The INSANE Benefits of Going Alcohol-Free | Andy Ramage X Rich Roll Podcast

Rich sits down with Andy Ramage, who co-founded the OneYearNoBeer movement, co-creator of the Dryy alcohol-free app, and leading alcohol-free performance coach, to discuss the growing alcohol-free lifestyle movement and its positive impacts on individuals, industries, cultural shifts, and more. To read more about Andy and peruse the full show notes, go here👉🏾bit.ly/richroll830
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FILMED AND EDITED BY BLAKE CURTIS, DAN DRAKE & MORGAN MCRAE
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00:00 Start
00:01:22 The Growth Of The Alcohol-Free Lifestyle Movement
00:04:35 The Impact On The Alcohol-Free Drinks Industry
00:09:37 Cultural Shift Towards Alcohol-Free Alternatives
00:12:57 The Growth Of The Alcohol-Free Lifestyle Movement
00:14:46 The Personal Journey Of Transitioning To An Alcohol-Free Lifestyle
00:20:56 Challenges And Tactics In Social Settings
00:24:11 The Alcohol-Free Lifestyle Movement
00:25:55 Transitioning To A New Life's Work
00:27:32 Sponsor Break
00:28:39 Expanding The Movement
00:32:07 Psychology And Behavioral Change
00:32:54 Understanding Beliefs And Motivation
00:36:33 The Business School For Footballers
00:38:11 Intrinsic Motivation And Behavior Change
00:40:40 The Stages Of Change Model
00:42:43 The Two-Year Window Between Awareness And Action
00:44:20 Challenging Limiting Beliefs About Alcohol
00:47:41 Solitude On A Cruise
00:49:08 Navigating Setbacks And Relapses
00:51:49 The Middle Path And Seeking Professional Help
00:54:07 Reframing Slip-Ups
00:55:54 Raising Consciousness
00:58:22 Broadening Aperture For Behavior Change
00:59:24 The Emotional, Mental, Spiritual, And Physical Aspects Of Transformation
01:00:29 Creating A Compelling Future And Leveraging Time
01:01:56 Motivation, Inspiration, And Identity In Behavior Change
01:03:13 Consistency And Values In Sustaining Change
01:05:57 Beliefs And Actions In Behavioral Change
01:08:24 Reverse Engineering Scenarios And Addressing Perceived Upsides
01:10:37 Real-World Scenarios And Challenges In An Alcohol-Free Lifestyle
01:12:57 The Totality Of Circumstances
01:13:58 Unconscious Behavioral Patterns
01:15:21 Dating Without Drinking
01:20:08 Dealing With Peer Pressure
01:21:21 The Difference Between Being Completely Alcohol Free Versus The 90 To 99% Alcohol Free
01:22:27 The Personal Approach To Living An Alcohol-Free Lifestyle
01:24:49 Views On Moderation And The Importance Of Shutting The Door On Alcohol
01:28:56 Navigating Relationships And Community Support In The Alcohol-Free Journey
01:30:58 Cultural Shift Towards Alcohol-Free Lifestyle
01:31:58 Empathy For Your Partner
01:33:26 Dry Lifestyle Brand
01:38:02 Documentary On Alcohol-Free Living
01:41:10 Inspiring Change Together
01:42:12 The Alcohol-Free Lifestyle
01:42:53 The Secret Society Refund
01:43:36 Acknowledgment And Gratitude
01:45:03 Credits
* * * * *
NEW TO RICH?
Hi I'm Rich Roll. I'm a vegan ultra-endurance athlete, author, podcaster, public speaker & wellness evangelist. But mainly I'm a dad of four. If you want to know more, visit my website or check out these two the NY Times articles:
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[@eyes-freefitness2501]

My dearest sister died a month ago. It was not alcohol related. It was an aneurysm in her brain that just knocked her flat in an instant. I watched myself and my family grieving and I am still deeply grieving. There was a lot of alcohol and it really felt like it was helping me and I could rationalize it completely. I woke up this morning with the loud voice in my head that said, “it is just stupid to die of something that I can control.“ I am also blind, which again I rationalize drinking because it helped take the edge off of the fear that blindness produces in me. It does not make sense for a blind person to drink. It is just not smart. I am a very smart person and I have decided to stop drinking. This is the first day and this podcast has helped me tremendously. I will be listening to a lot of them to help me with my perspective and motivation. Thank you so much!

[@615drop]

Keep it up GOD BLESS YOU!! ,, #STAY FOCUSED ❤💪🫡

[@waynesworld9212]

Congrats! How is it going for you?

[@andrewcruz3837]

If you are so smart you would know not to drink when blind. You are not that bright man

[@LaceAgeGirl]

@eyes-freefitness2501, Grief is so painful. The deepest grief is a sign of the deepest love, a heart that cares. It hurts! We do what we can to avoid pain, but it just IS. It's there, and we can't get away though we try all kinds of ways, like alcohol. It's very brave of you to strip away your perceived protection, your comfort from the pain of grief. I, too, need to do this. This podcast is the impetus needed for me to face my family's deep pain which is beyond my control, and just allow it to be, instead of putting myself into a relaxed numbness most nights with a couple of wines. I'm thinking willpower is not enough, I need to find positive ways of getting some relief, some "letting go" of the pain. Changing from the drinking routine. Mindfulness practices have helped, but I'm not diligent and regular. Finding something I like to do helps - like hand stitching, a good book to escape into, a movie, a cup of tea, writing my thoughts and feelings into my journal. Thanks Rich Roll for this podcast, and many others that help us to grow and learn and improve our lives. ❤

[@DinaHavens]

Drug and alcohol free 10 years! Thank you both for your service!!

[@elcarlitosj8304]

Nice must feel good

[@DinaHavens]

@@elcarlitosj8304 Yes sir!!

[@adamswitlak1242]

10 and a half years of being sober. Almost 3 years of being Vegan. I am preparing to my first marathon. I am 57 and NEVER felt better. Life is great.

[@Blankspaceb]

I’m 29 and so jealous. I wanna be vegan and enjoy exercise so bad, but it’s just not me. I hate vegan food and hate exercise idk how to make myself like it. And I can’t imagine running a marathon

[@higtmance3641]

@@Blankspaceb No one says you have to be vegan. A lot of data says being vegan is more unhealthy than good.

[@TrevorFosterTheFosterDojo]

Vegan's trash don't be proud of being vegan

[@SwissChocolate242]

Keep up the good energy! I wished I was sober..

[@victormendoza3295]

What should the first change be for health?

[@BrianLovesBeans]

Today is day 150 ALCOHOL-FREE for me! Feeling great and it seems I'm on the path to long term abstinence.

[@JohnSchaeferUNIVERSE]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@LouveniaMusic]

I went 10 months last year & drank again for my bday which slowly led to me drinking 2-3x a week again. Now I’m 1 month into not drinking again and planning on not going back. Caving wasn’t worth it last time.

[@GretaTurdeau]

Keep it up, it's totally worth it, for you and everyone around you. 415 days for me alcohol free and around 500 for many other substances.

[@deadinthewater218]

2 Days sober here

[@eslom1489]

You can do it.

[@ShaneHarveyMusic]

917 days sober and alcohol free. As a raging alcoholic i cannot afford the liberty of NA beer. Its too close to the real thing, a slope that i can’t tread upon.

[@SF_Native]

Good and job and great self awareness. Keep it up!

[@BT-be8rh]

Wasn’t an alcoholic and found NA beer’s really helped me in the beginning and I occasionally still have them, but not nearly as much as in the start. It’s a personal choice and yes it’s best to know ourselves and what works and what doesn’t. All the best on your sobriety!

[@SF_Native]

Oddly enough after alcohol, I fell in love with carbonated drinks. I’d much prefer a LaCroix over a NA beer. To each their own.

[@BrianLovesBeans]

good on you mate! Even better to know your limits and set boundaries to keep you on the path you want

[@JohnSchaeferUNIVERSE]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@SF_Native]

This week marks my second year of being alcohol free. I can't begin to tell you how much my life has changed for the better.

[@marcallain]

what if you really enjoy your beer and you look forward to your two evening beers?

[@MoonlitMongrel]

Been Alcohol free 6 months and loving it. I sleep so well and wake up rested.

[@SF_Native]

@@marcallain I really enjoyed my evening glass of whiskey. Which would always end up being a bottle. Now? I sleep better, I wake up early, I workout, I have way more patience (for everyone) and my diet has cleaned up since I'm not hungover craving greasy fast food and sugar. Only thing beer is good for is a beer belly and I (and my wife) much prefer my six pack abs. :)

[@SF_Native]

@@MoonlitMongrel awesome! Crazy how much better I sleep! You'll notice other things changing like your skin, your energy levels, your motivation, mood...I wish i stopped drinking years ago. But better late than never! Cheers and keep going!

[@sandytw5229]

@@marcallain alcohol free beer!

[@mustafabaris9681]

A year ago I watched an episode on the pernicious hidden effects that alcohol has on our body and brain, that episode was put out by Andrew Huberman, and I went cold turkey , quit alcohol for good. My life has changed in ways unimaginable to the mind. I am never drinking again and will forever be grateful for Andrew Huberman !

[@bmelvin1234]

I agree, he did a lot for opening peoples eyes to the effects of alcohol. Also the Joe Rogan podcast with Nikki Glaser. I think that got 2 million views. I’m sure it helped a lot of people.

[@mellisa5016]

Yes!! I’m a mild drinker and do it socially but have had this tug to drop it completely. I recently watched his video and talk about a HUGE eye opener. I had no idea it disrupted so much of the body like it does.

[@Astral_Dusk]

20 days sober, massively productivity boost and lifestyle happiness. I've had the temptations but something is different this time, I feel stronger each time I get through them. There's a deep love in the process and I feel a deeper faith in it even around others drinking, there's a mental letting go that feels very subconscious. The more you want it, the more you attempt, the more you step outside the feelings of temptation - the better. You do get stronger with the efforts and changes. Work on personal structure everyday, live a stimulating life sober... exercise as much as you can, the brain will have a massive benefit in living more deliberately beyond subconscious habits with exercise and healthier sleep. I felt like just a middle-lane drinker, yet I was drinking 20+ beers a week spread out - astonishing. So much drinking and so much exhaustion with life because of it. Turning to alcohol just to feel normal ... the feel good and balanced chemicals are already inside us... when in doubt, move about - motion over mind for that natural momentum that brings clarity and freedom to the subconscious habits.

[@Leahmoonbeamflower]

That’s beautiful 😊

[@JohnSmith-zs1bf]

i'm honestly amazed that drinking is still so common amongst regular people. i wont even have a glass of wine with family because i want to be at peak performance every day possible

[@SF_Native]

100000% agree.

[@BrianLovesBeans]

it's so systemic, you're the odd man out if you haven't downed at least 6 beers at the family barbeque in my world. It took me a few decades to realize that this was toxic behavior

[@JohnSmith-zs1bf]

@@BrianLovesBeans yup. on the bright side, it makes it fairly easy to perform better than your peers when your peers are always drinking, hung over, losing sleep, inflammed, etc. thats the competition in this market and man does the prevalence of these bad habits make it easier to win

[@Mikathedog100]

It surprises me too. My family doesn't drink, I don't drink, my husband doesn't drink. There's no big reason for it, it just doesn't appeal to us.

[@biblicalgodisonlytruegod]

Well said!

[@hardknoxtalkspodcast]

This incredible. I'm 7 years clean, my wife is 6 years clean. I've been held hostage, lost my son to the ministry, lost the cars, the house, the money, the business, my wife left to a life on the street where she spent 18 months escaping extreme domestic and gang violence. She ended up pregnant and clawed her way out, she had to escape for two now. we spent 5 years apart healing in recovery. we've been back together for 2 years now and after losing all, today, we closed on a home. I run this podcast in a beautiful studio, full time thanks to a bunch of great organizations in my community. I have a life I never saw coming. its possible. It's an epic adventure. We can recover.

[@Dannyboy1751]

God Bless

[@domiemuigai9772]

How is your wife getting pregnancy in the streets a win G?

[@AnergizerReacts]

Sometimes you need just a sign. I read "Finding Ultra" and it changed my life - quit alcohol and listened to your podcast with Jon Joseph. Recently I crushed it within my business and started a KZbin channel on top of it for my german audience. 23K subs within 6 month and I am so full of energy. Thank you very much for inspiring me to change my life, Rich!

[@zenveg]

Herzlichen Glückwunsch und weiter so!

[@AnergizerReacts]

Danke Dir!

[@parkersavage8774]

Not cringe at all! Congrats!

[@LouveniaMusic]

I just read “the easy way to quit drinking” by Allen Carr & did the hypnotherapy at the end and I really do think it turned off my desire to drink at all.

[@angelbmann3531]

I stop alcohol on December 29,1999, because I had just realized that I drank just as much as my then boyfriend and his friends who were never sober,, we were every evening after work in the bar until it closed, with bottles and bottles. I was sure I was on my way to be a heavy alcoholic at 25 year old. Stopping was absolutely not hard for me, but the pressure of others, was extremely difficult, :”oh come on just one drink”, it won’t hurt you”… I stayed strong, I knew one drink would hurt me . I Changed my environment, but Every time I went out no matter where or with who, I was considered : “being lame.” And asked if I ever have fun. People never understood that I could have fun without a drop of alcohol or drugs of any kind and they kept asking over and over.. it’s Only since maybe 2018 that when I say :no alcohol for me please it is accepted without a question. Time are thankfully changing. I am so grateful that I have a strong personality that stayed to my no.

[@joanolmstead1219]

when you get to be 70 you will be healthier than all those others, that said "you're no fun". in my experience. that's what recently happen to me. they are all falling apart..... sad to watch

[@rachelx230484x]

As someone who drank as a teenager like a "normal" teenager and into my 20s I always suffered terrible hangovers and realised it wasn't for me. So many days wasted in bed however nearly 20 years later I am still told I am boring or I need to "let my hair down"! At work I often got left out bcoz I wasn't a drinker. The peer pressure never ends! However now aged 40 I am beginning to learn no ones else's opinion matters, I know I'm not boring and I prefer my life without drinking 😊 I hope my kids don't get negatively judged for saying no!

[@sarahbennett9820]

Even my mum says I’m no fun and she’s not much of a drinker herself. It’s so ingrained into society.

[@Blankspaceb]

That’s horrible. No one ever comments on my sobriety or encourages me to drink. If they offer me a drink I just say no thanks and keep it pushing, no one ever pries into my reasons. If you’re a woman, they were prob men trying to date rape you and that’s scary af. “Come onnnnn, drink with us!!” It’s like a lion cozying up to a gazelle

[@carlyedwards]

I have to say I prefer andys take than the other guy who was on. I dont think advertising moderation as an option is good and like rich says its mentally exhausting. Either drink or dont think but putting the idea that alcohol on "special occasions is ok" plays into the belief that you are giving something up when in fact you aren't. Rich and Andy are the example. Moderation just leads to confusion. I wouldn't think I'll inject myself with heroin just on special occasions. What's the difference. Both are drugs. The latter is just one you have to justify not taking.

[@Beyou1262]

I love being Alcohol Free-over a year. I quit as part of an effort to correct high triglycerides and cholesterol, along with becoming whole food plant based vegan. I was definitely “middle lane”. This term is perfect. I couldn’t say “sober”, because I didn’t identify with alcoholic. I drank mostly “because it was there”, vs actually needing it. But I did drink during the week and weekends as a part of socializing. Now, when offered a drink, I just say I don’t drink. Servers don’t pursue the conversation. Completely lost taste for it and desire. Free is such a good word. Club soda with lime, please!

[@annamclaughlin411]

Amazing, well done! I have changed my diet to mainly plant based (very rarely would have cheese for example, but working on it...) I was so surprised how easy it was to give up meat. Alcohol is another matter... Especially weekends when I am out socialising...

[@djszal]

Now well into my 30s, I’ve continuously mindfully noticed how detrimental alcohol was being to my overall wellbeing. It hasn’t been like I was even abusing it all that much (except periodically in my 20s). I’d say I’ve had a below average consumption but even that much would wreck havoc on my wellbeing for days later. The original podcast with these two nudged me into becoming sober curious and now I’ve fully adopted the lifestyle. It’s just not worth the few hours of pleasure for days of depression afterwards. Rinse and repeat. I wonder how many people delude themselves into thinking alcohol isn’t affecting them, but that’s their journey to walk. All I can say is it is worth it on so many levels. Happy to see this conversation getting a round 2.

[@McConnell357]

5 years alcohol free in mid July of this year! My husband also quit 2 years ago. Never thought we would be nondrinkers. I’m grateful to live my life without the effects of drinking on both my physical and mental health as well as my relationships.

[@sabrinasmallwood7280]

385 Days Alcohol Free. Rich and this podcast was one of my top three biggest reasons I changed my life. I just ran my first half marathon to celebrate 1 year alcohol free. 7:28 Go Brewing is my local NA brewery and I love that Prophets is inspired by Rich!

[@J.Foss_Oaxaca]

I’m another Middle Laner who Andy helped push over the edge. I’m only nearly 6 weeks into this, but loving it! Every time I feel like life would be a little more embellished with a drink, I turn my thoughts to how much extra energy I’ll have to work on my art, instead. Andy helped tremendously to quell my worries of how social situations will play out, around people who expect me to drink with them. So far, I’ve only had congratulatory responses, and no problems socializing without an alcoholic drink in my hand. Thanks Andy, and to Rich, too, whose podcast was the 2nd place I heard Andy (the first being on Rangan Chatterjee’s podcast).

[@DonaldWisch]

This guy is absolutely AMAZING!!! Glad you had him back on your show Rich.

[@Blackdog_forrest]

Excited to hear this one. Trying hard to continue sober living. It’s a constant struggle. Much love!

[@emh8861]

Yup, I’m drinking as I’m listening 🤷🏽‍♀️.

[@zenveg]

502 days and never thought I'd quit but sure glad I did.

[@PenelopeRyder]

Keep at it ... the alcohol need is an illusion as it makes life worse. If we have had trauma then we may need help with that ... I used to drink to rid myself of childhood trauma memories for many years then that stopped working! I am 12 years FREE ... I see it as freedom.

[@bonniesammons2348]

Read “this naked mind” if you haven’t.

[@TheSchmidt62]

I stopped drinking 2+ years ago. I will never do it again. Feel much better without it, both physically and mentally.

[@BillyHayes79Music]

I did 80 days at the beginning of the year, went to a gig and had a night on the Guiness. Then I’ve had the odd night on the drink since. Last weekend after a 12 mile hike I had a few pints and I’ve made the vow to go again. I know how I feel when I drink and I now know how I feel when I don’t. I without question prefer the latter. The hard bit is navigating social gatherings. I might need new friends while I wait for them to catch up

[@Ghetto-toaster22]

12 months alcohol free! Sobriety is the best life to live. Might not be for everyone, but definitely is whats best for me. I used to be a weekend binge drinker EVERY SINGLE WEEKEND! Literally would not miss a weekend. I have zero desire or even thoughts of drinking. It is definitely a different lifestyle!

[@VJania]

I couldnt speak to people since as long as I remember. I dont know why. But I developed selective mutism around the time I started school. I became known as 'the girl who doesnt talk'. There was alot of shame and confusion at not understanding what was 'wrong' with me. Then at thirteen, I discovered alcohol. It was a revelation. Suddenly my anxiety faded and I was able to talk to people. Finally, I felt 'normal'. I felt as though I imagined others felt ALL THE TIME. I had discovered my talk elixir! I continued to depend on alcohol from that point. Through my teens, into adulthood, even through motherhood. But it wasnt without consequences. Two DUIs, two failed marriages, inability to hopd down a job and at my lowest, almost loosing my children. Then at 45 I discovered selective mutism and everything made sense. But while it helps to know WHY I still have no idea HOW. I never developed the skills to socialize without alcohol. I live with the dilemma that if Im socializing, Im causing harm because alcohol is involved. So I tend to isolate to avoid harming myself and others. But it is very lonely. .

[@dianabridgman9641]

I was that same child, not much to say with new people. Alcohol was a way to let down those guards. I wish now I had never started. It's way better to be that silent one that observes. All the best to you❤️

[@VJania]

@@dianabridgman9641 agree! Forever the observer!

[@eslom1489]

This was me. It's okay to be a little quiet and there are people who we are more comfortable with and can communicate easier without substance.

[@angelamilliken2992]

Thank you. "It's a new day, it's a new life, and I'm feel'in good!"

[@Blankspaceb]

Wow, when I put this song in the lens of my sobriety it hits different

[@msicottevt]

RICH!!! How do you DO it??? It’s like you are in my HEAD I am 3 weeks in wine free, & up pops this episode!!! YESTERDAY! Love it. First TANYA & now Andy?!? You are the greatest. From 1 vegan to another, I SUPER appreciate you & all you do.

[@charlottehaaberrmoe6393]

All your amazing PodCasts have inspired me. The combination of knowing how harmful alcohol is, poor sleep and side effects, and curiosity to try to stop. Two years ago I started the process. It is a process that takes time to rearrange one's life in a society where all socializing involves alcohol. I am SO grateful for your words that inspire me and make me want to live without alcohol. 7 weeks out and I sense this time it's serious. Why would I take a mouthful of alcohol though? I can't find a single reason! Such! It took me two years to feel that conviction. Thank you! Greetings Charlotte /Denmark

[@williampeynsaert]

Thanks for this. Exactly what I needed to hear today.

[@shoognboogadventures1722]

Thank you for this! The cool kids are in the sober/alcohol-free club!

[@evilsensei8262]

I reduced my alcohol intake to once a month, I want to completely stop. I still reach out for it during social gatherings, and I don’t like the person I become, the things I say when I am imbibing. I still am dependent on it sometimes in intense social settings. Working on it by doing meditation and talk therapy. Hoping to completely quit alcohol one day.

[@marissaproulx3516]

I started reducing my alcohol intake significantly in the past several years and avoided triggering people settings if drinking. I eventually stopped recently and am now on day 71. It can be so challenging depending on your support, environment, how a person deals with stress/issues in their life. Find what works for you. My sleep and relationships have improved. I'm less emotional and triggered if someone (members of my family) say something ignorant. Game changer. Feeling soooo much better.

[@madamplant]

My husband and I did 60 days alcohol free, last year it was amazing. We need to stop. 😢

[@Blankspaceb]

It’s marijuana maintenance for me. Whatever you gotta do!! Good luck ❤

[@JackWilliams-hg6ic]

This video is a real eye-opener. I used to be a heavy drinker too, and it just wrecked my life. I'm so glad I stopped cold and never looked back. These days, I don't even have a glass of wine with family - I want to be at peak performance every single day. Rich and Andy are really doing important work here. I'd love to see them bring on Jarry Sargent, the healer, to talk more about living an alcohol-free life. That would be super insightful.

[@JS-xn3dq]

That was amazing! Thank you both, so much. 🙏🙏🙏

[@jeremyvill]

I dont have an alcohol problem but im 8 months free. After i completed the 100 day challenge, i lost all desire for alcohol; pretty cool to see the brain adapt

[@mishdevlin1590]

Now knowing that sitting with the thought of changing for 2 years was normal was a relief and also so pertinent to me. Watching you drinking, watching the results...I'm mostly non drinking and the the energy charges, the reduction in dissatisfaction with work, and importantly moving towards bigger goals...it's exciting. Thanks to both of you

[@suerospert5131]

Absolutely well done. Thank you gentlemen!!!

[@chuckmcgadden643]

I drink lightly about 2-3 times a month but lately I’m feeling that it’s time for alcohol to be totally gone out of my life….

[@misuzuocean]

I’ve been alcohol-free for entire my life of 50 years because my body just can’t take alcohol. I don’t know how being drunk feels like. I never had “good time” with friends while drinking. I’m happy to hear more people are going alcohol free now because I don’t feel alone anymore :) By the way, my body and brain feel amazing at this age. I’ve handled many obstacles through out my life with mental clarity and fantastic health. I love it. I want everybody to experience this.

[@krishnasharma3203]

Really appreciate your constant efforts @richroll to help us all elevate to that level and make our lives better.❤

[@AthleticBrewing]

Cheers! Thanks for sharing our story!

[@lecomtedemontecristo8451]

Love your work guys, thanks for putting out these gems

[@sungari54]

Thanks for this talk, Andy and Rich! You both have been super inspirational for me. I needed to hear this talk today!! ❤

[@joannaseymour-davies5959]

Great discussion!

[@claudiagolden8348]

I love, love, love his energy and passion. Andy, you rock! I want some of that.

[@alexhowley660]

Day 2 and feeling good. I truly believe long term sobriety is within my grasp. I keep getting a week, 2 weeks, 20 days and a month. Although I do fall, its only matter of time before this miracle sticks. Keep quiting it will happen for you as well. If I can do this so can you all!

[@davidperchinsky2441]

Liberating Conversation! Not alone anymore!

[@Johnny-sn5sb]

Absolutely brilliant gentleman.. For me, it’s all about beliefs ! Once I challenged them, really shined a light on them my life changed around using alcohol .. life is amazingly blissful once I understood change is messy , challenging and wonderfully rewarding all in one.

[@sandytw5229]

loved this, thank you Rich Roll 😍

[@richroll]

Thanks for watching! Don't miss out on this exclusive offer: SQUARESPACE: Get 10% OFF with code RichRoll 👉bit.ly/squarespace2024

[@emh8861]

Trim your beard 🤣

[@ShaneHarveyMusic]

Get rid of the beard!! I send all my female peeps to RR. I showed them the earlier Roll with the shoulder length hair and clean shaven?? Va va voom whos the hottie they say. Then the today Roll. It would kind to say they saw the elder statesman but its more like.. whos the old grandad? Love and respect to you Rich. Either way your our hero.

[@glennmoore5245]

Thanks for doing this follow up. I am struggling to quit and stumbled across these. The last chap saying it's possible to drink occasionally really threw me. This episode was what I needed.

[@timmyj2366]

My experience parting ways with alcohol was starkly different than this man’s. I find people in the self help world sometimes romanticize quitting bad habits. “After a few months not drinking everything got better,” slogan is a great way to sell a lifestyle, but for most people, quitting drinking is going to be a long road. Maybe two to three years later you’ll start to see greener pastures. My experience of quitting alcohol led to encountering a seven year emotional and spiritual healing journey. And not until I made it through that storm did I discover some benefits of quitting. But to this day there are still serious cons. The social barriers. Etc.

[@Mikathedog100]

Was seven years around the same time that you drank more heavily?

[@timmyj2366]

@@Mikathedog100 No, after I quit I never drank heavy again. After seven years sober is when I started to discover greener pastures.

[@lightdancedesigns]

I am one of those middle-grounders and have been thinking about this subject for a while. Thank you for inspiring me to just stop! Easier said than done, but I've never seen anyone speak on this until today. Thank you!

[@juliegray4262]

Great stuff. Yay for giving @over the influence a plug. ❤

[@stanleypope1400]

Hello everyone on October 17th 2024 it’ll be 5 years alcohol free for me! My life has changed totally without alcohol! Best decision I’ve ever made in my life! So whoever out there is battling with this always remember you have my support! It’s a very hard thing to give up but it definitely can be done so hang in there and be strong!

[@mrelixirgalactic]

Thank you for this message and encouragement🙏🏽

[@EcomCarl]

Andy's journey and advocacy for the alcohol-free lifestyle are truly inspiring! His dedication to reshaping the narrative around sober living and community is commendable. I agree that the cultural shift he envisions regarding alcohol's perception is not only necessary but also inevitable. 🌟

[@derickpnw]

My goal is to reach the other side of the island, and meet Andy Ramage to show how I can contribute to this movement. This is so under appreciated and viewed. Love his approach and personality towards it!

[@cre8tiveprocess971]

I've only been off the booze for a few months, and I might never drink again, but I definitely haven't seen any of the benefits people who quit speak of. Haven't lost weight, more depressed than I was when I was drinking, no improved output in terms of work. I'll check my life at day 365. Hope it's worth it.

[@parisaforpeace]

Hang in there. Things do eventually shift. Sometimes a little bit of therapy can help figure out why we feel depressed. Often alcohol is used to self-medicate because people are hurting inside and need some relief.

[@Blankspaceb]

Diet is huge too. Go to your primary care doctor and ask for blood work. I did and it turns out I had a huge vitamin deficiency. Cleaning up my diet and quitting alcohol changed my body and a lot of my problems resolved themselves. I also take several vitamins a day. Ask your doctor! You might have a condition like this

[@RPete100]

I love this. Great discussion

[@DavidRamos-nz4bh]

I just realized that it’s taken around 2 years for me to “close the door”. Never had a problem and with a recovering daughter, what’s the point? Plus I’m happy and I. Damn good shape! Great show!

[@user-br4te4qg5t]

Rich Roll is an amazing man great inspiration. Big thanks

[@Matt-qx3ne]

Day 11 of no alcohol, nicotine or caffeine. Feeling pretty damn good.

[@mercedesb2299]

I have been sober for ~13 years. I have noted over this past decade of talking to so many other alcohol-free people that so many of us (certainly not all, but a significant number) used alcohol to manage anxiety. I have a severe anxiety disorder. It absolutely controls my life it always has. It is a belief system and a set of behaviors that I learned in childhood. I choose to do or not do things, I like or don't like things, based on whether they make my anxiety better or worse. I will go to great lengths to avoid anything that makes my anxiety worse. This behavior is so strong that I do have to push through it and force myself out there for all those anxiety-producing things that are good for me in the long run. Anyone who has anxiety already knows all this, we all do it. But, what WAS an epiphany for me is that the old trope that is drilled in our heads by the 12-step program people is not true. You are not broken. You are not an alcoholic for life. It is not something that you are going to have this massive battle with for life. I can say this with confidence because at some point, I hit a point in sobriety where alcohol and drinking flipped over into the category of "things that make me anxious" because it was so hard to quit, and because I have been sober for so long. I attempted to have a drink with an old friend about a year ago. I had been sober for so long and I was out of state on vacation for a week so I rationalized that I could keep it compartmentalized. I was actually excited about it because I have missed the taste of a White Russian (my drink of choice) and that is not something you can really get in a non-alcoholic version. So, I excitedly ordered a White Russian and discovered that letting one get warm will kill your desire for that taste real fast because while the first couple sips were delicious, the entire idea of drinking spiked my anxiety through the roof. So, I nursed that one White Russian for about 6 hours before just ordering a Mt. Dew. I can safely say I am not an alcoholic anymore. I now associate it with causing anxiety not eliminating, and for those of us with anxiety once you move something into that "causes anxiety" category you are done with it for good.

[@Kaixo-Zemouz]

Alcohol free for almost a decade now. Both of my parents lives were consumed by alcohol - both tragic stories of well meaning people who completely lost control. Alcohol caused them to rot from the inside out, brought out the absolute worst in them, and created a quiet suffering and isolation for them that the rest of us were powerless to. I hate how normalized the drug is, how our culture promotes drunkenness as a means of letting loose, having fun, being fun. I’m looking forward to this episode, thank you for sharing.

[@CapnJack100]

Almost 27 years sober. I was not in the middle lane. This is a positive trend.

[@sober-diary]

Fantastic video guys. Pre-contemplation to contemplation, the two year cycle and mental ambivalence is something I’ve not heard before. 8 months alcohol-free and I can relate to it all.

[@craigrichards5472]

Great episode 🎉❤

[@longdaynosee]

Wow thank you so much for this discussion, I stopped drinking 2 years ago knowing it would be a crazy solo chalenge, but you have no idea how solo it is if no one around you or on the internet talks about it. It is either you are an alcoholic or just or not. And thank you again for these words because I’ve had no idea up until now that there was a whole mouvement around the this, I noticed that there were a lot more alcohol free options in stores but didn’t know about the community around it. So thank you thank you because this podcast validated a lot of thoughts I’ve had over the past decade and really helped me be ok with what I’m doing ♥️

[@user-ol6ze2ck4f]

Fantastic presentation, thank you, and so important to include Motivational Interviewing and NLP! With all due respect to AA and Twelve Step, it is not the only path for people with significant alcohol addiction.

[@stephaniec7425]

Thank you for this topic! In March of 2020 I decided to lose ten lbs for an upcoming vacation and started on Optavia. The plan has a strict no alcohol rule which as someone who drank moderately seemed tough but I was determined. Within a few weeks I felt like a new person!! I felt energetic, clear headed and my Sunday mornings weren’t spent nursing a hangover. In the summer of 2022 I decided to drink some champagne at a wedding and I felt utterly poisoned! I had a blinding headache for 8 hours afterwards and that was it. It made me realize alcohol is a DRUG and needs to be acknowledged as such. Why on earth would I do that to myself again?! I’m 55 now and I’ve never felt better. I hope the trend of going alcohol free for health continues.

[@veronicaford5737]

I love the concept of “maintaining the seal”👌

[@mrcorbak6793]

That's right on time as I challenged myself to not drink at all in may.

[@bthorn5035]

7 months sober. 4 months on carnivore. I feel so much better.

[@user-sf3ek7zh2m]

I am thrilled to see people talking about it bring okay not to drink. We live in a culture that makes people feel "not normal" if you don't drink any alcohol. I hope our children can learn from this information.

[@sarahbennett9820]

I would have called myself a middle lane drinker. I stopped drinking 8 months ago and the benefits are great. I actually do the things I wanted to do. I have motivation and best of all, no anxiety. Admittedly, I’m not a sociable as I once was, but I’m working on myself. So my next plan is to get back out there!

[@coach_mariotzintzun]

💯! I’m 6 years alcohol free, 54, and in the best shape of my life! Quality of life quadrupled. Emotional fitness improved tremendously! I now help others change bad habits for healthy ones as a Lifestyle Coach. Longevity is now a passion of mine. Let keep the movement going! Alcohol is an old script! Tomorrow is a blank sheet of paper(in theory). Write a new story! #longevity #bluezones #neuroreconditioning #healthyhabits

[@Blankspaceb]

16 months without alcohol or meat (but I still eat fish on occasion). I’m 29 and I really wish I had done this at 15. It was actually really easy for me to quit alcohol. I didn’t even do AA or therapy, just quit cold turkey. I miss it sometimes but it’s not worth ruining my streak. However, I still smoke weed daily and I would love to stop. I wanna quit dairy too. Much love to anyone reading this that wants to quit, we got this! ❤

[@DrebinSlayer]

Very few discussions on alcohol touch on the “middle lane”. It’s usually full blown intervention level talks. Amazing interview. I AM the middle laner but have decided to fully pull off that highway. No good comes of it anymore.

[@BakeMan66]

Andy is the OG

[@davidbuist8964]

Regarding completely dry vs tactically dry vs mostly dry, For me and I'd imagine others, the circle you guys describe is very important. The whole thing is a journey, committing to fully dry right away might be daunting which is why the 28/90/beyond scenario was/is awesome. It lets people try the mode on. The mostly dry person at age 30 with enough mindful trips round the circle may well arrive at fully dry but any movement in that direction is positive, but of they started at deciding whether the fully give it up for ever or not would likely have never got there, especially for the middle lane folks. Awesome Conversation and followup to the first which was truly inspiring for me personally.

[@WARMTAPES]

gave it up for a year. and when my mom get sick I had a Guinness after seeing her at the hospital everyday. very thankful for the pub and the people and a good Guinness. I would've lost my mind otherwise.

[@timbeaman9248]

Perfect timing….

[@chrishomer]

Smiling at the unexpected bit at 47:42 ... Black Country?

[@Wendys_lovinglife]

I gave up drinking many years ago because it was hurting my body - digestion, sleeping, fitness, etc. It's been nothing but positive for me. Disclaimer - I do have a handful of glasses of wine per year in social situations but much prefer to not drink any alcohol at all.

[@biblicalgodisonlytruegod]

As soon as the understanding of what alcohol really is becomes mainstream, people will be as embarrassed to have a “cocktail” as they are now to have a cigarette!

[@blackkote]

I would have loved to hear an insight about people who drink really rarely but are not 100% alcohol free. I drink about two beers per month if at all. It's not affecting my mental and physical health, performance, consistency etc. I can easily do without the two drinks but somehow the why is elusive.

[@JnTmarie]

Meat, dairy, alcohol, processed foods, cane sugar, gluten, high drama, free😀🙏🏻 happiest time. It’s been over 5 years. Run an alcohol free listening room for original music. It’s about the music and being present appreciating the people around not escaping it.

[@ba77leman.]

Timely as I've been alcohol free since 4/18

[@monikakress3867]

a good friend of mine was found dead in his home at age 55 a few weeks ago. cause of death was gastrointestinal hemorrhage casued by alcohol. he bled to death. scariest thing is that he wasn’t really known to be that big a drinker, he wasn’t someone that you’d think had a drinking problem compared to some people.

[@willdenham]

This single malt highland scotch renaissance has been a true test of my resolve.

[@kriswalker3275]

I grew up for the most part in an alcohol free home and never drank and then when I got into my early 40's I drank some off and on and came to a realization about 5 yrs ago my body doesn't produce the enzymes to digest it well so by choice I don't drink really at all. I'm not against a drink here or there, my body just gets very sick for about a week and it's not worth it most of the time for me. My father was an alcoholic and my parents divorced when I was pretty young and I'm grateful his genetics of alcohol addiction didn't come to me. Same thing with smoking, he was a chain smoker but I tried it and it never caught on for me, I didn't enjoy it. I had to learn that for myself and I don't regret at least trying it for myself. You have to learn/know for yourself. The more stuff you do for yourself, the easier it becomes I think. People test you on your dedication at first but when they see your on your own path no matter how much they come at you they just quiet down most of the time.

[@AP-wq9dv]

I really appreciate this podcast and learning about some of the places you can find support. I tried AF for a few years about 10 years ago and found it incredibly hard to date and a few of my female friends said they didn’t want to go out with me to dinners because I didn’t drink. It was a really lonely experience and I felt very judged. I also found the incessant questions on why I didn’t drink to be extremely uncomfortable. This podcast has helped me get the courage to try it again and I would appreciate any help navigating dating and advice on making the change quietly without felling like you have to put it on blast. I really don’t want to answer to anyone or explain like I did previously. Any advice would be greatly appreciated Thank you❤️

[@ladybugwest909]

You don't owe anyone an explanation. You don't want to date a drunk anyway. You might be hanging around the wrong crowd who are just bringing you down. Drinkers don't like to be around sober people cause it makes them feel bad about their bad habit

[@bmelvin1234]

I drank for many many years, very socially I may add. Even still, I stopped drinking several years ago because nothing, is better than having a good night sleep and feeling good in the morning.

[@Rosecransadventures]

Been alcohol free for two almost two years due to aldh2 and after year one I have not got head colds at all and pretty much everything about my health and life has gotten better and I was not even a heavy drinker just causal. STOP drinking immediately!!!

[@martinschulz1524]

Governments in many cases are the long arm of industrial branches trying to sell their products. No official person would ever admit that. Combine this with the myths of meat eating (being strong and healthy), smoking something (being relaxed) and - generally speaking- feeling better in the comfort zone of coziness you have everything to prevent people from being aware what they might be. Very good interview, Thanks to Andy and Rich.

[@Brian-vk1hm]

Hold up let me grab a beer for this one

[@PenelopeRyder]

In trauma, it's used to dissociate and many need assistance with trauma memories afterwards and the need to get rid of memories can make it hard for people who have had childhood abuse ... just getting through the day with hypervigilance and triggers can be a challenge. I would say knowing as 12 years free if you have had childhood trauma and drinking to self medicate then get proper support or therapy ... I am taking complex PTSD trauma!

[@galkinp]

Rich Roll looking good

[@kylekermgard]

I don't understand why some people feel pressured to drink in social situations. Drink whatever you want. It's your own business and no one is really paying attention to you anyways.

[@ladybugwest909]

Agreed. For the most part no one cares what you are doing. They are focused on themselves

[@Mikathedog100]

I think more commonly for many, the pressure is first to actually attend a social situation - at which two possibilities are more likely to occur. Either, others see how uncomfortable you appear and think a drink will loosen you up. Or, you drink to cope with social situations that you very much wish you never had to attend. I don't think, on the whole, that it's a case of confident, well rounded, social butterflies feeling that they HAVE to drink.

[@michaeldalsky1209]

They need to make a video for retirees,over 60

[@marty197666]

I get the message and I appreciate alcohol damages me when I have it. But I drink rarely, only a few times a year. I wouldn’t want to give up that rare beer or whisky