I used to be the drinker. The one who always said, “Just one more!”—and meant at least five. I drank like it was my job. And, ironically, the month I checked into rehab, I was also named Salesperson of the Year. Turns out, you can be both an overachiever and an alcoholic. Who knew?
But don’t worry—this isn’t an AA meeting, and it’s not a “booze is bad” talk. It’s a “booze isn’t really necessary” talk. Because, despite what society tells us, fun isn’t something you find at the bottom of a bottle.
At Ignite Seattle, I took the stage to talk about our outdated drinking culture and why it’s time to rethink the way we socialize. Gen Z is already flipping the script—drinking way less than previous generations. But the rest of the world? They’re still acting like alcohol is a prerequisite for fun. Work events, dating, networking—booze is stirred into everything. And if you turn down a drink, suddenly you’re under interrogation.
Here’s the truth: 38% of Americans don’t drink.
That’s the combined population of California, Texas, and Florida. Imagine if a third of the people in any given room didn’t drink—shouldn’t they still feel included?
We talk a big game about inclusivity, but when it comes to socializing, we’re still making non-drinkers feel like the awkward kid at prom. The good news? Alcohol-free options are on the rise. Sober bars, booze-free bottle shops, and elevated non-alcoholic drinks are popping up everywhere. Read: Top 36 Non-Alcoholic Bars & Bottle Shops in the USA
Connection doesn’t come from what’s in your glass. It never did.
It comes from what’s in the conversation. Some of the best, most meaningful relationships I’ve built in 19 years of sobriety didn’t require a single drop of alcohol.
So, the next time you raise a glass, ask yourself: Am I drinking because I want to? Or because I think I have to? What if I didn’t drink at all?
Drinking is fine. Not drinking is fine. Let’s work together to make it NOT matter. Cheers to a world where we all get to choose.
???? Watch my Ignite Seattle talk, SIP HAPPENS: Connection Without Alcohol
Sip Happens: Connection Without Alcohol: 5-Minute Talk
What is Ignite Seattle?
Ignite Seattle is the largest open submission public speaking event in the Pacific Northwest. They believe in the power of bringing people together through stories that inspire, enlighten, challenge, and entertain.
Three times a year we gather one of the greatest audiences in the world at the historic Town Hall in Seattle to hear interesting people tell fascinating stories in just 5 minutes. (There’s a reason our tag line is “Enlighten us…but make it quick”) Each speaker gets 20 slides, which advance every 15 seconds, to share their experiences and passions. It’s an evening of curated discovery, and our format helps speakers to be concise, focused, and engaged.
The Ignite Seattle team of volunteer organizers takes pride in providing every audience with a deep sense of the community + possibility that surrounds us in every moment. Ignite Seattle is a 501(c)(3) non-profit run entirely by volunteers. Proceeds from tickets sales and sponsorships go directly into our events and related programming.
HAPPY EVERY HOUR: Top 36 Non-Alcoholic Bars & Bottle Shops in the USA
SOBER POP CULTURE: Witty and Sarcastic Comebacks & One-Liners For When People Ask Why We’re Not Drinking
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
SOBER IN SEATTLE: Get ready to dive into Seattle’s sober scene—where zero-proof and sober-curious vibes are as iconic as our city’s Space Needle! We’re your go-to guide for all the coolest spots to enjoy elevated, alcohol-free experiences. Picture this: vibrant venues where unforgettable moments happen, from chic NA bottle shops to electrifying recovery game nights with the Seahawks or Mariners. Our community is shaking up social norms and turning wellness-focused lifestyles into the new trend.
Whether you’re a Seattle native, just passing through, or somewhere in between, everyone’s welcome to raise their glass—without the booze. Discover why Seattle’s sober scene is as refreshing as a sunrise over the Puget Sound. Trust us, you’re in for an amazing time!
Got an event, product, restaurant, experience, or story rooted in the Emerald City? We’re all ears! Drop us a line at thesobercurator@gmail.com or slide into our DMs on social media.
SOBERSCRIBE NOW!
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.
