Beyond Booze: Dash Lilley, Three Spirit

The Club Soda podcast

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All About Change

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Jay Ruderman - How to Find Your Fight & Drive Social Change 32:17

for 14 dager siden32:17

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32:17

Jay is more than just the host of All About Change podcast. He is a lawyer and international activist, who has focused his life’s work on seeking social justice by advocating for the rights of people with disabilities worldwide. On the special episode of All About Change, Mijon Zulu, the managing producer of the "All About Change" podcast, is taking over hosting duties to interview Jay Ruderman about his new book, his activist journey, and why activism is even more important today. Episode Chapters (0:00) intro (02:38) How does one choose a cause to go after? (03:33) Jay’s path to activism (07:50) Practical steps a new activist can take (09:24) Confrontation vs trolling (17:36) Learning from activists operating in different sectors (19:20) Resilience in activism (22:24) Reflections on Find Your Fight and goodbye For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ Looking for more insights into the world of activism? Be sure to check out Jay’s brand new book, Find Your Fight , in which Jay teaches the next generation of activists and advocates how to step up and bring about lasting change. You can find Find Your Fight wherever you buy your books, and you can learn more about it at www.jayruderman.com .…

for 2 år siden 55:12

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Dash Lilley of Three Spirit talks to Noah Villeneuve on this week's episode of Beyond Booze.
Dash has been developing drinks brands since 2012 and created Three Spirit in 2018. Fascinated by the functional benefits of food and drink, and wanting to avoid alcohol, Three Spirit was created to offer a mood-enhancing alternative.
In this interview, Dash shares his experience of creating Three Spirit, how the product was developed and tested, and how the brand is developing.
Subscribe now to get the latest episodes of Beyond Booze each week. The next episode is out on 30 May.
Discover more about Beyond Booze.

Find Club Soda:
The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR
Find us on Instagram

172 episoder

#Fitness #Club Soda #Sobriety #Moderate #Lifestyle #Mindful About Drinking #Sober #Alcohol Free #Drink

Beyond Booze: Dash Lilley, Three Spirit

The Club Soda podcast

published for 2 år siden

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MP3•Episoder hjem

Find Club Soda:
The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR
Find us on Instagram

172 episoder

#Fitness #Club Soda #Sobriety #Moderate #Lifestyle #Mindful About Drinking #Sober #Alcohol Free #Drink

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The Next Round: Anneke draws strength and insight from Tarot cards 26:18

for 10 dager siden26:18

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Anneka has a story many of us recognise — that moment where one drink turns into four, and suddenly you’ve lost the night again. Like so many, she used alcohol to take the edge off anxiety. It worked — until it didn’t. Now, she’s alcohol-free and in tune with a completely different kind of energy. She turns to her tarot cards — not just for guidance, but to help others explore their own stories too. Welcome to The Next Round — the podcast that asks what happens after we stop drinking. Maybe you’re wondering what’s next for you. Who knows — maybe it’s written in the cards. Like Anneka Davie , who’s turned her passion for tarot into a tool for self-discovery and connection. In this episode, she shares how ditching alcohol opened up a whole new path — and yes, she even pulls a few cards for me. When Anneke Davie stopped drinking, she didn’t just give up wine – she made space for something entirely new. A quiet force emerged. It started with crystals, then crept into her life with the pull of tarot cards and the clarity of a new routine that no longer centred around hangovers or hazy memories. She’d always been a binge drinker. “Friday was my big sort of day. But my problem was I couldn’t ever stop at one glass no matter how much I tried.” Like many, Anneke believed drinking gave her confidence, especially in social situations, but the next day was always brutal. “I’d be lying in bed crying, couldn’t look at my phone. I just felt like everyone I’d been out with probably now hated me.” Her final drink came after a day at the races. Drunk and disoriented, she lost the diamond out of her engagement ring and found herself on hands and knees, scrabbling through the grass. “The next day I just thought, I don’t want to do this anymore.” That was three years ago. What came next wasn’t just sobriety – it was a reconnection with a part of herself that had been long dormant. As a child, she’d been fascinated by dreams, superstitions and horoscopes. Lockdown gave her the pause she needed to revisit that part of herself. Crystals came first, and soon her house was filled with them – much to the despair of her husband. But then came tarot. She found a reader on Instagram, began training, and started doing readings for herself. The cards became mirrors, windows, and conversation starters. “I use tarot more as helping people get insight into something they’re struggling with. It doesn’t predict your future. It gives you a bit of a slap in the face about what you already know.” It wasn’t long before others began asking for readings, and what started as a hobby slowly began to evolve into something more purposeful. At a retreat, someone asked her for a reading and, despite feeling way out of her comfort zone. The more distance she put between herself and alcohol, the stronger her sense of direction became. “I think actually believing I could do it came once I’d fully stopped drinking.” Find Club Soda: The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR Find us on Instagram…

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The Next Round: John opened Ghana's first alcohol-free bar 29:23

for 17 dager siden29:23

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Alcohol affects everyone – no matter who you are or where you’re from. Take John from Ghana. Sound familiar? Today, he’s leading the charge for alcohol-free living in Africa – a true trailblazer. Welcome to the next round, where we dig into the stories that shape us. The journeys that brought people to where they are now. Like John Asogonnde – who swapped booze and weed in his for purpose, passion, and change. We recorded this live during John ’s visit to the UK last autumn — so please excuse the audio quality! When John stopped drinking and smoking weed at 24, he didn’t just walk away from substances -he walked into a mission. Five months after taking his last drink, John knew he had changed. He didn’t feel like he was missing out. Instead, he felt sharper, more alert, more present. And he wanted to create a space where others could feel that way too. That’s how Eden Bar was born -Ghana’s first alcohol-free nightlife experience. “I wanted to create an experience for people who wanted to go out and still have a good time, get some nice, sophisticated drinks, cocktails, beers and all of that, but not have to deal with the pressure of alcohol.” Launched on October 2nd, 2022 – World No Alcohol Day – Eden Bar started as a one-day pop-up. John raised money from friends and family after being roasted online for even suggesting the idea. But the launch was a success. Word spread fast, and John knew he was onto something bigger. “There were so many people that came through, the news spread across social media and everything. From there, we were able to do the actual Eden Bar later in December, and that’s what we’ve been building on till date.” John’s journey to sobriety was a long one. He started drinking at 13, not because he liked the taste – his first drink was a 40% spirit that gave him a hangover the next day – but because he liked the way it made him feel. “It gave me a false sense of confidence. I was able to move along smoothly in the party scene… It was like an elixir to make me feel more alive.” By the time he reached university, drinking and smoking weed had become daily habits. His grades collapsed. Once a first-class student, he failed every course in his second year. “My hostel became a party headquarters. We didn’t do anything apart from party.” Even after relocating to a different hostel, the habits stayed. And when he graduated, he went straight into Ghana’s nightlife industry, managing a nightclub for a popular musician. The access to substances was constant – and partaking was expected. “This was a job where even on a Monday morning, I could go to the office, roll up a joint and smoke.” But inside, he was miserable. The high never lasted. The low always deepened. He started to rebuild from the inside out – with faith, family, books, long walks, and intention. You can follow John on @ edenbargh but a hard copy of his book on https://joinclubsoda.com/product/john-asogonnde-unchained-book/ Find Club Soda: The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR Find us on Instagram…

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The Next Round: Angie discovered she needed to heal 32:17

for 24 dager siden32:17

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Angie Thompson grew up in a turbulent home, where shouting, swearing, slammed doors, and harsh words were the norm. But when she quit drinking, she uncovered a truth that changed everything—her past wasn’t just something to escape from; it held the key to her transformation. Welcome to The Next Round , where we explore what happens after the last drink—because sometimes, understanding why you drank in the first place is the first step to discovering a new purpose. For Angie, that purpose became clear: by healing herself, she could help others do the same. When Angie Thomson decided to quit drinking, she had no idea it would lead to a complete transformation -not just in her own life, but in the lives of others. Nearly two years into her alcohol-free journey, she’s now a trauma-informed coach, guiding people through the deeper reasons behind their drinking. “Take that leap of faith and just go for it. You won’t regret it – you’ll never look back.” For Angie, sobriety wasn’t just about removing alcohol. It was about understanding why she drank in the first place. That realisation pushed her into a new career, one rooted in healing. Finding the ‘Why’ Behind the Drinking Angie describes herself as the life of the party -the first to arrive, the last to leave, always pushing others to drink just as much as she did. But behind the fun-loving image was something deeper. “Drinking was something to stop myself feeling all of that trauma people tend to suppress.” Like many, she didn’t initially connect her drinking to her past. She grew up in a volatile household, where shouting and name-calling were the norm. As a child, she internalised it. “We don’t think logically as kids. We think, ‘My parents are arguing because of me.’” Those feelings of unworthiness followed her into adulthood, shaping her drinking habits. It wasn’t until she stopped drinking that she recognised the underlying wounds that alcohol had been numbing. “Trauma isn’t what happens to you. It’s what happens inside of you because of what happened to you.” You can find out more about Angie at angiethompson.thementalwellbeingcompany.com/ and on instagram @AngieMWC Find Club Soda: The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR Find us on Instagram…

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The Next Round: Anna fell in love with podcasting 33:15

for 4 weeks siden33:15

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Looking back it is easy to see how alcohol drains your time, but for a long time Anna couldn’t quite admit what the problem was. But Anna is not looking back, and her positive attitude is helpful for us all. Welcome to the next round where we explore how you fill the space once occupied by wine, hangovers, and the mental weight of drinking culture. When Ex advertising exec Anna Donaghey stopped drinking, she found herself with a new problem – time. What do you do with it? For Anna, the answer lay in something she’d been drawn to for years but had never quite pursued – podcasting. “I had many obstacles in my mind—confidence, self-doubt, perfectionism. But just cracking on and doing it proved to be easier than I thought.” Anna launched The Big Drink Rethink , a podcast exploring our relationship with alcohol, the culture around it, and what life can look like without it. It was a creative outlet, a way to channel her curiosity, and, unexpectedly, an anchor that kept her steady in her alcohol-free life. “It keeps me very intact in this world of alcohol freedom, which is very important to me.” But her journey to this point wasn’t smooth. It was a long, slow unraveling of drinking habits that had once felt normal, even essential. Anna’s story isn’t one of dramatic rock bottoms, it’s one of creeping dissatisfaction, of realising that drinking wasn’t just stealing her time, but also her sense of self. Advertising, Drinking, and a Life on Repeat Anna spent over 25 years in advertising, an industry where drinking wasn’t just acceptable – it was expected. She remembers long lunches, late nights, and the endless socialising that blurred into work. “I sometimes think about whether I was attracted to the industry because there was permission within that space to drink.” She wasn’t an outlier. Alcohol was woven into the job – client meetings over wine, celebratory drinks, networking events. It was an industry where drinking was both professional and personal, making it even harder to see when it had crossed the line from social to habitual. When she got married, her drinking didn’t slow down. In fact, it ramped up. Parenthood brought a new challenge: identity loss. Motherhood was disorienting, and the reality of maternity leave was nothing like the glowing, fulfilling image sold to women. “I found maternity leave deadly dull. I found being a young mum incredibly boring. And I felt shameful that I wasn’t reveling in it the way I was ‘supposed’ to.” The loneliness, the shift in identity, the quiet grief for the life she had before, Anna managed it the way she had always managed difficult feelings: with wine. “I knew that life had changed forever. I was no longer the advertising girl, but I wasn’t quite an established mum. I worried I never would be.” You can find Anna on instagram at bigdrinkrethink and The Big Drink Rethink podcast on all platforms Find Club Soda: The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR Find us on Instagram…

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The Next Round: Cecilia is living the lifestyle she encourages others to follow 35:41

for 5 weeks siden35:41

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For years, Cecilia lived a life dedicated to health and fitness and encouraged others to prioritise their well-being. But one thing didn’t align with her values: alcohol. Cecilia didn’t drink often, but when she did, she didn’t like how it made her feel. It clashed with the lifestyle she professionally advocated. Welcome to the next round—where we explore what happens after people evaluate their relationship with alcohol. Whether you’re a daily drinker or an occasional binge drinker, alcohol can affect your life in both physical and psychological ways. Can quitting open up new perspectives? This week’s guest, Cecilia Shandeva , a Workplace Wellbeing Professional and Grief Recovery Specialist, proves that no matter where you start, social pressures remain the same—but cutting out alcohol can make a huge difference. While the physical benefits of quitting are clear, the biggest gains may come from the psychological transformation. “Everything about drinking isn’t fully aligned with me, who I really am as a person.” For years, Cecilia lived a life dedicated to health and fitness. She ran marathons, led group workouts, and encouraged others to prioritize their well-being. But one thing wasn’t aligning with her values: her drinking habits. “I considered myself a social drinker, I’d go out maybe once a month, and sometimes I’d take a break for a couple of months. But then there were times, like around birthdays or Christmas, when I’d drink more than I planned. Even when I thought I was controlling it, I wasn’t.” Despite drinking less frequently than some, the impact was undeniable. The hangovers, the anxiety, the lost days of recovery – Cecilia realised that alcohol was taking away from the life she wanted to live. “If I went out planning to have one or two drinks, it would usually end up being more. I was waking up feeling awful, regretting the night before, questioning my decisions – even if I hadn’t done anything particularly bad.” Find Club Soda: The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR Find us on Instagram…

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The Next Round: Seana found freedom in exploring her childhood 32:17

for 5 weeks siden32:17

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Seana spent most of her adult life in a love-hate tango with alcohol. But in writing her story, she unearthed the reasons she drank Welcome to The Next Round – where the things you do after booze can often lead to feelings you never expected and can help the adult you in ways you could never imagined. This week’s guest, Seana Smith , set out to document her first year alcohol-free, but in the process, she delved into her childhood- finding answers to questions she never even knew she had. A Life Entangled in Alcohol Seana spent much of her adult life in a push-pull battle with alcohol. On the surface, she was a high-functioning drinker—never the one causing scenes or spiraling visibly out of control. But behind closed doors, she was stuck in a vicious cycle of stopping, starting, berating herself, and repeating the pattern all over again. “I was driving myself absolutely mad – internally. My friends wouldn’t have thought I had a big drink problem, but in my own mind, I was trapped.” Her drinking wasn’t just about the present—it was rooted in a painful past. Seana grew up in a home overshadowed by addiction and domestic violence. Her father was an alcoholic, and his drinking shaped the way she saw herself, the world, and alcohol itself. “I had a great big push-pull because I didn’t want to be like that. But on the other hand, I did want to be like that.” A Legacy of Trauma The echoes of her father’s drinking didn’t just haunt her childhood—they followed her into adulthood. As she tried to make sense of her own drinking, she realized she was wrestling with something far bigger than just a bad habit. “I think I was berating myself because I didn’t want to behave like Dad had and cause trouble like he had. But it was all caught up in my mind, and I just didn’t believe I could ever actually stop permanently.” The turning point came when she lost her mother—a moment that unraveled a lifetime of emotions and unresolved pain. Her father’s drinking had defined so much of her childhood, but her mother’s silent endurance had shaped her just as much. “I waited until they both died to start writing my story. Growing up, we weren’t allowed to talk about what was going on. I didn’t feel free to put it down on paper until Mum had passed away.” You can find Seana’s book on Amazon and Audible America Australia UK Audible Spotify Find Club Soda: The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR Find us on Instagram…

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The Next Round: Tabbin decided to take on boozy workplace culture 27:36

for 7 weeks siden27:36

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Tabbin is on a mission to shake up booze-soaked workplace culture -but her own journey with alcohol was anything but smooth. After going alcohol-free for years, a cancer diagnosis sent her back to the bottle, even though drinking may have played a role in her illness. Like so many, her drinking started at work – where long lunches and late nights weren’t just accepted but expected. Now, she’s challenging the norms that make alcohol a workplace staple, so others don’t fall into the same trap. Welcome to The Next Round , where we dive into why we started drinking, how that history shapes our future, and what an alcohol-free life can really look like. From personal challenges to changing the world (or at least your office happy hour), there’s more on the other side than you ever imagined. Meet Tabbin Almond -an ex-advertising pro who knows firsthand how the industry’s macho, drink-fuelled culture can spiral out of control. She yo-yoed between sobriety and drinking for years, but now she’s free and fighting to create healthier, more inclusive workplaces. Let’s get stuck in! She believes that drinking should not be an expectation in corporate environments, nor should it be a measure of professional success or sociability. “It starts out as a perk of the job, but it becomes a requirement of the job.” For years, she worked in industries where drinking was not only normalised but encouraged. Client entertainment meant keeping up with drinking expectations, and refusing a drink could be seen as a lack of team spirit. “Do you check with somebody before you send a gift, whether or not they drink alcohol? The most common reply is, no, who doesn’t love a bottle of bubbly?” She challenges workplaces to rethink corporate gifting, expense policies, and the psychological safety of employees who may struggle with alcohol. She argues that alcohol should not be the default, nor should abstaining from it come with stigma. “If leaders don’t lead on this, there’s no psychological safety for people saying, ‘Do you think I could have a bit of help?'” You can buy Tabbin’s Book: Bottling Up Trouble: How alcohol is harming your business… and what to do about it UK USA Canada Australia Find Club Soda: The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR Find us on Instagram…

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The Next Round: Hattie Immersed herself in Cold Water 32:17

for 8 weeks siden32:17

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Hattie may be a clear-headed, cold-water queen these days, but getting here was harder than mastering butterfly stroke! Even pregnancy didn’t create the clean break from alcohol she had hoped for. And despite a few trials with moderation along the way, she now knows—this time, sobriety is for good. Welcome to The Next Round —the podcast about the bold, brilliant, and sometimes downright bonkers things people do after quitting booze. But remember, folks, you don’t have to freeze your bits off to get sober! Unlike this week’s guest, Hattie, who prefers being neck-deep in icy water rather than in booze. She kicked off her journey with the Dry January Challenge , and alongside a whole lot of learning and reflection, she’s now alcohol-free and bouyant . Finding Peace in the Water For Hattie Underwood , cold water swimming is more than just a pastime – it’s a sanctuary. The icy plunge slows everything down, giving her a rare sense of hyper-focus and clarity. “I just feel really hyper-focused. And, you know, afterwards, I just feel so energised by them.” Her love for swimming started young, training competitively for Southampton. But it was her mother, an avid swimmer in Hampshire’s rivers and along the South Coast, who instilled a love for wild swimming. As she embarked on her sobriety journey, this practice took on new meaning. “It quietens my mind in a way that nothing else does. I just feel so in the moment.” Living in London, Hattie became a member of an ice bath club, pushing her limits and embracing the mental resilience required to withstand freezing temperatures. “It’s a bit of mind over matter going into it. But I just love it.” A Relationship with Alcohol That Had to Change Despite a successful life on paper, Hattie’s relationship with alcohol had always been problematic. From sneaking drinks in school to drinking alone before socialising, she felt an intense need for alcohol to function socially. The dependency escalated over time, leading to morning drinking and a fear of being ‘found out.’ “I would drink before seeing anybody, even if they were a really close friend.” When she became pregnant, she assumed nine months of abstinence would change her relationship with alcohol. However, once her child was born, she quickly fell back into old patterns. “Even with nine months of not drinking, nothing had changed, and in fact, it had picked right back up where it had left off. And it just got so much worse.” Find Club Soda: The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR Find us on Instagram…

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The Next Round: Gavin became a Samaritan 36:05

for 10 weeks siden36:05

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When Gavin quit drinking, he didn’t expect to gain listening skills—but he’s embraced his new life with open arms! Now, you can’t stop him from filling his time with meaningful activities. Welcome to the next round: exploring life after quitting drinking and discovering the many ways to find purpose—like helping others. This week, meet Gavin Chase, care industry recruiter by day and Samaritan volunteer by night. Through volunteering, Gavin has honed new skills, found deep purpose, and even become a role model for others. Gavin Chase’s story is one of transformation and dedication—a journey marked by his decision to quit drinking, his commitment to volunteering, and his belief in living a life of purpose. Far from leaving his corporate job, Gavin’s spare time is dedicated to initiatives that complement his professional life and fulfill his personal aspirations. “Sobriety isn’t just about saying no; it’s about saying yes to a better life.” Gavin’s decision to quit drinking was a pivotal moment in his life. “It wasn’t just about giving up alcohol; it was about reclaiming my life” The journey to sobriety was not without its challenges, but it profoundly shaped who he is today. “You start to see the world differently. It’s like waking up from a fog.” This newfound clarity and energy have allowed him to focus on what truly matters, inspiring others to consider the transformative potential of a sober lifestyle. Volunteering with the Samaritans One of the most profound aspects of Gavin’s journey is his dedication to volunteering with the Samaritans, a charity that offers support to those in emotional distress. “Being there for someone in their darkest moments is humbling.” His work with the Samaritans has given him a deep sense of purpose and perspective. “While I’m there to help others, I’ve learned so much about empathy, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit.” This experience has reinforced his belief in the importance of listening and being present for others—lessons that resonate in every aspect of his life. “Service has a way of bringing out the best in you.” This candid insight highlights Gavin’s belief in the transformative power of giving. He describes volunteering as a grounding force, one that reminds him of what truly matters. Beyond his role with the Samaritans, Gavin is actively involved in other community initiatives. From mentoring young people to supporting local environmental projects, his volunteering efforts are diverse and impactful. “Helping others isn’t just a responsibility—it’s a privilege” Gavin’s volunteering not only enriches his life but also allows him to build meaningful relationships with people from all walks of life. Overcoming Challenges and Finding Purpose No personal transformation is without its hurdles, and Gavin’s was no exception. From self-doubt to navigating the complexities of balancing work and volunteering, he has faced his share of challenges. “What keeps you going is the belief that what you’re building matters.” For Gavin, purpose extends beyond personal achievements. Whether through mentoring, supporting community projects, or sharing his story of sobriety, his focus remains on leaving a lasting impact. “Your journey doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.” This powerful reminder underscores Gavin’s bel Find Club Soda: The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR Find us on Instagram…

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The Next Round: Marie went from Climate to Climax 32:47

for 12 weeks siden32:47

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For the past 25 years, Marie Morice has been at the forefront of global climate change, and with some big shifts in her life, including quitting drinking she has added gender initiatives and campaigning within organisations such as the UN to her passions. She has now retrained as a clinical sexologist and uses her skills to support individuals as well as wider systems change. Today, Marie helps women rediscover their sexual agency and pleasure. Her journey to this point has been anything but linear, but it was quitting alcohol that catalysed her transformation. Now post-menopause and living a life full of clarity and energy, Marie is a walking testament to the power of change. “There’s a Life Energy in Me That I’ve Never Had” Marie’s relationship with alcohol was intense. As she puts it: “It was part of my celebrations and my commiserations. Let’s have a drink—no matter what.” Over the years, however, her body began reacting less and less well to alcohol, something that became especially apparent as she went through hormonal changes during menopause. Despite several attempts to take breaks from drinking, she always found herself returning to it. But a heavy night a year and a half ago was the turning point. “I woke up and thought, I can’t do this anymore. I can’t keep waking up knowing I’ll feel hungover in two or three days. My life was being wasted.” For Marie, it wasn’t about hitting rock bottom but rather a constellation of factors—the end of a long-term relationship, a desire to invest in her work helping women, and a need to prioritise her health and energy. Giving up alcohol wasn’t easy, but the rewards have been profound. “There’s a life energy in me that I’ve never had, or maybe that I had but was tamed by alcohol, – I have a clarity now that I didn’t know I was missing. It’s incredible.” Reclaiming Pleasure and Agency Marie’s journey away from alcohol coincided with her decision to retrain as a coach. Originally inspired by friends and family who praised her listening skills, she realised her true passion lay in helping others on a deeply personal level. While her early coaching clients brought a range of issues to her, many women came to her seeking guidance on their sexuality. That’s when Marie decided to specialise as a sex coach and clinical sexologist. “Our relationship to pleasure is so important. For many women, it’s fraught with guilt, whether that’s related to drinking or societal expectations. The first thing I work on with my clients is understanding their relationship to pleasure—not just sexual pleasure, but pleasure in life.” Marie believes that for women, especially those in midlife, this work is vital. “As we go through menopause, there’s a natural reevaluation of who we are and what we want. It’s a chance to reconnect with our bodies and desires.” And she’s quick to emphasise that pleasure is a skill that can be relearned. “It’s about creating new pathways to joy. What gives you pleasure? It could be anything, from a quiet moment of doing nothing to an incredible orgasm. The point is to explore.” Find Club Soda: The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR Find us on Instagram…

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The Next Round: Narmeen champions alcohol-free at events 26:50

for 12 weeks siden26:50

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Socialising and networking alcohol-free can be tough—even for the pros. But for Narmeen, it’s a choice she’s never looked back on. Now, she’s shaking up the events industry, challenging organisers and caterers to rethink how they cater to guests. Her mission? To make events more inclusive and ensure everyone feels part of the party, regardless of what’s in their glass. 🎧 Welcome to The Next Round Podcast , where we share inspiring stories of life after quitting drinking. From bold career shifts to embracing new hobbies, this series explores the many ways people thrive alcohol-free. Take Narmeen: She hasn’t changed what she does—she’s still a powerhouse event organiser. But she’s using her voice to demand better options for all of us who want to party and network without the booze. And honestly? We’re so glad she’s got our backs! Narmeen Kamran knows firsthand how the events industry thrives on social connection, but she’s also seen how heavily reliant it is on alcohol. As someone who stepped away from drinking, Narmeen has made it her mission to challenge the status quo and push for more inclusive, alcohol-free options at events. From Comic-Con Volunteer to Events Powerhouse Narmeen’s journey into events started in her teens, volunteering at Comic-Con conventions. What began as a passion for organisation grew into a successful career in event planning, where she thrived in high-pressure environments. “You have to be really organised in events, but it’s something you can learn. Over time, it becomes second nature,” However, as she climbed the ranks, she noticed how central alcohol was to the industry—and how few options existed for those who didn’t drink. Why Alcohol-Free Inclusion Matters When Narmeen decided to stop drinking, she experienced the industry’s blind spots from the other side. “I attended my first event as a non-drinker, and I was shocked. The best option was J2O—apple and watermelon, because it looked like rosé if you drank it from a flute. That was it,” Recognising the gap, Narmeen began advocating for change. She approached caterers, venues, and suppliers, challenging them to improve their offerings. “If you don’t have better options, that’s just being lazy – There’s so much more out there now. Venues and caterers need to think beyond the standard champagne reception or half-bottle of wine with dinner. We need more choice—and not just for sober guests, but for everyone.” Find Club Soda: The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR Find us on Instagram…

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The Next Round: Alasdair became a private chef (and writer) 26:42

for 13 weeks siden26:42

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Alasdair Gill has a passion for cooking and an abundance of creativity. However, years of working in hospitality and drinking heavily left him facing a difficult decision—one he took reluctantly, despite a dire prognosis. His advice is valuable for everyone, no matter where you are in your relationship with alcohol. Welcome to the next round, where I talk to people who have inspired me—not just with the changes they’ve made to their drinking habits, but with what they’ve gone on to achieve next. From reigniting old passions with renewed vigour to making bold life and career changes, there’s no template. What you do next is entirely up to you! Alasdair Gill is now a private chef. Since rehab, he has rediscovered the skills and passion for cheffing that he developed early in his career, building a new way of working that aligns with who he is today. His story is a powerful reminder that the things you loved before life fell apart can still be part of your future. Alasdair Gill’s journey from battling addiction to becoming a successful private chef is a powerful testament to resilience and reinvention. His story highlights the challenges of working in hospitality while struggling with alcohol and drug dependency and how recovery transformed not only his outlook on life but also his career. The Beginning of the Journey: Struggles in Hospitality For Alasdair, the hospitality industry was both a lifeline and a trap. He describes the kitchens and bars he worked in as a “pressure cooker,” a space that both attracted and enabled his struggles with alcohol. “Hospitality is accepting of what you are—it will take us in.” While kitchens initially provided a way to earn money, Alasdair admits they didn’t spark joy or passion. “For a long time, it was just about making money. There wasn’t much love there,” The Turning Point: Recovery The tipping point came when Alasdair faced severe health issues, including cirrhosis of the liver, and was told he wouldn’t survive to see Christmas. Even then, his decision to enter rehab was reluctant. “I didn’t want to live, but I didn’t want to die either. I was in between—a numbness of fine.” Rehab became the space where Alasdair could pause, reflect, and start to piece his life back together. “It gave me a sober mind for the first time since I was 15. Suddenly, I started questioning whether what I’d been doing was normal.” Finding Purpose Through Cooking Post-recovery, Alasdair returned to the one industry where he had experience -hospitality. But this time, he approached it differently. Together with a friend who was also in recovery, Alasdair launched a private catering business. “Every gig is a completely different adventure, and I love that,” Sobriety has not only allowed Alasdair to rebuild his life but also to rediscover creativity and care in his craft. “I give much more of a shit about the product than the paycheck,” Book Alasdair at gordonandgill.co.uk Find Club Soda: The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR Find us on Instagram…

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The Next Round: Denise Launched Low & No Drinker Magazine 28:09

for 16 weeks siden28:09

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Denise has produced 18 editions of her new magazine dedicated to low and no alcohol drinks . Something she would never have considered if she had no re-evaluated her relationship with alcohol. Welcome to the next round, where we speak to people about the next stage of their life once they have reviewed how alcohol impacts them. You don’t have to be totally alcohol-free to gain benefits from rethinking your drinking. But as this week’s guest Denise Hamilton Mace has shown, you need to have a determination to change your life, and some ideas to get going with. Denise has moderated her drinking habits, which led her to a degree in sports fitness and then she got brave, and started writing – something she was told way back when, that she may not be suited to. We love it when a guest proves their nay sayers wrong! Exploring the Low and No Alcohol Revolution: Denise’s Journey of Discovery and Innovation The rise of low and no alcohol options is transforming how we think about drinking, and Denise’s story provides a unique perspective on this cultural shift. As a hospitality professional turned advocate for mindful drinking and editor of Low and No Drinker magazine, Denise shares her journey of personal growth, career transformation, and creative exploration. Redefining Life Through Moderating Alcohol For Denise, the decision to cut back on alcohol wasn’t a dramatic turning point but a series of realisations. “I started to notice how alcohol affected me over time. It wasn’t just the hangovers; it was the brain fog, the mood swings, and feeling like I wasn’t operating at my full capacity” Her journey began with small lifestyle changes. “I stopped eating red meat because it made me feel moody, and alcohol was the next thing I recognized as not serving me.” Denise emphasises that she doesn’t identify as teetotal or in recovery but rather someone who found more balance by drinking less. “It’s about discovering who you want to be and whether alcohol helps or hinders that.” Find Club Soda: The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR Find us on Instagram…

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The Next Round: Michelle Recovered Loudly (in hospitality) 19:08

for 16 weeks siden19:08

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After quitting alcohol, Michelle Righini has dedicated herself to championing the wellbeing and skills of hospitality staff. On The Next Round podcast, we dive into life after quitting drinking—especially for those in hospitality, where alcohol is often center stage. What’s next if you love the industry but not the booze? Michelle, founder of We Recover Loudly , joins us to share her mission: creating a supportive space for drinks professionals who’ve ditched alcohol but not their passion for hospitality. Let’s talk change, advocacy, and keeping talent thriving! You can find Michelle instagram @werecoverloudly. “The thing that we put down is alcohol, but we don’t put down our creativity, our minds, our drive to make great drinks.” This is a rallying cry for the hospitality industry to rethink its relationship with alcohol from Michelle. Creativity and skill are at the heart of what makes this industry thrive, and neither depends on the presence of alcohol. Removing it doesn’t mean losing artistry—it means opening up new possibilities. Hospitality Culture: Why Is Addiction So Prevalent? “What we’re not doing yet is going, why are we an industry that has such high levels of addiction? To be a good manager, you have to be able to drink? Like, what? What other industry does that make sense in?” The hospitality sector has long celebrated a culture of drinking, but this norm raises significant questions about its impact on mental health and job performance. Changing these outdated perceptions is crucial to creating a more sustainable industry. Sober Weekends and Smug Mornings “Weekends are my favourite time to be sober because I get to do the thing I love the most, which is be smug. I get to wake up very smug at about eight o’clock and look at my life and go, this is a great choice.” Sobriety transforms weekends from blurry recoveries to opportunities for enjoyment and reflection. This shift underscores the profound personal benefits of a life without alcohol. The Cost of Industry Norms “I slowly started to realise that alcohol was becoming the thing that was holding me together.” For many in hospitality, alcohol becomes a crutch rather than a tool for connection. The realisation that it’s holding people back rather than propelling them forward is a pivotal moment in the journey toward change. Addiction and the Industry’s “Throwaway” Culture “When that line is crossed, so many of us just get thrown away, and that, for me, just never sat right.” The industry’s tendency to discard talent once addiction becomes visible is a tragic waste. Recovery and reintegration need to be prioritized to retain valuable employees and demonstrate compassion. See the full blog here. Find Club Soda: The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR Find us on Instagram…

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The Next Round: Paul founded a dance company 33:15

for 17 weeks siden33:15

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Welcome to “The Next Round,” where we explore the remarkable stories of those who found new beginnings once they stopped seeking answers at the bottom of the bottle. Today’s episode is a reflection on recovery, redemption, and the power of turning the past into a foundation for the future. For some, the journey to the other side can feel like a wall between who they were and who they’ve become. But perhaps, just perhaps, the life they once lived holds the key to the one they’re building now. In this episode, we meet Paul Bayes Kitcher, a man who never lost his love for dance. On the other side of recovery, he found himself uniquely placed to channel its transformative power—helping others navigate their own recoveries from addiction or mental health challenges through movement and artistry. Along with Claire Morris he co-founded Fallen Angels Dance Theatre (FADT) in 2011, fostering creativity and using dance to transform lives. In this podcast Josh Kelly, our brand manager who himself used to be a dancer interviews Paul. He shares his story, the life-changing work of his organisation,offering a future through dance. It’s a story of resilience, creativity, and the beautiful steps forward when we reclaim what once felt lost. Find out more you how you can join them or support their work by becoming a guardian angel. Fallen Angels Dance Theatre (FADT) has become a powerful symbol of transformation and hope, helping individuals in recovery from addiction and trauma reconnect with their bodies and rediscover joy. Founded by Paul Byers Kitchen, a former professional ballet dancer and someone in long-term recovery, FADT merges the therapeutic power of movement with the artistic discipline of dance. Over the past decade, it has grown into a flourishing community, offering a safe and creative space for people to heal and thrive. A Journey from Ballet to Recovery Paul’s story is one of both brilliance and struggle. Trained at world-renowned institutions such as the Royal Ballet School and Rambert, he had a successful career with companies like Scottish Ballet and Birmingham Royal Ballet. Yet behind the scenes, unresolved childhood trauma and the relentless pressures of the ballet world led him into addiction. “I never felt comfortable in my own skin – Alcohol and drugs became my solution—a way to escape myself.” Despite his talent and dedication, the demands of perfectionism combined with his personal struggles led him to resign from Birmingham Royal Ballet at 30. Without the structure of his career, his addiction spiraled into chaos. Through recovery, Paul found clarity and purpose. He realised the therapeutic potential of movement for people in recovery and began developing what would eventually become Fallen Angels Dance Theatre. The Birth of Fallen Angels Dance Theatre Established over 10 years ago, FADT was born from Paul’s passion for recovery and his deep understanding of movement. Recognising that the word “dance” might intimidate some, particularly those unfamiliar with formal training, Paul instead emphasizes “movement.” “Everyone can move. We start with natural movement and somatic practices, creating a space where people feel safe to explore their bodies and emotions.” Read the full blog Find Club Soda: The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR Find us on Instagram…

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