Think Thursday: The Science of Smiling

In this timely episode of the Alcohol Minimalist podcast, host Molly Watts takes a deep dive into a public health conversation that few people are having—but everyone should be listening to. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Molly tackles the proliferation of legal but dangerously unregulated mood-altering substances that are readily available at gas stations, vape shops, and convenience stores.From kratom and delta-8 THC to nitrous oxide and nicotine salts, Molly explains how these substances affect the brain, the risks they pose (especially to teens and young adults), and why they are anything but harmless. She shares critical scientific insights on how these substances hijack brain chemistry and emotional resilience—and why genuine peace doesn't come from a bottle, capsule, or vape pen.This episode is both educational and urgent, equipping listeners with the awareness needed to protect themselves and their communities.What You'll Learn:The science behind substances like kratom, Neptune, phenibut, delta-8 THC, and othersWhy these products are addictive—even when marketed as “natural” or “legal”The impact these substances have on dopamine, glutamate, GABA, and acetylcholine systemsWhy teen brains are especially vulnerableHow these substances are a false solution to emotional distressA call to rethink how we cope, connect, and seek calm in a chaotic worldKey Quote: “We are living in a world where brain-altering substances are being sold next to chewing gum—and we are not prepared. But we can be.”Mentioned in the Episode:Mental Health Awareness MonthThe importance of internal emotional regulationMolly’s reflections on her mother’s struggles and legacyResources to support your journey to peace with alcohol—and beyondIf you found this episode eye-opening, please consider sharing it with a friend, parent, or community leader. These conversations matter—and they start with awareness.Website: www.mollywatts.comInstagram: @alcoholminimalistFacebook Group: Alcohol Minimalists: Change Your Alcohol HabitsLow risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of Think Thursday from the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, host Molly Watts explores the transformative mental health benefits of self-transcendence.After recently visiting the South Rim of the Grand Canyon for the first time, Molly shares her personal experience of awe and expansion, describing how moments of transcendence can shift perspective, lighten emotional burdens, and promote mental well-being.Drawing from Abraham Maslow’s later work on human needs, Molly explains why self-transcendence sits above self-actualization as the highest human goal. She discusses how practices that cultivate transcendence — like connecting with nature, practicing gratitude, serving others, experiencing awe, and mindful meditation — can help individuals move beyond rumination, stress, and loneliness.Listeners will come away with practical strategies for creating small moments of transcendence in everyday life, even without traveling to iconic locations like the Grand Canyon. Molly issues a weekly challenge to encourage listeners to experience the power of stepping outside of themselves and into a deeper connection with the world around them.This episode is part of a special Mental Health Awareness Month series and continues the Alcohol Minimalist commitment to science-based strategies for building a more peaceful, mindful life.Topics Covered:Defining self-transcendence and why it matters for mental healthMolly’s Grand Canyon experience as a personal example of peak experienceHow Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs evolved to include self-transcendenceThe role of transcendence in countering anxiety, depression, and ruminationFive daily practices for cultivating transcendenceResources and Links:Join the Alcohol Minimalists Facebook GroupWork with MollyRelated Episodes:The Science of AweIf you enjoy the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, please share the show with a friend, leave a review on your favorite podcast platform, and connect with Molly Watts on Instagram and Facebook. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Molly revisits a listener favorite: Undoing the Urge to Overdrink — a heartfelt and informative conversation first shared just before Thanksgiving 2023. Molly reflects on how emotional triggers, life events, and deeply rooted habits shape our relationship with alcohol — and how we can interrupt the cycle to create lasting change.Molly also shares a poignant personal moment, connecting the episode's theme with the anniversary of her father’s passing on Thanksgiving night in 2022, making this revisited conversation especially meaningful.This episode coincides with the launch of Just One More, Molly’s new two-week mini-course aimed at helping binge drinkers take the first powerful step toward a peaceful relationship with alcohol. (Sign-ups are open now! Check the link in the show notes.)Key Topics Covered:Defining Overdrinking and Binge Drinking: Molly clarifies what constitutes a binge for women (4+ standard drinks) and men (5+ standard drinks) — emphasizing why even gradual consumption across a day still counts as overdrinking.Impact of Overdrinking Beyond Intoxication: How even without reaching a "drunk" state, overdrinking disrupts sleep, elevates anxiety, taxes the liver, and triggers inflammatory responses.Holiday Drinking Traps: Common ways Thanksgiving and other holidays can lull us into overdrinking patterns — and why "spreading it out" doesn’t negate its negative effects.Personal Reflections on Thanksgiving: Molly shares her experience navigating family-induced stress (especially dealing with her mother-in-law’s anxiety) without turning to alcohol, highlighting the importance of mind management.The Cycle of Overdrinking: Breaking down the behavioral patterns and emotional triggers that drive overdrinking — and how building awareness interrupts the urge before it turns into action.Tools for Undoing the Urge: Molly emphasizes key strategies:Practicing mindfulness during urgesChoosing empathy over resentment in stressful family situationsReframing thoughts to shift emotional responsesFocusing on gratitude and emotional resilienceImportant Reminder: Changing your drinking habits isn’t just about counting days — it’s about understanding your brain, managing your mind, and creating a lifestyle of peace and intentionality.Featured Resource: Just One More A two-week mini-program designed to help binge drinkers interrupt old patterns and create a sustainable path toward mindful drinking.  Sign up here (link in the show notes)Connect with Molly:Website: www.mollywatts.comFacebook Group: Alcohol Minimalists: Change Your Alcohol HabitsLow risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this week's Think Thursday episode, we explore an unexpectedly powerful topic: the science of smiling. Is being a "natural smiler" something you're born with? Can smiling actively improve your mood, or is it just a reflection of how you feel?And what role does a simple grin play in rewiring your brain for resilience, positivity, and emotional peace?Molly dives into the research on genetic influences on smiling, the concept of the facial feedback loop, and the emotional benefits of practicing intentional smiles. You'll also hear a heartwarming story about how even our beloved dogs have evolved to smile at us—showcasing the profound social importance of smiling across species. If you're interested in learning how a small daily action can contribute to building emotional resilience and improving your relationship with alcohol, this episode is for you.Key Topics Discussed:Is being a "natural smiler" genetic or learned?How smiling activates dopamine, serotonin, and endorphinsThe Facial Feedback Hypothesis: influencing emotions through physical expressionsSmiling as a low-stakes, daily practice for emotional regulationHow dogs evolved to recognize and return human smilesWhy mindful smiling can be a strategic habit change toolWhy It Matters for Alcohol Minimalists: Creating small, intentional shifts in behavior—such as practicing a mindful smile—supports the larger work of reshaping your relationship with alcohol. It’s about using neuroscience-backed techniques to create positive feedback loops in your brain, promoting calmness, resilience, and emotional flexibility.Notable Quotes:"Genetics sets the stage, but your environment writes the story.""Smiling isn’t just a reflection of how we feel—it actively creates our mood.""Dogs smiling back at us is a beautiful example of how emotional connection transcends species."Take Action This Week:Practice mindful smiling when you wake up in the morning, even before any external circumstances influence your mood.Try smiling intentionally when encountering minor irritations to train your brain toward a more resilient emotional response.Reflect on where you might use a simple smile to interrupt old emotional habits and create a new feedback loop.Join the Conversation:Follow Molly on Instagram: @alcoholminimalistJoin the Alcohol Minimalists private Facebook group for additional support.Subscribe & Review:If you’re enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it helps more people discover the show! ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome (or welcome back!) to the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast with your host, Molly Watts, coming to you from salubrious Oregon!In this final episode for Alcohol Awareness Month, Molly gets personal and shares the three major ways her drinking habits — and more importantly, her thinking about alcohol — have evolved over the years.This isn’t just about counting drinks or cutting back to a “magical low number.” It's about creating peace with alcohol and living intentionally. Molly dives into how shifting from automatic drinking to intentional, mindful drinking has been the cornerstone of her transformation. She also introduces her brand-new mini-program, Just One More, designed to help you rewire the "binge brain" for vacations, weekends, and parties where overdrinking used to sneak in.If you're looking for inspiration and actionable strategies to rethink your relationship with alcohol, you won’t want to miss this episode.Key Takeaways:Intentionality over Autopilot: Molly explains how she shifted from drinking mindlessly to making conscious, purposeful decisions about alcohol.Alcohol as an Option, Not a Solution: She no longer uses alcohol to solve problems or enhance experiences — vacations and celebrations are about the moments, not the drinks.Freedom Through Planning: Rather than feeling restrictive, planning her alcohol consumption ahead of time actually brings freedom and protects her long-term goals.New Program Launch! Get the inside scoop on the upcoming mini-program, Just One More, launching May 6th — perfect for anyone who struggles with binge drinking during "special occasions."Resources Mentioned:Just One MoreWebsite: www.mollywatts.comInstagram: @alcoholminimalistFacebook Group: Alcohol Minimalists: Change Your Alcohol HabitsLow risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

Have you ever said to yourself, “This habit feels unbreakable”?Whether it’s procrastination, nighttime snacking, or pouring that end-of-day drink, it often feels like these behaviors are wired into our identity. But what if the real thing holding you back isn’t the habit itself—but the story you’re telling yourself about it?In this Think Thursday episode, we’re exploring why some habits feel impossible to change—and why negative self-talk might be quietly reinforcing the loop. We’ll unpack the science behind the negativity bias, the way your brain treats repeated thoughts as evidence, and how to finally start rewriting the narrative using the 4-S New Belief System.This is the real work—not just changing what you do, but changing what you believe is possible for you.What You’ll Learn:Why your brain defaults to old habits even when they no longer serve youHow the negativity bias evolved—and how it keeps you hyper-focused on mistakesWhat research tells us about the impact of self-critical thinking on behavior changeWhy the story you tell yourself becomes the blueprint for your identityA step-by-step breakdown of the 4-S New Belief System:See the beliefSoothe the inner criticSeparate fact from fictionShift into a next-best thoughtMentioned in the Episode:Clinical Psychology Review (2010): Research on negative self-talk and health outcomesJournal of Behavioral Medicine: Study linking self-talk to follow-through and stressThe Alcohol Minimalists Facebook Group – Join hereMaking Peace with Alcohol Group Coaching ★ Support this podcast ★

In this compelling episode of the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast, Molly reconnects with Katie Lain, founder of Thrive Alcohol Recovery, to explore the power of neuroscience-based strategies for changing your relationship with alcohol. Katie shares her personal recovery story and how the Sinclair Method, a treatment protocol that uses the medication naltrexone, gave her a new lease on life.This conversation goes beyond the medication to highlight the vital role of mindset, habit formation, and long-term commitment to behavior change. Molly and Katie discuss the real-world challenges people face in recovery, the importance of self-compassion, and how small, sustainable steps create the most lasting transformation.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How the Sinclair Method works and why it’s effective for both binge and daily drinkersWhy medication is a support tool, not a standalone solutionThe mental space that opens up when cravings start to fadeThe average timeline to regain control and build a peaceful relationship with alcoholUnique challenges for binge drinkers, including compliance and thought patternsThe critical importance of mindset and identifying unconscious beliefsWhat to expect on the journey: setbacks, progress, and learning to keep goingWhy self-compassion and curiosity are non-negotiables for long-term changeKey Message: Naltrexone can be a powerful part of the journey, but it must be paired with thought work, intentional habit-building, and a willingness to take small steps forward—even after setbacks. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, and both Molly and Katie emphasize that you don’t have to wait until alcohol becomes a serious problem to start creating change.Resources Mentioned:Learn more about Thrive Alcohol Recovery: thrivealcoholrecovery.comKatie Lain on YouTube, Instagram, and other social platformsMolly’s coaching programs and podcast archive: www.mollywatts.comLet’s Connect:Website: www.mollywatts.comInstagram: @alcoholminimalistFacebook: Join the Alcohol Minimalists GroupLow risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

This Think Thursday episode may just become one of your favorites. Molly explores the overlooked but powerful connection between water and brain health. From hydration to hydrotherapy, sound to sensation, this episode unpacks four science-backed ways water supports your brain, helps regulate your emotions, and contributes to meaningful, lasting behavior change.Whether you love a hot bath, play ocean waves to fall asleep, or are curious about cold plunges, you'll come away with practical tools and deeper insight into how water can shift your mindset and support your alcohol minimalist journey.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why staying hydrated is foundational for mental clarity and emotional regulationHow the sound of water activates your parasympathetic nervous system and enhances alpha brain wave activityThe role of warm water immersion in releasing oxytocin and reducing cortisolHow brief exposure to cold water can support your nervous system and build emotional resilienceKey Insight"You don’t always have to fight your thoughts. Sometimes, you can just let them flow."Molly brings her signature blend of neuroscience and real-world practicality to show how water is more than just a basic need—it’s a regulating, mindset-shifting, nervous-system-supporting tool. With each method, she explains how and why it works, and encourages listeners to build small rituals that support lasting change.Try This:Drink a full glass of water when you're feeling mentally foggy or emotionally off balanceUse water sounds during journaling, meditation, or focus timeTake a hot shower or bath as a way to downshift your nervous system and activate self-compassionExplore cold water exposure for mood regulation and alertness (even a 30-second burst can help)Resources Mentioned:Think Thursday Hydration EpisodeMolly’s go-to sound apps for sleep and calm https://www.bettersleep.com/Further reading and brain-supportive tools at www.mollywatts.com ★ Support this podcast ★

In this special Alcohol Awareness Month episode, Molly Watts sits down with Ben Kramer, a licensed psilocybin facilitator and educator in Oregon. As the state pioneers legal psilocybin services, this insightful conversation unpacks how this once-taboo compound is emerging as a powerful therapeutic option for mental health and substance use struggles. Ben, a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and former firefighter, shares his personal and professional journey to becoming a facilitator and advocate for psychedelic-assisted therapy.What You'll Learn:What psilocybin is and how it's being used legally and safely in OregonBen’s personal experience with psilocybin and how it changed his lifeThe critical role of preparation and integration in therapeutic psilocybin useHow psilocybin can support individuals dealing with PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, and substance misuseThe growing movement toward alternative, science-based mental health treatmentsHow psilocybin experiences are structured legally, ethically, and professionallyThe challenges and opportunities of working in a newly legalized, uncharted therapeutic fieldWhy This Episode MattersAlcohol Minimalist is rooted in using science and compassion to help listeners develop a peaceful relationship with alcohol. This conversation offers a fresh, thought-provoking perspective on healing and transformation, especially for those who’ve tried conventional tools without success. Whether you're curious about psilocybin or skeptical, this episode offers a grounded, informative discussion worth hearing.Resources Mentioned:Oregon Psilocybin ServicesClinical Cognitive Facilitator TrainingUphold Our Troops (scholarship organization for veterans)Connect with Ben:www.fungimentalpdx.comConnect with Molly:Website: www.mollywatts.com Facebook Group: Alcohol Minimalists: Change Your Drinking HabitsLow risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:Healthy men under 65:No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.Abstinence from alcoholAbstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.Benefits of “low-risk” drinkingFollowing these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work. ★ Support this podcast ★

Episode Summary In this episode of Think Thursday, we’re diving into the psychology and neuroscience of reminiscing. Why does it feel so comforting to revisit our past? What is actually happening in our brains when we do it? And how can we intentionally use this experience to feel more grounded, present, and connected?This isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about using our memories as a powerful tool for self-awareness, emotional regulation, and identity reinforcement. You’ll learn why reminiscing matters, what research says about its benefits, and how to intentionally evoke it to support a life of peace, meaning, and alignment.In this episode, you’ll learn:How the brain’s default mode network supports self-reflection and memoryWhy reminiscing lights up the brain’s reward system and releases dopamineThe therapeutic power of reminiscence and its effect on mood and stressFive ways to trigger positive, intentional reminiscingHow reminiscing supports personal growth, especially in midlife and beyondThe role of life review and reflection in building wisdom and inner calmResearch Highlights:Speer et al., 2014 (Cognitive, Affective & Behavioral Neuroscience): Positive memory recall activates the ventral striatum, part of the brain’s reward system2013 study in Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience: Reminiscing increases self-esteem, social connection, and perceived life meaningMeta-analysis in Aging & Mental Health (2014): Structured reminiscence therapy improves mood and well-being in both clinical and non-clinical groupsHarvard Grant Study: Individuals who reflect on life with curiosity and compassion report higher satisfaction in later yearsErik Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development: Life review in midlife and later years is a key developmental task for achieving wisdom and integrationPractice This Week:Take ten minutes to intentionally revisit a positive memory. Choose one of the following:Play a song from your younger yearsLight a candle or smell that reminds you of homeLook through old photographsHold a personal keepsakeCall a friend and share a “remember when” momentThen ask yourself:What strengths or values were alive in me during that memory?What part of myself am I reconnecting with?What could I bring forward into today?Reminiscing is not about living in the past. It’s about building strength and clarity in the present by remembering who you’ve always been.Support the Show: If this episode resonated with you, consider sharing it with a friend or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It helps others find the show and keeps the conversation going.For more episodes, resources, and support for building a peaceful life through mindset, science, and habit change, visit www.mollywatts.com. ★ Support this podcast ★