"The Thanksgiving That Changed My Perspective on Relationships" In this episode, I recount a Thanksgiving when I met someone who seemed full of potential—a man named John Wayne. We clicked, and I imagined a future where either he’d visit me in Chicago or I’d go to California to see him. But a conversation with my therapist shifted everything. She challenged me to reflect: What was I truly expecting from this relationship? Was I settling for less than I deserved? That dialogue became a turning po...
Nov 27, 2024•23 min•Season 3Ep. 137
In this episode of 420 Reasons Why I Quit Drinking Alcohol , I reflect on one of my most humbling walks of shame—waking up after a night of drinking at Johnny O’Hagan’s. I had blacked out and found myself in bed with a young Irish guy, filled with shame and uncertainty about how I got there or how I’d get home. It was a painful reminder that alcohol had control over me, not the other way around. I challenge you to ask yourself: do you have control over alcohol, or does alcohol have control over ...
Nov 21, 2024•19 min•Season 3Ep. 136
In 420 Reasons Why I Quit Drinking , I reflect on the "Seasons of My Life" and how alcohol once defined my youth. I used to believe that fun and fulfillment required drinking—my life, especially in high school, revolved around chasing boys and alcohol. It seemed impossible to do anything without it. But now, 13 years sober, I feel truly free in mind, heart, soul, and body, no longer drawn to the party scene. I find myself asking, "What’s my favorite season of life?" and realize it’s this one—whe...
Nov 13, 2024•32 min•Season 3Ep. 134
This is the one from 1994 when I was out in Arizona visiting my friends and we got invited to her girlfriends house to drink some wine, and WINE we did plus a whole lot more. I specifically told her not to leave me there and make sure I left when she was ready since she had to work the next day. Oh boy, I was in for a real treat when I woke up still there. HELP! I had to get the hell out but how? I needed a ride but my friend was working, shit! Her hubby had to come and get me and found me pacin...
Nov 06, 2024•20 min•Season 3Ep. 133
In this episode, I share the story of how I moved from FOMO to JOMO. Back in college, I was so eager not to miss out on a party that I lied to get out of my shift at my family’s restaurant—only for it to backfire when my mom, my boss, found out. All that for a night of boozing! Now, I choose differently. I actually prefer not getting invited to those parties, so I don’t have to say no. Letting go hasn’t been easy, but it's better for me. Let them not invite me, let them judge, let them drift awa...
Oct 30, 2024•22 min•Season 3Ep. 132
"Welcome to another episode of 420 Reasons Why I Quit Drinking Alcohol . Today, I’m going to tell you about the night I woke up on the fire escape—horrified, cold, and locked out of my own apartment, not safe. It was one of those moments that made me question everything about my relationship with alcohol." "It was the middle of the night, and I wasn’t in my bed. I wasn’t even in my apartment. Instead, I woke up on a rusty fire escape outside, still drunk, disoriented, and terrified. I had no ide...
Oct 23, 2024•14 min•Season 3Ep. 130
In this episode, I reflect on a pivotal moment from my sister’s wedding in 1986, where my life revolved around partying. At the time, I was underage but drinking heavily, which led to some pretty rough consequences the following day. It’s fascinating how, in the moment, we often don't care about how we'll feel tomorrow as long as we "party hardy" today. I challenge you to take a look at how you celebrate—can you enjoy an occasion without alcohol and still have fun? I’m here to tell you that it i...
Oct 16, 2024•20 min•Season 3Ep. 129
I recently made a heartfelt request to my friends for something deeply important to me—hosting a sober dinner party, marking the first time I’ve ever asked this of them. When they refused, I was hit with a wave of disappointment. It wasn’t just about the party; it was a moment of vulnerability where I hoped for their understanding and support of my sobriety. This refusal forced me to reflect on my relationships and the challenges of navigating friendships while staying true to my journey. Though...
Oct 09, 2024•22 min•Season 3Ep. 128
In this episode of 420 Reasons Why I Quit Drinking Alcohol , titled "Grand Haven Beach Party: Big Sis, Little Sis, and Spiked Punch," I share a story from my freshman year in high school when my sister, a senior, and her best friend became our "acting big sisters," looking out for us and making sure we had fun. The story takes place at Grand Haven Beach, where we attended a big sister/little sister beach party. It was a day filled with fun, sun, and beach punch—alcohol included. Through it all, ...
Oct 02, 2024•21 min•Season 3Ep. 128
In this episode, I share 13 invaluable lessons I've learned over my 13-year journey of sobriety. These insights reflect my personal growth, the power of maintaining a positive mindset, and how spiritual guidance has shaped my life. I talk about how gratitude has transformed my outlook, embracing the Joy of Missing Out (JOMO), and the importance of surrounding myself with wise, supportive individuals. I also discuss how making intentional choices leads to meaningful change and how the Bible has b...
Sep 25, 2024•40 min•Season 3Ep. 127
In this episode of "420 Reasons WHY I Quit Drinking Alcohol," I’m sharing my experience with the "Freshman 15," a common phenomenon where college freshmen gain weight. I talk about what caused it in my own life and offer tips on how to prevent it—even if you're past your freshman year.
Sep 18, 2024•30 min•Season 3Ep. 126
In the latest episode of the 420 Reasons Why I Quit Drinking Alcohol podcast, I reflect on significant milestones, particularly September, which holds many anniversaries for me. One of the highlights is the story of how I accidentally spent my first night in my incredible new condo, which offers breathtaking views. Even though it was still under construction, with no bed or furniture, I chose to sleep there rather than risk driving back to my apartment wasted. This unplanned sleepover turned out...
Sep 11, 2024•22 min•Season 3Ep. 125
I share my personal journey of feeling the distance grow in friendships as I embraced sobriety. Drawing on Mel Robbins' insight, I explore how positive change and growth can sometimes confront others, forcing them to reflect on their own lives. This reflection can lead to a widening gap between us and our friends as they may not be ready or willing to change. Despite the distance, I discuss the importance of still loving them, even if it's from afar.
Sep 04, 2024•18 min•Season 3Ep. 124
In this episode of "420 Reasons Why I Quit Drinking," I share the story of a road trip to Hillsdale, Michigan, to see one of my favorite bands, The Fiddler and the Sun Mountain Band. What was supposed to be a night of fun, dancing, and a few drinks turned into a full-blown binge. I drank myself into oblivion and ended up drunk for days, unable to shake the hangover or the regret. Join me as I recount the details of that night and how it became one of the many reasons I finally decided to quit dr...
Aug 28, 2024•17 min•Season 3Ep. 123
In this episode of "420 Reasons Why I Quit Drinking Alcohol," we take a nostalgic trip back to the summer of 1982. Join me as I reminisce about an unforgettable day spent with my cool older sister and cousin, exploring a hidden gem of a waterfall surrounded by exhilarating rapids. Eager to fit in and embrace the adventure, I gave in to a bit of peer pressure and decided to crack open a beer with them—even though the taste was far from appealing. We'll delve into the warmth of family bonds, the i...
Aug 21, 2024•17 min•Season 3Ep. 122
This episode continues the story of my tumultuous relationship with Rack the Reck, which I somehow kept going until I realized I needed out. The breakup turned out to be far more complicated and intense than I ever imagined. This was, without a doubt, the worst romantic relationship of my life. Tune in to hear how the breakup backfired, pushing the boundaries of what I thought I could endure.
Aug 14, 2024•34 min•Season 3Ep. 121
In this gripping continuation of my tumultuous relationship with Rack the Reck, things have gone from bad to worse. The verbal gaslighting and paranoid questioning have escalated, and now, physical abuse has entered the picture. Rack has begun physically restraining me, pushing me to the brink and causing me to lash out. I'm witnessing my own self-destruction, morphing into someone I no longer recognize. The physical toll is undeniable, and I’m starting to take physical action myself, leading to...
Aug 07, 2024•25 min•Season 3Ep. 120
This is the horrifying story of one of my worst relationships with a Scotsman. I have shared about him before how we got together, how he started to show me his true colors within 3 months and I should have known better and ran then but I stayed. This is the trip to Rhode Island, a place he had once lived, had friends, his local bar and good memories. This trip turned into a nightmare for me after an all day drink session we had been on, going back to the hotel to rest up late afternoon and not ...
Jul 31, 2024•19 min•Season 3Ep. 119
In the latest episode of "420 Reasons Why I Quit Drinking," I reflect on the numerous attempts I've made to quit drinking over the years. Despite my efforts, I often found myself returning to alcohol, with my longest stint of sobriety lasting about six weeks. Although I loved the sober life, it never lasted, and alcohol always won in the end. This time, however, I approached my journey differently. When I recently decided to quit smoking weed on April 1st, I made sure to write down my reasons wh...
Jul 24, 2024•21 min•Season 3Ep. 118
Are you the type to light up a room? Does your mood affect those around you? In this episode, I share a personal story about my time with my family and how alcohol impacted my mood and interactions. Sometimes, things were pleasant, but other times, not so much. I realized I couldn't let alcohol control how I behaved and reacted. There are better ways to handle emotions, and getting intoxicated wasn't the answer for me. Tune in to learn more about my journey and how I found healthier ways to mana...
Jul 17, 2024•22 min•Season 3Ep. 117
This is a story that goes back the July of 1984 listen as I share my story of the time I bought my first bag of weed. My reflections and appreciation of where I am now. Interested in talking to me DM me on IG at dianeegibbs. Thanks and God Bless
Jul 10, 2024•22 min•Season 3Ep. 116
In this episode of "Letting Go of Those Who No Longer Serve You," we explore the challenging yet necessary task of setting boundaries in friendships, especially when dealing with self-destructive behaviors. I share a personal story of how I mishandled a friendship with someone who was drinking uncontrollably. Instead of communicating openly, I abruptly stopped spending time with her, taking a year to explain my actions due to fear of hurting her feelings. Reflecting on another friendship where I...
Jul 03, 2024•23 min•Season 3Ep. 115
The little things that trigger us. The memories that are filled with shame. The things we did when we drank so many we would never do if we were sober. The reasons I hate alcohol... the lives it has taken so many lately it breaks my heart but not my spirit to continue to tell my real, raw and relatable stories. I am hear if you need to talk. Reach out dianeegibbs IG DM me. Love and God bless
Jun 26, 2024•28 min•Season 3Ep. 114
In this riveting episode, we journey back to June 1984 for my best friend's dad's unforgettable 40th birthday party. It was a night filled with laughter, joy, and celebration for the adults, and we 16-year-olds decided to dive into the festivities. However, things quickly spiraled out of control for me. Enthralled by the excitement, I got carried away, proving I couldn't handle the fun. Join me as I recount how I became the ultimate party pooper and why this wild night became one of the 420 reas...
Jun 19, 2024•19 min•Season 3Ep. 113
This story is a reflection of what happens tomorrow? How many times have you made grand plans to do something productive but unable to function. Let’s talk more about it and what we need is willpower. What is willpower, how do we increase it and tips for better willpower.
Jun 12, 2024•24 min•Season 3Ep. 112
This is a quick story from my high school days. Please join me as I recount a wild lunchtime adventure with my friends. We were on the hunt for a spot to smoke pot, unaware of the trouble that awaited us. From sneaking around to the unexpected consequences of our actions, this story reveals who ended up paying the price for our behavior. Don't miss this candid and eye-opening episode where I share the highs and lows of that unforgettable day.
Jun 05, 2024•13 min•Season 3Ep. 111
In the latest episode of "420 Reasons Why I Quit Drinking Alcohol," I recount a harrowing experience from August 1983. As a teenager, I attended a party with upperclassmen, hoping to impress a boy I liked. I brought a bottle of gin, which led to a two-day bender, resulting in alcohol poisoning and significant physical harm. Despite this traumatic experience, I continued drinking for many years, believing it was necessary for fun. I want you to know that true freedom and enjoyment in life come wi...
May 29, 2024•28 min•Season 3Ep. 110
This is a reflection back on “the LIST” I had of the guys that I had hooked up with and was so proud of it at one time. Reflecting back now I understand better why I continued to choose the wrong guy, wanting the wrong relationship, excepting the little I got thinking it was cool to have another notch in my belt. Really it was just another hole in my heart leaving me more empty then ever. My heart is now full, full of love, respect, confidence and adoration for myself. Knowing what I deserve, lo...
May 22, 2024•31 min•Season 3Ep. 109
This story I wanted to share felt hard because it had to do with my family’s restaurant where I worked for 11 years. It felt hard because I was afraid of the shame I felt for how I felt I disrespected my position. So listen up and hear how today I realized it was time to practice self forgiveness. The unacknowledged guilt lead to the unconscious worry and self punishment. Being aware and acknowledging is the foundation to the continued healing in my life on this incredible journey. So grateful t...
May 15, 2024•31 min•Season 3Ep. 108
This was a hard week for me with the news of the loss of a dear old friend who lost his battle with a form of Alcohol dementia, within 6 days another call of another friend who passed away because of his excessive Alcohol use disorder and finally messages being posted about another dear soul who was gone now too. I dedicate this episode to them. Those that battled this terrible disease, alcohol use disorder. It continues to steal and rob so many of their lives. It breaks my heart 💔💔💔 There is...
May 08, 2024•27 min•Season 3Ep. 107
