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What if your story—the one you’re scared to tell—is the very thing that could set you free?

In this powerful episode of Sober & Lit, Ruby and Susan sit down with Ann Dowsett Johnston, bestselling author of Drink: The Intimate Relationship Between Women and Alcohol, whose work cracked open the cultural myths around "mommy wine culture," female high-functioning drinking, and the billion-dollar marketing machine targeting women. With raw honesty and journalistic fire, Ann shares her personal unraveling—and what it took to rebuild a life rooted in purpose, recovery, and reinvention.

We ask her the big questions:
👉 Why are women drinking more than ever before—and why aren’t we talking about it?
👉 What happens when you finally tell the truth about your relationship with alcohol?
👉 How does writing your recovery help rewrite your life?

From grief and burnout to creativity and long-term sobriety, this episode is a masterclass in vulnerability, wisdom, and hope. Whether you’re sober curious, navigating gray area drinking, or a seasoned quit lit lover—this conversation will stay with you.

“It wasn’t rock bottom—it was realizing I was slowly losing myself. Alcohol was the velvet hammer. And I finally said… enough.” -Ann Dowsett Johnston

🎧 Hit play and discover why your story matters—and why it's never too late to change the ending.
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Ann's Website:
https://www.anndowsettjohnston.com/

Ann's Writing Your Recovery Course (The Fall cohort starts Sept. 17, 2025)
https://www.anndowsettjohnston.com/workshops

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Listeners have said that our podcast has helped them get alcohol free! Get started by taking a break that feels lit with a Feel Lit 21 Day Break. Click here to find out more: https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/buy-feel-lit-21-sg

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Connect with the Podcast Hosts:
Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/
Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/

Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusan
Follow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching

It is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.