Rory Kinsella, musician, Vedic meditation teacher and sober coach, reveals how finding inner stillness helped him transform his relationship with alcohol and eventually quit completely. He now teaches others to do the same. We discuss:

• Growing up in alcohol-centric UK culture where drinking was normalised from teenage years and how that lifestyle continued for a while in Sydney
• Rory's progression to an alcohol-free life and how discovering Vedic meditation changed his relationship with stress
• Using meditation during "witching hour" to interrupt the stress-drinking cycle, and
• Developing a coaching approach that celebrates progress over perfection

RORY KINSELLA

https://www.rorykinsellameditation.com/

https://www.wisemonkeyway.com/

Rory offers pre-recorded online programs, live online group programs, one-on-one meditation teaching and sober coaching.

MEG

Web: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub
ConnectAF group coaching: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching


BELLA

Web: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Insta: @alcoholcounsellorisabella
Bi-Yearly 6-Week Small Group Challenges: Learn more: https://www.isabellaferguson.com.au/feb-2025-challenge
Free Do I Have A Drinking Problem 3 x Video Series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/JTFFgjJL/checkout
Free HOW DO I STOP DRINKING SO MUCH Masterclass: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/7fvkb3FF/checkout
Online Alcohol Self-Paced Course: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/fDzcyvWL/checkout...

Australian fashion designer Rochelle Gregory shares her transformative journey from alcohol addiction to creative success with her clothing line Rocky Rafaela. In this ep, we cover how:

• alcohol initially provided social connection, but led to dangerous situations and repeated rehab stays
• purpose through fashion design offered moments of peace allowing racing thoughts to disappear
• how learning to be "comfortable with being uncomfortable" was crucial to maintaining sobriety
• sobriety has opened up opportunities and new beginnings, including a full-circle moment when the school that asked her to leave invited her back to speak about her success.

If you're struggling, remember you're in the perfect position to transform your life. Get clear on who you want to become, reach out for support, surround yourself with supportive people, and know that change is possible for everyone.

ROCKY RAFAELA

https://www.rockyrafaela.com/

ROCHELLE

https://www.instagram.com/rockyrafaela/

MEG

Web: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub
ConnectAF group coaching: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching


BELLA

Web: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Insta: @alcoholcounsellorisabella
Bi-Yearly 6-Week Small Group Challenges: Learn more: https://www.isabellaferguson.com.au/feb-2025-challenge
Free Do I Have A Drinking Problem 3 x Video Series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/JTFFgjJL/checkout
Free HOW DO I STOP DRINKING SO MUCH Masterclass: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/7fvkb3FF/checkout
Online Alcohol Self-Paced Course: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/fDzcyvWL/checkout...

Alice's drinking got out of control growing up in Tasmania, drinking to numb complicated feelings associated with being gay in an environment in which it was still illegal to be gay at the time and so she kept her identity hidden from everyone around her. After bravely going to rehab more than 20 times desperate to find a way out of the destructive drinking cycle she was in, Alice was finally able to stop drinking after reading Annie Grace’s This Naked Mind, doing several of Annie’s alcohol programs and pursing the transformational effects of cold-water exposure and Wim Hoff’s breathing techniques. It stuck. Alice then decided to support others struggling with alcohol and stress to access this method too. She founded Wild Wellness in Tasmania which offers a range of transformational retreats designed to help people escape, heal and reset in the magnificent wilderness of Tasmania via ocean plunges, practitioner-led fireside sessions, journaling and guided breathwork. Alice’s story is inspirational and empowering. She tells her story with openness and honesty together with plenty of belly laughs along the way.

Web: https://www.wildwellnessmethod.com
Instagram: @wild_wellness_method

MEG

Web: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub
ConnectAF group coaching: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching


BELLA

Web: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Insta: @alcoholcounsellorisabella
Bi-Yearly 6-Week Small Group Challenges: Learn more: https://www.isabellaferguson.com.au/feb-2025-challenge
Free Do I Have A Drinking Problem 3 x Video Series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/JTFFgjJL/checkout
Free HOW DO I STOP DRINKING SO MUCH Masterclass: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/7fvkb3FF/checkout
Online Alcohol Self-Paced Course: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/fDzcyvWL/checkout...

Drink: The Intimate Relationship between Women and Alcohol celebrates 10 years today! Tune in as we talk to the author, Ann Dowsett Johnston, award-winning journalist, TEDx Speaker and Founder of the Writing Your Recovery Workshops about women’s relationship with alcohol 10 years on. Is alcohol still the modern women’s steroid that helps us do the heavy lifting?

It was a brave act to speak out in the way Ann did 10 years ago. At the time, Ann became the modern face of alcoholism. “What I wanted to do with my book was to blow the doors wide open and say if I can have an alcohol issue, as Vice Principal of a University, anyone can” says Ann. It’s true. Drink gave permission for women to say “this is happening to me and my family as well”. For that, so many of us will forever be grateful to Ann.

Drink was and is a revolutionary book ahead of its time, interweaving Ann’s personal alcohol story with crucial research and interviews about the startling rise of risky drinking among women. Drink was named one of the 10 best books of 2013 by the Washington Post.

Ann is now a psychotherapist helping other women to recover, a speaker and founder of the Writing Your Recovery Workshops, open to women internationally.

Tune in to this conversation to hear about what life is like 15 year’s sober and Ann’s views on women’s relationship with alcohol today.

Ann's Website: https://www.anndowsettjohnston.com

Writing Your Recovery Workshops: https://www.anndowsettjohnston.com/workshops

Ann's TEDx Talk on Drinking and How it Changed My Life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqtZjpI1oVQ

MEG

Web: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub
ConnectAF group coaching: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching


BELLA

Web: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Insta: @alcoholcounsellorisabella
Bi-Yearly 6-Week Small Group Challenges: Learn more: https://www.isabellaferguson.com.au/feb-2025-challenge
Free Do I Have A Drinking Problem 3 x Video Series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/JTFFgjJL/checkout
Free HOW DO I STOP DRINKING SO MUCH Masterclass: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/7fvkb3FF/checkout
Online Alcohol Self-Paced Course: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/fDzcyvWL/checkout...

Today, we have the honor of speaking with William Porter, the insightful author of "Alcohol Explained." William spent years in the throes of his own drinking career, unknowingly gathering the research and experiences that would later form the foundation of his life-changing book. In this episode William is generous in his knowledge and wisdom.
William offers a profound perspective on alcohol that has the power to transform lives. Let's dive into his journey and discover the truths he's uncovered.

Williams website: https://alcoholexplained.com/the-author/

MEG

Web: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub
ConnectAF group coaching: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching


BELLA

Web: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Insta: @alcoholcounsellorisabella
Bi-Yearly 6-Week Small Group Challenges: Learn more: https://www.isabellaferguson.com.au/feb-2025-challenge
Free Do I Have A Drinking Problem 3 x Video Series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/JTFFgjJL/checkout
Free HOW DO I STOP DRINKING SO MUCH Masterclass: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/7fvkb3FF/checkout
Online Alcohol Self-Paced Course: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/fDzcyvWL/checkout...

Dr. Gina Cleo, one of Australia's leading habit change experts, shares her expertise on creating healthier, alcohol-free habit loops. In this recording of Dr Cleo's talk to my (Bella) November Alcohol Freedom Challenge, Dr Cleo discusses the science behind dopamine, a neurotransmitter that drives our reward and pleasure systems. On this note, alcohol provides a significant dopamine surge—sometimes up to 360% above baseline—creating a powerful association with relief and pleasure. However, over time, relying on alcohol for dopamine can make other activities feel less rewarding, making it harder to break the habit.

Dr. Cleo emphasises the importance of hacking our reward system by changing our perception of alcohol and introducing new sources of joy. Reframing alcohol as a toxin that disrupts sleep and drains energy can reduce its appeal. At the same time, engaging in healthier activities—cooking a new recipe, trying a hobby, or exercising—can naturally boost dopamine. Novel experiences, even small ones, provide excitement and unpredictability, rewiring your brain to find joy beyond alcohol.

As Dr. Cleo explains, building new habits takes time, with the brain’s dopamine levels typically rebalancing within 30 to 90 days. Celebrate each step forward, as acknowledging your progress releases dopamine and reinforces positive behaviours. Listen to Dr. Cleo's practical strategies to rewire your brain, broaden your sources of joy, and thrive without alcohol. 🎧

LEARN MORE ABOUT DR CLEO

Dr Cleo's website: https://www.drginacleo.com/
Dr Cleo's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drginacleo/
Free Habit Change Master Class: https://habitchangeinstitute.mykajabi.com/masterclass

MEG

Web: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub
ConnectAF group coaching: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching


BELLA

Web: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Insta: @alcoholcounsellorisabella
Bi-Yearly 6-Week Small Group Challenges: Learn more: https://www.isabellaferguson.com.au/feb-2025-challenge
Free Do I Have A Drinking Problem 3 x Video Series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/JTFFgjJL/checkout
Free HOW DO I STOP DRINKING SO MUCH Masterclass: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/7fvkb3FF/checkout
Online Alcohol Self-Paced Course: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/fDzcyvWL/checkout...

I never imagined that so many special memories in my life would be a blur. The harsh reality of alcohol-induced blackouts left a mark on what should have been some of the clearest and happiest days of my life. Tune in as I, Meg, unravel the harrowing connection between these blackouts and anxiety, and the role they've played in my own journey. It's a stark look at the silent battle many face, as the quest to ease social nerves can lead to moments lost in time and the frightening inability to form memories.

This episode isn't just a personal reflection—it's a broader discussion on the perilous impact of alcohol misuse on society, from the risks of domestic violence to the tough conversations we must have with our loved ones about safe drinking practices. Through my story, and experiences, we explore the importance of awareness around how and why blackouts occur when it comes to alcohol. If you're grappling with these challenges or know someone who is, this conversation aims to offer a guiding light to those ready to step towards understanding and breaking free from alcohol's grip.

MEG

Web: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub
ConnectAF group coaching: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching


BELLA

Web: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Insta: @alcoholcounsellorisabella
Bi-Yearly 6-Week Small Group Challenges: Learn more: https://www.isabellaferguson.com.au/feb-2025-challenge
Free Do I Have A Drinking Problem 3 x Video Series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/JTFFgjJL/checkout
Free HOW DO I STOP DRINKING SO MUCH Masterclass: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/7fvkb3FF/checkout
Online Alcohol Self-Paced Course: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/fDzcyvWL/checkout...

Donna Bennett shares her five-year sobriety journey that began with an "Easter epiphany" during COVID lockdown, revealing how removing alcohol from her life led to profound personal transformation and newfound freedom. We cover so much in this episode, including:

• Recognising how alcohol had "sneakily" increased its influence over the years, particularly during lunchtime socialising
• Experiencing frightening blackouts and memory gaps during drinking sessions
• Using COVID lockdown as an opportunity to attempt sobriety without social pressure
• Discovering that moderate drinkers exist and learning to socialise without alcohol
• Finding connection and support through the Daybreak app after six weeks of solo sobriety
• Reading about alcohol's effects removed shame and the notion that lacking control was a personality flaw
• Experiencing better sleep, weight loss, and improved mental clarity after quitting
• Moving from "filling in time before dying" to finding joy and purpose in simple things

If you're curious about taking a break from alcohol and are looking for inspiration, take a listen to this episode.

MEG

Web: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/
Unwined Bookclub: https://www.alcoholfreedom.com.au/unwinedbookclub
ConnectAF group coaching: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching
Sober Summit FREE ticket: https://soberlifecollective.spiffy.co/a/wZETXqkEdk/3495


BELLA

Web: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Insta: @alcoholcounsellorisabella
Bi-Yearly 6-Week Small Group Challenges: Learn more: https://www.isabellaferguson.com.au/feb-2025-challenge
Free Do I Have A Drinking Problem 3 x Video Series: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/JTFFgjJL/checkout
Free HOW DO I STOP DRINKING SO MUCH Masterclass: https://resources.isabellaferguson.com.au/offers/7fvkb3FF/checkout
Online Alcohol Self-Paced Co...