In a world once dominated by alcoholic beverages, a new wave is redefining how we socialize and indulge without compromising our sobriety. As more people explore non-alcoholic options, the Sober Curator Podcast stands at the forefront of this revolution, offering insights and reviews through its Happy Every Hour section. Host Alysse Bryson and contributors Justin Lamb, Ashley Sunderland, and Kim Parsley dive deep into the trends, benefits, and personal journeys that shape this burgeoning industry.
Breaking Down Barriers in Social Settings
Alysse recounts the challenges faced by non-drinkers in social settings where alcohol reigns supreme. With a background in event production, she emphasizes the anxiety of being an afterthought at events with limited non-alcoholic options, often defaulting to water or soda. The podcast highlights the importance of creating inclusive, alcohol-free drink recipes to elevate the experience of sober individuals without sacrificing social acceptance.
Redefining the Alcohol-Free Market
Sober Curator Senior Contributor Justin Lamb, known for his extensive reviews of non-alcoholic beers, shares his excitement about the industry’s growth. Once restricted to limited, uninspiring choices, the market has exploded with innovative brewing techniques delivering IPA and stout experiences sans alcohol. This evolution has made it possible for beer lovers to savor their favorites without compromising their sobriety. For Justin, the fun is discovering the science behind non-alcoholic brewing and sharing this journey with others.
Kim Parsley brings a unique perspective with her concept of “trail angels,” offering non-alcoholic cocktails and treats to adventurers. Emphasizing the artistry involved in crafting these beverages, she discusses the merit of bottle shops and how they contribute to educational opportunities and personalized experience. Her passion for elevating craft cocktails, without the alcohol, resonates with a growing audience seeking quality without consequence.
Another significant topic in the episode is the rise of sober bars and bottle shops, which have become havens for those seeking non-alcoholic options in a traditionally alcohol-dominated culture. Ashley Sunderland is championing the beverage scene from the heart of the Twin Cities. These venues not only provide alcohol-free alternatives but also serve as educational hubs, helping people understand the nuances of non-alcoholic beverages and why they’re a valuable addition to social experiences.
Trend Waves: Dry January and Sober October
The podcast team explores the effects of popular trends like Dry January and Sober October. While these initiative-driven months foster awareness and reduce stigma, they also provide individuals with the opportunity to evaluate their relationship with alcohol. Opinions vary on their effectiveness, but the consensus is that they serve an important role in introducing the benefits of sobriety to a wider audience.
Bottle shops dedicated solely to non-alcoholic beverages have become pivotal in transforming how sobriety is perceived. Highlights from the podcast discuss the significance of these spaces, offering a variety of products without the pressure or temptation found in traditional liquor stores. From Justin’s experience at Pittsburgh’s Open Road to Ashley’s involvement with Lucille’s in St. Paul, these venues create welcoming environments for education and exploration.
Surprising Discoveries and Innovations
Reflecting on their experiences, The Sober Curator team shares lessons learned from creating content for the Happy Every Hour section. From the complexities of non-alcoholic beer production to the intricate craftsmanship of cocktails, the knowledge gained is substantial and ever-evolving. With a commitment to exploring new products and sharing authentic reviews, they inspire listeners and readers to embrace non-alcoholic options as part of their lifestyle.
As the sober landscape continues to grow, the Sober Curator Podcast remains a guide for those looking to enhance their alcohol-free living. Through engaging discussions and insightful reviews, they challenge the norm and prove that sobriety enriches rather than restricts. With each episode, listeners are invited to join the party, where taste and experience are paramount, and sobriety is celebrated as the ultimate lifestyle choice.
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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.
🎬 This Just In – Broadcasting from the land of the Goonies in Astoria, OR!
This week’s sober pop culture round-up includes:
✨ 3 Big Stories:
SoberScopes kick off Sober October 🌌
Ripple’s plant-based vapes 🌿
Alcohol-free perfumes 💐
⚡ 2 Quick Hits:
DIY Zero-Proof Mocktail: The Wednesday 🍸
2025 Sober October Gift Guide 🎁
🍫 Fake Sponsor of the Week: Trigger Treats Chocolate – “Therapy you can eat.”
🌟 Celeb Spotlight: Denzel Washington — nearly 10 years sober.
🐻 Breaking Weird: A porch-pirate bear in Washington State steals a package.
📆 Sober Events Stopwatch Challenge: Five events in 30 seconds, from San Francisco to Boulder.
👕 Put That On a T-Shirt: “One-Eyed Willy’s treasure map is less confusing than Ripple vapes trending on TSC.”
🎤 Outro Reminder: Getting sober matters. Staying sober matters more.
📲 Links & Resources
Watch the porch pirate bear: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=786442787701285
Full list of sober events & retreats: [link to TSC calendar]
👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and tag us @TheSoberCurator.
Resources & Links
- Happy Every Hour on The Sober Curator
- The Happy Traveler Vintage Traveler Bars
- Justin Lamb: Instagram
- Lucille’s Bottle Shop: Located in downtown St. Paul
- #MINNYSOBER Page by Ashley Sunderland
- Meet the Contributors
- Alcohol + Substance Use Disorder Guide
- Recovery Nonprofit Resource Guide
- LBGTQ+ Recovery Resource Guide
HAPPY EVERY HOUR: Welcome to the hub for all things NA, featuring reviews of alcohol-free beers, ciders, wines, spirits, RTDs (ready-to-drink), NA recipes, and so much more from behind the bar. #becausedrunkneverlooksgood
Recovery is hard 24/7, 365 – Please know that 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. If your life or someone else’s is in imminent danger, please call 911. If you are in crisis and need immediate help, please call: 988.
