The No More Wasted Days Podcast

Епизоди

• 
  Ep. 183: Transfer Addiction Explained: What Happens After You Quit Drinking 28.07.2026 25мин

  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   📚 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 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_w
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  Ep. 182: I Don’t Always Like Myself Sober 21.07.2026 23мин

  What happens when sobriety feels awkward, uncomfortable, or like more work than you expected? In this episode, I’m sharing the parts of being completely sober that I don’t always love, from making new friends without alcohol to setting harder boundaries, managing stress without checking out, and accepting that my house may be a little messier. I also explain why I’m still choosing sobriety every time. Because discomfort passes, but the clarity, self-trust, and freedom that come from facing life fully present are always worth it.  Need sober friends who truly understand? Try the Day Makers community for two weeks for just $7. https://nomorewasteddays.co/day-makers-community/ Resources and Links: Join the Day Makers CommunityLooking for alcohol-free support, weekly group coaching calls, and a private community of like-minded alcohol-free badasses? Come join us inside Day Makers. You can try your first two weeks for just $7. CLICK HERE to join. Sara’s Favorite Things: https://nomorewasteddays.co/favorites/   Support the Podcast:If you love the No More Wasted Days podcast, please take a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or rate and comment on Spotify. It helps more people find the show and begin their own alcohol-free journey. ***************************************   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
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  Ep. 181: Beth Feraco on Sobriety, Fitness, and Breaking the Diet Cycle 14.07.2026 37мин

  In this episode, Sara sits down with Beth Feraco of Beth Feraco Fitness to talk about quitting drinking, rebuilding her identity, and creating a sustainable approach to fitness and weight loss. They discuss the connection between alcohol and disordered eating, why extreme diets fail, and how simple habits like sleep, walking, strength training, and consistent nutrition can change your life. Beth also shares why your health plan should fit your actual life, not the life of a fitness influencer, and how sobriety helped her stop wasting days and start building a life she truly loves. Follow Beth on Instagram and TikTok at @bethferacofitness or learn more about her coaching at bethferacofitness.com 👉👉 Looking for support on your alcohol-free journey? Try your first two weeks inside the Day Makers community for just $7. https://nomorewasteddays.co/day-makers-community/   Support the Podcast:If you love the No More Wasted Days podcast, please take a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or rate and comment on Spotify. It helps more people find the show and begin their own alcohol-free journey. ***************************************   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
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  Ep. 180: From Chaos to Calm - Rediscovering Yourself After Alcohol 07.07.2026 39мин

  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
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  Ep. 179: The Truth About Being a Beachbody Coach: We Sold Fitness, Drank Alcohol, and Called It “Balance” 30.06.2026 35мин

  Ready for a real reset this summer? Join the Dry July Challenge, a 30-day alcohol-free challenge with daily support, coaching, mindset tools, and community. Stop white-knuckling, break the start-stop drinking cycle, and see how good you can feel without alcohol. Click the link to sign up today. www.nomorewasteddays.co/dryjuly In this episode, Sara talks with sober content creator and author Hadley Sorensen about quitting drinking, blackout drinking, moderation, mommy wine culture, and the pressure to make alcohol part of a “healthy” lifestyle. They also unpack their complicated pasts as Beachbody coaches, including the ways alcohol, fitness culture, and MLM-style marketing became intertwined. Hadley shares why she chose an alcohol-free life without identifying as an alcoholic, what socializing looks like now, and why none can be easier than trying to moderate. Follow Hadley on Instagram: @hadley_sorensenGet her book: The Dirty Truth on Social Drinking: Everything in Moderation and Other BS   Sara’s Favorite Things: https://nomorewasteddays.co/favorites/   Support the Podcast:If you love the No More Wasted Days podcast, please take a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or rate and comment on Spotify. It helps more people find the show and begin their own alcohol-free journey.   ***************************************   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  
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  Ep. 178: The One Mindset Shift That Finally Made Quitting Alcohol Easy 23.06.2026 26мин

  Let's stop wasting our summers to hangovers! Get early access to the Dry July challenge. --> https://nomorewasteddays.co/waitinglistSara 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. Dry July Challenge - CLICK HERE to get early access to the Dry July Challenge. 🧠 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
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  Ep. 177: Coming Back After a Relapse w/ Laura Van Antwerp (aka: Your Sober Pal) 16.06.2026 39мин

  In this episode of the No More Wasted Days Podcast, Sara sits down with Laura Van Antwerp, also known as Your Sober Pal, for an honest and funny conversation about moderation, relapse, and finding your way back after drinking again. Sara and Laura talk about why so many of us try so hard to moderate, the rules we create around drinking, and the moment when it becomes clear that moderation is taking more work than simply quitting. Laura also shares her experience with multiple day ones, what helped her keep going, and why relapse does not mean you have failed. They also talk about sober joy, sober retreats, backpacking adventures, and the power of finding people who remind you that alcohol-free life is not boring. It can actually be bigger, freer, and a lot more fun. In this episode, we talk about: Why moderation can feel like a full-time job The red flags that show alcohol may no longer be working for you What to do after a relapse Why “never give up” can be more powerful than “never drink again” Laura’s sober adventure retreats and backpacking trips The importance of connection and sober community   Follow Laura: You can find Laura on Instagram and TikTok at @yoursoberpal and learn more about her retreats, backpacking trips, scholarship program, and free monthly sober hangouts at www.yoursoberpal.com.   Resources and Links: Join the Day Makers CommunityLooking for alcohol-free support, weekly group coaching calls, and a private community of like-minded alcohol-free badasses? Come join us inside Day Makers. You can try your first two weeks for just $7. CLICK HERE to join. Sara’s Favorite Things: https://nomorewasteddays.co/favorites/   Support the Podcast:If you love the No More Wasted Days podcast, please take a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or rate and comment on Spotify. It helps more people find the show and begin their own alcohol-free journey. ***************************************   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
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  Ep. 176: The One Habit Change That Makes Quitting Drinking Easier 09.06.2026 25мин

  In this episode of the No More Wasted Days podcast, Sara talks about how so much of her drinking was rooted in habit, and how learning to change those habits helped her build an alcohol-free life. Inspired by James Clear’s book Atomic Habits, this episode explores why quitting drinking is not just about one big decision. It is about creating small, repeatable systems that support the person you are becoming. Sara shares how daily gratitude, affirmations, new routines, and identity-based habits helped her move away from drinking and start seeing herself as someone who simply does not drink. She also breaks down James Clear’s four laws of behavior change and shows how to use them to build alcohol-free habits while making drinking less automatic, less appealing, and harder to return to. If you have ever felt stuck in the same drinking patterns, this episode will help you see that change does not have to happen overnight. Small choices, repeated consistently, can completely shift your life. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Why alcohol can feel more like a habit than an addiction for many people How small daily actions compound over time Why your systems matter more than willpower How to start seeing yourself as a non-drinker Simple habit swaps for the hardest craving windows How to use James Clear’s four laws of behavior change in your alcohol-free journey   Resources and Links: Join the Day Makers CommunityLooking for alcohol-free support, weekly group coaching calls, and a private community of like-minded alcohol-free badasses? Come join us inside Day Makers. You can try your first two weeks for just $7. CLICK HERE to join. Sara’s Favorite Things: https://nomorewasteddays.co/favorites/   Support the Podcast:If you love the No More Wasted Days podcast, please take a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or rate and comment on Spotify. It helps more people find the show and begin their own alcohol-free journey. ***************************************   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
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  Ep. 175: The Sobriety Reset You Didn’t Know You Needed w/ Heather Pennell 02.06.2026 36мин

  Heather Pennell is back on the No More Wasted Days podcast, and this episode feels like catching up with an old friend. In this conversation, Sara and Heather talk about Heather’s five-year alcohol-free anniversary, what life has looked like since stepping away from the podcast, and how she has been rebuilding after a season of burnout, health challenges, major life disruptions, and emotional overwhelm. Heather shares what helped her begin to feel more regulated, including slowing down, creating calmer mornings, delaying phone use, supporting blood sugar, and increasing her window of tolerance. She also opens up about emotional sobriety, taking up space, letting go of “nice girl” conditioning, and learning how to live alcohol-free in a way that feels grounded, calm, and sustainable. This episode is a reminder that alcohol-free living is not just about removing alcohol. It is also about learning how to care for your nervous system, protect your energy, and build a life you no longer need to escape from.   Resources and Links: Join the Day Makers CommunityLooking for alcohol-free support, weekly group coaching calls, and a private community of like-minded alcohol-free badasses? Come join us inside Day Makers. You can try your first two weeks for just $7. CLICK HERE to join.   Work with Heather 1:1If Heather’s story and coaching style spoke to you, check out her one-on-one coaching options for deeper support on your alcohol-free or personal reset journey. CLICK HERE to work with Heather.   Join Heather’s Real Life ResetHeather’s Real Life Reset is a 40-day group coaching program designed to help you feel more like yourself again by focusing on sleep, mornings, food, anxiety, motivation, habits, and emotional regulation. The next round starts June 15th. CLICK HERE to join the Real Life Reset.   Connect with Heather:Instagram: @heatherpennellcoaching   Support the Podcast:If you love the No More Wasted Days podcast, please take a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or rate and comment on Spotify. It helps more people find the show and begin their own alcohol-free journey. ***************************************   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
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  Ep. 174: Sober Sex, Parenting, and Mom Wine Culture w/ Stefanie Wilder-Taylor & Casey McGuire Davidson 26.05.2026 53мин

  👉👉 Ready to take your first step toward an alcohol-free life? This is you last chance to save $20 off  the Reboot & Refresh: 30 Day Alcohol-Free Challenge with the code MAY20. Inside the challenge, you’ll get daily videos, daily emails, a printable workbook, and a mindset journal to help you build momentum and confidence in your alcohol-free journey.About this Episode: This week on the No More Wasted Days Podcast, Sara sits down with two incredible women in the alcohol-free space: In this honest, funny, and deeply relatable conversation, they talk all about parenting sober, mom wine culture, getting sober after kids, and the reality of rebuilding your life without alcohol. They also dive into: Why motherhood and drinking became so intertwined The pressure of “mom wine culture” What changed after quitting drinking Talking to teenagers about alcohol Driving drunk shame and sober parenting wins Marriage after alcohol Sober intimacy and sober sex Why alcohol-free life gets better over time The fear of losing your personality after quitting drinking This episode is packed with honesty, humor, and so many moments that will make you feel less alone if you’re questioning your relationship with alcohol.Connect with Today’s Guests: Follow Casey McGuire Davidson: Instagram: @caseymdavidson Podcast: Hello Someday Podcast Follow Stefanie Wilder-Taylor: Instagram: @swildertaylor Podcast: The Drunkish Podcast   Ready to Start Your Alcohol-Free Journey? The $20 off anniversary sale for the Refresh & Reboot: 30 Day Alcohol-Free Challenge is ending soon. Use coupon code MAY20 to save $20 off your enrollment and join Sara for: Daily videos Daily emails Printable journal prompts A printable workbook Support and guidance through your first 30 alcohol-free days This challenge helped Sara become alcohol-free nearly 7 years ago, and it could be the thing that changes your life too. CLICK HERE to join today.   ✨ If this episode helped you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear 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
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  Ep. 173: The Truth About Long-Term Sobriety Nobody Talks About 19.05.2026 27мин

  Ep. 173: The Truth About Long-Term Sobriety Nobody Talks About 🎉 May is my alcohol-free anniversary month, and to celebrate, you can save $20 on my self-led 30 Day Alcohol Free Challenge with coupon code MAY20. Details linked below.   Episode Summary:In this deeply personal episode, I’m reflecting on what I’ve learned after 7 years alcohol-free, including what changed dramatically, what surprised me most, and what still takes work. When I first quit drinking in 2019, I thought I was just taking a 30-day break to “prove” I didn’t have a problem. I never imagined that one decision would completely transform my confidence, relationships, identity, and the direction of my life. In this episode, I break down my journey in two phases: Years 1–3: rebuilding habits, learning to socialize alcohol-free, navigating cravings, and discovering who I was without alcohol Years 4–7: emotional sobriety, nervous system regulation, boundaries, authenticity, deeper healing, and eventually becoming fully sober after quitting weed too I also share:✨ Why decision fatigue around alcohol eventually disappears✨ What actually gets easier over time✨ The emotional work sobriety doesn’t magically fix✨ How anxiety changed after quitting substances✨ Why self-trust has become one of the greatest gifts of this journey✨ The difference between external transformation and internal transformation✨ What “true recovery” feels like for me now If you’re early in your alcohol-free journey, sober curious, or wondering whether long-term sobriety is worth it, this episode is for you. If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend or leave a review. Your support truly means the world to me. Links, Resources, and Sponsors:Join the 30 Day Challenge (don’t forget the coupon code MAY20):https://nomorewasteddays.co/30-day-challenge/ Athletic Brewing:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/athleticbrewing Upper Left Strength Co.:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/upperleft   If this episode helped you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear 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
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  Ep. 172: The Truth About Being “Cali Sober” w/ Adriana Cavallo 12.05.2026 53мин

  Ready to take your first step toward an alcohol-free life? During the month of May, you can join the Reboot & Refresh: 30 Day Alcohol-Free Challenge for $20 off with the code MAY20. Inside the challenge, you’ll get daily videos, daily emails, a printable workbook, and a mindset journal to help you build momentum and confidence in your alcohol-free journey.   Episode Summary:In this episode of the No More Wasted Days podcast, Sara sits down with sobriety content creator Adriana Cavallo for a raw and honest conversation about addiction, recovery, and what happens when you stop numbing yourself with alcohol and weed. Adriana shares her story of developing severe alcohol addiction while working in the restaurant industry, being hospitalized for liver failure at 30 years old, and the long road that followed after trying to moderate, becoming “Cali sober,” and eventually realizing she needed to become fully substance-free. In this episode, we discuss: What it’s like trying to quit drinking while working in the restaurant industry Why “special occasion drinking” slowly pulled Adriana back into alcohol The hidden struggles of being “Cali sober” Why weed became another form of escapism How boredom and stillness can actually become peaceful in sobriety The importance of sober community and support Why recovery doesn’t have to look perfect or extreme How both Sara and Adriana learned to finally feel comfortable in their own skin This episode is honest, emotional, funny, and incredibly relatable for anyone questioning their relationship with alcohol, weed, or escapism in general. You can follow Adriana on Instagram and TikTok at @theadgeofsobriety for more inspiration and support on your alcohol-free journey. Get through your next craving with this recording from Adriana - https://stan.store/TheAdgeofSobriety Links, Resources, and Sponsors: Adriana's "Sponsor in Your Pocket" recording:https://stan.store/TheAdgeofSobriety Join the 30 Day Challenge:https://nomorewasteddays.co/30-day-challenge/ Athletic Brewing:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/athleticbrewing Upper Left Strength Co.:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/upperleft   If this episode helped you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear 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
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  Ep. 171: Feel Bored After Quitting Drinking? Here’s Why (and How to Fix It) 05.05.2026 26мин

  I’m celebrating my 7 year alcohol free anniversary on May 13th, and you’re invited to celebrate with me. 👉 Join the Reboot & Refresh: 30 Day Alcohol Free Challenge Use code MAY10 to save 10% this month. Inside the challenge: • Daily videos + emails for guidance • Printable workbook + mindset journal • Self-paced, simple structure to get you through your first 30 days This is exactly how I started my journey, and it changed everything.   Episode Summary In this episode, I break down one of the biggest mindset shifts in early sobriety: Alcohol isn’t a reward, it’s a sedative dressed up as one. When you remove alcohol, it’s common to feel flat, bored, or restless. That doesn’t mean something is wrong. It means your brain is healing and recalibrating. I’ll walk you through how to rebuild your reward system so you can actually feel good again, without relying on alcohol.   What You’ll Learn Why alcohol trains your brain to associate it with relief, celebration, and relaxation Why early sobriety can feel “meh” (and why that’s a good sign) The difference between quick dopamine hits and real, lasting pleasure Simple, repeatable daily rewards that help retrain your brain How to shift from numbing out to actually enjoying your life   Build Your New Reward System Use this simple framework to start today: 1 Daily Reward – quick, grounding, repeatable 1 Weekly Reward – something fun and intentional 1 Future Reward – something to look forward to This is how you stop relying on alcohol and start creating a life you genuinely enjoy.   Key Reminder You’re not losing something when you quit drinking.You’re upgrading your entire reward system.   Links, Resources, and Sponsors:Join the 30 Day Challenge:https://nomorewasteddays.co/30-day-challenge/ Athletic Brewing:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/athleticbrewing Upper Left Strength Co.:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/upperleft   If this episode helped you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear 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
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  Ep. 170: Healing Your Relationship with Alcohol AND Food w/ Lindsay Sparks 28.04.2026 52мин

  If you’ve ever quit drinking and found yourself struggling with food, body image, or control… this conversation will hit home. In this episode, Sara sits down with sober dietitian Lindsay Sparks (@soberandnourished on Instagram) to unpack the deep connection between alcohol, disordered eating, and the pursuit of control. From growing up in diet culture to navigating sobriety, Lindsay shares how healing her relationship with food ultimately led her to question her drinking, and later, her relationship with weed. This is an honest, layered conversation about what it really means to feel at home in your body without numbing out. In this episode, we talk about: How body image struggles often begin early and are shaped by culture, media, and family influences The restrict–binge cycle and how it mirrors patterns with alcohol Why control (with food or drinking) often backfires The concept of intuitive eating and reconnecting with your body’s cues The overlap between disordered eating and alcohol use Why quitting drinking doesn’t automatically “fix” your relationship with food Sugar cravings in early sobriety and what your body actually needs Lindsay’s journey from alcohol-free to fully substance-free (including quitting weed) The hidden and normalized nature of both diet culture and alcohol use How to approach health, weight, and body changes without obsession or shame Key Takeaways: You’re not “failing” at moderation. These cycles are patterns, not personal flaws. Control creates backlash. Whether it’s food or alcohol, restriction often leads to overcorrection. Healing isn’t about perfection, it’s about awareness, consistency, and self-trust. Early sobriety requires nourishment, not punishment. You can build a life where you feel good in your body without numbing, restricting, or obsessing.   Connect with Lindsay: Instagram: @soberandnourished Work with Lindsay through Nourish (telehealth dietitian services) Website coming soon (link will be added in show notes)   Links, Resources, and Sponsors:Join the Day Makers:https://nomorewasteddays.co/day-makers-community Athletic Brewing:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/athleticbrewing Upper Left Strength Co.:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/upperleft   If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Remember, you only get one life. The question isn’t “why quit?” It’s “why stay disconnected from 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
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  Ep. 169: Stop White-Knuckling Sobriety: 6 Ways to Make It Feel Natural 21.04.2026 29мин

  What if being alcohol-free didn’t feel like a daily battle… but just who you are? In this episode, Sara breaks down the shift from relying on exhausting willpower to stepping into true empowerment, where sobriety feels natural, aligned, and even effortless over time. If you’ve ever felt like you’re “white-knuckling” your way through this journey, this episode gives you practical ways to change that. The 6 Strategies to Move from Willpower → Empowerment: Reframe Your Mindset Shift from “I can’t drink” to “I don’t drink.” Start seeing your alcohol-free life as an upgrade, not a loss. Strengthen Your Why Get clear on why this matters to you, and make it personal. Your why should feel powerful enough to guide your decisions. Embrace a Growth Identity Focus on who you’re becoming. Start living like that version of you now through habits, routines, and hobbies. Automate Your Habits Create routines that reduce decision fatigue. The less you have to decide, the easier it is to stay alcohol-free. Surround Yourself with Empowering Influences Audit your environment, both online and in real life. Choose people, content, and communities that support your growth. Celebrate Identity Shifts Acknowledge your wins, big and small. Reinforce the identity of someone who doesn’t drink.   Links, Resources, and Sponsors:Join the Day Makers:https://nomorewasteddays.co/day-makers-community Athletic Brewing:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/athleticbrewing Upper Left Strength Co.:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/upperleft   If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Remember, you only get one life. The question isn’t “why quit?” It’s “why stay disconnected from 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
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  Ep. 168: She Quit Alcohol, Weed, and Cigarettes… Here’s What Happened (w/ Jessi Hartnett) 14.04.2026 41мин

  In this episode, Sara sits down with Jessi Hartnett, host of the Honor Your Heart Podcast, to talk about breaking free from cigarettes, weed, and alcohol, and what it really takes to stay free.Jessi shares her journey from perfectionism and burnout to healing, revealing how substances were never the real problem – they were the solution she used to cope. Together, they unpack the emotional roots of addiction, the surprising challenges of quitting weed, and why true freedom comes from learning how to meet your needs in healthier ways.If you’ve ever felt stuck in a cycle of numbing out, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on and how to start reconnecting with your authentic self.   What You’ll Learn Why perfectionism and workaholism often fuel substance use The emotional rollercoaster behind drinking, smoking, and using weed The truth about weed withdrawal that no one talks about Why quitting all substances at once can sometimes be more effective How anger can actually help you break free The difference between external success and internal peace Why lasting change requires inner work, not just willpower   Key Takeaway You’re not just quitting a substance—you’re learning how to come back to yourself.   Connect with Jessi Connect with Jessi Hartnett on social media (@honor_your_heart) You Can Quit Smoking Podcast - https://www.honoryourheart.net/podcast www.honoryourheart.net Honor Your Heart: Your Path to Stop Smoking and Stay Stopped - https://a.co/d/0iIIsM2w Links, Resources, and Sponsors:Join the Day Makers:https://nomorewasteddays.co/day-makers-community Athletic Brewing:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/athleticbrewing Upper Left Strength Co.:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/upperleft   If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Remember, you only get one life. The question isn’t “why quit?” It’s “why stay disconnected from 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
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  Ep. 167: When You Quit Drinking… But Your Partner Doesn’t 07.04.2026 30мин

  Quitting drinking when your partner doesn’t can feel isolating, but it’s more common than you think.This episode breaks down how to stay grounded in your alcohol-free journey without trying to control or change your partner. Learn how to set boundaries, communicate clearly, and create new ways to connect without alcohol.You’ll walk away with practical tools to protect your peace, strengthen your relationship, and build a life that actually feels better without drinking.Links, Resources, and Sponsors:Join the Day Makers:https://nomorewasteddays.co/day-makers-community Athletic Brewing:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/athleticbrewing Upper Left Strength Co.:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/upperleft   If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Remember, you’re not too much. You’re not broken. And you’re not imagining things.   ***************************************   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
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  Ep. 166: Narcissists, Alcohol, and Waking Up w/ Jill McKnight 31.03.2026 59мин

  👉👉 Join the Alcohol Free April Challenge today and start your 30-day reset with daily support, tools, and community. www.nomorewasteddays.co/alcoholfreeapril    In this powerful conversation, Sara sits down with mindset coach and speaker Jill McKnight to explore the connection between alcohol, emotional manipulation, and learning to trust yourself again. Jill shares her personal experience navigating a narcissistic relationship and how alcohol can both mask and intensify the confusion, self-doubt, and emotional exhaustion that often come with it. Together, they unpack how to recognize red flags, rebuild self-trust, and begin reclaiming your identity, whether you're still in the relationship or starting your healing journey. If you’ve ever felt like you were “too much,” questioned your reality, or used alcohol to cope with stress or anxiety, this episode will help you see things more clearly and remind you that you are allowed to want more. In this episode, we cover: How narcissistic traits and alcohol misuse feed off each other Why you may feel like you’re the problem (and why you’re not) The role alcohol plays in numbing and delaying clarity Early warning signs of toxic or narcissistic dynamics How to start rebuilding trust in yourself Why leaving feels so scary, and how to move through that fear Small, practical ways to reconnect with your identity Connect with Jill McKnight Connect with Jill on Instagram @locatecoaching Jill’s Website - https://www.locatecoaching.com/ Jill’s Podcast: Life After: From Surviving to Thriving Free resource: 5 Ways to Identify a Narcissistic Relationship - https://locatecoaching.activehosted.com/f/3 Links, Resources, and Sponsors:Join Alcohol-Free April (starts April 1):https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/alcoholfreeapril Athletic Brewing:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/athleticbrewing Upper Left Strength Co.:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/upperleft If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Remember, you’re not too much. You’re not broken. And you’re not imagining things.   ***************************************   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
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  Ep. 165: Why You Can’t Seem to Stay Alcohol-Free 24.03.2026 24мин

  If you’ve ever quit drinking… started again… and then wondered why it feels harder the next time, this episode is for you. Because it’s not about willpower.It’s about what’s happening in your brain. In this episode, I break down why the start-stop cycle makes cravings, anxiety, and day one feel heavier each time, and how you can finally break that loop. What We Cover Why quitting feels harder every time you restart The dopamine loop that keeps pulling you back in Why anxiety and poor sleep get worse How the start-stop cycle impacts your nervous system The kindling effect (and why it matters) The Core Truth You’re not failing.You’re reinforcing a loop your brain has learned: Craving → Drink → Relief → Crash → Repeat And each time it repeats, it gets stronger. How to Break the Cycle Consistency over intensityFocus on not drinking today, not forever. Stop relying on willpowerUse tools, routines, and support. Shift your identityStart telling yourself: I do not drink. Learn what alcohol is actually doingKnowledge builds confidence and weakens the pull. Links & Resources Join Alcohol-Free April (starts April 1):https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/alcoholfreeapril Athletic Brewing:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/athleticbrewing Upper Left Strength Co.:https://www.nomorewasteddays.co/upperleft   Final Thought Instead of asking, “Why can’t I get this right?” Ask:👉 “What if I’ve just been taught the wrong way?”   If this episode helped you, be sure to follow, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs 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
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  Ep. 164: The Second Act: Reinventing Your Life After Alcohol w/ Melissa McGowan (The Sober New Yorker) 17.03.2026 48мин

  What if quitting drinking wasn’t the end of the fun… but the beginning of your second act? In this episode of No More Wasted Days, Sara sits down with Melissa McGowan, also known as The Sober New Yorker. Melissa shares how she transformed her life after alcohol and created a vibrant, joyful lifestyle filled with creativity, travel, community, and confidence. From Broadway dance classes to sober retreats in New York City, Melissa proves that an alcohol-free life can be anything but boring. If you’ve ever wondered what’s possible on the other side of quitting drinking, this conversation will inspire you to think bigger about your own future.   Download Sara’s Free 10 Mantras If you’re working on shifting your mindset around alcohol, Sara created 10 powerful mantras that helped her in early sobriety. You can download them here:👉 https://nomorewasteddays.co/10-mantras   In This Episode Melissa shares the story behind her decision to quit drinking after years of social drinking slowly became something that no longer felt good. A wake-up call from her doctor and the loss of a close friend helped her realize it was time to change her life. *Transcript* Episode 164_ Inter… Together, Sara and Melissa talk about: The moment Melissa knew it was time to quit drinking How alcohol quietly shrinks your world and keeps you “playing small” Why confidence often increases after quitting alcohol Letting go of shame and owning your alcohol-free identity The surprising joy of rediscovering old passions How Melissa found a new outlet through Broadway dance classes Navigating alcohol-free game days as a diehard Green Bay Packers fan Traveling the world sober (including trips to Bali, Italy, and London) Why it’s never too late for a “second act” in life Melissa’s story is proof that removing alcohol doesn’t take away your personality, it amplifies who you really are.   A Powerful Reminder from Melissa When you’re drinking, you give up everything for one thing. When you quit drinking, you give up one thing for everything.   About Melissa McGowan Melissa McGowan is the creator behind The Sober New Yorker, where she shares her alcohol-free journey and inspires others to live fully without alcohol. She is a: Podcast host Speaker and sobriety advocate Coach for people exploring an alcohol-free life Host of sober retreats in New York City Melissa is known for her vibrant social media presence where she shares her love for Broadway dance, travel, and living life out loud without alcohol.   Connect with Melissa Follow Melissa and learn more about her work: Instagram: @thesobernewyorkerWebsite: https://thesobernewyorker.comPodcast: The Sober New Yorker   If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend who might need to hear that life after alcohol can be bigger, brighter, and more joyful than they ever imagined.   ***************************************   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