If you're trying to drink more mindfully, it's important to know what your limits are. But, aside from recommended guidelines that aren't always context or person-specific, how do you know how much is too much for you?In this “Mindful Drinking,” host Derek Brown shares what a "standard drink" is and outlines some of the factors that determine both the amount of alcohol in an alcoholic beverage and its absorption rate. Ultimately, navigating how much is too much is not much harder than other nutritional guidelines!Don’t miss advice from this top bartender and wellness coach on how much is too much and how you can put mindful drinking into action in this special encore presentation.If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo, get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

On this “Mindful Drinking Podcast,” host Derek Brown welcomes featured guest, Maria Bastasch, co-founder of the Mindful Drinking Fest and a NASM-certified wellness coach, to explore the emerging trend of "zebra striping." This practice involves alternating between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages within the same social occasion, allowing individuals to moderate their alcohol intake without abstaining entirely.Derek and Maria delve into the motivations behind this approach, including health considerations, social dynamics, and the growing availability of high-quality alcohol-free alternatives. They discuss how "zebra striping" empowers individuals to enjoy social events mindfully, maintaining balance and reducing the risk of overconsumption.Blending expert perspectives with practical advice, this episode invites listeners to reflect on their drinking habits and consider how integrating "zebra striping" and embracing non-alcoholic options can lead to a more mindful, enjoyable, and inclusive social experience.If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo, get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

In this episode of “The Mindful Drinking Podcast,” host Derek Brown dives into the Four C’s of drinking occasions— Celebration, Conviviality, Consecration, and Connoisseurship —to explore why, when, and how we drink. Drawing from anthropology, history, and personal insights, Derek uncovers how these categories shape our relationship with alcohol and mindful drinking.Whether it’s a champagne toast at a wedding, a shared pint with friends, a sacred ritual involving wine, or the appreciation of a fine whiskey, drinking is often deeply tied to cultural meaning and social norms. He examines how these contexts influence our choices and invites listeners to reflect on their own reasons for drinking—or not drinking.This monologue presentation challenges us to rethink our relationship with drinking occasions, blending humor, thoughtfulness, and practical advice on how to approach them more mindfully.If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo, get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

Holidays and hangovers don’t have to go hand in hand.In this episode of “The Mindful Drinking Podcast,” host Derek Brown explores how to drink mindfully during the holiday season without sacrificing any of the festive fun. Using the RATE acronym—Replace, Avoid, Temper, and Elicit Help—Derek provides practical strategies for navigating the holidays with intention.He also shares his favorite non-alcoholic and low-alcohol holiday drinks, tips for navigating social pressures, and advice on how to maintain balance amidst all the celebrations.Tune in for practical tips and inspiration to make your holidays both merry and mindful.If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo, get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

On this “Mindful Drinking” podcast, host Derek Brown delves into what "The End of Wine" really means. Is it the decline of an iconic cultural symbol, or a transformation of a millennia-old tradition?Derek uncorks the complex relationship between mindful drinking, the wine industry, and our evolving tastes. We'll explore the rise of non-alcoholic alternatives, changing social habits, and why more people are reconsidering their relationship with wine.He’ll also reflect on his own journey with wine and invites listeners to consider how cultural shifts, health trends, and new drinking habits are challenging wine's long-standing place in our lives.If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo, get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

 In this “Mindful Drinking Podcast,” host Derek Brown is joined by featured guest, Tawny Lara, writer, author of Dry Humping: A Guide to Dating, Relating, and Hooking Up Without Booze and co-host of the “Recovery Rocks” podcast. They dive into the intersection of alcohol, dating, and the concept of "Dutch courage" – that extra boost many of us seek from alcohol before putting ourselves out there.Tawny opens up about her own experiences navigating the world of dating without alcohol, and how letting go of "liquid courage" has reshaped her connections and led to more authentic relationships. She and Derek explore the nuances of dating while drinking mindfully, from finding confidence in vulnerable situations to understanding what we really seek when we reach for a drink.This episode is a deep, candid conversation on rethinking social rituals, finding genuine confidence, and how the growing mindful drinking movement can make space for more meaningful connections.If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo, get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

In this episode of “The Mindful Drinking Podcast,” host Derek Brown explores the current U.S. dietary guidelines for alcohol and how they align with the principles of mindful drinking. He breaks down how these guidelines serve those who choose to drink, helping individuals make informed decisions about their alcohol consumption.Derek also delves into the potential changes to these guidelines in 2025, which could further reduce the recommended limits for those who drink.As these discussions continue, Derek examines how mindful drinking fits into this evolving landscape, offering insights on navigating the shifting guidelines and finding a balanced approach to alcohol consumption.Whether you’re interested in understanding the current guidelines or curious about the concerns surrounding potential changes, this episode provides a thoughtful perspective on maintaining a mindful relationship with alcohol.If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo, get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

On this “Mindful Drinking Podcast,” host, and award-winning bartender, Derek Brown, is joined by featured guest, Rev. Erin Jean Warde, Episcopal priest and author of Sober Spirituality: The Joy of a Mindful Relationship with Alcohol. They explore how spiritual perspectives can influence mindful drinking and how examining one’s drinking habits can contribute to broader personal growth.Rev. Warde shares her experiences with alcohol and how her spiritual journey has shaped her approach to drinking. She discusses the role of reflection and intention in promoting healthier habits and deeper self-awareness, offering insights on how spiritual development can extend beyond alcohol. They also touch on the rising interest in spiritual practices beyond traditional religious structures.Regardless of your religious background, join Derek and Rev. Warde as they discuss how spiritual perspectives can enhance mental and physical health, especially when combined with mindful practices like intentional drinking.If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo, get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

Explore the intriguing link between bartending and positive psychology. Discover how the PERMA model can enhance your mindful drinking experience. Learn the art of creating meaningful connections while crafting cocktails. The importance of savoring small moments and finding joy in everyday interactions is highlighted. Uncover the fulfillment that comes from emotional connections rather than just drinking. This conversation is a refreshing take on well-being and enjoying life through mindful practices.

Ian Andersen, co-founder of the alcohol moderation platform Sunnyside, shares his impactful journey toward mindful drinking. He opens up about the tragic losses in his family due to alcohol-related issues, fueling his passion for change. The conversation highlights the importance of community support and how Sunnyside has helped over 300,000 people reduce their alcohol consumption. Andersen emphasizes that small, mindful changes can lead to a more fulfilling life, promoting a non-judgmental space for personal growth and sustainable habits.