Edith Zimmerman’s recent appearance in the TED series “How to Be a Better Human” offers a straightforward and honest look at how she broke her drinking habit. Speaking with host Chris Duffy, she reflects on the period after deciding to get sober and how she had to figure out what to do with all the time and energy that alcohol used to occupy. For her, the turning point was rediscovering activities she loved as a child, which helped her rebuild routines that felt meaningful rather than restrictive.

The conversation also highlights the importance of understanding why drinking became a problem in the first place. Zimmerman talks through the underlying issues that fed her alcohol use and how bringing those into the open was essential for change. Her story is relatable because it focuses on the everyday challenges and small victories that make up a personal shift like this, instead of framing sobriety as a dramatic or heroic act.

What stands out is how sharing experiences like hers can reduce stigma and help others think about their own habits with more clarity and compassion. The episode encourages a gentler approach to personal struggles and shows that replacing harmful routines with healthier ones is possible and often starts with simple steps. For those interested, the extended conversation is available on the TED Audio Collective YouTube channel along with links to Zimmerman’s work and Duffy’s podcast.

Find more from How to break bad habits (USA, November 2025)