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What if the first step to drinking less wasn’t quitting—but sitting still? In this episode of Feel Lit Alcohol Free, we’re joined by Rory Kinsella, a former hard-drinking musician turned Vedic meditation teacher and sober coach. Rory shares how meditation helped him effortlessly shift away from alcohol—before he even planned to quit.
From backstage hangovers to inner stillness, Rory’s story reveals how stress relief, not willpower, changed everything. We explore the power of Vedic meditation, why “clearing your mind” is a myth, and how his “Wise Monkey Way” helps quiet the chaos within.
Ready to trade the wine for something way more powerful? Let’s dive into the calm that could change your cravings.

• Visit Wise Monkey Way to learn about Rory Kinsella’s meditation programs and access a free introductory lesson.
• Follow Rory Kinsella on social media for updates and inspiration: @rorykinsellameditation

Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! So we created Feel Lit 21, a way for you to press your reset button and take a 21 day break from alcohol. Every day you will receive emails with videos, journal prompts, and the inspiration you need to embrace 21 days without alcohol that feels lit!

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and ask us any questions you have about breaking free from wine or living an alcohol-free lifestyle.

Websites:
Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/
Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/

Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusan
Follow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching

It is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

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"Help! I've been invited to a bachelorette party in Wine Country, and I'm not drinking. What should I do?" Welcome back to the Feel Lit Alcohol Free Podcast! In this episode, hosts Susan Larkin and Ruby Williams are joined by special guest Martha Wright—known for of alcohol-free living in Paris. Martha, a former wine industry veteran turned mindful drinking coach, brings her wealth of experience to tackle this listener question.
Together, Ruby, Susan, and Martha dive deep into the challenges and opportunities of attending social events—like bachelorette parties—where alcohol is typically front and center. They serve up practical tips for making the most out of the experience, from researching nonalcoholic options and finding joy in the gorgeous scenery, to reframing your mindset and creating engaging group activities that don't revolve around drinking. Martha shares her personal insights, stories from her own journey, and creative ways to stay connected, playful, and fully present at celebrations—without feeling left out.

Whether you're planning to join a wine country weekend, navigate a wedding, or just want to show up with intention and confidence at any event, this episode is packed with actionable advice and uplifting encouragement to help you feel lit—alcohol free! Grab your favorite NA beverage and listen in for ideas on honoring the true spirit of gatherings, forging true connections, and having even more fun without the booze.

About Martha Wright:
Martha is a veteran of the wine industry turned mindful drinking coach, now inspiring others to live alcohol free with joy. She splits her time between Paris, Portland, and New Orleans, always on the hunt for the best street markets and NA venues.
Follow Martha on Instagram: @themakealcoholsmallcoach
https://www.clearpowercoaching.com/

References:
Martha’s Sobriety Story & Holiday Tips – Episode 48
NA wine and mocktail spots in Napa/Sonoma: Deerfield Ranch Winery offers H2O sparkling!

Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! So we created Feel Lit 21, a way for you to press your reset button and take a 21 day break from alcohol. Every day you will receive emails with videos, journal prompts, and the inspiration you need to embrace 21 days without alcohol that feels lit!

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and ask us any questions you have about breaking free from wine or living an alcohol-free lifestyle.

Websites:
Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/
Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/

Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusan
Follow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching

It is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

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What if the real magic isn’t just in quitting drinking—but in everything that comes after?

Welcome back to the Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast! In this episode your hosts and alcohol freedom coaches Ruby Williams and Susan Larkin get real about what happens after you put down the glass.
From unexpected emotions to surprising wins, they’re sharing the raw, beautiful, and sometimes messy truth about what it really looks like to grow, evolve, and rediscover yourself alcohol-free.

• What do you do when the pink cloud fades?
• How do you keep going when no one else around you is on the same path?
• And—most importantly—where does the joy actually come from?

Ruby and Susan also reveal their brand-new program, Feel Lit 4 Life, created to help you build lasting freedom and find your people on this empowering journey.

If you're tired of the all-or-nothing narratives then get ready for honest, hopeful conversations about what it means to feel fully alive without alcohol—this episode is for you.

Episode at a Glance:
00:38 - Intro: From quick fix to lifelong growth 
02:17 - Why the journey matters 
02:35 - Q1: What was most surprising? 
05:38 - Q2: What was most challenging? 
11:44 - Q3: Where did you feel affirmed? 
15:51 - Q4: What doubts did you have? 
21:33 - Q5: What did you notice most? 
28:49 - Q6: What made it easier? 
32:31 - Final thoughts: Joy, growth, and cycles 
35:45 - How we feel lit now 

Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! So we created Feel Lit 21, a way for you to press your reset button and take a 21 day break from alcohol. Every day you will receive emails with videos, journal prompts, and the inspiration you need to embrace 21 days without alcohol that feels lit!

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and ask us any questions you have about breaking free from wine or living an alcohol-free lifestyle.

Websites:
Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/
Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/

Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusan
Follow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching

It is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

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What happens when “just one glass” turns into a deadly diagnosis?

In this raw and riveting episode of Feel Lit Alcohol Free, Ruby Williams and Susan Larkin sit down with Karla Adkins, co-founder of Zero Proof Life and author of She Came Tumbling Down. Karla was a young professional when she was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver at just 36—a wake-up call that nearly came too late!

Why Karla wrote her riveting book: "I can't be silent anymore. I have to share my story. I want people to know what can happen, the truth of this dangerous game that a lot of people are playing."

We dive deep into:
✅ The toxic culture of pandemic drinking and “mommy wine” humor
✅ Why liver disease is rising rapidly in women ages 25–34
✅ What it really takes to heal—physically, emotionally, and spiritually
✅ How Karla went from silent shame to powerful sobriety advocate

This conversation is urgent, inspiring, and unforgettable. Let’s get into it.

Read Karla's compelling story And She Came Tumbling Down : Breaking the Bonds of Alcohol and Creating a Life of Freedom 
Connect with Karla: Karlaadkins.com  @thezeroprooflife @karlakadkins

Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! So we created Feel Lit 21, a way for you to press your reset button and take a 21 day break from alcohol. Every day you will receive emails with videos, journal prompts, and the inspiration you need to embrace 21 days without alcohol that feels lit!

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and ask us any questions you have about breaking free from wine or living an alcohol-free lifestyle.

Websites:
Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/
Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/

Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusan
Follow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching

It is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Send us a text

Welcome back to the Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast! In this episode, we're diving deep into one of the most common beliefs we hear from clients: “I deserve a drink.” Sound familiar?

Join your hosts and alcohol freedom coaches, Ruby and Susan, as we unpack the cultural conditioning behind using alcohol as a reward—and why it's time to rethink that narrative. Why have we been taught that wine is the prize for surviving the day? And what if the real reward isn’t in a glass, but in the way we feel?

We're challenging the "work hard, wine hard" mindset and offering fresh, joyful alternatives to truly nourish yourself. From micro-moments of pleasure to playful rituals that light you up (without the hangover), you’ll walk away with tools, perspective shifts, and a whole lot of inspiration.

Ready to redefine what reward actually feels like? Let’s get lit—alcohol free.

Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! So we created Feel Lit 21, a way for you to press your reset button and take a 21 day break from alcohol. Every day you will receive emails with videos, journal prompts, and the inspiration you need to embrace 21 days without alcohol that feels lit!

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and ask us any questions you have about breaking free from wine or living an alcohol-free lifestyle.

Websites:
Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/
Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/

Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusan
Follow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching

It is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Send us a text

What if the best thing you ever drank didn’t have alcohol in it?

In this episode, Susan and Ruby sit down with the amazing Deb Podlager—aka Mocktail Mom—who went from drinking Chardonnay every weekend, to sipping spicy, spirit-free margaritas and leading a whole new movement.

Deb shares how divorce, breast cancer, parenting through trauma, and pandemic burnout pushed her closer to the bottle... until she hit a moment of truth before turning 50.
But instead of spiraling, she said “What if I just… stopped?”
And what happened next? It sparkled.
We’ll dive into:
💥 Why alcohol slowly creeps in without us noticing
💥 How to rewire your rituals with mocktails that actually taste good
💥 Why sobriety isn’t boring—it’s liberating

What does it take to break up with booze... and fall in love with your life again?
Let’s find out!

00:00 Mocktail Mom's Alcohol-Free Journey
05:15 Life Changes and Emotional Impact
06:49 Coping with Divorce and Illness
11:52 Rediscovering Fun Without Alcohol
15:44 First Nonalcoholic Wine Experience
16:06 Discovering Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Options
20:40 Mocktail Trials and Tribulations
23:37 Low-Sugar Nautical Mocktail Recipe
25:53 Nonalcoholic Mint Julep Recipe
29:33 Beginner Bar Essentials
34:54 Global Mocktail Summit Highlights
38:07 How Deb Feels “Lit” Alcohol-Free

Where to find out more about Mocktail Mom:
MocktailMom.com   @mocktail.mom  https://www.facebook.com/MocktailMom
Buy the book: The Happiest Hour 

Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! So we created Feel Lit 21, a way for you to press your reset button and take a 21 day break from alcohol. Every day you will receive emails with videos, journal prompts, and the inspiration you need to embrace 21 days without alcohol that feels lit!

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and ask us any questions you have about breaking free from wine or living an alcohol-free lifestyle.

Websites:
Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/
Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/

Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusan
Follow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching

It is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

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What happens when you take alcohol out of dating, relationships, and major life transitions? Does connection get harder—or better?

In this episode of Feel Lit Alcohol Free, Ruby and Susan sit down with Jeanette Levitt, a certified coach who helps midlife women navigate drinking, divorce, and dating—without losing themselves in the process.

Jeanette gets real about the unexpected challenges (and surprising joys!) of dating without alcohol, how sobriety brings next-level clarity in relationships, and why choosing yourself is the most powerful move you can make.

If you've ever wondered “Will I ever feel confident on a date without a drink?” or “How do I build real, deep connections alcohol-free?”—this episode is for you.

Get ready for game-changing insights, real talk, and practical tips that might just redefine the way you approach love, healing, and self-discovery. Let’s dive in!

Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! So we created Feel Lit 21, a way for you to press your reset button and take a 21 day break from alcohol. Every day you will receive emails with videos, journal prompts, and the inspiration you need to embrace 21 days without alcohol that feels lit!

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and ask us any questions you have about breaking free from wine or living an alcohol-free lifestyle.

Websites:
Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/
Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/

Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusan
Follow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching

It is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Send us a text

Welcome back to Feel Lit Alcohol Free! In this episode we’re tackling a topic that’s raw, real, and rarely talked about—loneliness.

Did you ever pour a drink just to fill the silence?  You are not alone. Loneliness is one of the most common reasons we hear that people have fallen into drinking habits that no longer serve them. 

Susan and Ruby dive into why major life shifts like divorce, empty nesting, or losing a loved one often leave us searching for connection in all the wrong places.
But here’s the game-changer: Loneliness doesn’t have to be the end of connection—it can be the beginning of something incredible.

Does being alcohol-free sometimes make you feel like an outsider? What if loneliness isn’t the problem—but the key to something bigger?

We’re sharing practical strategies to turn isolation into empowerment, build real friendships, and create a life that’s not just alcohol-free—but vibrant, fulfilling, and truly connected.

Ready to shift your perspective and step into deeper, more meaningful relationships? Let’s dive in!

Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! So we created Feel Lit 21, a way for you to press your reset button and take a 21 day break from alcohol. Every day you will receive emails with videos, journal prompts, and the inspiration you need to embrace 21 days without alcohol that feels lit!

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and ask us any questions you have about breaking free from wine or living an alcohol-free lifestyle.

Websites:
Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/
Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/

Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusan
Follow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching

It is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

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In this new episode, Hosts Susan Larkin and Ruby Williams are thrilled to have the remarkable Peggi Cooney—author, speaker, and sobriety advocate. Peggi's transformation from wine lover to alcohol-free warrior is nothing short of inspiring.
Dive deep with us as Peggi reveals the life-changing ultimatum from her daughter that set her on the path to sobriety, and then to write her inspirational memoir, This Side of Alcohol. With her extensive background in child welfare and adult protective services, Peggi offers invaluable insights on managing stress in helping professions and highlights the crucial role of connection in recovery.

Curious about how adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) shape alcohol use? Want to know more about Peggi's book and the exciting Zero Proof Experience events? Join us for an engaging conversation that explores Peggi's journey, her impact on the sober community, and the transformative power of living alcohol-free.

Attend the next Sober in the City Event in Scottsdale AZ!  Peggi will be there and give you a big hug. Host, Susan Larkin will also be attending! It's an amazing experience!
Purchase Peggi's book, This Side of Alcohol

Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! So we created Feel Lit 21, a way for you to press your reset button and take a 21 day break from alcohol. Every day you will receive emails with videos, journal prompts, and the inspiration you need to embrace 21 days without alcohol that feels lit!

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and ask us any questions you have about breaking free from wine or living an alcohol-free lifestyle.

Websites:
Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/
Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/

Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusan
Follow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching

It is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

Send us a text

Welcome back to the Feel Lit Alcohol Free Podcast! In this episode, your hosts, Susan and Ruby, dive deep into the complex relationship between alcohol and happiness. Ruby opens up with a question many of us have pondered: "Does alcohol really make us happy?" Sharing personal experiences and client stories, Ruby and Susan discuss the deceptive illusion of happiness that alcohol provides. They explore how societal beliefs and personal experiences have conditioned us to associate alcohol with fun and happiness. However, as they unveil, the science behind alcohol tells a different story. From the chemical effects of alcohol on our brain to the way it can overshadow genuine emotions like joy, gratitude, and serenity, this episode encourages listeners to challenge ingrained beliefs and consider redefining what happiness truly means. 

Whether you're already on an alcohol-free journey or simply curious about alternative paths to joy, this conversation is packed with insights to help you feel healthier, freer, and more in control of your life. So get ready to explore the pursuit of true happiness, alcohol-free.

Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! So we created Feel Lit 21, a way for you to press your reset button and take a 21 day break from alcohol. Every day you will receive emails with videos, journal prompts, and the inspiration you need to embrace 21 days without alcohol that feels lit!

Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and ask us any questions you have about breaking free from wine or living an alcohol-free lifestyle.

Websites:
Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/
Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/

Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusan
Follow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching

It is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.