In a recent interview on The Sober Curator, hosts Alysse Bryson and Kate Vitela turned the spotlight on Rebekka Johnson and Anne Gregory, two prominent voices in the growing world of sobriety podcasts. Their candid conversation peeled back the layers of their personal journeys towards sobriety, illustrating the impact of alcohol within the entertainment industry and beyond.
Rebekka Johnson’s harrowing experience of blacking out after consuming four margaritas, and Anne Gregory’s severe migraines triggered by tequila, served as alarm bells that prompted their path towards sobriety. These incidents, which are all too common within our society’s casual drinking culture, weren’t just fleeting episodes of embarrassment. They were pivotal moments that demanded a significant lifestyle change.
Their artistic aspirations extend to their podcast, Non Drinking Buddies, where they aim to share diverse stories about sobriety. They dream of interviewing high-profile celebrities like Daniel Radcliffe and Tom Holland, hoping to challenge the cliche narrative of ‘hitting rock bottom.’ Their commitment to showcasing the multifaceted reality of sobriety reflects their dedication to building a supportive community and dismantling stigmas.
Their engaging discussions, interspersed with light-hearted banter about “granny panties” and Costco adventures, create a relatable atmosphere. Anne’s candid admission of not needing alcohol to “feel dumb” might hint at a deeper societal discomfort, but it is through such vulnerable revelations that the podcast finds its strength.
The pressures faced by the sober community, from dealing with curious peers to navigating misunderstood choices like non-alcoholic beer preferences, highlight the joys and challenges of sober living. Rebekka’s love for fake negronis and Alysse’s recommendation of alcohol-free Marg-a-rita by Soiree exemplify the expanding market catering to non-drinkers—a beacon for those seeking liberation from alcohol.
Watch the Full Interview with Non Drinking Buddies Anne & Rebekka
At its core, this narrative isn’t just about sobriety; it’s about self-discovery and freedom. It emphasizes that creativity, fun, and authenticity aren’t dependent on alcohol. Rebekka and Anne, united by comedy and years together in the industry, are a dynamic sober duo.
At the heart of their conversation lies a resonating message – a call for more inclusive and diverse portrayals of sobriety in entertainment. Rebekka Johnson and Anne Gregory, through their personal anecdotes and shared experiences, emphasize that sobriety isn’t merely about giving up alcohol; it’s about making daily choices that uphold this commitment. Their stories aren’t just about ‘hitting rock bottom’ or the stark binary of being an addict or a sober saint. Instead, they paint a vivid picture of life’s richness and vibrancy that persists, and even enhances, in the absence of alcohol.
As they wrap up their engaging discussion with heartfelt gratitude and a cheeky reference to their “global sober domination,” it becomes clear that these four sober ladies are more than just podcast hosts or sobriety advocates. They are trailblazers, creating a space that fosters honesty, personal growth, and joy within the sober community. Their laughter-filled exchanges and earnest dialogues reinforce that the journey of sobriety is not merely about abstaining from alcohol. It’s about fully embracing and inhabiting one’s life, one sober day at a time.
So, grab your favorite non-alcoholic beverage, get comfortable, and join this enriching conversation that goes beyond sobriety and delves into personal growth, honesty with our children, and the shift towards a more authentic and fulfilling lifestyle. Join The Sober Curator, where vulnerability intertwines with vivaciousness, and the journey to sobriety unfolds—one spotlight, one story, one shared laugh at a time.
Sober Curator Pro Tip: Follow along with Non Drinking Buddies on YouTube, Instagram, and Apple podcasts
About Anne Gregory
Anne Gregory is an award-winning writer, actor and comedian. She has written on TruTV’s comedy Those Who Can’t, Adult Swim’s animated comedy Mr. Pickles, Momma Named Me Sheriff, MTV’s Punk’d, and Awesomeness TV’s Betch Sketch. As an actor she has appeared on American Crime Story: Impeachment, Adam Ruins Everything, Parks and Recreation, Drunk Wedding, HBO’s Funny or Die Presents and Punk’d.
Follow her on IG @anneegreg
About Rebekka Johnson
Rebekka Johnson is most known for playing Dawn Rivecca on all 30 episodes of the Netflix series Glow. She is also one-third of the award-winning musical comedy trio, The Apple Sisters, and director of the new dance comedy feature, Step Aside. She writes and directs movies and television in Los Angeles and is currently developing a project for the UK with the iconic Kate Nash. Rebekka has also appeared on several television shows and movies including The Babysitters Club, Crazy Ex Girlfriend, Sex Lives Of College Girls, Good On Paper, This Is 40 and Arrested Development.
Follow along with Rebekka on IG @hellorebekka
SOBER SPOTLIGHT: This section of our site highlights extraordinary people in recovery. Starting in 2024, we will be revitalizing this section with more regular interviews hosted by Sober Curator Kate Vitela.
Who is making a difference in your recovery community? If you know someone, we should spotlight please connect with us at thesobercurator@gmail.com or DM us on social media.
Looking for memoir and book recommendations that support your sober lifestyle? #QUITLIT is our curated list of addiction and recovery book reviews. Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.
Are you trying to become a SPIRITUAL GANGSTER? Explore and expand your sober world through meditation, astrology, and spiritual reflection and practices.
RECOVERY PODCASTLAND is your one-stop shop to check out all recovery-based podcasts we’ve been curating.
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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.
