Not Drinking (Alcohol) Today Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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 started her memoir at 14 months sober, bravely recounting how her party lifestyle masked unresolved trauma. Structured around the seven chakras, her story reflects various life stages and invaluable lessons from yoga philosophy. From grounding and creativity to self-confidence and higher power connection, learn how balancing chakras helped her to address past painful life experiences and to build resilience. We highlight personal stories that illustrate the transformative power of daily yoga and mindfulness practices in supporting sobriety and personal growth. This episode offers inspiration for those on their own recovery journeys, with universal appeal through its engaging stories of resilience and healing.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ALEX

Link to the Sober Yoga Girl book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1739094379

Alex McRobert's web: https://www.themindfullifepractice.com

MEG

Megan Webb: https://glassfulfilled.com.au
Instagram: @glassfulfilled
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub


BELLA

Isabella Ferguson: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Instagram: @alcoholandstresswithisabella
Free 5-Day DO I HAVE A DRINKING PROBLEM? Clarify and focus series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/doIhaveadrinkingproblemwithisabellaferguson
Alcohol Freedom Small Group Challenge - Register here: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/alcoholfreedomchallenge
The Alcohol Revolution 6-Week Program (Online or Podcast): https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/thealcoholrevolutionhttps://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/TheAlcoholRevolutionAlcoholFreeOnlineProgramOverview

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.

Discover the remarkable health benefits that come with quitting alcohol, as Maryanne discusses her significant physical transformations, including the reversal of osteopenia and improved blood pressure management. She emphasises the critical role of dietary changes, such as embracing a plant-based diet, and consistent exercise, including running and yoga. Maryanne's reflections on her past habits, contrasted with her vibrant new lifestyle, underscore the profound growth and well-being achievable through sobriety. Her integration of yoga as both a personal coping mechanism and a professional endeavour exemplifies the holistic approach to wellness she advocates.

In addition to personal health triumphs, Maryanne's story highlights the emotional and psychological journey toward alcohol freedom. From the struggles of moderation to the awakening moments amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, her candid recounting of grief and self-discovery offers invaluable insights. Maryanne also touches on her experience of co-authoring a book and her plans to offer supportive programs for first responders. This heartfelt conversation not only underscores the transformative power of sobriety but also the expansive opportunities for healing and growth in a newfound alcohol-free life. Don’t miss out on Maryanne's inspiring journey and her mission to help others reclaim their well-being.

Maryanne's website:  https://sobersunrisescoaching.com/
Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/maryanne-t-petkac-ma-ba-56a19018.

MEG

Megan Webb: https://glassfulfilled.com.au
Instagram: @glassfulfilled
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub


BELLA

Isabella Ferguson: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Instagram: @alcoholandstresswithisabella
Free 5-Day DO I HAVE A DRINKING PROBLEM? Clarify and focus series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/doIhaveadrinkingproblemwithisabellaferguson
Alcohol Freedom Small Group Challenge - Register here: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/alcoholfreedomchallenge
The Alcohol Revolution 6-Week Program (Online or Podcast): https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/thealcoholrevolutionhttps://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/TheAlcoholRevolutionAlcoholFreeOnlineProgramOverview

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. 

The road to sobriety was not an easy one for Dave, marked by a lifetime of seeking social acceptance through unhealthy means. From moving to a rough school and dealing with tumultuous family dynamics to finding a sense of belonging among streetwise kids through alcohol, Dave's story is one of resilience and redemption. He shares how his early adulthood was filled with excessive drinking to cope with emotional struggles, highlighting the complexities of finding refuge in unhealthy habits. As he navigated through his early 40s, dealing with business pressures, a TV job, and personal loss, it was a friend's supportive invitation that finally set him on the path to sobriety. 

Join us as we reflect on Dave's incredible journey of recovery and self-compassion. Dave's story is a testament to the power of transformation. Learn about the coping mechanisms, fitness routines, and connections that have helped him maintain sobriety, and how he now channels his experiences into coaching others on their path to a healthier life. This episode is a heartfelt conversation filled with personal anecdotes and practical advice, offering hope and inspiration for anyone struggling with alcohol dependency.

CONNECT WITH DAVE

https://www.soberdave.co.uk/

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

Megan Webb: https://glassfulfilled.com.au
Instagram: @glassfulfilled
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub


BELLA

Isabella Ferguson: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Instagram: @alcoholandstresswithisabella
Free 5-Day DO I HAVE A DRINKING PROBLEM? Clarify and focus series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/doIhaveadrinkingproblemwithisabellaferguson
Alcohol Freedom Small Group Challenge - Register here: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/alcoholfreedomchallenge
The Alcohol Revolution 6-Week Program (Online or Podcast): https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/thealcoholrevolutionhttps://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/TheAlcoholRevolutionAlcoholFreeOnlineProgramOverview

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.

As Kate recounts the pivotal moment that led her to confront her addiction—Father's Day 2021, amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic—she illuminates the transformative power of sobriety. We explore how embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle has brought clarity, improved relationships, and a newfound sense of purpose. Kate's reflections on shifting from nighttime socialising to early morning adventures are both uplifting and thought-provoking, offering a roadmap for those seeking change.

Throughout our conversation, Kate emphasises the importance of support systems like podcasts, books, and sober communities. She offers hope and practical advice for navigating social situations without alcohol, underscoring the benefits of mental clarity and healthier relationships. Don't miss this empowering episode that highlights the profound impact of taking responsibility for one's actions and embracing a sober lifestyle.

Kate's website:  www.freedomaffect.com 
Instagram: kate_sobrietyandfitness 

MEG

Megan Webb: https://glassfulfilled.com.au
Instagram: @glassfulfilled
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub


BELLA

Isabella Ferguson: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Instagram: @alcoholandstresswithisabella
Free 5-Day DO I HAVE A DRINKING PROBLEM? Clarify and focus series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/doIhaveadrinkingproblemwithisabellaferguson
Alcohol Freedom Small Group Challenge - Register here: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/alcoholfreedomchallenge
The Alcohol Revolution 6-Week Program (Online or Podcast): https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/thealcoholrevolutionhttps://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/TheAlcoholRevolutionAlcoholFreeOnlineProgramOverview

* 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

Megan Webb: https://glassfulfilled.com.au
Instagram: @glassfulfilled
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub


BELLA

Isabella Ferguson: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Instagram: @alcoholandstresswithisabella
Free 5-Day DO I HAVE A DRINKING PROBLEM? Clarify and focus series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/doIhaveadrinkingproblemwithisabellaferguson
Alcohol Freedom Small Group Challenge - Register here: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/alcoholfreedomchallenge
The Alcohol Revolution 6-Week Program (Online or Podcast): https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/thealcoholrevolutionhttps://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/TheAlcoholRevolutionAlcoholFreeOnlineProgramOverview

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.

We also dive into the crucial role of parenting in fostering self-connection and trust in our children. Through heartfelt stories, like Ellie's daughter Pearl's experience, we highlight the importance of open conversations about alcohol and societal pressures. We explore the power of sober retreats, where genuine connections are made, and lasting memories are created, all without the influence of alcohol. Join us for some laughs, some reflections and some great insights! 

You can find Ellie at: 

https://www.pumpupthepresent.com
https://www.instagram.com/pumpupthepresent
https://www.facebook.com/pumpupthepresent
https://podcast.presentandsober.com
https://youtube.com/@presentandsober 

MEG

Megan Webb: https://glassfulfilled.com.au
Instagram: @glassfulfilled
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub


BELLA

Isabella Ferguson: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Instagram: @alcoholandstresswithisabella
Free 5-Day DO I HAVE A DRINKING PROBLEM? Clarify and focus series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/doIhaveadrinkingproblemwithisabellaferguson
Alcohol Freedom Small Group Challenge - Register here: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/alcoholfreedomchallenge
The Alcohol Revolution 6-Week Program (Online or Podcast): https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/thealcoholrevolutionhttps://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/TheAlcoholRevolutionAlcoholFreeOnlineProgramOverview

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”.

We dive into the intense pressures that law students and professionals face, often leading to substance abuse and mental health issues. Through Lisa’s personal detox experience, we explore the challenges and victories of seeking help and maintaining sobriety amid a culture that often glorifies heavy drinking. Her tale is a testament to the courage of those who resist this culture and who later stand up and raise awareness about it.

As Lisa reflects on her path to self-recovery, we discuss how overcoming addiction has reshaped her life and career. From landing significant roles in high-pressure environments to revealing her personal story through a memoir, Lisa's experience offers hope and practical insights for anyone navigating sobriety. We also touch on the modern resources available for those seeking support, emphasising the importance of self-love and gratitude. Join us for an episode filled with raw honesty, inspiration, and a celebration of personal strength.

LEARN MORE ABOUT LISA SMITH

Lisa's Website

Lisa's Instagram

Lisa and Tawny's Sobriety Card Deck!

MEG

Megan Webb: https://glassfulfilled.com.au
Instagram: @glassfulfilled
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub


BELLA

Isabella Ferguson: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Instagram: @alcoholandstresswithisabella
Free 5-Day DO I HAVE A DRINKING PROBLEM? Clarify and focus series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/doIhaveadrinkingproblemwithisabellaferguson
Alcohol Freedom Small Group Challenge - Register here: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/alcoholfreedomchallenge
The Alcohol Revolution 6-Week Program (Online or Podcast): https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/thealcoholrevolutionhttps://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/TheAlcoholRevolutionAlcoholFreeOnlineProgramOverview

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.

Eliza's Website: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/

Instagram accounts which Eliza follows: 

autismsupermoms

exceptionalneedstoday

specialneedssupermoms

autismadvocateparentingmag

MEG

Megan Webb: https://glassfulfilled.com.au
Instagram: @glassfulfilled
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub


BELLA

Isabella Ferguson: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Instagram: @alcoholandstresswithisabella
Free 5-Day DO I HAVE A DRINKING PROBLEM? Clarify and focus series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/doIhaveadrinkingproblemwithisabellaferguson
Alcohol Freedom Small Group Challenge - Register here: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/alcoholfreedomchallenge
The Alcohol Revolution 6-Week Program (Online or Podcast): https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/thealcoholrevolutionhttps://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/TheAlcoholRevolutionAlcoholFreeOnlineProgramOverview

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.

For anyone on the path to reducing alcohol consumption or maintaining sobriety, this episode offers ten mindful steps to help you navigate a drinking urge. 

Pushing through that 30 minutes of discomfort may seem frightening, but the more you do it, the more you are empowered to continue doing it. It's about taking back your power and minimising alcohol's role in your life. Future you will thank you! 

MEG

Megan Webb: https://glassfulfilled.com.au
Instagram: @glassfulfilled
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub


BELLA

Isabella Ferguson: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Instagram: @alcoholandstresswithisabella
Free 5-Day DO I HAVE A DRINKING PROBLEM? Clarify and focus series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/doIhaveadrinkingproblemwithisabellaferguson
Alcohol Freedom Small Group Challenge - Register here: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/alcoholfreedomchallenge
The Alcohol Revolution 6-Week Program (Online or Podcast): https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/thealcoholrevolutionhttps://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/TheAlcoholRevolutionAlcoholFreeOnlineProgramOverview

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. 
 William offers a profound perspective on alcohol that has the power to transform lives. Let's dive into his journey and discover the truths he's uncovered.

Williams website: https://alcoholexplained.com/the-author/

MEG

Megan Webb: https://glassfulfilled.com.au
Instagram: @glassfulfilled
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub


BELLA

Isabella Ferguson: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Instagram: @alcoholandstresswithisabella
Free 5-Day DO I HAVE A DRINKING PROBLEM? Clarify and focus series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/doIhaveadrinkingproblemwithisabellaferguson
Alcohol Freedom Small Group Challenge - Register here: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/alcoholfreedomchallenge
The Alcohol Revolution 6-Week Program (Online or Podcast): https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/thealcoholrevolutionhttps://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/TheAlcoholRevolutionAlcoholFreeOnlineProgramOverview