Janet Gourand's Sobriety Journey: From Wake-Up Calls to Tribe Sober
I saw it as an experiment, and this went on for a good three or four months, and then one evening I can still remember coming home in a cab and thinking: oh yeah, I'm going to meet that person for coffee, and I must read that book.
Imagine needing three wake-up calls before realizing alcohol was wreaking havoc on your life. That's exactly what happened to Janet Gourand, the founder of Tribe Sober, a supportive community for those looking to change their relationship with alcohol. In this eye-opening episode of 'Not-Quite Alcoholics', host Rory Kinsella chats with Janet about her path to sobriety and how she turned her personal struggle into a lifeline for others.
Originally from London but now based in Cape Town, Janet found herself in a place with limited support options when she decided to quit drinking. She didn’t want to go the rehab or AA route, so she leaned on her background in training and development to craft her own program. This journey led her to create Tribe Sober, a community that offers mutual support for those wanting to cut back or quit alcohol altogether.
Janet shares candidly about the moments that made her realize she had to stop drinking. From blackouts to the unsettling realization that she was damaging her body and mind, these wake-up calls couldn't be ignored. She also talks about challenging societal norms around alcohol and the unexpected joys of sobriety, emphasizing that giving up drinking isn’t a punishment but a choice that can lead to a more fulfilling life.
Throughout the episode, Rory and Janet discuss practical tips and advice for anyone curious about sobriety or in the midst of their own journey. Rory also introduces his 'We Meditate to Quit Alcohol' series and his six-step program designed for those who are 'not-quite alcoholics'. Whether you're just starting to question your drinking habits or are already on the path to sobriety, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration to help you along the way.