How I quit alcohol

Christmas is a beautiful time of the year, but it can also be a melting pot of triggers, emotions, stress, leading to very dysregulated nervous systems.. which can lead to poor choices or even some self sabotage. Me and a host of other beautiful previous guests, experts and people who have made it through these times have got your back. For the 25 days of Christmas I will be posting 25 mini episodes with a tip every single day to help get you through. Fore more info or to work with me go to www.iquitalcohol.com.au

In this episode I catch up with an old friend to explore our personal journeys with alcohol, reflecting on our shared experiences growing up in a culture where drinking was prevalent. We discuss the impact of alcohol and the outcomes of drinking far too much at a young age and the impact that had on our identities, and the impact of alcohol on young brains. We talk about talking to our kids about alcohol and how to recognise and navigate the feeling of social awkwardness. Mel shares her insights on how her relationship with alcohol had evolved over the years, emphasising the significance of understanding our emotions and the role of love in recovery. We explore the transformative journey of mindfulness, sobriety, and self-discovery. The importance of yoga and meditation in fostering a deeper connection with oneself, the challenges of navigating emotional landscapes without alcohol.To find out more about our next retreat in Bali go tohttps://www.iquitalcohol.com.au/collections/retreatTo reach out to Mel or find out where her next yoga class is go toIG @mindfulconnectionsauFor more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge go towww.iquitalcohol.com.auFollow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr CassidyIf you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol. 

In this conversation, Danni and Deb Mazner (host of the alcohol tipping point podcast) explore the complexities of sobriety, personal experiences with alcohol, and the societal pressures surrounding drinking. They discuss the importance of self-awareness, the impact of comparison on drinking habits, and the role of family dynamics in shaping one's relationship with alcohol. Deb shares her journey to sobriety, the challenges she faced, and how health scares prompted a reevaluation of drinking habits. The conversation emphasises the need for open discussions about alcohol's effects on health and the importance of building connections beyond drinking. In this conversation, Danni and Deb Masner explore the themes of belonging, sobriety, and personal growth. They discuss the challenges of navigating social situations without alcohol, the impact of generational trauma, and the importance of self-worth. Deb shares her journey to sobriety, the strategies she employs to maintain it, and the significance of community and accountability in the process. The conversation emphasizes the need to understand one's patterns and the healing that comes from self-awareness and compassion. Deb Masner is the founder of the Alcohol Tipping Point.She's a Registered Nurse, Certified Health and Wellness Coach, SMART Recovery Facilitator, Mindfulness Instructor, Podcast Host, and Alcohol-Free Badass.  Links: Website: https://www.alcoholtippingpoint.com/ Instagram: @alcoholtippingpoint Podcast: https://www.alcoholtippingpoint.com/podcast  Email: deb@alcoholtippingpoint.com. 

In this episode of How I Quit Alcohol, Seana Smith shares her powerful story, reflecting on a childhood marked by both an idyllic lifestyle and the unpredictability of having an alcoholic father. Growing up around alcoholism left her in a constant state of hypervigilance, never quite knowing which version of him would appear each day. From the outside, Seana’s life looked perfect: an Oxford graduate, a thriving career with the BBC and Channel 9, a bestselling author, a happy marriage, and four vibrant children. Yet behind the scenes, alcohol was quietly eroding her health, emotional well-being, and sense of self.With her engaging style and wit, Seana unveils the hidden challenges of her lifelong battle with alcohol, exploring how it impacted every aspect of her life—and ultimately, how she found the strength to change.Seana Smith website: https://www.seanasmith.com/Sober Journeys website: https://www.soberjourneys.com/www.instagram.com/seanasmithwww.instagram.com/sober_journeysGoing Under, a memoir of family secrets, addiction and escape is published by Ventura Press.In Australia: Going Under is available in bookshops and online stores in Australia and on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com.au/Going-Under-memoir-secrets-addiction/dp/0645497231/In the USA: https://www.amazon.com/Going-Under-memoir-secrets-addiction/dp/0645497231/In the UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Going-Under-memoir-secrets-addiction/dp/0645497231/Going Under Audiobook: Going Under on Audible, narrated by Seana Smith, click here.Going Under on Spotify: Listen to Going Under on Spotify here.I’m attaching a copy of the book cover and a photo of me.For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge go towww.iquitalcohol.com.auFollow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr CassidyIf you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol. 

Sharing an episode from the beautiful Ash Butterss and her podcast The Unedited Woman, How to Embody and Befriend your Nervous System. Ash and I also announce a special announcement for our retreat we will be running together in Bali in Sept 2025 and our upcoming Nervous System Workshops in Brisbane, Fremantle and Sydney. We chat about the importance of self awareness. To find out more info our upcoming retreat in Bali go tohttps://www.iquitalcohol.com.au/collections/retreat/products/bali-healing-retreat-balian-may-1-6Workshopshttps://www.iquitalcohol.com.au/collections/resources

In this episode, I catch up with HIQA grad and psychologist Rebecca Glorie to discuss her personal journey growing up in an environment affected by alcoholism. Rebecca shares the profound impact this had on her childhood and how it influenced her adult life. We delve into the concept of "repair after rupture," exploring the importance of healing relationships strained by addiction. Rebecca openly discusses confronting her own struggles with alcohol, the healthier coping mechanisms she now employs, and the pivotal decision to quit drinking to provide a better environment for her daughter. To reach out to Rebecca go tohttps://www.rebeccaglorie.comFor more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge or Bali retreats go towww.iquitalcohol.com.auFollow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr CassidyIf you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol. 

In this episode, I chat with Michelle, a graduate of the HIQA program, who at the time of this recording is celebrating 9 months alcohol-free.Michelle shares her powerful journey of overcoming hidden drinking habits that spiralled into binge drinking. She opens up about drinking in the mornings to combat hangovers, which often led to all-day binges and passing out on the couch.Her struggle took a toll on her mental health—mood swings, depression, and lies to her husband left him worried and unsure how to help. Overwhelmed by shame and embarrassment, Michelle felt completely lost.Everything changed when she joined the HIQA Alcohol Challenge in January. Since then, she hasn’t touched a drop of alcohol. Through the program, Michelle uncovered the emotional triggers behind her drinking habits and learned how to sit with her feelings, rather than suppressing them with alcohol.In this conversation, Michelle also shares practical tools that helped her navigate cravings and how she managed moments of overwhelm during her early days of sobriety. Tune in for her inspiring story of transformation and the strategies she used to build a healthier, balanced life and becoming a well resourced adult.For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge go towww.iquitalcohol.com.auFollow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr CassidyIf you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol. 

In this solo cast, I offer some tips on preparing yourself for taking time off or quitting alcohol or changing a habit.I share some tips on noticing patterns of thought, belief and behaviour.Preparing your body.Making a plan and more.For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge go towww.iquitalcohol.com.auFollow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr CassidyIf you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol. 

In this episode, we sit down with Britt, a wedding celebrant and MC based in Byron Bay, who shares her inspiring journey toward self-discovery and sobriety. After hitting rock bottom, Britt took on the HIQA 6-week challenge in January 2024 and is now proudly 9 months sober.Throughout her journey, Britt learned valuable lessons about self-soothing, managing expectations, and sitting with her emotions without seeking external comfort. She also talks about setting clear, solid boundaries and the powerful process of unlearning and relearning behaviours that no longer served her.By gaining confidence, clarity, and time, Britt has been able to refocus on her business and explore exciting new ideas for the future. Don't miss this insightful conversation about growth, resilience, and the freedom that comes with sobriety.To reach out Brit on Insta go to @britt.happydays For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge go towww.iquitalcohol.com.auFollow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr CassidyIf you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.