Highlight

"Nine and a half years down the line, having sorted out many of those problems, although there is still a little bit of DIY I haven't got around to, but no one's perfect. I am so glad that I managed to get myself in a position where I could deal with those issues because I love my wife, and I love my daughter, and they wouldn't be in my life if I hadn't changed."

Summary

In this conversation, Duncan Bhaskaran Brown shares his journey from being a heavy drinker to finding sobriety and purpose in life. He discusses the role of alcohol in social settings, the challenges he faced when he stopped drinking, and the importance of connection and support in recovery. Duncan emphasises the need for education and awareness about alcohol's effects, particularly for future generations, and highlights the significance of finding one's purpose and meaning in life. He also addresses the societal implications of alcohol consumption and the importance of changing the narrative around it.

About Duncan

Website - https://www.bhaskaranbrown.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncanbhaskaranbrown/
Podcast Flat-Pack Sober - https://player.fm/series/flat-pack-sober
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@duncanbhaskaranbrown4359

Takeaways

• You are not alone in your struggles.
• Morris Dancing sparked conversations about identity.
• Alcohol can fill perceived gaps in personality.
• Recognizing the problem often comes after stopping.
• Life improves significantly after quitting alcohol.
• Facing life's challenges sober is essential.
• Purpose and meaning are crucial for recovery.
• Connection with others is vital for sobriety.
• Relapse can be redefined as a learning opportunity.
• Education about alcohol should start early.

Sound Bites

• "Life is far more beautiful on the other side."
• "I just thought, I'm going to like just say Speaker, Author, Morris Dancer."
• "Alcohol seemed to fill in the holes in my personality."

Chapters

02:33 - Alcohol and Early Experiences

04:43 - Realisation of Unhealthy Drinking

07:54 - The Impact of Family on Sobriety

10:10 - Relearning Life After Alcohol

12:17 - Facing Difficulties and Building Relationships

15:29 - The Role of Purpose in Sobriety

18:23 - Understanding Relapse and Recovery

23:51 - Tools for Resilience Against Relapse

28:15 - The Importance of Connection

32:03 - Changing the Conversation Around Alcohol

36:57 - Duncan's Writing and Advocacy

42:37 - Shame and Its Role in Alcoholism