Podcasts have become a cornerstone of the sober community, offering a unique blend of real-life stories, actionable insights, and a sense of true connection that can be hard to find elsewhere. Episode 16 of the Sober Curator Podcast, titled “Voices of Sobriety: Podcast Hosts Share Real Stories” brings together hosts Alysse Bryson, Amy Liz Harrison, Tamar Routly, Bill Lindala, and Megan Swan for a lively roundtable that dives deep into what sets great recovery podcasts apart—and why they mean so much.
What Makes Sober + Recovery Podcasts Stand Out?
The group’s experiences—both as hosts and devoted listeners—highlight that impact goes beyond simply sharing “war stories” from addiction’s past. As Tamar Routly puts it, a podcast must focus on what comes after getting sober. She craves stories that explore how sobriety has transformed lives, fueled new passions, and unlocked unexpected adventures.
For Amy Liz Harrison, authenticity is key. She wants to hear about the realities of living sober one day at a time, including ongoing struggles, growth, and the kind of honest admissions that make recovery real and relatable. Bill Lindala agrees, emphasizing that conversational, unscripted formats foster genuine connection—and that listeners want more than just narratives of despair; they’re looking for hope, humor, and practical tools for sustainable change.
Megan Swan echoes these sentiments, underlining her interest in “growth mindset” content. She seeks takeaways that can be acted on immediately—whether it’s a journaling prompt, a new wellness tip, or simply renewed inspiration.
Favorite Episodes and Unforgettable Moments
Every podcaster has those episodes that stick with them. For Tamar, episodes exploring purpose and joy post-sobriety fuel her passion, reinforcing the idea that people in recovery are capable of incredible things.
Amy’s standout episode is an interview she conducted with Larinda Boyer. The meaningful conversation about coming out, faith deconstruction, and forging deep connections—despite being strangers—proves just how powerful the podcast medium can be in cultivating empathy and understanding.
Bill’s most cherished recording is especially heartfelt: an episode recorded just days after his mother’s death. For Bill, bringing listeners inside such a vulnerable moment highlighted the importance of authenticity and the value of working through grief—not just in private, but out loud and in community. As he puts it, “We allowed everyone else into our lives, to listen to a real conversation about how two men deal with the loss of their mom.”
For Megan, standout conversations often involve guests she once considered “out of reach”—like Eda Tin, co-founder of the menstrual app Clue and the woman who coined the term “femtech.” These transformative dialogues, where mutual respect and shared humanity shine, often leave her feeling like she’s gained a new friend.
During a playful “Sober Shots” round, panelists reveal their preferences (Spotify reigns supreme!) and dream guests (from Brené Brown to Drew Barrymore), proving there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to a great podcast experience. The key takeaway? Whether you love true crime, personal growth, or comedian-hosted interviews, there’s a podcast out there for you.
Listen Now
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.
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
Connect with Us:
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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.
SOBER POP CULTURE at The Sober Curator is where mainstream trends meet the vibrant world of sobriety. We serve up a mix of movie, podcast, fashion, and book recommendations alongside alcohol-free cocktails, celebrity features, and pop culture buzz—all with a sober twist.
We’re here to shatter the “sobriety is boring” myth with a mash-up of 80s neon, 90s hip-hop edge, early 2000s bling, and today’s hottest trends. From celebrity shoutouts to red-carpet style inspo, this is where sober is as chic as it is fun. To the celebs using their platform for good—our Sober Pop Trucker hats are off to you!
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.
