Explore every episode of the podcast Sober Banter
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sobriety, Identity, and Rebuilding Life Beyond Alcohol with Heather Trumpfheller | 08 Feb 2026 | 00:57:52 | |
In this episode of Sober Banter, host Rachel sits down with Heather Trumpfheller, a tech startup professional and world traveler, for an honest conversation about modern sobriety, identity shifts, and reclaiming life without alcohol. Heather shares how quitting drinking led her to also walk away from busyness, a decade long career that no longer aligned with her values, and patterns rooted in anxiety, people pleasing, and burnout. The conversation explores early sobriety, grief and loss, dating and traveling alcohol free, resentment, stigma, and why community is essential in recovery.
Connect with Heather 📸 Instagram 💼 LinkedIn 📧 Email Stay Connected: Listen, Subscribe, and Share 🌐 Visit the Sober Banter Website Following the show or leaving a review helps more people find these conversations. Get new episodes, updates, and bonus content delivered straight to your inbox. Help us keep Sober Banter independent and listener supported. Explore AA as one possible recovery resource. 📩 Email us! podcast@soberbanter.com 📱 Follow Sober Banter on Social Media X: Disclaimer Sober Banter is not a medical or clinical podcast. We share lived experience, not professional advice. If you are navigating alcohol withdrawal, mental health concerns, or need additional support, please seek help from a qualified provider or trusted recovery resource. ★ Support this podcast ★ | |||
| Modern Sobriety & Parenting: Relapse, Labels, and AA Tradition 11 | Kristen Crocker | 29 Jan 2026 | 01:04:51 | |
In this episode, hosts Colin Casey and Rachel Casey sit down with writer and recovery advocate Kristen Crocker for an honest conversation about parenting, sobriety, and modern recovery. Together, they talk about quitting drinking, navigating sobriety while raising kids, and how stigma, labels, and recovery culture shape the way parents seek support.
Connect with Kristen Kristen writes Recoverettes, a Substack focused on normalizing recovery from alcoholism among strong, smart women. Her work explores motherhood, step-motherhood, staying sober through hard seasons, twelve-step recovery, neuroscience, and anything that actually works. Substack: https://recoverettes.substack.com 🎧 Listen & Subscribe to Sober Banter 💌 Join Our Email List 🤝 Support the Show 📚 Alcoholics Anonymous 📱 Follow Sober Banter Disclaimer Sober Banter is not a medical or clinical podcast. We share lived experience, not professional advice. If you are navigating alcohol withdrawal, mental health concerns, or need additional support, please seek help from a qualified provider or trusted recovery resource. ★ Support this podcast ★ | |||
| Danny Henriquez on Sobriety, Storytelling, and Podcasting | 03 Jun 2025 | 01:16:10 | |
What do you get when you mix a fresh perspective on the 12 steps, a sharp sense of humor, and some unexpected twists in recovery? You get Danny Henriquez. In this episode, we sit down with the host of The Hen Dog Half to talk about getting sober, showing up for sponsees, and how to survive weddings without a drink in hand. Danny brings the kind of insight that makes you laugh, nod, and think, “Okay... this guy gets it.” If you’re into honest recovery talk without the doom and gloom, this one’s for you. 🔍 Topics Covered in This Episode: To get into contact with Danny Henriquez P.S. Thanks for supporting independent recovery shows like ours. We’re a small but mighty and we’re so glad you’re here. Enjoyed this episode? Let’s stay connected! 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter Do you have questions or feedback or want to be a guest? Email rachel@soberbanter.com
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| 40 Years Sober: Tim Lineaweaver on Recovery, Trauma & Truth | 21 May 2025 | 00:46:01 | |
This week on Sober Banter, we’re joined by Tim Lineaweaver—a therapist, dad, and four decades sober. Tim takes us back to 1984, when he first got sober, and walks us through how recovery has evolved (and what’s stayed the same) over the past 40 years. From navigating trauma in sobriety to talking with your kids about alcoholism, this conversation is full of real-life wisdom, humor, and heart. We dive into early cravings, drinking dreams, and what it means to help others while still protecting your own peace. Whether you’re newly sober or years into the journey, Tim’s perspective will leave you feeling seen and supported. Want more from Tim?Follow his writing: wreckagetorecovery.substack.com Reach out directly: tnt410@aol.com Episode Highlights: 2:36 – Back to 1984: Getting sober 5:13 – Sobriety in the 80s & How Tim got sober 8:43 – Growing up in an alcoholic home 14:31 – Trauma and addiction 19:39 – Upcoming memoir & Earning a degree in sobriety 23:33 – What people misunderstand about trauma 26:09 – Never met someone who regretted getting sober 27:43 – What’s changed in recovery since the 80s 33:09 – The core message Tim wants people to hear 36:49 – Talking to kids about addiction 41:05 – Drinking dreams 43:53 – Tim’s call to sober publishers P.S. Thanks for supporting independent recovery shows like ours. We’re a small but mighty team (okay, it’s mostly just me editing at midnight), and we’re so glad you’re here. Enjoyed this episode? Let’s stay connected! 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter Do you have questions or feedback or want to be a guest email rachel@soberbanter.com
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| From Addiction to Advocacy: Sam Thomas on Living Sober and Recovery | 09 May 2025 | 00:52:36 | |
In this episode, Sam Thomas, a writer and campaigner from Brighton, UK, shares his journey of sobriety since November 2019. He discusses overcoming alcohol dependence, including withdrawal and hallucinations. Sam also talks about his unique therapy with exotic pets, which helped him rationalize his fears. He reflects on founding a charity for men with eating disorders and personal sacrifices. Sam candidly discusses the ongoing nature of recovery, self-reflection, and his aspirations for a memoir. This episode explores addiction, mental health, and recovery. Connect with Sam Thomas! Enjoyed this episode? Let’s stay connected! 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter
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| Bonus Banter: Quickfire Q&A | 01 May 2025 | 00:14:47 | |
In this episode of Sober Banter, hosts Rachel and Colin Casey test some new wireless mics and their audio quality and discuss various ’50-50’ questions that elicit strong opinions, including pineapple on pizza, pets in bed, and billionaires. They also touch on more serious topics like sober influencers and harm reduction. The episode concludes with reflections on staying grounded and victimhood in alcoholism. Tune in for humor, personal insights, and candid opinions. Enjoyed this episode? Let’s stay connected! 💌 Subscribe to Sober Banter so you never miss an episode. 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter Do you have questions or feedback or want to be a guest? Go to soberbanter.com/guests or email rachel@soberbanter.com
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| Addiction Speaks Globally: Neil Rutherford founder of Alcohol-Free Warrior | 26 Apr 2025 | 00:44:56 | |
Neil Rutherford, creator of Alcohol Free Warrior, joins Sober Banter for a candid, judgment-free conversation about the nuances of sobriety, breaking free from labels, and finding empowerment beyond alcohol. Whether you're sober-curious or long-term alcohol-free, Neil’s insights offer fresh perspectives to inspire your own journey. Connect with Neil Rutherford: Website: AlcoholFreeWarrior.com Enjoyed this episode? Let’s stay connected! 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter
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| Shame, Motherhood, and Staying Sober | Author Kellie Adams | 26 Mar 2025 | 00:44:00 | |
What if saying it out loud is the first step toward healing?
Kellie shares what it really looked like to drink through motherhood, hide intrusive thoughts, and normalize chaos for years before getting sober. She opens up about writing a memoir without filters and why bringing the mess forward is what allows the message to land.
This episode was originally released March 26, 2025 and has been remastered with improved audio. As we have grown, so has the show. Sometimes the old ones are the good ones. We just gave this one the sound it deserves.
If you are sober, sober curious, navigating motherhood in recovery, or carrying something you have never shared, this conversation will meet you where you are.
👤 About Kellie Adams Kellie Adams is the author of Shit I Do Sober, a memoir that blends humor and honesty to explore recovery, motherhood, identity, and long term growth without pretending sobriety is polished or perfect. 🌐 Website: shitidosober.com Click here to watch a video of this episode. Website: https://soberbanter.com Follow Sober Banter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soberbanterpod
💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter ★ Support this podcast ★ | |||
| Exploring Sobriety: Outdoor Adventures (ft. Nick Pearson of Sober Outdoors) | 11 Mar 2025 | 00:44:52 | |
Can hitting the trails help you stay on the path to recovery? In this inspiring episode, Rachel and Colin chat with Nick Pearson, founder of Sober Outdoors, about how nature, community, and sobriety intersect. From the slopes to the boardroom, Nick opens up about the accident that changed his family’s life, his personal recovery journey, and how outdoor adventures became a powerful tool for healing and connection. Prefer to watch instead? Catch the full video episode on Sober Banter’s YouTube channel – click here to watch! Get in contact with Nick Pearson, Founder & Executive Director of Sober Outdoors Website: www.soberoutdoors.org Instagram: @soberoutdoors_org Become a Sober Outdoors member today! Enjoyed this episode? Let’s stay connected! 💌 Subscribe to Sober Banter so you never miss an episode. 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter Do you have questions or feedback or want to be a guest? Hit us up at soberbanter.com or email Rachel at rachel@soberbanter.com
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| The profound impact of sharing our story (ft. Waylon) | 03 Mar 2025 | 00:50:28 | |
What does it mean to heal across generations? In this deeply personal episode, Rachel and Colin sit down with Waylon, who opens up about his journey through alcoholism, receiving an ADHD diagnosis, and reconnecting with his Indigenous identity. Through raw reflection and cultural insight, they explore sobriety not just as a personal path—but as a reclamation of self, spirit, and community
💌 Subscribe to Sober Banter so you never miss an episode. 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter Do you have questions or feedback or want to be a guest? Hit us up at soberbanter.com or email Rachel at rachel@soberbanter.com
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| Conversations on Creativity and Balance with Allison and Julie | 21 Feb 2025 | 00:47:36 | |
In this cozy and candid episode, Rachel is joined by writer Julie—author of Like a Normal Person—and Allison, creator of the Dare to Be newsletter. Together, they dive into the realities of sober creativity, from writing memoirs and navigating vulnerability to finding joy in kitchen gadgets and everyday rituals. It’s an honest, uplifting look at what it means to share your story and stay grounded while living—and creating—in sobriety. Thank you to Allison Deraney and Julie Fontes for gracing Sober Banter with your insights, wisdom, and hope. Please visit their newsletters; they’re wonderful writers with even more valuable content to share in their weekly publications! Click this link for DARE TO BE by Allison Deraney Click this link for Like a Normal Person by Julie Fontes Enjoyed this episode? Let’s stay connected! 💌 Subscribe to Sober Banter so you never miss an episode. 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter Do you have questions or feedback or want to be a guest? Hit us up at soberbanter.com or email Rachel at rachel@soberbanter.com
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| Valentine's Day: Love Through a Sober Lens | 14 Feb 2025 | 00:26:25 | |
Happy Valentine's Day from Colin, Rachel, and Evan! Enjoyed this episode? Let’s stay connected! 💌 Subscribe to Sober Banter so you never miss an episode. Do you have questions or feedback or want to be a guest? Hit us up at soberbanter.com or email Rachel at rachel@soberbanter.com
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| Gambling Addiction: The Lie of Control with Adam Lyons (The Modern Meeting) | 22 Jan 2026 | 00:54:43 | |
What happens when the bet stops being about money and starts being about control? In this episode of Sober Banter, Rachel and Colin sit down with Adam Lyons, host of The Modern Meeting, for a direct conversation about compulsive gambling and long term recovery. Adam shares nearly twenty years of chasing losses, normalizing chaos, and living inside the illusion of control. Together, they unpack how gambling culture, online platforms, and social media quietly glorify risk, and how that normalization fuels addiction. This episode explores what desperation really looks like, how enabling can hide as support, and why recovery requires structure, accountability, and humility. In this episode, you will hear: • How early poker shaped the illusion of control If you are questioning your relationship with betting, supporting someone who is, or trying to understand gambling addiction in today’s culture, this conversation is honest and grounded. We are not clinicians. We are two people in recovery sharing lived experience. This podcast is not a substitute for medical or mental health care. If you are struggling or in crisis, please seek qualified professional support.
Connect with Adam 🎙 The Modern Meeting Podcast 📧 modernmeetingpod@gmail.com Recovery Resources Learn about Gamblers Anonymous https://www.gamblersanonymous.org Learn about Alcoholics Anonymoushttps://www.aa.org 🎧 Listen to Sober Banter Spotify:
You can also email questions or topic ideas to podcast@soberbanter.com. We read every message. ★ Support this podcast ★ | |||
| Insights and Inspiration (ft. Krys) | 27 Jan 2025 | 01:02:35 | |
In this powerful international episode, Colin and Rachel sit down with Krys from Canada, who shares how loneliness led her to seek sobriety—and ultimately, community and purpose. With raw honesty, she opens up about the highs, lows, and real growth that comes from staying the course. This one’s all about connection, resilience, and redefining what sober life can look like. Prefer to watch instead? Catch the full video episode on Sober Banter’s YouTube channel – click here to watch!
💌 Subscribe to Sober Banter so you never miss an episode. 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter Connect with Krys! https://www.instagram.com/soberkrys
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| Sober Living (ft. Priya) | 16 Jan 2025 | 00:39:40 | |
This was our first in-person recording, and technical difficulties were real. We couldn’t afford proper equipment, and Colin’s audio suffered. We ask for your grace with the audio for this episode. Video Link - https://youtu.be/_nUSspE-pss 00:00 Welcome Priya! 00:15 Podcast Setup Struggles 02:10 Pet Peeves and Social Etiquette 09:55 Weather and Technology Debates 18:13 Dating Life and our Tinder Love Story 24:46 Superstitions and Religion vs. Spirituality 28:13 Do you have to forgive to move forward? 34:26 Making Amends 39:20 Conclusion and Farewell’s If you’re feeling generous, any amount you can contribute would be appreciated. Here’s the link to the campaign: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Soberbanter https://www.venmo.com/u/soberbanter Priya’s IG - https://www.instagram.com/priya_mcc ★ Support this podcast ★ | |||
| Empower, Inspire, Prevent: Youth Addiction and Recovery with Nathan Wray | 08 Jan 2025 | 01:39:22 | |
What happens when you get sober and realize it is not just about you anymore? What if recovery is not only about quitting alcohol, but about preventing the next generation from walking the same road? Remastered Audio Version | Originally released January 8, 2025 In this episode of Sober Banter, Rachel and Colin sit down with recovery speaker and prevention advocate Nathan Wray for an honest conversation about sobriety, youth addiction prevention, disposable vapes, mindset shifts, and marriage in recovery.
This conversation explores empowerment versus disempowerment, flipping internal narratives, preparation in recovery, and why humor can make hard truths easier to hear. Sober Banter | Episode 30 Originally Released January 8, 2025 Remastered Audio + Transcript Available
• Nathan’s sobriety story and turning point If you are a parent, educator, sponsor, mentor, or someone in recovery who cares about prevention, this episode will feel direct and grounded. We are not clinicians. We are people in recovery sharing lived experience. This podcast is not a substitute for medical or mental health care. If you are navigating alcohol withdrawal, nicotine dependence, or a crisis, seek qualified professional support.
Guest Information Nathan Wray Speaker and recovery advocate focused on prevention, empowerment, and honest storytelling. Nathan works directly with youth and communities to address addiction prevention, mindset development, and long-term recovery principles. His approach blends personal experience with practical tools for change. Website: https://www.nathanwrayspeaks.com Standout Themes • Prevention begins with honest storytelling Why This Conversation Matters Youth addiction prevention is not theoretical. It is happening in real time in schools, homes, locker rooms, and online spaces. Nathan speaks directly to what young people are facing today, especially around disposable vapes, normalization of substance use, and identity pressure.
About Sober Banter Sober Banter is a sobriety and recovery podcast hosted by Rachel and Colin, a married couple who got sober together in November 2021. The show explores long-term sobriety, marriage, parenting, mindset, and real life after alcohol. No preaching. No one-size-fits-all recovery. Just honest conversations with humor and depth. New episodes every Thursday. Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🌐 Website Stay Connected 💌 Join the Email List 🤝 Support the Show 📧 Email 📱 Follow Sober Banter | |||
| Discussing Addiction, Risk Factors and Treatment (ft. Dr. Brian Licuanan) | 04 Jan 2025 | 00:52:16 | |
Video Link - https://youtu.be/tQuqRPrHfaM 0:00 Dr. Brian Licuanan, Psychologist, Author and Addiction Expert 6:51 Exercise & Brazilian Ju Jitsu 10:24 New Years and Realistic Expectations 18:27 The Disease of Addiction 22:28 Drinking Risk Factors 37:28 Drugs and Treatment 44:43 Asking for help and seeking treatment 49:08 Dr. Licuanan’s Book - “How to Get Your Resistant Loved One into Treatment” Get in touch with Dr. Brian Licuanan! His Website - https://drbrianlicuanan.com Order Dr. Licuanan’s book - https://drbrianlicuanan.com/book Dr. Licuanan’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPlXQnNWRzAP8AAbbJWLeYA Dr. Licuanan’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drlicuanan Dr. Licuanan’s TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@drlicuanan?_t=8k3HCSCqahK&_r=1 Enjoyed this episode? Let’s stay connected! 💌 Subscribe to Sober Banter so you never miss an episode. 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter Do you have questions or feedback or want to be a guest? Hit us up at soberbanter.com or email Rachel at rachel@soberbanter.com ★ Support this podcast ★ | |||
| Life Lessons with Author Tay Moore | 01 Jan 2025 | 00:54:36 | |
Join hosts Colin and Rachel for a powerful conversation with author Tey Moore (More to Come) as they dive into the real, raw, and rewarding sides of sobriety. From AA to Substack, personal stories to collective wisdom, this episode of Sober Banter is all about honesty, healing, and hope. Prefer to watch instead? Catch the full video episode on Sober Banter’s YouTube channel – click here to watch! 00:00:00 Meet Tay Moore (Setvontay Moore) 00:09:18 The Role of AA 00:14:31 Finding a sponsor 00:22:43 Daily Commitment to Sobriety 00:27:02 Punked by Ashton 00:33:18 The Big Book 00:37:44 Breaking the Stigma 00:43:32 Service Industry & Bar Tending 00:46:24 Embracing Sobriety Enjoyed this episode? Let’s stay connected! 💌 Subscribe to Sober Banter so you never miss an episode. 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter Do you have questions or feedback or want to be a guest? Hit us up at soberbanter.com or email Rachel at rachel@soberbanter.com About Tay Moore, guest on today’s episode! Substack: https://www.amazon.com/Moore-Come-Tay/dp/1304204383 Facebook: Tay Moore X/Twitter: Taygotthejuice Instagram: Mooretay ★ Support this podcast ★ | |||
| Navigating Sobriety Jack Millikan | 29 Dec 2024 | 01:00:24 | |
Jack Millikan joins Sober Banter for a deep, honest talk on connection, letting go of judgment, and what it really means to live alcohol-free. Prefer to watch instead? Catch the full video episode on Sober Banter’s YouTube channel – click here to watch! 00:00 Introducing Our Special Guest: Jack Millikan 04:47 Social Pressures and Honesty 09:35 College Life and Alcohol 13:26 Family, Upbringing and Dating 19:20 Filling the Void: Life After Alcohol 29:10 Losing Friends After Quitting Drinking 34:32 The Impact of Alcohol on Life 40:19 The Power of Connection in Sobriety 41:26 Religion and Sobriety 47:25 Final Thoughts and Farewell Enjoyed this episode? Let’s stay connected! 💌 Subscribe to Sober Banter so you never miss an episode. 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter Every share, listen, and cup of coffee keeps this space alive. Thank you. Truly. https://www.instagram.com/jack.millikan/ Do you have questions or feedback or want to be a guest? Hit us up at soberbanter.com or email Rachel at rachel@soberbanter.com ★ Support this podcast ★ | |||
| Paulina Pinsky celebrates 3 years sober! | 23 Dec 2024 | 01:10:45 | |
Prefer to watch instead? Catch the full video episode on Sober Banter’s YouTube channel – click here to watch! 00:00 Welcome Paulina Pinsky author of newly sober - Sober since 12/22/2021 02:55 Writing and Sobriety 06:01 The Sex Talk 10:30 Marijuana Addiction 23:42 Paulina’s sober life in Minnesota 35:22 The Addictive Nature of Modern Weed 38:07 A Sober Christmas Journey 46:34 The Role of Family in Recovery 51:05 The First Year of being newly sober (Sign up for her newsletter if you want to read more!) 01:00:38 The Magic of the First 90 Days 01:02:36 Navigating the Holidays Sober Enjoyed this episode? Let’s stay connected! 💌 Subscribe to Sober Banter so you never miss an episode. 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter Paulina's Substack - Newly Sober Do you have questions or feedback or want to be a guest? Hit us up at soberbanter.com or email Rachel at rachel@soberbanter.com ★ Support this podcast ★ | |||
| Rocked into the 4th dimension Ft. Medium Curious | 13 Dec 2024 | 01:00:16 | |
What happens when sobriety meets intuition? In this episode of Sober Banter, Rachel is joined by Jane Morgan and Sarah Rathke of Medium Curious for an honest, funny, and grounded conversation about recovery, mediumship, parenting, and spiritual experiences that don’t fit into neat boxes.
Medium Curious Website - Newsletter sign up! About Sober Banter Stay Connected: Listen, Subscribe, and Share 🎧🎙️Listen to Sober Banter 🌐 Visit the Sober Banter Website Following the show or leaving a review helps more people find these conversations. Get new episodes, updates, and bonus content delivered straight to your inbox. Help us keep Sober Banter independent and listener supported. Explore AA as one possible recovery resource. 📩 Email us! podcast@soberbanter.com 📱 Follow Sober Banter on Social Media X: Disclaimer Sober Banter is not a medical or clinical podcast. We share lived experience, not professional advice. If you are navigating alcohol withdrawal, mental health concerns, or need additional support, please seek help from a qualified provider or trusted recovery resource. ★ Support this podcast ★ | |||
| Paul Summers Jr. author of 'Hide and Seek' | 11 Dec 2024 | 01:21:06 | |
Prefer to watch instead? Catch the full video episode on Sober Banter’s YouTube channel – click here to watch! 0:00 Welcome Paul Summers Jr. 6:54 Asking for help in addiction 11:08 Getting sober with kids 13:14 Bringing kids to AA meetings 21:00 NA and AA 28:00 Viva Las Vegas & Camp Sober Fest 35:00 Relapse and Recovery 41:00 Tuning a set back into a comeback 49:32 Paul’s Sound Healing 1:00:20 Pauls new Book “Hide and Seek” 1:06:44 Paul brings us home and that’s a wrap! https://www.instagram.com/paul_summers_jr/ https://www.facebook.com/paul.summers.777 Enjoyed this episode? Let’s stay connected! 💌 Subscribe to Sober Banter so you never miss an episode. 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter Do you have questions or feedback or want to be a guest? Hit us up at soberbanter.com or email Rachel at rachel@soberbanter.com ★ Support this podcast ★ | |||
| Living Amends & Rebuilding Trust in Recovery | Janice J. Dowd (Remastered Audio) | 26 Nov 2024 | 01:07:16 | |
Rachel and Colin sit down with Licensed Master Social Worker Janice J. Dowd and her daughter Katie for an honest conversation about rebuilding trust after addiction. Together, they explore living amends, family dynamics, recovery meetings, and what long-term sobriety actually requires beyond the early days. This episode looks at how relationships heal over time and what accountability, service, and emotional growth look like in real life. If you are navigating recovery within a family system, rebuilding relationships after addiction, or trying to understand what long-term sobriety truly demands, this conversation offers grounded perspective.
Topics Covered • Rebuilding trust and relationships in recovery
Janice J. Dowd, LMSW is an author, conference speaker, and mother in long-term recovery. Her work focuses on helping families and professionals build emotional capacity, regulation, and repair in the aftermath of addiction. Website: https://www.janicejohnsondowd.com
• Katie shares what it was like when her mom first got sober and how recovery impacts the entire family
Sober Banter is a recovery podcast hosted by Rachel and Colin, a married couple who got sober together in November 2021. The show focuses on life after alcohol, recovery in real time, and the conversations people do not always say out loud. We believe there is no one right way to get sober and that laughter still belongs in recovery. New episodes every Thursday.
💌 Join Our Email List 🤝 Support the Show 📚 Alcoholics Anonymous
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| Managing Expectations during Sober October (Re-release) | 30 Sep 2025 | 00:13:01 | |
Episode Summary (Re-Released episode) Chapters
Please give us grace on any audio hiccups. I (Rachel) touched it up as best I could, but wanted to share it for the message, not polish it into perfection. Between college, parenting, and chronic illness, I overworked myself and had to step away. It was the right choice for my sobriety and emotional health. I also have a backlog of unreleased interviews. If one of those is yours, it will be out as soon as possible. I am pacing myself this time and will send updates by email. Thank you for your patience. The good news is that Colin and I are still sober, and we plan to record a new episode soon to share how we have stayed grounded. For now, enjoy this short audio-only throwback about Sober October. Let us know what you think, and remember to take it one day at a time. Stay Connected 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it 📱 Follow on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast
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| Celebrating 3 years Sober together. | 22 Nov 2024 | 00:09:46 | |
Choosing the sober life together since November 22, 2021. It wasn’t planned that way…it’s just how it happened. 00:00 Discussing Sobriety Anniversary 00:43 Our Sobriety Journey 01:34 Understanding Sobriety Dates 03:27 First AA Meeting Experience 06:57 Recognizing Alcohol as the Problem 09:32 Reflections and Conclusion Enjoyed this episode? Let’s stay connected! 💌 Subscribe to Sober Banter so you never miss an episode. 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter Do you have questions or feedback or want to be a guest? Hit us up at soberbanter.com or email Rachel at rachel@soberbanter.com ★ Support this podcast ★ | |||
| Interview with Julie Fontes | 18 Oct 2024 | 00:35:37 | |
Julie Fontes, author of “Like a Normal Person” 02:41 Journey to Sobriety 04:33 Challenges and Reflections 12:29 Different ways to quit drinking 17:46 Recognizing the Problem 19:21 Family Dynamics and Sobriety 25:25 The Struggle with Labels 30:24 Reflections 💬 A Note from Us This was a big moment for Sober Banter—our first guest interview and it was an honor to have Julie Fontes join us for it. Julie is the incredible author of Like a Normal Person, a memoir that moved us deeply with its raw honesty, vulnerability, and humor. We’ll be real with you—this was our first time navigating interview mics, Zoom setups, and all the things behind the scenes, and yes… we were nervous. But Julie’s warmth and openness made us feel like we belonged in the space. She met us exactly where we were and gave us the confidence to grow as hosts. We’re forever grateful that she trusted us to hold space for her story and became the voice that helped launch this next chapter of our podcast. Julie, thank you for being a part of our beginning—you set the tone for everything to come. With so much gratitude, Want to connect with today’s guest, Julie Fontes? Visit her website at https://www.juliefontes.com. You can also subscribe to her newsletter on Substack at https://juliefontes.substack.com.
💌 Subscribe to Sober Banter so you never miss an episode. 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter Do you have questions or feedback or want to be a guest? Hit us up at soberbanter.com or email Rachel at rachel@soberbanter.com ★ Support this podcast ★ | |||
| Navigating Sober October From the Vault | 29 Sep 2025 | 00:16:49 | |
This is an early Sober Banter episode brought back for Sober October. We were new at this, so you may hear a few hiccups. The lessons still land. We cover the hardest parts of Sober October and the simple habits that kept us steady. Think of this as day one support with honest talk and practical steps. It also shows how far we have come as hosts and as people in recovery. If you are here to start strong or find your footing again, press play. Chapters 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Let’s stay connected! 💌 Subscribe to Sober Banter so you never miss an episode. 💬 Leave a review or a comment because your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: · Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter · Make a donation at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter Do you have questions or feedback? Contact us at soberbanter.com or email Rachel at rachel@soberbanter.com
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| 41 Years Sober: David McMenimen on AA Meetings, Sobriety, and Understanding Alcoholism as a Threefold Disease | 07 Jul 2025 | 01:08:22 | |
In this inspiring episode of Sober Banter, Rachel welcomes David McMenimen, who shares his remarkable 41-year journey of sobriety. David discusses pivotal moments that led him to AA meetings, including DUIs and a life-changing car accident. He candidly shares the challenges of early sobriety, the transformative impact of consistent attendance, and how the 12 steps provided spiritual and practical tools for recovery. David explores alcoholism as a threefold disease—physical, mental, and spiritual—and how this understanding reshaped his approach to addiction and recovery. He reflects on how sobriety strengthened his relationships, shifted his outlook, and connected him to a supportive community. This episode delivers powerful wisdom and hope for those in recovery, sober curious, or supporting someone on their journey.
Resources & Links: 💌 Join our email list: 🤝 Support the show: 📚 Learn more about Alcoholics Anonymous: 📱 Follow Us: Disclaimer Sober Banter is not a medical or clinical podcast. We share lived experience, not professional advice. If you are navigating alcohol withdrawal, mental health concerns, or need additional support, please seek help from a qualified provider or trusted recovery resource. ★ Support this podcast ★ | |||
| Dr. Robb Kelly on Trauma, Sobriety, and Healing Addiction with Neuroscience | 01 Jul 2025 | 01:03:03 | |
What if addiction is not about alcohol at all? In this episode of Sober Banter, Rachel and Colin sit down with Dr. Robb Kelly for a direct conversation about neuroscience, childhood trauma, identity, and what permanent recovery actually requires. Episode 46 | Originally Released July 1, 2025
With a 98% success rate, his 90-day recovery program goes far beyond talk therapy, using brainspotting, 9D breathwork, subliminal messaging, and more to rewire the brain for long-term sobriety.
• Why trauma is often the real gateway drug If you keep starting over, feel stuck in relapse cycles, or want to understand the science behind addiction in plain language, this episode will meet you there. We are not clinicians. We are two people in recovery sharing lived experience. This podcast is not a substitute for medical or mental health care. If you are navigating alcohol withdrawal, trauma, or a mental health crisis, please reach out to a qualified professional.
About Dr. Robb Kelly Dr. Robb Kelly is an internationally recognized addiction expert known for blending neuroscience, trauma recovery, and structured behavioral change. His work focuses on addressing root causes rather than surface behaviors, helping individuals build sustainable recovery from the inside out. 🌐 Website: https://robbkelly.com Listen to Sober Banter Website: https://soberbanter.com Follow Sober Banter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soberbanterpod 💛 Keep This Going Sober Banter runs on real stories and listener support. If this conversation helped you, share it. Text it to someone who needs it. Leave a review. That is how these stories reach the next person who is quietly struggling. ★ Support this podcast ★ | |||
| "Just Because I Don’t Drink Alcohol Doesn’t Mean I Don’t Deserve a Damn Good Drink" -Eryka V. Namari | 19 Jun 2025 | 00:41:52 | |
Eryka V. is a queer, sober, first-generation founder and the co-creator of Namari—a non-alcoholic digestif rooted in intention, ritual, and bold flavor. In this episode, we talk about what happens when you quit alcohol, meat, and caffeine all at once—and how that radical choice led to clarity, creativity, and the launch of something revolutionary. From finding community to letting go of ego, Eryka shares wisdom on building a brand (and a life) that actually feels good. We dig into identity, connection, the power of ritual, and what it means to create something that tastes like love and intention—not just trend. If you’re craving depth, joy, or just a better non-alcoholic drink—this episode delivers. 1:21 – How Eryka Got Sober (Dry January… Plus No Meat, No Caffeine) 4:52 – The Band-Aid Rip: Goodbye Booze, Meat, and Coffee 7:46 – Building Namari: A Drink With Intention 11:52 – You Can Taste the Love (Like a Lemonade Stand in Summer) 17:19 – Finding Your People in Sobriety 22:12 – Saying “I Don’t Drink” Without Apology 29:16 – Choosing What Serves You (and Letting Go of the Rest) 33:58 – The Best Way to Drink Namari (Spoiler: Pineapple, Lime or Neat) Namari Website: https://drinknamari.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/drinknamari More Sober Banter: https://soberbanterpodcast.transistor.fm
💬 Leave a review on Apple or Spotify—it seriously helps new folks find us. Just one or two sentences makes a difference. 💌 Subscribe soberbanter.com so you never miss an episode. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show:
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| Spiritual Reflection & Humor in Recovery: Brenton Sconce of Office Recovery on Sobriety, Faith, and Connection | 11 Jun 2025 | 00:47:18 | |
In this episode of Sober Banter, Rachel is joined by Brenton Sconce, the meme genius behind @OfficeRecovery, a former pastor, and a fierce sober ally. Brenton opens up about his path to sobriety, beginning with rehab in July 2022 and evolving through deep aftercare, spiritual reflection, and a whole lot of humor. He shares the moment he finally admitted he was an alcoholic, how the pressures of ministry shaped his addiction, and how The Office went from background comfort to a powerful language of recovery and connection.
🔗 Connect with Brenton / Office Recovery
🌐 Visit the Sober Banter Website Following the show or leaving a review helps more people find these conversations. Get new episodes, updates, and bonus content delivered straight to your inbox. Help us keep Sober Banter independent and listener supported. Explore AA as one possible recovery resource. 📩 Email us! podcast@soberbanter.com 📱 Follow Sober Banter on Social Media X: Disclaimer Sober Banter is not a medical or clinical podcast. We share lived experience, not professional advice. If you are navigating alcohol withdrawal, mental health concerns, or need additional support, please seek help from a qualified provider or trusted recovery resource. ★ Support this podcast ★ | |||
| Shaking Up the World of Alcohol-Free Drinks with Sarah Kate of Some Good Clean Fun | 08 Jun 2025 | 01:20:44 | |
In this refreshing episode of Sober Banter, hosts Rachel and Colin sit down with Sarah Kate, founder of Some Good Clean Fun and a proud sober Canadian mom shaking up the world of non-alcoholic beverages. Once a self-proclaimed wine connoisseur, Sarah shares her transition from alcohol culture to alcohol-free confidence, offering candid stories about social pressure, parenting, and building a brand that celebrates sobriety without shame. Together, we talk about:
Whether you're sober curious or a longtime non-drinker, Sarah's warmth, wit, and wisdom will leave you inspired to rethink the role of alcohol in your life—and maybe even mix up a Summer Shandy along the way. Get In Touch with Sarah! Follow her on Substack - - https://somegoodcleanfun.substack.com/ Some Good Clean Fun Website and Recepies - https://www.somegoodcleanfun.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/somegoodcleanfun_ca Pintrest - https://www.pinterest.com/somegoodcleanfun Chapters 00:00 – Welcome & Guest Intro 04:06 – From Wine-Lover to Alcohol-Free Advocate 07:17 – The Birth of Some Good Clean Fun 11:17 – Sober Social Life & Saying No 18:06 – How Sobriety Changed Her Relationships 25:19 – The Changing Perception of Alcohol 35:22 – The Benefits of Sobriety 45:05 – Behind Closed Doors: Alcohol’s Impact on Family 48:32 – The Wine Mom Myth & Media Influence 58:12 – Mocktails & Sober Rituals 01:02:13 – The Rise of Non-Alcoholic Beer 01:18:35 – Final Thoughts & Gratitude Enjoyed this episode? Let’s stay connected! 💬 Leave a review or a comment—your thoughts mean the world and help others find us. 🔄 Share this episode with someone who might need it. 📱 Follow us on Instagram: @soberbanterpodcast ☕️ Support the show: Buy us a coffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soberbanter Donate at https://www.venmo.com/u/Soberbanter
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