Meet Annie Knowles the Sober Rainbow Rider

Annie Knowles smiling while sitting on a white scooter in a tropical outdoor setting.

Hi, I'm Annie—and Just Like You, I’m a Normal Person.

For years, I thought I was a “normal drinker.” I drank for every occasion—celebrations, bad days, good days, you name it. Like most of my friends, I didn’t think twice about it. But looking back, I realize I never really had an off switch when it came to alcohol.

I started drinking in my late teens, even though I didn’t enjoy the taste. I forced down sugary drinks that made me feel awful, thinking being sick was just part of a night out. What I didn’t realize then was that my body was trying to protect me.

Annie Knowles sitting in a circular wicker and thatch structure decorated with flowers, surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees.

When Drinking Went from Social to Survival

For a long time, alcohol felt like a social glue—it helped me fit in. But things changed in my 30s when I became a working mum of two. Parenthood was lonely, and while my husband continued his work and social life as usual, I found myself overwhelmed, juggling everything alone.

That’s when wine became my best friend. I fully embraced the “mummy wine culture” and never turned down a work or girls’ night out. But the truth? There were too many blank spots in my memory from those nights caused by drinking.

By the time I hit 50, struggling with perimenopause and burnout, I knew something had to change. I started experimenting—one month sober, then another. And suddenly, I realized:

I felt amazing.

Who knew that removing alcohol could transform my sleep, stress levels, weight, skin, relationships, focus, and productivity?

Annie in red shorts and black tank top standing with arms raised in front of a waterfall surrounded by lush green foliage.

My Journey to Sobriety & Coaching

Since 2021, I’ve been living an alcohol-free life, and I’ve never looked back. I became an accredited sober coach, combining my personal experience with professional training to help others break free.

In my role as an NHS Wellbeing Champion at an acute hospital trust in London, I also worked as an Alcohol Champion, collaborating with drug and alcohol teams to support at-risk patients and raise awareness.

During the stressful pandemic years, I prioritized my own well-being—setting healthier boundaries, embracing mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and redefining how I spent my free time. I realized that sobriety wasn’t about “missing out”—it was about gaining clarity, energy, and freedom.

Life Is So Much Better Without Alcohol—And It Can Be for You Too.

Now, I’m a more focused, energised, and resilient person—at work, at home, and in life. Alcohol was holding me back in ways I never even realized. Now, I want to help you experience that same freedom.

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to start - you’re not alone. I’m here to help you navigate this journey in a way that feels empowering, supportive, and completely tailored to you.

Ready to See What’s Possible?

Let’s chat. Book a free call, and let’s take the first step together.

Podcast Appearances

OVER THE INFLUENCE: S3 Ep 167
Annie Knowles: From Pandemic Stress to Sober Advocate

Episode Overview:

  • I share my journey from increased alcohol consumption during the pandemic to complete sobriety

  • We discuss the impact of stress on drinking habits and the importance of self-awareness

  • Highlighting the need for a new approach to alcohol screening and awareness in the NHS

  • Advocaing for societal change in addressing harmful drinking patterns

  • Emphasising the broader implications of alcohol use on individuals and society

THE SOBER REBEL: S1 Season Finale
Annie Knowles: Awakening the Senses, Her Inner Child & Raising Awareness

Episode Overview:

In this last episode of the first series, Louisa catches up with Annie who works for the NHS and has found amazing ways to incorporate her sobriety into every aspect of her life including her work.

Going from being a teenager that didn't really like alcohol but drank to fit in, through to later in life using alcohol to unwind and cope with the stresses of her job during the pandemic, shows how gradually alcohol can take hold.

The way that Annie talks about connecting to her senses in sobriety really sells the concept of ensuring you're doing the inner work on yourself and how much you get get out of that process. A captivating and fascinating interview to end series one, thank you Annie.