I read “Soberful” by Veronica Valli on a flight to NYC once, and I underlined page after page like I was cramming for a final. I didn’t need to scroll her bio or stalk her Instagram to know she was legit — her words hit hard because they were true. So when I had the chance to sit down with her for an episode of You’ve Been Selected, I knew exactly what I wanted to talk about: the wild, weird and often wonderful world of sober social media.
Let’s be real: Instagram is loud. And when it comes to sobriety, the #soberinfluencer space can be… a lot. There’s inspiration, yes — but also misinformation, ego and a sea of people with ring lights and zero credentials telling you how to heal. That’s why this conversation with Veronica felt so necessary.
With decades of sobriety under her belt and zero tolerance for fluff, Veronica brought the heat — and the wisdom.
Here’s what we unpacked:
- The Sober Social Media Boom
Veronica lays out how social platforms have become both lifelines and landmines. Yes, they can create connection — but they can also spread dangerous advice under the guise of #authenticity.
- Sober Influencers vs. Self-Appointed Gurus
We talk about the difference between inspiration and indoctrination. Just because someone’s got a blue check or a book deal doesn’t mean they’re trauma-informed — or safe to follow.
- Do Your Damn Research
Veronica stresses the importance of vetting people before you absorb their messaging. Who are they? What’s their experience? Are they walking the walk or just performing recovery for clout?
- Personal Accountability in the Digital Age
Instagram is a tool — not a therapist. We explore how to use it to support your recovery, not replace it.
- How Recovery Is Evolving
From old-school anonymity to hashtag activism, Veronica shares her take on how the sober world is shifting — and what we need to protect as it grows.
Veronica’s insight is honest, grounded, and — best of all — bullshit-free. If you’re navigating recovery in a world that lives online, this episode will help you tune out the noise and return to your own inner compass.
Listen now wherever you get your podcasts—and if you haven’t read “Soberful” yet, do yourself a favor and grab it. Preferably on a flight to somewhere that reminds you how far you’ve come.
Listen to Episode 8 Now:
Soberful is a podcast that focuses on living a fulfilling and alcohol-free life. Hosted by Veronica Valli and Chip Somers, the show provides expert insights, practical advice, and personal stories to help listeners embrace sobriety. Each episode covers various aspects of recovery, from managing triggers to building a meaningful life without alcohol, offering support and encouragement to those on their sober journey.
RECOVERY PODCASTLAND & NETWORK: Tune in and let your ears experience the audio haven for all things sobriety and recovery. Buzz into the sobriety soundscape at The Sober Curator. Here, we delve into the world of our favorite sober and recovery-based podcasts. Picture us as your bee-zy, sober podcast enthusiasts or the lively guardians of an alcohol-free audio oasis. Our digital archives are neatly categorized into TSC Recovery Podcastland & Network.
TSC LIBRARY: Welcome to The Sober Curator Library! We don’t just read books; we immerse ourselves in literary journeys, tune in on Audible, and craft insightful reviews. Our digital shelves are organized into four genres: #QUITLIT, Addiction Fiction, Self-Help, and NA Recipe Books.
Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
