Darlene Petersen, MD and Paula Cook, MD

The Addiction Files

Darlene Petersen, MD and Paula Cook, MD

  • From Booze to Zero-Proof: Alcohol Trends and the Power of Marketing

From Booze to Zero-Proof: Alcohol Trends and the Power of Marketing

Tuesday 20th January 2026

Explore how alcohol marketing impacts sobriety and recovery in this insightful episode with Dr Petersen and Dr Cook.
Explicit
35 minutes
Informative
Inspiring
Educational
Engaging
Honest

About this podcast

The Addiction Files
Author:
Darlene Petersen, MD and Paula Cook, MD
Overview:
Categories:
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Navigating Alcohol Dependency
Nutritional Pathways to Recovery
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Family Recovery from Addiction
Links:
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Episodes:
99 (View all)
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Alcohol Marketing's Sneaky Influence on Sobriety

Episode Overview

  • Alcohol consumption is at a historic low, especially among younger generations.
  • Non-alcoholic beverages are rising but may not be suitable for everyone.
  • Alcohol marketing often targets vulnerable groups, including adolescents.
  • 'Pinkwashing' aligns alcohol brands with health causes to appear responsible.
  • Creating supportive environments is crucial for successful recovery.
"If recovery is about changing your environment, we need to talk honestly about the environments we built."
How do individuals turn their lives around after addiction? The latest episode of 'The Addiction Files' tackles the power of alcohol marketing and its impact on sobriety. Hosted by the dynamic duo, Dr Darlene Petersen and Dr Paula Cook, this episode sheds light on how alcohol culture and advertising influence those in recovery and the sober-curious. From the rise of non-alcoholic beverages to stealthy marketing tactics, the conversation explores the blurred lines between abstinence and consumption.
The hosts dive into recent studies, revealing a decline in alcohol consumption, especially among Gen Z, while also highlighting the persistent dangers of alcohol use disorders. The episode doesn't shy away from discussing the insidious nature of alcohol advertising that targets vulnerable populations, including adolescents and those forming new habits. Dr Petersen and Dr Cook share insights into how marketing adapts, rather than retreats, with a focus on non-alcoholic drinks and their potential role in harm reduction.
But are these zero-proof options truly helpful, or do they present new challenges? You'll also hear about 'pinkwashing,' where alcohol brands align with health causes to appear socially responsible, despite the associated risks. The hosts encourage listeners to critically evaluate these marketing strategies and consider healthier alternatives. As they wrap up the episode, Dr Petersen and Dr Cook advocate for informed choices and supportive environments for recovery.
With humour and expertise, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complex interplay between alcohol trends and marketing. Could it be time to swap your pint for a bike ride instead? Tune in to find out!
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