Sobriety, as the hosts and contributors of the Sober Curator Podcast remind us, is far more than abstaining from alcohol. In Episode 14, dubbed “Spiritual Gangster 2.0,” Alysse Bryson and her panel of Sober Curator Contributors delve into what it really means to infuse spiritual practice into a sober lifestyle—debunking clichés, celebrating all pathways, and laughing along the way (often at themselves).
The podcast’s “Spiritual Gangster” section is a rapidly expanding hub of spiritual content designed for everyone: those in recovery, the sober curious, and anyone rethinking their relationship with alcohol. Inclusivity is the beating heart of this community; whether your spirituality is loud and ritualized, quietly mindful, or somewhere between crystals and cognitive science, you’re welcome at this digital table.
Multiple Journeys, One Common Ground
One of the most refreshing parts of this episode is the frankness with which each participant acknowledges the endless ways to approach spirituality in sobriety.
Tony Harte discusses his journey through a wide variety of philosophies, ultimately landing on stoicism. Contrary to popular belief, stoicism isn’t about suppressing emotion, but about creating enough inner space to not be controlled by feelings. Tony’s deep dive into stoicism—especially how it can complement 12-step work—shows how recovery can be a layered, personal evolution.
Lane Kennedy brings a multifaceted perspective as both a mindfulness teacher and a functional DNA nutritionist. For her, “spiritual substance” means everything—her food, thoughts, relationships, even how she uses her car horn—can be part of a spiritual practice. Lane ties spiritual health directly to physical and mental wellbeing, emphasizing the need for holistic homeostasis.
Amy Liz Harrison opens up about transitioning from a rigid evangelical upbringing to a “kaleidoscope” of spiritual practices. Incorporating shamanic rituals into her recovery, Amy champions the “set aside prayer”—releasing what she thinks she knows and staying open to new perspectives. For Amy, spirituality is an ongoing, dynamic journey, fueled by curiosity.
Daily Tools for a Spiritual Life
While each voice on the panel takes a unique path, they share simple, actionable tools for staying grounded:
Meditation and Mindfulness: Both Amy and Lane stress the transformative potential of meditation—be it a single focused moment or a recurring daily practice. Tony, whose “monkey mind” finds sitting still challenging, practices active mindfulness in his daily interactions, using the pause between trigger and response to keep himself grounded and compassionate.
Journaling and Reflection: Amy is a passionate advocate for pen-to-paper journaling, not just for processing emotions but as a ritual for letting go—sometimes literally, by burning the pages afterward. This tactile, visual practice provides a sense of release and embodiment.
Physical Reminders: Tony suggests a simple tactile tool, like a smooth worry stone or a sobriety token, to carry and rub during moments of anxiety. These small objects can anchor one’s attention and provide reassurance in turbulent moments.
Breathwork: Lane underscores the power of dedicated breathwork—different from yoga breathing in class—to release trauma and recalibrate the mind-body connection. Having a credentialed guide is imperative, as breathwork can be deeply transformative.
Books and Learning: The conversation turns to resource recommendations: anything by Ernest Holmes; “Buddhism and the Twelve Steps: Daily Reflections”; and William James’ “Varieties of Religious Experience.” Education, curiosity, and continued learning emerge as foundational, especially for those new to spirituality.
Building a Spiritual Toolkit: Practical and Personal
Perhaps the most empowering theme running through this episode is the notion that everyone is entitled to their own personalized spiritual toolkit. Whether it’s a journal, a worry stone, a Zen sand garden, sage to burn, or a must-read book, having tangible tools can help you navigate the challenges of sobriety—especially when the emotional “pink cloud” lifts and you’re faced with deeper work.
Ultimately, as Alysse says, “There’s not only one way to get and stay sober…and it’ll change, it’ll ebb and flow over the course of your journey.” Spiritual growth, much like recovery itself, is a practice, not a destination.
The episode ends on a note of humility and humor—none of the speakers claim to practice spirituality perfectly, and that’s precisely the point. The power is in the seeking, the experimenting, and most importantly, the connection with other travelers on the path. If you’re looking for inspiration, ideas, or simply a reminder that you’re not alone, The Sober Curator’s “Spiritual Gangsters” deliver it in spades.
Listen to Episode 14 Now
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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
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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.
RECOVERY PODCASTLAND & NETWORK at The Sober Curator is your audio haven for all things sobriety and recovery. We’re your bee-zy sober podcast enthusiasts, curating the best shows that educate, inspire, and entertain in the alcohol-free space.
Our archives are neatly organized so you can easily explore Recovery Podcastland—featuring our favorite recovery-based podcasts from across the globe—and the TSC Podcast Network, where we share our own original shows on sober lifestyle, pop culture, travel, entertainment, and more.
Whether you’re seeking practical recovery tips, personal stories, or uplifting inspiration, this is your go-to listening guide.
SPIRITUAL GANGSTER: at The Sober Curator is a haven for those embracing sobriety with a healthy dose of spiritual sass. This space invites you to dive into meditation, astrology, intentional living, philosophy, and personal reflection—all while keeping your feet (and your sobriety) firmly on the ground. Whether you’re exploring new spiritual practices or deepening an existing one, Spiritual Gangster offers inspiration, insight, and a community that blends mindful living with alcohol-free fun.
Spiritual Gangster Line-up:
Stoicism & Sobriety – Ancient Philosophy for Modern Recovery with Sober Curator Contributors Derek Castleman and Tony Harte
The Card Divo – Quick & Sober Tarot Readings with Sober Curator Contributor Senior Daniel G. Garza
Classy Problems – Clarity, Restraint & Mindful Decision-Making with Senior Sober Curator Contributor Dan T. Rogers
SoberCast with Six – Astrology & Tarot for the Sober Life with Senior Sober Curator Contributor Analisa Six
Sobriety in Flow – Yoga Beyond the Poses with Senior Travel Sober Curator Contributor Teresa Bergen
Thirsty for Wonder – Recovery Coaching & Spiritual Companionship with Sober Curator Contributor Anne Marie Cribben
Spiritual Substance – Mindfulness, Science & Soul with Senior Sober Curator Contributor Lane Kennedy
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.
