Rethinking Alcohol: Jo, Paula, and Kieron James on Changing Social Norms
Alcohol has basically encapsulated every corner of life. And this is where I think the whole culture is, we still haven't evolved in our cultural understanding, whereas the Europeans, from a very early age, you're taught to respect alcohol, yeah, and enjoy it exactly and appreciate the fine wine.
Ever pondered why alcohol is so ingrained in our celebrations and commiserations? In this episode of 'Two Roads Travelled', sisters Jo Huey and Paula Loader sit down with Kieron James, a former pub manager turned addiction coach, to dissect the social norms that keep alcohol at the center of our lives. Kieron, who has been sober for eight years, brings a wealth of experience from both sides of the bar.
He shares his journey from dependency to recovery and how he now helps others navigate life post-addiction through his coaching business. The trio explores how society's perception of alcohol shapes our behaviors and attitudes. They discuss the fine line between social drinking and addiction, emphasizing that the real challenge isn't detox but learning to live without alcohol. This conversation isn't about demonizing alcohol or telling people to quit drinking.
Instead, it's a call for more responsible drinking and greater empathy for those struggling with addiction. Jo, Paula, and Kieron also touch on the stigmatization of non-drinkers, the role of media in shaping our views on alcohol, and the cultural differences that influence our relationship with drinking. By the end of this episode, you'll find yourself questioning long-held beliefs about alcohol and considering how we can create a more compassionate and inclusive society.
Tune in for an eye-opening discussion that could change how you see alcohol forever.