Did you know it takes just 66 days to break a bad habit? Or that the relentless “I’m not good enough” voice in your head can be silenced for good? Catherine Gray—one of my personal heroes—has made it her life’s work to unravel these challenges and share the solutions.

As the bestselling author of Versions of a Girl and the Unexpected Joy of series, Catherine brings a witty, no-judgment approach to quitting alcohol—and figuring out how to live joyfully afterward. Her fresh perspective makes sobriety not just achievable but genuinely aspirational.

In this episode, we dive into Catherine’s story: how alcoholism shaped her life, the moment sobriety finally stuck, and the unexpected joy she found on the other side. We discuss practical ways to stop people-pleasing, explore the fascinating interplay of nature vs. nurture, and unpack the neuroscience behind addiction and gratitude. Catherine also shares the small, daily habits that create lasting change and reveals why managing your ego might just be the ultimate life hack.

If you’re battling a bad habit, experimenting with a sober month, or supporting someone who is, this conversation is for you. It’s a powerful reminder that no matter how stuck you feel, change is possible and transformative—and there’s magic waiting for you on the other side.

Guest: Catherine Gray @unexpectedjoyof

Versions of a Girl by Catherine Gray - I LOVED it, really explores nature vs nurture - I gobbled it up on holiday and cried at the end.

Catherine’s Unexpected Joy Of.. 

… Being Sober 

…The Ordinary

…Being Single 

All of them are life changing.

Together with Alcohol Change UK the founders of Dry January, Catherine Gray has developed Sober Spring, a 90 day alcohol reset, to find out more sign up to the Try Dry app. 

The Enoughness with Melanie Rickey.

Produced and edited by Steve Hankey.

The podcast is recorded at 1 Warwick in Soho, a welcoming club for members and visitors alike, and the home of The Enoughness with Melanie Rickey.

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