Alice's drinking got out of control growing up in Tasmania, drinking to numb complicated feelings associated with being gay in an environment in which it was still illegal to be gay at the time and so she kept her identity hidden from everyone around her.  After bravely going to rehab more than 20 times desperate to find a way out of the destructive drinking cycle she was in, Alice was finally able to stop drinking after reading Annie Grace’s This Naked Mind, doing several of Annie’s alcohol programs and pursing the transformational effects of cold-water exposure and Wim Hoff’s breathing techniques. It stuck. Alice then decided to support others struggling with alcohol and stress to access this method too. She founded Wild Wellness in Tasmania which offers a range of transformational retreats designed to help people escape, heal and reset in the magnificent wilderness of Tasmania via ocean plunges, practitioner-led fireside sessions, journaling and guided breathwork. Alice’s story is inspirational and empowering. She tells her story with openness and honesty together with plenty of belly laughs along the way.

Web: https://www.wildwellnessmethod.com
Instagram: @wild_wellness_method

MEG

Web: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/
ConnectAF group coaching: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching
 

BELLA

Web: https://isabellaferguson.com.au

Drink: The Intimate Relationship between Women and Alcohol celebrates 10 years today! Tune in as we talk to the author, Ann Dowsett Johnston, award-winning journalist, TEDx Speaker and Founder of the Writing Your Recovery Workshops about women’s relationship with alcohol 10 years on. Is alcohol still the modern women’s steroid that helps us do the heavy lifting? 

It was a brave act to speak out in the way Ann did 10 years ago. At the time, Ann became the modern face of alcoholism. “What I wanted to do with my book was to blow the doors wide open and say if I can have an alcohol issue, as Vice Principal of a University, anyone can” says Ann. It’s true. Drink gave permission for women to say “this is happening to me and my family as well”. For that, so many of us will forever be grateful to Ann.

Drink was and is a revolutionary book ahead of its time, interweaving Ann’s personal alcohol story with crucial research and interviews about the startling rise of risky drinking among women. Drink was named one of the 10 best books of 2013 by the Washington Post.

 Ann is now a psychotherapist helping other women to recover, a speaker and founder of the Writing Your Recovery Workshops, open to women internationally. 

Tune in to this conversation to hear about what life is like 15 year’s sober and Ann’s views on women’s relationship with alcohol today. 

Ann's Website: https://www.anndowsettjohnston.com

Writing Your Recovery Workshops: https://www.anndowsettjohnston.com/workshops

Ann's TEDx Talk on Drinking and How it Changed My Life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqtZjpI1oVQ

MEG

Web: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/
ConnectAF group coaching: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching
 

BELLA

Web: https://isabellaferguson.com.au

Today, we have the honor of speaking with William Porter, the insightful author of "Alcohol Explained." William spent years in the throes of his own drinking career, unknowingly gathering the research and experiences that would later form the foundation of his life-changing book. In this episode William is  generous in his  knowledge and wisdom. 
 William offers a profound perspective on alcohol that has the power to transform lives. Let's dive into his journey and discover the truths he's uncovered.

Williams website: https://alcoholexplained.com/the-author/

MEG

Web: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/
ConnectAF group coaching: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching
 

BELLA

Web: https://isabellaferguson.com.au

Dr. Gina Cleo, one of Australia's leading habit change experts, shares her expertise on creating healthier, alcohol-free habit loops. In this recording of Dr Cleo's talk to my (Bella) November Alcohol Freedom Challenge, Dr Cleo discusses the science behind dopamine, a neurotransmitter that drives our reward and pleasure systems. On this note, alcohol provides a significant dopamine surge—sometimes up to 360% above baseline—creating a powerful association with relief and pleasure. However, over time, relying on alcohol for dopamine can make other activities feel less rewarding, making it harder to break the habit. 

Dr. Cleo emphasises the importance of hacking our reward system by changing our perception of alcohol and introducing new sources of joy. Reframing alcohol as a toxin that disrupts sleep and drains energy can reduce its appeal. At the same time, engaging in healthier activities—cooking a new recipe, trying a hobby, or exercising—can naturally boost dopamine. Novel experiences, even small ones, provide excitement and unpredictability, rewiring your brain to find joy beyond alcohol. 

As Dr. Cleo explains, building new habits takes time, with the brain’s dopamine levels typically rebalancing within 30 to 90 days. Celebrate each step forward, as acknowledging your progress releases dopamine and reinforces positive behaviours. Listen to Dr. Cleo's practical strategies to rewire your brain, broaden your sources of joy, and thrive without alcohol. 🎧

LEARN MORE ABOUT DR CLEO

Dr Cleo's website: https://www.drginacleo.com/
Dr Cleo's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drginacleo/
Free Habit Change Master Class: https://habitchangeinstitute.mykajabi.com/masterclass

MEG

Web: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/
ConnectAF group coaching: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching
 

BELLA

Web: https://isabellaferguson.com.au

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I never imagined that so many special memories in my life would be a blur. The harsh reality of alcohol-induced blackouts left a mark on what should have been some of the clearest and happiest days of my life. Tune in as I, Meg, unravel the harrowing connection between these blackouts and anxiety, and the role they've played in my own journey. It's a stark look at the silent battle many face, as the quest to ease social nerves can lead to moments lost in time and the frightening inability to form memories.

This episode isn't just a personal reflection—it's a broader discussion on the perilous impact of alcohol misuse on society, from the risks of domestic violence to the tough conversations we must have with our loved ones about safe drinking practices. Through my story, and experiences, we explore the importance of  awareness around how and why blackouts occur when it comes to alcohol. If you're grappling with these challenges or know someone who is, this conversation aims to offer a guiding light to those ready to step towards understanding and breaking free from alcohol's grip.

Contact Meg: 

Website: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579436511475
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/

Link to FREE discovery call with Meg:  

https://calendly.com/glassfulfilled

Email Meg here: 

[email protected]

Donna Bennett shares her five-year sobriety journey that began with an "Easter epiphany" during COVID lockdown, revealing how removing alcohol from her life led to profound personal transformation and newfound freedom. We cover so much in this episode, including:

• Recognising how alcohol had "sneakily" increased its influence over the years, particularly during lunchtime socialising
• Experiencing frightening blackouts and memory gaps during drinking sessions
• Using COVID lockdown as an opportunity to attempt sobriety without social pressure
• Discovering that moderate drinkers exist and learning to socialise without alcohol
• Finding connection and support through the Daybreak app after six weeks of solo sobriety
• Reading about alcohol's effects removed shame and the notion that lacking control was a personality flaw
• Experiencing better sleep, weight loss, and improved mental clarity after quitting
• Moving from "filling in time before dying" to finding joy and purpose in simple things

If you're curious about taking a break from alcohol and are looking for inspiration, take a listen to this episode.

MEG

Web: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/
ConnectAF group coaching: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching
 

BELLA

Web: https://isabellaferguson.com.au

Send us Fan Mail

Ever wondered why the notion of being a "normal drinker" weighs heavily on so many of us? Join me, Meg, as I share my personal journey through the maze of societal expectations and personal realisations around alcohol consumption. From questioning my own drinking habits to the pivotal moment of embracing a sober lifestyle, this episode unpacks the unrealistic aspirations many harbour about drinking without consequences. Through heartfelt introspection, I reveal how alcohol impacted my personal relationships and overall well-being, leading to the liberating decision to pursue a life filled with genuine joy and purpose—free from alcohol.

This episode brings to light the transformative power of feeling emotions in their rawest form rather than numbing them with substances.  Whether you're contemplating moderation or complete abstinence, we invite you to reflect on your own experiences with alcohol. Your suggestions are welcome for future topics and guest appearances, as we explore what it truly means to thrive without alcohol.

Contact Meg: 

Website: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579436511475
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/

Link to FREE discovery call with Meg:  

https://calendly.com/glassfulfilled

Email Meg here: 

[email protected]

Today we talk to Jen Hirst! Jen is an open book when it comes to her experience with alcohol addiction. She says it like it is and discusses how she recovered with transparency. This is what drew me to Jen. Her honesty about how dark it got has been such an inspiration for many who can relate and say 'yep me too!". Jen now dedicates her time to helping others do the same. She is awesome! This is what attracts her almost 70,000 instagram followers. Jen's vibrant Instagram presence exemplifies how one individual's journey can resonate and aid countless others. For those contemplating a break from alcohol or walking the path of sobriety themselves, Jen's insights offer hope and a reminder that the journey, while individual, is one you need not walk alone.

Jen Hirst

https://www.instagram.com/jenleehirst/

MEG

Web: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/
ConnectAF group coaching: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching
 

BELLA

Web: https://isabellaferguson.com.au

Lauren O'Hanlon shares her powerful journey from teen blackouts to a turning point that reshaped her life. Navigating the pressures of motherhood, “mommy wine culture,” and a near-divorce, she realised something had to change. Now two and a half years alcohol free, Lauren opens up about transforming her relationship, healing her identity, and finding freedom in making alcohol “small and irrelevant.” Tune in to hear how she turned pain into purpose as a sobriety coach helping others do the same.

MEG

Web: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/
ConnectAF group coaching: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching
 

BELLA

Web: https://isabellaferguson.com.au

Dr. Shamistra Barathan breaks down the science of midlife weight gain and reveals the three missing pieces of the puzzle for women struggling despite diet and exercise changes. Some key points:

• Weight loss struggles are often tied to hidden hormonal imbalances
• Calories-in/calories-out model outdated – it's about hormones telling your body to store or burn fat
• Insulin resistance can exist for years despite normal blood sugar readings
• Chronic stress creates cortisol patterns that tell your body to store fat
• Muscle loss accelerates after 40, reducing your ability to burn calories
• Simple habit changes like morning protein, standing breaks, and basic resistance exercises can create significant results
• Perimenopause accelerates these challenges as estrogen declines

Take back control of your health with these practical, science-backed strategies to address the root causes of midlife weight gain!

MEG

Web: https://www.meganwebb.com.au/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganwebbcoaching/
ConnectAF group coaching: https://www.elizaparkinson.com/groupcoaching
 

BELLA

Web: https://isabellaferguson.com.au