SheGen3.0 Showcase Spotlight: Olivia Farrelly, founder of No More Booze
Meet Olivia Farrelly, founder of No More Booze, SheGenerate 3.0 cohort member and Showcase finalist! In six words, she defines herself as a motivator steering individuals away from alcohol, a journey that began nearly six years ago.
Having experienced transformative changes in her life post-sobriety—more energy, motivation, and happiness—she recognises the vast, untapped potential in those who, like her, once occupied the 'grey area' of drinking. As a 43-year-old wife, mother, and seasoned education professional with degrees in Social and Health Psychology, she passionately empowers others to live free from guilt and shame. This female founder, navigating the hurdles of entrepreneurship, is on a mission to share her journey and revolutionise lives, envisioning a future where her impact spans the globe, helping thousands break free from alcohol's constraints and unlock their latent potential. it stand out
To get us started - how would you describe yourself in 6 words or less?
I motivate people to remove alcohol.
What prompted you to start your business?
I gave up alcohol almost 6 years ago. The seismic changes it has produced have accelerated all areas of my life. I have more energy, motivation, zest for life, and I am much happier and more at peace. I know there are millions of other people out there who drink in the 'grey area' just like I did, and that giving up alcohol would prove revolutionary in their lives.
Tell us a little bit more about you and your founder journey.
I am a 43-year-old wife and mother of two small children. I have worked in education for the past 17 years, designing and delivering skills-based interventions to children and young people. I hold a BSc in Social Psychology and an MSc in Health Psychology, and I have recently completed a Diploma in Alcohol Studies. I am passionate about empowering people to grow, evolve, and live their lives free from guilt, shame, apathy, and other low energetic feelings. I adore personal development, both my own and others! I believe we all possess many gifts to give the world and am passionate about empowering people to discover just what they are! I have learned an inordinate amount on this journey. I have learned that most hurdles come from the self, that if I change my mindset, I can achieve much more when I believe it is possible. I have learned about persistence, developing a tough skin, and have improved at handling knockbacks. I have become aware of my strengths and also what traits I need to develop to realise my dreams. Planning is essential, and having a big, wild dream to work towards is crucial.
You have been chosen to pitch at the SheGenerate showcase. How do you feel about this?
I am absolutely thrilled beyond words! One of the greatest parts of this experience has been the opportunity to continually move out of my comfort zone, and this is another chance to do just that. I feel a mixture of emotions: excited, proud, and a little nervous. I recognise that this is an incredible opportunity for my business, and I am looking forward to it immensely. I know I will look back on this as a pivotal moment for No More Booze. I am so grateful to Mary, Clare, Sinead, Denise, and Brìghde for all their support and encouragement.
How have you found the SheGenerate journey leading up to this?
One of my life goals is to be constantly learning and experiencing new things, and boy, have I learned A LOT on SheGenerate 3.0! I have gained so much knowledge about building and scaling a business, networking, and the attributes needed to be a strong, resilient female founder. I have forged some beautiful friendships with the other ladies and feel so lucky to have experienced SheGenerate 3.0. Watching all the SheGenerate graduates go from strength to strength reassures me that my journey with AwakenHub isn’t over; it’s only just beginning!
A few words for anyone thinking of applying for SheGenerate 4.0?
Do it!! It is an incredible opportunity for any woman thinking of starting her own business. When the time is right, go in with openness and an intention to connect with the founders and your fellow participants. Be brave, forge great relationships, and enjoy the experience. My number one tip is to reach out to as many people as you can; everyone I’ve reached out to has been extraordinarily helpful.
What does success look like to you - in 12 months and in 5 years?
Success in 12 months looks like I will be working full-time in the business, overseeing workshops, 1:1 clients, and group programmes. I aim to have a subscription service, a book, and a podcast. Success in 5 years looks like having employees to deliver this programme online to a global audience, helping thousands of people worldwide to remove alcohol from their lives and unleash their latent potential.
You attended our SheVentures summit. Tell us about it.
Something magical happened on that island over those two days! It was a deeply enriching experience to network and engage with so many like-minded women who share similar goals and values. I was incredibly motivated and inspired by hearing from a fantastic lineup of successful female founders. Their stories of journeys, challenges, and successes left me feeling inspired and motivated. Participating in the cabin workshops and panel discussions provided invaluable practical knowledge and insights on funding, scaling a business, and innovation. Sharing a cabin with my fellow SheGenerate founders was amazing, and being part of a supportive community focused on empowering female founders left me with a deep sense of solidarity.
As a founder - what are your non-negotiables?
"Sobriety isn't a limitation; it's a superpower" - Brené Brown.
I know for sure that my life has infinitely improved since removing alcohol, and I know that my evolution has accelerated tenfold since doing this. I know I am becoming the woman I have always known I was capable of becoming, and I am relishing each and every opportunity that comes my way. I am deeply inspired by Brené Brown and her authenticity. I try to live my life in the same vein. I am open, honest, and vulnerable at times, and these are the values in others that I appreciate the most. I have learned more from the vulnerabilities of others than from their accolades.
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