Episodes
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In this episode of How I Quit Alcohol, Seana Smith shares her powerful story, reflecting on a childhood marked by both an idyllic lifestyle and the unpredictability of having an alcoholic father. Growing up around alcoholism left her in a constant state of hypervigilance, never quite knowing which version of him would appear each day. From the outside, Seana’s life looked perfect: an Oxford graduate, a thriving career with the BBC and Channel 9, a bestselling author, a happy marriage, and four vibrant children. Yet behind the scenes, alcohol was quietly eroding her health, emotional well-being, and sense of self.
With her engaging style and wit, Seana unveils the hidden challenges of her lifelong battle with alcohol, exploring how it impacted every aspect of her life—and ultimately, how she found the strength to change.
Seana Smith website: https://www.seanasmith.com/
Sober Journeys website: https://www.soberjourneys.com/
www.instagram.com/seanasmith
www.instagram.com/sober_journeys
Going Under, a memoir of family secrets, addiction and escape is published by Ventura Press.
In Australia: Going Under is available in bookshops and online stores in Australia and on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com.au/Going-Under-memoir-secrets-addiction/dp/0645497231/
In the USA: https://www.amazon.com/Going-Under-memoir-secrets-addiction/dp/0645497231/
In the UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Going-Under-memoir-secrets-addiction/dp/0645497231/
Going Under Audiobook: Going Under on Audible, narrated by Seana Smith, click here.
Going Under on Spotify: Listen to Going Under on Spotify here.
I’m attaching a copy of the book cover and a photo of me.
For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge go to
www.iquitalcohol.com.au
Follow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol
Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr Cassidy
If you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Sharing an episode from the beautiful Ash Butterss and her podcast The Unedited Woman, How to Embody and Befriend your Nervous System. Ash and I also announce a special announcement for our retreat we will be running together in Bali in Sept 2025 and our upcoming Nervous System Workshops in Brisbane, Fremantle and Sydney.
We chat about the importance of self awareness.
To find out more info our upcoming retreat in Bali go to
https://www.iquitalcohol.com.au/collections/retreat/products/bali-healing-retreat-balian-may-1-6
Workshops
https://www.iquitalcohol.com.au/collections/resources
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Missing episodes?
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In this episode, I catch up with HIQA grad and psychologist Rebecca Glorie to discuss her personal journey growing up in an environment affected by alcoholism. Rebecca shares the profound impact this had on her childhood and how it influenced her adult life. We delve into the concept of "repair after rupture," exploring the importance of healing relationships strained by addiction. Rebecca openly discusses confronting her own struggles with alcohol, the healthier coping mechanisms she now employs, and the pivotal decision to quit drinking to provide a better environment for her daughter.
To reach out to Rebecca go to
https://www.rebeccaglorie.com
For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge or Bali retreats go to
www.iquitalcohol.com.au
Follow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol
Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr Cassidy
If you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, I chat with Michelle, a graduate of the HIQA program, who at the time of this recording is celebrating 9 months alcohol-free.
Michelle shares her powerful journey of overcoming hidden drinking habits that spiralled into binge drinking. She opens up about drinking in the mornings to combat hangovers, which often led to all-day binges and passing out on the couch.
Her struggle took a toll on her mental health—mood swings, depression, and lies to her husband left him worried and unsure how to help. Overwhelmed by shame and embarrassment, Michelle felt completely lost.
Everything changed when she joined the HIQA Alcohol Challenge in January. Since then, she hasn’t touched a drop of alcohol. Through the program, Michelle uncovered the emotional triggers behind her drinking habits and learned how to sit with her feelings, rather than suppressing them with alcohol.
In this conversation, Michelle also shares practical tools that helped her navigate cravings and how she managed moments of overwhelm during her early days of sobriety. Tune in for her inspiring story of transformation and the strategies she used to build a healthier, balanced life and becoming a well resourced adult.
For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge go to
www.iquitalcohol.com.au
Follow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol
Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr Cassidy
If you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this solo cast, I offer some tips on preparing yourself for taking time off or quitting alcohol or changing a habit.
I share some tips on noticing patterns of thought, belief and behaviour.
Preparing your body.
Making a plan and more.
For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge go to
www.iquitalcohol.com.au
Follow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol
Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr Cassidy
If you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, we sit down with Britt, a wedding celebrant and MC based in Byron Bay, who shares her inspiring journey toward self-discovery and sobriety. After hitting rock bottom, Britt took on the HIQA 6-week challenge in January 2024 and is now proudly 9 months sober.
Throughout her journey, Britt learned valuable lessons about self-soothing, managing expectations, and sitting with her emotions without seeking external comfort. She also talks about setting clear, solid boundaries and the powerful process of unlearning and relearning behaviours that no longer served her.
By gaining confidence, clarity, and time, Britt has been able to refocus on her business and explore exciting new ideas for the future. Don't miss this insightful conversation about growth, resilience, and the freedom that comes with sobriety.
To reach out Brit on Insta go to @britt.happydays
For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge go to
www.iquitalcohol.com.au
Follow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol
Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr Cassidy
If you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, I catch up with my friend Kasey Chambers to chat about her new book, Just Don't Be a Dickhead. We dive into the importance of tuning into your inner voice, her decision to live alcohol-free, and the art of navigating divorce with grace. We also explore how to manage people-pleasing tendencies and reclaim your personal power. Kasey's new book is packed with down-to-earth wisdom and powerful insights. It had me cracking up laughing at time, and at times had me welling up with tears. Just like Kasey the book is down to earth, powerful but also very tender.
Kasey is an award-winning Australian singer-songwriter, known for her powerful storytelling and unique blend of country, folk, and rock. With numerous ARIA Awards under her belt and albums that have become staples in the Australian music scene, Kasey’s influence extends far beyond her music. Now, with her new book, she’s sharing even more of her personal journey and hard-earned wisdom with the world.
I love her, I love this book... I promise you, you will too.
Album preorder: https://ffm.to/backbonekcBook preorder: https://bio.to/KaseyChambersBookTour Tickets (incl. Book events): https://kaseychambers.com/#tour-datesHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, I talk with Chris Gimpel from Brisbane about his personal struggles with alcohol and how the need for acceptance fuelled a deeply problematic relationship with drinking. This conversation highlights a critical issue—many of us drink to feel accepted, and the effects on our lives, bodies, and mental health are profound. We explore the importance of getting curious about what drives our drinking, rather than succumbing to shame or embarrassment. We also talk about some important questions to ask yourself before you think about quitting alcohol.
Chris (and Presley) helps others in his role as Head of Client Engagement at Clean Slate Clinic and is a compassionate advocate for destigmatising substance dependence to remove that barrier for accessing addiction treatment services.
Clean Slate Clinic is a social enterprise who provides telehealth clinical support to help Australians struggling with alcohol, stimulant, or cannabis dependence to detox and recover safely from the comfort of their homes
His lived experience combined with his corporate background allows him to support our clients with deep understanding and to help grow Clean Slate.
Chris is dedicated to empowering others on their recovery journeys by sharing his story of hope and the opportunity for change.
Find out more at cleanslateclinic.com or follow on IG @cleanslateclinic
To reach out to Chris go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisgimpel/.
For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge go to
www.iquitalcohol.com.au
Follow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol
Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr Cassidy
If you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, Ash and I have a good old chat in the studio celebrating our book release, How I Quit Alcohol, A Rock N Roll Guide To Sobriety.
We chat about that first year of sobriety and beyond, how much our life has changed and some of the challenges that we faced in early sobriety.
We also talk about why choosing a 12 month break is a great reset and why it's so important to have 100% commitment with your choices.
Why changing your self concept is also so important to create lasting and rewarding change.
Tune in for those juicy topics and much more...
To order the hardcopy of our book go to www.iquitalcohol.com.au
Or to order on Kindle go to https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D8PKZ931?ref_=pe_93986420_774987470
For more resources such as coaching, retreats or to join the next HIQA challenge go to
www.iquitalcohol.com.au
Follow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol
Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr Cassidy
If you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This episode is without a doubt one of my all-time favorite conversations on the podcast! In this episode, I chat with the renowned meditation teacher, David Ji, who has guided millions of people on their journey to heal their hearts and embrace the power of meditation.
What We Discuss:
Shedding What Doesn’t Serve Us: David and I explore the concept of letting go of the things in our lives that no longer serve us, viewing this as a form of rebirth or life rebranding.Who’s in Your Front Row: We dive into the importance of becoming aware of the people in your "front row"—those who directly influence your life—and why it’s crucial to surround yourself with those who truly support your choices and growth.Evaluating Your Circle: Take a moment to reflect on the five people or behaviors in your life and how they impact your feelings and well-being.The Power to Begin Again: David shares insights on giving yourself permission to start fresh, no matter where you are in life.The Power of Meditation: We chat about how meditation can transform your life, leading to more mindful and conscious decisions.16-Second Meditation Practice: David also takes us through a simple yet powerful 16-second practice that can help you make more conscious choices—this one is a beauty!
To learn more about David Ji, you can find his meditations on Insight Timer or visit his website.
To find out more about the HIQA retreats, courses, books or one on one coaching with Danni head to www.iquitalcohol.com.auFollow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol
Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr Cassidy
If you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this solocast, I dive into the transformative power of the self check-in. Understanding and responding to the signals our body sends can be a game-changer in preventing ailments, avoiding poor decisions, and managing reactive behaviours. Through self-compassion and mindfulness, we can better equip ourselves to face life's challenges with grace and resilience.
Join me as I guide you through a simple yet powerful mindfulness practice designed to help you connect with yourself on a deeper level. Whether you're dealing with stress, uncertainty, or just need a moment of calm, this episode will provide you with the tools to tune into your body, listen to what it’s telling you, and respond with care.
I'm thrilled to announce that I'll be running a 7-day course called Connected live and online, starting on September 16. This course is designed to help you deepen your connection with yourself through mindfulness and self-compassion practices. Don't miss this opportunity to join a supportive community and take your personal growth journey to the next level!
Sign up here for the 7 day "Connected" course.
https://www.iquitalcohol.com.au/collections/resources/products/connected-7-days-live-online-course-with-danni
To order our book How I Quit Alcohol, A Rock n Roll guide to Sobriety.
https://www.iquitalcohol.com.au/collections/book-how-i-quit-alcohol
The Michael Singer podcast I mentioned is here.
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/e1-living-from-a-deeper-part-of-your-being/id1573483082?i=1000666202603
If you are heavy or daily drinker please consult a medical practitioner before stopping drinking.
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In this episode, I chat with Snowy T, a 27-year-old who has just reached a significant milestone—one year of sobriety. Snowy talks about overcoming alcohol dependency, starting with how he fell in love with the effects of alcohol from his very first drink. Feeling disconnected from his peers as a non-drinker, Snowy eventually turned to alcohol to fit in, finding that it gave him the courage and confidence he felt he lacked.
Snowy talks candidly about how he always drank to excess, revealing that he had no 'off switch' when it came to alcohol. Anytime he drank, he always wanted more, which ultimately led him down a destructive path. However, through the 12-step program, Snowy found the support and tools he needed to get sober and, more importantly, stay sober.
We talk about making that decision at 26 to quit drinking, and how hard it was to make the choice.
Snowy opens up about the challenges he faced just before his one-year mark, including the resurgence of cravings and how he dealt with them. We discuss the importance of having a strong program and a supportive community to rely on in maintaining sobriety, especially during tough times. Whether is 12-steps or any other program that works for you.
This episode is a powerful exploration of the struggles and triumphs on the road to recovery, offering insights and encouragement to anyone navigating their own journey to sobriety.
For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge, retreat or order our book go to
www.iquitalcohol.com.au
Follow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol
Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr Cassidy
If you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this solo cast I talk about how any step in the right direction is a great step forward. How by adding in some good practices can help us edge out some of the old toxic patterns.
Sometimes the big change is not right for us right now and if we don't get there, we can end up feeling guilty or down on ourselves.
In this episode I give some journalling prompts that you can ask yourself that can help you decide if this change is right for you, right now. Also, what you can do to start to move towards change.
To join the 7 day, Live online Course go to
https://www.iquitalcohol.com.au/collections/resources/products/connected-7-days-live-online-course-with-danni
To order our book How I Quit Alcohol, A Rock N Roll Guide To Sobriety
https://www.iquitalcohol.com.au/collections/book-how-i-quit-alcohol
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, I catch up with Sarah from Melbourne, who is just four months sober and fresh out of rehab. Sarah shares her story of losing her beloved mother at a young age and how, with no tools to cope with the grief, she turned to alcohol as a way to mask her feelings. Over the years, her relationship with alcohol became unmanageable, with Sarah often drinking alone to combat the loneliness that motherhood sometimes brought.
After numerous attempts to quit on her own, Sarah decided to go to rehab for the boost she needed. Originally planning to stay for just three weeks, she ended up extending her stay to seven weeks, recognising the importance of not leaving before she felt ready. Now, full of energy and embracing a new chapter in life, Sarah is excited about her journey toward a future without alcohol.
If you think you might need rehab consult your GP.
For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge go to
www.iquitalcohol.com.au
Follow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol
Music for Monday Distillery ads by Ash Grunwald
www.ashgrunwald.com
Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr Cassidy
If you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.
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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this solocast mini-sode I chat about blame and how it keeps us stuck. How blame lowers our energy and how we become so much more empowered by placing our energy into finding solutions or creating better circumstances for ourselves.
I go through some journal prompts that can help you move past blame and create a more empowering mindset.
To pre-order our book go to
https://www.iquitalcohol.com.au/collections/book-how-i-quit-alcohol
For more resources go to www.iquitalcohol.com.au
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Wow, this is one hell of a story. Dan "The Mullet Lord" Brown, shares his incredible journey of serious mental health issues, addiction, rehab and redemption.
This story is so inspiring and proves we can go from the most lowest of places to be able to rebuild our lives and create a beautiful life.
Dan is an amazing surfer and runs a successful coffee company Lords Coffee in Newcastle.
To check Dan out go to Insta
@mullet_lord
@lords.cofee
For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge go to
www.iquitalcohol.com.au
Follow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol
Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr Cassidy
If you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode I catch up once again with Kath Elliot, who on the day of this recording was celebrating 5 years of no alcohol. The five years has not been without it's ups and downs. Her marriage suffered because of the difference in lifestyle choices, Kath had to grieve and let go of the old version of herself and her marriage. Her husband also grieved the old Kath and unfortunately their lifestyle choices no longer aligned and they have decided to seperate. Kath believes strongly in acceptance of change, although it can be sad, but realising it's also part of the process and being able to let go.
Kath is a wonderful sober coach who works with men and woman, and who as a Breast Cancer survivor can really relate to women and loved ones who have decided to change their relationship with alcohol to support their health in their diagnosis.
To reach out to Kath go to https://www.thealcoholmindsetcoach.com
For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge go to
www.iquitalcohol.com.au
Follow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol
Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr Cassidy
If you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, I catch up with Kane Dennelly, the frontman and guitarist of the dynamic band 19Twenty. Known for his energetic stage presence and wild antics, Kane has transformed from the "life of the party" to embracing his inner "quiet guy." Join us as we delve into his profound journey of self-discovery and sobriety.
Kane opens up about his transition from wild antics on stage, including drinking from bras, to finding peace in sobriety. We explore how a toxic relationship masked his feelings of not fitting in and led to excessive alcohol use. Kane candidly shares the incredible impact of two years of sobriety on his life, career, and personal relationships, providing a heartfelt look into his path of transformation.
We also discuss how Kane's journey has influenced the music and dynamics within 19Twenty, highlighting the positive changes that have come from his decision to become sober. Kane reflects on the importance of embracing one's true self and the strength found in quiet introspection, offering valuable insights for anyone struggling with similar issues.
Connect with Kane Dennelly and 19Twenty:
Website: 19TwentyInstagram: @19TwentyBandFacebook: 19TwentyFor more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge go to
www.iquitalcohol.com.au
Follow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol
Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr Cassidy
If you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.
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In this solocast, I explore the emotional journey of grieving the old self in sobriety. As we embark on the path to becoming a better version of ourselves, it’s natural to feel a sense of loss for the person we used to be. This episode delves into the complexities of this grieving process, acknowledging the pain and confusion that often accompanies it.
I dig into how to honour and let go of the past, while embracing and celebrating the new you. Learn how to navigate this transformative phase with compassion and patience. Discover the importance of self-reflection and the role it plays in personal growth. Tune in for insights on the emotional aspects of grieving your old self, practical tips for embracing the new you, the significance of celebrating your progress, and finding balance between honouring your past and moving forward.
Whether you're new to sobriety or further along in your journey, this episode offers valuable perspectives to help you find peace and strength in your transformation.
To pre-order Mine and Ash Grunwald's book How I Quit Alcohol go to
https://www.iquitalcohol.com.au/collections/book-how-i-quit-alcohol
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In this episode I catch up with psychologist Ben Schiller. We chat about Ben hitting 12 years of sobriety the feeling of pride we both get from our choices.
We delve into the thought patterns that can hinder us, such as catastrophising, eternity thinking, and personalisation. Ben explains these cognitive distortions and how they often serve as coping mechanisms. Together, we explore practical questions that can help shift these unhelpful thoughts.
Ben also introduces us to parts therapy, highlighting five key questions we can ask our inner parts to promote healing and self-understanding.
To reach out to Ben Schiller go to https://benschillerpsychology.com.au
or email Ben; [email protected]
For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge go to
www.iquitalcohol.com.au
Follow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol
Music for Monday Distillery ads by Ash Grunwald
www.ashgrunwald.com
Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr Cassidy
If you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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