Sober & Lit Podcast

You're eating better. Exercising more. Maybe you've even had bariatric surgery... so why is the scale still moving in the wrong direction?In this episode of Sober & Lit, Ruby and Susan uncover one of the most overlooked contributors to midlife weight gain... alcohol. Together, they explore how alcohol affects your metabolism, hormones, sleep, cravings, and recovery, and why it can quietly sabotage your health goals... even when you're doing everything else "right."You'll discover:Why alcohol impacts weight differently after 40The surprising connection between alcohol and bariatric surgeryHow hormones, sleep, and cravings work togetherWhy this isn't about willpower... and what you can do insteadIf you've ever wondered..."Why can't I lose weight anymore?""Is it menopause... or is it alcohol?""Could alcohol be the missing piece?"This conversation will leave you with a new perspective, practical insights, and hope that feeling healthier, lighter, and more energized may be closer than you think. Listen in!_____Wondering if alcohol could be affecting your weight, hormones, or energy more than you realized?Download my FREE Alcohol & Weight Gain Worksheet to uncover the hidden ways alcohol may be impacting your body... and start making choices from clarity instead of frustration.🧡 Get your free worksheet now: https://coachingwithruby.com/AlcoholWeightGainWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if the hardest part about becoming alcohol-free isn't giving up alcohol......it's letting go of the identity that came with it?In this episode of Sober & Lit, Susan and Ruby answer a listener question that so many women quietly struggle with:"Why do I feel embarrassed to call myself alcohol-free?"Together they explore why our brains worry so much about fitting in, how limiting beliefs shape our identity, and why becoming alcohol-free is less about losing something... and more about rediscovering who you've been all along.You'll learn:• Why fear of judgment keeps us stuck• How to stop mind-reading other people's opinions• A simple mindset shift that builds lasting confidence• Practical coaching tools to help you feel proud, authentic, and freeIf you've ever wondered..."Will people think I'm boring?""Who am I without alcohol?""How do I stop caring what everyone else thinks?"This conversation may completely change the way you think about your alcohol-free journey. We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

You have the career. The family. The responsibilities.So why does that glass of wine feel harder to say no to?In this episode of Sober & Lit, we're exploring the hidden connection between alcohol, anxiety, and women.You'll discover:Why anxiety can quietly increase drinkingHow alcohol becomes a coping habitThe surprising science behind "telescoping"Why this isn't a willpower problemSimple tools to calm anxiety without alcoholIf you've ever thought:"Why am I drinking more than I want to?""Why does alcohol help... and then make everything worse?""Why can't I seem to break the cycle?"This episode offers hope, science, and practical strategies to help you understand what's really happening beneath the habit and how to find relief without relying on alcohol. You don't have to worry about forever just today. Try the Skip the Sip Guide to take tonight off! We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Midlife. Menopause. Alcohol cravings.Coincidence... or connected?In this episode of Sober & Lit, Susan and Ruby welcome Kathleen McDermott, registered nurse and menopause coach, for a conversation every woman deserves to hear.You'll discover:Why hormones can amplify alcohol cravingsHow menopause impacts your brain and nervous systemWhy willpower isn't the answerThe role of self-compassion in lasting changeSimple ways to feel more balanced and in controlIf you've ever thought:"Why is drinking harder to manage now?""Are my hormones affecting my cravings?""Can I get through menopause alcohol-free?"This episode offers practical tools, compassionate guidance, and a refreshing reminder that you don't have to navigate midlife…or an alcohol-free journey…alone.Guest Resources for Kathleen McDermott and Women & Balance-Website: http://womenandbalance.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558627978641Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womenandbalance/We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

You quit drinking expecting to feel amazing... but what if you're feeling worse before you feel better? So now you're wondering:"Shouldn't I feel better by now?"In this episode of Sober & Lit, Ruby and Susan unpack a little-known part of the alcohol-free journey:PAWS (Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome).You'll discover:• Why recovery can feel harder than expected• Common symptoms of PAWS• How long healing may take• Signs your brain is actually recovering• Tools to stay encouraged and keep goingIf you've ever thought:• "What's wrong with me?"• "Why am I still struggling?"• "Will I ever feel normal again?"This conversation is your reminder that healing isn't always linear...and sometimes the symptoms you're worried about are actually signs of progress. Nobody talks enough about what can happen in the first 90 days after quitting alcohol. That's exactly why I created The First 90 Days Reset Guide. Because if you're exhausted, anxious, emotional, or dealing with brain fog, you might think something is wrong with you. ✔️ Get your Free Guide: https://coachingwithruby.com/PAWSWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if sobriety gave you MORE... not less?In this episode of Sober & Lit, Susan and Ruby sit down with Deborah C. Smith... business coach, entrepreneur, and powerful example of what can happen when you stop using alcohol to cope and start reconnecting with yourself.Inside this conversation:• Deborah’s story • Alcohol, ambition + high stress entrepreneurship • The wake-up call that changed everything • Finding joy, creativity + relief without wine • Why sobriety became her superpower • Building a life and business that actually feels goodIf you’ve ever wondered... • Can I really feel lit without alcohol? • What happens when I stop drinking to manage stress? • Could sobriety open doors I never imagined?This one is inspiring, real, and full of hope for your own alcohol-free journey.________Guest Resources for Deborah Smith-Website: Http://www.deborahcsmith.comPodcast - Mindset to Market:  https://mindset-to-market.buzzsprout.com/Instagram: Http://www.instagram.com/deborah_smith_coaching Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1B3UWMF2ax/?mibextid=wwXIfrWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if summer isn’t the problem... but actually the BEST time to explore alcohol free living?In this episode of Sober & Lit, Coach Susan and Coach Ruby unpack:Why summer drinking feels so automaticHow concerts, patios, vacations, and BBQs retrain your brainBuilding your alcohol-free “muscles” one event at a timeWhy nature can calm your nervous system naturallyThe mindset shift that changes everythingHow to stop “starting over” every fallPlus:Mocktail ideasReal client storiesNervous system toolsConfidence-building experimentsLearning to lead with loveWhether you’re sober curious, a gray area drinker, or well along your alcohol-free journey, this episode will help you rethink summer, embrace new ways to have fun, and lead with love in every experience.⭐ Join Coach Susan's Free Alcohol-Free Vacation Workshop: https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/vacation-workshopWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if you didn’t have to give up the wine ritual... to change your relationship with alcohol?In this episode of Sober & Lit, we sit down with Tracy Sweeney... longtime wine industry insider and co-founder of Tomorrow Cellars... to talk about the rise of sophisticated alcohol-free wine and why so many women are rethinking what’s in their glass.We talk about: • Can alcohol-free wine actually taste good? • Why are so many midlife women becoming sober curious? • Is it possible to keep the ritual... without the alcohol? • What’s REALLY changing inside wine culture right now?If you’ve ever thought:“Can I still love wine... without alcohol?”...this conversation is going to open your mind in a whole new way. ________Guest Resources for Tomorrow Cellars-Website to buy Tomorrow Cellars Wines: http://tomorrowcellars.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tomorrowcellars/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tomorrowcellars/⭐ Find Tomorrow Cellers 'Alcohol Removed' Wines at select retailers and on AmazonWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if this summer didn’t have to end the same way it always does?You start June saying, “I’m going to cut back.”Then come the vacations… the patio drinks… the girls trips… the BBQs… and suddenly it’s September and you’re exhausted, anxious, inflamed, and promising yourself you’ll “start again Monday.”But what if this summer became the one where you finally tried something different?In this episode of the Sober & Lit podcast, we’re talking about The Sober Summer Experiment... and why your first alcohol-free “firsts” might completely change the way you think about fun, confidence, vacations, and even yourself. We’re diving into the real reason summer feels so triggering, why social pressure can feel so intense, and how to stop white-knuckling your way through the season.✨ This isn’t about perfection.✨ It’s about curiosity.✨ It’s about experimenting.And it’s about discovering what’s possible when you stop starting over… and start showing up for yourself in a whole new way. ⭐ Join Coach Ruby inside The Sober Summer Experiment and get support for every alcohol-free “first”... vacations, barbecues, concerts, cravings, and more. 🧡 Join the Sober Summer Crew now and spend the summer with women who truly get it. We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Are you stuck in the loop of stress, wine, and starting over tomorrow?In this guest episode, with Lauren Baptiste, we’re getting real about burnout, alcohol, and the pressure high-achieving women carry…We explore: • Why “doing it all” feels so exhausting • The hidden link between burnout + drinking • The moment your body says… enough • How alcohol keeps the cycle going • Small shifts that actually create changeThis is the conversation behind the scenes:-- You’re successful… but tired-- Holding it together… but barely-- Wondering… is this just how life is now?Press play… and see what shifts for you.________Guest Resources for Lauren Baptiste-Website: http://www.acheloawellness.com/Facebook: https://facebook.com/AcheloaWellnessInstagram: https://instagram.com/thelaurenbaptisteBurnout Prevention Handout: https://pieoperatingsystem.com/apps/rooms/rooms-3e38746a?l=wjths76woynbWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Thinking about your first alcohol-free vacation and already feeling nervous?What if your next vacation became the trip where you felt the most free... not the one that pulled you back into the drinking cycle? Because let’s be honest… vacation can sound like: • airport wine  • beach cocktails  • girls’ trip pressure  • “I deserve it” thoughts In this episode, Susan and Ruby unpack:✨ The biggest mistakes women make on sober vacations ✨ How to handle cravings, triggers, and FOMO ✨ Why alcohol is not the magic part of the trip ✨ How to feel relaxed, free, and fully present ✨ What makes vacations better without the hangoverPress play before you pack.⭐ Join Coach Susan's Free Alcohol-Free Vacation Workshop: https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/vacation-workshopWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if the thing making you feel awkward at events… isn’t you… it’s the alcohol?• Ever grabbed a drink just to feel normal?• Ever thought… “my drinking isn’t that bad”?• Ever wondered what real connection would feel like without it?This episode is that conversation.We sit down with Laura Nelson of Sober Rocks… and her story will hit home. From gray area drinking to creating a movement around alcohol-free, inclusive events, Laura shares the moment everything shifted… and what became possible when she chose differently.Inside, we explore:• Why networking + alcohol feel so tied together• What actually changes when you go alcohol-free• How to create connection without a drink in your hand• And what becomes possible when you start showing up fully YOUIf you’ve been quietly questioning your drinking… or just want something more… this one will hit. Press play!________Guest Resources for Laura Nelson-Website: https://soberliferocks.com/Buy Inclusive Event Planner on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/INCLUSIVE-EVENT-PLANNER-Conferences-Attendance/dp/B0DJWHBG1B Podcast: https://soberliferocks.com/new-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sober_life_rocks/We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

✨ Discover The Ultimate Alcohol-Free Decision Tool ✨Ever notice how fast cravings happen?That moment… “I need a glass of wine”…and suddenly you’re already pouring it.What if you could catch it… right there?In this episode, we break it down:• what’s really happening in your brain during a craving• why it feels automatic (it’s not just you)• how to interrupt it in seconds with the SNAP tool• and how to come back to you before the habit takes overBecause here’s the truth:It’s not about willpower…it’s about what you do in that tiny window.If you’ve ever thought, “it just happens so fast…”Press play… and let’s catch it before it catches you 🧡 GET YOUR FREE SNAP BRACELET: https://coachingwithruby.com/SNAPWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Okay… quick real talk, friend:What if burnout isn’t the problem… it’s the wake-up call?In this episode of Sober & Lit, we sit down with Sue Willoughby… equus coach, entrepreneur, and total midlife badass… who shares how she went from burnout, overachieving, and emotional exhaustion… to a life that actually feels aligned, powerful, and free.We talk about:• “normal” drinking that isn’t working anymore• high-achieving women feeling stuck• and the question… is this really it?And yes… 🐎 horses• they mirror your truth• they reconnect you to your powerThis episode is full of wisdom, practical insights, and inspiration for anyone ready to rewrite their story, embrace change, and live boldly alcohol-free. Press play.________Guest Resources for Sue Willoughby-Website: https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/Podcast: https://www.midlifebadasswomen.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/⁠⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/⁠⁠We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if the thought keeping you stuck… sounds totally normal?“My drinking isn’t that bad.”We hear this all the time. Maybe you’ve said it too.But what if that one thought is the thing quietly keeping you…• tired• stuck• not quite living at your full potentialIn this episode of Sober & Lit, we go there...gently, honestly, no shame.We talk about:• the gray area most women live in• the comparison trap (“at least I’m not that bad…”)• those sneaky permission-giving thoughts• why you don’t need rock bottom to change• how to get curious instead of criticalAnd a few real questions for you…➡️ Is alcohol actually working for you anymore?➡️ Or have you just learned to live with it?This isn’t about labels. This isn’t about perfection.It’s about feeling better. Sleeping better. Living more… lit.🧡 And we’d love your support — vote for us in the Sans Bar Best Podcast awards!Be sure to vote for Sober & Lit under the Best Podcast category. Your vote truly means the world to us. https://www.thesansbar.com/sba-2026-awards-finalistsWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Cold water. Big feelings. Real joy.In this episode of Sober & Lit, we sit down with Libby DeLana, author of Cold Joy, who shares how something as simple as stepping into cold water helped her move through loss, rebuild herself, and feel truly alive again.We talk about the surprising parallels between cold plunging and sobriety…  why community changes everything…     and what happens when you stop numbing and start feeling.What if discomfort isn’t something to avoid but something that actually brings you back to life?This conversation might just shift the way you think about growth… and what you’re capable of.If you’re ready to feel more alive... this one’s for you. Let's dive into the cold water! Guest Resources for Libby DeLana- Website: http://thiscoldjoy.comInstagram: @thiscoldjoyThis Morning Walk Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-morning-walk/id1616844895REI Podcast episode: https://www.rei.com/blog/podcasts/walking-cold-plunging-as-a-meditative-practice-with-libby-delanaWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Have you ever caught yourself thinking… “Maybe my brain chemistry is just messed up.”You’re not alone. Many women who struggle with alcohol believe their brain is broken. But what if that’s not true? What if the real story is that alcohol has been quietly hijacking your brain’s reward system all along?In this episode of Sober & Lit, Ruby and Susan take a deep dive into dopamine, the brain chemical responsible for learning, motivation, pleasure, and feeling good. ✅ Why does alcohol create powerful dopamine spikes? ✅ Why do people feel “blah” in early sobriety? ✅ And most importantly… what becomes possible when you give your brain the space to reset?If you’ve ever wondered why quitting drinking can feel hard at first, and why real joy eventually returns, this episode will change the way you understand your brain.If a small part of you wonders what life might feel like with alcohol taking up less space, my door is open. I offer private 1:1 coaching with real support and a plan shaped around you. You’re welcome to book a clarity chat here and see what feels right. 🧡Here's the link to schedule a call with Coach Ruby:https://calendly.com/williams-ruby/discovery-callWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Question: What if you could relax, socialize, and unwind… without alcohol?No hangover. No brain fog. No regret.So what are people drinking instead?👉 Kava.In this episode, Ruby and Susan sit down with Morgan Smith, founder of Kalm with Kava, to explore the ancient South Pacific drink that’s quietly becoming a modern alcohol-free ritual.Inside this conversation:What kava actually is (and why it’s trending)The fascinating roots of kava culture in the South PacificHow kava relaxes the nervous system—without alcoholWhy kava bars are popping up across the U.S.Morgan’s journey from tech burnout to running a kava farm in HawaiiWhat to know about sourcing, safety, and preparationCurious about new ways to unwind alcohol-free? Wondering what sober socializing could look like in the future?This episode might introduce you to your next favorite ritual.So grab your favorite AF drink… press play… and let’s get Sober & Lit.________Guest Resources for Morgan Smith-Website: http://kalmwithkava.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/KalmwithKavaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kalm_with_kava/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXxMvt3K38LTjFfcHSLRufudfsZAtgi6UWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Let’s name it. You stopped drinking. You felt amazing. Then somehow… you started again.Why?Today we’re pulling back the curtain on the stop-start cycle — and it’s not about weakness.Here’s what we unpack:-- Why your brain romanticizes “just one”-- The neural pathway + fading effect bias trap-- The “drinking train” effect (why it gets harder each time)-- How stress hijacks your nervous system-- Body-based tools to interrupt the craving loop-- How to stay stopped — without white-knuckling itIf you’ve ever asked yourself:Why do I keep starting over?Why does alcohol still pull me?How do I make this stick for good?This episode is your reset.  Short. Real. Science-backed. Compassion-filled.Press play — and let’s break the cycle. If you loved these tips and want more, Susan shares free tools and resources in her newsletter community each week!I f you want to dig deeper into Fading Affect Bias (FAB), listen to Episode 17 for more on the “not-so-fabulous” FAB!We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

This episode is for you if you’ve ever asked:  How do I sit with pain without pouring a glass? What comes after sobriety? Can I feel whole again?Today’s episode is a gentle, powerful invitation to feel—without numbing.We’re joined by Brandi Babb, certified coach + somatic experiencing practitioner, in a real conversation with hosts Susan Larkin and Ruby Williams about grief, sobriety, and learning to stay present when life hurts.Here’s what unfolds:• Brandi’s journey to living alcohol free—shaped by loss, love, and listening to her body • How grief can deepen drinking (and how somatic work helps you move through it) • Nervous system tools for overwhelm, urges, and emotional waves • What it really looks like to heal after you put down the drink • How to feel “lit” even when life isn’t easyPress play for an honest, heart-centered conversation about presence, resilience, and finding your way back to yourself—one breath at a time. 🧡________Guest Resources for Brandi Babb of Little Big Leap Coaching-Website: https://www.brandibabb.comPodcast: https://pod.link/1819859867Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babbThe Zero Proof Life: https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Ever freeze when someone offers you a drink? Wonder how to stay alcohol-free and feel connected?In this Sober & Lit episode, Ruby and Susan get real about what’s actually happening in those moments — and how to move through them with confidence instead of white-knuckling it.Inside this conversation:Why saying no isn’t about willpower (it’s about wiring + people-pleasing)Simple ways to prepare before events so you don’t panic in the moment Go-to phrases that feel natural (not awkward or rehearsed) Why bringing your own alcohol-free drink can be a game changer How to honor yourself and belong — at the same timeThis episode is equal parts heart, honesty, and practical tools you can use tonight. Coach Ruby's powerful worksheet to help you feel grounded, prepared, and truly ready the next time a drink is offered.🧡Get the worksheet here: https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/how-to-say-no-to-a-drinkWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Have you ever wondered...How do you date without liquid courage?What happens when you stop numbing and start feeling?Could connection actually be easier alcohol-free?In this episode, Ruby and Susan sit down with Lily Shanks — life + relationship coach with 7+ years of sobriety, who went from high-achieving attorney quietly struggling with alcohol… to deeply connected, emotionally sober, and helping others rebuild from the inside out.We’re talking about:Sober dating + sober sex (yes, the awkward parts too)Learning to trust your intuition againEmotional sobriety & feeling your feelings without numbingWhy real intimacy often gets better without alcoholSelf-love, boundaries, and authentic connectionFirst dates, nervous systems, laughter, and growthIf you’re navigating love, loneliness, or relationships in sobriety - especially in midife - (or you’re sober-curious and craving deeper connection), this episode is for you.Press play and let’s explore what it really looks like to live — and love — lit. 💘🔥________Guest Resources for Lily Shanks at My Internal Weather-Website: www.myinternalweather.comLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/my-internal-weather/________We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Ever wake up determined not to drink… only to find yourself pouring a glass by evening?You’re not broken. You’re human. And this episode explains why.In today’s conversation, Susan and Ruby unpack the invisible habit loops behind drinking urges, and show you how to gently interrupt them.Inside this episode, you’ll discover:• Why urges feel automatic (hello, autopilot) • The real reason willpower fades by happy hour• How triggers + routines + rewards keep you stuck • What “urge surfing” is and how it helps cravings pass • Simple swaps that replace alcohol with real pleasure • How tiny shifts can lead to lasting alcohol freedomThis isn’t about fighting yourself.It’s about understanding your patterns, reclaiming your agency, and choosing something better—one moment at a time.Stick around to the end of the show to hear how we keep our own lives lit without alcohol, and why real change starts with compassion, not control.If you want to learn more about your own unique drinking habit and take a break, join Susan's Freedom Formula Group Coaching Course.   Invest 8 weeks to take control over your drinking! https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/the-freedom-formula-rewire-regulate-and-riseWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if connection didn’t come in a glass?What if community didn’t revolve around drinking?What if sobriety actually made life more fun?In this episode, we’re joined by Chris Marshall— • Founder of Sans Bar, North America’s first non-alcoholic bar • Mental health advocate • Author of Faster Than Light • And a powerful voice redefining sober social lifeChris's story goes deep and together, we explore:✅ Why alcohol-free spaces matter more than ever✅ How loneliness keeps people drinking—and how community heals it✅ What it actually looks like to socialize sober (yes, karaoke included 🎤)And the question so many people are asking but rarely say out loud: “If I stop drinking… will I still belong?”No preaching. No perfection. Just honest conversation, hope, and a reminder that you don’t have to choose between sobriety and a full life.Let’s get into it.________Guest Resources for Chris Marshall-Website: https://www.thesansbar.com/about-usInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisconnected/?hl=enMemoir - Faster Than Light: https://www.thesansbar.com/chris-marshalls-memoirWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Have you ever felt like the story you’ve been told about alcohol is missing the most important truths?In this episode of Sober & Lit, Susan Larkin and Ruby Williams are joined by Mike Marshall, CEO of the U.S. Alcohol Policy Alliance, for a conversation that pulls alcohol out of the shadows and into the light—without shame, fear, or finger-pointing.This episode explores:Why alcohol’s real harms are rarely discussedThe truth about alcohol as a toxic, addictive carcinogenMike’s personal sobriety journeyHow alcohol connects to larger public health crisesWhat everyday people can do to shift the narrativeWe also ask the bigger questions:Why is alcohol treated differently than other drugs? Who benefits from our silence? And what becomes possible when we tell the truth with compassion?We invite you to listen in!!________Guest Resources for Mike Marshall:Website: http://www.alcoholpolicy.orgYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@usalcoholpolicyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/USAlcoholPolicy/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usalcoholpolicyalliance/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-alcohol-policy-alliance/posts/?feedView=all TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@usalcoholpolicyallianceWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if alcohol isn’t the problem… but the placeholder?In this episode of Sober & Lit, Ruby and Susan are joined by Anna Donaghey—certified alcohol mindset and life coach, award-winning podcast host, and author of What Are You Thirsty For?—for a conversation that goes way deeper than drinking less. Anna shares her journey from teenage drinking and a booze-soaked career in advertising to a life of clarity, purpose, and alcohol-free freedom—and the moment she realized alcohol was doing jobs it was never meant to do.Together, they explore powerful questions like: ✔️ What are you actually thirsting for? ✔️ Is your life good enough—or are you using alcohol to tolerate it? ✔️ What might be possible if you stopped numbing and started listening?  This episode unpacks the hidden roles alcohol plays, why rock bottom is not required, and how reclaiming your desires can radically change your life.Whether you’re sober curious, newly alcohol-free, or reimagining midlife on your own terms, this conversation will challenge you, inspire you, and invite you to want more—from yourself and your life. Less numbing. More truth. More lit—without the booze. ________Guest Resources for Anna Donaghey: Website: https://www.thebigdrinkrethink.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigdrinkrethinkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebigdrinkrethink/Order the book on Amazon What Are You Thirsty For?We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if going alcohol-free wasn’t just about you… but about everyone who comes after you?In this New Year kickoff episode of Sober & Lit, co-hosts Susan and Ruby step into their third year of the podcast with a raw, heart-opening conversation about legacy, healing, and the quiet ripple effect of choosing sobriety.They reflect on the moments that changed everything—conversations with their kids, patterns they didn’t realize they were modeling, and the powerful shift that happens when someone finally goes first. What does it really mean to break generational drinking cycles? How do our everyday choices teach emotional regulation, self-worth, and resilience—without saying a word?This episode isn’t about perfection or parenting advice. It’s about rewriting the story, healing what came before, and consciously shaping what comes next—especially in midlife, when clarity hits differently.Whether you’re raising kids, launching them, or simply wondering “What legacy am I leaving behind?”—this conversation will invite reflection, compassion, and a whole new way of seeing your alcohol-free journey.Because sobriety doesn’t just change your life.It changes the future for your family. 🧡We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if New Year’s Eve didn’t end with a hangover… but with pride, clarity, and real connection?In this episode of Sober & Lit, Susan and Ruby flip the script on New Year’s Eve and Dry January, inviting you to question everything you’ve been taught about celebration, alcohol, and “starting fresh.”5 ideas to help you ring in the New Year—feeling clear, connected, and truly "lit" alcohol-free:Question the champagne myth Who decided alcohol = celebration anyway? We unpack how culture, advertising, and tradition quietly shaped that belief—and how to loosen its grip.Design your night on purpose From festive alcohol-free drinks to setting a simple intention, learn how to plan a New Year’s Eve you’ll actually feel proud of the next morning.Try one night alcohol-free Not ready for “forever”? Perfect. Even one alcohol-free night can shift how you see yourself—and what’s possible.NYE intention setting Visualize a night you actually want to remember.Keep the fun (ditch the hangover) Games, laughter, real connection—yes, it’s all possible without booze. We share our favorite ways to keep the energy high.Whether it’s your friggin’ first time or you’re already living alcohol-free, this episode will have you rethinking how you celebrate—and how you step into the new year.Dry January isn’t about white-knuckling. Support, shared stories, and being witnessed change everything.Break free from the Groundhog Day drinking cycle. Coach Ruby's 30-Day Dry January Challenge starts January 1st. It's not about quitting forever. It's about choosing YOU.Sign up today: https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/buy-dry-jan-2026We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

When the wine is flowing, the pressure is on, and you’re wondering—can I really do this alcohol-free and still feel joy? In this festive but very real episode, Susan and Ruby open up about the awkward moments, the grounding tools that saved them, and how their sober holidays have actually become the most meaningful ones yet.When you’re the only one at the Holiday table not drinking… Listen in for Real-Life Tips to stay sober this Christmas or Hanukkah:You’ll walk away with powerful strategies to protect your peace, stay rooted in your “why,” and enjoy the holidays on your terms. Whether it’s your first alcohol-free Christmas or Holiday, you’re feeling wobbly with family around, or you just want a dose of inspiration, this episode is your toolkit. Want to feel confident, connected, and actually present this season? 🔥 Let’s get lit—without the booze.Dry January isn’t about white-knuckling. Support, shared stories, and being witnessed change everything.Break free from the Groundhog Day drinking cycle. Coach Ruby's 30-Day Dry January Challenge starts January 1st. It's not about quitting forever. It's about choosing YOU.Sign up today: https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/buy-dry-jan-2026We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Is it even really the holidays without the clink of champagne or spiked eggnog? Or… could this be the year you discover a deeper kind of joy—one that doesn’t come in a glass? In this feel-it-to-heal-it episode, Susan and Ruby dive into the messy, magical middle of the holiday season—where cravings collide with traditions, and the pressure to be “merry” can trigger the urge to drink. They ask the big question: What actually makes the holidays feel good… and what are we ready to leave behind?You’ll get real talk on:How to Marie Kondo your holiday ritualsWhat to say when the family asks why you’re not drinkingHow to trade FOMO for joy with mocktails that sparkleWhy intentional celebrations hit different without alcoholAnd how to stay grounded through solo time, family drama, or just plain stressWhether this is your first sober December or your fifth, you’ll walk away with permission to rewrite the rules, embrace what lights you up, and celebrate on your terms.Tune in and let’s reimagine what a truly lit holiday season looks like—alcohol-free, full of meaning, and unapologetically you.We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

It’s our 100th episode — and we’re celebrating with a powerful dose of alcohol-free vitality! In this milestone conversation, Ruby and Susan welcome the radiant Patricia Becker: a sober yoga teacher, plant-based nutrition coach, and wellness guide helping women 50+ feel strong, flexible, and lit from within.If you’ve ever wondered how to age gracefully without alcohol… or how breathwork, chair yoga, and gut-healing foods can reignite your energy and self-love, this one’s for you. Patricia shares her story of ditching alcohol, overcoming burnout, and building daily practices that support sober living, vibrant health, and joy at any age. ✨ What if getting older was the best time to get lit — alcohol free? Whether you're curious about quitting alcohol, healing your nervous system, or simply want to feel good in your body again — this episode is full of inspiration, practical tips, and mindset shifts to help you glow without the glass.________Guest Resources for Patricia Becker:Website- https://yourhealthandjoy.com/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@patriciabeckeryoga Stay In Touch and Get 3 Everyday Happiness Tips video- https://conta.cc/3IjN7LXAging with Grace Retreat Sonoma County-  https://yourhealthandjoy.com/retreatmay2026/We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

How do you show up at a holiday party without showing up with a drink? That’s the big question—and in this episode of Sober & Lit, your hosts Ruby and Susan are unpacking the real talk behind office mixers, family dinners, and every bubbly-filled soirée in between. If you’ve ever clutched a club soda while dodging awkward small talk or wished for an invisibility cloak after the third “Why aren’t you drinking?”—this one’s for you.We’re swapping out shame for sparkle and pressure for presence. Ruby shares how she went from wine industry insider to empowered partygoer, while Susan spills her best “nope, not today” exit strategies. You’ll walk away with mindset shifts, conversation scripts, and boundary-setting tools that’ll make you feel more confident, connected, and in control this holiday season. Ready to redefine what it means to be the life of the party—alcohol-free?We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Is wine culture keeping you stuck—and lying to you? In this episode of the Sober & Lit podcast, Ruby and Susan sit down with Meg Geisewite, author of Intoxicating Lies, to unpack the myths women are sold about drinking. From “mommy needs wine” memes to emotional manipulation masked as self-care, we explore the dangerous messages keeping women locked in gray area drinking—and how to break free.Meg shares her raw story of alcohol dependence, recovery, and empowerment, while diving deep into the science, shame, and social pressures surrounding female drinking culture. Why do so many smart, capable women feel broken without wine? How do we shift from numbing to truly living lit? If you're ready to challenge alcohol's grip on your identity and discover the freedom of emotional sobriety, this is the episode you don’t want to miss.________Guest Resources for Meg Geisewite:Book: Intoxicating Lies: One Woman's Journey to Freedom from Gray Area DrinkingWebsite: https://www.intoxicatinglies.com/IG: @intoxicatingliesbookWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

How do you handle a holiday centered on gratitude… when everyone around you is sipping wine?In this powerful Thanksgiving episode of the Sober & Lit Podcast, your hosts Ruby and Susan crack open the truth about navigating one of the most triggering holidays on the alcohol-free journey. Is it your first sober Thanksgiving? Or maybe you're feeling the tug of tradition, social pressure, or the emotional weight of family dynamics? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to white-knuckle it.Together, we explore real stories and raw moments—like Ruby’s decision to pass the hosting torch and BYO-AF drinks, and Susan’s powerful mindset shifts after early AA meetings. We share our favorite go-to mocktail rituals, confidence-building scripts for when someone asks “Why aren’t you drinking?”, and grounding strategies to keep you feeling safe, strong, and seen at the holiday table.What would it feel like to actually enjoy Thanksgiving—present, peaceful, and proud of your choice? Tune in for inspiration, practical tools, and cozy encouragement to help you celebrate with clarity, connection, and joy (yes, even if your uncle is pouring pinot at 2pm).You’re invited to walk into this holiday with your head high and your heart full. Let’s make gratitude the main course—not the wine. **********Recipes🍏 Coach Susan's Mocktail: equal parts apple cider and a sparkling AF wine, garnish with an apple slice and or cinnamon stick.🍎 Coach Ruby's Fruit Salad: 3 pomegranates (seeds only), 8 Fuyu persimmons (remove skin and slice), and 2 limes (juiced) - combine in a bowl and refrigerate. Best if made a couple of hours before the party and it’s delicious as leftovers (over yogurt or ice cream). **********We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if the best parts of you were just waiting on the other side of your last drink?In this episode of Sober & Lit, your hosts Susan and Ruby—alcohol freedom coaches with two very different journeys—reveal the surprising, unfiltered reasons why they chose to ditch alcohol for good. From Ruby’s past life in the wine industry to Susan’s search for deeper spiritual connection, this isn’t just another “why I quit drinking” story—it’s a powerful reframe of what you gain when you go alcohol-free.What if giving up drinking didn’t mean missing out—but waking up?Join us as we unpack the mental, emotional, and physical shifts we never expected: clearer mornings, real confidence, deep joy, and the sparkle we thought alcohol was supposed to give us (but never quite did). You’ll hear personal truths, real-talk about old habits, and inspiration to build your own “why” for an alcohol-free life.Whether you're just beginning to question your drinking or fully in the sober curious lane, this episode will remind you what’s possible when you choose to feel lit—no booze required.We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Ever wonder what happens when you stop running from your truth—and start creating something powerful with it?In this episode of Sober & Lit, your hosts Coach Susan and Coach Ruby sit down with Tamar Routly—podcast producer, recovery advocate, and co-author of Sober for Dummies—for a candid and deeply inspiring conversation about what it really takes to go from high-functioning drinking to full-blown transformation.Tamar shares how she went from secretly struggling in a corporate career to building a bold, purpose-driven life in long-term sobriety. From the raw moments of early recovery to reclaiming creativity, confidence, and connection, she walks us through the turning points that changed everything.✨ What if the thing you thought was holding you together... was actually holding you back?✨ What becomes possible when you stop numbing and start listening?This episode is for anyone craving real talk, fresh perspective, and the courage to rewrite your story—on your terms. Tune in to hear how Tamar uses her voice to amplify recovery, spark hope, and help others feel lit in their alcohol-free journey.________Guest Resources for Tamar Routly:http://www.podcastimpactstudio.comhttps://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/youre-sober-now-what/id1766001157https://youresobernowwhat.com/We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Ever lost time after a night out and thought, “Wait… what did I say?”You’re not alone—and it’s not just “part of drinking.” In this episode of Sober & Lit, Ruby and Susan pull back the curtain on a topic many avoid: alcohol-induced blackouts. From stories of forgotten conversations and tricky gray areas to the terrifying reality of memory loss after just a few drinks, we shed light on the neurological impact of alcohol and why some people are more susceptible to blackouts than others.✨ What actually happens in your brain when memories disappear?✨ Why do some people black out from just a few drinks—while others don't?✨ And what are the long-term risks no one talks about?This isn't about shame—it's about science. We share our personal blackout, brownout and pass-out stories, explore the brain-based reasons behind them, and debunk the myth that forgetting your night means you just had “too much fun.” Whether you’ve experienced fuzzy nights, want to understand how alcohol hijacks memory, or you’re sober curious and ready to learn, this episode is for you. Stay with us 'til the end—we’ll leave you with ways to feel lit  without wiping out your memories.Tune in now and get real about alcohol, blackouts, and reclaiming your presence.Resources mentioned in this episode:👉 The most important lesson from 83,000 brain scans | Daniel Amen | TEDxOrangeCoast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=esPRsT-lmw8👉 Blackout: Remembering the Things I Drank to Forget is a memoir by Sarah Hepola👉 Movie: The Girl On The Train starring Emily Blunt; based on the bestselling novel The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins (2015) We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if giving up alcohol wasn’t the end of fun—but the beginning of a rebellion? In this facinating episode of Sober & Lit, Susan and Ruby sit down with the vibrant and unfiltered Abby Calabrese—creator of the Alcohol Free Rebellion podcast and Instagram community.From late nights in New York’s “work hard, play hard” scene to building an empowered, sober-curious life, Abby shares the real story behind her decision to ditch drinking—and what happened next. Think: awkward social events, the surprising role of THC mocktails, and the messy, magical freedom of her first 100 days alcohol free.✨ Is it possible to feel "lit" without alcohol?✨ Can controversial tools support your sober journey?✨ What does it look like to dance through discomfort instead of drink through it?We go there. And then some.Expect bold honesty, pop culture references, practical tools—and plenty of laughs—as we explore what it really means to redefine fun, reclaim your energy, and rewire your joy without numbing out.If you're sober curious, stuck in the “just on weekends” trap, or wondering if life without alcohol could actually be… better—this episode is your sign to press play.________Here's how to reach Abby:Website: www.abbycalabrese.comPodcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1qNUSaFZnmMEm0NNImFgQpInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/alcoholfreeabby/ We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

“Is weekend drinking really harmless—or is it quietly stealing your energy, health, and joy?”In this episode of the Sober & Lit Podcast, Ruby and Susan dive straight into the truth about binge drinking, especially the kind so many of us laugh off as “just weekend fun.” What actually counts as binge drinking? Why do oversized wine glasses, happy hour specials, and “work hard, play hard” culture trick us into thinking it’s normal? And what are the real costs—even if you only drink on Fridays and Saturdays?With candid stories from their own pasts, Ruby and Susan unpack how quickly “reward drinks” can spiral into exhaustion, poor sleep, anxiety, and a cycle of feeling less present in your own life. They break down myths around moderation, share eye-opening health stats, and explore why so many women underestimate just how much alcohol they’re consuming.If you’ve ever told yourself, “It’s fine because I don’t drink during the week,” this conversation is for you. Tune in for a reality check full of compassion, practical tools, and an empowering invitation to try an alcohol-free weekend, and discover how good it feels to wake up clear, confident, and lit from within.Grab our free alcohol free weekend guide and give it a try!We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

How do I help someone I love who’s struggling with addiction—without ultimatums, power struggles, or losing myself in the process?We’re joined by the incredible Amber Hollingsworth—licensed professional counselor, master addiction counselor, and creator of the viral YouTube channel “Put the Shovel Down.” Drawing from her 20+ years of experience and her own journey growing up in an addicted family, Amber reveals how families can outsmart addiction with empathy, boundaries, and strategy—not “tough love.”Together, we’ll dive into:Why the classic “let them hit rock bottom” approach often backfiresHow to shift from the “bad guy” role to being a powerful, positive influenceAmber’s Invisible Intervention method that empowers families while preserving connectionIf you’ve been searching for a way to support a loved one through addiction—and take care of yourself at the same time—this conversation is full of practical tools, hope, and a completely new perspective on recovery.______For more insights, check out Amber’s free resource-rich YouTube channel "Put The Shovel Down" at https://www.youtube.com/@PutTheShovelDownAmber's Website: familyrecoveryacademy.onlineWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

You quit drinking, you’re feeling lit, and suddenly… real life crashes back in. Now what?In this milestone 90th episode of Sober & Lit, Coaches Susan Larkin and Ruby Williams get radically honest about the messy, beautiful, non-linear reality of life after alcohol. Because yes—sobriety brings clarity, joy, and deep transformation… but it doesn’t come with a magic wand. What happens when the unicorns disappear and you’re still dealing with family tension, career pivots, sleep struggles, or your own inner critic?Have you ever asked yourself, “Shouldn’t I be happier by now?”Ruby and Susan pull back the curtain on their own post-alcohol journeys—sharing the tools, mindset shifts, and community support that helped them navigate everything from financial fear to burnout to unrealistic expectations of ‘wellness perfection.’ They explore emotional sobriety, building new emotional coping muscles, and the freedom that comes from being imperfect and empowered.Whether you’re newly alcohol-free, sober-curious, or deep in your journey, this episode is a warm reminder: you’re not doing it wrong if life still feels hard sometimes. You’re just doing it human.🧡 Tune in now to feel less alone, more resourced, and truly seen—and if this sounds like you... join and connect with our Feel Lit 4 Life community for the next chapter of your alcohol-free growth. Find out more: https://feellitpodcast.com/Feel-Lit-For-LifeWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if ditching alcohol is the exact thing that sets your creative fire ablaze?In this electrifying episode of Sober & Lit, Coaches Ruby and Susan sit down with actor, writer, and founder of Creative Sobriety, Kristen Bear—a powerhouse voice redefining what it means to be an alcohol-free woman in a world soaked in wine culture. From stage lights to mom life, Kristen shares how choosing sobriety in February 2020 became the radical act that set her free—from self-doubt, perfectionism, and societal expectations.What happens when you stop numbing and start expressing?This episode dives deep into how alcohol subtly silences women’s power—and how sobriety becomes the amplifier. Kristen opens up about how creativity, authenticity, and connection exploded once she put down the glass and picked up her voice. You’ll hear about her journey navigating the entertainment industry, parenting pressures, and the toxic normalization of drinking to cope.We’re talking:Creative confidence in sobrietyBusting the “mommy wine” mythWhy Gen Z is ditching booze (and leading a sober revolution)How women in midlife are reclaiming joy and voiceAnd why being alcohol-free is anything but boringWhether you’re sober-curious or alcohol-free and fired up, this episode will inspire you to show up louder, bolder, and more lit than ever—without a single drop.👉 Tune in now and find out what’s waiting for you on the other side of drinking. Spoiler: it’s not deprivation—it’s creative liberation.To reach Kristen:www.creativesobriety.co Instagram Creative Sobriety PodcastSubstackWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Are Sober People Missing Out… or Finally Tapping In?Welcome to Sober & Lit! In this episode, Ruby and Susan bust one of the biggest lies about sobriety: that going alcohol-free means missing out on fun, freedom, and connection. Is it true—or have we just been sold a clever illusion?What if the real fear isn’t missing out—but never fully showing up?What if quitting drinking is the invitation to finally feel lit from within?We unpack the FOMO myth, spill honest stories about navigating social events sober, and share how ditching the drink actually amplified joy, confidence, and community. We also explore how social media and drinking culture fuel comparison, and what happens when you flip FOMO into JOMO—the Joy of Missing Out.Expect resources, real talk, and personal practices that light you up.If you’ve ever wondered, “Will I lose my social life if I quit drinking?”—this episode is your empowering reframe. Spoiler: what you gain might just blow your mind.🔥 Tune in and let’s get Sober & Lit!We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if eating more could actually help you feel better, weigh less, and ditch the drink for good? In this powerful episode of Sober & Lit, Susan and Ruby sit down with Dr. Ginny Trieweiler—a psychologist, certified health coach, and author of Slender for Good After 50—to unpack the radical idea that you don’t need restriction, calorie counting, or alcohol to feel lit, vibrant, and free.Ginny gets real about her own midlife transformation: facing down chronic pain, prediabetes, emotional eating, and nightly drinking—and the four mindset and nutrition shifts that helped her reclaim her health without ever going on another diet. Together, we dive into how alcohol and food often share the same emotional roots, why “less is more” is a myth, and how to break the cycle of overdrinking and undereating once and for all.If you’ve ever said “I’ll start Monday,” wrestled with weight or wine, or felt like you were too old to change, this episode is your permission slip to nourish, rebel, and rise. Tune in and discover how food freedom and alcohol freedom go hand-in-hand—especially after 50._______Ginny's website: https://slenderforgood.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@slenderforgood/Get the book for only $4.99:  slenderforgood.com/slender-book_______We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if your story—the one you’re scared to tell—is the very thing that could set you free?In this powerful episode of Sober & Lit, Ruby and Susan sit down with Ann Dowsett Johnston, bestselling author of Drink: The Intimate Relationship Between Women and Alcohol, whose work cracked open the cultural myths around "mommy wine culture," female high-functioning drinking, and the billion-dollar marketing machine targeting women. With raw honesty and journalistic fire, Ann shares her personal unraveling—and what it took to rebuild a life rooted in purpose, recovery, and reinvention.We ask her the big questions: 👉 Why are women drinking more than ever before—and why aren’t we talking about it?👉 What happens when you finally tell the truth about your relationship with alcohol?👉 How does writing your recovery help rewrite your life?From grief and burnout to creativity and long-term sobriety, this episode is a masterclass in vulnerability, wisdom, and hope. Whether you’re sober curious, navigating gray area drinking, or a seasoned quit lit lover—this conversation will stay with you.“It wasn’t rock bottom—it was realizing I was slowly losing myself. Alcohol was the velvet hammer. And I finally said… enough.” -Ann Dowsett Johnston🎧 Hit play and discover why your story matters—and why it's never too late to change the ending.________Ann's Website:https://www.anndowsettjohnston.com/Ann's Writing Your Recovery Course (The Fall cohort starts Sept. 17, 2025)https://www.anndowsettjohnston.com/workshopsWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if your “wake-up call” didn’t have to be a disaster?In this powerful episode of the Sober & Lit Podcast, Coaches Ruby and Susan shatter the outdated belief that you need to hit rock bottom to reevaluate your relationship with alcohol. Do you really have to lose everything to want more for yourself?What if feeling meh is enough of a reason to start feeling lit?With raw honesty and hard-earned wisdom, they unpack the real reasons high-functioning women stay stuck, how alcohol is quietly stealing your energy, and why questioning your drinking doesn’t make you broken—it makes you brave.They dive into:The myth of the “alcoholic” labelStress, social pressure, and the spiral of numbingThe quiet power of taking a breakHow to spot the “glimmers” that guide your healingReady to explore freedom without hitting a wall? Tune in now—and find out why you’re allowed to want better, even if things aren’t “that bad.”Plus: get the details on the Feel It 21 reset and how you can join Ruby and Susan for a powerful September start. No shame. No labels. No rock bottom required.Join Feel Lit 21 Live  This is a 21-Day Alcohol Reset program starting September 1, 2025 with weekly group coaching with Coach Ruby and Coach Susan. Join us for Sober September --- make this your month to finally break the cycle! https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/buy-feel-lit-21-live___________We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if the key to lasting change isn’t more willpower… but less attachment to your thoughts?In this episode of Sober & Lit, we sit down with the brilliant Scott Pinyard—former Head Coach at This Naked Mind—to explore the surprising role mindset, story, and consciousness play in alcohol freedom and beyond.Scott shares the pivotal shift that helped him break free from alcohol, how emotional awareness rewires our patterns, and why true transformation often starts with one simple question: What am I thinking?We go deep into:Why mindset beats motivation every timeThe science (and woo) of consciousnessHow your stories might be silently running your lifeWhat music, banjo, and bass have to do with healing Whether you're reevaluating your relationship with alcohol, navigating co-parenting, or just craving a deeper connection to yourself—this episode will open your mind and light up your path. Ready to shift your story?________To reach Scott Pinyard: scottpinyard.comBooks mentioned:This Naked Mind by Annie Grace – Scott talked about how discovering Annie’s work completely shifted his own relationship with alcohol and later led him to coaching with her organization.The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer – referenced by Ruby in connection with exploring deeper levels of consciousness and thought beyond just alcohol.The Surrender Experiment by Michael A. Singer – Scott also mentioned this as part of his own journey in spirituality and letting go of control.________Join Feel Lit 21 Live  This is a 21-Day Alcohol Reset program starting September 1, 2025 with weekly group coaching with Coach Ruby and Coach Susan. Join us for Sober September --- make this your month to finally break the cycle! https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/buy-feel-lit-21-live_________We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Welcome to the Sober & Lit Podcast—where living alcohol-free gets to be bold, empowered, and dare we say… fun.In this episode, Susan and Ruby ask the question so many of us avoid: Is there ever a “right” time to change your relationship with alcohol? Spoiler: That time might just be now.As the air shifts and September energy rolls in, they're breaking down why this season is prime time to start fresh—no rock bottom required. Think: new routines, back-to-school vibes, and momentum that’s practically begging you to start something instead of quit something.You’ll hear about:The sneaky trap of “I’ll stop tomorrow” thinkingHow the Groundhog Day cycle of drinking keeps us stuckReal stories of transformation after just 30 days alcohol-freeWhy curiosity is the new willpowerAnd how a simple self-hug (yes, really!) can calm your nervous system better than wine ever couldIf you’ve been waiting for a sign to explore sober curiosity or take a break from drinking—this is it.Tune in, grab your favorite AF drink, and let’s light up your September with possibility.Plus, we’ll tell you how to join our live Feel Lit 21 Live program for Sober September.  Join Feel Lit 21 Live  This is a 21-Day Alcohol Reset program starting September 1, 2025 with weekly group coaching with Coach Ruby and Coach Susan. Join us for Sober September --- make this your month to finally break the cycle! https://feellitpodcast.com/FeelLit21-Sept25_______We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Welcome back to the Sober & Lit Podcast! In this episode, Ruby and Susan sit down with guest Lauren O’Hanlon—better known as Coach Lo—a certified life coach, former bartender, and ex-mommy-wine-culture enthusiast. Lauren opens up about her personal journey from hiding her drinking behind closed doors to creating a life of clarity, confidence, and genuine connection. Together, they dig into the realities of mommy wine culture, why alcohol became such a normalized coping tool for mothers, and how tolerance and secrecy can creep in without us noticing. Lauren shares the vulnerable moments in her marriage and social life that prompted her to get curious (instead of judgmental) about her relationship with alcohol, and how that curiosity ultimately transformed everything. Plus, the trio discusses the power of a supportive community, embracing imperfection, and finding new ways to “feel lit” and fulfilled—alcohol free. Grab your favorite AF beverage and join us for an inspiring and honest conversation about making alcohol small and living life big!Connect with Lauren O’Hanlon:Website: coachlaurenohanlon.comInstagram, Facebook, TikTok: @coachlaurenohanlonWe Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

What if “sober” wasn’t a label to hide—but a vibe to celebrate?In this bold new chapter of the podcast, your hosts Susan Larkin and Ruby Williams unveil the rebrand from Feel Lit Alcohol Free to Sober and Lit—and the deeper why behind the name change. Is the word sober finally being reclaimed? What happens when you stop whispering your alcohol-free life and start owning it, proudly and publicly?Ruby and Susan get real about the evolution of their own sober identities, unpack the tension between terms like “alcohol-free,” “recovery,” and “sober,” and explore how Gen Z, wellness culture, and sober celebrities are reshaping the conversation. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the language—or wondered if choosing not to drink can actually make you feel cool, clear, and confident—this episode is for you.We Love Hearing From YouDon't forget to follow and subscribe and leave a review! It helps to get the word out that living sober is lit! Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Join our private community! Connect with the Podcast Hosts:Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusanFollow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoachingIt is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.