Business, Books & Boundaries: Building a Life You Don’t Want to Escape From with Michelle Houston

What happens when you leave behind alcohol—but not your love for complex, intentional flavor? In this episode, Cheryl & Colleen are joined by Michelle Houston, founder of To Be Honest Beverage Co., a non-alcoholic spirit company reimagining what it means to sip, socialize, and show up with clarity.

Michelle walks us through her journey of quitting alcohol in 2021, the positive ripple effects on her mental and physical health, and how that shift led to the creation of a bold, elevated alternative that fills a major gap in the market.

The conversation goes beyond beverages. We talk about navigating drinking culture, misconceptions about being alcohol-free, and how she and her husband partner in business using tools like Clifton Strengths to define clear roles and improve communication.

Plus, Michelle gives us a peek into her love for fantasy novels like Fourth Wing and A Court of Thorns and Roses, and how those stories feed personal growth and mental clarity. We also dive into her podcast "Her First", where she empowers high-achieving women through branding, mindset, and marketing strategies.

This episode is about more than going alcohol-free—it’s about intentional living, building in alignment, and celebrating success without sacrificing wellness.

🔑 What You'll Hear in This Episode:

• Michelle’s shift to a sober lifestyle and what she gained in return

• The creation of To Be Honest Beverage Co. and the gap it fills in the market

• Misconceptions about non-drinkers and the cultural shift around alcohol

• The dynamics of building a business with your spouse and the importance of communication

• Using Clifton Strengths to deepen personal and professional partnerships

• Fantasy novels as tools for growth, escape, and creativity

• Michelle’s podcast “Her First” for women entrepreneurs and creators

• Why intentionality, balance, and clarity are key to personal and professional fulfillment
  

👤 About Michelle Houston:

Michelle Houston never planned to give up alcohol—or start a beverage company—but both changed her life. After ditching alcohol in 2021, she founded To Be Honest Beverage Co., a sophisticated non-alcoholic spirit brand designed for those who want complex flavor without compromise. She’s also the co-host of the “Her First” podcast, where she supports women entrepreneurs in building aligned, successful businesses.

📲 Connect with Michelle Houston & To Be Honest:

• Website: www.tobehonestbev.com

• Instagram: @tobehonestbev

• Offer: Sign up for the loyalty program to get 10% off your first bottle

• Podcast: Her First Podcast

📲 Keep the Conversation Going with Cheryl & Colleen:

• Instagram: @cheryl.theslorealtor

• Instagram: @colleenhungerford

• Podcast Instagram: @doingthisrightpod
  

🏡 Work with Cheryl & Colleen:

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