Sober Friends

Send us a text Is it really that bad—or are you just starting to wonder? In this episode of the Sober Friends podcast, we talk about that quiet question many of us ask ourselves: “Do I actually have a problem with alcohol?” You don’t need to lose everything to get sober. We explore what a “high bottom” looks like, how addiction can quietly damage your life long before rock bottom hits, and why questioning your drinking might be the biggest red flag of all. Whether you’re 18 or 58, your moment...

Transcribed - Published: 29 July 2025

Send us a text What if the person you love isn’t broken—just buried under addiction? In this powerful episode, I sit down with addiction counselor and YouTube creator Amber Hollingsworth of Put The Shovel Down to talk about something we don’t hear enough in recovery: how to actually help a loved one struggling with addiction—without enabling or playing the villain. Amber shares insight from two decades of working with addicts and their families, including: Why tough love often backfiresThe da...

Transcribed - Published: 22 July 2025

Send us a text In this episode of The Sober Friends Podcast, Matt and Steve get real about something that challenges many of us in sobriety—asking for help and, even harder, accepting it. Whether it’s a neighbor offering to help with yard work or a sponsor helping you through a relapse, support doesn’t always show up the way we expect. And sometimes pride, fear, or shame can keep us from accepting what we truly need. From stories of burnout and Cadillac problems to lessons learned through the...

Transcribed - Published: 15 July 2025

Send us a text Getting out of your comfort zone is hard — especially in sobriety. In this episode, Matt and Steve dive into the real-life anxiety of leaving the safe routines of recovery to go on vacation. From travel stress to the fear of asking for help, they unpack how discomfort shows up, how to plan ahead, and why pushing through it can actually strengthen your sobriety. Matt’s heading to Orlando with his family, and spoiler alert: he really doesn’t want to go — but he’s doing it sober. ...

Transcribed - Published: 8 July 2025

Send us a text In early sobriety, everything feels possible. You’re sleeping better, your skin looks great, and the world seems full of hope—that’s the “pink cloud.” But what happens when that high starts to fade? In this episode of the Sober Friends podcast, Matt and Steve dive into the emotional crash that can come after the early euphoria wears off. We talk about why it happens (hello, brain chemistry), how to prepare for it, and what tools you’ll need to stay sober when life gets messy ag...

Transcribed - Published: 1 July 2025

Send us a text What happens when the wine stops working—and you’re left alone with yourself? In this raw and powerful episode, Marcy R. shares how her drinking escalated during the isolation of COVID, and how that stillness forced her to confront the truth. From growing up with addiction in the family, navigating single motherhood, living with undiagnosed ADHD, and surviving a toxic relationship—Marcy opens up about the moment it all clicked: “I’m not in the wrong 12-step room. I’m an alcohol...

Transcribed - Published: 24 June 2025

Send us a text It’s Matt, and I’m flying solo this week with a raw and personal episode about stress, burnout, and trying to hold it all together—without picking up a drink. From battling insurance over Wegovy, to my daughter’s knee injury, to the financial hit of back-to-back sports trips, everything has been hitting at once. I’m feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and, honestly, kind of crispy around the edges. But here’s the thing: I’m still sober. And that’s a miracle. This episode is about h...

Transcribed - Published: 10 June 2025

Send us a text Summer’s here—and with it comes road trips, cookouts, sports tournaments, and beach vacations. For those of us in recovery, that can mean a lot of triggers packed into a short season. In this episode, we dive into the real-life challenges of staying sober during summer travel, from boozy parents at soccer games to the loneliness of hotel rooms. We share personal stories of what’s worked, what hasn’t, and why having a plan (and a backup plan) can make all the difference. Whether...

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2025

Send us a text In this episode of the Sober Friends Podcast, we’re diving into what it really takes to stay sober during the summer—starting with Memorial Day weekend. From cookouts and weddings to long weekends and family parties, the warm-weather season brings all kinds of drinking triggers. Matt, Steve, and John share personal stories and practical strategies for navigating these challenges alcohol-free. Whether you’re newly sober or have a few summers under your belt, this conversation co...

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2025

Send us a text On this episode of the Sober Friends podcast, we dive deep into the idea that kindness isn’t some fluffy, feel-good concept—it’s a legit recovery tool. We talk about how hard it can be to receive kindness when we first come in, why it’s often toughest to be kind to the people closest to us, and how practicing kindness—especially when it’s not our default—can transform our relationships and our sobriety. There’s honesty, laughter, and a few tough-love truths in here, plus storie...

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2025

Send us a text Matt and Steve dive into the real-life challenges of maintaining sobriety when life gets busy—from caregiving and family obligations to missed meetings and disrupted routines. They share personal stories about staying grounded in recovery, the importance of asking for help, and learning to let go of control. This candid conversation explores how flexibility, planning, and community support keep them sober through life’s toughest stretches. Support the show 📫 Get more honest con...

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2025

Send us a text Steve and Matt explore why fellowship is a critical "linchpin" in long-term recovery. They share personal stories about how connections with other sober individuals provide essential feedback, guidance, and support when facing life's challenges, like family issues and loss. Steve and Matt discuss how fellowship complements step work, strategies for newcomers who struggle to connect, and why even long-timers need their "pack" to stay sober. Its a vulnerable episode, as the...

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025

Send us a text "'Stop believing in me. I want you to believe in you.' In this powerful episode, we dive into one of recovery's most challenging concepts—finding a higher power. We share our personal spiritual journeys, discuss a thought-provoking reading about a loving, non-judgmental God, and explore how connection with nature and community can form the foundation of spirituality. Whether you're spiritual but not religious, questioning your beliefs, or simply curious about different perspect...

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2025

Send us a text In this powerful episode, we dive deep into one of recovery's most challenging yet transformative principles: acceptance. Why is it so difficult to accept people and situations as they are? From navigating frustrating family dinners to confronting career disappointments, we explore how our inability to accept "life on life's terms" often leads us back to destructive behaviors. Learn practical strategies for finding peace amid circumstances you can't control, managing expectatio...

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2025

Send us a text In this heartfelt episode of Sober Friends, hosts Matt and Steve explore how kindness can be our secret weapon in recovery. In a world where social media algorithms reward outrage and division, they share personal stories about their journeys from being "reformed trolls" to discovering the lasting joy that comes from acts of kindness. Steve opens up about caring for his wife during health challenges, while Matt reflects on putting family needs before his own desires. Whether yo...

Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2025

Send us a text In this candid episode of the Sober Friends Podcast, Matt opens up about his recent decision to start taking prescribed stimulant medication for his ADHD while maintaining his sobriety. He and Steve tackle the complex question many in recovery face: does taking prescribed medication break sobriety? Together, they explore the responsibility that comes with medication management in recovery, the importance of transparency with your support network, and how to balance necessary me...

Transcribed - Published: 1 April 2025

Send us a text In this episode, Matt celebrates 11 years of sobriety coinciding with his daughter's birthday, while Steve shares his perspective on marking recovery milestones. The hosts discuss how anniversaries serve as powerful symbols of hope for newcomers while acknowledging that everyone commemorates their sobriety journey differently. They explore the importance of service in recovery, whether through sponsorship, offering rides to meetings, or simply being available to others who are ...

Transcribed - Published: 25 March 2025

Send us a text Join Steve and Matt as they dive deep into how self-pity and victim mentality can become energy drains in recovery. Steve vulnerably shares his current struggles at home and how he's navigating difficult emotions without turning to alcohol. The hosts explore how shifting from "Why is this happening to me?" to "What's my next step?" can transform recovery journeys. Learn practical strategies for managing expectations, connecting with your higher power, and finding community supp...

Transcribed - Published: 18 March 2025

Send us a text In this thought-provoking episode of Sober Friends, hosts Matt, and Steve tackle a common challenge in recovery: maintaining sobriety while living with partners who still drink. Steve shares his personal journey of negotiating alcohol in the home with his non-alcoholic wife, offering practical insights on establishing boundaries through honest communication. They discuss various scenarios, from living with moderate drinkers to active alcoholics, emphasizing that recovery is pos...

Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2025

Send us a text In this inspiring conversation, Katie Campbell, board-certified holistic health coach and founder of Mindful Constitution, shares her journey from binge drinking to sobriety and spiritual awakening. Katie opens up about childhood trauma, her years of self-medication, and the "cognitive dissonance" she experienced while studying health while still drinking. She explains how sobriety helped her discover her true purpose: guiding highly sensitive, empathic women through their own ...

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2025

Send us a text In this powerful episode, elementary teacher and TikTok creator Colbi (@collect.the.similarities) shares her journey from using alcohol as a social lubricant to finding authentic belonging in recovery. She discusses how postpartum depression accelerated her drinking, the moment she received "the gift of desperation," and why she now uses social media to create solidarity among sober-curious women. Colbi offers profound insights on the difference between "fitting in" versus...

Transcribed - Published: 25 February 2025

Send us a text In this thought-provoking episode of Sober Friends, Matt and Steve engage in a candid conversation about spirituality in recovery following their experience at a Joe and Charlie Big Book study. They thoughtfully examine the suggestion that atheists cannot truly work the AA program, offering nuanced perspectives on what constitutes a "higher power." The discussion explores several important dimensions of recovery: Alternatives to traditional religious concepts of God in sobriety...

Transcribed - Published: 18 February 2025

Send us a text In this insightful episode of the Sober Friends podcast, hosts Steve and Matt explore the critical role of change in sustained sobriety and personal growth. Through candid discussion, they examine how resistance to change can impact recovery and why staying static often means sliding backward. The hosts share personal experiences about overcoming the fear of change, from career transitions to daily habits, while offering practical wisdom about taking manageable steps forward. T...

Transcribed - Published: 11 February 2025

Send us a text In this episode of The Sober Friends Podcast, Matt and Steve dive into the heart of what makes the 12-step program so impactful: the people who go above and beyond to help others, even when it's inconvenient. From late-night calls to long drives to meetings, these acts of service not only aid those in need but also enrich the lives of those who give. Matt and Steve also discuss the importance of having diverse voices on the show and put out a call for a regular female co-...

Transcribed - Published: 4 February 2025

Send us a text In this intimate conversation, the Sober Friends hosts dive deep into one of recovery's most challenging aspects: dealing with things beyond our control. Through personal stories about workplace anxiety, childhood trauma, and finding unexpected joy, they explore how fellowship, therapy, and individual solutions help navigate life's uncertainties. Whether you're wrestling with imposter syndrome, anxiety about the future, or searching for peace in sobriety, this episode offers pr...

Transcribed - Published: 28 January 2025

Send us a text In this powerful episode of Sober Friends, hosts Matt and Steve dive deep into the critical connection between isolation and addiction. Through personal stories of drinking alone and social anxiety, they explore how isolation can both trigger addiction and become a destructive pattern in recovery. The hosts share their journeys from basement drinking to building meaningful connections through hiking groups and recovery meetings. This episode offers hope and practical strategies...

Transcribed - Published: 21 January 2025

Send us a text In this thought-provoking episode of the Sober Friends podcast, Steve and Matt dive deep into the changing landscape of recovery programs and what makes an effective support group. The conversation stems from their recent experience with a "Joe and Charlie" study session, leading to an authentic discussion about the evolution of recovery programs over the decades. The hosts explore several compelling topics, including the contrast between historical and modern recovery success ...

Transcribed - Published: 14 January 2025

Send us a text Join Steve and Matt as they dive into the recent Surgeon General's warning about alcohol being a carcinogen, exploring what this means for both drinkers and non-drinkers alike. Drawing from personal experience and scientific insights, they discuss how younger generations are increasingly questioning alcohol use, the rise of mocktail culture, and why "moderate drinking" might not be as healthy as once believed. The hosts share candid observations about changing societal attitude...

Transcribed - Published: 7 January 2025

Send us a text Join Matt as he shares a deeply personal exploration of what keeps his sobriety vibrant after 11 years. In this timely episode, released during the holiday season, Matt reveals how connecting with newly sober individuals continues to fuel his recovery journey. Through engaging storytelling and honest reflection, he discusses the unexpected ways social media platforms like TikTok have created new avenues for connection in the recovery community. Whether you're just beginning you...

Transcribed - Published: 31 December 2024

Send us a text In this episode, Matt opens up about his decision to return to Joe & Charlie Big Book study sessions—not to learn more about AA's foundational text, but to combat isolation in his recovery journey. As someone working from home with ADHD, Matt shares his struggles with maintaining connections and building friendships in sobriety, despite his success in digital spaces like TikTok and Bluesky. This episode explores the challenging balance between introversion and the vital nee...

Transcribed - Published: 24 December 2024

Send us a text In this candid and heartfelt episode of the Sober Friends Podcast, Steve and Matt dive deep into the challenges of maintaining long-term sobriety. They explore the subtle dangers of complacency, the importance of keeping recovery fresh, and how finding new perspectives can reinvigorate your journey. From Joe and Charlie workshops to unexpected sources of inspiration like TikTok, they share personal strategies for staying motivated, engaged, and committed to a sober lifestyle. W...

Transcribed - Published: 17 December 2024

Send us a text In this powerful episode of Sober Friends, Matt and Steve dive deep into the transformative role of social media in addiction recovery. Discover how platforms like TikTok and Blue Sky are revolutionizing the way people approach sobriety, offering unprecedented support, community, and hope for those struggling with alcohol addiction. Learn about the importance of compassion, meeting people where they are, and the potential for connection in the digital age of recovery. Support t...

Transcribed - Published: 10 December 2024

Send us a text How much recovery work is 'enough'? In this candid episode, we dive deep into a common struggle many face in sobriety - the pressure to do more. From navigating the end of the 'pink cloud' phase to finding balance in service work, we explore why feeling like you're not doing enough might actually be a sign you're on the right path. Whether you're 209 days sober or 10 years in, this conversation about recovery perfectionism, guilt, and finding your own pace offers valuable insig...

Transcribed - Published: 3 December 2024

Send us a text Join Matt, and Steve as they dive deep into one of recovery's most crucial warning signs - HALT (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired). Through personal stories and real experiences, they explore how these seemingly simple states can create dangerous unguarded moments in sobriety. From dealing with family dynamics and feeling unappreciated to finding healthy coping strategies, this episode offers practical solutions for maintaining recovery during vulnerable times. Learn why breaking a...

Transcribed - Published: 26 November 2024

Send us a text In this powerful episode of the Sober Friends podcast, host Matt shares his deeply personal experience with Step 2 of Alcoholics Anonymous, tackling one of recovery's most challenging hurdles: connecting with a higher power. Whether you're new to sobriety, curious about AA, or a seasoned veteran in recovery, Matt's candid storytelling breaks down the misconceptions about spirituality in recovery and offers fresh perspectives on finding your own path. Key highlights include: Con...

Transcribed - Published: 19 November 2024

Send us a text When life feels overwhelming, where do we find the resilience to get through it? In this episode, Matt and Steve have an honest discussion about coping with stress, loss, and difficult news. They explore strategies like finding purpose, building community, and focusing on what's within your control. With empathy and real-life examples, they provide hope and practical advice for anyone struggling to maintain their sobriety or wellbeing during challenging times. Key Takeaways: Ac...

Transcribed - Published: 12 November 2024

Send us a text Anger and resentment can feel like a never-ending battle, especially for those in recovery. In this raw and relatable conversation, hosts Matt and Steve dive deep into their personal struggles with these challenging emotions. From childhood trauma to strained relationships, they share how anger has impacted their lives and sobriety. Discover strategies they've learned through therapy, the 12 steps, and outside resources to manage these powerful feelings. Hear about those "ah-h...

Transcribed - Published: 5 November 2024

Send us a text Looking for deeper connections in recovery? Join Steve and Matt as they explore the transformative power of recovery retreats. From intimate 35-person gatherings to step-focused weekends, discover how these getaways offer more than just a break from daily life. Learn why investing in a retreat might be exactly what your recovery needs, whether you're newly sober or years into your journey. Steve shares his recent retreat experience, including a powerful revelation about anger a...

Transcribed - Published: 29 October 2024

Send us a text Are you questioning your relationship with alcohol but thinking "I haven't lost everything yet"? In this raw and revealing episode, we dive into what it really means to be a "high bottom" alcoholic in today's world. Matt shares his personal struggle with Step One, challenging the traditional "rock bottom" narrative from the 1930s Big Book. From the exhausting mental gymnastics of "just one drink" to the profound revelation that unmanageability isn't always about losing homes or...

Transcribed - Published: 22 October 2024

Send us a text Are you stuck in survival mode, always waiting for that "one thing" to make you happy? In this raw and insightful episode, Matt shares a powerful revelation from an AA meeting that struck him "square between the eyes." Discover how the constant struggle to just get by can fuel addiction, and learn how embracing vulnerability and asking for help can transform mere survival into true thriving. Whether you're newly sober or years into recovery, this episode offers a fresh perspect...

Transcribed - Published: 15 October 2024

Send us a text Join us for an illuminating conversation with Tricia Lewis, host of the Recovery Happy Hour podcast and advocate for inclusive sobriety. In this episode, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of recovery, challenging traditional notions of what it means to be "alcoholic" and exploring the diverse paths to sobriety in today's world. Tricia shares her personal journey and insights on: Why you don't need to hit "rock bottom" to choose sobrietyThe role of non-alcoholic beverages...

Transcribed - Published: 8 October 2024

Send us a text In this raw and honest episode, Matt and Steve dive deep into the challenging journey of self-forgiveness and building self-worth in recovery. They explore how the weight of past mistakes can fuel addiction and hinder progress, sharing personal stories of their own struggles and triumphs. Discover practical strategies for letting go of guilt, embracing patience in personal growth, and finding self-esteem through "estimable acts." Whether you're new to sobriety or years into you...

Transcribed - Published: 1 October 2024

Send us a text In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into a compelling New York Times article that challenges how we view obesity—is it a disease or just a symptom of a larger issue? This sparks a broader conversation about alcoholism and addiction. Could it be that, like obesity, alcoholism is merely masking deeper, underlying problems? Join Matt and Steve as they explore their personal journeys with recovery and weight loss, drawing fascinating parallels between the two. They disc...

Transcribed - Published: 24 September 2024

Send us a text Are you feeling stuck in your recovery journey, seeing the same faces and hearing the same stories over and over again? You’re not alone. In this episode, we dive deep into the rut that many of us experience and how stepping out of your comfort zone can reignite your passion for sobriety. Join Matt as he shares his recent experience as a speaker at a virtual newcomer’s meeting, where the fresh energy and diverse voices revitalized his commitment to service. We also explore the ...

Transcribed - Published: 10 September 2024

Send us a text In this episode of the Sober Friends Podcast, we dive into the deep end of social anxiety and imposter syndrome—two common struggles that many of us face, especially on our sober journeys. Join us as we share personal stories of navigating awkward social situations, feeling like outsiders, and the challenge of finding our place in new communities. Whether it’s at a kid’s soccer game or a fancy dinner party, we’ve all experienced those moments of not fitting in. But what do we d...

Transcribed - Published: 3 September 2024

Send us a text In this deeply personal episode, we dive into the striking parallels between food indulgence and the battles of addiction. It all started with a simple craving for greasy food that spiraled into a night of severe discomfort and unexpected reflection. Join us as we explore how one small slip-up triggered memories of past struggles with alcohol, leading to a profound conversation about recovery, self-destruction, and the daily battles to maintain sobriety. Whether it’s greasy foo...

Transcribed - Published: 27 August 2024

Send us a text The fourth and fifth steps can cause a lot of fear when we first come into a twelve step group. For me, they were liberating. We discuss why the fourth and fifth steps are so important. This is not a how to, this is why they are great steps, how they help you learn more about yourself and why you drink and help you understand how to stay away from the bottle. The fifth step helps you build trust and to have a deep conversation with an another alcoholic a...

Transcribed - Published: 20 August 2024

Send us a text In this episode, we dive deep into the world of sobriety among well-known public figures. From presidents to Hollywood stars, many famous faces have openly battled addiction, offering both inspiration and complex reflections on the struggle with substance abuse. Steve and I explore what it means to see these celebrities maintain sobriety, how it resonates with those of us in recovery, and whether their stories bring hope or highlight the harsh realities of this relentless disea...

Transcribed - Published: 13 August 2024

Send us a text You get both of these amazing episodes in one day! If you have not listened to my excellent interview with William Schaberg, then you are in luck today! If you have, you'll love going over this again! I hope you consider buying his book, "Writing the Big Book," which I will link in the notes. You'll be blown away by Bill's insight. In Part 2 of the interview with Bill Schaberg, we discuss: What really happened when Ebby Thatcher visited Bill Wils...

Transcribed - Published: 6 August 2024

Send us a text I love this episode and its so far in the back of the catalogue, you may not have seen it, especially if you are a new listener. I got the privilege of interviewing William Schaberg, author of the book, "Writing the Big Book." To me, it's the definitive history of the period when Bill write the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. Here is what we discuss: The genesis of the why he wrote the bookBill W’s realization of why a book was writtenBill W’s original plan to hel...

Transcribed - Published: 6 August 2024