Best Sober Curious Movement Podcasts (2025)

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289: The Sober Curious Movement: Embracing an Alcohol-Free Lifestyle – Amanda Kuda 38:26

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6d ago38:26

38:26

Unbottled Potential: From Sober Curious to Sober Serious As the sober curious movement gains traction, more people are reevaluating their relationship with alcohol and changing their habits. Challenging societal myths around alcohol’s role in relaxation, celebration and socializing can result in mindset shifts to begin exploring an alcohol-free lif…

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Drinking the Night Before a Big Meeting: Smart or Risky? 9:17

1d ago9:17

9:17

That one glass of wine the night before your big meeting might feel like a stress reliever… but your brain might not agree by morning. In this episode, Mike Hardenbrook breaks down what alcohol really does to your sleep, focus, and confidence before a big day: Why even light drinking disrupts REM sleep and mental clarity How alcohol affects your me…

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🚀EP 102 - If I Fail, I Fail: Melissa McGovern on Embracing Fear and Recovery 47:13

1d ago47:13

47:13

In this episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Mankey speaks with Melissa McGovern, a certified sobriety coach and the host of the Sober New Yorker podcast. Melissa opens up about her lifelong battle with alcohol, beginning with her early drinking experiences in Wisconsin, through her struggles during the pandemic, and the series of personal…

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EP09 – Guest Episode: Victoria Higgins – A Journey from Pharmaceutical Leadership to Coaching, Alcohol-Free Living & Empowering Women in Science 1:16:12

4d ago1:16:12

1:16:12

In this powerful episode of Clean Break Chats, we welcome Victoria Higgins, a full-time coach and former senior leader in the pharmaceutical industry. After 30 years in science, Victoria took a bold step to leave behind the world of corporate pressure to pursue her true calling, coaching. With a rich background in mentoring, Victoria shares how she…

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EP 99 Hiking in East Bhutan, the world's worst beaches & the rise and rise of wellness tourism 39:36

7d ago39:36

39:36

Meet the singing teacher who founded a hiking company in Bhutan. Keen hiker Karen Haranis, of Rare Air Himalayan Travel, shares her favourite hikes, through the territory of Bengal tigers and red pandas, from the high mountain passes and lush rhododendron forests of this tiny mountain kingdom. Together with her guides Tashi and Namgyel, they scout …

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Drinking and Dating in Your 30s? Listen to This! 9:03

8d ago9:03

9:03

Dating in your 30s is supposed to be wiser, more grounded — but somehow, it still revolves around drinks. From wine-fueled first dates to “liquid courage” before awkward small talk, alcohol is the unofficial plus-one nobody asked for. In this episode, Mike Hardenbrook unpacks the hidden ways alcohol messes with your dating life — from how it change…

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🌟EP 101 - From Trauma to Triumph: Jay Barnard’s Story 1:03:31

8d ago1:03:31

1:03:31

In this compelling episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Mankey invites motivational speaker and CEO Jay Barnard to share his transformative journey from addiction and trauma to recovery and empowerment. Jay details his struggle with addiction, stemming from deep-seated trauma, and his multiple battles with suicidal thoughts—even years into…

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Ep.161 Losing Everything to Find Yourself: Breaking Free from Trauma & Overwhelm 37:37

8d ago37:37

37:37

When life knocks the wind out of you, how do you find your way back to yourself? In this episode of Asking for a Friend, we sit down with Cristina Simmons—a mother, occupational therapist, Faster Way coach, and now author of Eat Your Feelings. Her journey reads like a survival manual for the modern woman: deep grief, childhood trauma, infidelity, c…

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EP08 - The Opposite of Addiction Isn't Sobriety: It's Connection 55:48

11d ago55:48

55:48

In Episode 08 of Clean Break Chats, Andy and Rich sit down to unpack one of the most overlooked truths in the alcohol-free journey: 👉 The opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety: it’s connection. Fresh from a powerful weekend together in Leeds, the conversation flows from laughter to deep reflection as they explore how isolation fuels addiction and ho…

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EP 100: Breaking the Cycle 💥 Meghan Melin’s Recovery Story 58:12

13d ago58:12

58:12

In this Episode of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Meghan Melin—recovery advocate, mother, and creator of the Sober Strong YouTube channel—for a deeply honest and uplifting conversation about addiction, healing, and breaking generational patterns. Meghan opens up about her struggles with alcohol and the emotional unraveling…

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How Alcohol Changes Your Skin, Hair, and Nails 9:44

13d ago9:44

9:44

From stubborn breakouts to thinning hair and brittle nails, alcohol might be doing more to your appearance than you think — and not in a good way. In this episode, Mike Hardenbrook breaks down how drinking impacts your outer glow and what really happens when you cut back: Why alcohol dehydrates your skin and speeds up aging The surprising link betw…

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EP 98 Wellness in the Maldives; to tip or not to tip & best ways to claim your frequent flyer points 37:21

14d ago37:21

37:21

“These dolphins surrounded me and I was hovering above the sand and they were playing with me and I swam up with them and thought I would die for them to be safe, it was like my heart was cracked open and I came up thinking how can I be more impactful in the ocean space,” says freediving champion turned conservationist Hanli Prinsloo. It was this e…

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The Drinking Persona vs. The Real You 8:07

15d ago8:07

8:07

Ever feel like a different person after a few drinks? You’re not imagining it—and you’re definitely not alone. In this episode, Mike Hardenbrook explores the psychology and neuroscience behind the “drinking persona”—why it shows up, how it shapes your behavior, and what it reveals about the real you underneath. We’ll cover: What alcohol myopia is (…

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Ep.160 Midlife Unfiltered: The Real Slim Sherri Is Saying What We’re All Thinking 57:36

15d ago57:36

57:36

What if the real glow-up in midlife has nothing to do with wrinkle creams—and everything to do with finally showing up unapologetically as yourself? Meet Sherri Dindal, better known as The Real Slim Sherri—the blue-haired, tattooed, profanity-positive powerhouse who's become a viral voice for women over 40. With over 5 million followers, Sherri’s r…

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EP07 – Guest Episode : Adam Mayhew - A Rich Mix of Stoicism, Stillness, Alcohol-Free Transformation, Parenting & Purpose 58:14

18d ago58:14

58:14

This week on Clean Break Chats, we sit down with Adam Mayhew — co-founder of A-Game Consultancy and a man who embodies calm, courage, and clarity. Adam shares how he moved from the high-stress world of tech leadership and heavy weekend drinking into a life grounded in stoicism, stillness, and deep self-awareness. What began as curiosity became tran…

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🚫Ep99: Austin Karr on Ditching Alcohol to Find Joy 56:11

20d ago56:11

56:11

In Episode 89 of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes welcomes sobriety and happiness coach Austin Karr, whose journey from high-functioning social drinker to powerful recovery advocate is nothing short of transformational. Austin opens up about how a decade of heavy drinking—disguised as “normal” in social and professional circles—gradually u…

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The Hidden Link Between PMS, Hormones, and Alcohol 8:04

20d ago8:04

8:04

Ever wonder why your PMS symptoms feel worse after a few drinks — or why that glass of wine hits different before your period? In this episode, Mike Hardenbrook breaks down the surprising ways alcohol messes with your hormones, from intensifying PMS to disrupting estrogen balance and making stress feel even worse. You’ll learn: How alcohol impacts …

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EP 97 On safari in southern Africa; what's new on Australia's ski slopes & find your travel tribe 38:14

21d ago38:14

38:14

"Southern Africa is very hard to describe; for many people, you get bitten by something, or you breathe something in, and you become hooked," says Australian author Tony Park. Speaking to us from his home just north of Kruger National Park in South Africa, Tony shares his vast experience about going on safari in southern and east Africa. From the K…

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288: Underhydration & Health: From Fitness to Chronic Diseases – Dr. Stavros Kavouras 1:06:56

21d ago1:06:56

1:06:56

Beyond Thirst: The Crucial Role of Hydration on Health & Performance The connection between hydration and health is a relatively new and still under-researched area of science. However, emerging evidence suggests that staying well-hydrated plays a far more significant role in our health than most people realize. While it's widely known that adequat…

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Why You Crave Booze When You’re Stressed 8:43

22d ago8:43

8:43

Ever feel like stress sends you straight to the fridge for a drink? You’re not alone — and it’s not about willpower. It’s brain wiring. In this episode, Mike Hardenbrook unpacks the real science behind why stress makes us crave alcohol — and how to break the cycle without going full monk mode. You’ll learn: What cortisol and GABA have to do with st…

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Ep.159 Why She Gave Up Wine—and Gained a Global Movement - Sober Is the New Cool 38:46

22d ago38:46

38:46

What If Sober Was the New Cool? Breaking the Wine Culture Narrative with Kim Bellas This episode of Asking for a Friend is sponsored by Better Help. https://betterhelp.com/askingforafriend Is wine really the answer to midlife stress—or have we just been sold that story? In this episode of Asking for a Friend, I sit down with Kim Bellas, founder of …

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The Blood Sugar Rollercoaster You Didn’t See Coming 9:52

23d ago9:52

9:52

Ever feel shaky, anxious, or wiped out after just one or two drinks? That’s not random — it’s your blood sugar taking a wild ride. In this episode, Mike Hardenbrook breaks down the hidden link between alcohol and blood sugar chaos, including: • Why even moderate drinking can cause spikes, crashes, and cravings • How blood sugar swings affect mood, …

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EP06 -The Power of Showing Up (Even When You Don’t Feel Like It) 1:11:35

25d ago1:11:35

1:11:35

In this honest and wide-ranging episode, Andy and Rich dive deep into the mental game of running, the importance of showing up (even when it’s tough), and the connection between running, self-worth, and identity. They explore how running helps build resilience, how to avoid putting all your eggs in one basket, and why our beliefs shape everything w…

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Can You Drink and Still Be “Healthy”? 8:09

26d ago8:09

8:09

Can you really drink and still be “healthy”? Or is that just what wellness culture wants you to believe? In this episode, Mike Hardenbrook unpacks the science and nuance behind alcohol’s place in a healthy lifestyle, including: What alcohol actually does to your brain, sleep, hormones, and metabolism Why “moderation” isn’t always as safe or harmles…

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🙏EP 98: Jim McKinley’s Surrender to Sobriety 51:17

27d ago51:17

51:17

In Episode 98 of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with Jim McKinley, a former Army officer, high-level corporate executive, and now a passionate writer and spiritual guide. Jim opens up about his deeply personal journey through alcoholism—how a life filled with external success masked internal turmoil, and how surrender became th…

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The Truth About “Flush” Reactions to Alcohol 9:29

27d ago9:29

9:29

Ever wonder why your face turns red after just one drink? That post-sip glow isn’t just awkward — it’s a sign your body processes alcohol differently. In this episode, Mike Hardenbrook breaks down the truth about alcohol flush reactions, including: What causes your skin to flush and heart to race after drinking Why this reaction is linked to geneti…

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EP 96 Best things to do in Tunisia; travel vaccinations & Italy's top cultural experiences 31:45

28d ago31:45

31:45

On the fringe of the Sahara, at the birthplace of Star Wars, the little Northern African country of Tunisia's drawcards are its medinas and souqs, its Roman ruins and Mediterranean seaside resorts. Stay in desert camps or in cave hotels carved into the mountains; you'll find spicy harissa, dramatic doors and ornate tiles everywhere. "What's not to …

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Why Alcohol Affects Men and Women So Differently 9:06

28d ago9:06

9:06

Why does alcohol hit some people harder than others — even when they drink the same amount? The answer isn’t just “tolerance” — it’s biology. In this episode, Mike Hardenbrook breaks down the science of how alcohol affects men and women differently, including: How body composition and enzyme levels change alcohol absorption The role of hormones in …

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74. Feeling Puffy, Inflamed, and Stuck with Your Weight? Sharing My Honest Experience Microdosing a GLP-1 58:36

28d ago58:36

58:36

Today’s episode is a vulnerable one, and honestly…not something I ever thought I would be sharing: my personal journey with microdosing a GLP-1 peptide. This wasn’t about chasing a shortcut or “cheating”, but about giving my body the support it needed to respond again! I’m not saying you should do this, because I know it’s not for everyone. But…I’m…

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Can Your Liver Bounce Back? 8:58

29d ago8:58

8:58

Your liver does a lot — from filtering toxins to keeping your body balanced — but how much damage does drinking really do? And more importantly, can it recover? In this episode, Mike Hardenbrook breaks down the science of liver health, including: What alcohol actually does to your liver over time Which kinds of damage are reversible (and which aren…

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Ep.158 The Truth About Dying: What Hospice Nurse Julie Wants Every Family to Know 53:38

29d ago53:38

53:38

How Understanding Death Can Help You Live More Fully — with Hospice Nurse Julie This episode of Asking for a Friend is sponsored by Better Help. https://betterhelp.com/askingforafriend What if facing the realities of death could actually help you live with more intention, gratitude, and peace—right now? In this powerful episode of Asking for a Frie…

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The Internet Is Your New Sober Buddy 10:42

1M ago10:42

10:42

Trying to drink less, but don’t vibe with traditional programs? You’re not alone — and you’re definitely not without support. From Reddit threads to TikTok comments, online communities are redefining what it means to change your relationship with alcohol. These digital spaces are honest, judgment-free, and full of people just like you — figuring it…

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E05 - The Courage to Feel: Grief, Friendship & the Alcohol-Free Gift 27:31

1M ago27:31

27:31

In this deeply moving and reflective episode, Andy and Rich open up about navigating grief, connection, and the often-overlooked emotional depth of an alcohol-free lifestyle. Andy shares the sudden loss of a close friend in Spain - a man who walked with him through his entire alcohol-free journey. Through heartfelt conversation, they explore themes…

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How Companies Are Adapting to Changing Preferences 7:42

1M ago7:42

7:42

Not drinking used to feel like an awkward conversation. Now? It’s a billion-dollar industry. From zero-proof bars to functional drinks packed with wellness benefits, the sober-curious movement is changing everything — and businesses are scrambling to keep up. In this episode, Mike Hardenbrook breaks down the rise of the “sober economy,” including: …

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🔁 Ep 97: Rewiring Addiction Recovery w/ George Haymaker 52:46

1M ago52:46

52:46

In Episode 97 of The Begin Again Podcast, host Gary Menkes sits down with George Haymaker, a neuroeducator, coach, and recovered addict, for a deeply insightful conversation about addiction, healing, and the power of rewiring the brain. George opens up about his own struggle with alcoholism and addiction—what began as casual drinking in college spi…

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Social Media's Role in Promoting Sober Lifestyles 10:33

1M ago10:33

10:33

From colorful mocktails to sober glow-up stories, social media is rewriting the rules around alcohol — and making mindful drinking (or skipping it altogether) more normal than ever. In this episode, Mike Hardenbrook breaks down how platforms like Instagram and YouTube are helping people explore a life with less alcohol: The rise of “sober-curious” …

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EP 95 A river cruise through Laos on the Boheme; the world's most ravishing runway & set-jetting travel; inspo from the TV and movies 36:45

1M ago36:45

36:45

"The best way to see the Mekong is slowly," says travel journalist Michael Turtle. He takes us on a cruise down the river in Laos on board the beautiful new boat Boheme. With only 13 cabins, it runs between the royal city of Luang Prabang and the capital, Vientiane, connecting you to the lifeblood of the country, all while exploring Laos' cuisine a…

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Alcohol's Impact on Daily Mood and Productivity 8:15

1M ago8:15

8:15

Even one or two drinks — the kind you barely think about — can quietly mess with your next day. From lost motivation to emotional ups and downs, alcohol has a way of showing up long after the buzz wears off. In this episode, Mike Hardenbrook breaks down what alcohol really does to your focus, energy, and emotional stability — even if you’re drinkin…

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287: Prebiotics & Digestive Health: Benefits, Claims & Low FODMAP Tips – Hannah Ackermann 48:00

1M ago48:00

48:00

Despite the growing body of research, we are still in the early stages of understanding the gut microbiome. Consumer interest in biotics is growing and this trend is driving more research into pre, pro, post and synbiotics and their potential health benefits. This episode focuses on prebiotics, which are defined as “a substrate that is selectively …

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73. Is Hidden Mold Making You Sick? Mold Remediation Mistakes + The Right Way To Investigate Mold with Brian Karr 1:05:54

1M ago1:05:54

1:05:54

If you’ve ever wondered whether your home environment could be sabotaging your health, today’s episode is for YOU. I’m joined by nationally recognized mold investigator, Brian Karr, co-founder of We Inspect and The Dust Test, who shares jaw-dropping insights on all things mold. Brian didn’t set out to become a mold expert, but he did have his own l…

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Hangover or Hangxiety? 8:35

1M ago8:35

8:35

You wake up feeling foggy, your heart’s racing, and there’s a low-key sense of dread… even though you didn’t do anything wrong. That’s not just a hangover — that’s hangxiety. In this episode, Mike Hardenbrook breaks down the science behind why alcohol can make you feel emotionally off the next day, even after just a few drinks: How alcohol messes w…

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Ep.157 Stop Shrinking, Start Leading: The Midlife Wellness Wake-Up Call 47:07

1M ago47:07

47:07

Feeling like you’re doing everything right—but still not feeling like yourself? This episode of Asking for a Friend is sponsored by Better Help - https://betterhelp.com/askingforafriend In this powerful episode of Asking for a Friend, I’m joined by Courtney Townley—health coach, creator of the Grace & Grit podcast, and a fierce advocate for midlife…

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Breaking the Cycle: Alcohol and Emotional Resilience 10:16

1M ago10:16

10:16

Do you ever find yourself reaching for a drink after a tough day, hoping to unwind—but somehow feeling even more drained the next morning? You’re not alone. In this episode, Mike Hardenbrook breaks down the surprising link between alcohol and emotional resilience—and what’s really happening in your brain and body when you rely on a drink to cope wi…

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E04 – Guest Episode: Adam Smith, The A Game Approach to Stoicism & Self-Awareness 56:28

1M ago56:28

56:28

In this powerful guest episode of Clean Break Chats, Rich Casement and Andy Delderfield are joined by coach, speaker, and mindset expert Adam Smith—a key figure in Rich’s alcohol-free journey and personal growth. Together, they dive into the transformative impact of stoic philosophy, habit change, and living alcohol-free. Adam shares his raw insigh…