Author: Lane Kennedy

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…

Hey there, sober friend! It’s me, Lane, one of the hosts from the Laughing without Liquor Podcast, back with another giggle-inducing listicle for more laughter this week. Whether you’re sipping on kombucha or fizzy water, get ready to enjoy some humor that’s 100% hangover-free. Gear up for laughter as we journey down a rabbit hole of some wild, wacky memes. I’ve been on a meme-hunting mission there are SO many—I’ve handpicked 11 gems that had me in stitches. If you have some extra time and you’re looking for a good giggle, let’s go. Brace yourselves for belly laughs, or OMG…

I’m grinning today as I guide you through the Laughing without Liquor landscape here in San Francisco; I’m about to whisk you away on a little trip to a place that’s as magical as a unicorn’s daydream. Boisson, an alcohol-free spirits store in San Francisco’s very own Hayes Valley. As I meandered through the quaint streets of this neighborhood, the aura of Boisson beckoned me like a lighthouse for the liquor-leery. Inside, the store manager, Carly, greeted me with the kind of warmth that could turn even the gloomiest San Franciscan fog into a sunbeam. She even answered my all-involved…

Today, I want to whisk you away on a bit of taste adventure with my latest find—Ghia Soda from the clever folks at Drink Ghia. My curiosity was piqued during my recent visit to the charming Boisson mocktail shop in Hayes Valley, a spot I raved about. Read more here. Firstly, it’s important to clarify that while Ghia Soda might be nestled amongst the rows of mocktails, it’s much more than that. It’s an adaptogenic beverage, teeming with ingredients that do more than just tickle your taste buds. Let’s talk about the lineup: Ghia offers four distinct sodas, each with…

Hey there, Laugh-a-lot Sober Loyalists! Your favorite teetotaler and tickle-master from the Laughing without Liquor Podcast is back, mixing up a concoction of giggles with a sprinkle of innovation, if you can call it that. 🛠️ This week, we’re diving into the quirky world of “11 Funny Inventions” that’ll have you rolling your eyes with laughter instead of reaching for the bottle. Pop open a can of fizzy water, and let’s get inventing! The Nap Sack A hat with a drop-down privacy screen for snoozing on the go. It’s like a personal blackout curtain for your face because who doesn’t…

When I traded in my vodka goggles for sobriety specs, I didn’t expect to stumble into a gaggle of sober jesters—I immediately loved it! Picture this: me, a freshly minted teetotaler, clueless to the fact that comedy was anything more than a drunken giggle. Turns out, it’s a riot, stone-cold sober! I got on the laughter wagon around the same time Margaret Cho was sashaying her sober self onto stage. Talk about serendipitous timing! I became a devoted apostle of the church of chuckles. So, if you’re feeling a touch down in the dumps, let me point you to the…

Embrace Laughter with unsober Chelsea Handler Strap in and hold onto your mocktails because living in sobriety is like putting on a pair of high-definition life goggles! And who better to guide you through this vodka-free vista than the queen of quirk and big balls, Chelsea Handler! She’s like that friend who says what everyone is thinking but dresses it up in a cocktail dress and a punchline instead of, well, a cocktail. Sober Curator Pro Tip: If you need mocktail or alcohol-free beverage ideas, HAPPY EVERY HOUR is the place to be #becausedrunkneverlooksgood As you revel in your sober…

On this episode of the “Now What?!” Society Podcast, Tamar and Lane have their west coast bestie back on the show to talk about the role therapy plays in our sobriety. Topics Discussed: Does therapy go hand in hand with sobriety? What are the different forms of therapy. Our own personal experience with therapy in and out of recovery. Community is where it’s at! You’re Sober! Now What? Join the Now What Society. A Community where Sober Gen X women come together to live their best lives without compromise! While you’re there, don’t forget to check out our new, You’re…

Growing up in San Francisco and having my family live in different neighborhoods over the years has led me to a rich understanding of this City, which I call Home. San Francisco is diverse, rich with history, and stunning views. I’ve tried many times to escape, but for some unknown reason, I end up back here in the City famously known for Karl, the fog, its iconic landmarks, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture. When any of my friends (sober or not) visit, I first place them in my car and take them on a City tour. San Francisco is known…

One thing I love about living in long-term recovery is making it through the harrowing challenges and my many, many mistakes. Some people say time doesn’t matter between drinks, but I’m here to share that time is a measurement of personal growth without drinking or blacking out of my life. Everyone is living life, and everyone has choices. When choosing a life of sobriety, things start to look and feel very differently. Like getting married and not drinking that glass of champagne, or having sex for the first-time stone, cold sober, feeling it all! It’s ALL REAL and scary –…

“Life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’re going to get.” Forrest Gump Sobriety is, too, like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’ll get! Would you rather be given a box of assorted chocolates or a box full of the same pieces? When I first landed in recovery, I would have said, give me the most enormous assortment; I’m good with all types of chocolate! I love chocolate. I had to give up chocolate cake when I was five years into recovery; that was a nightmare! Over 13 years ago, I had my…

On this episode of the “Now What?!” Society Podcast, Tamar and Lane chat with their friend Megan Swan about plant-based wellness and nutrition. Topics Discussed: Wellness and Health is not a one size fits all. Learning to become plant based and get processed food out of your life. How cheese can be a problem for our health. Actively participating in our health. Listen to the “Now What?” Society Podcast APPLE Podcasts We love to have fun on the show, and we encourage our listeners to be a part of that conversation! Do you have a specific question, topic or a…

On this episode of the “Now What?!” Society Podcast, Tamar and Lane chat with their west coast bestie Alysse Bryson about how to live with intention. Topics on today’s show: What does living with intention really mean? Where do we start when we want to live with intention. Why you can work the 12 steps even if you don’t suffer from addiction. Living with intention in recovery. Just Ask Us We love to have fun on the show, and we encourage our listeners to be a part of that conversation! Do you have a specific question, topic or a “would…

I guess my big struggle is watching how I interact with devices, how my mind interacts, how I react, and how I become consumed with information on a device. The dopamine load is not sustainable, which is part of what I feel; it saddens me. Last week I admitted to being anxious, yep me. It was hard to say out loud, but the truth is that being on the computer all day and being social on social platforms on the internet has me wound up in a tight ball. I don’t like it. I don’t like it one bit. I’m…

In this episode of the You’re Sober! Now What? Podcast, Tamar and Lane talk about the things that women don’t want to talk about. In this episode, they are joined by Alysse Bryson, Founder of The Sober Curator, and regular guest on the You’re Sober! Now What? Podcast. These three online besties will talk about JUST about anything and usually without much filter. (Sorry mom!) Here is what we chatted about today: Just Ask Us Welcome to RECOVERY PODCASTLAND! There are so many solid, binge-worthy podcasts out there. But with new episodes coming out weekly, it’s impossible to keep up. The Sober…

When I discovered that I was a little off, in my 2nd year of recovery, and when I say off… I mean, my circuitry wasn’t quite firing. My hormones were not regulating my cycle, mood, weight, sleep, all of it. My hair was falling out; my skin was a strange tint of yellow, and my eyes were red; it was odd… The good news was I was sober and had the grace and nerve to ask for help. I sought out the best doctor’s advice, and to no avail, they returned with a stamp of A.I.D.S., which meant Auto Immune…

They used to tell me, “Hey, kid, the journey from the head to the heart takes time; stick around you’ll make it.” I had no fricking idea what they were talking about and why they were telling me this. (Oh, and to be clear, they are that group of people who suddenly have opinions on your life, and you don’t even know them. I’m sure you have some people like that in your life.) I’ve gradually learned that they were right; the trip from the head to the heart, the journey, is a must on the list of trips one…

Unfortunately, addiction became an even more damaging issue than usual throughout the pandemic. There have been numerous reports in the past few years about the existing opioid crisis worsening, and a Washington Post report on alcohol-related deaths revealed that the pandemic brought the highest rate in decades. Researchers have identified roughly a 3% per year increase in fatalities related to alcohol consumption in general; during the first year of the pandemic, however, that increase “jumped to nearly 26%.” This is a tragedy, is anyone paying attention here? Needless to say, this is a dire situation that requires addressing. And interestingly enough, the…