Breaking news from the land of lime wedges and mocktails—it’s TJI: serving the headlines straight up, no chaser.
Coming up: Depeche Mode detox diaries, a teen songwriter who makes Billie Eilish look like a Girl Scout, and enough sassy one-liners to get you through your next awkward family barbecue.
Brought to you by our fake sponsor of the week: Coffee & Resentments Co. — Brewing Bold Flavor since Step 4.
We’re serving up headlines, hot takes, and the energy of someone who’s already had three oat milk lattes.
???? Top 5 Buzz-Free Headlines
1. Dave Gahan of Depeche Mode’s Inspiring Journey to Sobriety Since 1996 – Sober Celebs
Nearly three decades sober, Depeche Mode frontman Dave Gahan has turned recovery into his ultimate encore. After surviving overdoses and chaos fit for a rock ‘n’ roll cautionary tale, Gahan is proof that sobriety is a stage worth staying on.
2. A Breath of Relief or a Puff of Disappointment? The Füm Essential Oil Aromatherapy Inhaler – #ADDTOCART Product Reviews
No nicotine, no chemicals—just peppermint, lavender, and vibes. Some people say it’s calming; others think it’s basically sniffing a spa gift shop. Either way, it keeps your hands busy without balancing a Diet Coke and lime.
3. Haunting and Impactful Lyrics from Jonas Conner, Only 15 Years Old – Music
Meet Jonas Conner, a 15-year-old with lyrics that read like they’ve been through three divorces and a custody battle. Emotional depth at that age? Let’s just say Billie Eilish better guard her diary.
4. A Curated List of 33 Sober Guests on Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard – Podcasts
Think of it as the Marvel Cinematic Universe of recovery storytelling—minus the capes, plus all the therapy receipts. Thirty-three inspiring stories, zero hangovers.
5. 24 Sassy One-Liners to Use at Parties When You’re Privately Sober – Sober Unbuzzed Feed
Tired of answering why you’re not drinking? From “I’m allergic to DUIs” to “Because I already know what I’ll regret tomorrow,” these comebacks are guaranteed to help you exit conversations faster than Chad exits child support court.
???? Sober Sip Spotlight – Celebrity of the Week
Elle Macpherson has been living alcohol-free since 2003, celebrating over 20 years of sobriety as a turning point in her life. The supermodel calls sobriety her “springboard” into wellness, authenticity, and a radiant, hydrated goddess energy that no champagne flute could deliver. From rehab to AA, Macpherson embraced discipline, persistence, and self-discovery—emerging with a glow that’s proof recovery is the ultimate supermodel hack.
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.
📅 Submit a Sober Event: NA tastings, sober socials, recovery conferences, fitness meetups, alcohol-free festivals, virtual gatherings, and events of all kinds. Anything that gives our readers something worth showing up for. Submit your event →
???? Top 5 Sober Events
- Sip & Paint Park Slope – NYC, Tuesday, July 19
Because everyone’s a Picasso after a sparkling water. - The Future of Alternative Beverages – Minneapolis/St. Paul, Thursday, August 21
Think Shark Tank, but for kombucha. Contributor Ashley Sunderland will be there. - Kickback & Kayak – Pittsburgh, Saturday, August 23
Because nothing says recovery like trying not to flip a kayak while yelling “YOLO.” - A Summer Charmed Kinda Life | DIY Charm Bracelets – Tacoma, Saturday, August 23
Founder Alysse Bryson will be there handing out merch and pretending she knows how to use pliers. - Happier Hour Zero Alcohol Launch – Omaha, Thursday, August 28
Finally, a happy hour where the only blackout is from bad lighting.
???? Want more sober fun? Check out our full Events + Retreats Calendar packed with happenings across the country and around the world.
???? Closing Words
This is your sober scoop from TJI—kind of like E! News, but with more kombucha. Remember: sobriety isn’t boring—it’s badass. Keep it real, keep it fun, and keep it sober.
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.
Why do so many films glorify binge drinking?
In this episode, Alysse Bryson and Tamar Routly dive into how media impacts our perceptions of alcohol, aided by insights from Professor Ted Mandell. They explore how movies and TV shows depict alcohol consumption, often glamorizing binge drinking while ignoring the dangers. With a mix of nostalgia, frustration, and hope, the discussion uncovers the powerful but sometimes harmful narratives ingrained in our culture.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Films often portray binge drinking as glamorous and without consequence.
Media can influence and normalize unhealthy drinking habits.
Cultural and media narratives surrounding alcohol are often unrealistic.
Season 2 Merch
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SC Resources & Links:
–Alcohol + Substance Use Disorder Guide
–Recovery Nonprofit Resource Guide
–LBGTQ+ Recovery Resource Guide
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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 + producer 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 →
All the cool kids go to rehab…
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.
