Memorial Day weekend often marks the unofficial start of summer—and for many, it can also signal the return of old drinking patterns. In this episode, Molly explores how to approach holiday weekends with clarity, confidence, and a sense of peace—whether you plan to drink or not.

You’ll learn:

• Why holidays feel neurologically “loaded” and how nostalgia and social cues activate habit loops.
• How mindfulness disrupts old behavior patterns and quiets negative mental chatter by downregulating the Default Mode Network.
• The neuroscience of craving and why anticipation creates more dopamine than the drink itself.
• What to do if you overdrink—and how to reframe it without spiraling into guilt.
• Three planning prompts to help you stay intentional and proud through Monday and beyond.

Whether it’s your first alcohol-free Memorial Day or just another chance to practice moderation, this episode will help you prepare your mind, your habits, and your heart for a peaceful summer.

Referenced Experts & Resources:

• Dr. Jud Brewer, neuroscientist & author of Unwinding Anxiety and The Craving Mind
  Listen to my interview with Dr. Jud Brewer →
• Dr. Anna Lembke, psychiatrist & author of Dopamine Nation
  Listen to my interview with Dr. Anna Lembke →

Key Takeaway:
You’re not required to drink to have fun. You’re not obligated to say yes to anything you don’t want. Your relationship with alcohol is yours to define—especially on holiday weekends.

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