Drinkaware launches Podcast Series to Encourage Adults to rethink Their Relationships with Alcohol

Drinkaware, the national independent charity working to prevent and reduce alcohol misuse, is launching an original podcast series titled Here’s to Change.

Hosted by Drinkaware CEO, Dearbhla O’Brien, the series aims to inspire listeners to reflect on their relationship with alcohol through honest, thought-provoking conversations with a diverse range of guests.

Each episode of Here’s to Change brings personal stories to the forefront, offering lived experiences, practical advice, and expert insights on how and why we drink. Listeners can expect a compelling mix of voices, including neuroscientist and resilience coach Dr Brian Pennie and Dublin-based spoken word artist Nealo, among others.

Speaking about the launch, Dearbhla O'Brien, CEO of Drinkaware says:

“Here’s to Change is more than a podcast, it’s an invitation to pause, reflect, and consider how alcohol fits into our lives. We want to meet people where they are, without judgement, and spark conversations that feel real, relevant, and ultimately empowering. For many people, drinking is part of everyday life and we’re not here to say stop. We’re here to say take a moment, ask yourself what works for you, and hear from others who’ve made small, sustainable changes. Drinkaware is proud to bring these honest, compassionate conversations to the public as part of our mission to support healthier relationships with alcohol.”

The series captures moments of real transformation. As Spoken Word Artist Nealo reflects:

“I said I’m never feeling like this again and I haven’t drank since – the only reason I stopped was because it became too painful to do it again.”

For Writer and Life Coach Alana Kirk, midlife brought a new perspective:

“People are often afraid of change whereas change can be wonderful. I realised how much I drank unconsciously and with curiosity and intention I am a ‘damp drinker’. I now ask myself do I really want this, or am I drinking out of default?”

And Neuroscientist Dr Brian Pennie brings the science of change to life:

“Our brains chase pleasure and avoid pain…the best way to change bad habits is to look at the trigger point, whether it’s anxiety, depression, disconnection or external.”

Here’s to Change complements Drinkaware’s wider mission to support adults in making more informed choices about their alcohol use and is part of a broader movement to help adults rethink and reframe their patterns around alcohol by demonstrating the benefits of change. By spotlighting relatable stories and practical tools for behaviour change, Here’s to Change builds on the growing national conversation about wellbeing, mental health, and balance.

Research from Drinkaware’s Barometer 2024 highlighted a shift in the desire to drink amongst adults:

• A record 37% of adults indicate that they wish to drink less often, reflecting a growing awareness of alcohol's effects on health and well-being. 

• The same percentage of adults state they have made small positive changes to their drinking habits in the past 30 days (i.e. drinking less). 

Podcast Highlights Include:

• A conversation with Dr Brian Pennie, who shares his personal recovery journey from addiction and how he overcame these challenges and shifted his mindset.

• A conversation with Dr Marie Finn and life coach Alana Kirk, discussing the role of alcohol in midlife, particularly for women navigating midlife challenges such as peri and menopausal eras. 

• A discussion with transformation coach Justin Caffery about men’s experiences with alcohol and wellbeing. 

The first episode features a conversation with Nealo and is available from 2nd October on all major streaming platforms, with new episodes released every two weeks.

Find out more by visiting www.drinkaware.ie or follow Drinkaware on social media - Instagram | LinkedIn

‘Here’s to Change’ is produced by Drinkaware, the national charity working to prevent and reduce alcohol misuse in Ireland.

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