What if the glass of wine you use to unwind is actually what’s holding you back?
In this powerful conversation, I’m joined by former BBC journalist and now alcohol-free coach Tracy Ollerenshaw, who shares how one courageous decision — to take a break from drinking — transformed her energy, purpose and sense of self.
Together, we explore what so many midlife women are quietly questioning: “I’m not out of control, but I don’t feel fully in control either.”
This is where grey area drinking lives — where habits are “normal,” but you don’t quite feel like yourself anymore. Through honest reflection and inspiring insights, Tracy opens up about how she broke free from autopilot living, and how the simple act of pausing helped her reconnect with joy, clarity and a whole new vision for her life.
In this episode we’re unwrapping:
What grey area drinking really looks like for high-achieving women.
How alcohol impacts mood, hormones and identity, especially in perimenopause.
The hidden cost of “coping” and the power of choosing clarity instead.
How Tracy built a new identity by changing her environment and habits.
Why podcasts and social media can be lifelines when you feel alone in your decision.
The unexpected joy of sober living — and how it helped Tracy reconnect with herself, her kids and her purpose.
The importance of community, support and self-compassion on this journey.
Three small steps to start redefining your relationship with alcohol, without pressure or shame.
About Tracy Ollerenshaw:
Tracy Ollerenshaw is the founder of Sober Glimmers and an accredited Alcohol-Free Coach who supports grey area drinkers ready to reclaim their energy, clarity and confidence. After two decades in broadcast news, including 15 years at BBC Radio 1, Tracy made the life-changing decision to go alcohol-free and is now passionate about helping other women break free from habits that no longer serve them.
Through her Go & Glow 30-day walking coaching programme and signature DRI Method (Disrupt – Reprogramme – Integrate), Tracy offers a powerful yet compassionate approach to change. She also leads the Sober Glimmers Community — a space for women navigating midlife, perimenopause, relationships and identity shifts who are ready to step into their 2.0 era with intention and joy.
Connect with Tracy:
Get Tracy’s Free Seven Booze-free Swaps for Sober Curious Mums
About Life Now Coaching with Nicola:
We unwrap what healthy living really means, helping you cut through the confusion and overwhelm to build sustainable, healthy habits that actually fit your life. We’re here to strip back the noise and show you why prioritising your health is the key to the happy, vibrant life you’re striving for.
We specialise in supporting women in midlife to take control of their wellbeing and menopause journey using our RESET plan focused on: Mindset, Movement, Nutrition, Sleep, and Stress. Because when you feel strong, capable, and in control, everything changes.
Explore Our Free Resources & Support:
👉 Take the free Midlife Reset Quiz and find out what’s holding you back — and the first step to feeling like yourself again: https://nicola-w4qugfu9.scoreapp.com
🌎 Visit our website
📸 Follow on Instagram
💼 Connect on LinkedIn
🎥 Watch podcast episodes on YouTube
📖 Full episode notes available on our website here
🎙 Love the podcast? Subscribe, rate, and review to help more women create their own healthy habits and thrive through every season of life - including menopause!