#75 Healing AF

In this episode, I sit down with author Ann Dowsett Johnston to discuss the complex relationship between women and alcohol. Ann shares her personal journey with addiction and recovery, and how societal expectations have enabled problematic drinking patterns. We explore the manipulation of big alcohol companies and how perfectionism fuels isolation. Episode Highlights:  Alcohol functions as a "steroid" enabling women to manage multiple responsibilities Big alcohol targets women through normalisation and health claims not supported by evidence Addiction stems from perfectionism, loneliness and the pressure to meet unrealistic standards Authenticity and self-care are discovered through sobriety rather than drinking to conform Storytelling and connection are powerful ways to break the cycle of shame surrounding alcohol Episode links & Resources: Find out more about Ann at https://www.anndowsettjohnston.com/  Buy Ann's book: "Drink - the intimate relationship between women and alcohol" at https://www.harpercollins.com/products/drink-ann-dowsett-johnston?variant=32208103505954  Follow Ann on Insta at https://www.instagram.com/anndowsettjohnstonofficial/  Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/midlife-af-podcast/id1649673705