A warm, in-person conversation series exploring what happens when you remove alcohol and make space for real life. Each episode invites a guest into the room for an unhurried, human chat that goes far beyond quick tips and surface talk. Together, we dig into identity, purpose, spirituality, resilience, relationships, and the practical habits that help people feel and perform at their best. Expect honest stories, reflective moments, and valuable insights you can apply the same day. It is the original spirit of podcasting brought back to life by two people sitting down, going deep, and seeing what meaningful conversation can awaken.
For lots of free downloads and to learn more about Andy check out the links below:
To train with Andy check out - https://andyramage.com/
To train with Andy as a coach - https://coachbusiness.school/
To download the Dryy app - https://dryy.disciplemedia.com/signup/BEeW9R
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Alcohol-Free: The Ultimate Lifestyle Medicine with Neil Rutherford (00:54:09)
In this episode, I share the extraordinary story of Neil Rutherford. A man who went from chronic illness, burnout, and quiet despair to reclaiming his health, identity, and purpose through lifestyle medicine and living alcohol free.Neil’s journey is not about willpower. It is about removing the one variable that was quietly sabotaging everything else. Alcohol. What followed was not just weight loss or better blood results, but a complete shift in how he lives, leads, and shows up for his family and the world.This conversation is living proof that the body wants to heal when you stop breaking it.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why alcohol is the most overlooked lifestyle medicine variableHow removing alcohol accelerates every other health interventionThe link between drinking, inflammation, anxiety, and chronic illnessWhy confidence without alcohol becomes internal and sustainableHow identity shifts after health transformationWhy lifestyle change beats medication aloneThe ripple effect of one person choosing an alcohol free lifeHow purpose often emerges after healingWhy men struggle in silence and how coaching changes thatWhat freedom actually feels like on the other sideTimestamps00:00 – 02:00 Neil’s introduction and why this story matters02:00 – 04:00 Recruitment culture, identity, and drinking as normal04:00 – 06:00 Obesity, anxiety, depression, and the hidden cost of alcohol06:00 – 08:00 Quitting alcohol and discovering time, clarity, and choice08:00 – 10:00 Lifestyle medicine, plant-based nutrition, and healing begin10:00 – 12:00 Reversing diabetes, liver damage, and chronic inflammation12:00 – 14:00 Gout, Christmas, and the moment everything changed14:00 – 16:00 Anxiety, nervous system recovery, and real calm16:00 – 18:00 Identity shift and becoming an Alcohol Free Warrior18:00 – End Purpose, coaching, leadership, and the ripple effect of changeIf this episode resonated and you want to take your alcohol free journey deeper, I highly recommend checking out Authentic Brew. It is a functional alcohol free drink designed to elevate energy, focus, and connection without the crash, the compromise, or the hangover. It is a powerful tool for anyone upgrading their lifestyle.If you want to get accredited as a coach, come and join me at Coach Business School. I am there to guide you through the training and support you every step of the way.If you are already an accredited coach and want to master the business and marketing side of coaching, join me inside Coach MBA.I would love to see you in training very soon.Let’s do this.
7 Ways To Love Christmas Alcohol-Free! (00:19:35)
In this episode, I share seven powerful ways to not just survive Christmas alcohol free but absolutely love it. This is your chance to step into January already energised, focused, and flying while everyone else is trying to recover from December.You will learn how to create new Christmas rituals, upgrade your festive drinks, protect your energy, set boundaries with kindness, and give your loved ones the greatest present of all. Your presence.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow to flip the script on Christmas and love it alcohol freeWhy December is the most powerful month to take a breakSeven practical strategies that make Christmas more joyfulHow to stay energised, connected and fully presentWhy going alcohol free turns you into a connection superpowerHow to show up as the real you for the people you loveTimestamps00:00 – 02:00 Why Christmas is the ultimate alcohol free challenge02:00 – 04:00 How December builds bulletproof momentum04:00 – 06:00 Focusing on the wins instead of what you lose06:00 – 08:00 Creating new uplifting Christmas rituals08:00 – 10:00 Upgrading your festive drinks the smart way10:00 – 12:00 Reclaiming your energy and your time12:00 – 14:00 Becoming more connected and more present14:00 – 16:00 Setting boundaries with kindness16:00 – 18:00 The greatest gift you can give your loved ones18:00 – End Bringing it all together and stepping into January strongIf you want to train with me and become an accredited coach, check out Coach Business School.If you are already accredited and want to learn the skills of business and marketing, join me in Coach MBA.And if you are embracing the alcohol free lifestyle, join DRYY, our incredible community and app.Plus, for functional festive drinks that elevate your energy without the hangover, visit Authentic Brew.Let’s do this!
Bed Bound Burnout To Mothernatured Based Healing & Wellness Drink With Mike Mudie (01:08:57)
In this episode, I sit down with Mike Mudie to talk about one of the most powerful stories I have ever been part of. Mike went from achieving the biggest professional success of his life straight into complete physical collapse. His body shut down. He could not walk. He could not lift a fork. And no one in traditional medicine could explain why.What followed was a six-month healing journey into holistic health, nature-based medicine, and reconnection with the body. That journey led to something extraordinary. Together, we explore how his burnout became the birth of Authentic Brew, a functional wellness drink powered by mushrooms, botanicals, and pure Mother Nature.This conversation is about more than business. It is about listening to your body, understanding burnout, the power of nature, and why sometimes life has to break you before it rebuilds you.What You Will Learn in This Episode:What burnout really looks like when your body completely shuts downWhy traditional medicine sometimes misses the root causeHow nature and holistic healing helped Mike recover his healthWhy disconnection from nature is making so many people unwellThe real story behind the creation of Authentic BrewWhy most so-called energy and health drinks are misleadingHow functional wellness can replace stimulants and alcoholWhy your darkest moment can become your biggest missionHow we are using business to rewild people and placesTimestamps: (podcast)00:00 – 02:40 Introduction and Mike’s background02:40 – 06:30 Career success followed by complete physical collapse06:30 – 10:20 When the body shuts down and doctors cannot explain why10:20 – 14:30 Discovering holistic healing and listening to the body14:30 – 18:10 Lessons from nature and the path to real recovery18:10 – 22:30 How burnout became the birth of Authentic Brew22:30 – 26:00 Functional wellness versus mainstream energy drinks26:00 – 30:40 Mushrooms, botanicals, and how they change daily performance30:40 – 35:20 Rewilding people and places through business35:20 – 40:10 From collapse to contribution and mission40:10 – End Final reflections, purpose, and what Mike wants people to take awayLinks and Resources:Discover Authentic BrewIf you want to experience a daily dose of wellness powered by Mother Nature and support the mission to rewild people and places, explore Authentic Brew and join the Authentic Brew Crew here: 👉 authenticbrew.comJoin me at the Coach Business SchoolIf you feel inspired by this episode and want to turn your own life experience into impact through coaching, you can train with me at the Coach Business School. Whether you want to get accredited as a coach or grow your coaching business, I will guide you every step of the way. 👉 coachbusiness.schoolAlready Accredited?Join my Coach MBA: Marketing and Business for Accredited Coaches to build a confident, sustainable, and purpose-driven coaching business. 👉 coachbusiness.schoolIf this conversation moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Someone on the edge of burnout. Someone on the edge of change. Someone searching for something more real.Let’s do this.
An Alcohol-Free Break That Sparked a Running Journey and a Return of Confidence with Claire McAskill (00:35:09)
In this episode, I sit down with Claire MacAskill, someone I have known for many years and watched grow in courage, confidence, and self-belief. Claire has been alcohol-free for seven years, and in that time she has transformed her health, her mindset, and her entire life. From struggling with weekend drinking to becoming a world-class marathon runner in her fifties, her story is one of resilience, consistency, and pure inspiration.We talk about everything from her early days as a grey-area drinker, to the moment she decided she wanted more from life, to running marathons around the world and qualifying for global championships. Claire’s honesty, vulnerability, and strength shine through every moment of this conversation. If you are looking for proof that life gets bigger, brighter, and more meaningful without alcohol, this episode is for you.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Claire went from weekend drinking to seven years alcohol-freeWhy removing alcohol unlocked her best fitness, mindset, and confidenceHow she became fitter and faster in her fifties than in her twentiesThe truth about heart rate, recovery, and how alcohol affects performanceWhy anxiety often disappears when alcohol disappearsThe mindset shift that turned running into her new pub and her new tribeHow self-development and authenticity became central to her alcohol-free lifeWhy is it never too late to step into your full potentialTimestamps00:00 – 02:00 The three-layer formula02:00 – 04:00 Seven years alcohol-free04:00 – 06:00 From NYC hangovers to NYC marathons06:00 – 08:00 Finding her tribe08:00 – 11:00 Sliding doors: two possible lives11:00 – 14:00 The hidden cost of ‘just one’14:00 – 17:00 Alcohol-free: the real superpower17:00 – 20:00 Consistency creates confidence20:00 – 24:00 Reborn at 4524:00 – End Medals, mindset, and meaningLinks and Resources:Join me at the Coach Business School:If this alcohol-free journey has sparked something in you and you want to help others transform their lives, come and train with me at the Coach Business School. Whether you want to get accredited as a coach or you are already qualified and ready to master the business side of coaching, I would love to guide you.👉 Explore programs and resources at coachbusiness.schoolAlready accredited?Take the next step with my Coach MBA: Marketing and Business for Accredited Coaches, the place where I help coaches build thriving and meaningful coaching businesses.👉 Learn more at coachbusiness.schoolIf Claire’s story lit something inside you, share this episode, follow the show, and join me in the growing alcohol-free movement.Let’s do this.
The Big 60: Alcohol-Free, 77 lbs Lighter, Looking 10 Years Younger with Andy Garwood (00:33:43)
In this episode, I sit down with my good friend Andy Garwood, a man who has completely transformed his life since going alcohol-free. Andy has lost more than 77 pounds, become fitter in his sixties than he was in his thirties, and discovered a new sense of purpose and joy. We talk about health, fitness, mindset, and how walking away from alcohol can open the door to a richer, more meaningful life. This is a powerful reminder that it is never too late to rewrite your story.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Andy transformed his health and life after quitting alcoholWhy it is never too late to start overThe power of community and connection in the alcohol-free worldHow walking, hiking, and nature can fill the space that drinking once didWhy your story can inspire others, even when you do not realise itHow living alcohol-free helps you rediscover your purpose, energy, and joyTimestamps:00:00 – 02:00 The comeback of a lifetime02:00 – 04:00 From five days on to two days off04:00 – 06:00 A father’s proudest moment06:00 – 08:30 The silent impact you’ll never see08:30 – 11:00 Boundaries and balance11:00 – 15:00 Finding your tribe15:00 – 18:30 Climbing higher, living fuller18:30 – 22:00 Adding life to your years22:00 – 26:00 The greatest gift of all26:00 – End Becoming your true selfLinks & Resources:Join me at the Coach Business School: If your alcohol-free journey has sparked something in you and you would love to help others do the same, come and train with me at the Coach Business School. Whether you want to get accredited as a coach or grow your coaching business, I will guide you every step of the way. 👉 Explore programs and free resources at coachbusiness.schoolAlready Accredited? Take the next step with my Coach MBA: Marketing and Business for Accredited Coaches, designed to help you build a thriving, purpose-driven coaching business. 👉 Learn more at coachbusiness.schoolIf you are ready to live with more energy, confidence, and purpose, this episode will show you what is truly possible. Let’s do this.
Can Alcohol Moderation Work, Or Is It A Fantasy? Here’s My Strong Opinion (00:19:51)
In this episode, I tackle one of the biggest questions I get asked: Can alcohol moderation actually work? After 12 years on this alcohol-free adventure, I’ve seen it all, from people who transform their lives during a break to those who try to “drink on their terms” and end up right back where they started. I unpack what moderation really means, why willpower alone doesn’t work, and the truth behind those “just one or two” nights that never stay that way.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:What moderation really looks like (and why it rarely lasts)The neuroscience behind why alcohol hijacks your brainWhy willpower isn’t a long-term strategyThe illusion of “social drinking” and how it keeps people stuckThe difference between a moderation mindset and a mostly dry mindsetWhy going alcohol-free unlocks energy, joy, and true freedomTimestamps:00:00 – 01:00 The myth of moderation01:00 – 03:00 The post-break trap03:00 – 05:00 What moderation really means05:00 – 07:00 The science of willpower07:00 – 08:30 The prefrontal shutdown08:30 – 10:00 The illusion of control10:00 – 12:00 Mostly dry vs moderation12:00 – 14:00 The non-drinker in disguise14:00 – 17:00 Alcohol is a drug, full stop17:00 – End Taste, truth, and freedomLinks & Resources:Join me at the Coach Business School: If your alcohol-free journey has inspired you to help others, coaching might be your next step. Whether you want to get accredited as a coach or you’re already qualified and want to grow your business, I’ll guide you through both world-class coach training and business mastery.👉 Explore programs and free resources at coachbusiness.schoolAlready Accredited? Join my Coach MBA - Marketing and Business for Accredited Coaches, and learn how to turn your passion into a thriving, purpose-driven career. 👉 Learn more at coachbusiness.schoolIf you’re questioning moderation or curious about life beyond alcohol, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to make the choice that truly serves you. Let’s do this.
New Season and Its First Episode: Alcohol-Free and Spirituality with Matt Pink (00:44:04)
In person with Matt Pink on Alcohol Free and SpiritualityA deeper, slower conversation to open the new in-person era. Andy sits down with friend and creator Matt Pink to explore what really unfolds after going alcohol free. The chat ranges from grief and gratitude to spirituality, men’s work, and the courage to live fully in the present. Matt shares the encounter that jolted him back to life, the love story that followed, lessons from a professionally guided retreat, and why removing alcohol creates the space for meaning, purpose, and real connection.What you will hearOrigin storyHow chance, inspiration, and early alcohol free experiments led Matt to change his life and identity.Spirituality without the labels Why many rediscover a personal spiritual practice once alcohol is removed, and how that supports courage, clarity, and calm.Grief, love, and gratitude Finding light in the darkest moments, becoming a present dad, and choosing growth over victimhood.Real talk about sobriety The highs, the hard bits, and why comfort habits can box us in while stilling the mind open up new possibilities.Creating work with heart Building useful things in the world, facing real-world constraints, and meeting them all with a firm step.Timestamps00:00 – 02:00 The power of presence02:00 – 04:30 The alcohol-free ripple effect04:30 – 07:30 A message from beyond07:30 – 10:30 The stranger who saved my life10:30 – 14:00 Finding faith in something bigger14:00 – 17:00 Alcohol vs spirituality17:00 – 21:00 Defining your own version of God21:00 – 25:00 Gratitude, loss, and love25:00 – 32:00 Beyond the past32:00 – End The next chapter of awakeningMentionedJourney of Souls by Michael NewtonRich Roll podcastDry app and community called DRYYWork with AndyIf you feel called to coach or to add more meaning and purpose to your work, explore Andy’s six-month Diploma in Positive Psychology and Diploma in Professional Coach Business & Marketing. Qualified coaches can join the Coach Business School for marketing and business training. 👉 Explore programs and free resources at coachbusiness.school
Calling it wrap on the latest series & getting ready for our in person podcast! (00:03:02)
Taking a break for this series. We will be back soon with the in-person podcast!! Stay tuned for more updates.
Why You Save A Fortune When You Stop Drinking & How To Invest It (00:12:32)
There is a disconnect between investments of true value and the material.I was guilty of spending more on material possessions than on my development. I was more concerned with servicing my car than my mind and body.Then I invested in my first-ever book on self-development, Awaken the Giant Within by Anthony Robbins, and my life changed.Just imagine investing in a book that fundamentally changes the way you think, behave and feel. In my opinion, books are the most wonderful value of all development tools.As I finished the book, I realised that investing in my personal growth was the best investment I could ever make for myself and my family.With a mindset that personal growth is of critical importance, I started to find the courses, books and learning that transformed my life.Over the coming years, I took as many courses as I could afford, and each one taught me something that I still use today - this is a great return on investment you will never find in a bank.The self-development genius Jim Rohn sums it up beautifully, “Work harder on yourself than you do on your job. If you work hard on your job, you can make a living. If you work hard on yourself, you can make a fortune."So whether you pick up a book or take a course, put self-development at the top of your list, because it might prove the best investment you ever make.Your coach AndyPS - The best investment I EVER made into my life, career and happiness was to become a coach 12 years ago. Now I am on a personal mission to pass on this gift to a small group. In July I will run my 6-month treble accredited Diploma in Positive Psychology & Coaching, with a massive bonus, I will also train the group as Alcohol-Free Performance Coaches.Click here to potentially make the greatest investment of your life!PPS - Already a coach? You have two options:Take my coaching specialism in Alcohol-Free Performance CoachingJoin my Coach Business School and take my world-class Coach MBA!
LIVE Episode: Drop The Drinking Stories From The Past & Transform Your Future (00:15:22)
Today I launch a brand new course:The Coach MBA (Marketing & Business training for Accredited coaches).Last week I was with my old broking firm in the city of london.And it hit me.How wonderfully things have changed.It was not long ago I told myself I was a drinker and I might as well just get on with it.When I asked my old boss if the company would pay for my MBA.He retorted, “How the F will that make me any more money?”And followed it up with,“Don’t try and be someone you are not!”He was also saying you are a drinking, it’s what you are good at. People like you because you drink. You’re great fun and an entertainer.They don’t care about your education!My boss was both right and terrbilly wrong.He was right when he said don’t try to be someone you are not.But he had mistaken me for the person that alcohol created.The real me, the authentic me, was bursting to be free.The real me want to learn, grow and develop!I quit that job.Everyone said I was mad.But I knew it had to be done.And I trained as a coach.Went back to university part-time.Quit alcohol.Wrote a book…And the rest as they say is now history.Here is the point:Life is one massive self-fulfilling prophecy, and the stories we tell about ourselves always come true.For decades, I told a story that I was a drinker. It was just who I was. It did not matter that my health was suffering, I was overweight, unfit, unhealthy, unmotivated and at times unhappy. This was my story and I was sticking to it. I, along with too many people, had fallen into the trap and believed that who I was is who I will always be.When we look into the past for clues of how to behave in the present, we create a litany of similar behaviours. So you quickly get trapped in a loop.Like Sisyphus, cursed by the Gods to forever push a boulder to the top of a hill, only to see it roll back down again. ‘I haven’t done this before, I failed at something similar, I could never give up the booze, this always happens to me, I am going to give up trying to give up, I can’t do this, I am rubbish at this type of thing….. The list goes on and on.Our past story keeps repeating in the present, which paves the way for our future.Unless you wake up.And realise that your future is unwritten.Today, you can write a new story. The story of the life you always wanted to leadThe person you always wanted to become.Within a few days or weeks, this will become your past!And you will have transformed your future. It is so simple.Don’t look back to decide your future. Write a new story in the present until your past reflects the future you desires!Let me ask you a question - is it time you told a different story?And what is the story you are going to tell today?Your Coach,AndyPS - One of the best ways to tell a new story is to come and learn with me for the next 6 months and become a coach. During this time, you can rewrite the present and create the future you always dreamed! All you need to do is be brave enough to take action. Click here to find out how I can help you become a coach.PPS - Already a coach? You have two options:Take my coaching specialism in Alcohol-Free Performance CoachingJoin my Coach Business School and take my world-class Coach MBA!
Stop Drinking & Find A Little Paradise! (00:13:53)
After recently re-watching the amazing, yet slightly unnerving, Gene Wilder in the classic film, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.I could not get the following verse from the song ‘Pure Imagination’ out of my head:‘If you want to see paradise, just take a look around and view it’’ Sometimes enlightenment comes from the strangest places, and this sentence really struck a chord.And following my long Camino walk I came to the realisation that paradise is very often all around us, we just have to open our eyes and see it. The problem with modern living is that we are in such a rush to be busy in our busy lives that we miss the paradise right under our noses. Lives run at warp speed, and whilst we chase emails, social media and 21st century living there is a danger that we miss so many of life’s great moments. When you throw in a few hangovers, our focus narrows further. Life becomes a ball of stress, worry and mental distraction that drags away from the beauty of the present moment. One of the great benefits of going alcohol free is that you regain some time and space back to slow down a little. By slowing down I don’t mean dropping out or losing your edge, I simply mean staying present in the moment and enjoying whats happening around you. On a personal note, once I stopped drinking I regained the motivation to explore my inner world and discovered mindfulness meditation. The ancient practice is such a wonderful skill to enhance ones ability to stay present and enjoy life in the moment. Without sounding overdramatic, my world started to open up in ways I had never experienced before.A classic example was my walk to work. Like most of us, I had walked this walk hundreds of times with the sole purpose of getting from A to B. My head was full of worries, concerns or to-dos for the day ahead. I was running on autopilot, the lights were on, but nobody was home. I was a perfect city worker clone. Running in the rat race of life. But one day, as my mindfulness practice developed, I did something crazy - I lifted my head, slowed my walk and looked around me. I opened my ears to the noise of the city and discovered that I could hear birds singing. I noticed flowers that I never knew existed in tiny green oasis that had previously slipped under my radar. It was as if I was viewing this same old route for the very first time. It was simple, I was learning to stay in the present moment.And right in this moment, I did not have to worry or threat about the day ahead. I could deal with these concerns when the time came. Right now on my short walk to the office I could simply breathe deep and enjoy life. This was such a liberating feeling, as well as a powerful indicator of positive change in my life. Mindfulness was starting to make sense to me. It was not about sitting around doing nothing, trying to clear your mind all day. It was actually about building skills to notice the world around you in the moment and learning to enjoy its beauty without mental distraction about the past or future. Learning to cultivate a slower, more mindful pace will start to reveal little moments of paradise that were previously unnoticed. Perhaps you will find them in the beauty of nature, the taste of a home-cooked meal, the eyes of your loving partner, the softness of your child’s hand in yours. These are little moments of paradise on earth, right under your nose, all you have to do is look around and view them. Here’s an idea - today, try to spend just a few minutes totally present in the moment. You can take any situation, the coffee shop, the chat with your child after school, the walk outside - whatever it is, just slow down, stay present, aim to keep your mind from chasing worries into the past or future and simply stay with the moment. Breathe deeply as you do and see if you can find your little bit of paradise.Your coach Andy PS - FREE workshop tonight! Come and join me and learn all about coaching and how it can provide the mearningful learning you seek. 50% of our coaches take our course for self-development and career advancement! The other 50% to become part-time or full time coaches! So we have you covered! Click here to join me tonight on Zoom
Why We Grow More By Getting It Wrong That By Getting It Right! (00:12:08)
It is great to be back, buzzing around my local woods and london!I was re-reading a book on my way to meet a coaching client.And a line struck me“We grow more by getting it wrong than by getting it right.” Richard RhorWhat a great truth.This message appears throughout the ages of ages within the great texts, myths and stories. There is a fall before the rise. The stumble before the stand. The death and renewal story, the Phoenix from the flames and night into day. The signs are there, yet, too many run from failure, too many stay small, hiding in the comfort zone of life.A slip is critical to our growth. And I am fortunate enough to witness the falling, to rise on a daily basis, through my mission to help people transform their relationship with alcohol. This is why the story is continually told. You can’t choose your falling, it’s something that happens to you, and it hurts.The job loss, break up, addiction, problem, illness, or bereavement are a few of many examples. I have witnessed the fall and rise so many times that it all makes sense. When life puts you on your backside, you uncover your mortality. The shortness of life is revealed along with a crack in the ego that allows you to see with new eyes. As the genius, Leonard Cohen, sings,” There is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in.” Old ways of behaving appear trivial, and you hear a new story, one that gifts you the space to change, grow and learn. A glimpse of your true, authentic self is revealed, which is life's greatest discovery.Problems are a gift that helps us to grow. They don’t feel like this at the time, and if you’re in the midst of what feels like a terrible burden, perhaps this is your opportunity to rise and come back stronger, to experience the true meaning of your life. But during the fall, you only feel the pain; it's not until you rise that the significance of the fall is revealed.You will find new eyes to view your world. To embrace and savour what’s truly important. So while it might hurt right now, just imagine that you are on the verge of something special. Your biggest obstacle is a chance for victory. As Marcus Aurelius points out,"The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way." AndyPS - I am biased, but one of the greatest ways to turn your defeats into victories is to learn how to coach and provide help to those who are facing the same struggles you have now overcome.This is your fast pass to a life of contribution.All you need to do is be brave enough to take action. Click here to find out how I can help you become a coach.PPS - Already a coach? You have two options:Take my coaching specialism in Alcohol-Free Performance CoachingJoin my Coach Business School and take my world-class Coach MBA!
Why Moderation Doesn't Work! (00:22:23)
Here is a great question for you, “What career would allow you to give back, leverage your years of work and life experience, help you make a difference and help you generate income to still do all those “nice” things?”I have the answer, “Learning to coach others!!”And all you have to do is join me in July and I will guide you from beginner to elite level coach in just 6 months! PPS - Already a coach? You have two options:Take my coaching specialism in Alcohol-Free Performance CoachingJoin my Coach Business School and take my world-class Coach MBA!As I crossed the 500-mile Camino finish line, it was straight to my next adventure.My best man’s 50th in Ibiza.You might argue from one spiritual experience to another!HOWEVER!The first stop was to view our re-invention retreat venue!The retreat is designed to help people rediscover who they are and redesign what’s next.(As this is my first EVER retreat, it’s exclusive to my coaches, but I will roll this out to everyone soon.)The retreat venue is off the charts!!! (See photo above)We are all buzzing.Next, the party began.And I had the best time.My best friends, Tara, loads of laughs, great food, and brilliant company.But then something happened that I now regret.After the most wonderful day on a boat, and lunch with our feet in the sand at Juan Y Andrea in Formentera.Things could not have been better.Until the lads mentioned going to see DJ Calvin Harris at Ushuaïa.At this point, I made a classic mistake.I asked a rubbish question, which cascaded into more rubbish questionsWhich resulted in lots of rubbish answers.“Would I enjoy Calvin Harris if I were not drinking?”“Would there be too many people?”“I used to drink to numb out all the noise”...The answer in my head, which was wrecked by the “will I, won’t I scenario”, responded with “No I won’t enjoy it”So I didn’t go.What I needed in that moment was a great coach to snap me out of the limiting thinking state I had gotten myself into!!!When I woke the next morning. Fresh and in a different state the question was so obvious!!“How can I go to Calvin Harris and LOVE IT because I’m alcohol-free!”The answer to this question would have been, “LET’S DO THIS!”Then I felt the pang of regret.I missed out a great opportunity to test my alcohol-free powers!Lesson learned.And hopefully this is refreshing that 11 years in, I am still making mistakes and learning about my personal alcohol-free adventure!This experience also reminded me of why moderation is a disaster for most people!I will dig much deeper into this important topic on this weeks Alcohol-Free Advantage Podcast.The learn from today is in quote form from Anthony Robbins“The quality of your questions will dictate the quality of your life!”Ask great questions, lead a great life!Your coach Andy
I was not going to talk about the spiritual adventure of going alcohol-free but... (00:30:30)
If you want to come on the adventure of a lifetime.I am enrolling for my July life/executive/alcohol-free coach training. I would love for you to join me. This is not just a course, it is a transformative experience of insight, action and contribution. You don’t need any experience; all you need to do is show up, and I will take care of the rest.Click here for more details - www.andyramagetraining.com This morning at 7:30 am I began walking. Twelve hours and 28 miles later, at 7:30 pm, I arrived at my destination!Santiago de Compostela.My Camino walking adventure complete.As I stumbled into the square in front of the Cathedral, I expected trumpets to sound, tears to fill my eyes and the crowds to cheer me on as I moon walked over the finish line.But there was none of this.Just the blissful joy of having completed a real adventure.A goal that I first wrote down 6 years ago! As I sat (collapsed) on the cobblestones in front of the Cathedral, I smiled deeply.And remembered the incredible truth about goals.Lasting joy hides in the struggle to reach our goals, not in the end result.And every step of this adventure was joyful.There are so many big takeaways. In this week's episode of the Alcohol-Free Advantage Podcast, I am going to talk about something very personal that I don’t ever really talk about. And that I had not planned to talk about - The spiritual side of the Camino.And why a personal life philosophy is vital to a life of purpose. In my opinion. If this sounds interesting, please click the link below to listen in, or follow the podcast wherever you get your podcasts from.Your CoachAndy
The Power Of Now & How Alcohol Prevents You From Reaching It (00:25:33)
The power of now 14 years ago, I took my first 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Relief (MBSR) course.For two hours a week, we would meet in Camden, London from 7 - 9 pm.It was a big commitment.And I was still drinking at the time.Plus, the daily mindful practice was for 45 mins!Which, in truth, I rarely completed. And neither did anyone else, as far as I could tell.Each week, you could hear the hushed tones. “Did you do the practice?”“Sort or…”“Erm….”To make matters worse, if I were remotely hungover, I could not do the practice because I felt too anxious to focus on my breath.The irony. Still, I made the effort to show up and do the work as best I could.But I didn’t get it.So I tried again a year later and took another full 8-week MBSR.It still didn’t click.4 years later and 4 MBSRs later, I knew exactly how to meditate but had still missed the point.Mindfulness too often feels like a thing we should do to be mentally healthy.But this is not what it’s all about. Walking the Camino has helped remind me of the true power of the present moment.Forget the labels like mindfulness.The great Eastern traditions, along with a few Western spiritual leaders like Eckhart Tolle, tell us that there is power in the now.Walking without distraction creates the perfect space to be in the moment.It also, in my opinion, helps to have a mind free from alcohol.What I discovered as I walked is that the now is blissful.There are no ghosts from the past or worries about what you must do. Or fears around imagined futures. There is just being.A oneness with all.When the past and future stories stop, there is a glimpse of something bigger. Rather than feeling like I should do my mindfulness. I am now craving the power of now.It is hard to explain in written form, so I recorded a podcast episode specifically about this experience. It might be my most important to date.A takeawayMaybe take a few minutes to let all the stories inside your mind go. Don’t chase them back into the past or the future. Just settle into the moment. Where there are no worries, fears or shoulds.Just oneness. Let me know what comes up for you.Your coach Andy PS - Enrolling now - July cohort. If you want to learn more about the power of now, come and train with me on my next 6-month triple-accredited life/executive coach training programme. This is not just a course; it is a transformative learning experience, and I would LOVE for you to join me.Click here for more information.
The Secret To a Life Of Fulfilment & Joy (00:21:48)
Hi,Walking the Camino has taught me a great lesson.Less is more.For a long time, I held the conventional view that a life of fulfilment consists of adding more successes, bucket lists, and stuff.But as I walk and read, I am experiencing a very different conclusion.The secret to a great life is to subtract, not add.If you can imagine life as a backpack.When I first started the Camino, my backpack was overflowing with stuff.You quickly figure out every ounce counts when carrying the bag for 8 hours.You learn what’s essential and what's not.And remove all non-essential items to end up with the vital few.This is the powerful message behind one of my favourite books, Essentialism.As Greg McGowen points out, “The way of the essentialist is the relentless pursuit of less but better.”You might find that your life backpack is stuffed full of non-essentials.That’s because, “If you don’t prioritise your life, someone else will” It is not until we check our life backpack we discover it is full of other people's plans, commitments, and non-essentials.We often pick up these non-essentials without EVER checking to see if they are essential to us.And it is the non-essentials that are weighing you down 24 hours a day.As McGowen suggests:“A non-Essentialist thinks almost everything is important”“An Essentialist thinks almost everything is non-essential” Now imagine removing all unnecessary commitments, habits, and workload?How light you would feel.How would you feel if you could put all your life force into the work, causes, and people in your life that are most important?Imagine the joy, meaning and contribution, you would experince if you could focus on things that matter most.In todays podcast I will deep dive into some of the techniques you can use to remove the trival many and discover your vital few!Before I go.What is one commitment or habit you could remove from your life backpack today that will make you feel a little lighter?Your coach AndyPS - Enrolling for July now:If you want to join me on the adventure of a life time. Come and train with me as a coach. It was learning to coach others that transformed my life and now I am on a mission to personally pass on this gift to you.Visit - www.andyramagetraining.com for more information
5 Game-Changing Alcohol-Free Insights From The 500-Mile Camino Way (00:21:39)
I did not think this would happen so quickly.Not even a week into my 500-mile Camino walk across Spain.And already, the game-changing insights are beginning to surface.People walk the Camino for three reasons:ForgivenessHelpAnd thanksI am here to give thanks for everything I have.And I owe so much to one change! I will say this for a fact. Had I not quit alcohol, this adventure would NEVER have begun.There was no time, energy or clarity.I was stuck in survival mode.This week, on the Camino, I was in thrivival mode (That’s not even a word, but you get what I mean)As I walked, I was overwhelmed with gratitude.I am grateful that my relationship with alcohol woke me up.Woke me up to my authentic self.And I am so grateful that it has done the same for so many others.So this message is not too long. I will cover two of the insights, and I save the BIG ones for my Alcohol-Free Advantage podcast. Click the links below to listen to this week's conversation. The hardest move in yoga is getting onto the mat.It is the same for the CaminoIt is the same for all our goals in life.Once started, the adventure springs to life. “Whatever you can do, or dream you can; begin it. Boldness has genius power and magic in it.” Goethe But too many dreams and goals are never started.They get pushed into the background, drowned by the busyness of life.How many unfinished books lie dormant on laptops?How many businesses never make it out of the pub?How many meaningful careers never happen?The secret, therefore, to the Camino and all our goals is the boldness to begin.Stop worrying about the futureWhen you walk for hours without distractions, you hear your mind speaking. And mostly what it says is fear-mongering nonsense.A MAJOR insight for me already is that most of the noise in my head is about the future.As I continuously remind my coaches and clients.If it is in the future, it is made up.It can’t be a fact.All it is, at best, a best guess.But it's never a good guess.It is usually the worst possible imagined thing in the future. It is the crash and burn scenario. Well, that’s what I found in my brain.I now understand what Mark Twain meant when he said,“I am an old man who has known a great many troubles, but most of them never happened”What a tremendous insight.I know this is not new wisdom, but it was the first time I have EVER had this experience of hearing my brain so clearly that I saw it for what it is.And now I will STOP trying to guess a made-up future. And begin to live more in the present.**I am already in danger of becoming like Uncle Albert from Only Fools and Horses, when he says, “During the war…” and everyone rolls their eyes - here he goes again.“When I was on the Camino….”My takeaway from this first week is to get out into nature and turn off your phone.And take your mind out for a long walk and see what you notice.Until next week, Buen Camino.Your Coach,Andy
The Five Books I Could Not Live Without As I Walk The 500 Mile Camino (00:22:36)
The 5 Regrets Of The Dying & How They Can Help You To 'Really' Live! (00:20:00)
5 regrets of the dyingHow to avoid them!Hi,We often throw away the line, “No regrets”But do we mean it?Bronnie Ware worked in palliative care for decades.She sat with the dying as they faced the end.And she found a deep love for life.Bronnie turned the insights she gained into an influential book called. ‘The Top Five Regrets of the Dying’.This book had a massive impact on me.It inspired many changes in my life.Including changing careers from running a brokerage to living the life of a coach. And on today's podcast, I will deep dive into each of the top five regrets.But there is one regret I wanted to focus on, and that I struggle with.“I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends.”There's something magical about spending time with a good friend. We all know it and feel it.But I have been guilty of prioritising work over friendships. So I wanted to share out loud how the top regrets have inspired me to put more effort into my friendships.Recently, I flew to Ireland to climb a mountain with one of my best mates, and it was a joyful experience.Just this week, I got to hang out with a friend before he ran the marathon.Dressed as a Rhino! On Friday, we have over 100 people joining us for our coach graduation ceremony in London.This will be full of new connections as our coaches fly in from all over the world to meet in person for the first time, having been on a powerful learning adventure together. But it’s too easy to let friendships slide away. Many of us fall into this trap.We all get so busy.With family and general life.And top regret 2: "I wish I hadn't worked so hard", can zap the time required for friendship.But there is always time.Seneca said it best, “It’s not that we don’t have enough time, it’s just that we waste so much of it”Here is an important message for us all from those whose time has come to an end.Stop wasting time on the trivial and unimportant things.Make time for friendships.My no-regrets challenge to you is to reach out to one old friend.Today.Let me know how it goes.Your coach Andy
Why I Am Dropping EVERYTHING To Walk The 500-Mile French Camino (00:19:55)
Why I am dropping EVERYTHINGI am dropping everything to walk the 500-mile French Camino.El Camino is a 1000-year-old pilgrimage. I am taking the French route. Which begins in Southwest France, then crosses the Pyrenees, and continues all the way west along the top of Spain, finishing in Santiago de Compostela.And it’s been calling me to adventure for over 5 years.When I first wrote it down as one of my goals.Now it is time.Why?In our 24/7 world, it will be the greatest gift to switch it all off for a month.And see what bubbles up.Just me, nature, and my thoughts.And a LONG walk.I have no idea what I will find.Who I will meet.Or what revelations I will experience. Each day, I aim to reflect on these insights and share them with you.*This might change; we will see.I won’t be doing the sharing or have any social media.Everything will be switched off.My wonderful team will help.So today, I thought I would flip the script and ask you for some advice.If you were about to set out on the adventure of a lifetime.What advice would you give me?Your coachAndy
Why Going Alcohol-Free Starts Your Heros Journey & How It Will Change Your Life! (00:15:05)
YouTube channel - just about to rebrand and set this channel up !! https://www.youtube.com/@AndyRamageAFOn Thursday, slightly out of breath and very hot, I walked over the top of the O2 arena in London!As I looked at the city, a shiver went down my spine as I was reminded of my booze fuelled broking days.Then I smiled.And looked over at my daughter, who was with me at the top, and I felt so grateful.I never thought I would be able to leave that world.I thought I was stuck in a career that was making me sick.Drinking too much, stressed, unhappy and unfulfilled. Then, out of desperation rather than skill, I trained as a coach, and my life was changed. The skills I learned helped me to quit alcohol, and slowly everything changed.I felt my confidence return and eventually found the courage to leave the city to start my own coaching business. Here I was 11 years later with my wonderful daughter in the sunshine, feeling on top of the world. I felt so proud that my girl has never really known a dad who drank.Only a Dad who is up for a laugh, healthy, happy, following his dreams and loves an adventure. Although I'm not sure he loves the adventure as much as I do, as I usually drag her along!What I realised as I looked out at London was that the world has changed.I believe times up on alcohol.And we are at the vanguard of something special.A revolution that has taken hundreds of years to happen.And you are part of this alcohol-free revolution!!You are totally ahead of the game!!Your friends and family will look back on these days and know you were the first to lead the way.Think about this - How many times in life do you get a chance to say, you changed the world a little?Archimedes said, “Give me a lever long enough and I shall move the world”We are the lever!And we have moved the world's relationship with alcohol, and it's never going back!What a win.So today I wanted to say thank you to you personally!!Thank you for being part of the movement, making a difference to millions of people's lives.Keep rocking it Dryy.Your Coach AndyPS - Closing soon - Train with me in April.At some point on your alcohol-free adventure, you will want to give back. I think this is the most important moment! Follow this impulse; you never know where it will take you—I am a great example of this. So, if you want to learn the skills of a coach, to give back, and make a real contribution to this short and precious life, come and train with me in April before the final spaces are filled!Click here for more details
Is Alcohol Destroying The Quality Of Your Connection? & Why Connection Is So Important. (00:22:49)
Are you lacking connection?Why connection is vital to our health We instinctively know how vital connection is to our health.But you might not know what I am about to tell you.I was flying to Kerry in Ireland on Friday when a lady walked down the plane towards me.She was looking towards me, but I thought it must be the person behind.But she came right up to me and, with a lovely warm smile, said, “Andy I just wanted to say thank you, I’m 6 months alcohol-free and it has changed my life. I am a better parent and feel much better every way.”I was delighted!!!We both had a wonderful moment of connection. And the connections kept coming. My great mate Col Carrol had invited me to climb Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil. The weather was amazing!! (Always sunny in Ireland)We had a few Guinness 0.0s and a couple of incredible hikes.It was joyous.To be with my mate, no alcohol. The buzz was adventure and being in nature.And I was grateful my alcohol-free fitness allowed me to take on the challenge and feel strong.Just after we reached the peak, something unexpected happened. Another lady stopped me to say that she also loved the alcohol-free life and had just recommended my IG & the podcast to a friend!Unreal.After two days of walking and talking, here was my BIG learn:The best things in life are connection and the outdoors. Biking, hiking, running, walking, talking…Being outside. Lights me up.I think it lights us all up.On the Alcohol-Free Advantage podcast this week, I discuss the science of connection and some research that will transform your thinking about connection! Click links below to tune in.Here is my challenge to you this week:With this lovely weather, go for a long walk in nature with a friend.And have some real connection time.Let me know how you get on,Your coach,AndyPS - Train with me in April on my 6-month Coaching Diploma. You will LOVE it. This is not a training course but a transformational experience.Click here for more info www.andyramagetraining.com
The Alcohol-Free Documentary Is Coming Soon - Find Out How You & I Are Going To Inspire Millions (00:20:17)
How To Know If You Are A Good Role Model (00:30:55)
For the main website to train with me - www.andyramagetraining.com Below are some of the main points I covered in this conversation:You have limitless potentialYou get a choice!You have to take full responsibility Tough things make you strongerIt’s not events that shape your life but your beliefs about themControl what you can You get to paint your future, not anyone elseAlways have a goal Every master was once a disaster Work harder on yourself than you do on your jobPrioritise your body and mindAdd value to the world, and the world, we will reward you for itYour network will be your net worthYour partner and family will be the best thing you have in your life!Get your head up. There is a whole world of opportunity waiting for you!
How To Build Such A Compelling Future Without Alcohol You Won't Want To Drink (00:25:55)
Click this link for more information or visit andyramagetraining.com On Tuesday lunchtime, I was reminded of a story demonstrating the power of goals.And why, if you don’t program your brain with clear goals, you wind up in trouble.I was training over 60 coaches within my self-development group, the Inner Circle.To begin, I recalled a story.It was a freezing morning on the 1st of January 2021. We were in the middle of the COVID epidemic, and the world was uncertain about its future. But I was crystal clear.In my hands was a picture an incredible artist, Jo Morley, had created for me. As I hung the picture on my wall, I stepped back, took a deep breath, and focused intently on the image.The picture was a visual representation of my BHAG goals. It was inspired by the genius of Jim Collins, who wrote, Good to Great, one of the best books you will ever read on business. These were Big Hairy Audacious Goals. The types of goals that feel out of reach. I planned to put this picture where I could see it every day so I could burn these goals into my soul. It worked. Five years later, almost all of these BHAG goals had become a reality or were in progress. It’s not luck. I knew exactly what I was doing.Those with clear goals will outperform those without. Goals are the lifeblood of success.Why do goals work?When we set a goal, we make an emotional connection to this goal. These emotions wake our subconscious brain to the importance of this goal. Then, something incredible happened. Your brain creates a filter for your goal. All of a sudden, you notice people, places, and resources you need.Often, you will experience serendipitous moments that feel almost magical. But the truth is that these people, places and resources were always there, but your brain didn’t know they were important.This is how the trouble begins.If you leave your brain untrained, it will filter what it thinks is most important based on its evolutionary programming. The massive problem is that evolution does not care for your happiness. It only cares about survival and getting your genes into the next generation. These evolutionary traits are often negative. Your evolutionary instincts are anxious, fearful, and paranoid. It cares too much about keeping everyone happy, compares, and agonises over status.But when you take charge of your inner world and set meaningful goals, you create the right filters.You train your brain.Your goals drown out the negative.And that’s why goals make us happy!!!Instead of your brain misfiring its energy on the negative. It will focus its power on reaching your dreams.I ran my goals experiment to test this theory.And it worked.And it will do the same for you. Here is your challenge for today.Set one BHAG goal.Put it somewhere you can see it.Keep it in focus, and let your brain do the work.Let me know what you choose.Your coach Andy PS - Don’t just set BHAG goals train with me to achieve yours!! It was training as a coach that allowed me to reach my BHAG goals. And I want to share this gift of coaching with you. If you have ever felt the urge to give back or take your personal development to a new level - learning to coach could be perfect.If you are unsure if learning to become a coach is for you, below is a link to a foundation short course in coaching that will give you all the information you need. There is also a LIVE training with me tonight as part of this short foundation course. Click this link for more information or visit andyramagetraining.com
