The Alcohol Debate
The Alcohol Debate
Tabbin Almond
From Macho Marine to Alcohol-Free Fundraiser with Jonathan Rees
31 minutes Posted May 28, 2025 at 12:15 am.
In this week's episode, I'm joined by Jonathan Rees - a former Royal Marine Commando, cancer survivor, and everyday hero - who shares his powerful story of resilience, recovery, and redefining his relationship with alcohol. From his early years of heavy drinking in the military to a career in private security and a shocking cancer diagnosis at just 33, Jonathan's journey is marked by challenge and incredible strength. But it was a personal commitment to go 32 weeks alcohol-free - mirroring the length of Royal Marines training - that truly shifted his perspective. What began as a fundraiser for the Royal Marines Charity soon became a life-changing journey. When a second, devastating twist came mid-challenge - his wife's unexpected cancer diagnosis - Jonathan held firm in his alcohol-free promise. Through raw emotion and profound insight, he opens up about the mental clarity, emotional growth, and deep human connection he found when he chose to face life without numbing. Here are the highlights: Jonathan's Background and Early Life
Health Attitude and Drinking Habits
Cancer Diagnosis and Royal Marines Charity Support
The Commando Don't Drink Challenge
Unexpected Twist: Wife's Cancer Diagnosis
Impact of Going Alcohol-Free
Fundraising and Supporting Others
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In this week's episode, I'm joined by Jonathan Rees - a former Royal Marine Commando, cancer survivor, and everyday hero - who shares his powerful story of resilience, recovery, and redefining his relationship with alcohol. From his early years of heavy drinking in the military to a career in private security and a shocking cancer diagnosis at just 33, Jonathan's journey is marked by challenge and incredible strength. But it was a personal commitment to go 32 weeks alcohol-free - mirroring the length of Royal Marines training - that truly shifted his perspective. What began as a fundraiser for the Royal Marines Charity soon became a life-changing journey. When a second, devastating twist came mid-challenge - his wife's unexpected cancer diagnosis - Jonathan held firm in his alcohol-free promise. Through raw emotion and profound insight, he opens up about the mental clarity, emotional growth, and deep human connection he found when he chose to face life without numbing. Here are the highlights: Jonathan's Background and Early Life (1:36) Health Attitude and Drinking Habits (4:15) Cancer Diagnosis and Royal Marines Charity Support (6:19) The Commando Don't Drink Challenge (9:19) Unexpected Twist: Wife's Cancer Diagnosis (13:44) Impact of Going Alcohol-Free (21:53) Fundraising and Supporting Others (23:05) Connect with Jonathan: Main website: https://doitafter.co.uk/ Public page: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BtRyo2QGN/?mibextid=wwXIfr Connect with Tabbin: LinkedIn Website Instagram Facebook This Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio