From plant-based vapes to Depeche Mode’s decades-long sobriety, The Sober Curator’s latest episode dishes out the top stories, events, and celebrities redefining recovery with wit, style, and plenty of zero-proof bubbles.
The Rise of Plant-Based Vapes: More Placebo than Puff Daddy?
This week, The Sober Curator crew, Alysse Bryson and Tamar Routly, dive straight into the world of Ripple Vapes—plant-based, buzz-free alternatives claiming to offer all the spa-like relaxation with none of the substance-based consequences. They describe these vapes as “spa day in your mouth,” but with “zero actual effects, like vibes only. No buzz.” It’s a gentle reminder that not every wellness trend packs a punch in recovery, nor does it need to.
Sober Celebs & the “SmartLess” Effect
Ever found yourself secretly sober-stalking celebrities? You’re not alone! The hosts highlight the podcast “SmartLess,” praising its candid conversations about sobriety as “your new guilty pleasure.” From Jason Bateman to Will Arnett, these episodes feature emotional breakthroughs and the kind of open dialogue that the sober community craves. Think podcast potluck but with “emotional breakthroughs instead of crusty casseroles.” If you’re seeking inspiration or relatable stories, this star-studded roundup is where vulnerability meets validation.
Depeche Mode’s Sober Encore: Goth Never Dies, It Detoxes
Depeche Mode fans (old and new) can’t get enough of focusing on frontman Dave Gahan’s 28-year sobriety streak. The episode’s hosts cheekily note that Gahan’s sober run is “longer than most TikTokers have been alive”—a true testament to long-term recovery. Gahan proves that goth style and sobriety aren’t mutually exclusive; eyeliner, synths, and Pellegrino coexist in glamorous harmony. As they put it: “Goth never dies. It just detoxes.”
The Power of Boundaries: “Let Them” Is the New Nope
Another must-read featured on this week’s podcast is about boundaries: “If your boundaries are looser than your ex’s definition of casual, this article’s your new bible.” The episode highlights the empowering principle of letting people live their chaos while you maintain your recovery and peace. The mantra “Not my monkeys, not my circus” is transformed into a rallying cry for anyone in the sober community learning to prioritize their well-being over controlling what’s out of their hands.
Soberness Story Hour: Broadway Meets Burn Book, Without the Hangover
The spotlight on New York City’s Soberness Story Hour is a refreshing celebration of collective healing: “Think Broadway meets Burn Book, but make it healing.” This event is described as group healing complete with stage lights—no shame, no expensive cocktails to cry into, just real stories and real connections. It’s proof that recovery isn’t just something you do quietly in the background; it can be showcased, celebrated, and shared.
Sober Sip Spotlight: Sir Elton John
Take a bow for this week’s Sober Sip Spotlight celebrity: Sir Elton John. The hosts are quick to remind us that Elton is “38 years sober and still serving rhinestone realness.” From turbulent ‘80s chaos to knighthood and Barbie doll immortality, Elton John epitomizes recovery with brilliance and flair. His story proves that a life in recovery can be both glamorous and deeply authentic.
Sober Events Round Up: From Supper Clubs to Paint Nights
The episode ends with a whirlwind tour of upcoming sober events—from a women’s supper club in San Diego to an art-filled clean and sober Paint & Sip in Sonoma, and even a trauma-informed workshop for kids in Bellevue. These events prove that sober living is anything but boring, offering everything from creativity and connection to laughter and learning—all without a drop of booze.
- Sober Supper Club – San Diego, CA – June 20th
- Free Bellevue Children’s Program Two-Day Workshop – Hazelden Betty Ford – Seattle metro area – June 21st + 22nd
- Clean and Sober Paint and Sip – Sonoma, CA – 6/21
- Denver Open Art Studio: Art, Community, and Recovery – Denver, CO – June 22d
- Raising the Bar: Women Changemakers in Non-Alcoholic Innovation – Minneapolis, MN – June 25th
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 fiery debut of Hot Takes, Alysse Bryson, Tamar Routly (AKA T-Boog), and new co-host Lane Kennedy unpack SNL’s controversial “Non-Non-Alcoholic Beer” sketch. Was it harmless satire or tone-deaf comedy at the expense of sober folks? The trio digs into stigma, humor, and timing — with personal stories, laughter, and a few very real emotions along the way.
Takeaways:
Why the SNL sketch sparked such mixed reactions in sober circles.
The fine line between dark humor and damaging stereotypes.
How comedy can both start conversations and reinforce stigma.
The reality of “non-alcoholic” drinking for those in recovery.
- Why open dialogue matters more than outrage.
Key Timestamps:
[00:02:00] The SNL sketch setup — and why it hit a nerve.
[00:05:00] Humor vs. harm: where’s the line?
[00:10:00] The non-alcoholic beer debate — harmless or high-risk?
[00:14:00] Cultural obsession with alcohol as identity.
- [00:18:00] What we wish SNL had done differently.
Notable Links:
Watch the original SNL “Non-Non-Alcoholic Beer” sketch on YouTube.
Read Alysse’s full editorial on The Sober Curator.
CTA:
Join the conversation: Was SNL’s take funny or foul? Comment on Instagram @thesobercurator or tag us with your own #HotTake.
Connect with Us:
Website: www.thesobercurator.com
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Sobriety isn’t the end of the party—it’s just the start of a better one.
SOBER EVENTS at The Sober Curator keeps you in the loop on alcohol-free gatherings happening nationwide. From sober comedy shows and non-alcoholic tastings to festivals, retreats, and sporting events, we highlight vibrant, community-driven experiences from coast to coast. Our goal? To keep you entertained, inspired, and connected—no matter where you live. Need more sober time than one event? We’ve got your back with our Sober Retreat Calendar.
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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.
