The Shannon McCabe Show | Sobriety & Healthy Living

36. The Slippery Truth About Moderation After a Break From Drinking

Let’s talk about something that comes up a lot once you’ve taken a break from drinking—this idea of “maybe I can just have one now and then.”
If you're ready to stop white-knuckling and actually learn how to live alcohol-free with ease, The Alcohol- Free Blueprint is open! As a thank you for listening, use code PODCAST at check out for a private listener bonus. 
In this episode of The Shannon McCabe Show, I’m diving into the slippery truth about moderation—what it really means, why it’s so hard to maintain, and how the brain and body respond once alcohol re-enters the picture. I’ll share my personal reflections and the science behind why moderation can feel like such a mental tug-of-war. From decision fatigue to chemical cravings to the way alcohol hijacks your brain’s reward system, we’ll unpack why “just one” rarely stays “just one” for long.
Here’s what we cover: 💭 The emotional and mental drain of trying to moderate 🧠 What’s actually happening in your brain when you drink again after a break 💔 Why moderation can reignite cravings and old patterns 🌱 The peace that comes from full abstinence—and letting go of the exhausting mental math 💛 How to accept the truth about your relationship with alcohol without shame
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering if moderation could work “this time,” this episode is for you. I’m sharing both the science and the soul behind what makes moderation such a slippery slope and why full freedom often comes from choosing peace over control.
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If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend who might need to hear it too. And if you’re enjoying The Shannon McCabe Show, it would mean the world if you could take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps more people find these conversations and start their own journey to living alcohol-free.
 
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35. When Sobriety Feels Hard, Stay in the Struggle | Why the Uncomfortable Work Leads to the Greatest Growth

In this episode of The Shannon McCabe Show, I’m sharing a precious insight from my morning devotional that deeply connects to the journey of quitting drinking and honestly, to any season of growth that feels hard.
If you're ready to stop white-knuckling and actually learn how to live alcohol-free with ease, The Alcohol- Free Blueprint is open! As a thank you for listening, use code PODCAST at check out for a private listener bonus.
So often, we see our struggles as roadblocks. But what if they’re actually refining us? What if the discomfort, the cravings, the doubts, and the messy in-between moments are the very things shaping you into the peaceful, confident, free version of yourself that you’re becoming?
In this heartfelt conversation, I’ll walk you through: 💛 How to reframe challenges as the tools that build your strength and character 🌱 Why the “hard days” in sobriety are often the ones that grow you the most 🙏 What my morning devotional reminded me about perseverance and faith ✨ The importance of showing up for the work even when it’s uncomfortable ⚡ How to start embracing the process instead of resisting it
I also share how my Alcohol-Free Blueprint program helps women navigate this exact transformation. In this program I am teaching you how to shift your mindset, reclaim your energy, and build a sustainable, joy-filled alcohol-free life.
If you’ve been feeling like the work is too hard or wondering if it’s worth it - I hope this is the reminder your heart needs. The hard stuff isn’t punishment; it’s preparation for your next chapter.
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If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend who might need to hear it too. And if you’re enjoying The Shannon McCabe Show, it would mean the world if you could take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps more people find these conversations and start their own journey to living alcohol-free.
 
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34. Cheers to Health, Happiness & High Protein (Without Alcohol) | Interview with Morgan Zanotti, Co-Founder of Primal Kitchen & Founder of Drink Waay

This week on The Shannon McCabe Show, I’m joined by Morgan Zanotti—mom of three, co-founder of Primal Kitchen Foods, and now founder of Drink Waay, a sparkling protein water that’s changing the way women think about wellness.
Morgan shares her journey from the fast-paced world of the food and beverage industry to creating a brand centered on health, happiness, and simplicity. We talk about her decision to give up alcohol, how that shift has impacted her energy, focus, and relationships, and the joy she’s found in building a business that aligns with her values.
In this conversation, we cover: 💛 How Morgan’s sobriety decision helped her show up stronger as a leader, mom, and entrepreneur 🌱 The inspiration behind Drink Waay and how it’s bringing fun back into functional wellness 💪 Why protein is essential for women’s health (and how to make it easy) ✨ The connection between daily discipline, clarity, and joy 👩‍👧‍👦 The real talk on balancing motherhood, health, and entrepreneurship
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Check out WAAY on Amazon or Whole Foods
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If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend who might need to hear it too. And if you’re enjoying The Shannon McCabe Show, it would mean the world if you could take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps more people find these conversations and start their own journey to living alcohol-free.
 
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33. Why You Crave Sugar (and Maybe Gain Weight) After You Quit Drinking

If you’ve quit drinking and suddenly find yourself craving sugar—or noticing a few extra pounds—you’re not alone. 🍫
If you're ready to stop white-knuckling and actually learn how to live alcohol-free with ease, The Alcohol- Free Blueprint is open! As a thank you for listening, use code PODCAST at check out for a private listener bonus.
In this episode of The Shannon McCabe Show, I’m breaking down why this happens and what’s actually going on inside your body as it begins to heal from alcohol. From blood sugar swings to dopamine changes, I’ll walk you through the science in simple, real-world terms—and remind you that this phase is temporary.
We’ll talk about: 💛 Why sugar cravings are so common in early sobriety (and what your body’s trying to tell you) 🌱 The truth about post-alcohol weight changes—and how to give your body grace as it rebalances 🥗 What to focus on instead of restriction or guilt 🧠 How to nourish yourself physically and emotionally through this transition ✨ The reminder that your body isn’t betraying you—it’s healing
If you’re in that season of white-knuckling through sugar cravings or feeling frustrated by your body, this episode will help you take a deep breath and remember: this is part of the process. Healing takes time, patience, and nourishment—not punishment.
 
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If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend who might need to hear it too. And if you’re enjoying The Shannon McCabe Show, it would mean the world if you could take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps more people find these conversations and start their own journey to living alcohol-free.
 
Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if you share on social media, tag me—I’d love to hear your thoughts and connect with you. 💛

32. When Life Feels Heavy: How Faith & Discipline Support Sobriety | Interview with Kori Leigh

In this episode of The Shannon McCabe Show, I sat down with Kori Leigh, who opens up about her journey from the depths of alcoholism to more than eight years of sobriety. Her story is raw, honest, and full of faith. Kori shares what it was like to hit her rock bottom, how she fought her way back through grace and discipline, and the daily non-negotiables that now anchor her recovery.
Together, we talk about: 💭 The realities of addiction and what it takes to truly surrender 🙏 The role of faith and spiritual fitness in long-term sobriety 🌱 Building non-negotiable habits that protect your peace and your recovery 👩‍👧 How sobriety transformed her as a mother, daughter, and woman of faith ✨ The miracle moments that happen when you stay the course
This conversation is for anyone who’s walking through a heavy season and needs a reminder that redemption is real, and that faith, consistency, and honesty can rebuild even the most broken parts of life.
 
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If you're ready to stop white-knuckling and actually learn how to live alcohol-free with ease, The Alcohol- Free Blueprint is open! As a thank you for listening, use code PODCAST at check out for a private listener bonus.
If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend who might need to hear it too. And if you’re enjoying The Shannon McCabe Show, it would mean the world if you could take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps more people find these conversations and start their own journey to living alcohol-free.
 
Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if you share on social media, tag me—I’d love to hear your thoughts and connect with you. 💛

31. When You’re Craving A Drink - Listen to THIS

This episode is one you’re going to want to save and come back to—especially for those moments when a craving hits and you need a voice reminding you why you started.
If you're ready to stop white-knuckling and actually learn how to live alcohol-free with ease, The Alcohol- Free Blueprint is open! As a thank you for listening, use code PODCAST at check out for a private listener bonus.
I recorded this as a pep talk just for you. In it, I share the exact inner dialogue and steps that helped me push through cravings in my early days of sobriety. We’ll talk about what’s really happening in your body and brain when you feel the urge to drink, why alcohol never actually delivers what it promises, and what you can do instead when that old voice gets loud.
Here’s what you’ll hear inside this episode: 💭 The mindset shifts that kept me from giving in to “just one” 🧠 A quick breakdown of what alcohol does to your brain and why cravings feel so intense 🌱 Practical alternatives you can reach for instead of a drink 💛 A reminder that you’re not alone—community and support are always here for you
Think of this episode like a pocket pep talk—a resource you can hit play on whenever cravings show up, so you don’t have to fight them alone.
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If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend who might need to hear it too. And if you’re enjoying The Shannon McCabe Show, it would mean the world if you could take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps more people find these conversations and start their own journey to living alcohol-free.
 
Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if you share on social media, tag me—I’d love to hear your thoughts and connect with you. 💛
 

30. Her Sobriety Story & Why Life Really Is More Fun Alcohol-Free | Interview with Deb Podlogar (@mocktail.mom)

This episode is a special one: it’s my very first guest interview on The Shannon McCabe Show! I’m so excited to introduce you to Deb Podlogar, known online as @Mocktail.Mom, who’s inspiring women everywhere with her joyful approach to life without alcohol.
Deb shares her personal journey of choosing sobriety, what it looked like to navigate big life transitions (like becoming an empty nester), and how she discovered a whole new passion for creating fun and beautiful mocktails. Her story is one of courage, creativity, and community—and you’re going to love hearing how she’s turned her alcohol-free lifestyle into something she truly celebrates.
In this episode, you’ll hear: 🍹 Deb’s honest story of her relationship with alcohol and the moment things needed to change 💛 How mocktails became a creative outlet and tool for navigating social settings 🌱 The challenges and beauty of embracing life transitions with sobriety 👩‍👧 Why family time and authentic connections feel richer without alcohol in the picture 📚 A peek into Deb’s recipe book + how she’s building community around mocktails ✨ Encouragement for finding your own coping tools and re-framing what alcohol-free living can look like
Connect with Deb:
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Thriving Alcohol-Free Podcast
www.mocktailmom.com
 
Connect with Me: 
www.shannonleighmccabe.com
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If you're ready to stop white-knuckling and actually learn how to live alcohol-free with ease, The Alcohol- Free Blueprint is open! As a thank you for listening, use code PODCAST at check out for a private listener bonus.
If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend who might need to hear it too. And if you’re enjoying The Shannon McCabe Show, it would mean the world if you could take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps more people find these conversations and start their own journey to living alcohol-free.
 
Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if you share on social media, tag me—I’d love to hear your thoughts and connect with you. 💛

29. [Heart Talk] What I Do When Life Feels Heavy…These Are the Anchors That Help Me Stay Sober

Life doesn’t slow down just because we choose sobriety. If anything, it sometimes feels like the challenges pile up even more—big emotions, family responsibilities, stress, and the everyday chaos of being human.
If you're ready to stop white-knuckling and actually learn how to live alcohol-free with ease, The Alcohol- Free Blueprint is open! As a thank you for listening, use code PODCAST at check out for a private listener bonus.
In this episode of The Shannon McCabe Show, I’m reflecting on two big milestones—my three-year sobriety anniversary and my daughter Dylan turning 18—and what these moments have taught me about staying grounded.
The truth? What keeps me sober and sane isn’t luck or willpower. It’s the non-negotiable habits and routines that I’ve built over time—the ones I anchor into when life feels overwhelming.
Here’s what we dive into: 💛 Why consistency matters more than motivation in sobriety 🌅 The morning rituals that set me up for peace and stability 🙏 How gratitude and devotionals keep me centered when things get heavy ⚡ What to do when life gets “life-y” and old patterns start to whisper 🌱 Building resilience so sobriety feels less like a fight and more like freedom
If you’re in a season where everything feels like a lot, this episode will remind you that you don’t have to do it perfectly—you just have to keep showing up for yourself in the small, daily ways that add up to big change.
 
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If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend who might need to hear it too. And if you’re enjoying The Shannon McCabe Show, it would mean the world if you could take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps more people find these conversations and start their own journey to living alcohol-free.
 
Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if you share on social media, tag me—I’d love to hear your thoughts and connect with you. 💛
 

28. When You Tell Yourself “My Drinking Isn’t That Bad”… It’s Time to Pay Attention Before It Escalates

How many times have you told yourself, “My drinking isn’t that bad”?
I used to say it all the time. It was my way of convincing myself that I didn’t really need to make a change—that I could wait until life calmed down or until things got “bad enough.”
If you're ready to stop white-knuckling and actually learn how to live alcohol-free with ease, The Alcohol- Free Blueprint is open! As a thank you for listening, use code PODCAST at check out for a private listener bonus.
But here’s the truth: waiting only makes it harder. Alcohol has a way of sneaking in and taking more than you ever thought it would.
In this episode of The Shannon McCabe Show, I’m sharing: 💭 Why “It’s not that bad” is one of the biggest red flags we ignore ⚡ How quickly alcohol can take control of your life (often without you realizing it) 🌍 My personal journey—from hiding behind the “perfect life” to facing the truth 📣 Why it’s crucial to take action now instead of waiting for a rock bottom 💛 Resources and support available to help you, including The Alcohol-Free Blueprint
This episode is your reminder that you don’t have to wait for a crisis to make a change. You can decide today to start moving toward freedom, peace, and joy—without alcohol holding you back.
Because if you’re even questioning it, it’s worth paying attention.
 
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If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend who might need to hear it too. And if you’re enjoying The Shannon McCabe Show, it would mean the world if you could take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps more people find these conversations and start their own journey to living alcohol-free.
 
Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if you share on social media, tag me—I’d love to hear your thoughts and connect with you. 💛

27. Alcohol’s Grip Had Me… Until I Took My Life Back | My Sobriety Story

For years, my life looked picture-perfect from the outside: homeschooling mom, running a business, raising three daughters. But behind closed doors, I was leaning on alcohol more and more—using it as my go-to coping mechanism for stress, exhaustion, and overwhelm.
If you're ready to stop white-knuckling and actually learn how to live alcohol-free with ease, The Alcohol- Free Blueprint is open! As a thank you for listening, use code PODCAST at check out for a private listener bonus.
What started as an occasional escape turned into something that had a real hold on me. And while I looked like I was “managing it all,” inside I was struggling.
In this episode of The Shannon McCabe Show, I’m opening up and sharing my story—how I went from living in denial about my drinking, to hitting a turning point, to finally finding the freedom and peace I had been chasing all along.
Here’s what I share: 💭 The “perfect life on paper” that hid what was really going on 🍷 How my drinking slowly escalated until I couldn’t ignore it anymore ⚡ The pivotal moment of self-awareness that changed everything ✨ What life looks like now—peaceful, fulfilling, and full of possibility 📣 Why I created The Alcohol-Free Blueprint to help other women find the same freedom
This isn’t just my story—it’s a story of hope, redemption, and proof that it’s never too late to step into the life you’re craving.
 
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If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend who might need to hear it too. And if you’re enjoying The Shannon McCabe Show, it would mean the world if you could take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps more people find these conversations and start their own journey to living alcohol-free.
 
Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if you share on social media, tag me—I’d love to hear your thoughts and connect with you. 💛