In this episode of The Zero Proof Life, Karla Adkins and Carolyn Bennett dive into one of the trickiest parts of a sober or sober-curious journey: talking about it.

Whether you're newly alcohol-free or deep into your sobriety, figuring out how (and if) to talk about it with friends, family, or colleagues can be overwhelming. Karla and Carolyn explore the societal pressures that make these conversations so loaded, and offer grounded, heartfelt guidance on how to share your story in a way that honors your experience.

They remind us that it’s okay to take your time, to stay private, and to choose your confidants carefully. The big takeaway? You don’t owe anyone an explanation — and your story is yours to protect.

Key Takeaways

• Talking about not drinking can feel complicated — and that’s normal.
  
  
• You get to choose who hears your story (and when).
  
  
• Privacy is a valid and healthy part of the process.
  
  
• Society’s drinking norms can make these conversations harder.
  
  
• Responses to your sobriety may vary — and that’s not about you.
  
  
• Trust your instincts when deciding what to share.
  
  
• The cultural narrative around alcohol is evolving — you're not alone.
  
  

Timestamps

03:23 — Navigating Conversations About Not Drinking
06:25 — Understanding Personal Relationships with Alcohol
09:27 — Overcoming Fear and Societal Expectations
12:23 — Empowering Authenticity in Sharing Your Story
15:27 — Tools for Effective Communication
18:18 — Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Resources & links

• Join the Zero Proof Life Community → https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription
  
  
  
• Follow ZPL: https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
  
  
  
• Follow the coaches:
  
  
  
  • Brandi Babb – @littlebigleap (https://www.instagram.com/littlebigleap/) 
    
    
    
  • Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/) 
    
    
    
  • Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
    
    
    
  • Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 
    
    
    

If today’s conversation sparked your own inner nudge, we’d love to hear from you! Be sure to follow the podcast and leave a review

Follow ZPL:

• https://www.instagram.com/thezeroprooflife/ 
• https://www.thezeroprooflife.com/products/zpl-monthly-subscription

Follow the coaches:

• Brandi Babb – @brandi.babb (https://www.instagram.com/brandi.babb/) 
• Karla Adkins – @karlakadkins (https://www.instagram.com/karlakadkins/) 
• Carolyn Bennett – @thesoberempath (https://www.instagram.com/carolynbennett2.0/) 
• Becca Snider – @becsnider (https://www.instagram.com/becsnider/) 

If this conversation resonated with you, please follow the show and leave a review so more people can discover The Zero Proof Life. These conversations are for informational purposes only and not medical or mental health advice.