Mindful Drinking & Moderation in Midlife: Low No Drinker Podcast
By: Denise Hamilton-Mace
Language: en-gb
Categories: Health, Fitness, Alternative, Education, Self Improvement
Welcome to the essential podcast for anyone in their 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond who's ready to drink differently. While Gen Z gets all the headlines for being sober curious, let’s not forget that the real moderation revolution is happening in midlife – and this is your space to explore it without judgment, pressure, or expectation. Join me to discover the people, places and brands making it easier than ever to live a life less intoxicated, whether that's for tonight, this week, or forever. I get it – as a midlife moderator, you're not looking to reinvent yourself completely. You want drinks th...
Episodes
150: Dry January: The Pros, The Cons & The Sunnyside Perspective
Jan 07, 2026Nick Allen, co-founder and CEO of Sunnyside, joins me to explore why traditional Dry January might be setting us up to fail—and what we can do about it.
We discuss Sunnyside's "dry-ish January" approach that prioritises sustainable habit change over perfectionism, examining why February often sees people drinking more than ever after a month of white-knuckling through abstinence.
Nick shares insights on breaking decades-long drinking patterns, the limitations of willpower, and why having a system matters more than having goals.
We also touch on emerging medical options like Naltrexone for those struggling wi...
Mindful Drinking New Year’s Eve: End the Year on Your Terms
Dec 31, 2025GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
This New Year’s Eve episode closes out a full season of festive mayhem with one simple message: the night only matters if it feels right to you.
Whether December was dry, mindful, lighter, messier than planned, or somewhere in between, what counts is how it compares to your own intentions — not anyone else’s highlight reel.
Tonight isn’t about FOMO or mythology or doing it “properly.” It’s about choosing h...
Duration: 00:06:02Mindful Drinking Advent 26: Boxing Day: The Second Coming of Christmas
Dec 26, 2025GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
On this surprise bonus Day Twenty-Six of the Mindful Drinking Advent, we talk about Boxing Day — the often-forgotten second wave of Christmas.
Whether you’re feeling a bit rough after yesterday or quietly proud of how you handled it, today is about kindness, not punishment.
This episode gives you permission to slow down, hydrate, move gently, eat something real, and choose rest without guilt.
If you’re feeling great, it...
Duration: 00:07:00Mindful Drinking Advent 25: Merry Christmas — Enjoy the Day!
Dec 25, 2025GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
On Day Twenty-Five of the Mindful Drinking Advent, we’ve made it to Christmas Day, and the message is simple: enjoy yourself.
There’s nothing to track, nothing to analyse, and nothing to fix.
This episode is a reminder to be present, grateful, and kind to yourself after everything you’ve navigated this December.
Whether you’re surrounded by family, catching up with friends, or enjoying a quiet day on your...
Duration: 00:02:21Mindful Drinking Advent 24: Christmas Eve - Rest Now, Enjoy Tomorrow
Dec 24, 2025GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
On Day Twenty-Four of the Mindful Drinking Advent, it’s time to stop, breathe, and slow everything down.
Christmas Eve is charged with excitement, pressure, nostalgia, and logistics — but it doesn’t need to be fuelled by exhaustion or overdoing it.
This episode is a gentle reminder to rest, enjoy something you genuinely love, and protect tomorrow by keeping tonight calm and intentional.
No tasks. No plans. Just permissio...
Duration: 00:05:26Mindful Drinking Advent 23: Travel Tactics for a Clear Arrival
Dec 23, 2025GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
On Day Twenty-Three of the Mindful Drinking Advent, we focus on travel days — one of the most overlooked trigger points of Christmas.
From packed trains and traffic jams to airport bars and trolley services, this episode explains why planning ahead matters if you want to arrive feeling energised rather than depleted.
You’ll hear practical travel tactics, from bringing your own “journey juice” to setting expectations with hosts in advance, so the fes...
Duration: 00:07:42Mindful Drinking Advent 22: Hosting with Ease and Inclusion
Dec 22, 2025GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
On Day Twenty-Two of the Mindful Drinking Advent, we talk about hosting — and how to do it with ease, generosity, and inclusion.
This episode shows you how to set up your drinks space so low, no and light options carry the same weight as alcoholic ones, making everyone feel welcome without creating more work for yourself.
From stocking variety to making drinks self-serve, it’s about thoughtful preparation that lets you en...
Duration: 00:05:41Mindful Drinking Advent 21: Redefining “Treat Yourself”
Dec 21, 2025GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
On Day Twenty-One of the Mindful Drinking Advent, we rethink what “treat yourself” really means.
This episode challenges the idea that indulgence has to involve alcohol, and asks a simpler question: Does it actually make you feel better? You’ll explore how to choose treats that restore rather than deplete — from low/no drinks and better sleep to time alone, movement, rest, and saying no when you mean no.
A reminder t...
Duration: 00:06:02Mindful Drinking Advent 20: Surviving the Chaos of Family Without Drinking Christmas Away
Dec 20, 2025GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
On Day Twenty of the Mindful Drinking Advent Series, we talk about family pressure — the noise, the mess, the emotional labour, and the temptation to use alcohol just to take the edge off.
This episode is a reminder that presence matters more than perfection. You’ll explore how letting go of impossible standards, taking micro-escapes, and choosing to join in rather than control the chaos can transform the next few days.
Be k...
Duration: 00:05:53Mindful Drinking Advent 19: Set Yourself Up to Succeed at Home
Dec 19, 2025GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
On Day Nineteen of the Mindful Drinking Advent Series, we focus on preparation — the difference between struggling through December and genuinely enjoying it at home.
As work parties wind down and family time ramps up, this episode explains why stocking your fridge, upgrading your glassware, and thinking like a bar rather than relying on willpower makes drinking differently feel effortless.
Being prepared turns good intentions into easy, satisfying choices — especially when e...
Duration: 00:06:32Mindful Drinking Advent 18: Wake Up Winning (But Don’t Be That Guy)
Dec 18, 2025GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
On Day Eighteen of the Mindful Drinking Advent Series, we talk about morning wins — those glorious, clear-headed starts after a night where you stuck to your intentions.
This episode is a reminder to enjoy that feeling without turning it into a sermon.
Not everyone is ready for the same choices at the same time, and no one ever changed because they were shamed.
Lead by example, lend a hand...
Duration: 00:04:36Mindful Drinking Advent 17: You Don’t Need Dutch Courage
Dec 17, 2025GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
On Day Seventeen of the Mindful Drinking Advent, we tackle festive exhaustion and the myth of Dutch courage.
When you’re tired, overstretched, and running on fumes, alcohol can feel like the thing that helps you keep going — but this episode questions whether it was ever really doing the work.
You’ll explore the difference between energy and permission, how alcohol masks social fatigue, and why choosing the right people (or choos...
Duration: 00:04:50Mindful Drinking Advent 16: Finding Alcohol-Free Drinks You Genuinely Love
Dec 16, 2025YOUR DATA, YOUR CHOICE: WEIGH UP THE TRUE IMPACT OF DRINKING FROM LIGHT – MEDIUM – HEAVY DAYS WITH THE DRINKING IMPACT CALCULATOR AT https://mindfuldrinkinginmidlife.com/products/drinking-impact-calculator
On Day Sixteen of the Mindful Drinking Advent, we’re talking about just how far low, no and light alcohol drinks have come — and why if you’ve tried one, you definitely haven’t tried them all.
This episode encourages you to keep an open mind, experiment like you once did with full-strength drinks, and treat low/no as exploration rather than restriction.
From pubs a...
Duration: 00:06:28Mindful Drinking Advent 15: Protect Your Sleep, Protect Yourself
Dec 15, 2025YOUR DATA, YOUR CHOICE: WEIGH UP THE TRUE IMPACT OF DRINKING FROM LIGHT – MEDIUM – HEAVY DAYS WITH THE DRINKING IMPACT CALCULATOR AT https://mindfuldrinkinginmidlife.com/products/drinking-impact-calculator
On Day Fifteen of the Mindful Drinking Advent, we focus on sleep — the foundation that quietly holds everything else together.
This episode explains why the nightcap myth persists, how alcohol interferes with REM sleep and recovery, and why poor sleep makes every drinking decision harder the next day.
You’ll learn simple, practical ways to protect your rest this December, from tracking sleep qual...
Duration: 00:05:40Mindful Drinking Advent 14: Your Mid-Month Check-In
Dec 14, 2025YOUR DATA, YOUR CHOICE: WEIGH UP THE TRUE IMPACT OF DRINKING FROM LIGHT – MEDIUM – HEAVY DAYS WITH THE DRINKING IMPACT CALCULATOR AT https://mindfuldrinkinginmidlife.com/products/drinking-impact-calculator
On Day Fourteen of the Mindful Drinking Advent, it’s time for a mid-December check-in.
This episode invites you to pause, take stock, and notice what’s genuinely different for you this year — better sleep, clearer mornings, fewer regrets, or simply fewer moments you wish you could rewind.
You’ll reflect on what’s working, tweak what isn’t, and remind yourself that small changes...
Duration: 00:05:09Mindful Drinking Advent 13: What To Do When Last Night Went Off-Piste
Dec 13, 2025YOUR DATA, YOUR CHOICE: WEIGH UP THE TRUE IMPACT OF DRINKING FROM LIGHT – MEDIUM – HEAVY DAYS WITH THE DRINKING IMPACT CALCULATOR AT https://mindfuldrinkinginmidlife.com/products/drinking-impact-calculator
On Day Thirteen of the Mindful Drinking Advent, we’re talking about the morning after the night before — the headache, the anxiety, the “I’m never drinking again” moment — and why shame is the least helpful thing you can reach for today.
This episode encourages you to choose recovery over regret: hydrate, nourish yourself, move gently, forgive what happened, and reflect honestly on what triggered you so...
Duration: 00:05:35Mindful Drinking Advent 12: The Truth About That First Drink
Dec 12, 2025YOUR DATA, YOUR CHOICE: WEIGH UP THE TRUE IMPACT OF DRINKING FROM LIGHT – MEDIUM – HEAVY DAYS WITH THE DRINKING IMPACT CALCULATOR AT https://mindfuldrinkinginmidlife.com/products/drinking-impact-calculator
On Day Twelve of the Mindful Drinking Advent Series, we explore the magic of that first sip — the exhale, the shoulder-drop, the tiny moment of relief we’ve spent years associating with alcohol.
This episode explains why the first and second drinks do the heavy lifting, and why everything after that is just chasing a feeling your brain can no longer deliver.
Learn to s...
Duration: 00:07:20Mindful Drinking Advent 11: How to Handle Those “Just Have One” Moments
Dec 11, 2025YOUR DATA, YOUR CHOICE: WEIGH UP THE TRUE IMPACT OF DRINKING FROM LIGHT – MEDIUM – HEAVY DAYS WITH THE DRINKING IMPACT CALCULATOR AT https://mindfuldrinkinginmidlife.com/products/drinking-impact-calculator
On Day Eleven of the Mindful Drinking Advent, we get into the festive pressure cooker — the well-meaning but relentlessly annoying “go on, it’s Christmas” comments.
This episode shows you how to stand in your power, stay confident in your choices, and respond in ways that feel natural to you, not scripted or apologetic.
Learn simple responses, ways to deflect, and the subtle...
Duration: 00:06:26Mindful Drinking Advent 10: Mull Everything — Festive Is a Feeling, Not an ABV
Dec 10, 2025YOUR DATA, YOUR CHOICE: WEIGH UP THE TRUE IMPACT OF DRINKING FROM LIGHT – MEDIUM – HEAVY DAYS WITH THE DRINKING IMPACT CALCULATOR AT https://mindfuldrinkinginmidlife.com/products/drinking-impact-calculator
On Day Ten of the Mindful Drinking Advent Series, we dive into the sensory joy of mulled everything — wine, apple cider, even tonic water if you’re feeling experimental.
Mulled drinks are one of the simplest wins for low/no drinkers because the craving isn’t for alcohol at all; it’s the cosy warmth, the spices, and that unmistakable festive aroma.
This episo...
Duration: 00:04:19Mindful Drinking Advent 9: The Long Lunch Survival Guide
Dec 09, 2025YOUR DATA, YOUR CHOICE: WEIGH UP THE TRUE IMPACT OF DRINKING FROM LIGHT – MEDIUM – HEAVY DAYS WITH THE DRINKING IMPACT CALCULATOR AT https://mindfuldrinkinginmidlife.com/products/drinking-impact-calculator
On Day Nine of the Mindful Drinking Advent Series, we dive into the beautifully chaotic world of December long lunches — the ones that start innocently at 1pm and somehow end at midnight.
This episode helps you enjoy the fun without losing the whole day (and tomorrow) by using simple tools like the ‘hard out’.
A practical, honest guide to surviving the midday tipple trap...
Duration: 00:05:16Mindful Drinking Advent 8: Your Moderation Techniques for December
Dec 08, 2025YOUR DATA, YOUR CHOICE: WEIGH UP THE TRUE IMPACT OF DRINKING FROM LIGHT – MEDIUM – HEAVY DAYS WITH THE DRINKING IMPACT CALCULATOR AT https://mindfuldrinkinginmidlife.com/products/drinking-impact-calculator
On Day Eight of the Mindful Drinking Advent, we unpack the practical side of moderation — the techniques that help you drink less without relying on willpower alone.
This episode explains the difference between active and passive moderation, and breaks down four simple techniques you can use during the festive season: zebra striping, bookending, coasting, and pacing.
If you're n...
Duration: 00:06:36Mindful Drinking Advent 7: The Sunday Night Calendar Audit You Actually Need
Dec 07, 2025YOUR DATA, YOUR CHOICE: WEIGH UP THE TRUE IMPACT OF DRINKING FROM LIGHT – MEDIUM – HEAVY DAYS WITH THE DRINKING IMPACT CALCULATOR AT https://mindfuldrinkinginmidlife.com/products/drinking-impact-calculator
On Day Seven of the Mindful Drinking Advent Series, it’s time for a Sunday night calendar audit — a simple but powerful way to cut overwhelm, create breathing room, and avoid drinking on autopilot.
This episode walks you through reviewing the week ahead, spotting the plans that energise you, and confidently ditching the ones that don’t.
You’ll also l...
Duration: 00:06:13Mindful Drinking Advent 6: The Luxury of a Hangover-Free Saturday
Dec 06, 2025YOUR DATA, YOUR CHOICE: WEIGH UP THE TRUE IMPACT OF DRINKING FROM LIGHT – MEDIUM – HEAVY DAYS WITH THE DRINKING IMPACT CALCULATOR AT https://mindfuldrinkinginmidlife.com/products/drinking-impact-calculator
On Day Six of the Mindful Drinking Advent, we talk about reclaiming your weekends — especially the first Saturday of December, when hangovers usually steal the show.
This episode digs into why a clear-headed Saturday is one of the biggest gifts you can give yourself this month, and how a bit of upfront motivation can help you make better choices the night bef...
Duration: 00:04:56Mindful Drinking Advent 5: When Every Night Feels Like Friday Night
Dec 05, 2025GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
On Day Five of the Mindful Drinking Advent Series, we talk about that classic Friday feeling — the end-of-week exhale that’s been glued to booze for as long as you can remember.
This episode is about keeping the ritual, the reward, and the right to switch off, without automatically reaching for alcohol every time someone says “it’s Friday” or “go on, it’s Christmas.”
You’ll get practical advice on saying no to the...
Duration: 00:07:12Mindful Drinking Advent 4: Surviving the First Big Christmas Party — The ‘Ready, Steady, Go’ Plan
Dec 04, 2025GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
On Day Four of the Mindful Drinking Advent Series, we hit the first big party of the season — the night where excitement, pressure, and expectation collide.
Today’s episode gives you a simple Ready–Steady–Go plan to help you eat, hydrate, pace yourself, and leave when you’re done, without falling into “might as well” drinking spirals.
Whether you’re easing into party season or going full Wham-and-Mariah, th...
Duration: 00:09:19Mindful Drinking Advent 3: The After-Work Wind Down (Without Reflex-Drinking)
Dec 03, 2025GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
On Day Three of the Mindful Drinking Advent Series, we dive into that classic 6pm moment — frazzled, overstretched, and desperate to switch off.
This mini episode shows you how to decompress after work without slipping straight into autopilot drinking. From clearing your mind to switching off notifications to giving yourself a proper physical reset, learn how to reclaim your evening, breathe again, and actually unwind in a way that serves you.
...
Duration: 00:07:07Mindful Drinking Advent 2: Bubbles Done Right
Dec 02, 2025On Day Two of our Mindful Drinking Audio Advent Calendar, we dive into the sparkle, shine, and pure festive joy of alcohol-free bubbles.
Learn why AF sparkling wines replicate the “real thing” so well, and why the celebration has always been about the ritual — not the alcohol.
This episode is all about how to enjoy the full festive experience, from the pop of the cork to the clink of the glass, without the next-day hangover.
===
🌱 Reset the way alcohol shows up in your life with the 4 Week Midlife Mindful Drinking Reset
http...
Mindful Drinking Advent 1: Design Your Christmas (Before December Does It for You)
Dec 01, 2025On Day One of our Mindful Drinking Advent Series, learn how to set a clear, grounded intention for Christmas so you can navigate parties, pressure, and festive chaos on your own terms.
Today’s episode helps you pause before December sweeps you away, reduce drinking on autopilot, and choose a more mindful, meaningful season.
0:00 Welcome To the Advent Series
4:33 Why Intentions Matter This Month
7:23 Craft Your Personal Guiding Sentence
===
🌱 Reset the way alcohol shows up in your life with the 4 Week Midlife Mindful Drinking Reset
https...
122: 18 Quick-Fire, Awkward (& Sometimes Funny) Truths About Your Sober-ish Christmas
Nov 26, 2025GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
Eighteen uncomfortable truths about mindful drinking at Christmas that nobody talks about.
From managing social pressure and family dynamics to handling drunk friends and awkward questions, I'm preparing you for the reality of festive drinking culture when you're choosing moderation or sobriety with 18 real-world quick-fire scenarios.
From FOMO & boundaries, to peer pressure & how to navigate Christmas parties, work dos and family gatherings with less alcohol on your own terms.
3:40 They won't stop asking
4:33...
121: Fat Jabs 2. A Gateway to Sobriety or A Dangerous Shortcut?
Nov 19, 2025Sign up to the Low No Drinker Mindful Drinking Advent Calendar for free and get ready for your best (adult) Christmas yet! - https://www.lownodrinker.com/mindfuladvent
Hamish Renton returns to discuss the latest developments in FAT JAB agonists—those increasingly ubiquitous fat jabs that are reshaping not just waistlines but drinking habits too.
With 5% of the UK population now using these compounds, they're silencing "drink noise," changing socialising patterns, and creating opportunities for functional beverages and nootropic drinks.
We explore the triple action of the la...
120: Willpower Won't Get You Through Christmas: 4 Steps to Change Your Drinking Beliefs
Nov 12, 2025GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
The festive season isn't one massive willpower test—it's death by a thousand shots. With six weeks of relentless celebrations from Thanksgiving through New Year's, willpower alone won't cut it.
In this episode, I unpack why beliefs, not willpower, are the real key to changing your drinking habits.
I share a four-step framework for gathering evidence to challenge limiting beliefs about alcohol, celebrations, and what fun actually means.
119: Going Daily for December
Nov 11, 2025GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
This December, I'm taking the podcast daily throughout the festive season.
From December 1st, I'll be delivering short, focused episodes created to support your mindful drinking journey through what can be the most challenging time of year for mindful drinkers.
Each bite-sized episode will give you practical tips, motivation, and strategies to navigate Christmas parties, family gatherings, and New Year celebrations on your terms.
If you've be...
118: Why You Can’t Drink Like You Used To
Nov 05, 2025 GET READY FOR YOUR BEST (ADULT) CHRISTMAS YET & GET YOUR FREE MINDFUL DRINKING ADVENT CALENDAR AT http://mindfuldrinkingadvent.com/
If you've ever wondered why that glass of wine or pint of beer hits differently now than it did ten years ago, this episode breaks down the reality behind why midlife drinking hits differently.
I explore three critical body changes that make alcohol more potent as we age: declining water content (dropping from 60% to 50% by our 50s), hormonal shifts during menopause and andropause, and how alcohol sabotages the restorative sleep o...
117: Inside the Asahi / Peroni 15% Alcohol-Free Mission
Oct 29, 2025Sign up to the Low No Drinker Mindful Drinking Advent Calendar for free and get ready for your best (adult) Christmas yet! - https://www.lownodrinker.com/mindfuladvent
This week, I’m joined by Andy Wingate, Asahi UK’s Director of Category, for a fascinating deep dive into the world of big beer and its growing commitment to the alcohol-free market for the companies leading alcohol-free beers, Peroni 0.0 & Asahi Super Dry 0.0.
We get into the real-world challenges the brand faces in bringing 0.0 beer to pubs on draught, as well as t...
116: Mindful Drinking Nights Out: The 3-Stage Strategy for Success
Oct 22, 2025Take the 90-second quiz to find out your midlife drinking motivators + get your free bonus https://www.lownodrinker.com/
===
If you’ve decided to drink differently but still want to enjoy your social life, this episode is your ultimate guide to mindful nights out.
I walk you through how to plan before, during, and after your evening so you can stay in control and still have fun.
From setting clear intentions and managing expectations with friends, to communicating with the bar staff and why staying hy...
115: Why Your Partner Struggles When You Start Drinking Less
Oct 15, 2025Take the 90-second quiz to find out your midlife drinking motivators + get your free bonus https://www.lownodrinker.com/
Changing your drinking habits doesn't just affect you – it impacts your partner too.
Today, I'm exploring why your other half might be struggling with your decision to drink less, even when they have the best intentions.
From fears about losing shared rituals to worries about their own drinking habits being challenged, I break down nine key concerns partners face and, crucially, how to navigate these conversations with honesty an...
114: £800 Million Lost, Over-55s Join In & Why "Drinking Less" Is the Wrong Term
Oct 08, 2025Katy Moses, founder of KAM Insight, joins me to unpack the latest findings from their groundbreaking "Drinking Differently" report, produced in partnership with Lucky Saint.
Katie reveals why moderation—not abstinence—is the real story driving the low and no revolution, with 76% of UK adults actively employing tactics to reduce alcohol intake.
We explore the £800 million opportunity pubs are missing by defaulting to tap water, why the over-55s are finally joining younger generations in moderating, and how terms like "zebra striping" and "bookending" have helped the industry understand changing consumer behaviour.
Katy share...
113: Thinking of Doing Sober October? There's a Better Way
Oct 01, 2025With Sober October starting today, I'm exploring when (and if) you should take a break from alcohol.
Why designated challenges like Dry January and Sober October get criticism, particularly when people restrict their entire social life and end up miserable, and share what actually makes these alcohol-free breaks successful.
The truth? There's never a perfect time to take a break, so stop waiting for your calendar to magically clear.
I reveal why white-knuckling through 30 days only to binge afterwards defeats the purpose, and share alternative approaches to mindful drinking and moderation that don't inv...
112: Rejected For Moderating by Friends, Family or Colleagues
Sep 24, 2025Rejection stings, especially when you're changing your drinking patterns and facing family expectations or shifting friendship dynamics.
After being turned down by a podcast host because of my moderation stance, I dive into how the fear of rejection holds us back from making choices that truly serve us. In this episode, we’ll unpack how family expectations, workplace pressure, and the subtle shifts in friendship dynamics can challenge your resolve to drink differently.
Tune in to learn why some people resist your new drinking patterns—and how staying true to yourself is worth the discomfort.
<...
Duration: 00:16:07111: Drinking on Autopilot: How Daily Stress Fuels Your Evening Habits
Sep 17, 2025Breaking decades of drinking habits in midlife isn’t about willpower – it’s about understanding triggers, actions, and rewards, and then reshaping them to work in your favour.
In this episode, I explore why habits form, why they’re so hard to undo, and how stress plays such a big role in keeping us stuck.
I share practical steps to help you swap old autopilot behaviours for new actions that actually bring relief and joy, and why progress, not perfection, is the key.
0:00 Setting the scene
1:52 Moderating in midlife
3:04 Understandi...
110: 7 Myths About Moderation That Stop You Drinking Mindfully
Sep 10, 2025In this episode of the Mindful Drinking & Moderation in Midlife Podcast, I’m busting seven of the biggest myths about moderation and mindful drinking. From the nonsense that drinking has to be “all or nothing,” to the idea that you have to count every single drink forever, or that moderation won’t do anything for your health — I’m setting the record straight.
I’ll share why drinking ‘less’ is still real change, how we can reshape decades of midlife habits, and why moderation isn’t just for the young or for people or those with “a problem.”
If...
109: Costs Pt2: £62,899 Burnout
Sep 03, 2025This is part two of my mini-series on the true cost of alcohol-free drinks.
Last week, we pulled back the curtain on the industry economics — from research and development to supermarket shelf space.
This week, I’m shifting the focus to you as the drinker. Yes, an AF pint might cost the same as a full-strength one, but what about the money saved on late-night taxis, hangover takeaways, or rounds of shots?
Beyond that, I dig into the personal costs: lost sleep, low mood, missed workouts, strained relationships, and even burnout. Choosing alcohol-free isn’...
108: Costs Pt1: What You’re Really Paying For
Aug 27, 2025Time to tackle the question that comes up again and again: why do alcohol-free drinks cost so much when there’s no alcohol in them?
This is part one of a two-part mini-series on the true cost of drinking alcohol-free.
Today I’m breaking down the industry economics behind your favourite low and no drinks — from the surprising truth that alcohol is often the cheapest ingredient, to the eye-watering costs of research, development, small batch production, and simply getting bottles onto supermarket shelves.
Next time, I’ll flip the script and look at what it...
107: Masculinity, Mental Health, and Moderation with Performance Coach Ben Hill
Aug 20, 2025This week I’m joined by Ben Hill, founder of Ask More, a performance Coaching service for professional men looking to up their game across the board, to talk about masculinity, midlife, and moderation.
We dive into why so many men still struggle to open up, how beer o’clock has quietly become the male equivalent of “mummy wine culture,” and the surprising amount of time and clarity Ben reclaimed when he stepped back from drinking.
From breaking outdated norms to learning how to “stand in your power,” Ben shares practical strategies for creating a life you don...
106: Introvert, Extrovert, Ambivert: 4 Steps to Match Your Drinking Style to Your Social Energy
Aug 13, 2025Changing the way we drink can reveal who we really are. In this episode, I explore how introverts, extroverts, and ambiverts approach alcohol differently – and how understanding your personality type can help you drink in ways that genuinely suit you.
I introduce my Four I’s Framework (Identify, Investigate, Implement, Iterate) to help you match your social energy to your drinking style, so you can enjoy your nights out (or nights in) without draining your social battery or relying on Dutch courage to get you through.
0:00 Dutch courage
2:29 Personality types spectrum
4:22 Ambiverts
...
105: Defending Your Right to Moderate in an All-or-Nothing World
Aug 06, 2025In this solo episode, I’m diving into the loaded topic of moderation — and why it’s not the dirty word so many in the alcohol-free space make it out to be.
I’m sharing my own experience with passive moderation, why I never said “I’m quitting alcohol forever,” and how that gentler, more flexible approach led me to a place where I barely drink at all — without feeling deprived or like I’d failed.
This episode is for anyone who’s been told moderation doesn’t work, or that taking a break from booze only counts if i...
104: 5 Secrets to Better Mocktails at Home with Lila Volkas
Jul 30, 2025This week I’m joined by certified nutrition consultant and booze-free mixology expert Lila Volkas, who shares her brilliant five-element framework for making better alcohol-free drinks at home.
We get into why creating complexity is trickier without alcohol (and how to work around it), plus how ingredients like apple cider vinegar and citrus peels can completely transform your drink — no fancy kit required.
From her early days brewing kombucha in a student flat to leading workshops for global companies, Lila's approach blends flavour, function and a touch of wellness in every glass.
If you’...
103: No One Tells You This About Drinking Less in Midlife
Jul 23, 2025Let’s dive into some little-discussed truths about changing your relationship with alcohol that nobody talks about. From disrupted sleep and mood swings in those first crucial weeks, to navigating shifting friendships and social dynamics, I'm not sugarcoating anything.
I explore how your taste buds will literally change, why you'll discover more about yourself than ever before, and how this journey impacts everyone around you - not just you.
Most importantly, I address why midlife drinkers need different support and advice than the twenty-something wellness influencers dominating social media.
0:00 Truths Ab...
102: "No One Wanted to Work with Me" - Athletic Brewing's Bill Shufelt
Jul 16, 2025Bill Shufelt, co-founder of Athletic Brewing, joins me to share the remarkable journey behind America's leading non-alcoholic beer brand.
From his personal decision to stop drinking 13 years ago to building a business that's now outselling major breweries, Bill's story is one of identifying a genuine market gap and relentlessly pursuing quality.
We explore Athletic's brewing philosophy, their expansion into the UK market (including that exciting Arsenal partnership), and why Bill believes non-alcoholic drinks could eventually claim 50% of the adult beverage market.
With insights on everything from draft beer challenges to their impressive charitable...
Welcome to the New Show!
Jul 09, 2025Welcome to the Mindful Drinking & Moderation in Midlife Podcast.
I'm so glad you're here.
We're about to go on a life-changing journey together.
The destination: A life less intoxicated!
===
🌱 Reset the way alcohol shows up in your life with the 4 Week Midlife Mindful Drinking Reset
https://www.lownodrinker.com/4weekreset
===
🧮 Drinking Impact Calculator: Find your personal tipping point
https://mindfuldrinkinginmidlife.com/products/drinking-impact-calculator
===
🗣️ Join the growing community on Substack
https://lownodrinker.substack.com/
===
🧐 Take the quiz<...
101: 10 Things You Need to Know Before Starting Your Dry Month Challenge
Jul 09, 2025In this episode, I’m sharing 10 practical strategies for not just surviving but thriving during any alcohol-free challenge, whether it's Dry January, Sober October, or your own personal experiment.
Drawing from years of trial and error plus insights from the Low No Drinker community, I cover everything from prioritising sleep and movement to exploring the brilliant world of alcohol alternatives.
This isn't about white-knuckling through 31 days – it's about creating a proper toolkit for success whilst being kind to yourself along the way.
0:00 Dry month challenges
1:45 Sleep like you mean it
5:29 Eat...
100: Episodes, 15 Questions, 1 major update
Jul 02, 2025I’m flipping the script! To celebrate hitting an astonishing 100 episodes, today, I am testing my skills and interviewing myself.
Plus, I share some exciting news about the evolution of the Low No Drinker Podcast!
0:00 Celebrating 100 Episodes
2:49 Motivation
6:30 Toughest episodes
12:39 Best episodes
16:56 Explaining my job to my kids
19:10 Defend big alcohol
22:59 Ridiculous misconceptions
23:52 Controversial opinion
25:37 Too boozy / Too dry
29:02 Moderation is not a dirty word
...
#99. Between Teetotal and Tipsy: The Lost Art of Small Beer
Jun 25, 2025James Grundy, co-founder of Small Beer, joins me to share the fascinating story behind reviving a brewing tradition that vanished over a century ago.
After several years building a gin brand, James & partner, former Fuller's brewer Felix James, set out to revive "small beer", historically consumed for nutrition and hydration, with an upper limit of 2.8% ABV.
Their mission: to create the perfect middle ground between teetotalism and the spectacular hangovers from increasingly strong craft beers, has now grown into a B Corp-certified brewery that has revolutionised water usage and is now launching across 450 M&S...
#98. Lyre’s: The Honest Truth
Jun 18, 2025This week, I'm joined by Anita Osborne, the Sales and Marketing Manager for Lyre's Spirit Co. in the EU and UK. Anita takes us behind the scenes of one of the most successful global alcohol-free brands, sharing the highs and lows of building a business that spans over 60 territories.
From launching with an ambitious 12 spirits (including an alcohol-free absinthe!) to navigating supply chain nightmares, pirate attacks on the Suez Canal, and strategic downsizing, Anita doesn't hold back about what it really takes to survive in this space.
We explore Lyre's "your drink, your way" philosophy, wh...
Duration: 01:01:22#97. Adults Only? Are Alcohol-Free Drinks Safe for Kids?
Jun 13, 2025Today I’m diving into a question that comes up a lot — is it safe, and is it a good idea, to give alcohol-free drinks to kids?
I’m talking specifically about drinks under 0.5% ABV (so not low, light or mid-strength alcohol).
I cover the safety aspect first, but more importantly, I explore the bigger question: should we be giving them to kids at all?
I share why these drinks aren’t made for children, what message we might be sending if we do give them to our kids, and what to consider when the...
#96. Get That "One or Two Pint" Feeling with Impossibrew’s Social Blend
Jun 11, 2025Mark Wong joins me to share the journey behind Impossibrew, the functional beer brand that went from Dragon's Den rejection to securing six and then seven-figure crowdfunding.
I nosy my way into their proprietary "social blend" of plant-based ingredients designed to replicate that one-or-two-pint feeling without the alcohol, how they've iterated their recipes based on customer feedback, and why Mark believes that despite his immense success, there’s still a lot of work to be done.
0:00 Mark's Impossibrew Journey
7:18 Failure is not a reason to stop
...
#95. Alcohol-Free Wine vs AF Beer: It's Not a Fair Fight
Jun 06, 2025This week, I'm diving into the thorny topic of alcohol-free wine and why we need to stop whining about it.
Whilst I'm not claiming it's perfect yet, the constant negativity isn't helping anyone.
I explore why alcohol-free wine faces unique challenges compared to the meteoric rise of AF beer, from centuries of tradition to higher production costs, and why these passionate producers deserve our support rather than our scorn.
It's time to approach alcohol-free wine with curiosity instead of cruelty, give it the same trial-and-error approach we gave full-strength wines, and help shape...
#94. Lifted: The UK's First High Protein, Alcohol-Free Lager
Jun 04, 2025This week I'm chatting with Tony Robinson, co-founder of Lifted - the UK's first 0.0% high protein craft lager made for athletes.
Tony and his wife, Rebecca, launched their unique offering to solve a problem they were both experiencing - wanting additional protein in their diets whilst enjoying alcohol-free options after workouts.
With over 250,000 cans sold and a fiercely loyal customer base, Lifted sits at the intersection of fitness culture and mindful drinking.
Tony shares the challenges of creating a category of one, the lengthy R&D process of making protein beer actually taste goo...
#93. Stop Asking If I Still Drink Alcohol!
May 30, 2025I get asked constantly whether I still drink alcohol, as my answer will somehow validate my right to speak on the subject. Well, I'm getting fed up of answering that question, and here's why - it's completely missing the point!
In this one-on-one episode, I’m jumping with two feet into why I've built this platform for the messy middle ground, why shame-based messaging from both sides drives me mad, and why you don't need to make lifelong commitments to change something today. This is my honest take on why the Low No Drinker Media platform isn't ab...
#92. “Turning my mess into my message” - Laura Silverman, Zero Proof Nation
May 28, 2025Laura Silverman is the founder of Zero Proof Nation, a global platform connecting low and no-drinks & drinkers worldwide. Nearly 18 years sober, Laura’s LinkedIn profile describes her as "the nexus of NA" – a title she's earned through her tireless work building community and resources for the alcohol-free movement, including the most comprehensive global map of booze-free bars and bottle shops.
0:00 Meeting Laura Silverman
2:21 Different worlds, one nation!
3:20 Laura's story: Hospitalised twice by 24
13:10 First steps to building Zero Proof Nation
16:39 What is Zero Proof Nati...
#91. Be the Voice of Low No Nation
May 23, 2025In this special announcement episode, I'm reaching out to you, my wonderful Low No Nation, as we approach a major milestone - episode 100 of the podcast!
After nearly two years of bringing you conversations about the world of low, no and light drinks, I'm inviting you to be part of this celebration. Whether you've been listening since day one or just discovered us recently, I'd love to hear your voice - share a favourite moment, a quote that resonated, a guest who changed your perspective, or simply where you are on your journey to a life less...
#90. How Lucky Saint Is Brewing Beer You Can Believe In (Even at Lunchtime)
May 21, 2025This week, I’m joined by Lou Pollitt from Lucky Saint, the UK’s best-known alcohol-free beer.
We talk about how the brand’s evolved since launching back in 2018, why they stuck so firmly to perfecting just one lager for so long, and how brewing to the German Rheinheitsgebot purity law plays into that commitment to quality.
Lou also shares some insight into their newest release —a Lemon Lager, and their less new IPA, plus we chat about the growing presence of alcohol-free options in workplaces, what it really means to build a community around a brand...
#89. How I Got It All Wrong at a 5-Year-Old's Birthday Party
May 16, 2025Today, I’m exploring how years of conditioning led me to make unfair assumptions about my hosts, who were actually on their own mindful drinking journey, at a recent kids’ birthday party. This experience prompted me to question the wider assumptions we all make - about venues, other people's perceptions, and even ourselves and the habitual thoughts and behaviours that dictate our actions when navigating social drinking situations.
0:00 Party time
1:53 My assumption
5:59 Mixed drinking hosting
6:58 Habitual behaviours
8:33 Reflecting with an open mind
Also mentioned:
Zeno Sparkling Wine*
Brew...
#88. Sober Sound System Ibiza: Changing Raving on the No.1 Party Island
May 14, 2025He’s the Sober Sommelier who went from a disastrous weekend on to co-create Sober Sound System Ibiza, bringing his personal drink & drug story full circle after seven years.
Join me and Alex Norwood Hill on his amazing journey of self-discovery on the party island.
Can you go sober in Ibiza? Hell yes, you can!
0:00 The early days of drink & drugs
9:48 Alex's Spiritual Awakening in Ibiza
17:39 From DJ to Sober Sommelier
23:12 Launching Sober Sound System Ibiza
35:56 What to...
#87. The Uncomfortable Truth: 4 Reasons Some Alcohol-Free Drinks Fall Flat
May 09, 2025It’s time for some uncomfortable truths about alcohol-free drinks. This episode might make me a little unpopular in the industry, but that’s ok because it needs to be said: Not all alcohol-free drinks are good!
After being asked this very question during my BBC Radio Xtra debut (yay!), I was inspired to share this episode and explore with you why some low/no options fall short. But to keep the balance, it’s not all bad, I’m still sharing the love, but only after some real honesty.
0:00 Are all alcohol-free drinks good?
2:07...
#86. 50/50: The Cocktail Box Company Bridging Alcohol-Free & Alcohol-Full
May 07, 2025This week, I'm chatting with Jonny Hughes, one-half of the husband-wife duo behind Penthouse Cocktails – a unique at-home cocktail box service offering both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions of the same drinks. Johnny, who also writes for Low No Drinker Magazine, brings his refreshingly honest and sometimes blunt (be warned!) perspective on everything from balancing a business that serves both markets to the challenges of finding quality non-alcoholic alternatives to his perspective on low/no wines.
Johnny also shares practical tips for making non-alc cocktails at home and explains why their 50/50 business model (right down to their pink an...
Duration: 00:58:10#85. Move Over Gen Z: How Midlife Moderators are Changing the Drinking Game
May 02, 2025This week, I'm busting the myth that Gen Z are the only ones changing their relationship with alcohol.
Inspired by a 70-year-old Irish gentleman named Eamon who told me he recently decided to quit drinking, I explore how my generation—Generation X—along with older Millennials and even Boomers, are quietly revolutionising our drinking habits.
With 74% of UK adults now actively moderating their alcohol consumption, this episode delves into the different motivations driving mature drinkers—from health and energy concerns to extending social occasions—and how our approach differs from that of younger generations.
0:00 T...
#84. 5 Hours of Sober Clubbing Bliss with The House of Happiness
Apr 30, 2025This week I'm thrilled to be joined by Neil Hudson-Basing, the “chaotic, queer and kind” co-founder of House of Happiness - London's sober clubbing extravaganza. Neil takes us behind the scenes of creating London's first queer-led sober rave, from its humble beginnings to becoming a glitter-filled, music-pumping daytime party at one of London's top clubs.
We dive into the challenges of launching a sober event in traditional clubbing venues, the careful curation that goes into creating an inclusive space, and the emotional moments that have validated their mission.
From the pre-meet pastries to the confetti cann...
#83. You Can Drink Your Own Way
Apr 25, 2025In this candid solo episode, I tackle the gatekeeping creeping into the low/no space, particularly around big alcohol brands releasing alcohol-free options. After receiving pushback for sharing Heineken's expansion news, I'm setting the record straight: there's no "right way" to be a mindful drinker. Whether you prefer mainstream alcohol-free beers or artisanal botanical concoctions, what matters is making intentional choices that serve you. Mainstream brands offer accessibility, affordability and familiarity that many people need. While I'll always champion independent brands too, this episode is my passionate reminder that everyone deserves a seat at the mindful drinking table—no ju...
Duration: 00:10:44#82. “I Thought Alcohol-Free Beer Was Disgusting” How Jump Ship’s Founder Changed Her Own Mind
Apr 23, 2025Sonja Mitchell is the founder of Jump Ship, the award-winning Scottish alcohol-free brewery making waves in the low/no space. From knowing absolutely nothing about brewing to winning 'Scottish Small Brewery of the Year', Sonja shares her remarkable journey—including launch delays, a pandemic pivot, and even a David and Goliath-esque legal battle.
0:00 Sonja's story
4:09 Building the business step by step
6:03 When brewing goes wrong
9:44 Pandemic setbacks
13:33 Opening her own brewery
21:24 The Jump Ship Range
24:35 Taking BrewDog to...
#81. Powerful Mindset Shifts That Will Transform Your Experience with Low/No Drinks – Pt2
Apr 18, 2025Subscribe to Low No Drinker Magazine free trial
Come with me on part 2 of our mindset shifts discovery.
You can find part 1 at ep#79
This week, we cover:
1:46 Shift 10 - They're not worth the price
3:52 Shift 11 - Changing my social identity
5:24 Shift 12 - This is just a trend
7:30 Shift 13 - Tried one, tried them all
10:23 Shift 14 - Limiting social occasions
14:03 Shift 15 - I won't enjoy my food t...
#80. 12 Years in the Making: From Seedlip to Seasn to Sylva to Shandy with Ben Branson
Apr 16, 2025This week, I’m bringing you none other than Mr Ben Branson! The man who turned the drinks world upside down with Seedlip joins me to share the story behind his newest venture, Sylva, with a quick stop off at his innovative bitters range, Seasn.
Sylva is a revolutionary approach to non-alc dark spirits that extracts flavours from trees using sonic maturation. From his humble beginnings as a farming-family-kid-turned-entrepreneur with zero drinks industry experience, Ben opens up about the rollercoaster journey of creating category-defining products. I loved his refreshing honesty about the challenges ("I wanted to close th...
Duration: 01:07:36#79. Powerful Mindset Shifts That Will Transform Your Experience with Low/No Drinks – Pt1
Apr 11, 2025In this solo episode, I explore some of the essential mindset shifts that can transform your relationship with low, no and light drinks. These perspective changes are game-changers on your journey to mindful drinking, helping you appreciate alcohol alternatives for what they truly offer rather than what they're replacing. Whether you're aiming for complete sobriety or just cutting back occasionally, these mental adjustments will help you navigate the vibrant world of alcohol alternatives with greater confidence and enjoyment.
This week, we cover:
0:00 Why we need a mindset shift
2:37 S...
#78. How Your Tastes Change When You Start Drinking Low/No
Apr 09, 2025A few months ago, I tasted a sip of an Old Fashioned (my former favourite cocktail) and nearly fell off my chair because it tasted SO strong. But here's the thing - the drink hadn't changed, my taste buds had!
In this episode, I get into the science behind why this happens (don't worry, no lab coat required) and how it actually numbs our taste buds, and when we drink less, those receptors wake right up. I map out the timeline from the first subtle changes to the full "taste bud makeover".
And I take...
Duration: 00:22:19#77. Ethical Consumerism Meets Mindful Drinking with Sea Change Wines
Apr 04, 2025I chatted with Simon Rolfe, Director at Sea Change Wines - a brand combining award-winning wines with ocean conservation. Sea Change began in 2018 when Simon's team wanted to create a product that would create a legacy their children could be proud of. Inspired by David Attenborough’s Blue Planet series, they proceeded to build a brand, removing unnecessary packaging, using sustainable materials, and donating to marine charities with every sale.
Their alcohol-free Sea Change Free has exceeded expectations, with sales jumping from 2.2% to 5% of their total business in just one year. Simon shares insights on the challenges of...
Duration: 00:51:37#76. Beyond Bananas! 12 Everyday Foods That Contain Alcohol
Apr 02, 2025In this episode, I’m tackling the common concern around 0.5% ABV drinks by taking a look at the surprising array of everyday foods in your kitchen that contain similar or higher levels of alcohol.
If you've been hesitant to try 0.5% drinks on your mindful drinking journey, this episode will help put things into perspective and potentially open up a whole new world of drinking experiences for you.
0:00 Why we're talking about food...
2:18 Foods that contain alcohol
8:18 How does alcohol get into these foods?
#75. Beyond Wine: Creating Category-Less Drinks with Muri
Mar 28, 2025This week I'm joined by Murray Patterson, founder of Muri - a unique range of fermented non-alcoholic drinks designed for wine occasions. Murray shares his fascinating journey from a soul-crushing corporate job at JP Morgan to discovering his passion for fermentation in the cider industry before relocating to Copenhagen - a global hub for fermentation expertise.
At Muri, they're breaking free from simply mirroring alcoholic drinks, instead using chef-led techniques and complex fermentation processes to create genuinely original flavour profiles. Murray explains their painstaking methods, from carbonically macerating strawberries to lacto-fermenting beetroot and creating tomato wine. We...
Duration: 00:47:48#74. 50% of Drinkers Prefer Going for Two: How ‘Coasting’ Is Changing the Way We Moderate
Mar 26, 2025The mid-strength Collective. How these 12 brands are coming together to help spread the word of this exciting new category with great potential but little exposure.
ON THE SHOW
0:00 Intro
2:28 Why is mid-strength important?
3:18 Why we are choosing to moderate
4:55 Across the ages
6:20 How we're moderating
7:09 Coasting
8:06 Going for two is the new going for one
8:53 Why and when we're choosing mid-strength
11:03 Work drinks
12:52 The mid-strength challenge
14:31 Do drinkers actually want mid-strength drinks?
17:07 Mid-strength on pubs & bars
19:25 What drinkers want from mid-strenghth<...
#73. America's 1st Non-Alc Bottle Shop, Celebrity Brands & THC Drinks
Mar 20, 2025Victoria Watters is the co-founder of Dry Atlas, a media platform dedicated to alcohol alternatives. She is also one-half of the driving force behind Spirited Away – America's first non-alcoholic bottle shop. Victoria and her husband, Douglas, launched their bottle shop in November 2020 and have never looked back!
This week, we’re chatting about Victoria's insights on the evolution of non-alcoholic drinks – from the improving technology in de-alcoholised wines to the emergence of THC-infused beverages in the US, how the industry is moving from sober curiosity to ‘flex drinking’, and where celebrity brands are getting it right, and wrong, in...
Duration: 00:56:45#72. The Problem with Naming Alcohol-Free Spirits
Mar 18, 2025In this episode, I explore why alcohol-free bottles are labelled as ‘botanical spirit’ or ‘dark spiced’ instead of gin or rum. These naming conventions aren't just creative marketing—they're legal requirements which force alcohol-free producers to use alternative terminology that hints at what their products are meant to replace.
But does it cause more confusion? What do brands need to do to support low, no, light drinkers in finding, understanding and enjoying their drinks?
THIS WEEK, WE’RE TALKING ABOUT:
0:00 Talking alcohol-free spirits
1:29 Legally protected
2:37 Mi...
#71. Award-Winning Sober Bartender's Guide to Non-Alc Spirits & Cocktails
Mar 13, 2025Chris Cardone is a beverage consultant, chief mixologist and career bartender who, despite being sober for nearly 10 years, has continued to work in the hospitality drinks industry and help make the bar scene more inclusive for those seeking alternative ways to drink.
He is the winner of Bartender of the Year, a four-time national flair bartending finalist, and has even taught celebrities like Tom Holland how to flair bartend.
From Chris’s terrifying brain chemistry causing terrifying hallucinogenic reactions to even small amounts of alcohol to the naysayers claiming a sober bartender couldn't succeed, this sto...
Duration: 01:11:13#70. Mocktail: The Dirty Word of Alcohol-Free Drinking
Mar 11, 2025Why is the word 'Mocktail' so contentious in the low/no space?
IN THIS WEEK’S EPISODE, WE COVER:
0:59 [A very] Brief history of mocktails
2:55 A mockery
3:40 Second-class drinkers
4:46 Not for the kids menu
7:40 What else can we call them?
8:24 Other terrible terms
9:21 AF mixologists to watch
10:49 But... some people still like it
12:04 A good problem to...
Duration: 00:15:00#69. The Fungi Consultant: Do Functional Mushrooms Work in Low/No Drinks?
Mar 06, 2025Oli Genn-Bash is one of the most interesting guests I’ve had the privilege to interview. He’s a fungi fanatic and a mycology maestro; aka he loves mushrooms!
In this deep dive episode into the true role of functional mushrooms in our drinks, Oli doesn’t hold back. He tells us what these fascinating fungi actually do in our bodies, how to identify quality suppliers and the truth about whether they’re actually having any impact when used inside low/no drinks.
This is definitely one of those episodes where I’m inviting you to strap o...
Duration: 00:57:34#68. The No.1 Mistake Made by New Low/No Drinkers
Mar 04, 2025“Alcohol changes everything about how a drink feels and tastes and behaves.”
“There's a lot that goes on with alcohol inside a drink that is about far more than just getting you sozzled, and when you take that away, it's going to give you a different product.”
This week we cover:
0:00 Welcome to ep#68
0:26 But first, a big thank you!
2:13 The no.1 mistake
2:45 Managing expectations
3:19 Alcohol changes everything
4:47 The co...
Duration: 00:17:44#67. MUUSH: The Functional Mushroom Elixir Served Hot, Cold & in Mocktails
Feb 27, 2025Matt Martin is the co-founder of MUUSH functional mushroom elixirs. A unique range of alcohol-free drinks that can be mixed and served hot, cold or added into mocktails – covering your functional needs though morning, noon and night.
But they’re not stopping there. Matt & Dan have also added an extension of kid-friendly drinks with their Mini Muush range, and wanting to ensure Generation A stays enthused and motivated, they’ve also launched a brand new docuseries called ‘One Small Step’, sharing the incredible feats of regular humans doing exceptional things.
Warm yourself up or cool yourself d...
Duration: 00:57:40#66. Active vs Passive Moderation Techniques
Feb 25, 2025“It's a change in who you are. It's a change in the way you think. It's a change in the way that you act, and, most importantly, it's a change in your belief system.”
This week we're covering:
0:21 Active vs passive moderation
0:46 Warning: Not suitable for people with AUD
2:19 3 Es Framework
3:52 What is active moderation?
4:41 Setting the rules of active moderation
5:34 Pros of active moderation
7:30 Cons of ac...
Duration: 00:30:06Low No Drinker Podcast Trailer
Feb 24, 2025Welcome to the show!!
Low No Drinker is the only twice-weekly podcast helping you find, understand and enjoy the drinks that help us all live a life less intoxicated!
Subscribe now to never miss an interview or solo episode that brings you closer to the people, places and brands leading the low, no and light alcohol revolution!
===
📰 SUBSCRIBE TO LOW NO DRINKER MAGAZINE ONLINE OR IN PRINT ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD
===
💰 Get 10% off drinks...
#65. No Compromise with ZENO Alcohol-Liberated Wines
Feb 20, 2025Just past their two-year birthday, ZENO alcohol-liberated wines are a range of five (for now) hand-crafted wines, made “for wine enthusiasts when they choose to abstain”.
In this week’s conversation, I talk to co-founder David Hodgson about his transition from 25 years in traditional wine to launching an alcohol-free wine brand amidst the uncertainty of COVID, Brexit & a fledgling category presented to an unforgiving market.
We also touch on the inspirational philosophies behind the brand name, the growth of the non-alcoholic wine sector and ZENO’s plans for the development of both a new “serious” red wine and...
Duration: 00:57:23#64. What The Heck Do Functional Beverages Even Do (& do they work)?
Feb 18, 2025
In this week's FAQ, we cover:
0:00 What are functional drinks?
1:17 Adaptogens
2:31 Nootropics
4:02 Other functionals
4:55 Natural vs synthetic ingredients
6:51 Reality check
8:18 Individual responses
9:24 Health warning
9:58 Getting started
11:35 Recommendations
=============================================
Best episode to listen to next:
#59 Plant-powered AF Brewing: On Beer
#45 - 5 brand new...
Duration: 00:15:12#63. What Are Zebra Striping and Bookending (& Do They Work)?
Feb 13, 2025In this week's FAQ, we cover:
0:21 Where do the terms come from?
1:05 What is zebra striping?
2:17 What is bookending?
2:59 Is there any data?
3:52 Who zebra striping is good for
4:33 Who zebra striping is bad for
6:59 Honest personal reflection
7:53 Zebra striping as active moderation
9:05 When bookending works well
9:41 When bookending won't work
10:27 Final thoughts<...
Duration: 00:13:41#62. What Exactly is a Unit & How Many Are in My Favourite Drinks?
Feb 11, 2025In this week's FAQ, we cover:
0:20 What is a unit?
1:11 Processing a unit of alcohol in the body
1:53 Calculating units in a drink
3:44 Units in your favourite drinks
5:49 UK unit guidelines
6:06 What this means for low/no/light
8:32 Access the free unit guide
=============================================
Best episode to listen to next:
#56 FAQ: What does ABV mean? (and how does it...
Duration: 00:11:00#61. Alcohol-Free Spirit-Forward Events with Third Place Bar
Feb 06, 2025Sam Bail is the founder and tastemaker of the Stateside non-alcoholic pop-up sensation Third Place Bar.
And for the last two years, Sam has had her finger firmly on the pulse of the low/no drinks scene.
Born in Germany, studied in Manchester (the one in England, that is), and currently based in New York, Sam is busy putting on events, teaching cocktail classes, and integrating all of these into both consumer and corporate locations.
We cover everything from going to events alone to adult parallel play to the challenges of alcohol-free, spirit-forward...
Duration: 00:50:55#60. What Are Alcohol-Free RTDs? (& Where Can I Find Them?)
Feb 04, 2025=============================================
FREE COURSE: OVERCOMING THE HURDLES
=============================================
In this FAQ episode, we cover:
0:21 What are RTDs?
2:19 Modern convenience
4:14 RTD brand recommendations
5:54 Always check the label
6:50 Where to find them
=============================================
Best episode to listen to next:
#29 The rise and rise of Mocktails with Pooja Sharma-Jones
#44 Wholefoods to Harrods - & - creating diversity in non-alc cocktails
=============================================
Also mentioned:
H...
Duration: 00:10:01#59. Plant-Powered AF Brewing: On Beer
Jan 30, 2025FREE COURSE: OVERCOMING THE FIRST HURDLES - START YOUR MINDFUL DRINKING JOURNEY IN JUST 3 DAYS
======
SHOW QUOTES
“People look at plants and look at their garden and think, ah, just plants, but they're some of the most powerful things on the planet.”
“So I get a fizzing on my chest, like that nice fizzing, and you feel nice and like buzzing.”
======
SHOW SUMMARY
Chris Kazakeos is one-half of the founding team behind On Beer, the plant-powered, functional, alcohol-free beer brand.
From...
Duration: 01:01:42#58. What Do I Do After Dry January?
Jan 28, 2025=============================================
FREE COURSE: OVERCOMING THE HURDLES
=============================================
In this FAQ episode, we cover:
=============================================
Best episode to listen to next:
#56 FAQ: What does ABV mean? (and how does it affect low/no drinks?)
===
🌱 Reset the way alcohol shows up in your life with the 4 Week Midlife Mindful Drinking Reset
https://www.lownodrinker.com/4weekreset
===
🧮 Drinking Impact...
#57. Why Non-Alc is Boring: Drink The Pathfinder
Jan 23, 2025FREE COURSE: OVERCOMING THE FIRST HURDLES - START YOUR MINDFUL DRINKING JOURNEY IN JUST 3 DAY
======
SHOW QUOTES
“I actually think non-alc is boring now.”
“The UK is the most sophisticated non-alc market in the world!”
======
SHOW SUMMARY
Rish Ravalia is the UK Manager for The Pathfinder. Rish Ravalia doesn’t pull any punches.
In this interview, Rish tells me exactly why he thinks the non-alc category is boring and what his brand, The Pathfinder, is doing to change that.
We talk...
Duration: 00:57:01#56. The ABVs of Low/No Alcohol Drinks
Jan 21, 2025FREE COURSE - START YOUR MINDFUL DRINKING JOURNEY IN JUST 3 DAYS: OVERCOMING THE HURDLES
=============================================
In this FAQ episode, we cover:
- What does ABV mean?
- Average ABVs for full-strength drinks
- Low/no/light ABVs
- How to send your questions (& get free stuff)
- Best episode to listen to next: #40 What low/no drinkers are really saying
===
🌱 Reset the way alcohol shows up in your life with the 4 Week Midlife Mindful Drinking Reset
https://www.lownodrinker...
#55. Rebels0.0: Launching Switzerland’s 1st Alcohol-Free Brand
Jan 16, 2025FREE COURSE: OVERCOMING THE FIRST HURDLES - START YOUR MINDFUL DRINKING JOURNEY IN JUST 3 DAYS
======
SHOW QUOTES
'When we started three and a half years ago, there were a lot of question marks in everyone’s eyes; a lot of pushback from proud bartenders who said "No. I need to sell alcohol. I don't want to do alcohol-free!" And now, in these three and a half years, that's totally changed!"
======
SHOW SUMMARY
Christof Tremp is the co-founder behind Rebels 0.0 alcohol-free spirits...
Duration: 00:48:01#54. Introducing Low No Drinker FAQ
Jan 15, 2025FREE COURSE: OVERCOMING THE HURDLES
=========================================
I'm doubling down on the Low No Drinker Podcast in 2025!
Starting next week, the show will be going to two episodes a week as I introduce the new Low No Drinker FAQ series of solo episodes where I will help you to find, understand and enjoy low, no & light drinks so that you can live a life less intoxicated on your own terms.
In this introductory episode, you can hear all about what it'll include and how you can get...
#53. Creating A Household Legacy with Noughty AF Wines & Amanda Thomson
Jan 09, 2025FREE COURSE: OVERCOMING THE HURDLES
======
SHOW QUOTES
“And so I doubled down on seeing if I could create the world's first good non-alcoholic wine. And when I say good, it was my definition of good, which it was quite nuanced.”
“I always want a democratic price point and qualitative relationship […] I want it to be the household name that we all turn to when we want a good non-alcoholic wine.”
======
SHOW SUMMARY
Amanda Thomson needs little introduction to the world of AF wines; sh...
Duration: 00:48:40