Author: Alysse Bryson

If you’ve ever wondered whether travel and sobriety can truly go hand in hand, episode 10 of the Sober Curator Podcast, “Hooked Travel with Darci Murray,” is about to open your eyes—and your heart. In this vibrant, laughter-filled discussion, host Alysse Bryson and co-host Tamar Routly welcome Darci Murray, founder of Hooked Alcohol Free Travel, for an inside look at adventuring around the globe—without booze. Darci’s journey to sobriety is deeply personal, but her passion for redefining travel experiences is universal. As a mom of four boys and a veteran travel agent, she reached a pivotal moment when alcohol simply…

This Mother’s Day, give a gift that honors resilience, courage, and second chances. At Her 2nd Chance, every handcrafted item is more than a thoughtful present—it’s a powerful symbol of hope and healing. Created by women in recovery, each piece carries a story of triumph over adversity and a future filled with promise. Handcrafted by Women Rebuilding Their Lives Her 2nd Chance is a nonprofit social enterprise based in Boca Raton, Florida, offering paid, purposeful employment to women who are courageously rebuilding their lives after addiction. In a society where recovery often comes with stigma and barriers, this organization offers…

Let’s be real—my recovery is already extra, so it only made sense that my Big Book got a little extra too. I mean, if I’m going to keep this book by my bedside, in my bag, or on display for late-night spiritual crises (or early-morning step work panic), she might as well shimmer. Enter: the Bedazzled Big Book project—equal parts glitter therapy and higher power glam. Want to give your big book, or any book really, a glow-up too? Friend, let me walk you through the rhinestone revolution. ✨ The Sparkle Steps (a.k.a. How I Blinged Out Bill W.) 1.…

Let’s be honest. If cocaine and celebrities are your idea of a good time—but so is growth, redemption, and finally getting your damn life together—Party Girl by Anna David is the rollercoaster ride your sober-serious soul didn’t know it needed. Originally released in 2004, this novel is like a relic from the pre-Instagram wild west of Hollywood debauchery, and yet, somehow, it’s still fresher than a crisp glass of sparkling water with a splash of lime. ✨ Bridget Jones on Blow, with a Deadline Our heroine, Amelia Stone, is a sharp-tongued journalist with a killer wardrobe, an even sharper wit,…

When one of your sober besties calls and says, “Let’s make purses with a sustainable fashion designer I found thrifting,” you say yes—and you grab your favorite oversized shades and get ready for an adventure. Earlier this year, I spent a fabulous four hours in Seattle’s Pioneer Square with Kate Vitela, fellow Sober Curator contributor and one of the voices behind our Walk Your Talk sober fashion column. Kate discovered the one and only Dan McLean after hiring her for a personalized thrift shopping experience—and ended up with several jaw-droppingly cool custom pieces. So when she told me about Dan’s…

On May 14, 2025, something beautifully different is happening across the country—and The Sober Curator is throwing down in Seattle to be part of it. We’re teaming up with Sidekick Suppers and The Great Curious Cocktail Party to serve an unforgettable evening of deep conversation, delicious food, and complex booze-free cocktails, all in the spirit of connection and curiosity. Because let’s be honest: networking kinda sucks. What Is a Sidekick Supper? Sidekick Suppers aren’t your typical dinner party. They’re intentional gatherings for people who crave more—more meaning, more depth, and more honest connection. Each Supper is built around a theme…

Move over paint-by-numbers, because there’s a new glitter queen in town—and her name is Taylor Swift Inspired Diamond Art Funko Pop-Ups. Yes, you heard me right. This isn’t your grandma’s craft project (though she’d probably love it too). This is a sparkle-filled DIY dream come true—and the perfect excuse to spend your Sunday glued to Netflix without doom-scrolling. Let’s talk about what’s in this magical box of joy: You get four acrylic Taylor Swift pop-up figures, a diamond pen, diamond tray, clay glue, four stands, and seventeen little baggies of rhinestones, each packed with 20% extra sparkle (because we’re not…

Join Edmonds College Merchants of Hope, in partnership with the Snohomish County Recovery Coalition (SCRC) and the King County Recovery Coalition (KCRC), for a free public screening of Recovery City — a gripping, cinema verité documentary directed by award-winning filmmaker Lisa Olivieri. 📅 Date: Friday, May 31st, 2025🕑 Time: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM📍 Location: Edmonds College, 20000 68th Ave W, Lynnwood, WA About the Film: Recovery City offers an unfiltered, first-person exploration of what it truly means to be in recovery, seen through the eyes of four courageous women living in Worcester, Massachusetts. Christine fights to regain custody of…

There’s an undeniable hook to The Way Back: Ben Affleck, fresh off a highly publicized battle with alcoholism, steps into the role of Jack Cunningham, a man fighting the same demons. On paper, it sounds like the kind of personal, raw performance that could turn a standard redemption story into something unforgettable. With Warrior director Gavin O’Connor at the helm, expectations were high for something deeply emotional and authentic. But despite its real-world weight and the flashes of something greater, The Way Back never really finds its stride. It’s caught somewhere between character-driven indie drama and formulaic sports movie —…

Are you a podcast enthusiast looking for something raw, relatable, and deeply insightful? Look no further. “Not All There,” a podcast hosted by the empathetic and candid Chad J., is making waves in the mental health podcast sphere, particularly among those navigating the complex terrains of sobriety and recovery. Why “Not All There” Stands Out For anyone battling addiction, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about the sober life, “Not All There” emerges as a beacon of hope. Unlike many podcasts that might gloss over the realities of addiction and recovery, Chad’s approach is notably raw and intimate, allowing…

Looking for your next cup of coffee with a cause? Get ready to blast off with the Outer Space Blend, a brand-new brew with a mission that’s truly out of this world. In a creative collaboration that’s equal parts inspiring and energizing, Road Recovery—a music industry-driven nonprofit supporting at-risk youth—and Mid-Hudson Works—an organization empowering disadvantaged veterans—have teamed up with none other than Fred Schneider of The B-52’s (yes, the world-famous party band!) to launch this cosmic coffee campaign. 🚀 The Outer Space Blend isn’t just another coffee. It’s a movement. Sales of this sustainably sourced, fair-trade coffee will directly fund programs…

If you’re single in your late twenties, thirties, or (gasp) beyond, The Unexpected Joy of Being Single by Catherine Gray feels like getting a warm, hilarious hug from someone who gets it. Over a third of us are now single, yet somehow society, our well-meaning relatives, and the endless scroll of romcoms haven’t quite caught up. Catherine Gray dives headfirst into the messy, cringey, and often hilarious reality of modern singlehood—and shows us why it’s not just okay, but can actually be joyful. Gray’s approach is refreshingly real. After experiencing her own spiral of love addiction, dating app burnout, and…

There’s always been a whimsical desire within me to craft a Peeps Diorama. If there existed a DIY wishlist, this charming activity would undeniably claim a top spot on mine. Does such a list truly exist? I can’t say definitively, but I’ll certainly delve into a Google search later on. (Let’s face it – Google is my go-to workout routine!) A few weeks back, I set out on a mission to track down a “Peeps Diorama Addiction Treatment Center.” Unfortunately, the only marshmallow-coated diorama I stumbled upon depicted a Sugar Rehab facility. While intriguing, it didn’t quite align with the…

While I’m not always sure what the difference is between an artist and a crafter, I do know one thing: I love dabbling in both. (Is it art? Is it craft? Who cares — it’s FUN.) Recently, I bought a denim jacket from Nordstrom that’s absolutely covered in patches. Everywhere I go, people stop me with compliments, asking if I DIY-ed it myself. I always tell them the truth (nope!), but honestly, people seem shocked that I didn’t. Which got me thinking… could I recreate the look on my own? Fast forward a few weeks: I’m at the NW Event…

Alright, sober warriors, sober-curious adventurers, and everyone just vibing on a good mocktail — listen up! 🎤✨ The music industry has always set the tone for what’s cool. From ripped jeans to rebellion, the stage lights have shaped culture for decades. But let’s be real: a lot of that “cool” has also glamorized some pretty destructive behaviors — and it hasn’t just hurt artists. It hurt all of us in the crowd, too. That’s why 1 Million Strong is hitting different. They’re flipping the script, using the same cultural power to help, heal, and connect. (Shoutout to Darryl “DMC” McDaniels,…

Join the Washington Recovery Alliance (WRA) and King County Recovery Coalition (KCRC) for a day of community, connection, and celebration at the annual Recovery Day at the Mariners! 🌟 Recovery Day at the Mariners! ⚾🎉 📅 Sunday, September 14, 2025📍 T-Mobile Park, Seattle, WA⏰ Game Time: 1:10 PM Start the day with an inspiring Recovery Rally at 10:30 AM in Occidental Square, featuring guest speakers, giveaways, and a resource fair. Then, march to T-Mobile Park and enjoy an exciting pre-game event, including:✅ Community Resource Fair✅ Raffle Prizes & Interactive Activities✅ Photo Booth Fun✅ Special Recovery Day First Pitch 🎟️ Every…

“Demon Copperhead isn’t just a novel—it’s a punch to the gut and a balm for the soul, all wrapped in Kingsolver’s stunning prose.” Barbara Kingsolver’s Demon Copperhead is a modern retelling of Charles Dickens’ David Copperfield, but this isn’t just a literary exercise—it’s a gut-wrenching, deeply human story set in the rural heart of Appalachia. Winner of the 2023 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and the Women’s Prize for Fiction, this novel grabs you by the collar and pulls you headfirst into the life of Damon Fields, known as Demon Copperhead. It’s a story that explores the devastating effects of poverty,…

For those of us living alcohol-free—whether for personal, health, or recovery reasons—reading ingredient labels is second nature. But one product that often flies under the radar? Perfume. Traditional fragrances almost always contain alcohol, usually in the form of ethanol, as the primary ingredient. It’s the industry standard because alcohol helps the scent evaporate quickly and project into the air. But if you’re someone practicing total abstinence from alcohol, you may prefer products that align with your lifestyle on all levels—including your fragrance. The good news? More and more luxury brands are finally getting the memo and creating alcohol-free perfumes that…

At The Sober Curator, we’re always on the lookout for delicious, innovative sips that make sober life feel anything but boring. Enter Loom Juice, a juice-infused water beverage that’s disrupting the juice game in all the right ways. Think light, refreshing, and flavorful—without the sugar bomb or guilt trip. What is Loom Juice? Loom Juice is what happens when you take everything you love about juice and leave behind everything you don’t. It’s a juice-infused water designed for people who want real juice flavor with just a fraction of the sugar and calories. It’s perfect for sober folks, wellness enthusiasts,…

We’ve all heard of body dysmorphia—that painful disconnect between how we think we look and how we actually do. But lately, I’ve been thinking about something similar happening in the sober space. A term I’ve started (thinking about) using for it is Sobriety Dysmorphia. Sobriety Dysmorphia describes what happens when the presentation of sobriety—whether to the world or to ourselves—doesn’t quite line up with reality. It’s a kind of distorted reflection. We tell ourselves (and others) that we’re sober… but the truth behind the scenes is a lot murkier. It’s not always intentional. Sometimes it’s about denial. Sometimes it’s about…

Let me just start by saying this: I LOVE LOVE LOVE Kate Hudson. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days is one of my all-time favorite movies. It’s basically a cinematic comfort food that I rewatch whenever I need to feel like everything’s going to be okay. (Also, it might be a little too on-the-nose when it comes to my own dating life—but we’re not here to unpack that!) So when I heard Kate was starring in a new comedy series, I was already sold. And Running Point does not disappoint. This show had me at hello. Well, technically,…

Who says celebrating sobriety can’t be sweet? 🍪 Whether you’re marking one day or one decade, milestones in recovery deserve to be recognized. And what better way to party than with cookie dough you can actually eat by the spoonful? That’s why we’re obsessing over Doughp’s Sober Birthday Box—a delicious, thoughtful gift set made just for sober celebrations. Inside this rad little box of joy, you’ll find:✨ A tub of Doughp’s famous edible cookie dough (no eggs, no regrets!)✨ A keepsake confetti jar—perfect for holding your time chips and coins✨ A sobriety sticker pack (yes, your Hydro Flask needs this…

Hey there, Sober Curator fam! We’ve got BIG NEWS brewing here at The Sober Curator headquarters (zero-proof bubbly, anyone?). We’re beyond excited to introduce The Sober Curator Podcast officially! Our trailer episode is live, and the full show kicks off March 26th. Mark your calendars—because hangovers are canceled, but FUN is 100% on the agenda. Hosted by yours truly, Alysse Bryson, with special appearances by my ride-or-die sober sidekick and podcast producer, Tamar Routely. We’re here to prove that sobriety is not just a choice—it’s the ultimate life hack for living your best life. Not only that, but the upcoming episodes…

If you’ve hung around The Sober Curator for a while, you know I’m all about building a life that feels good on the inside—not one you’re constantly trying to escape from. But here’s the deal: even after years of sobriety (almost 19 for me!), I still catch myself slipping into old patterns. Overcommitted. Overthinking. Overwhelmed by the too much toomuchness of life in 2025. Sound familiar? That’s exactly why I started taking The Intentional Sidekick courses. And it’s why, three years later, I’m still showing up for them. Every week. One hour. Because this is the practice that’s helping me…

When a movie grips you with emotionally raw performances, brutal honesty about mental health challenges, and the complicated beauty of familial bonds, it stays with you—and A Real Pain does exactly that. Directed by Jesse Eisenberg and featuring a searing performance by the now Oscar-winning Kieran Culkin (yes, Supporting Actor Oscar Win!), this indie drama holds nothing back. It’s gritty, unflinching, and sometimes downright uncomfortable—but also deeply human. Whether you’re here because you’re a fan of indie films, tackling recovery, or simply love emotionally charged cinema, A Real Pain offers something for everyone. Spoiler-free? Of course. Thought-provoking? Absolutely. Buckle in…

When I first heard about Anora, I wasn’t sure what to expect. A modern-day Cinderella story set in the bustle of Brooklyn and the high-stakes world of Russian elites? Color me intrigued. A film that seemed to press all the right buttons for Hollywood and the Oscars, Anora was clearly designed to dazzle with its beautifully shot visuals and evocative storytelling. But here’s the thing about Anora: beneath the glossy exterior lies a deep, almost uncomfortable exploration of love, addiction, and the ways we yearn for connection. By the end, I was left thoughtfully wrecked—exactly what I look for in…

If you’re in Seattle and looking for a night of dazzling entertainment that embraces the sober community with open arms, look no further than Teatro ZinZanni’s new show, SIZZLE! Despite having attended this spectacular show multiple times over the years, I can confidently say: it never gets old. Upon arriving at their new venue inside Emerald City Trapeze Arts, my friend Libby and I were warmly greeted by a welcoming and enthusiastic staff. From the moment we sat down, our experience felt inclusive and elevated—something that isn’t always the case when attending a dinner-and-a-show event sans alcohol. But Teatro ZinZanni…

I remember exactly where I was when I heard the news about Matthew Perry’s passing. I was sitting in an off-Broadway one-woman show in NYC called #UGLYCRY, produced by the fabulous Katie MACK. This show was particularly unique because it encouraged the use of phones inside the theater—we were asked to engage with her and her content from our seats. And that’s when I saw the breaking news. Her Instagram feed was being projected onto a large screen, and as she scrolled, there it was in black and white—Matthew Perry was gone. At first, I was confused. Was this a…

I used to be the drinker. The one who always said, “Just one more!”—and meant at least five. I drank like it was my job. And, ironically, the month I checked into rehab, I was also named Salesperson of the Year. Turns out, you can be both an overachiever and an alcoholic. Who knew? But don’t worry—this isn’t an AA meeting, and it’s not a “booze is bad” talk. It’s a “booze isn’t really necessary” talk. Because, despite what society tells us, fun isn’t something you find at the bottom of a bottle. At Ignite Seattle, I took the stage…

The beer blogging world just got a little more sober—and we’re here for it. Happy Every Hour, our unapologetically fun column covering non-alcoholic beers (with a generous side of ’90s nostalgia), just landed at #54 on FeedSpot’s Top 100 Beer Blogs. That’s right—our little corner of the internet, dedicated to proving that sober and social can coexist, is making waves in a traditionally booze-soaked space. And from what we can tell? Every other blog ahead of us is focused on alcoholic beer. So what does that mean? It means The Sober Curator isn’t just showing up in the conversation—we’re shifting…