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.
Listen to the Episode Now
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.
It’s been 30 years since Trainspotting splashed into our lives with all the grit, grime, dark humor, and cultural punch that made it an instant classic. In this episode, Alysse, Tamar, and Sober Curator contributor Tony Harte take a wild, witty, and brutally honest deep dive into the most iconic addiction film ever made. From the infamous baby scene to the “Choose Life” manifesto to the worst toilet in Scotland, we unpack why Trainspotting still hits differently—especially when you watch it sober. Buckle up: this is pop culture autopsy meets sober storytelling at its finest.
Takeaways:
Trainspotting remains one of the most accurate depictions of addiction—messy, funny, tragic, and painfully human.
Irvine Welsh’s books are even darker than the film (yes, it’s possible).
Renton’s detox sequence is still one of the most iconic portrayals of withdrawal on screen.
The film’s religious symbolism is subtle but rich—from “Mother Superior” to the baptism-like toilet dive.
The soundtrack (Iggy Pop! Lou Reed! Underworld!) is a cultural time capsule of 90s grit and rebellion.
Key Timestamps:
[00:02:00] — Meet Tony Harte and his legendary Trainspotting bucket hat
[00:03:00] — Why no one watches Trainspotting sober and feels nothing
[00:07:00] — Ewan McGregor on-set: very much not sober
[00:14:00] — The brutal reality of Tommy’s storyline
[00:17:00] — The baby scene: the rawest depiction of addiction’s cost
[00:23:00] — Fun fact: Trainspotting won Seattle’s Golden Space Needle Award
[00:28:00] — Hidden religious symbolism throughout the film
Resources & Links:
Tony Harte — Sober Curator Contributor & Stoic Sobriety writer
Trainspotting book review on The Sober Curator (by Tony)
–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
-YouTube: @thesobercurator
-Pinterest: @thesobercurator
Follow & Subscribe:
If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners. Plus, the first 50 reviews on Apple Podcasts can win a sleek, limited edition Sober Curator fanny pack!
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.
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.
