Thriving Alcohol-Free with Mocktail Mom

Deb Podlogar welcomes Robin Cummiskey, the founder of Wallace Dry Goods, a non-alcoholic bottle shop on the Philadelphia Main Line in Ardmore, PA. 

They discuss the journey of starting the shop, the challenges of running a business focused on premium non-alcoholic beverages, and the importance of community and customer relationships. Robin shares insights on popular products, the evolution of non-alcoholic drinks, and the significance of creating a welcoming space for all drinkers, whether sober, sober curious, or simply looking for mindful options. The episode also features a fun mocktail-making segment, showcasing the creativity and versatility of non-alcoholic drinks.

Wallace Dry Goods offers a curated selection of high-end non-alcoholic beverages.

The shop aims to create a welcoming, judgment-free community for all drinkers.

Robin's background in retail management helped shape the aesthetics and operations of the shop.

The phrase 'Cheers to choices' encapsulates the philosophy of the shop.

Non-alcoholic drinks have evolved significantly in taste and quality.

Education about non-alcoholic options is crucial for consumer acceptance.

Community engagement and events are key to building customer relationships.

The shop features a bar setup for mixology classes and tastings.

Popular products include non-alcoholic wines and functional beverages.

The future of non-alcoholic drinks looks promising with ongoing innovation.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Wallace Dry Goods and Robin Cummiskey

03:24 Creating a Mocktail: Dark and Stormy Twist

06:41 The Journey of Starting Wallace Dry Goods

12:33 Challenges of Running a Non-Alcoholic Bottle Shop

18:33 Building Community and Customer Relationships

24:21 Exploring Popular Products and Trends

30:18 Inspiration and Future of Non-Alcoholic Beverages

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Join the community of mocktail-loving ladies in the Mocktail Social Club. 

• Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
• Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
• Website: MocktailMom.com       

 You are loved. Big Time Cheers!

Deb Podlogar welcomes back Jen Butler, an author and alcohol-free life coach, to discuss her debut memoir, Mom, Rediscovered.

They make a margarita mocktail together and explore Jen's journey through motherhood, sobriety, and the writing process, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and sharing stories. 

Jen shares her experiences with alcohol, the challenges of parenting, and the strategies she used to navigate her alcohol-free life. The discussion highlights the transformative power of storytelling and the significance of trusting the process of change.

Mentioned in the episode: 

Click HERE to register for the free in-person book signing event in Louisville, Kentucky on 11/5/2025 

Today's mocktail recipe is available in The Happiest Hour 

All The Bitter use code MOCKTAILMOM for 15% off

TomoNotomo delish non-alcoholic agave spirit, code MOCKTAILMOM for 20% off. 

Follow Jen Butler on Instagram 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jen Butler and Her Journey
07:56 The Process of Writing a Memoir
14:28 Navigating Alcohol-Free Life
20:00 The Shift in Perspective on Sobriety
26:45 Practical Strategies for Sobriety
31:31 Trusting the Process of Change

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Join the community of mocktail-loving ladies in the Mocktail Social Club. 

• Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
• Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
• Website: MocktailMom.com       

 You are loved. Big Time Cheers!

In this episode of Thriving Alcohol-Free with Mocktail Mom, Deb Podlogar shares her personal journey to sobriety, and she brings the receipt for how it all started.  

She discusses the importance of having non-alcoholic alternatives and shares more about the upcoming Mocktail Challenge, a 21-day program designed to support and encourage those exploring a sober lifestyle. Deb also highlights the community aspect of the challenge, with daily emails, happy hour events, and prizes. 

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Join the community of mocktail-loving ladies in the Mocktail Social Club. 

• Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
• Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
• Website: MocktailMom.com       

 You are loved. Big Time Cheers!

In this solo episode of Thriving Alcohol-Free with Mocktail Mom®, Deb Podlogar shares her personal journey to sobriety, reflecting on the lessons learned and the support she received along the way. She emphasizes the importance of community, the benefits of alcohol-free living, and introduces the Mocktail Challenge, a program designed to celebrate non-alcoholic options and foster connection among participants.

Use code OCTOBER for $10 off The Mocktail Challenge 

Use code MOCKTAILMOM for 40% Deb's favorite electrolyte drink of all time, Instant Hydration

Deb shares her experience of becoming alcohol-free unexpectedly.
She emphasizes that sobriety does not mean sacrificing fun.
The clarity and emotional stability gained from sobriety are invaluable.
Deb highlights the importance of community support in the sober journey.
She encourages listeners to embrace their own path to sobriety without fear.
Drinking less is a significant achievement, regardless of labels.
Deb discusses the joy of creating mocktails and non-alcoholic drinks.
She introduces the Mocktail Challenge as a way to celebrate sobriety.
The episode promotes the idea that being alcohol-free can be fun and fulfilling.

Send me a message about the show!

Join the community of mocktail-loving ladies in the Mocktail Social Club. 

• Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
• Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
• Website: MocktailMom.com       

 You are loved. Big Time Cheers!

In this episode, Deb Podlogar speaks with Zane Curtis, the founder of Monday Morning Bottle Shop in San Diego. 

Zane shares his journey to sobriety, which began two years ago after a series of personal revelations and challenges. He discusses the rapid development of his bottle shop, which focuses on providing a unique non-alcoholic experience for customers. 

Zane emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming environment that encourages exploration of non-alcoholic beverages, and he shares insights into the various products available at his shop. The conversation highlights the joy of sobriety and the community that can be built around alcohol-free living.

Zane opened his bottle shop in under five months.
His sobriety journey was influenced by personal family history.
He realized his wife was his motivation to stop drinking.
The shop aims to teach people how to enjoy non-alcoholic drinks.
Zane emphasizes the importance of flavor in non-alcoholic beverages.
He believes in creating a welcoming environment for all customers.
Zane shares his favorite non-alcoholic products and brands.
The conversation highlights the positive impact of sobriety on life. 

Follow Zane's bottle shop on Instagram 

Send me a message about the show!

Join the community of mocktail-loving ladies in the Mocktail Social Club. 

• Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
• Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
• Website: MocktailMom.com       

 You are loved. Big Time Cheers!

Deb Podlogar and Jen Hirst explore the journey of sobriety, the importance of community, and the transformative power of mindset. 

They make Jen's easy mocktail recipe, Momma Doesn't Have Time, using one of their favorite water enhancers, Stur. 

Code MOCKTAILMOM to save 15% off Stur. 

Jen shares her personal story of overcoming alcohol addiction and how she now helps other women embrace sobriety through her programs. 

They discuss the significance of creating easy mocktails, building supportive networks, and establishing healthy habits to thrive alcohol-free. The conversation emphasizes the joy of living sober and the transformative power of connection and self-care.

Takeaways

Sobriety can be embraced with a positive 'get to' mentality.
Mindset shifts can help counter feelings of FOMO.
Creating easy mocktails can enhance social experiences without the need for alcohol.
Community support is crucial for long-term sobriety.
Sharing personal stories can inspire others on their journey to sobriety.
Healthy habits play a significant role in maintaining sobriety.
Staying connected with others in sobriety helps reduce feelings of isolation.
Practicing gratitude can shift your perspective on life.
Physical activity is essential for mental and emotional well-being in sobriety.
Protein intake can stabilize blood sugar and reduce cravings. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sobriety and Community
03:02 The Power of Mindset in Sobriety
05:50 Creating Easy and Enjoyable Mocktails
08:45 Building Connections in Sobriety
11:37 Programs and Support for Long-Term Sobriety
14:40 Empowering Women to Become Coaches
18:07 Journey to Sobriety: Jen's Story
20:46 The Turning Point: Embracing Change
23:07 Emerging from the Sober Closet
24:44 Building Healthy Habits for Sobriety
30:14 The Power of Community and Support

Send me a message about the show!

Join the community of mocktail-loving ladies in the Mocktail Social Club. 

• Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
• Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
• Website: MocktailMom.com       

 You are loved. Big Time Cheers!

In this episode, Deb Podlogar shares her personal journey of transitioning into an empty nester, reflecting on the emotional challenges and adjustments that come with this new phase of life. She discusses the importance of reframing grief and embracing change, drawing inspiration from John O'Leary's insights on goodbyes and new beginnings. Deb emphasizes the value of cherishing past moments while looking forward to new relationships and experiences, particularly in the context of her alcohol-free journey and evolving family dynamics.

Takeaways

Deb shares her experience of becoming an empty nester.
The transition to an empty nest can be unexpectedly challenging.
Maintaining communication with loved ones can ease the adjustment.
Reframing goodbye can help in coping with change.
Celebrating past moments is essential in the grieving process.
Goodbyes are invitations to grow and embrace new beginnings.
The importance of savoring ordinary moments in life.
Transitioning into new relationships can be enriching.
Deb reflects on her alcohol-free journey and its impact on her life.
Looking forward with excitement can soften feelings of grief.

Check out Cans of Deliciousness here. 

Click here for The Mocktail Challenge

Follow John O'Leary here on Facebook. 

Send me a message about the show!

Join the community of mocktail-loving ladies in the Mocktail Social Club. 

• Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
• Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
• Website: MocktailMom.com       

 You are loved. Big Time Cheers!

Join Deb as she welcomes Marissa Cherepanov, a leader in female empowerment and a dedicated advocate for women in leadership. 

Marissa shares her inspiring journey to sobriety, the challenges she faced during COVID, and how a pivotal conversation with her child led to a life-changing decision. Discover how Marissa's commitment to change not only transformed her life but also inspired her involvement as CEO of the No Girl Left Behind organization, empowering women across North America.

From her struggles with alcohol to her commitment to empowering women through the organization, No Girl Left Behind, Marissa discusses the pivotal moments that led her to change her life. 

She emphasizes the importance of resilience, visualization, and the power of community in overcoming challenges. 

The conversation highlights the profound impact of sobriety on her family life and her mission to inspire others to embrace their potential.

Follow Marissa on Instagram or connect through No Girl Left Behind. 

Send me a message about the show!

Join the community of mocktail-loving ladies in the Mocktail Social Club. 

• Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
• Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
• Website: MocktailMom.com       

 You are loved. Big Time Cheers!

Join Deb from "Thriving Alcohol Free with Mocktail Mom" as she welcomes Kate Denaj, the inspiring force behind Clarity Zero Proof.

In this engaging episode, Kate shares her transformative journey to sobriety, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of living alcohol-free. From her early days in a resort town to becoming a passionate advocate for non-alcoholic beverages, Kate's story is a testament to resilience and empowerment. Discover how she navigated personal struggles, embraced sobriety, and now helps others find joy in an alcohol-free lifestyle.

Kate's journey is filled with insightful moments, including her experiences with the Mocktail Summit and her work with emerging non-alcoholic brands. She candidly discusses the societal pressures of drinking, the emotional challenges of grief, and the empowering realization that sobriety can be a superpower. Whether you're curious about the alcohol-free movement or seeking inspiration for your journey, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement.

Don't miss Kate's tips on navigating social situations without alcohol, her favorite non-alcoholic drinks, and her vision for the future of Clarity Zero Proof. Tune in to learn how you can embrace a fulfilling, alcohol-free life and support the growing community of sober enthusiasts. Subscribe now for more inspiring stories and practical advice on thriving without alcohol.

Connect with Kate on Instagram & through her website. 

Send me a message about the show!

Join the community of mocktail-loving ladies in the Mocktail Social Club. 

• Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
• Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
• Website: MocktailMom.com       

 You are loved. Big Time Cheers!

Kristin Horstman shares her journey from gray area drinking to becoming a certified coach who helps others find freedom from alcohol while developing powerful nervous system regulation techniques.

• Drinking exists on a spectrum with millions of people in the "gray area" between occasional consumption and end-stage addiction
• Neural pathways created by habits can't be erased, but can go dormant when we build new, healthier pathways
• The sunset hours naturally trigger our nervous system to downshift, which is why Kristen promotes "Sunsets are the new happy hour."
• Taking a 30-day break from alcohol provides valuable data about your relationship with drinking
• If quitting feels difficult now, it won't become easier later – addressing it sooner rather than later is key
• Non-alcoholic options like mocktails, Athletic Brewing, and Töst sparkling tea can provide satisfying alternatives
• When ordering at restaurants, ask for "refreshing, not sweet" mocktails to avoid overly sugary concoctions

Follow Kristen on Instagram @CoachKristinHorstman and visit her website to learn more about gray area drinking coaching and nervous system regulation techniques.

Send me a message about the show!

Join the community of mocktail-loving ladies in the Mocktail Social Club. 

• Instagram: @Mocktail.Mom
• Mocktail Book: The Happiest Hour
• Website: MocktailMom.com       

 You are loved. Big Time Cheers!