Alcohol and the Lie of Using it for Loneliness

 Ep 56 - I'm taking a short break from new episodes this month, but I did not want to leave you without something powerful to listen to. Over the past two years, I've had the honor of speaking with some truly incredible guests, and one of those conversations continues to stand out for its deep impact.

Tracy is a 54-year-old nurse who has been alcohol-free for nearly two and a half years and over that time, her transformation has been incredible.  She bravely opened up about her decades-long struggle with alcohol, how it affected every area of her life, and her inspiring journey to living alcohol-free. Tracy’s honesty about the ups and downs, and how she ultimately reconnected with her faith, is nothing short of powerful.  

Here are 3 key takeaways for anyone considering change:

🔹 Alcohol-Free Doesn’t Mean Lonely
Tracy shared that her drinking was rooted in loneliness and the desire for connection. She realized that alcohol actually further disconnected her from her loved ones—and rediscovered true connection after giving it up.

🔹 Role Models Matter (Across Generations)
Her biggest motivation? Being a role model for her grandkids. Tracy wanted to break the cycle and show by example that life can be joyful and meaningful without alcohol.

🔹 Professional Wisdom: Health Impacts Are Real
As a nurse, Tracy witnessed the physical toll of alcohol on her patients—including heart disease, diabetes, and liver failure—which fueled her decision to make a change.

If you’re curious about living alcohol-free or know someone who is, Tracy’s story is a testament to hope, resilience, and the possibility of transformation at any stage of life. 💛

00:00 Inspiring Alcohol-Free Journey
05:00 First Alcohol Encounter: Childhood Memories
07:28 Life-Changing Accident at 18
11:35 "Isolation from Trauma and Loss"
15:17 Generational Alcohol-Free Advocacy
20:03 Alcohol's Link to Cancer Awareness
22:10 Absent Presence in Relationships
25:19 Alcohol Abuse and Community Challenges
27:52 Discovering God's Presence & Healing
32:13 Faith, Forgiveness, and Positive Impact
36:40 "Seek Alcohol-Free Support Now"
37:55 Program Experience Inspires Faith-Based Solution

If this conversation encouraged you or gave you something to think about, I'd love it if you take a moment to follow the show, leave a rating or review or even share it with a friend. Your support helps to say Goodbye and Imagine podcast reach more people who are ready to take that next step towards freedom and possibility.

Rose Ann's new book "Prepare to Quit" is a concise read designed to assist in the contemplation stage of quitting alcohol. It aims to guide readers through the decision-making process, helping them weigh the costs and benefits of change.   It's available now https://choosefreedom.today/prepare-to-quit/