On this episode of Cosmic Confluence with host Sana, we unpack the truth behind caffeine, energy, and the nervous system. Guest Steve Frazier—founder of Release the Coffee Cuffs and author of Winning the Battle with Caffeine—explains how caffeine interacts with cortisol, adrenaline, and adenosine; why morning hydration matters; and why tapering beats going cold turkey. We also explore gender-specific effects, fertility considerations, sleep, and social pressure around coffee. If you want sustained focus without the crash, this conversation gives you a practical path to reduce or quit caffeine—minus the drama.
About the guest:Steve Frazier helps people quit caffeine without quitting life. He runs Release the Coffee Cuffs, offers tools and trackers for tapering, and wrote Winning the Battle with Caffeine (available on major platforms; Audible in progress).
Key takeaways:Caffeine blocks adenosine receptors, delaying sleepiness; repeated use can disrupt circadian rhythm and increase withdrawal symptoms.
Morning routine: rehydrate first (e.g., lemon water), get light exposure, then—if you choose—delay your first caffeinated drink.
Tapering is more sustainable than going cold turkey; abrupt cessation often brings headaches, brain fog, and irritability.
Caffeine spikes cortisol and adrenaline, which may contribute to jitteriness, perceived anxiety, and mid-day crashes.
Chronic high intake plus upsized “cups” can normalize overconsumption; track total daily milligrams.
Effects can differ by sex and hormonal phase; timing and dosage matter.
For those trying to conceive or improve sleep quality, consider a structured reduction plan and physician guidance.
Social pressure drives consumption; choose boundaries that protect your energy rather than defaulting to habit.
The content in this episode and its show notes is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, medications, supplements, caffeine use, fertility, pregnancy, or sleep concerns. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard here. If you think you may be experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately. No doctor–patient relationship is created by listening to this episode or reading these notes. The host and guest make no guarantees regarding accuracy or completeness and do not endorse any specific tests, providers, products, or protocols discussed. Use of any information is solely at your own risk.
How to connect with the guest:Website: https://releasethecoffeecuffs.com Follow Steve on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn for daily content on caffeine education and behavior change.
Book: Winning the Battle with Caffeine (Amazon/Kindle; Audible forthcoming)
Email (as shared on-air): https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik
Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it’s become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty—storyteller, survivor, wellness advocate—this channel shares powerful podcasts and soul-nurturing conversations on:
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