In this episode, we’re joined by David Hodgson, Entrepreneur, Founder & CEO of ZENO Wines With over 30 years of experience in the wine industry, David founded Vinolo Ltd more than nine years ago, driven by a mission to create wines that deliver true enjoyment — without compromise. His vision led to the creation of ZENO, a collection of alcohol-free wines that capture the craftsmanship, complexity, and connection of great winemaking, minus the alcohol. Importantly, David is alcohol-free himself, bringing not just professional expertise but personal passion to his mission — understanding first-hand the value of quality, connection, and celebration without alcohol. If you’ve ever found yourself searching for a truly satisfying alcohol-free wine, this conversation is for you. We explore David’s journey, the innovation behind ZENO’s process, and how he’s helping to elevate the entire alcohol-free category — one glass at a time.   Enjoy the show!!   Interested in Joining our AF community?? Email ‘Interested’ to: mailto:Info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Connect with David: David Hodgson MBA – LinkedIn Connect with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032 Connect with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links  

This week, we’re joined by Nick Elston — Mental Health Advocate, Award-Winning Keynote Speaker, Podcaster, and the man many know as “That Big Guy with the Cap & Beard.” Nick’s story is one of honest self-reflection and courageous transformation. After years working in the corporate world — where high pressure and pub culture often blurred together — alcohol became part of the backdrop. It wasn’t the problem, but it was definitely part of the picture. Alongside this, Nick was also navigating OCD and Generalised Anxiety Disorder, which added another layer to his experience of stress, identity, and coping. Six and a half years ago, he decided to make a change and quit drinking for good. Around the same time, he founded Forging People, where he helps others find their voice through Transformational Speaking Coaching — empowering people to speak with confidence, share with purpose, and lead conversations that truly matter. Today, Nick works with some of the biggest brands and organisations on the planet, bringing raw authenticity and powerful storytelling to the worlds of mental health, leadership, and human connection. This is a conversation about self-awareness, resilience, and what happens when you stop hiding behind the mask — and start showing up as who you really are.   Interested in Joining our AF community?? Email ‘Interested’ to: mailto:Info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Connect with Nick Web: www.nickelston.com Connect with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032  Connect with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links  

  Episode 18 — Featuring Maggie Klaassens (Sober Life Collective) Today we’re joined by our very first international guest on the podcast, the amazing Maggie Klaassens, all the way from Virginia, USA. She’s the founder of the Sober Life Collective and the powerhouse behind the global Sober Summit. Maggie’s journey began in that “grey-area” space so many people relate to — when drinking isn’t rock bottom, but it’s quietly limiting your potential. Rather than waiting for a crisis, she chose curiosity, change, and a brighter way of living. That shift didn’t just transform her own life. It sparked a worldwide community that champions clarity, connection, and confidence without alcohol. In this episode, we explore what truly becomes possible when you step away from the default drinking culture and step into a life you don’t need to escape from. Whether you’re AF already, sober-curious, or somewhere in the messy middle, this episode is not to be missed.     Interested in Joining our AF community?? Email ‘Interested’ to: mailto:Info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Connect with Maggie: https://soberlifecollective.com/ Connect with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Connect with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links  

In this weeks episode we welcome Katie Skelton: Katie is CEO at Little Green Duck. A Marketing Strategy business she setup over 7 years, following a successful career in Outside Broadcasting, where she cut her teeth at the BBC. Following a 9 month around the world adventure with her husband and 2 young children, she returned home only to be greeted by the COVID lockdown. Like many of us, an unhealthy drinking habit followed. But by December of 2020, Katie decided that alcohol was taking more than it was giving and she decided to kick it into touch for good. Since then, Katie’s family and professional life has gone from strength to strength and she’s never looked back.   In this episode of The Alcohol Free Revolution Podcast, Katie shares her story and how much better her life is without alcohol holding her back. Connect: with Katie: www.littlegreenduck.co.uk Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/katieskelton  Interested in Joining our AF community Email ‘Interested’ to: mailto:Info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Connect with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Connect with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links

Andy Delderfield is the founder of Alcohol Free Runners as well as Take a Clean Break along with Rich Casement. Alcohol-free since 2019, Andy has channelled the energy he once spent on drinking into running, adventure, and helping others transform their own relationship with alcohol. From completing gruelling ultra-endurance challenges in sub-zero conditions and deserts to coaching runners at every stage of their journey, he embodies what’s possible when you choose to remove alcohol. In this episode, Andy shares: how going alcohol-free reshaped his mindset and his identity what ultra-running taught him about resilience and recovery and why community and movement are powerful tools for long-term change. Connect with Andy at: Insta: afrunners.com linktr.ee/take.a.cleanbreak   Interested in Joining our AF community Email ‘Interested’ to: mailto:Info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Connect with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Connect with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links  

In this episode, we explore the highs and lows of Sober October — not just the challenge itself, but what it can reveal. We talk about why some people thrive in this kind of short-term container… and why others find it just scratches the surface. We also dive into the role of community — and why trying to go alcohol-free alone often leads people straight back to old habits. Having others around you who truly get it? That can change everything. You can register your interest in joining our community (launching soon below) And finally, we share some of our favourite Quit Lit books and alcohol-free podcasts — the ones that helped us shift our thinking, build momentum, and feel less alone in the early days. This is an honest, reflective conversation about what really makes the difference — whether you’re doing Sober October, just starting your journey, or looking to go deeper.   Register your interest in joining our community: Email ‘Interested’ to: mailto:Info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Connect with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Connect with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links    

This week we’re joined by Denise Hamilton‑Mace — founder of Low No Drinker Magazine and host of the podcast Mindful Drinking & Moderation in Midlife. After 24 years in hospitality, Denise re-evaluated her relationship with alcohol and now helps others explore life with more clarity, balance, and intention — especially in the “grey area” between drinking and sobriety. In this episode, we cover: What mindful drinking actually looks like The fascinating reality and buckets of information behind no & low drinks How the Low and No drinks market has changed and is growing Denise is more than a voice in the alcohol-free space — she’s a builder of platforms. Through Low No Drinker Magazine and her podcast Mindful Drinking & Moderation in Midlife, she’s created a growing hub for honest, inclusive conversations about drinking less — without judgement or strict labels. Her work regularly features experts, founders, and everyday voices who are changing the way we think about alcohol, wellbeing, and identity in our 30s, 40s, and beyond. 🔗 Connect with Denise: Website: https://www.lownodrinker.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denisehamiltonmace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisehamiltonmace 🎧 Listen to her podcast: Mindful Drinking & Moderation in Midlife Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/id1701338793 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XkIkVfPEOdfpyYe9SbDBx Buzzsprout: https://lownodrinkerpodcast.buzzsprout.com Connect with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Connect with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links

This week on the podcast, we’re joined by Harrison Ward, known to many as The Fell Foodie — outdoor cook, mental health speaker, and one of the most authentic voices in the alcohol-free space today. Harrison’s story is one of transformation through grit, nature, and fire-cooked food. There was a time when Harrison was drinking over 20 pints a day, battling depression, obesity, and suicidal thoughts. Today, he’s become a beacon of change — preparing gourmet meals on mountain tops, sharing his journey openly, and helping others find strength in the outdoors. He’s been featured on BBC’s Love to Cook with Mary Berry, Channel 5’s Winter on the Farm, and was named an Ordnance Survey GetOutside Champion for his work promoting wellbeing through nature. In this episode, we explore: His journey from rock bottom to fell tops Why sobriety gave him back his voice — and his future The link between cooking, mental clarity, and mindfulness And what it means to build a life that’s not just alcohol-free, but fully alive. Connect with Harrison: Instagram: @fellfoodie Website: fellfoodie.co.uk   Connect with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Connect with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links

In this milestone episode, we’re joined by a true pioneer in the alcohol-free movement — Andy Ramage. Andy first made headlines when he chose to go alcohol-free while still working in the high-octane world of commodities broking. At the time, it was a bold and unusual move — one that brought both professional challenges and deep personal transformation. That single decision sparked a ripple effect that would go on to impact hundreds of thousands of lives around the world. Since then, Andy has become one of the most respected voices in the alcohol-free space. He’s a best-selling author, performance coach, and the founder of Coach Business School, where he trains a new generation of alcohol-free and wellness coaches — including both of us, Steve and James. In this conversation, we go deep into: Why Andy gave up alcohol at the peak of his broking career The resistance he faced — and what helped him stay the course How that decision evolved into a global mission to change lives The behind-the-scenes story of his upcoming Hollywood-backed documentary, Going Dry, set for release in Spring 2026 His vision for empowering others to coach from a place of purpose and impact Whether you’re sober curious, already alcohol-free, or considering the leap — this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. 🔗 Connect with Andy Ramage 🌐 Website: www.andyramage.com 🎬 Documentary (watch the trailer here): www.goingdrymovie.com 🎓 Coach Business School: www.coachbusiness.school   Connect with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Connect with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links

🎙️ Bonus Episode: In this episode, we turn the mic on our very own co-host, Steve Smith — alcohol-free performance coach, ultramarathon runner, and founder of Soberilliant.   In this special episode, Steve shares his own journey — from flair bartending and late nights in London, to Ironman finish lines and 200-mile ultramarathons. It’s a story of quiet questioning, dad-life wake-up calls, and discovering just how much more is possible without alcohol in the way.   Steve opens up about: – Growing up around drinking and the bar culture that shaped him – The moment he knew things had to change (but didn’t — not yet) – The shift from foggy hangovers to focused endurance training – How sobriety helped him become a better dad, coach, and leader – Why he now helps high-performing dads rethink their own relationship with alcohol   If you’ve ever wondered what really changes when you stop drinking — beyond the early wins — this episode is packed with perspective, real talk, and a reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite the script. James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links

In this episode, we’re joined by Helen Sadler, co-host of the Flixwatcher Podcast, as she reflects on her changing relationship with alcohol — from her early experiences growing up in the heart of 90s ‘ladette’ culture, drinking norms, to weekends at festivals and beyond. Helen shares how alcohol was deeply woven into socialising, identity and fun — and how, over time, she began to quietly question whether it was still serving her. Her story is a relatable and reflective look at how many of us carry our drinking habits forward by default — until we don’t. We talk about the pressure to drink in your 20s, how our social norms shape our choices, and why festivals and fun don’t have to disappear just because alcohol does.   This episode is for anyone who’s felt like the odd one out for questioning the norm — and proof that you can rewrite the story on your own terms.   🔗  Connect with us James: 🌐 Web: alcoholfreecoach.com 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Steve: 🌐 Web: soberilliant.com 📱 Insta & Links: soberilliant.com/all-my-links   Helen / Flixwatcher: 📸 Instagram: @flixwatcher

Bonus Episode: This week, we flip the script — and Steve interviews his co-host, James Lloyd, alcohol-free coach and creator of The 60-Day Control Reset. In this powerful conversation, James shares the personal journey that led him to ditch alcohol in 2021 — not because he hit rock bottom, but because he knew deep down something had to change. We talk about: – How learning about neuroscience and habit loops changed everything – The cascade of benefits that followed his first alcohol-free 60 days — from energy and weight loss to sleep, exercise, and joy – And why this is about expansion, not restriction James also breaks down his coaching philosophy, how he supports high-achieving professionals through alcohol-free transformation, and the mindset shift that helped him — and now his clients — finally take control. James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links

James and Steve share how alcohol quietly impacted their mental health —from disrupted sleep and heightened stress, to the constant background noise that made life feel heavier than it needed to. We explore what starts to shift when you take a break from drinking. Deeper rest, more patience, sharper thinking — and a stronger sense of emotional balance. This conversation is full of honest reflections and real-world insights Into how going alcohol-free can support your mental wellbeing at home, at work, and within yourself. Whether you’re sober-curious or already on the path this episode offers fresh motivation and perspective to help you keep moving forward. James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links  

In this enlightening episode, join former drinkers turned coaches James Lloyd and Steve Smith as they share their transformative journey to an alcohol-free lifestyle. At ages 50 and 52, they reflect on how quitting alcohol changed their lives for the better. Delving deep into the world of social and cultural influences, they question why society is so obsessed with alcohol and explore common beliefs about its role in socialization and relaxation. Discover insightful discussions on how early life experiences shape our perceptions of alcohol and the shift in its marketing over the decades. As they expose the powerful influence of advertising and explore the impact of alcohol on our health, they urge listeners to reconsider their own beliefs. Whether you're contemplating going alcohol-free or seeking advice on how to start, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that invites you to expand your life by letting go of alcohol.

Welcome to the Alcohol-Free Revolution Podcast with hosts James Lloyd and Steve Smith, who have embraced an alcohol-free lifestyle for over four years. In this episode, they share their transformative journey, offering insights and encouragement to those considering a break from alcohol. Discover how going alcohol-free can reclaim lost time, add financial benefits, and enhance personal growth. James and Steve delve into the realization of abundant time once occupied by drinking and its related activities. They highlight the myriad ways listeners can reinvest this newfound time into passions, family, and personal development. By recounting their personal stories and those of others, they emphasize the ongoing transformation and empowerment in alcohol-free living. This episode also explores the hidden costs of drinking, from monetary expenses to missed family moments. They discuss the psychological aspect of breaking free from routine drinking and offer motivation to redefine life without alcohol. Listen in to learn how the alcohol-free journey can lead to a more present, fuller, and financially rewarding life. James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links    

Join us in this episode as we dive into the journey of embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle. Our hosts share personal stories of transformation and growth, discussing how quitting alcohol has led to a happier, more fulfilling life. From discovering new passions to improving health and setting a positive example for family, we explore the far-reaching impacts of sobriety. This conversation touches on the importance of mental and physical health, the surprising changes that come with an alcohol-free life, and the societal shift towards reduced alcohol consumption. Whether you're sober, curious, or further along the path to sobriety, this episode offers insights and motivation to help you on your journey. James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links    

Welcome back to the Alcohol-Free Revolution podcast with your hosts, James Lloyd and Steve Smith. In this special episode, we feature our first guest, Nav, who shares his inspiring journey towards an alcohol-free life. Nav opens up about his struggles with secret drinking, the influence of cultural norms, and the impact of the COVID pandemic. He reveals the challenges and breakthroughs he experienced and how community support played a pivotal role in his transformation. Tune in to discover the powerful changes that come with living alcohol-free and the uplifting story of reclaiming life, happiness, and connection. James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links   Link to Alcohol Free Sikhs: https://www.instagram.com/alcoholfreesikhs?igsh=MWQwNmFhamdmNzRmbA==    

Welcome back to the Alcohol-Free Revolution! In this enlightening episode, Steve and his co-host James delve into the ever-debated topic of alcohol moderation versus taking a complete break. With personal anecdotes and insightful coaching experiences, they explore the challenges and triumphs faced by those seeking to maintain control or break free entirely from alcohol.The hosts discuss the personal struggles many face with moderation, the noise of constantly setting rules, and the liberation found in making a clear, binary decision. Emphasizing personal choice and shared experiences, they shine light on the importance of understanding one's relationship with alcohol and making informed decisions for healthier living.Through candid conversations, they reveal how taking an extended break can diminish the desire for alcohol and open the doors to clarity, energy, and a more fulfilled life. Tune in for practical advice, neuroscience insights, and discover how embarking on an alcohol-free journey can lead to unexpected positive transformations.

Welcome to the latest episode of the Alcohol-Free Revolution, where James Lloyd and Steve Smith share their insights and experiences about socializing without alcohol. In this episode, they dive into the challenges and rewards of going alcohol-free in social settings, and how this lifestyle shift can impact personal relationships and overall well-being.James and Steve reflect on the common fears associated with socializing alcohol-free, such as the fear of being left out or perceived as boring by friends. They discuss how patience and self-kindness can help overcome these initial hurdles, offering examples from their own journeys and those of their coaching clients.The conversation expands to include the benefits of choosing alcohol-free alternatives, the ripple effects of an alcohol-free lifestyle on friendships, and the shift in societal attitudes towards drinking. As they share personal anecdotes, they reveal how going alcohol-free has deepened their connections and brought unexpected joy to social occasions.Join James and Steve as they continue to explore this revolutionary lifestyle choice and offer practical tips for those considering this path. Whether you're curious about the alcohol-free life or looking for support and motivation, this episode provides valuable insights and encouragement.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of the "Alcohol-Free Revolution Podcast," where hosts Steve Smith and James Lloyd embark on a journey to explore the joys and challenges of living alcohol-free. Recorded from their stylish Surrey studios, this episode sets the tone for an open discussion on sobriety, regardless of where listeners are on their journey. Steve and James share personal stories about their decision to quit alcohol, the hurdles they've overcome, and the transformational experiences that have validated their choice. As both have now amassed years of sobriety, they discuss the societal norms surrounding drinking, the myths they've debunked, and the newfound clarity and joy that sobriety has brought into their lives. Whether you're contemplating an alcohol-free life or have been on the path for years, Steve and James are here to provide support, share laughs, and guide listeners with their authentic and sometimes humorous insights. Join the community as they break down barriers and celebrate life without alcohol. If you are interested about hearing more about what Steve and James do or to be coached by either of them then just follow the links below   James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032   Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links