This Naked Mind Podcast

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of cancer, illness, loss, and intense emotional pain (including shame and guilt) related to alcohol use. Please listen with care. What if the reason you can't seem to stop drinking is because your brain is wired to keep returning to old patterns? Coach Pam talks with coaches Tabbin and Hayley about how understanding the way our brain processes alcohol can be a game changer. By learning how to rewire your brain to stop drinking, we can break free from the cycles that keep us trapped. They discuss the neuroscience behind alcohol cravings, how to address emotional triggers, and the tools that help create lasting change. This episode is packed with insights on how to reshape your mind for a healthier, alcohol-free life. In this episode, Coach Tabbin and Coach Pam discuss: Trying various methods to control alcohol for 20 years before finding success Her experience with AA and feeling like she hadn't hit "rock bottom" to belong The profound impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and her return to drinking during a moment of immense fear Discovering This Naked Mind and the shocking realization that alcohol causes breast cancer The "aha" moment of revulsion towards alcohol, leading to lasting alcohol freedom since May 2018 Her focus on fitness and health as key motivators for an alcohol-free life The importance of self-compassion in overcoming "stuckness" and inner criticism Recognizing how to rewire your brain to stop drinking changed her perception of alcohol from pleasurable to harmful …and more In this episode, Coach Hayley and Coach Pam discuss: Finding This Naked Mind through a search for non-judgmental alcohol support Her relief at discovering a science and compassion-based program that felt like "coming home" Overcoming deep shame and the fear of sharing her story The core belief that "you are not broken" when struggling with alcohol dependence Embracing feelings and allowing emotions to move through her as a vital coping mechanism The realization that life is still "lifey" even without alcohol, but now with better tools Why you shouldn’t wait for a "rock bottom" or "ideal timing" to seek change …and more Coach Tabbin is a Senior Coach with This Naked Mind, certified in ALP (Affective Liminal Psychology) and Grey Area Drinking. After years of battling alcohol, including a period of over seven years of not drinking interrupted by major life events, she found lasting freedom through This Naked Mind in 2018. Now a full-time coach, she helps senior professionals, especially those aged 45+, rewire their brains to live alcohol-free. With a background in advertising, Tabbin understands the pressures of high-powered careers and brings compassion and expertise to those navigating similar struggles. She is also a speaker, the host of The Alcohol Debate podcast, and the author of the Amazon best-seller Bottling Up Trouble. Learn more about Coach Tabbin: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/tabbin-almond-alpc/ Coach Hayley is a certified TNM Coach with training from the Canadian Addiction and Mental Health Association. Drawing from personal experiences, Hayley understands how tough change can be and provides a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free space where her clients can feel supported. She believes that with the right mindset, anyone can change their life at any time. Learn more about Coach Hayley: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/hayley-scherders/ Episode links: nakedmindpath.com BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/nakedmind Quince: For your next trip, treat yourself to the luxe upgrades you deserve from Quince. Go to Quince.com/naked for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Hungryroot: Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at Hungryroot.com/nakedmind with code nakedmind Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/mind

Can you truly quit drinking and never feel deprived?  It's a question many of us ponder, and Helen's story offers a powerful, resounding "yes." Surprisingly, Helen grew up in an alcohol-free household, yet found herself, by her mid-twenties, fully immersed in a daily drinking culture that felt completely normal. This habit quietly escalated until, at 50, she was passing out almost every night. Despite her ambition and past ability to control her drinking, she grappled with a deep sense of powerlessness. Join Annie and Helen as they discuss how she navigated this profound shift, breaking free from the struggle and discovering an unexpected, joyful infatuation with her truly alcohol-free life. It's a testament to finding genuine happiness without compromise. In this episode, Annie and Helen discuss: Growing up without alcohol, then starting a daily wine habit in her mid-twenties. Helen's attempts to stop drinking, including the Anthony Robbins' Dickens process, and why fear-based motivation didn't stick. The pivotal moment when Helen realized she could quit drinking and never feel deprived The profound realization that alcohol offers no real value. The impact of alcohol marketing and her aversion to being "taken for a fool." Applying the principles of her alcohol-free journey to other areas of life. Why Helen no longer feels powerless or tempted by alcohol The surprising benefits of quitting drinking that Helen never expected And other topics… Episode links: Related Episodes: How Daily Drinking Becomes Normal - Naked Life Story - Toni - E559 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-559-naked-life-story-toni/ What Do You Have Against Calling Yourself an Alcoholic? - Reader Questions - E641 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-641-readers-question-what-do-you-have-against-calling-yourself-an-alcoholic/ What is the deal with blackouts? - Reader Questions – E304 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-304-what-is-the-deal-with-blackouts/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious! BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/nakedmind Quince: For your next trip, treat yourself to the luxe upgrades you deserve from Quince. Go to Quince.com/naked for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Hungryroot: Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at Hungryroot.com/nakedmind with code nakedmind Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/mind

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses grief and loss of a child. Listener discretion is advised. What do you do when your entire sense of self feels in flux? For April and Michelle, quitting alcohol has brought unexpected challenges. While their initial decision to stop drinking opened doors to new possibilities, it’s also left them facing an uncomfortable reality—feeling lost. April, who has been alcohol-free for months, is navigating a shrinking world and struggling with the idea of belonging, while Michelle, just a few weeks into her alcohol-free journey, is questioning her identity and place in social circles. In this episode, Coach Zoe speaks with both April and Michelle about the discomfort of finding who you really are when alcohol is no longer your coping mechanism. They share their experiences of feeling lost after quitting drinking, the fear of being judged, and how they’re learning to build authentic connections without alcohol. In April’s Session: Still seeing alcohol as providing relief for anxiety and stress The necessity of being challenged to build a relationship of a life without alcohol The pain of friends deciding she's "not fun anymore" after quitting drinking The challenge of making new friends as an adult, like being the "lone reader" at book club Navigating life as a bereaved mother and feeling that part of her isn't "fun" for others How protecting herself shows up in current social interactions The fear of putting herself out there and being judged The struggle of figuring out what to do when everything looks different than imagined The desire for authentic connection over superficial relationships Realizing "we always teach what we need to learn” And more… In Michelle’s Session: The fear of losing all her friends and her identity Grappling with the question: "Who will I be if I don't drink?" The realization that avoiding everyone isn't sustainable Confronting the belief that we "know what other people are thinking of us" Understanding that the voice of judgment is often her own Coping for 30-odd years by numbing with alcohol Feeling "wide open with feelings" in early days alcohol-free Realizing how normalized and addictive alcohol is in society The courage it takes to go against the grain of drinking culture Learning that we need to feel who we are, not just think it And other topics… Zoe Ewart is a Certified Naked Mind Senior Coach who brings her experience and understanding to help with the tricky parts of life’s big changes. Her coaching gives you an enjoyable, light-hearted, and safe environment to effortlessly take back control of alcohol so you can feel better physically, mentally, and spiritually. Zoe taught Pilates for 15 years. She has four adult children and more animals than the Ark ever had. Learn more about Coach Zoe: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/zoe-ewart/  Episode links: nakedmindpath.com Related Episodes: What’s the Secret To Finding Purpose After Stopping Drinking? - Reader’s Questions - E640 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-640-readers-question-whats-the-secret-to-finding-purpose-after-stopping-drinking/ Who Am I Without Wine?: Identity & Sophistication - Alcohol Freedom Coaching - E801 - https://thisnakedmind.com/creating-a-new-identity-after-quitting-drinking-alcohol-freedom-freedom-coaching-e801/ BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/nakedmind Quince: For your next trip, treat yourself to the luxe upgrades you deserve from Quince. Go to Quince.com/naked for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Hungryroot: Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at Hungryroot.com/nakedmind with code nakedmind Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/mind

Trigger Warning: This episode includes mentions of grief and loss. Is it truly possible to learn how to stop drinking when depression gets worse?  Jacki's journey began at a point of deep despair, consuming up to 12 beers a day as her depression spiraled. After trying everything from apps to drops with no lasting success, a profound wake-up call led her to discover a different path to alcohol freedom. In this inspiring episode, Jacki shares her emotionally charged story of escaping the grip of alcohol, rebuilding her life from shame and anxiety, and finding a deep connection to herself in a "safe space" she created. Discover how she transformed from a bartender trapped by alcohol to a beacon of hope, showing others that a life of true freedom is not just possible, but joyful. In this episode, Coach Cole and Jacki discuss: How depression worsened Jacki’s alcohol use and mental health The moment of realization at a celebration of life that changed everything How behavioral tools like apps and drops failed Jacki in her journey Why seeking support and understanding your emotions is crucial How Jacki rewired negative self-talk and rebuilt her self-worth Living alcohol-free after two years: the mental and emotional shifts How to stay alcohol-free when depression still lingers Why you don’t need to give up even when it feels impossible Embracing the freedom to live alcohol-free without guilt or shame The importance of finding a safe space for emotional healing And other topics… Episode links: Jacki’s Coaching Page - https://www.coachingbyjacki.com/ Jacki’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jackifleniken Related Episodes: What’s the link between alcohol and depression? - Reader Questions - E698 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-698-readers-question-whats-the-link-between-alcohol-and-depression/ What is the correlation between alcohol and anxiety? - Reader Questions - E480 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-480-reader-question-what-is-the-correlation-between-alcohol-and-anxiety/ Beating Blackout Drinking - Naked Life Story – Shirley - E575 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-575-naked-life-story-shirley/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious! BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/nakedmind Quince: For your next trip, treat yourself to the luxe upgrades you deserve from Quince. Go to Quince.com/naked for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Hungryroot: Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at Hungryroot.com/nakedmind with code nakedmind Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/mind

What if choosing compassion to change was the first step to breaking free from alcohol’s grip?  Many people struggle with shifting their relationship with alcohol, caught in a cycle of guilt and frustration. Coaches Zoe and Onowa share their journeys of transformation, where compassion, understanding, and questioning beliefs were key to creating lasting change. In this episode, they dive into how shifting from judgment to compassion helped them—and others—rewrite their stories and choose a new path toward freedom. In this episode, Coach Zoe and Coach Pam discuss: Layering of escapism- how using substances - cigarettes, alcohol, and recreational drugs, progressively "layered on" as she experienced more emotional pain and challenges, seeking to escapeHow the alcohol industry only portrays the "fun" and "glamorous" side of drinkingThe shock of not being able to stop drinking when she truly wanted toFalling in love with the ACT TechniqueGlimmers of hope from meditationEmbracing her authentic self…and more In this episode, Coach Onowa and Coach Pam discuss: Discovering the "third option" to freedomShifting the focus from "What's wrong with me?" to questioning alcohol itselfFinding freedom from alcohol's mental real estateUncovering inherited beliefsThe power of choosing compassion to changeEmbracing coaching as moving forwardThe healing opportunity of a judgment-free zoneThe safety in shared beliefs, unique stories…and more Coach Zoe is a Certified Naked Mind Senior Coach who brings her experience and understanding to help with the tricky parts of life’s big changes. Her coaching gives you an enjoyable, light-hearted, and safe environment to effortlessly take back control of alcohol so you can feel better physically, mentally, and spiritually. Zoe taught Pilates for 15 years. She has four adult children and more animals than the Ark ever had. Learn more about Coach Zoe: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/zoe-ewart/  Coach Onowa is a certified TNM Senior Coach with over 20 years of experience in teaching and coaching. She believes that self-compassion is key to creating a balanced relationship with alcohol. As a mom, Onowa is dedicated to healthy eating and living, and she helps other health-conscious moms take control of their relationship with alcohol and become their best selves. Learn more about Coach Onowa: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/onowa-bjella/ Episode links:nakedmindpath.com BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at BetterHelp.com/nakedmind Quince: For your next trip, treat yourself to the luxe upgrades you deserve from Quince. Go to Quince.com/naked for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Hungryroot: Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at Hungryroot.com/nakedmind with code nakedmind Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/mind

Trigger Warning: This episode includes mention of pregnancy and child loss. What if finding fulfillment without alcohol was simpler than you think?  Cheryl first shared her alcohol-free journey in 2018, and today, five years later, she returns to talk about how living without alcohol continues to reshape her life. After years of using alcohol to cope with daily stress, Cheryl has learned how to truly embrace her health and happiness. In this episode, she shares the powerful lessons she’s learned about breaking free from alcohol’s grip and how we can all live with more intention and fulfillment, without needing a drink to get through life. In this episode, Coach Hayley and Cheryl discuss: How Cheryl shifted from daily drinking to living alcohol-free The impact of using alcohol to cope with stress and daily challenges Cheryl’s perspective on finding fulfillment without alcohol in family life The importance of living with intention and purpose instead of just pushing through life How alcohol’s role as a "reward" can lead to unhealthy patterns and how to break them How letting go of the idea of "forever" with alcohol can lead to lasting change The power of self-compassion and understanding in building a healthier relationship with alcohol Learning to move forward, even after returning to drinking, without judgment Why it’s important to model alcohol-free living for children and future generations The difference between quitting alcohol and finding true joy and fulfillment without it The benefits of not relying on alcohol for stress relief, relaxation, or self-care And other topics… Episode links: Cheryl’s Original Episode - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-263-naked-life-story-cheryl/ Cheryl’s Book: https://amzn.to/402gJrx Cheryl’s Podcast: https://thehomeschoolhowto.com/ Related Episodes: Why do I reward being alcohol free with a drink? - Reader Questions - E358 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-358-reader-question-why-do-i-reward-being-alcohol-free-with-a-drink/ What can I substitute for alcohol to feel good? - Reader Questions - E478 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-478-reader-question-what-can-i-substitute-for-alcohol-to-feel-good/ How Drinking Again After a Break Helped Angela Find Clarity - Where Are They Now – Angela - E808 - https://thisnakedmind.com/drinking-again-after-a-break-e808/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious! BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠http://BetterHelp.com/NAKEDMIND|BetterHelp.com/NAKEDMIND⁠⁠ Quince: For your next trip, treat yourself to the luxe upgrades you deserve from Quince. Go to ⁠⁠http://Quince.com/naked|Quince.com/naked⁠⁠ for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Hungryroot: Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at ⁠⁠http://Hungryroot.com/mind|Hungryroot.com/mind⁠⁠ with code mind Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at ⁠⁠http://Shopify.com/mind|Shopify.com/mind⁠

What’s the secret to building genuine connections without alcohol? Delia and Chris both started their alcohol-free journeys in The Path with the common goal of connecting with others. For Delia, it was about fitting in and feeling accepted in social situations, while for Chris, it was overcoming deep emotional suppression and learning to trust others. In this episode, they share how they are learning to build genuine connections without alcohol, face their fears, and embrace emotional vulnerability. Tune in to hear how they’re navigating this journey and uncovering the truth about real connection. In Delia’s session: Confronting the belief that alcohol is essential for connection and fitting in Struggling with feelings of worthiness and self-acceptance in sobriety The fear of being the "odd one out" or disappointing others by not drinking Realizing alcohol dulls personality and hinders true presence Identifying superficial conversations fueled by alcohol versus genuine connection Acknowledging moments of true belonging and comfort without alcohol Reframing social drinking as simply "liquid in a glass" Standing in her truth about choosing not to drink Learning to observe social dynamics with "curiosity goggles" And more topics… In Chris’ session: Understanding that movement forward and backward are both learning opportunities Addressing childhood trauma and emotional suppression from boarding school Recognizing hyper-independence and difficulty forming genuine connections The challenge and beauty of feeling emotions after years of numbing with alcohol Learning to name and explore feelings beyond basic emotions Utilizing tools for building genuine connections without alcohol Connecting body sensations to emotional experiences Releasing resentment for a lighter emotional burden The profound realization that true healing requires feeling, not just talking And more… Pam McRae is a Certified TNM Coach, Master Life Coach, and Gray Area Drinking Coach. Since rethinking her relationship with alcohol in 2017, she considers herself a non-drinker. Pam empowers others through her Freedom Connection group coaching, where people support each other in their alcohol journeys. She also uses her experience and knowledge to guide you through tough times such as grief. Learn more about Coach Pam: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/pam-mcrae/ Episode links: Related Episodes: Building Authentic Connections: Gregory’s Naked Life | E739 - https://thisnakedmind.com/building-authentic-connections-gregorys-naked-life-e739/ Healing Emotional Pain Without Alcohol - Reader Questions - E706 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-706-readers-question-healing-emotional-pain-without-alcohol/ The Art of Balancing Your Needs in a Relationship - Reader Questions - E636 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-636-readers-question-the-art-of-balancing-your-needs-in-a-relationship/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious! BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠http://BetterHelp.com/NAKEDMIND|BetterHelp.com/NAKEDMIND⁠⁠ Quince: For your next trip, treat yourself to the luxe upgrades you deserve from Quince. Go to ⁠⁠http://Quince.com/naked|Quince.com/naked⁠⁠ for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Hungryroot: Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at ⁠⁠http://Hungryroot.com/mind|Hungryroot.com/mind⁠⁠ with code mind Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at ⁠⁠http://Shopify.com/mind|Shopify.com/mind⁠

What if alcohol wasn’t the solution to feeling at peace with yourself? For Isabella, alcohol became a way to mask self-doubt and emotional turbulence, especially when balancing a demanding legal career and complex family dynamics. But through the process of exploring her emotions and connecting with her inner self, Isabella found that the path to finding internal validation and peace doesn’t require alcohol—it requires self-compassion and deep emotional healing. Join Annie as she talks with Isabella about her incredible journey to finding her internal strength and letting go of old coping mechanisms. In this episode, Annie and Isabella discuss: The early reliance on sugar for self-soothing and anxietyAlcohol as a "miracle cure" for self-doubt in adolescenceNavigating the "work hard, play hard" culture of law school and corporate lawThe unique stresses of being a stepmom and mother to four young childrenThe pivotal hospital experience and subsequent relief of seeking helpFinding internal validation and peace through challenging limiting beliefsOvercoming the shame and blame associated with seeking treatmentAdapting social life and recognizing comfortable social environmentsThe importance of internal strength and moving beyond external valueThe lasting impact of the This Naked Mind methodologyAnd other topics… Episode links: jointnmi.comisabellaferguson.com.au Related Episodes: Breaking Up with Sugar with Molly Carmel - Reader Questions - E269 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-269-breaking-up-with-sugar-with-molly-carmel/ Why is Alcohol In My Life - Meredith’s Naked Life - E29 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-29-naked-life-story-meredith/ Learning to Trust Yourself Again - Alcohol Freedom Coaching - E746 - https://thisnakedmind.com/learning-to-trust-yourself-again-alcohol-freedom-coaching-e746/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious! BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠http://BetterHelp.com/NAKEDMIND|BetterHelp.com/NAKEDMIND⁠⁠ Quince: For your next trip, treat yourself to the luxe upgrades you deserve from Quince. Go to ⁠⁠http://Quince.com/naked|Quince.com/naked⁠⁠ for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Hungryroot: Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at ⁠⁠http://Hungryroot.com/mind|Hungryroot.com/mind⁠⁠ with code mind Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at ⁠⁠http://Shopify.com/mind|Shopify.com/mind⁠

TW: This episode discusses sensitive topics related to alcohol use, addiction, and mental health. Are you searching for how to stop drinking without calling yourself an alcoholic? That’s the question Coaches Bill, Lisa, and Pam answer in this episode, as they courageously share their journeys of finding freedom from alcohol. Coach Bill explains how This Naked Mind helped him quit drinking without adopting the label of "addict," while Coach Lisa reflects on how The Path offered her a safe, supportive space to learn about herself and stop judging her relationship with alcohol. Tune in as they explore how self-compassion, curiosity, and community can help you create the life you deserve. In this episode, Coach Bill + Coach Pam discuss: Choosing This Naked Mind because it showed him how to stop drinking without calling yourself an alcoholic Seeking a program that uplifted him and showed him his inherent power. The profound shift from despair to helping others find freedom. Practicing grace, compassion, and kindness towards himself in the process. Overcoming fear with curiosity to examine what was "underneath the drinking." The beauty of connecting with others in the This Naked Mind community. The realization that The Path shows you the way to feel your inherent awesomeness. Moving from a mindset of perfection to one of continuous progress. …and more In this episode, Coach Lisa + Coach Pam discuss: Feeling truly "seen" for the first time by This Naked Mind content. Finding security and safety within The Path program, realizing she wasn't alone. Learning to stop judging herself and building self-trust. How alcohol forced a conversation that led to designing a life she's excited to wake up to. The understanding that her "anxiety" was her inner wisdom desperate to be heard. The profound feeling of hope and possibility on her first alcohol-free Christmas morning. The truth that there's "no VIP line to freedom" – every step matters and consistency builds self-trust. …and more Coach Bill is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach who turned his personal struggle into his life's mission. Starting his relationship with alcohol at 16 to cope with trauma and lack of community support, Bill spent 40 years trapped in cycles of negativity and dependency before finding freedom through This Naked Mind on December 27, 2021. He believes there's a better way than traditional recovery methods and specializes in helping LGBTQAI+ individuals explore their unique path to alcohol freedom through honest self-exploration in a completely safe, judgment-free environment. Learn more about Coach Bill: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/bill-masters/ Coach Lisa is a Certified Senior This Naked Mind Coach and Designing Your Life Coach. After breaking free from daily drinking in 2018, she now helps high-achieving women overcome anxiety and disconnection through intentional, alcohol-free living. Lisa’s coaching blends science-backed mindset work with practical life design strategies, guiding women to create lasting change and authentic joy. With over two decades of leadership in international sport, she brings a grounded, compassionate presence to clients navigating burnout, reinvention, and self-discovery. Learn more about Coach Lisa: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/lisa-kwiatkowski/ BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠http://BetterHelp.com/NAKEDMIND|BetterHelp.com/NAKEDMIND⁠⁠ Quince: For your next trip, treat yourself to the luxe upgrades you deserve from Quince. Go to ⁠⁠http://Quince.com/naked|Quince.com/naked⁠⁠ for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Hungryroot: Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at ⁠⁠http://Hungryroot.com/mind|Hungryroot.com/mind⁠⁠ with code mind Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at ⁠⁠http://Shopify.com/mind|Shopify.com/mind⁠

What happens when the thing you think is helping you cope is actually making everything worse?  Dusty thought she had found the perfect solution to the stress of military life—wine with girlfriends during deployments, vodka to manage the constant moves, and alcohol to numb the loss of control that came with being a military spouse. Her drinking escalated from social occasions to daily solo consumption, and she began to realize she needed to learn how to stop using alcohol to cope with military life before it destroyed everything she cared about. As a licensed professional counselor and former D1 soccer player, Dusty understood high performance, but alcohol was undermining every area where she wanted to excel. In this episode, she shares with Coach Pam how discovering the alcohol-free community opened her eyes to what she was really losing and how The Path helped her reclaim her life. In this episode, Pam and Dusty discuss: Growing up around alcohol and early social drinking in college Using alcohol to cope with social anxiety during D1 soccer career Marriage as a stabilizing force and reduced drinking periods Military life challenges: deployments, moves, and spouse community drinking COVID-19 impact on control issues and drinking patterns Learning how to stop using alcohol to cope with military life Discovering the alcohol-free movement and community online Working as a counselor while struggling with personal alcohol use Joining The Path program and doing the inner work What she gained by giving up alcohol: better relationships and health And other topics… Episode links: nakedmindpath.com Related Episodes: EP 758: Can Your Marriage Survive Change? Alcohol Freedom Coaching - https://thisnakedmind.com/can-your-marriage-survive-change-alcohol-freedom-coaching-e758/ EP 794: Life After Service, Life Without Alcohol | Peggy’s Naked Life - https://thisnakedmind.com/how-to-stop-drinking-as-a-female-veteran-peggys-naked-life-e794/ EP 636: Reader’s Question – The Art of Balancing Your Needs in a Relationship - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-636-readers-question-the-art-of-balancing-your-needs-in-a-relationship/ Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious! BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month at ⁠⁠http://BetterHelp.com/NAKEDMIND|BetterHelp.com/NAKEDMIND⁠⁠ Quince: For your next trip, treat yourself to the luxe upgrades you deserve from Quince. Go to ⁠⁠http://Quince.com/naked|Quince.com/naked⁠⁠ for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Hungryroot: Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at ⁠⁠http://Hungryroot.com/mind|Hungryroot.com/mind⁠⁠ with code mind Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at ⁠⁠http://Shopify.com/mind|Shopify.com/mind⁠