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Healing Through Mindful Drinking: Founder of TBH Featured on Thrive Alcohol-Free Podcast

Redefining Relaxation, Ritual, and Mental Wellness


We’re thrilled to share that Michelle Houston, founder of To Be Honest Beverage Co., was featured on the Thrive Alcohol-Free Podcast with host Dupe Witherick. 


In this powerful episode, Michelle shares her deeply personal journey of overcoming anxiety, redefining her relationship with alcohol, and creating Focus—a hemp-infused botanical spirit designed to support intentional, vibrant living.


🎧 Listen to the full episode here:




Choosing not to drink alcohol can be challenging alone, find resources to support you.
Choosing not to drink alcohol can be challenging alone, find resources to support you.

Meet Michelle Houston: Turning Struggles Into Strength


Michelle’s story began in a culture where drinking was normalized from a young age.


But over time, she noticed the subtle—and not so subtle—effects alcohol had on her life:

  • Rising anxiety

  • Lack of motivation

  • Chronic brain fog

  • Difficulty fully showing up for her personal and professional goals


Rather than ignore these signs, Michelle made a bold decision: Pause alcohol. Rebuild rituals. Prioritize wellness.


This courageous journey ultimately led to the founding of To Be Honest Beverage Co., and the creation of Focus—a sophisticated, functional spirit alternative crafted for those seeking relaxation, social connection, and emotional balance without the downsides of alcohol.



Why Focus Matters: Mindful Drinking Meets Mental Health


Throughout the Thrive interview, Michelle and Dupe dive into the critical intersections between:

  • Anxiety and alcohol use

  • The societal pressure to drink

  • How we numb difficult emotions rather than process them


Focus was designed to meet these challenges head-on: 


✔ Offering botanical complexity reminiscent of London dry gin 

✔ Infused with hemp-derived CBD to promote calmness 

✔ Completely alcohol-free, THC-free, and sugar-free 

✔ Supporting emotional resilience, connection, and mindful indulgence


Instead of numbing out, Focus helps drinkers stay present, grounded, and vibrant.


Key Topics Covered in the Thrive Alcohol Free Interview

During this heart-centered conversation, Michelle and Dupe discuss:


  • Healing Anxiety: How Michelle recognized the subtle but serious ways alcohol impacted her emotional health

  • Navigating Negative Emotions: Releasing shame, guilt, and embarrassment without relying on alcohol

  • The Power of Community: How surrounding yourself with supportive people transforms the alcohol-free journey

  • Creating Better Rituals: How Focus offers an elevated experience without alcohol’s side effects

  • The Future of Functional Beverages: Why consumers now demand drinks that nurture body and mind, not just entertain


Michelle’s vulnerability and honesty shine through, offering hope and practical insights to anyone exploring a new path forward.


Shifting Culture: A More Empowered Approach to Drinking


One of the most powerful messages from the Thrive podcast episode is that choosing mindful drinking isn’t about restriction—it’s about freedom.


Freedom to: 

✔ Feel emotions fully 

✔ Stay vibrant and focused 

✔ Build rituals rooted in care and authenticity 

✔ Celebrate without consequences


At To Be Honest Beverage Co., we believe every person deserves options that support their highest, healthiest self—and Focus is designed to make that choice feel joyful, not sacrificial.



Final Thoughts: Sip, Heal, and Thrive


Michelle’s story reminds us that letting go of old patterns can create space for deep healing and greater joy. And mindful, functional beverages like Focus offer tools to help make that transformation tangible, beautiful, and delicious.


Whether you’re navigating anxiety, building a new lifestyle, or simply seeking a better ritual, you are not alone—and there are better ways to sip, connect, and thrive.




FAQs

Q: How does Focus support mental health? 

A: Focus combines calming botanicals with hemp-derived CBD to promote relaxation, emotional resilience, and stress reduction—without intoxication.


Q: Will Focus cause a buzz or make me high? 

A: No. Focus is made with CBD and contains no THC, providing subtle relaxation without psychoactive effects.


Q: How should I enjoy Focus as part of my self-care? 

A: Try Focus over ice with soda water, or mixed with light citrus or herbal flavors for an elevated alcohol-free cocktail ritual.


Q: Where can I listen to Michelle's full Thrive interview? 

A: Listen directly above via the embedded player, or find the podcast here Thrive Alcohol-Free on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.


 
 
 
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