Sober Boozers Club

Ever wondered if a staunch traditional beer enthusiast could pivot to championing alcohol-free brews? Join us as we welcome James Beard award-winning writer and Sunday Brunch's renowned beer expert Mark Dredge, who shares his fascinating journey from the world of traditional beers to becoming a passionate advocate for alcohol-free options. Mark enthusiastically showcases standout examples like "We Could Be Friends," Mash Gang, Fierce, and Williams Brothers, illuminating how the quality and variety of these beers have improved remarkably. His insights provide a fresh perspective on enjoying the beer experience without the downsides of alcohol.

Throughout our conversation, you'll hear about the cultural significance of beer and how local customs enhance travel experiences. From initial beer disdain to a university-era craft beer awakening, the journey takes us through niche pubs in London and a developing palate for sweeter stouts and dark milds. Mark's narrative also touches on the universal yet unique nature of beer across various regions, making it a truly enriching global experience. Whether you're sharing a pint in Bavaria, Brussels, or somewhere else, beer often serves as a cultural bridge, connecting people in unexpected ways.

We turn our focus to the increasing acceptance of alcohol-free beer, especially in vibrant places like Seville, Spain. Mark and I discuss the importance of balancing alcohol consumption, particularly for those in drinking-centric industries, and the comfort found in savoring these non-alcoholic options. From the evolving landscape of alcohol-free beer to the critical role of media in its promotion, this episode offers valuable insights and reflections on the changing beer culture. Tune in for an inspiring look at the future of alcohol-free brews and the exciting innovations driving this industry forward.

To learn more about Mark, head over to https://www.beerdredge.com 

Support the show

To find out more about the wonderful world of AF/NA Beer and to check in with me head to www.instagram.com/sober_boozers_club

This episode is not brought to you by any sponsors because nobody wants to sponsor me.

Ever wondered if you could rebuild your life in your 40s without relying on alcohol? Join us for a heartfelt chat with Michael Sarooud, also known as Happy Without the Hooch, as he candidly shares his journey through early sobriety. We laugh and learn about weight gain, the struggle for a healthier lifestyle, and overcoming the physical and emotional hurdles of quitting alcohol. Michael's multiple attempts at moderation over a decade and the pivotal moment that led him to a sober life offer both insight and inspiration.

We also navigate the complex relationship with alcohol and the switch to alcohol-free drinks. Michael opens up about his realization that he didn't even enjoy the taste of alcohol, and how he transitioned to functional beverages like gabba spirits and Three Spirit drinks, despite initial concerns about potential triggers. With a touch of humor, we reminisce about our youth, experimenting with smoking herbs and searching for alternative highs. These stories highlight the uniqueness of each person's recovery journey and underscore the importance of personal growth.

Lastly, we critique the role of Drink Aware, a charity funded by the alcohol industry, in promoting responsible drinking. We dive into intriguing nutritional facts about animals and ponder human evolution. Michael’s earnest reflections on working night shifts in a kebab factory remind us that sobriety doesn't erase life's challenges but equips us with tools to navigate them better. From facing the horror of pub bathrooms sober to realizing it’s okay to leave unfulfilling social situations, this episode is a blend of humor, raw honesty, and practical wisdom on living a sober life.

To find Michael you can head over to all of his socials (Happy Without The Hooch) or go to www.sobernews.co.uk

Support the show

To find out more about the wonderful world of AF/NA Beer and to check in with me head to www.instagram.com/sober_boozers_club

This episode is not brought to you by any sponsors because nobody wants to sponsor me.

What does it take to brew a hit alcohol-free beer in Australia? Trent from Mash Gang Australia joins us to share the journey behind their latest creation, Beach Goon, and its entry in the Australian Independent Brewing Awards. We have a laugh over Australian stereotypes, especially the infamous Foster's beer, and chat about the charm of shandies and Radlers. Trent opens up about his path into alcohol-free brewing, ignited during the lockdowns of 2020, and his adventures with these unique beverages worldwide.

Brewing beer in Australia comes with its own set of challenges, from vast distances to unpredictable weather. In this episode, he recounts his early days as a novice brewer, the bittersweet success of his first brew, and the joy of working with One Drop Brewery. We highlight the logistical and financial hurdles of brewing in Australia, including high shipping costs and the struggle and heartbreak of disposing unsold stock. Trent and I also compare the sweltering Australian summers to the UK's unpredictable climate, emphasizing how different regions adapt to extreme temperatures. This is our first time chatting in person but you wouldn't know it, as Trent's knowledge of beer effortlessly cascades through the conversation, sandwiched by light hearted tales of Pirates holding up ships containing Beer, making for hilarious and interesting conversation.

The world of beer influencers is evolving, and non-alcoholic beers are gaining traction thanks to passionate advocates like John Bullock, aka Rad Dad John. We spotlight the growing community around non-alcoholic beers, the efforts of the AF Beer Squad, and the charm of breweries using native ingredients. As we wrap up, we share our personal histories with alcohol, the journey towards moderation (I WISH I COULD), and hint at exciting future plans for his brand's core range. Whether you're a brewing enthusiast or just curious about the world of alcohol-free beers, this episode offers a refreshing perspective.

For more information on Mash Gang Australia head to https://www.mashgang.com.au/ or to catch up with Trent find him over on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mash__gang__au

Support the show

To find out more about the wonderful world of AF/NA Beer and to check in with me head to www.instagram.com/sober_boozers_club

This episode is not brought to you by any sponsors because nobody wants to sponsor me.

What if you could redefine your social life while prioritizing your well-being? Join us as we chat with Roger Warner, the visionary co-founder of Only With Love, a unique well-being brewery in East Sussex. Roger, alongside his partner Steve, is pioneering a movement focused on low and no-alcohol beverages, with their popular Juicy AF pale ales leading the charge. This episode delves into their inspiring mission to rejuvenate over 200 community venues across the UK within the next decade. Roger shares their personal journey towards health-conscious brewing practices, offering an insightful look into the future of alcohol-free craft beer.

Craft beer enthusiasts, meet innovation head-on as we explore the evolving landscape of alcohol-free brews. Discover how smaller craft breweries, with their limited resources, are driving remarkable advancements in quality and taste. We discuss the challenges and triumphs of maintaining a social life while choosing sobriety, supported by high-quality, alcohol-free options. With a focus on their own brewing experiences and a commitment to diversity, we reveal the secrets behind their flagship beers and upcoming varieties that are captivating taste buds without the buzz.

Join us in celebrating the growing acceptance of alcohol-free beer within the traditional beer community, particularly in the UK. We recount an engaging conversation with Martin Dixon, a passionate advocate for the alcohol-free industry, and examine the supportive craft beer scene in Sussex. Learn about their vision for ‘brew cafes’—spaces that blend European charm with community activities—and their collaborative projects with local councils to revitalize underused areas. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone curious about the future of alcohol-free beverages and the community-driven values at the heart of Only With Love.

For more information on Only With Love head to https://www.onlywithlove.co/

Support the show

To find out more about the wonderful world of AF/NA Beer and to check in with me head to www.instagram.com/sober_boozers_club

This episode is not brought to you by any sponsors because nobody wants to sponsor me.

As I sat with my friend Pearl—a stand-up comedian with a knack for turning life's lemons into comedic lemonade—we peeled back layers of our sobriety journeys. She revealed the complexities of living alcohol-free within the creative arts, a world often drenched in the temptation of excess. From the initial utility of non-alcoholic beverages in her early days of sobriety to her ultimate ability to leave them behind, Pearl's candid stories offer both insight and amusement. Our chatter wandered through the quirks of human behavior, from guessing strangers' crisp preferences to the head-scratching irony of pastry names across borders.

Gather 'round as we explore the bittersweet symphony of vices and their impact on our lives. I share my own sobering dance with alcoholism, guiding you through the darkest taverns of my past, from the deceptive allure of day drinking to the transformative quiet of lockdown. We didn't shy away from the humor found in the everyday, comparing the complexities of finding a simple birthday cake in an artisanal world to the rituals of traditional Belgian beer crafting. Our exchange served as a reminder that within the sober tapestry of life, every thread—no matter how tangled—can lead to a tapestry of resilience and shared understanding.

Wrapping up this week's heart-to-heart on the Sober Boozers Club podcast, I extend a huge thank you for lending us your ears. Don't miss out on the raw stories and the laughter that accompanies them, as they might just echo parts of your own journey or inspire a new path. Keep the conversation going by joining us in our online communities, and look out for the How Remarkable podcast soon to hit the airwaves. Until next time, may your days be filled with sober clarity and the kind of joy that doesn't come from a bottle.

Support the show

To find out more about the wonderful world of AF/NA Beer and to check in with me head to www.instagram.com/sober_boozers_club

This episode is not brought to you by any sponsors because nobody wants to sponsor me.

Sail with us into the spirited waters of low and no alcohol beer, as I, Ben, alongside Rob of Below Brew Co, chart the course from the brand's initial conception to its sea-inspired rebranding. Discover how a trademark hiccup led to a quest for international recognition, sparking creativity and a thirst for new horizons in the burgeoning realm of non-alcoholic brews. We'll regale you with tales from Below Brew Co's journey, detailing the swift rise from side project to a full-fledged business with its own dedicated team, all the while maintaining a firm grasp on their nautical roots and passion for quality.

Embark on a craft beer odyssey that's rich in flavor yet light on alcohol. I'll take you through the excitement of brewing 18 unique concoctions in their first year, emphasizing the importance of a core range that's as inviting as a friendly port in a storm. Our conversation sails into the spirit of camaraderie within the craft community, celebrating the inclusion of alcohol-free options at festivals and hinting at future ventures that could intertwine the destinies of like-minded brewers. Prepare to be swept away by the collaborative current that's shaping the future of craft beer.

Finally, we anchor down to discuss the flourishing market for alcohol-free beer, where non-traditional venues are steering towards these bubbly alternatives, and pubs are beginning to pour a plethora of non-alcoholic draughts. Uncover the changing tides of beer consumption and the potential for alcohol-free taprooms, as we ponder the broader economic and political influences that are redefining the brewing landscape. Whether you're a designated driver or just sober-curious, join Rob and me for a refreshing journey through the evolution of an industry that’s breaking the mold, one sip at a time.

To learn more about Below Brew Co and to purchase some of their fantastic beers head over to https://belowbrewco.com/

Support the show

To find out more about the wonderful world of AF/NA Beer and to check in with me head to www.instagram.com/sober_boozers_club

This episode is not brought to you by any sponsors because nobody wants to sponsor me.

Have you ever raised a glass at a celebration, only to wish there was a non-alcoholic option that didn't feel like an afterthought? Andy Mee, founder of the Alcohol-Free Drinks Company, joins us to share how his personal journey to sobriety led to a business that's transforming the landscape of social drinking. We traverse the burgeoning world of non-alcoholic beers that dare to stand toe-to-toe with their boozy brethren, offering a new realm of inclusivity within drink menus everywhere. Toast to this enlightening conversation that uncovers the heartening shift in societal norms, where choosing not to drink is not only accepted but celebrated.

As we pull up a barstool alongside Andy, we're taking a closer look at how non-alcoholic beer is crafting its niche in the most unexpected of watering holes—from rugby clubs to the storied pubs of old. Together, we unpack the changing face of drinking culture, where a night out no longer means leaving your car keys at home. Discover the economic and social windfalls that venues are reaping as they tap into the potential of non-alcoholic drafts, catering to the mindful drinker and fostering a safer, more responsible community spirit. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the intersection of tradition, innovation, and the 'flexi-drinking' phenomenon taking root among younger generations.

Finally, the curtains are pulled back to reveal the influential hand of the big drinks industry, especially during the high spirits of festive seasons. Andy retells the tale of his first sober Christmas and challenges the pervasive narrative that equates alcohol with celebration. We're giving voice to the unsung heroes and sober celebrities who are rewriting their life's script, minus the intoxicating plot twists. Gaze into the future with us as we envision alcohol-free spaces where camaraderie doesn't hinge on a drink's proof. Andy's endeavor at 58 to revolutionize social spaces is not just about what's in your glass—it's about crafting a society rich with choice and free from stigma. Join us in raising a glass—alcohol-free, of course—to those paving the way for a more inclusive tomorrow.

The Alcohol Free Drinks company are a specialist retail and distribution company promoting the sale of Alcohol Free Drinks across the UK. You can find out more about them by heading over to https://alcoholfreedrinks.co.uk/

Support the show

To find out more about the wonderful world of AF/NA Beer and to check in with me head to www.instagram.com/sober_boozers_club

This episode is not brought to you by any sponsors because nobody wants to sponsor me.

When Shell Regini, the heart and soul behind the 'We Recover Loudly' podcast, pulls up a chair, you know you're in for an unfiltered trek down the road to sobriety. Together, we unravel the tapestry of challenges and laughter that stitches together our sober lives, musing over everything from the physical comedy of a broken toe to the stark revelations that come with mental and physical health awareness. Our candid banter traverses the unexpected, often humorous, side of life post-addiction—like agonizing over coffee choices and embracing tranquility amid the erstwhile chaos.

Have you ever wondered what it really means to recover loudly? It’s not just the absence of alcohol, but the growth that fills the void—becoming a human who can withstand life's discomforts without a crutch. Shell and I reflect on the sweet irony of our journey, from rubbing elbows with the rock-and-roll elite to relishing the simple, sober moments that now define our lives. We share our stories of connection and the gratitude that blossoms in recovery's soil, fostering camaraderie that transcends shared suffering into shared strength.

We wrap up this heart-to-heart with a nod to the people who walk the road of sobriety with us, where we invite you to become part of a community that understands the unique struggles and triumphs of sobriety. Shell's experiences in hospitality and her own milestones—like nearing a thousand days sober—underscore the profound impact of our choices. So, if you're ready for an episode that offers equal parts laughter and enlightenment, join us as we celebrate the authenticity and resilience that comes from living loud and sober.

Shell is a hospitality veteran with 18 years FOH experience, focusing primarily on operations, training, and business development. She has worked for some of London's best restaurant groups including Hawksmoor, Gaucho and Polpo. Having suffered a life changing burnout late 2020, she has changed her focus to improving the mental health working conditions of people in the industry by forcing difficult conversations out into the open, specifically concerning the hidden epidemic of addiction. Her podcast We Recover Loudly offers a platform for people with experience of drug and alcohol addiction, in the industry to discuss what we can do to change the systemic culture of excessive substance use we have. Shell is a chief ambassador with The Burnt Chef Project, and Low No Drinker magazine’s resident agony aunt. To get in touch with Shell, email her at [email protected], follow her on Instagram @werecoverloudly and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-righin

Support the show

To find out more about the wonderful world of AF/NA Beer and to check in with me head to www.instagram.com/sober_boozers_club

This episode is not brought to you by any sponsors because nobody wants to sponsor me.

Discover the unexpected joys of alcohol-free beer as I, Ben, sit down with Sam Ray, the mastermind behind New Kids on the Block, We Can Be Friends, and uncover the vibrant world of non-alcoholic brews. Sam's dedication and inventive approach have led to creations that rival their alcoholic counterparts in complexity and taste, challenging the very notion of what a non-alcoholic beer can be. From discussing the economic implications of crafting these beverages to the cultural shifts in perception, this episode promises to enlighten both the beer connoisseur and the curious listener.

Sam and I navigate the intricacies of the alcohol-free beer landscape, addressing the vital role these drinks play for those who avoid alcohol for health or personal reasons. We delve into the legislative and societal hurdles these beverages face and the innovative strides being made to offer a wider selection in pubs and supermarkets. Our chat reveals the industry's passionate response to an evolving demand, emphasizing the variety and accessibility that are reshaping the sober community's options. 

Wrapping up our discussion, the spotlight turns to the camaraderie and mutual respect within the craft beer industry. We highlight how competition breeds creativity and the way brands like Attic Brew Co tip their hats to their peers. The conversation takes a turn to the personal as we share our love for the craft, the humor found in an alcohol-lover discussing non-alcoholic options, and the collective anticipation for what's brewing on the horizon. So, whether you're toasting to the future or simply savoring the conversation, join us for a refreshing look at alcohol-free beer that's rich with passion and ripe with innovation. Cheers to that!

To find out more about We Can Be Friends head on over to their website. Since recording this episode they have already released a new beer alongside a collaboration brew with Track, I won't tell you it was because of our conversation in this episode, but I also won't say otherwise. You can find We Can Be Friends at: https://wecanbefriends.co.uk/

Support the show

To find out more about the wonderful world of AF/NA Beer and to check in with me head to www.instagram.com/sober_boozers_club

This episode is not brought to you by any sponsors because nobody wants to sponsor me.

Support the show

To find out more about the wonderful world of AF/NA Beer and to check in with me head to www.instagram.com/sober_boozers_club

This episode is not brought to you by any sponsors because nobody wants to sponsor me.