In the heart of New York City, Abby Calabrese was living the dream on paper but the reality was she was quietly unravelling behind the scenes. Long days, late nights, and a culture steeped in drinking turned alcohol into her go-to coping mechanism, even as the cost to her wellbeing grew harder to ignore.

In this episode, Abby shares how walking away from alcohol became the catalyst for a complete identity shift and the creation of Alcohol Free Rebellion, a movement dedicated to helping others question the role alcohol plays in their lives. Ash and Abby dive into the awkwardness of social events without a drink in hand, the emotional honesty that sobriety demands, and how choosing not to numb out can radically transform relationships and self-worth.

Abby offers practical guidance for facing triggers, especially during the holidays, while staying anchored in intention, community, and self-compassion. She speaks to the power of mindfulness in strengthening intuition and making choices that truly align with who you are. At the heart of her story are the non-negotiables she now lives by: authenticity, emotional awareness, and unwavering self-care as the foundation of a full, meaningful, alcohol-free life.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Abby Calabrese and Her Journey

02:53 Navigating Life After Alcohol

05:45 The Challenge of Socializing Sober

08:29 Understanding Emotions and Feelings

11:34 Shifting Perspectives on Life

14:20 The Impact of Alcohol on Relationships

17:25 Hiding Behind a Smile: Abby's Photo Story

20:02 Recognizing Rock Bottoms and Justifications

22:48 The Roots of Abby's Drinking History

24:19 The Role of Alcohol in Socialization

29:29 Recognizing the Problem

32:21 The Turning Point

37:24 The Challenge of Sobriety

38:44 Shame and Stigma in Motherhood

43:59 Transforming Relationships in Sobriety

45:46 Embracing Authenticity in Relationships

47:22 Navigating Sobriety During the Holidays

49:16 Practical Tips for Alcohol-Free Celebrations

53:40 Listening to Your Intuition

56:50 Cultivating Mindfulness and Self-Awareness

01:02:36 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling Life

Follow and connect with Ash on: 

⁠Instagram⁠ @ashbutterss

Website⁠ www.ashbutterss.com

Upcoming Workshops:

The Letting Go Ritual: Breathwork, Yin, and Intention Setting for 2026

Tickets available here. 

A Return To You | One Day Retreat 

Sunday 22nd February, 2026

Tickets available here. 

Join Ash on retreat in 2026!

The Embodied Woman Retreat | Gold Coast | May 2026 

Rest and Renew Holistic Retreat in Bali | August 2026

Watch Ash’s TEDx Talk here!