Denise has produced 18 editions of her new magazine dedicated to low and no alcohol drinks. Something she would never have considered if she had no re-evaluated her relationship with alcohol.

Welcome to the next round, where we speak to people about the next stage of their life once they have reviewed how alcohol impacts them.

You don’t have to be totally alcohol-free to gain benefits from rethinking your drinking. But as this week’s guest Denise Hamilton Mace has shown, you need to have a determination to change your life, and some ideas to get going with.

Denise has moderated her drinking habits, which led her to a degree in sports fitness and then she got brave, and started writing – something she was told way back when, that she may not be suited to. We love it when a guest proves their nay sayers wrong!

Exploring the Low and No Alcohol Revolution: Denise’s Journey of Discovery and Innovation

The rise of low and no alcohol options is transforming how we think about drinking, and Denise’s story provides a unique perspective on this cultural shift. As a hospitality professional turned advocate for mindful drinking and editor of Low and No Drinker magazine, Denise shares her journey of personal growth, career transformation, and creative exploration.

Redefining Life Through Moderating Alcohol

For Denise, the decision to cut back on alcohol wasn’t a dramatic turning point but a series of realisations.

“I started to notice how alcohol affected me over time. It wasn’t just the hangovers; it was the brain fog, the mood swings, and feeling like I wasn’t operating at my full capacity”

Her journey began with small lifestyle changes.

“I stopped eating red meat because it made me feel moody, and alcohol was the next thing I recognized as not serving me.”

Denise emphasises that she doesn’t identify as teetotal or in recovery but rather someone who found more balance by drinking less.

“It’s about discovering who you want to be and whether alcohol helps or hinders that.”

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After quitting alcohol, Michelle Righini has dedicated herself to championing the wellbeing and skills of hospitality staff.

On The Next Round podcast, we dive into life after quitting drinking—especially for those in hospitality, where alcohol is often center stage. What’s next if you love the industry but not the booze?

Michelle, founder of We Recover Loudly, joins us to share her mission: creating a supportive space for drinks professionals who’ve ditched alcohol but not their passion for hospitality. Let’s talk change, advocacy, and keeping talent thriving!

You can find Michelle instagram @werecoverloudly.

“The thing that we put down is alcohol, but we don’t put down our creativity, our minds, our drive to make great drinks.”

This is a rallying cry for the hospitality industry to rethink its relationship with alcohol from Michelle. Creativity and skill are at the heart of what makes this industry thrive, and neither depends on the presence of alcohol. Removing it doesn’t mean losing artistry—it means opening up new possibilities.

Hospitality Culture: Why Is Addiction So Prevalent?

“What we’re not doing yet is going, why are we an industry that has such high levels of addiction? To be a good manager, you have to be able to drink? Like, what? What other industry does that make sense in?”

The hospitality sector has long celebrated a culture of drinking, but this norm raises significant questions about its impact on mental health and job performance. Changing these outdated perceptions is crucial to creating a more sustainable industry.

Sober Weekends and Smug Mornings

“Weekends are my favourite time to be sober because I get to do the thing I love the most, which is be smug. I get to wake up very smug at about eight o’clock and look at my life and go, this is a great choice.”

Sobriety transforms weekends from blurry recoveries to opportunities for enjoyment and reflection. This shift underscores the profound personal benefits of a life without alcohol.

The Cost of Industry Norms

“I slowly started to realise that alcohol was becoming the thing that was holding me together.”

For many in hospitality, alcohol becomes a crutch rather than a tool for connection. The realisation that it’s holding people back rather than propelling them forward is a pivotal moment in the journey toward change.

Addiction and the Industry’s “Throwaway” Culture

“When that line is crossed, so many of us just get thrown away, and that, for me, just never sat right.”

The industry’s tendency to discard talent once addiction becomes visible is a tragic waste. Recovery and reintegration need to be prioritized to retain valuable employees and demonstrate compassion.

See the full blog here.

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Welcome to “The Next Round,” where we explore the remarkable stories of those who found new beginnings once they stopped seeking answers at the bottom of the bottle. Today’s episode is a reflection on recovery, redemption, and the power of turning the past into a foundation for the future.

For some, the journey to the other side can feel like a wall between who they were and who they’ve become. But perhaps, just perhaps, the life they once lived holds the key to the one they’re building now.

In this episode, we meet Paul Bayes Kitcher, a man who never lost his love for dance. On the other side of recovery, he found himself uniquely placed to channel its transformative power—helping others navigate their own recoveries from addiction or mental health challenges through movement and artistry.

Along with Claire Morris he co-founded Fallen Angels Dance Theatre (FADT) in 2011, fostering creativity and using dance to transform lives.

In this podcast Josh Kelly, our brand manager who himself used to be a dancer interviews Paul. He shares his story, the life-changing work of his organisation,offering a future through dance. It’s a story of resilience, creativity, and the beautiful steps forward when we reclaim what once felt lost. Find out more you how you can join them or support their work by becoming a guardian angel.

Fallen Angels Dance Theatre (FADT) has become a powerful symbol of transformation and hope, helping individuals in recovery from addiction and trauma reconnect with their bodies and rediscover joy. Founded by Paul Byers Kitchen, a former professional ballet dancer and someone in long-term recovery, FADT merges the therapeutic power of movement with the artistic discipline of dance. Over the past decade, it has grown into a flourishing community, offering a safe and creative space for people to heal and thrive.

A Journey from Ballet to Recovery

Paul’s story is one of both brilliance and struggle. Trained at world-renowned institutions such as the Royal Ballet School and Rambert, he had a successful career with companies like Scottish Ballet and Birmingham Royal Ballet. Yet behind the scenes, unresolved childhood trauma and the relentless pressures of the ballet world led him into addiction.

“I never felt comfortable in my own skin – Alcohol and drugs became my solution—a way to escape myself.”

Despite his talent and dedication, the demands of perfectionism combined with his personal struggles led him to resign from Birmingham Royal Ballet at 30. Without the structure of his career, his addiction spiraled into chaos.

Through recovery, Paul found clarity and purpose. He realised the therapeutic potential of movement for people in recovery and began developing what would eventually become Fallen Angels Dance Theatre.

The Birth of Fallen Angels Dance Theatre

Established over 10 years ago, FADT was born from Paul’s passion for recovery and his deep understanding of movement. Recognising that the word “dance” might intimidate some, particularly those unfamiliar with formal training, Paul instead emphasizes “movement.”

“Everyone can move. We start with natural movement and somatic practices, creating a space where people feel safe to explore their bodies and emotions.”

Read the full blog

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When Xiomara Wimmer decided to give up drinking, she didn’t just change her life—she found herself becoming part of an alcohol-free super couple.

Little did she know that sharing her journey alongside her husband would turn into a mission that’s now helping countless others navigate socialising alcohol-free.

Welcome to The Next Round, the podcast where we dive into the inspiring stories of people who’ve redefined their lives by changing their relationship with alcohol. From mending relationships to taking on life-changing challenges, the possibilities are endless when booze is no longer center stage.

In this episode, we meet Xiomara, a trailblazer in the alcohol-free community. Since embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle, she and her husband have inspired countless others by sharing their journey on their social platform—showing how vibrant and connected life can be without alcohol. Now, Xiomara is taking her mission even further, leading empowering workshops designed to help others socialise with confidence, authenticity, and joy in an alcohol-free world.

You can find xiomara and Patrick @theafcouple

For Xiomara and her husband Patrick, alcohol was a common element in their relationship—until they realised it was holding them back. When they decided to give up drinking, everything changed. It wasn’t just about cutting out alcohol; it was about rediscovering their connection, their purpose, and their shared passions.

A Life-Changing Decision

Xiomara and Patrick, also known as The AF Couple, shared their story of going alcohol-free over two and a half years ago. For years, they enjoyed their life together but noticed that alcohol often brought unnecessary conflict and tension into their relationship. While it wasn’t always the source of their problems, it tended to amplify any existing issues.

Finally, they reached a breaking point. They decided to remove alcohol from their lives completely. The result? A newfound clarity in their relationship and their communication.

Building an Alcohol-Free Life Together

Going alcohol-free is a personal journey, but for Xiomara and Patrick, it was also a shared one. They chose to navigate this path side by side, creating a unique and powerful dynamic.

“We’ve always been told we’re a beautiful couple, but when alcohol was involved, that didn’t always align.” Xiomara Wimmer

By quitting together, they strengthened their bond and rediscovered what made them such a great team.

They now share their journey on their Instagram account, @theafcouple, where they document the highs and lows of their alcohol-free lifestyle. Their posts reflect the reality of sobriety, showcasing both the good and the messy moments, inspiring others to reconsider their relationship with alcohol.

Follow Xiomara and Patrick’s journey on Instagram at @theafcouple, and discover how an alcohol-free lifestyle can open up a world of possibilities.

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Welcome to The Next Round – the podcast that celebrates the journey to your next chapter. Because let’s face it, getting there isn’t always smooth sailing. It might be a little bumpy, just like Clare’s story—but here’s the thing: it’s absolutely possible.

In this series, we dive into the highs, the lows, and the game-changing transformations of people who’ve decided to reimagine their relationship with drinking. It’s not just about what they’ve left behind—it’s about what’s next.

🍹 Take Clare, for example. Her journey to sobriety didn’t just lead to a confident, contented life—it inspired her to create Bear Zero, an alcohol-free bar that’s redefining the social scene. But how did she get here? What fueled her passion? And where does the name Bear Zero even come from?

The Origins of Bear Zero: A Name with Meaning

Bear Zero wasn’t just a business idea—it was born from Clare’s personal history. Her middle name, “Bear,” has a humorous backstory. During a drunken episode years ago, her husband legally changed her name as a joke. That whimsical act turned into something deeply meaningful, symbolising the new, sober Clare. The “Zero” represents a fresh start, a life free from alcohol – obviously!

Launching officially in March, Bear Zero has already become a local sensation in the Wirral area. From river festivals to Pride events, Clare’s alcohol-free bar is making waves, offering unique cocktails and an inclusive space for non-drinkers.

A Journey Through Darkness

Clare’s relationship with alcohol was marked by binge drinking and the destructive habits that came with it. A family holiday in 2013, meant to be a celebration, turned disastrous when Clare found herself unable to participate in her wedding festivities. That moment was a wake-up call, leading her to seek help from a psychiatrist who confirmed her fears: she was an alcoholic.

The diagnosis brought relief, but the road ahead was steep. Clare entered a 28-day rehab program, where she learned about the dangers of alcohol and its effects on the brain. However, as she discovered, sobriety doesn’t come easy. Within a week of leaving rehab, she relapsed, beginning a painful cycle of trying to moderate her drinking.

The Turning Point

Clare’s breakthrough came during another holiday. After two weeks of unsuccessfully trying to abstain, she boarded the plane home and declared, “I’m not drinking anymore.” This wasn’t just a decision; it was a commitment to reclaim her life. Over time, Clare began to implement tools and strategies to support her sobriety, including identifying triggers like hunger, anger, loneliness, tiredness, and worry.

She also established boundaries—avoiding social events centered around drinking, setting limits on her time at gatherings, and learning to confidently say, “No, thank you.”

Find Bear Zero on Instagram here and theiur website is bearzero.co.uk

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The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR

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In this podcast, anaesthetist and breathwork expert James Brunning shared the story of his journey away from alcohol and towards a life of emotional clarity, mindfulness, and gentle peace. From using breathwork as a way to manage anxiety and support his relationships, James now brings his expertise into the wellness space, helping others find calm through simple yet powerful techniques.

The Impact of Alcohol on Presence and Connection

James’s relationship with alcohol began like many of ours—woven into social events and family traditions. However, he noticed over time that drinking wasn’t just impacting his mornings; it was pulling him away from being present for those he loved.

Reflecting on a relationship crunch point, James realised that alcohol was taking a toll on his mental energy and emotional availability. This revelation prompted him to make a change, finding support through Club Soda’s mindful drinking community.

“I wasn’t my whole self, and I wasn’t able to give emotional clarity to myself or my wife.”

James Brunning

Embracing Breathwork and the Science of Calm

Jame’s Next Round saw his immersion in breathwork. As a trained anesthetist, James was already familiar with the physiological impacts of breath on anxiety reduction and heart rate control. His studies in hypnosis further deepened his understanding, leading him to see breathwork as “meditation without the effort and twice the effect.”

Breathwork leverages the vagus nerve, one of the largest nerves in the body, which regulates heart rate and stress levels. By practicing controlled breathing—such as extending exhales—James found he could manage his anxiety effectively. This practice became especially valuable in his professional life, where he helped patients calm down before surgery by guiding them in breathing exercises.

The Power of Mindfulness and Finding “Gentle Peace”

Removing alcohol from his life, James noticed a reduction in what he calls “background anxiety,” a heightened state of alertness and tension he’d previously taken for granted. Breathwork allowed him to tap into a sense of calm and clarity he’d never experienced before. This transformation was both personal and powerful, giving him what he describes as a “gentle peace” that replaced the anxious energy alcohol once fueled.

James’s approach to breathwork now goes beyond self-care; he’s dedicated to sharing this knowledge with others, helping them find clarity and calm through accessible techniques. His mantra is simple: “A few minutes of breathwork can make a massive difference.”

Bringing Breathwork to Others
James’s journey now involves spreading awareness about the impact of mindful breathing on mental and physical well-being. He has started wellness workshops and courses for Doctors, sharing techniques that benefit everyone—from those seeking anxiety management to individuals interested in boosting their mitochondrial fitness and overall oxygen utilisation.

For those looking to begin, James recommends starting with extended exhales and brief breath holds, practices that activate the body’s natural relaxation response. He gave Laura a demonstration on the podcast!

“There’s good science behind it,. Eveen a few minutes of daily breath work can have on one’s mood, energy, and outlook on life."

James Brunning

See the full blog on joinclubsoda.com

Find James on Instagram.

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The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR

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It was great to have this conversation with Shaun Reany, a performance poet, advocate for mindful living and founder of the Sober Af Poetry Night. He opened up about his journey through sobriety, creativity, and self-acceptance. He has used his experiences with mental health struggles and personal growth as a foundation for creating safe, non-judgmental spaces for self-expression. His story reflects the power of poetry and public speaking to help navigate complex emotions and foster a supportive community.

From Self-Investigation to Sobriety
Shaun’s journey toward sobriety started with a deep introspection after an incident that shocked him, and nearly got him into big trouble. He wanted to reconcile his true self with his actions. Therapy played a crucial role, allowing him to unpack years of cognitive dissonance—feeling disconnected from his values while under the influence of alcohol. After a long process, Shaun found clarity: to achieve the life he truly desired, he had to let go of alcohol. This decision marked the final piece of his puzzle, setting him on a path of self-discovery and acceptance.

Creativity Unleashed: Poetry as a Healing Tool
Through writing and performing, Shaun found an outlet for expressing the emotions he previously struggled to confront. His poetry, initially inspired by song lyrics and personal reflections, became a therapeutic vehicle for self-understanding. Contrary to the myth that creativity thrives on substances, Shaun’s sober reflections have brought newfound depth and honesty to his work, proving that authenticity can drive powerful artistic expression.

Building a Judgment-Free Community
In January, Shaun launched *Sober AF Poetry Club*, an open mic event that offers a judgment-free environment for people to share their stories. Here, individuals from all walks of life present works that range from lighthearted humor to profound self-reflection, often touching on personal experiences with mental health, family dynamics, and sobriety. The club’s inclusive nature fosters a community where vulnerability is met with support, offering attendees a rare chance to connect over shared challenges.

Looking Ahead: The Unscripted Journey
Shaun’s future remains open, driven by a commitment to personal growth and creative exploration. While he acknowledges the value of planning, he emphasises staying true to what feels right, allowing each step to shape his path organically. For Shaun, the journey is about doing what brings him joy, from writing to creating safe spaces for others to express themselves authentically.

As Shaun continues to explore his creative potential, his story reminds us that embracing change and supporting one another can lead to unexpected and meaningful transformations.

Find the Sober Af Poetry Club on Instagram and dates for next events here.

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The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR

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Victoria Vanstone is best known for the Sober Awkward Podcast. A candid and humorous podcast co-hosted with Hamish Adams-Cairns. The duo dives into the ups and downs of living an alcohol-free life, sharing personal stories, practical advice, and the awkward moments that come with sobriety. It won Best Wellbeing Podcast award at the British Podcast Awards, cementing its place as a valuable resource and support for the sober-curious community.

Victoria has been a mate of Club Soda for a long time. You can read and hear her prevous contribution to our Online Mindful Drinking Festival held in lockdown in 2020. She recently visited the Club Soda tasting Room with her co-host Hamis, and we had a chance to catch up and disucss her book – A Thousand Wasted Sundays.

In this chat, Victoria shares how she transformed her life by quitting drinking, reclaiming her Sundays, and finding joy in the simple things. Her story is both inspiring and relatable, as she talks about the ups and downs of ditching alcohol and how she’s building a life she loves, one sober day at a time. Here’s how she did it and why it mattered so much.

Breaking the Binge-Drinking Cycle: “I Knew I Needed Help”

Victoria’s journey started with the familiar cycle of binge drinking on weekends and the inevitable anxiety-filled Sundays. Despite trying countless ways to cut back, she found herself stuck in the same pattern.

“I tried every trick in the book—water between wines, everything—but nothing ever worked.”

The turning point came after the birth of her second child. She woke up with what she called the “anxiety monster” at the foot of her bed. This moment of clarity made her realise she needed a different approach.

“I remember walking out and seeing my husband, and I said, ‘I think I need help. I need someone else to intervene because what I’m doing isn’t working.”

That realisation led her to seek therapy, and it changed everything. She learned that the root of her drinking went much deeper than she thought.

“It’s About Finding Out Who You Were Before Alcohol”

For Victoria, quitting drinking wasn’t just about giving up booze; it was about rediscovering who she truly was. Therapy helped her connect the dots between her past and her drinking habits, including childhood experiences of rejection that shaped her into a “people pleaser” and the life of the party.

“I was always the mad one, the entertainer, because I wanted to keep people close. It all stems back to childhood stuff,”

Read the full blog on joinclubsoda.com/hub/

Find Club Soda:

The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR

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