 CoachingOrder the Sober Vibes Book

My guest is Matt Pink who joined us for a live recordingonline and some Sober Club members got to ask some questions too.  Matt is the founder of THOM Follow him @betterlifeguy   www.jointhom.comHappy to announce I will be speaking at an event on theCosta Del Sol on Tuesday 7 July at 10 am Join us in The Sober Club for inspiration, and connection.Thought about training to be a sober coach?Get instant access to our free webinar What does it mean tobe a sober coach, dm or email Connection is key   https://www.thesoberclub.com/explore/https://www.thesoberclub.com/events/New to Sobriety? Sober Curious?Join us in The Sober Club for inspiration, and connection.Check out The Sober Club, for low cost support,accountability, inspiration, connection and a whole host of content on holisticliving. Membership includes and online course Get the Buzz without the Booze, our private non judgemental community online and regularzoom meetings, plus a whole library of exclusive wellbeing content www.thesoberclub.comIf you want to support the work go towww.buymeacoffee.com/janeyleegraceThank you for listening! Please share, rate and reviewIf you're struggling, always reach out, tell someone you'redoing this! @janeyleegrace Ditched the Booze and want to inspire others? Janey offersholistic sober coach training, our next course starts October 18-19, emailJaney for a chat to see if its right for you – janey at janeyleegrace.com Supplements for recoveryThe BEST Magnesium blend ever is the blend from Clive – ifyou use this link https://clivedecarle.com/?sld=16for everything you buy, a bit goes into our Sober Clubgiveback fund If you can afford it, also get Vit D3, Amino Acids and Iodine (ifyou're menopausal) Check out my newSubstack, you can be a free subscriber or paid for some juicy extras SobrietyRocks…& TheWoo Works Follow Janey on social media@janeyleegrace

In this Think Thursday episode, Molly explores luck through the lens of Jim Collins' book What to Make of a Life. Rather than looking at luck as something we either “have” or “don't have,” this episode invites listeners to consider a more powerful question: What return am I creating on the luck I've been given?Molly breaks down Collins' idea of different kinds of luck, including what luck, who luck, and zeit luck, and connects them to behavior change, mindset, identity, and personal agency. Luck may shape the events of our lives, but our response to luck helps shape the direction of our lives.In This Episode Molly explores: Why luck is real, but not the whole story  How Jim Collins' idea of “return on luck” applies to individual lives  The difference between a luck event and a luck response  Why the brain labels events as “good luck” or “bad luck” too quickly  How cliffs, fog, and turning points can reshape identity  The importance of “who luck” and the people who change our path  Why timing luck only matters when we are ready enough to respond  How even good luck can feel threatening to the brain  Why humility and agency are both essential for behavior change Key TakeawaysLuck is not always something we control, but our response to luck is where agency begins.A setback, opportunity, diagnosis, loss, invitation, or chance meeting may become meaningful only through what we do next.Our brains are quick to interpret events, but the first story our brain tells does not have to be the final story.Not every hard thing needs to be turned into a lesson immediately. We can honor pain and still ask, “How do I want to meet this?”Relationships are one of the most powerful forms of luck. Sometimes one person can change the emotional weather around a goal.Timing matters, but timing alone is not enough. When timing luck appears, our willingness to respond matters.Reflection Questions What luck am I labeling too quickly?  Who is part of my luck right now?  What would a high return on this luck look like? Resources MentionedWhat to Make of a Life by Jim Collins  Jim Collins' concept of “return on luck”  The ideas of cliffs, fog, fire, and hedgehogs in individual life paths Closing ThoughtLife may spin the wheel. It may open a door, close a door, reroute the path, or bring you to a cliff. But your response is where your life starts to become yours. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Alcohol Minimalist podcast, Molly wraps up the series When Drinking Less Feels Hard by looking at the final Alcohol Core Belief: Alcohol Keeps Me Going.This belief often shows up as boredom, restlessness, wanting “one more,” drinking when you're home alone, not wanting the night to end, or feeling like alcohol is the thing that makes an ordinary evening feel more interesting. Molly explains why the deeper issue is not “I'm bad at stopping,” but rather, “My brain believes alcohol helps me keep the night going.” Molly also shares a final reminder about Mostly Dry July-The Daily, a 31-day program with a private daily podcast, daily videos, weekly group coaching calls, and support for prioritizing alcohol-free days without all-or-nothing thinking. In This Episode Why Alcohol Keeps Me Going can be a sneaky Alcohol Core Belief How boredom, restlessness, and “one more” drinking keep the loop going  Why alcohol can make an ordinary evening feel like it has more purpose  How dopamine, prediction, and familiar cues create urges  Why alcohol myopia makes “one more” feel convincing  The difference between a promise and a plan  How to create a “stopping ritual”  Why drinking less cannot be the only plan if alcohol has been filling your time, space, or sense of interest Key TakeawayAlcohol may feel like it keeps you going, but it may actually be keeping you from noticing what you need: rest, interest, connection, nourishment, or permission to stop.Listener PracticeChoose one moment when alcohol tends to “keep you going.” Maybe it's when you're home alone and bored, after the first drink, late at night, or when you don't want the evening to end.Ask yourself: What do I think alcohol is keeping going?  What am I trying not to transition into?  What do I actually need right now? Then use the See, Soothe, Separate, Shift process:See: I'm having the thought that alcohol will keep this going. Soothe: Of course my brain is offering that. I've practiced this pattern. Separate: The fact is I want more of something. The story is that another drink is the way to get it. Shift: I can ask what I actually need before I decide whether to drink.Resources MentionedMostly Dry July-The DailyAlcohol Core Beliefshttps://www.facebook.com/groups/alcoholminimalistsLow 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 ★

Happy to announce I will be speaking at an event on theCosta Del Sol on Tuesday 7 July at 10 am My guests are Emma and Louise from Sober Socials.es Follow them for ticket info - Join us in The Sober Club for inspiration, and connection.Thought about training to be a sober coach?Get instant access to our free webinar What does it mean tobe a sober coach, dm or email Connection is key   https://www.thesoberclub.com/explore/https://www.thesoberclub.com/events/New to Sobriety? Sober Curious?Join us in The Sober Club for inspiration, and connection.Check out The Sober Club, for low cost support,accountability, inspiration, connection and a whole host ofcontent on holisticliving. Membership includes and online course Get the Buzz without the Booze,our private non judgemental community online and regular zoom meetings, plus awhole library of exclusive wellbeing contentIf you want to support the work goto www.buymeacoffee.com/janeyleegraceThank you for listening! Please share, rate and reviewIf you're struggling, always reach out, tell someone you'redoing this! @janeyleegrace Ditched the Booze and want to inspire others? Janey offersholistic sober coach training, our next course starts October 18-19, emailJaney for a chat to see if its right for you – janey at janeyleegrace.com Supplements for recoveryThe BEST Magnesium blend ever is the blend from Clive – ifyou use this link https://clivedecarle.com/?sld=16for everything you buy, a bit goes into our Sober Clubgiveback fund If you can afford it, also get Vit D3, Amino Acids and Iodine (ifyou're menopausal) Check out my newSubstack, you can be a free subscriber or paid for some juicy extras SobrietyRocks…& TheWoo Works Follow Janey on social media@janeyleegrace

In this Think Thursday episode, Molly explores reminiscing as more than nostalgia. After returning from a family reunion, she reflects on how shared stories can reconnect us with earlier versions of ourselves and remind us of the courage, humor, resilience, and connection that are still part of who we are. Key Points Reminiscing is not just remembering events; it is reconnecting with identity, meaning, and emotion.  Autobiographical memories help us understand our personal life story and the versions of ourselves we have been.  Family stories can preserve shared identity by reminding us what we value, what we survived, and how we belong to one another.  Healthy reminiscing can support behavior change by reminding us that our current emotional state is not the whole story.  Reminiscing is different from rumination. Rumination loops in shame or regret, while reminiscing helps us integrate the past with curiosity and compassion.  The past can be a courtroom or a library: rumination puts us on trial, but reminiscing helps us retrieve something useful. Science Mentioned The hippocampus helps organize memory and context.  The medial prefrontal cortex is involved in self-reflection and personal meaning.  The default mode network becomes active when we think about ourselves, our past, our future, and the stories that shape our lives.  Erik Erikson's stage of integrity versus despair describes the process of looking back over life and making meaning from both joys and losses. Think Thursday Invitation Take ten minutes to intentionally reminisce.  Look through old photos, listen to a meaningful song, ask a family member to tell a story, or think about a place you used to love.  Ask yourself:  What version of me was present in that memory?  What mattered to me then?  What does this memory remind me is still part of me?  What is one small way I could bring that version of myself into today? Closing ThoughtLooking back is not always about wanting to go backward. Sometimes reminiscing helps us gather pieces of ourselves we forgot we could bring forward. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Recovery Matters Podcast, Stacy speaks with Stephanie Hazard, recovery coach, author, and person in long-term recovery, about her upcoming book Making Sobriety Stick. Stephanie shares how recovery coaching became a powerful part of her own journey, why this non-clinical support role can be a missing piece for so many people, and how recovery support can help individuals and families navigate life beyond treatment. The conversation also explores sober curiosity, eating disorder recovery, recovery capital, family support, and why asking for help can sometimes begin with something as simple as opening a book. Stephanie's book, Making Sobriety Stick, is available for pre-order now, and part of the proceeds from pre-orders will support CCAR's recovery support services. Pre-order the book: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/making-sobriety-stick-stephanie-hazard/1150265768?ean=979889515100600:00 Introduction to Stephanie Hazard00:18 Stephanie's Recovery and Coaching Background02:33 What Making Sobriety Stick Is About05:39 Why a Book Can Be a Gentle Way to Ask for Help07:24 What Led Stephanie to Recovery Coaching08:58 Recovery Coaching as the Missing Piece11:56 Substance Use Recovery vs. Eating Disorder Recovery21:00 Process Addictions and Recovery Capital25:04 Pre-Orders, Proceeds, and Supporting CCAR27:31 Why Recovery Coaching Helps Families Too29:51 Recovery Begins After Discharge32:39 Advice for People Who Are Sober Curious35:19 How CCAR Provides Free Recovery Support36:14 CCAR's Local and Global Impact37:26 Closing Thoughts ----Across the Web----

In this episode of the Alcohol Minimalist podcast, Molly continues the series When Drinking Less Feels Hard, looking at the real-life challenges that make drinking less feel difficult through the lens of Alcohol Core Beliefs.This week's focus is the belief Alcohol Is My Reward—the thought that shows up at the end of a hard day, a long week, while cooking dinner, on vacation, or anytime alcohol feels like the treat you've earned for getting through something. Molly explores why this belief can feel so reasonable, how the brain learns to associate alcohol with reward and transition, and why drinking less can feel like deprivation when alcohol has become the main way you mark completion, rest, or pleasure.Before the episode, Molly also shares a reminder about Mostly Dry July-The Daily, which includes daily support, weekly group coaching calls, weekly brain boosts, and a private daily podcast to help you practice drinking less with peaceful mindfulness and without all-or-nothing thinking.  www.mollywatts.com/mostly-dry-july  In This EpisodeWhy alcohol can become tied to end-of-day and end-of-week ritualsHow the brain learns to predict alcohol as a rewardWhy “I deserve this” is often a clue, not a problemThe difference between true reward and coping in disguiseHow alcohol can represent completion, freedom, pleasure, or feeling like something is finally yoursWhy expanding your reward system is essential for drinking lessHow to use See, Soothe, Separate, and Shift with the belief Alcohol Is My RewardKey TakeawayYou deserve reward, pleasure, rest, and celebration. But alcohol may not be the reward you actually deserve.The reward you deserve is one that restores you, supports you, and helps you feel cared for in the moment and proud of yourself later.Listener PracticeChoose one reward-drinking moment: the end of the day, Friday night, cooking dinner, vacation, or after finishing something hard.Ask yourself:What am I trying to reward?What do I want this reward to give me?Will alcohol actually give me that, or is there another way to create it more honestly?Then practice creating one real reward before alcohol. It might be quiet, rest, movement, food, connection, or a nonalcoholic ritual.Resources MentionedMostly Dry July-The DailyAlcohol Core BeliefsSee, Soothe, Separate, ShiftAlcohol Minimalist Facebook groupLow 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 ★

Our sponsor this week is the brand AURA from The Sozial Club https://thesozialclub.com/I chat to Adrian from the brand.Men's mental health month of June means we have a re reun of some voice notes, tips and insights from 4 of our Sober Coaches, who trained with me, Tony Worsdall, Richard Fox, Paul Briley and Nigel HarpleyInterested in training to be a sober coach? If you missed our webinar on What does it mean to be a sober coach, dm or email and you can listen to the audio recordingIts the 11th annual Platinum Awards to recognise the best in natural and organic products and one of our sponsors is Noughty AF, Janey chats to Amanda Thomsonabout alcohol free fizz and its rise to success.Connection is keyJoin us for a very special recording of the Alcohol Free Life podcast live at Hello Love , my special guest is Matt Pink Thursday 15 June 6,30-8.30 in Bloomsburyhttps://www.thesoberclub.com/events/New to Sobriety? Sober Curious?Check out The Sober Club, for low cost support, accountability, inspiration, connection and a whole host of content on holistic living. Membership includesand online course Get the Buzz without the Booze, our private non judgemental community online and regular zoom meetings, plus a whole library of exclusive wellbeing contentIf you want to support the work go to www.buymeacoffee.com/janeyleegraceThank you for listening! Please share, rate and reviewIfyou're struggling, always reach out, tell someone you're doing this! @janeyleegrace Ditched the Booze and want to inspire others? Janey offers holistic sober coach training, our next coursestarts October 17-18, email Janey for a chat to see if its right for you – janey at janeyleegrace.comSupplements for recoveryThe BEST Magnesium blend ever is the blend from Clive – if you use this link for everything you buy, a bit goes into ourSober Club giveback fund If you can afford it, also get Vit D3, Amino Acids and Iodine (if you're menopausal)   https://clivedecarle.com/?sld=16 Check out my new Substack, you can be a free subscriber or paid for some juicy extrasSobriety Rocks…& The Woo WorksFollow Janey on social media@janeyleegrace

In this Think Thursday episode, Molly reflects on the meaning and importance of Juneteenth, observed on June 19th. Rather than approaching the holiday as a historian, she explores Juneteenth through the lens of memory, truth, freedom, and the stories a culture chooses to remember.Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced freedom to enslaved African Americans there, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This episode invites listeners to consider the difference between freedom declared and freedom actually delivered, and why that distinction still matters.Molly connects Juneteenth to the broader Think Thursday themes of awareness, learning, collective memory, and behavior change. Just as personal transformation requires honest awareness, cultural growth requires a willingness to tell fuller, more truthful stories.In This EpisodeMolly explores:The historical significance of Juneteenth and why June 19, 1865, mattersWhy freedom on paper is not the same as freedom in lived experienceHow national holidays act as moments of public memoryWhy Juneteenth did not begin when it became a federal holiday in 2021How Black communities preserved and celebrated Juneteenth for generationsThe connection between memory, truth, and collective identityWhy fuller truth can create deeper compassion, dignity, and responsibilityHow discomfort can be part of learning and expanding our understandingKey ReflectionJuneteenth is both a celebration and a remembrance. It honors freedom, resilience, and generations of Black Americans who carried this history long before it received broader national recognition. It also asks us to look honestly at the ways freedom has been delayed, denied, and unevenly experienced.Questions to ConsiderWhat did I learn about Juneteenth growing up, and what did I not learn?What does this holiday ask me to remember more fully?How can I honor freedom not just as an idea, but as something that should be real in people's lived experience?Closing ThoughtMemory matters. Truth matters. Freedom matters. Juneteenth reminds us that remembering is not passive. It is a choice, a practice, and part of how we become more honest, more awake, and more human. ★ Support this podcast ★

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 ★

Sonja Grace (sonjagrace.com) is a mystic healer, energy surgeon and spirit traveler with over forty years of experience. Of Norwegian descent with Native American Choctaw and Cherokee heritage, she was adopted on the Hopi Reservation in Arizona and is recognised there as a medicine woman.She is the creator of the COVR Visionary Award-winning oracle deck Odin and the Nine Realms, and the Beverly Hills Book Award-winning author of Spirit Traveler and Dancing with Raven and Bear (Simon & Schuster). Her latest book, The Journey Around the Medicine Wheel: The Sacred Trinity, draws directly on the Hopi ceremonial teachings she carries.She has appeared across four seasons of GAIA TV's Beyond Belief, and her recent conversation with Alex Ferrari on Next Level Soul has drawn over 277,000 viewsThought about training to be a sober coach?Join our Webinar Explore a career as a sober coachtuesday 16 June at 7.30pmConnection is keyJoin us for a very special recording of the Alcohol Free Life podcast live at Hello Love thursday 25 June 6.30You can come on your own! https://www.thesoberclub.com/events/New to Sobriety? Sober Curious?Check out The Sober Club, for low cost support, accountability, inspiration, connection and a whole host ofcontent on holistic living. Membership includes and online course Get the Buzz without the Booze, our private non judgemental community online and regularzoom meetings, plus a whole library of exclusive wellbeing contentIf you want to support the work goto www.buymeacoffee.com/janeyleegraceThank you for listening! Please share, rate and reviewIf you're struggling, always reach out, tell someone you're doing this! @janeyleegrace Ditched the Booze and want to inspire others? Janey offers holistic sober coach training, our next course starts JUne 25 email Janey for a chat to see if its right for you – janey at janeyleegrace.com Supplements for recoveryThe BEST Magnesium blend ever is the blend from Clive – if you use this ??link for everything you buy, a bit goes into ourSober Club giveback fund If you can afford it, also get Vit D3, Amino Acids and Iodine (if you're menopausal) Check out my new Substack, you can be a free subscriber or paid for some juicy extras Sobriety Rocks…& TheWoo WorksFollow Janey on social media@janeyleegrace

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 ★

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 ★

June is Men's mental health month, so there is another chance to hear the first interview I did with Sam Delaney author of Mental Health without all the b**llocks and Sortyour s**t out.Join us in The Sober Club for inspiration, and connection.Thought about training to be a sober coach?Join our next webinar Tuesday 16 June at 7.30 pmRegister HEREConnection is keyJoin us for a very special recording of the Alcohol Free Life podcast live at Hello Love thursday 25 June, myspecial guest is Matt Pink and Noughty AF will be served! You can come on your own! Try some amazing AF drinks and meet like minded people https://www.thesoberclub.com/events/New to Sobriety? Sober Curious?Check out The Sober Club, for low cost support, accountability, inspiration, connection and a whole host ofcontent on holistic living. Membership includes and online course Get the Buzz without the Booze, our private non judgemental community online and regularzoom meetings, plus a whole library of exclusive wellbeing contentIf you want to support the work go to www.buymeacoffee.com/janeyleegraceThank you for listening! Please share, rate and reviewIf you're struggling, always reach out, tell someone you're doing this! @janeyleegrace Ditched the Booze and want to inspire others? Janey offers holistic sober coach training, our next course starts June 27-28 email Janey for a chat to see if its right for you – janey at janeyleegrace.com Supplements for recoveryThe BEST Magnesium blend ever is the blend from Clive – if you use this link for everything you buy, a bit goes into ourSober Club giveback fund If you can afford it, also get Vit D3, Amino Acids and Iodine (if you're menopausal) Check out my new Substack, you can be a free subscriber or paid for some juicy extras Sobriety Rocks…& TheWoo WorksFollow Janey on social media@janeyleegrace

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 ★

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 ★

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 ★

Let's get one thing straight: this isn't another “just drink less” conversation. Because if it were that simple, you would've solved it already. In this raw, honest, and slightly uncomfortable episode, Nicole sits down with intuitive drinking coach Colleen Freeland—host of the It's Not About the Alcohol podcast and a former high-functioning overdrinker herself—to unpack what's really behind overdrinking, especially for high-achieving women who “have it all together”… on paper.  It's not about willpower. It's not about discipline. And it's definitely not just about alcohol. It's about what you're trying to escape. Colleen breaks down why alcohol is often just the symptom—not the problem—and how coping mechanisms like perfectionism, overworking, and even “healthy habits” can be just as numbing if we don't address the root cause. What We Talk About: Why alcohol isn't the problem—it's the signal The real reason high-achieving women overdrink (hint: it's not lack of discipline) Why removing alcohol doesn't fix the issue—it just replaces it Nervous system regulation: the skill no one taught you (but you desperately need) How to rebuild self-trust after patterns you're not proud of Why feeling better starts with admitting you don't feel okay This conversation flips the script on everything we've been taught about drinking, self-control, and “fixing” ourselves. Because the goal may not be to eliminate the coping mechanism… maybe the goal is to build a life you don't constantly need to escape from. Thank you to our sponsors! Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free! Families are better when they're working together… go to myskylight.com/WOMANSWORK for $30 off your Skylight Calendar. Become a Fora Advisor today at Foratravel.com/woman  Connect with Colleen: Website: https://www.emotionalsobrietycoaching.com/  IG: https://www.instagram.com/thehangoverwhisperer/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hangoverwhisperer  Podcast: https://www.emotionalsobrietycoaching.com/podcast  Related Podcast Episodes Stop Saying “I'm Fine”: Nervous System Regulation for High-Achieving Women with Michelle Grosser | 372 How Our Dysregulated Nervous Systems Are Impacting Us with Victoria Albina | 244 Sober Curious with Amanda Kuda | 270 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!