The Alcohol Free Revolution Podcast

In this episode, we explore the highs and lows of Sober October — not just the challenge itself, but what it can reveal. We talk about why some people thrive in this kind of short-term container… and why others find it just scratches the surface. We also dive into the role of community — and why trying to go alcohol-free alone often leads people straight back to old habits. Having others around you who truly get it? That can change everything. You can register your interest in joining our community (launching soon below) And finally, we share some of our favourite Quit Lit books and alcohol-free podcasts — the ones that helped us shift our thinking, build momentum, and feel less alone in the early days. This is an honest, reflective conversation about what really makes the difference — whether you’re doing Sober October, just starting your journey, or looking to go deeper.   Register your interest in joining our community: Email ‘Interested’ to: mailto:Info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Connect with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Connect with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links    

This week we’re joined by Denise Hamilton‑Mace — founder of Low No Drinker Magazine and host of the podcast Mindful Drinking & Moderation in Midlife. After 24 years in hospitality, Denise re-evaluated her relationship with alcohol and now helps others explore life with more clarity, balance, and intention — especially in the “grey area” between drinking and sobriety. In this episode, we cover: What mindful drinking actually looks like The fascinating reality and buckets of information behind no & low drinks How the Low and No drinks market has changed and is growing Denise is more than a voice in the alcohol-free space — she’s a builder of platforms. Through Low No Drinker Magazine and her podcast Mindful Drinking & Moderation in Midlife, she’s created a growing hub for honest, inclusive conversations about drinking less — without judgement or strict labels. Her work regularly features experts, founders, and everyday voices who are changing the way we think about alcohol, wellbeing, and identity in our 30s, 40s, and beyond. 🔗 Connect with Denise: Website: https://www.lownodrinker.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denisehamiltonmace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisehamiltonmace 🎧 Listen to her podcast: Mindful Drinking & Moderation in Midlife Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/id1701338793 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XkIkVfPEOdfpyYe9SbDBx Buzzsprout: https://lownodrinkerpodcast.buzzsprout.com Connect with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Connect with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links

This week on the podcast, we’re joined by Harrison Ward, known to many as The Fell Foodie — outdoor cook, mental health speaker, and one of the most authentic voices in the alcohol-free space today. Harrison’s story is one of transformation through grit, nature, and fire-cooked food. There was a time when Harrison was drinking over 20 pints a day, battling depression, obesity, and suicidal thoughts. Today, he’s become a beacon of change — preparing gourmet meals on mountain tops, sharing his journey openly, and helping others find strength in the outdoors. He’s been featured on BBC’s Love to Cook with Mary Berry, Channel 5’s Winter on the Farm, and was named an Ordnance Survey GetOutside Champion for his work promoting wellbeing through nature. In this episode, we explore: His journey from rock bottom to fell tops Why sobriety gave him back his voice — and his future The link between cooking, mental clarity, and mindfulness And what it means to build a life that’s not just alcohol-free, but fully alive. Connect with Harrison: Instagram: @fellfoodie Website: fellfoodie.co.uk   Connect with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Connect with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links

Andy Ramage, a best-selling author and founder of Coach Business School, shares his transformative journey from commodities broking to pioneering the alcohol-free movement. He reveals the challenges he faced when quitting alcohol at the peak of his career and discusses how this decision sparked a global mission to empower others. Andy also gives a sneak peek into his upcoming documentary 'Going Dry' and addresses the evolving drinking culture among younger generations, emphasizing community support and the importance of purposeful coaching.

🎙️ Bonus Episode: In this episode, we turn the mic on our very own co-host, Steve Smith — alcohol-free performance coach, ultramarathon runner, and founder of Soberilliant.   In this special episode, Steve shares his own journey — from flair bartending and late nights in London, to Ironman finish lines and 200-mile ultramarathons. It’s a story of quiet questioning, dad-life wake-up calls, and discovering just how much more is possible without alcohol in the way.   Steve opens up about: – Growing up around drinking and the bar culture that shaped him – The moment he knew things had to change (but didn’t — not yet) – The shift from foggy hangovers to focused endurance training – How sobriety helped him become a better dad, coach, and leader – Why he now helps high-performing dads rethink their own relationship with alcohol   If you’ve ever wondered what really changes when you stop drinking — beyond the early wins — this episode is packed with perspective, real talk, and a reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite the script. James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links

In this episode, we’re joined by Helen Sadler, co-host of the Flixwatcher Podcast, as she reflects on her changing relationship with alcohol — from her early experiences growing up in the heart of 90s ‘ladette’ culture, drinking norms, to weekends at festivals and beyond. Helen shares how alcohol was deeply woven into socialising, identity and fun — and how, over time, she began to quietly question whether it was still serving her. Her story is a relatable and reflective look at how many of us carry our drinking habits forward by default — until we don’t. We talk about the pressure to drink in your 20s, how our social norms shape our choices, and why festivals and fun don’t have to disappear just because alcohol does.   This episode is for anyone who’s felt like the odd one out for questioning the norm — and proof that you can rewrite the story on your own terms.   🔗  Connect with us James: 🌐 Web: alcoholfreecoach.com 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Steve: 🌐 Web: soberilliant.com 📱 Insta & Links: soberilliant.com/all-my-links   Helen / Flixwatcher: 📸 Instagram: @flixwatcher

Bonus Episode: This week, we flip the script — and Steve interviews his co-host, James Lloyd, alcohol-free coach and creator of The 60-Day Control Reset. In this powerful conversation, James shares the personal journey that led him to ditch alcohol in 2021 — not because he hit rock bottom, but because he knew deep down something had to change. We talk about: – How learning about neuroscience and habit loops changed everything – The cascade of benefits that followed his first alcohol-free 60 days — from energy and weight loss to sleep, exercise, and joy – And why this is about expansion, not restriction James also breaks down his coaching philosophy, how he supports high-achieving professionals through alcohol-free transformation, and the mindset shift that helped him — and now his clients — finally take control. James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links

James and Steve share how alcohol quietly impacted their mental health —from disrupted sleep and heightened stress, to the constant background noise that made life feel heavier than it needed to. We explore what starts to shift when you take a break from drinking. Deeper rest, more patience, sharper thinking — and a stronger sense of emotional balance. This conversation is full of honest reflections and real-world insights Into how going alcohol-free can support your mental wellbeing at home, at work, and within yourself. Whether you’re sober-curious or already on the path this episode offers fresh motivation and perspective to help you keep moving forward. James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links  

In this enlightening episode, join former drinkers turned coaches James Lloyd and Steve Smith as they share their transformative journey to an alcohol-free lifestyle. At ages 50 and 52, they reflect on how quitting alcohol changed their lives for the better. Delving deep into the world of social and cultural influences, they question why society is so obsessed with alcohol and explore common beliefs about its role in socialization and relaxation. Discover insightful discussions on how early life experiences shape our perceptions of alcohol and the shift in its marketing over the decades. As they expose the powerful influence of advertising and explore the impact of alcohol on our health, they urge listeners to reconsider their own beliefs. Whether you're contemplating going alcohol-free or seeking advice on how to start, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that invites you to expand your life by letting go of alcohol.

Welcome to the Alcohol-Free Revolution Podcast with hosts James Lloyd and Steve Smith, who have embraced an alcohol-free lifestyle for over four years. In this episode, they share their transformative journey, offering insights and encouragement to those considering a break from alcohol. Discover how going alcohol-free can reclaim lost time, add financial benefits, and enhance personal growth. James and Steve delve into the realization of abundant time once occupied by drinking and its related activities. They highlight the myriad ways listeners can reinvest this newfound time into passions, family, and personal development. By recounting their personal stories and those of others, they emphasize the ongoing transformation and empowerment in alcohol-free living. This episode also explores the hidden costs of drinking, from monetary expenses to missed family moments. They discuss the psychological aspect of breaking free from routine drinking and offer motivation to redefine life without alcohol. Listen in to learn how the alcohol-free journey can lead to a more present, fuller, and financially rewarding life. James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links