no proof

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.

Founded in 2016, the mission of Ben's Friends is to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to anyone who struggles with substance abuse or addiction. By coming together, starting a dialogue, and acknowledging that substance abuse cannot be overcome by isolation and willpower alone, Ben's Friends hopes to write a new chapter in the lives of food and beverage professionals across the country.

To order my n/a enamel pin from Mover & Shaker, head to tinyurl.com/4fm6r9v6

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.

Founded in 2016, the mission of Ben's Friends is to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to anyone who struggles with substance abuse or addiction. By coming together, starting a dialogue, and acknowledging that substance abuse cannot be overcome by isolation and willpower alone, Ben's Friends hopes to write a new chapter in the lives of food and beverage professionals across the country.

To order my n/a enamel pin from Mover & Shaker, head to tinyurl.com/4fm6r9v6

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

Founded in 2016, the mission of Ben's Friends is to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to anyone who struggles with substance abuse or addiction. By coming together, starting a dialogue, and acknowledging that substance abuse cannot be overcome by isolation and willpower alone, Ben's Friends hopes to write a new chapter in the lives of food and beverage professionals across the country.

To order my n/a enamel pin from Mover & Shaker, head to tinyurl.com/4fm6r9v6

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!

Sumukh Torgalkar is a stand-up comedian who resides in the mountains of Northern Colorado after having lived in Columbus and Los Angeles. He performs anywhere from independent stages to comedy clubs to colleges to corporate events. Tracks from his album are played regularly on SiriusXM's Laugh USA and subscribe to his YouTube channel (youtube.com/SumukhTorgalkar) to help grow his mild popularity.

Founded in 2016, the mission of Ben's Friends is to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to anyone who struggles with substance abuse or addiction. By coming together, starting a dialogue, and acknowledging that substance abuse cannot be overcome by isolation and willpower alone, Ben's Friends hopes to write a new chapter in the lives of food and beverage professionals across the country.

To order my n/a enamel pin from Mover & Shaker, head to tinyurl.com/4fm6r9v6

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

Founded in 2016, the mission of Ben's Friends is to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to anyone who struggles with substance abuse or addiction. By coming together, starting a dialogue, and acknowledging that substance abuse cannot be overcome by isolation and willpower alone, Ben's Friends hopes to write a new chapter in the lives of food and beverage professionals across the country.

To order my n/a enamel pin from Mover & Shaker, head to tinyurl.com/4fm6r9v6

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.

Founded in 2016, the mission of Ben's Friends is to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to anyone who struggles with substance abuse or addiction. By coming together, starting a dialogue, and acknowledging that substance abuse cannot be overcome by isolation and willpower alone, Ben's Friends hopes to write a new chapter in the lives of food and beverage professionals across the country.

To order my n/a enamel pin from Mover & Shaker, head to tinyurl.com/4fm6r9v6

I learned of Yellowbird Foodshed at the beginning of lockdown when I went from cooking maybe twice a week to cooking 2-3 times a day. Their local features and respect they show toward Ohio farmers was intriguing enough to bring me in, and the quality and focus on food changed the way I eat. When I learned of the owner, Benji, his sobriety story and focus on wellness was something that really resonated with me. His outlook on self-improvement was one of the conversations that reignited my own passions in taking care of myself. I hope you find this chat as invigorating as I did.

Benji Ballmer founded Yellowbird Foodshed in 2013 and has been fighting to decentralize the food system ever since.

He's the father of 4, husband of 1, and is addicted to self-improvement.

Right now he lives by 2 quotes...

1.  "Let them that see the need, consider themselves the ones called to meet that need."

and

2.  "The cave you fear to enter, holds the treasure you seek."

Founded in 2016, the mission of Ben's Friends is to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to anyone who struggles with substance abuse or addiction. By coming together, starting a dialogue, and acknowledging that substance abuse cannot be overcome by isolation and willpower alone, Ben's Friends hopes to write a new chapter in the lives of food and beverage professionals across the country.

To order my n/a enamel pin from Mover & Shaker, head to tinyurl.com/4fm6r9v6

I learned of Jenn through our mutual friend and previous No Proof guest Heidi B. Since following her on social media, and even participating in her weekly Happier Hour, I learned of one of the strongest people I've ever met. In this episode, we chat about coaching, physical fitness, and how you can't fully achieve your goals unless you stop to listen to yourself. 

Jenn Linck, owner of SoberFIT Wellness, LLC, is a certified personal trainer, healthy habit coach, and nutrition strategist who made the life-changing decision to live alcohol-free in January 2020.  Jenn believes strongly that alcohol does not belong in fitness and that we can have just as much, if not more, fun and freedom when we decide to ditch the drinks.

To learn more about Jenn, check out here website https://soberfitwellness.com/

Founded in 2016, the mission of Ben's Friends is to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to anyone who struggles with substance abuse or addiction. By coming together, starting a dialogue, and acknowledging that substance abuse cannot be overcome by isolation and willpower alone, Ben's Friends hopes to write a new chapter in the lives of food and beverage professionals across the country.

to order my n/a enamel pin from Mover & Shaker, head to tinyurl.com/4fm6r9v6

For the twentieth episode of No Proof, I am joined by Nick Hogan and Michael Toscano to chat about brand work. A commitment and position within the restaurant industry that has, in my experience, drawn the most jeers. I've heard more often than not that being a face of a brand cannot be done as a sober person. Nick and Michael are shining examples that it is possible, and it can be done well. Nick represents Angel's Envy, and until recently, Michael represented Woodford Reserve. In this episode, you'll hear about how their mindsets change in their roles as they became sober, how the companies they represented supported them, and the advice they have for those who are curious.

Founded in 2016, the mission of Ben's Friends is to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to anyone who struggles with substance abuse or addiction. By coming together, starting a dialogue, and acknowledging that substance abuse cannot be overcome by isolation and willpower alone, Ben's Friends hopes to write a new chapter in the lives of food and beverage professionals across the country.

to order my n/a enamel pin from Mover & Shaker, head to tinyurl.com/4fm6r9v6

I have been lucky enough to call Megan Leigh Barnard a friend for over a decade now. She's a talented photographer who has captured many transitions/characters/ and times in my life. When I received the text that she was considering getting sober I couldn't reply fast enough. This is a caring, special, and wonderful conversation between two friends as I learn what it took for her to make the decision to stop being and what she's discovered along the way. Thank you for your time, your passion, and your story Megan Leigh.

Megan Leigh Barnard is a Queer, nature-loving, Lifestyle Portrait Photographer. Photographing people, exploring the natural world and finding ways to connect to her higher self are amongst her biggest passions. She is also the Co-Founder of Creative Babes, which exists to explore the human experience through intimate, themed quarterly events.

Founded in 2016, the mission of Ben's Friends is to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to anyone who struggles with substance abuse or addiction. By coming together, starting a dialogue, and acknowledging that substance abuse cannot be overcome by isolation and willpower alone, Ben's Friends hopes to write a new chapter in the lives of food and beverage professionals across the country.

to order my n/a enamel pin from Mover & Shaker, head to tinyurl.com/4fm6r9v6