Podcasts about this naked mind

We've taught young people how to achieve but have we taught them how to feel, struggle, and grow? Host Anna Donaghey is joined by consultant Joanna Lilley, who works with young adults at the crossroads of high school, university, and early adulthood, to explore why so many high-achieving students feel anxious, overwhelmed, and unprepared for life.Together, they discuss the emotional blind spots shaping a generation, from overprotection and crisis-driven support, to the relentless pursuit of perfection and the lure of numbing out through tech, alcohol, and quick fixes. You'll also hear practical ideas for building genuine resilience, supporting emotional growth, and redefining success for both parents and teens.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Welcome back & why helping kids handle stress matters02:08 Why record numbers of students are struggling04:09 Tech, overstimulation & the accountability gap after leaving home05:27 Why current university support often misses the mark10:22 Are parents unintentionally “fixing” too much?11:29 Why adversity and struggle are key to building grit and resilience15:22 Coping, numbing, and the pull toward quick-fix behaviors18:10 Alcohol, substances, and the hidden culture of self-medication21:00 The emotional blind spots that make numbing so tempting23:12 How parents and schools can nurture real emotional intelligence and self-awareness29:02 Why Gen Z are the anxious generation33:57 How to support your teen without being a human shield for difficulty35:09 Letting go, empty nests, and finding your own path45:54 Why recovery, reflection, and even a gap year matter more than ever47:43 How intuition, creativity, and downtime build long-term resilience.Anna's book "What Are You Thirsty For? Rethinking Alcohol and The Life You Want", is now out in the world for you to buy!Order your copy, access her free tools and explore her coaching programmes at: https://thebigdrinkrethink.com/The Thirsty For More Mindset Lab is Anna's ‘inner circle' - a calm, thoughtful space where conversations continue, patterns are explored, and things begin to make sense. Find out more at: https://thirstyformore.substack.com/If you appreciate the podcast and would like to show a bit of love, you can donate the cost of a coffee here. It helps support the time and care that goes into making the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethinkAbout the host Anna:Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.Connect with Anna:Website: thebigdrinkrethink.comLinkedIn:

What if making one intentional, alcohol-free day didn't have to feel like a test of willpower or a white-knuckle challenge you had to survive? In this practical solo episode, your host Anna Donaghey shares a clear, step-by-step structure for what a supported, intentional day off drinking can look like in real life.Inspired by a listener who found Dry January a “white-knuckle ride,” Anna explores why sustainable change isn't about deprivation or strict rules, but about adding support, care, and intention into your day. She'll walk you through gentle but powerful tools you can use: from a simple morning check-in and choosing your mantra, to micro-habits that help transition from work mode to rest mode without defaulting to a drink.No matter if you're struggling to string one alcohol-free day together or just want to experiment with drinking less, this toolkit breaks it down into doable, kind steps so you can approach the question of drinking with more choice and less self-judgment.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Welcome back and the listener question behind this episode00:55 Why lasting change is rarely about willpower01:39 “I struggle to put even one alcohol-free day together”03:02 Sustainable change is about adding support, not just removing alcohol04:07 What does one intentional alcohol-free day actually look like?05:26 Starting with a gentle morning check-in (and why it matters)07:27 Have a “coffee with yourself” and checking in on your needs09:25 Choosing a mantra to anchor your day15:29 Micro-rests and working with the day you really have17:36 Hydration as an act of self-care, not just another box to tick20:45 How being well-resourced softens evening cravings21:08 Dealing with the “witching hour”23:33 Finding new rituals to mark the threshold between work and rest26:20 The importance of identity cues, not just discipline27:31 Ending the day with a gentle reflection (not a journaling marathon)30:30 One intentional day is always worth coming back to33:30 How to get more support with the Thirsty For More Mindset Lab.Anna's book "What Are You Thirsty For? Rethinking Alcohol and The Life You Want", is now out in the world for you to buy!Order your copy, access her free tools and explore her coaching programmes at: https://thebigdrinkrethink.com/The Thirsty For More Mindset Lab is Anna's ‘inner circle' - a calm, thoughtful space where conversations continue, patterns are explored, and things begin to make sense. Find out more at: https://thirstyformore.substack.com/If you appreciate the podcast and would like to show a bit of love, you can donate the cost of a coffee here. It helps support the time and care that goes into making the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethinkAbout the host Anna:Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the...

What if the limits we feel around age, change, and possibility aren't real but simply old, worn-out stories we've inherited? In this energising episode, Anna Donaghey is joined by Allison Davis, traditional naturopath and author of ‘Sixty is a Good Start: A Powerful Body, a Purposeful Life, and a Plan to Make it Happen', to bust wide open the myth that it's ever “too late” to rethink your life or your drinking.Together, Anna and Allison explore the deep-seated cultural scripts that tell us when we should want less, slow down, or shrink our dreams. Allison shares her own journey: becoming a new mom at fifty, reclaiming her health in her mid-fifties, writing a book at sixty, and refusing to let a single decade define what's possible. You'll hear how small, sustainable routines, what Allison calls the “self-perpetuating circle of purpose” can help us create vibrant lives at any age.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Rethinking the script on age and alcohol00:41 The “too late” myth and culturally inherited limitations02:15 Allison's story: parenting, fitness, writing, and starting new chapters08:30 How the narratives about age take root and how to question them13:02 Introducing the “circle of purpose”15:02 Why real longevity is about energy, not just living longer16:00 Learning to listen to your body (instead of just managing it)19:13 Alcohol, numbing, and re-awakening to what you really need25:00 The role of the inner critic32:40 The power of “threshold moments”34:02 Rethinking “world work”: purpose, connection, and creating a life worth living39:06 Loneliness and the vital importance of connection as we age42:08 Introducing the Sixty-Day Dare: baby steps toward a bigger, richer life43:00 Why sustainable change is always made up of doable, micro-shifts46:46 Simple places to begin: water, movement, and intentional choices48:13 “Is this enough?” The question that can start everything over, at any age.Anna's book "What Are You Thirsty For? Rethinking Alcohol and The Life You Want", is now out in the world for you to buy!Order your copy, access her free tools and explore her coaching programmes at: https://thebigdrinkrethink.com/The Thirsty For More Mindset Lab is Anna's ‘inner circle' - a calm, thoughtful space where conversations continue, patterns are explored, and things begin to make sense. Find out more at: https://thirstyformore.substack.com/If you appreciate the podcast and would like to show a bit of love, you can donate the cost of a coffee here. It helps support the time and care that goes into making the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethinkAbout the host Anna:Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and...

In this episode, Duane speaks with Early Brunner, the founder of Recovery Demystified. Early shares their powerful journey of navigating addiction as a queer, neurodivergent (autistic) person growing up in a small town. They discuss why traditional recovery models like AA can feel alienating for marginalized groups and how science-based "Quit Lit," neuroscience, and self-compassion provided the path to lasting sobriety.Key Topics & Chapters[00:03] Introduction to Early Brunner Early introduces their background: growing up undiagnosed autistic in 90s Wisconsin, dealing with profound social rejection, and discovering substances at age 10 as a way to find social connection.[04:30] The 13-Year Struggle Early discusses the "vicious cycle" of trying to quit using willpower alone. They share the shame of failed attempts and the realization that the substances that once provided relief were now the primary source of their crippling anxiety.[14:05] The Turning Point: Beyond Willpower The shift began when Early found science-based resources like This Naked Mind by Annie Grace. Understanding the neuroscience of addiction helped them realize they weren't "broken" or "powerless," but rather dealing with a brain-based challenge that could be repaired.[23:34] The Birth of Recovery Demystified After working as an EMT and seeing the failures of the traditional medical system, Early felt called to create a space specifically for those with "complex identities"—queer and neurodivergent folks who face significantly higher rates of addiction due to systemic trauma.[33:44] Neurodivergence and Addiction A deep dive into why ADHD and Autistic individuals are more prone to substance use, focusing on lower baseline dopamine levels, sensory overload, and the "mashing of the dopamine button" to cope with a world not built for them.[36:10] Destigmatizing the Story Early explains the importance of looking at the "whole person," including their childhood (ACEs score), rather than just their worst moments in active addiction. Quotes"Willpower is like a muscle, and muscles get tired over time... I think you need an ounce of willpower and about 25 pounds of everything else." — Early Brunner"One size fits all is not real. It's not real for baseball caps, and it's not real for recovery plans." — Early Brunner"The first step was asking: 'What would someone who loves themself do?'" — Early BrunnerResources MentionedBook: This Naked Mind by Annie GracePodcast: Recovery ElevatorConcept: ACEs Score (Adverse Childhood Experiences)Connect with Early BrunnerWebsite: recoverydemystified.comPodcast: Recovery DemystifiedSocial Media: @recoverydemystified (Instagram/Substack)Email: info@recoverydemystified.comNovusMindfulLife.comEpisode CreditsIf you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if change doesn't start with a dramatic rock bottom or a grand decision, but with the tiniest flickers of awareness? In this reflective episode, Anna Donaghey shines a light on those often-overlooked “tiny clarity moments”, the split seconds when you see your drinking, and your habits, with fresh honesty.Anna shares personal stories and insights from her work as an alcohol mindset coach, exploring how real transformation rarely starts with ultimatums or huge declarations. Instead, it begins with small, honest realisations. Noticing when a drink isn't actually enjoyable, seeing the mismatch between the promise and reality of alcohol, or catching yourself pouring a glass before you've even decided if you want it.This episode is for anyone who's wondered even briefly about their drinking. If you've been waiting for a dramatic sign or a clear plan, this is your permission to start smaller. Sometimes all it takes is noticing what's already there.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Welcome back to The Big Drink Rethink00:40 What are “Tiny Clarity Moments”?01:38 Why big changes often start with small, quiet recognitions02:16 How overlooked thoughts are actually the seeds of awareness03:12 Examples from Anna's own journey04:27 Catching the gap between self-stories and reality05:17 Let moments percolate, don't force change07:12 Understanding your drinking triggers10:06 Why you don't need rules, labels, or willpower11:19 The discomfort of awareness12:07 Prompts to gently explore your own tiny clarity moments13:35 Introducing the Thirsty Ffor More Mindset Lab14:32 Let small things be noticed, because that's where change begins.Anna's book "What Are You Thirsty For? Rethinking Alcohol and The Life You Want", is now out in the world for you to buy!Order your copy, access her free tools and explore her coaching programmes at: https://thebigdrinkrethink.com/The Thirsty For More Mindset Lab is Anna's ‘inner circle' - a calm, thoughtful space where conversations continue, patterns are explored, and things begin to make sense. Find out more at: https://thirstyformore.substack.com/If you appreciate the podcast and would like to show a bit of love, you can donate the cost of a coffee here. It helps support the time and care that goes into making the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethinkAbout the host Anna:Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.Connect with Anna:Website: thebigdrinkrethink.com LinkedIn:

Is it possible that drinking isn't really the problem or at least, not the whole story? In this episode, Anna asks you to rethink your relationship with alcohol by shifting the focus away from simply how much or how often you drink, to what deeper needs might be driving the habit in the first place.Anna explores why we treat alcohol as the main issue, and how it's often just the “smoke, not the fire.” Instead of fixating on willpower or self-control, she dives into the real desires beneath drinking: rest, relief, connection, pleasure, escape.You'll learn how putting alcohol in context, and being gently curious about your own needs rather than harshly judging yourself can open up new possibilities for change.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Welcome to The Big Drink Rethink01:13 What if drinking isn't actually the issue?01:41 Drinking is often the visible symptom, not the deeper cause02:18 Ask: “What am I actually thirsty for?”02:53 Meeting your real needs weakens drinking's grip03:39 Alcohol shows up inside busy, pressured, complex lives04:03 What role has alcohol been playing for you?04:15 Reframing drinking as a response, not a moral failing04:46 Calm, informed choices are possible when alcohol is explained05:11 A new question: “What would actually support me here?”06:01 Shifting from control to care, from shame to curiosity06:38 Change happens gradually, not with a dramatic declaration06:57 If something feels off, you don't need to have a plan yet07:36 Staying curious, not judgmental08:21 Your feedback drives future episodes!Anna's book "What Are You Thirsty For? Rethinking Alcohol and The Life You Want", is now out in the world for you to buy!Order your copy, access her free tools and explore her coaching programmes at: https://thebigdrinkrethink.com/The Thirsty For More Mindset Lab is Anna's ‘inner circle' - a calm, thoughtful space where conversations continue, patterns are explored, and things begin to make sense. Find out more at: https://thirstyformore.substack.com/If you appreciate the podcast and would like to show a bit of love, you can donate the cost of a coffee here. It helps support the time and care that goes into making the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethinkAbout the host Anna:Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.Connect with Anna:Website: thebigdrinkrethink.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonagheyInstagram:

Have you ever wondered why even after a few alcohol-free weeks, life can feel flat or why it feels so hard to say “enough” in a world of endless overconsumption? In this transformative episode of The Big Drink Rethink, Anna Donaghey sits down with Dr. Anna Lembke, psychiatrist, author of Dopamine Nation, and Stanford Addiction Medicine Director, to explore how alcohol hijacks our reward system and what it really takes to rediscover joy and meaning, beyond the next drink.Dr. Lembke explains why life can feel “meh” after quitting drinking and how the brain slowly recalibrates, making real satisfaction possible again. This episode is a gentle yet powerful guide for anyone seeking answers about our brain's quest for ‘more'.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Looking at compulsive over consumption in a dopamine loaded world05:52 ‘The drug of choice' and dopamine08:34 Modern life pushes a ‘hijacked brain' to crave intense stimuli10:53 Addiction shifts the brain's balance14:41 After 4 weeks alcohol-free, 80% no longer had major depression.18:28 Micro stressors like cold exposure boost feel-good neurotransmitters21:12 Pleasure-pain balance drives homeostasis25:46 Modern boredom and addiction29:22 The lizard brain and modern pleasure31:59 Many people associate alcohol with relaxation and happiness36:38 Dopamine, exercise and brain ‘tricks'44:03 True joy comes from connection, curiosity, and enoughness.Anna's book "What Are You Thirsty For? Rethinking Alcohol and The Life You Want", is now out in the world for you to buy!Order your copy, access her free tools and explore her coaching programmes at: https://thebigdrinkrethink.com/The Thirsty For More Mindset Lab is Anna's ‘inner circle' - a calm, thoughtful space where conversations continue, patterns are explored, and things begin to make sense. Find out more at: https://thirstyformore.substack.com/If you appreciate the podcast and would like to show a bit of love, you can donate the cost of a coffee here. It helps support the time and care that goes into making the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethinkAbout the host Anna:Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.Connect with Anna:Website: thebigdrinkrethink.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonagheyInstagram:

Ever caught yourself wondering, “Why is alcohol so hard to control for me?” In this episode Anna Donaghey urges you to challenge the story that the struggle is all your fault. Drawing from her experience as an alcohol mindset coach, author, and strategist, Anna examines why shame and blame are baked into how we talk about drinking and offers a totally different perspective.Instead of focusing on willpower, Anna explores how social expectations, stress, and our culture's obsession with alcohol shapes your relationship with drinking. She invites you to shift from self-judgement to compassionate curiosity, uncovering what alcohol actually does for you, and how to move forward with genuine agency (not force).Listen now for fresh psychological insight, and actionable tools to gently reframe your habits and open new possibilities about rethinking the way you drink.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Welcome to The Big Drink Rethink Podcast00:53 What if you're not the problem? 01:33 Our culture confuses responsibility with blame02:23 The dominant narrative comes from Alcoholics Anonymous05:41 Using alcohol to cope, switching off, easing anxiety, marking the end of the day doesn't make you weak; it makes you human.06:27 The real question isn't “what's wrong with me?” but “why is this the tool I've ended up relying on?”07:01 Curiosity about what alcohol is doing for you shifts the conversation 07:23 The goal isn't just to become a non-drinker, but someone who listens to themselves and designs a life they don't want to escape from08:23 Struggles with drinking aren't your fault09:50 Change begins with curiosity, and honesty10:09 Rethinking drinking is about being awake in your own life.Anna's book "What Are You Thirsty For? Rethinking Alcohol and The Life You Want", is now out in the world for you to buy!Order your copy, access her free tools and explore her coaching programmes at: https://thebigdrinkrethink.com/The Thirsty For More Mindset Lab is Anna's ‘inner circle' - a calm, thoughtful space where conversations continue, patterns are explored, and things begin to make sense. Find out more at: https://thirstyformore.substack.com/If you appreciate the podcast and would like to show a bit of love, you can donate the cost of a coffee here. It helps support the time and care that goes into making the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethinkAbout the host Anna:Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.Connect with Anna:Website: thebigdrinkrethink.com LinkedIn:

Losing the fear of not drinking can feel impossible, can't it? For Lindsey, alcohol was woven into every milestone: sixth-grade sleepovers, college weekends, early marriage, and long workweeks that ended with “just one more” drink on the couch. Drinking wasn't just a habit; it was how she fit in, turned off the noise, and chased that first rush of feeling totally okay for a moment. Over time, the hangovers became brutal, and the mental fallout was even worse—fights with her husband, Sunday dread, and memories she didn't always want to remember. One morning, after a night that ended with a chipped tooth and dry heaving on the kitchen floor while her daughter watched, something inside her shifted. Lindsey found This Naked Mind and, for the first time, felt like someone was telling her she wasn't broken—this is simply what alcohol does. The book became a permission slip to step off the hamster wheel and experiment with not drinking at all. In this episode, Lindsey joins Coach Cole to talk about rebuilding self-trust, reshaping a marriage that was once built on drinks, and becoming the kind of mom whose daughters see her saying “no” with confidence instead of needing a glass to cope. Lindsey and Coach Cole discuss: Lindsey describes the first drink in middle school and how quickly alcohol became tied to identity, popularity, and feeling “okay” for a moment. The progression from curiosity to dependence: chasing euphoria, ignoring red flags, and waking up in emotional and physical pain. How “I'll just drink less” experiments and endless rules kept her stuck in the same cycle of regret, self-doubt, and harsh inner dialogue. The breaking point: a trip that ended with a chipped tooth, a morning spent on the bathroom floor, and her daughter seeing a version of mom Lindsey never wanted to be. Finding This Naked Mind and reframing her story—from “I'm the problem” to “this is what alcohol does,” opening space to question everything. What changed when she began losing the fear of not drinking: more stable moods, clearer health goals as a trainer, and deeper presence with her family. The new foundation of her marriage and parenting—less reactivity, more responsibility for her own choices, and a commitment not to be someone else's story of what they had to overcome. How losing the fear of not drinking allowed Lindsey to feel “light as a feather” and more. Episode links: nakedmindpath.com Related Episodes: How To Stop Using Alcohol As A Crutch - Alcohol Freedom Coaching - E811 - https://thisnakedmind.com/how-to-stop-using-alcohol-as-a-crutch-e811/ What Is the Pink Cloud? - Reader's Question - E320 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-320-reader-question-what-is-the-pink-cloud/ How To Feel Good Without Alcohol - Reader's Question - E702 - https://thisnakedmind.com/podcast/ep-702-readers-question-how-to-feel-good-without-alcohol/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!

This week is a big one for The Big Drink Rethink, with host Anna Donaghey, celebrating publication day and introducing her brand new, first book. "What Are You Thirsty For? Rethinking Alcohol and The Life You Want", is now out in the world for you to buy!In this special episode, Anna invites you to continue your reappraisal - not just of alcohol, but what it is you are really craving in life. Rather than pushing rules or labels, she offers practical, compassionate insights drawn from her own journey (and many honest stories from you, the listeners).At its heart, she invites you to ask a pivotal, different question. Not “Is my drinking bad enough?” but “Is my life good enough?” With warmth and zero preaching, Anna Donaghey welcomes anyone curious, cautious, or somewhere in the grey area, to explore what you really want from life, using gentle tools for awareness and self-discovery.Whether you're seeking new possibilities, or just looking to understand what truly drives your drinking, tune in for an uplifting, honest conversation and don't forget to grab the book, now available everywhere!Amazon: https://amzn.to/47agUn2Waterstones: https://www.waterstones.com/book/what-are-you-thirsty-for/anna-donaghey/9781915780607Here are the highlights:00:00 Intro: Anna's new book - What Are You Thirsty For? is here!01:07 If you're in the “grey area” around alcohol, you're not alone02:14 How cultural stories about alcohol shape our habits 03:43 The book is flipping the script from “is my drinking bad enough?” to “is my life good enough?” 05:01 The shift from self-judgement to self-inquiry, insights from podcast guests 07:01 Awareness, not rules why most people live in the vast in-between 08:23 The “jobs” we hand to alcohol (and why it never truly delivers) 11:11 What changed for Anna12:05 Who the book is really written for14:22 Designing your life by choice, not out of habit, find a pathway back to yourself 15:31 This isn't just about alcohol; it's about the life you want.Anna's group coaching community ‘Unstuck!' helps identify your alcohol ‘stories' and beliefs, breaking the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: https://www.winetowatercoaching.com/unstuck-1 To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna's self-guided programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebigdrinkrethink.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experimentAnd apply the code POD99 to purchase for just £99 as a podcast listener.If you're loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethinkAbout the host Anna:Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing...

Struggling to keep your momentum as the novelty of cutting back on drinking starts to wear off? You're not alone. In this third mini episode, Anna Donaghey returns with five practical, pressure-free ideas to support you through January, especially when willpower is fading and real-life challenges kick in.Building on previous mindset shifts, Anna sidesteps perfection and “shoulds,” guiding you to focus on what you actually want from life (not just what you're trying to avoid). She invites listeners to rethink their motivation, reframe inevitable wobbles as valuable learning moments, and gently plan supportive evenings that help you feel safe and soothed and not stressed.You'll learn the ultimate nervous system hack (intentional breathing), why small rituals matter more than big gestures, and why celebrating tiny gains is the most powerful way to stay on track.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Welcome back to the mini series, for a new year kickstart01:09 The novelty wears off, how to get real momentum in sober curiosity01:31 Five simple, practical ideas, not willpower, but gentle support01:49 Swap “not allowed” thinking for “is my life good enough right now?”02:42 Motivation from desire, not discipline or fear03:18 The pull towards a better life is stronger than willpower04:39 Wobbles are normal, it takes time to learn new habits07:12 Treat setbacks with curiosity, not moral judgment07:34 Plan evenings lightly, enjoy tiny, soothing rituals10:12 The incredible power of intentional breathing (box breathing)13:39 Pay attention to what's getting better14:32 Pick one idea to shape your evening, even if it's gentle and small14:54 What if this month was about becoming someone you feel good being?15:04 The journey continues with more episodes and resources.Anna's group coaching community ‘Unstuck!' helps identify your alcohol ‘stories' and beliefs, breaking the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: https://www.winetowatercoaching.com/unstuck-1 To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna's self-guided programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebigdrinkrethink.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experimentAnd apply the code POD99 to purchase for just £99 as a podcast listener.If you're loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethinkAbout the host Anna:Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.Connect with Anna:Website: thebigdrinkrethink.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonagheyInstagram:...

If you're already feeling the challenge of cutting back on drinking this January, you're not alone and you don't have to rely on sheer willpower. In this second mini episode, Anna returns to share the essential (and surprisingly gentle) secret to handling cravings and breaking free from autopilot habits.Building on the previous episode's mindset shifts, Anna introduces the idea of noticing urges without judgment, explains why most cravings are signals about what you truly need, and guides listeners through the powerful practice of “urge surfing.”This is not about perfection or passing a test. It's about curiosity, self-kindness, and baby steps toward a better relationship with drinking. You'll walk away with a practical tool you can use tonight, and the knowledge that real change starts with tiny moments of awareness.Here are the Highlights:00:00 January is tough, and feeling mixed emotions is normal01:03 Mindset recap: why big declarations don't work01:20 Day two focus: Noticing urges, and why old patterns creep in02:20 Why drinking habits are automatic02:45 What's underneath the craving?03:37 The “magic” of noticing04:26 Tiny moments of awareness versus gritted teeth04:28 Zero-pressure reflection practice05:02 Change begins with curiosity, not control05:31 Your only job tonight: Just notice05:49 What if tonight was just something to observe?07:19 The reality: Most urges peak and fade within minutes08:07 The power of letting an urge pass and discovering what your mind/body really wants08:57 An urge is not an order; you do not have to act on it09:26 Free urge surfing resources available at https://www.thebigdrinkrethink.com/toolkit-optinTune in tomorrow for the next episode, and keep rethinking your relationship with drinking one gentle step at a time.Anna's group coaching community ‘Unstuck!' helps identify your alcohol ‘stories' and beliefs, breaking the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: https://www.winetowatercoaching.com/unstuck-1 To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna's self-guided programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebigdrinkrethink.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experimentAnd apply the code POD99 to purchase for just £99 as a podcast listener.If you're loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethinkAbout the host Anna:Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.Connect with Anna:Website: thebigdrinkrethink.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonagheyInstagram:

Is Dry January on your mind, but you're already feeling the weight of “new year, new me” expectations? In the first of this mini series, Anna welcomes the New Year with a gentle reality check for anyone considering a break from alcohol whether you're looking to quit, cut down, or just get curious about your drinking habits.With compassion and clarity, she unpacks why pressure, grand declarations, and all-or-nothing thinking so often sabotages our best intentions in January. Instead, she offers a different way to embrace curiosity and exploration as you rethink your relationship with drinking.Anna invites you to notice your patterns, get honest about your hopes, and see “wobbles” as part of real, lasting change, not failure. Start the year with self-kindness, realistic strategies, and a plan that supports you, rather than scares you.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Why taking a break from drinking is brilliant anytime00:40 The cultural pressure of New Year's resolutions02:14 “Challenge mode” and the trap of all-or-nothing thinking06:12 Why wobbles are proof of learning and progress07:45 How to make January an exploration, not a test08:11 The real question: What are you hoping to feel in your life this year?09:09 The first step: Start noticing your habits with kindness, not judgment09:20 Permission to be a beginner, and simple ways to support yourself10:01 Anna's Alcohol Experiment and how to get real, daily support.Anna's group coaching community ‘Unstuck!' helps identify your alcohol ‘stories' and beliefs, breaking the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: https://www.winetowatercoaching.com/unstuck-1To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna's self-guided programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebigdrinkrethink.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experimentAnd apply the code POD99 to purchase for just £99 as a podcast listener.If you're loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethinkAbout the host Anna:Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.Connect with Anna:Website: thebigdrinkrethink.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonagheyInstagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethinkProduced by winteraudio.co.ukMentioned in this episode:To pre-order my book, What Are You Thirsty For on Amazon select here: https://amzn.eu/d/3v3T6Mq Or on Waterstones here: https://www.waterstones.com/book/what-are-you-thirsty-for/anna-donaghey/9781915780607

Are you showing up for Christmas wanting change, but feeling swallowed up by old patterns, pressure, or the ever-present invitation to pour a drink? In this uplifting milestone episode of The Big Drink Rethink (100 episodes!), your host Anna Donaghey offers a heart-to-heart Christmas Day pep talk for anyone questioning their drinking, or simply craving a more honest and intentional holiday experience.Through lived experience and a coach's insight, she gently unpacks why Christmas stirs up overwhelm, exhaustion, and even unexpected loneliness, alongside the pressure of old habits. She guides you back to your own intentions, with a practical, simple toolkit for resetting and choosing the version of you that feels truest even if you're the only one who sees it right now.Here are the Highlights: 00:00 Anna's gratitude for every listener whether brand new or following since the beginning00:31 Why Christmas is such a complicated mix of comfort and challenge01:53 Today isn't about perfection02:17 You're not the sum of your past Decembers03:03 Experiment: What does Christmas feel like without alcohol?03:52 How to navigate triggers: Pause, Check In, Choose. 05:21 You're allowed to take up space in a different way06:13 Gentle encouragement to hold your ground with clarity06:39 Have a proud and present Christmas Day, plus where to find resources.Anna's group coaching community ‘Unstuck!' helps identify your alcohol ‘stories' and beliefs, breaking the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: https://www.winetowatercoaching.com/unstuck-1 To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna's self-guided programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebigdrinkrethink.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experimentAnd apply the code POD99 to purchase for just £99 as a podcast listener.If you're loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethinkAbout the host Anna:Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.Connect with Anna:Website: thebigdrinkrethink.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonagheyInstagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethinkProduced by winteraudio.co.ukMentioned in this episode:To pre-order my book, What Are You Thirsty For on Amazon select here: https://amzn.eu/d/3v3T6Mq Or on Waterstones here:...

In today's episode, Sara sits down with author and advocate Celeste Yvonne, whose book It's Not About the Wine cuts straight through the noise of mommy wine culture and exposes what's really going on behind the scenes.   This conversation digs into the political and psychological systems that encourage women to drink, profit from their burnout, and quietly benefit when mothers are overwhelmed, numb, and too exhausted to challenge the status quo.   Sara and Celeste unpack how alcohol became the “acceptable” coping mechanism for modern motherhood, why women are drinking more than ever, and how targeted marketing turned female exhaustion into a trillion-dollar opportunity for Big Alcohol. If you've ever wondered why drinking feels so normalized for moms or why quitting sometimes feels rebellious, this episode will connect the dots.   They also explore what happens when women finally step out of that fog. Spoiler, clarity changes everything. From relationships to emotional patterns to political awareness, sobriety becomes a form of awakening, and that awakening has a ripple effect.   If you've felt the spark of something waking up inside you, this episode will fan that flame. In this episode, you'll hear: Why mommy wine culture exploded on social media and who benefitted from it How Big Alcohol used burnout, overwhelm, and emotional labor as a marketing strategy Why numbing out keeps women small, quiet, and disconnected from their own power The cultural expectations that trap women into drinking more than they realize How marketing shifted from cigarettes to wine, and why women became the primary target The connection between sobriety and political clarity What real self care looks like when alcohol is no longer the default How sobriety gives women their voice back, and why that voice matters The emotional patterns alcohol keeps hidden and what rises to the surface when you stop Why women often feel angrier in early sobriety, and why anger is actually a sign of waking up About Celeste Celeste Yvonne is a writer, speaker, and author of It's Not About the Wine: The Loaded Truth Behind Mommy Wine Culture. Her work has been featured in the Washington Post, Today Show, and Good Morning America. You can follow her  on social media @theultimatemomchallenge (on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok) or on Substack. Ready for a powerful reset? Dry January is coming, and I'm hosting my biggest 30-day alcohol-free experience starting January 1. You'll get daily support, coaching, and a community that actually understands what you're working toward. Join the waiting list for first access and an exclusive discount. Join the waitlist: nomorewasteddays.co/waitinglist Books Mentioned Dopamine Nation by Dr. Anna Lembke Referenced for understanding the pain, pleasure, and dopamine balance. Atomic Habits by James Clear Recommended for building new habits and rewiring routines in early alcohol-free life. This Naked Mind by Annie Grace A foundational book that helped Sara shift her beliefs about alcohol. The Addiction Inoculation by Jessica Lahey Recommended by Celeste for understanding how to raise kids in an alcohol-centric culture. Fawning by Dr. Ingrid Clayton Mentioned in your discussion about people-pleasing and emotional patterns. Quit Like a Woman by Holly Whitaker Cited as one of the major books shaping the conversation around women and alcohol. Drink by Ann Dowsett Johnston Referenced for its research on how and why women became the primary target of alcohol marketing. It's Not About the Wine by Celeste Yvonne Central to the episode and the conversation about mommy wine culture and political awakenings.   ****************************************************   Dry January Waiting List If something in this conversation stirred something in you, don't ignore it. Dry January is right around the corner, and this is your chance to start the year clear, grounded, and fully back in your power. My 30 Day Alcohol Free Experience begins January 1, and the women who join this challenge always walk out with more confidence, more energy, and a level of clarity they didn't know they were missing.   Get on the waiting list today so you're the first to know when enrollment opens and you'll unlock an exclusive discount only available to waitlist members. If you're craving a reset or a real change, this is your moment to take it. Join the waitlist: nomorewasteddays.co/waitinglist   ************************************************   Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial

What does it really mean to be the life of the party when you can't remember the conversations you had? Tiffany grew up in a family where alcohol was as normal as water, present at every meal. Working on cruise ships and yachts, she became the person who never wanted to go home, always chasing the next bar until sunrise. Many people wonder do I need to give up partying when considering change, and Tiffany faced this exact question. After discovering This Naked Mind, she realized she could create a vibrant, connected life without ethanol controlling her every move. In this episode, Tiffany joins Coach Cole to discuss breaking generational patterns and discovering that the best parties don't require alcohol. Coach Cole and Tiffany discuss: Being known as the party animal who never wanted to go home Losing a job due to drinking and the wake-up calls that followed The question many face: do I need to give up partying? How her boyfriend supported her through a year of transformation Going from closing down bars to closing down coffee shops And other topics… Episode links: nakedmindpath.com Related Episodes: Partying and Parenthood - Payal's Naked Life - E461 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-461-naked-life-story-payal/  How do I lose the desire to drink on special occasions? - Reader Question - E440 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-440-reader-question-how-do-i-lose-the-desire-to-drink-on-special-occasions/ Letting Go of A Party Girl Identity - Maggie's Naked Life - E429 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-429-naked-life-story-maggie/ Ready to take the next step on your journey? Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious! Quince For your next trip, treat yourself to the luxe upgrades you deserve from Quince. Go to Quince.com/naked for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Hungryroot Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at Hungryroot.com/nakedmind with code nakedmind Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/mind Cozy Earth Black Friday came early at Cozy Earth! Stack my code NAKEDMIND with their sitewide sale for up to 40% off.

What happens when quitting drinking saves your life but ruins your marriage? Samuel thought stopping drinking would fix everything, but it actually revealed that his relationship couldn't survive the person he was becoming. His drinking story is terrifying—regular blackouts, waking up in strangers' beds, traumatic incidents that destroyed his wife's trust. But when he finally found freedom using This Naked Mind, he made an unexpected discovery: quitting alcohol unlocks creativity and triggers a cascade of positive changes. Now he meditates daily, journals constantly, and uses writing as his primary coping mechanism. In this episode, Samuel joins Cole to explore how the most painful decisions can lead to the most profound personal growth. TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of alcohol blackouts, relationship trauma, and divorce that some listeners may find triggering. In this episode, Samuel and Coach Cole discuss: Growing up in a family and culture where drinking was the norm. The scary reality of blacking out and the fear of a "demon inside." Ditching alcohol for the first time out of shame, and then falling back into the pattern of drinking The surprise of how quitting drinking unlocked creativity and a love for writing. How This Naked Mind's teachings on the subconscious mind sparked a cascade of habit changes. The unexpected challenge of a marriage ending after stopping drinking The power of journaling and the written word as a coping mechanism and a tool for self-discovery. Finding new passions like writing short stories, reading philosophy, and meditating. Using James Clear's Atomic Habits to create lasting change. How not drinking allowed Samuel to confront his inner world and grow as a person. And more… Episode links:Related Episodes: Does alcohol really make you more creative?- Reader Question - E310 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-310-reader-question-does-alcohol-really-make-you-more-creative/  What is the deal with blackouts? - Reader Question - E304 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-304-what-is-the-deal-with-blackouts/ What If Your Biggest Regrets Are Actually Your Greatest Teachers? - Alcohol Freedom Coaching - E817 - https://thisnakedmind.com/finding-purpose-and-direction-after-quitting-alcohol-e817/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious! Quince- Find your fall staples at Quince. Go to Quince.com/naked for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too. Hungryroot- Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at Hungryroot.com/ nakedmind with code nakedmind Shopify- Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/mind BetterHelp- Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/nakedmind

What To Do When The Emotions Hit After You Quit Drinking | Alcohol Freedom Coaching | E845 Trigger Warning: The topics discussed in this episode, particularly in the second half, involve sensitive subjects such as family trauma, abuse, and addiction. Listener discretion is advised. Are you drinking to avoid emotions and finding yourself trapped in endless mental loops about whether to have that drink? Mimi struggles with cognitive dissonance - the uncomfortable tension between wanting to be healthy and fearing social rejection when she doesn't drink. Meanwhile, Heather discovers that childhood trauma is driving her unconscious reach for alcohol whenever difficult emotions surface. In this powerful episode, Coach Cole and Coach Hayley demonstrate what coaching inside The Path looks like, guiding both women through breakthrough moments using This Naked Mind methodology. Watch as they help Mimi find peace with her decision not to drink and support Heather in witnessing emotions she's been pushing down for years, showing how compassionate coaching can bring deep healing and lasting freedom. In Mimi's session: Exploring cognitive dissonance and why it creates inner conflictFear of judgment when choosing not to drink at social and family eventsAnxiety about losing connection when alcohol isn't part of the pictureRecognizing the cost of drinking for belonging vs peace of mindNaming cravings and the fear of giving in during family visitsDiscovering the freedom that comes from releasing old storiesSeeing how coaching inside The Path untangles fear, belonging, and valuesAnd so much more In Heather's session: Facing the flood of emotions that surface after removing alcoholExploring the connection between childhood trauma and drinking to avoid emotionsWhy unresolved experiences from the past can resurface during alcohol-free livingLearning to witness emotions instead of pushing them downRecognizing how alcohol gave the illusion of relief but delayed healingProcessing sadness, fear, and discomfort with compassion instead of avoidanceExperiencing how The Path's coaching helps create safety and lasting growthAnd more… Cole Harvey is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach. For years, he felt lost and used alcohol as a way to cope, until he decided to go alcohol-free and focus on finding his purpose. Through curiosity, self-compassion, and adventure, he transformed his life. As a habit change and mindset coach, Cole helps young men understand themselves, build better habits, and find meaning. Learn more about Coach Cole: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/cole-harvey/  Hayley Scherders is a Senior Coach with This Naked Mind and with training from the Canadian Addiction and Mental Health Association. Drawing from personal experiences, Hayley understands how tough change can be and provides a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free space where her clients can feel supported. She believes that with the right mindset, anyone can change their life at any time. Learn more about Coach Hayley: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/hayley-scherders/  Episode links: nakedmindpath.com Related Episodes: Using Alcohol To Numb Pain - Simone's Naked Life - E207 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-207-naked-life-story-simone/  Why is it so hard to become alcohol free? - Reader Question - E646 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-646-readers-question-why-is-it-so-hard-to-become-alcohol-free/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Quince- Find your fall staples at Quince. Go to Quince.com/naked for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too. Hungryroot- Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at Hungryroot.com/nakedmind with code nakedmind Shopify- Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/mind BetterHelp- Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/nakedmind

Have you ever felt guilty about missing precious memories because of alcohol? Amy's journey began in sixth grade in a family where alcohol was simply part of every gathering. Years later, when her kids confronted her about her drinking, she realized she was missing out on being truly present for the moments that mattered most. After reading This Naked Mind and experiencing one terrifying night where she got so sick she thought she might die, Amy finally quit drinking for good. Now she describes feeling like she's not the same person without alcohol—and she's learned to see this complete transformation as a beautiful thing, even though it can feel a little scary discovering who she truly is. Trigger Warning: This episode contains a mention of suicide. Listener discretion is advised. In this episode, Amy and Coach Cole discuss : Growing up in a family culture centered around drinking Beginning her drinking journey in sixth grade Years of questioning whether she had a drinking problem The confrontation when her children called out her drinking Failed attempts at moderation and temporary sobriety Why she got sick every single time she drank The final terrifying night that changed everything How This Naked Mind helped her find lasting change Embracing the reality that she is not the same person without alcohol Wanting to be fully present for precious family moments Rediscovering her authentic self and core values Moving forward without regret but with intention And other topics… Episode links: Related Episodes: Are vacations and holidays more fun without drinking?- Reader Question - EP 164 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-164-are-vacations-and-holidays-more-fun-without-drinking/  Who Am I Without Wine? - Identity & Sophistication - Alcohol Freedom Coaching - E801 - https://thisnakedmind.com/creating-a-new-identity-after-quitting-drinking-alcohol-freedom-freedom-coaching-e801/ Uncoupling Alcohol and Identity - Andrew's Naked Life - E549 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-549-naked-life-story-andrew/ Ready to take the next step on your journey? Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious! Quince- Find your fall staples at Quince. Go to Quince.com/naked for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too. Hungryroot- Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at Hungryroot.com/ nakedmind with code nakedmind Shopify- Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/mind BetterHelp- Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/nakedmind

The Ripple Effect of Quitting Drinking | Meet Our Coaches | E843 The ripple effect of quitting drinking—what if it reaches far beyond one empty glass? Coach Pam speaks with TNM Alcohol Freedom Guides, Ruby and Kai, who share how they found their way to freedom with This Naked Mind. As coaches for The Path, they now help others do the same. Ruby, a former wine industry insider, recounts her journey of letting go of the self-blame that kept her stuck, while Kai reflects on the decades she spent using alcohol to quiet her mind and cope with personal challenges. Together, they show how gentle coaching questions reshape beliefs, why connection is the opposite of addiction, and how identity shifts make life bigger and calmer. You'll get practical tips to turn “data points” into progress, and replace alcohol's supposed rewards with what you actually need—rest, relief, and connection. In Coach Ruby's Session: A-Ha Moments - The importance of "aha moments" in personal transformation. Dual Addiction - How her struggles with binge eating and alcohol were intertwined Shedding Shame - The power of letting go of shame and self-blame to find freedom The Power of The Path - How community and connection are the opposite of addiction The Ripple Effect - How her decision to become alcohol-free positively impacted her family and friends It's Never Too Late - Realizing that true change and self-discovery can happen at any age In Coach Kai's Session: Quietening Inner Voices - Using alcohol from a young age to cope with personal struggles Willpower is Finite - The moment she realized willpower alone wasn't enough to sustain change Scientific Approach - How the analytical, science-based approach of This Naked Mind impacted her You Are Not Broken - The powerful message that it's the alcohol, not the person, that is the problem. Waste No More Time - The life-changing mantra that motivated her to join The Path and not look back Ruby Williams is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach dedicated to helping people rethink their relationship with alcohol. With 19 years of experience in the wine industry, Ruby understands how alcohol can become a regular part of life, especially in social or stressful situations. After finding freedom in 2019, she was empowered to improve her health, lose weight, and achieve lifelong goals. Ruby uses thoughtful questioning to help clients shift their mindset and build a more balanced, fulfilling, and healthier relationship with alcohol. Learn more about Coach Ruby: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/ruby-williams/ Kai Birdsall, ALPC, is a Certified Naked Mind Coach who helps people change their relationship with alcohol and the habits that keep them stuck. A professional gay woman with a BSc and MBA, she brings 25+ years of corporate leadership to science-based, compassion-led coaching. Kai now supports women in midlife, LGBTQ+ clients, and anyone navigating big transitions—menopause, divorce, illness, career shifts—to manage stress without alcohol and live more authentically. Learn more about Coach Kai: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/kai-birdsall-alpc/ Episode links: nakedmindpath.com Ready to take the next step on your journey? Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious! Quince- Find your fall staples at Quince. Go to Quince.com/naked for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too Hungryroot- Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at Hungryroot.com/nakedmind with code nakedmind Shopify- Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/mind BetterHelp- Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/nakedmind

Today we have Camille. She's 36 years old, from Coeur d 'Alene, Idaho, and she took her last drink on August 22nd, 2024.   This episode brought to you by Better Help – 10% off of your first month #sponsored   Café RE   [04:26] Paul introduces Camille:   Corrine is 36 years old and lives in Coeur d'Alene, ID with her husband and two young children. For fun they enjoy spending time with friends in their community and spending time outside.   Camille says her father got sober when he was 24 and while growing up, she wasn't told that she couldn't drink but her dad gave her things to look out for. She experimented with alcohol in her teens while partying with friends. When she was 18, she began to be very active with church and started dating her now husband.   Camille and her husband got married when she was 21 and she says her drinking ramped up in her mid-twenties. They enjoyed hosting get-togethers with friends and neighbors. Camille says that over time she began to lose the “on/off switch”. She and her husband were still active in church, so Camille found herself living a secretive double life.   Camille was able to quit drinking both times she was pregnant but would always be ready to start back after giving birth. When her first child was five months old, Camille began drinking boxed wine in an effort to believe that she wasn't drinking as much as she was. Not long after this, she began having alcohol in multiple locations so she could rotate through it.   Working as a hairstylist and taking on more responsibility at church found Camille more exhausted and feeling more shame about her drinking. She began to feel like God was asking her to hand her problem over. She was at the point where she was disgusted with how she looked and felt and tired of the anxiety and mental gymnastics surrounding her drinking.   Camille's husband never questioned her drinking, and she was scared to bring it up. When he decided to quit drinking in solidarity with a friend, Camille decided to join them a few weeks later.   The first two weeks, Camille says she was white knuckling. She tried to distract herself as much as possible. She started making jewelry, exercising, listening to podcasts and reading quit lit. She tried listening to This Naked Mind again and identified with a lot of things.   Camille began to burn ships with her friends and fellow church members and learned she was not alone. Her parents were very supportive when she shared with them as well. After the first two weeks, Camille began to reap the benefits of an alcohol-free life. She says she now feels free and fully present with the people that matter.   [47:39] Thoughts from Paul:   This is an intro that Paul says he has been wanting to do for a while but has shied away because the subject matter can be triggering for some, including himself. Politics, news, the state of the US, the state of the world. The message he wants to convey is DO NOT DRINK THE KOOL-AID.   The news, social media, politicians and all of the algorithms on the internet are trying to put you in a fearful state. They have learned that fear and fake news hold your attention longer, that they can control you better, and they make more money on advertisements, etc.   One thing on the news that we see is doom and gloom, but Paul shares that he does not see that in real life. He doesn't want to downplay things, but things aren't nearly as bad as the news wants you to think. We need to start choosing where to put our attention. We are almost enabling addicts who are addicted to power by giving them our attention.   Go meet you neighbor, learn the names of birds in your yard, and be kind to yourself. Humans are going through a lot of change at the moment. And change is hard. We're going to be just fine.      Recovery Elevator Rule 22, let's lighten up and not take ourselves too seriously. I love you guys.   RE on Instagram Recovery Elevator YouTube Sobriety Tracker iTunes     

What is an alcohol coach, and how can they guide you to freedom from alcohol? Path Coaches Cole and Julie join Coach Pam to discuss their unique approach to coaching, which goes beyond just quitting alcohol. In this episode, they share how coaching is not about giving answers but about helping clients shift their mindset, address emotional triggers, and how their work empowers clients to reclaim control of their lives. In this episode, Coach Pam and Coach Cole discuss: The unexpected feeling of relief when he committed to a year of not drinking His journey from fighting his "shadow self" to befriending it Comparing old "authoritarian" coaching to the gentle guidance of an alcohol coach Using questions and perception shifts to uncover inner wisdom The power of letting go of beliefs that no longer serve you Why learning from setbacks is more powerful than striving for perfection How the Path program helps you rebuild your foundation brick by brick Finding incredible and enriching things in witnessing others' transformations And more… Coach Pam and Coach Julie discuss: Recognizing a "nagging feeling" as a sign to explore her relationship with alcohol The "Aha" moment from drinking and getting curious about it Transforming from a Path participant to a Path coach Using the ACT Process to reframe thoughts and reduce the desire to drink Finding profound change by letting go of stories, shame, and guilt The importance of community support to realize you're not alone How she handled major life events with the support of the Path Why she believes there's "no downside" to investing in a year-long program And other topics… Cole Harvey is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach. For years, he felt lost and used alcohol as a way to cope, until he decided to go alcohol-free and focus on finding his purpose. Through curiosity, self-compassion, and adventure, he transformed his life. As a habit change and mindset coach, Cole helps young men understand themselves, build better habits, and find meaning. Learn more about Coach Cole: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/cole-harvey/ Julie Lively is a certified This Naked Mind Alcohol Freedom Coach and Master Gray Area Drinking Coach. After years of struggling with drinking, Julie found lasting freedom through the science and compassion of This Naked Mind. She now helps midlife women navigating major life transitions—like career changes, empty nests, menopause, and caring for aging parents—break free from alcohol's grip. Julie empowers women to reclaim confidence, clarity, and peace, guiding them to live alcohol-free and with joy. Learn more about Coach Julie: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/julie-lively/ Episode links: nakedmindpath.com Related Episodes: Healing Through Self-Love - Cole's Naked Life - E737 - https://thisnakedmind.com/healing-through-self-love-coles-naked-life-e737/ How do I go back to normal life after The Alcohol Experiment?- Reader Question – E508 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-508-reader-question-how-do-i-go-back-to-normal-life-after-the-alcohol-experiment/ Is Organic Wine Better For You? - Alcohol Freedom Coaching - E791 - https://thisnakedmind.com/is-organic-wine-better-for-you/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!

If divorce or co-parenting has you thinking “this could drive me to drink,” you're not alone. Separation brings anger, resentment, logistics chaos, and a whole lot of nervous-system fireworks. Alcohol can feel like the quickest off-switch — but it doesn't solve anything, and usually makes you more anxious and less steady. In this episode, I'm talking to Scott Pinyard — former Head Coach at This Naked Mind, alcohol-free coach, and creator of a co-parenting program — about navigating divorce, toxic co-parenting, anger, and alcohol. I asked Scott (coach and long-time co-parent who divorced when his daughter was a toddler) to share how to stop trying to change your ex, work with your own anger, and create pockets of peace for you and your kids — without numbing out with alcohol. For the full show notes, kindly go to this podcast episode link: https://hellosomedaycoaching.com/divorce-toxic-co-parenting-anger-alcohol/ 4 Ways I Can Support You In Drinking Less + Living More Join The Sobriety Starter Kit, the only sober coaching course designed specifically for busy women. My proven, step-by-step sober coaching program will teach you exactly how to stop drinking  — and how to make it the best decision of your life. Save your seat in my FREE MASTERCLASS, 5 Secrets To Successfully Take a Break From Drinking  Grab the Free 30-Day Guide To Quitting Drinking, 30 Tips For Your First Month Alcohol-Free. Connect with me for free sober coaching tips, updates + videos on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and TikTok @hellosomedaysober. Love The Podcast and Want To Say Thanks? ☕ Buy me a coffee! In the true spirit of Seattle, coffee is my love language. So if you want to support the hours that go into creating this show each week, click this link to buy me a coffee and I'll run to the nearest Starbucks + lift a Venti Almond Milk Latte and toast to you! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hellosomeday 

In this inspiring episode, Janet talks with Sarah, known online as the “Sober Sherpa”, about her journey from teenage drinking, to a “work hard, play hard” corporate lifestyle, to finally embracing the freedom of sobriety. Sarah shares how the COVID lockdown became a turning point, helping her finally step away from alcohol after years of trying to moderate. She opens up about the tools that helped her succeed, the unexpected benefits of life without booze, and how she's now using her passion for adventure to help others in their recovery through the Sober Adventure Collective. In this episode:- How Sarah's drinking started young and became tied to her identity and success The moment she realized her drinking could cost her the career she'd worked so hard to build How an online 12-week recovery program and “This Naked Mind” changed her perspective on alcohol The surprising emotional freedom and confidence that came with sobriety Why adding new passions and connections is just as important as removing alcohol How the Sober Adventure Collective helps people heal through nature, movement, and connection Why helping others in recovery has become one of the most meaningful parts of her journey Resources and Links Follow Sarah on Instagram: @thesobersherpa Grab the Epic Speakers Summit recordings: www.thesobersherpa.com Book recommendation: This Naked Mind by Annie Grace Join Tribe Sober's FREE 7 day Bootcamp (7-14th September) via this link More info Subscription membership for Tribe Sober join up HERE To access our website click HERE If you would like a free copy of our "Annual Tracker" or our e-book "66 Days to Sobriety" please email janet@tribesober.com If you would like to come to our Saturday afternoon Zoom Cafe as a guest and meet our community just email janet@tribesober.com Episode Sponsor           This episode is sponsored by the Tribe Sober Membership Program.             If you want to change your relationship with alcohol then  sign up today           Read more about our program and subscribe HERE Help us to spread the word! We made this podcast so that we can reach more people who need our help.  Please subscribe and share. If you enjoyed the podcast then please leave us a 5 star review on Apple podcasts, take a screenshot of your review and DM it to Tribe Sober's Instagram page - see PS for instructions - we'll send you something special to say thank you! We release a podcast episode every Saturday morning. You can follow Tribe Sober on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram  You can join our private Facebook group HERE How to leave an rating/review in Apple Podcasts (on an iOS device) 1. Open the Podcasts app. EASY. 2. Choose "Search" from the bottom row of icons and enter the name of the show (Tribe Sober) into the search field. 3. Select the show under Shows (not under Episodes). 4. Scroll down past the first few episodes until you see Ratings & Reviews. 5. Click "Write a Review" underneath the displayed reviews from other listeners. You'll then have the option to rate the show on a 5-star scale, and write a review (you can rate without writing, too but it's always good to read your experience).  

✨ Enrollment for PUSH to 100 is officially open! This is my signature 100-day alcohol-free challenge designed to give you daily support, live coaching, and community so you never have to walk this path alone. Enrollment closes September 11th and space is limited so grab your spot today! www.nomorewasteddays.co/push-to-100/   In this shorty episode, I'm taking you all the way back to my very first day alcohol-free: May 13, 2019. I'll share what life looked like the week before, how my husband and I went from heavy drinking to considering a break, and the exact details of how I got through Day 1. From writing “I do not drink” in my journal, to listening to This Naked Mind on my commute, to sipping LaCroix and kombucha at home. This was the day that quietly but powerfully changed everything. You'll hear: The lead-up to my Day 1, including a cruise, milestone birthdays, and that inner knowing that I needed change. How I set myself up for success with gratitude journaling, affirmations, quit lit, and non-alcoholic drinks. The importance of having an after-work plan and identifying my “witching hour.” The one piece I wish I had embraced sooner: community. Whether you're just thinking about quitting, preparing for your own Day 1, or already a few days in, my story will give you inspiration, practical tools, and the reassurance that you don't have to figure it out alone.

What if the first real step toward change isn't putting down the drink, but learning to listen to yourself? What if the key to breaking free has less to do with willpower, and more to do with compassion, curiosity, and connection? In this powerful conversation, Coach Pam is joined by Coaches Kath and Soraya to explore two very different alcohol journeys that led to the same realization: you don't have to hit rock bottom to know that something needs to shift. For both women, the breakthrough came not in a single dramatic moment—but in a growing awareness that their drinking didn't match their values or the life they truly wanted to live. Through their work in The Path, they've helped hundreds of people learn how to feel their feelings, rewrite their limiting beliefs, and discover how to show up for yourself and stop drinking—in a way that feels empowering, not punishing. If you've ever felt like your struggle “doesn't count” or you're just not sure if you deserve support, this episode will change the conversation. In this episode, Coach Kath and Coach Pam discuss: Why a problematic relationship with alcohol doesn't always look “bad” What changed when Kath stopped comparing herself to others The importance of community in shifting from shame to empowermentHow to trust your inner voice when it says something isn't right Why coaching isn't about giving advice—it's about holding space How to show up for yourself and stop drinking—even if you've tried before …and more In this episode, Coach Soraya and Coach Pam discuss: How early rehab and AA shaped (and complicated) her beliefs The game-changing moment when she asked, “What if I'm not broken?” The power of recognizing that you've been showing up all along How to feel your feelings instead of drinking them away Why success is simply raising your hand and taking back the driver's seat How to show up for yourself and stop drinking by reclaiming your worth …and more Coach Kath is a Certified This Naked Mind Coach and ALPC who supports single parents and busy professionals in breaking free from alcohol. She once used wine to cope with stress, until she realized it was quietly draining her joy. In 2021, she quit drinking and found lasting change through the This Naked Mind approach. Kath now helps others tap into that same clarity and freedom with compassion and practical tools. Her coaching is grounded in real-life experience and a deep belief in what's possible. Learn more about Coach Kath: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/kath-roberts/ Coach Soraya is a compassionate Certified This Naked Mind Coach and certified Kula Yoga instructor, combining somatic healing and therapeutic models to support her clients' journeys to recovery. With a deep commitment to working with individuals who feel disconnected from their true selves, Soraya specializes in helping people break free from addictions to substances or behaviors that no longer serve them. Her heart-centered, trauma-informed approach is rooted in collaboration and trust, with a focus on accessibility for BIPOC and LGBTQIA++ communities. Soraya's passion lies in guiding others back to their personal power, allowing them to find peace, purpose, and lasting healing. Learn more about Coach Soraya: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/soraya-arjan-odishoo-alpc/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠http://BetterHelp.com/NAKEDMIND|BetterHelp.com/NAKEDMIND⁠⁠ Quince: For your next trip, treat yourself to the luxe upgrades you deserve from Quince. Go to ⁠⁠http://Quince.com/naked|Quince.com/naked⁠⁠ for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Hungryroot: Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at ⁠⁠http://Hungryroot.com/mind|Hungryroot.com/mind⁠⁠ with code mind Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at ⁠⁠http://Shopify.com/mind|Shopify.com/mind⁠

How do I stop sabotaging my attempts to quit drinking?  Jane's story will hit close to home for anyone who's ever wondered why they can stick to other healthy habits but struggle with alcohol. She exercises regularly, eats well, and maintains discipline in other areas of life, yet finds herself repeatedly breaking her commitment to quit drinking. In this honest coaching session, Jane opens up to Coach Tabbin about the internal dialogue that leads her from nail appointments to wine purchases, and how emotional triggers consistently derail her best intentions. Together, they uncover how unprocessed grief and the need to control uncontrollable situations drove her to use alcohol as emotional suppression. This episode provides practical insights into understanding the subconscious mind's role in drinking decisions and developing the self-compassion needed to break free from self-sabotaging patterns. In Jane's session: Struggling to stick to decisions about not drinking Dealing with anxiety about future alcohol-related situations Using distraction techniques for alcohol-free days Coping with self-criticism and feeling like a disappointment Understanding alcohol as a form of self-sabotage Building trust in alcohol-free living Learning to practice self-compassion The cognitive dissonance between conscious desire to quit and subconscious urges Finding support in community and relationships and more… Coach Tabbin is a Senior Coach with This Naked Mind, certified in ALP (Affective Liminal Psychology) and Grey Area Drinking. After years of battling alcohol, including a period of over seven years of not drinking interrupted by major life events, she found lasting freedom through This Naked Mind in 2018. Now a full-time coach, she helps senior professionals, especially those aged 45+, rewire their brains to live alcohol-free. With a background in advertising, Tabbin understands the pressures of high-powered careers and brings compassion and expertise to those navigating similar struggles. She is also a speaker, the host of The Alcohol Debate podcast, and the author of the Amazon best-seller Bottling Up Trouble. Learn more about Coach Tabbin: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/tabbin-almond-alpc/ Related Episodes: Why do I keep sabotaging my sobriety? - Alcohol Freedom Coaching – E728 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-728-readers-question-why-do-i-keep-sabotaging-my-sobriety/ End Self-Sabotage with Self-Love - Alcohol Freedom Coaching - E742 - https://thisnakedmind.com/end-self-sabotage-with-self-love-alcohol-freedom-coaching-e742/ Learning To Trust Yourself Again - Alcohol Freedom Coaching - E746 - https://thisnakedmind.com/learning-to-trust-yourself-again-alcohol-freedom-coaching-e746/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious! BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/nakedmind Quince: For your next trip, treat yourself to the luxe upgrades you deserve from Quince. Go to Quince.com/naked for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Hungryroot: Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at Hungryroot.com/nakedmind with code nakedmind Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/mind

Send us a textWhat if the key to lasting change isn't more willpower… but less attachment to your thoughts?In this episode of Sober & Lit, we sit down with the brilliant Scott Pinyard—former Head Coach at This Naked Mind—to explore the surprising role mindset, story, and consciousness play in alcohol freedom and beyond.Scott shares the pivotal shift that helped him break free from alcohol, how emotional awareness rewires our patterns, and why true transformation often starts with one simple question: What am I thinking?We go deep into:Why mindset beats motivation every timeThe science (and woo) of consciousnessHow your stories might be silently running your lifeWhat music, banjo, and bass have to do with healing Whether you're reevaluating your relationship with alcohol, navigating co-parenting, or just craving a deeper connection to yourself—this episode will open your mind and light up your path. Ready to shift your story?________To reach Scott Pinyard: scottpinyard.com________Join Feel Lit 21 Live  This is a 21-Day Alcohol Reset program starting September 1, 2025 with weekly group coaching with Coach Ruby and Coach Susan. Join us for Sober September --- make this your month to finally break the cycle! https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/buy-feel-lit-21-live_________Starting September 1st, join Ruby and Susan for a 21-Day Alcohol Reset Program with weekly group coaching that keeps you motivated, supported, and celebrating your wins. Come connect this September and let's make this the month you start to feel lit, alcohol-free.Find out more here: https://feellitpodcast.com/FeelLit21-Sept25Don't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join us for FL21 LIVE in September 2025! Embrace 21 days without alcohol that feels lit! Click here to find out more:https://feellitpodcast.com/FeelLit21-Sept25 Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/ Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

"That nagging 3 AM voice saying 'Rose, why are you doing this to yourself?' finally got too loud to ignore."Two years alcohol-free milestone!

You've been a bartender for years, and alcohol has been a constant in your social life, your travels, and career—so how do you stop drinking when you work in a bar? For Gina, the turning point came when she realized that alcohol no longer added value to her life, in fact, it almost seemed mundane to drink. After reading This Naked Mind by Annie Grace, Gina unlocked a new way of thinking about alcohol and began to see how much freedom there was without it. In this episode, Gina shares her journey and the strategies that helped her break free from a life dictated by alcohol. In this episode, Gina and Cole discuss: How alcohol became an "annoying albatross" after being a constant part of her life. Her unique experience as a lifelong bartender and solo traveler, with alcohol as a companion. Pondering the question - how do you stop drinking when you work in a bar The profound impact of Annie Grace's "This Naked Mind" and how it confirmed everything she thought. Why she didn't tell a single soul about her journey for a year. Rediscovering her creative potential and finishing a novel started 15 years ago in a "drunken stupor." The financial benefits of sobriety – saving $10,000 in a year and two months! How she manages to still interview bartenders and write about spirits without craving a drink. Gina's powerful message to her past self: "You do not have to be drunk to have fun." And so much more… Episode links: Gina's podcast - https://lakeandsumterstyle.com/healthy-living-podcast/ Gina's article - https://lakeandsumterstyle.com/repurposing-a-beloved-glass-for-a-more-purposeful-life/ Related Episodes: Can someone in the service industry stay sober? - Reader Questions - E560 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-560-reader-question-can-someone-in-the-service-industry-stay-sober/ The Sober Experiment - Alex and Lisa's Naked Life - E259 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-259-naked-life-story-alex-and-lisa/ How To Plan an Alcohol-Free Vacation - Reader's Questions - E652 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-652-readers-question-how-to-plan-an-alcohol-free-vacation/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious! BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/nakedmind Quince: For your next trip, treat yourself to the luxe upgrades you deserve from Quince. Go to Quince.com/naked for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Hungryroot: Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at Hungryroot.com/nakedmind with code nakedmind Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/mind

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of cancer, illness, loss, and intense emotional pain (including shame and guilt) related to alcohol use. Please listen with care. What if the reason you can't seem to stop drinking is because your brain is wired to keep returning to old patterns? Coach Pam talks with coaches Tabbin and Hayley about how understanding the way our brain processes alcohol can be a game changer. By learning how to rewire your brain to stop drinking, we can break free from the cycles that keep us trapped. They discuss the neuroscience behind alcohol cravings, how to address emotional triggers, and the tools that help create lasting change. This episode is packed with insights on how to reshape your mind for a healthier, alcohol-free life. In this episode, Coach Tabbin and Coach Pam discuss: Trying various methods to control alcohol for 20 years before finding success Her experience with AA and feeling like she hadn't hit "rock bottom" to belong The profound impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and her return to drinking during a moment of immense fear Discovering This Naked Mind and the shocking realization that alcohol causes breast cancer The "aha" moment of revulsion towards alcohol, leading to lasting alcohol freedom since May 2018 Her focus on fitness and health as key motivators for an alcohol-free life The importance of self-compassion in overcoming "stuckness" and inner criticism Recognizing how to rewire your brain to stop drinking changed her perception of alcohol from pleasurable to harmful …and more In this episode, Coach Hayley and Coach Pam discuss: Finding This Naked Mind through a search for non-judgmental alcohol support Her relief at discovering a science and compassion-based program that felt like "coming home" Overcoming deep shame and the fear of sharing her story The core belief that "you are not broken" when struggling with alcohol dependence Learning to reframe thoughts and shift perspective as a powerful coaching technique Her personal experience with her mother's illness and the guilt associated with past drinking Understanding the concept of doing "the best you could with the tools you had" Embracing feelings and allowing emotions to move through her as a vital coping mechanism The realization that life is still "lifey" even without alcohol, but now with better tools Why you shouldn't wait for a "rock bottom" or "ideal timing" to seek change …and more Coach Tabbin is a Senior Coach with This Naked Mind, certified in ALP (Affective Liminal Psychology) and Grey Area Drinking. After years of battling alcohol, including a period of over seven years of not drinking interrupted by major life events, she found lasting freedom through This Naked Mind in 2018. Now a full-time coach, she helps senior professionals, especially those aged 45+, rewire their brains to live alcohol-free. With a background in advertising, Tabbin understands the pressures of high-powered careers and brings compassion and expertise to those navigating similar struggles. She is also a speaker, the host of The Alcohol Debate podcast, and the author of the Amazon best-seller Bottling Up Trouble. Learn more about Coach Tabbin: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/tabbin-almond-alpc/ Coach Hayley is a certified TNM Coach with training from the Canadian Addiction and Mental Health Association. Drawing from personal experiences, Hayley understands how tough change can be and provides a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free space where her clients can feel supported. She believes that with the right mindset, anyone can change their life at any time. Learn more about Coach Hayley: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/hayley-scherders/ Episode links: nakedmindpath.com

Join Ellie and Scott as they dive into the art of talking about your alcohol-free or sober journey - whether it's dating, friendship, or handling tough questions from family.

Today we have Lori. She is 58 years old from Vancouver, Canada. She took her last drink on February 21st, 2024.   This episode brought to you by: Better Help – 10% off of your first month #sponsored Café RE – the social app for sober people   [03:11] Thoughts from Paul:   Paul shares that his second book, Dolce Vita, is currently in the editing process and should be out by November this year. This was also the name of the bar he owned Spain when he was in his 20's. The name is Italian for “the good life” which Paul once thought he could find at the bottom of a bottle. He began to notice that his Dolce Vita had an expiration date that would get shorter and shorter over time.   The thing Paul thought was delivering the dolce vita was slowly and methodically destroying any chance of having one. It wasn't until he finally ditched the booze that the good life actually showed up. He learned that the sweetness wasn't in escaping life, it was finally showing up for it.   The good life is right here in front of us all, right here in this moment, as long as we stay away from a drink today.   [09:19] Paul introduces Lori:   Lori is 58 years old and lives in the suburbs of Vancouver, Canada. She has been married for 37 years, and they have two grown children and one grandchild. Lori has been a realtor for 35 years and for fun she enjoys golf and physical fitness.    Lori shares that she had a great childhood, but her mother was an alcoholic, and it affected her negatively throughout the years. In high school, Lori aspired to be an actress and craved attention. Having an already outgoing personality, it just got bigger when she was drinking and garnered more attention.   Lori had a lot of resentments towards her mother over the years and admits she treated her poorly. They did not make amends before her mother passed, and Lori says that is when her drinking started ramping up. On the outside, everything was going well with her career and her kids, but the weekends revolved around drinking.   Some mornings Lori would wake up depressed, regretful of her actions the night before and be plagued with the “not again” feelings. Lori and her husband would discuss cutting back on drinking and she acknowledges that he only drank as much as he did because of her.   In 2022 Lori was able to quit drinking for 77 days with the help of This Naked Mind and participated in two 30-day alcohol experiments. Then something negative happened and Lori found herself reaching for a glass of wine. Before long she was drinking at any time of day, hiding alcohol in her sock drawer and sneaking shots of moonshine.   After a weekend trip with some friends where Lori could not get the happy buzz that she was looking for from the alcohol, she knew that something had to change. She joined the RE Ukelele course and decided to stick around. With the help and encouragement of some fellow members, she started to believe that maybe she could be alcohol-free.   Lori began going to a lot of chats with Café RE, first with the camera off just taking notes. She began to participate by asking questions and listening. The community has helped Lori find her mantra to hit the pillow sober every night. The first 30 days felt like the calendar was moving backwards, but she kept going.   Lori still stays social with her friends but has recently been feeling like she is at a crossroads. Some events that used to be fun no longer are and she is feeling a shift. The RE community means a lot to her and she is currently seeking more sober connections local to her.   Some of the bright lights in sobriety for Lori are the ability to be heard, being reliable, and she now feels better physically as well as mentally.   Lori's parting piece of guidance: please decide your “whys” If the cons outweigh the pros, you need to take alcohol out of your life.   Recovery Elevator You took the elevator down, you gotta take the stairs back up. We can do this. I love you guys.     RE on Instagram Recovery Elevator YouTube Sobriety Tracker iTunes     

In this midyear news roundup episode of Recovery in the Middle Ages, Mike and Nat discuss the most significant addiction and recovery stories of 2025. From the federal crackdown on kratom's potent opioid-like compound to San Francisco's hard pivot away from harm reduction, we're breaking down what these changes mean for people in and around recovery. We'll also explore why New York's overdose death rate just dropped like a rock, how Scotland's first legal injection site is making waves, and why India's rehab clinics are overflowing.  It's our first episode since February so buckle up. We've got some personal updates and reflections on the last five months that will be of interest to one and all. *This podcast does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.* Please remember to SUBSCRIBE to the podcast on your favorite platform to get the latest episode delivered right to your devices as soon as it's released. LINKS: We are a listener-supported podcast. If you like what we're doing here at RMA and want to support the show, JOIN THE RECOVERY IN THE MIDDLE AGES PATREON  Our sole mission is to help other people achieve sobriety and become their best, most authentic selves. As little as $3 a month makes a big difference and helps us keep the lights on.  https://www.patreon.com/RecoveryintheMiddleAges As always, we thank you for your support.  RMA ON YOUTUBE FOLLOW US ON TWITTER  Facebook Page We also have a Facebook Group! Request to join the group. It's a private space for continuing the discussion of what Nat and Mike talk about on the podcast. Hope to see you there. PLEASE leave us a 5 star review on I-Tunes if you're enjoying the show and SUBSCRIBE to get the latest episodes.  Email: MikeR@middleagesrecovery.com Natx@middleagesrecovery.com We all have a story. Tell us yours and we'll share it on the show! E-Mail your story to miker@middleagesrecovery.com If you're in trouble with substance abuse and need help, reach out. There are thousands of people who have put problems with addiction in their rear-view mirrors and you can be one of them. While we neither endorse nor condemn any particular program, the sheer number of available AA and NA meetings suggest that reaching out to those organizations would be a good first step, (but maybe not the last step), on your road to recovery.   https://www.aa.org/ https://www.na.org/meetingsearch/ Marijuana Anonymous (just in case): This Naked Mind  

Today we have Rachel. She is 48 years old and lives in Minneapolis, MN. She took her last drink on August 28th, 2018.   This episode brought to you by: Better Help – 10% off of your first month #sponsored Sober Link – learn more and save $50 off of a device     Come join us in beautiful Bozeman, Montana this August 6th – 10th for our annual flagship retreat. We have a few camping spots as well as a few spots left in the men's cabin.   [02:50] Thoughts from Paul:   Healing can look a bit like a paradox and Paul shares several examples showing this. Tying this same idea into ditching the booze we can say that quitting drinking can make you feel more anxious at first, when it's actually making you calmer in the long run. Quitting drinking can make you feel more emotional and raw when it's actually making you more resilient. Sobriety can make you feel bored at first, but it's actually clearing space for hobbies and adventures that you'll deeply enjoy.   Healing can hurt at first, but look out, brighter days are just on the horizon. Can you do this? Absolutely. Will there be stumbles, bad days? Without a doubt.   You can do this, you are doing this and you're further along on your AF journey than you think. Keep moving forward.   [06:30] Paul introduces Rachel:   Rachel is 48 and lives just outside of Minneapolis, MN. She is married and they have three cats. She is a director in financial services and for fun she enjoys reading, writing and attending meet ups with other sober people.   Alcohol was always present when Rachel was growing up. She was an achiever in school and had already completed some college before graduating high school. Drinking was not a focus for her through her school years, and she didn't start drinking until later in her life.   Around 2008 during the national financial crisis, Rachel says her drinking changed. Being a bond trader during this time was tough due to the uncertainty of the future. Rachel found herself having a drink after work and it became part of habit loop for her: go to work, come home, have a drink.  Over the next 7 to 10 years, that one drink turned into multiple bottles.   Rachel was desperate to figure out how to solve this issue without drinking and tried moderation with no luck. She began reading books like This Naked Mind and listening to podcasts like RE. She felt the stories on the podcast were relatable because they were normal people and not the stereotypical bum under a bridge with the brown paper bag.   After hearing suggestions of trying to quit for 30 days, Rachel decided to try it and has been sober ever since. She says the first three days were hard but within seven days she was sleeping better than she ever had. Rachel began substituting wine with sparkling water and while it was tough at first, it became her new habit. She also joined Café RE and found community there and in AA.   Rachel recently self-published a book called Functional: A High Performer's Guide to Achieving Freedom from Alcohol. She says she wrote a book that she wishes were available to her when she got sober. Many of the books out there have glaring rock bottom moments which Rachel said she didn't have. She believes that it may sometimes be harder for people without a rock bottom to quit because it isn't as obvious that they need to.   Rachel's best advice to somebody that is functional is to just try to quit for 30 days and use it as a time of self-discovery.   Recovery Elevator It all starts from the inside out. I love you guys. We can do this.   Café RE – the social app for sober people RE on Instagram Recovery Elevator YouTube Sobriety Tracker iTunes       

This week, the Besties sit down with Ashley Young. A mom, wife, and founder of Fizzy and Free to talk about what it means to ditch the nightly wine ritual and find yourself again in the chaos of motherhood.Ashley opens up about her journey from being a nightly drinker to finding sobriety, peace, and purpose. She shares the real-life challenges of being a mom in a wine-obsessed world, how she landed in the hospital from a 12-day bender, and what finally pushed her to stop hitting reset and start building something better. Not just for herself but for other moms who feel like they're drowning in expectations and the overwhelming chaos of motherhood.Expect honest conversations about:The sneaky way alcohol becomes part of a mom's identityThe pressure of "mommy wine culture" and social media highlight reelsCreating small, sustainable change vs. all-or-nothing thinkingHow to support yourself (or a friend) when stuck in the “Day One” cycleWhat freedom really looks like after alcoholPlus, hear how Fizzy and Free was born, how Lisa Frank inspired Ashley's branding, and why sometimes a sticker on your body (or a bowl of M&Ms) is the dopamine hit you need.Highlights from this episode:Ashley's candid take on postpartum expectations and losing yourself in motherhoodDevan and Kelsey's reflections on foster parenting, early intervention, and navigating “mom guilt”The magic of Annie Grace's This Naked Mind and the science behind alcohol cravingsFlash round fun (including Ashley's Imagine Dragons hype songs and guilty pleasure desserts)Connect with Ashley Young:Instagram & Facebook: @fizzyandfreeSign Up for Ashley's Free Workshop on August 1st: Stop Hitting Reset — 5 Tools to Break the Nightly Wine CycleIf you loved this episode, share it with your bestie, leave a review, and don't forget to hit subscribe. All episodes are available on Spotify & Apple Podcasts.You can also follow Devan and Kelsey for more unfiltered conversations about real life, motherhood, and building a life on your terms on their Instagram @twobestieswithamic

TW: This episode discusses sensitive topics related to alcohol use, addiction, and mental health. Are you searching for how to stop drinking without calling yourself an alcoholic? That's the question Coaches Bill, Lisa, and Pam answer in this episode, as they courageously share their journeys of finding freedom from alcohol. Coach Bill explains how This Naked Mind helped him quit drinking without adopting the label of "addict," while Coach Lisa reflects on how The Path offered her a safe, supportive space to learn about herself and stop judging her relationship with alcohol. Tune in as they explore how self-compassion, curiosity, and community can help you create the life you deserve. In this episode, Coach Bill + Coach Pam discuss: Choosing This Naked Mind because it showed him how to stop drinking without calling yourself an alcoholic Seeking a program that uplifted him and showed him his inherent power. The profound shift from despair to helping others find freedom. Practicing grace, compassion, and kindness towards himself in the process. Overcoming fear with curiosity to examine what was "underneath the drinking." The beauty of connecting with others in the This Naked Mind community. The realization that The Path shows you the way to feel your inherent awesomeness. Moving from a mindset of perfection to one of continuous progress. …and more In this episode, Coach Lisa + Coach Pam discuss: Feeling truly "seen" for the first time by This Naked Mind content. Finding security and safety within The Path program, realizing she wasn't alone. Learning to stop judging herself and building self-trust. How alcohol forced a conversation that led to designing a life she's excited to wake up to. The understanding that her "anxiety" was her inner wisdom desperate to be heard. The profound feeling of hope and possibility on her first alcohol-free Christmas morning. The truth that there's "no VIP line to freedom" – every step matters and consistency builds self-trust. …and more Coach Bill is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach who turned his personal struggle into his life's mission. Starting his relationship with alcohol at 16 to cope with trauma and lack of community support, Bill spent 40 years trapped in cycles of negativity and dependency before finding freedom through This Naked Mind on December 27, 2021. He believes there's a better way than traditional recovery methods and specializes in helping LGBTQAI+ individuals explore their unique path to alcohol freedom through honest self-exploration in a completely safe, judgment-free environment. Learn more about Coach Bill: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/bill-masters/ Coach Lisa is a Certified Senior This Naked Mind Coach and Designing Your Life Coach. After breaking free from daily drinking in 2018, she now helps high-achieving women overcome anxiety and disconnection through intentional, alcohol-free living. Lisa's coaching blends science-backed mindset work with practical life design strategies, guiding women to create lasting change and authentic joy. With over two decades of leadership in international sport, she brings a grounded, compassionate presence to clients navigating burnout, reinvention, and self-discovery. Learn more about Coach Lisa: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/lisa-kwiatkowski/ BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠http://BetterHelp.com/NAKEDMIND|BetterHelp.com/NAKEDMIND⁠⁠ Quince: For your next trip, treat yourself to the luxe upgrades you deserve from Quince. Go to ⁠⁠http://Quince.com/naked|Quince.com/naked⁠⁠ for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Hungryroot: Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at ⁠⁠http://Hungryroot.com/mind|Hungryroot.com/mind⁠⁠ with code mind Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at ⁠⁠http://Shopify.com/mind|Shopify.com/mind⁠

Click here to register for the neural rewrite masterclass! How to escape your negative self-talk. Click here to watch this episode on YouTube!  What happens when you're the person everyone counts and you're secretly falling apart? In this episode, Colleen sits down with tech founder, entrepreneur and coach Mike Hardenbrook for an honest conversation about what it looks like when high-functioning people hit their limit. Mike opens up about the moment his drinking stopped working, why success can be a mask for burnout, and what it really takes to start living from self-trust instead of self-discipline. Mike's story is proof that you don't have to lose everything to change—but you do have to stop pretending everything's fine. If you're tired of performing under pressure, this episode will show you how to walk away from the bad habits that aren't serving you anymore without losing your edge--or the fun version of yourself.  Mike has also developed a brand of supplements specifically for drinkers looking to cut back that have been shown to reduce alcohol cravings up to 60% and correct the nutritional deficiencies caused by regular drinking.  Find Mike: Mike's Instagram  Mike's Website.  Click here to shop for the Cloud 9 supplements mentioned in the interview.   Click here to BOOK A DISCOVERY CALL if you're ready to fully commit to your personal growth and do the work to get emotionally sober. Side effects include an 80 percent reduction in drinking. Want daily updates from me? TikTok: @hangoverwhisperer Instagram: @thehangoverwhisperer Twitter (X): @NotAboutTheAlc  YouTube: @hangoverwhisperer —Do you want coaching from Colleen on a situation you're struggling with? Click here to submit your question. Your name will not be mentioned on air!   

What happens when your biggest insecurities surface every time you enter a social situation? Rachel relies on drinking to overcome anxiety at networking events, transforming into her "bubbly self." Chris battles a cycle of progress and setbacks, especially when family visits trigger old patterns. Coach Bill helps them learn how to set healthy boundaries with alcohol while building authentic confidence that doesn't depend on liquid courage. In Rachel's session: Addressing imposter syndrome and social anxiety at networking events Reframing feelings of inferiority into curiosity about potential mentors Recognizing "not belonging" thoughts as internal stories, not reality Planning alcohol-free alternatives like dinners with comfortable colleagues Maintaining social connections while learning how to set healthy boundaries with alcohol Practicing presence without staying too long at after-work events And more topics… In Chris' session: Breaking cycles of progress and setbacks in alcohol-free journeys Navigating family disappointment and social pressure around drinking Identifying relationships overly dependent on alcohol consumption Preparing non-alcoholic drink alternatives for social situations Challenging beliefs about needing alcohol to be interesting Developing exit strategies for overwhelming social gatherings And more… Coach Bill is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach who turned his personal struggle into his life's mission. Starting his relationship with alcohol at 16 to cope with trauma and lack of community support, Bill spent 40 years trapped in cycles of negativity and dependency before finding freedom through This Naked Mind on December 27, 2021. He believes there's a better way than traditional recovery methods and specializes in helping LGBTQAI+ individuals explore their unique path to alcohol freedom through honest self-exploration in a completely safe, judgment-free environment. Learn more about Coach Bill: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/bill-masters/ Related Episodes: EP 622: Reader's Question – Effective Strategies for Setting Boundaries with Family |https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-620-readers-question-effective-strategies-for-setting-boundaries-with-family/ EP 439: Naked Life Story – Nat X  | https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-439-naked-life-story-nat-x/ EP 670: Reader's Question – How do you stay motivated to be alcohol-free? | https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-670-readers-question-how-do-you-stay-motivated-to-be-alcohol-free/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!

Click here to register for the Rewrite Neural Pathways to Escape Negative Self-Talk Workshop on July 12th Click here to watch this episode on YouTube   Do you have confidence and discipline in most areas of your life, and feel befuddled as to why your drinking feels so hard to control?   If your drinking feels out of alignment with your values, your goals, or your sense of self, this episode will give you a clear understanding as to what's really going on, and also five powerful, science-based strategies that will help you stop yourself from over-drinking—without relying on willpower, restriction, or shaming yourself into submission.  Whether you're trying to moderate, avoid shame spirals, or feel more in control after a stressful day, these tools will help you reset your nervous system, reconnect with your values, and get your brain off autopilot so you can build new habits that align with who you really are.

What if you could enjoy socializing without alcohol and actually feel more connected? Regina's story is a powerful reminder that alcohol doesn't have to be part of the equation. From her early days of using alcohol to fit in, to the realization that alcohol was no longer serving her, Regina shares how her relationship with alcohol shifted. Through challenges and growth, she learned how to enjoy socializing without alcohol and found deeper, more authentic connections. Join Regina and Coach Cole as they dive into her journey and explore how breaking free from alcohol can unlock real social joy. In this episode, Cole and Regina discuss: Growing up with family mental health and addiction challenges First drinking experience at 12 and using alcohol for emotional release How to enjoy socializing without alcohol when it's been your connection tool Understanding the difference between social drinking and problem drinking Family patterns of addiction and mental health struggles Using alcohol as a coping mechanism for anxiety and trauma Postpartum psychosis and the wake-up call to change The power of "This Naked Mind" and cognitive dissonance concepts Finding empowerment through alcohol-free experiences Learning how to enjoy socializing without alcohol at concerts and events Practical strategies for maintaining alcohol freedom and other topics…

Why do I need wine every night now when I used to be able to control my drinking? Ronna faced this exact question during the pandemic when her occasional wine with dinner transformed into a nightly necessity for coping with grief and stress. As a musician and pastor's wife, she grew up in a family where alcohol was normalized, but a series of devastating losses—including her sister-in-law's suicide and her mother's death just ten days apart—pushed her daily drinking from social habit to survival tool. After discovering This Naked Mind and learning the science behind alcohol addiction, Ronna realized she wasn't weak or destined to repeat family patterns—she was simply human, responding to an addictive substance during unimaginable pain. In this episode, Ronna joins Coach Cole to share her 448-day journey from shame and hiding to freedom and self-compassion. Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of suicide and family loss. Coach Cole and Ronna discuss: Growing up in a family where alcohol was normalized and expected Starting drinking as a teenager and touring musician lifestyle The slow progression from wine with dinner to daily necessity How pandemic stress amplified existing drinking patterns Dealing with devastating family losses including suicide and death Using alcohol as a tool to cope with grief and stop overthinking The shame of hiding drinking while in a visible church position Discovering This Naked Mind and learning addiction science Realizing "why do I need wine every night now" had scientific answers Finding freedom in "I drink as much as I want, I just don't want to" Choosing self-compassion over shame about past drinking And other topics…

What would you do if your child told you that you loved alcohol more than them?  For Kate, this devastating moment was just one of many wake-up calls in her journey with alcohol. Growing up in a home where emotions weren't openly expressed, Kate developed patterns of using alcohol to navigate social situations and ultimately to escape feeling uncomfortable emotions. As her tolerance increased, her drinking became more secretive, hidden from her family in elaborate ways that mirrored behaviors she had observed in her own mother. Her story is a vulnerable, honest look at how alcohol keeps you from feeling emotions—grief, guilt, shame, and even love—and what it took to stop hiding and start healing.  In this eye-opening conversation, Kate shares with Annie how finding This Naked Mind helped her understand the science behind her drinking, empowering her to not just change her behavior but transform her entire relationship with alcohol and emotions. In this episode, Annie and Kate discuss: Kate's childhood experiences with alcohol and her mother's secret drinking The progression from social drinking to daily consumption and hiding Creative methods for obtaining alcohol during COVID restrictions The growing disconnect with her daughter due to prioritizing drinking How alcohol keeps you from feeling emotions while hijacking brain chemistry The final day of drinking and the 3 AM moment of decision to change Discovering This Naked Mind and the failed attempt at moderation The transformative experience of The Path program and health improvements Rebuilding trust with family and becoming a certified coach to help others And other topics… Episode links: Connect with Kate - https://freedomaffect.com/ Start reading This Naked Mind - https://thisnakedmind.com/bookJoin The Path - https://go.tnmprograms.com/the-path-from-this-naked-mind Related Episodes: EP 616: Reader's Question – Getting Past Emotional Drinking Triggers – https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-616-readers-question-getting-past-emotional-drinking-triggers/ EP 632: Reader's Question – How To Stop Running Away from Life and Emotions – https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-630-readers-question-how-to-stop-running-away-from-life-and-emotions/ Dare to Feel: Agnes's Naked Life | E771 - https://thisnakedmind.com/dare-to-feel-agness-naked-life-e771/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!

Why do we keep drinking even when we know it's hurting us? For Sammie, the answer lay beneath the surface—in the pain she hadn't faced. Her story shows how unresolved trauma leads to drinking and how ignoring what hurts often feels safer than healing. Until it doesn't. In this episode, she opens up about what it took to stop numbing and start living fully. In this raw and real conversation, Annie and Sammie unpack how unresolved trauma leads to drinking and what it means to finally feel your feelings without fear. From parenting through grief to starting over at 49, Sammie's story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to break old cycles. In this episode, Annie and Sammie discuss: Early alcohol exposure and teen drinking Losing both parents in 19 days Why drinking became her emotional escape What grief looked like in real life What made her stop for good The power of The PATH and the community Experiencing her first alcohol-free festivals Using nursing experience to help others detox safely Finding meaning in coaching and service How unresolved trauma shows up in everyday choices Why it's never too late to change And other topics… Episode links: Sammie's Sober Heroes - https://www.sammiessoberheroes.com/Start reading This Naked Mind - https://thisnakedmind.com/bookJoin The Path - https://go.tnmprograms.com/the-path-from-this-naked-mind

What if the glass of wine you reach for every evening is actually treating something deeper than just stress? Amy takes us through her journey from teenage experimentation to mommy wine culture, revealing how alcohol became her trusted companion through life's challenges. As a high-functioning professional juggling parenting, caregiving responsibilities, and undiagnosed issues, she found herself using alcohol to treat adult ADHD without even realizing it. It wasn't until her son developed addiction issues that Amy began questioning her own relationship with alcohol. Through family therapy, reading This Naked Mind, and completing The Alcohol Experiment, Amy discovered how alcohol was masking her authentic needs while creating more anxiety and depression. Now alcohol-free for four years, she shares how breaking this cycle led to profound personal growth and genuine joy. In this episode, Annie and Amy discuss: Growing up in a conservative "Leave It to Beaver" household Teenage experimentation with alcohol as rebellion Transitioning from weekend binge drinking to daily wine culture How mommy wine culture normalized problematic drinking Using alcohol to treat adult ADHD without realizing it The connection between disordered eating and alcohol consumption Parenting adopted children with unique challenges How family therapy led to self-discovery Breaking free from alcohol at age 51 Finding authentic joy and peace in midlife And other topics… Episode links: Start reading This Naked Mind - https://thisnakedmind.com/book Join The Alcohol Experiment - www.alcoholexperiment.com Related Episodes: EP 719: Naked Life Story – Katie W. - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-719-naked-life-story-katie-w/ EP 110: Reader Question – I stopped drinking alcohol but now I binge on Netflix and ice cream. What's the deal? - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-110-reader-question-stopped-drinking-alcohol-now-binge-netflix-ice-cream-whats-deal/ EP 678: Reader's Question – How to Stop Restricting Food while Drinking? - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-678-readers-question-how-to-stop-restricting-food-while-drinking/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!

What if the anxiety you've lived with for years could disappear by changing just one habit? Lauren never questioned the drinking culture she grew up with in the UK, where pubs were central to every social occasion. When the pandemic hit shortly after her move to Canada, she began noticing how alcohol had shifted from enjoyment to an unsatisfying habit. Through research and repeatedly listening to This Naked Mind, Lauren began building an alcohol-free lifestyle that lasts, taking extended breaks from drinking that revealed surprising benefits—including the complete disappearance of her anxiety. In this episode, she shares her journey of ups and downs, the importance of self-compassion after slip-ups, and how she's found more genuine joy and connection without alcohol at the center of her life. In this episode, Annie and Lauren discuss: From British pub culture to questioning alcohol's role How the pandemic revealed problematic drinking patterns The process of building an alcohol-free lifestyle that lasts Why tracking "failures" can be counterproductive The complete disappearance of anxiety after reducing alcohol Discovering genuine joy without drinking The surprising impact on hormone health and overall wellness Finding alternatives to "chasing the high" after activities Recognizing the link between alcohol and emotional stability Creating new traditions beyond drinking culture And other topics… Episode links: Related Episodes: EP 445: Finding Joy with Catherine Gray - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-445-finding-joy-with-catherine-gray/ EP 448: What I Wish I Knew Before My First Drink – The Thief of Joy - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-448-what-i-wish-i-knew-before-my-first-drink-the-thief-of-joy/ EP 20: Reader Question – What do You do about Missing the “High” from Drinking? - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-20-reader-question-what-do-you-do-about-missing-the-high-from-drinking/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!

How do our thoughts influence our ability to create lasting change? Overcoming automatic negative thoughts begins with understanding how they shape our behaviors and emotions. In this episode, Coach Sam helps Marion navigate triggers around holiday memories and past trauma, while Coach Mike guides Maria through breaking free from her lifelong pattern of negative self-talk. Both guests struggle with how their thoughts fuel their drinking behaviors—Marion with holiday-related trauma that previously led to heavy drinking, and Maria with the "failure" narrative that pulls her back into old patterns. Through these powerful coaching conversations, we witness how identifying and questioning habitual negative thinking creates the foundation for sustainable change. In Marion's Session: Processing trauma around Christmas and her father's death Learning to feel proud of caring for her father during difficult times Moving beyond the memory of a traumatic assault Understanding how trauma memories can trigger drinking behaviors Discovering that self-worth is inherent, not earned The difference between intellectual understanding and embodied knowing Overcoming automatic negative thoughts by seeing them as memories, not reality Finding presence and contentment by not numbing emotions Approaching painful memories with self-compassion Recognizing that healing comes from wisdom, not just intellectual effort and other topics… In Maria's Session: Identifying habitual negative thoughts like "I'm a failure" and "I'm not good enough" Understanding how negative thinking fuels drinking behaviors Learning the ACT technique for overcoming automatic negative thoughts Questioning whether negative beliefs are actually true Seeing how thoughts exist to protect us, not punish us Breaking the cycle of negative thoughts → difficult emotions → unwanted behaviors Moving from black-and-white thinking to nuanced perspectives Recognizing that thoughts are "just strings of words" with meaning we assign The power of neutralizing thoughts rather than forcing positivity Developing mental resilience by questioning habitual thought patterns and more… Sam Goldfinch is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach, and the founder of Rebel Spirituality and the Rebel Spirituality podcast. He also co-hosts the Present & Sober podcast with Ellie Crowe. Having lived nine years alcohol-free, Sam will show you how to live your best life and uncover the truth of YOU before and beyond your conditioning. Learn more about Coach Sam: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/sam-goldfinch/ Mike Shennan is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach. He was a long-time social drinker, and his drinking habits increased in his forties due to various life events. However, he has been alcohol-free since February 23, 2018. By sharing his personal experiences and using techniques from This Naked Mind, Mike supports clients who feel their drinking habits have grown as they age, helping them regain control and create a healthier relationship with alcohol. Learn more about Coach Mike: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/mike-shennan/ Related Episodes: EP 512: Reader Question - How do you get comfortable with your own mind? - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-512-reader-question-how-do-you-get-comfortable-with-your-own-mind/ EP 438: Reader Question – How do you survive the holidays without alcohol? - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-512-reader-question-how-do-you-get-comfortable-with-your-own-mind/ EP 616: Reader's Question – Getting Past Emotional Drinking Triggers - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-616-readers-question-getting-past-emotional-drinking-triggers/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!

How do you rebuild your identity when alcohol has been woven into every aspect of your personal and professional life? Growing up in a rural fishing community where “drinking was a pastime, to put it mildly,” Peggy couldn't even remember her first drink. Her 28-year military career reinforced these patterns in predominantly male trades where working hard and playing hard revolved around alcohol. Finding the courage to stop drinking as a female veteran wasn't straightforward, especially when seeking help could jeopardize her security clearance and career. In this heartfelt conversation with Annie Grace, Peggy shares her journey to freedom from alcohol after retirement, how she navigated the transition, and why she's now training to become a coach to help others find the answers that are already inside themselves. In this episode, Annie and Peggy will discuss: The normalization of alcohol in rural communities and the military. The challenges of questioning ingrained drinking habits. The moment Peggy realized her drinking was no longer serving her. The fear of seeking help for alcohol issues within the military context. The support and understanding found within the This Naked Mind community. The concept of “duck mode” as a powerful tool for maintaining sobriety. Changing social dynamics and navigating friendships without alcohol. The realization of internal strength and wisdom. Peggy's motivation to become a certified coach and guide others, particularly female veterans, on their journey to stop drinking as a female veteran. The transformative power of self-acceptance and kindness. And other topics… Episode links: Email Peggy - info@neaptidecoaching.com Connect with Peggy - neaptidecoaching.com Related Episodes: EP 745: How To Quit Drinking in Your 50s – https://thisnakedmind.com/breaking-through-alcohols-false-relief-joys-naked-life-e745/ EP 561: Naked Life Story – Ben – https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-561-naked-life-story-ben/ EP 292: Duck Mode Explained – https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-292-reader-question-how-do-i-stay-alcohol-free-at-a-bachelor-bachelorette-party-weekend/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!

Is traditional AA the only way to find lasting change? Jenny experienced bullying, sexual abuse, and emotional neglect that left her seeking comfort in alcohol from an early age. Despite trying traditional treatment methods for decades and being told repeatedly that learning how to recover without 12-step programs was impossible, Jenny continued to struggle until discovering This Naked Mind and The Path. After 15 failed treatment attempts and countless hours of therapy, she finally found peace through its science-based approach that addressed the root causes of her drinking. In this moving conversation, Jenny opens up about loss, grief, and ultimately finding joy in sobriety. Trigger Warning: This episode contains sensitive content related to sexual abuse and suicide. Listener discretion is advised. In this episode, Annie and Jenny will discuss: Surviving childhood trauma, bullying, and sexual abuse How emotional neglect can lead to seeking comfort in alcohol The devastating cycle of relapse despite multiple treatment attempts Why traditional AA meetings caused additional trauma How to recover without 12-step programs using science-based approaches Rebuilding life after experiencing devastating loss The power of connection in The Path program Finding self-forgiveness for decades of drinking Why cognitive dissonance makes early sobriety challenging Making a “burn the boats” decision for lasting change Creating boundaries with difficult family members How joy and peace replace anxiety after quitting alcohol And other topics… Related Episodes: EP 550: Reader's Question – Is there hope for long-time drinkers who keep relapsing? https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-550-reader-question-is-there-hope-for-long-time-drinkers-who-keep-relapsing/ EP 324: Reader Question – Is AA Wrong? https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-324-reader-question-does-annie-grace-think-aa-is-wrong/ EP 485: Happy Days with Gabby Bernstein – https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-485-happy-days-with-gabby-bernstein/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!

So, you're not an alcoholic, but you're also kinda wondering if maybe, you'd like to drink less—without being told you can't drink at all. Sound familiar? Chalene's guest, Annie Grace, author of This Naked Mind, is here to flip everything you thought you knew about alcohol, habits, and self-control. They are breaking down how to rethink your relationship with alcohol, ditch the guilt, and figure out if that glass of wine is actually adding anything good to your life. No judgment, no rules—just real talk and some eye-opening facts that might just change the way you drink (or don't!).