Explore every episode of the podcast I Quit Wine - how to stop drinking and have a much better life

Episode Title: But I Love the Taste of Wine

Host: Sarah Leather

Episode Summary: In today’s episode of I Quit Wine, Sarah dives into a common challenge for people quitting alcohol: “But I love the taste of wine!” Sarah shares her personal story of once loving the taste of wine with certain meals, but realizing that it's not just the taste she was craving. It's the feeling that alcohol provides after those first few glasses, not the taste itself. She explains how our brains have been conditioned to associate certain feelings with the consumption of alcohol, and offers a perspective shift that helps break free from that mindset.

Sarah also touches on the role alcohol has played historically in nursing homes and hospitals and how alcohol was used for various purposes in medical settings. She reflects on her own experiences, her changing relationship with alcohol, and how she now feels indifferent or even repulsed by it.

Sarah encourages listeners to observe their thoughts about alcohol and the stories they've told themselves, like "I drink for the taste," and gently challenges these beliefs. She shares how emotional sobriety is about shifting perspectives and seeing the truth about what alcohol has taken from your life.

Finally, Sarah highlights the importance of building new, healthier habits and mindsets, while encouraging listeners to explore her IQW Freedom Formula for deeper support.

Key Takeaways:

• We often convince ourselves we drink for the taste, but it’s really the feeling that follows that we crave.
• Alcohol doesn’t taste good on its own—our associations with it have been built over time.
• The journey to emotional sobriety involves breaking down long-held beliefs and building new ones that support a healthier, happier life.
• Sarah shares personal stories, from her teenage drinking years to her now peaceful, alcohol-free life, where the smell of wine no longer tempts her.
• The I Quit Wine Freedom Formula is a supportive resource for those seeking to quit alcohol.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• I Quit Wine Freedom Formula – A self-paced program to help you transform your relationship with alcohol. Visit iquitwine.com/iqwff for more information.
• One-on-one coaching sessions are available! Sarah is offering deep-dive coaching to help you create a clear plan for quitting alcohol. Book your session via the link in the show notes here:

I have a new offering: 75-minute one-on-one coaching sessions for personalized guidance. It includes the IQW Freedom Formula (if you've already purchased it, you will get a 30-minute follow-up session). You can ⁠see it here⁠:

https://bit.ly/IQW75minuteFFbonus

Connect with Sarah:

• Instagram: @iquitwine_sarah
• Website: iquitwine.com

Call to Action: If this episode resonated with you, please leave a review or rating! It helps other people find the podcast and makes a big difference. Sarah would love to hear your thoughts—send her a DM on Instagram to share your story!

Podcast Links:

• I Quit Wine Freedom Formula
• Book a One-on-One Coaching Session

In this episode of the I Quit Wine podcast I discuss the importance of simplicity in quitting alcohol and introduce a new program for alcohol-free living.

• Simplicity and constraint can significantly ease the decision-making process when quitting alcohol

• I have created the "IQW Freedom Formula," a comprehensive 30-day program to help women quit drinking

• The program offers tools for managing cravings, emotional sobriety, and addressing underlying reasons for drinking

• I emphasize the ongoing nature of emotional sobriety and the importance of continual self-work

• Simplicity is one of my top values, along with spaciousness and freedom

• Constraint concept: fewer choices lead to more ease and simplicity

• Analogy: Low-frills supermarkets (e.g., Lidl, Aldi) offer less choice, reducing decision fatigue

• Quitting alcohol eliminates complex decision-making around drinking, reducing mental burden

• Example: My weekend alone - only one alcohol-free beer consumed, contrasting with past behavior

• Includes first 3 modules immediately, with others released over time

• Features a private podcast for deeper, more honest discussions

• Covers mindset processes, thought management, and creating desired results

• Priced at a "ridiculous" one-time fee, with potential price increases in the future

• Tools for managing cravings

• Strategies for both good and challenging times

• Information on brain chemistry, nutrition, and environmental factors

• Naturopathic insights from Sarah's 25 years of practice

• Guidance on achieving emotional sobriety

• Techniques for managing the "voice" that encourages drinking

• Distinction between stopping drinking and achieving emotional sobriety

• Emphasis on the process nature of recovery - cannot be rushed or fast-tracked

• Importance of continual self-work and gradual improvement

• Strategies for managing the ego or "voice" that undermines sobriety efforts

• Interested listeners can access the IQW Freedom Formula at iQuitWine.com/IQFF

• Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah_/ for updates and connection

• Listeners are encouraged to email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com with questions or stories

• Please leave a review or rating for the I Quit Wine podcast - it will make me so happy!

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

In this episode I explore 'Alcohol & Grief- why it's normal to feel sad to stop drinking'. When you stop drinking you can experience a rollercoaster of emotions. Grief is one that stood out for me but for years I felt guilty about this.

It's normal to experience grief when a person or pet dies. But letting go of drinking alcohol can create similar emotions. Take a listen to find out why.

As I mentioned during this episode, IQW Academy is open. What a loving gift this would be to yourself!!      
You can hop in now and start getting the support, inspiration, motivation & information you need to stop drinking, stay stopped and have a much better relationship with alcohol (& yourself!).

*Everything in IQW Academy will be 100% confidential and your stories will never be shared without permission. IQW Academy is a sacred safe place to explore your relationship with wine.

Join here at the lowest price it will ever be: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa  

I can't wait to support you.  If you have questions, pop me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com  
If you have a friend who needs this, please share the special link with them: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa

Are you ready to honestly explore the love affair you've had with alcohol?

Maybe, like so many of us, it's turned into a love/hate relationship. Taking way more than giving.

Are you ready for the end of the affair?

As I mentioned during this episode, IQW Academy is open. What a loving gift this would be to yourself!!    

You can hop in now and start getting the support, inspiration, motivation & information you need to stop drinking, stay stopped and have a much better relationship with alcohol (& yourself!).
*Everything in IQW Academy will be 100% confidential and your stories will never be shared without permission. IQW Academy is a sacred safe place to explore your relationship with wine.

Join now to enjoy the 90% OFF Launch Special discount.

Join here at the lowest price it will ever be: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa  

I can't wait to support you.  If you have questions, pop me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com  

If you have a friend who needs this, please share the special link with them: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa

There's nothing like your own version of Groundhog Day to create all the guilt and shame with alcohol.

I used to ask myself 'If I'm so smart, why do I keep doing this?'

Not a fun way to live your life. In this episode, I share my own personal GHD and relate it to an escalator in a massive shopping centre. Take a listen and see if you relate. If you're following this podcast, you probably do!

As I mentioned once or ten times, IQW Academy is open!  

You can hop in now and start getting the support, inspiration, motivation & information you need to stop drinking, stay stopped and have a much better relationship with alcohol (& yourself!). *Everything in IQW Academy will be 100% confidential and your stories will never be shared without permission. IQW Academy is a sacred safe place to explore your relationship with wine.

Join now to enjoy the 90% OFF Launch Special discount.

Join here at the lowest price it will ever be: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa  

I can't wait to support you.  If you have questions, pop me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com  

If you have a friend who needs this, please share the special link with them: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa

Drumrol, please! IQW Academy is open!

You can hop in now and start getting the support, inspiration, motivation & information you need to stop drinking, stay stopped and have a much better relationship with alcohol (& yourself!).

*Everything in IQW Academy will be 100% confidential and your stories will never be shared without permission.
IQW Academy is a sacred safe place to explore your relationship with wine.

Join now to enjoy the 90% OFF Launch Special discount.

IQW Academy starts on Monday 13th of February.

Join here at the lowest price it will ever be:
https://iquitwine.com/iqwa

I can't wait to support you.

If you have questions, pop me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com

If you have a friend who needs this, please share the special link with them:
https://iquitwine.com/iqwa

In this episode I speak with my wonderful friend & colleague Lesley Hossner.

Lesley shares her story of her past love affair with wine, especially when she was on her work trips around the world.
She came on women's coaching retreat that I ran in Portugal 4 years ago and it had a profound impact on her.

My brand new program called I Quit Wine Academy (IQWA) officially starts on February 13 2023. I announced it on a previous podcast and am so thrilled to see so many women say they'd like to hear more. I can't wait to start sharing the information in a few day's time.

If you need some help navigating your drinking & want to hear more about IQW Academy, please see the special launch offer of 90% off right now!
https://bit.ly/IQWAcademy

Welcome to another episode of I Quit Wine.

Most of the emails I have the pleasure of receiving speak about the wish to believe that life could be better after wine.
Many of the women say that despite feeling so much better without it, they keep going back to it. There's a very simple reason for this, they don't fundamentally BELIEVE that their life is better. I explore this concept and more.

I also mentioned my brand new program called I Quit Wine Academy (IQWA). I announced it on the last podcast and am so thrilled to see so many women say they'd like to hear more. I can't wait to start sharing the information in a few day's time.

If you need some help navigating your drinking & want to hear more about IQW Academy, please email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com

Welcome to another episode of IQW.

I don't have a hangover. Have you ever said that? Whilst silently suffering wishing the day away? Or saying things like 'I'm just a bit tired today' and dismissing any thought of a hangover? All the while knowing the truth.

It doesn't matter how much you drink, it matters how it makes you feel. Listen in and let me know what you think.

I also mentioned my brand new program called I Quit Wine Academy (IQWA). I announced it on the last podcast and am so thrilled to see so many women say they'd like to hear more. I can't wait to start sharing the information in a few day's time.

If you need some help navigating your drinking & want to hear more about IQWA, please email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com

What exactly is Grey Area Drinking and is it really a problem?

In this episode, I speak about what it is, what the symptoms are and what to do about it.

I also made an exciting announcement on the podcast about my brand new program called I Quit Wine Academy (IQWA).

If you need some help navigating Grey Area Drinking & want to hear more about IQWA, please email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com

Or DM me at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ & tell me one thing you'd love to change about your relationship with alcohol.

We all know that there's a price to pay for purchasing alcohol.

In this episode, I share some of the science along with some of my own personal experiences of what alcohol actually costs us, especially our health, wealth and happiness.

If this resonates, pop along to https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ & say hi.

Or you can email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com and share your story with me. It's such a privilege to hear the stories and the inspiration that's being received from this podcast.

My heart is overflowing with gratitude.

In this episode, I speak about the 3 things that changed everything with my relationship with alcohol.
These are things that help everyone who is questioning whether they need to take a break or make some changes to their drinking.

I love hearing your biggest takeaways from each episode, so feel free to DM me on Instagram here:
https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/

Life is seriously better without alcohol and I'm so inspired by all of the emails I'm receiving from listeners to this podcast.
If you'd like to email me and share what's resonating with you or would like to speak about coaching, you can send me a message at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com

• Sarah reflects on her 59th birthday, contrasting youthful drinking experiences with mature overthinking about alcohol

• Drinking habits often evolve from social fun to problematic coping mechanisms, leading to overthinking and health issues

• Sarah is developing the "IQW Freedom Formula" to help women end overthinking drinking and improve their lives

• Alcohol-free celebrations, like birthdays, are presented as more enjoyable and fulfilling

• Sarah shares her journey from carefree teenage drinking to problematic adult consumption

• Initial drinking experiences: relaxation, confidence boost, social connection

• Evolution to "grey area drinking" in 30s-40s: habit formation, stress relief, emotional regulation

• Overthinking phase: constant negotiation, guilt, attempts to moderate

• Liver health concerns increase with age and quantity consumed

• Hormonal changes (perimenopause, menopause) reduce alcohol tolerance

• Neurochemical effects worsen in 40s-50s

• Sleep disruption: difficulty achieving deep sleep, leading to more overthinking

• Not necessarily about quantity, but mental burden and health effects

• Can last for years (18 years in Sarah's case)

• Stopping and starting attempts common

• Affects quality of life even when consumption is relatively low

• Aims to end overthinking drinking and improve overall life quality

• Holistic approach: brain rewiring, nutrition, sleep, exercise, coaching, therapy

• Includes trauma-informed and somatic practices

• Daily practices to manage cravings

• Promises better sleep and reduced morning anxiety

• Sarah celebrates her 15th alcohol-free birthday

• Reports increased enjoyment of food, company, and overall experience

• Highlights ability to drive home safely after celebrations

• Follow Sarah on Instagram @iquitwine_withsarah_ for updates

• DM or email Sarah with the word "freedom" for early access to the IQW Freedom Formula

• Watch for the launch of the IQW Freedom Formula to End Overthinking Your Drinking program

In this episode, I talk about how to manage a craving or urge to drink using your mind and also lots of other ways.

This skill could make a huge difference to you when you want to take a break or stop drinking altogether.

Please share your best ways to self-soothe with me on Instagram, and send me a DM at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/

Or you can email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com as I love seeing your emails.

Welcome to episode 011 of I Quit Wine. In this episode, I speak about lots of things including grief, puppies and chocolate.
But mostly I speak about discovering a great question to ask myself.

It's from the book The One Thing and I'd love you to take a listen here and see what comes up for you.

I would love to hear about your first domino so feel free to DM me on Instagram here:
https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/

Life is seriously better without alcohol and I'm so inspired by all of the emails I'm receiving from listeners to this podcast.
If you'd like to email me and share what's resonating with you, you can send me a message at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com
And feel free to let me know any alcohol-related topics you'd like me to talk about. 

Today I'm talking about what to do when you lose your sobriety mojo.
We have primitive brains that crave instant gratification. In this episode, I share what works for me when I start thinking that wine would be a good idea (it never is the solution!).

Come & say hi @iquitwine_withsarah

https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/

Also, I love nothing more than reading your emails. We can store so much shame about drinking and as Brene Brown says, 'shame cannot survive being spoken and met with empathy'.
Feel free to email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com or DM me on Instagram.

I have something special coming for you soon. In the meantime, be kind to yourself.

Despite years of alcohol-free time and all the knowledge, experience, and professional work, I still had a little niggling voice in my head telling me I was missing out.

But like a toxic 'friend', it might be time for a break. If you're over the hangovers and overthinking your drinking, then it's time to write a eulogy for wine.

In this episode, I talk about how to say a fond farewell to your 'best friend' for a while and tell your subconscious mind that this is it. It's not forever, there's no need to declare that you'll never drink again. But you know that a break would be a good idea. And how much better things will be on the other side of the bottle.

Please share your eulogy with me on Instagram, and send me a DM at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/

Or you can email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com as I love seeing your emails. 

Peri-menopause & menopause are the time of our lives when we finally have some time to ourselves to have a bit of fun.
But also a time when our livers start to scream if we drink too much (or anything at all for many women).

In this episode, I share some facts from the book The Upgrade by Dr Louann Brizendine. If you need any evidence that wine is not your best friend, you will not be disappointed.

If you need some help navigating alcohol in menopause, please email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com
Or DM me at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ & tell me one thing you'd love to change about your relationship with alcohol.

Are you an all-or-nothing person? I am!
In this episode, I dive into what this means & why it is not such a bad thing.

I also share how to manage a craving when it starts.

If you love this podcast, pop over to Instagram & say hi. Send me a DM & share anything you'd like about your journey to a better life without alcohol.
https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/

We all know that hangovers don't feel great. But what is alcohol actually doing to our bodies?
And what are the benefits of not drinking for a while?

In this episode, I share some of the science along with some of my own personal experiences of the upside of not drinking alcohol.

If this resonates, pop along to https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ & say hi.

Or you can email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com and share your story with me. It's such a privilege to hear the stories and the inspiration that's being received from this podcast. My heart is overflowing with gratitude. 

Do you get upset that as soon as you stop overdrinking that you start overeating?
I sure did!
For me, I wanted to stop drinking and lose some weight- not gain weight.
I know that so many people say not to worry about it for the first few months but many of us who have health issues know that piling on the sugar (and the pounds) can have serious effects on our health.
Listen in to this episode to hear about the very best tool I know to overcome overconsuming all the things.

Make sure you're following me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/
And if this resonates, reach out to me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com and I will reply to you very soon.

The reason I often share for stopping drinking is that I hate hangovers. Who does?
Especially the fuzzy head and lack of clarity, that's the hardest thing.

But there's another reason that was even worse than feeling terrible in the mornings. Listen to this episode where I share the real reason I could no longer keep drinking & finally end the stop/start cycle I'd been on forever.

I'd love to hear what resonates with you, pop along to my Instagram & let me know:
https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/

In this episode, Sarah Louise tells a story of searching for something that was lost (her sister's glasses) and how this relates to her search for a much better life without wine.

Sarah works with women who are 'grey area drinkers'. This means they are not alcohol dependent or severely addicted, but they know they sometimes have a glass (or 3) more than they planned to.
They are successful in all other areas of their lives and are questioning their relationship with wine.

If you'd like some help with your drinking, email Sarah at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com

In this episode, I share insights on navigating social events, particularly weddings, without alcohol.

• Planning ahead is crucial for successfully attending alcohol-free events, especially regarding drink choices and potential social pressures

• Non-alcoholic options are becoming more prevalent, with alcohol-free beer sales up nearly 20% in Ireland

• Many people report enjoying events more without alcohol, particularly appreciating the hangover-free mornings

• Younger generations (18-25) are drinking 25-35% less, indicating a cultural shift towards reduced alcohol consumption
  

I also speak about my recent personal experiences with being alcohol-free at weddings plus:

• Challenges of socializing without alcohol

• Importance of non-alcoholic drink options

• Strategies for navigating alcohol-free events

• Shifting cultural attitudes towards alcohol

• Personal reflections on alcohol-free journey

Next Steps:

• Follow me on Instagram:
• @iquitwine_with_sarah for more content and engagement
• Check iQuitWine.com/iQWA for additional resources
• Consider booking single paid deep dive session with me (contact via Instagram DM or email iqwwithSarah@gmail.com)
• Stay tuned for future podcast episodes on navigating alcohol-free holidays

Are you sick & tired of thinking about drinking? 

In this podcast, Sarah talks about how to end the incessant voice in your head that won't stop thinking about drinking.

She also talks about how she recently had a hangover of a different kind.

If you'd like to reach out to Sarah you can email her at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com

In this first episode of the I Quit Wine podcast Sarah speaks about her journey with her 'drinking goals' and why moderation is challenging for so many.

'Why can't I moderate?' is a question that so many women ask over & over again.

Having 1 or 2 drinks on occasion is a goal held by many, but Sarah explains why this is rarely achievable and what's a much better goal.

Email Sarah at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com with any comments or questions or to request a health coaching session.

Welcome back to the show. I have an update (more like pupdate!) & share how to manage when everything feels so freaking hard.

Take a listen and I'd love to hear your thoughts. You can share a review on your podcast app and tell me what you think!

The doors will soon be opening for the upgraded version of the IQW Academy, called IQW Collective. So cool!

It will include the 90-day program from IQW Academy plus a private podcast just for your ears and much more

You can send me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com or DM me at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ and I'll let you know as soon as it's ready.

Mary Wall joined IQW Academy soon after it began & is also a brilliant coaching colleague.

She shares such an inspiring story about her journey with alcohol and her 'life after wine'.

Take a listen and I'd love to hear your thoughts. You can share a review on your podcast app and tell me what you think!

The doors are currently open for the IQW Academy, you can see the current special offer at IQuitWine.com/iqwa

You will also get the brand new course called IQW21 which will give you an incredible boost over 21 days.

If you're not sure if a group is the right support you need right now and want to explore working 1:1 together, I'm delighted to be offering 3 mini-sessions this week.

In the 30-minute session, we will explore what's the cause of your over-drinking and create a plan for a much better relationship with alcohol.

You can send me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com or DM me at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ and I'll give you the link to book your session.

In this episode of the I Quit Wine podcast I speak about what to drink when you're not drinking alcohol.

I know I love a grown-up drink in a grown-up glass. But I also find that at certain times, alcohol-free drinks can leave me wanting more.

Take a listen and I'd love to hear your thoughts. You can share a review on your podcast app and tell me what you think!

The doors are currently open for the IQW Academy, you can see the current special offer at IQuitWine.com/iqwa

You will also get the brand new course called IQW21 which will give you an incredible boost over 21 days.

If you're not sure if a group is the right support you need right now and want to explore working 1:1 together, I'm delighted to be offering 3 mini-sessions this week.

In the 30-minute session, we will explore what's the cause of your over-drinking and create a plan for a much better relationship with alcohol.

You can send me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com or DM me at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ and I'll give you the link to book your session.

Hello lovely!

I love sharing about all things alcohol freedom & there's one part that rocks my world.

That is having daily non-negotiables.

Once you stop negotiating with yourself, everything changes. For me, it's deleting the thought 'just one more time' or 'just while I'm in France' from my mind.

Because it's never 'just once more'.

In this episode, I share with you how to stop the stop/start cycle with daily non-negotiables.

Daily non-negotiables are the backbone of the IQW Academy. It's so good & nourishing!

'It’s a really lovely group. I’ve been part of it for a while and love it. I would highly recommend it.'

The price of IQW Academy is rising on the 1st of next month. Join this 90-day program now & stay for up to 12 months.

⁠Join now to enjoy the huge savings discount.⁠

https://iquitwine.com/iqwa    

I can't wait to support you.   If you have questions, pop me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com  

In this episode, I speak about the effect that drinking has on our minds and how you were made for more.

I share this amazing quote from The War of Art:

“Most of us have two lives. The life we live, and the unlived life within us. Between the two stands Resistance.”
― Steven Pressfield

If you are ready to overcome the resistance, IQW Academy is a sacred safe place to explore your relationship with wine.  

‘Hi Sarah, I want to share my deep gratitude with you. I joined your academy last week out of desperation. I’ve been stopping & starting drinking for the last 5 years and nothing has worked.

I thought that there was something wrong with me.

I read all the quit-lit books & listened to lots of podcasts.

A few weeks ago I stumbled across your podcast & knew you were the one to help me overcome this problem. Most people don’t get it. They think I’m fine & should just keep trying to moderate.

But I always knew there was more to life than constantly thinking about when & how much I would drink. You get it. I think it’s your mix of personal and professional experience that makes you different from all the others. Your academy feels like home. I was missing the connection you provide. It feels safe to be there and be on this journey with you. The other women all get it too. I love how it doesn’t matter how much we drank or how long we’ve stopped (or still trying to stop for good), your program gives us what we need for our version of success.

Thank you.’

The price of IQW Academy is rising on the 1st of next month. Join this 90-day program now & stay for up to 12 months.

⁠Join now to enjoy the huge savings discount.⁠

⁠Join here⁠ at the lowest price it will ever be:

https://iquitwine.com/iqwa    

I can't wait to support you.   If you have questions, pop me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com  

In this episode, I speak with my client Aneta Idczak about her journey to having a much better life after wine.
If you're someone who thinks that you don't drink enough for it to be a problem, then you need to hear this story.
You don't need to have a 'rock bottom' to stop drinking. It isn't about how much you drink but how it makes you feel.
Aneta Idczak is Trauma-informed Somatic Coach and Yoga Teacher, Trainer and Mentor.  She specialises in training other practitioners in trauma-informed somatic approach in their work and business.
http://www.anetai.co.uk/
As I mentioned during this episode, IQW Academy is open. What a loving gift this would be to yourself!!      
You can hop in now and start getting the support, inspiration, motivation & information you need to stop drinking, stay stopped and have a much better relationship with alcohol (& yourself!).  
IQW Academy is a sacred safe place to explore your relationship with wine.  

‘Hi Sarah, I want to share my deep gratitude with you. I joined your academy last week out of desperation.
I’ve been stopping & starting drinking for the last 5 years and nothing has worked.
I thought that there was something wrong with me.
I read all the quit-lit books & listened to lots of podcasts.
A few weeks ago I stumbled across your podcast & knew you were the one to help me overcome this problem. Most people don’t get it. They think I’m fine & should just keep trying to moderate.
But I always knew there was more to life than constantly thinking about when & how much I would drink.
You get it. I think it’s your mix of personal and professional experience that makes you different from all the others.
Your academy feels like home. I was missing the connection you provide. It feels safe to be there and be on this journey with you. The other women all get it too.
I love how it doesn’t matter how much we drank or how long we’ve stopped (or still trying to stop for good), your program gives us what we need for our version of success.
Thank you.’
The price of IQW Academy is rising on the 1st of next month.
Join this 90-day program now & stay for up to 12 months.

Join now to enjoy the huge savings discount.

Join here at the lowest price it will ever be:

https://iquitwine.com/iqwa    
I can't wait to support you.  
If you have questions, pop me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com  

If you have a friend who needs this, please share the special link with them:

https://iquitwine.com/iqwa

In this episode, I’m joined by the lovely Sally German, a coach who shares her inspiring journey of quitting alcohol and how journaling became a powerful part of her recovery and personal growth.

Sally’s story is incredibly relatable—like so many women, her drinking was woven into her social life, career, and stress management. But after years of questioning her relationship with alcohol, trying to moderate, and experiencing the emotional toll it took, she made the brave decision to quit for good.

We also dive deep into one of my favourite tools for sobriety and self-discovery: journaling. If you’ve ever felt a bit weird writing things down or didn’t know where to start, this conversation will give you the nudge you need.

✨ What We Talked About:

Sally’s Journey

• First drink at 10 or 11—can you believe it?

• Drinking quickly became the norm in her late teens and twenties

• She tried all the moderation tricks (dry months, training for a marathon) before finally saying goodbye to alcohol

• It took around 10 years from her first “maybe I should stop” moment to full sobriety

The Challenges of Quitting

• Societal conditioning and the fear of missing out are real

• Friends often didn’t understand her choice, which made things even tougher

• Sally shares how hard it was to imagine social life or travel without alcohol—but also how freeing it’s been since quitting

Journaling for Sobriety & Growth

• Journaling started as something awkward for Sally… and me too, to be honest!

• Now it’s a daily essential for both of us

• It’s not just about writing—it’s a space for emotional release, pattern spotting, and serious self-awareness

Tips for Starting a Journaling Practice

• Keep it simple: start with “Right now I feel…” or “Today I’m feeling…”

• 5 minutes is plenty to begin with

• Try it in the morning with your coffee or at night to wind down

• Push through the initial discomfort—it gets easier, and the insights are so worth it

💬 Ready to Give Journaling a Go? Start small, stay curious, and be kind to yourself. It doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to be honest.

You can connect with Sally German Coaching over on Instagram for more journaling inspo and support.

And who knows? I might have Sally back soon to dive even deeper into this gorgeous practice!

If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, leave a review, or come hang out with me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah_

I’d love to hear your thoughts.

In this episode of I Quit Wine, I’m answering some of the biggest questions about quitting alcohol—how hard it really is, what to expect in early sobriety, and whether you can ever “reset” your drinking habits.

I’ll also share insights from my own journey, what finally worked for me after years of trying, and why addressing the root causes of alcohol dependence is so important.

✅ Early sobriety is challenging, but it gets easier with the right support and daily practices.
✅ Alcohol cravings aren’t just triggered by stress—happy moments can also lead to urges.
✅ There’s no such thing as “resetting” drinking habits—quitting completely is often necessary.
✅ Long-term sobriety isn’t just about avoiding alcohol; it’s about healing the deeper reasons we drink.

🔹 The Challenge of Early Sobriety

• The first 30 days can be tough, but they’re also crucial.
• Around 80-100 days, something shifts, and sobriety starts to feel easier.
• Daily practices are key—willpower alone won’t keep you sober.
• How my Freedom Formula helps create a sustainable alcohol-free life.

🔹 Why Triggers for Alcohol Go Beyond Stress

• Cravings don’t just come from bad days—good days can trigger them too.
• Our beliefs about worthiness and happiness can play a huge role in drinking.
• Alcohol is often used to cope with both struggles and celebrations.
• The nervous system’s role in processing emotions (and why it matters in sobriety).

🔹 The Myth of “Resetting” Drinking Habits

• There’s no such thing as a fresh start with drinking.
• The “downward-facing escalator” analogy—why every relapse brings you back to the same spot.
• The importance of addressing the root causes behind drinking.
• My personal experience of multiple attempts before finally stopping for good.

🔹 Why Professional Support Makes a Difference

• Trying to quit alone can be harder than it needs to be.

• My ICW Freedom Formula helps women quit drinking in a way that actually lasts.
• I use trauma-informed coaching, somatic work, and emotional sobriety coaching techniques alongside Root Cause Therapy.

• Trying to quit alone can be harder than it needs to be.

💌 Need support? I’m here to help!

📧 Email me: iqwwithsarah@gmail.com

📲 DM me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah_/

💬 Thinking about quitting? Let’s chat—book a call with me to talk about your next steps:

https://calendly.com/iqwwithsarah/connect-with-sarah

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: If you’re a heavy daily drinker, please consult a healthcare professional before quitting abruptly.

I Quit Wine Podcast - Episode 035
Finding Joy Beyond the Glass: Relearning Happiness Without Wine

Episode Summary:
In this episode, I discuss the challenges of quitting alcohol and discovering true joy in life without wine, particularly for women in midlife and menopause. Many women struggle to imagine a fulfilling life without alcohol, viewing it as their "best friend" and main source of joy. However, breaking free from this dependence opens the door to a richer, more meaningful life—though it takes time, reflection, and support.

Key Topics Covered:
✔️ The emotional and psychological ties to alcohol and why it feels like a “best friend”
✔️ Overcoming the fear of life without alcohol and learning to find joy in new ways
✔️ How self-worth, productivity, and busyness can contribute to alcohol dependence
✔️ Personal story: A 3-month camper van trip that highlighted lifestyle differences and the importance of stillness
✔️ The role of hormones in midlife (decreasing estrogen & oxytocin) and their impact on self-reflection and purpose
✔️ The rise in alcohol consumption among Gen X and Boomer women compared to younger generations
✔️ The unique challenges midlife women face—caring for aging parents, raising teenagers, and experiencing perimenopause
✔️ The importance of self-compassion, curiosity, and patience in exploring life without alcohol
✔️ Practical steps for rediscovering joy through non-drinking activities like coloring, walking, and beach visits
✔️ The role of support, self-reflection, and addressing subconscious patterns in quitting alcohol
✔️ My experience with Root Cause Therapy and how it helped uncover underlying worthiness issues

Resources & Support:
🎥 Free guide & video training: Assess your relationship with alcohol
📩 Email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com to request the guide
📲 Message me on Instagram @iquitwine_withsarah for more support
💬 One-on-one coaching is available to explore the root cause of your drinking, your unique challenges and create a plan for an alcohol-free life. Email 'coaching' to iqwwithsarah@gmail.com

Call to Action:
✨ Reflect on your personal relationship with alcohol and where you find joy outside of drinking
✨ Consider reaching out for support, whether through the free guide, a conversation, or one-on-one coaching
✨ Explore new activities and hobbies that bring you fulfillment without alcohol
✨ Be kind and patient with yourself—change takes time, but a better life is waiting on the other side

Thank you for listening! If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a friend who might need it.

Don’t forget to follow the podcast for more insights and encouragement on your alcohol-free journey. 💜

In this episode, I explore my relationship to alcohol and how this is playing out in other areas of my life.

How you do alcohol is how you do everything is actually excellent news as it will teach you how to have a much better life.

I share how a recent detox from sugar has reminded me about dopamine sensitivity and how many of us will react.

Join me in the IQW Freedom Formula to learn to exact steps to having a much better life without wine:

https://iquitwine.com/iqwff/

Sarah discusses how people often underreport their alcohol consumption, with the common belief that individuals drink at least double what they admit to. She reflects on her experiences as a student nurse seeing patients with severe alcohol-related health issues.

Sarah shares how her views have evolved, noting that the focus should be on how alcohol makes someone feel rather than just the quantity consumed. She emphasizes the importance of understanding one's personal relationship with alcohol, especially for "gray area drinkers" who may experience negative impacts from relatively moderate consumption.|

Sarah encourages the listener to reflect on how their drinking makes them feel, rather than just the amount. She shares examples of women in her programs who struggled with the impacts of even a small amount of alcohol. She invites the listener to explore her "I Quit Wine Freedom Formula" program to address their relationship with alcohol.

https://iquitwine.com/iqwff/

Sarah invites the listener to follow her on Instagram, send her a message, and share any insights from listening to her podcast episodes. She emphasizes her approachability and desire to engage with her audience.

https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah_/

Episode 038: Doing Big Things Without Alcohol

In this episode of I Quit Wine, I’m sharing all about a huge personal milestone—my son’s wedding—and how I navigated the entire multi-day celebration completely alcohol-free.

Yes, three days of events (pre-wedding, the big day, and post-wedding celebrations), surrounded by champagne toasts and clinking wine glasses—and I didn’t drink a drop. And the best part? I had a brilliant time. I danced, I laughed, I connected, and I woke up feeling fresh every morning (unlike some others, bless them!).

Here’s what I cover in this episode:

💃 My personal experience

• How I stayed sober at such a big event, and the tiny wobble I had—and how I moved through it.

• What helped me the most, including great alcohol-free drinks (yes, there was AF wine, beer, and cocktails!).

• One little hiccup—my non-alcoholic wine got switched for the real thing by mistake. I’ll tell you what happened and how I handled it.

🌟 The benefits of staying alcohol-free at events

• Waking up clear-headed and energised

• Feeling confident and present (no second-guessing anything I said or did!)

• Fully enjoying the dancing and celebration without any fuzzy moments

🥂 Why inclusivity for non-drinkers matters

• A big shout-out to events that make non-drinkers feel just as welcome

• Why just offering water isn’t enough

• The power of choice when it comes to drinks—and how it actually encourages more people to skip the booze

🛠 My top tips for navigating events alcohol-free

• What to plan ahead (spoiler: know your drinks, your answers, and your exits!)

• Why focusing on the joy and connection makes such a difference

• How to feel empowered, even when you’re the only one not drinking

🎉 Exciting news!
The IQW Freedom Formula is available for just $88 and will support you on your journey to freedom from overthinking your drinking.

You can check it out here:

IQuitWine.com/FF

Want to find out more about my wellbeing supplements that are also helping others to decrease cravings? I love the magnesium, multi-vitamin and CBD oil from this company:

https://www.LiveGood.com/SarahLeather

Thanks for listening. If you’re facing your own big event and wondering how to handle it without wine, know that you can do it—and it can be even better than you imagined.

In this episode of the I Quit Wine podcast, I take you behind the scenes of my own story—the emotional reasons behind the last time I drank alcohol, and how understanding this completely changed my relationship with drinking.

Here’s what I talk about:

💛 Why We Drink for Emotional Reasons (0:59)
I explore how so many of us turn to alcohol to shift how we’re feeling—whether that’s trying to numb shame, guilt, or grief, or trying to amplify excitement before a big event. Our thoughts and emotions are always intertwined, and getting curious about what’s underneath the urge to drink is where real change begins.

🍷 My Own Story: The Last Time I Drank (4:23)
I share honestly about the last time I drank alcohol. I was feeling sad and lonely, and I wanted to feel happier and more energised for a family event. Instead, I ended up drinking more than I intended and waking up the next day full of regret. This was such an important turning point for me.

🔁 Recognising Your Own Patterns (7:29)
I talk about how we all have our “thing” we struggle with. For some, it’s alcohol. For others, it’s something completely different. What matters is understanding your own relationship with it—your triggers, your habits, your emotional states—rather than comparing yourself with anyone else.

🌿 Building a Healthier Relationship With Alcohol (10:50)
I walk through how my relationship with alcohol changed gradually over the years. It wasn’t overnight. It was a slow and steady shift into being genuinely disinterested in drinking. I invite you to reflect on what you want your relationship with alcohol to look like and offer gentle suggestions for moving in that direction.

🌟 Support Through the I Quit Wine Collective (16:36)
I introduce the IQW Collective—my programme that brings together courses, tools, community, and coaching to help you develop a healthier, more peaceful relationship with alcohol. There’s no one-size-fits-all. You get to decide what freedom looks like for you.

You can take a look here:

https://iquitwine.com/iqwa/

Right now when you join, you get the trainings inside the portal as well as 2 private calls with me (valued at much more than the entire price of the IQW Collective.

✨ Recap & Gentle Next Steps (20:00)
I close the episode by reminding you that everything you want is fully available to you. You’re not behind. You’re not broken. And you don’t have to figure this out alone.

In this episode, I chat with Gillian Cockburn, a sober coach who’s been alcohol-free for over five years. Her story is such a powerful example of what’s possible when you decide to question your relationship with alcohol — and choose a different path.

Gillian stopped drinking on May 6th, 2020, after years of knowing something wasn’t quite right. She shared how she used to hide her drinking, even from those closest to her, and how she often felt empty and disconnected in her early 40s. Like so many of us, she was using alcohol to numb uncomfortable feelings and get through the day.

What really helped her turn things around was doing deep thought work and mindset coaching — learning to change the way she thought about herself, her emotions, and alcohol. That shift gave her the tools to maintain her sobriety and create a much more vibrant, peaceful life.

We also talked about how cultural and marketing influences have played such a big role in normalising drinking, especially for women. Gillian grew up in Scotland, where alcohol was part of almost every social gathering, and later found herself influenced by TV shows and media that glamorised wine as a symbol of sophistication or stress relief.

She also pointed out how marketing specifically targets women — positioning alcohol as “Mummy’s little helper” — and how that can make it even harder to step away from drinking in midlife, when so many women are already dealing with identity shifts, hormonal changes, and big life transitions.

One of my favourite parts of our conversation was around mindset shifts. Gillian talked about viewing alcohol as neutral — not good, not bad — and focusing instead on the thoughts and feelings that drive the desire to drink. Letting go of shame and judgement, she said, is what opens the door to true freedom.

When I asked what advice she’d give to someone in early sobriety, she offered some beautiful, simple wisdom:
✨ Pause and take a breath before you decide to drink.
✨ Make a conscious choice, rather than reacting automatically.
✨ And, most importantly, connect with others who get it — you don’t have to do this alone.

You can follow Gillian on Instagram at @GillianSoberCoach and visit her website at www.findingyoucoaching.co.uk for more of her work and resources.

Now’s the perfect time to get support inside the IQW Collective

You get the entire program plus 2 x 1:1 sessions for one low price to help you change your relationship with alcohol:

⁠https://iquitwine.com/⁠

In this episode, I dive into a big one – why so many of us use alcohol to avoid or numb emotions. It could be anxiety, stress, worry, or even the “good” feelings like joy and excitement. For a while, wine might feel like it takes the edge off, but the relief never lasts – and the consequences can be heavy.

I share honestly about my own experience when I first stopped drinking for longer stretches. I found it really hard to have a clear, focused mind and thought something was wrong with me. What I eventually discovered is that it was actually a sign I needed to learn new ways to manage my emotions – and that’s where real freedom begins.

I talk about how important it is to develop a toolkit of healthy coping strategies rather than falling back on alcohol or other addictive habits. This is the key to breaking that frustrating stop–start cycle so many of us know all too well.

I also touch on the role of hormones – particularly during perimenopause and menopause – and how they can affect our relationship with alcohol. It’s such an important piece of the puzzle, and I encourage you to seek support from professionals who really understand this connection.

At the end of the episode, I give you a little sneak peek of what’s coming up next week, when I’ll be talking about the new alcohol labelling laws in Ireland and what they could mean for how we all think about drinking.

And, if you’re ready for support, I’d love to invite you to join me inside the IQW Collective – especially with Sober October just around the corner. It’s a safe, supportive space where you’ll find tools, resources, and community to help you finally break free from the cycle.

Check out the IQW Collective here:

https://iquitwine.com/iqwa/

Email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com if you'd like to explore private coaching.

Struggle with drinking while on holiday? In this episode of I Quit Wine, I share my experience of protecting sobriety, explain emotional sobriety, and introduce the year-long I Quit Wine Collective for support beyond “just not drinking.”

Staying alcohol-free while on holiday can be so challenging.

Even after years of sobriety, I’ve had moments where those “innocent little thoughts” about having a drink sneak in, and before you know it, they can become really tempting. I share openly about my own experiences and why I’ve learned to be fiercely protective of my sobriety – not just from other people offering me a drink, but from my own mind trying to convince me that “just one” would be fine.

I also share something really exciting – the doors are now open for my brand-new I Quit Wine Collective. This is a year-long support community designed to help you get off the stop-start cycle with drinking and feel fully supported in your sobriety.

Inside, you’ll find daily check-ins, group coaching, somatic practices like breathwork, and the kind of encouragement we all need to stay consistent.

Another theme I dive into is emotional sobriety. For me, quitting wine was never just about not drinking – it’s about creating a truly incredible life after wine. I talk about how I blend both cognitive (top-down) and somatic (bottom-up) tools to work through the deeper reasons why we drank in the first place, and how this helps us flourish in every area of life.

I wrap up with an invitation for you to join me in the I Quit Wine Collective – because this isn’t just about giving up alcohol, it’s about co-creating a new, brighter chapter of your life.

🎧 The Question to Ask Yourself That Changes Everything with Drinking

In this episode, I dive into a powerful question that changed everything for me in my sobriety journey—and how it might shift things for you too.

Here’s what we cover:

🌀 Understanding Grey Area Drinking (starts at 0:13)
I explain what “grey area drinking” actually is—the space between not drinking at all and full-blown alcohol dependency. If you’ve ever found yourself trying to take breaks, then starting again, you’re not alone.

💡 The Key Question That Helped Me Break the Cycle (starts at 2:42)
I share the simple but game-changing question I asked myself:
“Is this taking me further towards or away from feeling good, feeling well?”
This mindset shift was the beginning of real, lasting change.

🍷 The Truth About Alcohol’s So-Called Health Benefits (starts at 4:30)
We take a look at the outdated ideas around alcohol being “good for you,” and I unpack what the latest research says instead.

🧠 Challenging the Lies That Keep Us Drinking (starts at 7:59)
From “I need a drink to relax” to “I won’t enjoy the party without it,” I talk through the sneaky thoughts that keep us stuck—and how to let them drift on by without giving them power.

🌿 Reconnecting With Your Innate Well-Being (starts at 10:00)
You were born with a natural sense of well-being, and it's still there—even if alcohol has clouded it. I share how you can start to reconnect with that deeper joy and clarity.

If this episode resonated and you're ready to explore a life with more energy, peace and joy—without alcohol—I’d love to support you.

👉 Book a free connect call with me here
or
📲 Send me a DM on Instagram: @iquitwine_withsarah

You don’t have to figure it all out on your own—support is here when you're ready. 💛

In today’s episode, I’m diving into a truth that took me years to understand:
👉 When you think less, you drink less.
Not because you suddenly gain more willpower… but because you stop getting trapped in the mental loops that keep you reaching for a glass.

I talk about how our brains fire off thousands of thoughts a day — and how those thoughts create emotions, and those emotions drive what we do next.
Same situation, totally different reactions, depending on the thoughts we attach to it.
This is why two women can have the same day… but only one ends up pouring wine at 5pm.

I share how my own perspective has shifted over the years.
Thought work helped me — but it wasn’t the whole picture. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is not chase the thought at all.
Let it pass.
Let it be.
Let your body regulate before your mind spirals.

I invite you to imagine your thoughts like clouds drifting across the sky.
You don’t have to climb on every cloud.
You don’t have to argue with them.
You can let them roll in and roll out.
In this episode, I share grounding practices that helped me stop getting stuck in repetitive, insecure thinking — the kind that used to send me straight to a bottle.

This is a big one.
I explain why alcohol itself isn’t the powerful force we think it is — it’s neutral.
The grip it has on us comes entirely from the meaning, emotion, and habit loops we’ve built around it.
When you loosen those thoughts, alcohol loses its charge… and you regain your power.

I wrap up with an invitation:
Share your own experiences with insecure thinking around drinking.
Notice how often your thoughts are running the show.
And remember — everything you want for your wellness, your peace, your freedom… it’s already within you.
You just have to clear the mental clutter long enough to feel it.

🧠 Thoughts + Drinking: How They Shape Each Other (0:28)

⛔ The Limits of “Just Change Your Thoughts” Work (3:59)

🌥 Presence, Somatic Awareness & Thought Clouds (6:44)

🍷 Alcohol Is Neutral (11:27)💬 Closing Thoughts & Your Next Step (11:57)

I'm opening up some more 1:1 coaching slots. If you're done overthinking your drinking, book a call here to discuss:

👉 Book a complimentary ⁠IQW Connect Call with me here⁠.

Or join the IQW Collective to get my courses plus support (for a short time, you also get 2 x 1:1 sessions with me for 1 low price) here:

https://iquitwine.com/iqwa/

In this episode, I talk about one of my favourite tools for staying alcohol-free: playing it forward. If you want more clarity, more energy, and a calmer relationship with yourself, this episode will really support you.

Here’s what I dive into:

🔮 Playing It Forward 100 Days (3:02)
I explore the idea of imagining yourself 100 days into the future—alcohol-free—and noticing how you feel emotionally, mentally, physically, and in your relationships. When you play it forward, the choice in front of you becomes so much clearer.

🎉 The 100-Day Alcohol-Free Challenge (5:12)
I share the details of the 100-day alcohol-free challenge I’m starting in the new year inside the IQW Collective. We’ll be walking this journey together with somatic practices, tools for managing triggers, and a supportive community led by Sarah.

🧘‍♀️ Why the Mind–Body Connection Matters (7:30)
For years, I felt completely disconnected from my body. In this episode, I talk about how tuning in—really listening to what your body is telling you—can release the urge to drink and bring you back into regulation.

⚡️ Triggers and Glimmers (11:25)
I encourage you to get curious about your personal triggers—the things that dysregulate your nervous system and make you want to reach for a drink. And just as importantly, I talk about finding your glimmers: the small, soothing moments that help you settle, soften, and come home to yourself.

🤝 Joining the IQW Collective (15:01)
I share how you can join the IQW Collective and take part in our 100-day alcohol-free challenge, and I talk through options for extra 1:1 support if you want it. You can always email me if you have questions or need help deciding.

✨ Recap & Call to Action (17:18)
I invite you to dream into what your life could look like after 100 days without alcohol. How do you want to feel? What will be different? I’d absolutely love to hear your vision.

If you'd love support in creating your own 100-day alcohol-free future, I’m here for you.

👉 Book a complimentary IQW Connect Call with me here:

or a Coaching Session here:

Wishing you beautiful, nourishing self-care. 💛

🎧 A New Home for the I Quit Wine Collective

In this short episode, I’m sharing something really exciting—I’ve created a brand new home for the I Quit Wine Collective, and I wanted to tell you all about it.

This is a space that’s been evolving for a while, and it finally feels like it truly fits what we’re creating together.

Here’s what I cover:

🏡 The New Home for the IQW Collective
I talk about why I’ve moved everything into a new platform and created a more supportive, private space for you. The old Facebook group just wasn’t working—so many women didn’t feel comfortable sharing there, and it stayed very quiet. This new space feels completely different.

✨ What’s Inside the Collective
Inside the IQW Collective, you’ll find my core programmes—the IQW Freedom Formula and the IQW Academy—along with private podcasts, tools, resources, and ongoing support. It’s all in one place now, which makes it so much easier to actually use and benefit from.

💛 A Flexible Way to Get Started
I’ve changed the pricing so you can come in for a month and explore, with no pressure. And if you join for a year, you’ll also get a 1:1 coaching session with me, which is such a powerful way to get clarity on what’s really going on for you.

🌿 Who This Is For
If you’re someone in that grey area—not a heavy drinker, but also not someone who can just take it or leave it—this space is for you.
If you know alcohol isn’t serving you anymore and you want to pause, reflect, and understand your relationship with it more deeply, you’ll feel right at home here.

🧠 Getting to the Root of It
In our work together—especially in 1:1 sessions—we look at what’s really driving the drinking. Your patterns, your beliefs, your emotional triggers. Because that’s where the real shift happens.

🌍 A Global, Supportive Community
We have women joining from all over the world, and I’ll be hosting live calls each month at different times to suit different time zones. Replays will be available (unless something very personal is shared).

🔒 A Safe, Private Space
You can share in the group or message me privately—whatever feels safest for you. Especially while the group is still small, there’s plenty of space for personal support and connection.

🔥 30-Day Challenge Coming Soon
Next month, we’ll be running a 30-day challenge inside the Collective to help you really shift your relationship with alcohol. We’ll dive into the emotional side of things—the beliefs, the patterns, and the tools that actually make a difference.

🌟 What’s Possible for You
I also talk about the deeper truth of this journey—how so much of our drinking is tied to beliefs that life will be less enjoyable without alcohol. And when you shift that? The freedom, the joy, the lightness… It’s incredible.

If this is calling you, I’d absolutely love to welcome you inside.
📩 Send me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com

You can also check out the Collective via this link

I’m sending you lots of love—and I’ll speak to you again soon. 💛

Siobhan Walsh joins Sarah Leather for an honest conversation about blackouts, shame, recovery, trauma, and the deeper reasons alcohol can become such a struggle.

Siobhan shares her own stop-start sobriety journey, what finally made her quit, and why healing often means looking at much more than alcohol alone. Together, Sarah and Siobhan talk about eating disorders, cross-addiction, AA, moderation, emotional sobriety, and the importance of getting support from someone who truly understands.

A compassionate episode for any woman who knows alcohol is no longer working for her.

Connect with Siobhan:

Instagram: Siobhan Walsh Coaching
Website: healingyourhunger.com

Need to talk about your drinking going into the 'grey zone'?

Book a private 50-minute 1:1 call with Sarah Leather here to get to the root cause of your drinking and a plan forward.

Once you pay on this link, you will receive an email with your booking link. There are many time slots available but if none suit, reply to the email with your time zone and you will be offered alternative times to choose from.

Or check out I Quit Wine Collective and get the entire program plus a 1:1 call with Sarah, currently just $150 here.

You will receive an email with everything shortly after signing up & the link to book your call 1 day later.

5 Things I Learned From Doing the First 30 Days Alcohol-Free

In today’s episode of the I Quit Wine Podcast, I’m sharing five of the biggest lessons I learned from doing the first 30 days without alcohol — and trust me, I’ve done those first 30 days more times than I can count.

If you’ve ever found yourself stopping, starting again, promising yourself “this time will be different”, or wondering why moderation still feels exhausting… this episode is for you.

Inside the IQW Collective, we’ve just started a 30-day reset around changing our relationship with alcohol — because the real shift isn’t about “resetting your drinking”. It’s about changing the relationship itself.

In this episode, I talk about:

• Why your “why” matters more than anything else
• The powerful question to ask yourself about your relationship with alcohol
• Why you don’t necessarily need to change the ritual — just the ingredient
• What cravings are really trying to tell you
• The exhaustion and emotional flatness that can happen in early sobriety
• Why “just one” is usually the first one, not the only one
• The truth about stepping back onto the “downward escalator” of drinking
• What happened after I drank again, following a full year of being alcohol-free
• Why overthinking drinking keeps so many women stuck
• How to start building emotional freedom instead of relying on willpower

This episode is honest, compassionate, and deeply practical if you’re navigating grey area drinking, taking a break from alcohol, or ready to stop the stop/start cycle for good.

If you’re ready to stop overthinking drinking and start changing your relationship with alcohol in a supportive, compassionate space, I’d love to welcome you inside the IQW Collective.

You’ll get:

• My 30-day relationship reset
• Alcohol Freedom courses
• Coaching and support with 2 live calls each month
• A private community of women who truly get it (this is a small group & it's fine to be anonymous)
• Lifetime access to everything. You join once and stay for as long as you would like to.

Join the IQW Collective here.

And if this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it or send it to someone who might need to hear it today.

Grey Area Drinkers: What If You Never Wanted to Drink Again?

Have you ever stopped to ask yourself, what if you never wanted to drink again?

Not because you were forcing yourself to abstain. Not because you were relying on willpower. But because alcohol simply stopped having any appeal.

In this episode, I'm exploring one of the biggest mindset shifts in changing your relationship with alcohol. I share why so many of us spend years chasing the dream of becoming a "normal" drinker, and why that goal might actually be keeping us stuck.

✨ Why so many women in the grey area of drinking dream of moderating their alcohol instead of letting it go completely.

✨ My own experience of wanting to be the person who could have "just a couple of glasses" a few nights a week — and why that never worked for me.

✨ The hidden cost of holding onto the hope that alcohol will one day become easy to manage.

✨ Why our brains conveniently forget the difficult mornings and only remember the romanticised moments of drinking.

✨ The powerful question that changed everything for me:
What if I simply didn't want alcohol anymore?

✨ Why I encourage my clients to focus less on "giving something up" and more on creating a life they genuinely don't want to escape from.

✨ A simple exercise to help you explore the real consequences of continuing exactly as you are versus making a change.

• "I just want to drink like everyone else."
• "Maybe this time I'll finally be able to control it."
• "I don't want to stop forever."

...this episode is for you.

I know those thoughts because I had them too. For years.

Today, I have absolutely no desire to drink, and I want you to know that's possible for you too. Not through willpower or deprivation, but by changing your relationship with alcohol at its roots.

If you're tired of waking up on another Day One and wondering why nothing changes, you don't have to figure it out on your own.

The I Quit Wine Collective is my coaching and support program designed specifically for professional, high-functioning women who are ready to step off the stop/start cycle for good.

https://iquitwine.com/iqwa/

Or simply reach out if you'd like to chat about where you are right now. Sometimes the first step is simply telling someone the truth.

You can email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com or connect with me on Instagram @iquitwine.withsarah.

I'd love to hear from you.

If this episode resonated with you, I'd be so grateful if you subscribed, left a review, or shared it with a friend who needs to hear this message.

Until next time, remember...

Everything changes when you stop trying to become someone who can drink moderately and start becoming someone who simply loves life more than wine.

ADHD, Alcohol & Me: The Missing Piece

For a decade and a half, I was possibly solving the wrong problem.

It was around 40 when I first started questioning my relationship with alcohol. I knew something had shifted. So I spent the best part of a decade playing with the rules — alcohol-free days, months off, even a year off at one point, then two. Stop-start, stop-start.

Then at 56, I got diagnosed with ADHD. And that changed everything.

In this episode, I'm talking about the thing nobody told me at the time: why the ADHD brain and alcohol are such a difficult match — and why this is true for so many of the women I speak to who are neurodivergent and struggling with drink.

In this episode, I cover:

• The gap between questioning my drinking at 40 and understanding why at 56 — and the year and a half it took me to really land in that diagnosis
• Why alcohol works so fast on an ADHD brain (and why that's exactly the problem) — the dopamine piece, in plain English
• Masking: the decades of compensating, overworking and performing "fine" that so many late-diagnosed women will recognise
• Why "one glass" was never realistically going to be one glass, and why that was never about a lack of discipline
• How alcohol doesn't just numb an ADHD brain — it quietens it. And why that makes it feel like a solution long before it becomes a problem
• My own teenage introduction to drinking, and the anxiety I didn't even know I was carrying
• The vicious cycle of hangxiety, shame, obsessive replaying of the night before, and how alcohol makes every one of those symptoms worse, not better
• Why gray-area drinking with an undiagnosed or diagnosed ADHD brain is such a perfect storm
• The running-on-a-stony-path metaphor — and why the right support is like finally putting your shoes on
• A few gentle questions to sit with if you suspect this might be part of your story too

A few lines I want you to sit with:

"Alcohol doesn't just numb the ADHD brain — it quietens it. And that's exactly what makes it feel so helpful, long before it becomes harmful."

Some questions to ask yourself:

• Do I reach for a drink to switch off a busy mind, more than to actually enjoy the drink itself?
• Have I spent my life feeling like I was too much and not enough at the same time — too much energy, not enough follow-through?
• Do I crash in the evenings after holding it all together, all day?

None of these are a diagnosis. They might just be a doorway.

I'm not here to diagnose anyone through a podcast. But if any of this lands, please don't let it get brushed off — by yourself, or by anyone else. Find someone who actually understands neurodivergence and the nervous system. You deserve better than being told you'll simply "grow out of it."

Mentioned in this episode:

The I Quit Wine Collective — a safe space for like-minded women on this journey. Come in, have a look around, say hello. There's an entry level with access to my 30-day break from alcohol, and the option to join the full Collective when you're ready.

Take a look here:

https://www.skool.com/i-quit-wine-iqw-collective-3336

Email me here to share your story in confidence or enquire about 1:1 coaching:

iqwwithsarah@gmail.com

I'm rebuilding on Instagram after a break, please follow me & DM me to say hi. I'd love to hear what landed for you from this episode:

https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine.withsarah/