Not Drinking (Alcohol) Today Podcast (Isabella Ferguson and Meg Webb)
Explorez tous les épisodes de Not Drinking (Alcohol) Today Podcast
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09 Oct 2022 | Welcome to She's Sober Sydney! | 00:25:57 | |
In this first episode of She's Sober Sydney Meg & Bella briefly touch on their personal experiences around becoming alcohol free women and how they met training to become This Naked Mind Certified Coaches. Meg & Bella also share their vision for this podcast and discuss their excitement at sharing their personal stories and the stories of amazing individuals who have struggled and triumphed over alcohol. MEG | |||
| 09 Oct 2022 | Meg's Story | 00:50:18 | |
In this episode, Meg shares her personal story behind her decision to become an alcohol free woman and a This Naked Mind Certified Coach. Meg opens up about her generalised anxiety disorder and social phobia, the 3 things that happened in her childhood that contributed to her anxiety and how she found that alcohol initially helped her manage her anxiety at the start but later exacerbated it. Meg discusses how ditching the booze substantially reduced her anxiety and also made her feel happier and calmer, so much so that she now helps other people do the same. MEG | |||
| 09 Oct 2022 | Bella's Story | 00:37:25 | |
In this episode, Bella shares her personal story which lead to her becoming an alcohol free woman and a This Naked Mind Certified Coach. Bella's story addresses her experiences with alcohol in her legal career, in becoming a mum and step-mum and how she leapt into mummy wine culture with wild abandonment only to hit rock bottom and end up with a wake-up call in rehab. Bella opens up about the 4 themes that have been ever present in her life involving confidence, finding her tribe, her voice and anxiety which she believes she drank alcohol to overcome but which she then had to deal with head-on in order to successfully become alcohol free. Bella is the founder and counsellor and coach of Isabella Ferguson Counselling & Coaching. She supports women in mid-life and parents and teenagers in relation to issues involving alcohol, life balance and diet culture. MEG | |||
| 23 Oct 2022 | The Two Big Lists & Visualising Future You | 00:36:35 | |
In this episode, Meg and Bella discuss two very important lists that identify the beliefs that we all develop over the course of our lives around alcohol and which creates a road map for the reframing process that will lead you to a new mindset around alcohol. Meg and Bella then share the original content of a visualisation exercise that they independently did at the start of their own alcohol free journeys. It's vulnerable stuff today, yet empowering and hopeful. MEG | |||
| 06 Nov 2022 | Sober First Socialising! Our Top 3 Memorable Moments | 01:10:35 | |
Meg and Bella discuss three of their most memorable sober first socialising moments, including 30-year reunions, date nights, live bands and Christmas work parties, delving into the good, the bad and the excruciating, but most importantly they share the learning experiences they gained from these moments. It's a long-ish episode, but we encourage you to listen through to the end where Meg and Bella each reveal their top tools and tips to help others push through these sober first encounters. You are not alone. MEG | |||
| 23 Nov 2022 | Burnout - Mimmo's lived experience | 00:49:23 | |
In this episode, Bella talks to Miranda, a close high-school friend, about Mim's experience with burnout and her recovery from it. Bella and Mim chat about the bizarre moment they each discovered that their lives had "imploded" at the very same moment. Mim discusses how her brain quite literally went into "safe mode" and she could no longer do basic things like send a text, how she recovered slowly but surely over 2-years and how one day she woke up and thought "I'm back!". Finally Bella and Mim reflect on how these life-implosion-moments can lead to a more purposeful and resonant life on the others side. MEG | |||
| 27 Nov 2022 | Drinking to relieve stress & boredom? | 00:47:31 | |
Hot off the press! Meg & Bella examine whether drinking actually relieves stress and boredom? Of course it doesn't! It exacerbates both. We shine a light on how drinking makes you more stressed and anxious over time. We also look at how drinking shrinks your world and makes you more boring and bored. Yet so many of us look to alcohol to escape these uncomfortable feelings. Reframing these beliefs is part of the work to finding freedom from alcohol (and striving towards a life full of healthier coping methods, passion, purpose and playfulness)! MEG | |||
| 05 Dec 2022 | Alcohol & Sleep with Professor Michael Gradisar | 00:55:56 | |
In today's episode, we talk to sleep psychologist Professor Michael Gradisar from Wink Sleep all about alcohol & sleep. Not only do people fear not being able to fall asleep when taking a break from alcohol but this fear can often be a reason for not staying the course. So we thought let’s get an expert on to answer our questions and learn some tips! We discuss how the first week of removing alcohol can resemble insomnia and how it can take a week or two to transition into a restorative sleep pattern. Michael explains how being forearmed with this knowledge minimises your fear of falling asleep by empowering you to know this is normal and that steps are available to make it easier, including cognitive behaviour therapy techniques, improvements to your sleep environment and bringing in your screen to help you doze off to a calming show (yes you heard that right!). We also discuss how drinking dreams actually help us remain alcohol free. We hope you enjoy this as much as we did! Look out for Wink Sleep’s eBook, How to Ride the Wave: Sleep and Alcohol, How to Make it Easier when Making a Change which can be found at https://winksleep.online/ as well as links to daily videos discussing what you can expect in the early days of going alcohol free together with some tips to ride the wave. Episode Links: WINK: https://winksleep.online/ Disclaimer: The hosts of She’s Sober Sydney! are not medically trained. The hosts and their guests do not and cannot provide medical or health advice on this podcast. Alcohol addiction and physical withdrawal from alcohol can be severe and life threatening. If you have any medical concerns about your alcohol use or potential withdrawal from alcohol, or any medical or health conditions, please obtain the advice of qualified medical practitioner as soon as possible. MEG | |||
| 17 Dec 2022 | Merry Christmas! | 00:38:43 | |
In this episode, in addition to a few belly laughs, we offer some tips to attempt to get through Christmas as unscathed as possible! From frocks, mocks and hammocks to embracing the imperfections of Christmas, from picking and choosing your own Christmas adventures to jumping off those social media accounts that do not serve you doing this period, choose what Christmas can offer you and not what you can offer Christmas (and that may be asking for some light relief like a family member getting caught in the Christmas tree... again...!). Join us for a giggle. Oh and merry Christmas everyone! Big hugs from Meg & Bella x MEG | |||
| 19 Dec 2022 | Teens & Alcohol with Paul Dillon of DARTA | 00:55:40 | |
In this episode we talk with Paul Dillon of Drugs and Alcohol Research and Training Australia (DARTA) all about teens and alcohol. Paul has been working in the area of drug and alcohol education for over 30 years both nationally and internationally and is also the author of 'Teenagers, Alcohol and Drugs' and host of the sensational 5-part pod series for parents called Doing Drugs With Paul Dillon. Paul is also a legend in Bella's household! We discuss what parents can do to reduce the risks associated alcohol when it comes to their teens, how to create household rules around alcohol that their teens will be more inclined to follow, whether it is wise facilitate undertake drinking in the family setting and a whole lot more. This is a ripper of an episode and one that we invite all parents and carers of teens and (up and coming teens) to put on their pods-to-listen-to-list! MEG | |||
| 08 Jan 2023 | New Years Resolutions! | 00:50:22 | |
Did you know that a butterfly can walk? Or that strawberry sorbet is the new in thing to offer guests coming over to your house!? MEG | |||
| 14 Jan 2023 | All things Untoxicated with Faye Lawrence | 00:53:49 | |
In this episode Meg talks to Faye Lawrence. Faye is founder of Untoxicated (Australia's largest alcohol free social community). Faye is a Master Grey Area Drinking Coach and is also a TEDx Speaker! https://www.facebook.com/untoxicatedaus https://www.instagram.com/untoxicated_aus/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/FayeLawrenceCoach https://www.instagram.com/p/CnJH6nCIh3e/?hl=en MEG | |||
| 21 Jan 2023 | Higher Sobriety with Jill Stark | 00:40:57 | |
We chat to Jill Stark on this episode. Jill Stark is an award-winning journalist, author, mental health advocate, and media strategist. MEG | |||
| 28 Jan 2023 | Lisa Greenberg's Perfectly Imperfect Sobriety Story | 00:49:02 | |
Join us as we talk with the glorious perfectly imperfect Lisa Greenberg about her alcohol addiction and her path to sobriety and beyond. As a highly sought-after speaker, fitness consultant, columnist and founder of SOBEROBICS, Lisa’s passion for inspiring, elevating and empowering women truly resonates. Her energy and enthusiasm for life is contagious. In this episode, Lisa is refreshingly honest and open about how dark her battle with alcohol got for her. We discuss the secrecy and dishonesty that often accompanies addiction including hiding bottles and lying to family and friends about the extent of her drinking; how Lisa believed that alcohol allowed her to be the party girl and that without it she “would have nothing else to add” and that “no one would want to talk to her” and how at rock bottom her self-loathing loomed so large that she chose to sleep on the concrete floor as she believed she no longer deserved her bed. In recovery, Lisa learned to like the girl staring back at her in the mirror and embrace the fact that she no longer needs or wants to be the party girl. Her experience has propelled her into a life full of gratitude and service to others. This episode is essential listening for those of us who are seeking reminders as to why we are living or yearn to live an alcohol-free life and who are looking for some hope and inspiration to reach outwards, onwards and upwards. Lisa can be found on Instagram: @lisagperfectlyimperfect and on her YouTube channel, 100 Days to Happy Healthy and Hot: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTqHravvFlqjn3sJhMyj9ng. We recommend jumping on for some love, laughter and movement! MEG | |||
| 04 Feb 2023 | Dr Chris Davis of the Clean Slate Clinic | 00:49:23 | |
Today Meg & Bella are incredibly lucky to be joined by Dr Chris Davis, Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of The Clean Slate Clinic to discuss The Clinic’s innovative and highly acclaimed Telehealth program that supports Australians struggling with alcohol dependence to safely undergo alcohol detox from home. We take a deep dive into how the program operates, how it takes the pressure off emergency wards, assists people that reside remotely and removes barriers to those that are just too scared or unable for other reasons to seek “traditional help”. We also have a lively chat about Australia’s drinking culture, the stigma attached with the term “Alcoholic”, alcohol advertising, moderation and more. Join us! For further information we encourage you to look at The Clean Slate Clinic’s site: https://www.cleanslateclinic.com. MEG | |||
| 11 Feb 2023 | The glorious Bex Weller | 00:49:41 | |
We are so lucky at She's Sober Sydney to have the amazing Bex Weller come and chat with us. Bex is one of the OG's (or sober pioneer's) of the sober scene in Australia. She has 3 fantastic books out (with more to come) and we discuss these along with Bex journey that got her to choose sobriety. We talk friendships, friends lost and friends gained. We have a few good belly laughs and we get serious at times too. MEG | |||
| 18 Feb 2023 | Cindy Johnston's Soul Sobriety and Retreats | 00:47:48 | |
Cindy Johnston, founder of Soul Sobriety Coaching & retreats, joins us today. Cindy talks about her alcohol story as a grey area drinker who felt alone in her pursuit to drink less and what ultimately led her to certify as a Grey Area Drinking and Life Coach to create a sobriety coaching practice that empowers women to love their life with alcohol. Cindy offers a broad range of holistic modalities to support her clients including Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP), Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), Matrix Therapies and Conscious Hypnosis to create positive changes. Cindy embraces spirituality, is attuned to Reiki and professes to love all things ‘woo-woo’ and mystical. Cindy’s services extend to offering the most supportive and inclusive retreats in glorious locations that allow women to connect, have fun, get some much-needed time-out in an up-lifting alcohol-free environment. Sign us up! Cindy can be found at: https://soulsobriety.com.au For more information explore: https://linktr.ee/Cindy_Johnston MEG | |||
| 25 Feb 2023 | Shaun Palmer's Story: From Survival to Revival and Beyond | 01:00:12 | |
Shaun Palmer defeated alcohol when the odds were stacked against him. Alcohol provided the anaesthetic he was looking for at a young age to numb and escape from the trauma of growing up with domestic violence and a father with a sever alcoholic use disorder in the family home. He quickly moved out and immersed himself in his new career in the hospitality industry and then later in the fly-in-fly-out mining industry where he found drinking was entrenched and revered. Following a family tragedy, Shaun miraculously turned his life around. His sheer focus and dedication to becoming sober is compelling. Shaun’s story may have started with heartbreak, but it now certainly speaks of revival and joy of the life he has created. He provides direct insight into a male’s experience of transforming from a big drinker into an alcohol-free man in Australian culture. It certainly wasn’t all plain sailing and he intentionally altered where and how he socialised in order to succeed on his sober mission but any losses have clearly been overshadowed by all the gains. Please tune in for this wonderful and informative episode. Shaun Palmer is the founder and coach of Revive Sobriety Coaching and can be found at: www.revivesobrietycoaching.com MEG | |||
| 04 Mar 2023 | Anna Cusack on Alcohol and the Stresses and Joy of Motherhood | 00:50:09 | |
In today’s episode we talk to Anna Cusack. Anna is a Postpartum Doula, Parent Supporter, Certified Motherhood Studies Practitioner, Author, Podcaster and a mum who supports and mentors women in pregnancy, post-birth and early parenthood. Anna has also been alcohol free for 4 years. We start by talking about Anna's decision to go alcohol free and then we have a lively chat about the pressures woman face during motherhood, how hard it can be when choosing between your career and motherhood, the allure and risks of mummy wine culture and how alcohol can become a crutch to get through the stresses of raising our little ones, often masking our need to connect and seek extra support. Be sure to catch this episode. There will be so much you can relate to. Apart from thinking “oh I wish I knew Anna when I was having my babies…” (like we did!), you might also look back on your parenting struggles with a little more self-compassion (like we did!) or if you are in the midst of it right now you might feel a little more understood (also us!) and keep Anna’s number handy nearby just in case you or a friend need it. Anna can be found at: https://www.annacusack.com.au Anna’s insta handle is: @annacusackpostpartum Anna’s podcast is: Anna Asks MEG | |||
| 12 Mar 2023 | Am I an Alcoholic? | 00:24:16 | |
In this episode, we talk about the term “alcoholic”. The phrase “am I an alcoholic?” is frequently googled and many use this as the starting point for exploring whether alcohol has become a problem for them. We explore the derivation of this term, why some people with alcohol use disorders do not relate to or identify with this term and what are some alternatives to this label. Two important points to note in relation to this episode: firstly, if you are moderate to heavy consistent drinker and you feel you may be physically addicted then it is important that you seek medical advice to detox safely. Secondly, we respect everybody’s right to use the label that feels right for them and if you have opted to use the term “alcoholic” to describe your own relationship with alcohol then we 100% support this too. MEG | |||
| 18 Mar 2023 | Danielle Fleming on the hospitality industry, motherhood and more! | 00:46:29 | |
Join us for an exciting and insightful episode as we delve into the world of the hospitality industry with fellow coach Danielle. Discover how she conquered the intense pressure to drink in this industry and turned her passion into a thriving career. Hear firsthand about Danielle's personal journey from heavy drinking to living a fulfilling life without alcohol. MEG | |||
| 25 Mar 2023 | Jolene Park on Nourishing Your Nervous System and Neurotransmitters | 00:43:28 | |
Jolene Park joins us this episode to talk about the importance of prioritising the nourishment of your nervous system and neurotransmitters when quitting drinking. Jolene explains why a “bottom up” approach focussing on rewiring, replenishing and repairing the nervous system is vital to the success of drinking less long term. Do you drink to relax, destress, numb anxiety or soothe an activated nervous system (most do!)? Then it is essential to incorporate resources to calm the nervous system into your sober practice. This physiological piece is often overlooked or minimised in favour of cognitive reframing work. It shouldn’t be. The good news is, Jolene provides examples of simple and accessible resources that can easily be put into practice by you or your clients. Jolene is a leading authority on Grey-Area Drinking, a TED talk speaker, functional nutritionist and health coach who coaches private clients and also trains healthcare practitioners on the importance of nourishing neurotransmitters and supporting their client’s nervous system. MEG | |||
| 01 Apr 2023 | Pia Clinton-Tarestad of The Clean Slate Clinic is a Woman on a Mission | 00:44:51 | |
Today we are joined by Pia Clinton-Tarestad, Co-founder & Chief Executive of The Clean Slate Clinic. In fact, Pia was The Clinic’s very first client! Pia tried and tested The Clinic’s program from her caravan as she travelled around Australia. She started the program in New South Wales, detoxed in South Australia, continued it through Western Australia, Northern Territory and Queensland, completing it near Sydney. It was absolutely life changing for her. She believes that had she not done the program she might not have been able to transform her relationship with alcohol as she has done now as the barriers to her seeking help were so significant. Since then, Pia has been a “women on a mission to make it available to anyone who needs it”. The Clinic is an innovative and ground-breaking service that provides a Telehealth program supporting Australians struggling with alcohol (and also stimulants and cannabis) dependence to safely detox from home. Pia brings a wealth of knowledge to this role, including a lived experience with an alcohol use disorder and with that immense passion and determination to make this service as accessible as possible. Pia's story is compelling and certainly one to listen to. For further information we encourage you to look at The Clean Slate Clinic’s site: https://www.cleanslateclinic.com. You can also follow The Clinic on Instagram: @cleanslateclinic. MEG | |||
| 08 Apr 2023 | Mel Moss, VIA Drinks: How Going Alcohol Free Propelled Mel to Find Her Passion & Purpose | 00:45:01 | |
Mel Moss, introduces us to VIA, an alternative to alcohol which delivers on taste and feel-good vibes. Mel also talks about her alcohol-free story. Mel stopped drinking alcohol on Mother’s Day 2019 after reading Annie Grace’s This Naked Mind. She didn’t put it down for two days and laughs that it must have contained “magic spells” that transformed her relationship with alcohol and changed her life for the better. We chat about socialising alcohol-free, being the best role models for our kids that we can be and finding our passion and zest for life. Mel believes that the very act of giving up alcohol propelled her to embrace mid-life and channel the energy, motivation and passion she needed to help launch VIA with her fellow colleagues, Sarah & Kiersten, and lead a life she loves. Learn more about VIA at: https://www.viadrinks.com and follow VIA on Instagram at @viadrinks. MEG | |||
| 15 Apr 2023 | Mrs D is Going without - Lotta Dann interview | 00:46:53 | |
MEG | |||
| 22 Apr 2023 | Michelle McDonald is Sober, Connected and More Than Enough! | 00:46:57 | |
Today we are joined by Michelle McDonald, sobriety coach and burgeoning podcaster, about her transformation from a daily drinker to an alcohol-free woman. Michelle describes how she never really felt like she “was enough”. She consequently filled her life with a busy schedule of things to do, was loud, sociable and drank a lot to “complete” herself. She believes all this noise and “doing” including hitting the gym early and hard, was a trade-off to justify the drinking. Michelle’s drinking escalated to the point that she sometimes started the day with a drink of vodka on a bad day. However she turned it around. Michelle found sobriety after completing a 90-day alcohol challenge and within a fortnight of doing so, she noticed life opportunities started opening up for her. She likens it to a domino effect whereby her life organically and naturally began falling into place. From there Michelle has gone from strength to strength. Gone is the noise that so often accompanies drinking. She now relishes sitting peacefully and calmly and describes her life now as full of clarity and purpose. She even feels younger (love this!). Look no further if you are after sober inspiration. So many women will relate to this story! Michelle can be found on Instagram @thesoberconnection MEG | |||
| 29 Apr 2023 | Rina Bowring - Empowering Mums to live alcohol free! | 00:54:30 | |
Growing up in South Africa, Rina began using alcohol as a preteen to overcome her social fears. Throughout her teenage years and into her early twenties, she regularly consumed alcohol until she moved to Australia and reduced her drinking. MEG | |||
| 06 May 2023 | Alice Hansen, From Rehab to Wild Wellness | 00:51:48 | |
Alice's drinking got out of control growing up in Tasmania, drinking to numb complicated feelings associated with being gay in an environment in which it was still illegal to be gay at the time and so she kept her identity hidden from everyone around her. After bravely going to rehab more than 20 times desperate to find a way out of the destructive drinking cycle she was in, Alice was finally able to stop drinking after reading Annie Grace’s This Naked Mind, doing several of Annie’s alcohol programs and pursing the transformational effects of cold-water exposure and Wim Hoff’s breathing techniques. It stuck. Alice then decided to support others struggling with alcohol and stress to access this method too. She founded Wild Wellness in Tasmania which offers a range of transformational retreats designed to help people escape, heal and reset in the magnificent wilderness of Tasmania via ocean plunges, practitioner-led fireside sessions, journaling and guided breathwork. Alice’s story is inspirational and empowering. She tells her story with openness and honesty together with plenty of belly laughs along the way. MEG | |||
| 13 May 2023 | Sophie Scott on human potential, mental health and mindset. | 00:51:44 | |
Meet Sophie Scott, the award-winning broadcaster, international speaker, and author who's dedicated to unlocking the secrets of human potential and promoting optimal mental health and mindset. MEG | |||
| 20 May 2023 | Alex McRobert, Sober Yoga Girl! | 00:44:39 | |
Namaste to Alex McRobert creator of the Sober Yoga Girl Podcast and founder of the Mindful Life Practice based in Bali (but accessible online all around the world)! Alex has fit a lot into her relatively young life so far. She is a Canadian who's lived in Kuwait, Abu Dhabi and Bali over the last eight years, was married, divorced and suffered a mental health breakdown all by the age of 25. She now calls Bali home and has created a life full of yoga, health and wellness that she now shares with others. Alex talks about what led her to quit drinking, how her yoga practice complements her sober practice, how yoga is much more than movement, stretching and poses and the importance that spirituality plays in her life. We also discuss Alex’s beautiful retreats. Take a listen to this episode if you would like to learn how incorporating yoga into your routine could bolster your sobriety goals and how you might go about doing so, even if you are a beginner who might be considering starting yoga in mid-life. Alex radiates health and happiness and will certainly inspire the best of us to at least want to give it a try! Alex’s website: https://www.themindfullifepractice.com Alex’s Instagram handles: @soberyogagirlpodcast, @themindfullifepractice, @alexmcrobs MEG | |||
| 27 May 2023 | Beth Purcell on mindful women | 00:42:50 | |
On this episode of SSS, we speak with Beth. Beth is an Integrative Nutrition & certified This Naked Mind coach, bioenergetics practitioner, extroverted-introvert, single mama, feminist, yogi. Her passion is helping mindful women, especially those in the wellness sector, re-examine their relationship with alcohol, and figure out how they can truly nourish themselves and live a more connected, joy-filled life. MEG | |||
| 03 Jun 2023 | Coach Tony Richardson of Sober Tides on giving up booze twice | 00:44:05 | |
After 9 years of being alcohol free Tony started drinking again and, like many, found myself exactly where he had left off: binge drinking, hangovers and full of shame. Second-time around, Tony discovered that willpower or "white knuckling" alone was not the answer. He discovered This Naked Mind and has been alcohol free since. Tony is now a This Naked Mind Certified Coach and helps others quit drinking. He is interested in men’s health and encourages ex-serviceman like him to reach out to him at Sober Tides and get help to kick the booze. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobertides/ MEG | |||
| 10 Jun 2023 | Dr Jodi Richardson on ANXIETY! | 00:45:31 | |
In this episode we interview one of Australia's leading lights in managing MEG | |||
| 17 Jun 2023 | Neuroscientist, Professor Selena Bartlett on stress, alcohol, neuroplasticity and brain health | 00:41:17 | |
Professor Selena Bartlett, world-renowned neuroscientist, joins us today to share her powerful message about how to train our mindset using the principles of brain plasticity to mitigate stress without reaching for alcohol. Have you ever wondered why you handle stress differently to others? Or why you immediately reach for alcohol when you walk in the door after a stressful day? Did you know your childhood experience is highly relevant to your stress response as an adult and the likelihood you will reach for alcohol to cope? Professor Bartlett answers these questions plus provides us with practical tips on how to create new healthier neural pathways or “pave a yellow brick road” that will impact future generations for the better. Guess what?! Listening to this podcast and learning the science behind your stress response and brain health equals one new paver down on your new amazing yellow brick road. MEG | |||
| 24 Jun 2023 | Last Drinks, First Books and Belly Laughs With Maz Compton | 00:40:08 | |
Maz Compton, host of the Last Drinks podcast, talks about the launch of her new book, Last Drinks. Looking back, Maz never would have imagined that she'd become a public advocate promoting the benefits of an alcohol free life in Australia. 8 years on since her last drink, Maz is doing that just that. She is a trailblazing force in Australia's sober movement, utilising her podcast and new book to interview Australian celebrities, experts and everyday people on their choice to live life alcohol-free. Maz's down-to-earth, non-judgemental, relatable approach infused with humour and personal experience has been an inspiration to many to take a break from alcohol or at least to question the role that they would like alcohol play in their life. Here we discuss, why Maz gave up alcohol in 2015, what she loves the most about her sober life and what her new Last Drinks book means to her. Last Drinks is out now. MEG | |||
| 01 Jul 2023 | Why Moderating Alcohol is so Incredibly Hard to Achieve! | 00:30:18 | |
In this episode, Meg & Bella address the pros and pitfalls of moderating alcohol. Everybody who drinks or has drunk has practiced it but not many succeed at it! We talk about alcohol moderation in the context of Dry July, this being the second day of it, when thousands of Australians dip their toe into the alcohol-free water and try their hand at giving up the booze for a full 31 days. Why this topic? Well, firstly, because most people who sign up for Dry July are having trouble moderating and curious about taking a break. Secondly, most who do Dry July plan to return to the booze but with great intentions to tighten up their moderation rules – at least at the start anyway! So why not use this month off alcohol to learn about your relationship with alcohol and make some changes that stick long term. **IMPORTANT NOTE: Dry July is a fundraising campaign, raising funds for people affected by cancer. To signup and donate, visit www.dryjuly.com** MEG | |||
| 08 Jul 2023 | Kim Raysmith, Sober party person! | 01:02:02 | |
On this episode we welcome Kim Raysmith! Kim is an Alcohol and Sober coach, a yoga teacher and a host of sober retreats! We chat to Kim candidly about her alcohol journey, which as many of us can relate, was a huge rollercoaster and at times very distressing. MEG | |||
| 15 Jul 2023 | Drunk Mummy Sober Mummy, Vic Vanstone | 00:39:43 | |
What are the best bits about being sober? “Absolutely all of it!” Says Vic Vanstone, CEO of Cuppa, Drunk Mummy Sober Mummy and host of The Sober Awkward podcast. Long gone is the alcohol-fuelled anxiety, the regrets and disappointment. Vic talks about getting sober to alleviate anxiety, being the best role model for our kids and why humour and laughter is often the best way to spread the sobriety message. *Warning - Belly laughs guaranteed. MEG | |||
| 22 Jul 2023 | Burnout Treatment and Prevention With Sally McGrath of Health That Heals | 00:47:34 | |
Sally McGrath, Founder of Health That Heals, talks to She's Sober Sydney about her own burnout story and the tried and tested strategies that she personally implemented to regain her work-life balance. Sally beat burnout not once, twice but thrice and it was after the third time that Sally remained burnout free. Sally worked 25 years in the corporate sphere and knows first-hand the pressures that trying to balance a high-pressure career and personal life involve. Burnout is on the rise, it can sneak up on you and can take a long time to recover from. Alcohol and burnout frequently go hand in hand and is used by many to cope with impending burnout only to exacerbate burnout symptoms and prolong recovery. We cover what the warning signs of burnout are, practical steps to take in order to avoid burnout and guidance on what you should do if you are experiencing the signs of burnout and are looking for support to regain life balance. Sally McGrath, Health That Heals: https://healththatheals.com.au MEG | |||
| 29 Jul 2023 | Matt Jerr from Sober Friends Pod | 00:44:18 | |
On our 40th podcast episode we are joined by Matt Jerr from Sober Friends Podcast. Matt and Meg talk all about sobriety, about the different ways you can get to sobriety, we talk about being all or nothing people, rollercoasters (!!), stepping out of our comfort zones, FEAR, being sensitive people and how it's been doing the hard work on ourselves. Grab your cuppa for todays episode and please enjoy! MEG | |||
| 05 Aug 2023 | Breaking the Alcohol Cycle: Allison Schwent's Sobriety Journey | 00:44:21 | |
Have you ever felt the pressure of societal messages encouraging you to reward yourself with a drink or unwind with alcohol at the end of a long day? Join us as we sit down with certified This Naked Mind alcohol coach, Allison Schwent, who shares her personal journey with alcohol. From her early days as a gymnast, through college, marriage, and becoming a parent, Allison takes us through the ups and downs of her relationship with alcohol, and how she found a path to sobriety. MEG | |||
| 12 Aug 2023 | Alcohol, Breast Health and Transforming Australia's Workplace Drinking Culture: Kath Elliott's Story | 00:41:20 | |
Have you ever found yourself stuck in a cycle of binge drinking, weighed down by the shame and embarrassment that comes with it? We've been there, and so has Kath Elliott, the Alcohol Mindset Coach. In a candid conversation, Kath allows us to peek into her four-year journey of sobriety, highlighting some uncomfortable yet transformative moments. She takes us back to her teenage years when she was applauded for her drinking prowess and how a family vacation led her to make a life-altering decision. MEG | |||
| 19 Aug 2023 | From Addiction to Endurance: Nikki Langman's Journey to Authenticity and Sobriety | 00:49:14 | |
Meet Nikki Langman—international speaker, author, thought leader, and endurance runner. Nikki, once a career alcoholic, started her journey with addiction quite early, at the tender age of seven. She was introduced to the world of drinking, and it quickly spiraled into a manipulative and deceitful relationship with alcohol. Join us as she bares it all, revealing the struggles of confronting the person in the mirror, and the bravery it took to get honest with herself. Nikki's journey is a testament to self-improvement and authentic living. But there's more to Nikki than just sobriety. She's a long-distance runner, a love she discovered as a method to regulate her high energy levels and find joy in extreme physical activities. Nikki redefines what it means to be a badass, embracing bravery, authenticity, a sense of direction, and self-love. She candidly discusses her support system and the positive changes she made to support her sobriety. Get ready to be moved by Nikki's incredible journey from addiction to endurance running, from self-deceit to authenticity, and from surviving to thriving. website: https://www.nikkilangman.com/ MEG | |||
| 26 Aug 2023 | Rethinking Alcohol: Exploring the Sober Curious Movement with Ange Chappel, Founder of the Mind The Sip App | 00:39:23 | |
Are you ready to rethink your relationship with alcohol? Drawing from her personal journey with alcohol that started during her teen years, Ange Chappel, founder of the Mind The Sip app and a certified recovery coach, shares how she reshaped her outlook on alcohol after becoming a parent. It was at this point that Ange reassessed her alcohol consumption and the influence it had on her children and decided to significantly drink less. Ange talks about her experience with mindful drinking and the profound impact it has had on her life. MEG | |||
| 02 Sep 2023 | Behind the Smile: Ash Butterss on Navigating through Trauma, Addiction and Rebuilding Self-Esteem | 00:45:00 | |
Prepare to be spellbound by Ash Butterss, a wellness mentor and yoga meditation teacher, as she bravely narrates her journey from growing up in an alcoholic home to overcoming addiction and rebuilding self-esteem. Travel with us down the memory lane of Ash's formative years marked by trauma, her relationship with alcohol, and the subsequent tumble into addiction. Her story is a testament to resilience and self-discovery, and ensuing joy and fulfillment. MEG | |||
| 09 Sep 2023 | Celebrating 10 Years of the Revolutionary Book Drink: The Intimate Relationship Between Women and Alcohol With Author Ann Dowsett Johnston | 00:43:44 | |
Drink: The Intimate Relationship between Women and Alcohol celebrates 10 years today! Tune in as we talk to the author, Ann Dowsett Johnston, award-winning journalist, TEDx Speaker and Founder of the Writing Your Recovery Workshops about women’s relationship with alcohol 10 years on. Is alcohol still the modern women’s steroid that helps us do the heavy lifting? Drink was and is a revolutionary book ahead of its time, interweaving Ann’s personal alcohol story with crucial research and interviews about the startling rise of risky drinking among women. Drink was named one of the 10 best books of 2013 by the Washington Post. Ann's Website: https://www.anndowsettjohnston.com MEG | |||
| 16 Sep 2023 | Navigating the Menopause Maze with Dr. Rebecca Lewis | 00:49:16 | |
Ladies, have you ever wondered why menopause isn't a subject of everyday conversation, despite its life-altering implications? This episode aims to shift the paradigm, bringing menopause out of the shadows with our special guest, Dr. Rebecca Lewis, a GP and menopause specialist. Together, we untangle the intricate web of hormonal changes that underpin menopause, bringing to light its potential health risks like cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and even dementia. We discuss in-depth how estrogen deficiency can lead to a host of symptoms including anxiety, mood swings, and irritability. And we look at the different symptoms and how women often use alcohol to numb them. MEG | |||
| 23 Sep 2023 | Creating Joyful Alcohol-Free Social Experiences: Susie Streelman and Peggi Cooney's Zero Proof Experiences | 00:43:38 | |
What if you could experience all the joy, connection and satisfaction of socialising without the fog and fatigue of alcohol? Susie Streelman and Peggi Cooney, two pioneers in the world of alcohol-free living and the powerhouses behind Zero Proof Experiences are not only living their own sober journeys, but are also leading a movement in America and beyond to create a world where we can have fun, feel connected, and enjoy life fully, without the presence of alcohol. MEG | |||
| 30 Sep 2023 | Cara Menz EPIC journey! | 00:44:35 | |
We've got Cara Menz with us in this exciting episode. Cara has remapped her life through sobriety and self-empowerment. Her journey teems with courage and discovery, and she's here to share her strategies, experiences, and the power of resilience. She unpacks her 20-year career in direct sales and the moment she decided to redefine her relationship with alcohol, a step that set her on the path to self-empowerment. Nurturing herself with the help of This Naked Mind Coaching, Cara escaped the spiral of self-blame and painted a new picture of her relationship with alcohol. She shares how she leveraged social media to find connections and her unique acronym for resilience, EPIC, that has helped her maintain balance in her life. With Cara, prepare to explore how to create a positive environment and harness your emotions to eliminate the negatives from your life. Cara goes on to reveal how she has curated a vibrant community without alcohol, fostering connections through activities like ice baths and saunas, and her own Healthy Happy Hours. She concludes by sharing how she discovered her spark and how removing alcohol unlocked her power. Get ready for a motivational ride as Cara provides insights on making the first step towards meaningful connections, acclimatising to new environments, and keeping an open mind to navigate life's challenges. Connect with Cara on her website or tune in to her podcast for more insights into her journey towards sobriety and empowerment. Cara's podcast: Coffee with Cara instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carajmenz/ Website: caramenz.com MEG | |||
| 07 Oct 2023 | It’s a TNM birthday party, 50th Episode! | 00:35:06 | |
As we toast to our 50th episode of Not Drinking Today, we couldn't help but feel a wave of gratitude and a dash of pride. We've come a long way since our first podcast, and your 5-star reviews and positive feedback have been our guiding lights. We enjoy quite a few laughs in this episode, also celebrating Meg's 50th birthday! Fabulous and Fifty all round! MEG | |||
| 14 Oct 2023 | Ali Burke's Amazing Path to Sobriety: The Power of Sharing Our Story to Give Hope to Others | 00:58:25 | |
As Ali says "if I can kick the booze, anyone can!" Ali, a beacon of strength and resilience, provides hopes to others trying to quit alcohol as she bravely shares her life’s story and path to sobriety. MEG | |||
| 21 Oct 2023 | Karina Koplock's journey to alcohol freedom! | 00:44:51 | |
Can you imagine being ensnared by the grip of alcohol, as a young 14-year-old, in a culture where there's no age limit on drinking? That's the hard-hitting reality of our guest, Karina Koplock, who found herself in a suffocating relationship with alcohol, a journey that began in her Mother's native land, Peru. A high-functioning individual, it took Karina years to admit the toll her addiction was taking on her health, her relationships, and her sanity. MEG | |||
| 28 Oct 2023 | From Alcohol Dependent to Sobriety Advocate: Shaun Palmer's Revival | 00:43:55 | |
Today, Shaun Palmer of Revive Sobriety Coaching, shares his powerful story of breaking his family's generational cycle of alcohol dependence to become an alcohol free man who now helps other men and women to drink less. This is a story of resilience, strength and transformation. MEG | |||
| 04 Nov 2023 | Justin, a young man who sought sobriety. | 00:43:47 | |
Picture this: You're living in bustling Brooklyn, where bars dot the streets and nights blend into days. This was Justin's reality, a continuous cycle of drinking and living the fast-paced city life. In this enlightening conversation, Justin, a fellow alcohol recovery coach, and Meg share our personal journeys to sobriety. From navigating the social norms of drinking in cosmopolitan cities like Brooklyn and Amsterdam to finally finding the strength to refuse a drink, our experiences serve as a testament to the transformative power of breaking free from alcohol. MEG | |||
| 11 Nov 2023 | With The Banyan’s Ruth Limkin: What does a day in one of Australia’s leading Addiction Recovery Programs Look Like? | 00:41:02 | |
Ever wondered when a stay in a rehabilitation treatment centre might be necessary? What can you expect if you or a loved one is considering spending some time in one? What does an average day look like in rehab? MEG | |||
| 18 Nov 2023 | Menopause, Alcohol, and Nutrition: Emma Bardwell's Insights on Navigating This Complex Phase | 00:37:55 | |
What if you could navigate the complexities of menopause with a little help from nutrition and lifestyle changes? Join us for a meaningful conversation with registered nutritionist and author Emma Bardwell, as we delve into the lesser-known facets of menopause and its impacts. Emma provides startling insights into Peri-Menopause, a phase that can span up to 12 years. We uncover how many women, unsure of what to expect during this period, use alcohol as a coping mechanism, leading to further health complications. Emma stresses the importance of vitamins and minerals, emphasizing the need for increased awareness during this transformative time. MEG | |||
| 25 Nov 2023 | Sick of pub “meetings”? Frustrated that networking involves anxiety around drinking? Janet Hadley's Alcohol Safe Workplace Accreditation Program is the Answer! | 00:41:02 | |
Are you sick of 'meetings' at the pub? Do you feel pressured to drink when networking or feel anxious before 'Happy Hour' and dread the inevitable hangover? Do you wish being part of your work's 'inner sanctum' didn't necessitate downing bucketloads of alcohol? Surely, there is another way for the workplace to be safer, more inclusive and healthier! MEG | |||
| 02 Dec 2023 | Unearthing Joy in Sobriety: Michelle Cunniff's Tale of Transformation | 00:52:41 | |
In this episode, Michelle Cunniff, an alcohol mindset coach, takes us on an intimate journey that traces her path from over-drinking to fully embracing a healthier lifestyle. Through candid conversations, we delve into her early forays into drinking during high school and college, and how this habit evolved and became a crutch during periods of loneliness and boredom. Michelle's story is a testament to the transformational power of choosing sobriety and breaking free from the cycle of over-drinking. MEG | |||
| 09 Dec 2023 | An Alcohol-Free Irish Woman Thriving in France?! Meet Coach Susan Hodgson | 00:50:40 | |
Our guest today, Susan Hodgson, is an Irish coach living in France, who helps expats to drink less and find a welcoming sober community abroad. MEG | |||
| 16 Dec 2023 | Chrissy Janiga on Mummy wine culture, manifesting your life purpose and Purposeful Living | 00:39:27 | |
Picture the scene - a harried mom at the end of a tiring day, reaching for a glass of wine to unwind. Sounds familiar, doesn't it? We've all been there, but have you ever truly considered how this habit impacts us and our children? Let's challenge this perception together as we welcome our special guest, Chrissy Jannega, a certified alcohol-free mindset success and NLP coach. Chrissy opens up passionately about her personal struggle with alcohol and body image, her journey to sobriety, and her insightful take on the ubiquitous "Mummy Wine Culture". MEG | |||
| 23 Dec 2023 | Annie Grace's This Naked Mind! | 00:37:10 | |
On our Christmas Eve One-Year Anniversary, we welcome Annie Grace, the trailblazing founder of This Naked Mind! MEG | |||
| 30 Dec 2023 | Jolene Park on Grey Area Drinking, Nourishing Your Nervous System and Neurotransmitters | 00:45:39 | |
Jolene Park joins us this episode to talk about the importance of prioritising the nourishment of your nervous system and neurotransmitters when quitting drinking. Jolene explains why a “bottom up” approach focussing on rewiring, replenishing and repairing the nervous system is vital to the success of drinking less long term. Do you drink to relax, destress, numb anxiety or soothe an activated nervous system (most do!)? Then it is essential to incorporate resources to calm the nervous system into your sober practice. This physiological piece is often overlooked or minimised in favour of cognitive reframing work. It shouldn’t be. The good news is, Jolene provides examples of simple and accessible resources that can easily be put into practice by you or your clients. Jolene is a leading authority on Grey-Area Drinking, a TED talk speaker, functional nutritionist and health coach who coaches private clients and also trains healthcare practitioners on the importance of nourishing neurotransmitters and supporting their client’s nervous system. MEG | |||
| 06 Jan 2024 | Toast to Clarity: Finding Fulfillment in an Alcohol-Free Life | 00:20:38 | |
As the clock struck midnight this New Year's Eve, Bella and Meg celebrated not with clinking glasses, but with a toast to clarity and vitality. We're kicking off the podcast with a heart-to-heart about the serenity of our alcohol-free festivities and the uplifting start to another year of sobriety. We open up about the empowering decision to share this journey publicly – a move that's reinforced our commitment and chipped away at the stigma sometimes tied to sobriety. It's not just a personal victory; it's a beacon for others seeking similar paths. MEG | |||
| 13 Jan 2024 | Binge Drinking with Meg and Bella | 00:34:24 | |
Reflecting on the reckless abandon of our youths, we never imagined the nights of heavy drinking would evolve into a lifestyle fraught with risks and regrets. Join Meg and Bella as we peel away the layers of Australia's binge drinking culture, sharing raw and honest tales from our past. We take you through the high-risk initiation rites of youth, the pressure to maintain this hazardous habit, and the urgent need for new, healthier traditions of celebration. In this candid conversation, we also discuss the sobering reality of the aftermath and the recommended guidelines for responsible drinking, aiming to spark a dialogue on the necessity of redefining our relationship with alcohol. MEG | |||
| 20 Jan 2024 | Alcohol Induced Lows - This Will Change The Way You Look at Your First Drink of the Night Forever! | 00:11:23 | |
Have you ever raised a glass, seeking pleasure, only to find yourself in a less-than-sunny place once the buzz fades? That's the deceptive dance of alcohol that Annie Grace of "This Naked Mind" illuminates so well. The short-lived pleasure of alcohol only leads to more discomfort, a truth that's both harsh and liberating. By understanding the science of these alcohol-induced dysphorias, and how our bodies build defence mechanisms against this artificial euphoria, we can extinguish our desire to drink. MEG | |||
| 27 Jan 2024 | Sarah Rusbatch and her incredible journey! | 00:35:04 | |
Embarking on an introspective expedition, we're joined by the insightful Health and Wellbeing Coach, Sarah Rustbatch, who shares a candid narrative of her personal evolution from the grips of teenage drinking to the liberation of sobriety. Her story is set against the backdrop of Northern England's culture where alcohol is woven into the fabric of social bonding, from school years to the professional world. As we traverse Sarah's experiences, you're invited to contemplate the profound impact of cultural expectations on our choices and the courage it takes to break free from them. MEG | |||
| 03 Feb 2024 | Secret Drinking Red Flag Alert: Sneaking a Cheeky Pour to Drinking Home Alone | 00:25:04 | |
It’s underground. It’s shameful. It’s dangerous and it is happening in households all around us. Many hiding their drinking look great on the outside (for a while, for years even) and many do not know why they are doing it. They want out, but it’s a really hard behaviour to fess up to. It’s very personal, runs deep and very confusing. MEG | |||
| 10 Feb 2024 | From drinking alcohol for Confidence to drinking in Isolation. | 00:13:16 | |
Meg hadn't realised how her drinking at social events to ease her anxiety, was going to eventually turn into a secretive habit. In a heartfelt conversation, Meg opens up about how her drinking evolved into a coping mechanism for social anxiety. What started as a way to ease into social situations gradually became a reliance on alcohol for solitude, revealing the often-hidden story of concealed drinking. Her journey sheds light on the slippery slope into isolation and dependency, addressing both the physical and mental challenges of managing a trembling condition in the public eye. This episode also celebrates her sobriety journey and highlights the transformative process of rediscovery. After two years of living alcohol-free, Meg credits Annie Grace for guiding her through layers of shame toward self-trust. For those who relate to her experiences, she offers hope and emphasises the availability of resources to support an alcohol free life. It's an honest exploration of the journey to recovery, aiming to connect with and empower those seeking to break free from addiction and reclaim their true selves. MEG | |||
| 17 Feb 2024 | Transforming How You Drink and Eat with Natalie West's Fusion of Psychotherapy and Nutrition | 00:39:15 | |
Today we welcome Natalie West, a high-performance psychotherapist whose innovative work is forging new paths in treating alcohol dependency. This episode promises to redefine your perspective on the role of nutrition in habit change and offers a fresh understanding of how our earliest experiences and value systems shape our subconscious and our habits. MEG | |||
| 24 Feb 2024 | Colleen Clifford's story from Binge drinker and Binge eater to Freedom! | 00:37:35 | |
Have you ever found yourself trapped in the cycle of binge drinking, wondering if there's a way out? Colleen Clifford, a health and alcohol recovery coach, joins us to share her harrowing yet hopeful journey from the depths of alcohol dependency to the freedom of sobriety. Her raw account delves into the social seduction of binge drinking, the denial that blankets it, and the pivotal moments that spurred her transformation. We also navigate the post-alcohol challenges of eating habits, offering a beacon of hope and actionable advice for those struggling with the intricacies of food and drink. MEG | |||
| 02 Mar 2024 | Find Your Sober Tribe with Tribe Sober Founder Janet Gourand! | 00:38:05 | |
When Janet Grand swapped her hectic London life for Cape Town, little did she know that her own journey to sobriety would inspire the birth of Tribe Sober, a fabulous sober community, supporting individuals to feel less alone as they embark on their mission to drink less alcohol. Janet talks about the power of connection as a motivating force to help people recover from addiction and how a community of like minded individuals sharing the common goal of beating the booze can take away the shame and help you to discover a life in which you thrive. We also discuss the modern recovery movement, and the options now available. Tribe Sober is at the forefront of this movement, proving that even in the most remote corners of the world, support is within reach. Join us as we celebrate not just the resilience of those choosing sobriety, but also the happiness found in a life free from alcohol's grasp. MEG | |||
| 09 Mar 2024 | Alcohol and Depression | 00:15:43 | |
Have you ever reached for a glass of wine to wash away the blues, only to find the weight of the world heavier on your shoulders? It's a story many of us know all too well. In our latest chat, Meg unravels the intricate ties between alcohol and depression, making sense of how this coping mechanism can backfire and deepen our struggles with mental health. We don't just skim the surface; our conversation dives into the physiological disruptions caused by alcohol, how it shifts the body's equilibrium, and the way it can foster an insidious cycle of dependency and sadness. Drawing on the compelling insights from William Porter's "Alcohol Explained" and our own life lessons, we share a picture that is both informative and deeply personal. MEG | |||
| 16 Mar 2024 | Justine Whitchurch - Thriving After Addiction | 00:43:43 | |
Justine Whitchurch was on our TVs in the 90's, thriving on the surface, but drinking to soothe anxiety and OCD underneath. In this episode, Justine's story reveals the harsh realities of addiction—how it can lead us to isolation, shame, near death — and turn us into someone we hardly recognise. As with many of us, Justine's dependence on alcohol slowly grew and eventually took over. Following a family intervention, after nearly dying from alcohol poisoning, Justine surrendered to recovery. From there, Justine did the work and and grew from strength to strength. Justine shares the process that she followed to regain control of her life, emphasising the importance of establishing healthy habits to replace the once-destructive patterns of addiction and the societal pressures that often accompany the decision to abstain. This episode offers hope and guidance for anyone seeking to drink less alcohol and rediscover their health, fitness and purpose. MEG | |||
| 23 Mar 2024 | Trish Tucker May; Nutrition Gut Specialist | 00:55:27 | |
Imagine waking up to a life where the haze of alcohol no longer clouds your clarity, a life where wellness and sobriety walk hand in hand. That's the transformative journey Trish Tucker May, nutritionist and founder of Passion4Juice, shares with us in a revealing conversation about the complexities of alcohol addiction and the pursuit of health. Trish lays bare her own struggles, from the grip of 'mummy's little helper' to a powerful rebirth into sobriety, offering a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone navigating the choppy waters of stress management and addiction. MEG | |||
| 30 Mar 2024 | Sober Legend, Jen Hirst, Shares How She Rebuilt Her Life from the Ground Up | 00:44:17 | |
Today we talk to Jen Hirst! Jen is an open book when it comes to her experience with alcohol addiction. She says it like it is and discusses how she recovered with transparency. This is what drew me to Jen. Her honesty about how dark it got has been such an inspiration for many who can relate and say 'yep me too!". Jen now dedicates her time to helping others do the same. She is awesome! This is what attracts her almost 70,000 instagram followers. Jen's vibrant Instagram presence exemplifies how one individual's journey can resonate and aid countless others. For those contemplating a break from alcohol or walking the path of sobriety themselves, Jen's insights offer hope and a reminder that the journey, while individual, is one you need not walk alone. MEG | |||
| 06 Apr 2024 | Susan Larkin and her journey to finding her authentic self! | 00:43:34 | |
Have you ever felt the weight of a wine glass tug not just at your hand but your entire life? Susan, our incredible guest and This Naked Mind certified coach, bravely opens up about her transition from stress-induced drinking to a vibrant alcohol-free existence, offering an intimate look at the liberation that comes with breaking free from the bottle. Through her narrative, Susan paints a vivid picture of her past - from her acting days to touring Australia - and how she came to the profound realization that even moderate drinking was dimming her sparkle. MEG | |||
| 13 Apr 2024 | Emma Gilmour: Living AF, Parenting and Finding Calm in Midlife | 00:42:16 | |
When Emma Gilmour of Hope Rising Coaching joined us, she didn't just bring a big laugh (and that we did many of!) — she brought an open conversation about her recent autism diagnosis, raising neurodivergent children, perimenopause, giving up alcohol and finding calm in a chaotic world! Sigh... Emma is just awesome. Socials: @Neurowild_ @adhd_love_ @adhdactually @_kristyforbes @laura.nd.nurse.consulting Websites: https://www.kristyforbes.com.au/ https://www.yellowladybugs.com.au/ https://attwoodandgarnettevents.com/about/ https://www.naomifisher.co.uk/ Books: Heidi Mavir - Your Child Is Not Broken Chloe Hayden - Different not less Eliza Fricker - Can't Not Won't Megan Ashburn - I will die on this hill Kate Laine-Toner - Wher MEG | |||
| 20 Apr 2024 | Margie Coltharp's journey from playing victim to finding self love. | 00:38:35 | |
Struggling with alcohol can feel like a lonely battle, but Margie Colthorpe's story offers hope and community. In our latest episode, she shares her courageous journey from addiction to recovery. Margie's turning point came with a medical emergency, which prompted her to embrace self-acceptance and embark on a path of enlightenment. Her story is a poignant reminder of the complex relationship between alcohol, personal struggles, and the search for self-worth. Margie's transformation underscores the power of self-love in overcoming addiction. Through candid conversations, she reveals how the allure of alcohol fades when one embraces their inherent worthiness. We also explore the healing power of facing pain and the importance of setting boundaries aligned with core values. Margie's coaching venture, Brave Space, is dedicated to helping others navigate their own journeys with confidence. Her upcoming masterclass promises to equip individuals with the tools to live authentically and in harmony with their true selves. Join us for a heartfelt dialogue that serves as a lifeline for anyone seeking a path out of darkness. Margie's story is not just about sobriety; it's an invitation to experience the freedom that comes with true self-acceptance. MEG | |||
| 27 Apr 2024 | Maintaining a Sober Practice with Soberful Author, Veronica Valli | 00:32:57 | |
Veronica Valli, a recovery coach with nearly 24 years of sobriety, and one of the "originals" of the modern alcohol free movement, joins us to share how she maintains her sober practice after all these years. Hint - she's written about how she does it in her insightful book, Soberful, which talks about 5 pillars of a sustainable sobriety, that Veronica believes are essential for a happy sober life. Listen on to hear what these are! MEG | |||
| 04 May 2024 | Blackout Drinking! | 00:18:09 | |
I never imagined that so many special memories in my life would be a blur. The harsh reality of alcohol-induced blackouts left a mark on what should have been some of the clearest and happiest days of my life. Tune in as I, Meg, unravel the harrowing connection between these blackouts and anxiety, and the role they've played in my own journey. It's a stark look at the silent battle many face, as the quest to ease social nerves can lead to moments lost in time and the frightening inability to form memories. MEG | |||
| 11 May 2024 | Are you drinking too much? 10 Red Flags to Consider | 00:25:42 | |
Have you ever woken up at 3am with a pounding heart and a regretful mind, questioning your decision to indulge in those extra drinks? Or found yourself promising to cut back, only to slip back into old habits when stress kicks in? Today Bella talks about her 10 unmistakable red flags that signal it's time to reevaluate your relationship with alcohol. Whether it's the wake-up calls, the failed moderation attempts, or the realisation that you're self-medicating, we're tackling these issues head-on. MEG | |||
| 18 May 2024 | William Porter: "Alcohol Explained” | 00:39:46 | |
Today, we have the honor of speaking with William Porter, the insightful author of "Alcohol Explained." William spent years in the throes of his own drinking career, unknowingly gathering the research and experiences that would later form the foundation of his life-changing book. In this episode William is generous in his knowledge and wisdom. MEG | |||
| 25 May 2024 | Surf Your Urge: Ride Your Craving Wave and Regain Impulse Control | 00:21:25 | |
Have you ever felt the grip of an alcohol craving, only to feel powerless against it? In this episode, we explore the empowering technique of 'surfing the urge'. This technique is backed by by science. It alters your brain's circuitry to allow greater control over impulses and emotional regulation so that you can hit pause between a craving and knocking back your first glass. This is where freedom lies. MEG | |||
| 01 Jun 2024 | Eliza Parkinson: Parenting a child with Special Needs | 00:34:39 | |
Join us as we chat with Eliza Parkinson, an alcohol mindset coach, who shares her journey from social drinking in her teens to the pressures of "mommy drinking culture" during motherhood. Eliza faced emotional turmoil, especially after her second child was diagnosed with special needs, and turned to alcohol to cope. Discover how Eliza realised that alcohol was the problem, not her, and her path to recovery with support from figures like Annie Grace and Laura McKowen. Her story highlights the importance of self-forgiveness and understanding addiction as a societal issue. Eliza discusses the unique challenges faced by parents of special needs children and the crucial role of a support system. She shares how her drinking affected her family, her journey to regain trust, and the self-care practices like yoga and meditation that helped her maintain sobriety. Eliza's message is clear: recovery is achievable with the right support, transforming not just your life but also the lives of those around you. Tune in to hear about the power of community in overcoming addiction and finding hope amidst challenges.
MEG | |||
| 08 Jun 2024 | Girl Walks Out of A Bar: Recovered Lawyer & Trailblazing Author Lisa Smith | 00:44:08 | |
What drives a successful lawyer to reveal a hidden struggle with addiction? In this compelling episode, we sit down with Lisa Smith, author of the acclaimed memoir "A Girl Walks Out of a Bar," who bravely shares her journey from the high-stakes world of law to battling alcohol and cocaine addiction. The book recounts her descent into and recovery from “high-functioning” alcohol and cocaine addiction in big New York City law firms. Lisa’s story launched her to the forefront of the movement to advance wellbeing in the legal profession. Lisa was named one of the New York Law Journal‘s 2020 “Trailblazers”. MEG | |||
| 15 Jun 2024 | Getting present and sober with Ellie Crowe | 00:53:00 | |
Have you ever wondered how societal norms around drinking are subtly shaping your habits? This week, we're thrilled to welcome Ellie Crow from the Present and Sober Podcast. Ellie, a This Naked Mind senior certified coach, bravely opens up about her gradual shift from casual social drinking to using alcohol as a coping mechanism after becoming a mother and running a business. Her candid reflections offer invaluable insights into the normalisation of alcohol in our lives and the profound realisations that led her to seek freedom from its grasp. MEG | |||
| 22 Jun 2024 | SOBER SEX! Let's Talk About It Right Now .... | 00:30:29 | |
* This is not the best topic to listen to on speaker with your kids in the background! ** If the topic of sex is triggering for you, then perhaps hit pause and move to another episode OK, SOBER SEX… Let’s talk about it. Why?! Because it comes up a lot. Discreetly and tentatively at first but it presents as a major issue often when alcohol is removed from your life. Also, if drinking has been part of your whole sexual history then you may not even know if you enjoy sex at all! Does any of this ring true for you? Have you only ever had sex while under the influence? You and your partner met and bonded over drinking, drinking was part of the courtship, drinking and sex was a regularly thing, or you are freaking out about sober sex, like freaking out! Geez – I was… So again, let’s talk about sober sex! So… sober sex. Why is this important? Because it is about connection and we know how important quality connection is to sustaining an alcohol-free life. It’s the opposite to addiction. Moreover, quality connection and intimacy with your partner, the person that we are most close with in the world and the person we spend most of our time with is important. There are exceptions to this but if this is the case for you then listen on. Uncomfortable feelings created through lack of connection and issues with intimacy can feel stressful and can create urges to reach for alcohol. So best to address this head on. Let's do this.... MEG | |||
| 29 Jun 2024 | Kate Nichols: From Hidden Drinking to Empowered Sobriety | 00:37:09 | |
What if your dependence on alcohol not only jeopardised your health but also strained your most treasured relationships? This week, we have the privilege of speaking with Kate Nichols, an inspiring alcohol recovery coach who shares her heartfelt journey from university drinking habits to a life of sobriety. Kate's candidness about hiding her drinking and its emotional toll on her family will resonate deeply with anyone who has faced similar struggles. MEG | |||
| 06 Jul 2024 | Sober Dave: One For The Road | 00:50:33 | |
Transforming his life in January 2019, David Wilson, Certified Grey Area Drinking Coach and Public Speaker, is dedicated to motivating others to transform their lives, overcome personal challenges and embrace life with a renewed mindset. His Top 10 Apple Podcast 'One For The Road' reaches a global audience with over 300K downloads in the first year. Dave's established Instagram account @soberdave has a loyal and engaged following of over 118K, where he delivers regular live interviews with guests from the sober community all over the world. https://www.instagram.com/soberdave/ https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/one-for-the-road/id1565341712 https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CN86KLT8?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_1MXZRRDXXZ7BGT374RWR_1 MEG | |||
| 13 Jul 2024 | Crafting Inclusivity: The Seadrift Story | 00:27:50 | |
Can a passion for local flavors and a desire for inclusivity redefine an entire industry? Join us as we sit down with Carolyn Whiteley, the visionary co-founder of Seadrift Distillery, to explore her transformative journey from a career in global spirits marketing to pioneering the non-alcoholic beverage movement in Australia. Carolyn opens up about her personal relationship with alcohol and how the birth of her first child led her to reevaluate her role in the alcohol industry. She shares the inspiration behind Seadrift Distillery, a venture born out of a love for Australian produce and innovative, alcohol-free spirits made with fresh sea kelp and native ingredients. MEG | |||
| 20 Jul 2024 | Hello Sunday Morning With CEO, Dr Nicole lee | 00:34:28 | |
Hello Sunday Morning's (HSM) CEO, Dr Nicole Lee, joins Not Drinking Today to talk about the remarkable work HSM does to support individuals to drink less. HSM's mission is to aim to change the world's relationship with alcohol one Sunday at a time! This is exactly what HSM does via its incredible Daybreak App, research, weekly blogs and social media and online platform engagements. Dr Lee talks about her own relationship with alcohol, her unwavering commitment to social justice, and the innovative online support systems Hello Sunday Morning offers to help individuals reduce or quit alcohol consumption. Dr. Lee also discusses HSM's mission to dismantle the stigma surrounding alcohol and drug use. This is a great episode to jump into to learn how to tap into an Australian organisation with global reach doing innovative work to support all of us looking to drink less.
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| 27 Jul 2024 | Sober Socialising and Building a Strong Community | 00:41:32 | |
Ever wondered how embracing patience, persistence, and resilience can transform your life? Join us as we speak with Mags Sheridan, an embodiment coach whose journey of quitting alcohol and embracing sobriety since 2016 has profoundly reshaped her world. Mags delves into her extensive involvement with SMART Recovery, a program that employs cognitive and rational emotive behavioral therapy tools to tackle a wide range of addictions. MEG | |||
| 03 Aug 2024 | The Nude Nutritionist, Lyndi Cohen, on How to Farewell Binging Food & Booze | 00:34:13 | |
Today we talk to Lyndi Cohen, AKA The Nude Nutritionist, about making peace with food and booze. Lyndi helps people to farewell binge and emotional eating and to find a healthier and more balanced way to think about and approach food, based on self-compassion, acceptance and kindness. Lyndi also happens to be an alcohol-free woman. Lyndi opens up about the surprising benefits she discovered, such as reduced anxiety and enhanced well-being, and dives into the mindset shifts and challenges she faced along the way. We talk about How to control sugar binges, why alcohol makes us look bloated, how to cope with emotional eating and drinking and why self-compassion is key to attaining a balanced approach to eating and drinking. Get ready to explore the broader implications of alcohol consumption on mental health and the pivotal role of self-awareness in reshaping one's relationship with alcohol and food.
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| 10 Aug 2024 | Danielle Fleming: Navigating pregnancy and alcohol. | 00:36:23 | |
What experiences led Danielle Fleming, a former heavy drinker in the hospitality industry, to transform her life and become a pregnancy sobriety coach? Discover Danielle's powerful story of resilience and change as she opens up about the grip alcohol had on her and the life-altering moment of realizing she was pregnant in January 2020. Hear how she navigated the tough road to sobriety for her baby's health and found solace and guidance in Annie Grace's methodology, which helped her reshape her view on alcohol. MEG | |||
| 17 Aug 2024 | Breaking Barriers with SMART Recovery CEO, April Long | 00:40:01 | |
If you are sober curious or are on a mission to drink less, you will likely have heard about SMART Recovery, an evidenced based recovery method that is as an alternative to other recovery programs, including 12 step programs. Or perhaps you've attended a SMART Recovery meeting or two? Today we are joined by April Long, the CEO of SMART Recovery and social justice to champion, to discuss what SMART Recovery is, what distinguishes it from other recovery programs and how this goal-based recovery program empowers individuals to reclaim their lives. MEG | |||
| 24 Aug 2024 | Exploring ADHD and Neurodiversity with Faye Lawrence | 00:45:46 | |
Ever wondered how ADHD manifests differently in children and adults, or between males and females? In our latest episode, we promise to provide those answers and more with the help of our returning guest, Faye Lawrence. Now a specialized coaching therapist, Faye shares her journey of being diagnosed with ADHD in 2022 and offers a unique perspective on understanding the three types of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive, and combined. Get ready to uncover the high heritability of ADHD and its intersections with other neurodiverse conditions like autism and OCD. MEG | |||
| 31 Aug 2024 | Voice of Change, Foundation for Alcohol Education & Research CEO, Caterina Giorgi | 00:41:41 | |
Today we talk to Caterina Giorgi, the CEO of the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE) about the crucial role FARE plays in Australia in commissioning research on alcohol harm and advocating for essential changes to Australia’s alcohol laws and policies. We cover a lot in this episode, including the alarming ways alcohol advertising targets young kids, how pervasive alcohol marketing is, the destructive effects of alcohol consumption across different demographics and the significant role alcohol plays in family violence. Caterina explains the manipulative tactics of alcohol companies, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the powerful lobbying efforts that resist necessary regulatory changes to protect our most vulnerable communities from alcohol harm. We also discuss the changing landscape of alcohol consumption in Australia, celebrating the positive trends among young people who are increasingly choosing an alcohol-free lifestyle but also the troubling increase in alcohol-related health issues among older generations. Listen as we highlight FARE’s Voices of Change program, the success stories of community activism, and the ongoing need for advocacy to create healthier environments for everyone. Hear why organisations like FARE are crucial in amplifying the voices of those living with the consequences of alcohol harm and countering the influence of Big Alcohol and advocating for public health. MEG | |||
| 07 Sep 2024 | Maryanne Petkac: A Path to Wellness and Alcohol Freedom | 00:37:36 | |
Can the loss of a loved one catalyse a journey of profound personal transformation? Mayianne Petkac, a dedicated alcohol freedom coach and yoga instructor, opens up about her powerful journey to sobriety following the loss of her mother in 2020. Maryanne shares how her casual drinking habit escalated during her first marriage, becoming a nightly ritual to cope with life's challenges. Her story takes a pivotal turn with her discovery of the book "This Naked Mind" and the ultimate realisation that moderation wasn't enough. As of December 31, 2020, she has been alcohol-free and is passionately helping others achieve the same liberation. MEG | |||
| 14 Sep 2024 | Sober Yoga Girl: Alex McRobert's Inspiring Memoir | 00:35:02 | |
Today, we welcome back Alex McRobert, known to many as the Sober Yoga Girl, who shares her inspiring journey in the recent release of her memoir, Sober Yoga Girl, from a school teacher in the Middle East to becoming a yoga teacher and sober coach in Bali. Alex candidly discusses how a transformative experience led her to a life centered around healing and sobriety, leading retreats in some of the world’s most serene settings. Discover what makes Bali so special to her and why it's becoming a hub for sober retreats. Alex McRobert's web: https://www.themindfullifepractice.com MEG | |||