Who is Jamie?

I'm Jamie McIlhatton, one of the co-founders of Wylde & Lateral

How did you become inspired by sober living?

It came through two avenues really. Running a business over the past few years has been pretty rough; with navigating covid, and the cost of living crisis. Pouring a glass of whiskey at the end of the day, became a really effective stress management tool, but only in the very short-term. It quickly became obvious that my head wasn't as clear as it should be, and soon after I got my Whoop band, which started showing the real connection with alcohol to poor sleep. The second avenue was my love for running; and to be my best, both for my companies and for my own personal running goals, I had to be honest with myself that alcohol wasn't helping that.

What is your favourite sober experience?

I wouldn't say I have a favourite sober experience. What I would say though, is that it was an amazing feeling just improving my relationship with alcohol. Over time, the energy and clarity of mind is worth the effort. I love food and drink, and for any restaurant/cafe operator, it's tough to completely remove those joys that you're so passionate about. That meant it was slightly more difficult, and I reached points where I didn't know whether my life was conducive to a good relationship with alcohol. The progress towards finding that balance, being able to still enjoy alcohol and work/sleep effectively, was my most rewarding experience.

How do you connect with the outdoors?

It's one of my personal key pillars for mental health. My main form of outdoor exercise is running, and I don't think I've ever come across a more effective stabiliser for mental health since starting these companies. No music, and time in my own head, away from social media. It's a non-negotiable for me at least twice a week. Every now and again, me and my partner try to get out to climb a mountain or spend a weekend in a cabin as a more intentional way of getting out into nature. 

Where are you heading next?

I don't have any goals with it to be honest! I'd love to just continue building consistency with my relationship with alcohol. I can absolutely see myself becoming almost entirely alcohol-free in the future, but I don't think it'll be intentional; I'm happy with it just transitioning naturally towards that.