To 50 and Beyond - Sobriety for Midlife Women

Episode 301  If you're feeling like something is off and you're not sure what it is, it could be that you're outgrowing a past version of yourself. A version that may not be aligned to who you want to be today and tomorrow, and is not giving you positive vibes. 😅 This episode was inspired by the idea of outgrowing alcohol, and a quote that hit me right in the ol' thinking cap.  We shrink ourselves to fit into places we’ve outgrown. Then we find ways to anesthetize the pain and discomfort. Stop spiritually and emotionally starving yourself. Let go. Move on. Grow. Steve Maraboli During this episode, I talk about the signs of outgrowing yourself and the benefits of personal growth, and I give you some prompts to reflect on while I share what I'm working on shedding at 56.  I also talk about the signs of outgrowing alcohol and the identity women create around alcohol. I'm specifically talking about the "hostess with the mostess" identity, and why drinking to fit this identity may make going alcohol-free difficult.  You can read the full show notes for this episode here.  Thank you for listening! I appreciate you!    Let me help you make living alcohol-free in midlife a better experience! 📩Join my email community to stay connected to the podcast and tips, insights, and inspiration to help you stay alcohol-free. 🧰Download The Daily Sobriety Toolkit a trusted companion that helps you stay focused on being alcohol-free today. Not forever. 🩷Go and stay alcohol-free with lifetime access to practical solutions, resources just for midlife gals, and LIVE weekly coaching in my “only for midlife women” coaching community Team Alcohol-Free 🤝Team up with me 1:1 to get the attention and support you deserve through my Plan A 12-Week Private Coaching package   Do you enjoy the podcast? Help me spread the word! There is another option besides drinking in midlife. If you enjoyed this episode and want to take a few minutes to support the podcast, I want to encourage you to leave a positive rating and review on Apple Podcasts. So many women out there don’t know there is an “alcohol-free” option and are struggling with their drinking. Your support will help these women find the podcast this week and learn about an alcohol-free lifestyle later in life. ➡️Click here, scroll to the bottom of the page, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” I read my reviews and will hug you when I see yours. Make sure to “follow” To 50 and Beyond to get all of the wonderful episodes coming your way. If you don’t click “follow," you will miss hearing what’s coming up. Thank you!        

10/2/24 • 21:03

Episode #300 Hello! I'm glad you're here. If you're a midlife woman who is tired of turning to alcohol as a source of comfort and want to turn to yourself instead, this episode is for you! Alcohol is often perceived as a source of comfort, especially for women in midlife facing next-level challenges and stressors. Chardonnay was my friend and it wrapped me in comfort like a warm cozy blanket for years. However, this comfort was deceiving and over time, I realized that it was very temporary. In this episode, I talk about the concept of self-comfort and how to reclaim it without relying on alcohol. I'll discuss how alcohol can seem like an easy escape but often leads to more discomfort in the long run. I'll also share my personal experience of quitting drinking at 45 and how it's possible to find true comfort and relaxation without alcohol. The key topics inside: Understanding why midlife women often turn to alcohol for comfort Signs that you may be using alcohol as a coping mechanism The illusion of comfort that alcohol provides and why the “alcohol comfort zone” can lead to more dependency, shame, regret, and an unrealistic self-perception Steps to reclaim self-comfort without drinking and create a new “genuine comfort zone” The benefits of reclaiming self-comfort as the leading lady in your life You are not alone if you are drinking for comfort. I'm with you.  I will never stop reminding you that you all you need to create a fulfilling life where you comfort yourself without drinking alcohol. You can read the full show notes for this episode here.  Here are some additional episodes to listen to next: The Hardest Part of Getting Sober The Bright Side of Going Alcohol-Free in Midlife Transitioning to an Alcohol-Free Lifestyle: What it Does and Doesn't Take   Let me help you make living alcohol-free in midlife a better experience! 📩Join my email community to stay connected to the podcast and tips, insights, and inspiration to help you stay alcohol-free. 🧰Download The Daily Sobriety Toolkit a trusted companion that helps you stay focused on being alcohol-free today. Not forever. 🩷Go and stay alcohol-free with lifetime access to practical solutions, resources just for midlife gals, and LIVE weekly coaching in my “only for midlife women” coaching community Team Alcohol-Free 🤝Team up with me 1:1 to get the attention and support you deserve through my Plan A 12-Week Private Coaching package Do you enjoy the podcast? Help me spread the word! There is another option besides drinking in midlife. If you enjoyed this episode and want to take a few minutes to support the podcast, I want to encourage you to leave a positive rating and review on Apple Podcasts. So many women out there don’t know there is an “alcohol-free” option and are struggling with their drinking. Your support will help these women find the podcast this week and learn about an alcohol-free lifestyle later in life. ➡️Click here, scroll to the bottom of the page, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” I read my reviews and will hug you when I see yours. Make sure to “follow” To 50 and Beyond to get all of the wonderful episodes coming your way. If you don’t click “follow," you will miss hearing what’s coming up. Thank you!

9/25/24 • 23:37

Hello there! I'm glad you're here!  My guest in episode 299 is Jen Hirst, Sober Coach, and founder of Lighthouse Sobriety, who is here to help you create more structure in your day by adding habits that will help you maintain sobriety. One of the things I appreciate about Jen is her practical approach to getting and staying sober. And, her support that she shares on Instagram! I reached out to Jen to ask her to share her story and talk about how habits you can start today will help you stay alcohol-free. Our conversation centered around essential daily habits that can help maintain a long-lasting, alcohol-free lifestyle. Jen's insights are grounded in her journey and the experiences of those she's helped through her coaching. Jen decided to quit drinking after waking up in detox for the second time. Her life was in chaos, and she was tired of feeling terrible and losing control. She had no car, and no money, and her health was at risk. Jen realized that as long as she didn't drink, things couldn't get any worse. She chose to stop and focused on doing the next right thing, gradually rebuilding her life. Her main reason for quitting was to create a better future for herself and her family. The habits we discuss will help you abstain from alcohol and add more personal development and self-care to your alcohol-free lifestyle.  Thank you for listening!  To read this episode's full show notes, click here.    You can connect with Jen here: Lighthouse Sobriety Jen Hirst's Instagram Jen’s Coaching Group Resources Mentioned This Naked Mind by Annie Grace Beyond Booze by Sarah Rusbatch Atomic Habits by James Clear Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg   Let me help you make living alcohol-free in midlife a better experience! Tools and support only for midlife gals! 📩Join my email community to stay connected to the podcast and tips, insights, and inspiration to help you stay alcohol-free. 🧰Download The Daily Sobriety Toolkit a trusted companion that helps you stay focused on being alcohol-free today. Not forever. 🩷Go and stay alcohol-free with lifetime access to practical solutions, resources just for midlife gals, and LIVE weekly coaching in my “only for midlife women” coaching community Team Alcohol-Free 🤝Team up with me 1:1 to get the attention and support you deserve through my Plan A 12-Week Private Coaching package   Do you enjoy the podcast? Help me spread the word!  There is another option besides drinking in midlife. If you enjoyed this episode and want to take a few minutes to support the podcast, I want to encourage you to leave a positive rating and review on Apple Podcasts. So many women out there don’t know there is an “alcohol-free” option and are struggling with their drinking. Your support will help these women find the podcast this week and learn about an alcohol-free lifestyle later in life. ➡️Click here, scroll to the bottom of the page, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” I read my reviews and will hug you when I see yours. Make sure to “follow” To 50 and Beyond to get all of the wonderful episodes coming your way. If you don’t click “follow," you will miss hearing what’s coming up. Thank you! Want more sober support? Check out these popular episodes: Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder with Sarah Rusbatch 5 Essential Ways to Manage Cravings and Urges Without Drinking 5 Practical Tips to Help You Stop Drinking in Midlife and Beyond

9/18/24 • 57:44

Hey there! I'm happy to be back with you after a summer hiatus.  I started To 50 and Beyond when I was 50 way back in 2018, so it would be a great time for a reintroduction. Things have changed since then and I have figured some things out that I want to share with you.  The episode starts with a flashback from my very first introduction in February of 2018.  I talk about the evolution of the podcast, and why I still believe midlife is the best time to remove anything from your life that you don't enjoy or find value in, including alcohol. I share where I am after celebrating 11 years of sobriety on 8/11/13, and why I'm passionate about helping other midlife women find freedom from alcohol. I also discuss the importance of embracing change, even when you don't have everything figured out. Whether you're considering sobriety or any other life change, I encourage you to take that first step and trust that you'll figure things out as you go. Looking ahead, I reveal my plans for the podcast, including a shift towards more solo episodes and a desire to go deeper in our conversations. I reaffirm my commitment to being authentic, supportive, and compassionate as we navigate the challenges and opportunities of midlife and sobriety together.  Thank you so much for listening! I appreciate you!  If you're new to sobriety, download The Daily Sobriety Toolkit to help you plan your day with purpose and self-care.  Links mentioned in the episode: Join my email community  Email me directly and say hello!  Jen Hirst on Instagram   Could you help me spread the word?  There is another option besides drinking in midlife. If you liked this episode and want to take a few minutes to support the podcast, I would appreciate it! So many women out there don’t know there is an “alcohol-free” option and are struggling with their drinking. Your support will help these women find the podcast this week and learn about an alcohol-free lifestyle later in life. ➡️Click here, scroll to the bottom of the page, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” I read my reviews and will hug you when I see yours. Make sure to “follow” To 50 and Beyond to get all the wonderful episodes coming your way. If you don’t click “follow," you will miss hearing what’s coming up. Thank you!  

9/11/24 • 18:56

Hey there, friend!  This quickie episode is all about changing your mind to honor yourself and not overextend yourself, which can lead to burnout.  I've decided to take an extended podcast break to avoid burning out and enjoy my Sober Gal Summer.  Inside this episode, I share my thoughts on why it's hard to change your mind, and why you should, and what to expect in the Fall from To 50 and Beyond.  Want to stay in touch weekly?  Join my email community to learn more details about the podcast and get guidance in staying alcohol-free this summer.  Join here.  Want to create your own Sober Gal Summer?  Join Team Alcohol-Free before 7/31 to gain access to meetings, resources, and daily support that will help you make the best experience out of being alcohol-free.  Join Team Alcohol-Free    Mentioned in this episode:  Sober Gal Summer episode - What's In and Out The Hello Someday podcast The Sober Powered podcast     Get your Daily Sobriety toolkit here.       

7/7/24 • 06:19

Episode 297 Are you planning a vacation and want to stay alcohol-free but feeling unsure if you can manage it? I've been there too. When I stopped drinking, I struggled with the idea that a vacation could be enjoyable without alcohol. For me, alcohol and vacation were intertwined in my belief of what made a trip fun. It took one sober trip to realize that vacations could be just as enjoyable without alcohol. In this episode, I share seven of my favorite tips for preparing for a sober vacation, along with strategies to help you stay on track during and after your trip. What you’ll hear: Why we associate vacations with alcohol and how to change the associations one trip at at time My first sober travel experience and what I learned The benefits I’ve experienced from traveling without drinking: Keeping my wits about me, longer (slow) days I remember, and not needing a vacation from my vacation. Seven tips to help you prepare for your vacation before you leave: 1. Define your purpose of the trip. 2. Get clear on what challenges you are concerned about to create a plan when/if they come up. 3. Communicate your intentions not to drink with a travel buddy or someone at home. 4. Focus on Nourishment 5. Invest in something to carry with you as a reminder of your intention to stay a/f. 6. Write down you reasons why you don’t want to drink and make an “if this, then that” plan that you can carry with you. 7. Write a Dear Me letter to open when you return. In this letter, you will talk about how you experienced your vacation without drinking and how grateful and proud of yourself you are.   You are not alone if you’re not that excited about alcohol-free vacations, but I want you to know that if you are choosing not to drink on vacation when you would normally - it is a badass move that can be life-changing.   If you need extra sobriety support, join us inside Team Alcohol-Free before enrollment closes on 7/1/24. Inside The Team this summer, we are kicking off our First Annual Sober Gal Summer Camp on July 15th.  Join Team Alcohol-Free

7/3/24 • 24:47

Episode 296 free download. This episode is for the Sober Gal who wants to spend her summer with that Sober Gal vibe - freedom from alcohol. Freedom to do more things SHE wants to do. Invest and give herself back the time, money, and energy alcohol took from her and have fun on her own this summer - no alcohol required.  ➡️Do you feel like you’re missing out because you don’t have a glass of alcohol when you’re sitting on your patio?  ➡️Are you starting to give yourself a summer pass for drinking because you’re on vacation?  ➡️Saying things like - I’m traveling internationally; alcohol doesn’t count?  ➡️Are you doubtful that you will be able to show up at BBQs and get-togethers and say, I’m not drinking? I totally get it! I felt this way when I stopped drinking in August of 2013. But hold up before you grant yourself a drinking pass because it’s summer, and listen in while I share what’s in and out for Sober Gals during our one-and-only summer of 2024. I had the same summer experience for decades and I didn’t realize it until I stopped drinking.  Different year. Same old stuff. Alcohol-centered, not me-centered that is why I’m creating the very first Sober Gal Summer in 2024!   What you’ll hear: An explanation of what it means to have a Sober Gal Summer: it’s a mindset, an attitude, and a celebration of elevated self-care regimes and rewards. Both tangible and intangible. Think freedom, peace, and being present. Why summer is a challenging time to stay sober for most midlife women A list of What’s In and What’s Out for Sober Gals this summer (hint: what’s in: pleasing ourselves first) How to create your In and Out Sober Gal Summer list by using my free download. My mission to bring our midlife community together this summer to build more confidence in ourselves and our choice to be free from alcohol.   If you’re ready to make 2024 the summer of you. Join us inside Team Alcohol-Free and get the inspiration, support, and fun you deserve this summer.  Inside The Team this summer, we are kicking off our First Annual Sober Gal Summer Camp on July 15th.  Enrollment closes July 31, 2024, until Fall. Join today! Join Team Alcohol-Free  

6/26/24 • 20:45

Episode 295 In this episode, I share my personal journey and experiences with sobriety, addressing the common question: When does sobriety stop being hard? I’ve shared my story since the beginning of this podcast. I had a tough time in the first and second years. I went it on my own. In 2013, I didn’t know about podcasts or books about sobriety. Change and transition are tough, even if you appreciate change in your life. When we’re talking about our bond with alcohol and transitioning out of having it in our lives, it’s tough.  No matter how much or how long you spend drinking, we all face a challenge when we quit, but we don’t all feel the same way. Here is the good news - if you are going alcohol-free today, you have many wonderful resources that offer hope and support, from in-person groups to online. It’s a GREAT time to get sober in midlife and in this day and age.  I’m here to give you hope and suggestions to help you through the hard moments. Always remember that time is your best friend when it comes to overcoming challenges in early sobriety. Be patient with yourself.   What you’ll hear: Why it’s important to stay in your lane and not compare your sobriety to anyone else. The importance of having realistic expectations about the time it takes to recover. Strategies to help you through the hard parts of early sobriety and beyond. Why physical activity and music can change your attitude and mood in a short amount of time. How to implement creative outlets like gardening, creating vision boards, and doing puzzles to keep you occupied during moments when you want to drink but want to stay sober. The importance of finding a supportive community that keeps you on track, inspired, and motivated.   Mentioned in this episode: The Daily Sobriety ToolkitJoin Team Alcohol-Free     Q & A Series The Hardest Part of Getting Sober Wondering if Your Drinking Isn’t “Bad Enough” to Quit? The Benefits of Staying Sober When You’re Alone Starting Over on Day One How I Managed My Anxiety When I Quit Drinking

6/19/24 • 30:11

Episode 294 In this episode, I’m answering a question from a To 50 and Beyond listener, Maggie. Maggie sent me an email and said: I’ve heard you talk about your social anxiety when you were 14 and started drinking as you got older. Did having anxiety hold you back from quitting drinking? And how did you manage it once you stopped drinking?  Anxiety has been one of the most difficult things I’ve had to experience and manage throughout my life. I didn’t talk to a doctor about my anxiety until I was in my 40s. I wanted to hide it. Pretend like I had everything together, and even during public panic attacks in my 20’s and 30’s, I would say, “I’m fine.”  I wasn’t anything but fine for decades, and I used alcohol to take away my anxiety so I would feel better. In this episode, you will hear: When and why did my anxiety start at eleven after losing my dad. Why I first started drinking at the age of 14 - to fit in and lessen my social shyness. Where my anxiety comes from (hint: I was trying to control my anxiety, not manage it with drinking). How I approached the “anxiety roadblock” that held me back from going alcohol-free. The basics that I stuck to in early sobriety, and today, that help me manage my anxiety.   If you are someone who experiences anxiety and using alcohol to cope, I understand how you feel. Alcohol is not a sustainable approach to anxiety. I learned this after I quit drinking. There is help for you and support. You are not alone. I felt alone in my anxiety for far too long. I’m with you. Thank you for listening!   Mentioned in this episode: The Daily Sobriety ToolkitJoin Team Alcohol-Free Please contact me if you have a topic for the podcast or need a friend.   Q & A Series The Hardest Part of Getting Sober Wondering if Your Drinking Isn’t “Bad Enough” to Quit? The Benefits of Staying Sober When You’re Alone Starting Over on Day One   Help me spread the word! There is another option besides drinking in midlife. If you liked this episode and want to take a few minutes to support the podcast, I encourage you to leave a positive rating and review on Apple Podcasts. So many women out there don’t know there is an “alcohol-free” option and are struggling with their drinking. Your support will help these women find the podcast this week and learn about an alcohol-free lifestyle later in life. ➡️Click here, scroll to the bottom of the page, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” I read my reviews and will hug you when I see yours. Make sure to “follow” To 50 and Beyond to get all the wonderful episodes coming your way. If you don’t click “follow," you will miss hearing what’s coming up. Thank you!

6/12/24 • 24:58

Episode 293  Day One. There is so much possibility there. I love day one! I don’t love how “starting over” can make you feel when you are working so hard at staying sober in midlife. In this episode, I discuss the feeling of starting over and how you can feel and reframe it. I also share my experience of starting over on Day One for the last time. If you are in a program where resetting your clock is required, stick to your program. This episode is for the gal who is DIYing sobriety like I did. If you’re tired of going back and forth with your drinking, I understand how you feel. I’ve got you!   During this episode, you’ll hear: How to track your progress in a way that feels good to you and helps you stay sober Why tracking didn’t work for me, and how some of the women I know and have worked with track their sobriety progress What to do the day after a “slip” to make sure you don’t drink (and why this matters) My story about having 45 days of sobriety and going back to drinking during a family brunch Lots of love and encouragement for persevering on your road to alcohol freedom!   Mentioned in this episode: TAF sobriety app suggestions: I am Sober, Recovery Path, Since, Try Dry, Reframe. The Daily Sobriety Toolkit Join Team Alcohol-Free Plan A Private Coaching   Q & A episodes: The Hardest Part of Getting Sober Wondering if Your Drinking Isn’t “Bad Enough” to Quit? The Benefits of Staying Sober when You’re Alone   Thank you for listening! Wanna help me spread the word!  There is another option besides drinking in midlife. If you liked this episode and want to take a few minutes to support the podcast, I want to encourage you to leave a positive rating and review on Apple Podcasts. So many women out there don’t know there is an “alcohol-free” option and are struggling with their drinking. Your support will help these women find the podcast this week and learn about an alcohol-free lifestyle later in life. ➡️Click here, scroll to the bottom of the page, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” I read my reviews and will hug you when I see yours. Make sure to “follow” To 50 and Beyond to get all of the wonderful episodes coming your way. If you don’t click “follow," you will miss hearing what’s coming up. Thank you!      

6/5/24 • 18:17

Episode 292  I enjoyed drinking alone, and I know that being alone can be a challenge when you stop drinking.  Whether you live alone or find drinking alone an enjoyable “reward,” but you don’t want to continue drinking, this episode is for you. Today, I’m answering a question from a To 50 and Beyond listener, Kim, as part of my six-week Q&A series.  Kim sent me an email saying:  I go about 30 days without drinking but find it hard to keep it going, mainly because I live alone. No one will know if I drink, so I often give in and tell myself—I’ll have just a little (you know how this goes) or just because I’m bored or miss my nightly glasses of wine. How do I break this habit of giving in because of feeling this way?  In this episode, I discuss the benefits of staying sober alone in midlife: building more trust, pride, confidence, and patience with yourself when you stay true to what you want more than alcohol.  I share suggestions to help you if you’re feeling lonely, bored, or in the habit of rewarding yourself with alcohol to create new rituals for yourself. My message to you is that you are not the only one who feels like drinking alone is enjoyable or lives alone and finds it hard not to give in. “I’ll just have one.” Give yourself time and lots of love and kindness to help you find new ways to manage your daily life without drinking alcohol. I’m with you 100%!  Please contact me if you have a topic for the podcast or need a friend. Thank you for listening!   Mentioned in this episode: The Daily Sobriety ToolkitJoin Team Alcohol-Free   Help me spread the word! There is another option besides drinking in midlife. If you liked this episode and want to take a few minutes to support the podcast, I encourage you to leave a positive rating and review on Apple Podcasts. So many women out there don’t know there is an “alcohol-free” option and are struggling with their drinking. Your support will help these women find the podcast this week and learn about an alcohol-free lifestyle later in life. ➡️Click here, scroll to the bottom of the page, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Make sure to “follow” To 50 and Beyond to get all the wonderful episodes coming your way. If you don’t click “follow," you will miss hearing what’s coming up. Thank you!  

5/29/24 • 17:31

Episode 291 Today, I’m answering the question: What if my drinking isn’t “bad enough” to quit?  I’ve heard this question from midlife women for years and asked myself this question for two years. f you are on the verge of going alcohol-free but aren’t 100% certain that your drinking is at a place where you “need” to remove alcohol completely, this is the episode for you. Even though my drinking was considered “bad enough” to quit on paper and in my heart, it didn’t mean that I stopped. For two years, I tried to justify and compare my drinking to others whose drinking was worse than mine. The purpose of this episode is to share some good news - you don’t have to measure your drinking by “bad” to go alcohol-free. I've got you, friend!    During this episode, you’ll hear: My story and reasons why I was trying to moderate my drinking and make alcohol “work” What I envisioned of someone who had to quit drinking, and why I resisted being a sober woman Why the consequences of my drinking and others doesn’t make it easier to quit drinking The good news! Why you don’t have to measure your choice to quit drinking by labels or by comparing yourself to others How Gray Area drinking plays a role in our choice to stop drinking on our own accord The questions you can ask yourself if you are wondering if your drinking isn’t “bad enough” to quit   Ask yourself these questions to learn more about where you are with your drinking and where you want to be: Why are you wondering if your drinking isn’t bad enough to quit? Is it to validate quitting or continuing to drink? If my drinking is not bad enough, how bad does it have to get? When is enough enough?  What is holding you back from going alcohol-free? What if you allow yourself to create an alcohol-free lifestyle not because your drinking is bad but because YOU want better and different than what alcohol gives you?  Don’t compare how you feel about alcohol and your drinking to anyone else - including me. Stay in your lane because that is where you will figure it out. 👊🏻   Mentioned in this episode: The Hardest Part of Getting Sober Email me with a question you would like me to answer.    How I can help you: The Daily Sobriety Toolkit Join Team Alcohol-Free Plan A Private Coaching   Help me spread the word! There is another option besides drinking in midlife. If you liked this episode and want to take a few minutes to support the podcast, I want to encourage you to leave a positive rating and review on Apple Podcasts. So many women out there don’t know there is an “alcohol-free” option and are struggling with their drinking. Your support will help these women find the podcast this week and learn about an alcohol-free lifestyle later in life. ➡️Click here, scroll to the bottom of the page, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” I read my reviews and will hug you when I see yours. Make sure to “follow” To 50 and Beyond to receive all the wonderful episodes. If you don’t click “follow," you will miss out on what’s coming up. Thank you!  

5/22/24 • 19:17

If you have a question you would like answered on the podcast, send me an email! Episode 290 If you are a gal in midlife who is questioning her drinking and having a hard time getting sober, I’m with you. In this episode, I answer a client's question: What was the hardest part of getting sober for you? After she asked me this question, I didn’t hesitate. The hardest part for me was deciding to stop drinking. I spent two years feeling stuck in decision fatigue and putting in lots of effort to make alcohol work. On August 11, 2013, I decided to go all in on what I wanted more than drinking alcohol. In this episode, you will hear: How and why I decided to stop drinking My take on what it means to “get sober” Why it’s difficult to decide to quit drinking (spoiler alert: it’s not you, it’s alcohol) The fears that I faced in going alcohol-free, which are shared among many women in midlife What it takes to go “all-in” on freeing yourself from alcohol My message to you… If you are having difficulty deciding right now, take a walk with yourself and map out a plan. Maybe now isn’t the time to take this on, and that’s okay - you can’t force yourself to get sober - you will figure it out, and you're on your way. I If you’re ready to go all in, you can do it. I believe in you. Be kind and patient with yourself and take it day to day. Thank you for listening!   Mentioned in this episode:  The Daily Sobriety Toolkit  Join Team Alcohol-Free   

5/15/24 • 16:15

Episode 289  Hey there, friend!  This episode comes straight from my heart and is for the moms and grandmas of the world who feel regretful about their drinking.  I share what becoming a mom was like, how I started drinking the day I came home from the hospital, and why I quit drinking for myself, not my son, but stay sober for him today.  I also talk about how I'm living with the regret of my drinking as a mom.  In honor of Mother's Day and where I am today on my motherhood road, I wanted to talk about this topic to let you know you are not alone.  My favorite thing I said in this episode (yes, I'm quoting myself) is: I have never regretted the decision to stop drinking. Thank you for being here.  I appreciate you!    How I can help you:  Download The Daily Sobriety Toolkit.  Schedule a Discovery Session to enroll in private coaching.  Get coaching and make new friends inside Team Alcohol-Free.    

5/8/24 • 17:53

Bonus episode  Hello friend! I'm popping in today to share with you a new free resource I created, The Daily Sobriety Toolkit.  I'm so excited to share this toolkit with you!  The Daily Sobriety Toolkit is your trusted companion to help you plan your day and stay connected to the reason why you are choosing yourself over alcohol today. Not forever. You can grab your toolkit here.  Thank you for listening!  I will be on a break until May 8, 2024. See you back here then.    Do you need extra support in going and staying alcohol-free?  Learn more about my community, Team Alcohol-Free.    To learn more about myself and my coaching, visit my website here.   

4/24/24 • 12:55

Episode 288  I first came across Dr. Dawn’s Instagram account and was immediately drawn to her passion for helping others and the way she teaches and shares her wisdom - which is why I reached out to invite her back to the podcast to help us understand more about what hormones are the hormones that are the key players during menopause and how alcohol affects our hormones during this time. Dr. Dawn is a Naturopathic physician with extensive experience in the treatment of substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders, and is doing work in ketamine therapy, which she talks about in this episode.  This episode is for you if you are a gal in perimenopause and beyond. It’s also for you if you’re not sure. About Dr. Dawn: Dr. Dawn is a licensed naturopathic physician in Arizona. She has specialized in addiction recovery for almost two decades, first as the medical director of an eating disorder treatment center and then as the medical director of a residential program specializing in addictions and trauma.  She is passionate about transformation and believes integrative medicine is an important component of addiction recovery.   What you’ll hear in this episode: The different stages of transition into menopause  What hormones play a key role during perimenopause and beyond The hormones effected by alcohol during menopause  How to approach your doctor and share about your drinking to get help  The best course of action to take when it comes to your drinking  Dr. Dawn’s services, including her latest research into Ketamine therapy   Find Dr. Dawn here: Dr. Dawn's Website Instagram Facebook TikTok   Mentioned in this episode:  Dr. Dawn on To 50 and Beyond #165   Join Team Alcohol-Free 

4/10/24 • 39:28

Episode 286  I invited Sarah Rusbatch to the podcast to talk about Alcohol Use Disorder and share how alcohol impacts women as we get older. Sarah is a Gray Area Drinking and Menopause coach, as well as the author of the book Beyond Booze: How to Create a Life You Love Alcohol-free. Sarah and I discuss the importance of addressing alcohol use disorder for women in midlife, exploring coping mechanisms, societal pressures, challenges, and the benefits of an alcohol-free lifestyle. We also talk about the effects of alcohol during perimenopause and how to emphasize self-care, empowerment, and building resilience for those contemplating reducing alcohol intake. You can read this episode's show notes here.    Are you ready to get support in going and staying alcohol-free? Join Team Alcohol-Free today!  Team Alcohol-Free is a safe and private community forum for women 35 and over who are curious about sobriety or already living alcohol-free. To learn more, click here.       

4/3/24 • 40:56

Episode 286  What does it mean to drink moderately?  Hello! I'm glad you're here.  This episode will help you understand what it really means to drink moderately. I will share the latest research, and then we will look at what it looks and feels like to be the moderator of your drinking. I’m going to share my experience with trying to be a moderate drinker and why I couldn’t.  I talk about the "moderation game" I played with myself and why just a little alcohol wasn't enough.  This episode is for you if you’re working at drinking moderately and disappointing yourself because you can’t moderate your drinking and feel bad about yourself that you can’t. This episode is not meant to make you feel bad about your drinking.  You are not alone if you are having a hard time drinking less. I'm with you.  Read this episode's full show notes here.  Mentioned in this episode:  Florence And The Machine: Moderation    Do you want help in creating a plan to stay alcohol-free in April?  I will help you create a simple and flexible plan in April and every month after inside my community Team Alcohol-Free.  You are not lacking willpower, but chances are you may be missing out on a plan, and a supportive community to help you see it through.  Join Team Alcohol-Free today!           

3/26/24 • 23:40

Episode 285  Hello, friend! I'm glad you're here! If you have ever found yourself saying, "I deserve a drink," or feel deprived when you stop drinking because you think of alcohol as a reward, you are not alone.  You will appreciate today's episode with two of my favorite people: the twins are back!  Leigh and Anne Walkup are the Founders of Retro Rodeo Publishing, LLC and Front Porch Life Magazine.  They drank together and got sober together. They know a thing or two about using alcohol to treat themselves.  In this episode, you will hear the signs of viewing alcohol as a reward and how to change your perspective to find new rewards without drinking.  You can read the episode's full show notes here.  Thank you for listening!    Find Leigh and Anne here.    Ready to get support to help you go and stay alcohol-free?  Learn more about joining a community of women who understand where you are and have your back! Join Team Alcohol-Free 2024       

3/20/24 • 45:41

Episode 284  Hello, friend!  A short and sweet episode for you today where I reflect on what I needed to hear before I stopped drinking.  One of the things I needed to hear before I quit drinking, wasn't easy to hear, but it was the catalyst for me to get to sobriety two years later.  This episode goes out to those brave souls who are standing at the crossroads of sobriety. It is a nudge, not a push, to listen to more of what you're saying to yourself because chances are that is what you need, and deserve to hear today.  Mentioned in this episode:  Join my email community to receive my new freebie coming next week: The Daily Sobriety Toolkit, and to learn more about Team Alcohol-Free 2024 enrollment coming March 20th!  Join here.               

3/13/24 • 11:45

https://www.lorimassicot.com/Episode 283  This is an episode about the change of addiction and 12-step programs throughout the years and where we are today, with a woman who proudly shares how AA helped change her life: Angela Pugh. Angela Pugh is a Master Life Coach, speaker, and the host of the highly popular podcast, Addiction Unlimited. In this episode, you’ll hear: How alcohol affected her life, and what her drinking looked like before she quit drinking. Angela’s decision to seek support through AA after she caused a serious car accident. How AA meetings work today and how to make the program work for you. Angela discusses the terminology of drinking labels today and why labeling yourself is the least important part of quitting drinking. The meaning of “high-functioning” and Angela’s internal struggle as a high-functioning alcoholic. How the coping skills she built in recovery helped her through perimenopause. To read this episode's full show notes, click here.  To find Angela:  Angela's website  The Addiction Unlimited Podcast    Thank you for listening today!  Visit lorimassicot.com to learn more about myself and my coaching services.  Send me an email to say hello and tell me what you thought of today's episode.    Join Team Alcohol-Free   

3/6/24 • 44:54

Episode 282  Hey there!  I'm happy you're here.  Today, we are exploring the concept of giving yourself permission to do and not do what you want. If it sounds silly, let it be!  This episode is inspired by a group coaching meeting that I recently hosted inside my community, Team Alcohol-Free.  In this episode, I talk about the insights women face when giving themselves a "permission slip," why giving yourself permission matters, and 25 ideas to help get you started.  You can find the show notes for this episode here.  Download the 25 Permission Slip Ideas PDF here.  Here is a challenge for you today.  After you tune in, send me an email to share one thing you are giving yourself permission to do or not do today.    Team Alcohol-Free 2024 Opens for Enrollment March 20th  Are you ready to join a caring and supportive TEAM of women who are exploring and living an alcohol-free lifestyle later in life?  Join the Team Alcohol-Free interest list to gain access to all enrollment updates.    In case you missed last week's episode, Getting Older and Staying Sober, check it out here.   

2/28/24 • 21:59

Episode 281  Hey there!  Today, I'm sharing a reintroduction to the podcast as it turned 6 this week!  I also give you an update on life as a 56 year old sober woman. I share my thoughts, discoveries as I've gotten older, and why and how I maintain long-term sobriety.  I talk about what I consider midlife, and how I manage past regrets, and what I'm doing today to keep my sobriety going.  I also share an update about the future of To 50 and Beyond.  I appreciate you for listening to and supporting the podcast. Always!  Thank you!  To read this episodes show notes, click here.    Get on the Team Alcohol-Free Enrollment list here.  Enrollment starts March 20th!             

2/21/24 • 23:36

Episode 280  Coach Helen Bennett is here with us to share her story of disordered eating, including binging and purging, and how she started to find freedom and heal her relationship with food.  I invited Helen to the podcast because I appreciate her compassionate approach to using practical tools to get started in recovery and empowerment toward food freedom.  Helen Bennett is a certified Health Coach and Addiction Recovery Coach and the founder of BulimiaFreedom.com. Disclaimer: This episode offers insights into binge eating and bulimia, along with practical tips to initiate the journey towards recovery. It is important to note that this podcast does not substitute professional medical advice. Rather, it serves as a source of inspiration, drawing from Coach Helen Bennett's extensive personal and professional expertise in overcoming disordered eating patterns. Click here to read this episode's show notes.  Resources mentioned: Free Food Freedom Masterclass Helen’s website   Let's stay in touch! Join Lori's email community to receive inspiration and tips on how to find joy + confidence in living alcohol-free later in life. Click here to join the mailing list.   Private Coaching Are you interested in working closely to quit drinking for good?   Schedule a complimentary discovery session to learn more about how private sobriety coaching can help you find joy and confidence in sobriety.   Click here to schedule your session.    

2/14/24 • 45:56

Episode 279  Have you ever found yourself questioning your relationship with alcohol? It's not like your drinking is “that bad,” but it's far from being something you can manage and still feel your best as you get older. You've noticed some downsides to your drinking, but quitting altogether feels like a big leap. The fear of judgment around being a non-drinker adds another layer to the mix. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. You might be a Gray Area drinker, joining a rising community of individuals navigating this middle ground. Let's explore together. In today's episode, I have invited Kari Schwear, a Gray Area Coach and Founder of Gray Tonic, here to explore the topic of gray area drinking and the signs. Kari shares her perspective, kindness, and wisdom to create a supportive space for anyone exploring their relationship with alcohol. To read this episode's show notes, click here.  Thank you for listening today!  Let's stay in touch! Join Lori's email community to receive inspiration and tips on how to find joy + confidence in living alcohol-free later in life. Click here to join the mailing list.   To enroll in Team Alcohol-Free 2024, join the interest list here.         

2/7/24 • 41:17

Episode #278  This episode is for the gal who feels the inner struggle to quit or continue drinking because of other people. The inner struggle comes from hearing either you should stop drinking or you don’t have to quit drinking, but knowing that is not what YOU want. In my 5+ years of coaching midlife women, I have heard my clients say, “I know I should stop drinking. My kids are worried about me,” or “I want to stop drinking, but my husband doesn’t think I should.” It’s such a conundrum when you are faced with people who know you and love you but aren’t honoring what you want. The purpose of this episode is to let you know that you are not the only one who experiences feeling the pressure to quit drinking for other people or continuing to drink because people around her drink.  Reach out via email if you need an alcohol-free friend.  Click here to read this episode's full show notes.  Join the Team Alcohol-Free interest list.    Stay Connected  Sign up to receive podcast episodes and tips to help you explore and create an alcohol-free lifestyle in midlife and beyond delivered to your inbox. Click here to join my email community.         

1/31/24 • 22:14

Episode 277  Hey there, friend!  You are not alone if you are worried about your drinking. I spent two years trying to make alcohol work because I was worried about my drinking, but most of all, I was worried about what life would be like without alcohol. I know that worry around drinking in midlife is a much-needed topic, and that is why I invited our Gigi Langer to the podcast. Gigi used to be a prisoner of her worries and used alcohol, romance, and professional accomplishments to soothe her frayed nerves.  Gigi holds a Ph.D. in Psychological Studies in Education and an MA in Psychology, both from Stanford University, and she is an author talking about the book 50 Ways to Worry Less Now: Reject Negative Thinking to Find Peace, Clarity, and Connection. Click here to read this episode's show notes and access the resources mentioned.  Receive a special offer on Gigi's book, 50 Ways to Worry Less and pay only $6.00 for shipping.  Click here for the offer.    Stay Connected Join my email community here.  Visit my website here.  

1/24/24 • 43:22

Episode 276 I can’t think of any other area in my life where I felt the fear of committing to something more than I did when I quit drinking.  In the episode, I talk about:  How thinking in terms of “forever” held me back from quitting and how I switched it around  What my commitment to alcohol looked like  My top five reasons why committing to sobriety felt impossible  Click here to read the full show notes with mentioned resources.  I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening.   Plan A 12-Week Private Coaching  Learn more and schedule a free Discovery Session here.    Stay Connected Join my email community here to receive podcast episodes, updates, and tips for living alcohol-free.             

1/17/24 • 28:33

Episode 275  Whether you are sober curious or already sober like myself, today’s guest, Dr. Brooke Scheller is going to help you feel better through her functional medicine approach.  I reached out to Dr. Brooke after seeing her talk about her new book, How to Eat to Change How You Drink: Heal Your Gut, Mend Your Mind, and Improve Nutrition to Change Your Relationship with Alcohol because I was fascinated by the topic.  Dr. Brooke Scheller is a doctor of clinical nutrition, the founder of Functional Sobriety and she is a fellow sober woman who, you will hear, knows, and loves the work that she does, which you will hear about. Some of the topics you will hear:  Dr. Brooke explains the three different drinking archetypes and gives us the characteristics of each How short-term and long-term alcohol use creates nutrient deficiencies which can lead to fatigue, anxiety, hormone imbalances, and low moods Supplement suggestions for nutrient deficiencies Click here for this episode's full show notes.    Find Dr. Brooke here:  Dr. Brooke's website  Functional Sobriety  Functional Sobriety Supplements   Find Lori here:  Plan A 12-Week Private Coaching Package for Midlife Women  Are you ready to go "all-in" on yourself and create an alcohol-free lifestyle that works for you? Schedule your free 30 minute discovery session to learn more today.    Join my email community to stay connected to upcoming podcast episodes and special enrollment offers for Team Alcohol-Free.  Send me an email.                 

1/10/24 • 47:03

Episode 274  Hello friend!  Happy New Year!  If you're thinking about giving up alcohol in 2024 and want to kickstart the year on a positive note, try writing a "Dear Alcohol" letter. It's a great way to understand your relationship with alcohol better and get pumped up for an alcohol-free lifestyle. In this episode, I will talk about the main benefit of writing a letter to alcohol, how to decide if this practice is for you, and some simple tips to help you get started if you choose, and then what to do with your letter when you’re done. I will also read my current “Dear Alcohol” letter. You can read the full show notes here.    Resources mentioned in this episode:  Exploring Your Relationship with Alcohol and Why It Matters   Private Coaching  Schedule a complimentary Discovery Session if you are interested in Private Sobriety Coaching in 2024. Click here to schedule.   Stay Connected    Join my email community to receive podcast episodes and tips to help you navigate an alcohol-free lifestyle later in life.    Join here.    Help me spread the word about sobriety in midlife and beyond!  If you liked this episode and want to take a few minutes to support the podcast, I encourage you to leave a positive rating and review on Apple Podcasts. So many women out there don’t know there is an “alcohol-free” option and are struggling with their drinking. Your support will help these women find the podcast this week and learn about an alcohol-free lifestyle later in life. Click here, scroll to the bottom of the page, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” I read my reviews and will hug you when I see yours. Make sure to “follow” To 50 and Beyond to get all of the wonderful episodes coming your way. If you don’t click “follow," you will miss hearing what’s coming up. Thank you!    

12/27/23 • 28:40