Sara sits down with her friend Chelsea Bohnstedt, a yoga instructor and certified sound healer, to talk about her powerful alcohol-free journey. At the time of recording, Chelsea is 562 days sober, but her path to get here was far from linear. Chelsea opens up about: Hitting rock bottom after repeated starts and stops, and how a medical crisis finally became her turning point. The kindling effect. A dangerous neurological response that makes withdrawal symptoms worse each time you quit and start drinking again. Finding recovery through SMART Recovery and Y12SR (Yoga for 12-Step Recovery) after struggling to connect with traditional AA. Healing anxiety, rediscovering peace, and embracing the beauty of a “boring life.” How yoga, meditation, and sound baths helped her reconnect with her body and spirit, and why spirituality doesn’t have to look “religious.” Sara and Chelsea also share stories from their time together at the Sober Tahoe Adventure Retreat and reflect on how sound healing and self-care practices can unlock powerful emotional healing. 🧘‍♀️ Key Takeaways Kindling is real. If you've started and stopped many times, it can make withdrawals more severe and even life-threatening. Always consult a doctor for support when quitting. Peace is the new thrill. Sobriety gives you back your time, energy, and clarity. Spirituality can be simple. Connection, mindfulness, and presence count just as much as prayer or religion. Self-care is rebellion. Taking care of yourself and living with intention isn’t boring, it’s revolutionary. 🔗 Resources Mentioned SMART Recovery Meetings Y12SR – Yoga for 12-Step Recovery Follow Chelsea on Instagram @yogini.chels CLICK HERE to Join Chelsea’s hybrid yoga classes online through her studio (link in show notes). 💖 Favorite Quote “Taking care of yourself is the most rebellious thing you can do. Especially as a woman.” – Chelsea Bohnstedt If you loved this episode, please rate and review the show! Your support helps the No More Wasted Days Podcast reach more people who are ready to live free, present, and fully alive.   ************************************************ 🌟 Want deeper support on your alcohol-free journey? Come join us inside the Day Makers Community — my private coaching space where you’ll find weekly group calls, book clubs, reflection prompts, and real connection with people who get it. Whether you’re just starting out or years into your sobriety, this is where you’ll find the tools, strategies, and support to keep moving forward. 👉 Learn more and join us here: https://nomorewasteddays.co/day-makers-community/ ************************************************ Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial

Ready to finally break free from alcohol—and stop the cycle of numbing? Start your journey today with the Refresh & Reboot: 30 Day Alcohol-Free Challenge. This self-paced program gives you daily guidance, mindset tools, and video support from Sara to help you thrive through your first 30 days without alcohol. Podcast listeners get 20% off with code PODCAST20 at checkout.👉 Join the Challenge Here https://nomorewasteddays.co/30-day-challenge/ Episode Summary When you quit drinking, you expect the hard part to be over, but sometimes, the brain finds a new outlet for the same addictive patterns. In this episode, Sara opens up about her personal experience with transfer addictions - how her addictive tendencies shifted from alcohol to food tracking, sugar, and weed, and what she learned about herself in the process. Through stories, science, and self-compassion, Sara breaks down: What transfer addiction (or cross-addiction) actually is Why our brains latch onto new sources of dopamine when we remove alcohol How dopamine depletion and reward substitution keep us chasing “the buzz” Why it’s normal to experience new compulsions in early sobriety and how to move through them 7 powerful ways to heal the void and rebuild balance in recovery You’ll also hear Sara share research-backed insights on dopamine regulation, neuroplasticity, and the incentive sensitization theory, explaining why we crave even when we no longer enjoy the thing we’re craving. Whether your new obsession is sugar, scrolling, or staying “in control,” this episode reminds you that awareness is the first step toward freedom. 00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey 01:16 Understanding Transfer Addictions 03:36 Promoting the 30-Day Alcohol-Free Challenge 04:43 Realizing Transfer Addictions 07:40 Defining Transfer Addiction 10:40 The Science Behind Addiction 20:27 Recognizing and Managing Transfer Addictions 22:06 Practical Tools for Overcoming Addictions 26:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   🎧 Mentioned in this episode: Refresh & Reboot: 30 Day Alcohol Free Challenge - CLICK HERE to start your self guided 30 day alcohol free challenge today. 📚 Resources & Further Reading: Transfer Addictions, Dopamine, and Recovery National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) — Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction Volkow, N.D. et al. (2019). The Neuroscience of Drug Reward and Addiction. Annual Review of Psychology, 70, 373–397. Martinez, D. et al. (2005). Dopamine D2 Receptors in Addiction: Imaging Findings. JAMA Neurology, 62(4), 444–452. Koob, G.F. & Volkow, N.D. (2016). Neurobiology of Addiction: A Neurocircuitry Analysis. The Lancet Psychiatry, 3(8), 760–773. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) — The Brain, Addiction, and Recovery Pettinati, H.M. et al. (2021). A Systematic Review of Addiction Substitution in Recovery: Clinical Lore or Empirically-Based? Harm Reduction Journal (2024). Exploring Cannabis Substitution After Substance Recovery. Robinson, T.E. & Berridge, K.C. (2008). The Incentive Sensitization Theory of Addiction: Some Current Issues. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B, 363(1507), 3137–3146. Avena, N.M. et al. (2008). Evidence for Sugar Addiction: Behavioral and Neurochemical Effects of Intermittent, Excessive Sugar Intake. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 32(1), 20–39. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. What Is Transfer Addiction? Psychology Today. From One Addiction to the Next PubMed Central (2018). Structural and Functional Brain Recovery After Abstinence from Substance Use.   🧘‍♀️Books to Read to Further Your Knowledge on this Topic Gabor Maté. In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters with Addiction. Judson Brewer, MD, PhD. The Craving Mind. 💬 If this episode resonated with you: Leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It's one of the easiest ways to support the show! ******************************************* 🌟 Want deeper support on your alco

Sara discusses the mindset shift that helped her quit drinking effortlessly. She shares strategies from her personal journey, including writing daily affirmations, developing an unwavering commitment to sobriety, and adopting new identities.   00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:29 Early Days: Building Momentum 00:54 The Game Changer: 100 to 150 Days 01:09 Mindset Shift: Practical Steps 02:52 The Power of Affirmations 05:18 Deciding to Quit Forever 11:22 Identity and Willpower 12:52 Planning for Success 20:27 Creating a Support System 24:08 Final Thoughts and Encouragement   🎧 Mentioned in this episode: 10 Mantras for the Beginning of Your Alcohol Free Journey - CLICK HERE to download the 10 Mantras that Sara used at the beginning of her alcohol free journey. Refresh & Reboot: 30 Day Alcohol Free Challenge - CLICK HERE to start your self guided 30 day alcohol free challenge today. 🧠 Sources & Further Reading If you want to dig deeper into what’s really happening in your body during a hangover — from dehydration to acetaldehyde toxicity — here are the research-based resources referenced in this episode: Patrick, V. M., & Hagtvedt, H. “I Don’t vs. I Can’t: When Empowered Refusal Motivates Goal-Directed Behavior,” Journal of Consumer Research, 2012. Pignatiello, G. A., et al. “Decision Fatigue: A Conceptual Analysis,” Nursing Outlook, 2018. Evans, D. R., et al. “The nature of self-regulatory fatigue and ‘ego depletion’,” Personality and Social Psychology Review, 2016. Cooke, R., et al. “The effect of forming implementation intentions on alcohol consumption,” Health Psychology Review, 2022; see also 2023 update. Malaguti, A., et al. “Effectiveness of implementation intentions on substance use,” 2020 review. Milyavskaya, M., et al. “Saying No to Temptation: Want-to Motivation Improves Self-Regulation,” Journal of Personality, 2015. Larimer, M. E., & Marlatt, G. A. “Relapse Prevention and the Abstinence Violation Effect,” overview. 💬 If this episode resonated with you: Leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It's one of the easiest ways to support the show! ************************************************ 🌟 Want deeper support on your alcohol-free journey? Come join us inside the Day Makers Community — my private coaching space where you’ll find weekly group calls, book clubs, reflection prompts, and real connection with people who get it. Whether you’re just starting out or years into your sobriety, this is where you’ll find the tools, strategies, and support to keep moving forward. 👉 Learn more and join us here: https://nomorewasteddays.co/day-makers-community/ ************************************************ Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial

Sara dives into one of the most unforgettable parts of drinking → hangovers. From her worst-ever hangover in Punta Cana to the subtle shame-filled Sundays that followed too many nights out, Sara breaks down how hangovers evolved throughout her drinking years and how they became one of the biggest motivators for her sobriety. She doesn’t stop at personal stories. Sara also explores the science of hangovers: what’s actually happening inside your body and brain when you’re feeling miserable the next day. You’ll learn why alcohol leads to dehydration, inflammation, anxiety, and that 3 a.m. wake-up, plus why “hair of the dog” only keeps the cycle going. If you’ve ever wondered why hangovers hit so hard or need a vivid reminder of what you’re leaving behind, this episode is your reality check and your motivation to keep choosing a hangover-free life. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Today's Topic 02:28 The Worst Hangover Experience 09:00 Evolution of Hangovers Over the Years 15:34 The Science Behind Hangovers 25:06 Conclusion 💡 What You’ll Learn Sara’s most vivid hangover story and why it keeps her sober today How her hangovers evolved from college through adulthood The emotional side of hangovers → anxiety, shame, and isolation The six science-backed reasons we experience hangovers Dehydration and electrolyte loss Acetaldehyde toxicity Inflammation and immune response Blood sugar drops Disrupted sleep and neurotransmitter imbalance The emotional fallout (“hangxiety”) Why hangovers are a warning sign, not the price of fun 🎧 Mentioned in this episode: Path to Power Quiz - CLICK HERE to take the Path to Power Quiz and get your personalized podcast playlist today. Refresh & Reboot: 30 Day Alcohol Free Challenge - CLICK HERE to start your self guided 30 day alcohol free challenge today. 🧠 Sources & Further Reading If you want to dig deeper into what’s really happening in your body during a hangover — from dehydration to acetaldehyde toxicity — here are the research-based resources referenced in this episode: Mayo Clinic: Hangovers: Symptoms and CausesExplains how dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and poor sleep contribute to hangover symptoms. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): Hangovers Fact SheetOverview of the biochemical and neurological effects of alcohol withdrawal and hangovers. Harvard Health Publishing (2022): Why hangovers hurt and how to helpDiscusses blood sugar drops, dehydration, and sleep disruption caused by alcohol. Wiese, J.G., Shlipak, M.G., & Browner, W.S. (2000): The Alcohol Hangover. Annals of Internal MedicineFoundational research describing the physiological mechanisms behind hangover symptoms. Penning, R., McKinney, A., & Verster, J.C. (2010): The Pathophysiology of Alcohol Hangover. Current Drug Abuse ReviewsDetails inflammatory and immune system responses linked to acetaldehyde toxicity. Stephens, R., Grange, J.A., Jones, K., & Heffernan, T.M. (2014): A Review of the Cognitive and Neurobiological Effects of Alcohol Hangover. AddictionExplores how alcohol affects neurotransmitters, sleep quality, and cognitive performance. Quertemont, E. (2004): Acetaldehyde: A Biochemical Marker for Alcohol Addiction? Addiction BiologyExamines how acetaldehyde interacts with dopamine and reward pathways in the brain. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) (1999): Re-evaluation of Some Organic Chemicals. IARC Monographs, Vol. 71Classifies acetaldehyde as a Group 1 carcinogen. The same category as tobacco and asbestos. NIAAA: Alcohol Metabolism: An UpdateExplains how ethanol is converted into acetaldehyde and then into acetate in the liver. 💬 If this episode resonated with you: Leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It's one of the easiest ways to support the show! ************************************************ 🌟 Want deeper support on your alcohol-free journey? Come join us inside the Day Makers Community — my private coaching

Sara is taking you behind the scenes of her brother-in-law’s wedding, and sharing the real, sometimes awkward, sometimes empowering moments that come with showing up alcohol-free at big social events. From facing the “no mocktail” disappointment at the bar to stepping onto the dance floor without liquid courage (and realizing nobody’s actually watching you), Sara unpacks three personal stories that each reveal a powerful strategy for navigating social gatherings with confidence and joy. You’ll also hear how observing drunk guests held up a mirror to her old self, and why that reflection left her feeling nothing but gratitude. If weddings, parties, or social events still make you nervous on your alcohol-free journey, this episode will leave you feeling grounded, prepared, and totally capable. ✨ You’ll learn: How to handle limited drink options (and why it’s worth bringing your own NA stash). What to do when the dance floor feels intimidating. How visualization can make socializing sober feel easier. The mindset shift that turns “missing out” into deep appreciation. Four big-picture strategies for every event: Have a plan for how you’ll respond when offered a drink. Stay connected with a sober buddy or accountability partner. Set time boundaries — you don’t need to stay till 2 a.m. Plan next-day self-care to reinforce your alcohol-free win. 💡 Whether you’re attending a wedding, a work party, or a weekend dinner with friends, Sara’s insights will help you walk in with confidence — and wake up the next morning proud, clear, and hangover-free. 🎧 Mentioned in this episode: Free Alcohol-Free Checklist - CLICK HERE to download your guide to the essential tools and strategies that make alcohol-free living easier. 💬 If this episode resonated with you: Leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It's one of the easiest ways to support the show! ************************************************ 🌟 Want deeper support on your alcohol-free journey? Come join us inside the Day Makers Community — my private coaching space where you’ll find weekly group calls, book clubs, reflection prompts, and real connection with people who get it. Whether you’re just starting out or years into your sobriety, this is where you’ll find the tools, strategies, and support to keep moving forward. 👉 Learn more and join us here: https://nomorewasteddays.co/day-makers-community/ ************************************************ Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial

👉 Join the 30 Day Hype Human Reset Challenge (starting October 1st!) and get coaching, accountability, and community support. CLICK HERE to learn more and sign up.In this episode, I’m joined by my friend Bethany Judy, certified health coach, activist, and founder of The Hype Human. Bethany has been alcohol-free for over 7 years, and today she opens up about her sobriety story, the realities of quitting drinking, and how our relationship with food, body image, and self-worth can shift along the way. We dive into: Bethany’s journey to sobriety and the turning point that changed everything Why quitting alcohol doesn’t always equal weight loss (and what to focus on instead) The role of mindset, self-compassion, and community in building lasting change How to move past “the f-it’s” and reset when you fall off track The difference between health at every size vs. toxic diet culture — and how to find your personal definition of health Bethany also shares details about her upcoming program, the 30 Day Hype Human Reset Challenge, which is designed to help you set realistic goals, build habits that stick, and find a supportive community while doing it. 👉 Join the 30 Day Hype Human Reset Challenge (starting October 1st!) and get coaching, accountability, and community support. CLICK HERE to learn more and sign up. And be sure to follow Bethany on IG: @bethanyvibes_af and @thehypehuman If you’ve ever wondered what comes after quitting drinking, how to truly care for your body and mind without restriction or shame then  this episode will give you hope, tools, and inspiration.   ************************************************   🌟 Want deeper support on your alcohol-free journey? Come join us inside the Day Makers Community — my private coaching space where you’ll find weekly group calls, book clubs, reflection prompts, and real connection with people who get it. Whether you’re just starting out or years into your sobriety, this is where you’ll find the tools, strategies, and support to keep moving forward. 👉 Learn more and join us here: https://nomorewasteddays.co/day-makers-community/ ************************************************ Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial

This week, I’m opening up about something I’ve kept close to the chest: my journey to becoming one year weed-free. 🍃🚫 For years, I celebrated living alcohol-free while still using weed as a way to “take the edge off.” At first, it felt like harm reduction. A softer landing after quitting drinking. But over time, I realized it was keeping me stuck, sneaking around, and not fully free. In this episode, I share: Why I decided “Cali sober” didn’t feel aligned for me. The messy truth of quitting weed (and how it was harder than quitting alcohol). The failed attempts, restarts, and what finally made it stick. How community, affirmations, and mindset shifts helped me reach one year. The identity shift that came with saying, “I’m sober! Alcohol and THC free.” The real benefits I’ve noticed, even when it didn’t feel easy. This is a vulnerable episode, but I know I’m not alone. Many people in alcohol-free spaces also wrestle with weed, and I hope my story gives you encouragement, clarity, and permission to keep going even if it takes multiple tries. ✨ Free Resource: Grab my 10 Mantras to Stay Alcohol-Free (they work for THC too!) → https://nomorewasteddays.co/10-mantras/ If you’ve been curious about what life looks like without THC, or you’re somewhere in the messy middle, I hope this episode meets you exactly where you are.   ************************************************   🌟 Want deeper support on your alcohol-free journey? Come join us inside the Day Makers Community — my private coaching space where you’ll find weekly group calls, book clubs, reflection prompts, and real connection with people who get it. Whether you’re just starting out or years into your sobriety, this is where you’ll find the tools, strategies, and support to keep moving forward. 👉 Learn more and join us here: https://nomorewasteddays.co/day-makers-community/ ************************************************ Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial

This week’s episode is bittersweet. After two years of laughter, learning, and countless “aha” moments, Heather is saying goodbye as co-host of the No More Wasted Days podcast. In this heartfelt conversation, Heather opens up about: Why listening to your intuition becomes so much clearer when you’re alcohol-free The difference between intuition and anxiety—and how to know which voice you’re hearing What “the work” really looks like in sobriety (spoiler: it’s not a rigid manual, it’s simple next-right-thing choices) Her own journey through stress, burnout, and learning to simplify life without alcohol Memorable moments from past episodes—everything from deep values work to cracking up over “almond brothers” and making your bed You’ll also hear Sara and Heather reflect on their favorite podcast memories, what they’ve learned from each other, and why laughter has been such an important part of tackling tough topics together. Although Heather is stepping away as co-host, she’s still active in the Day Makers community, leading coaching calls and supporting people on their alcohol-free journeys. You’ll likely hear her voice again as a guest on future episodes, and she’s also working on an exciting new memoir project. 👉 If Heather has impacted you on this podcast, let her know! Follow her on social media (links below) and come connect with her inside the Day Makers. This isn’t goodbye. It’s just “see you later.” Resources Mentioned: * Daymakers Community: Weekly coaching calls, private messaging threads, and a supportive community. CLICK HERE to learn more here. * Heather’s 1-on-1 Coaching: Tailored support to help you navigate your alcohol-free life. CLICK HERE to learn more.     ************************************************   Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial   Follow Heather on Social Media: IG: @withheatherp TikTok: @withheatherp

✨ Enrollment for PUSH to 100 closes tonight at midnight! If you’ve been waiting, this is your moment. Join me and an incredible community for 100 days alcohol-free. The challenge starts tomorrow, September 12th, and enrollment closes tonight (9/11) at midnight. Don’t do this alone. Join the PUSH to 100 here → https://nomorewasteddays.co/push-to-100/ What really happens when you go 100 days without alcohol? In today’s shorty episode, I’m walking you through the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual changes that unfold during the first 100 days of alcohol-free living. This is more than just white-knuckling it through a few weeks. It’s about experiencing a full transformation in body, mind, and spirit. We’ll break it down in clear timelines: Days 1–10 → The shock and shift. Withdrawal, sleep disruption, cravings, and the importance of tools and mindset right from the start. Days 11–30 → New patterns emerge. Energy begins to stabilize, mood regulation improves, and skin clarity starts to show. Days 31–60 → Identity begins to shift. Confidence grows, relationships change, and new habits take root. Days 61–90 → True rewiring. Dopamine recalibrates, triggers become easier to manage, and emotional resilience builds. Days 91–100 → Transformation takes root. Sobriety feels natural, self-trust deepens, and life begins to expand in exciting new directions. 100 days is a milestone that changes everything. It’s not the finish line. It’s the launchpad for a whole new way of living. Resources & Links 👉 Enrollment for PUSH to 100 closes tonight, September 11th at midnight. Join here: [https://nomorewasteddays.co/push-to-100/] Listen to Episode 128 for more on what happens in the first 10 days.   ************************************************   Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community.  CLICK HERE for all the details    Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey?  Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach.  CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today. ************************************************   Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial   Follow Heather on Social Media: IG: @withheatherp TikTok: @withheatherp

💥 Enrollment for the PUSH to 100 closes Thursday, September 11th at midnight! If you’ve been waiting for a sign, this is it. Join me for 100 days alcohol free with coaching, community, and a clear plan so you can roll into the holidays feeling strong, steady, and proud of yourself. Doors close at midnight on Sept. 11th. Don’t miss it! Tap here to join now. Losing a beloved pet can feel like the ground has been pulled out from beneath you. Pets aren’t “just animals”, they are companions, anchors, and members of the family who walk with us through our best and worst moments. And when they’re gone, the silence is deafening. In this heartfelt episode, Sara and Heather open up about their own experiences with pet loss on the alcohol-free path. Together, they explore: 🐾 Why pet grief can feel so heavy, especially when you’re not numbing with alcohol. 🌙 The routines and memories that make loss so jarring—and why it always feels like a shock. 💔 How grief tests your sobriety tools and what helps (and doesn’t). ✨ The concept of somatic grief—how our bodies physically hold onto loss. 🎶 Creative and holistic ways to process emotions (sound baths, movement, writing). 🐶 Welcoming new pets without “replacing” the ones we’ve lost, and how animals can ground us in our sober routines. This is a soft, compassionate space for anyone who has lost a pet, whether recently or years ago, and is navigating that grief in sobriety. Healing isn’t about forgetting, it’s about remembering with love and continuing forward, even through the cracks. 🔗 Resources & Links Join the PUSH to 100 (enrollment closes Sept. 11 at midnight!) → CLICK HERE If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend who might need this reminder: you are not alone in your grief, and you don’t have to numb the pain to move through it.   ************************************************   Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial   Follow Heather on Social Media: IG: @withheatherp TikTok: @withheatherp

✨ Enrollment for PUSH to 100 is officially open! This is my signature 100-day alcohol-free challenge designed to give you daily support, live coaching, and community so you never have to walk this path alone. Enrollment closes September 11th and space is limited so grab your spot today! www.nomorewasteddays.co/push-to-100/   In this shorty episode, I’m taking you all the way back to my very first day alcohol-free: May 13, 2019. I’ll share what life looked like the week before, how my husband and I went from heavy drinking to considering a break, and the exact details of how I got through Day 1. From writing “I do not drink” in my journal, to listening to This Naked Mind on my commute, to sipping LaCroix and kombucha at home. This was the day that quietly but powerfully changed everything. You’ll hear: The lead-up to my Day 1, including a cruise, milestone birthdays, and that inner knowing that I needed change. How I set myself up for success with gratitude journaling, affirmations, quit lit, and non-alcoholic drinks. The importance of having an after-work plan and identifying my “witching hour.” The one piece I wish I had embraced sooner: community. Whether you’re just thinking about quitting, preparing for your own Day 1, or already a few days in, my story will give you inspiration, practical tools, and the reassurance that you don’t have to figure it out alone. 👉 Ready to create your own Day 1? Apply now for PUSH to 100 and let’s do it together. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a minute to rate and review the podcast — it helps more people find encouragement for their alcohol-free journey.   Resources Mentioned: * Daymakers Community: Weekly coaching calls, private messaging threads, and a supportive community. CLICK HERE to learn more here. * Heather’s 1-on-1 Coaching: Tailored support to help you navigate your alcohol-free life. CLICK HERE to learn more.   ************************************************   Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community.  CLICK HERE for all the details    Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey?  Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach.  CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today. ************************************************   Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial   Follow Heather on Social Media: IG: @withheatherp TikTok: @withheatherp

Enrollment for PUSH to 100 is officially open! 🎉 If you’re ready to break out of the numbing cycle and discover what life feels like 100 days alcohol-free, this is your chance. Spots are limited to just 30 members, and once they’re gone, doors close. The challenge begins September 12th. Apply now at nomorewastedays.co/push-to-100. September is often a season of fresh starts—kids head back to school, routines shift, and life gets busy. But whether you’re a parent or not, this is the perfect time to take a look at your alcohol-free routines and set yourself up for success. In this episode, Sara and Heather share how routines reduce decision fatigue and make it easier to stay alcohol-free—even during the busiest seasons of life. From peaceful morning rituals to craving-time strategies, they’ll walk you through practical ways to create consistency without overwhelm. What you’ll hear in this episode: Why routines make your alcohol-free commitment easier to keep The power of morning routines to reduce stress and decision fatigue Midday “pick-me-ups” to keep cravings from sneaking in Evening rituals that comfort you without reaching for a drink The 3 Ds Method for cravings: Delay, Distract, Decide Why it’s okay when certain routines don’t work—and how to find what does By the end of this conversation, you’ll feel inspired to create simple, sustainable routines that make your alcohol-free journey lighter and easier. ✨ Reflection Prompt: What’s one small alcohol-free routine you want to start this week?   Resources Mentioned: * Daymakers Community: Weekly coaching calls, private messaging threads, and a supportive community. CLICK HERE to learn more here. * Heather’s 1-on-1 Coaching: Tailored support to help you navigate your alcohol-free life. CLICK HERE to learn more.   ************************************************   Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial   Follow Heather on Social Media: IG: @withheatherp TikTok: @withheatherp

✨ Before we dive in—don’t waste another weekend. Join me for No More Wasted Weekends, a free alcohol-free challenge happening August 29–September 1. For four days, you’ll get live coaching, practical tools, and the community support you need to see what’s possible when you don’t lose your weekends to hangovers or regret. Imagine waking up Monday proud, energized, and clearheaded. Sign up now at nomorewasteddays.co/weekend. Episode Overview Divorce is more than the end of a marriage. It’s the unraveling of routines, identities, and visions of the future. In this episode, Heather opens up about navigating divorce while staying sober, and what it means to rebuild self-trust when the ground feels shaky. Sobriety brings clarity, but that clarity can be overwhelming when you’re used to numbing or deferring decisions to others. Heather shares her raw experience of facing big life choices without alcohol, learning to sit in discomfort, and discovering strength in her own intuition. Sara and Heather also highlight the importance of community support, the challenge of breaking old relationship patterns, and the quiet resilience that comes from keeping promises to yourself—even in the smallest ways. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How sobriety changes the way you navigate major life transitions like divorce Why alcohol acts like a false compass, and what happens when you take it away The role of self-trust and intuition in making hard decisions without numbing How community support can provide a “soft place to land” during painful seasons Why resilience isn’t built in the absence of hardship, but through it   Resources Mentioned: * Daymakers Community: Weekly coaching calls, private messaging threads, and a supportive community. CLICK HERE to learn more here. * Heather’s 1-on-1 Coaching: Tailored support to help you navigate your alcohol-free life. CLICK HERE to learn more.   ************************************************   Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial   Follow Heather on Social Media: IG: @withheatherp TikTok: @withheatherp

Enrollment for PUSH to 100 is officially open for waiting list members! 🎉 This is your chance to be one of just 30 people walking through 100 days alcohol-free together. Get on the waiting list now at nomorewasteddays.co/100waitinglist to claim early access before spots fill up.   Today’s episode is extra special because I’m joined live and in-person by Laura Van Antwerp, also known as Your Sober Pal. Laura is the founder of YSP Adventures, where she leads sober women on life-changing retreats like Backpacking 101, whitewater rafting, and Tahoe adventure weekends. In this conversation, we dive into the importance of community in sobriety — how connection helps you go from just “not drinking” to actually thriving alcohol-free. You’ll hear two perspectives (Laura’s as an extrovert, mine as an introvert) on what it takes to find your people and why community is the missing piece for so many of us on this journey. 💡 What you’ll learn in this episode: 🌱 Why community is a key ingredient in long-term sobriety (and why going it alone is so tough). 🏔 How adventure, retreats, and shared experiences create accountability and excitement in sobriety. 💬 The healing power of shared stories from “me too” moments to celebrating sober wins together. 🤝 Practical tips for finding (or even creating) your own sober community, online and in real life. Laura and I also share our own journeys - from online groups and AA meetings to retreats and the Day Makers community,  and how each stage of connection shaped our growth. If you’ve been hesitant to step into community or you’ve been feeling stagnant in your sobriety, this conversation will remind you why connection changes everything. 👉 Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode: Join the PUSH to 100 waiting list: nomorewasteddays.co/100waitinglist Follow Laura on Instagram: @yoursoberpal + @ysp_adventures Explore Laura’s retreats: https://www.yoursoberpal.com/pages/ysp_adventures Learn more about the Day Makers community: https://nomorewasteddays.co/day-makers-community/ ✨ If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to hit subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who’s building their alcohol-free life! Resources Mentioned: * Daymakers Community: Weekly coaching calls, private messaging threads, and a supportive community. CLICK HERE to learn more here. * Heather’s 1-on-1 Coaching: Tailored support to help you navigate your alcohol-free life. CLICK HERE to learn more.   ************************************************   Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community.  CLICK HERE for all the details    Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey?  Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach.  CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today. ************************************************   Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial   Follow Laura on Social Media: IG: @yoursoberpal TikTok: @yoursoberpal

If you’re ready to go beyond 30 days and see what’s truly possible in 100 days alcohol-free, then the PUSH to 100 is for you. You’ll get the tools, coaching, and community to carry you through the hardest parts and into real transformation. Spots are limited, so don’t wait. Head to https://nomorewasteddays.co/100waitinglist/ to join the waiting list.Thinking about what life really looks like when you remove alcohol? In this episode, Sara and Heather break down the real shifts that happen at 30, 60, and 90 days alcohol-free—the challenges, the wins, and the milestones that will carry you forward. ✨ Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: 🌱 30 Days – The Wake Up Phase: Better sleep, clearer skin, mental fog lifting, and the first emotional rollercoaster. Why cravings and social triggers hit hardest here, and how to navigate them. 🔎 60 Days – The Clarity Phase: Rising energy, improved emotional regulation, and recognizing patterns. What to do when boredom or plateaus creep in, and why journaling and trying new things matters most. 🛠️ 90 Days – The Rebuild Phase: The identity shift of becoming “someone who doesn’t drink.” How to anchor into new routines, set boundaries, and start dreaming bigger for your alcohol-free life. 💡 Common challenges at each stage—like romanticizing drinking, Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS), complacency, or grief—and tools to help you keep moving forward. 🥂 Why hitting 100 days feels like one of the most powerful milestones of all. Whether you’re just starting out or already deep into your alcohol-free journey, this episode will help you see what’s possible when you keep going—one day at a time. 👉 Ready for deeper support? Join the PUSH to 100  and get the tools, community, and guidance to reach that next milestone with confidence. Join the waitlist here https://nomorewasteddays.co/100waitinglist/. Spots are limited to only 30 members Want weekly live coaching and connection? Check out the Day Makers Community your first 14 days are just $7. 🎧 Listen in and remind yourself: you’re doing better than you think you are. 💬 Let’s Connect We’d love to hear how this episode lands for you! Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube so we can keep creating content that supports your alcohol-free journey.   Resources Mentioned: * Daymakers Community: Weekly coaching calls, private messaging threads, and a supportive community. CLICK HERE to learn more here. * Heather’s 1-on-1 Coaching: Tailored support to help you navigate your alcohol-free life. CLICK HERE to learn more.   ************************************************   Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial   Follow Heather on Social Media: IG: @withheatherp TikTok: @withheatherp

🚀 Enrollment is opening soon for PUSH to 100 – my 100-day alcohol-free program that gives you the tools, support, and community to confidently take your next step. You don’t have to wait until things “get bad enough” to choose more for yourself. Join the waitlist here: www.nomorewasteddays.co/100waitinglist — spots are limited! In this short but powerful episode, I’m breaking down the rock bottom myth—the belief that you have to wait for a dramatic, movie-worthy moment to decide you’re done drinking. I share my own story of how alcohol was quietly eroding my energy, patience, confidence, and joy long before anything “big” happened. And I’ll walk you through the questions I wish I’d asked myself sooner—questions that could shift you from Is it bad enough? to Is this good enough? What you’ll hear in this episode: ✨ Why waiting for rock bottom delays action and keeps you stuck in shame ✨ How “functional” doesn’t always mean fulfilled ✨ The subtle cracks alcohol can create in your life (and how to spot them) ✨ Key questions to help you decide if your current reality is worth keeping ✨ How to take small, bite-sized steps toward alcohol freedom without deciding “forever” This is your reminder: You don’t need permission. You don’t need a label. You don’t have to drink more than your friends or have your life fall apart. You’re allowed to choose better simply because you want better. 👯‍♀️ Want deeper support for your journey? Join the PUSH to 100 waitlist to be the first to apply for the next round (spots open August 22!). You’ll get structure, coaching, community, and tools that go far beyond “just don’t drink.” ✨ nomorewasteddays.co/100waitinglist 🎧 If this episode helped you feel seen, leave a quick review! Your words help this message reach more people on the path to freedom.   Resources Mentioned: * Daymakers Community: Weekly coaching calls, private messaging threads, and a supportive community. CLICK HERE to learn more here. * Heather’s 1-on-1 Coaching: Tailored support to help you navigate your alcohol-free life. CLICK HERE to learn more.   ************************************************   Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community.  CLICK HERE for all the details    Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey?  Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach.  CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today. ************************************************   Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial   Follow Heather on Social Media: IG: @withheatherp TikTok: @withheatherp

🎯 Join the PUSH to 100 Waitlist! Ready to not just quit drinking, but truly transform your life? The next round of PUSH to 100 starts September 12th, with early enrollment for waitlist members opening August 22nd. Only 30 spots are available so everyone gets personal support from Sara. 👉 nomorewasteddays.co/100waitinglist/ In this candid conversation, Heather and Sara pull back the curtain on a topic so many sober women face but rarely talk about—emotional labor. From being the go-to problem solver to carrying emotional weight that isn’t yours, this episode dives into the toll it takes on your energy, peace, and sobriety. Heather shares her personal experience as “the strong one” and the survivor skills that often get mistaken for personality traits. Sara opens up about learning to set boundaries, asking for help, and releasing the belief that it’s her job to keep everyone happy. Together, they explore how to protect your well-being—especially in sobriety—without guilt. You’ll learn: ✨ What emotional labor really is—and why it’s often invisible, unpaid, and expected ✨ How to recognize if “being the strong one” has become your entire identity ✨ The hidden costs of always holding it together for others ✨ Practical boundary-setting strategies (without feeling selfish) ✨ Why clarity in sobriety is a gift—but not a license for emotional sacrifice ✨ Journal prompts to help you reflect on emotional weight that isn’t yours If you’ve ever felt drained from constantly supporting others—or struggled to let yourself be helped—this episode will remind you that protecting your peace is not selfish, it’s essential. Journal Prompts from this Episode: What emotional weight am I carrying that isn’t mine? What would it look like to stop rescuing people as a way to feel needed? 💬 Let’s Connect We’d love to hear how this episode lands for you! Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube so we can keep creating content that supports your alcohol-free journey.   🔥 Don’t forget! The PUSH to 100 Challenge kicks off September 12. ✨ Get on the waitlist now: nomorewasteddays.co/100waitinglist   Resources Mentioned: * Daymakers Community: Weekly coaching calls, private messaging threads, and a supportive community. CLICK HERE to learn more here. * Heather’s 1-on-1 Coaching: Tailored support to help you navigate your alcohol-free life. CLICK HERE to learn more.   ************************************************   Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community.  CLICK HERE for all the details    Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey?  Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach.  CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today. ************************************************   Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial   Follow Heather on Social Media: IG: @withheatherp TikTok: @withheatherp

🎯 Ready to go alcohol-free and actually thrive through it? Join the waitlist for the next round of PUSH to 100, starting September 12. Spots are limited to 30 members and early enrollment opens to the waitlist on August 22. Get on the list now → www.nomorewasteddays.co/100waitinglist   In this shorty episode, Sara breaks down what really happens in the first 10 days of an alcohol-free journey (beyond the highlight reels and feel-good memes). Most people don’t talk about the not-so-glamorous physical and emotional shifts that come up when you stop drinking. But Sara’s here to get real—and to empower you with science-backed insights and simple strategies so you can make it through the early days with confidence.   She covers: 🍷 What’s happening physiologically when alcohol leaves your system 🧠 How the dopamine crash messes with your motivation and mood 💤 Why sleep can get worse before it gets better 🍭 The truth about sugar cravings (and why they’re not just “bad habits”) 🧰 Six practical tools to survive and thrive in the first 10 days Whether you're just getting started or preparing for a new AF season, this episode will help you normalize the messy middle—and stick with it.   🔑 Key Takeaways: ✅ Alcohol affects way more than just your bloodstream—it impacts your dopamine, sleep cycles, and blood sugar✅ You’re not “doing it wrong” if the first 10 days feel flat, foggy, or hard✅ Healing happens in layers—physical, emotional, and spiritual✅ Nourishing your body with protein + complex carbs = fewer cravings and crashes✅ Morning routines and natural dopamine boosts can jumpstart your day✅ Planning your witching hour (and finding community) is essential to staying the course   👯‍♀️ Want deeper support for your journey? Join the PUSH to 100 waitlist to be the first to apply for the next round (spots open August 22!). You’ll get structure, coaching, community, and tools that go far beyond “just don’t drink.” ✨ nomorewasteddays.co/100waitinglist   🎧 If this episode helped you feel seen, leave a quick review! Your words help this message reach more people on the path to freedom.   Resources Mentioned: * Daymakers Community: Weekly coaching calls, private messaging threads, and a supportive community. CLICK HERE to learn more here. * Heather’s 1-on-1 Coaching: Tailored support to help you navigate your alcohol-free life. CLICK HERE to learn more.   ************************************************   Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community.  CLICK HERE for all the details    Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey?  Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach.  CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today. ************************************************   Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial   Follow Heather on Social Media: IG: @withheatherp TikTok: @withheatherp

👉 Your stress doesn’t have to lead to a drink. Let’s rewire that loop. ✨🚨 The PUSH to 100 Challenge starts September 12th! Ready to go all in on your alcohol-free journey? Join the waitlist now to be the first to apply — only 30 spots available.  🔗 nomorewasteddays.co/100waitinglist Stress is one of the most common triggers for drinking — and also for what comes next: the reward loop. Whether your loop looks like wine after work, mindless scrolling, or sugar binges, this episode dives deep into how to spot it, understand it, and shift it. In this Stress 2.0 conversation, Sara and Heather break down what keeps you stuck in the stress → reward → repeat cycle and how to actually replace it with something that supports your healing and growth. 🔄 You don’t need more willpower — you need new patterns. In this episode: 🌪️ Why stress is often the start of the loop — but not the whole story 🔁 How the reward loop forms and why it keeps repeating (even after you quit drinking) 📉 The long-term consequences of staying stuck: burnout, emotional flatness, and disconnection 🧠 A powerful 3-step framework for breaking the reward loop: 1️⃣ Pause & pattern break 2️⃣ Rewire the reward 3️⃣ Reframe the win 💬 Journal prompts to help you reflect and make a shift this week 🎯 Ideas for creating your own “reward menu” of healthy coping tools 🥴 Real talk about transfer addictions, sugar binges, and chaotic mornings 🧘‍♀️ Grounding practices that actually work in real life This is the burnout-prevention episode you didn’t know you needed. Whether you're early on in your alcohol-free journey or years in, stress will always be part of life — but your reward loop doesn’t have to be.   📝 Journaling Prompts: What has my go-to reward loop looked like? What’s one new reward I’d like to try this week? 🔥 Don’t forget! The PUSH to 100 Challenge kicks off September 12. ✨ Get on the waitlist now: nomorewasteddays.co/100waitinglist   Resources Mentioned: * Daymakers Community: Weekly coaching calls, private messaging threads, and a supportive community. CLICK HERE to learn more here. * Heather’s 1-on-1 Coaching: Tailored support to help you navigate your alcohol-free life. CLICK HERE to learn more.   ************************************************   Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community.  CLICK HERE for all the details    Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey?  Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach.  CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today. ************************************************   Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial   Follow Heather on Social Media: IG: @withheatherp TikTok: @withheatherp

Ready for a reset? The PUSH to 100 alcohol-free challenge starts September 12, and only 30 people will be accepted. Get on the waiting list now for first dibs when applications open: nomorewasteddays.co/100waitinglistYou are not broken. You’re just numbing. In this shorty episode, Sara is back from summer break to remind you of something powerful: your coping mechanisms aren't failures—they're adaptations. Whether it's alcohol, THC, sugar, screens, or scrolling, the urge to numb is part of being human. But there is another way. Sara walks you through: The many faces of numbing (it’s not just alcohol, think weed, sugar, binge-scrolling) Why numbing is a signal, not a personal flaw Her own story of numbing with wine after long days of teaching and what changed The key question that can help you shift in the moment: “What do I actually need right now?” Tiny, doable swaps to soothe your nervous system and reconnect with yourself How to build self-trust over shame If you’ve ever wondered why you keep reaching for the thing, even when you don’t want to anymore, this episode will help you recognize the deeper need underneath and respond with compassion. You don’t need more willpower. You need more awareness and kindness. Let this episode be your first step toward both.   💥 Join the PUSH to 100 waiting list today! If you're ready to stop numbing and start living, this is your next step. PUSH to 100 is a 100-day alcohol-free experience that helps you build clarity, confidence, and energy—without doing it alone. Only 30 spots are available and the waitlist gets first access. 👉 nomorewasteddays.co/100waitinglist Resources Mentioned: * Daymakers Community: Weekly coaching calls, private messaging threads, and a supportive community. CLICK HERE to learn more here. * Heather’s 1-on-1 Coaching: Tailored support to help you navigate your alcohol-free life. CLICK HERE to learn more.   ************************************************   Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community.  CLICK HERE for all the details    Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey?  Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach.  CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today. ************************************************   Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial   Follow Heather on Social Media: IG: @withheatherp TikTok: @withheatherp