Sober living isn’t just about leaving substances behind—it’s about discovering a new richness in life, embracing humor, connection, and even the messiness of true emotion. In episode 15 of the Sober Curator Podcast, hosts Alysse Bryson and Tamar Routly sit down with author and advocate Travis Sackett to explore what happens after we put the bottle down, how we heal from life’s painful curveballs, and why community matters more than ever.
Travis Sackett brings more than a decade of sobriety, a published memoir (“My Life with Karma”), and brutally honest insights into the conversation. His journey is marked by transformation, including moving from a very public, stigmatizing criminal case to becoming a harm reduction specialist, public speaker, and, most importantly, a present father and partner.
Travis stands out by his willingness to redefine how people see “addicts”—not as cautionary tales, but as people capable of profound change and advocacy. He speaks openly about how writing his story became an act of regaining his voice when the media and court system had taken it away.
When Loss Hits Hard: Grieving Our Four-Legged Family
A core theme in Travis’s story—and this episode—is the profound loss he felt when Karma, his beloved rescue dog and anchor throughout early recovery, passed away. Both Alysse and Travis share the deep, unique grief that comes with losing a pet, especially after experiencing the clarity and vulnerability sobriety brings.
Travis doesn’t shy away from describing his heartbreak and how critical it was to process this kind of pain without returning to old habits. As he puts it: “If you can feel that kind of pain, it shows you how much love you’re capable of giving and having—one can’t exist without the other.”
This raw honesty resonates with many listeners and highlights a key point: Recovery gives us a depth of feeling, both beautiful and hard, and learning to move through grief is a skill that should be honored rather than hidden.
Humor, Music, and the Joys of Sober Life
The episode isn’t all heavy, though. From hilarious stories about yard gnome mischief to recounting personal theme songs (think Dave Matthews Band, Celine Dion, and Chumbawamba’s “Tubthumping”), the hosts and Travis celebrate sober culture’s quirky and joyful sides.
These moments of levity aren’t just filler—they’re proof that sobriety doesn’t end fun. Whether sharing awkward fan-girl moments outside Dave Matthews’ house or swapping tattoo stories, humor becomes an essential coping skill and a testament to the richness of sober living.
Another central theme from this episode centers around the power of vulnerability, especially for men in recovery. Travis urges others, “Machismo kept me stuck. Vulnerability is a natural part of what we are… We need that connection to thrive.” His story is a clarion call to anyone (regardless of gender) who feels pressure to keep hard feelings to themselves, reminding us that true strength lies in connection and honesty, not self-reliance or isolation.
Building a Community—One Story at a Time
The hosts and Travis highlight the importance of sharing stories in recovery. Whether it’s through publishing a memoir, connecting over a shared love of dogs and tattoos, or just showing up for others in an online sober community, these moments of connection are how stigma is smashed and hope is seeded.
As Alysse puts it, “People reading other people’s stories, hearing other people’s stories, and feeling that connection—that is what binds this community together.”
Ready for more real talk and curated recovery magic? Check out new episodes and resources at The Sober Curator. And remember, as Alysse says with a wink, “We’re way more fun than your ex’s drunk texts.”
#QUITLIT BOOK REVIEW: My Life with Karma by Travis Sackett
Listen to Episode 15 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.
Can community make sobriety creative and fun?
In this episode, Alysse Bryson and Tamar Routly share the magic of The Sober Curator community. Discover how creativity thrives when sobriety becomes a lifestyle, with engaging stories from contributors who are transforming their sober journeys into inspiring art and connection.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The Sober Curator is a vibrant, creative community for sober living.
Finding a supportive community enriches and enlivens the sober lifestyle.
Contributors find joy and purpose through storytelling and collaboration.
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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.
Getting sober is one thing—but staying sober? That’s where the real adventure begins. The Sober Curator Podcast, hosted by Alysse Bryson and featuring the many voices of Sober Curator Contributors, proves that ditching booze doesn’t mean ditching fun, pop culture, or your social life.
Each episode serves up bold conversations, celeb interviews, zero-proof cocktail inspiration, and pop culture deep dives—all with laughs, honesty, and zero preachy vibes. Whether you’re sober or sober-curious, you’ll find insider tips, real-life stories, and endless reasons to love the alcohol-free life. Pull up a seat—this party’s just getting started!
Recovery is hard 24/7, 365 – Please know that 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. If your life or someone else’s is in imminent danger, please call 911. If you are in crisis and need immediate help, please call: 988.
