Ellen Newstead: Busting Myths About Alcohol and Embracing Sobriety in Her 30s
I think for many of us, alcohol is perceived as the gateway to fun, and Ellen talked about the false promise of alcohol. Millions of us bought into this false promise, and it took me Decades to realize that alcohol is just ethanol and marketing.
What if the 'fun' that alcohol promises is just an illusion? Ellen Newstead discovered this harsh truth in her early thirties. In this episode of Tribe Sober, she opens up about her short yet intense drinking career and the pivotal moment she decided to quit for good. Ellen's story is a breath of fresh air for anyone who thinks they're too young to have a problem or too old to change.
She realized early on that alcohol was dragging her down, and she made the brave decision to get sober before her wedding—a choice she has never regretted. Ellen's journey is a powerful reminder that alcohol dependency doesn't discriminate by age. She talks candidly about how she initially used alcohol to cope with shyness and self-esteem issues, only to find herself chasing a buzz that never truly satisfied her.
Her first brush with drinking involved Alcopops, those deceptively sweet beverages with a high alcohol content. But as Ellen reveals, the promise of fun and relaxation was a mirage. In this episode, you'll hear Ellen challenge the societal norms that glamorize drinking. She shares how her support system—friends, family, and communities like Tribe Sober—played a crucial role in her journey to sobriety. Her story underscores the importance of having a network that understands and supports your decision to quit drinking.
Ellen also touches on the broader theme of the 'false promise' of alcohol. Many people buy into the myth that alcohol is the key to social success and happiness, but Ellen's experience shows otherwise. She found that life without alcohol is not only possible but also immensely fulfilling. If you're questioning your relationship with alcohol or seeking inspiration to quit, Ellen's story is a must-listen.
It’s a testament to the fact that you can rewrite your narrative at any age and find joy in sobriety.