The Zero Proof Life

Episode 22: The Journey To Loving Yourself 

Summary

In this episode of the Zero Proof Life podcast, Becca discusses the theme of self-love and the courage it takes to embrace it. She explores the relationship between courage and confidence, emphasizing that confidence often follows acts of courage. Becca introduces the 'Four Cs of Change'—choice, commitment, courage, and confidence—and explains how these elements are interconnected in the journey of personal growth. She highlights the importance of self-respect, overcoming shame, and the quiet moments of courage that lead to self-love. The conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their own journeys and to consciously practice self-love and courage in their daily lives.

Takeaways

Courage is essential for self-love.

Confidence follows acts of courage.

Starting something new is often the hardest part.

Self-respect is a key component of personal growth.

Courage can be found in quiet moments.

Setting boundaries is a form of self-love.

The journey of self-love is ongoing and personal.

Daily practices can help cultivate courage.

You cannot give love to others if you do not love yourself.

Courage feeds confidence, creating a positive cycle.

Sound bites

"Starting is the hard part."

"Courage is quiet."

"Courage happens in the calm."

Chapters

00:00 The Courage to Love Yourself

02:49 The Four Cs of Change

06:06 Building Self-Respect and Overcoming Shame

08:53 Courage in Quiet Moments

12:10 Choosing Yourself and Setting Boundaries

15:04 The Journey of Self-Love and Courage

17:56 Daily Practices for Courage and Self-Love

Resources & Links

• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription
  
  
• Follow ZPL: https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
  
  
• Follow the coaches:
  
  
  • Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/) 
    
    
  • Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/)
    
    Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/)
    
    Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life.

Follow ZPL: 

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)  
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.

In this episode of the Zero Proof Life podcast, host Karla Adkins speaks with Anna Donaghey, a certified alcohol mindset coach and former advertising strategist. They discuss Anna's journey from a high-functioning drinker in the advertising industry to a coach helping others navigate their relationship with alcohol. The conversation explores the impact of alcohol in advertising, the concept of gray area drinking, and the importance of redefining what rock bottom means. Anna emphasizes the need to understand what we are truly thirsty for in life and how to design a fulfilling life without relying on alcohol.

Takeaways

Alcohol has a significant presence in the advertising industry.

Many people drink to mask emotional issues or dissatisfaction.

Redefining rock bottom can help individuals recognize their struggles earlier.

Gray area drinking refers to those who don't fit the traditional definitions of alcoholics but still experience negative effects from drinking.

It's important to ask if your life is good enough rather than if your drinking is bad enough.

The book 'What Are You Thirsty For?' explores the deeper desires behind drinking.

Sacking the CEO of emotions means taking control of your life and decisions.

Designing a fulfilling life can reduce the desire to escape through alcohol.

Emotions are messengers that need to be acknowledged, not ignored.

Self-discovery is key to understanding one's relationship with alcohol.

Time Stamps: 

00:00 Introduction to Anna Donaghey

02:05 The Impact of Alcohol in Advertising

12:47 Transitioning from Advertising to Coaching

16:29 Redefining Rock Bottom

22:31 Understanding Gray Area Drinking

24:30 Understanding Grey Area Drinking

29:01 Exploring Thirst and Emotional Needs

32:11 Sacking the CEO: Taking Control of Your Life

39:03 Rethinking Drinking and Life Choices

Resources & Links

• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription
• Follow ZPL: https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
• Guest Anna Donaghey : 
  http://www.thebigdrinkrethink.com

instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

facebook.com/thebigdrinkrethink

• Follow the coaches:
  
  
  
  • Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/) 
    
    
    
  • Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/) 
    
    
    
  • Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
    
    
    
  • Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life.

Follow ZPL: 

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)  
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.

Karla Adkins and Lorna Wilson explore how limiting beliefs shape our relationship with alcohol, and self-trust. They unpack the origins of the inner critic, the role of the subconscious mind, and how our inner mentor can guide us toward deeper resilience and clarity. This empowering conversation encourages every woman to challenge old stories, trust her growth, and embrace the possibility of something new.

Key Takeaways

• Limiting beliefs restrict forward movement and are often assumed to be true.
• The inner critic serves as a flag for limiting beliefs.
• Understanding the source of limiting beliefs is crucial for personal growth.
• The subconscious mind drives automatic reactions and decisions.
• Personal experiences can reveal unexpected strength and hidden success.
• The inner mentor represents our true selves and future possibility.
• Challenging societal norms around alcohol is essential for liberation and clarity.
• Breaking down beliefs requires curiosity, compassion, and exploration.
• Setbacks are not failures; they’re information and invitations to grow.
• Community support expands your capacity to see yourself clearly.
  
  

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Limiting Beliefs
03:14 Understanding the Inner Critic
06:16 The Weight of Our Backpack
09:28 The Power of the Subconscious Mind
12:31 Personal Experience and Growth
15:27 Exploring the Inner Mentor
18:30 Moving Forward with Self-Belief
26:03 Outro

Resources & Links

• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription
  
  
• Follow ZPL: https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
  
  
• Follow the coaches:
  
  
  • Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/) 
    
    
  • Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/) 
    
    
  • Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
    
    
  • Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life.

Follow ZPL: 

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)  
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.

Coaches Brandi and Becca unpack why so many women feel stuck in their drinking patterns and why willpower alone isn’t the answer. They explore the shame cycle, emotional triggers, cognitive dissonance, and the real reasons alcohol becomes harder to manage over time. They also highlight the strength of community, preparation, and shared stories in supporting meaningful alcohol-free change, and offer an overview of the Zero Proof Life 30-Day Challenge. 

The next ZPL Challenge starts 1/1/26. Use code: PODCAST for $20 off.

Key Takeaways

• It's common to feel stuck in drinking habits.
  
  
• Relying solely on willpower leads to burnout.
  
  
• Shame creates a self-fulfilling cycle.
  
  
• Understanding triggers is essential for change.
  
  
• Preparation is a powerful disruptor of old habits.
  
  
• Cognitive dissonance is normal in alcohol use.
  
  
• Sharing stories breaks isolation.
  
  
• Dopamine cravings increase with age.
  
  
• Alcohol affects women uniquely.
  
  
• Community support is vital for recovery.
  
  

Timestamps

00:00 – Understanding Alcohol Habits and Stuckness
11:23 – Breaking the Shame Cycle
22:52 – Triggers, Emotions, and Alcohol Awareness
26:44 – The Zero Proof Life Challenge Overview
27:46 – Outro

Resources & Links

• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription
  
  
• Follow ZPL: https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
  
  
• Follow the coaches:
  
  
  • Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/) 
    
    
  • Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/) 
    
    
  • Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
    
    
  • Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life.

Follow ZPL: 

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)  
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.

In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Tobie opens up about her lifelong struggle with alcohol, the impact of childhood trauma, and the role grief played on her path. From early drinking habits to the devastating loss of her husband, she shares how sobriety, community, and faith helped her rebuild her life from the inside out. Her story is a reminder that healing is possible, relationships can be restored, and that choosing sobriety often leads to gaining far more than we give up.

Key Takeaways

• Early exposure to alcohol shaped Tobie's relationship with drinking.
• A moment of self-awareness became the turning point toward sobriety.
• Grief and trauma contributed significantly to her alcohol use.
• Tobie faced the murder of her husband and chose not to drink through it.
• Healing grief without alcohol became a major part of her growth.
• Sobriety transformed her relationships with her children and others.
• Community support played a crucial role in her recovery.
• Personal responsibility became a foundation for healthier relationships.
• Faith in God grounded her as she rebuilt her life.
• Letting go of alcohol helped her gain clarity, connection, and peace.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Tobie's Journey with Alcohol
 07:23 The Aha Moment: Recognizing the Need for Change
 12:11 Grief and Alcohol: Coping with Loss
 18:08 Facing Tragedy: The Murder of Tobie's Husband
 23:58 Navigating Grief Without Alcohol
 29:39 Transforming Relationships Through Recovery
 35:36 The Impact of Alcohol on Professional Life
 42:20 The Impact of Alcohol on Daily Life
 47:08 Breaking Up with Alcohol
 57:15 Faith and Spirituality in Recovery
 01:03:25 Closing Reflections

Resources & Links

• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription
• Follow ZPL: https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
• Follow the coaches:
  
  
  • Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/) 
    
    
  • Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/) 
    
    
  • Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
    
    
  • Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life.

Follow ZPL: 

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)  
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.

Hosts Karla Adkins and Carolyn Bennett dive into the transformational journey they’ve witnessed inside Zero Proof Life. From navigating the holiday season to understanding the science of alcohol, they explore how community, coaching, and empowerment move women from surviving to thriving. This conversation highlights the real physical, emotional, and relational shifts that happen when someone decides to stop drinking and steps into a supportive space that understands the journey.

Key Takeaways

• Community is one of the strongest antidotes to addiction.
• Understanding the science of alcohol can be life-saving and motivating.
• The physical benefits of quitting alcohol arrive quickly and measurably.
• One decision can create a powerful ripple effect across your entire life.
• Coaching strategies evolve as women evolve.
• A welcoming, supportive community accelerates personal growth.
• The holidays can be especially challenging without support.
• Normalizing alcohol conversations helps reduce shame and isolation.
• Joining a supportive AF community can reshape your whole path.
  
  

Timestamps
 00:00 – Introduction and reflections on the coaching journey
 02:46 – Navigating the holiday season and alcohol challenges
 04:59 – The power of community in recovery
 07:13 – Understanding the science of alcohol
 10:16 – Physical transformations after quitting alcohol
 12:35 – The ripple effect of stopping drinking
 16:07 – Creating a supportive environment for change
 18:36 – Invitation to join the ZPL community
 20:03 – Outro

Resources & Links

• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription
  
  
• Follow ZPL: https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/
  
  
• Follow the coaches:
  • Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/) 
    
    
  • Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/) 
    
    
  • Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
    
    
  • Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life.

Follow ZPL: 

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)  
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.

In this episode of The Zero Proof Life, host Karla Adkins sits down with Lorna Wilson, a certified life coach specializing in alcohol recovery and personal development. Together they explore Lorna’s journey into coaching, the importance of proper training, and how understanding limiting beliefs can unlock transformation. From supporting new coaches to navigating relationships and finding purpose beyond alcohol, this conversation offers wisdom for anyone walking the path of self-discovery and growth.

Key Takeaways

• Lorna Wilson is a certified coach with a wealth of experience.
• Coaching can be a transformative career for those passionate about helping others.
• Proper training and certification are crucial in the coaching profession.
• Transitioning into alcohol coaching enhances a coach’s ability to support recovery clients.
• Finding purpose beyond alcohol is essential for long-term healing.
• Relationships require open communication throughout the recovery journey.
• Limiting beliefs often hold individuals back from growth.
• Personal stories empower both coaches and clients.
• Continuous learning is key to effective coaching.

Timestamps
 00:00 — Introduction to Lorna Wilson
 03:25 — Lorna’s Journey into Coaching
 06:25 — The Importance of Coaching Training
 09:16 — Transitioning into Alcohol Coaching
 12:24 — Supporting New Coaches
 15:13 — Finding Purpose Beyond Alcohol
 18:11 — The Impact of Alcohol on Personal Identity
 21:13 — Navigating Relationships and Alcohol
 24:16 — The Role of Limiting Beliefs
 27:17 — The Power of Sharing Personal Stories
 30:19 — Coaching Techniques and Transformations
 33:02 — Conclusion and Resources

Resources & Links

      • https://www.lornawilsoncoaching.com/

• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription
  
  
• Follow ZPL: https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
  
  
• Follow the coaches:
  
  
  • Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/) 
    
    
  • Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/) 
    
    
  • Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
    
    
  • Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life.

Follow ZPL: 

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)  
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.

Episode 15: Breaking Free from Alcohol with Maureen Benkovich

In this episode of The Zero Proof Life, Rebecca Snider sits down with Maureen Benkovich, a certified alcohol freedom and wellness coach, to explore the intersection of fitness, mental health, and sobriety. From the pressures of corporate drinking culture to discovering the truth about alcohol’s impact on brain chemistry, Maureen shares how understanding dopamine helped her find joy beyond drinking. She offers practical tools for breaking free from the detox/retox cycle and reclaiming a life of clarity and purpose.

Key Takeaways:

• Maureen Benkovich is a certified alcohol freedom and wellness coach.
• She transitioned from a corporate drinking culture to sobriety.
• The detox and retox cycle is common among health-conscious individuals.
• Alcohol disrupts dopamine and brain chemistry, impacting mental health.
• True empowerment comes from understanding what alcohol does to the body.
• Community and connection are vital in sustainable recovery.
• Nutrition plays a key role in mental and emotional balance.
• Self-awareness and spiritual grounding strengthen sobriety.
  
  

Timestamps:
00:00 — Introduction to Maureen Benkovich
02:04 — Maureen's Journey: From Fitness to Alcohol Freedom
10:56 — Detoxing and Retoxing: The Cycle of Alcohol Consumption
16:03 — Understanding Alcohol's Impact on Mental Health
24:01 — The Science Behind Alcohol: It’s Not Your Fault
29:56 — The Role of Coaching in Alcohol Recovery
32:45 — The Cycle of Alcohol and Mental Health
34:35 — Empowerment Through Knowledge and Choices
39:32 — Rebuilding Dopamine Production
46:50 — Finding Joy Beyond Alcohol

Resources & Links

• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription
• Follow ZPL: https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
• Follow the coaches:
  
  
  • Brandi Babb – @littlebigleap (https://www.instagram.com/littlebigleap/) 
  • Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/) 
  • Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
    
    
  • Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/)

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life.

Follow ZPL: 

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)  
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.

In this episode of The Zero Proof Life, host Karla Adkins sits down with Toni Will, the first female general manager of a professional hockey team. Together, they explore what it means to lead with authenticity, transform weaknesses into strengths, and redefine success in a male-dominated industry. Toni opens up about her decision to quit drinking, how it changed her sense of self, and the power of breaking the silence around alcohol. This episode is a powerful reminder that growth and empowerment often begin where fear and honesty meet.

Key Takeaways

• Quitting drinking can lead to deep personal empowerment.
• Women do not need to drink to succeed in their careers.
• Shame and silence can hold us back from authenticity.
• The 10x mindset fosters exponential personal growth.
• Setting boundaries is essential in challenging environments.
• Embracing individuality fuels both confidence and leadership.
• Cravings are normal. They don’t define your progress.
• Living alcohol-free opens the door to a fuller, freer life.

Timestamps
 00:00 — Introduction to Toni Will and Her Journey
 01:48 — Transforming Weaknesses into Strengths
 05:22 — The Power of Quitting Drinking
 10:39 — Navigating Challenges as a Woman in Sports
 14:13 — The 10x Mindset and Personal Growth
 20:47 — Embracing Change and Overcoming Doubts
 23:45 — Normalizing Cravings and Thoughts
 27:15 — Breaking the Silence Around Alcohol
 30:15 — Women in Sports: Breaking Barriers and Telling Stories

Resources & Links

• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription
  
  
• Follow ZPL: https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
  
  
• Follow the coaches:
  
  
  • Brandi Babb – @littlebigleap (https://www.instagram.com/littlebigleap/) 
    
    
  • Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/) 
    
    
  • Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
    
    
  • Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/)

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life.

Follow ZPL: 

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)  
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.

Episode 13: The Heartbreak of Broken Promises

In this episode of The Zero Proof Life, host Karla Adkins explores the emotional weight of breaking promises around alcohol. She introduces the concept of fading effect bias and how it impacts memory, decision-making, and the pull of romanticizing past drinking experiences. With compassion and clarity, Karla helps listeners understand the triggers and habit loops that contribute to relapse and highlights the importance of accountability and self-forgiveness in recovery.

Key Takeaways:

• Breaking promises about drinking creates deep emotional pain.
  
  
• Fading effect bias can distort memories of alcohol use.
  
  
• Romanticizing past drinking experiences increases relapse risk.
  
  
• Triggers and habit loops are central to drinking behavior.
  
  
• Self-forgiveness and compassion are crucial for healing.
  
  
• Accountability builds strength and resilience in recovery.
  
  

Timestamps:
 00:00 — Understanding the Struggle with Alcohol
 02:53 — The Emotional Weight of Breaking Promises
 05:45 — Fading Effect Bias: A Psychological Insight
 09:05 — The Role of Memory in Alcohol Use
 11:54 — Understanding Triggers and Habit Loops

Resources & Links

• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription
  
  
• Follow ZPL: https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
  
  
• Follow the coaches:
  
  
  • Brandi Babb – @littlebigleap (https://www.instagram.com/littlebigleap/) 
    
    
  • Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/) 
    
    
  • Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
    
    
  • Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life.

Reflection Prompts:

1. What led me to drink again?
   
   
   
   • What was I feeling just before the decision?
     
     
     
   • Was it stress, loneliness, social pressure, celebration, or overwhelm?
     
     
2. What did I hope alcohol would help me feel—or help me avoid?
   
   
   
3. What positive memories did I recall in that moment that may have influenced me?
   
   
   
   • Were they accurate… or softened by Fading Affect Bias?
     
     
     
   • What parts of those past drinking experiences do I tend to forget?
     
     
     
4. What was the full truth of this experience?
   
   
   
   • Emotionally, physically, mentally—what actually happened after I drank?
     
     
5. If I were to tell the full story—not the edited memory—how would it go?
    (Write it like you're explaining it to your future self.)
   
   
   
6. What “job” did alcohol try to do for me in that moment—and what else might have helped?
   
   
   
7. What’s one thing I learned about myself through this experience that I didn’t know before?

Reframing Statement:

“This moment isn’t a reset. It’s a window into what I truly need—and how I can better support myself next time.”

Write your own version of this statement.

A Note on Cravings vs. Cues

These acronyms can help you recognize when what feels like an alcohol craving…
 might actually be

Follow ZPL: 

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)  
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.