Get ready to raise a glass… of sparkling water! In this episode of Connected Leadership Bytes, Andy Lopata revisits his episode with Janey Lee Grace, a familiar voice from BBC Radio 2 and a passionate advocate for alcohol-free living.

Janey shares her personal journey from pop star to radio presenter, revealing how she navigated a world obsessed with alcohol and ultimately decided to embrace a sober Lifestyle. She discusses how alcohol is deeply ingrained in our culture, and the challenges of politely declining a drink without feeling like you’re missing out.

Janey and Andy discuss the crucial role of connection in overcoming addiction, highlighting the power of community and finding a sense of belonging. She talks about the Sober Club, a space she created to support individuals on their alcohol-free journeys, and emphasises the importance of having people you can connect with and rely on as you navigate a sober life.

Andy and Janey conclude with a call to action, urging listeners and leaders to challenge the assumption that alcohol is essential for building Relationships. They offer insights on how to create more inclusive environments where everyone feels comfortable, regardless of their choices around alcohol.

Janey’s new book, “From WHAM! to WOO: A Life on the Mic,” is a must-read for anyone who loves music, radio, and behind-the-scenes stories. She takes us back to her early days in the music industry, from singing backup for Mari Wilson and the Wilsations to touring the world with WHAM!

·       It’s time to challenge the “alcohol is essential” myth. There are plenty of ways to build strong relationships without relying on a drink.

·     You’re not alone. There are countless people who have embraced a sober lifestyle and have discovered incredible benefits.

·       Don’t be afraid to say “no” to alcohol. It’s your right to choose what you put in your body.

·       Connection is key. Find a supportive community, online or offline, to help you stay motivated and on track.

·       Leaders, it’s your job to create inclusive work cultures. Make sure everyone feels welcome, regardless of their choices around alcohol.

Connect with Andy

Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube

Connect with Janey Lee

Grace: Website |LinkedIn |X/Twitter

Listen to the full episode of this podcast

The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring

From WHAM! to WOO: A Life on the Mic by Janey Lee Grace

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Andy Lopata Author, Podcast Host and Speaker on Professional Relationships Strategy

Andy Lopata is a specialist speaker on professional relationships, mentoring, networking, and social media strategy. He is a firm believer that professional relationships underpin our success in business, our roles, and our careers. The right relationships with the right people can lead to new business opportunities, investment, collaborative working, innovation, and career progress. We just need to be comfortable approaching those relationships strategically, without making people feel ‘networked’ by us.

Andy has worked in the field of networking and professional relationships for 25 years, working with global giants such as Paypal, GSK, AstraZeneca, Wella, HSBC, Wembley Stadium, the BBC, and the Prime Minister’s Office of the UAE, among many others during that time. He has also worked with leading universities including NYU, Duke University, and Oxford University’s Said Business School.

A regular blogger for Psychology Today, Andy has been quoted in The Sunday Times, The Financial Times, and The Guardian, as well as many other national and regional newspapers and magazines worldwide. He has written or co-authored six books on networking and professional relationships, with his sixth book, "The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring," being published in Spring 2024. He is also the host of The Connected Leadership Podcast and has interviewed globally recognized names in business, academia, sports, and entertainment for the show.

Andy has been inducted into the PSAE Hall of Fame – the Professional Speaking Association Award of Excellence, which was held by only 21 other speakers at the time it was presented. He is a Fellow and a former President of the Fellows’ Community of the Professional Speaking Association (PSA), a Fellow of the Learning and Performance Institute (LPI), and a Member of the Association of Business Mentors and the Meetings Industry Association.