This week we talk all things Dry January, and it’s just Steve and James — no guest, just an open, honest chat to kick off 2026. We talk about what Dry January is really like once you’re a few days in, why so many people are doing it this year, and the kind of wins people start to notice when alcohol’s out of the picture. We also get into alcohol-free drinks (including a few favourites), and why community can make a big difference when it feels a bit isolating. If you’re doing Dry January, thinking about it, or already questioning how it’s going to go, this is a relaxed listen to keep you moving in the right direction. Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032  

This week on The Alcohol-Free Revolution Podcast, we’re joined by a true pioneer of the alcohol-free movement, Laura Willoughby MBE. Laura’s career began in local government, where she quickly established herself as a powerful voice for change. At just 30 years old, she was awarded an MBE in recognition of her work — a sign of the impact she was already making. In 2013, Laura made the decision to go alcohol-free. That decision didn’t just change her own life — it went on to shape an entire movement. She is the founder of Club Soda, an organisation that has sat at the very heart of the alcohol-free space ever since, challenging the way we think about drinking and giving people practical, compassionate alternatives. When it comes to raising awareness of alcohol-free living, few — if any — have done more. Laura’s work has helped normalise choice, reduce stigma, and open up a completely different conversation around alcohol. She is a genuine trailblazer in this space, and it’s an honour to welcome Laura Willoughby MBE to the podcast. Connect with Laura and Club Soda: Insta:  @joinclubsoda Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032  

This week, we’re welcoming our second ever international guest, joining us all the way from Austin, Texas — Scot Maitland. Scot is a passionate alcohol-free mixologist who became frustrated with the same old options being offered in pubs and bars: sugary, fizzy drinks passed off as “non-alcoholic alternatives.” Instead of accepting that, Scot built a framework for creating sophisticated, adult, alcohol-free drinks — without relying on alcohol at all. Through his company, The Elevated Bar, Scot delivers cutting-edge corporate workshops, retail activations, and public education, helping people rethink what’s possible without booze. This isn’t about making mocktails. It’s about understanding the science, structure, and sensory experience behind truly elevated non-alcoholic beverages. Connect with Scot www.thelevatedbear.com Insta: @theElevatedBear Newsletter: https://the-elevated-bear.myflodesk.com/dry-january Join our community:  Email the word ‘Interested’ to : info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032

This week, we’re joined by Daniel Avener, Founder & CEO of ClubSobr.   ClubSobr is a global community created for people who want to live fully, connect deeply, and celebrate — without alcohol at the centre. Its mission is simple but powerful: to make sobriety and mindful drinking aspirational, inclusive, and global. Daniel is also an ICF-accredited business coach and recovery coach, supporting individuals and communities as they redefine what it truly means to thrive — in work, relationships, and life — without relying on alcohol. Learn more about ClubSobr: Insta: @clubsobr Web: www.clubsobr.com Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032      

In this week’s episode, we’re focusing on an area where the science is clear but the public message is not: the connection between alcohol and cancer. We’re joined by Dr Emma Davies, a prominent researcher in alcohol behaviour and public health, and a Senior Lecturer at Oxford Brookes University. Emma’s work spans alcohol harm reduction, behaviour change, and how people interpret health information, and she has published widely in this field. With her expertise, we explore what the evidence tells us, why awareness remains so low, and what needs to shift for people to have a fuller understanding of the risks. Connect with Dr Emma: https://www.instagram.com/dr_emma_davies_/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-emma-l-davies-3b65156a/ Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032

Released during National Grief Awareness Week, this episode explores how grief shapes our lives — and how it often influences the ways we cope, including our relationship with alcohol. We’re joined by Jess Goyder: Oxford University graduate, Grief Recovery Specialist, coach, mentor, and accomplished speaker. Jess supports both individuals and organisations using an evidence-based model that helps people understand and move through grief in all its forms. And it’s not just bereavement. Jess works with the quieter, often overlooked losses that deeply affect how we feel and behave — divorce, workplace change, chronic illness, identity shifts, and everything in between. Together, we unpack what grief really is, why so many of us struggle to talk about it, and how unprocessed grief can silently drive habits, patterns, and coping mechanisms — including drinking. This conversation brings clarity, compassion, and language to experiences many people carry alone, and offers powerful insight for anyone exploring an alcohol-free path.   Interested in Joining our AF community?? Email ‘Interested’ to: mailto:Info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Connect with Jess: https://griefisnatural.com Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032

This week marks a huge moment for us — the official launch of the Alcohol-Free Revolution Community.  Yes…! we’re opening the doors at last. In this episode and we couldn’t be more excited.  No guest this week we’re just here to talk about what the community is, who it’s for, and why we believe it’s going to change the game for anyone wanting to explore an alcohol-free life with consistency, support, and momentum. We also dive into some of the biggest challenges people face at this time of year. With Christmas parties, family drinking rituals, social pressure, and the “I’ll start in January” trap, December can feel like a minefield. We break down practical, realistic tactics you can use to stay confident, calm, and alcohol-free — without feeling like you’re missing out. From navigating work events to setting boundaries to shifting your mindset around tradition and enjoyment, we cover the tools, insights, and reframes that make the festive season not just survivable, but genuinely enjoyable AF. nterested in Joining our AF community?? Email ‘Interested’ to: mailto:Info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links   Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032      

  This week, it’s just Steve and James in the studio, diving straight into three topics that come up time and time again when people decide to take a break from alcohol. We start with the big one: what to actually say when you first tell people you’re not drinking. The nerves, the overthinking, the awkwardness — and the simple, confident lines that genuinely work in real life. We also explore another common challenge: going alcohol-free when your partner still drinks. How to navigate different choices under the same roof, how to keep communication strong, and how to stay aligned without creating tension. And finally, we share an update on the upcoming launch of the Alcohol-Free Revolution Community — what it is, who it’s for, what to expect, and why we believe it’s going to become such an important space for anyone wanting to build momentum heading into the end of the year   Interested in Joining our AF community?? Email ‘Interested’ to: mailto:Info@thealcoholfreerevolution.co.uk Coach with Steve: Web: www.soberilliant.com Insta: http://soberilliant.com/all-my-links   Coach with James: Web: http://alcoholfreecoach.com  Linkedin :http://linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-48313032      

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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