In this episode of the Sober Curator Podcast, host Alysse Bryson gathers a dynamic group of curators to explore the spiritual side of sobriety. Listen in as Anne Marie Cribbin, Daniel G. Garza, Teresa Bergen, and Derek Castleman share their unique journeys with spirituality, how ancient philosophies intertwine with modern recovery practices, and the legacies they aim to leave behind. The conversation reveals the deeply personal yet universally relatable nature of faith and recovery, sure to inspire those on their sober path.
For Anne Marie Cribbin, sobriety was more than a personal choice; it was a necessity for spiritual preservation and growth. Her journey began with a shock upon encountering the pervasive cultural conditioning that intertwined alcohol with spiritual practices. This revelation acted as a turning point, inspiring her decision to embrace sobriety as a means to strengthen her spiritual connection, something she holds in high regard. Anne Marie describes this as a reclamation of self, a refusal to stand for the slow encroachment of alcohol on her creativity, emotions, and spirituality.
The Path of Introspection and Curiosity
The podcast reveals that sobriety isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey. Teresa Bergen, a long-time yoga practitioner and teacher, marries her spiritual practices with sobriety through introspection and curiosity. Her path illustrates the power of yoga philosophy, emphasizing practices like nonviolence and contentment to enhance one’s spiritual and sober life. Through a blend of spiritual reading and applying yoga’s ancient principles, Teresa provides an illuminating insight into how sobriety and spirituality feed into one another, enriching the overall life experience.
Derek Castleman introduces the listeners to the profound influence of Stoicism on his sobriety journey, highlighting its focus on self-control and temperance—qualities essential to recovery. Stoicism offers a philosophical approach that transcends religious boundaries, providing a framework for understanding life’s challenges and overlaying them with sobriety’s demands. Derek’s exploration into this ancient philosophy underscores the message that spirituality in sobriety is not confined to religious doctrine but can be an individual pursuit of self-understanding and universal connection.
A New Kind of Spirituality
For Daniel G. Garza, spirituality in sobriety manifests as a commitment sustained over years, a journey supported by faith and newfound practices. From a traditional Catholic upbringing to developing a unique spiritual practice, Daniel illustrates that sobriety opens avenues for introspective discovery and outward service. His role as a spiritual guide through weekly horoscopes serves as both a reflection of his spiritual journey and a means of giving back, illustrating that spirituality can be a living, breathing element of sobriety.
One poignant theme discussed in the podcast is the legacy of sobriety and how it molds one’s spiritual footprint in the world. As The Sober Curator team discussed, sobriety and spirituality forge a path of renewal and hope, encouraging individuals to ponder the long-term impact of their journey. This legacy is a reflection of personal growth and a gift to the broader community, an offering of kindness, understanding, and solidarity.
The Sober Curator Podcast underlines that sobriety is a profoundly transformative journey when enriched by spiritual reflection and diverse practices. Whether through awakening to new truths, embracing historical teachings, or expanding one’s spiritual practices, individuals find unique paths suited to their needs. At the heart of this exploration is a collective understanding that embracing sobriety is not just about abstinence but about unlocking one’s fullest potential and sharing that transformative power with the world.
Resources & Links
- Sober Horoscopes by Daniel G Garza
- Teresa Bergen’s Travel and Sobriety Blog
- Derek Castleman’s Book, “The Sober Stoic”
- Anne Marie Cribbin’s Thirsty for Wonder
- Meet the Contributors
- Alcohol + Substance Use Disorder Guide
- Recovery Nonprofit Resource Guide
- LBGTQ+ Recovery Resource Guide
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 week, Alysse sits down with cocktail queen, educator, and entrepreneur April Wachtel, founder & CEO of Cheeky Cocktails—the bold, minimalist, flavor-forward mixer brand changing how we drink (with or without booze). From 20 years behind the bar to launching a brand designed to make everyone feel included, April shares stories of creativity, visibility, Saved By the Bell aesthetics, brand-building in a sober-curious era, and that time she heroically saved an event from serving mojitos made with actual oil (yes, really) . Whether you love a zero-proof marg or just want better options at the bar, this convo is deliciously inspiring.
Takeaways:
Inclusion drives innovation. Cheeky was created after April repeatedly felt excluded in bar environments while not drinking—so she built mixers that work for everyone .
Cocktails = connection. For April, flavor, hospitality, and celebration matter more than alcohol content.
Constraints spark creativity. When COVID hit, she DIY’d her brand design in hours, then later refined it via agency work—scrappiness meets strategy.
Pop culture always shows up. Cheeky’s bright vibe? Think Saved by the Bell meets premium minimalism.
Taste everything first. Her wildest mishap? Discovering a kitchen had prepped oil instead of simple syrup at a major event—right before 400 guests were served. Hero status unlocked.
Key Timestamps:
[00:01:34] — Meet April Wachtel: founder, educator, and flavor-obsessed mixer magician
[00:04:27] — April’s entrepreneurial spark + early beverage industry days
[00:07:18] — Teaching 12,000+ students to craft balanced, beautiful drinks
[00:08:00] — Being sober/NA in bar culture + why inclusivity matters
[00:17:14] — The Cheeky brand aesthetic: color, culture, and DIY hustle
[00:22:00] — The 818 Tequila partnership + surprising professionalism
[00:27:08] — Cocktail catastrophes: the “oil mojito” close call
Resources & Links:
Cheeky Cocktails – https://cheekycocktails.co
Follow Cheeky on Instagram: @cheekycocktails
Alysse’s reference: BEATS WORKING podcast
Pop culture mentions: Saved by the Bell, Gucci “The Tiger” short film
–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
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-Pinterest: @thesobercurator
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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: Welcome to the ‘Spiritual Gangster’ wing of The Sober Curator, a haven for those on a sober journey with a twist of spiritual sass. Here, we invite you to plunge headfirst into a world of meditation, astrology, intentionality, philosophy, and spiritual reflection – all while keeping your feet (and sobriety) firmly on the ground.
Sober Say What?
GLOSSARY OF ADDICTION + RECOVERY TERMS: Welcome to The Sober Curator’s ultimate guide to the language of sobriety, recovery, and alcohol-free living—where words hold power, knowledge, and the keys to a vibrant, substance-free life. This comprehensive glossary shines a light on essential terms that offer wisdom, clarity, and connection for anyone navigating recovery.
From the first spark of curiosity to the joyful celebration of milestones, our glossary helps demystify the terminology of sobriety and recovery. Each definition is designed to empower, educate, and support you on your journey toward wellness, self-discovery, and lasting freedom.
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 you or someone you love is in immediate danger, call 911. If you are in crisis and need immediate help, call 988.
