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
Hosted by Alysse Bryson & Tamar Routly, and produced by Podcast Impact Studio, The Sober Curator Podcast brings sober lifestyle, pop culture, & recovery to the mic. Alongside Alysse & Tamar, rotating global contributors join as co-hosts to explore zero-proof drinks, sober travel, quit lit, entertainment, & mental health. This is sober media with personality, perspective, & a glitter bomb of honesty. Sober-curious or living alcohol-free, we’ve got you! We’re not here to help you get sober. We’re here to help you live sober: and love it.
Season 1 was the proof of concept. Season 2 is the proof of life.
Alysse Bryson and Tamar Routly are back, and this season is everything the Sober Curator has always been — bold, irreverent, pop-culture-soaked, and built for the person who is done white-knuckling and ready to actually LIVE their sober life.In this first episode, Alysse and Tamar pull back the curtain on what's coming in Season 2: sober entrepreneurship, the Aura House debut, mindful binging (yes, that's a thing — and yes, it involves Euphoria), fresh merch, and the kind of guests who make you remember why you followed your gut and chose this life. They also get into the funemployment era. If you know, you know.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
– Season 2 goes deeper on the sober lifestyle — the living part, not just the getting-there part
– Mindful binging is real: consuming pop culture with intention and a zero-proof drink in hand
– Alysse's funemployment era is officially open for business — and it's giving main character energy
– New merch, new guests, and new reasons to love your sober life are all on the way
We've got MERCH for Season Two: https://shopthesobercurator.com/
This episode was also brought to you by Aura House, Save 10% by using code: TSC10 and #ADDTOCART using link: https://go.shopmy.us/p-64140200
SC RESOURCES & LINKS
– Meet the Contributors: thesobercurator.com/contributor-directory
– Alcohol + Substance Use Disorder Guide: thesobercurator.com/resources
– Recovery Nonprofit Resource Guide: thesobercurator.com/nonprofit-recovery-resources
– LGBTQ+ Recovery Resource Guide: thesobercurator.com/lgbtq-recovery-resources
CONNECT WITH US
– Website: www.thesobercurator.com
– Instagram: @thesobercurator
– Facebook: @The Sober Curator
– X: @thesobercurator
– YouTube: @thesobercurator
– Pinterest: @thesobercurator
RATE & REVIEW
If this episode made you laugh, cringe in the best way, or text a clip to your best sober friend — leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It takes 60 seconds and it genuinely helps more people find this show.
SEND FEEDBACK
Have a story, a guest recommendation, or just want to say hi? Email us at thesobercurator@gmail.com. We actually read every single one.
ABOUT THE SHOW
Sobriety isn't the end of the party — it's just the start of a better one. Hosted by Alysse Bryson (media executive, 20 years sober, sobriety's ultimate hype woman) and co-host Tamar Routly, 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 — you're in the right place. Subscribe now. Getting sober matters. Staying sober matters more.
The Sober Curator Podcast is a space for open, honest conversations about sobriety, recovery, and alcohol-free living. Some topics may be sensitive for certain listeners. This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. 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. 🎧 Submit a Podcast for Review: Recovery Podcastland coverage and reviews. Shows that earn their place in our audience’s queue. Submit your podcast →
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.
