This Naked Mind Podcast

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

What if the hardest part of healing wasn't quitting drinking, but the guilt that lingers afterward? Sandra works with Coach Cole to explore how her inner critic distorts simple moments like skipping a swim into emotional spirals. Sue, coached by Zoe, shares how she was taught to bottle up her feelings as a child and how that habit still drives her urges to drink. Both women confront the deeper question of how to forgive yourself after quitting alcohol—not just to maintain your new path, but to create a life of emotional balance and peace. Their stories show that self-forgiveness is not weakness—it's the foundation of lasting freedom. In Sandra’s session: Understanding the root of internal conflict Why guilt and self-blame persist after your drinking days end Making peace with imperfect decisions The importance of journaling for emotional clarity How forgiving yourself can protect your freedom from alcohol Tools for practicing how to forgive yourself after quitting alcohol and more… In Sue’s session: Emotional cravings vs. physical urges How people-pleasing fuels emotional disconnection Exploring childhood emotional neglect through CEN Reframing living alcohol-free as emotional recovery Tools for anchoring during moments of overwhelm Reclaiming your story without shame or pressure and other topics… Cole Harvey is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach. For years, he felt lost and used alcohol as a way to cope, until he decided to go alcohol-free and focus on finding his purpose. Through curiosity, self-compassion, and adventure, he transformed his life. As a habit change and mindset coach, Cole helps young men understand themselves, build better habits, and find meaning. Learn more about Coach Cole: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/cole-harvey/ Zoe Ewart is a Certified Naked Mind Senior Coach who brings her experience and understanding to help with the tricky parts of life’s big changes. Her coaching gives you an enjoyable, light-hearted, and safe environment to effortlessly take back control of alcohol so you can feel better physically, mentally, and spiritually. Zoe taught Pilates for 15 years. She has four adult children and more animals than the Ark ever had. Learn more about Coach Zoe: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/zoe-ewart/

Is drinking again after a break something you've experienced and felt ashamed about? Angela's story proves that the stop-start cycle isn't a failure—it's part of the journey. After losing her brother and struggling with childhood trauma from abusive parents, Angela spent decades using alcohol to numb her pain. She tried to quit many times, even achieving six months of sobriety before returning to drinking. But her final attempt four years ago led to a complete life transformation. In this episode, Angela returns to share how she built new habits one tiny step at a time, rediscovered joy and creativity, and created a marriage deeper than ever before, proving that lasting change isn't about perfection—it's about persistence. In this episode, Hayley and Angela discuss: What Angela learned from drinking again after a break The truth about stop-and-start sobriety and why it’s normal Why drinking felt like a “chameleon friend” and how it changed over time How grief and career stress deepened her reliance on alcohol Why she didn’t do any emotional healing during her first year sober The difference between choosing numbness and choosing freedom Quitting alcohol alongside her husband—and how it changed their relationship Inner child work, Gabor Maté, and parenting the past self Feeling guilty about missed moments with her kids—and how she’s healing And other topics...

What if reprogramming your brain after quitting drinking could transform your entire emotional experience? That’s what Fran and Carol are discovering in this powerful episode with Coach Lisa. Fran, the youngest of eight, grew up associating alcohol with love, celebration, and anxiety. Her emotional wiring around alcohol began in early childhood and has run the show for decades—until now. Carol, a longtime health coach, used alcohol to unwind and cope with anxiety and depression. After 13 weeks alcohol-free, she’s realizing the emptiness she once filled with wine is now an invitation to feel deeply and live authentically. Through coaching, reflection, and resilience, both women are proof that our emotional landscape isn’t fixed—it can be rewired. In Fran’s session: How childhood experiences with alcohol shaped Fran’s identity Unpacking the dual associations of celebration and fear tied to drinking How early panic sensations created a pattern alcohol numbed out Reprogramming your brain after quitting drinking through micro-disruptions Fran’s experiment with being sober around family and staying present How the narrative of alcohol as “connection” can be replaced with real joy The role of curiosity, compassion, and repetition in lasting change and other topics… In Carol’s session: Navigating major life events like surgery without reaching for alcohol Feeling “empty” in early sobriety and learning to sit with discomfort Finding joy through nature, faith, and relationship with her husband Why being alcohol-free opened the door to emotional clarity How Carol is learning to design joy without relying on external substances Realizing that joy is a choice, not just a feeling and more… Lisa Kwiatkowski is a Certified Senior This Naked Mind Coach and Designing Your Life Coach. After breaking free from daily drinking in 2018, she now helps high-achieving women overcome anxiety and disconnection through intentional, alcohol-free living. Lisa’s coaching blends science-backed mindset work with practical life design strategies, guiding women to create lasting change and authentic joy. With over two decades of leadership in international sport, she brings a grounded, compassionate presence to clients navigating burnout, reinvention, and self-discovery.Learn more about Coach Lisa: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/lisa-kwiatkowski/ Related Episodes: EP 448: What I Wish I Knew Before My First Drink – The Thief of Joy - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-448-what-i-wish-i-knew-before-my-first-drink-the-thief-of-joy/ EP 578: Reader’s Question – Why is it hard to imagine being happy after going alcohol-free? - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-578-readers-question-why-is-it-hard-to-imagine-being-happy-going-alcohol-free/ EP 669: Naked Life Story – Megan W. - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-669-naked-life-story-megan-w/ Ready to take the next step on your journey? Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!

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

What if your goal to stop drinking is actually making it harder to succeed? In this episode, Sara and Barb open up about their personal struggles with alcohol, shame, and self-doubt—and what happens when they shift focus from staying sober to finding peace. With the help of Coach Lily, Sara learns how to set emotional goals instead of sobriety goals, reframing her "alive goal" from white-knuckling abstinence to creating inner peace. She discovers that joy is a skill, not a personality trait, and that the journey to change can be meaningful, even enjoyable. Barb, coached by Pam, shares how she relapsed after 18 months alcohol-free and fell into a spiral of hiding, guilt, and fear. Through compassionate coaching, she begins to see that her experience doesn’t erase her success—and that her desire to feel free is more powerful than her fear of failure. Both women realize that emotional goals—like peace, freedom, or joy—can provide lasting motivation where rules and willpower fall short. If you’ve ever felt stuck in an all-or-nothing mindset, this episode offers a powerful shift in perspective. In Sara’s session: Why day-counting made sobriety feel like a life sentence How to set emotional goals instead of sobriety goals for deeper motivation Understanding the fear of failure and how it can trigger relapse Reframing “doing the work” as joyful, not punishing Letting go of the belief that peace is lazy or selfish Finding freedom through emotional self-inquiry Turning “I won’t drink” into “I want peace” and other topics… In Barb’s session: Returning to alcohol after 1.5 years alcohol-free Feeling shame and hiding drinking from loved ones Using emotional goals to rebuild confidence Releasing fear of failure and embracing hope Using past success as evidence you can change again The power of curiosity over self-judgment Reframing relapse as data, not disaster Creating a new goal: waking up at peace, not in regret and more… Lily Weis is a Certified This Naked Mind Coach who helps others find peace, purpose, and joy beyond alcohol. After realizing that drinking was making her world feel small and disconnected, Lily feared that quitting would mean losing fun, friendship, and connection. But what she discovered instead was freedom. Today, Lily lives with a deep sense of inner joy and emotional resilience—even on hard days. She works exclusively with members of The Path, where she supports others in creating vibrant, alcohol-free lives filled with meaning and adventure. Pam McRae is a Certified TNM Coach, Master Life Coach, and Gray Area Drinking Coach. Since rethinking her relationship with alcohol in 2017, she considers herself a non-drinker. Pam empowers others through her Freedom Connection group coaching, where people support each other in their alcohol journeys. She also uses her experience and knowledge to guide you through tough times such as grief. Learn more about Coach Pam: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/pam-mcrae/

Learning how to turn your brain off without drinking can feel impossible when your mind is constantly racing. Jennifer, a self-described control freak, discovered this firsthand as she navigated years of using alcohol to quiet the mental chatter. What happens when that coping mechanism is removed? Join us as Jennifer shares her powerful journey of realizing alcohol wasn't her friend and how she ultimately found a more fulfilling and peaceful existence without it. In this episode, Cole and Jennifer discuss: Drinking as a way to manage stress, loneliness, and the loss of control Using alcohol to feel connected and to quiet a constantly running mind How early sobriety revealed emotional triggers Jennifer didn’t expect Navigating the fear of change and giving up the one “friend” that always showed up Her experience with the Alcohol Experiment Facebook group How she discovered how to turn your brain off without drinking New coping tools for stress, overthinking, and emotional discomfort Why ditching alcohol helped her show up more fully for her family Embracing self-trust, not self-judgment and more topics…

Have you ever wondered if your attempts to unwind with alcohol are actually adding to your burdens? Coach Ruby Williams offers a powerful glimpse into the realities of seeking alcohol freedom through two personal coaching sessions. First, we meet Anne, a mom and professional learning to navigate stress and cravings using the tools provided by The Path. Then, we listen in as Ruby coaches Travis, who candidly discusses the pattern of drinking because of work stress in his high-pressure career and begins to explore alternative ways to manage exhaustion and find genuine relaxation. Ruby and Anne discuss: Balancing motherhood, work, and emotions How stress and subconscious beliefs drove her cravings What made her pause instead of buying wine Using practical tools like candlelight, journaling, and stargazing to replace wine Why wine as a reward is a cultural myth Celebrating small wins and staying grounded in her "alive goal" The concept of an "urge jar" and other topics Ruby and Travis dive into: Growing up with generational addictionHow high achievement and people-pleasing masked deeper burnoutWhy alcohol became a mental shut-off switch Realizing work had consumed joy, friendships, and connection The high cost of success and redefining his evening routine Drinking because of work stress Coaching insight: maybe it’s as simple as going to bed and more Ruby Williams is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach dedicated to helping people rethink their relationship with alcohol. With 19 years of experience in the wine industry, Ruby understands how alcohol can become a regular part of life, especially in social or stressful situations. After finding freedom in 2019, she was empowered to improve her health, lose weight, and achieve lifelong goals. Ruby uses thoughtful questioning to help clients shift their mindset and build a more balanced, fulfilling, and healthier relationship with alcohol. Learn more about Coach Ruby: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/ruby-williams/ Related Episodes: EP 158: Reader Question – How do you deal with stress without alcohol? - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-158-how-do-you-deal-with-stress-without-alcohol/ EP 517: The Upside of Stress with Dr. McGonigal - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-517-the-upside-of-stress-with-dr-mcgonigal/ EP 29: Naked Life Story: Meredith - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-29-naked-life-story-meredith/Ready to take the next step on your journey? Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!

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

Can you still feel powerful, connected, and sophisticated without alcohol? Haley sat down with Coach Pam to explore what creating a new identity after quitting drinking really looks like. In this candid conversation, they dive deep into the myths around wine and womanhood, the fears about fitting in, and the incredible strength that comes from choosing authenticity over alcohol. Listen as Haley and Coach Pam work to redefine Haley’s values of intelligence, nurturing, and power, independent of alcohol. Coach Pam and Haley discuss: How alcohol gets tied to sophistication and success The role of media and TV in normalizing drinking culture Creating a new identity after quitting drinking Dealing with feelings of rejection and fear of standing out Redefining self-care and genuine downtime How wine culture influences professional women Setting goals based on emotional empowerment Why real confidence comes from authentic connection The hidden cost of trying to “fit in” with drinking culture Small mindset shifts that protect long-term goals How Haley can reclaim her sense of self without wine and more... Pam McRae is a Certified TNM Coach, Master Life Coach, and Gray Area Drinking Coach. Since rethinking her relationship with alcohol in 2017, she considers herself a non-drinker. Pam empowers others through her Freedom Connection group coaching, where people support each other in their alcohol journeys. She also uses her experience and knowledge to guide you through tough times such as grief. Learn more about Coach Pam: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/pam-mcrae/

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

What happens when you finally feel your emotions instead of trying to numb them with alcohol? In this episode, we hear two powerful coaching conversations. Coach Zoe talks with Jill, who is finding her way back to her spiritual side after years of working in a high-stress job where drinking was common. Coach Ruby works with Ambur, a former college athlete and mom of two young kids, who is now 120 days alcohol-free. Both women are learning how to feel their emotions instead of escaping them. They’re on the road to understanding the urge to drink as a sign that they were feeling disconnected from who they really are. These sessions show how self-kindness and body awareness can take the place of alcohol when it comes to handling tough emotions. In Jill’s session with Coach Zoe: Returning to neglected areas of life, like spirituality, after quitting. Recognizing how career focus can inadvertently support drinking habits. Learning to connect with and process bodily sensations and emotions. Exploring meditation and somatic work as tools for emotional regulation. Utilizing anchoring techniques to stay present during discomfort. Understanding self-compassion as a key to emotional processing. The significance of acknowledging and learning from past drinking experiences and more… In Ambur’s session with Coach Ruby: Navigating early motherhood and perfectionism without alcohol Celebrating 120 days alcohol-free and learning to feel again Understanding the urge to drink as a desire to escape loneliness Using meditation, exercise, and truth-telling as new tools Processing emotions instead of labeling them as “bad” Letting go of judgment and learning to sit with discomfort Replacing sneaky drinking with honest communication Exploring what a sustainable alcohol-free life looks like and more… Zoe Ewart is a Certified Naked Mind Senior Coach who brings her experience and understanding to help with the tricky parts of life’s big changes. Her coaching gives you an enjoyable, light-hearted, and safe environment to effortlessly take back control of alcohol so you can feel better physically, mentally, and spiritually. Zoe taught Pilates for 15 years. She has four adult children and more animals than the Ark ever had. Learn more about Coach Zoe: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/zoe-ewart/ Ruby Williams is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach dedicated to helping people rethink their relationship with alcohol. With 19 years of experience in the wine industry, Ruby understands how alcohol can become a regular part of life, especially in social or stressful situations. After finding freedom in 2019, she was empowered to improve her health, lose weight, and achieve lifelong goals. Ruby uses thoughtful questioning to help clients shift their mindset and build a more balanced, fulfilling, and healthier relationship with alcohol. Learn more about Coach Ruby: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/ruby-williams/

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

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

How do you process emotions after years of drinking when you've spent a lifetime disconnected from your feelings? In this powerful episode, Coach Ellie works with Gayle and Christie, who both struggle with alcohol fixation but from different angles. Gayle feels constantly consumed by thoughts about drinking or not drinking, finding that fixation creates anxiety, overwhelm, and triggers deep stories of not being good enough. Christie has spent decades suppressing emotions and using wine as a "talking stick" to allow herself to feel things, rather than numbing. Through gentle exploration, Coach Ellie helps both women understand the path from fixation to liberation - recognizing that spiritual awakening often begins with alcohol freedom but leads to something much deeper: recovering our true nature and learning to be present with all our emotions. In Gayle's Session: Defining fixation How fixation creates physical symptoms of anxiety and overwhelm The path from cognitive understanding to embodied knowledge Experiencing "the magic trick": seeing alcohol's truth changes everything The role of data points in building new beliefs about alcohol How to process emotions after years of drinking through presence Recovery of self: discovering who you are without alcohol Why alcohol freedom is just the doorway to deeper transformation The concepts of true nature and soul edification And more In Christie's Session: Moving from fear-based motivation to emotion-based goals Finding joy after years of emotional disconnection The connection between creativity and emotional healing Recognizing permission to feel all emotions, not just "acceptable" ones How to process emotions after years of drinking through bodily awareness Restorative yoga as a bridge to feeling into the body Cues of safety that help regulate the nervous system The concept of "unf*withable" emotional resilience Moving beyond perfectionism The role of curiosity in spiritual liberation And other topics Related Episodes: Reader’s Question - Episode 634: How do you get rid of the punishing voice inside your head? - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-634-readers-question-how-do-you-get-rid-of-the-punishing-voice-inside-your-head/ Episode 69: Allowing Feeling with Scott Stabile - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-69-allowing-feeling-scott-stabile/ Reader’s Question - Episode 604: Embracing Your Authentic Self - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-604-reader-question-embracing-your-authentic-self-overcoming-self-judgment-and-insecurities/ Ready to take the next step on your journey? Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!

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

What if the biggest obstacle in your alcohol journey isn’t the alcohol itself, but what you believe about yourself? In this Alcohol Freedom Coaching session, Coach Ruby Williams guides Anna Maree and Marci through their unique challenges with drinking. Anna Maree reveals how despite reaching elite athletic status and building a thriving business, she’s haunted by the feeling that her accomplishments are never enough—a belief stemming from childhood experiences. Working with Coach Ruby, she explores techniques to let go of negative beliefs that have driven her to seek escape through alcohol. Marci shares her struggle with loneliness and planning for success after experiencing the departure of loved ones. Both women discover practical tools for moving forward rather than reverting back to harmful patterns.. In Anne Maree’s session: Identifying the belief that “nothing I ever do is good enough” Understanding how childhood experiences shape current beliefs How high achievement can mask deeper emotional struggles Techniques to let go of negative beliefs through questioning Using the ACT method to challenge unhelpful thoughts Drinking to numb feelings versus facing emotions Learning to celebrate progress rather than seeking perfection Creating smaller, achievable targets for success The importance of self-compassion and other topics In Marci’s session: Recognizing patterns of drinking when alone versus with others Creating a plan for after social events to prevent relapses or data points How retirement changes drinking triggers The four-list tool for managing boredom and loneliness Moving forward versus “not reverting back” mindset shift Using post-it note affirmations as reminders Understanding why social connection reduces drinking urges Planning ahead for high-risk situations Celebrating small wins and more Ruby Williams is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach dedicated to helping people rethink their relationship with alcohol. With 19 years of experience in the wine industry, Ruby understands how alcohol can become a regular part of life, especially in social or stressful situations. After finding freedom in 2019, she was empowered to improve her health, lose weight, and achieve lifelong goals. Ruby uses thoughtful questioning to help clients shift their mindset and build a more balanced, fulfilling, and healthier relationship with alcohol. Learn more about Coach Ruby: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/ruby-williams/ Related Episodes: EP 494: How To Stop Drinking at Home Alone https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-494-reader-question-how-to-stop-drinking-at-home-alone/ EP 532: Coaching Questions with Scott Pinyard & Rina Bowring https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-532-coaching-questions-with-scott-pinyard-rina-bowring/ EP 706: Reader’s Question – Healing Emotional Pain Without Alcohol https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-706-readers-question-healing-emotional-pain-without-alcohol/ Ready to take the next step on your journey? Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!

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

Is organic wine better for you, or is this just another marketing tactic keeping you tied to alcohol? Lois finds herself caught between wanting to make healthier choices and falling for the "better for you" wine aisle marketing. In this coaching session with Coach Cole, she explores the cognitive dissonance between knowing alcohol is harmful regardless of its organic status, while still being drawn to the perceived benefits of "healthier" wine options. Through mindful observation and intentional choice-making, Lois discovers how to navigate her evening rituals, experiment with non-alcoholic alternatives, and approach her relationship with alcohol from a place of curiosity rather than judgment. In this episode, Coach Cole and Lois discuss: Navigating the path toward a different relationship with alcohol Exploring the question is organic wine better for you or just clever marketing The cognitive dissonance between knowing alcohol’s effects and believing in “healthier” options Using non-alcoholic wines to maintain rituals while changing behavior How our beliefs about alcohol’s benefits (creativity, ease, fun) may not match reality The costs of drinking: memory gaps, health impacts, and lost vitality Approaching drinking like a science experiment with intentional awareness Creating a menu of evening ritual choices beyond wine The importance of self-compassion and non-judgment during behavior change Aligning choices with core values of health and vitality Cole Harvey is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach. For years, he felt lost and used alcohol as a way to cope, until he decided to go alcohol-free and focus on finding his purpose. Through curiosity, self-compassion, and adventure, he transformed his life. As a habit change and mindset coach, Cole helps young men understand themselves, build better habits, and find meaning. Learn more about Coach Cole: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/cole-harvey/ Related Episodes: EP 709: Dealing with the Effects of Red Wine on Health- Maryanne’s Naked Life - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-709-naked-life-story-maryanne-p/ EP 584: Reader Question – Is red wine good for your heart? - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-584-reader-question-is-red-wine-good-for-your-heart/ EP 612: Reader Question – How To Avoid Drinking Alcohol in Social Situations - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-612-reader-question-how-to-avoid-drinking-alcohol-in-social-situations/ EP 274: Reader Question – My biggest obstacle is that I love the taste of wine, I understand I acquired the taste but I still love it!? https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-274-reader-question-my-biggest-obstacle-is-that-i-love-the-taste-of-wine-i-understand-i-acquired-the-taste-but-i-still-love-it/ Ready to take the next step on your journey? Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!