The Alcohol Free Revolution Podcast

This week we're joined by a very good friend of ours, Jo Hands — someone we've been meaning to get on the show for a long time and, frankly, we should have done it sooner. Jo grew up in the 70s in a home where alcohol was a completely normalised, ever-present friend. By the time she hit boarding school in the Lake District, gin was being smuggled back in jam jars. By the time she landed in London in the 90s, working in corporate financial communications, Thursday night office drinks weren't optional — they were part of the job description. For years she was in and out of medical waiting rooms working through a long list of unexplained symptoms, and not once was she asked how much she drank. Alcohol, as she puts it, was the one thing in the room that nobody was looking at. Jo went alcohol-free at 54 and in this conversation she talks about the perimenopause connection that nobody discusses enough, the moment she started viewing alcohol through the lens of coercive control, and the morning she looked in the mirror and said — clearly, finally — never again. Honest, warm, and at times genuinely funny. We think you're going to love this one. Connect with Jo: Insta: @johands_coaching Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/jo-hands-coaching Join our community: Email the word 'Interested' to: info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: @sober.illiant LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stevesmith-soberilliant   Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032 Insta: @alcoholfreecoach_

Last week we heard from Jo — Steve's wife — and the response has been incredible. So this week we're back with part two. This time Steve sits down with Kristen, James' wife, for an equally honest conversation about what she saw, what worried her, and what actually changed when James stopped drinking. If last week felt familiar, we think this one will too. Two women, two stories, one very consistent picture of what going alcohol-free really looks like from the inside. If you haven't listened to part one yet, go back and start there first. Join our community: Email the word 'Interested' to: info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: @sober.illiant LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stevesmith-soberilliant Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032 Insta: @alcoholfreecoach_

In this special two-part series, we hand the mic to the people who've had the best — and most honest — view of what going alcohol-free really looks like: our wives. This week, James sits down with Jo, Steve's wife, for a candid conversation about what life looked like when alcohol was central to everything, the moments that made her think things needed to change, and what actually shifted when Steve stopped drinking. She talks about her initial worries, the surprises, and what she'd say to anyone whose partner is considering going alcohol-free. Next week, Steve turns the tables and interviews James' wife Kristen — and we have a feeling the stories are going to sound very familiar. If you've ever wondered what the people closest to us really think, this one's for you. Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: @sober.illiant Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/stevesmith-soberilliant   Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032 Insta: ⁨@alcoholfreecoach⁩ _

Off the back of their Catherine Gray episode, Steve and James dive into the books that have shaped their alcohol-free adventures — and the ones that came downstream of removing alcohol. From the core quitlit that first cracked things open — The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober, This Naked Mind, Alcohol Explained, and Alcohol Lied To Me — to the mindset and habit books that helped rebuild life on the other side: Atomic Habits, The Chimp Paradox, Dopamine Nation, Why We Sleep, and more. Whether you're at day one or year five, this is your reading list. Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com   Insta: @sober.illiant   Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com    Linkedin http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Insta: ⁨@alcoholfreecoach⁩

Regular listeners will know that Catherine Gray has come up more than once on the show — and for good reason. Her book The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober is one of those rare reads that genuinely shifts something, and it's been on both Steve and James's recommended lists since day one. So when the opportunity came to sit down with her properly, we jumped at it. Catherine joins us to talk about her latest book, Little Addictions: Freedom From Our Tiny But Mighty Compulsions — a brilliant exploration of all the habits and behaviours we don't necessarily need to quit, but probably need to look at a little more honestly. The conversation naturally spills into alcohol, identity, dopamine, the state of the industry, and quite a bit more besides. Twelve years alcohol-free, seven books deep, and as sharp and honest as ever Catherine was everything we hoped she'd be as a guest. Connect with Catherine: @unexpectedjoyof Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032      

This week we sit down with the one and only David Wilson AKA 'Sober Dave' We've been wanting to get Dave on for a while, and he didn't disappoint. In a conversation that covers childhood, identity, rock bottoms and real recovery, Sober Dave reminds us that it's never too late — and that stopping drinking is just the beginning. David Wilson is a trauma-informed sobriety coach, No.1 bestselling author, and host of the Top 10 Apple podcast One For The Road — one of the UK's most recognisable voices in modern sobriety, with nearly 200,000 followers and a belief that lasting change comes from understanding why we drink, not just trying to stop. In this episode he opens up about where it all started, the slow escalation that crept up over decades, and the moment he finally decided enough was enough. But what makes this conversation stand out is what comes after — the grief of letting go, the uncomfortable question of who you are without alcohol, and the real work involved in building a life you actually want to live. At 62, he's never felt better. But the road to get there was anything but straightforward — and he's refreshingly honest about that. Connect with Dave: 📖 One For The Road — the book 🎙️ One For The Road — the podcast 📱 @soberdave 🌐 soberdave.co.uk Connect with Dave: 📖 One For The Road — the book 🎙️ One For The Road — the podcast 📱 @soberdave 🌐 soberdave.co.uk Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032  

This week we’re joined by health psychologist Professor Richard Cooke to unpack one big question: If we know alcohol isn’t great for us… why do we still drink? We talk about why smoking feels different to drinking, why hangovers shift from a “badge of honour” in your 20s to a wake-up call in midlife, and why moderation can feel completely exhausting. We also dig into the real fear behind cutting back — losing connection — and why that fear might not be as real as we think. It’s honest, thought-provoking, and packed with insights into how behaviour change actually works in the real world. If you’ve ever said, “I know it’s not good for me, but…” — this one’s for you. Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032  

This week it's just Steve and James  and despite the fact the rain never wants to go away they talk through why spring can be a surprisingly tricky time when you’re changing your relationship with alcohol. From beer gardens and BBQs to the “I’ve earned it” mindset, They discuss the psychology behind cravings, the internal negotiation that often leads to “just one,” The conversation also highlights why taking a longer break can create real clarity and control — along with one of the biggest alcohol-free benefits people report: significantly better sleep, energy, mood and resilience. Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032  

Episode 34 – Rich Casement In this episode, we’re joined by Rich Casement, co-founder of Clean Break Coaching, ultrarunner, and alcohol-free performance coach. Rich shares his powerful journey from a 20-year career in the alcohol industry to taking a “clean break” from both drinking and the identity that once defined him. We explore the mental health challenges that sparked change, how running became both a refuge and a reset, and how Rich now helps others step away from habits that no longer serve them. A raw, honest conversation about identity, purpose, and building a life aligned with your values. Connect with Rich: Insta: @clean.break.coaching  Web: https://take-a-cleanbreak.com/ Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032 Authentic Brew: Listener Offer Code: TAFRP10 Discount: 10% off your entire order Link: https://shop.authenticbrew.com/discount/TAFRP10

Episode 33: Matt Phelan – The Happiness Loan We Don’t Talk About In this episode, we’re joined by Matt Phelan, co-founder of The Happiness Index, to explore the surprising relationship between alcohol, happiness, and workplace culture. Matt shares his personal journey to becoming alcohol-free and explains how tracking his own wellbeing data revealed what he calls the “happiness loan” — the short-term lift alcohol provides, followed by a longer-term emotional cost. We dive into the shifting social attitudes toward drinking, particularly among younger generations, and discuss how organisations can create more inclusive workplace cultures that don’t revolve around alcohol. Matt also reflects on parenting, societal expectations, and why helping others feel happier may be one of the most powerful drivers of our own wellbeing. A thoughtful, eye-opening conversation about happiness, leadership, and living with greater intention. Connect with Matt:   Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewphelan/ The Happiness index: thehappinessindex.com Book Matt as a speaker: www.mattphelan.co.uk Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032 Authentic Brew: Listener Offer Code: TAFRP10 Discount: 10% off your entire order Link: https://shop.authenticbrew.com/discount/TAFRP10

Episode 32 — Mum Dad's Got another tattoo (with Mark Cox) In this episode of The Alcohol Free Revolution, Steve and James are joined by Mark Cox, host of the fabulous Mum, Dad’s Got another Tattoo podcast, for an open and wide-ranging conversation about alcohol, identity, and navigating midlife without losing yourself. Mark shares his experience of going alcohol-free without a dramatic “rock bottom”, and what it’s really been like moving through the first year — from the unexpected identity discomfort of being labelled “the non-drinker”, to realising how much of the pressure to justify not drinking is internal rather than external. Together, they explore why alcohol is one of the only substances we feel the need to explain not taking, how limiting beliefs around socialising and belonging quietly shape behaviour, and why most people are paying far less attention to us than we think. The conversation also dives into the practical changes Mark noticed after stepping away from alcohol — improved sleep, better mental health, body composition changes, and a renewed sense of presence as a dad — alongside a broader discussion about midlife, masculinity, community, and creating space for healthier, more honest conversations. A thoughtful, honest episode for anyone questioning their relationship with alcohol, navigating midlife change, or wondering what actually happens after the decision to stop drinking. Mum Dad's got another tattoo podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2LPYgwQMCWGPJNlZOisq9W?si=nGvp5olSTs-pN1T3xBY-sw  Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032 Authentic Brew: Listener Offer Code: TAFRP10 Discount: 10% off your entire order Link: https://shop.authenticbrew.com/discount/TAFRP10

This week it’s just Steve and James, sitting down for an honest, unfiltered conversation about something a lot of people reach the end of January thinking quietly to themselves: So… what now? Having both gone alcohol-free over four and a half years ago, they reflect on why stopping for a month can feel powerful — but also why going straight back to drinking often doesn’t sit quite right. The episode explores what actually changes when you remove alcohol, why it’s common to feel a bit unsettled a few months in, and how identity shifts can feel uncomfortable even when life is clearly improving. The conversation moves through lived experience, coaching insights, and the kinds of discussions that come up every week inside the Alcohol-Free Revolution community — from health and habit change to relationships, purpose, and who you’re becoming without alcohol in the picture. If you’re finishing Dry January feeling better than expected — but unsure what the next step should be — this episode is a gentle, thoughtful place to land. Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032 Authentic Brew: Listener Offer Code: TAFRP10 Discount: 10% off your entire order Link: https://shop.authenticbrew.com/discount/TAFRP10

Mike Mudie is the CEO and co-founder of Authentic Brew. Last year after experiencing corporate burnout and making the decision to step away from alcohol, Mike began questioning the way we rely on constant stimulation to get through the day. What started as a personal search for something more balanced and natural eventually led to the creation of Authentic Brew In this episode, Mike talks openly about the journey from burnout to building a values-led business, the wider cultural shift away from “always on” living, and why choosing a more authentic way of working, fuelling and living matters now more than ever. Try Authentic Brew for yourself Listener Offer Code: TAFRP10 Discount: 10% off your entire order Link: https://shop.authenticbrew.com/discount/TAFRP10 Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032  

In this episode, James is joined by Elliot Porter —referred to by his friends and bandmates as the metal drummer with a soft centre. Elliot began to quietly question the role alcohol was playing in his life, his identity, and where things were heading. Not necessarily from a place of rock bottom, but from curiosity. As someone immersed in music, performance, and a culture where drinking was often part of the backdrop, Elliot opens up about the moment he started asking bigger questions: What is alcohol actually giving me? And what might it be taking away? A pivotal influence in his journey was Alcohol Explained by William Porter, which helped Elliot see his drinking through a completely different lens. That insight led him to make a clear decision — to remove alcohol and see what was possible on the other side. Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032

This week we talk all things Dry January, and it’s just Steve and James — no guest, just an open, honest chat to kick off 2026. We talk about what Dry January is really like once you’re a few days in, why so many people are doing it this year, and the kind of wins people start to notice when alcohol’s out of the picture. We also get into alcohol-free drinks (including a few favourites), and why community can make a big difference when it feels a bit isolating. If you’re doing Dry January, thinking about it, or already questioning how it’s going to go, this is a relaxed listen to keep you moving in the right direction. Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032  

This week on The Alcohol-Free Revolution Podcast, we’re joined by a true pioneer of the alcohol-free movement, Laura Willoughby MBE. Laura’s career began in local government, where she quickly established herself as a powerful voice for change. At just 30 years old, she was awarded an MBE in recognition of her work — a sign of the impact she was already making. In 2013, Laura made the decision to go alcohol-free. That decision didn’t just change her own life — it went on to shape an entire movement. She is the founder of Club Soda, an organisation that has sat at the very heart of the alcohol-free space ever since, challenging the way we think about drinking and giving people practical, compassionate alternatives. When it comes to raising awareness of alcohol-free living, few — if any — have done more. Laura’s work has helped normalise choice, reduce stigma, and open up a completely different conversation around alcohol. She is a genuine trailblazer in this space, and it’s an honour to welcome Laura Willoughby MBE to the podcast. Connect with Laura and Club Soda: Insta:  @joinclubsoda Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032  

This week, we’re welcoming our second ever international guest, joining us all the way from Austin, Texas — Scot Maitland. Scot is a passionate alcohol-free mixologist who became frustrated with the same old options being offered in pubs and bars: sugary, fizzy drinks passed off as “non-alcoholic alternatives.” Instead of accepting that, Scot built a framework for creating sophisticated, adult, alcohol-free drinks — without relying on alcohol at all. Through his company, The Elevated Bar, Scot delivers cutting-edge corporate workshops, retail activations, and public education, helping people rethink what’s possible without booze. This isn’t about making mocktails. It’s about understanding the science, structure, and sensory experience behind truly elevated non-alcoholic beverages. Connect with Scot www.thelevatedbear.com Insta: @theElevatedBear Newsletter: https://the-elevated-bear.myflodesk.com/dry-january Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032

This week, we’re joined by Daniel Avener, Founder & CEO of ClubSobr.   ClubSobr is a global community created for people who want to live fully, connect deeply, and celebrate — without alcohol at the centre. Its mission is simple but powerful: to make sobriety and mindful drinking aspirational, inclusive, and global. Daniel is also an ICF-accredited business coach and recovery coach, supporting individuals and communities as they redefine what it truly means to thrive — in work, relationships, and life — without relying on alcohol. Learn more about ClubSobr: Insta: @clubsobr Web: www.clubsobr.com Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032      

In this week’s episode, we’re focusing on an area where the science is clear but the public message is not: the connection between alcohol and cancer. We’re joined by Dr Emma Davies, a prominent researcher in alcohol behaviour and public health, and a Senior Lecturer at Oxford Brookes University. Emma’s work spans alcohol harm reduction, behaviour change, and how people interpret health information, and she has published widely in this field. With her expertise, we explore what the evidence tells us, why awareness remains so low, and what needs to shift for people to have a fuller understanding of the risks. Connect with Dr Emma: https://www.instagram.com/dr_emma_davies_/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-emma-l-davies-3b65156a/ Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032

Released during National Grief Awareness Week, this episode explores how grief shapes our lives — and how it often influences the ways we cope, including our relationship with alcohol. We’re joined by Jess Goyder: Oxford University graduate, Grief Recovery Specialist, coach, mentor, and accomplished speaker. Jess supports both individuals and organisations using an evidence-based model that helps people understand and move through grief in all its forms. And it’s not just bereavement. Jess works with the quieter, often overlooked losses that deeply affect how we feel and behave — divorce, workplace change, chronic illness, identity shifts, and everything in between. Together, we unpack what grief really is, why so many of us struggle to talk about it, and how unprocessed grief can silently drive habits, patterns, and coping mechanisms — including drinking. This conversation brings clarity, compassion, and language to experiences many people carry alone, and offers powerful insight for anyone exploring an alcohol-free path.   Interested in Joining our AF community?? Email ‘Interested’ to: mailto:Info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Connect with Jess: https://griefisnatural.com Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032