TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of substance use, parental substance abuse, blackouts, and trauma-related behaviors.

Letting go of wine culture—what if it’s not about losing something… but getting you back? Sherri grew up in a world where partying was normal, alcohol was everywhere, and being “the fun one” felt like her role. Over time, that same “fun” turned into nightly wine autopilot, constant bargaining (“just one,” “only certain days”), and the kind of loneliness that sneaks up on you when drinking starts shrinking your life. Then one Saturday, Sherri wandered into a library and found The Alcohol Experiment—and the experiment mindset finally gave her a way to step out of the shame spiral and into curiosity. Today, Sherri has become an integral part of The Alcohol Experiment Facebook group—her honest, funny, real posts continue to encourage people on day one, day thirty, or year six. Honestly? She’s the unofficial TAE mascot. In this episode, Coach Cole and Sherri talk about what changes when you stop fighting yourself and start choosing yourself.

Sherri and Coach Cole discuss:

Sherri’s early years: when partying was “normal” and alcohol was everywhere

How wine turned into identity (“I can’t imagine me without it”)

The exhausting moderation loop: rules, resets, bargaining, repeat

Why drinking slowly shifted from social to isolating

Blackouts, staying home to “be safe,” and the loneliness that followed

The library moment that introduced Sherri to The Alcohol Experiment

Letting go of wine culture without shame—using curiosity instead

The power of community + accountability inside the TAE Facebook group

Why Sherri has become an integral part of the group (and the unofficial TAE mascot!)

What changes over time: cravings as passing thoughts, confidence as a new normal

And more…

Episode links: alcoholexperiment.com

Related Episodes:

Should I Try Moderation - Reader Question - EP 370 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-370-reader-question-should-i-try-moderation/

How do I go back to normal life after The Alcohol Experiment?- Reader Question - EP 508 - https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-508-reader-question-how-do-i-go-back-to-normal-life-after-the-alcohol-experiment/

Who Am I Without Wine?: Identity & Sophistication - Alcohol Freedom Coaching - EP 801 - https://thisnakedmind.com/creating-a-new-identity-after-quitting-drinking-alcohol-freedom-freedom-coaching-e801/

Ready to take the next step on your journey?

Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!

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