Facing health battles that test the limits of one's spirit can reshape everything we thought we knew about resilience. This episode features Alex Simmons, whose journey through kidney failure and the gift of life from his sister's transplant offers a powerful narrative on the essential nature of internal health. We navigate the transformation of his existence, uncovering how Athletic Brewing Company's non-alcoholic beer became a beacon of enjoyment in a lifestyle no longer including alcohol. Alex's candid recounting provides us with a vivid tableau of the changes and challenges he's conquered, a sobering reminder that the strongest muscles often lie within.

Our conversation traverses the remembered corridors of Pine Richland High School, stirring a blend of nostalgia and the stark contrast to the wider world we encountered post-graduation. Threads weave through the importance of sports and family, underscoring the delicate art of guiding the next generation. Through Alex's eyes, we're privy to the raw truths behind bodybuilding's shiny facade, offering a glimpse into the demanding yet often unseen preparation that belies the sport's glamour.

As the discourse unfolds, we brush against the profound impact technology has on our lives—from AI's surprising incursion into content creation to the quirky tales behind our online identities. We honor our personal endeavors: mine, to elevate the Pittsburgh community; to chart a path in an alcohol-centric society. Raising a glass—of non-alcoholic beer, of course—we celebrate growth, both individual and communal, heralding the everyday moments that become the milestones of our journey.

Send us a text

Mocktails Or Messy podcast
IG: @mocktailsormessy | TikTok: @mockmess
Watch | YouTube Mocktails Or Messy
Listen | Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Featured | #11 of Best Local Podcasts: FeedSpot