The Upward Spiral with Michelle O'Brien

Michelle O'Brien
The Upward Spiral with Michelle O'Brien

The Upward Spiral with Michelle O’Brien will Discover the surprising joys and profound impact of drinking less. This isn't another preachy sobriety podcast. It's for anyone who loves a good time but suspects alcohol might be holding them back. Join me, an ex-marketer turned alcohol-free content creator, as we uncover the secrets to feeling good, connecting with others, and having even more fun without the booze. Expect inspiring stories, actionable tips, and chats with the innovators creating delicious non-alcoholic drinks that are changing the game.

  1. 32. Biohacking Your Energy for Peak Performance (with Elika Tasker)

    18 DEC

    32. Biohacking Your Energy for Peak Performance (with Elika Tasker)

    Join Michelle O'Brien and energy optimization specialist Elika Tasker as they delve into the transformative power of biohacking your energy for peak performance and wellbeing. In this episode, you'll discover: Why inner work and emotional awareness are crucial for sustainable personal growth. How to reframe your energy as your most valuable currency. Practical strategies to optimize your energy levels and avoid burnout. The importance of testing and integration in your health journey. Why collaboration is key to unlocking your full potential. Elika shares her incredible journey from corporate burnout to becoming an energy optimization expert, offering invaluable insights and actionable advice. Key takeaways: Ditch traditional resolutions and embrace sustainable growth. Inner work is essential for holistic wellbeing. Understand your energetic body to fuel personal growth. Create space for emotional awareness. Outsource tasks to free up valuable time and energy. Build a supportive network to enhance your growth. Conduct an energy audit to identify drains on your vitality. Biohacking involves understanding and optimizing your biology. Testing is crucial before making significant health changes. Integration of knowledge and practices is essential for progress. Embrace fear as a natural part of your journey. Personal growth is a lifelong journey; enjoy the process! Ready to create your own Upward Spiral? Hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share this episode with your friends!  Connect with Elika:  Subscribe to Newsletter: https://elika.co/monthly-newsletter/ Elika's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elikat Signature program: https://elika.co/healthconcierge/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@elikahealth Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elika.health/  Chapters 00:00 The Intersection of Eastern and Western Wisdom 10:00 Navigating Burnout and Personal Growth 19:58 Understanding Energy as a Currency 30:04 The Four Layers of the Energetic Body 30:56 Aligning with Opportunities 34:53 Understanding Biohacking 39:26 The Importance of Testing 43:39 Integration and Personalization 48:54 Overcoming Fear and Control 55:37 The Journey of Personal Growth 58:57 Key Takeaways for 2025 #biohacking #energyoptimization #personalgrowth #burnoutrecovery #emotionalawareness #innerwork #positivechange #holistichealth #sustainablehabits #quantumphysics #humandesign #wellness #energy #integration #testing #collaboration #emotionalhealth #functionalmedicine #upwardspiralpodcast

    1h 2m
  2. 31. From Rock Bottom to Sober Entrepreneur, a Conversation with Chris Marshall

    10 DEC

    31. From Rock Bottom to Sober Entrepreneur, a Conversation with Chris Marshall

    In this episode of the Upward Spiral podcast, host Michelle O'Brien interviews Chris Marshall, a pioneer in the alcohol-free movement and founder of Sans Bar. They discuss Chris's journey from struggling with alcohol dependency to creating a thriving alcohol-free business. The conversation explores themes of community, connection, and the importance of mental health, as well as the cultural expectations surrounding alcohol consumption. Chris shares his personal experiences and insights on recovery, the need for inclusive spaces, and the evolving conversation around alcohol use. In this conversation, Chris Marshall discusses: The sobriety spectrum and the importance of understanding where one fits within it. The inspiration behind Sans Bar, a non-alcoholic bar that fosters community and connection. The significance of creating enjoyable experiences without alcohol. Practical tips for navigating social situations, especially during the holiday season. Empowering advice for his younger self, reinforcing the idea that personal growth is a journey filled with potential and connection. Key Takeaways: The feeling of community often drives alcohol consumption. Seeking connection can lead to unhealthy drinking habits. Recovery is a journey that requires serious commitment. Mental health plays a crucial role in addiction recovery. Creating safe spaces for socializing without alcohol is essential. Cultural expectations around drinking can be challenging to navigate. Non-alcoholic alternatives can foster a sense of belonging. The stigma around alcohol dependency is slowly changing. Entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for positive change. Subscribe to the Upward Spiral Podcast for more inspiring stories and practical advice on personal growth. Leave a review and share this episode with your friends. Visit Sans Bar online to learn more about Chris Marshall and his work. https://www.thesansbar.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sans_bar/ Let's create a world where everyone feels empowered to live their best lives. Keep spiraling upwards!

    1h 1m
  3. 30. Alcohol-Free Holidays & a Purposeful New Year with Hannah Kissel

    3 DEC

    30. Alcohol-Free Holidays & a Purposeful New Year with Hannah Kissel

    Ready to ditch the holiday hangover and create a festive season filled with joy, connection, and purpose?  In this episode of The Upward Spiral podcast, I'm joined by the incredible Hannah Kissel, former LinkedIn leader and certified coach, to explore how to navigate the holidays and the new year with intention and clarity. Whether you're rethinking your relationship with alcohol, already embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle, or simply seeking to make more mindful choices, this episode is packed with practical strategies and inspiring insights to help you thrive! Here's what you'll discover: Hannah's inspiring journey to sobriety and the changes she made at LinkedIn to create a more inclusive workplace culture. Practical tips for attending holiday parties alcohol-free while still having fun and making connections. Strategies for setting boundaries with family and friends to prioritize your well-being during the festive season. How to manage stress and avoid burnout without turning to alcohol. Using the new year as a catalyst for positive change in your career and personal life. Actionable steps to achieve your goals and maintain momentum throughout the year. Ready to unlock your potential and create an upward spiral in your life? 🎧 Listen now! 🎧 #alcoholfree #holidayseason #intentionalliving #sobercurious #mindfuldrinking #personalgrowth #newyeargoals #careercoach #leadership #wellbeing #upwardspiral #podcast ➡️ Subscribe to The Upward Spiral podcast for more inspiring conversations and practical strategies for personal growth. ⬅️

    1h 5m
  4. 29. Can the Holidays Actually Be BETTER Without Alcohol? with Myles Faulkner

    26 NOV

    29. Can the Holidays Actually Be BETTER Without Alcohol? with Myles Faulkner

    Surviving the Holidays Sober: Tips & Tricks for Alcohol-Free Festivities Feeling the pressure of the holiday season? Worried about navigating social gatherings without alcohol? Don't let the festive season derail your upward spiral! 🥂🚫 In this episode of the Upward Spiral Podcast, I'm joined by Myles Faulkner, the mastermind behind The Modern Substitute, a fantastic newsletter curating the best non-alcoholic drinks. Myles shares his inspiring journey to sobriety and offers practical tips for staying alcohol-free during the holidays. We dive deep into: Mindful drinking & the power of non-alcoholic alternatives: Discover how to socialize without alcohol, manage expectations, and handle those tricky questions about sobriety. The exploding world of NA beverages: Myles shares his top picks for festive non-alcoholic spirits, beers, wines, and ready-to-drink options. Get ready for some delicious recommendations! Creating an inclusive holiday experience: Learn how to be a supportive host and create a welcoming environment for all guests, regardless of their drinking preferences. Key takeaways: Mindset shifts are crucial for maintaining sobriety during the holidays. Planning ahead and bringing your own NA drinks can empower you in social situations. You are in control of your social interactions and can choose to leave when you feel uncomfortable. The non-alcoholic beverage industry is booming with innovative and delicious options. Ready to create your own upward spiral this holiday season? ✨ Listen now and discover how to thrive during the festivities, alcohol-free! 🎧 LINKS: - The Modern Substitute newsletter: https://www.themodernsubstitute.com/ - The Modern Substitute Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themodernsubstitute/ - Myles Faulkner LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/myles-faulkner-a728756/

    1h 4m
  5. 28. This is Your Brain on Alcohol (Brain Scans Revealed!) with Santiago Brand

    20 NOV

    28. This is Your Brain on Alcohol (Brain Scans Revealed!) with Santiago Brand

    Ever wondered what alcohol REALLY does to your brain? Join Michelle O'Brien on the Upward Spiral podcast as she dives deep with Santiago Brand, a sports and clinical psychologist and expert in brain mapping and neurofeedback, to uncover the shocking truth about alcohol's impact on cognitive function, memory, and decision-making. In this eye-opening episode, you'll discover: The REAL effects of alcohol on your brain: See actual brain scans and learn how alcohol can impair your cognitive abilities, memory, and decision-making. The link between alcohol and mental health: Understand how alcohol can worsen existing mental health conditions and contribute to anxiety, depression, and even addiction. How to break free from alcohol's grip: Gain practical tips and strategies for creating and maintaining an alcohol-free lifestyle, including the power of community support and rewiring your brain for positive change. The importance of sleep optimization: Discover why sleep is your secret weapon for overall mental health and how to improve your sleep quality for optimal brain function. Plus, Santiago shares his personal journey with alcohol and the cultural implications of drinking, offering a unique perspective on the societal pressures surrounding alcohol consumption. This episode is a MUST-WATCH for anyone who: Is questioning their own drinking habits Is on an alcohol-free journey Wants to optimise their cognitive function and mental health Is interested in personal growth and intentional living Chapters:  00:00 The Bidirectional Relationship Between Alcohol and the Brain 03:00 Understanding Brain Mapping and Neurofeedback 05:52 Cultural Influences on Alcohol Consumption 09:03 Personal Experiences with Alcohol and Its Consequences 11:48 The Impact of Alcohol on Cognitive Function 15:10 The Lies We Tell Ourselves About Alcohol 17:49 Rewiring the Brain for Positive Change 36:43 The Importance of Community and Personal Growth 39:40 Embracing Discomfort for Sustainable Change 44:50 Understanding the Impact of Alcohol on the Brain 56:39 The Cycle of Addiction and Mental Health 01:10:39 Practical Tips for Optimizing Mental Health 🔗 Watch now and unlock your brain's full potential!  Don't forget to subscribe to the Upward Spiral podcast for more inspiring conversations and actionable insights on creating positive change in your life. #soberbrain #alcoholfree #mentalhealth #brainhacking #personalgrowth #upwardspiral

    1h 13m
  6. 27. Your Brain on Booze: How Alcohol Hijacks Your Decisions

    12 NOV

    27. Your Brain on Booze: How Alcohol Hijacks Your Decisions

    Ever wondered how that extra glass of wine affects your choices? Join us on Upward Spiral as we dive deep into the neuroscience of decision-making with Dr. Shawn Watson, a leading expert in neurophysiology. We uncover how alcohol impairs your brain and explore the fascinating concept of decision fatigue. Discover how to make smarter choices, protect your brain health, and unlock your full potential! Key takeaways: Intentional living is key: Discover how mindful choices can transform your life. Alcohol's hidden impact: Learn how alcohol affects your decision-making abilities. Decision fatigue is real: Understand how this modern challenge impacts your choices. Practical strategies: Gain actionable tips to improve your decision-making and brain health. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 10:12 Understanding Decision Science 16:30 Alcohol's Impact on the Brain 22:05 Neurotransmitters and Decision Making 25:22 The Impact of Alcohol on Decision-Making 33:51 Understanding Decision Fatigue 42:37 Strategies to Combat Decision Fatigue 46:43 The Importance of Reducing Negative Habits Links: Connect with Dr. Sean Watson: [Insert Link] [Insert Links to relevant studies] Ready to take control of your choices and unlock your full potential? Hit that subscribe button, leave a review, and join our amazing community! Let's embrace the upward spiral together! ✨ #intentionalliving #alcohol #decisionmaking #neuroscience #brainhealth #decisionfatigue #neurophysiology #mentalclarity #cognitivehealth #emotionalresilience #mindfulness #habits #cognitivefunction #mentalhealth #choices #productivity

    52 min
  7. 26. Raising Resilient Kids: Alcohol-Free Parenting with Michelle Lim

    5 NOV

    26. Raising Resilient Kids: Alcohol-Free Parenting with Michelle Lim

    Ever feel like you're raising kids in a world obsessed with alcohol? Join me, Michelle O'Brien, as I chat with re-parenting coach Michelle Lim about navigating the challenges of mindful parenting in an alcohol-centric world.  We dive deep into: The subtle ways alcohol can shape family dynamics (even without abuse!) Breaking generational cycles and fostering open communication about alcohol  Practical strategies for creating a safe space for kids to talk about ANYTHING Re-parenting yourself while raising your kids to make mindful choices  Key takeaways: Mindful parenting is KEY in a society that normalises alcohol. Open communication and trust are essential for healthy family dynamics. Generational trauma around alcohol IS real, but we CAN break the cycle!  Leading by example is the most powerful way to influence our children's choices. Self-awareness and kindness are crucial on the re-parenting journey.  Ready to raise resilient kids who make empowered choices? Hit play and let's spiral upwards together! LINKS: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-lim-wan-ru/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themindfullparent

    55 min
  8. 25. The Sommelier Who Quit Drinking and Mastered Alcohol-Free Alchemy

    29 OCT

    25. The Sommelier Who Quit Drinking and Mastered Alcohol-Free Alchemy

    Ever wondered what it's like to ditch the booze when your whole life revolved around it?  Join us on the Upward Spiral podcast as we chat with Ian Blessing, a former sommelier at The French Laundry, who traded fine wines for an alcohol-free empire.  Ian shares his inspiring journey from sommelier to sobriety, the challenges he faced, and how he co-founded a company crafting exquisite alcohol-free bitters.  We dive deep into the mindful drinking movement, the alchemy of creating complex bitters, and practical tips for crafting your own alcohol-free cocktails at home. Plus, discover how quitting drinking opened up mental space for Ian's personal growth and entrepreneurial success.  Whether you're sober-curious, embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is for you!  Takeaways: Transformation is possible: Ian's story proves you can reinvent yourself and find success beyond alcohol. Community is key: Find your tribe to support your mindful drinking journey. Alcohol-free is exciting: Discover a world of delicious, sophisticated non-alcoholic options. Creativity flourishes: Free up mental space and unlock your potential by rethinking your relationship with alcohol. Mindful drinking is for everyone: Whether you're cutting back or quitting completely, there's a place for you in the alcohol-free movement About Ian:  Ian Blessing is a seasoned hospitality professional with over 15 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, including roles as a sommelier at The French Laundry and Opus One Winery. After giving up alcohol, Ian and his wife Carly co-founded All The Bitter, a line of handcrafted non-alcoholic cocktail bitters trusted by top bartenders at venues like Trick Dog, Death & Co, and The Violet Hour. All The Bitter has won over 30 prestigious spirit awards and is available in 10 countries and more than 500 venues across the United States. Links:  allthebitter.com  instagram.com/allthebitter #alcoholfree #sobercurious #mindfuldrinking #nonalcoholic #mocktails #bitters #sobriety #recovery #healthandwellness #personalgrowth #entrepreneurship #theupwardspiralpodcast #ianblessing #thefrenchlaundry #alcoholfreecocktails #alcoholfreedrinks

    1 hr
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About

The Upward Spiral with Michelle O’Brien will Discover the surprising joys and profound impact of drinking less. This isn't another preachy sobriety podcast. It's for anyone who loves a good time but suspects alcohol might be holding them back. Join me, an ex-marketer turned alcohol-free content creator, as we uncover the secrets to feeling good, connecting with others, and having even more fun without the booze. Expect inspiring stories, actionable tips, and chats with the innovators creating delicious non-alcoholic drinks that are changing the game.

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