Thriving Alcohol-Free with Mocktail Mom : Recent Episodes
Deb, Mocktail Mom
Are you afraid the fun will end when you quit drinking? Are you nervous about what you will drink instead of your favorite alcoholic beverage? Welcome to the Thriving Alcohol-Free podcast with Deb, the Mocktail Mom. This is the place for delightful conversations about non-alcoholic cocktails and the joy of sober living. We celebrate authentic freedom of life without alcohol. There are many great podcasts about getting sober, but in this podcast we will focus on the delicious world of non-alcoholic options and the fun of living each day without a “mommy wine headache”. After almost 9 years of trying to moderate and promising "I will just have one", Deb broke up with Chardonnay and loves to share the freedom & fun of an alcohol-free lifestyle. You too can thrive and be free from alcohol. Follow on Instagram or Tik Tok @Mocktail.Mom Website: MocktailMom.Com Join Deb’s sober drinking club for women, Thriving Alcohol-Free: https://mocktailmom.thinkific.com/courses/thrivingalcoholfree
I’m back after a three-month pause to own what happened, explain why my energy changed, and share what I’m choosing to prioritize now.
I also say the hard part out loud: I think it’s time to say goodbye to the podcast, even though I still love it.
• Ghosting the show and why it wasn’t intentional
• Knee replacement recovery realities, physical therapy load, and support at home
• Family changes, pivoting when plans don’t work, and preparing to become a grandma
• Accepting limited energy and choosing priorities on purpose
• Shifting from podcast interviews to the Mocktail Social Club community
• Monday night Happy Half Hour mocktails, connection, and meeting non-alcoholic brands
• Upcoming member events with Tomorrow Cellars and Rachel Hart
Please join me at the Mocktail Social Club.
Our membership is just all about supporting you wherever you are.
Always here for you!! Thank you for being such a special part of my alcohol-free journey. I am forever grateful for our podcast community.
Reach out if you need me: Deb at Mocktail Mom dot com
Send me a message about the show!
Join the community of mocktail-loving ladies in the Mocktail Social Club.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Discover how Brian Miller transformed his life from deep alcohol dependency to building a successful non-alcoholic spirits brand and becoming a thought leader in sobriety.
In this episode, Brian shares his personal recovery story, entrepreneurial journey, and insights on redefining sobriety beyond traditional methods.
Key Topics:
- Brian's personal path to sobriety and the significance of May 16, 2022
- His book, The View from a Windowless Basement (available on Amazon)
- The story of launching Seir Hill: overcoming product challenges with humor
- How sobriety shifted from a project to a way of life
- The impact of trauma therapy and alternative recovery paths
- The role of community, purpose, and health in sustaining sobriety
- Developing non-alcoholic beverages: from concept to market success
- Insights into the non-alcoholic spirits industry and Charlie Sheen's Wild AF
- Practical advice for those struggling with alcohol addiction
- The importance of authenticity in brand storytelling and marketing
Connect with Brian:
- Visit NoneForMe.com to receive his weekly sobriety newsletter and follow him on Instagram @SoberFounder
Resources:
Shop Online for Non-Alc with code MOCKTAILMOM
Send me a message about the show!
Join the community of mocktail-loving ladies in the Mocktail Social Club.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
An episode to remind you that sobriety is not about deprivation but about choosing freedom and fuller living.
My guest today is Kristin Martinez, a passionate sober content creator and founder of Queen City Sober. Kristin shares her personal journey through grief, motherhood, and reclaiming joy without alcohol, highlighting how community and creative non-alcoholic drinks transformed her life. Discover practical tips, heartfelt stories, and a delicious adaptogenic mocktail recipe that celebrates sobriety as an empowering and liberating path.
In this episode:
- Kristin’s story: overcoming grief and mommy wine culture to embrace sobriety
- The role of community and support in her sober journey
- How she navigates social events and out-and-about moments sober
- Making non-alcoholic drinks fun, creative, and satisfying
- The impact of redefining sobriety as liberation, not deprivation
- Practical tips for beginners and sober-curious listeners
- Favorite non-alcoholic brands and mocktail recipes
- The importance of processing grief without numbing
- Upcoming plans for Queen City Sober
- How sobriety opens more time and deepens life experiences
Timestamps:
00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Kristin Martinez and her sobriety journey
02:05 - Starting with community support and her role as a sober content creator
04:36 - Making her signature mocktail: The Leibner After Dark
10:04 - Kristin’s sober milestone: 603 days alcohol-free
13:05 - Addressing mommy wine culture and societal expectations
15:13 - The grief of losing her grandmother and self-medicating with wine
19:26 - Recognizing the signs that prompted her to get sober
26:46 - Grieving her grandmother sober and processing feelings authentically
30:09 - Favorite non-alcoholic brands and mocktail inspirations
31:11 - Out-and-about sober drink options for social settings
32:07 - Kristin’s message: Sobriety as liberation, not deprivation.
Connect with Kristin:
- Website
Mocktail Recipe Shared by Kristin - Livener After Dark:
- Fill a highball glass with ice
- Add 2.5 oz Three Spirit Livener, 0.75 oz lime juice, 2-3 bar spoons cocktail cherry syrup to glass, and 3 dashes New Orleans-style bitters, we used All The Bitter. Code MOCKTAILMOM for a discount
- Stir well to combine
- Gently top with Blueberry Hibiscus Topo Chico sparkling water, pouring down the bar spoon (any hibiscus, dark cherry, or berry sparkling water works—or even plain sparkling water in a pinch)
- Gently stir to combine
- Garnish with fresh lime wheel + cocktail cherry
Send me a message about the show!
Join the community of mocktail-loving ladies in the Mocktail Social Club.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Most people think cutting back on alcohol is about willpower, until they discover Kava, the plant-based relaxant that’s changing the sober curious game. In this episode, Katie of Soberish Mom shares how Kava helps you unwind without the hangover.
You’ll discover the surprising history of Kava from the South Pacific, why high-quality products matter, and how it can be your ultimate tool for socializing sober and reducing stress. Katie breaks down exactly how Kava works in your brain, shares her favorite ways to enjoy it, and offers practical tips for getting started and avoiding pitfalls. Whether you're sober, sober-curious, or just looking for a calming alternative, this episode is your gateway to relaxing drinks that actually work and taste good, too.
In a society obsessed with alcohol for celebration and stress relief, not knowing about Kava means missing out on a natural, non-addictive option that can help you reclaim time, peace, and clarity. For anyone tired of the cycle of shame and hangovers, this is your chance to explore a plant that might just redefine your relationship with relaxation.
Perfect for the sober curious, health-conscious drinkers, or anyone wanting to break free from alcohol’s grip — this episode unlocks the potential of Kava to help you feel calm, connected, and in control. Press play and join us in discovering a new way to unwind that fits your life, your purpose, and your taste buds.
To order Kava Haven, click HERE and use code MOCKTAILMOM for my affiliate discount.
Send me a message about the show!
Join the community of mocktail-loving ladies in the Mocktail Social Club.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
What if a single dry January became the spark for five years of clear mornings, real connection, and a thriving community? Deb—aka Mocktail Mom—opens up about the quiet shame that trailed her wine habit, the small rituals that helped her step away, and the surprising joy she found in crafting non-alcoholic drinks that actually satisfy. Sarah Kate from Some Good Clean Fun flips the script and interviews Deb about the moments that changed everything: the first receipt for NA wine, the spicy margarita tweak that delivered the “bite” she missed, and the viral video that led to her mocktail recipe book.
We walk through the upcoming Mocktail Summit with a behind-the-scenes look at the presenters across three days—Mocktails 101, functional sips and day-drinking without alcohol, and a deep dive into non-alcoholic wines with experts from Geisen, Prima Pavé, Noughty, and more. Along the way, Deb tackles common worries with practical answers: what to drink at weddings, how to replace the 5 p.m. ritual, and why presence beats champagne every time. You’ll hear about building habits that last, finding the right NA wine or spirit for your palate, and using community to turn a private goal into a sustainable lifestyle.
This is a candid, warm conversation about choosing yourself, one glass at a time. If you’re sober-curious, doing Dry January, or years into an alcohol-free life, you’ll leave with simple swaps, fresh inspiration, and a reminder that the fun’s not over—and there are still good things to drink. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs encouragement, and leave a review to help more people find the show. Cheers to your clearest year yet.
If you already registered for The Mocktail Summit and want to upgrade to an All Access Pass, click HERE to upgrade.
Send me a message about the show!
Join the community of mocktail-loving ladies in the Mocktail Social Club.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
In this episode of Thriving Alcohol Free, host Deb Podlogar welcomes Marina Castillo, a passionate advocate for non-alcoholic beverages and the co-founder of Modern Mocktail.
They discuss Marina's journey from the circus to sobriety, the rise of kava bars, and the importance of creating a supportive community for those in recovery. Marina shares her insights on the benefits of kava, the challenges of navigating the industry, and offers encouragement for aspiring entrepreneurs in the non-alcoholic space. Together, they create a special mocktail recipe that emphasizes the joy of savoring delicious drinks without alcohol.
Kava Haven, code MOCKTAILMOM for a discount.
Marina Castillo is a passionate advocate for non-alcoholic beverages.
The mocktail they created is called 'The Bride'.
Marina's journey to sobriety began in 2019.
Kava bars are gaining popularity as non-alcoholic spaces.
The Global Kava Coalition aims to educate about kava.
Kava is a special pepper plant with calming effects.
It's essential to consume the right part of the kava plant.
Noble kava is the preferred type for consumption.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Thriving Alcohol Free
02:12 Creating a Special Mocktail
06:22 Marina's Journey to Sobriety
12:10 The Rise of Kava Bars
16:13 Navigating the Kava Industry
19:14 Understanding Kava and Its Benefits
32:22 Encouragement for New Entrepreneurs
Follow Marina on her Instagram page.
Send me a message about the show!
Join the community of mocktail-loving ladies in the Mocktail Social Club.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
In this episode, Deb Podlogar interviews David Lund, the founder of Dromme, a non-alcoholic drink brand. They discuss David's journey from finance to creating Dromme, the unique ingredients used in the drinks, and the benefits they offer. David shares insights on the challenges of starting a business in the non-alcoholic space, the importance of community support, and the meaning behind the brand's name. The conversation highlights the growing interest in non-alcoholic options and the positive impact of Dromme on consumers' lives.
The podcast promotes enjoying drinks with friends, not just alcohol.
David Lund transitioned from finance to create Dromme.
Dromme offers complex flavors without alcohol.
The brand focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Droma's ingredients include herbs like ashwagandha and lion's mane.
Regular consumption of Dromme can lead to long-term benefits.
Dromme means 'dream' in Danish, reflecting its cultural roots.
The non-alcoholic space is growing with community support.
Challenges in production can lead to innovation.
David emphasizes the importance of moving forward despite setbacks.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dromme and David Lund
05:34 The Journey of Creating Dromme
16:02 Understanding the Ingredients and Their Effects
20:34 The Meaning Behind Dromme and Its Philosophy
22:51 Creating a Community Around Non-Alcoholic Drinks
29:36 The Journey of Building a Brand
33:43 Challenges in Production and Overcoming Obstacles
40:51 The Importance of Perseverance in Business
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to join the next Mocktail Challenge!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Ever been handed a cocktail menu and felt that flicker of pressure to justify your choice? We’ve been there. Today, we celebrate the beauty of alcohol-free living with Felicia from Mocktailing Around—creator, homeschool mom, and unapologetic champion of drinks that look stunning, taste vibrant, and leave you clear-headed for tomorrow.
We kick off by building a blueberry mojito that proves presentation and flavor can carry the whole experience. From mint-smacking and gentle muddling to smart garnishes and fizz, you’ll pick up practical techniques to make your glass pop. We also explore simple ways to add depth, like botanical zero-proof spirits with blueberry-ginger-mint notes or a touch of spice from an NA “bourbon” alternative.
The heart of our talk centers on confidence and boundaries. Felicia shares how she learned to say no at corporate happy hours, the awkward questions that follow, and why “I’m not drinking today” is enough. A powerful story unfolds: a table that mocked our mocktails returned a year later and ordered them too. Your no can change the room. We dig into scripts, social strategies, and the importance of curating a circle that respects your lines—especially in the early days.
You’ll also hear insider tips for ordering off-menu when a bar has no mocktail list: ask for a fruit-forward mojito build or invite the bartender to be creative and match a photo you love. Most pros light up when they get to craft something beautiful. Between content creation insights, homeschool rhythms, and a proud archery win, this conversation blends real life with practical alcohol-free tools—and offers favorite picks like crisp NA rosé and peach Bellini–style bubbles to keep on hand.
If this resonates, tap follow, share it with a friend who’s sober curious, and leave a quick review so more people can find alcohol-free confidence and joy. Cheers to bold boundaries and beautiful drinks.
Give Felicia a follow on Instagram: @MocktailingAround & be inspired by her beautiful mocktails!
To purchase Amethyst Non-Alcoholic Spirits, code MOCKTAILMOM will save 20%
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to join the next Mocktail Challenge!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
In this episode, Deb Podlogar chats with Brooklyn Fahey of Dry Social about the journey to living alcohol-free.
They discuss the importance of mocktails, Brooklyn's personal experiences with alcohol, and the pressures of drinking culture, especially in college.
Brooklyn shares her story of cutting back on alcohol, the creation of her Instagram account Dry Social, and how she navigates social situations without drinking.
The conversation emphasizes the evolving landscape of alcohol-free options and the importance of being true to oneself in social settings.
Brooklyn started her sober journey two and a half years ago.
She experienced significant pressure to drink during college.
Brooklyn's engagement was celebrated with non-alcoholic champagne.
The idea of Dry Social came from her desire to help others stay social without alcohol.
Mocktails can be just as fun and celebratory as alcoholic drinks.
Brooklyn wants to be a parent who doesn't drink around her children.
She feels empowered by the growing availability of non-alcoholic options.
Social situations can be navigated without alcohol, but it requires self-awareness.
Brooklyn's journey has inspired others to evaluate their drinking habits.
The conversation highlights the importance of authenticity in one's choices.
Follow Dry Social on Instagram.
& special thanks to Go Brewing for sponsoring this podcast episode. They are my favorite non-alcoholic beer brand. Code MOCKTAILMOM will get you a discount.
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to join the next Mocktail Challenge!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
A coupe glass, a good shake, and a bold idea: we sit down with Rebecca Styn, founder and CEO of Blind Tiger Spirit-Free Cocktails, to trace how a small speakeasy in Erie, Pennsylvania, turned a lockdown challenge into a nationwide zero-proof favorite.
Starting with a live Bee’s Knees mix-along, we dig into the flavor-first philosophy that makes these cans taste like a bar-crafted pour.
Rebecca opens up about the brand’s Prohibition DNA, where the hidden rooms of “blind tigers” stood for inclusivity and cultural mashups, and how that ethos guides everything from label design to how the drinks are served. We break down the lineup—French 75, Mojito, Sidecar Mimosa, Bee’s Knees—and spotlight the new low-calorie Grapefruit Fizz.
Behind the taste, there’s tenacity. Rebecca shares the winding road to Wegmans, the serendipity and prep behind a QVC debut, and the logistics of scaling without losing craft. We talk funding wins like the Ben Franklin Technology Partners grant, the value of a skilled beverage engineer to nail shelf stability, and the community momentum from the Tory Burch Foundation. Most of all, we explore how zero-proof cocktails can change social moments, giving you something elegant to hold, a ritual to enjoy, and a clear head the next morning.
If you’re sober-curious, cutting back, or love great flavor, this story will spark your next pour.
Subscribe, share with a friend who loves a non-alcoholic cocktail ritual, and leave a review to help more people find their perfect spirit-free sip.
Visit Blind Tiger's website to learn more.
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to join the next Mocktail Challenge!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Deb Podlogar welcomes Robin Cummiskey, the founder of Wallace Dry Goods, a non-alcoholic bottle shop on the Philadelphia Main Line in Ardmore, PA.
They discuss the journey of starting the shop, the challenges of running a business focused on premium non-alcoholic beverages, and the importance of community and customer relationships. Robin shares insights on popular products, the evolution of non-alcoholic drinks, and the significance of creating a welcoming space for all drinkers, whether sober, sober curious, or simply looking for mindful options. The episode also features a fun mocktail-making segment, showcasing the creativity and versatility of non-alcoholic drinks.
Wallace Dry Goods offers a curated selection of high-end non-alcoholic beverages.
The shop aims to create a welcoming, judgment-free community for all drinkers.
Robin's background in retail management helped shape the aesthetics and operations of the shop.
The phrase 'Cheers to choices' encapsulates the philosophy of the shop.
Non-alcoholic drinks have evolved significantly in taste and quality.
Education about non-alcoholic options is crucial for consumer acceptance.
Community engagement and events are key to building customer relationships.
The shop features a bar setup for mixology classes and tastings.
Popular products include non-alcoholic wines and functional beverages.
The future of non-alcoholic drinks looks promising with ongoing innovation.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Wallace Dry Goods and Robin Cummiskey
03:24 Creating a Mocktail: Dark and Stormy Twist
06:41 The Journey of Starting Wallace Dry Goods
12:33 Challenges of Running a Non-Alcoholic Bottle Shop
18:33 Building Community and Customer Relationships
24:21 Exploring Popular Products and Trends
30:18 Inspiration and Future of Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to join the next Mocktail Challenge!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Deb Podlogar welcomes back Jen Butler, an author and alcohol-free life coach, to discuss her debut memoir, Mom, Rediscovered.
They make a margarita mocktail together and explore Jen's journey through motherhood, sobriety, and the writing process, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and sharing stories.
Jen shares her experiences with alcohol, the challenges of parenting, and the strategies she used to navigate her alcohol-free life. The discussion highlights the transformative power of storytelling and the significance of trusting the process of change.
Mentioned in the episode:
Click HERE to register for the free in-person book signing event in Louisville, Kentucky on 11/5/2025
Today's mocktail recipe is available in The Happiest Hour
All The Bitter use code MOCKTAILMOM for 15% off
TomoNotomo delish non-alcoholic agave spirit, code MOCKTAILMOM for 20% off.
Follow Jen Butler on Instagram
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Jen Butler and Her Journey
07:56 The Process of Writing a Memoir
14:28 Navigating Alcohol-Free Life
20:00 The Shift in Perspective on Sobriety
26:45 Practical Strategies for Sobriety
31:31 Trusting the Process of Change
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
In this episode of Thriving Alcohol-Free with Mocktail Mom, Deb Podlogar shares her personal journey to sobriety, and she brings the receipt for how it all started.
She discusses the importance of having non-alcoholic alternatives and shares more about the upcoming Mocktail Challenge, a 21-day program designed to support and encourage those exploring a sober lifestyle. Deb also highlights the community aspect of the challenge, with daily emails, happy hour events, and prizes.
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
In this solo episode of Thriving Alcohol-Free with Mocktail Mom®, Deb Podlogar shares her personal journey to sobriety, reflecting on the lessons learned and the support she received along the way. She emphasizes the importance of community, the benefits of alcohol-free living, and introduces the Mocktail Challenge, a program designed to celebrate non-alcoholic options and foster connection among participants.
Use code OCTOBER for $10 off The Mocktail Challenge
Use code MOCKTAILMOM for 40% Deb's favorite electrolyte drink of all time, Instant Hydration
Deb shares her experience of becoming alcohol-free unexpectedly.
She emphasizes that sobriety does not mean sacrificing fun.
The clarity and emotional stability gained from sobriety are invaluable.
Deb highlights the importance of community support in the sober journey.
She encourages listeners to embrace their own path to sobriety without fear.
Drinking less is a significant achievement, regardless of labels.
Deb discusses the joy of creating mocktails and non-alcoholic drinks.
She introduces the Mocktail Challenge as a way to celebrate sobriety.
The episode promotes the idea that being alcohol-free can be fun and fulfilling.
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
In this episode, Deb Podlogar speaks with Zane Curtis, the founder of Monday Morning Bottle Shop in San Diego.
Zane shares his journey to sobriety, which began two years ago after a series of personal revelations and challenges. He discusses the rapid development of his bottle shop, which focuses on providing a unique non-alcoholic experience for customers.
Zane emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming environment that encourages exploration of non-alcoholic beverages, and he shares insights into the various products available at his shop. The conversation highlights the joy of sobriety and the community that can be built around alcohol-free living.
Zane opened his bottle shop in under five months.
His sobriety journey was influenced by personal family history.
He realized his wife was his motivation to stop drinking.
The shop aims to teach people how to enjoy non-alcoholic drinks.
Zane emphasizes the importance of flavor in non-alcoholic beverages.
He believes in creating a welcoming environment for all customers.
Zane shares his favorite non-alcoholic products and brands.
The conversation highlights the positive impact of sobriety on life.
Follow Zane's bottle shop on Instagram
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Deb Podlogar and Jen Hirst explore the journey of sobriety, the importance of community, and the transformative power of mindset.
They make Jen's easy mocktail recipe, Momma Doesn't Have Time, using one of their favorite water enhancers, Stur.
Code MOCKTAILMOM to save 15% off Stur.
Jen shares her personal story of overcoming alcohol addiction and how she now helps other women embrace sobriety through her programs.
They discuss the significance of creating easy mocktails, building supportive networks, and establishing healthy habits to thrive alcohol-free. The conversation emphasizes the joy of living sober and the transformative power of connection and self-care.
Takeaways
Sobriety can be embraced with a positive 'get to' mentality.
Mindset shifts can help counter feelings of FOMO.
Creating easy mocktails can enhance social experiences without the need for alcohol.
Community support is crucial for long-term sobriety.
Sharing personal stories can inspire others on their journey to sobriety.
Healthy habits play a significant role in maintaining sobriety.
Staying connected with others in sobriety helps reduce feelings of isolation.
Practicing gratitude can shift your perspective on life.
Physical activity is essential for mental and emotional well-being in sobriety.
Protein intake can stabilize blood sugar and reduce cravings.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Sobriety and Community
03:02 The Power of Mindset in Sobriety
05:50 Creating Easy and Enjoyable Mocktails
08:45 Building Connections in Sobriety
11:37 Programs and Support for Long-Term Sobriety
14:40 Empowering Women to Become Coaches
18:07 Journey to Sobriety: Jen's Story
20:46 The Turning Point: Embracing Change
23:07 Emerging from the Sober Closet
24:44 Building Healthy Habits for Sobriety
30:14 The Power of Community and Support
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
In this episode, Deb Podlogar shares her personal journey of transitioning into an empty nester, reflecting on the emotional challenges and adjustments that come with this new phase of life. She discusses the importance of reframing grief and embracing change, drawing inspiration from John O'Leary's insights on goodbyes and new beginnings. Deb emphasizes the value of cherishing past moments while looking forward to new relationships and experiences, particularly in the context of her alcohol-free journey and evolving family dynamics.
Takeaways
Deb shares her experience of becoming an empty nester.
The transition to an empty nest can be unexpectedly challenging.
Maintaining communication with loved ones can ease the adjustment.
Reframing goodbye can help in coping with change.
Celebrating past moments is essential in the grieving process.
Goodbyes are invitations to grow and embrace new beginnings.
The importance of savoring ordinary moments in life.
Transitioning into new relationships can be enriching.
Deb reflects on her alcohol-free journey and its impact on her life.
Looking forward with excitement can soften feelings of grief.
Check out Cans of Deliciousness here.
Click here for The Mocktail Challenge
Follow John O'Leary here on Facebook.
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Join Deb as she welcomes Marissa Cherepanov, a leader in female empowerment and a dedicated advocate for women in leadership.
Marissa shares her inspiring journey to sobriety, the challenges she faced during COVID, and how a pivotal conversation with her child led to a life-changing decision. Discover how Marissa's commitment to change not only transformed her life but also inspired her involvement as CEO of the No Girl Left Behind organization, empowering women across North America.
From her struggles with alcohol to her commitment to empowering women through the organization, No Girl Left Behind, Marissa discusses the pivotal moments that led her to change her life.
She emphasizes the importance of resilience, visualization, and the power of community in overcoming challenges.
The conversation highlights the profound impact of sobriety on her family life and her mission to inspire others to embrace their potential.
Follow Marissa on Instagram or connect through No Girl Left Behind.
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Join Deb from "Thriving Alcohol Free with Mocktail Mom" as she welcomes Kate Denaj, the inspiring force behind Clarity Zero Proof.
In this engaging episode, Kate shares her transformative journey to sobriety, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of living alcohol-free. From her early days in a resort town to becoming a passionate advocate for non-alcoholic beverages, Kate's story is a testament to resilience and empowerment. Discover how she navigated personal struggles, embraced sobriety, and now helps others find joy in an alcohol-free lifestyle.
Kate's journey is filled with insightful moments, including her experiences with the Mocktail Summit and her work with emerging non-alcoholic brands. She candidly discusses the societal pressures of drinking, the emotional challenges of grief, and the empowering realization that sobriety can be a superpower. Whether you're curious about the alcohol-free movement or seeking inspiration for your journey, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement.
Don't miss Kate's tips on navigating social situations without alcohol, her favorite non-alcoholic drinks, and her vision for the future of Clarity Zero Proof. Tune in to learn how you can embrace a fulfilling, alcohol-free life and support the growing community of sober enthusiasts. Subscribe now for more inspiring stories and practical advice on thriving without alcohol.
Connect with Kate on Instagram & through her website.
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Kristin Horstman shares her journey from gray area drinking to becoming a certified coach who helps others find freedom from alcohol while developing powerful nervous system regulation techniques.
• Drinking exists on a spectrum with millions of people in the "gray area" between occasional consumption and end-stage addiction
• Neural pathways created by habits can't be erased, but can go dormant when we build new, healthier pathways
• The sunset hours naturally trigger our nervous system to downshift, which is why Kristen promotes "Sunsets are the new happy hour."
• Taking a 30-day break from alcohol provides valuable data about your relationship with drinking
• If quitting feels difficult now, it won't become easier later – addressing it sooner rather than later is key
• Non-alcoholic options like mocktails, Athletic Brewing, and Töst sparkling tea can provide satisfying alternatives
• When ordering at restaurants, ask for "refreshing, not sweet" mocktails to avoid overly sugary concoctions
Follow Kristen on Instagram @CoachKristinHorstman and visit her website to learn more about gray area drinking coaching and nervous system regulation techniques.
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Deb, the Mocktail Mom, returns from a brief hiatus to share updates on her alcohol-free journey and exciting changes coming to the podcast. After 4.5 years without alcohol, she continues to find joy and gratitude in sobriety while focusing on spending quality time with her family before her youngest daughter leaves for college.
• Four and a half years alcohol-free with no regrets and continuing joy
• Spending summer focused on family time before becoming an empty nester
• Weekly Mocktail Social Club happy half hours providing connection and support
• Members celebrating sobriety milestones from days to years
• The beginning of sobriety is challenging with no "express pass," but it is worth pushing through
• After time passes, alcohol stops taking up mental headspace (99% gone)
• Season Two of the podcast will feature making mocktails with guests
• Hot Flash Summer Mocktail Recipes guide now available, see below
Grab the Hot Flash Summer Mocktail Recipes guide for refreshing alcohol-free options!
Email your thoughts about the podcast intro and mocktail suggestions for Season Two to deb@mocktailmom.com
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
In this special episode, I am joined by Abbie Romanul from Raising the Bar to discuss our special collaboration for May's "Yo Mama" box, featuring exclusive mocktails honoring motherhood in all its forms.
• The Yo Mama box features signature drinks: the Lavender Daughter and the Strawberry Daughter
• We both share how we escaped "mommy wine culture" and found healthier coping mechanisms
• Abbie reveals that alcohol "romanticized" her life, but sobriety allowed her to find genuine beauty in everyday moments
• Six years into sobriety, Abbie now ships thousands of mocktail kits monthly through Raising the Bar
• We discuss our favorite alcohol-free rituals, with ready-to-drink options being convenient go-to choices
• For those questioning their drinking: observe your feelings and get curious about what you're trying to escape
• Join us for a live Zoom happy hour on May 22nd at 8:30 pm Eastern - free for everyone
- To order our May collab box, use the code MOCKTAILMOM for a discount, and click HERE to order.
- To attend our free Happy Hour on May 22nd 2025, RSVP HERE.
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Life's most significant transitions deserve our full attention and presence. After faithfully recording 114 episodes over two years, I'm pressing pause on weekly podcast releases to embrace a precious season fully – my youngest daughter's final months before high school graduation.
Recording from an Airbnb in Branson, MO with my phone hotspot, I wanted to personally share that Thriving Alcohol-Free will be taking a brief intermission. Rather than missing these fleeting moments with my daughter before she leaves for college, I'm calling everything thus far "Season One". I will return with "Season Two" when I officially become an empty nester in August. The podcast has connected me with incredible sober coaches, mixologists, alcohol-free brand founders, and most importantly, YOU – faithful listeners navigating your alcohol-free journeys.
Don't worry – I'll still drop occasional episodes over the coming months (be sure you're subscribed for notifications), and my weekly Happy Half Hours through the Mocktail Social Club membership will continue without interruption. Even here in Branson (which is decidedly NOT the mocktail capital of the world), I'm savoring every sober moment with my girls. There's profound joy in being fully present, making memories, and connecting authentically with loved ones.
Whether you've listened to every episode or just discovered the podcast, I'm deeply grateful for your support. You can still find me on Instagram @mocktailmom, my website mocktailmom.com, or deb@mocktailmom.com.
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Vanessa Royle never planned to launch a non-alcoholic beverage company. But when she quit drinking during the pandemic lockdown of 2020, something unexpected happened – she felt dramatically better. As she prepared to start her MBA at Harvard Business School, she made a pivotal decision to stay sober, creating an opportunity to reintroduce herself without the drinking habits of her past.
What followed was a rude awakening. At prestigious networking events, Royal found herself clutching Diet Coke while fielding uncomfortable questions about her sobriety. The sophisticated social drinking world offered nothing comparable for non-drinkers. This frustration sparked a mission to create something better, leading her to connect with Mariah, a lifelong non-drinker with hospitality expertise who became her co-founder in launching Tilden.
Their approach was meticulous and thoughtful. Rather than mimicking existing cocktails, they developed bespoke non-alcoholic creations through hundreds of iterations, using dinner parties with scorecards to perfect their recipes. The result? Tandem and Lacewing – complex, sophisticated beverages explicitly designed for the non-drinker's palate.
What makes Tilden truly revolutionary is their consideration of why people don't drink. They deliberately avoid mind-altering ingredients and potentially problematic compounds like grapefruit (which interacts with medications). This inclusivity extends to pregnant women, those on SSRIs, and anyone seeking a sophisticated drinking experience without alcohol's effects.
The timing couldn't be better. Non-alcoholic beverage sales are soaring (up 30% year-over-year), while traditional alcohol sales are declining. More importantly, attitudes are shifting dramatically. Where once 80% of people questioned non-alcoholic drinks, today that skepticism has shrunk to just 20%, with most consumers enthusiastically embracing these options.
Ready to experience sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktails that stand on their merit? Visit DrinkTilden.com code MOCKTAILMOM for 20% off, or find their products on Amazon to discover what thoughtful, alcohol-free indulgence truly means. Follow Tilden on Instagram @DrinkTilden
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Ruby Williams shares her transformative journey from working in the wine industry while drinking three bottles a day to becoming a sober coach helping others find freedom from alcohol dependence.
• Struggled with disordered eating from a young age as her first coping mechanism
• Underwent bariatric surgery, which unexpectedly transferred her addiction to alcohol
• Worked in the wine industry, where drinking was normalized and celebrated daily
• Found The Naked Mind book by Annie Grace, which provided the science and mindset shift needed
• Transitioned from wine industry to becoming a certified coach
• Uses monk fruit as a sugar substitute when making mocktails
• Recommends allowing sugar cravings during early sobriety before addressing them
• Found community and connection essential in breaking free from isolation
• Emphasizes the importance of self-compassion in recovery
• Now coaches others one-on-one and in groups to find freedom from alcohol
Connect with Ruby on Instagram @RubyWilliamsCoaching or her website, RubyWilliamsCoaching.com
If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a rating & review!
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Lindsay Hennekey shares her powerful journey from using alcohol to cope with life disappointments to creating a thriving alcohol-free life through her coaching program Feel Good AF.
• Lindsay's drinking escalated when facing fertility issues and divorce, leading to daily alcohol consumption
• We often drink to procrastinate and avoid dealing with difficult emotions
• When you hold space for emotions rather than numbing them, they naturally dissipate
• Lindsay's turning point came after reading quit literature and realizing she would never have children.
• Instead of numbing her grief with wine, she chose to discover "what happy people do who don't have kids."
• The pandemic provided a unique opportunity to focus on sobriety without social pressure.
• Communication with loved ones is crucial in early sobriety—tell them what you need.
• Having a drink isn't a failure, but rather, it is just returning to your comfort zone.
• Lindsay finds joy in helping women who don't believe they can quit drinking borrow her belief in them.
• Non-alcoholic alternatives like craft NA beers, wines, and mocktails help make sobriety enjoyable.
• The highest achievers aren't typically heavy drinkers—success and sobriety often go hand in hand.
Connect with Lindsay: Instagram or LindsayHennekey.com
Try GoBrewing Non-Alcoholic Beer. Use code MOCKTAILMOM for a discount!
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Discover the transformative power of choosing an alcohol-free lifestyle while traveling. This episode features a heartfelt conversation with Susan Larkin, a certified alcohol freedom coach, who shares her journey to breaking free from alcohol as a coping mechanism.
- Understanding the societal pressures surrounding alcohol and vacations
- Exploring the joys of sober travel and refreshing alternatives
- Introducing resources for preparing an alcohol-free vacation
- Navigating social settings and staying true to your choices
- Embracing a lifestyle of wellness over the stigma of sobriety
If you enjoyed today's discussion, share the episode with a friend or leave us a review to help spread the word!
Connect with Susan on Instagram or her website.
Snag her free downloadable here.
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
This week, I’m hanging out with Lief Frederick, a bartender of 15+ years, an expert at crafting next-level non-alcoholic drinks, and the creator of @thevariantco on Instagram. Lief shares how his bar experience is helping people make better alcohol-free drink choices and opens up about his own journey to ditching alcohol, including the powerful realization about his daughter that gave him the nudge he needed to make a change.
Together, we delve into the beautifully rewarding aspects of an alcohol-free lifestyle. It's about more than just drinks—it's about being present for your family, navigating social events with confidence, and the comfort of a supportive community.
So if you're looking for new alcohol-free drinks to try, insider tips from a pro, and an inspiring conversation, this episode is for you. Cheers to this empowering journey!
Get in touch with Lief!
Instagram | Facebook
Join the Big Time Cheers Facebook Group!
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Grab your favorite glass and prepare for a fun, flavor-packed chat with the brilliant Kendall Olsen, the mastermind behind @libations_library! Kendall is a pro at breaking down the art of mocktail-making into bite-sized, easy-to-digest goodness. In this episode, she lets us in on her go-to restaurant order, the local brands she loves, and why the mindful drinking movement is booming.
We talk about the magic of a non-alcoholic Salty Dog (recipe included!), how she’s supporting amazing alcohol-free brands—especially in her hometown of St. Louis—and the overwhelming but exciting explosion of NA options (and how to keep up). Kendall also shares the best resources for getting started with mocktails, even if you don’t know a jigger from a shaker.
Whether you’re mocktail-curious, fully alcohol-free, or love discovering new drinks, this episode is packed with goodness. So pour yourself something delicious, and let’s dive in!
Get in touch with Kendall! @libations_library
NA Salty Dog
3 oz grapefruit (unsweetened)
.5 oz lime juice(or sour mix)
2 oz lemon/lime soda
Salty rim
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
What happens when you take alcohol out of the equation? According to this week’s guest, Abby Calabrese, you get deeper connections, a clearer mind, and a whole lot more fun! Abby is a mom of two, a passionate advocate and coach for alcohol-free living, and the host of The Alcohol-Free Coterie podcast. After years of navigating social drinking norms, Abby found freedom in sobriety and is now on a mission to help others do the same.
In this episode, we get into it all—how alcohol is pushed as a “normal” part of life, why the “drink responsibly” message falls flat, and how choosing an alcohol-free lifestyle opens the door to authentic friendships. Abby shares her journey to sobriety, the moment she knew she had to stop drinking, and how non-alcoholic beverages have made her transition easier (spoiler alert: she's a huge fan of NA wines and just won a case of her favorite!).
We also talk about the growing sober movement, the rise of alcohol-free bottle shops, and why mocktail culture is here to stay. If you’ve ever worried that quitting drinking means losing your social life—think again! Abby’s story is proof that the best connections happen when we show up as our true selves. So hit play and let’s raise a mocktail glass to making choices that truly serve us!
Get in touch with Abby!
Website | Instagram | Podcast
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Hey friends! Did Dry January just fly by, or are you still cruising on that alcohol-free vibe? Either way, buckle up for a super fun episode featuring Mocktail Mo! If you missed the Mocktail Summit in January, don’t worry—today you’re getting one of the highlights: Mo’s deliciously easy Batanga mocktail.
We’re diving into this drink recipe that’s become my personal favorite (seriously, it’s been on repeat in my house), made with authentic Mexican Coca-Cola, lime, and a splash of non-alcoholic tequila. It’s the perfect combo of sweet, tart, and spicy—and so simple to whip up!
Mo and I also chat about her mocktail must-haves - from NA wines, beers, ready-to-drinks and more! Whether you’re all-in on sobriety, sober-curious, or just looking for a fun new drink to try, this episode is packed with inspiration and flavor.
Grab your lime, salt, and glass, and let’s mix things up together! And don’t forget: if you’re craving more connection, check out the Thriving Alcohol-Free Membership for weekly “Happy Half Hours,” recipes, and an amazing community of like-minded friends.
Cheers to thriving alcohol-free!
Get in touch with Mocktail Mo!
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Episode 71 With Mocktail Mo
Batanga1 Lime
Tajin seasoning (to rim your glass)
2 oz Tequila alternative
1 bottle of authentic Mexican Coca-Cola
Rim the glass with lime and Tajin (add salt to the Tajin for an extra kick). Add ice to the rimmed glass, followed by the Tequila alternative and Coca-Cola. Stir for 15-20 seconds. Garnish with a lime wedge.
*The Batanga could be made with zero or low sugar coke if someone didnt want to have the Mexican coke with sugar.
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Ever wondered how a premium non-alcoholic wine is crafted? This week’s episode is a snippet from the recent Mocktail Summit 2025, where I had the pleasure of hosting a Happy Hour with Duncan Shouler, Chief Winemaker at Giesen and a trailblazer in the alcohol-free wine world. (If you want to catch the full summit replay, snag your pass now!)
Duncan shared how Giesen’s journey into NA wines started with a company-wide health initiative and a desire to create an authentic wine experience without the alcohol. Using cutting-edge spinning cone technology, they’ve perfected the art of de-alcoholizing wine while keeping all the flavor, antioxidants, and joy intact.
The listeners also had the chance to ask Duncan their burning questions, allowing him to dive into the challenges and innovations shaping the NA wine market in 2025, their current lineup of zero-percent wines, and get a sneak peek at what’s next for their company.
This episode is packed with insights from one of the top leaders in the industry - you won’t want to miss it! If you’d like to hear more about Giesen’s story and how Duncan helped bring NA wines to life - head back to Episode 33 of the podcast for a deep dive into their inspiring journey!
Follow Giesen!
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Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Ever wondered what bitters are or how to use them? This episode is here to demystify the magic of these tiny-but-mighty drink enhancers! Recorded as part of the recent Mocktail Summit 2025, I’m chatting with Ian Blessing, co-founder of All The Bitter, an incredible alcohol-free bitters company he runs with his wife, Carly. (Want to hear more about their journey from sommeliers at The French Laundry to NA entrepreneurs? Check out Episode 6 for the full scoop on how they started their company and manage it together!)
Today, our focus is on bitters: what they are, how they work, and why they’re the “salt and pepper” of the cocktail world. Ian breaks down how these intensively flavored extracts can transform everything from sparkling water to your favorite mocktails. And with All The Bitter, they’ve created a totally alcohol-free option that’s packed with flavor and functional benefits, making them perfect for anyone.
And, of course, we couldn’t just talk about bitters—we made a drink together! Ian shares his recipe for Goodnight, Manhattan, a deliciously rich and complex mocktail you can recreate at home. (Find the full recipe below!) And as an added bonus, Ian shares his go-to recommendations for various NA drink options.
Whether you’re mixing up something fancy or just looking to add a little extra sparkle to your daily hydration, this episode is packed with tips, flavor ideas, and plenty of fun. Cheers to discovering your new favorite drink upgrade!
Get in touch with Ian at All The Bitter!
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Use code MOCKTAILMOM for a discount!
Goodnight, Manhattan
2 oz Three Spirit Nightcap
1 oz tart cherry juice
3 dashes All The Bitter Lavender bitters
Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice, stir for 15-20 seconds, and strain into a coupe glass (or a rocks glass with an ice cube). Garnish with a cocktail cherry.
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Hey friends! Guess what? We’ve got Lilly from @MocktailsWithLilly in the house today! She’s serving up her radiant energy, gorgeous mocktail inspo, and some seriously good chats about thriving in an alcohol-free life.
Lilly’s been alcohol-free for over four years now, and she’s absolutely glowing as she gears up to welcome her first baby (a boy!) into the world. We talk about all the things—her NYC mocktail adventures, how puzzles and audiobooks became her sobriety sidekicks, and why destigmatizing alcohol-free living is her mission. Oh, and don’t miss her tips for mocktail magic that’ll make any night feel special.
Whether you’re all-in on Dry January, thinking about taking a break, or just want to sip something pretty, this episode will inspire you to rethink the glass in your hand. Cheers to Lilly and to creating lives we love!
Get in touch with Lilly!
Website | Instagram | TikTok
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Celebrating the start of Dry January, this episode reflects on four years of sobriety, emphasizing the joy and community of alcohol-free living.
Deb shares her journey, offers recommendations for resources, and shares about the upcoming Mocktail Summit.
• Introduction to Dry January and its meaning
• Celebrating two years of the podcast and four years sober
• Importance of community and participating in sober activities
• Exploring innovative alcohol-free alternatives available today
• Discussing Quit Lit book recommendations
• Promoting the Mocktail Summit and the presenters' insights
• Encouragement for those on an alcohol-free journey or considering one
Send me a message about the show!
Click HERE to snag a list of some of my favorite non-alcoholic drinks & brands.
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
- Website: MocktailMom.com
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
What does it take to bring a delicious non-alcoholic drink to life? Spoiler: a lot more than you’d think! In this episode, I’m chatting with Larry Weintraub from Beckett’s, and we’re diving into all the juicy (and fizzy) details behind the magic of crafting amazing alcohol-free options.
From his unique transition from the music industry and social media marketing to innovating in the beverage space, Larry shares his insights into how Beckett's has become a staple for those seeking alcohol-free alternatives. We’re talking zebra striping (what?!), the rise of mocktails on menus, and why the next generation drinks a lot less. Plus, Larry spills the tea (or should we say, the sparkling cocktail?) on the challenges and triumphs Beckett's has faced in gaining shelf space in a market dominated by alcohol distributors, diving into how strategic partnerships, particularly their success story with Total Wine, have been pivotal in boosting the brand's visibility and accessibility.
Beckett’s is also a sponsor of the Mocktail Summit happening in January! Ten lucky winners with an all-access or VIP pass will get their “Taste of Everything” box, a treasure chest of Beckett’s deliciousness. So tune in, register, and toast to community, creativity, and the booming world of booze-free beverages.
Check out Beckett’s | Code MOCKTAILMOM to save
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Registration is now open for The Mocktail Summit (January 14-16)!
Order my book, The Happiest Hour
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
This week, I’m chatting with the amazing Abbie, one of the founders of Raising the Bar, the zero-proof cocktail subscription box that’s changing how we celebrate, one sip at a time. Abbie gets real about her journey to an alcohol-free life—why she started her sober journey in December (yes, during the holidays!), how people-pleasing played into her drinking, and why putting yourself first is always the right move.
We also dive into her best tips for navigating holiday parties booze-free, the importance of community (because you’re not meant to do this alone!), and how she turned her dining room into ground zero for a business that’s now a nationwide sensation. From festive, thoughtful drink recipes to the chaos of shipping 600+ boxes after a Today Show shoutout, Abbie spills all the behind-the-scenes stories—including a crazy story with none other than Danny Trejo!
Plus, we’re teasing some big news for 2025, chatting about the Mocktail Summit in January!
Snag your box & let’s make mocktails together during The Mocktail Summit!
Follow Raising the Bar!
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Registration is now open for The Mocktail Summit (January 14-16)!
Order my book, The Happiest Hour
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
Hey friends, we’re already laughing and having a blast, so you know this episode is going to be fun. And it’s not just any episode—it’s our 100th! 🎊 I’m celebrating this milestone with none other than the fabulous Lori Liguori, Director of HR and Marketing at High 5 Hospitality (19 restaurants strong!) and all-around powerhouse. Lori’s joining me from the award-winning Limestone BBQ and Bourbon in Wilmington, Delaware, to chat about their exciting new venture into the world of mocktails.
Lori shares why a bourbon bar is embracing non-alcoholic cocktails, dives into what it means to serve others well (she totally blew me away with her thoughtfulness at a past event), and why the mocktail movement is gaining major buzz. Did someone say Dry January goals?
Plus, Lori gives us the scoop on our upcoming Mocktail Brunch & Workshop on January 26th. Trust me, you’ll want to mark your calendar for this deliciously inclusive event. We’re talking a fabulous brunch, hands-on mocktail-making (with recipes from my book!), goodie bags, and plenty of fun with yours truly!
Limestone BBQ and Bourbon
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Mocktail Brunch & Workshop: January 26th @ Limestone BBQ and Bourbon - Call 302-274-2085 to register today!
Registration is now open for The Mocktail Summit (January 14-16)!
Order my book, The Happiest Hour
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
This week’s episode is a total vibe! I’m sitting down with Drea Groeschel, the go-getter behind Better Than Booze, who’s making waves in the non-alcoholic beverage world. With years of experience in consumer product goods, Drea made the bold decision to break into the food and beverage industry, and wow, has she made her mark!
In this conversation, Drea shares the journey that took her from experiencing the foggy haze of alcohol to crafting a line of non-alcoholic drinks that have now won 36 awards! From experimenting in her kitchen to landing her beverages on the menu at the Grand Ole Opry, her story is a classic David vs Goliath tale that inspires.
We explore the challenges she faced in launching a brand from scratch and the big wins that have validated her hard work—like beating out global competitors to snag a major “best in class” award in Vegas. Drea also talks about why she’s so passionate about creating high-quality non-alcoholic options and how Better Than Booze empowers people to enjoy the moments that matter most.
Whether you’re curious about the non-alcoholic movement or love a good success story, you’ll be in awe of Drea’s drive, creativity, and refusal to settle for less than amazing. Tune in to hear more!
Discover more from Better Than Booze!
Website | Instagram | Facebook
code MOCKTAILMOM to save on your first purchase 🎉🎉
Registration is now open for The Mocktail Summit (January 14-16)!
Order my book, The Happiest Hour
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
Get ready to fall in love with Elaine Empalmado, the powerhouse behind Mocktail Hour and one of the freshest voices in the alcohol-free world! After seven years of slinging drinks in Toronto’s nightlife scene, Elaine got sober in January 2024 (cheers to almost a year!) and realized something big: mocktails needed a serious glow-up.
Now, she’s on a mission to make sobriety not just a choice but a full-on celebration. Elaine dishes on everything—from her wild bartending days (firepoles and all!) to how she’s now inspiring the restaurant world to up their mocktail game. Oh, and she’s spilling her fave booze-free picks, like NA gin, Heineken 0.0, and Kin Euphorics.
This convo is just a sneak peek of the longer conversation Elaine and I had for the upcoming Mocktail Summit, happening January 2025! Elaine’s summit session is packed with even more juicy stories, tips, and inspiration—you won’t want to miss it!
Get in touch with Elaine!
Website | Instagram
Registration is now open for The Mocktail Summit (January 14-16)!
Order my book, The Happiest Hour
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Jodi Clark, founder of Sober Flourish and a total rockstar in the alcohol-free coaching world, to get real about life after ditching the drink. We dive into that “always thinking about drinking” phase, the quirky stuff that happens as the noise finally quiets, and yes, the rollercoaster of going alcohol-free (and what to do when a spicy margarita still calls your name!).
Jodi also shares how she’s crafted her dream life since quitting drinking—visualizing her future self down to what she’s wearing and how she shows up each day. And, for those who’ve ever wrestled with the sweet tooth that sneaks up post-booze, she gets into it all. Plus, we talk about showing up for yourself, the power of future self-work, and, of course, what she’s drinking these days (spoiler: there’s a lot of tea!).
Whether you’re here for the laughs, the real talk, or a little inspiration, Jodi’s journey is full of moments that might just resonate with yours. Get ready to feel empowered to create your own version of flourishing, one decision at a time!
Get in touch with Jodi!
Website | Instagram
Sign up for her 100 Days To Flourish challenge!
Registration is now open for The Mocktail Summit (January 14-16)!
Order my book, The Happiest Hour
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
Get ready to meet the fabulous sister duo behind Orangily (formerly Loren’s Alcohol-Free Beverages)—Kristin and Andee! Join us to hear all about how their shift toward an alcohol-free lifestyle in 2021 led them to open Indiana's second non-alcoholic bottle shop near Indianapolis—a place that’s quickly become a go-to for everyone looking to swap their usual for something fabulous and booze-free.
Kristin and Andee share their passion for creating a welcoming space where everyone—from the sober-curious to wine lovers looking to cut back—can explore the non-alcoholic world with a little guidance. Spoiler alert: they don’t just sell drinks—they coach you through their curated collection! From award-winning wines to bitters that add that perfect pop to your seltzer, they’ve got something special for every palate. With their exciting rebrand in the works to capture their vibrant personalities and align with the wellness world, Kristin and Andee are more pumped than ever to serve up Indiana’s best alcohol-free shopping experience. Tune in to hear more!
Get in touch with Kristin & Andee!Website | Instagram | Facebook
Take their free wine quiz!
Registration is now open for The Mocktail Summit (January 14-16)!
Order my book, The Happiest Hour
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
In this special episode, we’re celebrating Jesse Carrajat’s one-year podcast anniversary! Jesse, the powerhouse behind Altum Fitness and host of the Sober Strength podcast, is all about helping people build healthy habits and embrace the journey of personal growth—whether that’s through fitness, mindset, or navigating sobriety. As a US Marine Corps veteran and dad of three, he’s learned a thing or two about resilience and staying strong in the face of challenges.
Join us as Jesse opens up about his own sobriety journey, sharing the big ‘aha!’ moments, the struggles, and how he shifted from self-medicating with alcohol to supporting others on their paths to wellness. We talk everything from setting realistic goals to the surprises and wins that come with living alcohol-free. And yes, Jesse gets into the raw details of his experience with family life, perfectionism, and how his career change—from corporate to running his own fitness business—has brought him closer to his purpose.
If you’re looking for inspiration, or some straight-up advice, you’re in the right place. Grab a comfy seat, hit play, and celebrate this milestone with us as we dive into Jesse’s world of sober strength and thriving!
Get in touch with Jesse!
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Listen to the Sober Strength podcast!
Registration is now open for The Mocktail Summit (January 14-16)!
Order my book, The Happiest Hour
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
IT’S HERE!! My new book, The Happiest Hour, has officially launched, and to say I’m ecstatic is an understatement! To help me celebrate this big moment, I’ve invited my friend and fabulous guest Jennifer Page to join me on the podcast, where we are making one of her favorite mocktails together - a classic Gin & Tonic with all the flavor and none of the booze.
Jennifer is a member of my membership community, Thriving Alcohol-Free, and I can say with certainty that this book would not have happened without her! She has been alcohol-free for over two years now and has so much wisdom from her experiences that I know you’re going to relate to. She’s actually a repeat guest, so if you’d like to hear more of her story, check out EP 7.In this episode, we’re unpacking it all—those side-eyes from friends, the still not drinking? questions, and even the nuances of gray area drinking. It’s all right here and we can’t wait for you to join us - here’s to freedom, fun, and a lifetime of happy hours!
Mentioned Resources
Generation NA: @generationna
Rachel Hart: Why Can't I Drink Like Everyone Else?
Huberman Lab Podcast: Effects of Alcohol on The Brain and Body
Registration is now open for The Mocktail Summit (January 14-16)!
Order my book, The Happiest Hour
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
In this fun episode, I’m so excited to welcome back one of my favorite guests and dear friend, Marnie Rae! Marnie, the amazing founder of National Mocktail Week, is here to celebrate with me the launch of my brand-new book, The Happiest Hour, by shaking things up in the kitchen. We are making a delicious Dark and Stormy-inspired mocktail from the book, and catching up on everything from her incredible impact on the alcohol-free movement to her own journey with over 22 years of sobriety. If you’re curious to hear more of her story, check out EP 11.
Marnie and I go way back, so we reminisce about how we first connected and reflect on how far the sober-curious space has come since she began advocating for mocktails back in 2018. In this conversation, Marnie also opens up about her battle with stage 4 lung cancer and shares how it’s shifted her perspective on life, work, and self-care in a profound way.
There are plenty of laughs, some tears, and so many deep reflections about what it means to truly thrive at every stage of life. Whether you’re celebrating life’s big wins or navigating those tough days, I know you’ll leave this episode feeling inspired and empowered. So head to your kitchen, grab your favorite mocktail ingredients, and join us as we raise a glass to the beauty of living alcohol-free and embracing every moment.
Get in touch with Marnie Rae!
Website | Instagram
Registration is now open for The Mocktail Summit (January 14-16)!
Order my book, The Happiest Hour
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
Two years ago, my dear friend Jen Butler and I partciplated in a Sober October program that would solidify our friendship forever. Jen is a sober coach, writer, fitness instructor, and one of the most inspiring women I know. She’s also a repeat guest, so if you’d like to hear more of her story in depth, check out EP 13. Today, I’m thrilled to have Jen back on the podcast to celebrate her incredible path of sobriety and offer an exciting peek into the upcoming November launch of my new book, The Happiest Hour!
But Jen has her own BIG update to share as well. She is currently halfway through her memoir manuscript (yay!!), and in our chat, we dive into all the behind-the-scenes of her writing journey. From juggling life as a stay-at-home-mom to navigating a career shift, Jen opens up about the highs and lows, all while keeping it real. She’s also the genius behind the Best Mom Never Substack, where she writes about motherhood, midlife, perimenopause, and raising middle schoolers, and has plenty of wisdom in these areas to pass along.
I’m so excited for you to hear this one—it’s full of laughs and plenty of encouragement. So grab your favorite alcohol-free drink, get cozy, and join me and Jen for an episode that’ll remind you that the best is yet to come!
Get in touch with Jen!
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Subscribe to her Substack Best Mom Never
BYOB Course: Build Your Own Break
Check out Jen’s Coaching Packages
She is offering 20% off any package for listeners of Thriving Alcohol-Free with Mocktail Mom! Follow her on Instagram (@jenbutlerwrites) and DM code "mocktail" to redeem!
Registration is now open for The Mocktail Summit (January 14-16)!
Order my book, The Happiest Hour
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
In this episode, I sit down with the amazing Kate Taylor who has become an influential voice on Instagram for those seeking a sober lifestyle. Kate opens up about her journey of breaking free from the "detox to retox" cycle and the over 1000 days of sobriety she now celebrates. She shares the pivotal moment of recording a heartfelt message to her future sober self, which lit a fire inside her to stay motivated and finally quit alcohol.
We dive into the real stuff — how alcohol led her to isolation and self-deception, how quitting drinking changed her friendships and her marriage (spoiler: it's so much nicer now), and the clarity and freedom that comes with sobriety. Kate even gets honest about the awkward moments, like being the only one sober, or navigating sobriety when your spouse still drinks.
We also chat about our love of mocktails (even when our ice cubes don't turn out as Pinterest-worthy as we'd like) and the incredible support we’ve both found in the online sober community. Trust me, you’ll love listening to Kate’s wisdom, so grab your favorite alcohol-free drink and join us for this fun, encouraging conversation!
Get in touch with Kate!
Instagram | Youtube
Registration is now open for The Mocktail Summit (January 14-16)!
Order my book, The Happiest Hour
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
I’ve got such a fun and feel-good episode for you! I’m joined by the fabulous Maddie from Mocktails with Maddie, who’s here to share her incredible story of embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle before hitting her 30s.
Growing up in an environment where drinking was the norm, Maddie candidly opens up about the pressures that led to blackout drinking and feelings of insecurity. But getting engaged was the catalyst to rethinking her future and making the empowering decision to quit alcohol, despite the fears of losing her social identity.
We dive into everything from staying fully present, making real connections, and having ALL the wedding fun while avoiding alcohol! Maddie also gives us the scoop on her favorite mocktail brands, her go-to drinks when dining out, and how she’s built a beautiful sober community that’s all about connection and joy. You’re going to love the energy she brings to the conversation, so tune in now and let’s toast to living our one life to the fullest!
Get in touch with Maddie! @mocktailswithmaddie
Registration is now open for The Mocktail Summit (January 14-16)!
Order my book, The Happiest Hour
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
If you don’t feel like you have a rock-bottom moment in your sobriety journey, you are not alone! On this episode of Thriving Alcohol-Free, I’m sitting down with the amazing Barbara Williams, the heart behind Sober In Colour on Instagram! Barbara opens up about her journey from heavy drinking in her 30s to fully embracing sobriety on February 7th, 2021. Although she never had a single rock-bottom moment, she describes having many “pebble-bottom moments” that built up over time, finally forcing her to make a change.
As a certified lifestyle and alcohol freedom coach, Barbara shares some golden nuggets from her work with clients. We dive into the importance of supportive communities like Bee Sober and swap tips for navigating the holiday season alcohol-free (it’s totally doable!). We even take a fun stroll down memory lane, chatting about how we first connected on Instagram and celebrating all the highs of alcohol-free living.
You’re going to love this chat—grab your favorite mocktail and join us for some inspiration, laughter, and all the feels! Tune in now!
Get in touch with Barbara!
Website | Instagram | TikTok
Order a copy of The Happiest Hour: Delicious Mocktails for a Fabulous Moms' Night In
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
A huge thank you to the sponsors of the Thriving Alcohol-Free podcast!
Sunnyside | Giesen 0% Wines
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
Grab your favorite mocktail and join me for an inspiring chat with Victoria Watters, co-founder of Dry Atlas and creator of America’s first NA bottle shop, Spirited Away. Victoria shares how she launched this game-changing business during the pandemic and how Dry Atlas is now tracking 1,500+ NA products globally!
We dive into why education and resources matter in this growing space, explore Dry Atlas’s product reviews and founder story, and tackle the “mocktail” debate—Is it time for a new term, or is it still the best way to describe these drinks?
Victoria also shares her tips for making NA options part of everyday life, including her favorites for moderation, like non-alcoholic beer and wine. Plus, we talk about the rise of sophisticated zero-proof drinks that go beyond imitations, with brands like Pathfinder offering adventurous flavors. This episode is packed with practical tips and inspiration for your alcohol-free journey, so tune in to hear more!
Get in touch with Victoria!
The Dry Atlas: Website | Instagram | TikTok
Spirited Away: Website | Instagram
Order a copy of The Happiest Hour: Delicious Mocktails for a Fabulous Moms' Night In
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
A huge thank you to the sponsors of the Thriving Alcohol-Free podcast!
Sunnyside | Giesen 0% Wines
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
Hey, friends, it’s Deb! I recently posted a few sneak peek photos of my new book, The Happiest Hour: Delicious Mocktails for a Fabulous Moms' Night In on Instagram, and it hit me—I haven’t even shared the backstory with you yet! Well, we're fixing that today. I’m taking you behind the scenes of how the book came together, all the nervous moments, and the wild inspiration behind it (hint: Don Lemon and a viral Instagram video may be involved).
I’ll also dish on the fun parts, like coming up with all the quirky recipe names you'll find inside. As a thank you, I’ve included a special recipe from the book in the show notes!
So grab your mocktails, and if you’ve got a moment, leave a rating and review (it seriously means the world!). Let’s raise a glass to this next exciting chapter of our alcohol-free journey. Big Time Cheers, and see you inside the episode!
Mentioned Resources
Grab the FREE Recipe: Taste and See with GaryVee
Check out The Mocktail Box!
Order a copy of The Happiest Hour: Delicious Mocktails for a Fabulous Moms' Night In
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
A huge thank you to the sponsors of the Thriving Alcohol-Free podcast!
Sunnyside | Giesen 0% Wines
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
Today I have Maggie Klaassens as my guest, the founder of the Sober Summit and a certified alcohol-free coach. In this fun chat, Maggie shares her personal journey to an alcohol-free lifestyle, navigating mommy wine culture, and her inspiring path to becoming a sober coach. We also dive into how she’s empowering others through the Sober Summit, a virtual event bringing together the top voices in the sober community.
So tune in for insightful tips, real-talk about sobriety, and how Maggie’s 100-day challenge turned into a life-changing two-and-a-half years of clarity, fun, and purpose! Also, check out the links below for more info on the Sober Summit, and join us for some fun mocktail magic!
Connect with Maggie on Instagram! @maggieklaassens
Learn more about The Sober Summit!
Order a copy of The Happiest Hour: Delicious Mocktails for a Fabulous Moms' Night In
- Join our membership community & let's make mocktails together!
- Let's get social! @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
A huge thank you to the sponsors of the Thriving Alcohol-Free podcast!
Sunnyside | Giesen 0% Wines
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
Buckle up because today's episode is one I've been so excited about! Joining me is none other than Rosa Li, the incredible founder of Wildwonder, my absolute favorite sparkling drink that's as delicious as it is good for your gut. If you've heard me rave about it, now's your chance to get the full scoop on the brand straight from the source.
Rosa shares her inspiring journey from being a private equity investor to launching her very own wellness brand, blending ancient Eastern herbal wisdom with California's fresh, vibrant produce. We talk about everything from her grandma's healing tonics, to how Wildwonder survived the pandemic, to getting a life-changing deal on Shark Tank with DoorDash's CEO, Tony Xu.
If you’re curious about gut health, love a good mocktail, or just want to hear a heartwarming founder's story, grab your favorite Wildwonder flavor (Strawberry Passion is my fave!), and tune in. You’re going to love this one!
Check out more from Wildwonder!Website | Instagram | TikTok
Use code MOCKTAILMOM to save 15%!
Thank you to our episode sponsors!
Sunnyside | Giesen 0% Wines
Connect with Deb on Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join my wonderful membership community, Thriving Alcohol-Free: Mocktail Mom Membership
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
On this episode of Thriving Alcohol-Free, I’m thrilled to sit down with Helenita, co-founder of Texas’s first non-alcoholic bottle shop, Sipple. Helenita shares her and her husband's inspiring journey into creating a space for those seeking alcohol-free beverages and how they’ve built their business from the ground up. You’ll hear about the challenges they faced, like navigating through the pandemic and facing rising shipping costs.
Helenita also opens up about her own alcohol-free journey, the evolution of their business, and what it’s been like to create a welcoming environment for everyone, no matter why they choose not to drink. Plus, we get the inside scoop on the hottest products flying off Sipple’s shelves, from non-alcoholic wines to tequila alternatives.
So, if you’re interested in learning about running a small business, pivoting in a growing industry, or just want some encouragement on your own alcohol-free journey, this episode is for you. Grab your favorite mocktail, sit back, and join us!
Get in touch with Helenita at Sipple!
Website | Instagram
Thank you to our episode sponsors!
Sunnyside | Giesen 0% Wines
Connect with Deb on Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join my wonderful membership community, Thriving Alcohol-Free: Mocktail Mom Membership
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
Hey friends! It's just me today, popping in for a quick catch-up as we wrap up summer and get ready for a new season. So, I've been on a little personal mission—challenging myself to hit 10k steps a day for 100 days. (Yep, that's 1 million steps if you're doing the math!) And let me tell you, just a few weeks in, I've already uncovered some big lessons that totally reminded me of those early days when I quit drinking. I can’t wait to share them with you because I know they’ll make your alcohol-free journey a whole lot easier!
Oh, and speaking of exciting things—I've got some major news coming up! The biggest one? My new book, The Happiest Hour, is dropping on November 5, 2024! This has been such a blast to put together, and it's jam-packed with amazing recipes that are perfect for a cozy night in. It’s available for pre-order now wherever books are sold, so check it out - I’d love to day-drink with you November 5th!!
Pre-order now! The Happiest Hour
Thank you to our episode sponsors!
Sunnyside | Giesen 0% Wines
Connect with Deb on Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join my wonderful membership community, Thriving Alcohol-Free: Mocktail Mom Membership
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
I'm so thrilled to have Derick Santiago back on the podcast today. Derick, one of my favorite guests and an all-around fabulous human, is here to share more of his inspiring alcohol-free journey. If you haven’t listened to our first episode together, I highly encourage you to go and listen to more of his story. In this conversation, Derick briefly recounts being a social drinker to eventually becoming a master of mocktails, even creating the incredible Mocktail Wiz on Instagram.
We chat about dealing with grief and how he uses mocktails, new traditions, and a whole lot of grace to navigate those tough times. Plus, Derick gives us the scoop on his latest creation, the "Make It a Mocktail" recipe deck. This gorgeous deck is full of delicious mocktail recipes, including 20 brand-new ones not featured in his book, The Mocktail Club. It's perfect for any bar cart—whether you drink or don't—and makes the most amazing gift that you can share with others. Tune in to hear more!
Get in touch with Derick!
Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok
Recipe Deck: Make It A Mocktail
Recipe Book: The Mocktail Club
EP 30 Meet Derick Santiago: Mocktail Whiz
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb on Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join my wonderful membership community, Thriving Alcohol-Free: Mocktail Mom Membership
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
Hey friends, I’m thrilled to have Hadley Sorensen with me on the podcast, author of The Dirty Truth on Social Drinking, mom of three boys, and a lifelong runner. Sparked by social awkwardness at 14, Hadley found solace in alcohol and became quite the social drinker into adulthood. But it was the pressures of mommy wine culture and maintaining a particular social media persona that truly deepened her struggle.
In this episode, we dive into Hadley's experiences with mommy wine culture, the challenges of quitting during the pandemic, and the self-care practices that helped her succeed. We also discuss the writing and publication of her latest book, how sobriety impacts family life, and hear Hadley's practical advice for anyone questioning their relationship with alcohol. Tune in now and let the journey to a thriving, alcohol-free life begin!
Get in touch with Hadley!
Website | Instagram | Facebook
The Dirty Truth on Social Drinking is NOW AVAILABLE! Get your copy today!
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb on Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join my wonderful membership community, Thriving Alcohol-Free: Mocktail Mom Membership
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
Ready to transform your approach to non-alcoholic beverages? Join me for a delightful chat with Lila Volkas, a certified nutrition consultant and mixologist who is on a mission to make nutrition and mixology fun and easy to understand through her engaging public and corporate workshops. Since 2012, she's been hosting food and beverage classes worldwide, captivating thousands, including big names like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon.
In our conversation, we dive into her journey from fitness instructor to kombucha connoisseur, and how she turned her college dorm-room kombucha experiments into a thriving business. She shares her "mocktail philosophy" and her passion for creating drinks that are both tasty and functional, with a special focus on tea-based mocktails. Whether you're a mocktail novice or a seasoned sipper, tune in to discover how Lila’s changing the game with her fun, accessible, and health-conscious approach to mixology.
Get in touch with Lila!
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Check out her public classes HERE
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb on Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join my wonderful membership community, Thriving Alcohol-Free: Mocktail Mom Membership
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
I am thrilled to have as my latest guest, Ian Andersen, co-founder of Sunnyside which is the top alcohol moderation app available. Many people shy away from total sobriety, but still want help to cut back on drinking. Friends, Sunnyside is here to help! They aim to provide a supportive environment for those who want to reduce their alcohol intake without the pressure of total abstinence. In my conversation with Ian, he shares the founder story, exploring the journey of launching Sunnyside in 2020, right before the pandemic hit. We delve into the importance of mindful drinking and how modern approaches can redefine what it means to have a healthy relationship with alcohol.
Ian also opens up about his personal background, highlighting the impact of alcohol on his family and how it fueled his passion for developing Sunnyside. He also discusses the transformative power of the app in helping users track their alcohol consumption, engage with a supportive community, and access personalized coaching. Whether you're sober-curious or looking to cut back, Sunnyside offers an inclusive and non-judgmental approach to finding the right path for you. Tune in to learn more!
Check out more from Sunnyside!
Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok
Take their quiz to start your FREE 15 day trial!
Get the FREE “How to Drink Less” Masterclass
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb on Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join my wonderful membership community, Thriving Alcohol-Free: Mocktail Mom Membership
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
I am beyond excited because we have the fabulous Abbie Jean from TikTok joining us. If you're on TikTok and not following her yet, what are you even doing? Abbie Jean, famous for her fun coffee drinks, amazing nail art, and those adorable accents, has been rocking sobriety for five years. She started sharing her journey casually, but it turned into a supportive community that changed her life. We're diving into her story, from the early struggles with alcoholism to the incredible power she found in sharing her story and connecting with others.
Abbie Jean's life took a turn when someone at work openly discussed their alcoholism, inspiring her to seek help. She talks about the magic of community, overcoming shame, and how she's reclaimed her joy and power in sobriety. Join us for a super inspiring chat about overcoming addiction and living your best, happiest, sober life!
Get in touch with Abbie!
Instagram | TikTok
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb on Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join my wonderful membership community, Thriving Alcohol-Free: Mocktail Mom Membership
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
Have you ever wondered how one person's journey can ignite a movement? Join me as I share my conversation with a truly inspiring guest all the way from Canada, Courtney Johnson of Discovering Mocktails. After hitting rock bottom in 2022, Courtney began her sober journey on January 1, 2023, and founded Discovering Mocktails to prove that life without alcohol can be vibrant and fun. She's now a passionate advocate for alcohol-free inclusivity, hosting special events like mocktail competitions and industry nights in Hamilton, near Toronto.
In this episode, Courtney shares her powerful story, from growing up with alcoholism in her family to her journey through sobriety. She shares her struggles, triumphs, and the pivotal moment when she decided to embrace a sober lifestyle after a frightening DUI experience. We also discuss the stigma around sobriety, the challenges of social situations, and the joy of discovering delicious and creative mocktails. Courtney's journey is a testament to the possibilities of a fulfilling sober life, filled with creativity and adventure. Remember to follow her on Instagram for more inspiration!
Get in touch with Courtney! @discovering_mocktails
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb on Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join my wonderful membership community, Thriving Alcohol-Free: Mocktail Mom Membership
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
Does the thought of going completely sober seem a bit wild or intimidating? Trust me, I get it—it can feel a bit embarrassing to even think about, especially when you’re hanging out with your drinking buddies. But I'm super excited to share this conversation with Jen Olafson because her approach to taking a break from alcohol is something you definitely need to hear about!
Jen Olafson is the fabulous mind behind Zero Proof Lush on Instagram. She posts the most gorgeous booze-free drinks and even offers mobile bar services that are to die for. After a particularly boozy summer, Jen decided it was time to reevaluate her relationship with alcohol, kicking off a whole year of sobriety in January 2021. That's how Zero Proof Lush came to be, and it completely transformed her life!
In our chat, Jen spills all the juicy details about her journey. We talk about her business, her first year of going alcohol-free, and some serious moments of self-discovery, including dealing with depression. Whether you’re sober curious or a die-hard mocktail fan, Jen's got amazing advice and creative ideas to make your non-alcoholic drinks just as fun and delicious. Plus, she’s all about creating an inclusive drinking experience for everyone, so you’ll definitely pick up some cool tips for enjoying NA beverages at home.
So grab your favorite alcohol-free drink, sit back, and join us for this fun and insightful conversation with the one and only Jen Olafson from Zero Proof Lush!
Get in touch with Jen at Zero Proof Lush!
Instagram | Facebook | TikTok
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb on Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join my wonderful membership community, Thriving Alcohol-Free: Mocktail Mom Membership
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Send me a text message about the show!
Ever felt like everyone around you thinks you're a little crazy for chasing a dream? Join me for an inspiring chat with Jess from Joyous Non-Alcoholic Wines, where we dive into her incredible journey of bravery and determination. Jess started with just a few lackluster options in the non-alcoholic market and transformed it into a thriving industry of award-winning, alcohol-free wines. Despite working in a high-drinking culture and facing countless naysayers, she persisted and brought her vision to life.
In this episode, we explore the magic of celebrating small victories and tapping into your inner bravery, no matter the opposition. Jess’s story is perfect for anyone feeling stuck or doubting their path. Her mission to normalize not drinking is not just inspiring but a testament to the power of persistence and joy. So, get cozy and pour yourself a mocktail because it’s time to toast to living our best lives without alcohol. Cheers!
Get in touch with Jessica!
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb on Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join my wonderful membership community, Thriving Alcohol-Free: Mocktail Mom Membership
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
In this episode of Thriving Alcohol-Free, I’m hanging out with the lovely Josnelly, from sunny Jacksonville, Florida. We first connected at the Mocktail Summit while making some delicious drinks, and ever since I’ve been anxious to get her on the show so I could get to know her and her heart behind living alcohol-free.
In our conversation, Josnelly gets real about her sobriety journey, which kicked off in January 2021. She opens up about handling work pressures, family life, and how the pandemic nudged her towards healthier choices. We dive deep into the world of non-alcoholic drinks, chatting about our favorite mocktails and the creative ways we enjoy them, and exploring how these drinks have made our lives so much more fun and vibrant.
Josnelly also shares about her spiritual journey, her insights on being present, the mantra that guides her, and the impact living alcohol-free has had on her relationships. So tune in to hear us discuss living authentically and finding joy in every moment, without the need for alcohol!
Get in touch with Josnelly!
Instagram | Facebook
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb on Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
- Grab a guide to help when dining out: Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join my wonderful membership community, Thriving Alcohol-Free: Mocktail Mom Membership
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Hey friends! In this episode, I sit down with the remarkable Blair Horton from Holistic Rendezvous, a holistic nutrition consultant, natural chef, and student of functional medicine, who is transforming the way we think about health and wellness. Blair’s journey is nothing short of inspiring as she opens up about her transition from a traditional career path to becoming a passionate advocate for holistic health and natural healing. We dive deep into her insights on the importance of listening to your body, the magic of holistic remedies, and how she helps people transform their lives through mindful eating and other health and wellness tips.
Blair and I also chat about her thoughts and feelings on the term 'mocktail,' and how she's revolutionizing the concept with her artistic flair. She passionately combines her love for art with nutritious drinks to create elixirs that are, not only good for you, but also visually stunning. We explore the inspiration behind her beautiful concoctions and her tips on balancing a thriving career with a fulfilling personal life. Whether you’re looking to boost your health, find your passion, or just need a good dose of inspiration, this episode is packed with wisdom, warmth, and a whole lot of fun!
Get in touch with Blair!
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Mentioned ResourcesTea, Tonic, and Elixir Recipes
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
I had an absolute blast chatting with the amazing Josh Ellis, the co-founder of WithCo. If you haven’t heard of WithCo yet, you're in for a treat because they’re shaking up the beverage world with their all-natural mixers that are perfect for everyone—whether you're drinking alcohol or not!
Josh's journey is nothing short of inspiring and is all about stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing courage, even when fear is knocking at the door. He shared how a spontaneous birthday party experiment turned into the spark that launched WithCo, proving that sometimes the best ideas come from the most unexpected places. We dove into the ups and downs of growing the company, especially during the pandemic, learn how the one and only Dierks Bentley became a strategic partner of the brand, and discuss their heart for inclusivity—making sure everyone at the party has something delicious to sip on. So, grab your favorite drink (WithCo mixer, perhaps?), sit back, and tune in to hear Josh’s incredible story.
Learn more about WithCo!
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
I'm thrilled to welcome the amazing Mocktail Mo to the show! Mo is a true pioneer in the mocktail scene and was one of the very first accounts I followed on my alcohol-free journey. After turning 45, Mo discovered she was struggling with alcohol intolerance and was forced to find an alternative way to enjoy social settings. Today, we dive into her inspiring story of embracing mocktails and her passion for discovering the best from Arkansas’ NA landscape.
Mo shares her top tips for navigating restaurants that might not have mocktail options and spills the tea on her favorite alcohol-free wines and ready-to-drink beverages. We also chat about why restaurants seem slow to offer NA beverages and learn about the work she’s doing to encourage change within the industry. Whether you're living alcohol-free or just curious, this episode is packed with fun insights and delicious recommendations. So grab your favorite mocktail and join us for a delightful conversation!
Get in touch with Mocktail Mo!
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Ever wondered what it’s like to host David Goggins in your basement or kickstart a non-alcoholic beer revolution? Buckle up, because in this episode, I’m chatting with Joe Chura, the dynamic founder of Go Brewing, and he’s got some wild stories and inspiring insights to share!
In our conversation, Joe opens up about his personal journey of unhealthy drinking habits that affected his health in difficult ways. During the COVID pandemic, Joe and his wife, Heather, realized they needed a change and committed to going 75 days without alcohol, where he first discovered non-alcoholic beer and was inspired to launch his own NA brewery.
Joe talks about the inception of Go Brewing, describing the naturally low-calorie and gluten-free offerings, and highlighting the health benefits from their carefully chosen ingredients. He talks about the importance of making better choices and how non-alcoholic beers can be a part of a balanced, healthy lifestyle. From funny stories about running and doing push-ups with Goggins to insightful reflections on personal growth and community building, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice for anyone looking to improve their well-being. Tune in for a conversation that's as motivating as it is entertaining!
Check out Go Brewing!
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Hey friends, buckle up because today I have Alyssa Heim from Talk The Mock on Instagram joining me! Alyssa's journey is one for the books – she'll be sharing how she conquered her rocky relationship with alcohol, embraced sobriety, and stumbled upon her love for mixology along the way.
When she first embarked on her alcohol-free journey, Alyssa had to take a step back from the social scene to work on herself and solidify healthier habits. In our conversation, she gives all the tips and tricks on navigating those tricky social situations, having a positive mindset, and gaining confidence in sobriety. Her creativity also shines through as we chat about fun mocktail recipes and how to infuse spicy flavors into our booze-free beverages, so get ready for some seriously delicious ideas! Trust me, you won't want to miss out on her wisdom - you’re sure to be inspired!
Get in touch with Alyssa!
Instagram | TikTok
Mentioned ResourcesRecovery Elevator
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Struggling with the decision to cut back or cut out alcohol can feel like an isolating battle, but it's a road well-traveled in our community. My latest guest is Katie Nessel from Soberish Mom who joins me in a conversation about mindful drinking and moderation. We share laughter and sober truths as Katie unfolds her journey from the corporate grind to the demands of motherhood, and how it inadvertently deepened her relationship with alcohol.
In our chat, we dive into the eye-opening experiences of detoxing, the health implications that come with a sip too many, and the non-judgmental tools that can guide us towards a healthier balance. We also explore the landscape of personal drinking philosophies, from total sobriety to cautious moderation, all while savoring the joy that life's occasions bring – minus the hangover.
Finally, Katie discusses her experience of managing a social media account and even shares some of her go-to non-alcoholic drink options – because who says a good time has to be spiked? Join us for an episode that's brimming with ideas for new rituals and the kind of warm, engaging conversation you'd enjoy over a freshly made mocktail. With Katie's infectious energy and an array of tips for the sober curious, this episode is your invitation to a different kind of happy hour!
Get in touch with Katie!
Website | Instagram | TikTok
Mentioned ResourcesSunnyside Mindful Drinking App
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
In today’s episode, we’re chatting with Diana Panich, the tech guru turned non-alcoholic beverage trailblazer behind the newest brand, Palace Beverages. Since embracing sobriety in 2020, Diana's mission has been to create a beverage that's both fun and health-conscious. Palace Beverages is her brainchild, blending adaptogens with citrus flavors to offer a refreshing alternative to traditional drinks.
As we chat, Diana shares her personal journey, the inspiration behind her brand, and the meticulous process of crafting its unique taste. She's passionate about affordability and accessibility, aiming to make her products available to a wide audience. We also discuss the challenges and victories of launching a new business, from designing logos to distribution strategies and everything in between. I'm inspired by Diana’s entrepreneurial spirit and vision for Palace Beverages, and I can’t wait for you to discover it for yourself!
Check out Palace Beverages!
Website | Instagram
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
My goal this year was to invite more brands onto the podcast and I am making it happen! I'm very excited to introduce Ellie Webb, the visionary behind Caleño, as we chat about her leap from the alcohol industry to pioneering the UK's non-alcoholic spirits realm. What started as an idea during a sobering Dry January eventually led to a complete lifestyle and business revolution.
In our conversation, Ellie walks us through her story, from the initial sparks of creativity to her delicious range of non-alc products that now graces sober bars and homes alike. We tackle the art of steam distilling non-alcoholic spirits, product expansion and innovation, but also the hard work behind being an entrepreneur, and even the market trends and consumer shifts she's noticing in the industry at large. Ellie imparts invaluable advice to those entrepreneurs with a thirst for entering the sober niche, and even words of wisdom to those looking to simply drink less alcohol. There's something for everyone, so tune in for a dose of inspiration, insider knowledge, and a testament to the power of perseverance in the pursuit of mindful drinking.
Get in touch with Caleño!Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok
Follow Ellie Webb! @thejoyfuldrinker
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
In this episode, I'm thrilled to welcome Kraig Rovensky, representing The Pathfinder, a fermented and distilled hemp-based elixir that's taking the world by storm. In our discussion, he answers all your burning questions about this innovative product and sheds light on what makes The Pathfinder stand out in the world of non-alcoholic spirits.
From its roots in Seattle to its skyrocketing popularity nationwide, Kraig shares the brand's journey, including the many hiccups along the way. Plus, he shares some creative ways to enjoy it, whether you're a beer lover or a cocktail connoisseur. We also discuss the future of the non-alcoholic beverage industry and what's in store for The Pathfinder enthusiasts. You won’t want to miss out, so join us as we raise a glass to innovation and the joy of discovering new flavors in the incredible NA space!
Get in touch with The Pathfinder!Website | Instagram | Facebook
Follow Kraig on Instagram! @kraigthepathfinder
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
We’re back to discuss functional sobriety in Part 2 of this amazing conversation with Dr. Brooke Scheller, a doctor of clinical nutrition, the founder of Functional Sobriety, and the author of How to Eat to Change How You Drink. In this episode, we are exploring the three different drinking archetypes and discover how they can empower us on our paths to wellness. We also hear Dr. Brooke’s thoughts on moderating, learn about what functional sobriety looks like, and get magnesium tips for the popular and delicious sleepy-time mocktail.
If you haven’t already, go back and listen to Part 1 of our chat to hear more about Dr. Brooke’s story and also be sure to check out her book! She is changing the lives of so many (including mine) and I hope these episodes can help change yours as well. Cheers!
Get in touch with Dr. Brooke Scheller!Website | Instagram | TikTok
How to Eat to Change How You Drink
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Have you ever pondered the powerful role your eating habits might play on your alcohol-free journey? My two-part conversation with Dr. Brooke Scheller is completely packed with valuable insights that could potentially transform your approach to wellness. Dr. Scheller is a doctor of clinical nutrition, the founder of Functional Sobriety, and the author of How to Eat to Change How You Drink. After gaining freedom from alcohol in 2021, she took her experience in sobriety and applied her expertise in nutrition and functional medicine to help others change their relationship with alcohol to improve their health.
In part 1 of our discussion, we tackle the lingering stigmas surrounding sobriety, debunk myths, and illuminate the critical role of gut health and hormonal balance in our overall well-being. For us women at the menopausal stage, we get real about the unique hurdles we face and offer actionable advice and specific dietary tweaks to sustain our energy, balance our moods, and squash those cravings. So pour yourself a bubbly kombucha and join us in fighting for a healthier, alcohol-free existence.
Get in touch with Dr. Brooke Scheller!Website | Instagram | TikTok
How to Eat to Change How You Drink
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Get excited because I'm diving into the refreshing world of non-alcoholic craft beers with BrewDog's Jordan Shippee! BrewDog began in Scotland back in 2007 and has expanded like crazy all over the world. Jordan, a BrewDog Sales Manager, is giving us a look into their strategy and how they’ve managed to stay so successful in a somewhat volatile market.
We discuss the different methods to create alcohol-free beer, the importance of term definitions in marketing, and the consumer trends worth noting. Jordan shares awesome tips for encouraging local retailers to carry more non-alcoholic options. He also explains the AFNA certification process that has made BrewDog a true leader in the NA space. From his favorite NA beer picks to their exciting brewery and hotel experience in Columbus, OH, Jordan is serving up significant insights into the company.
It’s all fun and no buzz over here, so grab your mocktail and tune in to hear more!
Get in touch with Brewdog!
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Follow Jordan on Instagram!
Mentioned Resources
Wake Up Call
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Ever feel like the odd one out for skipping the booze at special events? Everyone wants to feel included, and Amethyst, the Non-Alcohol Spirits brand, has made this their mission. Today, my guest is Jane Harmon, the brand manager of Amethyst, who is sharing all about its evolution, from their inclusive concept to a community-centric favorite. You’ll learn how their incredible botanical-infused spirits are more than just a drink—they're a celebration of health and joy without the hangover regrets.
Jane gives us the lowdown on Amethyst's fabulous flavors like their Blueberry Ginger Mint, Grapefruit Basil, and Lemon Cucumber Serrano, even giving us a look at what’s in the works for Amethyst in the coming months. Plus, you’ll hear more about Jane and her experience of working behind the scenes, including fun opportunities for mocktail enthusiasts to socialize and keep the good times rolling. So, if you’re a seasoned soberista, a mindful drinker, or are just sober curious - all are welcome to kick back relax, and join me for this lighthearted episode!
Get in touch with Amethyst NA Spirits!
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Check out Amethyst!
Use the code mocktailmom to get 20% off!
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Join me as I discuss the world of alcohol use disorder among women with the fabulous Sarah Rusbatch. Sarah, a certified Health and Wellbeing Coach, Grey Area Drinking Coach, and all-around motivational speaker, is on a mission to help women transform their relationship with alcohol. Together, we uncover the shocking truth behind the 80% surge in alcohol dependency among women over the last three decades, breaking down the web of factors that are driving this trend, from the relentless pressures of modern life to the seductive marketing of alcohol as a quick fix for stress and overwhelm.
Drawing from her own journey, Sarah shares incredible insights into the brain science behind alcohol’s effects on women, touching on specific diseases like cancer, Dementia and Alzheimer’s. Her discoveries have even served as inspiration for her latest book Beyond Booze, where she proves that alcohol is anything but self-care. So many truth bombs were dropped in this chat and I know you will love hearing Sarah as she offers up all the facts. Tune in now to listen!
Get in touch with Sarah!
Website | Instagram
Check out her latest book Beyond Booze
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Going alcohol-free is hard, but staying alcohol-free? Well, that's a whole different ball game. The good news is that my guest today has just the right words of wisdom to keep you going! JoAnne Pearce is the creative mind behind Mock-Ups Mocktails and Canada’s go-to guru for all things alcohol-free sipping. Like many of us, she found herself navigating life’s curveballs and taking a hard look at her relationship with alcohol. To keep her hands busy, she began exploring creative mocktail concoctions that eventually led to her becoming an entrepreneur and book author.
Our conversation is all sorts of fun and silly! JoAnne shares her insights on pushing past the hard moments of sobriety and discovering untapped potential within ourselves. She shares her perspectives on the evolving landscape of mocktails, the intersection of wellness, culinary creativity, and the art of mixology, and even gives us a sneak peek into her creative process. Whether you're on your own sober adventure or just looking to spruce up your alcohol-free options, JoAnne's insights and inventive spirit are guaranteed to spark some serious inspiration and keep you open to all the exciting possibilities out there.
Get in touch with JoAnne!
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Check out JoAnne’s book!Dry Spell
Spilt Zero Proof: Website | Instagram
Distemperance Brand
Wasabi Plum Sour recipeLiquid WasabiIngredients:
-1 tsp wasabi powder
-1/4 cup hot water, plus 1 tbsp hot water
Method: Use 1 tbsp hot water to form a paste with powdered wasabi, then add remaining hot water.
Wasabi Plum SourIngredients:
-4oz plum juice
-1/2 oz liquid wasabi
-1/2 lemon's worth of juice
-1 egg white
Method: Add all ingredients to shaker and dry shake for 15 seconds, then add ice. Shake again for 5-10 seconds, then strain into a cocktail glass.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Navigating social situations without alcohol can feel like walking a tightrope. But what about going on a trip without your usual support network? Sounds tough, right? Well, that's where Izzy van Zuilen steps in! As the founder of Sobertopia, she's all about sharing the tips and tricks that helped her on her own journey to sobriety. From reviewing drinks to organizing amazing sober retreats for women, Izzy's got you covered if you're even a little curious about living alcohol-free.
In our chat, Izzy tells us her story, from her teenage binge-drinking days to finding happiness without alcohol. We discuss the inception of Sobertopia, her infamous list of bubbly reviews, as well as the incredibly luxurious sober retreat opportunities that she crafts with so much care. Trust me, after hearing all about it, you’re going to want to pack your bags immediately! So tune in now and gain tons of inspiration that will fuel your own journey towards a happier, healthier lifestyle.
Get in touch with Izzy!
Website | Instagram
Learn more about Izzy’s Sober Retreats!
Read up on Izzy’s Bubbly Reviews
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
In this episode, I had the privilege of interviewing Kim Bella, the remarkable founder of Sober is the New Cool, whose journey is truly inspiring. Kim's path to sobriety began when her son Matthew was diagnosed with epilepsy, prompting her to quit alcohol in solidarity with him. What started as a three-month challenge turned into 11 years of sobriety, during which she discovered a profound sense of purpose in helping others navigate their own struggles.
Throughout our conversation, we discussed the challenges Kim encountered along her path, highlighting her unwavering commitment to positivity and resilience. From organizing international walks to advocating for mental health and addiction support, Kim has used her platform to spread encouragement and to benefit various nonprofits through sales from her awesome merch. Her story underscores the transformative power of sobriety and the importance of community support in overcoming life's hurdles.
Get in touch with Kim!Website | Instagram | Facebook
Mentioned ResourcesMommy Goes To Meetings by Amy Liz Harrison
Podcast episode with Emma Newman of Sobersonic
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Recently, it struck me just how much the sober scene has changed big time! And it's something that my latest guest, Laura Silverman, knows all too well. As an OG in the NA space, Laura's here to share her infectious enthusiasm and wisdom with us by walking us through the early stages of her sobriety journey, revisiting the days when mocktails weren't the norm.
In our chat, Laura gives us the 411 on her latest exploits, including Dry January's whirlwind of engagements and a karaoke event that proves sobriety can indeed be the life of the party. She also shares a few ways her business is evolving, such as improving her innovative global non-alc map with Zero Proof Nation and even utilizing the help of a business coach to gain clarity on what's next. Laura also has some amazing tips for locating NA options near you, so whether you’re sober-curious or you’re completely sober, you’ll know where to look! This episode is all about celebrating the good vibes of the NA community and we are ready to sprinkle some encouragement your way. So grab your favorite alcohol-free drink and let's dive into the world of sober fun!
Get in touch with Laura!@wearesober | @boozefreeindc | @zeroproofnation
Check out the Zero Proof Nation Global Map!Mentioned ResourcesBetter Without App
BuzzCutt App
Delightful App
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Embracing a life free from alcohol can feel like you're hiking alone up a huge mountain—but it doesn't have to be. Joining me is Lori Massicot, a fantastic certified life and sobriety coach and the amazing host of the To Fifty and Beyond podcast, dedicated to helping midlife women aged 35+ find freedom from alcohol. Lori is taking a stroll down memory lane and vividly sharing her own ascent to a decade of sober living, which honestly took her by surprise.
In our heart-to-heart, Lori and I get real about our histories with alcohol, the midlife identity crises (hello, grief!), and how breaking free has given our lives a major makeover. We chat about the mental battles of that tricky first year sober and why having a solid support crew is non-negotiable, especially when society's shouting for you to hit the bar again. And let's not forget the midlife crossroads; Lori spills the beans on her lifelines, and we dish about self-care must-haves like regular exercise and journaling. Plus, we dive into the ever-growing world of non-alcoholic options.
No matter where you are on your sober journey, Lori's story is packed with takeaways to give you that extra boost!
Get in touch with Lori!Website | Instagram
To Fifty and Beyond Podcast
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Step into the inspiring story of Kim Diguilio, a wife, mom, nurse, and dear friend in our community, who traded blurry regrets for a life of clarity without alcohol. Kim's journey, from a game-changing challenge to eye-opening revelations from "This Naked Mind," reveals the power of choosing sobriety with authenticity and purpose.
Now, with three years of sobriety in her pocket, Kim's story goes beyond personal wins. She dives into her heartwarming community contributions—volunteering at the Common Ground Grief Center, supporting families touched by addiction, and making a proactive impact to create a legacy her kids can look up to. It's proof that an alcohol-free lifestyle isn't just about personal change; it's a magnifier for giving back and fostering generational wellness—a beacon of hope for those on their path to sobriety.
But wait, our episode wouldn't be complete without a nod to the connections we've forged during our weekly Happy Half-Hours. From virtual costume shindigs to mocktail summits, they're living proof that laughter and camaraderie don't need a splash of spirits to be enjoyed. As your host, I'm grateful for every story shared, every connection made, and the journey we're walking together. Your support is the engine driving this community, and together, we're rocking an alcohol-free life that's just as rich and fulfilling as any other. Big Time
Cheers to that!
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Ever been at a crossroads, torn between the comfort of old habits and the challenge of personal growth? Well, join us for a chat with Jessica from A Sober Girl's Guide. She spills the beans on her seven-year sobriety journey, sharing the real deal on the enduring challenges and revelations of living alcohol-free. Jessica's story goes beyond kicking a habit—it's a raw exploration of peeling away layers to reveal intricate patterns that call for attention and commitment to personal development. Sobriety, she says, isn't a cure-all, but a gateway to deeper self-awareness, with relationships as our compass through life's twists and turns.
But this episode isn't just about the tough stuff—it's a celebration of triumphs and transformations! Jessica shares how A Sober Girl's Guide went from a cheeky blog to a thriving community hub, complete with group coaching, social clubs, and daily encouragement for those navigating an alcohol-free life. She is all about the power of change, so, tune in, get inspired by the movement she's created, and discover how those small, intentional shifts can lead to a thriving sober life, backed by a passionate community ready to welcome you with open arms. Cheers!
Get in touch with Jessica!
Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok
Check out A Sober Girls Guide Podcast!
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
When Meg Fee first whispered to the world, "You don't have to drink," she sparked a flame in the hearts of many seeking a path to sobriety. She joins us today, sharing her story from her first year sans alcohol to the radiant glow of impending motherhood. Meg, candid and inspiring, shares the intimate details of her journey - the triumphs of being a sober bride, the kinship found within the sober community, and even the difficult moments along the way.
Navigating life's social scenes without the crutch of alcohol might seem daunting. Still, as Meg and I chat, we agree that there's beauty in the simple, daily practice of sobriety, similar to yoga or mindfulness. Whether it's savoring the delicate flavors of Italian non-alcoholic wines or basking in the support of online communities such as 1000 Hours Dry and Tempest, we illuminate the many facets of an alcohol-free life. Each step, each choice, each day is a celebration, affirming the vibrant life that awaits beyond the bottle.
Meg's personal endeavors and the warm embrace she extends through her social media and podcast, "More Than Sobriety," have given hope to so many. So raise your non-alcoholic glasses as we toast to the small changes that lead to big transformations. Here's to thriving in sobriety and the joy and freedom that await on this journey!
Get in touch with Meg!Website | Instagram
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
When Emma Newman poured her last drink, she had no idea that her path to sobriety would lead her to a world full of delicious mocktails, and continue after 97 months! Her story isn't just about saying 'no' to alcohol—it's about navigating new social landscapes, prioritizing self-care, and conquering your fears. In this latest episode, Emma brings to the table her candid experiences, from the early days of limited non-alcoholic options to today's vibrant mocktail scene, proving that going dry doesn't have to mean going dull.
As we chat about the sober life, Emma's insights underscore the courage and opportunities that sobriety uncorks. Who knew that ditching the drink could lead to conquering the O2 in London or the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu? Emma shares her tips for navigating social settings sans alcohol, from pre-planning restaurant visits to shaking up your own 'rock shanty' at home. Whether you're curious about crafting the perfect non-alcoholic mojito or you're looking for inspiration to take on your own heights—both literal and metaphorical—this episode is a toast to the boundless adventures that await in an alcohol-free life.
Get in touch with Emma!Instagram | Facebook
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Happy New Year and Happy Dry January! Whether you're diving into this podcast for the first time, already on the alcohol-free journey, or just sober-curious, I'm thrilled to have you join us. Going alcohol-free has been a game-changer for me, and as I mark over three incredible years of clarity and wellness, I'm excited to bring you along for the ride.
In this episode, let's catch up and chat about your Dry January progress! Plus, I've got some fantastic updates about the upcoming Mocktail Summit. I've lined up an amazing roster of over 18 mocktail pros and enthusiasts for this three-day extravaganza, and guess what? 11 of them were guest stars on the podcast back in 2023! Tune in to hear all about their incredible contributions to the summit—I promise, it's an event you won't want to miss! You'll find registration details below, and if you're curious to learn more about these fantastic guests, check out their previous episodes using the links provided!
Learn more about these Mocktail Summit speakers & podcast guests!Christine Wayne - Episode 23
Jessa Frances - Episode 45
Elizabeth Gascoigne - Episode 35
Heidi Abell - Episode 24
Ian Blessing - Episode 6
Rich Laoud - Episode 9
Chelsea Mitchell - Episode 27
Derick Santiago - Episode 30
Natalie Battaglia- Episode 46
Sarah Kate - Episode 15
Rob Theodorow - Episode 48
Is there a brand you'd like to hear about on the podcast?
Let me know! Send me a DM on Instagram @mocktail.mom
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Welcome friends to an end-of-the-year celebration! Reflecting on this journey through 2023, I've accomplished so much with your overwhelming support. And in the spirit of celebration, I’m taking a moment to celebrate all of the wins from this past year, and give you a sneak peek of what’s to come in 2024 - trust me, you’re not going to want to miss it!
Also included in this episode is a special rerun of the most downloaded episode of the podcast to date, so if you’re a newer listener, definitely stick around to hear that encore episode! But most importantly, thank you so much for tuning in and supporting this show. It means the world to me that you’re here and I hope that together we can continue to help others find joy and peace in living an alcohol-free life!
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Imagine exchanging your favorite cocktail for a non-alcoholic beverage and discovering a world full of flavor, community, and a healthier, happier you. That's exactly what our guest, Rob Theodorow, owner of Generation NA non-alcoholic bottle shop, did. He bid farewell to booze and embraced an alcohol-free lifestyle, finding joy in simple moments, rediscovering old hobbies, and opening up a thriving business.
Rob breaks down his story, which is a testament to the power of choice and the freedom found in sobriety, and what led him to opening up his bottle shop. Our conversation gets into the fast-growing trend of non-alcoholic beverages, exploring the variety of options available from craft beers to zero-proof cocktails and wines. Rob also shares his ambitious plans for Generation NA and the excitement that's coming in 2024! His decision to open his bottle shop has created a space for others to connect and create lasting memories, and I can't wait for you to hear more about it!
Get in touch with Rob at Generation NA!
Instagram | Facebook
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Have you ever paused to consider the role of alcohol in your life and how it's portrayed in popular culture? My guest did exactly that, and it changed her life! Join me in a thought-provoking conversation with Amy Leahy, the brilliant mind behind Happier Hour Starts Now. Amy walks us through her personal journey of embracing sobriety, unraveling the intricacies of gray area drinking, and challenging our perceptions of what's considered 'normal' when it comes to alcohol consumption.
Amy's candor about her path to an alcohol-free life in February 2023 sparks a vital discussion about honesty and self-reflection concerning our own relationships with alcohol. We also get into the impact of alcohol on the hospitality industry, shining a spotlight on the uplifting trend of more inclusive drink menus. This episode is your ticket to a profound understanding of alcohol-free living, the rising tide of non-alcoholic beverages, and the exciting changes we're seeing in our culture. So, buckle up!
Get in touch with Amy!www.instagram.com/happier.hour.starts.now
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Get ready to dive into a lively conversation bursting with laughter, mixology magic, and uplifting inspiration alongside the fabulous mocktail queen, Natalie Battaglia! All the way from the Land Down Under, Nat's here to light up your day with her incredible journey of riding the waves of alcohol use and her unwavering determination to break free, all shared with a wonderful blend of warmth, humor, and reliability.
In our time together, Nat and I debunk misconceptions about alcohol use disorder and offer encouragement to those on a similar path. She’ll share more about her personal history with alcohol, and how a very scary moment led to the creation of her Instagram account, The Mindful Mocktail, which is dedicated to her delectable and healthy concoctions.
You're also in for an exclusive peek behind the curtain as Nat shares her wild ride of becoming an author and navigating the publishing world. Plus, she'll let you in on her secrets for crafting refreshingly healthier, all-natural drinks that'll have you feeling absolutely fantastic! What I adored most about chatting with Nat? Her reminder that without alcohol, there's a world of time and energy waiting to be channeled into fulfilling pursuits—and it's all within your reach too. So buckle up and join me for an open, candid, and oh-so-inspiring episode!
Get in touch with Nat!
Website | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Youtube
Preorder her upcoming mocktail recipe book!
Register today for The Mocktail Summit! Jan 17-19, 2024Join me for a fun-filled three days bringing together the mocktail community to share recipes, workshops, tips for alcohol-free drinks, community, and so much more!
Get your tickets now!
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Exciting news, friends! I have the pleasure of introducing Jessa Frances, the founder of Untoxicated and the authority on non-alcoholic beverages. Jessa shares with us her fascinating journey into this holistic realm and how she’s using her expertise to help clients and consumers find their perfect non-alcoholic drink match.
If you've dreamed of enjoying a refreshing drink that gives you a buzz without any alcohol, then immerse yourself in our discussion about the world of functional drinks! We discuss the pros and cons of popular brands, learn more about the role of ingredients in achieving a specific effect, plus get into some killer mixology tips! To top it off, Jessa tackles the issue of preservatives in non-alcoholic drinks and also shares her personal testimonial as a mindful drinker. You definitely don't want to miss this enlightening episode – it's sure to inspire you to make healthier choices on your non-alcoholic journey!
Get in touch with Jessa!
Website | Instagram
Read more on Jessa’s Substack!
The Functional Alternative - Let’s Talk Adaptogens & Nootropics
Alcohol-Free Doesn’t Always Mean Healthy
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Ever wonder what it takes to turn your life around and conquer addiction? Look no further! Me and my fantastic guest Rachel - known as Sober in Central Park on Instagram - share a profoundly personal and inspirational conversation that's sure to leave you feeling inspired. Rachel opens up about her journey to an alcohol-free life and how she turned her challenges into a hard-won victory, ultimately losing 100 pounds and finding joy in daily walks with her beloved dog, George, through none other than Central Park.
We tread the fine line of shedding light on ADHD and its impact on women, with insights from Rachel's personal experiences with the disorder. She talks openly about setting boundaries, coping with executive dysfunction, and managing emotional regulation. We also discuss the importance of self-care, a key element that has helped us navigate through our struggles.
To finish off, Rachel shares her thoughts and tips about maintaining sobriety during social gatherings and holidays – a perennial challenge for many on the sobriety journey. Whether you're already sober or are just sober-curious, I hope this episode offers you encouragement and a fresh perspective, igniting a spark of hope that life can indeed be beautiful, fulfilling, and joyous without alcohol!
Get in touch with Rachel!
Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok
FREE Mocktail Mom Holiday Resource Guide - DOWNLOAD HERE
Get your own Mocktail Cards For Bartenders!
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Have you ever wondered how much potential lies within you, hidden beneath the numbing effects of alcohol? Today, we're exploring this with the inspiring Heather Lowe, the creator of 'Ditched the Drink', and a beacon of sobriety for almost six years. Heather, a testament to the transformative power of an alcohol-free lifestyle, shares her journey from self-doubt to self-discovery, outlining how sobriety is not just about steering clear of alcohol, but about self-care, trusting yourself, and finding healthier coping mechanisms for stress and grief.
Heather takes us into her inspiring story as a high-achieving woman navigating sobriety. She opens up about the evolution of her business, offering a candid view into her role as a sober coach, mentor, and corporate trainer on alcohol. Heather also provides a peek into the reality of sobriety, highlighting how it's about tuning into yourself and trusting your own judgment, rather than surrendering to the siren call of alcohol.
As we wade into the holiday season, Heather also illuminates how a sober lifestyle can infuse more joy into our lives than we ever thought possible. She offers a fresh perspective on celebrating this special time of year without the crutch of alcohol, sharing invaluable tips on reinventing traditions and honoring those we miss. With her unique insights and life-affirming advice, Heather is poised to help you see sobriety in a completely new, empowering light. Join us in this profound conversation and be prepared to perceive sobriety as the key to unlocking a fuller, freer, and more authentic self.
Get in touch with Heather!Website | Instagram | Facebookd
Blog Post: Are Alcohol-Free Drinks a Tool or a Trigger?
Learn more about The Mocktail Summit coming in January!
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Step behind the bar and discover how a New York bartender and bar owner shook up her life by embracing sobriety, all while shaking up some seriously delicious mocktails! Join us on a journey with our guest, Paige, from Sober and Funky, who transformed her life after choosing an alcohol-free lifestyle back in 2015. She'll walk you through her move to Austin, Texas, her passion for creating delicious mocktails, and her dedication to building a community that supports alcohol-free living.
In our conversation, we'll touch on Paige's endeavors in event planning, revealing how her events have become instrumental in connecting with the local Austin community. From her unique trivia nights to her signature sticker that symbolizes her journey, Paige's platform shows that sobriety doesn't have to be a life sentence to boredom. So tune in and get ready to be inspired by her journey – because it's never too late to start afresh, and sobriety can indeed be funky!
Follow Sober and Funky on Instagram!
Learn more about The Mocktail Summit coming in January!
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Hey friends! I'm back from vacation, and it's time to check in as we wrap up the month of October and gear up for Halloween! You know, Halloween can be a spooky season for some folks with all the drinking traditions. I remember strolling through the neighborhood with my kids for trick-or-treating while sipping on some wine. But here's a little reminder – you can still have a blast tonight (or any night) without the alcohol!
I also recently connected with my membership group, and we had a fantastic chat about Courtney Andersen's book, "Sober Vibes". We uncovered some incredible insights during our Happy Half-Hour discussion, and I couldn't resist sharing a few nuggets with you! So, let's dive into a brew of Halloween fun and sober inspiration.
Sponsor Spotlight:
- Thank you to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode & for creating delicious non-alcoholic wines that I L.O.V.E!
- Giesen is available online at Boisson, discount code MOCKTAILMOM for 15% OFF!
Podcast Recourses:
- Sober Vibes: A Guide to Thriving In Your First Three Months Without Alcohol
- Sober October Mocktail features Monday Non-Alcoholic Whiskey & Joyus Non-Alcoholic Cab. Code MOCKTAILMOM for 10% OFF when shopping from Joyus.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Ready to shake things up? Join us as we stir up an intriguing conversation with Chris Tunstall, the co-founder of A Bar Above. With 15 years of bartending under his belt, Chris and his wife Julia are redefining the world of mixology with their innovative barware and insightful courses. Discover how this dynamic duo is crafting an elevated drink experience, whether you're a budding mixologist or a cocktail enthusiast just starting out.
From the simple soda or iced tea options of 2003 to today's wide array of sophisticated alcohol-free alternatives, the landscape of non-alcoholic beverages has greatly evolved. Chris breaks down the misconceptions about mocktails and highlights the complexity and creativity involved in concocting these refreshing beverages. He also offers up recommendations on quality ready-to-drink mocktails and shares his personal favorites that pack a flavorful punch without the booze. Whether you're transitioning away from alcohol or just exploring new drink options, this episode will leave you thirsty for more knowledge in the fantastic world of mocktails.
Get in touch with Chris!
Website | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Youtube
Use the code MOCKTAILMOM for 10% off your next purchase!
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Get ready to hear the unfiltered story of Lucy, our incredible guest known as the Sober Brown Queen. Together, we trace her journey from a mom and nurse manager who relied on alcohol to overcome loneliness and stress to an individual now thriving in sobriety. I promise, her story will challenge your perspectives, inspire you, and make you rethink the power of authentic connections in overcoming addiction.
In this episode, Lucy shares the pivotal moment when she recognized the need for change, leading her to make the courageous decision to quit drinking. Her experiences shed light on the struggles of breaking free from alcohol amidst common challenges, such as parenting and working a stressful job. Her journey also reveals the unexpected transformation and opportunities that sobriety brought as she found confidence and joy in an alcohol-free lifestyle. I hope you grasp the importance of supportive communities and the joy of rediscovery as you listen to Lucy’s story, and may it inspire your own path to non-alcoholic living!
Get in touch with Lucy!Website | Instagram
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Ready to celebrate sobriety and embrace a life without alcohol? Join me for an honest and heartfelt exploration into sobriety with Courtney Anderson, a sober life coach, author, podcast host, and the visionary behind Sober Vibes and National Sober Day. In this episode, Courtney and I break down the stigma and shame around addiction and recovery, and the importance of recognizing National Recovery Month. We also offer a sneak peek into the recently celebrated National Sober Day, aiming to foster understanding and encourage open dialogues about addiction and sobriety.
Nonetheless, sobriety isn't always an easy path. Courtney bravely shares her personal journey of transitioning to a sober lifestyle, recounting the identity shifts she faced and the grieving process she underwent while giving up her addictions. As our conversation deepens and we explore the hurdles of socializing in sobriety, you'll discover essential wisdom on establishing personal boundaries, pinpointing potential triggers in non-alcoholic beverages, and reaping the advantages of taking a break from excessive social interactions. Whether you're on your own path to recovery, contemplating sobriety, or seeking to empathize with the challenges that someone dear to you may be facing, this episode is a must-listen!
Get in touch with Courtney!Website | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook
Listen to the Sober Vibes Podcast
Order her book Sober Vibes HERE
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Imagine stepping into a bottle shop that only sells non-alcoholic beverages! That's exactly what Stephanie did in creating Killjoy Club - the first and only non-alcoholic bottle shop in Nashville, Tennessee. In this episode, she takes us on a journey through her remarkable story of embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle and transforming it into a thriving business.
But Stephanie doesn't stop at sharing her story. She generously reveals her top picks among non-alcoholic beers and beverages, dives into the lifestyle changes that came with her journey, and even gives us a sneak peek into her ambitious plan to run a 43 km race on her 43rd birthday (which happens to be today - HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEPHANIE!). Her journey is a testament to dedication and resilience, offering a compelling listen for anyone curious about the world of non-alcoholic beverages. So tune in and if you happen to be in Nashville, don't miss the chance to visit her shop!
Get in touch with Stephanie!Website | Instagram
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Ever wondered if your sensitivity might be guiding you toward a complicated relationship with alcohol? My guest certainly did and she’s here to share her story! Join me on a captivating journey with former HGTV star, Paige Rien, as we explore the ups and downs of embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle.
In our conversation, we dive deep into Paige's unique ability to craft environments that truly resonate with families and discover the transformative potential of personalizing your own living space. We'll also debunk some common misconceptions about alcohol, explore Paige's experience with creating a "dry house," and uncover ways to foster family connections and relaxation without relying on alcohol.
Our discussion also touches on the perils of comparing our lives to the curated images we encounter on social media. There is so much encouragement in this episode, and I hope it ignites inspiration within you to make deliberate choices that lead to freedom, authentic joy, and connections!
Get in touch with Paige!Website | Instagram
Check out her books!
Huberman Lab: What Alcohol Does to Your Body, Brain & Health
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Are you ready for a deep dive into the power of sobriety and how it can transform lives? Meet Elizabeth Gascoigne, our extraordinary guest today, whose journey from substance addiction to a thriving, alcohol-free life led her to create Absence of Proof, a groundbreaking non-alcoholic beverage company.
But Elizabeth's story goes beyond personal triumph. Through Absence of Proof, she's revolutionizing the beverage industry and changing perceptions about sobriety. We'll explore her entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of planning large-scale events, and the unspoken mental toll that comes with it.
Finally, we'll uncover the importance of work-life balance and self-care in maintaining an alcohol-free lifestyle. Elizabeth shares her secrets to slow living, setting healthy boundaries, and breaking free from social media negativity. Join us for a compelling episode packed with inspiration and insights for those seeking a fulfilling, sober life.
Get in touch with Elizabeth!Website | Instagram | TikTokThanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Ever wondered if you're drinking more than you should and how to navigate a world that often revolves around alcohol? Have you felt stuck in the gray area, not an alcoholic, but not quite comfortable with your drinking habits? This episode is for you. I had the pleasure of sitting down with the inspiring Kari Schwear from Gray Tonic as she shared her compelling journey from questioning her excessive drinking to becoming a Grey Area drinking coach.
Kari candidly shares her 'enough' moment back in 2016 and reflects on how she used this pivotal moment to stop drinking and start empowering others to follow suit. We probe the critical role our inner voices play and the red flags that often go unnoticed. Kari offers an enlightening perspective on self-regulation, arguing for the need to confront our limiting beliefs head-on and create new thinking patterns to overcome excessive drinking tendencies.
This conversation wouldn't be complete without addressing the social implications of choosing not to drink. We go deeper into the evolving stigma around non-drinkers and the importance of advocating for more non-alcoholic options in social settings. Kari encourages us to vote with our wallets, supporting businesses that offer such options. She also shares practical tips on how to socialize without alcohol, manage emotions, and have those tough conversations about your alcohol-free journey.
Get in touch with Kari! Website | Instagram | Facebook
Free E-Guide on Self-Regulation: https://graytonic.kartra.com/page/10Ways
Free mini-course, Think Through the Drink: https://www.graytonic.com/tttd/
Free private Facebook Group, Question the Drink: https://www.facebook.com/groups/questionthedrink
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for being our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor!
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
I am thrilled to have Duncan Shouler, the Director of Winemaking at Giesen Wines, join me on the podcast today!
The entire range of Giesen 0% wines are some of my favorite de-alcoholized wines. The Giesen 0% Sauvignon Blanc has been my "go-to" non-alcoholic wine for over two years. Shout out to my friend Mathilda, who introduced me to the Giesen brand - I am forever thankful! Giesen Wines are very accessible, reasonably priced & delicious.
Join us as we take a flavorful journey to the serene vineyards of New Zealand with Duncan.
Prepare to be captivated by Duncan's remarkable journey to becoming the master of winemaking at Giesen and his undeniable passion for the craft. We'll unravel the unique attributes that make Giesen Wines stand out in the crowded winemaking world and delve into the exciting details of their latest masterpiece, the Sparkling Brut 0%.
Duncan gives us an inside look into the fascinating world of zero-alcohol wine-making, revealing the unique influence of the Marlborough region's climate on the intense passion fruit and tropical fruit flavors of their Sauvignon Blanc. We'll uncover the secret behind the innovative spinning cone technology that removes alcohol without sacrificing the wine's exquisite flavor. From bottling in New Zealand to shipping across the globe to the United States, we've got you covered on all things Giesen Wines.
Finally, join us as we navigate the intriguing world of zero-alcohol wine varieties with Duncan. Celebrate the complexities of Pinot Gris, toast to the growing popularity of Rose, and savor the unique flavor profiles of Giesen's non-alcoholic sparkling wines. Want to know the best part?
We're giving two lucky winners a Giesen Wines' Sparkling Brut case, so make sure you get all the details on our Instagram accounts: @GiesenWines and @Mocktail.Mom
Tune in, learn, and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of de-alcoholized wines in this episode of Thriving Alcohol-Free.
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half-hours!
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Join me for a fascinating chat with Chris Marshall, the pioneer behind one of America's first brick-and-mortar non-alcoholic bars, Sansbar. Hear his inspiring journey towards sobriety and how it led him to forge a path in the beverage industry, flipping the script on traditional drinking culture. His story is not just about personal transformation but also a testament to the growing acceptance of non-alcoholic options. The introduction of alcohol into his social circle was a significant rite of passage, but his quest for a healthier lifestyle led him to explore an alternative path.
Our conversation takes an interesting turn as we discuss the current trend of non-alcoholic drinks. Thanks to technological advances and changes in consumer tastes, the industry is catching up with the demand. At Sansbar, they have a varied menu of both analog and non-alcoholic drinks to satisfy all palettes. We also touch on our exclusive non-alcoholic wine sponsor and the upcoming Sandsbar tour, where I look forward to meeting Chris in person in Nashville.
Finally, we explore the broader non-alcoholic movement, from how it challenges the stigma around 'mocktails' to how Chris spreads the word across North America. He even reveals his plans to offer curated trips, including an exciting trip to Cuba. We conclude with a thought-provoking discussion about the importance of diversity in any ecosystem, and the value of people's perspectives over industry perspectives. This episode is an eye-opener to the non-alcoholic world and Chris' dedication to ensuring everyone can enjoy a good drink, without the alcohol.
Sansbar & Chris can be found on Instagram & the website
Thanks to Giesen 0% Wines for sponsoring this podcast episode.
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half-hours!
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Have you ever felt shame for ordering a non-alcoholic drink at a restaurant or party and struggled with the societal pressures of drinking culture? Join me, Deb, as we traverse this familiar landscape with sober pioneer Rachel Hart. Together, we dismantle the stigma surrounding non-alcoholic beverages and shed light on the rise of innovative, high-quality alternatives.
Rachel, author of "Why Can't I Drink Like Everyone Else?", opens up about her journey to sobriety and the vulnerability she experienced in sharing her story with the world. She provides enriching insights into the struggle of managing desires and urges, normalizing this as a critical part of the human experience. Notably, she shares practical strategies to channel these desires healthily, supporting those navigating their journey to sobriety.
We delve into the transformative power of change, providing tools to unlock your potential and overcome feelings of stagnation. Rachel urges listeners to harness the power within themselves to create meaningful life changes, taking control of their relationship with alcohol. She warmly extends an invitation to delve into her book and podcast, "Take a Break from Drinking," for more advice and support. Join us for this powerful and empowering conversation about sobriety, overcoming shame, and igniting change. You won't want to miss it.
Connect with Rachel on her website: RachelHart.com
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half-hours!
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
I am thrilled to welcome Derick Santiago of Mocktail Wiz to the podcast!
Derick is a certified mixologist based in Southern California. He created Mocktail Wiz, an Instagram page and website dedicated to craft mocktails, non-alcoholic cocktail recipes, and mindful mixology techniques. He has worked as a mocktail recipe designer, photographer, and video creator with leading brands in the non-alcoholic beverage industry.
With his last drink on June 4th, 2022, Derek embarked on a new journey, and now, over a year later, he commemorated the anniversary of his Mocktail Wiz on Instagram.
Derick's Mocktail Wiz account on Instagram is a treasure trove of mocktail recipes, tips for navigating bars without an alcohol menu, and the heartwarming story of his mixology certification journey with A Bar Above.
Derick's transformation extends beyond his personal life and spills over into his social circles, where he's found a global community of like-minded individuals. He reveals how his transition from alcohol to mocktails led to deeper, meaningful connections and improved his social skills. Derick walks us through his Hibiscus Sunrise mocktail creation, which he presented for his final mixology exam.
Derick can be found on TikTok, Instagram & Facebook
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half-hours!
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Her adventure into the alcohol-free space started with an unexpected bet with a friend, but quickly evolved into a life-changing experience, taking her to an extravagant $800 dinner at Momofuku Co. Hilary takes us through her first-hand experiences and the social benefits she discovered during her journey.
Imagine going from a red carpet reporter covering after-parties and the best of wines, to exploring the world of sobriety and non-alcoholic drinks. That's exactly what my guest, Hilary Scheinbaum, accomplished, and she's here to share her inspiring journey with us.
Whether you're considering a break from alcohol or just curious about alcohol-free alternatives, this episode is for you. Hilary shares valuable tips, emphasizing the importance of having a supportive friend during the process and exercising self-compassion. We also discuss the deep-rooted cultural significance of alcohol and how Hilary's upcoming book and TEDx talk contribute to normalizing sobriety. Don't miss this insightful episode that offers a fresh perspective on alcohol-free living and inspires us to embrace sobriety with an open mind. Tune in for an engaging conversation!
Hilary Sheinbaum is a New York-based journalist and the author of "The Dry Challenge: How to Lose the Booze for Dry January, Sober October, and Any Other Alcohol-Free Month" (HarperCollins), a judgment-free guide to giving up alcohol for a month-long period.
As a prominent figure in the sober-curious space, Hilary was dubbed "the Dry January M.V.P." by The New York Times in 2023.
Hilary has contributed to The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Bloomberg, and The Huffington Post, among other top-tier publications. She has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS, NBC, and more.
She can be found on Instagram & her website: HilarySheinbaum.com
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half-hours!
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Meet Josh James, the trailblazer behind one of America's pioneering non-alcoholic bars, Ocean Beach Cafe. His transformative story is inspiring as we trace his journey from San Francisco-based rehab, Friendship House, to becoming a powerful advocate for sobriety through his brand, Josh the Non-Alcoholic.
Josh, with his bartender insights, recommends easy-to-make mocktails for your home and shares his secret to pouring drinks with just one hand! If you thought non-alcoholic options were hard to find, Josh shares expert tips on finding accessible options in grocery stores.
Give Josh a follow on Instagram & Ocean Beach Cafe
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half-hours!
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Meet Chelsea Mitchell, the creative genius behind Instagram's Present Mind Drinking. We delve into the pressures she faced from peers, the art of creating enticing mocktails, and the journey of establishing a social media presence.
Our discussion unravels the challenges and the unexpected delights of an alcohol-free lifestyle, especially in social situations where drinks often take center stage.
You'll learn to whip up her favorite mocktail – a tantalizing blend of ritual aperitif and fever tree blood orange ginger beer. From the benefits of heightened energy to the joy of crafting new beverages, Chelsea's insights will inspire your journey toward an alcohol-free lifestyle. So, whether you're seeking alcohol-free alternatives or wish to expand your drink repertoire, this episode is brimming with inspiration & practical advice.
Connect with Chelsea on IG or TikTok @PresentMindDrinking
Additional places to find Chelsea: link.tr.ee/presentmindcreating
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half-hours!
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Meet the remarkable Kristine Lies, who is here to share her 400+ day journey of an alcohol-free lifestyle. She is a "foodie" and a founding member of Thriving Alcohol-Free.
As a food enthusiast, Kristine didn't just quit alcohol; she found non-alcoholic alternatives that complement her love for food. We chat about our favorite summer wines, focusing on the Giesen 0% Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and Rosé, and Kristine shares her insights on different cheeses and their perfect pairings. She also recommends great places to find these delightful wines and cheeses—like Aldi's Lustenberger.
Kristine can be found on Instagram& TikTok: @RealSoberTalk
Connect with Deb: @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half-hours!
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
An authentic discussion about sobriety among mothers with Suzanne Warye, host of The Sober Mom Life podcast.
Suzanne brings together style & sobriety. Sometimes funny. Always sober.
You can find her on her IG: @mykindofsweet & @thesobermomlife
and her website www.mykindofsweet.com
Connect with Deb on Instagram @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half-hours!
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Meet a member of the Thriving Alcohol-Free community, Heidi Abell.
AKA Party Girl Unleaded, she is a Sobriety Advocate and Mocktail Enthusiast in Charlotte, NC.
Her goal is to encourage those stuck in the vicious cycle that alcohol creates. She says, “If I can do it, anyone can do it.”
She became sober in June 2020, in the early part of the pandemic, after noticing alcohol went down way too quickly in the times of shelter in place. A change was imminent, and she found support in the online alcohol-free space and serves as a mentor to give back to a community that made it possible to forge a healthy and happy path to being alcohol-free.
Heidi is a Gemologist and Luxury Sales Professional and, as a side venture, was active in the music scene, booking and managing acts on a local level. This included visiting bars often, and her photo was literally on bar posters. She would always bring the fun and still does! From bar poster girl to party girl unleaded, you can follow her Sober journey for Inspo and drink favorites @partygirlunleaded or @soberincharlotte on Instagram.
Connect with Deb on Instagram @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free
- Includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half-hours!
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Christine Wayne is a powerhouse in the world of non-alcoholic options & has been an inspiration to me since I began my alcohol-free journey. She is a sober single mom & the founder of On The Mocks™️, a vibrant community of like-minded social sippers on Instagram & Facebook.
Connect with On The Mocks™️on Instagram & their Facebook group.
Give Christine a follow on IG!
Please follow, rate & review the podcast! Your review encourages others to give a listen.
Lots of love & Big Time Cheers!
Connect with Deb on Instagram @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership
- Includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half-hours!
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
This mini-episode is dedicated to my perfect nephew, David, who passed away on March 10, 2023, at 26. After David's passing, we found his one-year & five-year goal lists. Tune in to learn what was at the top of David's goal lists.
I also share my re-grounding experience when I met one of the employees at the Midwest's Original NA brew shop, Generation NA, in Lafayette, Indiana.
Unlike most episodes, there is no intro or outro music - this is just you, me, the microphone & Coco snoring in the background.
Connect with Deb on Instagram @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership
- Includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half-hours!
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
With almost 6,000 reviews on Amazon, you've most likely heard of William Porter's smash hit Alcohol Explained.
William started drinking and smoking when he was around 14 years old. In his late teens, in an attempt to stop smoking, he read Allen Carr's Easyway. He was fascinated by his pragmatic and practical approach to what was a confusing and complicated subject.
Over the years, his drinking steadily increased. Still, he continued to take a common sense analysis of what it was doing to him and a technical analysis of the chemical, physiological and psychological factors at play.
This continued for over a quarter of a century, during which he joined the 4th (Reserve) Battalion of the Parachute Regiment, served a 6-month tour of Iraq, qualified as a lawyer, started a career in the Financial Services sector of the City of London, got married, and had children.
His drinking continued to increase until, in February 2014, he finally stopped for good. He now lives with his wife and two children in West London and continues to work as a lawyer.
It was a pleasure meeting William during our Memorial Day 2023 recording of this episode.
Visit AlcoholExplained.com to read the first five chapters for free & give William a follow if you're on Instagram.
Connect with Deb on Instagram @Mocktail.Mom
- Snag a FREE Guide for Ordering Out Made Easy
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership
- Includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half-hours!
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate your Authentic Freedom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Shannon McCabe appeared to have it all as a work-at-home, homeschooling, & special needs mom with a great husband & career in holistic health. People didn’t know she drank 1+ bottles of wine a night to keep it all together. After failing to control her drinking, she finally felt desperate enough to admit she needed help. Now she's eight months sober & happier than she's ever been! She shares her daily journey to sobriety on Instagram at @mommydoesnotneedwine in the hopes of helping other moms see that life is better without booze.
Connect with Deb @Mocktail.Mom, + let's be friends!
- Download the FREE "Ordering Made Easy Guide" HERE to help with what drinks to order when dining out.
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, which includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half-hours!
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate your Authentic Freedom!
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
My guest today is Madeline, age 29, of @HappiestSober on Instagram. She is a vibrant example of what it means to thrive on the sober journey! She got sober in November 2020 after a decade of gray-area drinking and discovered that her life is so much happier without alcohol in it. She is passionate about sharing that message and inspiring others on their sober journeys. Madeline lives in Toronto, Canada, and has a podcast, Happiest Sober. Please give her a follow & check out her podcast.
Connect with Deb @Mocktail.Mom, + let's be friends!
- Snag a FREE Non-Alcoholic Wine Guide here.
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, which includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half hours; click here.
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom: here
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Besides being sober moms, we bonded over our matching denim shirts & our love for shopping at Costco!
Maureen Anderson is a wife, mother of 4, and serial racquet sports enthusiast.
After many years of sober curiosity and making + breaking the rules around her drinking, she finally quit on August 1, 2020.
Maureen is a Recovery Coach Professional and a Gray Area Drinking Coach. She works with women who are questioning their drinking and don’t know where to start.
She aims to help smash the stigma around gray-area drinking and reach suffering women so they know they’re not alone.
Maureen can be reached on Instagram or her website.
Connect with Deb @Mocktail.Mom, + let's be friends!
- Snag a FREE Non-Alcoholic Wine Guide here.
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, which includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half hours; click here.
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom: here
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Kezia Calvert is a Canadian-born, American-living sober woman who is a writer, wife, and mother. Kezia runs her own business, Kezia Calvert Creative, where she hosts self-discovery writing workshops for people in recovery. Kezia, her husband James, their daughter Harper, and their cat Cleo are anxiously awaiting the arrival of a new baby boy this summer. Kezia has been sober since November 1st, 2020.
How to reach Kezia: Instagram or her website
Connect with Deb @Mocktail.Mom, + let's be friends!
- Snag a FREE Non-Alcoholic Wine Guide here.
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, which includes a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half hours; click here.
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Support the podcast & celebrate Authentic Freedom: here
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Be encouraged by the sober journey of Adrienne, a founding member of Thriving Alcohol-Free with Mocktail Mom. She is 7+ months free from alcohol & steadfast support to those in our membership community.
Adrienne has been a critical care nurse for over 13 years and serves in the nursing administration. With this newfound alcohol-free- time, energy, and mental clarity, her passion for positively influencing healthcare has been re-ignited! Check out her podcast, Between The Bedside and The Boardroom. Adrienne is a native New Mexican born and raised in the Land of Enchantment. She and her husband made Oregon their home about 12 years ago, where they live with their two kiddos. She loves camping and spending time on the coast with her family soaking up every sober second! Give Adrienne a follow on her Instagram
Connect with Deb @Mocktail.Mom, + let's be friends!
- Snag a FREE Non-Alcoholic Wine Guide here.
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half hours; click here.
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Authentic Freedom Merch: here
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Sarah Kate is the founding editor and publisher of Some Good Clean Fun, a lifestyle platform celebrating an alcohol-free lifestyle through non-alcoholic drinks recipes, reviews, plus more. She is Canada's leading non-alcoholic drinks expert, on-air personality, mom of two, and advocate for rethinking drinking and changing the conversation about women, wine, and health.
Connect with Sarah Kate on Instagram & check out her fantastic website & sign up for her newsletter!
Connect with Deb @Mocktail.Mom, + let's be friends!
- Snag a FREE Non-Alcoholic Wine Guide, here.
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half hours; click here.
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Authentic Freedom Merch: here
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Michelle Smith is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and the founder of Recovery is the New Black, a digital community for women living or exploring an alcohol-free life. Michelle struggled for years with alcohol addiction that looked like “overdoing it.” In reality, she was drinking to escape the stresses of life ― and the “mommy juice” drinking culture was helping her self-destruct. Since getting sober in 2016, she has integrated both her personal experience in recovery and professional experience as a mental health and addiction advocates toward normalizing sobriety in our boozy culture.
Michelle’s work has been featured on The Today Show, TEDx, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Scary Mommy, NBC, ABC, and more. Michelle lives in the Pacific Northwest with her family and adorable dog.
Connect with Michelle on Instagram @RecoveryIsTheNewBlack
Connect with Deb @Mocktail.Mom, + let's be friends!
- Snag a FREE Non-Alcoholic Wine Guide, here.
- Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, a self-paced video mocktail course, online community & virtual happy half hours; click here.
- Website: MocktailMom.com
- Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
You are loved. Big Time Cheers!
Jen Butler & I have run a few months of sober challenges together, and I am thrilled for her to join me on the podcast finally. Enjoy this week's episode & be encouraged that the fun isn't over & there are still good things to drink when you aren't drinking alcohol.
Please leave a podcast review so others won't be afraid to listen ;-) If you know someone that would be encouraged by this episode, please share it.
About Jen:
Jen Butler, MBA, CPC, CPRC, SRCD, spent a decade as a stay-at-home mom before becoming a Certified Professional Life and Recovery Coach and SHE RECOVERS® Coach. To cope with the rollercoaster of motherhood and enabled by wine mom culture, Jen was stuck in the fog of gray area drinking until 2018.
As a coach, she provides connection and accountability – the keys that helped her start her journey to alcohol freedom – to gray area and heavy drinkers who struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, and overwhelm. Jen lives north of NYC with her husband, two children, and three dogs.
Connect with Jen on Instagram: @JenButlerCoach or JoyinDuring.com
Connect with Deb, + let's be friends!
1. Snag a FREE Non-Alcoholic Wine Guide; click here.
2. Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, which includes a self-paced video mocktail course & virtual happy half hours; click here.
3. Website: MocktailMom.com
4. Instagram shenanigans: @Mocktail.Mom
You are loved.
Big Time Cheers!
You are in for a treat with this conversation! It was a joy to speak with Jade, my beautiful Scottish friend from Instagram. She has a heart of gold & I know your heart will be encouraged by her sober journey ... & her Scottish accent!
Jade lives in Scotland and has a darling 6-year-old daughter who has been the motivation and inspiration for her being where she is today. She became sober on 01/02/21 after realizing for many years that she had an unhealthy relationship with alcohol. Sobriety has changed her life. She now has the freedom to explore who she is without the false confidence alcohol brought her. Two years on, her aim now is to support as many other people as possible who want to do the same.
Connect with Jade on Instagram: @ScottishAndSober
Please leave a podcast review so others won't be afraid to listen ;-) If you know someone that would be encouraged by this episode, please share it.
Connect with Deb + let's be friends!
1. Snag a FREE Non-Alcoholic Wine Guide; click here.
2. Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, which includes a video mocktail course & virtual happy half hours; click here.
3. Although it's 2023, some of us still have websites: MocktailMom.com
4. Because Instagram isn't just for kids: @Mocktail.Mom
You are loved.
Big Time Cheers!
Blog Post that was mentioned during our episode:
http://mummywasasecretdrinker.blogspot.com/2015/09/the-obstacle-course.html?m=1
I am still sky-high from meeting with my guest, Marnie Rae. I felt as if I'd met up with a long-lost friend during our podcast recording. Marnie is an inspiration as she thrives & remains sober, living with a Stage IV Lung cancer diagnosis.
She is a Pacific NW mom of 3, a business owner alongside her husband, and a blogger in the sober and alcohol-free space. Marnie has been sober for 20+ years and started her blog in 2018 to showcase mocktails and the need for alcohol-free beverage options. Marnie believes that we need more options for non-drinkers, BUT her primary message is about community, drink inclusivity, and making not drinking NORMAL. In 2020 she stepped away from the mocktails and her blog to focus on her mental and physical health, and then in 2021 was very unexpectedly diagnosed with Stage IV Lung cancer. Today she’s focusing on her health and trying to figure out what life looks like with a cancer diagnosis and as a new retiree. You can find her on social media, her blog, and her Substack newsletter, sharing her journey with you as a reminder of our blessings in life…there are so many if we are paying attention.
Connect with Marnie + discover her recipes:
MarnieRae.com
IG: @marnieraec
Please leave a podcast review so others won't be afraid to listen.
If you know someone that would be encouraged by this episode, please share it.
Connect with Deb + let's be friends!
1. Snag a FREE Non-Alcoholic Wine Guide; click here.
2. Join the Mocktail Mom Membership, which includes a video mocktail course & virtual happy half hours; click here.
3. Although it's 2023, some of us still have websites: MocktailMom.com
4. Because Instagram isn't just for kids: @Mocktail.Mom
You are loved.
Big Time Cheers!
Do you feel stumped staring at the drink menu? Do you get nervous about meeting up with friends for Happy Hour?
Enjoy Part 2 of Episode 3, where I shared mocktails to order at a bar or restaurant.
I hope you'll be encouraged that you're not alone & the fun isn't over just because you aren't drinking alcohol.
Need help making mocktails? I walk you through a self-paced mocktail course so you can get started & feel supported with live virtual Happy Half Hours. You are not alone & don't have to try to figure it out yourself: ThrivingAlcoholFree.com
Your purchase at AuthenticFreedomLifestyle.com helps to support the podcast.
Connect on IG: Mocktail.Mom
Thanks to those in my free Facebook group, Mocktails & Non-Alcoholic Cocktails, and those in the Non-Alcoholic Spirits group that shared drink ideas for this episode.
Big Time Cheers & Lots of Love!
Let your heart be strengthened and encouraged by Episode 9 of the podcast as you meet my guest, Rich Loud.
In early April 2020, Rich Loud realized that his drinking was becoming too much of a daily habit. So, with the support of his family and a couple of friends, he stopped. Although at first, he thought his social life was pretty much over, after about a month, he tasted his first non-alcoholic beer, realized he got the flavor and experience he wanted but none of the negative effects, and a whole new world opened. Fast forward to almost three years alcohol-free and he is having more fun than he ever thought possible. He is tasting all the NA beers, mixing amazing NA cocktails, and even discovering excellent NA wines. For Rich Loud, being alcohol-free is the best adventure.
From the Episode, Rich's Favorites:
- Mocktail: Speechless featuring Lyre's Highland Malt, The Pathfinder, All The Bitter Aromatic & Orange + Luxardo cherry juice.
- NA Wines: Joyus Cabernet Sauvignon & Lautus Savvy Red. Code MOCKTAILMOM saves $ on either of these wines.
- NA Beers (depends on the situation): WellBeing Intentional IPA, WellBeing Victory Wheat, Busty Lush Oatmeal Stout & Rescue Club Brewing
- Hashtag: #SpottedInTheWildNA
Important Links for Rich:
- Support Rich's London Marathon Fundraiser: Click HERE for details.
- Herren Project: https://herrenproject.org/
- Chris Herren of The Herren Project, click HERE to his talk at TEDxUMassAmherst. His in-person talks are longer, with more detail, and are a little more updated but his story is the same.
- Rich on Instagram: @Rich_Loud
Connect with Deb:
- Instagram and Tik Tok: @mocktail.mom
- Mocktail Mom Membership: Click HERE for her self-paced mocktail course, weekly virtual Happy Half-Hours, private community, downloadable recipes & more!
- Website: www.mocktailmom.com
- Free Facebook Group, Big Time Cheers!
Quote:
“The only thing missing was the buzz, but then I realized I don't want the buzz, I just want the feeling of sipping on a beer.” - Rich
Do you ever think it is too late to change your relationship with alcohol because you've been drinking for so many years? Are you worried you've missed the opportunity to make lasting changes to your lifestyle?
In today's solo episode, I share two mocktail recipes & the stories of some women in my Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free, who have been encouraged on their alcohol-free journey through community and connection.
I share my heart on this Valentine's Day that you are loved & created for a reason.
From the show:
- Recipes
- Two Mocktails From Membership Happy Half Hours:
- Cosmopolitian Mocktail
- Pisco Sour Mocktail (low cal & weight watcher friendly)
- Two Mocktails From Membership Happy Half Hours:
- Stories from Member Spotlights:
- Adrienne - Five months free from alcohol
- Heidi - Almost 1,000 days free from alcohol ("COMMA DAY" is coming!)
- Non-Mocktail Related ... no extra charge ;-)
- Isaiah 43:1: "Now this is what the Lord says, the One that created you, do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine."
Happy Valentine's Day & lots of love from the great state of Kentucky!
My podcast is not perfect, but I hope you'll be encouraged that the fun isn't over & there are still delicious things to drink when you aren't drinking alcohol. Thanks for tuning in while I work out the ins & outs of podcasting: learning not to interrupt my guests (sorry to Jennifer, Ian, and Jess) & getting the audio better situated.
Let's Connect!
- FREE Facebook Group
- Mocktail Mom Membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free for Weekly Virtual Happy Half Hours for Community & Connection
- Instagram @Mocktail.Mom
- Shop Non-Alcoholic Options; code MOCKTAILMOM saves 15%: Boisson
Let your heart be encouraged by Episode 7 of the podcast. You can break up with wine in your 50s & begin to thrive again in your own life!
Today I had the privilege of chatting with the 1st Founding Member, Jennifer, of my private membership, Thriving Alcohol-Free with Mocktail Mom (ThrivingAlcoholFree.com).
Jennifer and I initially connected on Instagram and got to know each other when she participated in a booze break program I offered last fall with Jen Butler of Joy in During.
About Jennifer:
She grew up in West Lafayette, Indiana, and went to Purdue University; after graduation, she moved to the Chicago area. While in Chicago, she was fixed up on a blind date with her husband of 30 years. While in Chicago, she worked in marketing and investor relations and got her MBA at The University of Chicago. After five years in Chicago and nine years in Indianapolis, they settled back in West Lafayette, where they’ve been busy raising four sons. Her family has been her greatest joy in life. Three of their sons are now college graduates; their oldest was married last year! They still have their youngest at home and enjoy every minute with him. Jen is contemplating her next “act” as they rapidly approach empty nest hood. Jen has lived a keto lifestyle for the past five years and always looks for low/no sugar mocktail recipes to share with me!
From the Episode, Jennifer's Favorites:
- MOCKTAIL: Cranberry Mule, the recipe can be found here.
- NA WINES: These are low in sugar! Use code MOCKTAILMOM to save 10% on both of these brands:
- SOVI
- JOYUS
- NA BEER: Sam Adams Just the Haze IPA
Resources from this Episode:
- Sober coaching I recommend: Joy in During
- Huberman Lab Podcast that Jennifer mentions: What Alcohol Does to Your Body, Brain & Health
- Wine Aerator to improve your alcohol-free red wines
Connect:
- Deb on Instagram and Tik Tok: @mocktail.mom
- Private paid membership with weekly virtual Happy Half Hours, Thriving Alcohol-Free with Mocktail Mom
- Website: www.mocktailmom.com
- Free Facebook Group, Big Time Cheers!
Quote:
“You don't have to hit rock bottom to have the realization that alcohol is not serving you.” - Jennifer
If you'd like to take your non-alcoholic cocktails to the next level, this is the episode for you! It was an absolute honor to chat with Carly & Ian Blessing, founders of All The Bitter.
Carly and Ian Blessing met while working together as sommeliers at The French Laundry in the Napa Valley. After having kids, they decided alcohol wasn't in their plan anymore, so they ditched the booze and never looked back. Now they create an award-winning range of flavorful and functional cocktail bitters in Chico, CA, made entirely by hand from organic and wild foraged botanicals, without any alcohol.
Carly & Ian have a heart to serve the non-alcoholic community and give back regularly with their expertise, recommendations & kindness.
This a more extended episode, but if you're interested in elevating your drinks, you'll want to tune in with a pen and paper.
From the show:
- CURRENT FAVORITE NA COCKTAILS
- Ian's current favorite non-alcoholic cocktails are an Old Cuban & a Boulevardier.
- Carly's current favorite mocktail is anything super easy or in a can (one more reason I love her!)
- TIP & TRICKS
- I was blown away that Carly & Ian had never heard of a tip I learned last fall: mix NA Red Wine & Fresca ... boom, you've got the easiest, most delicious Sangria ever. This Fresca tip comes from my good friend, Jen Page. You're welcome ;-)
- I had never heard of adding Orange bitters to hot coffee .. learned so much on this episode!
- WHERE TO BUY
- Most of the spirits & NA wines we discussed are available at Boisson code MOCKTAILMOM saves 15%
- Shop directly from All The Bitter code MOCKTAILMOM saves 15%
- DEB'S NA WINE GUIDE WITH LINK TO IAN'S BLOG POST
- Wine Guide
Join Deb in her membership community, where she hosts a virtual Happy Half Hour every week to connect & make mocktails together. The membership is a supportive community of women at all stages in their relationship with alcohol. There are no labels & no judgment; it is just a place to remind ourselves that the fun isn't over & there are still delicious things to drink when we aren't drinking: Thriving Alcohol-Free Membership, a sober drinking club for women.
Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
Main Website: MocktailMom.com
Today I'm chatting with Jess Steitzer, the host and founder of Decidedly Dry!
Jess is three years sober and has encouraged my heart since early in my alcohol-free journey when I discovered her on Instagram. She inspires the ever-growing sober community and believes it is her calling to help women embrace a sober lifestyle. She’s the mom of two active, adventurous, and loving boys and resides in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. If you don't know Jess, I know you'll love her!
This is my first podcast interview episode, and for some reason, I was so nervous about pressing the record button, then at the end, I couldn't figure out how to stop the recording. A little bit hilarious if you could have seen "behind the scenes." I begin my chat with Jess by asking her a few rapid-fire questions. For future episodes, I will save the rapid-fire portion for the end of guest interviews.
Bonus:
- Jess shares her favorite NA beer, alcohol-free wine & a keto-friendly mocktail that anyone can make at home!
Let's connect!
- I host a virtual happy half-hour every week for my private membership community. Join our group of like-minded women to drink & connect: ThrivingAlcoholFree.com
- Download my complimentary mocktail resource guide
- Facebook Community: Big Time Cheers with Mocktail Mom
- Celebrate the freedoms you feel in your life with Authentic Freedom merch, code MOCKTAILMOM saves 20%: AuthenticFreedomLifestyle.com
Connect with Jess!
- Website: www.decidedlydry.com
- Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/454015430211746/
- Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/decidedly-dry-sober-curious-alcohol-free-living-quit/id1601554317
- Free Sober Planning Worksheet: https://www.decidedlydry.com/product-page/planning-workshee
During the episode, I mention Jolene Park's TedX:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvCMZBA7RiA
Are you wondering how you could ever go a few days without a drink? In this solo episode, I share my two-year soberversary and the incredible freedom of living each day without over-drinking. These past two years have flown by & I hope your heart will be encouraged that life isn't over if you aren't drinking or chose to drink less. Being free from alcohol has not been all rainbows and sunshine, but I have not once regretted waking up hangover-free. I share candidly about the difference it has been to grieve my parents over the last two years without alcohol to numb the loss of their presence.
Don't be a stranger, let's connect!
- Instagram & TikTok: @Mocktail.Mom
- Join my membership community, Thriving Alcohol-Free. I call it a sober drinking club for women because I host a virtual Happy Half Hour every week to make a mocktail together: ThrivingAlcoholFree.com
- Shop Authentic Freedom gear, use code MOCKTAILMOM to save: AuthenticFreedom.com
- Main website: MocktailMom.com
Random facts from the episode:
- You may or may not hear my 12-pound Shih Tzu snoring for a minute in the background.
- I share what I was voted on by my high school graduating class. Could it be "Most Likely to Succeed"? Nope. You'll have to listen to find out what it was.
Have you ever thought about what it will be like when you go out for the first time after you decide to break up with alcohol? Maybe you are feeling nervous or worried. What will people think of you? What will you order? Will anyone notice that you’re drinking something else than everyone at the table?
Weeks after I made a decision to be free from alcohol, I went out to a restaurant. I almost fell off the wagon because the restaurant didn’t really have any alcohol-free options, and my automatic answer to the question “What will you drink?” was a “Glass of Chardonnay.” That’s why in this podcast episode, I want to prepare you for that experience of going out sober for the first time. I talk about what it was like for me, how to get your mind ready, what you can order without feeling like a kid, and I give you a list of a few simple mocktails you ask any bartender to prepare you.
In this episode, I chat about:
- First time when I went out to a restaurant after I broke up with alcohol
- What to think about when going out and not falling off the wagon
- How do people react when I say I broke up with alcohol
- List of alcohol-free drinks that you can ask the bartender to make you
Connect with Deb:
- Instagram and Tik Tok: @mocktail.mom
- Join my private sober drinking club for women, Thriving Alcohol-Free https://mocktailmom.thinkific.com/courses/thrivingalcoholfree
- Website: www.mocktailmom.com
- Mocktail Cards For Bartenders: https://mocktailmom.com/products/mocktail-cards-for-bartenders
Quote:
“If you're feeling nervous or worried about what people will think, they won’t even know. People really don’t care what you’re drinking.” - Deb
So you have decided to take a break from drinking or totally break-up with alcohol for whatever reason. Good for you! But now you are probably thinking, okay, but what am I going to drink when I am not drinking? I’ve been free of alcohol for 2 years. But before that, when 5 o’clock came around, it was mommy time and that meant a glass of chardonnay (or a bottle). I had the same question you might be thinking “What is next?”
Nowadays, there are so many different brands available, and even many sugar-free options. And I’m here to tell you all about the fun you can have discovering new drink options. Tune in to today’s podcast episode, as I share with you how to handle visits to stores with alcohol, the essentials you need to start making delicious alcohol-free drinks, some of my favorite brands of non-alcoholic spirits, mixers, beers, and much more!
In this episode, I chat about:
- What to do when entering a store with alcohol
- The basic kitchen equipment you need to start making alcohol-free drinks
- My favorite alcohol-free spirits to have in your home to make mocktails
- Other essentials I recommend to have to prepare alcohol-free drinks
- Where to find mocktail recipes
Connect with Deb:
- Instagram and Tik Tok: @mocktail.mom
- Join my private sober drinking club for women, Thriving Alcohol-Free https://mocktailmom.thinkific.com/courses/thrivingalcoholfree
- Website: www.mocktailmom.com
- My Non-Alcoholic Wine Guide freebie: https://mocktailmom.ck.page/guide
Resources from this episode:
- Ginger beer brands I mention Zevia beer with zero sugar and Q Hibiscus Ginger Beer
- Swoon Zero Sugar Simple Syrup
- Nellie & Joe's, Key West Lime Juice
- Mocktail Party: 75 Plant-Based, Non-Alcoholic Mocktail Recipes for Every Occasion by Diana Licalzi
- All The Bitter use code MOCKTAILMOM for 15% OFF
- BOISSON online non-alcoholic shop. Code MOCKTAILMOM will save listeners 15% https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1953410&u=3017245&m=120795&urllink=&afftrack=
Quote:
“Open your eyes to things maybe that you've never even looked at before in the store.” - Deb
Hey friends, and welcome to the first episode of Thriving Alcohol-Free Podcast With Mocktail Mom. My name is Deb, I’m your host and you’re probably wondering who’s this girl talking about being alcohol-free. That’s why in this podcast episode, I want to share with you my story, what experiences led me to start drinking, when I realized I might have a problem, how I got started on my journey to Mocktail Mom, and also encourage you.
No matter wherever you are in your journey, this is a safe space for you without shame or judgment. Many of you probably think that being free from alcohol would be drudgery. I thought the same. But here I’m almost 2 years free from alcohol! And you know what? Sober is so much fun! Being free from alcohol has been the best decision in my adult life and I cannot wait to share with you the fun and the joy of sobriety. Are you ready to roll? Let’s do it!
In this episode, I chat about:
- What was my childhood like
- Difficult experiences that lead me to drink alcohol
- Who inspired me to stop drinking
- When did I decide to break up with alcohol
- Why did I start my Instagram Mocktail Mom
- How to get through the beginning stages of being sober
- What can you expect from future episodes on Thriving Alcohol-Free with Mocktail Mom
- Join our supportive community in my private sober drinking club for women, Thriving Alcohol-Free
Connect with Deb:
- Instagram and Tik Tok: @mocktail.mom
- Join my private sober drinking club for women, Thriving Alcohol-Free https://mocktailmom.thinkific.com/courses/thrivingalcoholfree
- Website: www.mocktailmom.com
Resources from this episode:
- Sober account I followed on Instagram when I was just sober-curious @soberdave
Quote:
“Being free from alcohol has been the best decision of my adult life.” - Deb
If you're wondering how you will survive or what you're gonna drink without your drink of choice, Thriving Alcohol-Free is the podcast for you.
Join your host Deb, otherwise known as Mocktail Mom, who after nine years of drinking more wine than she intended to finally broke up with her BFF Chardonnay. And when she did, it was SO hard. She was lost. She didn't know what to drink or if she would ever be able to chillax again without a glass of wine to help. For years, she put off evaluating her relationship with alcohol because she was afraid that she would be labeled as having a problem.
Consider Deb to be your sober cheerleader as she guides you into the world of sober fun and non-alcoholic drinks.
Tune in every week to learn more about the fun of life without alcohol. What to drink, where to find alternatives and tips and tricks on mocktail making, plus the stories of my guests on their own alcohol-free journey.
Make sure you subscribe and follow the show wherever you listen to podcasts so you don't miss new episodes.
And come say hi over on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mocktail.mom/
Join me inside of my private Sober Drinking Club for women, Thriving Alcohol-free https://mocktailmom.thinkific.com/courses/thrivingalcoholfree