19: Annie Knowles: When “Normal Drinking” Stops Feeling Normal

In this episode of Alcohol Uncensored, Kelly and Ian are joined by Annie Knowles - an alcohol-free and life coach, NLP practitioner, former NHS healthcare professional with over 33 years of experience in high-pressure clinical environments, and co-author of Why We Drink alongside her husband, Dr Charles Knowles.Now over four years alcohol-free, Annie shares her own journey - from having little interest in alcohol growing up, to finding herself caught in mummy wine culture, workplace stress, home drinking, and the quiet creep of “normal” drinking becoming something harder to control.This honest and powerful conversation explores shame, identity, motherhood, the pressures of working in the National Health Service during the pandemic, grey-area drinking, and the moment Annie realised she didn’t have to drink anymore - she could choose not to.A relatable and thought-provoking episode for anyone questioning their relationship with alcohol - even if they don’t think they fit the stereotypeContact Annie: 🌐 www.annieknowlescoaching.com📱@af_rainbowrider 🎧 Alcohol Uncensored is a podcast about the real stories behind alcohol-free living - the good, the hard, and the unexpected freedom that can come with it.Find out more about the Alcohol Uncensored CommunityCredits:Podcast editing Anna CareweMusic by Seren 4 Ever