The Next Round: What happens after you change your drinking?

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The Next Round: Clare named her bar after a drunken name change

clare aldrich

Welcome to The Next Round – the podcast that celebrates the journey to your next chapter. Because let’s face it, getting there isn’t always smooth sailing. It might be a little bumpy, just like Clare’s story—but here’s the thing: it’s absolutely possible.

In this series, we dive into the highs, the lows, and the game-changing transformations of people who’ve decided to reimagine their relationship with drinking. It’s not just about what they’ve left behind—it’s about what’s next.

🍹 Take Clare, for example. Her journey to sobriety didn’t just lead to a confident, contented life—it inspired her to create Bear Zero, an alcohol-free bar that’s redefining the social scene. But how did she get here? What fueled her passion? And where does the name Bear Zero even come from?

 

The Origins of Bear Zero: A Name with Meaning

Bear Zero wasn’t just a business idea—it was born from Clare’s personal history. Her middle name, “Bear,” has a humorous backstory. During a drunken episode years ago, her husband legally changed her name as a joke. That whimsical act turned into something deeply meaningful, symbolising the new, sober Clare. The “Zero” represents a fresh start, a life free from alcohol – obviously!

Launching officially in March, Bear Zero has already become a local sensation in the North West. From river festivals to Pride events, Clare’s alcohol-free bar is making waves, offering unique cocktails and an inclusive space for non-drinkers.

A Journey Through Darkness

Clare’s relationship with alcohol was marked by binge drinking and the destructive habits that came with it. A family holiday in 2013, meant to be a celebration, turned disastrous when Clare found herself unable to participate in her wedding festivities. That moment was a wake-up call, leading her to seek help from a psychiatrist who confirmed her fears: she was an alcoholic.

The diagnosis brought relief, but the road ahead was steep. Clare entered a 28-day rehab program, where she learned about the dangers of alcohol and its effects on the brain. However, as she discovered, sobriety doesn’t come easy. Within a week of leaving rehab, she relapsed, beginning a painful cycle of trying to moderate her drinking.

The Turning Point

Clare’s breakthrough came during another holiday. After two weeks of unsuccessfully trying to abstain, she boarded the plane home and declared, “I’m not drinking anymore.” This wasn’t just a decision; it was a commitment to reclaim her life. Over time, Clare began to implement tools and strategies to support her sobriety, including identifying triggers like hunger, anger, loneliness, tiredness, and worry.

She also established boundaries—avoiding social events centered around drinking, setting limits on her time at gatherings, and learning to confidently say, “No, thank you.”

Life After Alcohol

Sobriety gave Clare clarity, energy, and a new outlook on life. Activities she once couldn’t imagine became realities—she’s now taken up plastering, tiling, and even bricklaying, filling her days with meaningful pursuits instead of drinking. Holidays have transformed too, with early mornings, serene sunrises, and the simple joy of being present.

The time Clare once spent planning, obtaining, and consuming alcohol is now dedicated to growth and creativity. This newfound clarity inspired her to create Bear Zero, a business that reflects her values and provides a space for others to enjoy alcohol-free experiences.

Bear Zero: Building a Community

Bear Zero isn’t just a bar; it’s a community. Popular offerings like the Italian spritz and locally brewed zero-alcohol beer, Batch 95, highlight Clare’s focus on quality and health. The bar has become a hit at local events, with Clare even receiving applause for her efforts to bring non-alcoholic options to the forefront.

Clare is also passionate about education. She envisions hosting pop-ups and workshops to raise awareness about the benefits of sobriety, not just for physical health but for mental well-being too. Her mission is clear: to create a supportive community where everyone feels included.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Running a business comes with its hurdles, and Clare is no stranger to them. From navigating financial sustainability to challenging societal norms around drinking, she’s determined to make Bear Zero a success. By focusing on mental health and creating spaces for non-drinkers, Clare hopes to change perceptions and inspire others to rethink their relationship with alcohol.

Inspiring the Next Chapter

Clare Aldrich’s journey is a powerful reminder that transformation is possible, even in the face of immense challenges. Through Bear Zero, she’s not only creating a space for non-drinkers but also proving that life after alcohol can be vibrant, fulfilling, and deeply rewarding. For Clare, it’s not just about leaving behind her past—it’s about building a future filled with purpose and connection.

Find Bear Zero on Instagram here and theiur website is bearzero.co.uk

 

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