In this episode of 420 Reasons Why I Quit Drinking, I take a deep dive into the difference between resting and recovering. Back when I was drinking, I told myself I was taking a day to “rest” after a night out—but really, I was just trying to survive the hangover. As James Corden put it, “we’re borrowing from tomorrow,” and I was overdrawing the account.

Anxiety, nausea, and guilt would keep me glued to the couch, mindlessly scrolling and waiting to feel human again—wasting entire days I’d never get back.

Since quitting, I’ve discovered what true rest and real living feel like. Now I start my mornings with prayer, movement, nourishment, gratitude, and inspiration. I’m no longer running on empty—I’m building momentum.

So I’ll ask you: What percent of your potential are you living in today?

Podcast Summary: The Fake ID Fiasco

In this episode of 420 Reasons Why I Quit Drinking, I take you back to my college days—where my determination to buy alcohol led me down a risky path I barely even thought twice about.

Borrowing my sister’s Michigan driver’s license? No big deal… or so I thought. Turns out, that little stunt could’ve landed me up to 3 years in prison and some hefty fines. But back then, all I cared about was getting my hands on drinks—and I even roped my unsuspecting parents into my scheme.

So, how did I pull it off? And more importantly, what did I learn from it? Tune in for the full story, a few laughs, and a lesson in hindsight I’ll never forget.

In the sweltering summer of 1986, boredom and a thirst for booze led me to a ridiculous idea—pretending it was my birthday just so my friend would throw a party. And oh, what a party it was—flowers, decorations, endless shots… and everyone in on the joke. Well, almost everyone.

One person didn’t know the truth, and when he finally found out, let’s just say he wasn’t exactly celebrating. Looking back, it’s wild to think of the lengths we went to just to drink—never considering the consequences, only the next excuse to party.

Tune in for the full story, a few laughs, and another reason why I finally left drinking behind.

In this episode of 420 Reasons Why I Quit Drinking, I reflect on a time in my life when I felt completely broken—wondering if all my shattered pieces would ever come back together. But looking back now, I see that those broken pieces didn’t just heal; they transformed into something greater.

I’m not broken—I am a masterpiece. A radiant, vibrant disco ball of love and energy, spinning in the light of my faith and gratitude. I’ve learned to seek out glimmers—those small moments of joy, peace, and gratitude that remind me how far I’ve come. And the more I look for them, the more they appear.

Join me as I share this journey of healing, hope, and the beauty of embracing life’s glimmers. 💫✨

Welcome to another episode of 420 Reasons Why I Quit Drinking!

Back in my Ludington days, while running my family’s restaurant, I met a handsome, charming man whose family’s contracting business worked with mine. It felt like fate—two people with similar stories, both returning home to run the family business.

That night, we talked for hours, and for a moment, it felt real. Magical, even. I thought I had seen a ring, but when I asked, he denied it. I let myself believe in the possibility.

The next day, still buzzing with excitement, I shared the story with my best friend—only to have my bubble completely burst. Turns out, there was a whole truth I hadn't seen coming…

Tune in for the full story—because sometimes, the reality check is the real lesson.

In this episode, I reflect on how God has blessed my mess—turning life’s challenges into opportunities for growth and transformation. I share how this podcast has changed me, giving me a platform to transcribe my experiences and help others on their own journeys. I also open up about the struggle of wanting to cling to the life I once lived and grieving the friendships I’ve had, while knowing that what’s best for me is maintaining my peace and boundaries. While some may not be ready to receive this message, I put it out there for those who are—and for those who may be one day. Sending love to all my friends and listeners.

In this milestone episode, I reflect on a trip that should have been about adventure, culture, and connection—but instead, drinking took center stage. Back when I was between jobs, I traveled to visit friends in Granada, Spain. From drinking at the airport to getting drunk while waiting for a delayed train, and then keeping the party going once we arrived, alcohol became the main attraction rather than the stunning beauty of Granada itself.

Sure, we had fun—but how much of that fun was real, and how much was just numbing the experience? Looking back, I see how much of the trip was a blur and how I prioritized drinking over truly being present. In this episode, I break down what that trip meant to me then, what it means to me now, and how my perspective on travel (and life) has completely changed since quitting drinking.

Tune in for a deep dive into the contrast between travel fueled by alcohol and the joy of fully experiencing a place with clarity and presence.

In this episode, I dedicate time to honor a dear friend who lost his lifelong battle with alcohol. He was a creative, a father, a son, and a friend who fought hard against his demons, wanting more for his life. Despite his struggles, past trauma made the fight too heavy to bear. This is a heartfelt tribute to him and a reminder of why these conversations matter.

Stuck in Nice – Part 2"

In this follow-up episode of 420 Reasons Why I Quit Drinking Alcohol, we’re still in Nice, feeling like locals at our favorite bar and meeting new people every night. We kept saying we were leaving… but then my cousin sprained her ankle, the trains went on strike, and suddenly, getting out of there seemed impossible. Were we ever going to make it out alive? Tune in to hear how it all unfolded.

Episode Summary: "Backpacking & Booze – Nice, 1991"

In this episode of 420 Reasons Why I Quit Drinking Alcohol, I take a trip down memory lane to 1991, when my cousin and I spent three months traveling across Europe. One month in, we found ourselves on the French Riviera in Nice—soaking up the sun, meeting incredible people, and living on bread, crackers, and cheese just to stretch our budget… so we could drink every night. Join me as I share journal entries from the journey and reflect on how alcohol shaped the experience.