166 | How to Deal With Anger – Without Turning to Alcohol166 | How to Deal With Anger – Without Turning to Alcohol
Through the Glass Recovery
When we quit drinking, emotions we’ve spent years numbing suddenly come bubbling (or roaring) to the surface – and few feel as uncomfortable or overwhelming as anger. For many of us, it’s an emotion we were never taught to handle, let alone express
0:00•10 Nov 2025
Managing Anger Without Alcohol: A Candid Chat
Episode Overview
- Anger can be a powerful motivator for positive change.
- Recognising anger as a secondary emotion can help manage it better.
- Healthy expression of anger is crucial in recovery.
- Self-worth improves when you learn to speak up about your feelings.
- Practical techniques like pausing can help manage emotional reactions.
“If we learn how to respond to our anger rather than react in anger, it's a whole different game changer in your life.”
How do you handle anger without reaching for a drink? That's the million-pound question tackled in the latest episode of Through the Glass Recovery. Hosts Steve and Julie, alongside guests Lester Vaskin and Mike, dig into the nitty-gritty of managing anger in sobriety. If you've ever felt like your emotions are a pressure cooker ready to explode, you're not alone.
Lester shares his journey from reacting with physical violence to finding healthier outlets, highlighting how anger can be a powerful motivator for change when channelled correctly. Mike adds another layer, discussing how anger often masks deeper feelings like fear or disappointment. The group doesn't shy away from their own struggles, making this episode feel like a candid chat among friends rather than a formal therapy session.
They explore the concept of anger as a secondary emotion and how recognising it can be a game-changer. Julie shares her own battle with the shame of anger and how learning to express it healthily has been crucial in her recovery journey. Expect some light-hearted moments too, like when Steve jokes about wearing a red shirt to symbolise anger.
The conversation is both raw and uplifting, offering practical advice and personal stories that resonate with anyone who's ever felt overwhelmed by their emotions. So, what role does anger play in your life? Could it be the push you need for positive change? Tune in to find out.

Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!
More From This Show
The latest episodes from the same podcast.
Related Episodes
Similar episodes from other shows in the catalogue.
