Are you ready to step into the world of Ari Welkom? Get comfortable as we navigate his compelling journey of musical inspiration, personal transformation, and spirituality. In our latest episode of the Sober Curator Podcast, we sat down with Ari and discussed everything from his musical heroes to his latest projects. This is not just any podcast episode; it’s an invitation to explore a life transformed by sobriety and creativity.
Musical Inspirations and Artistry
Ari Welkom’s views on music and expression are nothing short of profound. Inspired by legendary rock icons like Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix, and David Bowie, Ari emphasizes the significance of finding one’s authentic voice. He appreciates modern artists’ transparency in writing about personal experiences, and it’s evident that Welkom’s music serves as a central medium for swiftly expressing impactful stories.
Personal Journey and Songwriting
Ari’s journey through personal transformation and spirituality was one of the most compelling aspects of our conversation. With songs like “Fighter,” discussing his battle with bullying and learning karate, Ari brings his audience closer by sharing personal stories behind his tracks. His song “High Like This” reflects a profound rock-bottom moment, encapsulating spiritual themes and personal growth.
Navigating Social Media and Content Creation
In a digital era, Ari knows the importance of sharing the context behind his songs. With profiles on Instagram and TikTok under the name @AvatariWorld and a YouTube channel named @avatari, he uses social media to deepen connections with his fans. His stories provide the context that enriches the listening experience, making his narrative even more compelling.
Battling Stigma in the Music Industry
Sobriety in the music industry often carries a stigma, but Ari is breaking down those barriers. He openly embraces his sobriety, weaving it into the very fabric of his music. This openness helps diminish the stigma and encourages other musicians to be transparent about their journeys.
Long-Term Sobriety and Personal Growth
In our chat, Ari spoke at length about the significance of long-term commitments. He initially found anything over a week daunting. Now, he sees the importance of community and the growth and responsibilities of sobriety. Describing family life as growing several new hearts, he acknowledges the profound impact of having children and responsibilities.
Humorous Insights and Creativity
Our episode was rich with light-hearted banter, from discussing The Karate Kid reboot series to the conversation about Funko Pop figures. Ari even joked about how he hadn’t watched the reboot series, despite his karate background, while we all shared laughs over the unboxing experience of Funko figures.
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 hilariously honest and deeply human conversation, Emmy-winning host Cat Greenleaf joins Alysse to spill all the sober tea—from peeing her pants during a double-booking with Tom Arnold and Art Alexakis, to discovering what sobriety actually looks like when you're no longer a “lone wolf.” Cat opens up about service, creativity, aging, friendship with Pee-wee Herman, crafting on cocaine, and the real emotional glow-up that happens when you stop pretending and start living. This episode is equal parts chaos, charm, confessions, and zero-proof realness.
Takeaways: Sobriety gets richer when you stop isolating and start connecting with people who speak your language.
Cat’s shift from “lone wolf” to community deepened her recovery—and her sanity.
Golden-age celebrity stories? Yes please. Especially ones involving Pee-wee Herman sending hourly birthday messages.
Creativity, addiction, and reinvention always have a wild intersection (including cocaine-fueled stenciling).
“Zero fucks given” remains a valid business plan—and a liberating way to live.
Key Timestamps:
[00:01:47] — Cat Greenleaf arrives: The sober stoop era begins.
[00:04:30] — “Sometimes I wish I’d shut the f*ck up”: Cat on oversharing in recovery.
[00:06:13] — The Tom Arnold + Art Alexakis pee-your-pants saga.
[00:11:00] — Pee-wee Herman memories: birthday calls & inappropriate Christmas cards.
[00:14:21] — Cocaine + crafting: Cat and Alysse trade hilarious addiction-era stories.
[00:17:00] — Hobby obsessions, lone-wolf recovery, and life after chaos.
[00:22:00] — The infamous dog-poop showdown on Cat’s beach.
[00:23:56] — The healing power of work, ocean singing, and coffee.
Resources & Links:
Cat Greenleaf — SoberNess Podcast Website https://www.soberness.com/
Cat on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sobernesspodcast/
Cat on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sobernesspodcast
Cat on Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/soberness-podcast/id1768121457
TSC Resources & Links:
–Alcohol + Substance Use Disorder Guide
–Recovery Nonprofit Resource Guide
–LBGTQ+ Recovery Resource Guide
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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.
Avatari – P#RN
Sober Curator Fun Fact: Does this song sound familiar? If you’ve been listening to any of our other recent interviews, you will notice Avatari has given The Sober Curator permission to use this song as our theme song.
Avatari – High Like This
Avatari on Spotify
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