I am honored to be joined today by James Swanwick, a renowned stop-drinking expert and author of Clear: The Only Neuroscience-Based Approach for High Achievers to Quit Drinking Without AA, Rehab, or Willpower. He is a former SportsCenter anchor on ESPN and the creator and founder of the Stop Drinking Process.
In today’s personal and thought-provoking conversation, James and I talk about alcohol use disorder, exploring how family dynamics and early environments shape our drinking habits, how alcohol use becomes normalized, the perceived benefits of drinking, and the very real health risks and consequences. James explains why alcohol is considered one of the most harmful drugs, how younger generations are approaching alcohol differently, the role of peer pressure in an alcohol-free lifestyle, and the importance of gratitude.
Join us for an insightful and informative discussion on why we drink, how to reframe our relationship with alcohol, and for those who are sober-curious, a stepwise approach to making that shift.
IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN:
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How family dynamics and early environments shape our relationship with alcohol
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How alcohol becomes normalized long before we ever take our first drink
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The real cost of using alcohol as a social lubricant
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How the health consequences of alcohol show up as we age
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Where alcohol ranks among the most harmful drugs
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Why appropriate accountability and community matter more than willpower
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The importance of structured support when quitting alcohol
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How gratitude, reframing, and daily practices can reduce cravings and support lasting change
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