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 on The Sober Curator, Alysse sits down with rising pop powerhouse Ella Collier—singer, songwriter, producer, and sober Gen Z glitter bomb of honesty. From Atlanta rap influences to emotional sobriety, heartbreak breakthroughs, and the pop-star fantasy she both lives and parodies, Ella shares how sobriety amplifies—not restricts—her creativity. They talk anxiety, artistry, community, Muppet Recovery memes (yes, really), bedazzling disasters, and the real-life glow-up that happens when you ditch alcohol and reclaim your energy.
This episode is hilarious, heartfelt, hyperpop-coded, and filled with quotable moments that prove—once again—sobriety is the start of a way better party.
Takeaways:
Emotional sobriety changed Ella’s creative process. She channels heartbreak, internal tension, and joy directly into her lyrics and content with radical honesty.
Sobriety = glow-up. Better skin, more money, more libido, more energy. Ella calls it “the ultimate anti-aging hack.”
Pop-star fantasy meets real life. Ella loves the glam—but also pulls back the curtain on crying between takes, breakups, and imperfect reality.
Connection is part of the work. She hosts Zoom sessions with fans for each new release to build authentic community.
Creativity thrives in sobriety. Both Alysse and Ella bond over being ”painfully self-aware,” driven, and joyfully obsessive about their creative platforms.
Recovery memes are culture. Muppet Recovery = required viewing. Ella immediately writes it down.
Key Timestamps:
00:00:24 — Ella opens up about anxiety, “addiction to problems,” and survival-mode energy from childhood
00:01:53 — Alysse introduces Ella’s music career: Love Island, NBA2K, X Games, and Spotify’s SALT playlist
00:10–00:20 — Sobriety, self-expression & Ella’s relationship to emotional growth
00:29:00 — Social awkwardness in sobriety + finding community anywhere you go
00:38:00 — Bedazzled books, Barbie mishaps & the joy of crafting sober art
00:41:00 — Pop-star fantasy vs. real life: humor, heartbreak & honesty online
00:49:00 — Ella’s single-release strategy & the “I Don’t Do Drugs” moment
Resources & Links:
Ella Collier Music — https://ellacolliermusic.com
Instagram: @ellacollier
Spotify: Ella Collier
TikTok: @ellacollier
Muppet Recovery article: https://thesobercurator.com/nostalgia-memes-and-sobriety-how-muppet-recovery-on-instagram-became-a-beloved-gem/
–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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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.
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.
