The No More Wasted Days Podcast
This is the No More Wasted Days Podcast. I'm your host - Sara Kaufman-Bradstreet.
Grab your favorite NA drink, and listen as we share vulnerable stories so you never feel alone on your alcohol free journey, and gain insights from us as we breakdown our most used tips and strategies that have kept us alcohol free. It’s time to break free from wasting any more of your days to the drinking/blackout/hangover cycle.
Listen on:
Episodes
Friday Feb 07, 2025
Friday Feb 07, 2025
Ready to download the FREE routines guidebook Sara mentioned in the episode? CLICK HERE to download so you can create routines that are filled with little hits of dopamine.
In this shorty episode of The No More Wasted Days Podcast, Sara discusses the fear of losing joy after quitting alcohol and shares personal experiences of overcoming that fear. She outlines the science behind alcohol's effect on dopamine receptors, explaining how alcohol gives a false sense of fun and why it's challenging to break the addiction cycle. Then she offers five actionable strategies to find authentic joy in a sober life: creating new rituals, finding playfulness, moving more, being present, and seeking out laughter and fun. Additionally, she encourages a mindset shift from passive to active joy-seeking by planning fun activities and building a joyful community. Sara emphasizes that true happiness doesn't come from alcohol—it comes from within.
00:00 Introduction: Finding Joy Without Alcohol
00:13 The Fear of Losing Fun
00:47 The Reality of Quitting Alcohol
02:29 Understanding Alcohol's Impact on the Brain
04:59 Five Strategies for Rediscovering Joy
05:07 Creating New Rituals and Small Pleasures
06:46 Finding Playfulness Again
08:23 The Importance of Movement
09:14 Being Present in Everyday Life
11:02 Laugh More and Seek Out Fun
12:26 Mindset Shift: Creating Joy
14:34 Conclusion: Embrace Your Natural Light
Ready to unlock your routines that are catered to giving your natural dopamine? CLICK HERE to download the guidebook mentioned in the episode.
Want to check out the book that Sara mentioned in the episode? Click the title below to check it out.“Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence” by Dr. Anna Lembke
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Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community. CLICK HERE for all the details.Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey? Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach. CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today.
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Follow the podcast on Social Media:
IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod
Follow Sara on Social Media:IG: @no_more_wasted_days
TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial
Follow Heather on Social Media:IG: @theheatherleecollective
TikTok: @thealcoholfreecoach
Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
Let’s talk about radical acceptance—a concept that can completely shift your mindset in sobriety and in life. In this episode of No More Wasted Days, Heather and Sara dive into what radical acceptance actually means, how it helps you move through challenges without resistance, and why it's a powerful tool for staying alcohol-free. If you're struggling with emotions, self-judgment, or the need to control everything, this episode will give you the mindset shift you need to find more peace and freedom on your journey.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
What radical acceptance is (and what it’s not).
Why acceptance doesn’t mean giving up—but actually empowers you to take action.
How resisting reality creates unnecessary suffering (and how to stop).
Practical ways to start using radical acceptance in your alcohol-free journey.
How to manage emotions, let go of judgment, and stop fighting what you can’t control.
Key Takeaways:
Acceptance ≠ Approval – You don’t have to like a situation to accept it and move forward.
Control What You Can – The only thing you truly control is how you respond.
Let Go of Judgment – Free yourself from labeling things as “good” or “bad” and just be.
Practice Non-Attachment to Outcomes – Focus on what is, not the endless “what ifs.”
Self-Compassion is Key – Treat yourself like you would a friend going through a tough time.
Memorable Quotes:
“Acceptance isn’t giving up—it’s choosing to move forward without wasting energy on resistance.”
“When we resist what’s happening, we create more suffering for ourselves.”
“Letting go of judgment doesn’t mean you’re okay with something—it means you’re freeing yourself from unnecessary emotional weight.”
“You don’t need to love your reality to accept it. Acceptance is what helps you move through it.”
“Focus on ‘what is’ instead of ‘what if’—because the ‘what ifs’ will keep you stuck.”
Resources Mentioned:
Daymakers Community: Weekly coaching calls, private messaging threads, and a supportive community. Learn more here.
Heather’s 1-on-1 Coaching: Tailored support to help you navigate your alcohol-free life.
If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend and leave a comment on Spotify or YouTube. We’d love to hear how radical acceptance is shifting your perspective! 💛
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Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community. CLICK HERE for all the details.Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey? Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach. CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today.
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Follow the podcast on Social Media:
IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod
Follow Sara on Social Media:IG: @no_more_wasted_days
TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial
Follow Heather on Social Media:IG: @theheatherleecollective
TikTok: @thealcoholfreecoach
Friday Jan 31, 2025
Friday Jan 31, 2025
In this shorty episode, Sara explores the 'wine o'clock' culture, where drinking wine as a daily ritual has become normalized, particularly as a coping mechanism for stress. She dives into the social and emotional impacts of this culture, sharing her personal journey from participating in it to quitting drinking. Sara examines the societal pressures that promote this habit and offers actionable strategies for breaking free from it, including building new rituals and seeking healthier, more fulfilling activities. She emphasizes the importance of community support and encourages listeners to reflect on their habits, make thoughtful changes, and reclaim their evenings in healthier ways.
00:00 Introduction to Wine O'Clock Culture
01:28 The Rise of Wine O'Clock Culture
03:55 The Impact of Wine O'Clock Culture
05:53 Breaking Free from Wine O'Clock
07:55 Creating New Rituals and Community
09:27 Conclusion and Next Steps
And don’t forget to download your free Alcohol Free Checklist. Just CLICK HERE to download this list today
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Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community. CLICK HERE for all the details.Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey? Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach. CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today.
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Follow the podcast on Social Media:
IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod
Follow Sara on Social Media:IG: @no_more_wasted_days
TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial
Follow Heather on Social Media:IG: @theheatherleecollective
TikTok: @thealcoholfreecoach
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
In this episode of the No More Wasted Days podcast, hosts Sara and Heather discuss their personal experiences of adopting a new mindset to quit drinking. They discuss how they transitioned from viewing quitting drinking as a punishment to a beneficial life choice. They share their respective journeys which included methods such as constructing daily gratitude practice and adopting particular mantras or affirmations. They also explore visualization techniques and revamping ritual habits.
00:30 Introduction and Welcome
00:43 The Importance of Mindset in Quitting Drinking
01:14 Practical Tips for Mindset Work
01:49 The Internal Struggle of Quitting Drinking
02:40 The Power of Daily Gratitude
04:19 How to Practice Daily Gratitude
08:57 The Role of Affirmations in Mindset Shift
11:29 How to Practice Daily Affirmations
16:04 The Power of Visualization
18:56 How to Practice Visualization
19:22 The Power of Visualization in Sobriety
21:35 Changing Habits and Routines for an Alcohol-Free Life
23:01 Creating New Rituals and Habits
23:53 The Role of Habits and Rituals in Sobriety
25:51 Replacing Drinking Habits with New Activities
32:14 The Importance of Consistency in New Habits
35:36 Conclusion: Implementing New Habits and Rituals
Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community. CLICK HERE for all the details.Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey? Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach. CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today.
Follow the podcast on Social Media:
IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod
Follow Sara on Social Media:IG: @no_more_wasted_days
TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial
Follow Heather on Social Media:IG: @accordingtohpg
TikTok: @thealcoholfreecoach
Friday Jan 24, 2025
Friday Jan 24, 2025
In this episode of The No More Wasted Days Podcast, Sara discusses the health benefits of sobriety, impacting mental clarity, physical well-being, and spiritual growth. She shares how sobriety improves cognitive function, sleep, heart health, and immune system strength, along with fostering deeper self-awareness and better relationships. Sara also highlights the importance of spiritual practices like meditation and mindfulness in enhancing one's alcohol-free journey.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
01:41 Mental Health Benefits of Sobriety
08:04 Physical Health Benefits of Quitting Alcohol
11:44 Spiritual and Soul Benefits of Sobriety
13:39 Conclusion and Encouragement
And don’t forget to download your free Alcohol Free Checklist. Just CLICK HERE to download this list today
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Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community. CLICK HERE for all the details.Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey? Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach. CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today.
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Follow the podcast on Social Media:
IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod
Follow Sara on Social Media:IG: @no_more_wasted_days
TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial
Follow Heather on Social Media:IG: @theheatherleecollective
TikTok: @thealcoholfreecoach
Tuesday Jan 21, 2025
Tuesday Jan 21, 2025
Quitting drinking is one of the most transformative decisions you can make, but let’s be honest—it’s not always easy. In this episode of The No More Wasted Days Podcast, Sara and Heather dive into why giving up drinking can feel so hard, especially in the early days, and why sticking with it is so incredibly worth it. From the biological and emotional challenges to the incredible physical and mental benefits, this episode is packed with insights and strategies to support your alcohol-free journey.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The biological challenges of quitting alcohol: Why your brain and body resist change in early sobriety.
How alcohol affects emotions and why learning to cope without it can feel overwhelming.
The social and cultural pressures that make giving up alcohol harder than expected.
The incredible physical, emotional, and social benefits that come with staying alcohol-free.
Strategies to push through the hard days and come out stronger on the other side.
Key Takeaways:
It’s Normal to Struggle: Quitting alcohol impacts your brain, body, and emotions—but understanding the “why” makes it easier to keep going.
Rebuild Your Coping Skills: Without alcohol, you’ll learn healthier ways to manage stress, anger, and anxiety.
Find Freedom: Sobriety brings time, energy, and clarity you didn’t know you were missing.
Build a Support System: Whether it’s through coaching, community, or close friends, surrounding yourself with like-minded people is key to success.
Be Patient with Yourself: Progress isn’t linear, and giving yourself grace is an important part of the journey.
Resources Mentioned:
Meetup and Creative Mornings for finding local or virtual activities.
Daymakers Community: Weekly coaching calls, private messaging threads, and a supportive community. Learn more here.
Heather’s 1-on-1 Coaching: Tailored support to help you navigate your alcohol-free life.
Remember: The struggle is temporary, but the rewards of an alcohol-free life last forever. Keep going—you’re worth it!
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Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community. CLICK HERE for all the details.Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey? Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach. CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today.
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Follow the podcast on Social Media:
IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod
Follow Sara on Social Media:IG: @no_more_wasted_days
TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial
Follow Heather on Social Media:IG: @theheatherleecollective
TikTok: @thealcoholfreecoach
Friday Jan 17, 2025
Friday Jan 17, 2025
Sara’s discussing the common misconception that alcohol aids in relaxation. She shares her personal journey of realizing that true relaxation comes from within and provides listeners with practical strategies to unwind without alcohol. Key methods discussed include creating a wind-down ritual, moving your body, engaging your senses, practicing mindfulness, exploring creative outlets, and trying alcohol-free beverages. Sara emphasizes that relaxation is a skill that takes practice and invites listeners to download her free alcohol-free checklist for additional support on their alcohol-free journey.
00:00 Introduction to Rethinking Relaxation
01:35 The Myth of Alcohol as a Relaxation Tool
03:20 Practical Ways to Relax Without Alcohol
04:27 Creating a Wind Down Ritual
06:29 Engaging Your Senses and Practicing Mindfulness
07:57 Exploring Creative Outlets and Alcohol-Free Beverages
09:48 Embracing Relaxation as a Skill
11:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
And don’t forget to download your free Alcohol Free Checklist. Just CLICK HERE to download this list today
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Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community. CLICK HERE for all the details.Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey? Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach. CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today.
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Follow the podcast on Social Media:
IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod
Follow Sara on Social Media:IG: @no_more_wasted_days
TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial
Follow Heather on Social Media:IG: @theheatherleecollective
TikTok: @thealcoholfreecoach
Tuesday Jan 14, 2025
Tuesday Jan 14, 2025
In this episode, Sara and Heather dive deep into the topic of relationships and how they evolve on the alcohol-free journey. Whether you’re just starting out or have been alcohol-free for a while, this episode is packed with insights and strategies for building stronger, more meaningful connections.
What We Discuss in This Episode:
The Impact of Alcohol on Relationships: How trust, emotional distance, communication, and bonding can all be affected by drinking.
Shifts in Values During Sobriety: Discover how authenticity, self-awareness, and personal growth become cornerstones of sober relationships.
Practical Strategies for Connection: From setting boundaries to creating new rituals and practicing empathy, learn actionable ways to strengthen relationships.
Rebuilding Trust: Tips for being transparent, addressing past mistakes, and showing consistency in your alcohol-free journey.
Navigating Social Situations: Gain confidence in alcohol-focused settings with real-life examples and tools for success.
Finding Your People: The importance of sober allies, online communities, and how to create or join alcohol-free activities.
Listener Takeaways:
Practice the examples of clear communication and boundary-setting provided in this episode.
Reflect on how sobriety has shifted your relationships and what connections you want to nurture moving forward.
Explore creative ways to engage in alcohol-free activities and build your sober support network.
Resources Mentioned:
Meetup and Creative Mornings for finding local or virtual activities.
Daymakers Community: Weekly coaching calls, private messaging threads, and a supportive community. Learn more here.
Heather’s 1-on-1 Coaching: Tailored support to help you navigate your alcohol-free life.
If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend who’s on an alcohol free journey or exploring sobriety.
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Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community. CLICK HERE for all the details.Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey? Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach. CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today.
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Follow the podcast on Social Media:
IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod
Follow Sara on Social Media:IG: @no_more_wasted_days
TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial
Follow Heather on Social Media:IG: @theheatherleecollective
TikTok: @thealcoholfreecoach
Friday Jan 10, 2025
Friday Jan 10, 2025
In this shorty episode of The No More Wasted Days Podcast, Sara share five practical and doable tips to ensure success in starting or continuing an alcohol-free journey. Whether you're participating in Dry January or looking for long-term sobriety, these strategies will help you navigate triggers, build a support system, track your progress, and practice self-compassion. Additionally, Sara introduces an alcohol-free checklist available for you to download by CLICKING HERE designed to provide all the tips and strategies needed for a successful journey.
00:00 Introduction and Purpose
00:18 Five Tips for Alcohol-Free Success
01:00 Tip 1: Set a Clear Why
02:52 Tip 2: Plan Ahead for Triggers
04:40 Tip 3: Build a Support System
06:40 Tip 4: Track Your Wins and Progress
08:43 Tip 5: Be Kind to Yourself
10:53 Conclusion and Encouragement
And don’t forget to download your free Alcohol Free Checklist. Just CLICK HERE to download this list today.
************************************************
Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community. CLICK HERE for all the details.Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey? Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach. CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today.
************************************************
Follow the podcast on Social Media:
IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod
Follow Sara on Social Media:IG: @no_more_wasted_days
TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial
Follow Heather on Social Media:IG: @theheatherleecollective
TikTok: @thealcoholfreecoach
Tuesday Jan 07, 2025
Tuesday Jan 07, 2025
Are your drinking habits more ingrained in your daily life than you realized? In this episode of The No More Wasted Days Podcast, Sara and Heather dive into the importance of replacing old drinking rituals with healthier, more meaningful alternatives. Whether it’s the end-of-day happy hour or celebratory toasts, we’ll help you identify and transform these rituals into practices that support your alcohol-free journey.
Perfect for those starting Dry January or anyone looking to deepen their sobriety, this episode offers practical tips, mindset shifts, and actionable steps to help you create a life full of purpose and joy.
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What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The difference between habits and rituals—and why rituals matter in sobriety.
How to identify the triggers and patterns tied to your old drinking habits.
Step-by-step guidance for replacing alcohol-based rituals with healthier alternatives.
The importance of mindset shifts and focusing on what you’re gaining in sobriety.
Quick tips for creating new rituals that support an alcohol-free lifestyle.
Key Takeaways:
Rituals Provide Stability: Drinking habits often serve as rituals that offer comfort and structure. Replacing them is essential for long-term success.
Identify Triggers: Understanding the emotions, times, and environments that triggered your drinking is the first step to change.
Replace, Don’t Eliminate: Create new rituals that provide the same comfort, connection, or reward—without alcohol.
Celebrate Small Wins: Even small changes, like replacing a glass of wine with tea or kombucha, can create momentum.
Connection is Key: Building a support network and finding community will help you navigate challenges.
Questions to ask yourself to identify your rituals:
When did I most often drink?
What emotions led me to drink?
What environments triggered my drinking?
Who was often involved?
What did I believe I was gaining?
Memorable Quotes:
“Your brain craves the stability of rituals. It’s not about elimination—it’s about transformation.” – Sara
“What can you gain by replacing your drinking rituals? Better sleep, more energy, deeper connections, and freedom.” – Heather
“Your environment matters. Rearrange your space, stock up on alcohol-free drinks, and create cozy, sober zones.” – Sara
Resources Mentioned:
Daymakers Community: Weekly coaching calls, private messaging threads, and a supportive community. Learn more here.
Heather’s 1-on-1 Coaching: Tailored support to help you navigate your alcohol-free life.
If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend who’s starting Dry January or exploring sobriety. Tag us on Instagram with your new ritual, and let’s celebrate your progress together!
Let’s create rituals that bring purpose and joy to your alcohol-free journey!
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Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community. CLICK HERE for all the details.Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey? Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach. CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today.
************************************************
Follow the podcast on Social Media:
IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod
Follow Sara on Social Media:IG: @no_more_wasted_days
TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial
Follow Heather on Social Media:IG: @theheatherleecollective
TikTok: @thealcoholfreecoach