Episode 5: Drinking, Disconnection, and the Cost of Self-Erasure with Ryan A. McKelley, Ph.D

In this episode of Wisconsin Sober, the conversation expands into modern parallels: how disconnection, loneliness, and digital life contribute to reduced in-person social interaction and shifting drinking habits, especially among younger generations. The guest, Dr. Ryan McKelley, Ph.D., LP, HSP, a psychologist and professor at UW-La Crosse, highlights how device-based “connection” often replaces real-world belonging.A major theme emerges around self-erasure, the idea of diminishing or suppressing parts of oneself to cope, fit in, or avoid discomfort. Alcohol is discussed as a powerful tool for this: reducing anxiety, numbing pain, and temporarily increasing social ease, but at a long-term cost when it becomes a default coping mechanism.Guest: Ryan A. McKelley, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist and Professor of Clinical/Counseling Psychology, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, https://drmckelley.com. Mentioned Videos: National polling by Gallup shows alcohol consumption across the U.S. has dropped…Hosts: Brent Hanifl and Paige GeiserTheme Song: Sober in October - by Gregg Hall & The Wrecking Ball - https://gregghallmusic.comYou’re listening to Wisconsin Sober, the podcast that explores Wisconsin’s complicated relationship with alcohol. Through digging into the state’s history, culture, and the lasting effects of drinking, this podcast seeks to understand—rather than demonize—alcohol’s role in Wisconsin life, while exploring what meaningful change could look like.