This week’s episode is a personal one. Andy hits 7 years alcohol-free, and we unpack what’s changed - and what keeps getting better even this far down the road.

We talk honestly about the midlife runner’s reality: the hidden negotiations, the “badge of honour” hangover runs, and the way running can become both a coping mechanism and a doorway to real change. You’ll hear why 100 days is often the point where the real identity shift begins, why clarity is a double-edged sword, and how learning to process grief and emotion (instead of numbing it) becomes a superpower.

We also share some race-week energy - Tokyo Marathon shout-outs, training markers, and why consistency beats intensity every time when life is busy and you’re trying to build something sustainable.

If you’re a midlife runner who feels stuck, misaligned, or caught in the weekday discipline / weekend sabotage loop - this one will land.

In this episode:

• The 7-year “soberversary” (and why there’s no itch to go back)
• The badge-of-honour trap: “I can still run after drinking…”
• Running away vs running towards: the identity shift
• Grief, gratitude, and feeling life in full colour
• Why 100 days is a real data point (not just a milestone)
• Consistency > intensity (and how to train without burning out)
• Race-week shout-outs + how to use races as confidence builders

Work with us: If you’re ready to remove alcohol as the hidden performance ceiling and rebuild self-trust, DM us and start the conversation.