Send us a text

In this episode of Sober Sparkle, I sit down with the powerhouse that is Kim Payne - professional speaker, business mentor and podcast host. Kim has spent over 30 years in business, finance and personal growth helping entrepreneurs and professionals turn “what if” into “why not.” Known for her high-energy, straight-talking style, Kim delivers the kind of friendly wake-up calls that inspire women to make courageous choices.

Kim shares her remarkable story of walking away from a dream job in the United States at the height of her corporate career, despite having built her life around that goal. That one decision became the catalyst for everything that followed - meeting her husband, creating a new business on her own terms and redefining success. We also dive into the realities of perimenopause, perfectionism, fear, and changing your relationship with alcohol.

Together, we talk about the myth of “having it all,” the pressure of perfection, and the power of courage in creating a life you truly want. Kim reveals how she moved from working 35 weeks of the year to building a coaching practice that supports women to make bold choices, step into their power and manage their inner critic.

We also discuss how her drinking habits changed over time - from daily wine to discovering that even small amounts were leaving her with hangovers. Kim shares how she cut back, the benefits she’s experienced and the challenges of socialising differently when alcohol has been such a default.

This conversation is full of practical insights, honest reflections and inspiring ideas for any woman who’s standing on the edge of a big decision and wondering how to move forward.

Key takeaways and actions:

• Redefine success on your terms. Kim’s story shows that even your biggest goals can change - and that’s okay. Ask yourself what really matters to you right now.
• Fear is normal. Every woman Kim interviewed about success admitted to feeling fear and self-doubt. The difference is they took action anyway.
• Celebrate your wins. Kim uses her “kick-ass list” to remind herself of past achievements whenever her inner critic gets loud. Make your own and revisit it often.
• Break up with perfectionism. Massive imperfect action will move you further than waiting until everything’s “just right.”
• Be mindful about alcohol. Notice how it actually makes you feel rather than following old habits. Give yourself permission to step back or try alcohol-free options, especially if you’re experiencing hormonal changes.