157: What Happened When I Said No to the Thing Everyone Says Yes To | Damon Lembi

Release Date: Apr 23

When host Damon Lembi quit drinking, it had nothing to do with hitting rock bottom. Instead, it had everything to do with the future he wanted to create.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why Damon gave up alcohol (without hitting a dramatic low)
• The moment he realized he wasn’t showing up as the person he wanted to be
• A 5-step framework for making lasting change in your life
• How to handle discomfort in social situations after a big change
• What life felt like two weeks, two months, and nine years after quitting
• How letting go of one habit helped Damon become a sharper leader, father, and author

In This Episode:

• 00:00 – Damon’s personal story: why he quit drinking without a rock-bottom moment
• 01:00 – The role alcohol played in his personal, professional, and social life
• 02:00 – The turning point: noticing the impact on his health, energy, and finances
• 03:00 – Reflecting on family: longevity, legacy, and leadership
• 04:00 – Step 1: Get curious—books, conversations, and quiet exploration
• 04:50 – Step 2: Journal—getting fears and hopes onto the page
• 05:30 – Step 3: Tell someone—why accountability changed everything
• 06:00 – Step 4: Commit—picking a date and making it real
• 06:45 – Early challenges: awkward parties, AA meetings, and finding his own path
• 07:50 – Step 5: Lean into discomfort—navigating social pressure and anxiety
• 08:45 – What changed: sleep, clarity, confidence, and sharper decision-making
• 09:30 – Why alcohol used to be a coping mechanism—and how Damon replaced it
• 10:00 – The long-term impact on his career, health, and creativity
• 10:45 – A final challenge for listeners: what’s holding you back?

Resources Referenced:

• Follow Damon on LinkedIn and Instagram

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