no proof

"Sean is an aging midwesterner with no intention of being an old man. He loves service and cultivating social vibes for everyone."

Kim Lerner is a consultant, leadership coach for hospitality businesses and professionals at only yummy, always. She is also a professor on faculty at CUNY Kingsborough and The Institute of Culinary Education. On this journey through an ever-changing landscape, she defined the fundamentals of her own leadership style: kindness, trust, community, and building an in-house culture that transcends its four walls. It is this style of leadership that has made her a pioneer in the industry, challenging the status quo and always looking to better the climate of an industry she holds so dear to her heart. Kim operates the only way a NYC native with French roots can — with conviction, effortlessness and a side of beurre.

In 1982 Mickey Bakst lost his first restaurant to alcohol and drug addiction, and it was also in that year that he found sobriety, after a long and painful struggle. For the next 40 years, Mickey watched countless peers lose their lives or destroy their careers due to their addictions. And for 40 years he asked himself, “What can I do to make a difference?”

After witnessing the death of yet another industry professional in 2016, Mickey and fellow restaurateur Steve Palmer founded Ben’s Friends, a support group for members of the food and beverage industry battling substance abuse and addiction. The mission of Ben’s Friends is to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to anyone who struggles with substance abuse and addiction. The organization is named in honor of Ben Murray, a chef who took his own life in 2016 after a long struggle with alcoholism. Now with decades of sobriety under his belt, Mickey believes that there are countless members of the restaurant industry in need of support facing the widespread effects of alcohol and drugs. Through Ben’s Friends, it is his hope to help as many as possible.

As Ben’s Friends Executive Director, Mickey has dedicated himself to the organization and focuses on spreading the word about Ben’s Friends to existing and emerging chapters across the country.

I've been so fortunate to have shannon as a friend. Anytime I've been in a room with her I'm in awe of how she makes those around her feel. She's welcoming, funny, honest, and humble. In an industry of personalities, it is rare to find someone so great in all they do, yet so approachable. I'm also fortunate to have been close enough to shannon to see the ways she's grown. In this conversation we chat about some of the positive outcomes of her decision to remove alcohol.

It was great getting the chance to chat with brittany, someone who is not only a consumer of n/a beverages, sober, but also a creator of a new non-alcoholic amaro called 'namari.' We chat through her decision to remove alcohol, how she creates n/a beverages at The Dutchess, and what led to the creation of namari. Thanks for the time and honesty, brittany.

Michael Moberly is fun. Plain and simple. Every time I have been around him has been more rousing and laugh-filled than the last. When he removed alcohol from his life it felt like we only grew closer. My greatest friends at the moment have been those that have been filling their existence with good, and balance, and hope for themselves in the future. This is a departure from previous episodes, only in that Moberly is the first to roast me (I don't own a Corvette) and the first to feature big time shout outs to some of our favorite brands. I hope this episode is as fun for you to listen to as it was to make. Thank you, Moberly, for everything.

Michael Moberly, Beverage Innovation Manager at Monin, is a beverage enthusiast, columnist,and educator based in Reno NV. He is also very good at wearing hats.

It was nice to chat with jon. His story sounded like the start of others I had heard, but jon is unique which in turn, so is his story. It was staggering to hear his moment when he put his foot in the ground and became an individual who would live without alcohol. I'm inspired by what he's done, how he talks to himself, and the values that find their way into his business. Thanks for the honesty, jon.

Born and raised in the South, but a traveler at heart, Jon Murray is changing the hospitality industry for the better with the opening of his first concept, Noko, an Asian-inspired, wood-fired restaurant in East Nashville. With almost 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Murray and his Noko partners aim to create a more sustainable work environment for their employees, while offering guests a taste of the restaurants Asian-inspired comfort foods. 

i finally got to meet grace at tales of the cocktail. we chatted at an event surrounded by friends and mentors and shared in the excitement of what's happening and what's to come. this conversation picks up from where we left off in new orleans. grace has been leading the charge with delicious drinks, and a knowledge that surpasses many when it comes to what's in the n/a bottles.

In this episode Charley and I talk about the struggles of the decision to remove alcohol, but what awaits on the other side. This was a great conversation about the practice of sobriety, and how making the decision isn't the fix, but what follows can be.

Charley was one of the Focus on Health scholarship winners for the 2023 Tales of the Cocktail and currently bartends in Maine.

brooke sets goals and crushes them. it was exciting to chat with someone so bought in on their own story, who finds every way possible to improve themselves. whether it is training for multiple marathons, or founding a company with their sights set on helping others, brooke goes all in.

Tori, aka mocktail girlie makes getting started with n/a beverages easy as ever on her social media channels. Offline she's on a path of discovering herself, viewing the positives in life through the lens of a person that is alcohol free. We both live in Columbus, Oh, a city we're proud to see thrive with more and more n/a options becoming available, and great places to start thanks to people like her.

Tori, aka Mocktail Girlie, wanted to find a way to enjoy drinks without adding alcohol. This led to her creating mocktails for her and her husband at home using simple and healthy ingredients. What started as a fun way to share her drink recipes on Instagram and TikTok, quickly turned into a community of like-minded people that also share in her desire to enjoy delicious non-alcoholic beverages. Through her platforms, Tori now shares her easy-to-make mocktails with her hundreds of thousands of followers.

Chatting with Sam was another great example of what is gained when we decide to remove alcohol from our lives. A celebration of the flavors, moments, and people you get to be around, and how you blossom as an individual. She references discovering she’s awkward, but wears it as a badge of pride. I’ve discovered so many things about myself since removing alcohol, deep things, hidden things, and yes, silly things. Thank you, Sam.

Sam Bail is the founder of Third Place Bar, a series of non-alcoholic bar events in New York City. Originally from Germany, Sam spent several years in Manchester, England, before moving to New York City in 2014. Outside of Third Place Bar, Sam works full-time as a data engineer. She’s also a passionate runner and has found a home in the New York City running community.

Kristina brings a portion of the n/a narrative to the table, that many of my guests have brought before: That sobriety can be fun, and we don't lose a part of ourselves when we give up alcohol. This is represented in the way that Kristina talks about her own journey, and also through the branding and voice of her brand MIXOLOSHE. So much of what we encounter arrives when we shift our mindset. The first couple of times I took a monthlong break from alcohol I looked at it as depriving myself of something, for the one that took, I looked at the benefits. That was the path I took.

Entrepreneur Kristina Roth launched a successful tech consulting firm that skyrocketed from zero to $65 million in revenue between 2008 to 2016, earning her a coveted spot on Forbes’ list of Top 10 Fastest-Growing Women-Owned or Led Companies — twice. Throughout Roth’s illustrious IT career in multiple countries, she felt there were very few women she could turn to for support and guidance, inspiring her to create an innovative women’s lifestyle brand: SuperShe, which now includes a category-defining non-alcoholic beverage brand called MIXOLOSHE.

I'm a huge fan of three spirit drinks. they fit that perfect mold of unique, and delicious, and aren't trying to be something they're not. I was excited to chat with tati and dash about how these remarkable n/a spirits came to be, and everything they aren't hiding.

Three Spirit is a functional non-alcoholic drinks range created by bartenders, winemakers, and plant scientists. By harnessing the potential of active botanical ingredients, we push boundaries to make alcohol-free mean more and liberate the way we drink, socialize, and connect.

Tatiana Mercer 

Few people know more about delicious drinks and having fun than Three Spirit co-founder Tati. Before Three Spirit, she co-founded BarChick - the much-loved platform for discovering the world’s best bars - so naturally she’s all about discovering amazing cocktails, places, the people behind them and enjoying all the chance encounters along the way. 

Dash Lilley

Plant geek, serious foodie, and the maker of our drinks, Dash is the co-founder and head of product at Three Spirit. Alongside his team of bartenders and plant scientists, Dash spends most of his time getting over 60 plants from all over the world, shipped, blended, batched, and bottled so we can keep bringing plant magic to your door.⁠

You can order three spirit from their website, or from boisson.co. I tried all three of their spirits, and the two wine alternatives they have available.

Instagram:

@threespiritdrinks

Website:

Laura Louise Green, LPC is a licensed psychotherapist and founder of Healthy Pour, a consultancy that helps creative organizations and professional communities address issues of well-being in the workplace. After working in hospitality and drinks for two decades, Laura utilizes her knowledge and skills as a mental health practitioner to facilitate training, growth, and healing within the hospitality industry and other creative sectors. Laura Louise is currently pursuing a second masters in Organizational Psychology.

Instagram

@healthy.pour

@Laura.louise.green

Website

I am glad to share an episode with Noah, not just because of all the amazing n/a serves he's been sharing all across the internet, but because his story is added among those who thought they'd have to leave the industry but instead are shaping it for future generations. Thank you Noah for sharing your journey, and for helping to bring so much positivity and flavors to future conversations.

Jordan Valls saw promise in himself, and took charge. But that didn't happen in one fell swoop. Listen here to find out what he had to see within himself, and what it took to make a forever change.

Jordan Valls is an Industry Professional and Jiu-jitsu athlete. Former Bar Manager of the renowned Multnomah Whisk{e}y Library in Portland Oregon Jordan is passionate about fine spirits, cocktails & everything in between. Now running the cocktail program of the celebrated Cuban-inspired cocktail bar, Palomar, Jordan balances the extremes of sobriety, mental health, combat sports & the service industry.

Andrew is local to Columbus, Oh the city I call home. I met him via Instagram after he took home one of the meditation cards I created for a Dry January event earlier this year. He asked himself the questions, and answered them through a social media post revealing some things to himself out loud. It was great to hear Andrew's story, and to hear the ways he checks in with himself to keep feeling his best.

Andrew Hash was a daily drinker whose whiskey "hobby" became an unhealthy coping mechanism for any inconvenience life presented.  Andrew has been a pharmacy purchaser for 10 years and an avid sports fan.  Sobriety has brought him back to his passions and allowed him to stop sleepwalking through life.

Elizabeth is everything exciting with the n/a movement. She read a room, left it, and created a better one. In these rooms, you find excitement, noise, conversation, people enjoying themselves, and great non-alcoholic cocktails. I was thrilled to chat with Elizabeth, who recently took Absence of Proof full-time, and contributes more than just events to the community.

Elizabeth Gascoigne is found and CEO of Absence of Proof- a non-acloholic event curation company and online bottle boutique.

Elizabeth is passionate about creating social experiences for those taking a night, week, or lifetime off of drinking. Absence of Proof is rooted in wellness and community and focused on elevating an n/a nightlife for everyone.

A chat with someone like Ian will always be refreshing. I was cooled by the way he spoke about his journey through sobriety, and held in a suspension in how exciting life can be when we reward ourselves with more time.

I was looking forward to my conversation with Whitney not just because they were sent my way via our pal Laura Sanders, but because of what they contribute to the world. I'm fascinated by the humor and honesty that lies within their comics, and the way they play with the weight of the subject of sobriety. Please enjoy this conversation as much as I did.

Whitney Wasson (they/them) is a multidisciplinary artist and performer, originally from Fort Smith, Arkansas who lives in Chicago.

A standup comedian who produced a slew of shows, performed at dozens of comedy festivals across the country, and made thirties of dollars, Whitney got hit at a crosswalk by a distracted driver at the end of 2019. They then became a sitdown comedian and then a stay-at-home comedian during 2020. They're now mostly a cartoonist.

Chad and I share a few things: sobriety, running, a love for Jason Isbell, and our time at Eat Clean Run Dirty Magazine. I was excited to continue a conversation with Chad that we started during an editorial meeting recently. It was incredible to hear what it took to become honest, and begin a sober journey. We chat about the immense and supportive community that comes with ultra running, and how those in sobriety find their way to it.

Chad Sullivan is a father, husband, writer, and ultra-runner living in suburban Chicago. He serves as the Executive Editor of Eat Clean, Run Dirty Magazine and is the creator of Hard Prairie, a website dedicated to the trail and ultra-running scene in Illinois. Having struggled with substance abuse for many years, Chad entered treatment in June 2020 and has remained sober since.

A special thanks to Greg for being the final episode of no proof of 2022! 

Such a great way to close out the year with a conversation about being hopeful, becoming your best self, and looking forward to bigger mountains and challenges.

Greg is a Virginia resident who worked in the restaurant industry during college. After graduating from Boston University in 2019, he transitioned into working in the legal world as a paralegal/legal assistant. He is slated to attend law school in the near future.

I was fortunate enough to meet Sarah through our mutual pal, and co-founder of focus on health, Alex Jump. Our conversation is an enlightening look at the journey many within the hospitality industry experience with alcohol, and sarah's efforts to change her path. I thank her for her honesty and for sharing her story. If ever in Chattanooga, stop in and say hello.

Sarah Tuttle is an award-winning bartender who has been living sober for almost 6 years. She lives in Chattanooga, TN, where she is the lead bartender at the Rosecomb and runs an organic farm with her partner and their pittie.

I'm fortunate to know someone like Derek Brown. His writing, books, and expertise have been influential in what shaped me as a bartender. I've learned recipes, techniques, and storytelling from someone like Derek, and now as I continue life without alcohol, he has found a new way to influence me. His own journey has afforded him the pause it took to look at the way his life was being lived and the decision to change it. It's incredible to see Derek take his new direction and do what he does best, understand the best he can for himself, and amplify his knowledge in the direction that helps others. Thank you for your time, path, journey, and willingness to share, Derek. I owe you so much.

Derek is the founder of Positive Damage, Inc., a NASM-certified wellness coach, advocate for mindful drinking, and expert on no- and low-alcohol cocktails. He is also known as a cocktail pioneer, former owner of the prestigious Columbia Room in Washington, D.C. (2017 “Best American Cocktail Bar” at the Spirited Awards), and one of the nation’s top bartenders as Chief Spirits Advisor to the National Archives Foundation, which he jokes made him the highest-ranking bartender in the U.S. government.

In 2017, Playboy magazine named Brown one of "The 10 Entertainers, Thought Leaders and Heroes Who'll Save Us in 2017." More recently, Brown was recognized as a leading beverage figure affecting positive change in the global bar industry by Drinks International in 2020 in their “Bar World 100” list.

Brown changed his approach to drinking in 2018, realizing he had a problem with alcohol. At first, he wasn’t sure how to approach drinking with his new concerns. He subsequently released his first book, Spirits, Sugar, Water, Bitters: How the Cocktail Conquered the World in 2019. He then decided it was time to be open about his struggles with alcohol and addressed his new appreciation for mindful drinking in a 2020 Vox article entitled, “Becoming a ‘mindful drinker’ changed my life.”

Shortly after, Brown published Mindful Mixology: a Comprehensive Guide to No- and Low-Alcohol Cocktails, pursued his certification in wellness through the National Association of Sports Medicine (NASM), and began to study positive psychology at the University of Pennsylvania. He wanted to understand how happiness and vitality affect our approach to drinking, and how simple interventions can improve our relationship with alcohol.

Brown is now working to help foster a culture of mindful drinking and make room for everyone at the bar with delicious no- and low-alcohol drinks. He lives in Washington, D.C. with his family, skateboards and plays chess.

Before I met Rudy, I had sipped both versions of Parch, a n/a canned cocktail, and quickly became a super fan. The mix gave me pause when I sipped, and unlike many citrus, sugar, and soda combinations I've had in the past, this cocktail built a picture in my mind. I had to know more. Meeting Rudy has been fulfilling in so many beautiful ways. I was thrilled to discover he's also a passionate runner, and that he too uses his trots as a form of meditation. I'm thankful for the time he spent telling his story in this episode, and I've included some great links for charitable donations that are associated with some of the things we touch on in our chat. I can't say enough good things about Rudy or about Parch, so please enjoy this episode, and please see for yourself how delicious the two cocktails are.

Rudy Aldana is the Co-Founder & CEO for Parch non-alcoholic agave-based cocktails and spirits. A 14-year DIAGEO veteran, worked across multiple geographies (Canada, Europe, USA), and most recently was the Diageo North America Director for Agave Based Spirits based in New York City. As a health & wellness advocate and a Cancer survivor, Rudy firmly believes in offering premium and better-for-you alternatives for all adult drinking occasions.

I was glad to have had this chat with Geo. We met at Camp Runamok where I got to see his personality on full display, a character, someone you like to be around. One day on social media I noticed Geo sharing updates from a hospital. It wasn't my business to pry, so I followed along and watched as a man hospitalized started his epic comeback. Now, his sharing is in the form of gym selfies, and positivity. This was my first time hearing of Geo's epic bounce back and the man he'd get to become. Thanks for your honesty, Geo.

Geo Thompson, a Boston hospitality professional “lifer” having scraped the plates clean of the multitudes who have passed through his time serving and managing chain restaurants, music venues, and elite private clubs of this old city, now reflects on a long career of what ifs and what lays ahead through a new lens of sobriety, and a new lease on life after nearly losing it all.

Jackie and I grew up relatively close to each other, but we didn't meet until we both lived in Columbus. It's almost strange to think now, that two people could live such parallel moments in their individual lives so close to each other without those moments ever meeting. Jackie is in her sixth year of sobriety, and I in my fifth, and this was the first time we chatted about it. It's truly great to chat through the growth that is possible, the revelation of a life that's right in front of your eyes, and how beautiful it is when you finally pay attention. Thanks for your time, Jackie.

Jackie Mantey is a writer and artist who lives in Chicago. One month into sobriety, Jackie began a visual art practice that includes hand embroidery on found and historical photographs. Six years later, she’s still sober and still making embroidery art, which she exhibits around Chicago and sells in her online shop.

I met Steven Gonzalez during a virtual portion of the Patrón Perfectionists cocktail competition. He was genuine, suave, had a good story, and a good drink. Many put on faces or fronts when competing, but when I met Steven in person I met the same, soft, personable person from the video. I didn't know at the time that he also didn't drink. I loved this opportunity to sit with Steven and chat about our decision to love an industry fully while removing what some would think is a crucial portion of it. We chat about the opportunity that life provides when you give yourself more space to grow, and more grace to act upon. We cover what it takes to live a life without alcohol and stand upon a global stage as yourself, with no liquid courage, just the things you've built. In this episode, we laugh about being met with clichés and learning to embrace them. Thanks for your passion, and your genuine approach to life, Steven.

Steven Gonzalez is a Colombian-born bartender who moved to NYC in the early 2000s where he found his love for hospitality. After years of being part of the industry, he decided to make positive changes in his life for his health, finances, and family. He has been sober for almost three years and believes it has been the best decision he could have made.

Jill is someone, like many of my guests that I met on the internet. Luckily, I got to meet Jill in real life and bask in her energy while we were both at Tales of the Cocktail. In this episode we chat about what it takes to become sober, and what a support system can look like. Jill and her husband decided to remove alcohol from their lives at the same time, and she talks about what it's like to have a co-pilot while making that transition. I loved this conversation. I'm so lucky to share in the change of others as they talk about the people they've become, what's possible now, and what they uncovered. Thanks for sharing, Jill, glad to know you.

As a seasoned expert in pretty much every part of the beverage industry: years spent at distributors, suppliers, and even as an owner; Jill Sites still had one more area to taste: Non-Alcoholic.

More recently, she has stepped into a National role with Betty Buzz, Blake Lively’s line of “Mix it or Fly Solo” non-alcoholic mixers. While this industry’s lifestyle is known to take its own toll, Jill has found her own path and as of this interview, celebrates more than 300 days of sobriety.

Molly makes delicious n/a drinks in Seattle. With her history in coffee, she finds new and expressive ways of bringing creative drinks to people. It was so nice chatting with her about the importance of finding your own words as you forge your own path. It's fascinating to find similarities in these conversations, but I am equally as interested in the things that make our journeys unique. I enjoy the gentleness that Molly brings to the conversation about sobriety, I liked hearing about the way her partner has been supportive, and the person she's become since making that change over six years ago. I keep discovering the clichés within these talks, but they are clichés for a reason. Whatever we need to hear, however we need to say it until it makes sense to us. Thank you Molly for sharing the light you shine on your own path of sobriety, and for keeping it bright enough for others to see.

Molly Flynn is a community organizer and sober home mixologist. She has a passion for giving folx access to non-alcoholic beverage options and believes these options serve as a valuable (and delicious!) tool for anyone choosing to reduce or omit alcohol from their diet. As a queer woman, Molly is particularly interested in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, which is statistically more vulnerable to addiction and substance abuse.

Dre is passionate about bartending. His work at Clavel in Baltimore brings a deep love and understanding for Mezcal, hospitality, and forward-thinking cocktails. The way he speaks of n/a drinks is one of inclusion and precision. It was exciting to chat about where the industry and the world are at with no proof offerings, how he's changed his mindset since giving up alcohol, and what's next all around. Thanks for your time and your story, Dre.

Dre Levon is a New York-born Baltimore-raised bartender. He’s the Bar Director of Clavel Mezcaleria, where he has worked for the past 7 years since its inception. He and his team have been nominated for a pair of James Beard Nominations and are enthusiasts for the good mezcal, Mexican food, and their cultural/agricultural inroads.

I'm lucky to know Dave Conway. We met when we were both working for a distillery, I, a bartender for the attached restaurant, and Dave one of the distillers. We hit it off with our similar sense of humor and quickly created a weekly Instagram show called 'Distilling with Dave!" that included brief bonehead check-ins that were hilarious albeit not helpful to actual distillers. One day in September Dave seemingly disappeared. When he returned he had stories of strokes, a heart attack, and the road to recovery. In this scare he found sobriety, and now we also share that. Check out my conversation with an old pal who went from not wanting to fall asleep for fear of not waking up, to celebrating each morning and being thankful for the day. I love you, Dave. I'm glad you're here.

Dave is one of the former distillers at Watershed Distillery.  He is currently working on a degree in Psychology with the goal of helping those who have gone through life-changing events.

Sasha was open as she told me about her decision to leave alcohol behind. Getting to hear about her past, and how she came up as a chef was illuminating, but what really struck me was the way she talked about the future. The way she communicates with staff, the way conversations are changing, and the respect every individual gets along the way. I really appreciate her honesty, and for sharing her story as she navigated early stages, and what it felt like to decide to stop drinking in a pandemic.

Chef Sasha Grumman is a Houston based Private Chef and Chef/Owner of her focaccia business, Sasha’s Focaccia. Most recently, she was a contestant on Bravo’s hit TV show, Top Chef Season 18, which filmed in Portland, Oregon. Her style of cooking is California inspired with Italian influences, all while using the best Texas products she can find!

Chatting with Sarah was such a delight. She embodies physical and mental strength learned as she began her sober journey. There's also orchestrated poetry about her. The way she described finding her higher being or the importance of being who she is today is delivered with such honesty. Her story is fascinating to hear, and I really appreciate her taking the time to walk me back to the struggles she faced, and the person she got to become in sobriety.

Sarah is an Oregon Pinot Noir winemaker who has been sober since 2/24/2016. She lives with her partner and two German Shepherds. Sarah spends her free time playing semi-pro women’s football, gardening, and hiking.

about the guest:

Jason founded Casamara Club back in 2018, because he was tired of non-alcoholic drinks that tasted like an afterthought. He grew up in New England, spent his 20s in New York City, and now lives in Detroit.

about the brand:

about the guest:

Alex developed a specialty in Hospitality, Food & Beverage - advising many of the UK’s leading brands. It was here - while working on a project for one of the UK’s largest bar chains - that he discovered the vast shortcomings in the mixer category and came up with the idea for AVEC.

Growing up in the UK, but of Australian & Canadian heritage - he has always been obsessed with flavor. Always mobile and exploring new foods and cultures - Alex loves to cook and will talk excitedly about food and ingredients - especially those in AVEC.

about the brand:

Bored with the uninspired mixers they'd been using in their cocktails, Denetrias 'Dee' Charlemagne and Alex Doman decided to switch things up.

A Bronx native, Harvard alum and former Ad Executive, the only mixology Dee had known was in the kitchen of her Harlem apartment.

A former F&B strategy consultant, UK native Alex Doman was working for some of the UKs leading hospitality chains bored with the monotony of Gin + Tonics at any bar he frequented.

Madison sent me a message on instagram following an article I was featured in on TheKitchn in January of 2020. That article was my first time speaking publicly about my journey with sobriety, so it felt strange that my story would resonate with someone. It’s been a privilege to ride along via social media on Madison’s journey as she’s such an inspiring voice and advocate for herself.

I can’t thank you enough for opening up and sharing your story, and I’m excited to see what’s to come for you.

After exiting the bar/service industry, Madison has reinvented herself professionally and otherwise. A creative at heart, she's working as an Account Executive at a Creative Agency, spending her free time writing & recording music, reconnecting with personal passions, and finding her purpose.

My chat with Andrew reveals what is possible in a kitchen with communication and understanding. Brought up through the old school kitchens, Andrew now leads a staff through positivity and creating a work environment people are excited to arrive to. Andrew recently celebrated 5 years sober, a milestone he's able to celebrate in Asheville, a place he calls home. I really appreciate him taking the time to chat with me about where he was when he decided to make the change, and the person he gets to be each day.

Andrew McLeod is the Executive Chef at Avenue M in Asheville NC. The laid back approach to an elevated neighborhood restaurant is due to his extensive experience throughout some of the most exciting food markets in the U.S. He credits Joshua Skenes (Saison, Angler) Michael Tusk (Quince, Cotogna, Verjus), and Sean Brock (Joyland, Audrey, The Continental) as his mentors. He’s passionate about creating a fun, positive, and supportive kitchen culture as much as he’s passionate about good food.

Chatting with Hope was a splash of effervescence. She brings such positivity to what is possible in a life without alcohol. Like me, she doesn't preach that everyone must become sober to enjoy life to the fullest, but that you should at least be looking at your relationship with alcohol. Hope lives in NYC and it was exciting to hear about the ways that she enjoys her city, and how she gets to show up in it. After becoming alcohol-free, Hope began doing open-mic stand-up comedy, that sentence was enough to give me chills when I heard it in this episode. If you've never performed stand-up comedy, it's an activity that many people will tell you can only be performed with some 'Liquid Courage.' It's so good to hear that Hope enjoys it, and is doing it authentically.

Hope Woodard is a 25-year-old social media strategist and content creator based in Brooklyn, NY. When not working, she loves riding her bike around the city, practicing her comedy chops at an open mic, and taking walks around McCarren Park. She's been alcohol free since October 10, 2021, and hopes to continue down this path so that she can keep learning more about herself, experiencing life at full capacity, and investing in those around her with full authenticity.

I was excited to chat with Josh because of all the buzz I've seen around him and his cafe in San Francisco. His reviews of n/a drinks on his youtube page brings a fresh voice, and a seasoned palate to some of the exciting items coming down the pipeline. He was a hoot to talk to when we chatted about the enrichment our lives possess in a life free of alcohol, and he was an inspiration in hearing about what is possible in the n/a drink space. This episode has great tips and talking points for those looking for what to drink now that they are not drinking, or how to start your journey in creating space on your menu for n/a drinks. Thanks for the time, Josh, excited to see what you do next.

Check him out on Instagram: @joshthenonalcoholic @ocean.beach.cafe or on his youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN-9g-8Tb-iD74qHtT-0nug

I recently learned of Ashley Mac through an interview I read on https://drinkbaijiu.com/ where she spoke with such excitement about the category and the industry that it was inspiring to see someone thriving in the industry while sober. During our conversation I was floored to hear so many parts of my own story being told back to me. Starting life in the industry at 15 in a corporate restaurant, stopping drinking at 29, and the ways we're able to truly live life now that we're sober. I really can't thank her enough for sharing her story here, and I'm in awe of the growth she's able to experience. I'm so happy for you, Ashley.

Ashley Mac or Amac is a Baltimore-based bartender. As the Bar Manager and AGM of NiHao, a modern, but traditional Chinese restaurant, Mac spends her time learning about and creating her Baijiu-centered bar program. Mac also prides herself with well thought out and cared for spirit-free options at her bar, as she is a sober bartender.

I had seen the label for Slow Luck begin showing up in feeds from some bartender friends but didn't know much about this new n/a spirit launched in Austin. I was excited to chat with owner Tacy Rowland to understand more about how this no-proof product borne of Austin with a bartender's flavor profile came to be. It's always exciting to see new products join the already delicious and inventive n/a space, and I can't wait to see what Slow Luck does next.

Tacy Rowland has been a part of the Austin bar community since 2009. Inspired by the talented bar and restaurant community-based in Austin, she fell in love with the world of bartending and hasn’t looked back since. She has been awarded Austin’s Best Cocktail Bartender, traveled nationally and internationally representing her community in various cocktail competitions, was the winner of Speed Rack Denver, and has been mentioned in ​Forbes​, ​StarChefs​, ​Imbibe​, Southwest Airlines Magazine​, ​Beverage Media Group,​ and ​GQ​ in addition to local publications. Rowland served as the General Manager of the lauded speakeasy Midnight Cowboy in Austin from 2016-2018, and then as the Creative Bar Director for Alamo Drafthouse. While being furloughed due to Covid-19, Rowland and fellow bartender Sam Abdelfattah saw opportunities in the non-alcoholic beverage space and founded Slow Luck. Partnering with a local distiller, Mike Groener, after months of distilling, experimenting, and blending, Slow Luck became a reality.

Slow Luck is Austin’s first distilled non-alcoholic spirit alternative. With notes of citrus, ginger, coriander, and a slightly spicy finish of Texas chilies, Slow Luck is easily substituted 1:1 for any clear spirit in traditional cocktails and provides the perfect starting palate for new cocktail creations.

I was thrilled to chat with JdB after the monumental years he had with 2020 and 2021. More than that, I've always found him to have such an inclusive outlook on the industry, and a fascination with that his voice brings to the overall conversation. Interviewing someone with the number of accolades his bio holds is always intimidating, but his warmth, grace, and hospitality made for a great conversation. In this episode, I chat with JdB about his decision to not drink alcohol in 2020, why he chose to create Proteau, and the future on the n/a space.

John deBary is a 10-plus year veteran of New York City’s bar and hospitality industry, starting out as a bartender at PDT before going on to become the Momofuku restaurant group’s first corporate bar director. In 2018 he left Momofuku to write a cocktail book, Drink What You Want, founded Proteau, a zero-proof botanical drinks company, as well as co-founded Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to improving quality of life for laborers in the hospitality industry. He’s also Food52’s first resident drinks expert where he hosts a monthly YouTube show. 

As a freelance journalist, he has bylines in Bon Appetit, Thrillist, GQ, Food & Wine, and PUNCH, and he occasionally moonlights as a drinks and hospitality consultant for private and corporate clients.

Like all good discoveries, I found Al's NA Beer on Instagram. The logo, the white can, it all beckoned to be drank in a dive bar. Learning more about the founder Alban, a European who worked in music and nightlife I discovered our passion for the dive bar and the feeling of finding quiet and resolve in yourself. Alban's alcohol-free lifestyle began similarly to mine, it was a pause met with an inventory of the self and how living life without it would ultimately be better in every way except for maybe going to bed earlier. I was happy to learn that Alban is also a runner, and I look forward to the day that we can run in Central Park, and crack an Al's after.

Alban spent almost 20 years working in the Arts & Music industries in London and New York. It included a stint as Art Ambassador for Absolut Vodka, one of the world's largest spirit companies. A few years ago, he decided to see what life could be without drinking and he hasn't looked back. This led him to launch AL's; a classic American non-alcoholic craft beer to enjoy all of life's social and celebratory moments without alcohol.

My friend Ru sent me a message that said "Hey dude. I don't know this guy personally but he's THE pizza guy on the beach in Queens" about Sean so I was immediately intrigued. I sent a message soon after and immediately connected with Sean's positivity. Join us for this uplifting chat about sobriety within the industry, how being kind to yourself will lead to kindness elsewhere, and find out what Sean's favorite slice and sip combo is.

Born and raised in Rockaway Beach, NY Sean Aiken has recently returned home with his wife and their young child, bringing a passion for creating pizza and a desire to help build community. Follow him on Instagram @seanypizza or head to www.seanyslices.com

I spent a couple of years on the Columbus comedy circuit as a stand-up before I discovered my love for performing video and sketch comedy (which find their way into my life in small doses these days.) While in this scene I learned of Sumukh. His mild-mannered delivery drew me in, and he quickly became one of my local favorites. He always carried an air of distinction and charm; he struck me as the level-headed deeper thinking comedian in a room full of cheap beer-pounding knuckleheads. Since leaving comedy I've followed along with Sumukh's journey on social media where I read his essays on his sobriety and the changes that could be made to the comedy scene. Sumukh takes comedy seriously which is why he's been good at it for so long. While I'm no longer in the back hall during an open mic cracking jokes with Sumukh I'm lucky to have him in running, sobriety, and light-hearted conversation. Thank you, Sumukh!

I was so excited to learn of Becca and to hear more about what she was doing in the n/a distilling world. She has such a compelling story, and an energy for the future that I found inviting and intriguing. Becca brought an intentionality toward bartender communication efforts to the conversation that was fascinating and respectful toward those pouring and those enjoying. In this conversation we chat about Becca's own journey with sobriety, the changes she'd like to see made in the way we order n/a drinks, and what is in her future through distilling and product development. Thanks for your time, energy, and eye on positive change, Becca!

Becca grew up on a farm in rural Kentucky, then moved to New York where she spent the first 10 years of her career in strategy consulting. Two years ago, she left her job to create better and more inclusive options for individuals who don't drink alcohol (always or occasionally). When not working on ALT Distilling, Becca is making art, taking on overly ambitious home projects, or hanging out with her parti-poodle, Charlie.

Follow along on Instagram @nkdldy

Nick entered my life through marriage. He became my cousin through that, but through the changes we were both applying to our lives he became my brother. Nick is a symbol of strength both mentally and physically for myself, for others, and for his family. I'm thrilled that he was able to take the time to tell his story and to unravel some of the tools he uses to set himself up for success. He strives to be a little bit better each day, and his enthusiasm for crushing goals makes me want to be better every time I see what he's doing. Follow his story and workouts on Instagram @thenickmundy

Nick Mundy is from Cincinnati, OH— 31, married, and has three sons.  He has an insatiable appetite for challenging himself and is currently on a vulnerable journey of holistic self improvement.  Professionally, he works for a Fortune 500 company in a leadership position.  His tolerance for adversity is elite as he is a survivor of Autoimmune Disease, Heart Disease, Cancer, and Addiction/Alcoholism.  Nick believes with the right mindset and hard work, anything you dream of can be accomplished.