In this podcast, anaesthetist and breathwork expert James Brunning shared the story of his journey away from alcohol and towards a life of emotional clarity, mindfulness, and gentle peace. From using breathwork as a way to manage anxiety and support his relationships, James now brings his expertise into the wellness space, helping others find calm through simple yet powerful techniques.

The Impact of Alcohol on Presence and Connection

James’s relationship with alcohol began like many of ours—woven into social events and family traditions. However, he noticed over time that drinking wasn’t just impacting his mornings; it was pulling him away from being present for those he loved.

Reflecting on a relationship crunch point, James realised that alcohol was taking a toll on his mental energy and emotional availability. This revelation prompted him to make a change, finding support through Club Soda’s mindful drinking community.

“I wasn’t my whole self, and I wasn’t able to give emotional clarity to myself or my wife.”

James Brunning

Embracing Breathwork and the Science of Calm

Jame’s Next Round saw his immersion in breathwork. As a trained anesthetist, James was already familiar with the physiological impacts of breath on anxiety reduction and heart rate control. His studies in hypnosis further deepened his understanding, leading him to see breathwork as “meditation without the effort and twice the effect.”

Breathwork leverages the vagus nerve, one of the largest nerves in the body, which regulates heart rate and stress levels. By practicing controlled breathing—such as extending exhales—James found he could manage his anxiety effectively. This practice became especially valuable in his professional life, where he helped patients calm down before surgery by guiding them in breathing exercises.

The Power of Mindfulness and Finding “Gentle Peace”

Removing alcohol from his life, James noticed a reduction in what he calls “background anxiety,” a heightened state of alertness and tension he’d previously taken for granted. Breathwork allowed him to tap into a sense of calm and clarity he’d never experienced before. This transformation was both personal and powerful, giving him what he describes as a “gentle peace” that replaced the anxious energy alcohol once fueled.

James’s approach to breathwork now goes beyond self-care; he’s dedicated to sharing this knowledge with others, helping them find clarity and calm through accessible techniques. His mantra is simple: “A few minutes of breathwork can make a massive difference.”

Bringing Breathwork to Others
James’s journey now involves spreading awareness about the impact of mindful breathing on mental and physical well-being. He has started wellness workshops and courses for Doctors, sharing techniques that benefit everyone—from those seeking anxiety management to individuals interested in boosting their mitochondrial fitness and overall oxygen utilisation.

For those looking to begin, James recommends starting with extended exhales and brief breath holds, practices that activate the body’s natural relaxation response. He gave Laura a demonstration on the podcast!

“There’s good science behind it,. Eveen a few minutes of daily breath work can have on one’s mood, energy, and outlook on life."

James Brunning

See the full blog on joinclubsoda.com

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It was great to have this conversation with Shaun Reany, a performance poet, advocate for mindful living and founder of the Sober Af Poetry Night. He opened up about his journey through sobriety, creativity, and self-acceptance. He has used his experiences with mental health struggles and personal growth as a foundation for creating safe, non-judgmental spaces for self-expression. His story reflects the power of poetry and public speaking to help navigate complex emotions and foster a supportive community.

From Self-Investigation to Sobriety
Shaun’s journey toward sobriety started with a deep introspection after an incident that shocked him, and nearly got him into big trouble. He wanted to reconcile his true self with his actions. Therapy played a crucial role, allowing him to unpack years of cognitive dissonance—feeling disconnected from his values while under the influence of alcohol. After a long process, Shaun found clarity: to achieve the life he truly desired, he had to let go of alcohol. This decision marked the final piece of his puzzle, setting him on a path of self-discovery and acceptance.

Creativity Unleashed: Poetry as a Healing Tool
Through writing and performing, Shaun found an outlet for expressing the emotions he previously struggled to confront. His poetry, initially inspired by song lyrics and personal reflections, became a therapeutic vehicle for self-understanding. Contrary to the myth that creativity thrives on substances, Shaun’s sober reflections have brought newfound depth and honesty to his work, proving that authenticity can drive powerful artistic expression.

Building a Judgment-Free Community
In January, Shaun launched *Sober AF Poetry Club*, an open mic event that offers a judgment-free environment for people to share their stories. Here, individuals from all walks of life present works that range from lighthearted humor to profound self-reflection, often touching on personal experiences with mental health, family dynamics, and sobriety. The club’s inclusive nature fosters a community where vulnerability is met with support, offering attendees a rare chance to connect over shared challenges.

Looking Ahead: The Unscripted Journey
Shaun’s future remains open, driven by a commitment to personal growth and creative exploration. While he acknowledges the value of planning, he emphasises staying true to what feels right, allowing each step to shape his path organically. For Shaun, the journey is about doing what brings him joy, from writing to creating safe spaces for others to express themselves authentically.

As Shaun continues to explore his creative potential, his story reminds us that embracing change and supporting one another can lead to unexpected and meaningful transformations.

Find the Sober Af Poetry Club on Instagram and dates for next events here.

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Victoria Vanstone is best known for the Sober Awkward Podcast. A candid and humorous podcast co-hosted with Hamish Adams-Cairns. The duo dives into the ups and downs of living an alcohol-free life, sharing personal stories, practical advice, and the awkward moments that come with sobriety. It won Best Wellbeing Podcast award at the British Podcast Awards, cementing its place as a valuable resource and support for the sober-curious community.

Victoria has been a mate of Club Soda for a long time. You can read and hear her prevous contribution to our Online Mindful Drinking Festival held in lockdown in 2020. She recently visited the Club Soda tasting Room with her co-host Hamis, and we had a chance to catch up and disucss her book – A Thousand Wasted Sundays.

In this chat, Victoria shares how she transformed her life by quitting drinking, reclaiming her Sundays, and finding joy in the simple things. Her story is both inspiring and relatable, as she talks about the ups and downs of ditching alcohol and how she’s building a life she loves, one sober day at a time. Here’s how she did it and why it mattered so much.

Breaking the Binge-Drinking Cycle: “I Knew I Needed Help”

Victoria’s journey started with the familiar cycle of binge drinking on weekends and the inevitable anxiety-filled Sundays. Despite trying countless ways to cut back, she found herself stuck in the same pattern.

“I tried every trick in the book—water between wines, everything—but nothing ever worked.”

The turning point came after the birth of her second child. She woke up with what she called the “anxiety monster” at the foot of her bed. This moment of clarity made her realise she needed a different approach.

“I remember walking out and seeing my husband, and I said, ‘I think I need help. I need someone else to intervene because what I’m doing isn’t working.”

That realisation led her to seek therapy, and it changed everything. She learned that the root of her drinking went much deeper than she thought.

“It’s About Finding Out Who You Were Before Alcohol”

For Victoria, quitting drinking wasn’t just about giving up booze; it was about rediscovering who she truly was. Therapy helped her connect the dots between her past and her drinking habits, including childhood experiences of rejection that shaped her into a “people pleaser” and the life of the party.

“I was always the mad one, the entertainer, because I wanted to keep people close. It all stems back to childhood stuff,”

Read the full blog on joinclubsoda.com/hub/

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At our Low, Light and Alcohol Free Conference I Interviewed Briony May Williams. Briony is a TV presenter and self-taught baker who has appeared on The Great British Bake Off, Escape to the Country, and Food Unwrapped.

In a world where socialising often revolves around alcohol, choosing to go alcohol-free can feel like a daunting prospect. But for Briony May Williams, the decision to give up drinking opened up a world of new experiences and joys, proving that sobriety doesn’t mean sacrificing the fun or flavour. Briony, best known for her work in the culinary world and her charismatic presence on television, has become a passionate advocate for the alcohol-free movement. Her story is one of transformation, empowerment, and a mission to elevate the standards of alcohol-free drinks.

Discovering the “Game Changer”

Briony vividly recalls the moment that changed everything. It wasn’t just a decision to stop drinking; it was about finding an alcohol-free alternative that sparked joy.

“Nicolas [at Club Soda] introduced me to a really nice alcohol-free wine, and it was a game changer.”

For Briony, the discovery of a quality non-alcoholic option didn’t just satisfy her taste buds; it ignited a passion. She even recounts how she immediately bought several bottles and shared them with a close friend who was also sober.

“It’s amazing how movements grow. You find something you like, and you share it. You shock people into enjoying alcohol-free.”

Raising the Standards: It’s Time for Change

Briony is quick to point out that not all alcohol-free options are created equal. Her experiences have shown her the highs and lows of the market, and she’s not afraid to challenge establishments when they fall short.

“It infuriates me when I go to a cocktail bar, and they give me some elderflower with soda water. That’s just lazy,”

Briony’s frustration is not just about the lack of options; it’s about the missed opportunity to create something memorable.

Her message is clear: alcohol-free drinks deserve the same attention to detail and creativity as their alcoholic counterparts. For Briony, it’s not just about replicating the taste of alcohol.

“It doesn’t have to taste exactly like a glass of rosé; it just has to taste amazing. I want it to be packed full of flavour, to have that dryness on the palate, and most importantly, to feel special.”

Mental Health and Sobriety: A Transformative Journey

Going alcohol-free hasn’t just changed what Briony drinks; it’s transformed her life. She openly discusses how her decision has had a profound impact on her mental health and well-being.

“I’ve always struggled with depression, but in the last 10 months, it has been infinitely better.”

She attributes much of her improvement to her decision to quit drinking. Alongside better mental health, Briony has experienced weight loss, better eating habits, and an improved relationship with her husband and daughter.

This newfound clarity has fueled Briony’s excitement for the future.

“I’m so happy. I used to love going out and getting drunk; I loved the experience. But now, I feel so much better.”

It’s a message that resonates with many people exploring alcohol-free options—not as a compromise but as a way to enhance their overall well-being and relationships.

A Mission for Better Drinks: Consumers as Catalysts for Change

Briony’s enthusiasm for alcohol-free drinks goes beyond personal enjoyment; she’s on a mission to change the market. She’s oft

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Trina Gulliver MBE is ten times world darts champion. But drinking nearly ended her career.

Her sport did not disappoint her, though - with the help of Sporting Chance, the charity founded by Ex-footballer Tony Adams, she got the help she needed to make a comeback.

In this week's episode of The Next Round, we find that what comes next may be more of what you did before - you just may do it a little differently. And why not? If you were good at something, how great might you be now that you have relegated alcohol to the benches?

Trina Gulliver is a champion at darts - a sport that has its roots in the great British boozer. Her drinking crept up slowly over time, but an intervention from Sporting Chance was nearly too late. She shares what happened to her and how even she is surprised she is playing again.

You can find more about Trina and where she plays next on @trinagoldengirl and www.trina-gulliver.com

You can find out more about Sporting Chance at www.sportingchanceclinic.com - they help with all addictions and mental health for anyone during or following their career in sport.

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The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR

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Helen Tomlinson is the UK's menopause champion, a role she does alongside her full-time job. And in this episode of the next round, she shares her experience of quitting alcohol during menopause.

Like any sales industry, alcohol has traditionally been a big part of the recruitment sector.

But as she got older, Helen was feeling the effects of alcohol more. She decided to knock it on the head.

Welcome to the next round. Stories from people who have changed their drink habits for good and what they did next. None of us know what opportunities are ahead, but it is far easier to find them and seize them if you are not hung over.

Helen is Head of Talent (UK & Ireland) at The Adecco Group and introduced a workplace policy on menopause and ended up with a national advocacy role - something she never expected but a challenge she is passionate about - luckily, she has the energy to do it.

You can connect with Helen Tomlinson on Linkedin

And don't forget to visit us at the Tasting Room in Covent Garden - Look at our gift boxes and cards for Christmas inspiration. Find out more and buy drinks from joinclubsoda.com and @joinclubsoda

Join us next week for more inspirational stories.

Find Club Soda:

The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR

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Running a hospitality venue is stressful - but Hari saw the benefits of quitting drinking really quickly.

She has now kitted out a horse box to take her hotel's incredible drinks range to events and festivals. She just has to get through the door first!

Welcome to the next round. In this series, we talk to people who have changed their drinking to find out what they did next, from new hobbies and challenges to completely changing careers. What you do next is the exciting bit that comes when alcohol no longer plays such a pivotal role in your life.

Today we talk to Hari Fell from South Wales. She is taking her hospitality know-how out on the road. She is supporting and challenging festivals to offer more choices when it comes to drinks. She knows that showing casing a great alcohol-free range is essential for events and their customers. She can prove it as she has totally changed the drinks menu in her hotel.

Hari mentioned three things that stop festivals from having good alcohol-free choices at their events:

• Sponsorship or deals with big bars or sponsors mean they won't let another bar in - despite the fact she is doing something completely different. Those big bars have poor choices.
• They don’t have an application route for an offer between soft drinks and an alcohol bar.
• And they charge based on alcohol sales, not alcohol-free sales, making it hard for alcohol-free bars to afford to attend.

You can find and book a room at Hari’s hotel by visiting Tudorfarmhouse.Co.uk or find out more about her bar and cocktail boxes at Nolococktails.co.uk or here on Instagram.

If you work in hospitality and need help because you are in hardship or for support with drinking, other addictions or talking therapies, then contact The Drinks Trust. TheDrinksTrust.org.uk

And don't forget to visit us at the Tasting Room in Covent Garden - we offer private tasting to match you with your perfect alcohol-free drinks. Find out more and buy drinks from joinclubsoda.com and @joinclubsoda

Join us next week for more inspirational stories.

Find Club Soda:

The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR

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Lucy got to the point where she was finally ready to change her drinking - but she laid her personal development groundwork first.

Changing her drinking gave Lucy the confidence she needed to share her art and build a community.

Welcome to the next round. Where we discover what people did next after knocking booze on the head, from trying fun challenges to complete life changes - people ended up in unexpected places. There is a next round out there for all of us.

Lucy Sheffield spent eight years working on where she wanted to be. Building layers of confidence and self-awareness. The last stage was to quit drinking. But her journey did not end there.

You can find more about Lucy @sheffieldlucy lucysheffieldart.co.uk

And don't forget to visit us at the Tasting Room in Covent Garden - we offer private tasting to match you with your perfect alcohol-free drinks. Find out more and buy drinks from joinclubsoda.com and @joinclubsoda

Join us next week for more inspirational stories.

Find Club Soda:

The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR

Find us on Instagram