From Dependence to Authenticity: A Conversation with Clare Pooley
Aug 22, 2025
The transformative journey from alcohol dependence to living an authentic and empowered life: my guest from episode 39 of The Big Drink Rethink was Clare Pooley. If you’ve spent any time in the “Quit Lit” world, you’ll know her as the best-selling author of The Sober Diaries.
In the episode Clare opens up about her own struggles with alcohol, the emotional rollercoaster of early sobriety, and how writing became both her therapy and her lifeline. What shines through is her bravery, resilience, and her determination to live with honesty and authenticity.
Clare’s Turning Point
Clare’s story is deeply relatable. What started as “wine o’clock” gradually crept into her mornings, crossing a line that forced her to face the truth. Deciding to quit drinking wasn’t easy, but it was pivotal. As she shared in our conversation, those first twelve months of sobriety were filled with highs, lows, and plenty of lessons.
One of the most powerful tools she discovered during this time was journalling. Unlike alcohol, which numbed her emotions, writing gave her a way to process them. It became a safe space to clarify struggles, redirect her focus through mindfulness, and ultimately, to heal.
From Anonymous Blogger to Best-Selling Author
Clare began writing her blog, Mummy Was a Secret Drinker, under a pseudonym. It quickly gained traction, resonating with millions of readers worldwide. Eventually, anonymity no longer felt necessary, especially after a friend guessed she was the author.
Her courage to own her story publicly led to The Sober Diaries, which inspired people around the world to rethink their relationship with alcohol. And that was just the beginning.
Today, Clare is not only a memoirist but also a celebrated novelist. Her books, including The Authenticity Project and The People on Platform 5, have reached global audiences, exploring themes of connection, honesty, and human resilience. Her latest, How to Age Disgracefully, continues this tradition with heart and humour.
The Power of Connection and Vulnerability
Clare and I spoke about how connection with diverse people is one of the most powerful antidotes to addiction. Sobriety also brings a kind of bravery: emotional resilience, courage to stand in your truth, and the understanding that not everyone will agree with your choices.
But that’s the essence of authenticity: living honestly, even when it’s uncomfortable.
My coaching community ‘Unstuck!’ helps you break the cycle of alcohol and carve out a new identity. If you’d like to find out more you can book a no-obligation 30 minute call here to learn more.
Mummy Doesn’t Need Wine is my free online community for mums to explore their relationship with alcohol.
Connect with Clare Pooley at https://clarepooley.com/
