The Big Drink Rethink

Ep 73: Q&A: When Alcohol Breaks Trust, How Do I Rebuild It? Jun 05, 2025

Have you ever felt like the person you trust least is yourself? On this episode of The Big Drink Rethink, host Anna Donaghey explores one of the most tender and universal challenges for anyone rethinking their relationship with alcohol: how to rebuild self-trust after countless broken promises to yourself and to others.

Drawing from deeply personal experiences and the honest struggles of her listeners, Anna unpacks the lonely cycle of making resolutions, letting yourself down, and feeling the bedrock of your confidence slowly erode. With compassion and practical wisdom, she explores why rebuilding trust isn't just motivational fluff - it's the very foundation for lasting change.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

03:32 Self-doubt and lack of trust in oneself can undermine motivation and ambition

07:15 Self-trust brings calm and confidence

16:39 Delay habits by ten minutes to break old patterns and build self-trust

22:00 Approach self-reflection with curiosity instead of shame

25:40 Broken promises and denial takes a toll on relationships

If you’re feeling stretched thin, tired, and in search of support, you’re not alone. This episode is for you.

If you’re a mum wanting to explore your relationship with alcohol, join ‘Mummy Doesn’t Need Wine’ here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mummydoesntneedwine

Anna’s group coaching community ‘Unstuck!’ helps identify your alcohol ‘stories’ and beliefs, breaking the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: Unstuck! community information

To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna’s self-guided programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

And apply the code POD99 to purchase for just £99 as a podcast listener

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Ep 72: Alcohol, Overwhelm & ' The Perfect Mother' Myth May 29, 2025

Have you ever wondered why so many mothers today feel overwhelmed, isolated, or pressured to present a picture-perfect life especially when it comes to drinking culture? In this episode of The Big Drink Rethink, host Anna Donaghey talks to Anna Cusack, a postnatal doula, motherhood studies practitioner, and author of the powerful book "Mama, You’re Not Broken".

Together, they explore the emotional realities behind the “perfect mother” myth, the pressures that lead many mums to reach for a glass of wine, and the real-life support systems that are often missing in our lives. This episode challenges common narratives around alcohol, coping, and what mums truly need.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

06:52 Experiences of pre-birth mental health issues and anxiety in postpartum.

09:08 Dr. Sophie Brock studies inspired the creation of Anna’s book "Mama, You’re Not Broken"

12:19 Pandemic isolation and the impacts it had on expectant mothers

14:57 Facing the pressures of parental ‘perfection’

17:54 Conflicting emotions like shame, anger, and guilt during motherhood

22:54 Australian data shows increased alcohol use among mothers as children age

28:57 Community is essential for enjoying parenthood

37:53 In motherhood, there's lots of pressure to meet unrealistic ideals.

44:54 Caring for children is exhausting and many use alcohol as a quick fix to relax

If you’re feeling stretched thin, tired, and in search of support, you’re not alone. This episode - and the ‘Mummy Doesn’t Need Wine’ group - are for you.

Join ‘Mummy Doesn’t Need Wine’ here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mummydoesntneedwine

Anna’s group coaching community ‘Unstuck!’ helps identify your alcohol ‘stories’ and beliefs, break the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: Unstuck! community information

To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna’s self-guided programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

And apply the code POD 99 to purchase for just £99 as a podcast listener

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Find out more about Anna Cusack:

Anna Cusack experienced postnatal anxiety after the birth of her unputdownable, sleep hating, first child in 2019. With a background in allied health, she added to her skill set, retraining as a postnatal doula and motherhood studies practitioner. As the pandemic rolled along, Anna focused on making sense of the emotional turbulence of motherhood in a mixed up world, and communicating this with others online, through her podcast “Anna Asks”, and eventually, through her book "Mama, You're Not Broken: Unmasking the Unspoken Emotions of Modern Motherhood". A second child and mental health journey later, Anna now offers circles and support programs for parents who may otherwise “fall through the mental health cracks”, specialty birth debriefs that actually help people feel better not worse, and one to one postnatal mentoring and care. She is based in Newcastle, Australia, and has lived alcohol-free for almost 7 years.

Connect with Anna:

Website: www.annacusack.com.au

Instagram: instagram.com/annacusackpostpartum/

Facebook: facebook.com/annacusackpostpartum

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 71: Q&A: Staying Motivated When Alcohol-Free Becomes 'Normal' May 22, 2025

In this special Q&A episode, Anna tackles a powerful listener question about what happens after the buzz fades from going alcohol-free. You've made it past those first few transformative months, and maybe you don't miss drinking, but the excitement has levelled out, and you're wondering how to stay motivated for the long haul.

Anna explores the “middle” of the alcohol-free journey when things become routine and life feels a little flat, but also wide open with new possibilities. She reframes this phase not as the end of the road, but as the beginning of something deeper: a time to discover what you want your new energy, presence, and clarity to create in your life.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

00:55 Life is feeling flat - I don’t need alcohol but I’m not excited anymore

05:56 Removing alcohol is the main event; the challenge becomes deciding what to build or plant next.

11:50 Discover what your fully energised self desires beyond chasing milestones

17:06 Reflect on progress, list and revisit simple joys for fulfillment

28:34 Embrace emotional sobriety with self-compassion

29:53 Pause and reconnect with your why

If you’re feeling stretched thin, tired, and in search of support, you’re not alone. This episode - and the ‘Mummy Doesn’t Need Wine’ group - are for you.

Join ‘Mummy Doesn’t Need Wine’ here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mummydoesntneedwine

Anna’s group coaching community ‘Unstuck!’ helps identify your alcohol ‘stories’ and beliefs, break the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: Unstuck! community information

To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna’s self-guided programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

And apply the code POD 99 to purchase for just £99 as a podcast listener

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 70: From Booze to Benefits: Functional Drinks, Explained May 15, 2025

Are functional drinks the future of socialising, or just another wellness fad? On this episode of The Big Drink Rethink, host Anna Donaghey sits down with Zoey Henderson, an entrepreneur, mindful drinking consultant, and early functional drinks pioneer, to unravel the hype, science, and shifting culture around functional drinks. With drinking habits changing across the UK and a booming market for mushroom-powered beers and botanical blends, they explore whether these innovative drinks can deliver real benefits, challenge traditions, and truly change how and why we drink. This episode offers plenty of practical tips to help you rethink what you’re pouring into your glass.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

05:13 Functional ingredients are being integrated into various beverage categories

11:50 Functional drinks in the non-alcoholic space offer benefits like relaxation or invigoration

17:20 Brands must ensure transparency and provide evidence

21:18 Mainstream adoption of using adaptogens in drinks

25:05 Undoing long-standing alcohol marketing is challenging

41:01 Understand consumer needs respectfully

44:54 Lion's mane mushroom can enhance cognitive health over time

47:19 Using fungi and plants for health is regaining popularity

50:38 Research product ingredients independently.

If you’re feeling stretched thin, tired, and in search of support, you’re not alone. This episode - and the ‘Mummy Doesn’t Need Wine’ group - are for you.

Join ‘Mummy Doesn’t Need Wine’ here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mummydoesntneedwine

Anna’s group coaching community ‘Unstuck!’ helps identify your alcohol ‘stories’ and beliefs, break the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: Unstuck! community information

To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna’s self-guided programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

And apply the code POD 99 to purchase for just £99 as a podcast listener

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Find out more about Zoey Henderson:

Zoey Henderson is an entrepreneur with a passion for health and wellness, and a mindful drinking and wellness consultant. She was an early functional drinks pioneer, with a desire to bring more functional herbs and fungi into the mainstream. Her brand, Fungtn, created a more mindful option for conscious consumers looking to reduce their alcohol consumption and empower their health. Zoe has been in the hospitality industry across various roles for over 15 years.

Connect with Zoey:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoey-henderson-b9848b9a/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fungtn.brewing/?hl=en-gb

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 69: Mummy Doesn't Need Wine May 08, 2025

So many mums reach for a glass of wine at the end of a long day. How else can we cope with the chaos of motherhood? How else can we navigate this emotional tsunami for which we receive no training?

In this deeply personal episode of The Big Drink Rethink, host Anna Donaghey opens up about her own journey through early motherhood, where drinking evolved from a social habit into an emotional crutch.

Drawing from the candid messages she's received from listeners, Anna spotlights the realities facing mums of young children and the quiet pressures that can so often lead to pouring that evening glass.

She also introduces the new Facebook community that she has created to unite and support young mums - The Big Drink Rethink: Mummy Doesn’t Need Wine. A space for honest conversations, genuine support, daily posts and a host of other free resources.

If you’re feeling stretched thin, tired, and in search of support, you’re not alone. This episode - and the’ Mummy Doesn’t Need Wine’ group - are for you.

Join ‘Mummy Doesn’t Need Wine’ here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mummydoesntneedwine

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

03:25 Creating a Facebook community for mums to cope with life's pressures without relying on wine.

08:26 Struggling with the transition to motherhood, using alcohol as a coping mechanism

11:35 Sleep deprivation and emotional exhaustion led to alcohol dependency

15:09 Mummy wine culture normalises heavy drinking among mums

18:29 Struggled as a new parent

24:10 Join the brand new Facebook group: The Big Drink Rethink: Mummy Doesn’t Need Wine.

Anna’s group coaching community ‘Unstuck!’ helps identify your alcohol ‘stories’ and beliefs, break the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: Unstuck! community information

To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna’s self-guided programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

And apply the code POD 99 to purchase for just £99 as a podcast listener

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 68. Toolkit '101': 5-Minute Resets: Go-To Alternatives to Alcohol May 01, 2025

If you’ve ever found yourself reaching for a glass of wine after a tough day, but wish you had an easier, healthier alternative - this episode is for you.

Today, Anna dives into practical, 5-minute resets: simple, research-backed tools that can help you navigate cravings, manage stress, and regulate your nervous system. Drawing inspiration from global traditions, think mindfulness, breathwork, journaling, movement, and creating your own rituals. It genuinely does just take only a few minutes to reset your nervous system and find real relief.

Whether you’re sober-curious, cutting back, or already alcohol-free, consider this episode your emotional first-aid kit - compact, reliable, and ready to use.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

03:20 Cultural Alternatives to Alcohol

09:54 Box Breathing: Stress Relief Technique

14:32 Mindfulness as an Alcohol Alternative

16:21 Mindfulness Grounding Exercise

23:27 Five-Minute Brain Dump Journalling

27:44 Create meaningful rituals

Anna’s group coaching programme ‘Unstuck!’ helps identify your alcohol ‘stories’ and beliefs, break the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: Unstuck! programme information

To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna’s self-guided programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

And apply the code POD 99 to purchase for just £99 as a podcast listener

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 67: Less Wine, More Oxygen: Breathwork For The Doubtful Drinker Apr 24, 2025

Have you ever rolled your eyes at the idea that breathing could actually help with stress or cravings? You’re not the only one. That’s exactly what we’re getting into today on the Big Drink Rethink.

In this episode, Anna Donaghey sits down with Zoë Ewart, a trauma-informed life coach and breathwork facilitator, to challenge the skepticism around breathwork - especially for those rethinking their relationship with alcohol.

Together, Anna and Zoë unpack how breathwork isn’t just “woo-woo” - it’s rooted in biology, neuroscience, and can be a practical, powerful tool for anyone looking to break free from unhealthy patterns. Zoë opens up about her own journey through addiction, and how breathwork rewired her nervous system and changed her life from the inside out.

If you’re sober-curious, looking for real-world tactics to help you navigate cravings, or just want a fresh take on how to handle stress, this conversation will inspire you to rethink what’s possible - one intentional breath at a time.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

09:34 Breathing: The Everyday Superpower

11:30 "Calm Your Nerves with Breathing"

19:45 Resilience and Brain Power

29:58 Why Breathwork Gets Overlooked in Recovery

38:42 Finding Calm Through Breath Work

42:49 Three-Part Breath Relaxation Guide

Anna’s group coaching programme ‘Unstuck!’ helps identify your alcohol ‘stories’ and beliefs, break the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: Unstuck! programme information

To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna’s self-guided programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

And apply the code POD 99 to purchase for just £99 as a podcast listener

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Find out more about Zoë Ewart:

Zoë is a trauma-informed, ALP-certified Senior Life Coach and Breathwork Facilitator with a deep passion for guiding people back to themselves. Born in London and raised in France, she is also a proud parent of four grown children and the devoted caretaker of an ever-expanding family of animals.

But her journey to this work wasn’t smooth. After drinking for 35 years, Zoë found herself in a cycle of high tolerance, Class A drugs, and prescription meds, desperately seeking escape. She lost her savings, her business, her relationships - but most painfully, she lost herself.

Then, everything changed. Between 2015 and 2019, she broke free - letting go of alcohol, drugs, and nicotine and stepping fully into the life she was meant to live. Piece by piece, she rebuilt, starting with the foundation and slowly restoring the castle of her. Through this transformation, she discovered that the struggles she once saw as roadblocks were actually stepping stones - guiding her toward her true purpose.

Now, Zoë helps others do the same. She works with anyone feeling stuck, disconnected, or caught in unhealthy patterns, helping them rewrite their beliefs, rewire their nervous systems, and build a life they never want to escape from.

Her approach is light-hearted, compassionate, and deeply transformational - because real change happens in a space where we feel safe to explore, release, and heal.

Today, she walks alongside others who are ready to reclaim their peace, power, and freedom. Are you ready to rebuild your castle?

Connect with Zoë:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifecoachingwithzoe

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sobercoachingwithzoe

Website: www.coachingwithzoe.com

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 66: From Stress to Flow: Balance, Not Booze Apr 17, 2025

Have you ever felt like you're just going through the motions, outwardly successful but inwardly exhausted? Welcome to The Big Drink Rethink podcast with your host, Anna Donaghey.

In today's episode, we're diving into the theme of strategic recovery, with Chloe Stephens, a Flow Coach with thirty years of experience in fitness and well-being. Chloe's exploration into sleep, recovery, and nervous system regulation, empowers her to support her clients holistically, adopting a 360-degree approach to health.

Join us as we explore how stress management can transform your life and your relationship with alcohol.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

05:20 Normalising stress is dangerous.

08:56 Rethink your recovery, go beyond quick fixes.

11:01 True recovery involves simple practices like proper breathing and calming the mind.

18:20 Chronic technology-driven connectivity disrupts our boundaries.

27:05 Incorporate small, intentional pauses throughout the day.

33:11 Stay self-aware and regularly check your "battery" levels.

35:48 Achieving flow in life improves mental health and balance.

38:03 Expanding waistlines and chronic stress aren't inevitable with aging.

47:09 Incorporate mindfulness and rituals into daily routines.

Anna’s group coaching programme ‘Unstuck!’ helps identify your alcohol ‘stories’ and beliefs, break the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: Unstuck! programme information

To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna’s self-guided programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

And apply the code POD 99 to purchase for just £99 as a podcast listener

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Find out more about Chloe Stephens:

Chloe Stephens - The Flow Coach - brings a transformative 30-year career in fitness and wellbeing to her role. As a pioneer in holistic wellness, she specialises in helping high achievers who are successful on the outside yet depleted within.

Chloe has mastered the crucial yet often-overlooked art of strategic recovery She helps individuals unlock their full potential by demonstrating how purposeful rest acts as a catalyst for both physical and mental growth. Through her unique approach, she guides clients in conquering burnout, establishing boundaries and creating lasting success.

Connect with Chloe:

Website: www.coachchloe.uk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_flow_coach/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/chloestephenstheflowcoach

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 65: Q&A: How Do I Not Drink When Other People Trigger Me? Apr 10, 2025

Do other people’s behaviour trigger you to drink? Today on the Big Drink Rethink, we're exploring a topic that affects many of us: how to manage those moments when other people’s behaviour triggers our urge to drink. This episode is inspired by a question from one of my coaching clients, who finds herself frequently wound up by others, and is wondering how to stop being triggered by them.

Join me, Anna Donaghey as we look at ways to face these challenges head-on, especially in our busy and unpredictable lives where stress and emotions can run high. I'll be sharing insights on how to accept life's chaos, manage your own responses, and I introduce you to the enlightening concept of Mel Robbins' "Let Them Theory." This approach could be the key to reducing stress and building emotional resilience. Make sure you listen to get some valuable strategies to rethink your relationship with alcohol and find peace amidst the chaos.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

05:25 Accept chaos to live peacefully

08:39 Address stress instead of using alcohol as a crutch

10:09 Focus on living in the moment and accepting things beyond your control

13:42 Frustration may stem from unmet expectations

18:38 Letting go of control reduces stress and anxiety

25:05 Adopting Mel Robbins' "Let Them" theory can reduce stress.

Anna’s group coaching programme ‘Unstuck!’ helps identify your alcohol ‘stories’ and beliefs, break the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: Unstuck! programme information

To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna’s self-guided programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

And apply the code POD 99 to purchase for just £99 as a podcast listener

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 64: Midlife, Menopause & Alcohol: Letting Go of 'Perfect’ Apr 03, 2025

What if everything you thought you knew about menopause and weight loss was wrong? In this episode of The Big Drink Rethink, host Anna Donaghey dives deep with guest Ailsa Hichens, a BANT registered nutritionist and author.

Ailsa shatters common myths about menopause and unveils the truth behind metabolism, lifestyle changes, and the role of alcohol during this crucial life stage. From dietary insights to stress management and self-care, Ailsa offers a refreshing perspective on how women can navigate midlife by prioritising their health in a way that works for them. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that encourages us all to rethink our habits and priorities.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

06:03 Balancing blood sugar and managing stress are crucial during menopause.

08:28 Some people are genetically sensitive to adrenaline.

12:35 High glucose causes weight gain and metabolic issues.

14:37 Alcohol is often used as a coping mechanism for stress.

18:51 Alcohol initially induces euphoria but later triggers a stress response.

25:06 Self-care is crucial but often neglected by perfectionist women.

33:20 Change begins with pain and requires support.

36:09 Negative emotions signal needed changes.

39:34 Identify and note things that bring you joy.

45:42 Extend lifespan with better lifestyle choices.

Anna’s group coaching programme ‘Unstuck!’ helps identify your alcohol ‘stories’ and beliefs, break the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: Unstuck! programme information

To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna’s self-guided programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

And apply the code POD 99 to purchase for just £99 as a podcast listener

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Find out more about Ailsa Hichens:

Ailsa Hichens is a BANT registered nutritionist and health coach specialising in menopause and midlife. She is passionate about helping people regain their energy and confidence through practical, personalised nutrition – so they can stop pouring from an empty cup and start living a life that feels good again. Her mission is to inspire midlife women to prioritise themselves, feel powerful in their own skin, and create the freedom to live fully on their terms.

Have you grabbed your copy of Ailsa’s new book: Everything They Told You About Menopause Weight Loss is Wrong? It sounds like it's about losing weight in midlife - and it is - but it's also about so much more. You can buy your copy here: https://amzn.to/3R1F9fT

Connect with Ailsa:

Website: www.foodfabulous.co.uk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodfabulousnutrition/

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 63: Toolkit 101 - How to Change Your Alcohol Stories Mar 27, 2025

The stories we tell ourselves about alcohol shape our reality and our ability to change, but how exactly can we first identify them, then go about changing them? Listen to this action-orientated episode of The Big Drink Rethink, with host Anna Donaghey, as she offers up practical tools and insights on how to identify and shift these narratives to rewrite your relationship with alcohol. Plus, learn about Anna's self-guided program and live coaching options to support your journey. Tune in and rethink the stories you hold about alcohol and yourself.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

06:12 Changing self-talk influences emotions and biochemistry.

08:35 Alcohol is consumed because we believe it helps us.

11:36 Use mindful drinking to examine why you drink by questioning the narratives.

17:13 Challenge self-narratives by questioning fears about not drinking.

20:39 Exploring life without alcohol led to personal growth.

23:04 Use "yet" to transform narratives and facilitate change.

Anna’s group coaching programme ‘Unstuck!’ helps identify your alcohol ‘stories’ and beliefs, break the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: Unstuck! programme information

To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna’s self-guided programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

And apply the code POD 99 to purchase for just £99 as a podcast listener

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 62: Our Alcohol Stories: Words that Can Change Your Life with Helen Packham Mar 20, 2025

What if the stories we tell ourselves about alcohol are the very chains that bind us? A journey into the power of words awaits you on this episode of The Big Drink Rethink. Join host Anna Donaghey and guest Helen Packham as they unravel the narratives that shape our drinking culture and explore how changing our language can liberate us from old habits.

In this engaging conversation discover how Helen, a speaker and Coach, uses her passion for verbal communication to transform lives. Get ready to rethink the words you use and the stories you tell yourself about alcohol.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

03:32 Words are powerful and shape stories. Humans are natural storytellers, but not always healthy ones.

06:45 Alcohol was associated with fun and social connection.

11:54 Alcohol's influence is shaped by subconscious self-talk and marketing, reinforcing beliefs and behaviours.

15:03 Alcohol was central to Helen’s party-focused identity and she questioned who she was without it.

21:17 Outsourcing happiness and experiences to alcohol diminishes personal control and enjoyment when alcohol isn't present.

23:06 Transitioning from unconscious incompetence to applying personal development insights, helped shift her perspective.

30:52 Words can contain implicit instructions, like "happy hour".

35:12 Helen has joined and built a sobriety-focused Instagram community.

38:53 Reframe and rewrite your personal narrative through practice.

41:50 Shift the mindset from "giving up" alcohol to "gaining" benefits.

46:44 Challenge internal narratives about alcohol.

To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna’s programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Helen Packham:

Helen Packham is a speaker coach and verbal communications strategist helping leaders and business owners harness the power of their words to change lives, for the better. A TEDx curator and speaker, Helen passes on the powerful tool of storytelling to her clients so that they can confidently present and speak with impact. Helen lives on the south coast with her two kids and is navigating a life without alcohol and the many benefits it brings.

Find out more: www.helenpackham.com

Connect with Helen:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helenpackham/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helen.packham1

Listen to the Words that Change Lives Podcast:

https://podfollow.com/words-that-change-lives

Subscribe to Helen's YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@helenpackhamspeakercoach

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 61: Q&A: Why do I Self-Sabotage my Sobriety? Mar 13, 2025

Why do we often sabotage our own sobriety despite our best intentions? In this episode of The Big Drink Rethink, your host Anna explores the perplexing nature of self-sabotage, a challenge faced by many seeking to reshape their relationship with alcohol. Anna offers a thoughtful exploration of what drives these destructive patterns and provides actionable strategies to break free from the cycle.

Listeners will discover insights into the tug-of-war between the conscious desire for change and the subconscious fear of the unknown. With a focus on practical steps and the power of support systems, this episode is an essential listen for those striving to overcome self-sabotage and achieve lasting sobriety.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

04:09 An internal conflict between staying sober and fear of change leads to risky behaviors and romanticising past drinking.

08:11 Fear of change and identity loss can make overcoming drinking challenging.

11:20 Plan for resistance, challenge fears, question them, and consult your future self to overcome change.

14:39 A first sip of alcohol triggers dopamine release.

18:30 Positive emotions can trigger drinking due to learned behaviours

20:32 Observe your thoughts about drinking, like a scientist.

24:43 Have a plan to resist cravings.

27:59 Triggers are opportunities to learn; journal, forgive, and recommit..

30:31 Take it one day at a time, break old cycles gradually.

To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna’s programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 60: The Gendered World of Alcohol Marketing Mar 06, 2025

Have you ever considered how deeply ingrained the culture of alcohol marketing is in your life? Today your host, Anna explores the fascinating world of gendered alcohol marketing, alongside guest expert, Professor Carol Emslie, the co-director of the Research Centre for Health at Glasgow Caledonian University and co-chair of the Scottish Alcohol Research Network.

They discuss the intriguing and often controversial world of alcohol marketing, and its societal impact. They look at how it is carefully crafted and targeted towards different genders. From the lucrative realm of pink drinks to sponsorships in sports, discover the profound effects of market dynamics on our perceptions and drinking behaviors. Don't miss this enlightening discussion.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

04:29 Research on alcohol aims to inform policies to reduce harm.

06:52 The emergence of marketing alcohol to women.

11:49 Brands align with causes like International Women's Day.

14:42 Alcohol advertising subtly influences everyone.

17:14 Women navigate identity through their drink choices.

21:25 Brands aim to emotionally resonate with consumers.

28:15 Women (particularly mothers) associate alcohol with taking a timeout.

33:24 Alcohol references are frequent in Six Nations rugby matches.

40:43 Challenge societal views on alcohol by increasing awareness of pervasive marketing and ingrained beliefs.

44:22 #DontPinkMyDrink campaign to highlight how alcohol advertisers cynically target women.

To further explore your relationship with alcohol, check out Anna’s programme, The Big Drink Rethink Experiment: https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Professor Carol Emslie

Professor Carol Emslie is co-Director of the Research Centre for Health at Glasgow Caledonian University and is co-Chair of the Scottish Alcohol Research Network. Her applied research aims to understand the social context of drinking and explore ways to reduce alcohol harm. She has been interviewed by BBC Panorama, BBC Radio’s Women’s Hour, BBC Alba’s Eorpa, the Guardian and the New York Times and has presented her research at the Scottish Parliament.

She has an international reputation for research on gender and alcohol and launched the #dontpinkmydrink social media campaign to highlight alcohol marketing to women. Recent work includes a WHO report on gender and alcohol, studies of drinking and alcohol marketing in LGBTQ+ communities, and ‘sober curiosity’ among sexual minority women.

She leads Glasgow Caledonian’s Crucible programme for early-career researchers. This aims to develop leaders of the future who can communicate their research to the media, practitioners and policymakers and who are committed to working with partners to deliver positive social change.

Find out more:https://www.gcu.ac.uk/staff/carolemslie

Co-Director: Research Centre for Health

Co-Lead: Substance use research

Co-Chair: Scottish Alcohol Research Network

Links to work by Prof Carol Emslie (Glasgow Caledonian

University):

BBC 1 PANORAMA Nov 2024 (Binge Drinking and me – Hazel

Martin https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0025fyj

Alcohol-related deaths from liver disease among women under 40 have

risen sharply over the last decade – but why?

BLOG How alcohol companies are using International Women’s Day to sell more drinks to

women

BLOG Drinking on the gay scene: why we need to take it more seriously

#dontpinkmydrink social media campaign

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 59: Toolkit 101: Practical Ways to Build Positive Habits Feb 27, 2025

Ready to break the drinking cycle? In this toolkit episode of The Big Drink Rethink, host Anna Donaghey shares the science of habit formation and why relying on willpower alone often fails when trying to change drinking behaviours. She breaks down James Clear's habit loop concept and provides practical, actionable strategies for creating lasting change through small, intentional adjustments rather than dramatic overnight transformations.

Anna explores how to work with your brain's natural wiring instead of against it, introduces the power of "friction" in breaking unwanted habits, and shares personal examples of how tiny changes can lead to significant shifts in behavior.

Tune in to learn specific techniques for tracking new habits, the importance of identity in behavior change, and how to approach setbacks with self-compassion rather than judgment.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

03:52 Changing drinking habits involves working with the brain's habit system

08:15 Understanding the habit loop reveals that habit change involves reprogramming

13:47 Make alcohol less accessible to encourage thoughtful decisions.

18:24 Focus on self-care to replace drinking habits

22:07 Self-care involves healthier responses to triggers like drinking

27:10 Drinking less varies daily; challenges are learning opportunities

29:45 Focus on how you want to feel when adopting new behaviours

35:22 Track daily activities to feel stimulated.

Anna’s new coaching programme ‘Unstuck!’ helps break the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: The Unstuck! Programme

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 58: Own Your Worth & Rewrite your Alcohol Story Feb 20, 2025

Is a sense of unworthiness and shame keeping you stuck? In this powerful episode of The Big Drink Rethink, host Anna Donaghey sits down with Chris Janssen, a leading Performance and Mindset Coach with a Master’s in Counseling Psychology, to explore how shame and unworthiness can keep people trapped in addiction. Chris, who has been sober for 18 years and is the bestselling author of "Grace Yourself: How to Show Up for the Sober Life You Want," shares her personal journey and professional insights on breaking free from shame-based thinking.

Together, they discuss how community support, self-compassion, and rewriting one's personal narrative can be transformative tools in recovery, regardless of the path chosen. This conversation offers hope and practical strategies for anyone questioning their relationship with alcohol or struggling to believe they deserve a better life.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

06:08 Shame inhibits recovery from addiction by fostering unworthiness.

10:04 Shame is about self-worth, while guilt focuses on behavior change.

14:58 Persevere with positive self-talk to replace negative beliefs.

19:18 The book addresses overcoming perfectionism, shame, pride, and the struggle of restarting sobriety.

21:03 Community alleviates shame through empathy and support

23:26 Struggling drinkers may feel undeserving of better.

27:50 Start recovery from where you are.

32:29 Shared experiences in supportive communities alleviate self-judgment and shame, fostering mutual understanding and growth.

34:19 The theme is separating addiction from identity to view oneself as worthy and not defined by it.

47:05 Self-help is important, but service and community keep us humble by countering negative ego-driven thinking.

Anna’s new coaching programme ‘Unstuck!’ helps break the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: The Unstuck! programme

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Chris Janssen:

Chris Janssen, MA, BCC, is a leading results coach in performance and mindset and a bestselling, award winning author. She has worked with hundreds of sought-after athletes, creatives, soldiers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses internationally, helping them to close the gap between where they are and where they want to be. In addition to her academic achievements, Chris trained with and worked on Tony Robbins’ team of results coaches at the #1 personal development and peak performance strategy company in the world.

As a board-certified coach with a master’s in counselling psychology and over 25 years of experience, Chris excels in helping high-achieving perfectionists navigate performance pressure, overcome self-sabotage and rewrite narratives. Through her successful and sustainable Living All In methods, clients learn to attach meaning to life events and circumstances beyond their control.

To purchase Chris’s book "Grace Yourself: How to Show Up for the Sober Life You Want”:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/1637633378/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?ie=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.SfN6tVL2s2ZmoJn1eGkcgPhRvRdJ_BIZ1aARcUyoYUTn02KqZ9eH54oTCxXbyQSH_gJNZDiXSeofgFeSvlHhdKxDLmEgKwhEgURjTlisF5cZCtEOaPMftkv6je17IPWzPwUqkFOEdopn-r-7yvAijByQL2gUR0-aCWVHYZE1dGKvyPgzADiW04ekBMCEok7J7LjLqpLeZMgvfmbAy0aRvg.9Um1nzBC86WIakycnPAR9Yntwbt_Vs4_cArvng1uY80&qid=1739802882&sr=8-1

Find out more: https://www.chrisjanssencoaching.com/

Connect with Chris:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chrisjanssencoaching/

https://www.instagram.com/chris3janssen

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris3janssen

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 57: Q&A: How do I Deal with Alcohol-Related Shame? Feb 13, 2025

How does one deal with shame and embarrassment around their drinking behaviour? In this Q&A episode, host Anna Donaghey tackles this deeply personal question from a listener who struggles with past actions and memory gaps related to their drinking. Drawing from Brené Brown's research, Anna breaks down the differences between shame, guilt, humiliation, and embarrassment, offering practical journalling exercises and self-compassion techniques to help listeners process and move beyond their shame. She explains why shame thrives in silence and provides actionable steps for writing a self-forgiveness letter to release the burden of past regrets.

Here are the highlights:

00:57 Shame from drinking spans minor embarrassments to significant life impacts, including broken relationships and neglect.

08:09 Embarrassment is temporary and sometimes humorous, unlike the persistent nature of shame.

12:26 Use journalling to shift from self-judgment to self-compassion

15:19 Reflect and write on struggles.

18:01 Write kind words to yourself as you would to a friend.

22:29 Expressing and confronting personal regrets and emotions can be transformative and healing.

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

Anna’s new coaching programme ‘Unstuck!’ helps break the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: The Unstuck! programme

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 56: Alcohol, Shame & Healing: Karla’s Story Feb 06, 2025

Have you ever wondered what it really takes to hit rock bottom, and whether you need to wait for that moment before making a change? In this powerful episode of The Big Drink Rethink, host Anna Donaghey sits down with Karla Adkins, whose harrowing journey with alcohol nearly cost her life at just 37 years old. Through raw and emotional storytelling, Karla shares how her relationship with alcohol began as a solution to anxiety in college, but ultimately led to acute liver failure and a near-death experience. As co-owner of The Zero Proof Life and author of "And She Came Tumbling Down," Karla's story is not just about survival - it's about the shame, stigma, and silence that keeps so many people stuck in dangerous patterns with alcohol. This episode challenges listeners to rethink their assumptions about what problem drinking looks like and offers hope that there are many supportive paths, all while emphasising that you don't have to wait until you hit rock bottom to make a change.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

04:20 Anxiety began subtly but grew, I was introduced to alcohol at High School.

14:04 In my late twenties, I struggled with fear and shame around drinking.

18:13 Drinking caused confusion and health issues; all bodies react differently.

22:05 Experience of liver failure due to excessive drinking.

28:34 Feared death without sharing untold truth, worried about being misjudged as an alcoholic.

29:33 Understanding alcohol's impact is more than just quitting.

36:59 Discussing shame in addiction is crucial, because shame keeps us stuck.

46:38 I wanted to write about the increasing mortality rates among young women because of drinking.

49:33 Being alcohol-free involves effort and nervous system adjustment.

52:30 In ‘The Zero Proof Life’, we ended up working together as diverse coaches, creating a judgment-free, supportive community. I'm proud of this space.

Anna’s new coaching programme ‘Unstuck!’ helps break the cycle of alcohol and all the shame that goes with it. For more information and to find out how to join, please follow this link: The Unstuck! programme

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Karla Adkins:

Karla is co-owner of The Zero Proof Life, and author dedicated to guiding individuals toward a life free of alcohol. With a passion for helping others, Karla brings a wealth of experience and empathy to her coaching practice. Her transformative approach emphasizes self-discovery, empowerment, and sustainable lifestyle changes.

As the author of, "And She Came Tumbling Down", Karla shares her personal journey of triumph over alcohol addiction, offering insights, strategies, and inspiration for those seeking to change their relationship with alcohol. Karla started her alcohol free journey in 2014 and is committed to providing a safe, judgement-free space so others can find their own path to freedom.

Connect with Karla:

Website:https://www.thezeroprooflife.com

Book: And She Came Tumbling Down

https://shorturl.at/V2FbJ

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 55: Toolkit 101 - Getting 'Unstuck!' Jan 30, 2025

Today we're doing things a bit differently. Your host Anna Donaghy is bringing back her old friend and fellow Coach, Tabbin Almond. Together, they're exploring their personal alcohol struggles and coaching journeys, sharing insights and tools that they wish they had when they felt well and truly "stuck”.

Anna and Tabbin are not just talking about the problems - they’re also unveiling an exciting new program called Unstuck!, designed to help you break free from the alcohol cycle. If you've ever felt trapped by your drinking habits, this episode will resonate deeply and provide you with practical resources to help you move forward.

Tune into this discussion about the universal feelings of being stuck and the proven strategies that lead to real change. Let's get started on the path to getting 'unstuck' together!

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

04:37 Many people feel universally "stuck", but talking about it can help

12:37 Feeling stuck can lead to feelings of helplessness, loss of control, hopelessness, and shame.

15:12 How hindsight shows the feeling of being stuck in a drinking cycle and the impact of addiction

25:28 Feelings of regret and the lessons of willpower

32:59 Life is challenging, but we can control our reactions and perceptions instead of avoiding reality

40:44 Your invitation to join our 12-week course

47:01 Compulsive behaviours, like drinking, involve avoiding reality by altering brain chemistry.

48:18 Habits begin as intentional but become unconscious with repetition and alignment.

To find out more about the Unstuck! programme and how to join, please follow this link:

The Unstuck! programme

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Tabbin Almond:

Tabbin had a long and largely secret struggle to regain control over alcohol. Alcohol-free since 2018, she now works full-time as an alcohol-freedom coach, speaker, podcast host and writer. Her book ‘Bottling Up Trouble – how alcohol is harming your business and what you can do about it’, is an Amazon best-seller.

Website: https://www.winetowatercoaching.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/winetowatercoaching

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/winetowatercoaching

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-tabbin-almond

LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wine-to-water-coaching/

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 54: Breaking the Alcohol Cycle - Habits vs Dependency Jan 23, 2025

Today, we are exploring the intricate world of habits and dependency, particularly related to alcohol consumption. Join your host Anna Donaghey and Christopher Richards, the esteemed founder of Atomic Growth and an expert in psychology and human behaviour. Christopher shares his insightful perspectives on how habits form, the fine line between habits and dependency, and the role of rituals, identity, somatics, and environment in breaking the cycle of alcohol usage.

Christopher illuminates how quickly casual drinking can morph into a more concerning dependency, often driven by our desire for immediate benefits like confidence and relaxation. He emphasises the importance of building positive habits before attempting to cut out alcohol.

Whether you're navigating Dry January or trying to change your relationship with alcohol, tune in for a great conversation about to break habits.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

04:08 Automatic habits are unintentional routines, often influenced by social and psychological factors.

07:39 The challenge in addressing alcohol use is its perceived positives.

12:48 Alcohol is used to fill perceived emotional voids.

21:05 Investing in personal growth and well-being yields long-term benefits.

30:31 Choose growth over comfort to impact future generations.

35:47 Consciously rewire identity through rituals (doing), identity (thinking), and somatics (feeling) to improve life and understand drinking impulses.

39:07 Lack of body-mind connection can lead to mindless actions.

47:01 Compulsive behaviors, like drinking, involve avoiding reality by altering brain chemistry.

48:18 Habits begin as intentional but become unconscious with repetition and alignment.

For the free resources accompanying this series, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

To turn Dry January into a fantastic learning experience, you can purchase The Big Drink Rethink Experiment at the discounted price of just £99.

Follow this link, and simply apply coupon code POD99 at check-out:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Christopher Richards:

Christopher Richards is a transformational leadership consultant and the founder of AtomicGrowth. He served for 15 years in the British Army, becoming one of the lead experts in the Criminal Intelligence Bureau, and is an expert in psychology, leadership, and human behaviour. He is a visionary futurist and a keynote speaker on the topics of global innovation and human advancement.

For the last 10 years, he has helped business owners and corporate executives to quickly find and fix the internal barriers to their success, helping them to become even greater leaders for their business, family, and their own daily life. And he achieves this by understanding, identifying, and demystifying the patterns of the mind, behaviour, and identity.

Originally from London and now touring the United States, Christopher works with vision-driven leaders to help them become unstoppable forces for higher good and positive global advancement.

Connect with Christopher:

Website: atomicgrowth.co.uk

Facebook: facebook.com/chris.richards01

Instagram: instagram.com/chris_richards_official/

X: x.com/ChrisRichardsAG/

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 53: Toolkit 101: Recapping on a Year of Free Tools Jan 16, 2025

After a year of transformative insights and practical tools on The Big Drink Rethink podcast, Anna takes listeners on a comprehensive journey through the most impactful strategies for rethinking their drinking habits. This episode reflects on the tools and advice discussed over more than 50 episodes, simplifying access to life-enhancing resources available for free on Anna’s website.

Join Anna as she revisits pivotal conversations with experts like Professor David Nutt and Adrian Chiles, and shares the tools designed to foster a sober curious lifestyle, from alcohol tracking guides to mindfulness exercises. Whether you're a long-time listener or a newcomer, this episode is your go-to summary for actionable steps on your path to a healthier relationship with alcohol. The link to the free resources is below.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

03:55 Identify motivations, understand alcohol use, and track consumption.

09:46 Minimise self-created stress for a more balanced life.

14:10 Journaling improves well-being, breaks evening drinking habits.

19:02 Visualising future choices transformed my life's direction.

23:08 Evaluate life using a tool scoring 10 emotions to measure happiness, and assess if alcohol affects this score.

24:44 Moderation tips for a healthier alcohol balance are available.

30:43 Journaling helps process emotions, and beliefs.

31:38 I’ve added a visualisation tool to help control alcohol intake.

For the free resources mentioned in this episode, please head to https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

To turn Dry January into a fantastic learning experience, you can purchase The Big Drink Rethink Experiment at the discounted price of just £99.

Follow this link, and simply apply coupon code POD99 at check-out:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 52: Q&A: When Will I Begin To Feel Better? Jan 09, 2025

Today your host Anna is answering one of the most common questions for those trying to take a break from alcohol: "When will I begin to feel better?” She will share the physical, emotional, and visible changes you can expect - from better sleep and increased energy to potential weight loss and healthier skin - and a sense of when these benefits will kick-in. Plus, discover why keeping a log of your journey can be a game-changer. Whether you're participating in Dry January or just starting to rethink your drinking habits, this episode is packed with insights that will help you navigate change and stay motivated.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

04:45 Medical advice for severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

10:56 Be patient; sleep cycle rebalancing takes time.

13:51 Alcohol disrupts blood sugar and insulin regulation.

18:33 Emotional recovery from quitting alcohol takes time.

20:19 Change beliefs about alcohol to feel better emotionally.

24:08 Alcohol stored quickly as fat, and disrupts your metabolism.

29:15 Quit alcohol for noticeably improved skin appearance.

30:06 Take a break, you'll benefit within weeks.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

To turn Dry January into a fantastic learning experience, you can purchase The Big Drink Rethink Experiment at the discounted price of just £99.

Follow this link, and simply apply coupon code POD99 at check-out:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 51: The Hidden Costs of Alcohol - A Police Perspective Jan 02, 2025

Discover the hidden costs of alcohol from a police perspective in this eye-opening episode of The Big Drink Rethink. Join host Anna Donaghey as she explores the profound societal impacts of alcohol consumption with retired Chief Superintendent, Maria Fox. Learn about the staggering statistics, the operational challenges for police, and Maria’s personal journey to transform the drinking culture within the force. Don’t miss this compelling discussion and the insights that could reshape your understanding of alcohol's pervasive influence on society.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

05:35 Delayed statements hinder resource allocation and services.

06:26 Deaths in custody are a major concern, as custody staff have a duty of care to individuals who can't monitor themselves.

09:30 Night-time economy impacts crime and resource allocation.

13:31 Alcohol impacts society; everyone bears the personal and economic costs.

18:22 Education and awareness about alcohol needed.

20:49 Investigations delayed by unfit interview scenarios, frustrating.

28:59 Detective bravado, being stressed led to frequent drinking.

32:33 Retired officers face increased post-service drinking.

33:19 Habits form the brain pathways and are difficult to break.

40:35 Used “This Naked Mind” to overcome personal burnout.

46:14 Leaders must lead by example to inspire change.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

To turn Dry January into a fantastic learning experience, you can purchase The Big Drink Rethink Experiment at the discounted price of just £99.

Follow this link, and simply apply coupon code POD99 at check-out:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Maria Fox:

Maria Fox has recently retired from her final role as Chief Superintendent in Derbyshire Constabulary. She began her career in Greater Manchester Police in 1994 after completing a Theology degree at the University of Manchester. She subsequently worked in West Midlands Police and has been a senior leader since 2003. Her policing experience and leadership spans detective, and uniform policing roles at every rank and as a senior leaders she also worked in CTP policing. Maria is also a trained and certified coach with This Naked Mind and took responsibility for the design and delivery of the 30 day Alcohol experiment for policing and now bluelight services. In 2023 she became an author, writing “Crisis to Comeback - a roadmap to health transformation after burnout”, where she shares her story of burnout, including her relationship with alcohol in a courageous and transparent way to encourage others in policing and highly stressful roles to better navigate self-care so that they can improve their own health and wellbeing. After navigating her way out of an increasingly dangerous relationship with alcohol, she certified as a coach with This Naked Mind. In 2022/23 whilst still serving she developed the alcohol experiment initiative for organisations with peer coaches. This has been truly transformational for many and she is driven by the passion to remove the stigma, fear and loneliness that a spiralling relationship with alcohol can bring and provide a safe and effective place for change. She is also a trained fitness instructor and metabolic health coach.

Connect with Maria:

Website: https://www.livewellandfree.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livewelland_free/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MariaFoxWellness

Buy Maria's book: 'Crisis to Comeback: A roadmap to health transformation after burnout' https://www.amazon.co.uk/Crisis-Comeback-roadmap-transformation-burnout/dp/1739387716?dplnkId=d1d4136e-6d3c-4b6c-870a-fa461c56e9b2&nodl=1

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 50: Toolkit '101': Progress over Perfection - A New Approach to Dry January Dec 26, 2024

Thinking about doing Dry January? In today's episode, your host Anna shares a new approach to Dry January. She suggests approaching it as an empowering experiment, rather than a sheer test of willpower. It’s a fundamental mindset shift, and a way to discover practical strategies, compelling insights, and focus on growth and self-discovery. Let’s rethink Dry January together.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

03:36 Take a break from alcohol for better health.

06:57 Observe alcohol's role; reconsider its necessity.

19:39 January encourages exploring different lifestyle choices.

23:30 An Alcohol-free month led to improved skin, sleep, and mood.

26:30 Save money, enjoy life, and improve health and connections.

32:28 Embrace progress over perfection; celebrate 97% success.

34:56 Invest in yourself with Dry January, questions welcome.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

To turn Dry January into a fantastic learning experience, you can purchase The Big Drink Rethink Experiment at the discounted price of just £99.

Follow this link, and simply apply coupon code POD99 at check-out:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/the-big-drink-rethink-experiment

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 49: Alcohol-Free & Thriving: The Power of Positivity with the Gavin Sisters Dec 19, 2024

Anna welcomes the refreshingly candid Gavin sisters, Loretta and Sharon, who share how giving up alcohol transformed their lives and inspired their thriving wellness venture, The Detox Barn. We'll be discussing their incredible journey from battling health challenges and the pressures of a drinking culture, to adopting a plant-based lifestyle and running successful wellness retreats. They'll share their experiences, including how giving up alcohol has positively impacted not only their health but also their relationships and overall well-being.

Here are the highlights:

05:15 Adopted a plant-based diet, eliminated stress, and alcohol.

09:13 Started health retreats, The Detox Barn, which are a huge success.

12:17 Needed sobriety to regain strength for Edinburgh Fringe.

12:54 Enjoyed wine regularly, causing frequent hangovers.

20:35 Actions influence children more than words can.

23:51 Early drinking risks the development of a child's adult brain.

31:23 Transitioning to non-drinker unfolds like a ripple effect.

32:55 Core relationships unchanged; friends now drink less.

35:31 Being first inspires others to follow.

40:44 Community formed through shared experiences and challenges.

47:06 Our shows are character-driven and humorous.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About The Gavin Sisters:

Sharon and Lauretta are an acclaimed comedy double-act who have appeared in numerous TV and stage productions, developed sitcoms with comedy giants, and written plays for the West End.

Sharon and Lauretta went from red wine-drinking, Chinese take-out aficionados to thriving advocates of a plant-based lifestyle. Sharon's diagnosis of a rare autoimmune disease was a turning point that led them down a path of resilience, determination, and ultimately, transformation.

Sharon was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease just before her son was born over 9 years ago. She was covered from head to toe in a chronic rash, and at times was wheelchair-bound. On a concoction of very toxic drugs and steroids, she decided she needed to find another way to get better. Her sister was determined to do everything she could to help Sharon.

As two single mums living together with very young children, they decided to do everything they could to get Sharon’s health back. After extensive research and a lot of trial and error, they transitioned to a plant-based diet rich in nutrient-dense foods, giving up alcohol and processed foods. Lauretta retrained as a natural vegan chef, focusing on nutrition. Sharon is now off all medication, feels better than ever, and is back running. Inspired by their journey, they decided they wanted to help others, and in 2018, they set up a wellness retreat called The Detox Barn. This has been featured in many publications as well as being picked by Conde Nast as one of the best wellness retreats in the Uk for 2023 & 2024.

They followed this by launching their first product, Funki Coffee, and their hugely successful podcast—The Gavin Sisters Wellness Show

The Gavin Sisters Website: https://gavinsisters.co.uk/

The Detox Barn: https://gavinsisters.co.uk/pages/retreats-the-detox-barn

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 48: Toolkit 101: Controlling Alcohol at Christmas (or other Big Occasions) Dec 12, 2024

How do you master moderation at Christmas and other big events? Your host Anna will share practical strategies for controlling alcohol consumption, from planning when and what you'll drink to enjoying alcohol-free alternatives. We'll discuss how to avoid drinking rituals, recognise the impact of bubbly drinks, and focus on mindfulness throughout your festivities.

Anna will also walk us through a brilliant visualisation technique used by top athletes, showing us how mental preparation can significantly influence our drinking choices. Tune to learn how to make positive choices about alcohol consumption during the festive season.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Introduction

04:04 Plans help resist impulsive, pleasure-seeking brain habits.

09:29 Listen to Episode 26 for tips on moderation.

10:20 Plan your drinking with moderation to avoid unintended behaviour and replace rituals with healthier alternatives.

14:06 Question your drinking on joyous occasions like Christmas, as alcohol can diminish mood and feelings.

17:09 Visualisation helps manage events like an alcohol-free Christmas, by making future scenarios feel real and achievable.

23:17 Feel fantastic and energised on Christmas Day.

29:07 Visit thebeliefscoach.com for more info.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 47: Q&A: How do I Cope with Really Low Moments? Dec 05, 2024

What do you do on tough days? In this episode, host Anna Donaghey dives deep into an incredibly important topic: coping with really low moments. Anna tackles a heartfelt question from a listener who, despite their successful journey towards an alcohol-free life, struggles during times of utter exhaustion and bad news. Join Anna as she shares profound tips and strategies to manage these challenging moments, reshaping one's mindset, and fostering resilience. Discover how to stay topped up, manage anxiety, and find healthier ways to cope with emotional overload.

Here are the highlights:

04:12 Prioritise self-care to effectively help others. Try and stay ‘topped up’ to facilitate positivity.

08:36 Journalling questions: Dig into whether alcohol truly relaxes you, or actually makes you less able to cope.

12:30 Tool for managing cravings and emotional urges.

14:49 Eliminate self-judgement; crying releases emotional stress.

17:34 Helpful advice for coping with life's challenges.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 46: Forging a Sober & Strong Identity, with Millie Gooch Nov 28, 2024

In this latest episode of The Big Drink Rethink, our host Anna Donaghey, sits down with Millie Gooch, the dynamic founder of The Sober Girl Society, to delve into her inspiring path from heavy drinking to leading a vibrant, sober community. In this episode, Millie shares insights from her upcoming book, her involvement with Alcohol Change UK, and the innovative "Sober Spring" campaign. You'll also hear about the challenges of advocating for better alcohol advertising regulations and Millie's creative strategies to support those choosing a life without alcohol. From practical advice on navigating social pressures to fostering self-discovery beyond alcohol, this conversation is a powerful resource for anyone curious about rethinking their relationship with drinking.

Here are the highlights:

04:28 Felt isolated, started Instagram for sober connections.

09:07 Virtual workshops feature diverse expert speakers.

12:08 University: drinking rite of passage, formative years.

15:17 Body image, and financial pressures increase home drinking.

18:09 Gen Z stress: 75% still drink heavily.

21:43 Balancing sobriety with maintaining a fulfilling social life.

25:11 Social media's pressures: balancing benefits and expectations.

27:10 Viral videos deter excessive drinking; explore alternatives.

35:58 Guided journal for discovering booze-free life.

38:00 Journalling explored as a powerful therapeutic tool.

40:13 Consumer campaigns for alcohol harm policy advocacy.

44:06 Influencer marketing exploits Gen Z's vulnerability effectively.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Mille Gooch:

Millie Gooch is the founder of the Sober Girl Society and is one of the voices leading the sobriety movement in the UK. Millie has an MSc in Addiction and Mental Health and has written for a range of publications including Elle, Stylist and Cosmopolitan. Her debut book, The Sober Girl Society Handbook, was released in 2021, and in 2022 she received the Media Award from the Research Society on Alcoholism for her contributions in helping disseminate empirical research on alcohol and creating a safe space for people to explore alcohol-free living. Millie is a proud ambassador for Alcohol Change UK and her second book Booze-Less will be released in November 2024.

Connect with Millie:

The Sober Girl Society website: https://sobergirlsociety.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sobergirlsociety/

Other links: Other Sober Girl Society links

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 45: Q&A - My Partner Still Drinks and is Unsupportive Nov 21, 2024

In this eye-opening episode, your host Anna Donaghey explores one of the most challenging dynamics faced by those rethinking their relationship with alcohol. A partnership where the other half continues to drink. This heartfelt Q&A session, where Anna shares her personal experiences, offers practical advice on communication and provides insightful strategies to manage emotions such as resentment and frustration. Whether you're struggling to find support from your partner or seeking ways to fortify your resolve, this episode is packed with compassionate guidance to help you on your journey.

Here are the highlights:

05:57 Be clear about any support requirements you have. It’s a time to spell out expectations

08:12 Fear of change after quitting alcohol dominates.

10:28 Navigating relationship changes requires ongoing communication and reassurances.

14:08 Your happiness is in your own hands, not defined by others' behaviors.

15:34 Look for support beyond your partner; a community of people doing what you’re doing. Such a valuable support network of like-minded people

16:45 Up the level of self care you are providing yourself during this time

17:25 Healthy habits and changes influence relationships gradually.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 44: Alcohol & Spiritual Growth, with Christy Osborne Nov 14, 2024

When you transform your relationship with alcohol, you can rediscover your true self. Join host Anna Donaghey and guest Christy Osborne, as they share their journeys with motherhood, spirituality, and sobriety. Christy shares her raw and challenging experiences during the early stages of raising her children, the societal pressures that led her to drink, and the pivotal moment that prompted her transformation. Anna and Christy discuss the profound impact of alcohol on emotional growth, the societal pressure of "mummy wine culture," and the empowering clarity that comes with sobriety. This episode not only explores the intricate link between spirituality and personal growth but also provides invaluable insights for anyone considering stepping away from alcohol to embrace a more fulfilling life. Tune in for an enriching conversation that emphasises self-discovery, emotional resilience, and the journey towards deeper, authentic connection. Don't miss Anna's heartfelt reflections and Christy's inspirational story of overcoming the chaos to find peace and purpose.

Here are the highlights:

05:00 Rediscovered faith and peace through Christianity again.

08:24 Spirituality: A deeply personal quest for self-discovery.

11:29 Realising life's bigger purpose post-children.

13:52 A glamorous life felt empty; alcohol was reassessed.

19:04 Struggles with emotions, motherhood, and drinking habits.

21:10 Ignoring and numbing emotions instead of honouring them.

25:28 Trust yourself; alcohol impairs self-awareness.

28:31 Embrace emotions, process trauma, find meaningful light.

35:34 Realising needs are within reach, not elsewhere.

37:57 The younger generation drink less, and possibly ‘discover’ themselves earlier.

41:23 Connection central to spirituality and personal growth.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Christy Osborne:

Christy Osborne, born and raised in Los Angeles, graduated from the University of Southern California and the Pepperdine University School of Law. After passing the California bar exam, she relocated to London and assumed various roles in law, public relations, and business development. These included working for the UK Parliament and founding a popular website for American expat women. Christy discovered her true calling when she chose sobriety and discovered a passion for helping women on their own journeys. As a highly trained senior sobriety coach featured in/by Marie Claire, Newsweek, The Daily Mail, Yahoo, PBS, London Daily News, Hip & Healthy, and more, she empowers women throughout the US and UK to redefine their relationship with alcohol. She lives with her husband and two children, Ella and Carter, and their cavapoo, Copper, in London, UK.

Connect with Christy:

Website: LoveLifeSober.com

Book Love Life Sober: A 40-Day Alcohol Fast to Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health, and Renew Your Mind

You can also purchase Christy’s book from online and highstreet retailers

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovelifesoberwithchristy/

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 43: Q&A: How Do I Cope with Setbacks? Nov 07, 2024

Discover the transformative power of shifting your mindset in moments of struggle, on this week’s episode of The Big Drink Rethink. Anna addresses the frustration and demotivation that come with stumbling back into old drinking patterns. With insights from an experimental mindset and tips on self-compassion, she reframes setbacks not as failures but as crucial learning opportunities. We'll discuss strategies like measuring progress in percentages rather than days, focusing on gains over perfection, and the importance of self-determination. By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped with practical tools and a new perspective to keep moving forward on your path.

Here are the highlights:

03:28 Reflecting on experiences helps resolve internal conflicts about drinking, leading to better future choices.

09:21 Focusing on progress over perfection is essential, especially for perfectionists.

12:40 Journaling helps track progress, boosts motivation, and measures personal growth.

14:19 Focus on your own journey - comparison is the thief of joy.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 42: Alcohol & Menopause, with Lauren Chiren Oct 31, 2024

86% of women don’t fully understand the impact of perimenopause and menopause. In this fascinating episode, host Anna Donaghey is joined by the inspiring Lauren Chiren, CEO of Women of a Certain Stage, to explore the complex interplay between alcohol and menopause. With a blend of personal anecdotes and eye-opening insights, they unpack how lifestyle choices can profoundly influence the menopausal journey. From hormonal upheavals to healthcare challenges and the essential need for education. Tune in as we explore how a mindful approach to alcohol can make a world of difference to managing menopause and reclaiming your well-being.

Here are the highlights:

1:36 Left career as a senior executive in the financial services industry

03:09 Created a menopause awareness conference that addressed workplace challenges.

06:47 Most women are unaware of menopause's significant impact.

13:02 Endocrinologists may lack menopause-specific training.

15:08 Misdiagnosed menopause led to unnecessary antidepressants.

18:15 Alcohol is often seen as good for stress relief despite menopause.

24:33 Focus on hydration, reduce alcohol, and eat natural foods.

33:21 Experiment with drinking less and taking breaks.

39:39 Find joy in movement; prioritise strength and flexibility.

43:46 Joy comes from interaction, freedom, community, and movement.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

About Lauren Chiren:

Lauren is an entrepreneur, passionate about supporting people to successfully navigate menopause. She provides evidence to the UK Parliament, sits on the BSI committee that created the landmark Standard on Menstruation, menstrual health and menopause, is a regular commentator in the media and is an award winning global motivational speaker, trainer & coach on executive women's wellbeing.

She left her senior role in financial services, in her early 40's believing that she was suffering from early-onset dementia. Imagine her surprise when her doctor informed her she had 'just' been through menopause?! Today she educates employers on why being menopause supportive is business savvy and supports high performing people to navigate the changes and challenges of all things hormonal, from monthly cycles to menopause. As a trusted expert, Lauren has helped thousands of executives, celebrities and athletes globally. She is qualified in psychology, mental health, nutrition, coaching, personal training and soon to be a yoga teacher too! Lauren shares her knowledge and stimulates the debate on what being well means, at all stages of life, with insightful directness, commercial pragmatism and absolute passion for ensuring optimum wellbeing and resilience. Her goal is to ensure no-one is ever held back because of their biology.

Connect with Lauren:

Website: https://www.womenofacertainstage.com/

Twitter/X: https://x.com/LaurenChiren

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenchiren/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themenopausecoach/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WomenOfACertainStage

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 41: Toolkit '101': How & Why to Journal Oct 24, 2024

Can journalling help your sober journey? This episode Anna is taking a look at this transformative practice. Whether you're looking to reduce or quit drinking, or simply seeking a way to boost your mental and emotional well-being, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to get you started. We'll explore simple prompts, debunk perfectionist myths, and discuss the myriad benefits supported by research from reducing anxiety to improving overall health. With insights from historical figures and modern-day journalling advocates, like Claire Pooley, we'll show you how dedicating just a few minutes each day to journalling can become a happy habit.

Here are the highlights:

05:48 Journalling reduces anxiety, improves mood, processes trauma.

07:05 Gratitude journalling offers extensive mental and physical benefits.

11:40 Write about your feelings to heal and gain clarity.

14:28 Journal daily for self-reflection and personal growth.

21:31 Journalling with prompts: evolution and exploration.

23:13 Journalling offers fresh perspectives and self-advice.

28:06 Keep a journal close to capture thoughts, emotions.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 40: Q&A: How do I Deal with Discomfort on an Alcohol Break? Oct 17, 2024

Are you ready to reimagine your relationship with alcohol? In this Q&A episode, we're tackling a timely and crucial topic for those taking a break from alcohol: dealing with discomfort. Join your host, Anna Donaghey, as she offers valuable insights and practical advice to help you navigate the physical and emotional challenges that come with this transformative journey. Whether you're in the middle of Sober October or simply exploring a new lifestyle, this episode is full of reframes, reassurances and strategies to keep you on track. Tune in and discover how to turn moments of discomfort into milestones of progress.

Here are the highlights:

01:00 Most drinkers can quit without severe withdrawal.

06:30 Alcohol disrupts, discomfort is your body re-tuning, recalibrating and healing and healing.

08:48 Trust the process for natural sleep restoration.

12:28 Alcohol is the UK's favorite coping mechanism for unwanted feelings.

15:26 Practice self-compassion and experiment with other ways to indulge.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 39: From Alcohol to Authenticity, with Clare Pooley Oct 10, 2024

We explore the transformative journey from alcohol dependence to living an authentic and empowered life with our inspiring guest, Clare Pooley. Well-known in ‘Quit Lit’ circles for her best-selling book The Sober Diaries, Clare reflects on her personal journey with alcohol, the emotional rollercoaster of early sobriety, and how writing became her lifeline and therapeutic tool. Host Anna Donaghey leads this heartfelt conversation, celebrating Clare's bravery, resilience, and her journey to authenticity.

Tune in as we explore Clare’s pivotal decision to quit drinking, the impact of sobriety on her family, and the importance of vulnerability in fostering genuine human connections. Clare shares the highs and lows of her first year sober, the healing power of writing, and the remarkable way her story has inspired countless others on their paths to recovery. This episode offers insights and heartfelt moments that you won't want to miss.

Here are the highlights:

05:08 Published The Sober Diaries, which inspired worldwide readers.

07:39 Most memoirs by men; questions remained unanswered.

10:36 Morning drinking crossed a line.

16:31 Journal for yourself to clarify personal struggles.

18:53 Mindfulness redirects focus, writing can provide a mental escape.

21:51 Journaling helps express suppressed emotions, unlike drinking.

25:24 Realised pseudonym and anonymity was unnecessary, after a mum friend guessed she was the author of the blog.

38:04 Connection with diverse people combats addiction effectively.

41:48 Quitting drinking builds bravery and emotional resilience.

44:11 Authenticity means not everyone will agree.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Clare Pooley:

Clare Pooley is a best-selling, award-winning author, a Speaker and Blogger.

Back in 2015, realising that her ‘wine o’clock’ habit had spiralled out of control, Clare started writing a blog, ‘Mummy was a Secret Drinker’, which has had nearly three million hits. Her memoir, The Sober Diaries was published in 2017 to critical acclaim.

Clare’s debut novel - The Authenticity Project, was inspired by her own experience of exposing the rather grubby truth about her own seemingly perfect life. It’s published in thirty-two languages, was a Radio 2 Book Club pick, winner of the RNA Debut Novel Award and a New York Times bestseller.

Her second novel - The People on Platform 5 (titled Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting in the USA/Canada) was published in Spring 2022 and her third novel - How to Age Disgracefully was launched this year.

Clare’s talks include a TEDx talk - ‘Making Sober Less Shameful’, a talk for Radio 4’s Four Thought, and numerous podcast interviews.

Connect with Clare: https://clarepooley.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 38: Toolkit ‘101’: Coping with Alcohol Cravings and Urges Oct 03, 2024

Are cravings for alcohol creeping in and threatening to derail your Sober October plans? In this timely episode of the Big Drink Rethink, your host Anna Donaghey drops a powerful tool to help you tackle those pesky urges head-on. Whether you're navigating physical cravings for booze or attempting to outsmart the psychological triggers that are tempting you to have a drink, Anna has got you covered. Dive into actionable techniques, from mastering the art of ‘urge surfing’ to using powerful pauses and power poses. Equip yourself with these solid strategies and transform your cravings into stepping stones towards a healthier, booze-free lifestyle.

Here are the highlights:

05:15 Our subconscious associates emotions with alcohol for relief.

08:29 Take a vital pause. resist whining demands effectively.

11:55 Use the acronym H.A.L.T. to diagnose hunger, anger, loneliness, tiredness.

13:30 Power pose boosts confidence, lowers stress hormones.

19:41 Urge Surfing: a mindfulness tool to understand and manage urges.

23:01 Understand the urge, accept and process it.

24:51 Breathe, observe, and let the urge pass.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 37: Q&A: Will I Stop Missing the Alcohol High? Sep 26, 2024

Alcohol steals genuine happiness, replacing it with fleeting, artificial pleasure. Today’s Q&A delves into a poignant question from a listener struggling to sustain sobriety due to missing the high from alcohol. Anna unpacks the psychological and physiological aspects of this challenge, offering insights into why we crave that fleeting euphoria and the long-term toll it takes on our bodies. She explores alternatives that can replace the artificial pleasure of alcohol with natural highs, providing a pathway to recalibrate our bodies and rediscover true joy in everyday moments. Tune in to explore ways to rethink and reshape your relationship with alcohol.

Here are the highlights:

00:00 Replace alcohol's high with a new perspective.

04:10 Body releases dynorphin which reduces dopamine euphoria.

08:45 Natural highs replace artificial, amazing daily pleasures.

10:48 Stopping alcohol boosts energy, clarity, and awareness.

13:16 Alcohol steals real joy, offers fleeting happiness.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 36: Breaking Down Silos in Alcohol Culture, with Denise Hamilton-Mace Sep 19, 2024

What happens when the blurred lines of alcohol culture are brought into sharp focus? Anna and her guest Denise Hamilton-Mace, founder and editor of Low No Drinker Magazine, break down the silos in alcohol culture.

Join them as they discuss moderation, the rise of non-alcoholic alternatives, and making informed choices.

In this engaging conversation, Anna explores the evolving landscape of the sober curious movement with Denise, who shares her personal journey from a flourishing hospitality career to pioneering a magazine dedicated to low and no alcohol beverages. Despite facing challenges, Denise's passion for promoting a balanced approach to drinking shines through, inspiring others to explore healthier alternatives without judgment.

Tune in to Anna and Denise, as they explore the importance of moderation as a personal choice, the impactful role of the magazine, and how breaking down traditional barriers in alcohol culture can lead to a more inclusive and mindful way of living.

Here are the highlights:

04:47 Denise realised alcohol wasn't serving her, and cut back.

12:22 Small brands struggle due to lack of funding.

14:32 Low alcohol draft faces logistical and demand challenges.

17:56 Entrepreneurs make unique drinks with inspiring stories.

20:49 Founders defy traditional rules; innovation prevails.

23:20 Prioritise reader needs; share relatable personal stories.

34:46 Magazine breaks silos, offering diverse lifestyle choices.

40:13 Moderation is personal, requiring tolerance and acceptance.

44:49 Predicts growth in mid-range light alcohol market.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Denise Hamilton Mace:

At the age of 45, Denise transformed her relationship with alcohol into a mission to inspire others. Once immersed in London's vibrant bar scene, she now champions a "life less intoxicated" through her creation, Low No Drinker Magazine. With nine issues, 35 podcast episodes, and numerous speaking engagements under her belt, she's become a leading voice in the low/no alcohol movement.

Her journey from party-goer to wellness advocate began during a transformative period of lockdown redundancy and motherhood. Embracing personal fitness and education, she discovered the benefits of reducing alcohol consumption. Today, she's not here to judge or preach sobriety, but to support those seeking a more balanced lifestyle. Through her work, she proves it's never too late to reinvent oneself and find a new purpose that resonates with personal growth and societal change.

Find out more: https://www.lownodrinkermagazine.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 35: Q&A: Is Moderating Alcohol Possible? Sep 12, 2024

In this Q&A episode of The Big Drink Rethink, Anna Donaghey explores one of the most pressing questions for anyone reevaluating their relationship with alcohol: is moderation possible? She meticulously unpacks the complexities of drinking in moderation. Drawing from her personal journey and extensive coaching experience, she offers a nuanced perspective on whether it's achievable and the challenges that come with it. Whether you're considering moderating alcohol or contemplating an all-or-nothing approach, this episode sheds light on the psychological, physiological, and emotional factors at play. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical advice.

Here are the highlights:

00:52 Can you actually moderate alcohol?

05:50 Moderation is possible, but the real strength is when alcohol is irrelevant.

07:29 Decision fatigue depletes willpower.

11:06 Tolerance leads to increased alcohol consumption over time.

15:35 Alcohol raises your Blood Alcohol Content, causes euphoria, then declines.

17:34 80% prefer quitting alcohol over moderating consumption

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 34: Alcohol & Health: Its Journey through the Body Sep 05, 2024

How does alcohol really affect your health? Anna is joined by Professor Charlie Knowles, a renowned medic and author, to shed light on the complex relationship between alcohol and our bodies. They explore the popular perception that a glass of red wine a day is beneficial and address its potential role in increasing the risk of serious health issues, including various types of cancer. Together they discuss how alcohol, a Group 1 carcinogen, affects everything from our DNA and gut microbiome to our social behaviours, and touch on the ethical responsibility of the medical profession and the drinks industry to inform the public about these risks, especially against the backdrop of aggressive alcohol advertising. There is a thin line between moderate consumption and dependency, significant global social consequences of alcohol, and staggering costs of alcohol-related harm. So, whether you're curious about cutting back or just want to make more informed choices, stay tuned as we rethink the big drink together!

Here are the highlights:

03:55 Professor Charlie Knowles' writing his book.

13:00 How alcohol spreads through the body and affects it.

20:37 Common reflux disease linked to obesity and cancer.

32:30 Alcohol benefits for heart health questioned and debated.

35:50 Changes in DNA can increase cancer risk.

45:54 Know the risks and make decisions.

49:07 Dependency, long-term memory and behaviour issues.

53:47 Biology and alcohol: understanding addiction.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Charles Knowles:

Charles Knowles is Professor of Surgery at Queen Mary University of London and a colorectal surgeon. He is author of the book “Why We Drink Too Much: the new science of alcohol” which will be published by Macmillan in the UK, Commonwealth, US and Canada in January 2026. The book entwines his own journey with an understanding of the effects of alcohol in the body and brain, and how this informs rational approaches to stopping or moderating consumption.

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 33: Alcohol Advertising: It's Time for a Rethink Aug 29, 2024

Anna unravels the calculated persuasion behind glossy alcohol ads and their seductive campaigns, exposing how they obscure the true realities of alcohol's impact on our lives. In this compelling solo episode of The Big Drink Rethink Anna talks from the heart. With her 25 years of experience in the advertising world, she examines the insidious world of alcohol advertising with passion, knowledge and unflinching honesty. With nearly £1 billion spent annually in the UK alone to promote these beverages, she questions whether what's being sold is more than just a drink - but a dangerous misconception. Join Anna as she pulls back the curtain on the tactics, the consequences, and the undeniable need for a rethink on how alcohol is marketed to the masses.

Here are the highlights:

02:08 Challenging advertising, beliefs, and conditioning in alcohol.

03:23 Conditioning influences subconscious thoughts.

08:29 Alcohol marketing's significant global economic impact.

13:16 Encouraging drinking through strategic marketing.

16:13 What are brands really trying to sell?

19:05 Increasing sales by targeting demographics.

27:00 A need for tougher alcohol marketing regulations.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 32: Toolkit '101' - Principles For a Successful Alcohol-Free Break Aug 22, 2024

Imagine taking a break from alcohol that's not just a pause, but a transformative experience. In this episode, your host Anna, is exploring how you can make the most of any alcohol-free break. She is also sharing the fundamental principles behind her self-guided programme, sharing how taking a break from the book can be a productive, insightful, and even life-changing journey. So, let's get started!

Here are the highlights:

04:48 Discover the benefits of a month without alcohol.

08:46 Embrace the booze elevator, forget false labels.

12:38 Embrace circumstances, ditch blame, and willpower.

15:28 Willpower isn't enough for long-term behaviour change.

20:05 Curiosity allows for questioning, learning, and growth.

20:55 Shift from loss mindset to gain mindset.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 31: From Grey Area Drinking to Holistic Health with Janey Lee Grace Aug 15, 2024

We’re exploring the positive impact of stepping off the booze elevator with none other than Janey Lee Grace. She is an author, public speaker, Life Coach, and fervent advocate for healthy living. In this episode she shares her personal struggle with alcohol and how she navigated through the societal norms and medical attitudes surrounding drinking, to find her path to peace.

Together with our host, Anna, Janey emphasises the interconnectedness of proper nutrition, movement, and lifestyle practices in supporting sobriety. They touch on the guilt and shame often felt when quitting, but also highlight the overwhelming benefits of embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle. From improved health and energy levels to enhanced self-worth and emotional empowerment, discover how quitting drinking can transform your life.

Here are the highlights:

03:34 The huge elephant in the room was alcohol and I couldn’t grasp that life would be better without it.

12:47 Getting off the booze elevator before it all turns bad.

15:28 Alcohol culture and awareness around drinking is shifting.

24:17 Avoid the term "give up," use “quitting” or “ditching the booze”.

31:42 Alcohol's impact on the menopause and body temperature

36:43 Facing challenges led to helping others recover.

41:02 Focus on good food, and make supportive changes.

45:10 Develop awareness of body, thoughts, and emotions. Am I burying emotions with my behaviour?

50:29 When I gave up alcohol I could actually start to like myself again.

If you’re loving the podcast and would like to give Anna a warm, fuzzy feeling of appreciation, then you can buy her a coffee:

https://buymeacoffee.com/bigdrinkrethink

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Janey Lee Grace:

Janey Lee Grace is an author, public speaker, and life coach trained in NLP, EFT, Matrix and Family Constellations therapy, plus sobriety and health coaching. Formerly she was a broadcaster best known as a co-host on Steve Wright in the afternoon on BBC Radio 2 - she is author of five books on holistic living including two number one amazon best sellers. Janey hosts a podcast Alcohol Free Life which is rated in the Top 5 of all podcasts globally. She presents shows for Uk Health Radio and runs Platinum Awards annually to recognise the best in wellbeing products and services,

Find out more: www.janeyleegrace.com

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 30: Sobriety Milestones, with Sober Dave Aug 08, 2024

In today's episode, we're diving deep into the journey of sobriety milestones with David Wilson, better known as ‘Sober Dave’. This is Dave’s second time on the podcast, and he has returned to discuss the physical and emotional changes that come with giving up alcohol, and how envisioning future benefits can help make sobriety non-negotiable. Both Anna and Dave share their experiences of navigating holidays, emotional sobriety, and the ever-present struggle with identity and self-development after years of drinking. This episode is packed with valuable strategies, personal stories, and a wealth of support for anyone rethinking their relationship with alcohol.

Here are the Highlights:

13:13 Commit to sobriety, plan ahead, and feel empowered.

16:43 Embracing sobriety and helping others with mental health.

19:59 Supportive approach to managing social isolation at work.

23:04 Seek support, and create a personalised plan.

29:25 Successfully managing and enjoying a holiday without drinking.

44:05 Accepting the past, forgiving yourself, and moving forward purposefully.

49:39 Questioning sobriety, finding strength in experience.

54:38 Sobriety brings organisation and peace of mind.

About the host, Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About David Wilson:

Transforming his life in January 2019, David Wilson is a Certified Grey Area Drinking Coach, Trauma Informed Coach and Public Speaker. He is dedicated to motivating others to transform their lives, overcome personal challenges and embrace life with a renewed mindset. Using his unique delivery and no nonsense approach, Dave is both personable and relatable.

His Top 10 Apple Podcast 'One For The Road' reaches a global audience with over 300K downloads in the first year. Dave's rich and varied guest list includes RTT founder Marisa Peer, SAS Who Dares Wins Ollie Ollerton and author of 'The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober' Catherine Gray.

Dave is a No.1 Bestselling Author with his debut book, also titled 'One For The Road' - a blend of his personal memoir, coaching techniques and offers motivational tips to help the reader change their relationship with alcohol.

Dave is a firm believer that the opposite of addiction is connection, which prompted him to create his own private Facebook groups so like minded people can share and connect in a safe space.

Connect with Dave:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-wilson

Instagram: @soberdave

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 29: Toolkit '101' - Our Toolkit So Far Aug 01, 2024

In this special episode, Anna offers a comprehensive summary of the free tools and resources discussed throughout the series so far. A fantastic collection of strategies, practical tips and reflection exercises to support listeners as they rethink their drinking - whether they are on a mindful drinking journey, or looking to totally quit alcohol.

Tune in to learn more about the valuable tools available on Anna's website, www.thebeliefscoach.com and take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced life.

Here are the highlights:

05:58 The ‘value’ of your drinks - a reflection tool, promoting moderation awareness.

08:58 Aligning drinking behaviours to happiness, balance, and life fulfillment, and using the wheel of life as a tool.

11:11 Journaling to boost well-being, sleep, and positivity.

15:14 Alcohol damages the brain's prefrontal cortex; meditation strengthens it.

17:42 Free practical tools for rethinking your drinking. Get 50% off the rethink program.

Go to thebeliefscoach.com to download the free tools Anna mentions in the episode.

And apply the discount code POD99 at the Rethink Experiment checkout, to purchase the full programme for just £99 (original price £199)

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 28: The Big Drink Rethink - The Need & The Story So Far… Jul 25, 2024

In this special edition of the "Big Drink Rethink" podcast, host Anna Donaghey steps away from the usual guest format to reflect on the journey so far and welcome new listeners. She revisits her personal transformation from alcohol addiction to becoming an alcohol mindset coach, she recounts some of the key moments from the past five months of the podcast. The show is celebrating over 40,000 downloads and it is clear that people need support for rethinking how they drink. Not only can they listen to the podcast but Anna also introduces tools and free resources available to listeners through her website. Make sure you tune into the episode, which offers a thoughtful overview of the podcast's mission to inspire a healthier relationship with alcohol.

Here are the highlights:

00.10 Helping the show top its category charts on Apple with over 40,000 downloads

04:31 Society's view on drinking is unhelpfully binary, categorising people into "normal drinkers" and "alcoholics".

08:10 Encouraging collective rethinking and celebrating positive changes in how we relate to alcohol.

12:41 Drinking to cope is a dangerous slope. It affects sleep, parenting, and personal potential.

13:59 Shift societal views on alcohol and personal identity.

17:56 Access free tools at thebeliefscoach.com.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 27: Conscious Consumption: Choosing Alcohol-free & Planet-Friendly Jul 18, 2024

Intoday's episode, host Anna Donaghey explores the world of conscious consumption with Anna Chalov, co-founder of Bemuse Drinks. They discuss the rising trend of honey for its health and sustainability benefits and dive into Bemuse's B- Corp certification and environmental commitments.

The two Anna’s shed light on the environmental impact of traditional winemaking, and highlight how honey-based drinks can positively affect biodiversity. And they cover the inspiring story of Bemuse's creation during the lockdown, with its mission to provide high-quality, planet-friendly, non-alcoholic options.

Join them as they extend the definition of ‘mindful drinking’ - to encapsulate being conscious not just of our alcohol consumption, but also whether our alcohol-free drinks are good for the health of the planet. It's an episode filled with insights on making sustainable and thoughtful choices in our drinking habits.

And Bemuse have kindly offered listeners a 20% discount on purchases through their website Bemuse Non Alcoholic Sparkling Mead – Bemuse Drinks-shop. Please purchase using discount code RETHINK20

Here are the highlights:

06:23 Experienced in new product development and marketing.

10:11 Honey trending due to health and sustainability.

11:06 B Corp certification rewards high social, environmental standards.

17:28 Mindful drinking and choices for a sustainable future.

19:59 Comparison of wine making and apiaries' impact.

23:54 Beekeeping is possible in various environments.

28:52 Innovative product fulfilling mindfulness in drink choices.

35:27 Highly praised product with numerous awards.

44:24 Admiring the vision and sustainability of the brand.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Anna Chalov:

After graduating from London Business School, Anna moved into the world of private banking, dealing with successful entrepreneurs and start-up businesses. Her business partner at Bemuse, Nataliya, has a passion for creating and developing new, exciting, and meaningful market innovations.

Together, they combined their business skills, passion for alcohol-free drinks and the natural world to develop Bemuse, curiously modern, effervescent honey wine that promotes both a healthier lifestyle and encourages a balance of everyday life with nature. They wanted a new way of building businesses; one that is not only about profit, but which has ethical values that drive a sustainable and responsible operation. They believe that cities can be green and beautiful and that the countryside can be creative and inspiring, but that more sustainable ways of living and celebrating nature must be developed within the commercial landscape.

Bemuse is a proudly certified ‘Made in Britain’ and ‘Buy Women Built’ brand, and a B-Corp. Anna is one of the Top 10 Highly Commended 100 Female Entrepreneurs to Watch by Natwest and The Telegraph.

Connect with Anna:

Instagram: @bemusedrinks

Facebook @bemusedrinks

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-chalov-108b97/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/74029372/admin/dashboard/

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 26: Toolkit ‘101’: 20 Tips for Alcohol Moderation Jul 11, 2024

In this episode, Anna shares 20 expert-backed tips and hacks to help you navigate your drinking choices with more mindfulness and control. From strategic drinking during meals and alternating between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, to avoiding rounds or kitties that speed up your intake, she’s got you covered. She also discusses practical shopping tips, like making dedicated trips to buy alcohol and saying no to wine subscription schemes that anonymise the purchase and heighten the allure of overindulgence.

Whether you're planning a night out or contemplating your weekly drinking routine at home, this toolkit is brimming with actionable advice and effective strategies to moderate your consumption. Tune in to explore what works for you.

Here are the highlights:

03:43 Practical tips for responsible drinking: limit, timing, location, and self-awareness.

09:36 Bubbles in champagne and Prosecco can speed up intoxication.

15:35 Alternate alcohol with water.

19:16 Limit drinks, eat before, avoid third drink.

22:51 Limit pre-party drinking, set specific drinking window.

27:10 Avoid excessive drinking by not drinking alone.

28:26 Limit home drinking, buy only as needed.

32:27 Shop for alcohol intentionally.

34:08 Cancel alcohol subscriptions

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 25: The Hidden Drivers of Behaviour and Addiction Jul 04, 2024

Anna interviews Dr. Manoj Krishna, a former spine surgeon turned mindfulness advocate, who shares his journey from setting up his medical practice to founding The HappierMe project, which focuses on understanding the mind to overcome human suffering.

Wonderfully insightful, Manoj sheds light on the thought processes that can lead to addiction, and they explore the societal and psychological pressures influencing the younger generation, particularly the impact of social media and constant comparison.

The conversation then explores the essential role of self-enquiry, along with the three vital steps: awareness, ownership, and curiosity. Their conversation challenges conventional ideas about happiness and success, emphasising the power of self-awareness and emotional intelligence and how inner work can lead to a more fulfilling life.

Here are the highlights:

01:59 Understanding the mind leads to less suffering, better humanity.

06:35 Self-awareness involves exploring the mind's layers.

08:28 Comparing ourselves to others creates mental unhappiness.

13:32 Modern world feels out of control, easy to blame others.

26:23 Unconscious thought processes behind addiction and recovery.

29:46 Questioning conditioning, seeking meaning, connection and belonging.

33:07 Unconscious fears and desires shape our lives.

36:25 Curiosity brings compassion for ourselves and others.

44:26 Understanding the mind leads to a joyful life.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Dr. Manoj Krishna:

Dr. Manoj Krishna trained as a doctor in India before coming to the UK to pursue a career as a spine surgeon. He left that career after 25 years to write the books Understanding Me, Understanding You- an enquiry into being human, and Stress Free. He started the HappierMe Project and created the HappierMe emotional intelligence app to help reduce suffering, help each person lead a happier and more successful life, and make the world a kinder place.

Understanding ourselves and how our minds work awakens our emotional intelligence, and this can lead to transformation. This can prevent and solve many problems which begin in our thinking: stress, anxiety, relationships breakdown, violence, addiction and division. By understanding ourselves, we can understand others better, leading to more fulfilling relationships. Self-understanding can boost all our soft skills - including communication, leadership, resilience, empathy and critical thinking.

Download the HappierMe app, visit https://happierme.app or follow Manoj on social media: https://linktr.ee/happierme.app

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 24: Addressing the Alcohol Middle Ground with Russell Lamb Jun 27, 2024

Anna explores lower alcohol wines with her special guest, Russell Lamb, co-founder of 6Percent Wine. Russell shares the story behind their innovative 6% alcohol wine, designed to offer a full-flavoured drinking experience without the excess. He shares their business journey from wine tastings to finding the perfect Bordeaux producers, and the surprising feedback from the London Wine Fair. Plus all the regulatory hurdles they've encountered along the way. This episode is packed with insights into the changing drinking culture, mindful moderation, and the exciting future for pioneers like 6Percent - a reminder that the landscape is changing and great new drinks are available for those of us curious to explore it.

Here are the highlights:

02:11 Project manager co-founds inclusive wine company after feeling excluded at a restaurant.

05:51 Challenges and potential in the low-alcohol wine market.

08:37 Diverse wine flavours maintained in signature taste.

11:34 Wine snobbery makes a huge difference in perception.

16:57 Drinks category rethinking to encourage mindful moderation.

22:09 Creating non-alcoholic wine to offer more options.

25:01 Enjoy wine without overindulging.

28:15 Confusion around alcohol labelling laws and categories.

36:47 Challenging perceptions of low alcohol wine quality.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

About Russell Lamb:

Russell is a founder, entrepreneur and experienced business change project manager with a love for wine and life.

Fed up with wine snobs and the complexity of the wine world, he previously co-founded SipIt Wine, a successful wine tasting events and retail company, alongside his wife, Gabi.

Then, two years ago, they became frustrated with high alcohol levels in wine, and couldn't understand why there were no credible lower alcohol options. So they set out on a mission and founded 6Percent - a great tasting, full flavour wine with half the alcohol and half the calories of regular wine.

Connect:

Website: www.6percent.wine

Instagram: www.instagram.com/6percent.wine/

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 23: Toolkit '101': Measuring Your Personal Happiness Jun 20, 2024

Your host, Anna, explores happiness and its intricate relationship with alcohol consumption. Drawing inspiration from the pioneering work of psychologist Barbara Fredrickson, Anna introduces a straightforward but brilliant tool, designed to give listeners a unique and quantitative measure of their own personal happiness.

Anna guides listeners through an enlightening and reflective exercise, involving the creation of a two-column chart to evaluate how alcohol contributes to or detracts from ten core emotions. By scoring these emotions on a scale of one to ten and noting alcohol's role, listeners can gain a clear and objective understanding of how alcohol influences their emotional well-being.

Tune in to this must-listen episode as Anna challenges the conventional belief that happiness is heavily reliant on external factors like alcohol.

Here are the highlights:

05:40 Alcohol is often linked to happiness, we are conditioned by society.

09:35 Childhood innocence is lost as alcohol dominates adulthood.

13:35 Pursuing euphoria through alcohol, leads to numbness.

14:26 Alcohol can initially bring happiness, then sadness.

18:29 Seeking alcohol for happiness can lead to negativity.

22:39 Assessing alcohol's impact on emotions and happiness.

32:49 Feeling awe and wonder, and understanding the importance of love.

35:29 Check out the exercise on the website and get your discount.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 22: Overcoming Addiction and Redefining Masculinity with Alex Clapp Jun 13, 2024

Anna Donaghey sits down with Alex Clapp, an entrepreneur and advocate for sober socialising. In this episode, you're invited to journey through Alex's personal battle with alcohol addiction and his quest to challenge societal norms surrounding masculinity and emotional vulnerability.

You’ll hear Alex’s story unfold, from growing up in an environment where showing emotion was seen as a weakness, to experiencing significant health challenges that turned his life upside down and forced him to confront his feelings.

Join Anna and Alex as they delve into changing stereotypes, the issues created by emotional suppression, the power of genuine connections, and the concept of sober social events that Alex champions through his business.

Here are the highlights:

01:55 Upbringing in an era of emotional suppression and expectations.

04:06 Built relationships around the drink culture, and it had an impact.

06:37 Hiding true feelings, using alcohol for coping.

12:30 Rehab success rates are often low.

13:43 Personal work leads to a better world.

21:10 Traditional masculinity stereotypes can harm men.

27:50 Shared vulnerability is the truest courage.

32:42 Struggled to be vulnerable, lacking emotional intelligence.

42:13 Discover genuine connections, like being a child.

45:23 Striving for global growth, learning patience.

46:49 Support long-term change and empower individuals' choices.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

About Alex Clapp:

Alex Clapp has owned multiple businesses in the North West including his flagship firm, County Cost Consultant for 23 years. Earlier this year, Alex co-founded Claritee, a corporate wellness company comprising no alcohol corporate events, bespoke corporate training and the recent establishment of a CIO department.

Claritee was born from Alex’s struggle with addiction as a result of a deteriorating eye condition that developed in 2015. With no confirmed diagnosis, Alex resorted to alcohol to cope with his mental health, covering up to family, friends and peers about his affliction. Thankfully, after seeking help, Alex attended multiple rehabilitation centres and has been sober for 9 months.

Through his own plight, Alex endeavoured to help others in a similar situation; individuals in the corporate sphere who may be struggling to admit vulnerabilities. Claritee’s mission is to provide services which encourage individuals to prioritise their wellbeing and instill practices to maintain positive mindsets.

Claritee’s second dry corporate event titled Be The Spirit takes place in Manchester at The Lowry Hotel on the 7th September. Open to all working industries, guests are invited to join the Claritee team for a revolutionary concept brought to the corporate social and networking market.

Connect with Alex:

Website: www.claritee group.co.uk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clariteegroup/

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 21: Key Drivers of Happiness and the Influence of Alcohol Jun 06, 2024

Anna Donaghey sits down with Matt Phelan, co-founder of The Happiness Index, to explore what makes us happy and the profound effects of alcohol on personal well-being, safety and relationships.

They challenge the notion of alcohol as a social adhesive, advocating instead for genuine friendships that thrive beyond the presence of a drink. Together, they examine the importance of psychological safety, not only in the workplace but in all aspects of life, and how alcohol can hinder our abilities to meet basic human needs.

Don't miss this enlightening conversation that promises to reshape how you view alcohol, happiness, and the strength of your social connections. Tune in as Anna and Matt share their journeys of self-discovery and the ongoing benefits of living an alcohol-free life.

Here are the highlights:

05:09 Neuroscience and psychology influence happiness research widely.

09:21 Essential human needs endure through the ages.

11:40 Alcohol's impact on psychological safety and relationships.

16:01 Self-worth influences drinking habits and recovery.

19:36 Balanced view on alcohol and regrets.

20:41 Regret, self-belief, and the pursuit of happiness.

27:35 Alcohol is a poison and happiness from drinking is temporary.

33:13 Learn from getting drunk after a long sobriety.

33:57 Matt talks about his LinkedIn article re. his journey, happiness and sobriety pros & cons.

41:06 Employee happiness and alcohol article feedback.

43:56 LinkedIn connections show genuine interest and empathy.

47:26 Friendship based on alcohol isn't genuine; explore new genuine friendships.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

About Matt Phelan:

Matt Phelan is a Co-Founder of the Happiness Index. In his day-to-day role, he's responsible for the strategic direction of the business.

Matt is the founder of The Happiness and Humans Community, host of The Happiness and Humans Podcast and author of Freedom To Be Happy: The Business Case for Happiness & The Happiness Index: “Why Today's Employee Emotions Equal Tomorrow's Business Success". Matt recently completed a TEDx talk where he presented 12 million data points on happiness from 1 million human beings in 100+ countries in less than 15 minutes.

Connect with Matt:

Website: mattphelan.co.uk

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewphelan/

Twitter: https://x.com/MatthewPhelan

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 20: Toolkit '101': Mindful Mastery: The Science & the Know-how May 30, 2024

In this episode of Big Drink Rethink, host Anna Donaghey dives into the world of mindful mastery, exploring the science and know-how behind cultivating self-awareness and emotional literacy to rethink drinking habits. Through personal stories from guests Nick Elston and Sam Williams in previous episodes, Anna emphasises the role of alcohol as a coping mechanism and the importance of understanding one's emotions. She introduces mindfulness and meditation as powerful tools to strengthen the brain, enhance self-control, and promote emotional well-being. Join Anna as she shares practical tips on incorporating mindfulness practices into daily life, offering a fresh perspective on how these techniques can positively impact our relationship with alcohol and ourselves.

Here are the highlights:

03:39 Curiosity, self-exploration, emotional literacy, mindfulness, meditation.

08:07 Alcohol restricts authenticity, hinders emotional connections, mindfulness helps.

12:39 Meditation improves attention, self-control, and brain function.

16:02 Power of Now advocates mindfulness for peace.

19:33 Label thoughts, focus on breathing, and find peace.

23:03 Accept and label your thoughts for self-improvement.

26:11 Attend mindfulness event in Liverpool on June 12.

Link to Mindfulness event:

Tickets for Sober Scribbles – the Creative Writing event in Liverpool on June 12th, hosted by previous guest, Helen Jeffery.

Sober Scribbles tickets

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 19: Alcohol-Free Peace: Self-Love, ADHD & Perimenopause May 23, 2024

Welcome back to the Big Drink Rethink podcast, where our host Anna Donaghey is chatting with the incredibly inspiring Sam Williams. Sam, a Certified Specialist ADHD Coach and Menopause Coach, shares her journey of self-discovery and transformation after giving up alcohol. She describes her drinking habits during lockdown, the social aspect of drinking, and how alcohol helped quiet her mind. Sam's decision to stop drinking was driven by a desire to know who she was without alcohol, and to set a positive example for her children.

Through self-reflection and forgiveness practices, she developed a deeper understanding of her body and mind, allowing the penny to drop about her ADHD and its connection to perimenopause. Sam discusses the intersection of ADHD and her relationship with alcohol, with it serving as a coping mechanism to quiet her mind and mask her struggles. Sam also explores the impact of alcohol on her hormonal balance and how it exacerbated her perimenopause symptoms. Through her journey of sobriety, Sam discovered self-acceptance, self-love, and the power of listening to her body. She emphasises the importance of awareness, understanding, and community support in navigating ADHD and finding alignment with one's true self.

Here are the Highlights:

05:22 Drinking levelled the playing field, quieted thoughts.

07:10 Weekends involved plenty of drinks and munchies.

13:44 Embracing change and letting go for growth.

16:35 Therapy transformed me and continues to today.

22:37 Lack of research on women's hormonal health.

24:16 Masking coping strategy revealed health issues from drinking.

26:55 Menopause symptoms are misdiagnosed as anxiety or depression.

32:12 Adrenal system shifts, leading to hormonal imbalance.

33:45 Inherent efficiency, unravelling work, and authentic curiosity.

36:44 Similar human experiences, lessons, and blessings acknowledged.

40:01 Finding peace led to self-compassion and love.

46:27 Understanding ourselves and finding support is crucial.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

About Sam Willaims:

Sam is the founder of Seed Spark – A human-centred change consultancy and coaching practice with a strong Corporate Social Responsibility ethic; making change happen one meaningful conversation at a time. She is a certified specialist ADHD Coach, Menopause Coach, Prosci Change Practitioner and Chartered Engineer.

She describes herself as an ‘edge-seeking Boundary Spanner, Mesearcher and Empathic Provocateur’.

While her unfinished book ‘Who the fuck am I? And how did I get here? may never see print – the mesearch uncovered during her midlife misadventures through perimenopause with late diagnosis ADHD, are passionately passed on to her community through her coaching, training and outreach work.

Website: https://seedspark.co.uk/seedspark/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-williams-acc-ceng-miet-a1259618

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samantha.williams952

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sam_williams_seedspark

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 18: Beyond the Bottle: Nick Elston on Mental Health May 16, 2024

Welcome to another episode of The Big Drink Rethink, where your host, Anna Donaghey, is thrilled to bring you an enlightening conversation with mental health advocate Nick Elston.

An inspirational speaker on mental health, Nick shares his own lived experience of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and generalised anxiety disorder. He believes that our adversities can either define us negatively or forge something beautiful and powerful. Giving up alcohol six years ago proved to be a release, as he discovered that he had been using it as a crutch. In this conversation, Nick and Anna discuss the power of vulnerability, the importance of self-reflection, and finding joy and peace of mind without relying on external substances. They explore the impact of social media on comparison and the need to run our own race. They also touch on breaking the stigma around alcohol and mental health through open conversations and lived experiences.

Whether you're reassessing your own drinking habits or seeking encouragement on an alcohol-free path, this episode promises to offer valuable perspectives on the impact of alcohol on our mental wellbeing.

Here are the Highlights:

06:00 Losing hope can lead to positive change.

07:33 Chaos brings opportunities. Attitude is everything.

12:25 Obsessive tendencies became crutch.

13:37 Struggled with heavy drinking, guilt, anxiety, and secrecy.

26:06 Sharing lived experiences, signposting to solutions, and showing vulnerability.

28:25 Seeking therapy helped me navigate challenges effectively.

36:14 Embracing emotions is a lovely, therapeutic thing.

41:26 Managing emotions without external means

45:09 Social media distorts reality and fuels comparison.

49:30 Cultural shift toward open conversations in organisations.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

About Nick Elston:

Nick Elston is one of the highest-profile and leading Inspirational Speakers on the Lived Experience of Mental Health.

Described as a ‘BIG man, BIG heart, BIG story & BRUTAL honesty!’, ‘Utterly inspirational, absolutely engaging!’ and ’10/10 –a Speaking Masterclass!’ – Nick shares his experiences of Mental Illness, Mental Ill-Health & Breakdown worldwide –through his powerful, inspiring, engaging & emotional insights.

Nick is regularly featured in the global media, the BBC, industry shows and publications – his talks are delivered to stages, events, boardrooms, businesses, factories, government organisations, schools, universities, prisons & establishments worldwide.

Connect with Nick:

Website: nickelston.com/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nickelston/

YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/NickElston

Mental Health Speaker Trailer: youtube.com/watch?v=TszqlHT4Gj0

Keynote Speaker Trailer: youtube.com/watch?v=rjWIdYREvfA

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 17: Toolkit '101': Overcoming the Fear of Change May 09, 2024

In today’s toolkit episode, Overcoming the Fear of Change, your host Anna Donaghey invites you to start a transformative journey towards a healthier, alcohol-free future. She discusses how changing your ‘drinker’ identity can be seen as an opportunity rather than a threat. Anna also talks about adopting an experimental mindset and focusing on the gains of sobriety rather than the perceived losses. She encourages listeners to make a list of the characteristics they want to change and the person they want to become. Anna concludes with a powerful exercise that helps visualise the potential future one, three and then ten years from now, encouraging listeners to weigh up the outcomes of continuing to drink versus committing to change.

Embrace this opportunity to challenge your assumptions about drinking and uncover what truly lies on the other side of change.

Here are the Highlights:

04:03 Your personal identity can evolve, embrace new opportunities.

07:16 Embrace change with a curious and open mind.

11:15 Resisting change focuses on perceived losses. Motivation is needed.

16:23 Embrace fear and take action for growth.

21:12 Visualisation exercise.

22:45 You are committing to a transformative process.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 16: When Drinking is part of your Identity with Sober Dave May 02, 2024

Welcome back to "The Big Drink Rethink," where we challenge popular notions about alcohol and explore how our drinking culture is changing and evolving. In this episode, your host, Anna Donaghey, is joined by David Wilson, also known as Sober Dave, who brings an incredible story of personal transformation from a life overshadowed by alcohol to one filled with new beginnings and self-discovery.

Today, David shares the pivotal moments that led him to question his relationship with drinking and how saying "I don't drink" became the cornerstone of his new identity. From battling societal pressures to redefining his self-worth, David's journey is not just inspiring but a testament to the power of change at any age.

Tune in to hear their honest discussion about the fear, excitement, and challenges of leaving old habits behind and embracing a life of sobriety. Whether you're considering a similar path or just sober curious, this episode sheds light on the transformative impact of rethinking one’s relationship with alcohol.

Here are the Highlights:

04:52 At a young age alcohol ‘gave me wings’ and transformed me.

06:23 Called alcoholic after excessive pub visits

11:28 Realised a need for change and accepted help from a friend.

15:34 Moving to a rough area changed me.

16:27 Confident, reliable man with a funny persona.

20:12 Identity tied to drinking, fear of change.

25:23 Reflecting on change and redefining personal narratives.

30:49 Alcohol use increased during lockdown, raises concern.

35:32 Focus on positive change, try it out.

37:54 Morning bike sessions fostered positive lifestyle changes.

40:36 Overcoming struggles, finding peace, choosing sobriety.

44:22 Using notebooks to build evidence, coaching benefits.

48:37 Approach with excitement, and stick to your truth.

49:50 Continuous personal growth is possible at any age.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Connect with Dave:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-wilson

Instagram: @soberdave

About David Wilson:

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. Using his unique delivery and no nonsense approach, Dave is both personable and relatable.

Dave has spoken in schools and colleges raising awareness of the impact and harm of the excessive use of alcohol for both individuals and family members.

His Top 10 Apple Podcast 'One For The Road' reaches a global audience with over 300K downloads in the first year. Dave's rich and varied guest list includes RTT founder Marisa Peer, SAS Who Dares Wins Ollie Ollerton and author of 'The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober' Catherine Gray.

Dave is a No.1 Bestselling Author with his debut book, also titled 'One For The Road' - a blend of his personal memoir, coaching techniques and offers motivational tips to help the reader change their relationship with alcohol.

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. And his annual #DryJanSoberdave initiative has helped thousands of people.

Dave is currently training to be a Trauma Informed Coach, to support people to understand the role of past trauma in their relationship with alcohol.

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 15: Exploring Alcohol and Family: The Power of Storytelling Apr 25, 2024

In this episode, Anna has the pleasure of speaking with Helen Jeffery, an incredibly talented writer, performer, director, and creative facilitator who uses the arts to challenge and provoke debate around our relationship with alcohol.

Helen’s play, ‘Buckled’, explores navigating sobriety in a world that revolves around drinking. The play focuses on three characters with different relationships to alcohol and centres around an impending wedding. It raises questions about why so many social interactions revolve around drinking and challenges the societal norm that not drinking is abnormal. The play is not preachy but aims to spark conversation and make people think. Both the play and Anna & Helen’s conversation, explore the importance of self-compassion and kindness when trying to change drinking habits. It emphasises the need to approach sobriety with a mindset of personal growth and emotional sobriety.

The discussion also touches on the challenges of navigating social situations without alcohol and the importance of supportive relationships. The play 'Buckled' is highlighted as a powerful medium for raising questions and fostering empathy around alcohol addiction. The next steps for the play include upcoming performances, potential streaming options, and the possibility of a national tour.

Here are the Highlights:

00:00 Introduction and background

06:19 The relevance of ‘Buckled’

07:09 Navigating sobriety in a world of drinking

10:49 Dependency on alcohol affects characters' relationships differently.

14:43 Advising balance and boundaries, addressing generational alcohol issues.

16:35 Genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and social patterns

21:08 Son struggles with his mother's alcoholism and change.

24:14 Children of alcoholics cope with shame and hope.

25:48 Addressing shame and regret

29:09 Addiction is not your fault, but your responsibility

31:35 Advocate for self-forgiveness and personal motivation

36:13 Navigating social situations without alcohol

36:38 Focusing on percentages helps in stopping drinking.

41:21 Navigating social interactions after giving up drinking.

44:04 Personal growth and changing relationships

47:58 Theatre, education, raising questions, more to come.

50:48 The future of 'Buckled'

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Helen Jeffery:

Helen is a writer, performer, poet & graduate of the Playwright’s Programme at the Liverpool Everyman Theatre. She has had several plays produced including, ‘The Brink’ and ‘Gun Metal Blue', which won the Blink.Theatre Award for New Writing in 2017. In March 2024, Helen’s latest play, ‘Buckled’ opened at the Shakespeare North Playhouse Studio and she is a featured artist in the UP NEXT FESTIVAL at Unity Theatre, Liverpool next month.

Alongside playwriting, Helen has been writing and performing spoken word since 2018 and has performed at various events in the North West including ‘A Lovely Word,’ and ‘Give Poetry a Chance. In January 2022 she published her debut poetry pamphlet, ‘Journey’ and is currently working on putting together her first full poetry collection. Helen also works freelance as a creative facilitator, leading writing workshops with children, young people and adults from a wide range of communities.

Link to tickets for Buckled on 3rd May in Liverpool: https://www.unitytheatreliverpool.co.uk/whats-on/buckled/

Connect with Helen:

Links: https://linktr.ee/HelenJeffery

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/errohemi

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/errohemi/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-jeffery-98b15836/

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 14: Alcohol & Parenting: Talking to Teens with Anita Cleare Apr 18, 2024

Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of the Big Drink Rethink. Today we're dialling into one of the difficult aspects of modern parenting: how to talk to your teens about alcohol.

Listen in as host, Anna Donaghey, talks to Anita Cleare, an acclaimed parenting expert. Anita’s insights help us understand the teenage brain and together, they discuss the pros and cons of sharing our drinking experiences with our adolescent children.

As a parent, you may question whether to take a liberal stance or keep a tight rein. With alarming statistics revealing early alcohol experimentation among Europe's youth, Anita's wisdom and our host Anna Donaghey's personal reflections, provide a much-needed perspective on guiding teens through curiosity, peer pressure and their first experiences with alcohol.

This episode promises to equip you with strategies for open and honest conversations, balancing independence with safety, and fostering trust during these crucial years. So tune in, reflect on your relationship with alcohol, and gain some new tools for navigating the tumultuous teen years. Don't forget to follow and leave your feedback—it's the fuel that keeps our conversations going. Ready for a big drink rethink? Let's dive in.

Here are the highlights:

00:01 Debate on teenage alcohol: limits, guidance, repercussions.

06:36 The teen's emotional and rational brain.

09:43 Parents face challenges as teens seek independence.

12:42 Adolescents feel social pain more intensely.

15:16 Supporting teenagers in making good decisions is crucial.

17:45 Parents' discussions with kids can prevent risky behaviour.

22:02 Be non-judgmental and supportive with teenagers.

27:12 Parent sharing has pros and cons.

29:48 Teenagers must learn from their own experiences.

31:16 Factual approach to teen substance use issues.

34:48 Alcohol linked to risky behaviours in teenagers.

43:55 Parental influence is crucial in shaping teenagers' behaviour.

51:13 Teens need support, not judgement, from parents.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About Anita Cleare:

Anita Cleare is a parenting speaker, writer and coach who supports working parents to balance successful careers with being a parent.

With an academic background in developmental psychology, Anita has a talent for helping parents to step back and reflect on parent-child dynamics and implement small changes that make a huge difference. She founded the Positive Parenting Project in 2012 with the aim of helping parents cut through the fads and fashions of parenting advice and focus on evidence-based approaches that work.

Anita’s award-nominated parenting blog ‘Thinking Parenting’ has been listed in the Sunday Times Magazine as a must-read for parents. Her book The Work/Parent Switch (UK) / The Working Parent’s Survival Guide (USA) outlines how working parents can use the bits of time left over when work is done to parent smartly and be the parent their child needs. (International editions are also available in German, Chinese, Romanian and Polish).

Anita’s second book, How to Get Your Teenager Out of Their Bedroom comes out in the UK and USA in September 2024.

Connect with Anita:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anitacleare_parenting/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePositiveParentingProject/

X: https://twitter.com/thinking_parent

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-cleare-b8a15465/

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 13: Toolkit ‘101’: Managing Peer Pressure Apr 11, 2024

In a culture where drinking is nearly synonymous with socialising, standing up to peer pressure is a skill - a skill that's essential for those of us reevaluating our relationship with alcohol. This episode is packed with insights and practical tools to help you navigate social expectations, understand self-imposed pressures, and stay steadfast in your choices.

Anna shares personal experiences from her decision to stop drinking and how it affected her relationships. She’ll also discuss strategies, such as visualisation, to mentally prepare for real-life scenarios where you might face pressure.

You're not alone in this journey, and by the end of this episode, you'll be equipped with not just strategies, but also the courage to be the change in your drinking culture.

Here are the highlights:

00:01 Anna draws common themes from the last two episodes.

05:17 Navigating social pressure and feelings of exclusion.

07:35 Society pressures us to drink alcohol.

12:42 Peer pressure comes from a place of fear. Show compassion.

14:50 Rethink program helps prevent overthinking.

19:59 Envision the pride, satisfaction, and empowerment.

21:59 Fear of judgement affects our need to belong.

26:21 Assumed response is always worse than reality.Overestimating friends' reactions.

29:38 Realisations I was following the crowd and conforming. Far from the rebel I liked to think I was.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Anna’s 6 week personal RETHINK programme: https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/registration Register your email to be sent the discount code.

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 12: Crafting a New Drinking Narrative with Laura Willoughby Apr 04, 2024

Anna Donaghey, sits down with the indomitable Laura Willoughby, campaigner, and founder of Club Soda.

Laura shares her insightful journey from founding Club Soda in 2014 to spearheading the mindful drinking movement. Through her mission to educate and guide, Laura explores the evolution of the non-alcoholic drinks industry, challenges mainstream drinking habits, and nudges the hospitality scene towards inclusivity and choice.

This episode is packed with thought-provoking discussion about alcohol and its wider impact on society and how it is evolving. Laura and Anna dive deep into the need for changing drinking culture, examining the impact of current regulations on innovation, and the significance of education about alcohol content. Laura’s message is clear: it's not just about reducing or giving up alcohol. It's about adding variety, quality, and joy to our lives. Whether you’re moderating, abstaining, or just sober-curious, listen to the episode to learn more.

Here are the highlights:

00:01 Laura's journey, from drinking problems to sobriety.

08:26 Cultural shift towards alcohol moderation and acceptance.

11:48 Overcoming drinking reconnected me with my values.

16:16 Promote alcohol-free options for social events.

17:57 Hospitality should focus on experiences, inclusivity.

21:54 Government needs to revise alcohol-free drink definitions.

30:26 Moderation, education, and lower alcohol options recommended.

34:54 Government policies should recognise alcohol-free drinks' value.

47:40 Increase availability of non-alcoholic drinks in shops.

About Laura Willoughby MBE:

Laura Willoughby MBE is the founder of the world’s largest mindful drinking movement, Club Soda. She is the UK’s foremost expert in low and no alcoholic drinks and through Club Soda, runs the Low & No Tasting Rooms in Covent Garden.

Laura was named number 16 in 2023’s Drinks Retailing’s latest Top 100 Most Influential People in Drink, one of the 100 most influential women in hospitality by CODE, and is a Trustee for The Drinks Trust. The Club Soda Tasting Room was Drink Retailing’s Independent Retailer of the year 2023. She is a trustee for the Drinks Trust, Imbibe Ambassador and judge for WAFA, IWSC and Publican of the Year.

Receiving an MBE for services to the community in 2004, Laura’s devotion to Club Soda means hundreds of thousands of people are supported in their journey to live well by being more mindful about drinking alcohol. Laura’s part in the transformation of the non-alcoholic drinks sector in the UK from niche into the mainstream cannot be underestimated. In addition to organising 10 editions of the Mindful Drinking Festival nationwide, her work also includes developing education courses, conducting research and generating guides to Low & No alcoholic drinks.

Connect with Laura:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurawilloughby/

Visit us at the Club Soda Tasting Room & Bar in Covent Garden. The Tasting Rooms are a space for consumers to try and buy low and no alcohol drinks - with private tastings and cocktail classes.

You can find Club Soda at joinclubsoda.com on social @joinclubsoda and at The Club Soda Tasting Rooms, 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 11: Let’s Talk about Alcohol at Work with Tabbin Almond Mar 28, 2024

Your host, Anna Donaghey, looks at the way in which businesses often fail to ‘do right’ by their employees - on the one hand encouraging a drinking culture, but failing to educate and provide adequate support when it is needed. She examines the threads that tie alcohol culture to the workplace, with this week’s guest, Tabbin Almond, a fellow coach in the process of writing her book ‘Bottling Up Trouble: How Alcohol is Holding Your Business Back and What to Do About It’. Together they discuss how alcohol remains absent from the vast majority of Wellness agendas, despite a clear commercial and logical argument for its inclusion.

This episode is more than just a conversation; it's a call to action for leaders, managers, and the workforce to foster a healthier, more supportive work environment for all. Take a listen to see how we can make talking about alcohol in the workplace less of a taboo.

Here are the highlights:

04:20 Encouraging conversation, breaking down workplace taboos.

07:10 Companies need to support employees more openly.

14:34 Leaders leading with a commitment to change alcohol myths.

18:36 Presenteeism: employees present but unproductive due to issues.

20:51 Alcohol's impact on productivity and relationships.

23:59 Pressure on fitting in and socialising at work.

28:25 Hope for the future, tolerance and self-respect are emphasised.

34:50 Shifting drinking culture to promote informed choices.

36:48 Encourage responsible partying for better relationships.

40:43 HR professionals promoting non-alcoholic workplace events and education.

48:38 Opening up workplace conversation about forward-thinking choices.

About Tabbin Almond

Tabbin had a long and reasonably successful career in advertising (where she used her ‘proper’ name of Katherine, rather than her nickname of Tabbin). She grew up in a family where alcohol was an intrinsic part of daily life, which turned out to be excellent preparation for a career in advertising. On joining a big London Agency in the mid-eighties, she took the long boozy lunches in her stride. And would then go on to the pub after work. And that was just during the week. Weekends were when the serious partying would happen. But over the years, her social / work drinking morphed into more hidden, solitary drinking. Not enough for anyone else to realise that she had a problem but certainly enough for her to feel that her relationship with alcohol was becoming increasingly unhealthy, affecting her work and her relationships and making her unhappy.

She tried various ways of giving up, including AA (short-lived) and hypnotherapy (much longer). But it wasn’t until she came across This Naked Mind that she found a method that really made sense her – she stopped thinking in terms of ‘giving up’ and focussed instead on the freedom she could now enjoy.

Tabbin’s niche is helping people working in careers like advertising, media and law, where alcohol still plays a big role, whether it is in the form of client entertaining or after-work drinks. Alcohol is an addictive substance, so it is inevitable that its prevalence in our professional lives will lead to some people becoming addicted. She has written a book called Bottling Up Trouble – how alcohol is harming your business and what you can do about it, which will be published in September 2024. She looks forward to the day when professional people do not have to make an excuse for not drinking! And when the shame and stigma around Alcohol Use Disorder is a thing of the past, so that people feel safe asking for the help that they need.

She is a breast cancer survivor (thank you NHS), and now lives in beautiful Devon where she is able to enjoy long walks on Dartmoor with family and friends. Her passions range from the zen (practicing yoga) to the rather less zen (watching Exeter Chiefs rugby).

Connect with Tabbin:

Website: https://www.winetowatercoaching.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/winetowatercoaching

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/winetowatercoaching

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-tabbin-almond

LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wine-to-water-coaching

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 10: Toolkit '101': Tools to Manage Habitual Evening Drinking Mar 21, 2024

Have you ever found yourself reaching for that habitual alcoholic evening drink and wondering if there's another way to unwind? In this episode your host Anna will unpack a treasure chest of alternatives, strategies, and heart-to-heart advice to support you in addressing habitual evening drinking.

Anna also dives into the reality behind our 'enjoyment' of alcohol, challenges the status quo with alcohol-free alternatives, and shares some useful journaling prompts to help listeners unwind for a better night’s sleep.

Tune in to get some great advice and tips on how to establish a healthier evening routine without alcohol.

Here are the highlights:

04:06 Alcohol-free drinks - use for behaviour change.

11:28 Humans lie to themselves, and embrace new habits.

14:11 Alcohol impairs productivity, resilience, and well-being.

17:29 Limit evening drinking to achieve a focused mindset.

23:27 Combat drinking habits by shaking up dinner routines.

26:53 Brain needs time to wind down naturally.

29:35 Reflecting on thoughts, feelings, and emotions.

32:42 Identify worries, offer advice, and let go.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 09: The Truth About Alcohol & Sleep Mar 14, 2024

Today Anna explores the relationship between alcohol and sleep with certified Sleep Consultant, Maryanne Taylor. Get ready to challenge your beliefs about nightcaps and nocturnal rest, as we discuss the not-so-sweet dreams that booze can bring.

Maryanne shares her own experiences with disrupted sleep and anxiety, shining a light on the common yet misunderstood label of 'insomniac.' Whilst Anna, shares her stories of very broken, fitful sleep, as a result of drinking.

Both look at alternatives to alcohol for winding down and re-evaluate how to approach nighttime routines. From journals to relaxation techniques, Maryanne offers healthier, actionable suggestions on how to improve and sustain better sleep.

Here are the highlights:

04:06 Sleep linked to memory retention.
09:24 Partial awakenings during sleep cycles affect awareness.
11:12 Sleep cycles last about 45 minutes each.
14:17 Alcohol disrupts sleep, and affects mood and balance.
18:45 Alcohol disrupts the body's natural processes, causing fatigue.
19:48 Excessive alcohol causes anxiety and sleep troubles.
25:11 Good sleepers don't have a quick fix.
29:35 Arguing against drinking for better sleep, suggesting alternatives.
30:29 Recognise your sleep needs, replace alcohol with relaxation.
33:47 Journaling is like clearing your mind's clutter.
41:59 Alcohol disrupts the body's natural sedation processes.
43:55 Patience and envisioning life without alcohol.
47:50 Improving sleep is possible through self-awareness.

About Maryanne Taylor

Maryanne is a highly experienced Sleep Consultant with a passion for helping and supporting adolescents and adults overcome sleep challenges. She is the founder of The Sleep Works, a consultancy through which she offers a signature 1:1 Transformation Programme, designed to address the unique needs of her clients. She guides and supports her clients through a comprehensive journey toward better sleep and improved well-being. She also shares her expertise through webinars,workshops, and sleep clinics, covering a wide range of sleep-related topics.

Connect with Maryanne:

Website: www.thesleepworks.co.uk

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryannet/

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 08: Why Alcohol-Free Spirits are Good Value Mar 07, 2024

In this episode, host Anna Donaghey dives into the world of alcohol-free drinks with special guest Howard Davies, co-founder of the Salcombe Distilling Company. Together, they discuss the rising trend of non-alcoholic drinks, the complexity of creating exceptional alcohol-free spirits, and the growing market for these unique beverages. Join us as we rethink how we drink and discover the value of exploring new flavours and alternatives to our traditional tipples.

Here are the highlights:

00:01 Business inspired by a love of the sea, and ocean.
07:02 Discussion on non-alcoholic spirits and product range.
09:23 Non-alcoholic drinks need a unique, memorable edge.
13:08 Consumers seek non-alcoholic alternatives for a balanced lifestyle.
16:35 Passion for creating and drinking non-alcoholic beverages.
18:43 Increasing interest in non-alcoholic spirits, from reluctance to enthusiasm in venues.
22:39 Non-alcoholic spirits are seldom consumed during meals.
27:20 Balancing cost savings with production complexity in spirits.
28:54 Distillation increases alcohol, and extracts flavour.

About Howard Davies:

Howard is a Co-founder of Salcombe Distilling Company which was born from his and his co-founder Angus’ love of being on and around the water ever since they were kids – sailing around the beautiful Salcombe Estuary, and then as they got older, enjoying a Gin & Tonic as a waterside sundowner. This provided the inspiration for starting Salcombe Distilling Co. which produces the internationally award winning spirits including Salcombe Gin, Salcombe Rum and New London Light; their range of non-alcoholic spirits. In addition to a keen love of spirits and watersports Howard is a strong advocate for ocean conservation and has created a partnership with the Marine Conservation Society in which 1% of sales proceeds are donated to support ocean regeneration projects.

Connect with Howard:

Website: https://newlondonlight.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/NewLondonLight

Instagram: www.instagram.com/newlondonlight

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 07: Toolkit '101': Taking Charge Feb 29, 2024

In today's episode, Anna is sharing tools to help you take charge and reassess your life's priorities. It's about shaking off the chains of perfectionism that too often hold us back. She reflects that it is the high expectations that we set for ourselves and others that can create undue stress in our lives, and why it's essential to get comfortable with the full spectrum of our emotions, not just the positive ones.

To help you gauge and cultivate a more satisfying life, she introduces the "Wheel of Life" exercise, a tool for scoring your happiness across various life segments. She also looks at the role that alcohol plays in our lives and how cutting back can open new doors to achievement and fulfilment.

Here are the highlights:

04:06 Various practices can reduce stress and improve well-being.
09:29 Distinction between control and taking charge explained.
10:17 Important self-reflection: expectations, failure, self-talk.
15:42 Managing stress involves embracing negative emotions too.
16:45 Social media portrays idealised lives and breeds insecurity.
20:40 Striving for personal growth and fulfilment.
25:28 Assess different dimensions of life and prioritise changes.
27:11 Assessing life goals and alcohol's impact.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 06: Raising the Bar Without Alcohol with Laura Bartlett Feb 22, 2024

Anna talks with the inspirational Laura Bartlett, who embraced sobriety just over a year ago. Laura, the founder of House of Coco magazine, shares her remarkable journey of entrepreneurship rooted in resilience, after television. Her decision to give up alcohol 16 months ago has led to an incredible transformation in her personal and professional life, emphasising the power of choice to live authentically and without labels

Listen to this episode as we reflect on the power of belief, the lessons learned through failure, and the impact of personal authenticity on rewriting our own stories.

Here are the highlights:

04:48 Parents instilled the importance of happiness after family tragedy.

07:25 Parents' influence, self-discovery, and living fearlessly.

12:04 Committing to self brings positive transformation and gains.

15:10 Realising how alcohol impacting life

17:41 Making an absolute decision is empowering.

22:23 Seeking purpose leads to self-improvement and inspiration.

29:52 From champagne to sobriety - a transformation story.

33:40 Embracing failure as a chance to learn.

36:58 Self-compassion and kindness are crucial to alcohol journey.

39:10 Realised fear of failure disguised as motivation.

44:43 Establishing a disciplined morning routine for productivity.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

About Laura Bartlett:

Laura Bartlett is the founder and editor-in-chief of House of Coco. She fell in love with the media industry while working in radio before being headhunted to write for a local business and restaurant magazine in Leeds. In 2013, aged just 23, she launched Urban Coco, a magazine for independent fashion brands outside of London. Despite an unsuccessful appearance on Dragon’s Den, Bartlett took the magazine into 16 countries before the company went into liquidation. Undeterred, in 2014 Bartlett founded House of Coco, a luxury travel magazine for millennials. Staffed by 28 freelancers around the world – known as Team Coco.

Laura's journey is more than a narrative of triumph over adversity; it is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and unwavering self-belief..

Website: https://houseofcoco.net

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bartlettlaura

Instagram: instagram.com/laurabartlett0

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 05: The Nation's Favourite Coping Mechanism – Explained! Feb 15, 2024

In this episode, we acknowledge alcohol as the nation's favourite coping mechanism and uncover its true effects on our well-being. Anna Donaghey, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with our guest, William Porter, a former paratrooper turned lawyer and author of "Alcohol Explained" and "Alcohol Explained 2". Together, they candidly discuss their personal experiences, confronting the impact of alcohol on sleep, mental health, and our ability to cope. From their own journeys to understanding the addictive nature of alcohol and its effects, this episode provides valuable insights into rethinking our relationship with alcohol. Join us as we uncover the truths about alcohol and discover new coping strategies to lead a more fulfilling and vibrant life.

Here are the highlights:

06:36 Science and personal experiences lead to addiction.
13:29 The brain maintains a chemical balance; alcohol disrupts it.
17:44 Struggled with cravings but found analysing helpful.
25:47 Take a month off from alcohol and continue life.
36:46 Adopt good sleep habits to promote natural, restorative sleep.
38:10 Consuming alcohol affects sleep and natural sedatives.
43:54 Alcohol, exhaustion and anxiety
55:28 Alcohol disrupted sleep, and impacted family life.
01:00 Drinking once seemed essential, but life is now so much better.

About William Porter:

William Porter brings a unique and refreshingly pragmatic approach to drinking and addiction. His first book, ‘Alcohol Explained: Understand Why You Drink And How to Stop’ was published in 2015 and is considered by many to be the seminal work on understanding alcohol dependency. His second book ‘Alcohol Explained 2: Tools for a Stronger Sobriety’ offers brilliant advice for those wanting to take control of their drinking.

An ex-British Army paratrooper who served in Iraq, he now lives with his wife and two sons in West London.

Connect with William:

Website: alcoholexplained.com

Books: ‘Alcohol Explained – Understand Why You Drink And How to Stop’, ‘Alcohol Explained 2 – Tools for a Stronger Sobriety’

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 04: Toolkit '101': Mindful drinking basics Feb 08, 2024

In this episode, "Toolbox 101: Mindful drinking basics”, your host Anna brings together the key advice and tools discussed in the previous few episodes. Not least the concept of mindful drinking and insight that comes from understanding the motivations behind our own drinking behaviours. She discusses the different types of drinkers, the principle of knowing how many units you consume and some practical strategies for reducing that number.

Here are the highlights:

04:10 Observe behaviour, understand reasons, and become self-aware.
07:17 Challenges of not drinking in social settings.
10:04 Excessive drinking leads to impaired judgment, addiction.
17:23 Moderation in alcohol consumption is crucial.
23:29 Cut out unnecessary drinks for better value.
26:30 Overdrinking leads to empty calories and regrets.
28:15 Anna’s six-week, coaching-led ‘Rethink’ program

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 03: Why Less is More with Adrian Chiles Feb 01, 2024

In today's episode, host Anna Donaghey sits down with the insightful Adrian Chiles, a British writer and television & radio presenter. He openly documented his close relationship with alcohol in the BBC documentary "Drinkers Like Me" and he is also the author of "The Good Drinker, How I Learned to Love Drinking Less."

Adrian shares his personal journey of realising the need to re-evaluate his drinking habits and the transformation that ensued. Together, he and Anna delve into the discrepancies between idealised marketing images of alcohol and the harsh realities of drinking, challenging conventional notions and offering alternative perspectives. Join us as we unravel the thought-provoking conversation on mindfulness, moderation, and the profound impact of drinking culture in the creative industry.

Here are the highlights:

00:01 The British drinking culture.
04:48 The choices Adrian made regarding alcohol moderation.
09:19 Re-evaluate drinks for enjoyment, not obligation or habit.
10:21 Mindful drinking prompts thoughtful and conscious consumption.
20:55 TV advertising distorts the reality of alcohol consumption.
25:29 Admitting past habits, seeking validation in career.
29:55 Alcoholism as a disease is an unhelpful categorisation.
38:48 Moderating drinking is harder than stopping completely.
40:51 Drink less, enjoy life more.

About Adrian Chiles:

Adrian is a familiar face on our televisions and a recognised voice on our radios. He has been a presenter on BBC Radio 5 live since the day it started in 1994. On BBC television, he launched and presented ‘Working Lunch’, ‘Match of the Day 2’, ‘The One Show’ and ‘The Apprentice, You’re Fired’. He was also lead football presenter for ITV. He has a weekly column in The Guardian and writes regularly for the Sun and The Tablet.

About the host, Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 02: Exploring our Love Affair with Alcohol with Professor David Nutt Feb 01, 2024

In this episode, we dive deep into our society's enduring and complex relationship with alcohol. Host Anna Donaghey and guest Professor David Nutt, a renowned expert in neuropsychopharmacology, engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the glamorisation of alcohol in media, the impact of advertising on drinking habits, and the influence of the drinks industry on policies and public perception. They explore the historical and societal roots of alcohol's prevalence and shed light on the surprising realities of alcohol's effects on health and mental well-being. Together they reflect on the signs of a shift in alcohol culture and offer practical tips for mindful drinking.

Here are the highlights:

01:25 Alcohol's persistence due to historical and social factors.
05:49 European drinking habits, influenced by history, differ.
07:10 The point in UK history when alcohol consumption really grew.
09:21 Why alcohol is our social drug of choice.
15:03 The social benefits of alcohol.
20:25 The power of the drinks industry in government policy.
27:11 Obsession with wine and its health impacts.
30:18 Alcohol: impacts on healthcare, taxes, and consumption.
38:38 Fear of social isolation in drinking cessation.
42:14 Years of investment led to a successful drink.
43:50 Creating sociability through affordable alcohol alternatives.
49:50 Awareness of drinking habits leads to consciousness.
51:42 Drinking for stress relief can be concerning.

About Professor David Nutt:

David Nutt is currently the Edmond J. Safra Professor of Neuropsychopharmacology at Imperial College London. He is also the Chair of DrugScience (formally the Independent Scientific Committee on Drugs (ISCD) and President of the European Brain Council.

David’s Book: ‘Drink? The New Science of Alcohol And Your Health’: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Drink-Science-Alcohol-Your-Health/dp/152939323X

Find out more about the Gaba-based drink Sentia: https://sentiaspirits.com/

Find out more about David’s research and work into drugs: https://www.drugscience.org.uk/

About the host, Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Ep 01: What The Big Drink Rethink is All About Feb 01, 2024

Welcome to The Big Drink Rethink, the brand NEW podcast that explores how our alcohol culture is shifting, challenges conventional attitudes and promotes more mindful, informed choices about drinking.

In today's episode, ‘What The Big Drink Think is All About’, your host Anna Donaghey opens up about her personal journey of rethinking her relationship with alcohol. In sharing her own experience, Anna delves into the detrimental impact that alcohol had on her life, the stigma surrounding drinking problems, and the flawed concept of categorising individuals as "normal drinkers" or "alcoholics." She also discusses her decision to no longer drink and her role as an Alcohol Mindset Coach.

Join us as we explore the need to collectively rethink our society's attitude towards alcohol addiction, and how important it is that we can offer diverse support options for those struggling. This opening episode is Anna’s invitation to get on board The Big Drink Rethink and gather the knowledge to make it personal to you.

Here are the highlights:

05:13 Gratitude for having avoided rock bottom, but realisation of the impact alcohol was having.
07:00 Struggling with alcohol, but resistance to admitting to a problem.
10:28 Navigating alcohol complexities, seeking understanding and change.
14:40 This podcast is about sharing insights, challenging beliefs, and redefining relationships with alcohol.
18:57 So much blame for alcohol addiction sits with society, not the individuals.
22:37 Opening doors for a culture that promotes healthier alcohol choices
26:45 Questioning life; sobriety often leads to a much happier life.

About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning over 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

Coming soon - The Big Drink Rethink Podcast Nov 16, 2023

I am so excited to be here and introducing a new series called the Big Drink Rethink hosted by me, Anna Donaghey. It's a refreshingly open-minded look at how the drinking culture in the UK is changing and why. It's a fantastic chance for you to ponder maybe for the very first time your own thoughts on this boozy business and what it means in your world.

Throughout the series, I'm going to be schmoozing with some of the fascinating folk right at the heart of this cultural shift. We'll be finding out what makes them tick and exploring the sober curious perspective from every conceivable angle. We'll be venturing into the dynamics of peer pressure, chatting about the future of the beloved British pub and tapping into the next generation to discover what our kids think about alcohol and what's influencing their young impressionable minds.

This is not a sobriety podcast, it's about taking a swig from all angles and making the positive, active choices that suit you. Drawing from my own roller coaster journey through addiction and sporting my alcohol mindset coach's cap. I'll also be sharing plenty of knowledge, insights, tools, and tactics to help you walk the path you choose.

I cannot wait. It's coming very soon, and I hope you tune in and get onboard with The Big Drink Rethink. So remember to click follow and subscribe to get the first episode when it drops.

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.thebeliefscoach.com/experiment

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Zoë is a trauma-informed, ALP-certified Senior Life Coach and Breathwork Facilitator with a deep passion for guiding people back to themselves. Born in London and raised in France, she is also a proud parent of four grown children and the devoted caretaker of an ever-expanding family of animals.

But her journey to this work wasn’t smooth. After drinking for 35 years, Zoë found herself in a cycle of high tolerance, Class A drugs, and prescription meds, desperately seeking escape. She lost her savings, her business, her relationships - but most painfully, she lost herself.

Now, Zoë helps others do the same. She works with anyone feeling stuck, disconnected, or caught in unhealthy patterns, helping them rewrite their beliefs, rewire their nervous systems, and build a life they never want to escape from.

Her approach is light-hearted, compassionate, and deeply transformational - because real change happens in a space where we feel safe to explore, release, and heal.

Today, she walks alongside others who are ready to reclaim their peace, power, and freedom. Are you ready to rebuild your castle?

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifecoachingwithzoe

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sobercoachingwithzoe

Website: www.coachingwithzoe.com

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