Ep 111: Brilliant on Paper. Struggling in Real Life | Rethinking Alcohol |
About this episode
The episode explores the emotional struggles of high-achieving students and offers insights on building resilience and redefining success.
We’ve taught young people how to achieve but have we taught them how to feel, struggle, and grow? Host Anna Donaghey is joined by consultant Joanna Lilley, who works with young adults at the crossroads of high school, university, and early adulthood, to explore why so many high-achieving students feel anxious, overwhelmed, and unprepared for life. Together, they discuss the emotional blind spots shaping a generation, from overprotection and crisis-driven support, to the relentless pursuit of perfection and the lure of numbing out through tech, alcohol, and quick fixes. You’ll also hear practical ideas for building genuine resilience, supporting emotional growth, and redefining success for both parents and teens. Here are the Highlights: 00:00 Welcome back & why helping kids handle stress matters 02:08 Why record numbers of students are struggling 04:09 Tech, overstimulation & the accountability gap after leaving home 05:27 Why current university support often misses the mark 10:22 Are parents unintentionally “fixing” too much? 11:29 Why adversity and struggle are key to building grit and resilience 15:22 Coping, numbing, and the pull toward quick-fix behaviors 18:10…
More episodes of The Big Drink Rethink
- Ep 119: The Act of Showing Up | Alcohol Coaching
- Ep 118: When Avoidance Stops Working with April Day Garcia | Rethinking Alcohol |
- Ep 117: The Art of Avoidance: Why Alcohol Works…Until it Doesn’t
- Ep 116: Tiny Clarity Moments 2 | Alcohol Coaching |
- Ep 115: When Alcohol Is the Backdrop
- Ep 114: Who Am I If I Don't Drink? | Alcohol Coaching |
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