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Writer's pictureErica Mallery

Embracing Change: A Candid Conversation on Moderation with Mary Reid

Updated: Nov 18

Let’s dive into the real talk! The way we look at alcohol these days is changing faster than the latest TikTok trend. We’re shaking off the old-school “all or nothing” vibes and learning it’s okay to have a fresh take. Recently on the podcast, I sat down with Mary Reid—someone who’s taken her own path and turned it into something truly powerful with Moderation Management (MM). Mary’s story? A mix of resilience, realness, and a reminder that finding balance with booze is actually possible.




A Wild Journey: The Ups and Downs of Balance

Mary’s journey is like the most epic road trip—full of highs, lows, and unexpected turns. She shared everything from her early drinking days to the point in her forties when she realized it was time to get support. And what a game-changer MM has been for her! Started by Audra Kishline, MM helped Mary see she didn’t have to follow a one-size-fits-all path. Even after a decade of abstinence, Mary found her way back to moderation in a whole new, empowering way.


Mary’s Toolkit: How She’s Made Moderation Work

Here’s where it gets juicy: Mary spilled her secrets for keeping things in check without giving it all up. Think measuring drinks, savoring the moment, and having a “pause and think” before diving in for another sip. Her key takeaway? You have the power to make the choices that work for you. This journey is all about finding what clicks with your own rhythm and pace.


Community Vibes and Real Talk: The Power of Moderation Management

MM isn’t just a program; it’s a community of people doing things their way and lifting each other up. Mary loves how MM is more than just a rulebook; it’s a space where people can share, learn, and feel seen. And yes, we went there—talking about the stigma around moderation. Mary knows it’s real, but she’s all about shifting the narrative, one conversation at a time. MM is proof that support can come in all forms, and there’s no shame in taking a different path.


Starting Where You’re At: Your Journey, Your Rules

Mary’s top advice for anyone testing out the moderation waters? Start wherever you’re at. Seriously, it’s all about doing you. She encourages everyone to take pride in each little step forward, to focus on feeling good, and to give yourself some grace. This isn’t about hitting a perfect target—it’s about building a life that feels right and reduces the harm to yourself and your relationships.


Cheers to Balance: Finding Strength in Tools and Community

As we wrapped up, Mary shared one last gem: community and the right tools are like the ultimate tag-team duo. Her story is a lesson in self-discovery and knowing that support makes all the difference. Whether it’s MM or your own squad (preferably the ShameOver Squad!!!), find those people who lift you up.


Ready to dive deeper? Grab your headphones and tune into the full episode. You’ll get the full scoop from Mary and a whole lot of inspiration to take your own journey with alcohol into a balanced, joy-filled space. Cheers to finding what works for YOU, and stay tuned for more real-life stories that make this journey feel a whole lot more doable!





Want to drink less this holiday season?

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