Laughs without Lager

Send us Fan MailThe lie that keeps most of us stuck isn’t what we tell other people, it’s what we whisper to ourselves when no one is watching. We’re joined by Ash Butters (Behind the Smile), who just celebrated six years sober, and she gets radically honest about how addiction works: the secrecy, the self-betrayal, the “crutch” behaviors that sneak in after we quit drinking, and the slow rebuild of self-trust that finally makes an alcohol-free lifestyle feel like freedom instead of punishment.We talk through Ash’s sobriety story from early blackouts and a high-functioning double life to the moment grief and trauma pushed binge drinking into daily dependence. She shares what rock bottom actually looked like for her, why rehab mattered, and how she stayed connected to recovery support when COVID lockdown wiped out normal aftercare. If you’ve ever wondered whether AA or a 12-step program can help, we unpack what changed when she was finally ready to hear the message.From there, we zoom out into long-term sobriety tools that work in real life: boundaries in relationships, nervous system regulation, breathwork, meditation, prayer, gratitude, yoga, and the non-negotiables that help us handle anxiety and “life on life’s terms.” If you’re in early recovery, sober curious, or rebuilding after relapse, you’ll leave with practical relapse prevention insights and a reminder that healing is a process, not an event. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs it, and leave a review telling us what tool you’re using this week. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailA lot of addiction stories don’t look like the stereotype, and that’s why this conversation lands. We’re joined by empowerment coach, yoga teacher, breathwork facilitator, and public speaker Jourdi Blue, who opens up about the real timeline behind her sobriety journey, from a traumatic car accident at 15 to opioid addiction, rehab at 18, and years of “high-functioning” drinking that blended into college and party culture. If you’ve ever wondered whether your relationship with alcohol is a problem because you still show up to work, this will feel uncomfortably familiar in the best way. We talk about what happens when trauma gets pushed down instead of processed, how emotional regulation and identity can get hijacked, and why alcohol can become the fast fix for social anxiety and that painful sense of not belonging. Jourdi shares the pivot from a glamorous Sydney lifestyle that looked successful on the outside to feeling empty on the inside, plus the intuition moment that told her to leave and rebuild from scratch. Her story is also a clear look at the “moderation trap” and why attempts to control drinking can quietly turn back into daily dependence. From there, we dig into what helped her finally put the drink down for good: 12-step support, therapy, hypnotherapy, coaching, and the healing power of yoga and breathwork. We also explore the fun side of recovery, including how she reclaimed dancing by creating sober dance parties built around cacao, breathwork, movement, and community. If you’re searching for sobriety motivation, alcohol addiction recovery tools, or a more spiritual and body-based approach to healing, you’ll take a lot from this one. If this resonates, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs it, and leave a review so more people can find these stories. What part of Geordie’s journey hit closest to home for you?Jourdi's website: https://jourdibleu.com/ Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailHe started drinking at 14, and it didn’t stay “just weekends” for long. Recovery Jimmy joins us from Glasgow to tell the unvarnished story of how alcohol slid from buzz to baseline, how secrecy and withdrawal took over daily life, and why so many men in recovery still feel pressure to keep it quiet. We talk about the moment the “stiff upper lip” finally breaks, and what changes when you stop treating sobriety like a private struggle and start treating it like a life decision.Jimmy walks us through drink driving, job losses, chaotic relationships, and the kind of coping that sounds unbelievable until you’ve lived it: cough medicine at work, vodka in the car, and repeated relapses that come back stronger every time. We also unpack rehab timing right as COVID hit, the loneliness that follows consequences, and the hard truth that motivation often shows up only after pain becomes undeniable.From there, the conversation turns practical and hopeful. Jimmy lays out the recovery stack that helped him: hospital detox, AA, SMART Recovery, Zoom meetings around the world, quit lit, peer mentoring, and building a new identity through photography, a gardening business, and service. We also challenge the myth of “normal drinking,” discuss dating and relationships while alcohol-free, and share a moment that captures early sobriety perfectly: keeping an unopened vodka bottle for a world-ending scenario, then later choosing to pour it out and stay sober anyway.If you got value from this, subscribe, share this with someone who’s trying to quit drinking, and leave a review so more people can find honest alcohol-free recovery stories. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailIf you’ve ever been in a "situationship” while secretly hoping it turns into commitment, you’re going to feel seen. We’re talking about scarcity mindset in love, the kind that keeps you in an on-again, off-again situationship because it feels safer than starting over, especially when sobriety has changed how you date, flirt, and connect. From Sydney weekend reflections to the moment the truth finally lands, we walk through what it looks like to choose yourself when chemistry has been doing all the talking.We unpack the addiction-like pull of toxic relationships: trauma bonds, intermittent reinforcement, love bombing, and the dopamine hit of attention that disappears the second you respond. We also connect the dots to narcissistic abuse patterns, including the covert kind that can look “nice” on the surface while quietly eroding your self-esteem. Along the way, we get honest about secret keeping, emotional unavailability, and why “part-time lover” arrangements often keep your heart stuck on standby.Then we go deeper into healing: core wounds like “I’m not lovable” and “I’m not enough,” how childhood beliefs shape adult relationship patterns, and what it takes to break the loop for good. We share practical tools like getting radically honest about the reality (not the potential), writing down the bad alongside the so-called good, and using boundaries and the gray rock method to stop the cycle from restarting.If this conversation sparks something in you, share it with a friend who needs it, then subscribe, leave a review, and tell us what boundary you’re practicing next. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailEver plan your grand return to wine, only to realize you want your mornings more than the glass? That’s where our guest, musician and trauma‑informed sober coach Danni, found herself after a “just twelve months off” pact turned into eight years of clarity. We dive into the messy middle—shame spirals, identity in the music scene, and the gut-punch of waking to calls you don’t remember—and then get practical about what actually keeps you steady when the clink of glasses sounds tempting.We talk about alcohol as a nervous system solution that works until it doesn’t, and the three questions that flipped the script: what happened to me, what did alcohol do for me, and what was it protecting me from? Danni shares how journaling, therapy, and compassionate inquiry reduced the noise, while simple, repeatable tools—slow nasal breathing, short somatic check-ins, and unfussy yoga—created that vital pause between urge and action. No perfection posturing here; just grounded strategies that you can use at a barbecue, in the car, or in the hallway before a tough conversation.We also go deep on perimenopause and sobriety: how alcohol masks symptoms, wrecks sleep, and magnifies anxiety, and why evidence-based care, HRT, and micro-practices matter. You’ll hear how daily rituals lowered baseline stress, strengthened relationships, and made space for honesty without the hangover. Danny opens up about her evolving course, the importance of community, and choosing to slow down to prioritize family and a life on tour that aligns with her values.If you’ve ever wondered why you drink, how to stop doom-scrolling after a night out, or what to do with the awkward minutes at a party, this episode hands you a humane, workable roadmap. Listen, breathe with us for a minute, and leave with tools you can use tonight.Enjoyed this conversation? Follow, share with a friend who needs it, and leave a quick review to help more people find the show. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailDry January gave you a reset—now what? We dive into the messy, hopeful middle between a 30-day break and a stable, alcohol-free life you actually enjoy. From the sneaky “just one” voice to the myth of moderation, we break down how to move past willpower and build a foundation that lasts: real connection, daily tools that shift your state, and deeper work that heals the reasons you reached for a drink in the first place.We talk about the difference between fake connection and the real thing—how alcohol promised belonging, confidence, and ease but delivered hangovers, anxiety, and isolation. Instead of numbing, we share practical moves that work in minutes: breath cycles to interrupt cravings, micro-workouts to move jittery energy, nature breaks to ground your attention, and simple scripts for navigating social pressure without explaining yourself. We also swap resources that sparked our momentum—podcasts, quit lit, coaching, hypnotherapy, and therapy—and how community turns “I should” into “I can.”Under the surface, we dig into core wounds and beliefs that keep the cycle alive: not-enoughness, fear of rejection, and identities like “party person” that feel safe but keep you stuck. By naming and reshaping those patterns, you build new neural pathways and a self-trust that outlasts motivation dips. Different tools work for different people, but the principle stands: small, consistent steps add up to big change. One clear morning at a time. One honest conversation at a time. One choice that honors who you’re becoming.If you’re on the fence after 30 days, consider this your sign to keep going. Hit play, grab a few tools that resonate, and start stacking wins. If the conversation helps, follow the show, subscribe, and leave a review so others can find it. What belief about alcohol are you challenging today? Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailWhat if the worst moment of your life played back to you on global TV—and it became the exact catalyst you needed to change? That’s the turning point Ashton shares with us, tracing his jump from a Johannesburg cubicle to Below Deck’s spotlight, the night that spiraled in a van, and the sober rebuild that followed. Join us for a clear-eyed look at how alcohol masks deeper problems, why logic can break its spell, and how presence, purpose, and real connection return when the noise drops.We get specific about the work. Ashton explains how he paired mindset with physiology to heal faster: advanced blood work, gut testing, and genetics to target the right nutrition, training, and supplements. He opens up about discovering stress vulnerabilities in his genes, the active B vitamins that lifted a “depression” misdiagnosis, and the post-alcohol blood sugar swings that fuel sugar cravings. When chemistry aligns, identity shifts stick. The result isn’t stricter, it’s smarter—less punishment, more precision, and a life that no longer needs anesthesia.We also dive into a vital segment of our audience: women 45-plus navigating perimenopause and menopause. Ashton shares why generic lab ranges miss dysfunction, how HRT needs careful retesting, and why too many are told they’re “fine” when they know they’re not. This is a conversation about agency, empathy, and data—about taking ownership of your health and building a life that feels good without the crutch of alcohol.If this resonates, follow and share the show with someone who needs a nudge toward clarity. Subscribe, leave a review, and tell us: what’s the one change you’re ready to make today?Ashton Insta:https://www.instagram.com/ashtonpienaar/ Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailEver feel that sudden pull toward a drink on a sunny afternoon or a lonely weeknight and wonder why it hits so hard? We get honest about what cravings really are—quick promises of comfort wrapped in nostalgia—and how to meet the real need underneath without waking up to shame and headaches. Drawing on our lived experience, we break down the tools that actually help: play the tape forward to the messy middle and the morning after; surf the urge for fifteen calm minutes with a pen and paper; eat a real meal earlier to steady the evening; and change your route, your routine, and your plans to sidestep old cues.We also talk about the deeper layer: working out your whys. Alcohol once felt like relief, bravado, or belonging, so we look at what those parts of you still need and how to give it to them directly. That might be connection when you feel isolated, comfort when the sugar cravings flare, or simple rest when your body is running on fumes. We share how family became both mirror and motivation—why we refuse to trade presence for a buzz—and how that commitment grows stronger than willpower when paired with books, challenges, and coaching that reframe old beliefs.Most importantly, we map out practical plans for triggers: weekends alone, holidays, or the drive past the bottle shop. You won’t need a rigid schedule forever, just long enough to prove to your brain that peace and joy live outside the glass. Expect candid stories, zero judgment, and strategies you can use tonight. If this conversation helps, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs it, and leave a review to help others find the show. What’s your go-to move when a craving hits? We’d love to hear it. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailThe calendar is sprinting toward a fresh start, but we’re not making resolutions—we’re choosing action. We look back at a year of sober wins and hard lessons, from funneling former bar tabs into a down payment to staying present during those nerve-wracking nights when teens push curfew and boundaries. The real headline isn’t perfection; it’s momentum. Sobriety didn’t just clear our heads. It recalibrated our money, our mornings, and our sense of security.You’ll hear how skipping alcohol eliminated whole chains of hidden costs—Ubers, late-night meals, shame-spend shopping—and created room for values-aligned choices like a short health retreat and a half-price rug that sparked joy instead of guilt. One of us closed on a home solo and learned the quiet power of stability: no one can take away what consistent, clear action built. The other leaned into breathwork, gratitude, and seven-minute Insight Timer practices to stay steady through legal limbo and teen milestones. Together we unpack the mantra that resets scarcity thinking—I am enough, I do enough, I have enough, there is enough—and the practical difference between intuition and the mind’s noisy stories.We also talk about parenting without numbing, setting firm but loving boundaries, and letting kids learn through natural consequences. Expect candid stories from the mining days to modern mornings with dog walks at dawn, plus a warm invitation to share your alcohol-free story on the show. If you’re craving a grounded reset for the Year of the Horse, Meg's Forward Together group coaching offers twice-weekly support, community accountability, and tools that fit real life.If this conversation helps, tap follow, share it with a friend who needs a nudge, and leave a quick review to help others find the show. Then tell us: what’s one small action you’ll take this week to move forward—no numbing, just you, fully present? Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailHoliday parties, family tables, and New Year countdowns can feel like a maze when you’re choosing not to drink. We open up about what actually helps: the tiny moves that protect your peace, the scripts that end awkward pressure, and the plans that turn a long season into something you might finally enjoy. From the first work do to Boxing Day, we unpack real moments—food truck delays, sugar swaps, old triggers—and show how a simple plan can keep you grounded, social, and home safe.We start with work parties, where moderation myths collide with empty stomachs and top-ups. Our go-to strategy: drink in hand from the start, eat early when possible, and lean on activities that shift attention from pouring to playing. Curiosity becomes a superpower; when you notice that “first glass” glow in others without chasing it yourself, you claim back the night. Moving to Christmas Day, we offer a festive non-alcoholic punch, BYO boundaries, and the power of hosting to stay busy, connected, and clear. Games, swimming, backyard cricket—giving the day a rhythm makes it easier to say no without feeling left out.We also dig into the deeper stuff: family friction, the pull of old rituals, and the quiet pride of waking up clear. There’s hard-won honesty here—the years we drank through the good parts, the meals we skipped, the mess we woke to—and the relief of doing it differently now. Looking ahead, we talk New Year’s Eve without the pressure to perform, setting intentions instead of brittle resolutions, and the structure of Dry January with coaching, community, and momentum that lasts past January 1. If you’re alcohol-free curious or protecting a hard-won streak, you’ll find tools you can use tonight.Ready to design a calmer, happier holiday season? Hit play, grab an AF drink, and plan your best December yet. If this resonates, subscribe, share with a friend who needs it, and leave a quick review—your words help more people find a clear path through the holidays. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailWe unpack how alcohol glued unhealthy friendships together, why sobriety exposed toxic patterns, and how learning to respond instead of react rebuilt our boundaries and our circles. Some ties faded, stronger ones deepened, and we found new friends who match our values, not our pour.• booze-bonded friendships and enabling• toxic comments normalized by drinking• fear of confrontation and people-pleasing• shifting from reacting to responding• accountability and letting go of anger• spotting jealousy, digs and red flags• codependence and performance drinking• losing alcohol-only friends without regret• keeping deeper friends and finding new ones• raising standards, dating yourself and safety Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when you take the mic, skip the “liquid courage,” and tell the truth anyway? We open up about two moments that reshaped our confidence: MCing a 90th birthday with shaking hands and a full heart, and saying yes to a day at the races with people we barely knew. No shortcuts, no numbing—just the kind of presence that turns fear into evidence that you can handle more than you thought.The stories are small and seismic. A speech becomes a bridge between mother and daughter, where sobriety transforms old resentment into real connection. A social invite that once would’ve required a pregame turns into a simple, joyful experiment: pick the horses by name, laugh at the losses, and leave clear-headed and proud. That momentum carries into a primary school reunion, where karaoke and reconnection feel natural without a drink in hand. Along the way, we talk about how alcohol used to work until it didn’t—how it made us selfish, loud, and far from who we wanted to be—and how removing it gave us back choice, presence, and the energy to celebrate others.If you’re rethinking your relationship with alcohol, curious about building confidence without a crutch, or just hungry for proof that courage grows by doing, this conversation offers practical hope. We share the wins, the wobbles, and the simple moves that add up: speak even when your hand shakes, say yes to the thing that scares you a little, and let the afterglow become your new feedback loop. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs a nudge, and leave a review telling us the next brave step you’re taking. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailWhat if the ache you feel when life moves on isn’t a problem to fix, but a compass pointing you back to what matters? That question sits at the heart of this solo story from Meg, where nostalgia, fear of loss, and the bittersweet nature of change collide with the choice to live fully—without alcohol.We trace the hidden logic that once drove her to drink: the unbearable awareness that moments pass, kids grow up, and chapters close. Meg shares how a lifelong love of photographs turned into a paradox—chasing memories while missing the moment—and how blackouts stole the very days she wanted to keep. A chance encounter with Brene Brown’s Atlas of the Heart provided a vocabulary for bittersweet and nostalgia, helping her see that memory often edits out the hard parts. By reframing the past and naming feelings accurately, she found room to breathe in the present.From there, the conversation turns practical. Meg walks through the exact tools that keep her alcohol-free: treating cravings as signals, asking “what do I need right now,” choosing connection over isolation, moving her body to regulate stress, and gently updating old beliefs that say the best is behind her. Teaching her youngest to drive becomes a vivid example of the shift—from anxiety and grief to gratitude and presence—one breath and one moment at a time. The result is a grounded kind of freedom: clear mornings, real memories, and confidence to face change without numbing.If you’ve ever felt pulled between longing and living, this story offers language, structure, and hope. Hear how to honor the past without getting stuck there, create memories you’ll actually remember, and build a sober life that can hold all your feelings. If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs it, and leave a review to help others find these tools. Your next present moment is waiting—come join us. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailWhat if the school holidays weren’t a blur of recovery but a season you actually remember? We get honest about how alcohol once ran the schedule—stacking holiday programs to make space for hangovers, leaning on sleepovers and grandparents, and calling it “normal.” Then we map the upgrade: sober camping trips that count even when it’s just one night, late-night teen pickups without the panic, and family milestones—like a 90th birthday—where every laugh lands because we’re truly there.We unpack the lie that celebrations need booze. If the grand final, Melbourne Cup, or a Sunday barbecue is genuinely fun, why did we need to drink to enjoy it? That question opened a door. Some traditions stayed; others didn’t. We talk about rebuilding relationships without blame, how anger and resentment dissolved when our bodies finally had capacity, and why presence beats perfection every time. The wins are simple and huge: clear mornings, steady energy, better sleep, and memories that stick.You’ll hear practical ways to make school break feel like a break: slow walks to spot spring flowers, easy meals, earlier nights, reading in peace, and plans you can keep because you’re not recovering from last night. We also tackle friendships formed around drinking, the shift to choosing people by values instead of volume, and the relief of being the reliable ride when your teens call at 11 p.m. If you’re sober-curious or already alcohol-free, this is a grounded, hopeful look at what changes when you swap numb for presence.If this resonated, follow the show, share with a friend who might need it, and leave a quick review—it helps others find their way here. What’s one tradition you’re ready to rewrite? Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailA bag of manure, a wrong funeral procession, and two friends laughing so hard their faces hurt—this is a story about how fun didn’t vanish when the wine did. We crack open the invisible rules that used to run our lives: the bar tab at weddings, the “you deserve it” drinks after pregnancy, the designated‑driver resentment, the “check your texts” dread. Instead of preaching, we talk honestly about what changed: connection got louder, shame got quieter, and ordinary Sundays started to feel like a win.We contrast the quiet respect of a Greek funeral with the rowdy Australian wake, and what it meant to be present—truly present—when a 6 a.m. call brought scary news. We revisit messy nights (tequila at a school fundraiser, anyone?), the paranoia and people‑pleasing that alcohol amplified, and the relief of drawing boundaries and leaving toxic friendships. Along the way we explore sober curiosity, alcohol‑free socializing, hangover recovery, and how the joy of missing out can replace FOMO when you choose clarity over coping.Sober fun isn’t a theory here; it’s a quiz night with belly laughs, a Thailand trip without the logistics of booze, and Sunday rituals that restore instead of repair. We share practical wins—better sleep, cleaner relationships, fewer apologies, more energy—and the small comforts that help: a big pot of curry, football, and delightfully trashy TV that doesn’t require a recovery day. If you’re rethinking your relationship with alcohol, craving fewer hangovers and more real connection, you’ll find stories, strategies, and a lot of heart.If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs it, and leave a quick review—your support helps others find an alcohol‑free path to real joy. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailAlcohol freedom doesn't mean the end of fun—it's the beginning of something far more authentic and expansive. In this eye-opening conversation with Kim Raysmith, founder of Sober Party People and retreat host, we dive deep into what it really takes to reclaim joy without liquid courage.Kim's journey begins with a familiar struggle: "I wanted to be sober like I wanted a hole in my head." For years, she chased the elusive "moderation fairy," convinced that her inability to control her drinking was simply a character flaw. With refreshing honesty, she shares how the birth of her youngest son created the perfect storm that forced her to confront her relationship with alcohol.What makes this conversation so valuable is Kim's candid admission that early sobriety was miserable. Far from the instant transformation often portrayed in sobriety narratives, she describes her first sober work event as "an out-of-body experience" where she was simply going through the motions. The magic formula? Doing things three times. "You've got to break the seal," she explains, describing how we need to create new neural pathways for experiences without the dopamine hit from alcohol.The most powerful moment comes when Kim describes the clarity that eventually arrives—what she calls being "sucked out of the Matrix." Suddenly seeing alcohol culture from the outside reveals how limited that world really is. In contrast, sobriety opened doors to new friendships, hobbies, and experiences she never would have discovered while drinking.Whether you're sober-curious or years into your alcohol-free journey, Kim's practical strategies for navigating social situations and her description of hosting retreats where people have genuine fun without drinking will inspire you to expand your own definition of what makes a good time. As she wisely notes, "A shit night out is a shit night out, whether you're pissed or not—you're just numbing yourself through it."Ready to break out of the matrix and discover what lies beyond the bottle? This conversation might just be your first step toward a more authentic, connected, and genuinely fun life. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailValentine's Day typically conjures images of romantic love, but for Faye Hughes, it became the day she finally chose self-love over self-destruction. Flying back to Australia after a family wedding gone wrong, shame and regret weighing heavy on her shoulders, Faye made a life-altering decision to commit to sobriety that would transform every aspect of her life.Faye's story begins with childhood impressions of alcohol as the centerpiece of fun and connection, watching her mother's parties and absorbing the unspoken family fear of inherited alcoholism. By fifteen, she was already experiencing blackouts, setting the stage for years of progressively problematic drinking through university, hospitality jobs, and eventually her move to Australia, where drinking intensified away from family oversight.What makes this conversation particularly powerful is Faye's raw honesty about the toll alcohol took on her relationships and self-worth. Her brothers had blocked her on social media, unable to witness her drinking behavior. She describes the constant cycle of shame, regret, and anxiety that made genuine self-love impossible. "It's not possible to build self-love when you're constantly living in shame, guilt, and regret," she explains, referencing a breakthrough moment in her understanding.Now two and a half years sober, Faye shares the practical tools that helped her rebuild her relationship with herself: self-compassion practices, breathwork for nervous system regulation, daily affirmations, and recognizing how dramatically reduced her stress levels became when she eliminated alcohol-induced problems. Perhaps most touching is how her sobriety journey reconnected her with her mother, who followed Faye into sobriety six months later, creating a beautiful bond where they now share sobriety resources and support.Through her program "Sober Glow Up in 100 Days," Faye now helps others experience the transformation she's lived, combining sobriety support with self-love practices. Her story reminds us that sometimes the greatest act of love is choosing yourself over behaviors that no longer serve you. Ready to transform your relationship with alcohol and yourself? This episode offers both inspiration and practical guidance for your journey. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailHave you ever woken up after a night of drinking with no memory of how you got home? Those aren't just fuzzy memories—they're scientifically proven to be memories that never formed at all. Welcome to the neurological phenomenon of blackouts.Megsie and Ali take you on a deeply personal journey through their experiences with alcohol-induced blackouts, exploring both the science and emotional impact of these memory gaps. As Megsie poignantly shares, "I was a photographer who created memories for people, yet I was losing my own." This irony highlights the profound disconnect between what many of us value and how alcohol can undermine those very values.The conversation doesn't shy away from the dangerous realities of functioning while in a blackout state. From stolen Domino's pizza bikes to waking up with unexplained broken ribs, their candid stories illuminate how blackouts aren't just inconvenient memory lapses—they represent significant safety risks and lost life experiences. While some stories might bring nervous laughter, the underlying message is clear: operating in the world without forming memories is profoundly risky.What makes this episode particularly impactful is the contrast between past experiences and present clarity. Both hosts describe the freedom that comes with leaving blackouts behind and reclaiming their full presence in special moments. The joy of fully remembering birthdays, celebrations, and everyday interactions emerges as one of sobriety's most precious gifts.Whether you've experienced blackouts yourself or know someone who has, this episode offers valuable insights into this common but concerning aspect of drinking culture. Listen in for a blend of neuroscience, personal storytelling, and hope for a life where memories aren't lost to alcohol. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailHave you ever wondered if those small, seemingly insignificant moments from your past might be driving your drinking habits today? In this powerful conversation with Meg, we uncover the hidden connections between what she calls "invisible trauma" and alcohol dependency.Meg's journey began with a single trembling moment in front of her high school class that triggered an anxiety disorder. When she discovered at 18 that alcohol stopped her shaking hands, it became her medicine—a pattern that eventually led to isolating and drinking over two bottles of wine nightly. What makes her story particularly compelling is how she traces this dependency back to core wounds and limiting beliefs formed in childhood.Throughout our discussion, Meg breaks down the difference between the dramatic traumas we typically recognise and the subtle experiences that quietly shape our self-perception. She explains how these experiences create "core wounds"—fundamental negative beliefs about ourselves that drive behaviors like excessive drinking. For Megan, beliefs like "I'm stupid" and "I'm unlovable" lurked beneath her drinking habits for decades.The most hopeful aspect of our conversation reveals what healing looks like. Meg describes her journey to developing deeper self-trust, responding rather than reacting to triggers, and establishing a calmer baseline from which to navigate life's challenges. She offers practical suggestions for listeners questioning their relationship with alcohol, emphasizing that curiosity is the perfect first step.Whether you identify with drinking to manage anxiety, loneliness, or simple boredom, this episode will help you look beneath the surface to understand what might really be driving those habits. Connect with Meg through her website, podcast, or book club to continue exploring how healing trauma can transform your relationship with alcohol and yourself. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailImagine standing in a store, debating whether to spend $75 on a massage gun for chronic pain relief, while never once questioning dropping $200 on weekend alcohol. This jarring realization sparked our deep dive into the strange financial double standards we create before and after sobriety.We unpack how society normalizes spending on harmful habits while scrutinizing healthier choices. "$15,500 saved in 3.5 years of sobriety" isn't just an impressive number—it represents freedom from the warped priorities alcohol created in our lives. Yet many of us still struggle with feeling worthy of investing in our wellbeing.The conversation weaves through powerful revelations about self-worth, fear, and authenticity. "We drank because we were scared we would never get the things we desired so much," we realize, acknowledging how alcohol numbed not just pain but our deepest desires. Sobriety exposes this vulnerability but also reveals our innate strength. Those qualities we thought alcohol gave us—creativity, confidence, humor—were within us all along.Beyond personal transformation, we discover the profound impact of sharing these insights. When one person finds their way through the fog of alcohol use disorder, they create a path for others to follow. Our most meaningful connections now come from authenticity rather than the false intimacy alcohol provided.Ready to reclaim your financial and emotional freedom? Join us as we navigate the beautiful, sometimes uncomfortable journey of discovering what we truly value when alcohol no longer makes our decisions. What would you invest in if you redirected your alcohol budget toward your wellbeing? Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailEver wonder if those nagging concerns about your drinking might actually be important warning signs? Join Ali and Megsy as they candidly unpack the red flags they ignored on their paths to alcohol dependence—and eventual sobriety.With unflinching honesty, they explore how society's narrow definition of "alcoholism" allowed them to dismiss serious warning signs simply because they were "high-functioning." From bringing backup booze to every social event to eagerly awaiting their children's driver's licenses (so they could drink without driving), these seemingly small behaviors revealed deeper truths they weren't ready to face.Through personal stories filled with both humour and vulnerability, they recount the physical symptoms, relational challenges, and internal doubts that persistently surfaced despite their best efforts to ignore them. Particularly powerful is their discussion of that persistent inner voice—the gut feeling that something wasn't right—which they both tried desperately to silence with more drinking.Beyond simply identifying red flags, Ali and Meg offer hope by sharing how life has transformed for them now. They discuss finding authentic joy, making better decisions, discovering new passions, and building more meaningful connections. Their conversation serves as both a wake-up call and a reassurance that questioning your relationship with alcohol doesn't require labeling yourself, but rather listening to that inner wisdom that's trying to guide you toward a better life.Whether you're sober curious or simply interested in understanding problematic drinking patterns, this episode provides valuable insight into recognising warning signs before they lead to more serious consequences. Most importantly, it reminds listeners that sobriety isn't about what you're giving up, but rather what you gain—a second chance at living authentically. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailEver found yourself swearing off alcohol only to cave in a moment of weakness? That dreaded "fuck it button" moment is something both of us know intimately—and it's exactly what we're tackling in this raw, unfiltered conversation about the cycle of drinking, quitting, and drinking again.Ali opens up about her journey through hypnotherapy to address the root causes of her drinking—feelings of unworthiness and abandonment—only to face a critical test at a colleague's wedding where champagne flutes and old habits threatened everything she'd worked for. Meanwhile, Meg shares how five months of sobriety in 2018 evaporated with one impulsive decision on Valentine's Day, leading to two more years lost to alcohol.What makes this episode different from typical sobriety talk is our focus on practical strategies that actually work in those crucial moments when willpower isn't enough. From "surfing the urge" techniques that help you ride out cravings to finding unexpected accountability partners (Ali's daughter became her unlikely ally), we share the real tools that finally helped us break free after countless attempts.The most powerful insight? Your motivation to quit has to become bigger than your reason to drink. For Meg, it was visualizing where her life would be in one, five, and ten years if she continued drinking. For Ali, it was recording a brutally honest video to herself after a relapse. Whatever your motivation, we're here to remind you that everyone who's successfully quit has likely hit the fuck-it button multiple times along the way. The only way you won't succeed is if you stop trying.Feeling stuck in the cycle? Listen in, grab some tools, and remember—you're choosing yourself when you choose sobriety. And that's worth fighting for. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailThe question arrived in our inbox from a listener with a familiar fear: "Will I lose my friends if I stop drinking?" It's a concern that keeps countless people trapped in cycles of alcohol use despite wanting to quit. After all, drinking culture permeates nearly every social gathering—from parent meetups to barbecues, Friday celebrations to weekend festivities.Drawing from our combined eight years of sobriety, we explore how friendship landscapes truly transform when alcohol exits the picture. The surprising truth? While some connections naturally fade, these aren't "losses" but revelations about which relationships were authentic versus which were merely drinking partnerships. As we share our experiences, we unpack how many drinking friendships were based on mutual enabling, negativity, and what we call "pity parties"—gatherings where everyone validated each other's misery while avoiding addressing the real issues.What becomes crystal clear through our conversation is the profound irony of alcohol: we drink seeking connection and belonging, yet it prevents the very depth we're searching for. Without alcohol, we form deeper bonds more quickly, have conversations we actually remember, and discover parts of ourselves that were always there but obscured by drinking. The embarrassing late-night drunk calls, blackouts, and memory gaps give way to authentic conversations and genuine presence.Perhaps most encouraging for those considering sobriety is how our social worlds expanded rather than contracted. We reconnected with people we'd previously dismissed because they "didn't drink enough," found new communities through shared interests rather than shared bottles, and discovered that true friendships adapt—switching from evening drinking sessions to morning walks, meaningful dinners, or creative pursuits.Whether you're sober-curious or supporting someone who's making changes, this episode offers hope that a richer social life awaits on the other side of alcohol. What connections might you discover when you're fully present? What authentic relationships are waiting to deepen when you're no longer numbed by drinking? We'd love to hear your experiences—reach out to us on Instagram at Laughs Without Lager or through our website. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailEver wondered when to tell people you've stopped drinking? That seemingly simple question leads us down a fascinating rabbit hole of social expectations, personal growth, and the unexpected gifts of sobriety.As two women with over seven combined years of alcohol-free living, we've navigated countless awkward explanations, invented excuses, and eventually found our authentic voices. From Ali's clever "one-year no beer challenge" deflection to Megsy's podcast revelation, we share the evolving ways we've announced our sobriety to friends, family, and even potential employers.What's most striking is how society demands explanations from non-drinkers while never questioning those who drink. This double standard reveals alcohol's powerful grip on our culture, even as both of us discovered something revolutionary: all those qualities we credited to alcohol—being funny, creative, confident—were actually within us all along. Alcohol wasn't enhancing our personalities; it was masking them.The transformation from FOMO (fear of missing out) to JOMO (joy of missing out) marks a pivotal shift in sobriety, as does the realization that we didn't "give up" anything valuable—we gained ourselves back. Through personal anecdotes ranging from hilarious misadventures to profound moments of clarity, we illustrate how sobriety unveils our authentic selves and reconnects us with our true values.Whether you're sober-curious, newly alcohol-free, or simply interested in understanding loved ones who don't drink, this conversation offers both practical guidance and heartfelt encouragement. Ready to explore the freedom that comes when you no longer feel compelled to explain yourself or pretend to be someone you're not? Listen now, and discover what awaits on the other side of drinking. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailRemember when special occasions meant inevitable hangovers? When Mother's Day was just another excuse to pop champagne at breakfast and keep drinking until you crashed on the couch by dinner time? We've been there, and in this raw, honest conversation, we're pulling back the curtain on how celebrations transform when alcohol no longer takes center stage.The "mummy wine culture" phenomenon continues to dominate greeting cards, gifts, and social expectations—teaching even young children that Mum's special day should revolve around alcohol. We share personal stories about how our alcohol-centered celebrations often ended in disappointment, relationship tension, and missed moments. One Mother's Day even ended a relationship when the realisation hit: "You give more shits about alcohol than me."Fast forward to today, and our celebrations look radically different. Morning Pilates classes, horseshoe-finding walks with the dogs, thoughtful gifts that don't involve spirits, and genuine family time in the backyard. We dive into the practicalities of navigating alcohol-free options at social gatherings, the challenges of purchasing non-alcoholic alternatives (sometimes having to visit liquor stores—talk about irony!), and finding what works for your own sobriety journey without judgment.Perhaps the most beautiful transformation isn't what we're doing differently—it's how we feel. Present. Connected. No more debates about who's driving home or expensive Uber rides. No more morning-after regrets. Just the pure freedom to fully experience life's special moments and create memories we'll actually remember.Whether you're sober curious, newly alcohol-free, or years into your journey, this conversation offers both practical advice and the reassurance that celebrations without alcohol aren't just possible—they're infinitely more rewarding. Connect with us on Instagram or through the contact details in the show notes to share your own experiences or ask questions! Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Laughs without Lager, the podcast about freedom from alcohol, self-discovery, and a whole lot of laughs. In our first episode, we’re kicking things off by introducing ourselves—Ali and Meg—two Aussie's who ditched the booze and found something better: clarity, connection, and freedom. We’ll share a bit about our journeys to alcohol-free living, what this podcast is all about, and why going sober doesn’t mean going boring. Whether you’re sober-curious or already AF, pour yourself a fizzy water and come hang out. It’s going to be a wild (and hangover-free) ride. Contact Us: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/[email protected]:  https://www.instagram.com/idontdrinkfullstop/Megwebsite:  https://www.meganwebb.com.au/insta: https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/Connect AF: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching