This week we're joined by William Porter, author of Alcohol Explained, for a clear, no-nonsense look at why alcohol is so compelling, and why it can be so hard to moderate. We talk about alcohol's sedative effect, how the brain counteracts it (and why that can feel like anxiety later), why cravings aren't just "lack of willpower," and how alcohol disrupts sleep (including those familiar 3am wake-ups). We also unpack the myth of alcohol as a "truth drug," the link between drinking and low mood, and why many people find it easier to stop completely than to keep negotiating "rules" around drinking.

• Why alcohol is a sedative (and why it can still seem "stimulating")

• The brain's rebound effect: relaxation → anxiety as alcohol wears off

• How craving builds as a learned loop (not a moral failing)

• Why some people don't drink in the morning—even though it would "work"

• Alcohol and sleep disruption (REM, tiredness, 2–4am wake-ups)

• The "truth drug" myth and emotional dysregulation

• Drinking, depression & anxiety: why the relationship goes both ways

• Why quitting can feel like freedom, not discipline

• A practical tool: "play it forward" (what happens after the first drink)

William Porter — Author of Alcohol Explained

https://alcoholexplained.com/

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When Mail journalist Sandra Parsons suffered a serious back injury in her mid-40s, she knew something had to change. Years of smoking, drinking, and late-night takeaways at her desk had taken their toll—she was in constant pain and felt, quite simply, old.

Determined to heal her body, Sandra began exploring the science of ageing—and was amazed by what she discovered: that ageing is increasingly seen not as an inevitability, but as a treatable condition. By tackling its root causes, it's possible to turn back the biological clock and dramatically extend your health span.

Drawing on cutting-edge medical research and advice from the world's leading longevity experts, she developed a three-step plan focusing on how we eat, move, and rest. Designed to build sustainable long-term habits, the plan delivers noticeable results in just a few weeks. With health quizzes at each step, simple food swaps, and practical lifestyle tweaks, the book offers a realistic and empowering path to reversing years of damage—and feeling better than ever.

Now 61, Sandra recently took a biological age test—and it revealed she has the internal health markers of a 20-year-old. That's right: 61 on the outside, 20 on the inside. This book shares exactly how she achieved that transformation—and how you can too.

I keep quoting from her book because everything she uncovered aligns perfectly with what Sharon and I have learned. What I especially loved is her message that it's never too late, and that small, consistent changes can create massive results. We also really liked Sandra herself—kind, patient, and a true fountain of knowledge.

SandraParsons worked at The Times and edited T2 for 8 years, before becoming a columnist at the Daily Mail. She has now been the Daily Mail's Literary Editor for 15 years. She is also a qualified yoga instructor.

This is a must listen!!!

https://www.instagram.com/agelessthemethod/

Ageless Book

Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE or FOLLOW so you don't miss any new episodes, follow us on the links below for more and please review us, even one line helps!!

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This episode is sponsored by Funki Coffee. Organic triple certified mushroom coffee boosted by adaptogens. Great for gut health, skin, immune boosting, and no crash.

Use the code podcast for 10% off for listeners.

In this enlightening episode, author and mental health advocate Rachel Kelly joins us to explore her transformative book, The Gift of Teenagers. Drawing from her personal journey and professional experience, Rachel offers heartfelt stories and practical insights into the challenges and joys of parenting teens.

From navigating the digital age to understanding attachment styles, Rachel helps us reframe adolescence as a time of growth—not just for teenagers, but for parents too. I've realised that by keeping calm and creating my own happiness, I can have a profound effect on my children. It's not always easy, but it's powerful.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The Digital Age – How technology is reshaping parenting and the challenges it presents

• Attachment Styles – Why understanding your own attachment style can transform how you connect with your teen

• Boundaries vs. Friendship – Striking the right balance between being your teen's parent and their friend

• Emotional Regulation – Tools for managing your emotions and modeling healthy behavior

• Exam Pressure – Supporting teens through academic stress and encouraging a growth mindset

• Co-Dependency – Recognizing and shifting patterns that inhibit your teen's independence

• Building Strong Connections – How rituals and open communication strengthen the parent-child bond

Learn more about Rachel Kelly and her work: https://www.rachel-kelly.net

Rachel is an ambassador for mental health charities including SANE and Rethink Mental Illness, and the founder of wellbeing workshops rooted in practical psychology and the healing power of words. Her work has appeared in The Times, The Guardian, and Psychologies, and she regularly appears on radio and TV discussing emotional health and parenting.

Best known for her bestselling memoir, Black Rainbow, which chronicles her journey through depression and recovery, Rachel has become a powerful voice in the conversation around emotional well-being, mental health, and resilience.

Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE or FOLLOW so you don't miss any new episodes, follow us on the links below for more and please review us, even one line helps!!

www.gavinsisters.co.uk

Insta: @gavinsistersuk

TIKTOK:@gavinsisters

Facebook: @TheDetoxBarn

You Tube: @gavingavin

This episode is sponsored by Funki Coffee. Organic triple certified mushroom coffee boosted by adaptogens. Great for gut health, skin, immune boosting, and no crash.

Use the code podcast for 10% off for listeners.