What if the symptoms you’ve been ignoring… are actually messages?

In this powerful conversation, Carolyn sits down with holistic nutritionist and founder of The Nutrition Steward, Sarah Steward, to explore what it looks like to stop overriding your body—and start listening instead.

After years of being misdiagnosed and dismissed by the healthcare system, Sarah made the decision to take her health into her own hands. Through a holistic approach, she was able to finally understand and manage symptoms that had gone unresolved for years.

Together, they unpack the connection between emotional health, physical symptoms, and alcohol-free living, and how sobriety can become a powerful step toward clarity, healing, and self-trust.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, unheard, or disconnected from your body—this conversation will meet you there.

What You’ll Learn

“Your body is trying to tell you something—don’t ignore it.”

Healing begins when you stop outsourcing your authority

Emotional and physical health are deeply connected

Sobriety creates space for clarity, healing, and alignment

There is always a chance to begin again

Chapters

09:51
The Impact of Sobriety on Health

14:55
Understanding Alcohol's Role in Wellness

22:55
Empathy, Sensitivity, and Healing

30:15
Emotional Intelligence and Health

36:00
Navigating Overwhelm and Intuition

44:29
Resources for Support and Growth

🔗 Resources

Sarah's contact information:

Website: www.nutritionsteward.com

Instagram: @thenutritionsteward

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlotteholisticnutrition

The Gentle Detox Program with Sarah: https://www.nutritionsteward.com/detox

🌿 Reflection Questions from Sarah

• What role does this substance currently play in my life?
• In what situations is the urge the strongest?
• What emotions or patterns tend to precede use?
• What am I hoping to feel more of? Less of?
• How does my body feel the next day?
• Does this align with my long-term health goals?
• If I believe I’m not dependent, what would a short break reveal?
• Is my body benefiting from this—or adapting to it?

Follow ZPL:

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)
• Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/)
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/)
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/)

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.

In this episode, Becca explores the role of motivation versus systems in maintaining an alcohol-free lifestyle. She emphasizes the importance of discipline, habits, and structured challenges to sustain long-term change, especially when motivation wanes.

In this episode, you'll learn

• Difference between motivation and systems
• Role of discipline and habits in behavior change
• Importance of structured challenges and routines
• The science behind motivation and discipline
• Practical strategies for maintaining sobriety
• Motivation is unreliable; systems and discipline are key for long-term success.
• Starting is the hardest part; systems help sustain progress.
• Replacing the word 'motivation' with 'inspiration' can be helpful.
• Pre-visualizing scenarios supports system implementation.
• Small, achievable goals build confidence and momentum.

Episode Chapters

00:00 Understanding Motivation and Its Fluctuations

03:28 The Role of Systems in Sustaining Change

06:23 Decision Fatigue and the Importance of Pre-Planning

09:41 Building Confidence Through Discipline and Systems

12:26 Setting Achievable Goals and Finding Your Why

Follow ZPL:

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)
• Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/)
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/)
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/)

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.

In this episode of The Zero Proof Life Podcast, Karla Adkins explores the powerful connection between alcohol and travel — and why so many of us have been conditioned to believe the two go hand in hand.

From airport cocktails to poolside drinks, alcohol has been marketed as the reward, the relaxation, and the magic ingredient of vacation. But what if it’s not?

Karla shares her personal experiences traveling alcohol-free and walks you through the mindset shifts and practical strategies that can completely transform your trip. From planning ahead and communicating your intentions to embracing downtime and managing anxiety without alcohol, this episode offers tangible tools to help you feel confident and empowered before your next getaway.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why alcohol and travel are so deeply embedded in our belief systems
• How to shift from a mindset of deprivation to one of discovery
• The power of visualizing your alcohol-free experience before you go
• Why communicating your intentions with at least one trusted person matters
• How to prepare for airports, restaurants, and poolside moments
• Why downtime can actually become one of the most restorative parts of your trip
• How being alcohol-free improves sleep, reduces anxiety, and increases presence
• Why you may come home feeling more energized — not depleted

Episode Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Alcohol and Travel
00:51 – Challenging Beliefs About Alcohol
04:29 – From Deprivation to Discovery
07:48 – Planning Ahead for Success
11:33 – Navigating Airports and Early Triggers
14:12 – Communicating Your Intentions
16:07 – Embracing Downtime and New Experiences
19:25 – Anxiety, Sleep, and Physical Well-Being
22:11 – Closing Thoughts

• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription
• Follow ZPL: https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/
• Follow the coaches:
  • Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)
  • Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/)
  • Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/)
  • Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/)

Follow ZPL:

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)
• Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/)
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/)
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/)

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.

In this episode of The Zero Proof Life podcast, hosts Karla Adkins and Lorna Wilson delve into the beliefs surrounding alcohol, particularly the common notion that it helps individuals relax and unwind. They explore the role of the inner critic, social conditioning, and personal experiences in shaping these beliefs. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and empowerment in overcoming limiting beliefs about alcohol consumption. The hosts encourage listeners to reflect on their own experiences and consider the influence of societal norms on their relationship with alcohol. They also introduce the concept of the inner mentor as a guiding force in making healthier choices.

Takeaways

• Breaking down beliefs about alcohol is crucial for recovery.
• The inner critic often tells us lies that influence our behavior.
• Social conditioning heavily impacts our beliefs about alcohol.
• Our subconscious mind holds powerful influences over our actions.
• Personal experiences can distort our perception of alcohol's effects.
• It's important to play out the consequences of drinking to the end.
• The inner mentor can guide us towards healthier choices.
• Awareness of societal norms can help us challenge our beliefs.
• Empowerment comes from understanding and questioning our beliefs.
• Reflecting on our experiences can lead to personal growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Beliefs and Alcohol

06:16 The Weight of Social Conditioning

17:22 The Role of the Inner Mentor

Resources & Links

• Guest: Lorna Wilson

https://www.lornawilsoncoaching.com/

• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription
• Follow ZPL: https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/
• Follow the coaches:
  • Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)
  • Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/)
  • Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/)
  • Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life.

Follow ZPL:

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)
• Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/)
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/)
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/)

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.

Summary

In this episode of The Zero Proof Life podcast, host Brandi Babb engages in a heartfelt conversation with Christie Ackmann, a licensed clinical social worker and alcohol freedom coach. Christie shares her personal journey with alcohol, detailing how it served as a coping mechanism for painful emotions and the disconnection it created in her life. Through her experiences, she emphasizes the importance of community, vulnerability, and self-discovery in the healing process. The discussion highlights the transformative power of stepping into one's fears, reclaiming joy, and fostering genuine connections with oneself and others after quitting alcohol.

Takeaways

Christie Ackmann is a licensed clinical social worker and alcohol freedom coach.

Alcohol was used as a coping mechanism for painful emotions.

Disconnection from self and others was a recurring theme in Christie's life.

Community support is crucial in the journey of alcohol freedom.

Vulnerability leads to personal growth and connection.

The first year of sobriety can be emotionally challenging but transformative.

Reclaiming joy and hopefulness is possible after quitting alcohol.

Self-discovery is an ongoing adventure that unfolds over time.

Embracing emotions is essential for a fulfilling life post-alcohol.

Connection with oneself is as important as connection with others.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Christie Ackman

02:19 Christie's Alcohol Journey

09:21 The Impact of Alcohol on Connection

13:26 The Process of Quitting Alcohol

18:23 Exploring Inner Adventures

24:06 Translating Growth to Relationships

28:42 Finding Life in Living

Resources & Links

Guest: Christie Ackmann

https://softspokentruths.org/

https://www.instagram.com/soft.spoken.truths/

Follow ZPL:

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)
• Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/)
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/)
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/)

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.

Episode 22: The Journey To Loving Yourself

Summary

In this episode of the Zero Proof Life podcast, Becca discusses the theme of self-love and the courage it takes to embrace it. She explores the relationship between courage and confidence, emphasizing that confidence often follows acts of courage. Becca introduces the 'Four Cs of Change'—choice, commitment, courage, and confidence—and explains how these elements are interconnected in the journey of personal growth. She highlights the importance of self-respect, overcoming shame, and the quiet moments of courage that lead to self-love. The conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their own journeys and to consciously practice self-love and courage in their daily lives.

Takeaways

Courage is essential for self-love.

Confidence follows acts of courage.

Starting something new is often the hardest part.

Self-respect is a key component of personal growth.

Courage can be found in quiet moments.

Setting boundaries is a form of self-love.

The journey of self-love is ongoing and personal.

Daily practices can help cultivate courage.

You cannot give love to others if you do not love yourself.

Courage feeds confidence, creating a positive cycle.

Sound bites

"Starting is the hard part."

"Courage is quiet."

"Courage happens in the calm."

Chapters

00:00 The Courage to Love Yourself

02:49 The Four Cs of Change

06:06 Building Self-Respect and Overcoming Shame

08:53 Courage in Quiet Moments

12:10 Choosing Yourself and Setting Boundaries

15:04 The Journey of Self-Love and Courage

17:56 Daily Practices for Courage and Self-Love

Resources & Links

• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription
  
  
• Follow ZPL: https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/
  
  
• Follow the coaches:
  
  
  • Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)
    
    
  • Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/)
    
    Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/)
    
    Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/)

Follow ZPL:

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)
• Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/)
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/)
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/)

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.

In this episode of the Zero Proof Life podcast, host Karla Adkins speaks with Anna Donaghey, a certified alcohol mindset coach and former advertising strategist. They discuss Anna's journey from a high-functioning drinker in the advertising industry to a coach helping others navigate their relationship with alcohol. The conversation explores the impact of alcohol in advertising, the concept of gray area drinking, and the importance of redefining what rock bottom means. Anna emphasizes the need to understand what we are truly thirsty for in life and how to design a fulfilling life without relying on alcohol.

Takeaways

Alcohol has a significant presence in the advertising industry.

Many people drink to mask emotional issues or dissatisfaction.

Redefining rock bottom can help individuals recognize their struggles earlier.

Gray area drinking refers to those who don't fit the traditional definitions of alcoholics but still experience negative effects from drinking.

It's important to ask if your life is good enough rather than if your drinking is bad enough.

The book 'What Are You Thirsty For?' explores the deeper desires behind drinking.

Sacking the CEO of emotions means taking control of your life and decisions.

Designing a fulfilling life can reduce the desire to escape through alcohol.

Emotions are messengers that need to be acknowledged, not ignored.

Self-discovery is key to understanding one's relationship with alcohol.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to Anna Donaghey

02:05 The Impact of Alcohol in Advertising

12:47 Transitioning from Advertising to Coaching

16:29 Redefining Rock Bottom

22:31 Understanding Gray Area Drinking

24:30 Understanding Grey Area Drinking

29:01 Exploring Thirst and Emotional Needs

32:11 Sacking the CEO: Taking Control of Your Life

39:03 Rethinking Drinking and Life Choices

Resources & Links

• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription
• Follow ZPL: https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/
• Guest Anna Donaghey :
  http://www.thebigdrinkrethink.com

instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

facebook.com/thebigdrinkrethink

• Follow the coaches:
  
  
  
  • Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)
    
    
    
  • Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (

Follow ZPL:

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)
• Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/)
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/)
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/)

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.

Karla Adkins and Lorna Wilson explore how limiting beliefs shape our relationship with alcohol, and self-trust. They unpack the origins of the inner critic, the role of the subconscious mind, and how our inner mentor can guide us toward deeper resilience and clarity. This empowering conversation encourages every woman to challenge old stories, trust her growth, and embrace the possibility of something new.

Key Takeaways

• Limiting beliefs restrict forward movement and are often assumed to be true.
• The inner critic serves as a flag for limiting beliefs.
• Understanding the source of limiting beliefs is crucial for personal growth.
• The subconscious mind drives automatic reactions and decisions.
• Personal experiences can reveal unexpected strength and hidden success.
• The inner mentor represents our true selves and future possibility.
• Challenging societal norms around alcohol is essential for liberation and clarity.
• Breaking down beliefs requires curiosity, compassion, and exploration.
• Setbacks are not failures; they’re information and invitations to grow.
• Community support expands your capacity to see yourself clearly.
  
  

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Limiting Beliefs
03:14 Understanding the Inner Critic
06:16 The Weight of Our Backpack
09:28 The Power of the Subconscious Mind
12:31 Personal Experience and Growth
15:27 Exploring the Inner Mentor
18:30 Moving Forward with Self-Belief
26:03 Outro

Resources & Links

• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription
  
  
• Follow ZPL: https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/
  
  
• Follow the coaches:
  
  
  • Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)
    
    
  • Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/)
    
    
  • Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/)
    
    
  • Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/)

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life.

Follow ZPL:

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/)
• Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/)
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/)
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/)

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.