In this episode of the Sober Curator Podcast, our hosts, Alysse Bryson and Tamar Medford, dive deep into a captivating conversation with actor, artist, and producer Mason McCulley, known for his role as Ken on HBO’s “Insecure.” This conversation explores Mason’s battle with alcoholism, spiritual experiences, and journey towards sobriety, along with his reflections on faith, love, and artistic expression through his one-man show, “Carole Cook Died For My Sins.”
A Spiritual Awakening Through Mushrooms
Mason McCulley shares an extraordinary tale that begins with a hookup and an unexpected spiritual experience brought on by mushrooms. During this transformative night, a recurring song triggers powerful memories of his late mentor, Carole Cook, a close friend and confidant. This experience leads him to a profound spiritual awakening, fundamentally shifting his views on divinity and ancestry. For Mason, it felt like connecting with the spirits of his loved ones, providing solace and a fresh perspective on life.
Shared Stories of Loss and Healing
Alysse Bryson, Founder of The Sober Curator, resonates deeply with Mason’s story. She shares her own experience of loss, recounting the recent passing of her Boston terrier, Roxie, and her dear friend, Rita. Their stories highlight a shared understanding of grief and spirituality’s powerful role in healing. These narratives aren’t just about sorrow; they celebrate the continuation of love and connection beyond physical existence.
Transforming Beliefs on Spirituality and Sobriety
Sobriety often brings about significant shifts in personal beliefs. McCulley reveals how he rediscovered spirituality after losing faith when his mother fell ill. His play, “Carole Cook Died For My Sins,” is a poignant expression of this journey, dealing with themes of belief, self-discovery, and redemption. Mason’s interpretation of Jesus’ teachings emphasizes finding personal truth and light, a perspective that has become integral to his sobriety. According to Mason, self-awareness and understanding one’s worth are crucial steps in the journey to sobriety.
A Personal Journey Through Darkness to Redemption
The conversation delves into Mason’s struggles with alcoholism, heavily influenced by personal stressors such as being closeted in Alabama and his mother’s illness. Mason opens up about the solace he found in his friendship with Carole Cook, a renowned actress and protege of Lucille Ball, who served as his muse. Her passing in January 2023 led Mason into a two-week drinking bender, culminating in a pivotal moment on January 25, 2023, where he felt Carole urging him to change his life. This marked the beginning of his journey towards embracing sobriety.
The Power of Sobriety Beyond Abstinence
Mason McCulley emphasizes that sobriety is more than just abstaining from alcohol; it’s about discovering joy and magic in life. This episode sheds light on how sobriety can lead to finding personal clarity and calmness. McCulley shares how his experiences with psilocybin mushrooms helped him connect with deeper parts of himself and his late mother, further fueling his journey to self-discovery.
Expressing Sobriety Through Art and Theater: “Carole Cooke Died for My Sins”
Artistic expression plays a significant role in Mason’s sobriety journey. His play, “Carole Cook Died For My Sins,” encapsulates his transformation from darkness to redemption. The play highlights his struggles, spiritual awakenings, and passion for drag culture, authenticity, and inclusivity. Mason invites listeners to celebrate the journey of sobriety and self-discovery through this heartfelt production.
Personal Reflections on Sobriety and Inclusivity
The conversation takes a delightful turn as Mason and Alysse touch on lighter topics, such as Mason’s preference for McDonald’s Diet Coke due to its unique carbonation system. They also discuss fashion choices, with Mason transitioning from old-school glam to an LA street style, embodying authenticity in his transformation. This sincerity and openness extend to Mason’s views on religion and society, advocating for greater inclusion and understanding.
Conclusion
As the episode comes to a close, Tamar, Alysse, and Mason form a new bond, emphasizing the significance of sobriety and the transformative power of personal growth. Mason McCulley’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of sobriety, spirituality, and artistic expression. His journey invites listeners to embrace their paths toward self-discovery and fulfillment.
Listeners are encouraged to engage with Mason McCulley on Instagram (@masonmcculley) for more insights on his play and sobriety journey. This episode conveys the beauty of living a sober lifestyle and encapsulates the essence of finding personal clarity and joy. While Mason’s one-man show in Los Angeles is set to end on November 24th, 2024, stay tuned for future performances in NYC and beyond. The Sober Curator will be eager to share updates as we receive them.
Getting sober is one thing—but staying sober? That’s where the real adventure begins.
This show is for you if you’ve ever wondered:
– Where can I find inspiring sober podcasts, apps, and creators?
– How do I give back or stay plugged into the sober community
– What are the best sober-friendly drinks and travel tips?
– Where do I find the good NA drinks that don’t taste like regret?
The Sober Curator is your go-to for sober pop culture, booze-free travel, apps, creators, and community.
We’re not here to help you get sober.
We’re here to help you live sober—and love it.
In this gripping episode, Alysse sits down with filmmaker Benjamin Flaherty for a powerful conversation about the business behind addiction recovery — and why too many families are left carrying shame, confusion, and financial devastation while trying to save their loved ones. Benjamin’s documentary exposes the economics, ethics, and emotional fallout inside the modern treatment industry, while also honoring the parents, advocates, and survivors who continue fighting for change.
From medically assisted treatment debates to the insurance inequalities that shape who gets quality care, this episode goes deeper than most sober conversations dare to go. It’s raw, urgent, and grounded in truth — the kind of discussion that can only happen in a space built for honesty.
Takeaways:
Families aren’t alone. Many parents attend screenings thinking their child’s exploitation or treatment experience was “their fault” — Benjamin’s film shows the systemic patterns behind the pain.
Recovery has an economic engine. Benjamin describes the shocking moment he realized how profitability shapes care, access, and outcomes in the treatment world.
Insurance determines who gets humane care. Both Benjamin and Alysse reflect on how “good insurance” gave them safe recovery environments — an advantage many don’t have.
Pop culture shapes our understanding. Films like Dopesick, Painkiller, Pain Hustlers, Body Brokers help raise awareness but flatten nuance; documentaries add back the complexity.
Conversations spark courage. When parents meet each other at screenings, shame lifts and the real healing begins.
Key Timestamps:
00:06:40 — Benjamin’s turning point: quitting alcohol & cocaine in high-pressure advertising
00:07:45 — The myth of “the next milestone” that will magically fix everything
00:08:20 — Why treatment is the only major health process most people don’t understand
00:26:26 — Parents finding relief and validation through the film
00:27:00 — The economics of recovery: what families aren’t told
00:28:00 — Alysse shares her own insurance-based experience and privilege in treatment access
00:28:20 — Pop culture portrayals of recovery & exploitation (Body Brokers, Painkiller, Dopesick)
00:41:56 — The media Benjamin loves — and what representations resonate most
Resources & Links:
Website / Film https://www.stoptheshuffle.com/
Instagram: @benjaminflaherty
YouTube Trailer: OFFICIAL TRAILER | SHUFFLE
–Alcohol + Substance Use Disorder Guide
–Recovery Nonprofit Resource Guide
–LBGTQ+ Recovery Resource Guide
Connect with Us:
-Website: www.thesobercurator.com
-Facebook: @The Sober Curator
-Instagram: @thesobercurator
-X: @thesobercurator
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Send Feedback:
If you have a story, feedback, or just want to connect, email us at thesobercurator@gmail.com. We’d love to hear from you!
About:
Sobriety isn’t the end of the party—it’s just the start of a better one. Hosted by Alysse Bryson, media powerhouse and sobriety’s ultimate hype woman, and joined by Sober Curator contributors, The Sober Curator Podcast* delivers bold convos, pop culture deep dives, and zero-proof living that doesn’t suck. Whether you're sober, sober-curious, or just looking for good vibes without the hangover, we’ve got you covered. Subscribe now—because getting sober matters, staying sober matters more.
*The Sober Curator Podcast is a space for open and honest conversations about sobriety, recovery, and alcohol-free living. While we celebrate all paths to a sober lifestyle, some topics discussed may be sensitive or triggering for certain listeners. This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. If you’re in recovery or exploring sobriety, please take care while listening and seek support from trusted professionals as needed.
It’s always the perfect day for a perfect day!
SOBRIETY IN THE CITY is your guide to substance-free adventures and events in cities across the United States. We’re bringing you hidden gems, local hangouts, art exhibits, unique attractions and pop-up events, limited shows, and tours. Being fully present allows us to enjoy life to the fullest. But we’re still taking it all in, just one day at a time.
You can depend on us for clean, creative alternatives to maximize your time in these fantastic cities. CLICK HERE FOR OUR NEWLY LAUNCH SOBER EVENTS CALENDAR
COMING OUT SOBER! This is your guide through the wild ride of sobriety and self-discovery. We aim to create a safe, supportive space for those navigating sobriety and LGBTQ+ identities. We strive to inspire others by sharing our stories and exploring our unique challenges. Together, we’ll break down barriers, challenge rigid beliefs, and celebrate living authentically. Whether through personal anecdotes or reflections on societal norms, we hope to foster a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and loved.
Here, you’ll find stories from me and others about living sober and out loud. Let’s dive into the hilarious, heartbreaking, and everything in-between moments of breaking free from booze and societal norms.
Sober Curator Fun Fact! A handful of Sober Curator Contributors identify as being in the LBGTQIA+ community.
Help is Available
Addressing the intersection of LGBTQ+ identity and substance use requires a multifaceted approach that acknowledges the unique challenges faced by this community. By advocating for inclusivity and expanding resources, we can create recovery environments where all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can find support and healing. Click Here for a list of LGBTQ+ Recovery Resources.
