Author: Lane Kennedy

Lane here — your resident sober biohacker. In this article, I’m sharing a bit of a cautionary tale. If you resonate with chasing big goals, sometimes too hard, pulling a little too much on the “go-getter” string, you’re in the right place. I’m a type A person… sometimes to the extremes. Let me just say outright: Ending up in the ER was not on my vision board. I didn’t want to be there. I didn’t want to be in urgent care. I really don’t want to have a health crisis. But… yesterday, there I was. Why? Because I ignored my…

Jason Mayo never planned to become “the Oreo guy.” But there he was, night after night, tiptoeing to the pantry, driven by a compulsion he couldn’t explain. Megan Swan, a self-proclaimed “sugar evangelist,” describes her relationship with sweets as a love affair — one that left her feeling trapped in a cycle of guilt and cravings. Their stories aren’t just about willpower; they’re windows into the complex interplay of genes, brain chemistry and the search for comfort.    If you’ve ever wondered, “Why can’t I just stop?”—you’re not alone. Addiction isn’t always about the substance itself. For many of us in…

When you first hear about Cognizin, it might sound like something made for e-sport kids pounding energy drinks at 3 a.m. with their eyes bugged out and on edge. And you know what? You’re almost right. It started showing up in gamer stacks and performance drinks a few years back — promising sharper focus, faster reaction times and longer mental stamina (because you know that’s what you need as a gamer: STAMINA!). (Hello, Jason Mayo!)  Oddly enough, it was actually my son who first brought this to my attention. We were talking about the online gaming culture, ADHD, focus and all…

Let’s just start here: I love my brain. I also love a good party. And I love when I don’t have to choose between the two.  Enter: Do’Mo. My new best beverage friend! A sober-friendly, zero-proof elixir that doesn’t just taste amazing — it’s designed to work with your brain chemistry, not against it.  (And yes — it pairs exceptionally well with “The White Lotus” binges. Scientific fact.)  Do’Mo: Where Fun Meets Functional   When I first cracked open a Ginger Miso Mule (my personal favorite), it wasn’t just about taste — it was about how it made me feel. As someone who plays in…

Decoding the DNA of Desire, Dysfunction, and Recovery

“The 12-Step Guide for Skeptics,” by Arlina Allen, is a tome that delights skeptics and believers alike with its candid truth and sly humor. As someone who’s been in long-term recovery myself and one of the astute authors behind “Sobriety for Dummies,” I feel a kindred spirit in Arlina’s narrative. Her book juggles the gravity of recovery with a light-hearted touch that makes you nod in agreement and chuckle in recognition.  Allow me to set the scene: Picture yourself in an AA meeting, sitting quietly, perhaps clutching your Styrofoam cup of questionable coffee. The secretary says, “Anyone here for the…

As a woman in long-term recovery, one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned and come back to often is that life doesn’t end when we put down the bottle (or drug of choice for the day). It begins. But what I see every day is hard to swallow: complacency — it creeps in, and before you know it, you’re living the same day on repeat. You forget what you are doing and why. I can write this because I’ve lived in a cloud of delusion. Recovery is a gift, but it doesn’t mean settling for mediocrity. It means choosing…

As a DNA Functional Nutritionist and practitioner, I couldn’t be more thrilled to start seeing this terminology in the news: nutrigenomics! This is not just a buzzword — it’s the key to unlocking your body’s full potential by understanding and optimizing your unique genetic blueprint. (It’s also my love language!) If you’ve ever felt like the one-size-fits-all advice about diet and health just doesn’t work for you, there’s a reason for that. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all; remember this is an Nof1 society, baby! Your genes are as unique as your fingerprint, and they hold the answer to how your body…

If I told you I was a biohacker, would you care? Do you even understand what that means? I’ve been biohacking my way through my recovery for over two decades, tinkering with my DNA like it’s my favorite Lego set, exploring supplements and alternative healing modalities, tracking each biometric with pen and paper. I have about 50 notebooks full of data, which I have monitored my entire sober life. You might have even spotted my ramblings in Sobriety for Dummies, where I share unconventional ways to support a life of recovery.    About four years ago, my curiosity (and, let’s be…

As someone who got sober in the fast-paced, fashion-forward nineties—yes, the era when “The Matrix” introduced us to the red and blue pills—my journey into biohacking was both intuitive and revolutionary. Back then, Google was a mere twinkle in the digital sky, and resources on health and longevity were scarce. Being newly sober, I faced a barrage of bewildering symptoms; my hair thinned, my skin yellowed, and I ballooned by 30 pounds in just four weeks. I lost my menstrual cycle, and all the white lab coat-wearing doctors told me they had no idea what was wrong with me. I…

Sober Biohacking? Unlock your body’s hidden potential and supercharge your recovery journey. I’ve been navigating the world of biohacking for over 25 years, and it’s been an incredibly personal journey, especially how it relates to the pursuit of recovery. Biohacking, which may sound cutting-edge, has been my method of digging deep into my biological processes to seek self-improvement and greater well-being—I want to live to 105! My journey took root in a need to move beyond the discomfort and chaos that accompanies early sobriety. While others were eating pints of ice cream, smoking packs of cigarettes, having sex with strangers,…

As a co-author of Sobriety for Dummies and someone with 28 years in recovery, I’ve discovered that the journey to wellness extends far beyond simply putting down the drink. Throughout my nearly three decades of sobriety, I’ve become obsessed (or so my husband thinks) with understanding how different chemicals interact with our bodies and impact our overall well-being.    For example, why is it that whenever I eat from Mission Chinese, my favorite Chinese restaurant in San Francisco, I am just tired like an old dog? Or when I smell someone’s body deodorant, I want to throw up? And when I…

Navigating Weight Changes in Sobriety: What to Expect and How to Manage It From Sobriety For Dummies by Lane Kennedy + Tamar Medford You’re walking an alcohol-free life and navigating some sober days; you watch the scale teeter to new numbers, and then it changes again. The real question you have every day is, “Will I gain weight when I get sober?” The honest answer is that it’s possible. Let’s break this down so you know what to expect and how to handle any changes that come your way. The Sweet Tooth Switcheroo When you stop drinking, your body might start craving…

As a sober biohacker and advocate for holistic wellness, I found Johann Hari’s ‘Magic Pill’ to be a profoundly thought-provoking read that transcends the conventional approaches to weight loss and behavior change. While the book primarily addresses the challenges of obesity and the role of GLPs (glucagon-like peptides) in weight management, it also offers valuable insights into the psychological and societal factors that contribute to our relationship with food. Hari’s exploration of GLPs and their potential to reshape our understanding of appetite and cravings is particularly compelling. He presents a strong case for how these medications can help not only…

Where Can I Find Help If I’m Interested in Getting Sober? From Sobriety For Dummies by Lane Kennedy + Tamar Medford Are you interested in getting sober and wondering where to find help? Great question. The journey to sobriety is one of the most important and rewarding paths you can take, but it can also feel daunting when you’re just starting out. The good news is that you’re not alone, and there are countless resources and communities ready to support you every step of the way. From traditional support groups to innovative online platforms, the options available to you are as…

Stepping onto the path of sobriety is more than just a decision to abstain from substances—it’s a transformative journey that invites you to rediscover and reconnect with the essence of who you are. Reflecting on the fascinating concept of our bodies as both waves and matter, as illuminated by science and spirituality, offers a profound lens through which to view this journey. Understanding Yourself as Waves and Matter Max Planck, a pioneering physicist and one of the founding figures of quantum theory, introduced the concept of quantized energy levels. He proposed that energy is not continuous but comes in discrete…

“Substance,” starring Demi Moore, is a cinematic exploration that beckons our attention to the intricate and often harrowing journey of aging as a woman in a beauty-obsessed society. Directed with an acute sense of psychological tension, it strikes many chords—particularly for those who have navigated the turbulent waters of self-worth, superficiality, and societal expectations. The film centers on Demi Moore’s character, an aging beauty grappling with the relentless passage of time. As someone who has experienced the glorified pedestal of “perfection,” Moore’s character finds herself desperate to reclaim her youth. This mirrors my experiences as a former fashion model, where…

Isn’t sobriety boring? How can I have fun without substances? These are common questions that many people grapple with when considering a life free from alcohol or drugs. It’s natural to worry that giving up substances might mean giving up excitement, joy, and social connections. The reality, however, is that sobriety opens the door to a more vibrant, fulfilling, and truly enjoyable life. When you remove the haze of alcohol or drugs, you gain clarity, emotional stability, and a deeper appreciation for life’s genuine pleasures. Sobriety empowers you to create meaningful experiences, build lasting relationships, and discover new passions. It…

In recovery, every day is a step forward—a journey toward healing, self-discovery, and resilience. Among the tools that can support this journey, meditation stands out as a cornerstone for maintenance and personal growth for me and many others who choose the recovery path. For those who follow the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, the 11th Step emphasizes the importance of meditation and prayer, highlighting their utility in fostering a spiritual awakening. What is a spiritual awakening? A spiritual awakening can be one of the most profound and transformative experiences in a person’s life. It is a moment of profound realignment…

Are you ready to redefine your relationship with alcohol and reclaim control over your life, all while embracing a path of sobriety without sacrificing joy? Look no further than “Sobriety For Dummies,” the transformative guide authored by renowned recovery mentors Lane Kennedy and Tamar Medford. Sober Curator Fun Fact! Lane and Tamar are both Sober Curator Contributors. Discover a New Path Within the pages of this insightful book lie a wealth of proven strategies and empowering insights designed to guide you toward a life free from the clutches of excessive alcohol consumption. Filled with personal anecdotes, raw authenticity, and practical…

Hey there, Garfield aficionados and chuckle champions! Today, we’re celebrating the lasagna-loving feline who has been keeping us in stitches since 1978. Prepare for a trip down memory lane with 11 excellent columns or Garfield moments that have tickled everyone’s funny bones for decades. #1 Garfield’s Debut The very first strip is from June 19, 1978, where we meet the sassiest cat and his hapless owner, Jon. But his first animation happened in 1980. #2 Garfield Loses Weight The series in which Garfield goes on a diet could be a mirror to anyone who’s ever tried to cut back on…

Let’s face it, being in the thick of addiction sucks, whether it be from drinking too many vodka tonics, bottles of wine, boxes of crackers and cheese, or spending your last dime at a casino; addiction is addiction. When someone is in the throes of addiction, feeling as though life were an endless cycle of cravings and relapses, it is an infinite cycle of self-inflicted pain. Let me share a story about my student, Sheila. When introduced to my mindfulness class as a tool for recovery, Sheila felt extremely skeptical. “How could something as simple as breathing and paying attention…

Mindfulness might seem like a buzzword, but it’s a practice that holds a special kind of magic for everyone and is particularly precious for those in recovery. It’s the quiet space we create for our minds when we’re barraged by urges to do things we might later regret – whether that’s devouring an entire tub of ice cream, impulsively splurging on a luxury shoe shopping spree, or navigating complex personal relationships and feeling like poop after sleeping five separate people in one week. Early recovery can be tough; there are so many moving parts to your recovery during those first…

The exploration of genetics and addiction is here to stay. Only a few years back, I would bring up DNA in conversations, and people’s eyes would roll closed. Fast forward to now, and people want to know all the details. In this post, I guide you into the science behind how your DNA shapes who you are and how it plays a crucial role in your vulnerabilities to addiction and your recovery. As you navigate the intricate world of your genetic makeup, you can uncover insights that could revolutionize your approach to overcoming addiction. The journey through your genome is…

Ready to unleash a tail-wagging list of hilarity? If there’s one thing that can tickle my funny bones without fail, it’s our four-legged fur buddies and their shenanigans. I have two Irish Wolfhounds, and they’re crazy. They keep my life exciting and get me outside when I’m stuck at my desk writing for hours! So, get ready for howling entertainment with these 11 funny dog moments on YouTube that’ll have you rolling on the floor (but hopefully not chewing on the furniture). #1 The Ultimate Dog Tease: That husky who is absolutely convinced he can talk, and his repertoire of…

In recent years, the intersection of mindfulness and DNA expression has fascinated scientists and wellness advocates alike. I’m incredibly passionate about this area because I’ve seen a massive change in my thinking and reactions to others; I’m no longer a victim of my inner rage.  Recently, I’ve been exploring the poetic power of language. I crafted a phrase that encapsulates the essence of the transformative work I guide my clients through. Are you ready for it? “Mindful Molecule.” This concept invites us to unearth the profound ways mindfulness can permeate the core of our existence—reaching deeply into our genetic code.…

Curiosity isn’t just a trait for me; I am endlessly fascinated by the nuances of the world. And it’s precisely this curiosity that led me to become a mindfulness teacher, intertwining the principles of mindfulness with the joys of sobriety—and, of course, a dose of laughter. In my journey, I’ve discovered that being present and aware is like having a superpower, especially when it comes to navigating a life free from alcohol. In one of my recent mindfulness classes—where I ask my students to explore their minds and learn to embrace life’s quirky moments—I asked them if they would share…

Here I am again on this quest to share my favorite eleven! This week, I am rolling out the red carpet for the comedy king himself, Kevin Hart. His moments are like fine soda water – bubbly, refreshing, and they hit just the right spot! I friggin love Kevin Hart! I draw so much inspiration from Kevin’s ability to find humor in every situation. Sobriety hasn’t just given me clarity; it’s sharpened my wit. I do not need beer goggles to see the funny and absurd in life! Some people struggle with my cavalier, no-nonsense approach to life, and that’s…

Hey there, sober cat enthusiasts!! I’m Lane Kennedy. I’m a mindfulness teacher, nutritionist, and co-host on Laughing without Liquor, a Woman’s Guide to Living It Up Without the Booze. I cherish sober life and the clear-headed joy it brings; sobriety to me is like the purr of a well-loved cat.  Today, I’m excited to share my expertise in living a spirited, alcohol-free life and “11 Funny Cat Videos on YouTube” that are simply purr-fect! Dallas, my Russian Blue, changed my life in early sobriety. He taught me the transcendent bond that can exist between a woman and her cat! Dallas…

Hey there, grown-up! It’s your fellow adult-in-progress and co-host of Laughing without Liquor Podcast; back at it with another 11 ideas to keep you laughing. If you’re living an alcohol-free life, you know that adulting can be an absolute drag. No, I mean a comedy show. Here are 11 ways you know you’re ADULTING. #1. You get excited about a new sponge for the kitchen – The suds, the scrubbing power, it’s like Christmas morning but with dish soap. via GIPHY #2. A wild night is trying two different herbal teas before bed – Who needs tequila when you have chamomile…