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Episode description
Growing up on California's coast, Michelle started drinking at 14, where binge-drinking was common through college. Despite attempts to abstain for health reasons, social and cultural pressures made it challenging, especially with work centered around alcohol. Over time, she realized alcohol heightened her anxiety and drained her energy, becoming a crutch. In Spring 2021, influenced by the impact of alcohol on her family, she quit drinking. What started as an indefinite amount of break led to lasting change and inspired her to create a non-alcoholic spirit company focused on vibrant, empowered living.
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Founded in 2016, the mission of Ben's Friends is to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to anyone who struggles with substance abuse or addiction. By coming together, starting a dialogue, and acknowledging that substance abuse cannot be overcome by isolation and willpower alone, Ben's Friends hopes to write a new chapter in the lives of food and beverage professionals across the country.