What really happens when we drink, and why does alcohol so often sabotage our intention to relax, connect, or recharge, especially on holiday? In this episode, host Anna Donaghey revisits her powerful conversation with William Porter, author of "Alcohol Explained," to discuss the science and psychology behind alcohol and why it’s become the UK’s favourite coping mechanism, and how a little knowledge can spark profound change. This is an invitation to get curious, notice how alcohol actually makes you feel, and experiment with a different kind of summer.

Here are the highlights: 

00:00 Introduction

03:21 From paratrooper and lawyer to alcohol expert and author

04:46 How alcohol use ramps up

07:45 Rock bottom moments: Understanding what’s really happening

10:18 Demystifying “addiction” and loosening alcohol’s grip

13:59 What happens in your brain, and why you wake up anxious at 3am

17:00 Cravings explained: psychological triggers, and breaking the cycle

20:27 Holidays, happiness, and the myth that alcohol “makes it better”

24:40 Socialising, endorphins, and why sobriety doesn’t mean missing out

28:13 Alcohol’s impact on sleep, anxiety, and your mood

41:36 Joy, hobbies, and rediscovering life beyond the glass

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About the host Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

About William Porter:

William is the author of Alcohol Explained and Alcohol Explained 2, widely praised guides for understanding and overcoming alcohol addiction. He began drinking at 14, and his alcohol use increased through a life that included military service in Iraq, a legal career, and work in London’s financial sector. In 2014, his clear-sighted analysis of alcohol’s effects helped him quit drinking, and he has since shared his insights through his books. He lives in West London with his wife and two children and continues to work as a lawyer.

Connect with William:

Website: alcoholexplained.com

Mentioned in this episode:

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