Emma: Hello and welcome! It's my lovely friend Lou, a virtual assistant and a former participant in the Aussie alcohol experiment from a while back. We have Lou Coates joining us today. Lou, would you like to introduce yourself?
Lou: Yeah, sure. I'm Lou. I currently help with some business stuff, but I'm also Emma. I was part of the alcohol experiment about two years ago. I think it was one of the earliest ones. Now it's been over two years, and I still have no interest in alcohol, which is great. That's me.
Emma: Yay! So, Lou, you did the alcohol experiment with me. When was that?
Lou: It was in 2021, right after COVID. It's been quite a journey since then.
Emma: Definitely. So, Lou and I are both dealing with teenagers and the challenges that come with it. Plus, Lou has a toddler. It's quite exhausting, but I was thinking, if we were still drinking, handling everything would be nearly impossible. Especially with our neurodiverse team.
Lou: Absolutely, it's exhausting. My toddler keeps me busy, and then there are the teenagers. It's really tough.
Emma: Yeah, and managing teenagers can be quite challenging, especially given our hormonal changes and menopause. It's a lot to handle.
Lou: Totally, it's a tough phase. The hormonal changes mixed with teenagers' issues, it's really hard.
Emma: Right, we're in this stage of life where it's demanding. But what's interesting is that even though it's tiring, I find that I can use the time with my toddler as a way to recharge. It's like a therapeutic break before I tackle the next problem.
Lou: Absolutely, it's all about changing the narrative and using those moments to regain energy. Dealing with teenagers is absolutely draining.
Emma: Exactly, and Lou, you have a toddler too, right? How old are you?
Lou: Just turned 49. So, I'm just a year behind you.
Emma: Ah, got it. We're both dealing with perimenopause and all its challenges.
Lou: True, we're both navigating that. Let's not get into periods on this podcast, though.
Emma: Agreed. So, with teenagers and everything else, it's tough. They face a lot with social media and neurodiversity thrown into the mix.
Lou: Indeed, with teenagers, it's even harder these days. Their challenges are amplified by social media and neurodiversity. Supporting them requires patience and energy.
Emma: Absolutely, and having a hangover while dealing with their mood swings and emotions would be impossible.
Lou: It would be a disaster, especially when they're facing difficulties. Having the energy to handle those situations is crucial.
Emma: Yes, and we've both been through a lot. Lou, you've done an amazing job with your toddler and teenagers. It's challenging, but you've managed well.
Lou: Thank you, it's been quite a journey. But with the alcohol experiment and the support, it's been better.
Emma: Definitely. So, Lou, tell us about your drinking history. When did it start, and when did you decide to change?
Lou: My drinking journey began around age 15, like many in Australia. It started with partying, getting drunk on weekends, and progressed into nightly drinking when I had kids. It got worse over time, especially after my separation. I reached a point of excessive drinking, up to two bottles of wine a night.
Emma: That's a significant change. And then you found the alcohol experiment. How did that impact you?
Lou: Discovering the alcohol experiment podcast led me to you. The community and the knowledge shared were essential. I realized alcohol was toxic and keeping me stuck. The daily support, reflective exercises, and mindset shift were game-changers.
Emma: It's incredible how that support system and knowledge can make such a difference. So, Lou, what would you say to someone considering the alcohol experiment?
Lou: I'd tell them to do it without hesitation. The community, knowledge, and support are invaluable. Trying to quit alone is much harder. It's a life-changing decision that brings positive results.
Emma: Perfect advice. Lastly, what's the best thing about your current life without alcohol?
Lou: Being present is the most rewarding part. I cherish every moment, especially with my kids. The natural highs and lows of life are so much more fulfilling now. It's a fantastic place to be.
Emma: Thank you so much, Lou. Your journey is inspiring, and your insights are invaluable. Take care!
Lou: Thank you, and thanks for having me.
