Ep 136: "Becoming a Grandma Had Me Rethinking My Drinking" w/ Guest Cindy Strachan
Manage episode 496629112 series 3423973
What happens when the voice in your head saying "don't drink" keeps getting louder? In this vulnerable conversation, grandmother and retired occupational therapist Cindy Strachan shares her journey to almost 1,000 days of alcohol freedom after decades as a weekend drinker.
Unlike many sobriety stories, Cindy's doesn't involve hitting rock bottom or daily drinking. As a high-functioning perfectionist who reserved alcohol for weekends, she maintained a successful career and family life while battling with moderation. The breaking point? A simple family trip to the aquarium where, despite a mild hangover, she found herself too exhausted to fully engage with her grandson. "This isn't living," she realized.
What follows is a powerful story of faith and transformation. Now approaching three years sober, she's found freedom in being "sober loud" and breaking the stigma around choosing not to drink.
Cindy's message resonates deeply for women questioning their relationship with alcohol: "Stop asking yourself if you have a problem and start asking if you can do better." Her story demonstrates how neural pathways can be rewired, new habits can replace old ones, and authentic joy doesn't require alcohol. Whether you're sober curious or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers wisdom, hope, and practical advice for embracing a life of greater freedom and presence.
Mentioned in this video: What Alcohol Does to Your Body, Brain & Health | Dr. Andrew Huberman https://youtu.be/DkS1pkKpILY?si=XrfmneIiDcjGYqkZ
Find Cindy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/otfingerfidgetsandfun/ and https://www.instagram.com/renewal.of.the.mind/
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Chapters
1. Welcome to Catholic Sobriety (00:00:00)
2. Early Relationship with Alcohol (00:10:52)
3. Marriage, Motherhood, and Weekend Drinking (00:22:27)
4. Turning Point: Aquarium Trip Revelation (00:34:39)
5. Faith Journey and Finding Freedom (00:45:31)
6. Socializing Sober and Being Loud (00:57:02)
152 episodes