The Next Chapter

Luke

The Next Chapter is a podcast about new beginnings, reinvention, and the power of taking ownership over your life. Hosted by Luke Jones—coach, podcast host, and lifelong student of self-development—each episode dives deep into honest stories of transformation, resilience, and practical strategies for building a life you don’t need to escape from. Along the way, we explore the role of manifestation and the magic that happens when you start following your goosebumps—those moments of excitement, intuition, and inspiration that point you toward your next chapter. You’ll hear from everyday people, experts, and inspiring guests who’ve overcome adversity, embraced change, and found the courage to start again—whether it’s breaking free from old patterns, finding purpose, or navigating life’s toughest moments. With a mix of real talk, mindset tools, and actionable tips, The Next Chapter is here to help you create momentum, trust your own journey, and write a new story—one you’re proud to live.

  1. Episode 15 : Embracing Sobriety & Identity: Eamon Kearney's 'Long Way Home'.

    -2 ДН.

    Episode 15 : Embracing Sobriety & Identity: Eamon Kearney's 'Long Way Home'.

    What happens when you realise alcohol has become your “home”… and you decide to burn that version of home to the ground? In this episode of The Next Chapter, I’m joined by Eamon Kearney —Irish immigrant living in Massachusetts, father, sober runner, and author of the upcoming memoir 'The Long Way Home.' We get into the real stuff: adoption, early trauma, Irish drinking culture, and how learned behaviour can quietly wire addiction into your identity. Eamon shares the moment he hit a low point, what finally made him choose sobriety, and why running became the anchor that helped him rebuild discipline, clarity, and self-respect. We also talk about redefining what 'home' actually means when you’re sober—and how fatherhood can become the reason you break the cycle for good. If you’re questioning your relationship with alcohol, struggling with identity, or trying to become the dad your kids deserve—this one will hit. Chapters... 00:00 Intro – Eamon’s Kearney story in a sentence 01:12 Who is Eamon ? (father, sober runner, immigrant, author) 03:05 Adoption, early trauma, and the search for belonging 06:10 Growing up around alcohol: “learned behaviour” and Irish culture 09:25 When drinking becomes identity (and why it’s so hard to quit) 12:40 The turning point: hitting a new low 15:30 Choosing sobriety in 2022 – what changed? 18:10 Running as an anchor: discipline, routine, mental clarity 22:05 The mind in recovery: self-reflection and healing 25:30 Fatherhood after sobriety: showing up and breaking the cycle 29:10 Redefining “home” — from a place to a feeling 33:20 Building a life that supports sobriety (people, environment, habits) 37:05 Eamon’s memoir “The Long Way Home” — what it’s really about 40:10 Practical takeaways for anyone trying to quit drinking 43:00 Final words + where to find Eamon Find Eamon on TikTok below... https://www.tiktok.com/@irish_sober_strider If you got value from this episode, don’t just sit on it—take action.  Like, subscribe, and follow the show—it makes a massive difference and helps us reach more people who need to hear these stories.  Share this with a mate who needs the truth, leave a review, and remember: change doesn’t happen by accident.  It happens when you get honest, do the work, and show up for yourself and your family. Stay real, stay relentless, and keep building your legacy—one choice at a time. For more hard-hitting stories and practical tools, follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. Let’s be real: your next chapter starts now...

    1 ч. 10 мин.
  2. Episode 14: Small Wins, Big Change: The Psychology of Consistency with Alex Watts...

    5 АПР.

    Episode 14: Small Wins, Big Change: The Psychology of Consistency with Alex Watts...

    In this episode of The Next Chapter, Luke Jones sits down with mindset + fitness coach Alex Watts to unpack the psychology behind consistency — and why so many busy people fall into the start/stop cycle. Alex Watts is a mindset and fitness coach who helps full-time professionals get back in shape without forcing extreme routines. After struggling with inconsistency himself, he developed the No-Force Method, a simple approach to fat loss that fits around real life and makes consistency feel natural. You’ll learn how to make fitness feel natural (not forced), using identity shift, small wins, and a “bare minimum” approach for the weeks when life is stressful and your motivation is on the floor. What we cover The psychology behind exercise, consistency, and work ethicWhy exercise is one of the best tools for mental healthThe most common mental barriers (and the lies we tell ourselves)Breaking all-or-nothing thinkingThe Identity Shift: becoming the type of person who trainsThe Small Wins Strategy: building momentum without burnoutThe Bare Minimum Protocol: staying on track when life gets busyAccountability + boundaries to protect your fitness time Chapters... 00:00 Introduction to Mindset and Fitness Coaching  06:04 Overcoming Adversity: The Journey to Coaching  10:33 The Psychology of Exercise and Consistency  14:38 The Mental Battle: Why We Avoid Exercise  18:29 Common Lies We Tell Ourselves  22:00 The Importance of Mindset in Fitness  26:43 The Journey: Small Steps to Big Changes  27:09 The Rocket Launch: Building Momentum in Fitness  28:12 Breaking the All-or-Nothing Mindset  31:12 The No Force Method: Making Fitness Natural  34:33 Self-Awareness and Time Management for Fitness  36:43 Reconnecting with Identity and Setting Boundaries  39:46 Confidence Killers: Identity and Self-Worth  41:32 Building Self-Respect Through Small Actions  43:07 Warning Signs of Falling Off the Wagon  44:57 The Importance of Accountability  47:15 Consistency: A Skill to Build  48:35 You’re Closer Than You Think: Overcoming Mental Barriers  51:15 Advice to My Younger Self: Embracing Change Naturally  52:14 Future Aspirations: Growing and Helping Others Catch up with Alex... Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/alexjwatts_/YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@AlexWattsCoachingResources Eat That Frog (book):  https://www.amazon.com/Eat-Frog-Get-Things-Done/dp/1626569770  If you got value from this episode, don’t just sit on it—take action.  Like, subscribe, and follow the show—it makes a massive difference and helps us reach more people who need to hear these stories.  Share this with a mate who needs the truth, leave a review, and remember: change doesn’t happen by accident.  It happens when you get honest, do the work, and show up for yourself and your family. Stay real, stay relentless, and keep building your legacy—one choice at a time. For more hard-hitting stories and practical tools, follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. Let’s be real: your next chapter starts now...

    51 мин.
  3. Episode 13: No Safe Level: Jimmy Thistle on Alcohol, Binge Drinking & Living Sober...

    29 МАР.

    Episode 13: No Safe Level: Jimmy Thistle on Alcohol, Binge Drinking & Living Sober...

    In this episode of The Next Chapter, I’m joined by Jimmy Thistle — sober advocate and over five years alcohol-free — to rip into the myths we’ve all been fed about alcohol, recovery, and what a “normal” drinking life is supposed to look like. Jimmy is the voice behind @recovery_jimmy and host of After Hours with Jimmy Thistle, creating a space rooted in honesty, recovery, and real conversation. He shares his journey with openness, offering insight, support, and connection to others walking a similar path. As a peer mentor and someone training to become a sober coach, Jimmy brings lived experience and purpose to everything he does—whether it’s through his content or late-night podcast conversations that dive into the realities of addiction, growth, and staying on track. We talk about why the idea of safe drinking is dodgy at best, how binge drinking can quietly do real damage, and the brutal self-deception that keeps people stuck in the loop of “I’m not that bad.” Jimmy shares his journey from addiction to recovery, the identity shift that comes with quitting, and how to build a support tribe that actually keeps you moving forward. If you’re sober curious, trying to cut down, or you know deep down alcohol’s got more control than you’d like to admit—this one’s for you. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jimmy Thistle and his mission 01:21 The dangers of alcohol and sobriety awareness 04:20 Myths about recovery and socialising 09:13 Understanding binge drinking and its effects 11:09 Recognising alcohol problems and self-deception 17:41 Jimmy’s journey: from addiction to recovery 30:04 The vicious cycle of addiction 33:31 Facing withdrawal and identity crisis 37:37 Finding comfort in solitude 41:10 The influence of society and media 45:54 Navigating triggers in recovery 51:42 The role of support groups 55:40 Spreading awareness and changing perspectives 01:00:18 Maintaining a positive mindset 01:04:53 Recognising early signs of alcohol dependency 01:07:10 Pride in sobriety and family 01:09:55 The dark side of alcohol 01:11:57 Finding your support tribe 01:21:02 Recommended resources for sobriety 01:22:40 Future aspirations and projects  Connect with Jimmy at the links below... After Hours Podcast with Jimmy Thistle : https://afterhours.buzzsprout.com/Social links: Instagram: @recovery_jimmyTikTok: @recovery.jimmy If you got value from this episode, don’t just sit on it—take action.  Like, subscribe, and follow the show—it makes a massive difference and helps us reach more people who need to hear these stories.  Share this with a mate who needs the truth, leave a review, and remember: change doesn’t happen by accident.  It happens when you get honest, do the work, and show up for yourself and your family. Stay real, stay relentless, and keep building your legacy—one choice at a time. For more hard-hitting stories and practical tools, follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. Let’s be real: your next chapter starts now...

    1 ч. 27 мин.
  4. Episode 12: Cold Water, Running & Sobriety: Will Edwards on Resilience as a Dad of Two

    22 МАР.

    Episode 12: Cold Water, Running & Sobriety: Will Edwards on Resilience as a Dad of Two

    Will Edwards is a dad of two, an NHS cardiac rehab exercise specialist, and four years sober. In this episode, we go deep on the “grey area” drinking trap (when it’s not a rock bottom… but it’s still costing you), and the moment Will caught himself thinking 'I need a beer'—and realised where that road can lead. We also unpack how running became far more than fitness for Will (a mental sanctuary and a third place), why cold water therapy isn’t just a social media challenge (it’s nervous system training), and how discipline is built through small, repeatable commitments—not motivation. If you’re a dad who’s tired of feeling foggy, reactive, and stuck in the same loop every week… this one will land. What we cover... The shift from wanting a drink to needing it—and why that mattersHow Will built consistency with running (even when he hated it)Cold water therapy: breath control, presence, and stress reductionBalancing self-care with family life (without the guilt)Sleep hygiene, nutrition, and why “scrolling at night” is stealing your morningsHandling social pressure and saying, simply: 'I don’t drink.'Chapters... 00:00 Intro 02:49 Childhood, bullying & resilience 05:45 Working in NHS cardiac rehab 08:53 The moment sobriety clicked 11:46 Running as therapy 24:04 Cold water therapy routine 50:05 Balancing dad life + training 01:05:52 Sleep hygiene 01:09:01 Tough sobriety situations 01:24:30 Advice to younger self 01:30:14 What’s next for Will Connect with Will on Instagram - chilly.will.e.runs If you got value from this episode, don’t just sit on it—take action.  Like, subscribe, and follow the show—it makes a massive difference and helps us reach more people who need to hear these stories.  Share this with a mate who needs the truth, leave a review, and remember: change doesn’t happen by accident.  It happens when you get honest, do the work, and show up for yourself and your family. Stay real, stay relentless, and keep building your legacy—one choice at a time. For more hard-hitting stories and practical tools, follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. Let’s be real: your next chapter starts now...

    1 ч. 28 мин.
  5. Episode 11: The Middle Lane: Moderation, Alcohol & Sustainable Performance with Stephen Radnedge

    15 МАР.

    Episode 11: The Middle Lane: Moderation, Alcohol & Sustainable Performance with Stephen Radnedge

    Stephen Radnedge is an Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP) in a GP practice with over 20 years’ experience in healthcare. He works autonomously assessing patients, diagnosing conditions, and prescribing treatment, and he’s also an endurance athlete training for long-distance events. Steve is passionate about sustainable performance, resilience, and a moderation-first approach to health—especially the role recovery, routine, and alcohol reduction can play in long-term wellbeing. In this episode of The Next Chapter, Luke sits down with Stephen Radnedge to talk about what it really takes to balance a demanding healthcare career with endurance training—without burning out. Steve shares his journey from nursing and ward management into advanced clinical practice, the mindset shifts required when you step into a new environment, and why adaptability is a non-negotiable skill in both work and life. They also get into the practical side of performance: building a routine that fits real life, staying flexible when work pressures hit, prioritising recovery, and taking a “middle lane” approach to alcohol—focusing on moderation and long-term sustainability rather than extremes. If you’re trying to level up your health while juggling responsibilities, this conversation will give you both perspective and tools you can actually use. Chapters 00:00 Intro: Stephen Radnedge (ACP + endurance athlete) 00:49 From nurse to Advanced Clinical Practitioner: 20-year journey 01:54 Bristol to Glastonbury: change, routine, and work-life balance 03:18 What an ACP does (and how it compares to a GP) 03:55 Heart health fundamentals: reducing risk the simple way 05:05 Moderation & “middle lane” drinking: cutting down realistically 11:02 Career shift: secondary care to primary care learning curve 11:32 Snowboarding vs endurance: risk, resilience, and staying smart 18:41 Training mindset: time commitment, discomfort, and partner support 23:35 Alcohol, blood pressure & cholesterol—plain English breakdown 32:02 Cutting back benefits: sleep, HRV, recovery, performance 42:06 Steve’s next chapter: 50/60-mile ultras + finishing his MSc If you got value from this episode, don’t just sit on it—take action.  Like, subscribe, and follow the show—it makes a massive difference and helps us reach more people who need to hear these stories.  Share this with a mate who needs the truth, leave a review, and remember: change doesn’t happen by accident.  It happens when you get honest, do the work, and show up for yourself and your family. Stay real, stay relentless, and keep building your legacy—one choice at a time. For more hard-hitting stories and practical tools, follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. Let’s be real: your next chapter starts now...

    48 мин.
  6. Episode 10: From Alcoholism to Advocacy: Ben Gibbs’ Journey...

    8 МАР.

    Episode 10: From Alcoholism to Advocacy: Ben Gibbs’ Journey...

    In this episode of The Next Chapter, host Luke Jones sits down with Ben Gibbs—award-winning beer writer, sobriety advocate, and a leading voice in the alcohol-free revolution. After giving up alcohol in early 2022, Ben discovered that the alcohol-free beer scene wasn’t just growing — it was exploding with creativity, flavour, and personality. What began as a search for something decent to drink soon became a full-blown passion project, leading him to sample over 1000 alcohol-free beers from around the world. Ben opens up about his personal journey from alcoholism to sobriety, charting the pivotal moments that led him to embrace a new lifestyle. Together, Luke and Ben explore the dramatic rise of alcohol-free beer, revealing how it’s reshaping social drinking and offering new hope for those on a recovery path. They dive deep into the science of brewing alcohol-free beer, bust common myths, and discuss the evolving culture around sober living. Ben shares practical tips for socializing without alcohol, the role of community in sustaining sobriety, and the surprising benefits that come with living alcohol-free. Whether you’re sober curious, in recovery, or simply seeking healthier lifestyle choices, this conversation delivers honest insights, personal growth takeaways, and a fresh perspective on enjoying life—beer included—without the booze. Key Topics: Ben Gibbs’ journey from alcoholism to advocacyThe evolution and science of alcohol-free beerNavigating myths and misconceptions about sober drinkingThe importance of community and support networksSocializing sober and the placebo effectUnexpected benefits and personal growth in sobrietyChapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Sobriety and Alcohol-Free Beer04:47 – Ben’s Journey to Sobriety09:56 – The Role of Alcohol-Free Beer in Sobriety15:13 – Exploring the Alcohol-Free Beer Market19:54 – Myths and Misconceptions about Alcohol-Free Beer25:09 – The Future of Alcohol-Free Wine and Other Alternatives30:00 – The Placebo Effect and Social Aspects of Alcohol-Free Drinking38:17 – Navigating Alcohol-Free Choices41:48 – Socializing Sober: Tips and Insights47:44 – The Journey to Writing a Book50:04 – Rituals and Enjoyment in Alcohol-Free Beer56:22 – The Transformation of Sobriety01:00:01 – Surprising Benefits of Sobriety01:04:53 – Community and Resources for SobrietyInstagram: @sober_boozers_club Threads: @sober_boozers_club (Consistent content with Instagram.) Amazon Book Link: The Sober Boozers Club: How To Drink Beer (And Stay Sober) by Ben Gibbs If you got value from this episode, don’t just sit on it—take action.  Like, subscribe, and follow the show—it makes a massive difference and helps us reach more people who need to hear these stories.  Share this with a mate who needs the truth, leave a review, and remember: change doesn’t happen by accident.  It happens when you get honest, do the work, and show up for yourself and your family. Stay real, stay relentless, and keep building your legacy—one choice at a time. For more hard-hitting stories and practical tools, follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. Let’s be real: your next chapter starts now...

    1 ч. 8 мин.
  7. Episode 9: Embracing Authenticity: Chelle Stanley's Journey

    1 МАР.

    Episode 9: Embracing Authenticity: Chelle Stanley's Journey

    Chelle Stanley is an Identity coach and unapologetic truth-teller who challenges the pressure to perform and be who the world expects you to be. After years of navigating agoraphobia, health challenges and deep personal growth, she rebuilt her confidence and self-trust from the ground up. Her work is rooted in lived experience, not theory. Speaking openly about people-pleasing, masking and the courage it takes to step into your real voice. Chelle’s message is simple: you don’t need fixing. You need remembering. It is far less exhausting, and far more powerful, to stand strong in who you actually are and allow the right people to meet you there. In this episode we speak about her journey towards authenticity and self-acceptance.  Chelle shares her experiences with trauma, identity, and the challenges of people-pleasing, emphasising the importance of self-awareness and setting boundaries.  They discuss the role of coaching in personal growth, the impact of social media on authenticity, and the significance of living in alignment with one's values. Chelle encourages listeners to embrace their true selves and offers practical advice for overcoming setbacks and navigating relationships. Key takeaways... Authenticity is about alignment between inner feelings and outer behaviours. Chelle's journey of self-discovery began with childhood trauma and rejection. Overcoming people-pleasing is essential for true self-acceptance. Social media can amplify the pressure to mask one's true self. Relationships often change as we grow and evolve. Coaching provides tools for personal growth and overcoming trauma. Self-awareness is key to understanding what holds us back. Setting boundaries is crucial for protecting one's energy. Daily practices like movement and journaling can enhance self-awareness. It's important to embrace setbacks as part of the growth process. Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Authenticity 23:05 Overcoming Trauma and Embracing Change 45:56 The Power of Coaching and Self-Discovery 45:26 Empowering Women to Live Authentically 53:46 Self-Awareness and Setting Boundaries 58:55 Embracing Self-Expression and Healing Connect with Chelle at the following links below! https://www.facebook.com/iamchellestanley https://www.instagram.com/itschellestanley/ https://www.tiktok.com/@itschellestanley If you got value from this episode, don’t just sit on it—take action.  Like, subscribe, and follow the show—it makes a massive difference and helps us reach more people who need to hear these stories.  Share this with a mate who needs the truth, leave a review, and remember: change doesn’t happen by accident.  It happens when you get honest, do the work, and show up for yourself and your family. Stay real, stay relentless, and keep building your legacy—one choice at a time. For more hard-hitting stories and practical tools, follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. Let’s be real: your next chapter starts now...

    1 ч. 1 мин.
  8. Episode 8: Breaking the Cycle: Leanne Murphy on Healing, Burnout & Alcohol Awareness

    22 ФЕВР.

    Episode 8: Breaking the Cycle: Leanne Murphy on Healing, Burnout & Alcohol Awareness

    Leanne is a mental health nurse specialising in alcohol problems.  She lives in Edinburgh, Scotland with her 2 cats Echo and Olly.  With years of frontline experience supporting individuals and families impacted by alcohol use, she brings both professional insight and deep compassion to the conversation.  Leanne is passionate about helping people understand the emotional, psychological and social factors that drive drinking, moving the focus away from shame and towards self-awareness, nervous system regulation and genuine self-belief. Leanne has personally felt the devastation alcohol can bring into somebody’s life.  She speaks openly about the pressures of modern life, burnout and coping mechanisms. In this honest and powerful conversation we explore her thoughts and insights about addiction, recovery, and personal growth. Leanne shares how family loss, NHS burnout, and her own experiences with addiction shaped her approach to healing and self-compassion.  Together, we dive into the myths around alcohol, the addictive voice, and the tools—like manifestation, Reiki, and Havening—that Leanne uses to support herself and others.  This episode is a raw look at what it takes to break generational cycles and find real freedom. Key Takeaways: Family history and personal loss can deeply influence our relationship with alcohol and recovery.Burnout, especially in high-pressure roles like the NHS, is a sign to reassess priorities and focus on self-care.Self-compassion is crucial for lasting recovery and personal growth.Manifestation, Reiki, and Havening are powerful tools for healing and transformation.Challenging cultural myths around alcohol is essential for real change.It’s okay to ask for help—healing starts with honest conversations.Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and Technical Challenges 01:49 – Leanne’s Journey in Mental Health Nursing 06:12 – Personal Impact of Alcohol and Family Loss 12:08 – Navigating Relationships and Addiction 18:08 – Burnout and Career Reflections 23:54 – The Shift from Coaching to NHS Work 30:11 – Manifestation and Personal Growth 35:59 – Coping with Setbacks and Self-Compassion 41:56 – The Addictive Voice and Conscious Awareness 48:06 – Cultural Myths Surrounding Alcohol 53:56 – The Future of Alcohol Awareness 59:57 – Exploring Reiki and Havening Techniques 01:05:49 – Next Steps and Personal Development 01:12:02 – Final Thoughts and Advice for Listeners If you got value from this episode, don’t just sit on it—take action.  Like, subscribe, and follow the show—it makes a massive difference and helps us reach more people who need to hear these stories.  Share this with a mate who needs the truth, leave a review, and remember: change doesn’t happen by accident.  It happens when you get honest, do the work, and show up for yourself and your family. Stay real, stay relentless, and keep building your legacy—one choice at a time. For more hard-hitting stories and practical tools, follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. Let’s be real: your next chapter starts now...

    1 ч. 14 мин.

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The Next Chapter is a podcast about new beginnings, reinvention, and the power of taking ownership over your life. Hosted by Luke Jones—coach, podcast host, and lifelong student of self-development—each episode dives deep into honest stories of transformation, resilience, and practical strategies for building a life you don’t need to escape from. Along the way, we explore the role of manifestation and the magic that happens when you start following your goosebumps—those moments of excitement, intuition, and inspiration that point you toward your next chapter. You’ll hear from everyday people, experts, and inspiring guests who’ve overcome adversity, embraced change, and found the courage to start again—whether it’s breaking free from old patterns, finding purpose, or navigating life’s toughest moments. With a mix of real talk, mindset tools, and actionable tips, The Next Chapter is here to help you create momentum, trust your own journey, and write a new story—one you’re proud to live.