Sobriety, Love & Relationships With Kate Taylor

So, what happens when you quit drinking but your partner doesn’t? Is your relationship doomed? Will they start side-eyeing your mocktails? Or will love prevail? On today’s episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen are diving into the messy and complicated world of love in sobriety.To help us untangle it all, we’re joined by the incredible Kate Taylor! Kate is a writer who has worked for Disney and the United Nations (yes, she’s that cool), and she’s a big, bold voice in the sobriety space. After drinking a bottle of wine a night for 20 years, she’s been sober for over three years—and she shares her journey with humor and honesty on Instagram. She currently lives in Shropshire, UK, with her husband, two kids, and a massive rescue puppy (who is probably the best listener in the house).So… can your relationship survive sobriety?In this episode, we’re asking the big questions:💡 What happens when one person quits drinking but the other keeps going?💡 Can you really be in a happy relationship with someone who drinks when you don’t?💡 How do you handle resentment, jealousy, and judgement💡 And… is dating sober basically The Hunger Games? (Spoiler: kinda, yeah.)Kate gets real about what it was like to be the fun, party-loving drinker in her marriage—until she decided to stop. She shares the surprising ways her relationship changed (the good, the weird, and the "is that wine I smell?!"). Plus, we get into the emotional rollercoaster of intimacy in sobriety, setting boundaries without being a buzzkill, and what happens when your partner finally decides to take a break from drinking... but doesn’t do the emotional work.What You’ll Take Away (Besides an Urge to DM Kate ‘OMG SAME’)✨ How to set boundaries in your relationship without starting WWIII✨ Why quitting drinking makes you way more self-aware (for better or worse)✨ The truth about emotional vs. physical sobriety (yes, there’s a difference)✨ Why watching your drunk friends repeat themselves for the 5th time is painful✨ Tips for talking to your partner about sobriety without making it weirdOf course, we also get into Kate’s personal story—how she went from blackout nights to the moment that made her quit drinking, and how she’s navigating a marriage where sobriety wasn’t a shared decision.And finally, the million-dollar question: Will her husband stay sober after his one-year experiment, or is Kate in for a plot twist? She’s keeping it real, and we’re here for every juicy detail.This is Sisters in Sobriety—the podcast and community helping women change their relationship with alcohol, one hilarious and heartfelt conversation at a time. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Episode Highlights[00:00:00] Welcome to Sisters in Sobriety! Meet Kate Taylor and today’s topic—when one person in a relationship stops drinking.[00:03:00] Kate’s childhood: growing up around famous writers and endless bottles of booze.[00:06:22] Drinking, blackouts, and the morning-after anxiety spiral.[00:08:00] The moment Kate knew she had to quit—drunk Kate leaves sober Kate a message.[00:14:00] How drinking shaped Kate’s marriage (hint: lots of "do you remember what you said last night?" moments).[00:19:25] The dreaded reading the room moment the morning after an argument.[00:22:42] Kate quits drinking, but her husband doesn’t—at first, it’s fine... right?[00:24:49] One year into sobriety: "So, uh, why are you still drinking?"[00:26:13] Her husband decides to take a break from drinking—how did that change their marriage?[00:28:48] Why men (especially in the UK) struggle with socializing sober.[00:32:51] The big fear: what happens if he starts drinking again?[00:36:25] How to have the conversation about drinking without making your partner defensive.[00:38:54] Writing letters instead of talking—Kate’s genius communication hack.[00:42:49] Setting boundaries vs. giving ultimatums (and why it’s not the same thing).[00:44:12] The awkward reality of sober intimacy—yes, it’s weird at first.[00:49:14] The baggage we carry from alcohol-fueled experiences and how it affects intimacy.[00:50:21] What’s next for Kate—career growth, self-discovery, and making up for lost time.[00:51:34] Kate’s honest take: Will her marriage survive if her husband starts drinking again?[00:52:31] Final thoughts from Kathleen and Sonia—relationships in sobriety, part one of many.Links & ResourcesFollow Kate: Walking the Straight LineSisters In Sobriety Substack – Extra tips, tricks, and community support.Sisters In Sobriety Instagram – Let’s connect!Email Us – Got thoughts? We want to hear ‘em.Kathleen’s Website – Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast.Kathleen’s Instagram – Talking relationships & sobriety every day.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen explore the intersection of hustle culture, entrepreneurship, and sobriety with Joe Chura, Founder and President of Go Brewing. Joe’s story is about reinvention, starting from his early days working on an automobile assembly line, to co-founding and selling two successful tech companies, and finally launching a non-alcoholic brewery. He shares how his journey led him to reevaluate his relationship with alcohol, prioritize his health, and create a brand that’s redefining social drinking.What happens when high achievers find themselves burnt out and needing to reset? Joe dives into his personal and professional evolution, including the moment he realized his drinking habits were holding him back, and how he transformed his health and mindset. He also shares insights into the growing market for non-alcoholic beer and the cultural shift around social drinking.Listeners will take away valuable lessons about navigating success while maintaining personal well-being, practical strategies for reassessing alcohol consumption, and how small shifts in behavior can lead to life-changing transformations. Joe also shares the challenges and triumphs of building Go Brewing, the importance of community in the alcohol-free movement, and his perspective on mindful drinking versus total abstinence.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Time-Stamped Highlights[00:01:01] Joe’s journey from the Ford assembly line to selling two companies for $165 million.[00:01:50] How Joe’s struggles with health and drinking led to the creation of Go Brewing.[00:02:08] The connection between hustle culture, entrepreneurship, and sobriety.[00:04:00] The mental and physical toll of overwork and how Joe overcame burnout.[00:06:00] Why passion doesn’t always mean sustainability—finding balance in work.[00:07:52] How a 75-day challenge changed Joe’s relationship with alcohol.[00:09:12] The unexpected mental clarity and reduced anxiety that came with sobriety.[00:12:03] The proximity effect: Why alcohol cravings intensify after drinking.[00:14:12] The role of non-alcoholic beer in curbing cravings and sustaining sobriety.[00:15:57] How Joe navigated social events while cutting back on drinking.[00:17:54] Thanksgiving epiphany: Realizing he didn’t need alcohol to celebrate.[00:19:20] The growing cultural shift towards non-alcoholic social beverages.[00:23:28] Remember tomorrow: Joe’s method for making mindful drinking decisions.[00:25:00] The spectrum of drinking habits and how to determine your relationship with alcohol.[00:27:17] The lightbulb moment that led to the creation of Go Brewing.[00:32:00] The surprising reaction from the sober community when Go Brewing launched.[00:37:33] The future of non-alcoholic beer: Functional beverages and beyond.[00:40:33] Overcoming skepticism and backlash in the brewing industry.[00:43:00] The shocking moment when a band insulted the non-alcoholic community at Go Brewing.[00:50:49] Why Go Brewing has become a safe and inclusive space for all drinkers.[00:54:00] The challenges of running a brewery and why Joe insists on making everything in-house.LinksGobrewingJoe's insta - https://www.instagram.com/joechura/Go Brewing's Insta - https://www.instagram.com/gobrewing/?hl=enSisters In Sobriety Substack – find more tips, tricks, resources, and community.Sisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast.Kathleen’s InstagramSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Sisters in Sobriety! Today, Sonia and Kathleen are here to help you navigate the challenges of sobriety, and we’re joined by a powerhouse guest—Amity Cooper. Amity is an entrepreneur, mental health professional, and Lifebook facilitator, helping people rebuild their lives after rehab. From her 40-acre equine ranch in Colorad Amity’s approach is holistic, compassionate, and innovative.How do mental health and recovery intersect? What are the biggest challenges in treating mental health and addiction simultaneously? How can polyvagal exercises, mind-body alignment, and habit-building support long-term sobriety? And, what role does emerging technology like VR and AI play in the future of therapy?Amity also opens up about her personal journey from the corporate world to therapy, navigating a career crisis, and finding purpose beyond external success. She shares powerful lessons on resilience, rethinking limiting beliefs, and stepping into a purpose-driven life. If you’ve ever felt like you’re at a crossroads in sobriety, this episode will inspire you to take control and design a life you love.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Time-Stamped Highlights[00:00:00] Sonia & Kathleen welcome Amity to the podcast[00:01:01] Amity’s background in entrepreneurship, mental health, and recovery coaching[00:04:00] The moment of crisis that led Amity to shift her career to mental health[00:06:25] Redefining recovery as a life transition, not just addiction[00:09:00] Why addiction is often a coping mechanism for deeper issues[00:12:00] Sonia shares personal struggles with family mental health challenges[00:14:00] Breaking free from externally driven life paths[00:17:00] The biggest challenges in early recovery & how to navigate them[00:19:00] The importance of morning and evening routines for stability[00:21:30] How nature, movement, and polyvagal exercises help with grounding[00:24:00] A deep dive into the polyvagal nervous system and emotional regulation[00:29:00] The Life Book System—how to rewrite your personal narrative[00:33:00] Why most people settle for mediocrity and how to break free[00:37:00] The future of therapy—VR sessions, AI diagnostics & tech-driven support[00:43:00] How AI is revolutionizing therapy, but won’t replace human intuition[00:49:00] The barriers to mental health access and how technology can solve them[00:52:00] Kathleen’s Himalayan shawl story and why it holds deep meaning[00:54:00] Final thoughts from Amity—how to create a purpose-driven lifeLinks & How to Work with AmityAmity’s Website - Learn more about Amity’s workClinical Career Collective - Amity’s company supporting mental health professionalsSisters In Sobriety Substack - Find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s InstagramSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The new year is here, and it’s the perfect time to check in with yourself and your habits. Whether you’re feeling the post-holiday burnout or just curious about how alcohol impacts your life, Dry January offers a chance to hit pause and reset. In this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen are here to guide you through the highs, lows, and everything in between, offering tips and real talk to help you make the most of your Dry January journey—whether it's your first time or your fifth.Ever wonder why Dry January seems to be everywhere? Sonia and Kathleen dive into questions like: What makes it so popular? What physical and mental benefits can you really expect? What if you slip up mid-month? With honest reflections and practical advice, this episode will leave you feeling ready to take it one day at a time.You’ll come away with simple, effective ways to succeed—like setting realistic goals, building a support system, and swapping old habits for new ones that actually feel good. Sonia and Kathleen also dig into strategies for overcoming cravings, reframing challenges, and creating routines you’ll look forward to. Plus, they share fun and easy ways to replace your go-to drink with something delicious, because it’s not just about taking something away—it’s about adding wellness, joy, and calm back into your life.And don’t worry—this isn’t some rigid guide to perfection. Sonia shares how her tea bar (complete with hot chocolate mix!) became her nighttime favorite, while Kathleen talks about how even the strongest cravings can be a chance to show yourself some love. It’s a reminder that small wins—like finding joy in a cozy drink or celebrating with a letter to yourself—can make a big difference.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Episode Highlights:[00:00:00] Introduction to Dry January and its purpose[00:01:16] Sonia and Kathleen discuss the origins and rise in popularity[00:02:29] Research spotlight: the link between alcohol and health risks[00:03:34] Health Canada’s new guidelines on alcohol consumption[00:05:15] The role of the sober-curious movement and influencers[00:07:26] Benefits of Dry January: improved sleep, clear skin, mental clarity[00:10:29] How to set a personal “why” for motivation[00:12:10] The importance of planning for social triggers[00:13:36] Kathleen’s breakdown of SMART goals[00:16:25] Strategies for those feeling overwhelmed by a 31-day challenge[00:19:35] Managing cravings and identifying unexpected triggers[00:22:31] Mocktail recommendations and the joy of experimenting with alternative drinks[00:25:48] New evening rituals: small ways to relax and unwind[00:27:04] Celebrating progress without alcohol: creative reward ideas[00:29:59] Kathleen shares her “urge surfing” technique for dealing with cravings[00:32:25] Explanation of the RAIN mindfulness method[00:36:12] What to do if you slip up during Dry January[00:39:00] How to reflect on your Dry January experience[00:41:17] Deciding your next steps after January ends[00:43:40] Sonia’s insights on using Dry January as a springboard for personal growth[00:46:17] Final reflections and key takeaways from Sonia and KathleenLinks:Sisters In Sobriety Substack – find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s InstagramSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Kathleen and Sonia are joined by Ali Shapiro, a renowned health coach, speaker, and creator of the Truce with Food program. Together, they explore the profound question: How can we create meaning beyond food? Through her insights, Ali shares how food rituals can support connection and emotional nourishment without becoming the main event.Ever wonder how food habits reflect our emotional states or how blood sugar balance impacts mental clarity? Kathleen, Sonia, and Ali dive into key questions like, "How does vulnerability play a role in our eating habits?" and "What are the best ways to reframe goals for a healthier relationship with food?" Ali also unpacks the impact of societal pressures, diet culture, and the journey to self-awareness in making sustainable choices for both body and mind.Listeners will learn actionable strategies, such as Ali’s innovative breakfast experiment and tips for balancing blood sugar for improved mood and energy. This episode will also explore the importance of self-authorship in navigating food and life choices and why perfectionism can hinder rather than help your goals.On a personal note, Ali shares a moving story about vulnerability and connection, revealing how being honest about life's challenges can strengthen relationships and dissolve the loneliness that often drives unhealthy habits.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Time-Stamped Highlights:[00:00:00] Introduction to Ali Shapiro and her Truce with Food philosophy[00:01:30] Rituals that foster connection and balance beyond food[00:02:57] Identifying emotional clues through eating habits[00:03:40] Vulnerability as a tool for deeper connections[00:05:23] Avoiding high-stakes vulnerability traps and practicing discernment[00:06:49] The pendulum of diet culture and anti-diet culture[00:07:36] The importance of self-authorship in food choices[00:09:27] Personal anecdotes about balanced blood sugar and body quirks[00:11:03] Recognizing diet trends that don’t serve individual needs[00:12:27] New Year’s resolutions: reframing success metrics[00:13:41] Kathleen’s life-changing experience with increased protein[00:15:19] Understanding the nervous system’s role in diet needs[00:17:23] The transformative power of individualized nutrition[00:18:45] Stories of healing from common nutrition myths[00:20:30] How perfectionism affects sustainable eating habits[00:23:00] The adaptive process of setting meaningful goals[00:24:29] Truce with Food: a six-month journey to food freedom[00:27:06] Exploring blood sugar and gut health experiments[00:29:19] The balance between structure and flexibility in food choices[00:30:00] Closing reflections on personal growth and resilienceLinksGet In Touch With Ali:Stop the Quick Fix Cycle (Free Session!)Free Breakfast ExperimentTruce with Food Group ProgramSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this classic episode of "Sisters in Sobriety," hosts Kathleen and Sonia bring a light-hearted touch to the serious topic of staying sober during New Year's Eve. With warmth and humor, they recount their own past holiday experiences, marked by not-so-glamorous moments of substance abuse, and compare them to their now joy-filled, sober celebrations.Kathleen and Sonia take us through the often overwhelming social pressures and emotional challenges that come with the holiday season, yet they keep the mood buoyant by sharing their favorite alternative sober celebration ideas. Whether it's hosting a cozy get-together, enjoying a lively sober event, or simply taking in the beauty of nature, they remind us that there are countless ways to make New Year's Eve special and memorable without alcohol.The duo emphasizes the shift in perspective that sobriety brings, turning New Year's Eve from a potential obstacle into an opportunity for gratitude and reflection. They sprinkle their conversation with encouraging and hopeful quotes, like Sonia's humorous take on relearning how to party sober and Kathleen's expressions of deep gratitude for the new life she has found in sobriety.Kathleen and Sonia show that sobriety doesn't mean missing out on fun—it means rediscovering joy in a more meaningful and fulfilling way. Tune in for a dose of positivity and inspiration on how to turn New Year's Eve into a celebration of new beginnings and true happiness.00:00:00 | Celebration of download milestone!00:02:16 | Reasons why New Year's Eve is tough to stay sober00:04:00 | Importance of having a plan for a sober New Year's Eve00:04:43 | Ways to reframe the idea of New Year's Eve00:07:00 | Sonia's experience of being sober on New Year's Eve00:08:00 | Kathleen's experience of being a messy drinker on New Year's Eve00:09:00 | Story of Kathleen's New Year's Eve where she found herself high, cold, and stranded00:10:00 | Reflection on the past and commitment to sobriety00:11:00 | Conclusion and end of the transcript00:11:48 | Risky behavior and addiction to risk-taking00:15:21 | Shift in priorities after getting sober00:17:15 | Drug and alcohol-free New Year's Eves00:19:32 | New Year's Eve as a time for reset and renewal00:20:22 | New Year's resolutions and gratitude00:22:00 | New Year's Eve activities and possibilities00:23:29 | New Year's Eve retreat ideas00:25:37 | Exploring alternative plans for staying sober on New Year's00:26:00 | Hosting a sober gathering with a friend and kids00:27:58 | Emphasizing the freedom and possibilities of being sober00:28:14 | Reflecting on the gratitude of being in control and soberLinksSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s InstagramSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ready to kick off the new year with a fresh perspective? On this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen are here to help you plan your best sober year yet. From goal setting to finding balance, they’re sharing ideas to make 2024 your year of growth and intentional living—whether you’re brand new to sobriety or already a few years in.How do you set goals that stick? What’s the secret to staying motivated when things don’t go as planned? And how do you balance everything without burning out? This episode has all the tips and stories to keep you inspired and moving forward.You’ll learn simple strategies like habit stacking, breaking big goals into manageable steps, and why self-care is so much more than bubble baths. Plus, Kathleen and Sonia share how they use tools like planners and trackers to stay on course—and why progress always beats perfection.Sonia and Kathleen also open up about their own journeys, from learning to adapt when life throws curveballs to embracing the quirks that make them who they are. Their stories are full of laughs, lessons, and plenty of inspiration for anyone looking to embrace sobriety with confidence.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Time-Stamped Highlights[00:01:00] Sonia and Kathleen kick off the episode: planning your best sober year yet.[00:01:50] Kathleen’s 2024 goal: prioritizing physical and mental health.[00:03:14] Sonia’s funny habit-stacking method for stretching before Netflix.[00:05:45] Kathleen talks about the lessons she learned from setting unrealistic goals.[00:08:13] Breaking big goals into bite-sized, manageable pieces.[00:10:44] Celebrating small wins in creative ways—popcorn in bed, anyone?[00:12:00] Sonia looks back at years of “moderation” goals that didn’t stick.[00:14:20] Why Kathleen prefers harmony over balance in her sober life.[00:16:59] Plans for a work-life reset: Kathleen is finally taking a vacation![00:19:00] Sonia’s non-negotiable: sleep as the ultimate self-care tool.[00:21:25] Using tech like Apple Watch and Oura Ring to track goals.[00:23:54] The protein-packed breakfast tip that’s changing Sonia’s mornings.[00:25:00] Kathleen’s story about adapting her yoga practice as a single mom.[00:29:00] Sonia reframes her narrative around sobriety and relationships.[00:31:49] Kathleen shares practical ways to flip the script on negative self-talk.[00:33:43] Byron Katie’s four questions for letting go of limiting beliefs.[00:36:00] Self-compassion as the secret to letting go of old narratives.[00:37:15] The connection between self-worth and self-care.[00:38:11] Kathleen’s quirky planner obsession and why it works for her.[00:39:00] Closing thoughts: It’s not about perfection; it’s about progress and intention.LinksSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week, Sonia and Kathleen dive into the world of non-alcoholic sangrias during the fan-favorite "Mocktail Hour." If you've ever missed the fruity, festive allure of sangria or wondered how non-alcoholic alternatives stack up, this episode is for you!The duo kicks things off with a taste test of two sangrias: the Sangria Señorial, a Mexican soda-style sangria, and the Clever Sangria. Expect honest reviews, accidental spills, and insights into how these drinks could be enhanced or incorporated into festive settings. While one drink sparks nostalgia and creativity, the other leaves the hosts debating its place in the sangria universe. Check out our own sangria recipe on our substack!Did you enjoy the taste test? Have a favorite sangria recipe or another mocktail you'd like us to try? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss a sip of our Mocktail Hour. Join the conversation and explore more recipes, reviews, and sober inspiration on our Substack!Highlights[00:01:54] First Impressions of Sangria Señorial - Sonia and Kathleen taste the Sangria Señorial and share their initial thoughts[00:03:08] Discussion on the sweetness, aftertaste, calorie count, and how it might work as a base for homemade sangria.[00:04:16]Kathleen reflects on why Sangria Señorial doesn’t quite match up to traditional sangria flavors.[00:05:13] Kathleen opens the Clever Sangria, and the duo explores its citrus-forward profile and less syrupy sweetness.[00:05:45] Ideas for enhancing Clever Sangria with spices like cinnamon and clove to make it more festive and complex.[00:06:47] Kathleen shares versatile ideas for serving Clever Sangria, from summer dockside drinks to Christmas brunch.[00:07:52] Sonia and Kathleen give their ratings: Clever Sangria scores high, while Sangria Señorial falls short.[00:09:00] The hosts declare Clever Sangria the winner, while debating whether the two drinks belong in the same category. LinksSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen are joined once again by Ali Shapiro, a health coach, speaker, and creator of the transformative Truce with Food program. Ali’s approach integrates emotional storytelling to help people heal their relationships with food, their bodies, and themselves. A returning guest, Ali also hosts the popular podcast Insatiable, where she delves into the psychology of cravings and the broader narratives around food and body image. Today, Ali, Sonia, and Kathleen tackle timely topics around food, belonging, and self-awareness during the holiday season.How do cultural narratives around food shape our holiday habits? Can traditions and modern health wisdom coexist? In this episode, Ali shares her insights on balancing enjoyment and nourishment during celebrations, navigating holiday pressures, and redefining emotional safety in family dynamics. With key questions like "What role does food play in our sense of connection?" and "How can we honor our health while participating in long-standing traditions?" this discussion offers a fresh perspective on holiday wellness.They get into actionable strategies for balancing blood sugar, managing holiday expectations, and identifying emotional triggers that lead to overeating. Key takeaways include understanding the physiological impact of food choices, the importance of timing meals to avoid cravings, and the role of belonging in emotional eating. With insights into how traditional cuisines naturally align with our seasonal needs, Ali provides a roadmap for mindful eating and resilience during this festive yet often challenging time.Ali opens up about her personal journey, including how family traditions like her grandmother’s fenugreek tea remain a source of comfort and connection. Through stories of her clients’ experiences, she illustrates the delicate balance of maintaining emotional intimacy while setting boundaries during the holidays. With heartfelt examples of how small, thoughtful shifts can transform holiday dynamics, this episode is a blend of practical advice and deep, personal reflection.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Time-Stamped Highlights:[00:00:00] Introduction of Ali Shapiro and her work.[00:01:13] Overview of Ali's previous episodes and themes.[00:02:00] How cultural narratives around food have shifted over the decades.[00:03:23] Discussion of body positivity and the physiological effects of sugar.[00:05:02] Strategies for avoiding extreme diets and quick fixes.[00:06:23] How food symbolizes connection and emotional belonging.[00:07:10] Ali shares her grandmother’s fenugreek tea tradition.[00:09:27] Reconciling cultural food traditions with modern health narratives.[00:11:24] The importance of meal timing and balanced blood sugar.[00:12:50] Managing holiday expectations and body image pressures.[00:15:24] How to discern personal values for the holiday season.[00:16:49] Connecting food and movement to resilience and mood.[00:19:13] Recognizing physiological feedback from food choices.[00:20:18] Differentiating “waves of belonging” and building emotional safety.[00:22:40] Client stories: Finding connection amidst family challenges.[00:24:51] Holding emotional complexity: Flexibility in relationships.[00:26:22] Reflections on the Tao Te Ching and embracing adaptability.[00:27:00] Cultivating self-authored belonging and emotional capacity.[00:28:30] The role of compassion in breaking generational patterns.[00:29:00] Closing remarks and teaser for part two.LinksGet In Touch With Ali - Stop the quick fix cycle (free session!)Free breakfast experimentTruce with Food group programSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s Instagram Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mocktail Hour is back! In this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen are helping you navigate the world of non-alcoholic beverages with their honest review of St. Agrestis mocktails, including the Phony Negroni and Amaro Falso. They’ll roll up their sleeves, sip, critique, and share their favorites, all while keeping things fun and relatable.Ever wondered how the Phony Negroni stacks up against its alcoholic counterpart? Or what makes Amaro Falso a wintery, herbal delight? Sonia and Kathleen dive into the flavor profiles, discuss pairings, and tease out the differences in mouthfeel and aftertaste. They’ll answer questions like: How does the bitterness compare? Can these mocktails hold their own as aperitifs or digestifs? And most importantly, are they worth a spot in your fridge?This episode is packed with insights for the sober-curious and mocktail enthusiasts alike. You’ll learn about the perfect pairings, creative additions to elevate the drinks, and whether these options are right for your next dinner party or cozy night in. Sonia and Kathleen leave no bottle uncorked, providing a thorough breakdown that’s as entertaining as it is educational.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Time-Stamps:00:00:00 – Mocktail Hour kicks off with Sonia and Kathleen’s signature honesty.00:01:00 – Introduction to St. Agrestis Phony Negroni and its origins.00:02:05 – First impressions: color, smell, and initial taste test.00:03:00 – Breaking down the flavor: juniper berry notes and orange peel accents.00:04:00 – Discussing how the Phony Negroni feels like a “sophisticated” drink.00:05:00 – Ideal serving occasions for the Phony Negroni.00:05:54 – Rating the Phony Negroni on a scale of 1 to 10.00:06:00 – Introduction to St. Agrestis Amaro Falso and its unique qualities.00:06:42 – Flavor comparison: herbal and citrus notes of Amaro Falso.00:07:22 – Sonia experiments by adding ginger ale to Amaro Falso.00:08:20 – Describing Amaro Falso as a wintery, moody drink.00:09:00 – Aesthetic appeal: the elegant design of the St. Agrestis bottles.00:09:28 – Rating the Amaro Falso and who might enjoy it.00:10:14 – Comparing aftertastes and complexity between the two drinks.00:10:40 – Sonia reflects on mocktails mimicking alcoholic beverages.00:11:00 – Kathleen shares how the Phony Negroni evokes gin nostalgia.00:11:20 – Head-to-head verdict: Phony Negroni wins as a pre-dinner favorite.00:11:40 – Amaro Falso as a digestif: best for post-dinner sipping.00:12:00 – Plans to explore more of St. Agrestis’ non-alcoholic offerings.00:12:12 – Closing thoughts and a thank-you to listeners.LinksSt Agrestis Beverages Sisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s Instagram4o Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sisters-in-sobriety/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy