Summer Content Series: How to "Recession Proof" Your Commitments to Yourself with Monica Reinagel

This week on the Alcohol Minimalist podcast, we’re kicking off our Summer Content Series, a special tradition where I take a short break from creating long form episodes and share valuable conversations and ideas from other voices I trust and admire.

Today’s guest, and you’ll probably recognize her voice, is Monica Reinagel, host of the Nutrition Diva and Change Academy podcasts. Monica and I share a common approach: evidence based, practical strategies for creating lasting behavior change. We’ve collaborated on coaching programs, podcast appearances, and even behind the scenes peer coaching.

In this episode, Monica shares insights from her recent Change Academy miniseries where she applies concepts from the business world to personal habit change. You’ll hear her framework for “recession proofing” your habits, not just about money, but about building resilience so your routines and commitments hold steady when life throws you curveballs.

You’ll learn:

• Why identifying your “non negotiables” makes it easier to stay consistent during stressful times.
• How to adapt routines without abandoning progress.
• The “three bucket” method for deciding what to protect, what to scale back, and what to pause when resources are tight.
• How to make your self care and health goals more disruption proof.

Whether you’re navigating a busy season, facing unexpected challenges, or simply want to strengthen your commitment to change, this episode offers clear, actionable strategies you can start using right away.

Resources & Links:

• Listen to Monica’s full "Business Principles" miniseries here.
• Learn more about Monica’s work at nutritionovereasy.com.
• Explore Alcohol Minimalist programs and resources: mollywatts.com.

Low risk drinking guidelines from the NIAAA:

Healthy men under 65:

No more than 4 drinks in one day and no more than 14 drinks per week.

Healthy women (all ages) and healthy men 65 and older:
No more than 3 drinks in one day and no more than 7 drinks per week.

One drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. So remember that a mixed drink or full glass of wine are probably more than one drink.

Abstinence from alcohol
Abstinence from alcohol is the best choice for people who take medication(s) that interact with alcohol, have health conditions that could be exacerbated by alcohol (e.g. liver disease), are pregnant or may become pregnant or have had a problem with alcohol or another substance in the past.

Benefits of “low-risk” drinking
Following these guidelines reduces the risk of health problems such as cancer, liver disease, reduced immunity, ulcers, sleep problems, complications of existing conditions, and more. It also reduces the risk of depression, social problems, and difficulties at school or work.

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