no proof

Chef Alex Smith is the Executive Chef of Urban Oak, which sits atop the dual branded Homewood Suites and Tempo by Hilton Raleigh Downtown, bringing over a decade of culinary expertise to one of Raleigh's newest dining destinations. With a background in fine dining, menu development, and kitchen leadership, he has helmed acclaimed restaurants across the country. As Chef de Cuisine at Parallax Restaurant in Mammoth Lakes, CA, he led kitchen operations, from innovative menu design to staff development, ensuring high culinary standards in a high-demand setting. His experience in research and development with Union Square Hospitality expanded his expertise in recipe creation, ingredient sourcing, and global culinary collaborations. Previously, at Milk and Roses in Brooklyn, he reimagined the restaurant's Italian-focused menu, earning recognition in travel guidebooks. Passionate about mentorship, food sustainability, and operational excellence, Smith is committed to making Urban Oak a dynamic and memorable dining experience for guests in Raleigh.Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

Josh Harris, founder of The Bon Vivants, is a San Francisco native and hospitality veteran, Harris is the owner of Trick Dog and the upcoming Quik Dog. A passionate ultra trail runner, vintage watch dealer, and advocate for non-alcoholic drinking culture, he's been sober since 2003. Harris also co-founded the BV Run Club and established The Bon Vivants Scholarship, raising nearly $850,000 for nonprofits and supporting underserved youth in San Francisco.Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

Scott Crawford is the Chef/Owner of award-winning Crawford and Son and Jolie in Raleigh, NC. A five-time James Beard Foundation semifinalist for “Best Chef: Southeast,” Crawford earned the coveted Forbes Five-Star award at three properties prior to introducing Crawford Hospitality, and has earned accolades such as Esquire “Best New Restaurant,” Newsweek's “101 Best Places to Eat in the World,” Triangle Business Journal's “CEO of the Year” and the News & Observer's “Restaurant of the Year.” His leadership extends beyond the kitchen; he serves on the Honorary Committee of Healing Transitions – a place for recovery in downtown Raleigh, on The Sunday Supper board, was the Founder of the Ben's Friends Raleigh chapter, and is committed to cultivating a healthy work-life balance in the culinary industry, and mentoring food and beverage professionals. Crawford Hospitality welcomes Crawford Cookshop in Clayton, NC and Crawford Brothers Steakhouse in Cary, NC's new Fenton in 2022.Listening in Columbus, Ohio? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

Kendall Bierman is a licensed therapist and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. Her passion for this work stems from her own experience navigating anxiety and substance abuse in college, ultimately finding sobriety with the support of a compassionate therapist. Now, she specializes in helping young adults with anxiety, substance use, body image concerns, and relational challenges. Using evidence-based approaches like CBT and DBT, Kendall provides a supportive, non-judgmental space to help clients uncover their strengths and develop personalized strategies for healing. Whether someone is contemplating change or ready to take the first step, she meets them exactly where they are in their journey.Website: www.kendallbtherapy.comInstagram & TikTok: @kendallbtherapyListening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

LP O'Brien is a highly decorated and award-winning Afro-Boricua mixologist. Her dedication to education, innovation, and cultural integration through cocktail creations led her to establish LP Drinks.LP was famously crowned the winner of Netflix's new television series, Drink Masters, and has been recognized by DISCUS, Global Bar 100 Industry People To Know, and the Dame Hall of Fame. She is a proud shareholder of Siponey Spritz Co.™, the first B Corp-certified spirits-based canned cocktail company.Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

Shell is a hospitality veteran with 18 years of FOH experience, specializing in operations, training, and business development. She has worked with some of London's top restaurant groups, including Hawksmoor, Gaucho, and Polpo.After experiencing a life-changing burnout in 2020, Shell shifted her focus to improving mental health and working conditions in hospitality, pushing difficult conversations into the open—particularly around the hidden epidemic of addiction.Her podcast, We Recover Loudly, provides a platform for industry professionals to discuss substance use, recovery, and cultural change, proving that a thriving hospitality career doesn't have to include alcohol or drugs.Beyond podcasting, Shell offers onsite workshops, small group coaching for managers, and 1:1 recovery coaching for hospitality leaders looking to change their relationship with drugs and alcohol. As someone diagnosed as autistic, ADHD hyperactive, and dyslexic, she also delivers neurodiversity training, helping businesses create supportive environments that enhance mental well-being.In addition to her advocacy work, Shell has launched a bold, unapologetic sobriety-focused merchandise perfect for gifting, which celebrates recovery with empowering designs and streetwear-inspired style. Her best-selling “Sober C*nt” socks have built a loyal following, and she's expanding her collection to continue challenging stigma and inspiring confidence in recovery.Shell is also the resident agony aunt for Low No Drinker magazine and the proud dog mum to Milo, a sassy sausage dog with a passion for brunch.Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

Liz Mendez is a writer, producer and founder of Aldea Hospitality + Productions. Spending three decades in and around restaurants, has laid the foundation for Liz's portfolio career - spanning: radio, wine, and tech. As a former wine bar owner and award winning sommelier, with a degree in Communications from DePaul University - Liz has always believed in creativity as our greatest superpower. After including zero proof selections in beverage programs since 2015, Liz made the decision in 2021 to bring those beverages more into her own life with mindful breaks from alcohol - which would lead to a life altering, alcohol free year that opened doors to wellness, opportunity and abundance.Links:The Luncheonette: https://luncheonette.substack.com/Aldea Hospitality + Productions: https://www.aldeahospitality.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mendezmusings/Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

Amber Falter is a standup comic, writer, artist, and producer in Columbus, Ohio. Voted Best Comedian by Columbus Alive 2019, Amber is the producer of Beef Ghost Comedy and is the co-host and producer of Columbus Stand Up for Choice. She has been a regular on Don't Tell, Funny Bone and Super Dope Comedy showcases. **My bio should be more like “somehow still alive after drinking liquor like a warthog”** Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

Julie Fontes writes about addiction and other consequences of living from a quaint coastal community in southern California. She enjoys being weird and can't decide whether to write or exercise first in the morning. One thing that she is sure of is that she will be waiting tables in the evening, and that this is a very professional interview. Like a Normal Person is Julie's first book.  Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

Joel has spent over 20 years helping businesses grow and making a difference in the hospitality world. He was the founder of Heard and Saint City Culinary Foundation, which focused on mental health for service industry workers and is now the managing partner at Hagan Rivas Marketing and Media Group. His work has been highlighted in places like Bon Appétit Magazine, and he's passionate about supporting those effecting change in their communities. Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

Chris Cardone, founder of Continuous Beverage Solutions, has over 24 years of experience in bartending, hospitality, and consulting for diverse establishments in New York. He was named Bartender of the Year in 2017 at the Diageo World Class US competition, later becoming a judge and educator for the competition. Chris is the Chief Mixologist for Via Carota Craft Cocktails and a partner and director of mixology for Astraeaus Single Malt Gin. Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

2024 'Best New Chef: Mountain' James Beard Award Winner Chef Matt Vawter and his business partner and director of hospitality, Patrick Murphy, both veterans of Denver's F&B scene, made personal choices to stop drinking alcohol in recent years. Upon recognizing the limited options for non-drinkers dining out, they expanded Rootstalk's booze-free offerings (their restaurant in Breckenridge, CO). They recently launched a NA pairing option for their tasting menu.  Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

Robert St. John, a native of Hattiesburg, MS, is a restaurateur, author, philanthropist, and international travel guide dedicated to community and service. He founded Onward Hospitality, managing concepts in Hattiesburg and Jackson, MS. Since discovering his passion for restaurants at 19, St. John has opened over a dozen eateries, including Crescent City Grill and Ed's Burger Joint. He writes a weekly food column, authored ten books, and leads culinary trips to Europe, focusing on Italy. Committed to ending hunger in Mississippi, he founded Extra Table and secured grants for independent restaurants during Covid. Recognized with awards like Restaurateur of the Year, St. John continues to elevate Mississippi's dining scene while enjoying family time and music. Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

Growing up on California's coast, Michelle started drinking at 14, where binge-drinking was common through college. Despite attempts to abstain for health reasons, social and cultural pressures made it challenging, especially with work centered around alcohol. Over time, she realized alcohol heightened her anxiety and drained her energy, becoming a crutch. In Spring 2021, influenced by the impact of alcohol on her family, she quit drinking. What started as an indefinite amount of break led to lasting change and inspired her to create a non-alcoholic spirit company focused on vibrant, empowered living. Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

Justyn Brogan is the General Manager of Urban Farmer Denver and The Cruise Room (one of the oldest bars in Denver, born the day after Repeal in 1933). He has been sober for over eight years. Justyn spent the first three years of his sobriety as a server and bartender. He then took a step back from management to focus on "cleaning up his life" before returning in 2019. He is active in the sober support group Ben's Friends Hope, an industry support group similar to AA. In fact, he just opened the first in-person meeting in Denver, hosted at Urban Farmer. Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

Emily Hyland's debut poetry collection, Divorced Business Partners, is forthcoming with Howling Bird Press in October 2024. Hyland's poetry has appeared in The Brooklyn Review, Frontier Poetry, and The Hollins Critic, among others. She earned her MFA in poetry and her MA in English education from Brooklyn College. Her cookbook, Emily: The Cookbook, was published by Ballantine Books, an imprint of Random House, in 2018. Hyland is the eponymous co-founder of the international restaurant groups Pizza Loves Emily + Emmy Squared Pizza. Emily lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico where she writes and teaches yoga. Emily earned her 200 hour certification at Yogamaya in 2012 along with 75 hours of advanced training in therapeutics and has since studied Yin with Corina Benner through Wake Up Yoga in Philadelphia.Emily has taught and mentored at an array of NYC studios over the past decade; most notably, she was a founding team member at Love is Juniper in Prospect Heights where she helped develop and lead teacher training. Emily is a partner at YogaSource in SantaFe. There, she endeavors to infuse her classroom with warmth and positivity. Her teaching centers around encouraging students to tune into nuanced expressions of proprioception in order to develop ongoing, active dialogue with the body. Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

Mel is a 15+yr industry veteran based out of Arizona. They are a proud Mestiza, Mom of 3, and recovering addict. They believe the Universe is always conspiring for us. Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

Best-selling author, TedX speaker, James Beard semifinalist, mental health advocate, and restaurateur Steve Palmer is a food & beverage industry leader with more than 40 years of experience. As founder, managing partner, and chief vision officer of the award-winning Indigo Road Hospitality Group (IRHG), Steve has played an integral role in growing the Charleston, SC-based hospitality company from one restaurant in 2009 to a portfolio of more than 30 restaurants and independent hotels throughout the country today. He maintains the philosophy that great service starts with well-cared-for employees and attributes the company's success to its loyal and dedicated team. By promoting from within and continuously creating new opportunities for his staff, Steve has developed a people-first culture built on an unwavering, high level of care and hospitality. Nationally recognized in titles like The New York Times, NPR, and Southern Living, Steve is a four-time semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation Outstanding Restaurateur Award, with his most recent nomination in 2024 for his work with colleague Kimball Brienza at O-Ku's Charleston location. He also became a best-selling author when he published Say Grace: How the Restaurant Business Saved My Life in 2019. His proudest accomplishment to date was co-founding Ben's Friends with close friend and fellow longtime industry veteran Mickey Bakst to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to professionals who struggle with substance abuse and addiction. An avid proponent of supporting people and communities, Steve serves as an active member on several industry boards and annual fundraising events, as well as lends his voice to influential events like TedX Charleston and Charleston Wine + Food Festival, speaking on personal passions like building strong company cultures and addiction/recovery. Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart.

Laura Silverman is an alcohol-free trailblazer. She's been sober since 2007 and is the founder of Zero Proof Nation and Booze Free in DC, two platforms focused on highlighting non-alcoholic beverages and the culture driving their growth. She serves in advisory roles to for and non-profits in the wider industry, bringing her expertise and lived experience to the table.  Laura has given university lectures on non-alcoholic beverages and inclusivity in hospitality, two areas of deep passion and advocacy. She is a two-time judge at the World Alcohol Free Awards in London, tasting over 200 unique non-alcoholic beverages in two days.  In 2023, Laura received a “Leader and Innovator of the Year” award from Sans Bar Academy, a non-alc small business incubator. When not on the karaoke stage, she is frequently sought after as an industry subject matter expert by publications such as Wine Enthusiast, NPR, Forbes, America's Test Kitchen, and the BBC. Laura is co-host of NA Dossier, a video podcast exploring the intersection between branding, design, taste, and community for non-alc beverages. She and her co-host, brand designer Haylee Jordan, have interviewed the founders of growing  brands (e.g. Starla Wines) and multi-million dollar brands (e.g. Athletic Brewing) alike.  Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. ⁠⁠⁠⁠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.

Gabriel + Cliff: Gabriel Rucker, Executive Chef and Co-Owner, Le Pigeon and Canard Two-time James Beard Award winning Chef Gabriel Rucker is Executive Chef and Co-owner of Le Pigeon and Canard in Portland, Oregon. Over the years, his highly original, off the cuff creativity and recipe-free approach to cooking has gained him national acclaim. A native of Napa, California, when school no longer piqued his interest, Rucker moved to the kitchen. In 2003 he moved to Portland and landed a coveted job at Chef Vitaly Paley's home to Northwest cooking, Paley's Place. In June of 2006, Rucker opened Le Pigeon, which quickly went on to win The Oregonian's Restaurant of the Year.  One of Portland's most respected and decorated chefs, Rucker has earned two James Beard awards for Rising Star Chef in 2011 and Best Chef Northwest in 2013. He has been named a Food & Wine Best New Chef and a recipient of StarChefs Mentor Award. Beyond the kitchen, Rucker has become a leading advocate within the restaurant industry for recovery, health and fitness. In 2019 he helped to open the Portland chapter of Ben's Friends, a restaurant industry recovery group. He also leads a weekly running and walking club @birddogrunclub. Follow Rucker on Instagram @ruckergabriel. Meet Worry Not!'s creator, Cliffton. Cliff's intentional mission in the development and implementation of Worry Not! is to craft menus that are far more inclusive, giving the option for everyone to enjoy the communal drinking & dining experience. Before moving to Portland in 2017 Cliff managed the Los Angeles mainstay, Wurstkuche. From there, he served as the General Manager at the iconic Baco Mercat under the guidance of James Beard nominated & Michelin Star awarded chef, Josef Cenento. He began his Portland industry journey as the General Manager of the legendary Pok Pok, and has proudly run the bar programs at both Jacqueline & Coopers Hall. He currently spends his working hours “putting things into cups” at Canard while heading the NA program at Le Pigeon. Cliff's alcohol-free journey began April 1st, 2023, initially as a “Sober April” to re-evaluate his relationship with alcohol. It quickly became clear that alcohol was no longer part of his life plan – the benefits of living alcohol free far outweighed the indulgence of imbibing. With products such as Wilderon, All the Bitters, and Joyus emerging in the market, Cliff envisions a future where ordering a NA modern classic will be commonplace. Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. ⁠⁠⁠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.

Kristen Bear is an actor, writer, and sobriety hype girl based in Nashville, TN. After years of bouncing from coast to coast Kristen found herself back in her home state in February 2020, disillusioned, and desperate for change. Now, at over four years sober, one of her biggest passions is sharing her sobriety journey and helping others find their own way to freedom. Find Kristen on IG and Substack @creativesobriety and join her in Costa Rica this fall for a booze-free vacation! https://trovatrip.com/trip/central-america/costa-rica/costa-rica-with-kristen-bear-oct-2024 Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. ⁠⁠⁠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.

Drawing on 15+ years of experience managing bar programs in San Francisco, Phoenix, Oakland, and San Diego, Karl Goranowski is the Fenton Family Restaurants' tenured Beverage Director across all five of the brand's restaurant/bar concepts in Tucson, AZ. On a weekly basis, Karl can be found curating five distinct cocktail lists, a 250+ bottle wine program, and four craft beer programs –– across BATA, barbata, Tough Luck Club, Reilly Craft Pizza + Drink, and Fentonelli's Pizzeria + Bar –– using local makers and seasonally available ingredients.As a sober bartender, Karl taps into his decades of expertise and skilled team of over 20 bar professionals to bring his ethos to life: curated spirits in creative cocktails. Sobriety has broadened his focus to encompass the overall guest experience beyond drinks and service, which gives him a more thoughtful approach to inclusive options for everyone. Professionally, he has developed a solution-oriented mindset, emphasizing continuous improvement, fostering collaboration, and trusting his team's creativity.A firm believer that the best drink a person can have is the drink in their hand, he focuses on creating flavorful, well-balanced cocktails that enhance the overall guest experience. He attributes all that he has to hard work, sobriety, camaraderie, and a little bit of luck. Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. ⁠⁠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.

Chef Ricky Bella is a Portland native who's been cooking since the age of 17. Trained on the job and without culinary school, he has worked in some of the best kitchens in Portland for 16 years. He's been sober for 4 1/2 years now and has been pushing for the subject of addiction and mental health to be more openly talked about in his community ever since. Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. ⁠⁠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.

"Sean is an aging midwesterner with no intention of being an old man. He loves service and cultivating social vibes for everyone." Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to ⁠yellowbirdfs.com⁠ to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. ⁠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.

Kim Lerner is a consultant, leadership coach for hospitality businesses and professionals at only yummy, always. She is also a professor on faculty at CUNY Kingsborough and The Institute of Culinary Education. On this journey through an ever-changing landscape, she defined the fundamentals of her own leadership style: kindness, trust, community, and building an in-house culture that transcends its four walls. It is this style of leadership that has made her a pioneer in the industry, challenging the status quo and always looking to better the climate of an industry she holds so dear to her heart. Kim operates the only way a NYC native with French roots can — with conviction, effortlessness and a side of beurre. IG: @only_yummy_always fb: onlyyummyalways linked in: only-yummy-always & Kim Lerner Listening in Columbus, Oh? Care about where your food comes from? Head to yellowbirdfs.com to start your order for farm fresh food, and enter NOPROOF30 for 30% off your cart. 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.

In 1982 Mickey Bakst lost his first restaurant to alcohol and drug addiction, and it was also in that year that he found sobriety, after a long and painful struggle. For the next 40 years, Mickey watched countless peers lose their lives or destroy their careers due to their addictions. And for 40 years he asked himself, “What can I do to make a difference?” After witnessing the death of yet another industry professional in 2016, Mickey and fellow restaurateur Steve Palmer founded Ben's Friends, a support group for members of the food and beverage industry battling substance abuse and addiction. The mission of Ben's Friends is to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to anyone who struggles with substance abuse and addiction. The organization is named in honor of Ben Murray, a chef who took his own life in 2016 after a long struggle with alcoholism. Now with decades of sobriety under his belt, Mickey believes that there are countless members of the restaurant industry in need of support facing the widespread effects of alcohol and drugs. Through Ben's Friends, it is his hope to help as many as possible. As Ben's Friends Executive Director, Mickey has dedicated himself to the organization and focuses on spreading the word about Ben's Friends to existing and emerging chapters across the country. 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've been so fortunate to have shannon as a friend. Anytime I've been in a room with her I'm in awe of how she makes those around her feel. She's welcoming, funny, honest, and humble. In an industry of personalities, it is rare to find someone so great in all they do, yet so approachable. I'm also fortunate to have been close enough to shannon to see the ways she's grown. In this conversation we chat about some of the positive outcomes of her decision to remove 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

It was great getting the chance to chat with brittany, someone who is not only a consumer of n/a beverages, sober, but also a creator of a new non-alcoholic amaro called 'namari.' We chat through her decision to remove alcohol, how she creates n/a beverages at The Dutchess, and what led to the creation of namari. Thanks for the time and honesty, brittany. Brittany Naing is the Assistant General Manager, and also oversees the bar/non-alcoholic cocktail program for The Dutchess, an all-day bakery, café and Burmese restaurant in Ojai, California. Brittany worked as a chef for many years before delving into the cocktail world, so she applies that culinary mindset when developing beverages at this eclectic restaurant, which draws inspiration from her husband and Chef/Partner Saw Naing's Burmese-Indian heritage. She and her bar team utilize local, artisan spirits and craft plenty of housemade ingredients (non-alcoholic infusions, vermouths, bitters, tinctures, syrups and more) to align with the restaurant's philosophy of sourcing as much as possible from within 50 miles. In December 2022, Brittany became sober, and this journey has inspired her to expand even more upon The Dutchess' thoughtful, non-alcoholic cocktail menu. Additionally, her love for amaro led to her launching a non-alcoholic, artisan amaro in 2020 called Namari. 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

Michael Moberly is fun. Plain and simple. Every time I have been around him has been more rousing and laugh-filled than the last. When he removed alcohol from his life it felt like we only grew closer. My greatest friends at the moment have been those that have been filling their existence with good, and balance, and hope for themselves in the future. This is a departure from previous episodes, only in that Moberly is the first to roast me (I don't own a Corvette) and the first to feature big time shout outs to some of our favorite brands. I hope this episode is as fun for you to listen to as it was to make. Thank you, Moberly, for everything. Michael Moberly, Beverage Innovation Manager at Monin, is a beverage enthusiast, columnist,and educator based in Reno NV. He is also very good at wearing hats. 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

It was nice to chat with jon. His story sounded like the start of others I had heard, but jon is unique which in turn, so is his story. It was staggering to hear his moment when he put his foot in the ground and became an individual who would live without alcohol. I'm inspired by what he's done, how he talks to himself, and the values that find their way into his business. Thanks for the honesty, jon. Born and raised in the South, but a traveler at heart, Jon Murray is changing the hospitality industry for the better with the opening of his first concept, Noko, an Asian-inspired, wood-fired restaurant in East Nashville. With almost 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Murray and his Noko partners aim to create a more sustainable work environment for their employees, while offering guests a taste of the restaurants Asian-inspired comfort foods.  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 finally got to meet grace at tales of the cocktail. we chatted at an event surrounded by friends and mentors and shared in the excitement of what's happening and what's to come. this conversation picks up from where we left off in new orleans. grace has been leading the charge with delicious drinks, and a knowledge that surpasses many when it comes to what's in the n/a bottles. 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

In this episode Charley and I talk about the struggles of the decision to remove alcohol, but what awaits on the other side. This was a great conversation about the practice of sobriety, and how making the decision isn't the fix, but what follows can be. Charley was one of the Focus on Health scholarship winners for the 2023 Tales of the Cocktail and currently bartends in Maine. 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

brooke sets goals and crushes them. it was exciting to chat with someone so bought in on their own story, who finds every way possible to improve themselves. whether it is training for multiple marathons, or founding a company with their sights set on helping others, brooke goes all in. Brooke LeBlanc is the Founder & CEO of Edge, a coaching and community program designed to help you stop drinking alcohol. She got sober during the pandemic living in New York, and has been creating content around what its like to be sober in your twenties. She's now leveraging her audience to build a company around her mission to empower millions of people to lead healthier lives. To learn more, go to joinedgeapp.com and sign up for the waitlist today.  ig: @joinedgeapp web: https://www.joinedgeapp.com/ Thank you for your time, brooke. looking forward to what you do. 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

Tori, aka mocktail girlie makes getting started with n/a beverages easy as ever on her social media channels. Offline she's on a path of discovering herself, viewing the positives in life through the lens of a person that is alcohol free. We both live in Columbus, Oh, a city we're proud to see thrive with more and more n/a options becoming available, and great places to start thanks to people like her. Tori, aka Mocktail Girlie, wanted to find a way to enjoy drinks without adding alcohol. This led to her creating mocktails for her and her husband at home using simple and healthy ingredients. What started as a fun way to share her drink recipes on Instagram and TikTok, quickly turned into a community of like-minded people that also share in her desire to enjoy delicious non-alcoholic beverages. Through her platforms, Tori now shares her easy-to-make mocktails with her hundreds of thousands of followers. 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

Chatting with Sam was another great example of what is gained when we decide to remove alcohol from our lives. A celebration of the flavors, moments, and people you get to be around, and how you blossom as an individual. She references discovering she's awkward, but wears it as a badge of pride. I've discovered so many things about myself since removing alcohol, deep things, hidden things, and yes, silly things. Thank you, Sam. Sam Bail is the founder of Third Place Bar, a series of non-alcoholic bar events in New York City. Originally from Germany, Sam spent several years in Manchester, England, before moving to New York City in 2014. Outside of Third Place Bar, Sam works full-time as a data engineer. She's also a passionate runner and has found a home in the New York City running community. IG: https://www.instagram.com/thirdplacebarnyc/ Web: www.thirdplacebar.nyc 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

Kristina brings a portion of the n/a narrative to the table, that many of my guests have brought before: That sobriety can be fun, and we don't lose a part of ourselves when we give up alcohol. This is represented in the way that Kristina talks about her own journey, and also through the branding and voice of her brand MIXOLOSHE. So much of what we encounter arrives when we shift our mindset. The first couple of times I took a monthlong break from alcohol I looked at it as depriving myself of something, for the one that took, I looked at the benefits. That was the path I took. Entrepreneur Kristina Roth launched a successful tech consulting firm that skyrocketed from zero to $65 million in revenue between 2008 to 2016, earning her a coveted spot on Forbes' list of Top 10 Fastest-Growing Women-Owned or Led Companies — twice. Throughout Roth's illustrious IT career in multiple countries, she felt there were very few women she could turn to for support and guidance, inspiring her to create an innovative women's lifestyle brand: SuperShe, which now includes a category-defining non-alcoholic beverage brand called MIXOLOSHE. 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'm a huge fan of three spirit drinks. they fit that perfect mold of unique, and delicious, and aren't trying to be something they're not. I was excited to chat with tati and dash about how these remarkable n/a spirits came to be, and everything they aren't hiding.   Three Spirit is a functional non-alcoholic drinks range created by bartenders, winemakers, and plant scientists. By harnessing the potential of active botanical ingredients, we push boundaries to make alcohol-free mean more and liberate the way we drink, socialize, and connect. Tatiana Mercer  Few people know more about delicious drinks and having fun than Three Spirit co-founder Tati. Before Three Spirit, she co-founded BarChick - the much-loved platform for discovering the world's best bars - so naturally she's all about discovering amazing cocktails, places, the people behind them and enjoying all the chance encounters along the way.  Dash Lilley Plant geek, serious foodie, and the maker of our drinks, Dash is the co-founder and head of product at Three Spirit. Alongside his team of bartenders and plant scientists, Dash spends most of his time getting over 60 plants from all over the world, shipped, blended, batched, and bottled so we can keep bringing plant magic to your door.⁠ You can order three spirit from their website, or from boisson.co. I tried all three of their spirits, and the two wine alternatives they have available. Instagram: @threespiritdrinks Website: threespiritdrinks.com

Laura Louise Green, LPC is a licensed psychotherapist and founder of Healthy Pour, a consultancy that helps creative organizations and professional communities address issues of well-being in the workplace. After working in hospitality and drinks for two decades, Laura utilizes her knowledge and skills as a mental health practitioner to facilitate training, growth, and healing within the hospitality industry and other creative sectors. Laura Louise is currently pursuing a second masters in Organizational Psychology. Instagram @healthy.pour @Laura.louise.green Website www.healthypour.org Healthy Pour institute institute.healthypour.org 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 am glad to share an episode with Noah, not just because of all the amazing n/a serves he's been sharing all across the internet, but because his story is added among those who thought they'd have to leave the industry but instead are shaping it for future generations. Thank you Noah for sharing your journey, and for helping to bring so much positivity and flavors to future conversations. Noah heads Club Soda's cocktail program for the Tasting Room at 39 Drury Lane in London. Coming originally from a background in the music industry, Noah is an established drinks professional, with wide-ranging experience in bar management, cocktail creation, and wine service. Since joining Club Soda, he's rapidly becoming a respected voice in the low and no sectors.  Noah's cocktails have been featured in Men's Health, Cosmopolitan, Time Out, and Bloomberg. In 2023, was named Bar Magazine's Bartender of the Week, selected for panels and workshops at Bon Vivant Festival in Barcelona, Latitude Festival, and Tales Of The Cocktail in New Orleans. He is also on the judging panel for the World Alcohol-Free Awards and Great Taste Awards, and he's passionate about developing outstanding alcohol-free experiences that are inclusive of everyone. In his spare time, Noah is a captain for Talk Club, a charity supporting men's mental health and well-being. You can connect with Noah on Instagram. 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

Jordan Valls saw promise in himself, and took charge. But that didn't happen in one fell swoop. Listen here to find out what he had to see within himself, and what it took to make a forever change. Jordan Valls is an Industry Professional and Jiu-jitsu athlete. Former Bar Manager of the renowned Multnomah Whisk{e}y Library in Portland Oregon Jordan is passionate about fine spirits, cocktails & everything in between. Now running the cocktail program of the celebrated Cuban-inspired cocktail bar, Palomar, Jordan balances the extremes of sobriety, mental health, combat sports & the service industry. 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

Andrew is local to Columbus, Oh the city I call home. I met him via Instagram after he took home one of the meditation cards I created for a Dry January event earlier this year. He asked himself the questions, and answered them through a social media post revealing some things to himself out loud. It was great to hear Andrew's story, and to hear the ways he checks in with himself to keep feeling his best. Andrew Hash was a daily drinker whose whiskey "hobby" became an unhealthy coping mechanism for any inconvenience life presented. Andrew has been a pharmacy purchaser for 10 years and an avid sports fan. Sobriety has brought him back to his passions and allowed him to stop sleepwalking through life. 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

Elizabeth is everything exciting with the n/a movement. She read a room, left it, and created a better one. In these rooms, you find excitement, noise, conversation, people enjoying themselves, and great non-alcoholic cocktails. I was thrilled to chat with Elizabeth, who recently took Absence of Proof full-time, and contributes more than just events to the community. Elizabeth Gascoigne is found and CEO of Absence of Proof- a non-acloholic event curation company and online bottle boutique. Elizabeth is passionate about creating social experiences for those taking a night, week, or lifetime off of drinking. Absence of Proof is rooted in wellness and community and focused on elevating an n/a nightlife for everyone. 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

A chat with someone like Ian will always be refreshing. I was cooled by the way he spoke about his journey through sobriety, and held in a suspension in how exciting life can be when we reward ourselves with more time. Founded by two former French Laundry sommeliers—who quit drinking after they had kids—All The Bitter is a lineup of non-alcoholic cocktail bitters that lift the spirit. Made by hand from organic, wild-foraged, and functional botanicals in a process that takes nearly two months, our bitters elevate cocktails with and without alcohol, mixers like tonic and ginger beer, and are especially refreshing in sparkling water with a squeeze of citrus. Find us on social media @allthebitter and at allthebitter.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 was looking forward to my conversation with Whitney not just because they were sent my way via our pal Laura Sanders, but because of what they contribute to the world. I'm fascinated by the humor and honesty that lies within their comics, and the way they play with the weight of the subject of sobriety. Please enjoy this conversation as much as I did. Whitney Wasson (they/them) is a multidisciplinary artist and performer, originally from Fort Smith, Arkansas who lives in Chicago. A standup comedian who produced a slew of shows, performed at dozens of comedy festivals across the country, and made thirties of dollars, Whitney got hit at a crosswalk by a distracted driver at the end of 2019. They then became a sitdown comedian and then a stay-at-home comedian during 2020. They're now mostly a cartoonist. They write and draw Sober Rabbit. Their art and comics have been featured in Chicago Reader, Weekly Humorist and various blogs and websites. They've created art for festivals, live events, feature films, comedy albums and even a few tattoos. FB: @soberrabbitcomic Twitter: @soberrabbit Instagram: @soberrabbit 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

Chad and I share a few things: sobriety, running, a love for Jason Isbell, and our time at Eat Clean Run Dirty Magazine. I was excited to continue a conversation with Chad that we started during an editorial meeting recently. It was incredible to hear what it took to become honest, and begin a sober journey. We chat about the immense and supportive community that comes with ultra running, and how those in sobriety find their way to it. Chad Sullivan is a father, husband, writer, and ultra-runner living in suburban Chicago. He serves as the Executive Editor of Eat Clean, Run Dirty Magazine and is the creator of Hard Prairie, a website dedicated to the trail and ultra-running scene in Illinois. Having struggled with substance abuse for many years, Chad entered treatment in June 2020 and has remained sober since. 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

A special thanks to Greg for being the final episode of no proof of 2022! Such a great way to close out the year with a conversation about being hopeful, becoming your best self, and looking forward to bigger mountains and challenges. Greg is a Virginia resident who worked in the restaurant industry during college. After graduating from Boston University in 2019, he transitioned into working in the legal world as a paralegal/legal assistant. He is slated to attend law school in the near future. 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 fortunate enough to meet Sarah through our mutual pal, and co-founder of focus on health, Alex Jump. Our conversation is an enlightening look at the journey many within the hospitality industry experience with alcohol, and sarah's efforts to change her path. I thank her for her honesty and for sharing her story. If ever in Chattanooga, stop in and say hello. Sarah Tuttle is an award-winning bartender who has been living sober for almost 6 years. She lives in Chattanooga, TN, where she is the lead bartender at the Rosecomb and runs an organic farm with her partner and their pittie. 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'm fortunate to know someone like Derek Brown. His writing, books, and expertise have been influential in what shaped me as a bartender. I've learned recipes, techniques, and storytelling from someone like Derek, and now as I continue life without alcohol, he has found a new way to influence me. His own journey has afforded him the pause it took to look at the way his life was being lived and the decision to change it. It's incredible to see Derek take his new direction and do what he does best, understand the best he can for himself, and amplify his knowledge in the direction that helps others. Thank you for your time, path, journey, and willingness to share, Derek. I owe you so much. Derek is the founder of Positive Damage, Inc., a NASM-certified wellness coach, advocate for mindful drinking, and expert on no- and low-alcohol cocktails. He is also known as a cocktail pioneer, former owner of the prestigious Columbia Room in Washington, D.C. (2017 “Best American Cocktail Bar” at the Spirited Awards), and one of the nation's top bartenders as Chief Spirits Advisor to the National Archives Foundation, which he jokes made him the highest-ranking bartender in the U.S. government. In 2017, Playboy magazine named Brown one of "The 10 Entertainers, Thought Leaders and Heroes Who'll Save Us in 2017." More recently, Brown was recognized as a leading beverage figure affecting positive change in the global bar industry by Drinks International in 2020 in their “Bar World 100” list. Brown changed his approach to drinking in 2018, realizing he had a problem with alcohol. At first, he wasn't sure how to approach drinking with his new concerns. He subsequently released his first book, Spirits, Sugar, Water, Bitters: How the Cocktail Conquered the World in 2019. He then decided it was time to be open about his struggles with alcohol and addressed his new appreciation for mindful drinking in a 2020 Vox article entitled, “Becoming a ‘mindful drinker' changed my life.” Shortly after, Brown published Mindful Mixology: a Comprehensive Guide to No- and Low-Alcohol Cocktails, pursued his certification in wellness through the National Association of Sports Medicine (NASM), and began to study positive psychology at the University of Pennsylvania. He wanted to understand how happiness and vitality affect our approach to drinking, and how simple interventions can improve our relationship with alcohol. Brown is now working to help foster a culture of mindful drinking and make room for everyone at the bar with delicious no- and low-alcohol drinks. He lives in Washington, D.C. with his family, skateboards and plays chess. Link: positivedamageinc.com Book: https://bookshop.org/p/books/mindful-mixology-a-comprehensive-guide-to-no-and-low-alcohol-cocktails-with-60-recipes-derek-brown/17384545?ean=9780847871278 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

Before I met Rudy, I had sipped both versions of Parch, a n/a canned cocktail, and quickly became a super fan. The mix gave me pause when I sipped, and unlike many citrus, sugar, and soda combinations I've had in the past, this cocktail built a picture in my mind. I had to know more. Meeting Rudy has been fulfilling in so many beautiful ways. I was thrilled to discover he's also a passionate runner, and that he too uses his trots as a form of meditation. I'm thankful for the time he spent telling his story in this episode, and I've included some great links for charitable donations that are associated with some of the things we touch on in our chat. I can't say enough good things about Rudy or about Parch, so please enjoy this episode, and please see for yourself how delicious the two cocktails are. Rudy Aldana is the Co-Founder & CEO for Parch non-alcoholic agave-based cocktails and spirits. A 14-year DIAGEO veteran, worked across multiple geographies (Canada, Europe, USA), and most recently was the Diageo North America Director for Agave Based Spirits based in New York City. As a health & wellness advocate and a Cancer survivor, Rudy firmly believes in offering premium and better-for-you alternatives for all adult drinking occasions. For more info and buy PARCH online, please visit www.drinkparch.com or PARCH at Amazon or get in touch: hello@drinkparch.com For information on the Mission Garden and its work on indigenous Tucsonian agriculture. https://www.missiongarden.org For some Non-Alc retailers supporters of PARCH: Curiosity SLC Spirited Away Alt Bar The Open Road Boisson Sechèy Umbrella Dry Drinks Free Spirits CLE The New Bar Dryspokes Minus Moonshine Beverly Dry Goods Soft Spirits For cancer research support, kindly follow this link to support the FRED's Team, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Fundraising running team for the annual NYC Marathon Donate here: 100% of proceeds go to fund cancer research at MSKCC 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 glad to have had this chat with Geo. We met at Camp Runamok where I got to see his personality on full display, a character, someone you like to be around. One day on social media I noticed Geo sharing updates from a hospital. It wasn't my business to pry, so I followed along and watched as a man hospitalized started his epic comeback. Now, his sharing is in the form of gym selfies, and positivity. This was my first time hearing of Geo's epic bounce back and the man he'd get to become. Thanks for your honesty, Geo. Geo Thompson, a Boston hospitality professional “lifer” having scraped the plates clean of the multitudes who have passed through his time serving and managing chain restaurants, music venues, and elite private clubs of this old city, now reflects on a long career of what ifs and what lays ahead through a new lens of sobriety, and a new lease on life after nearly losing it all. 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

Jackie and I grew up relatively close to each other, but we didn't meet until we both lived in Columbus. It's almost strange to think now, that two people could live such parallel moments in their individual lives so close to each other without those moments ever meeting. Jackie is in her sixth year of sobriety, and I in my fifth, and this was the first time we chatted about it. It's truly great to chat through the growth that is possible, the revelation of a life that's right in front of your eyes, and how beautiful it is when you finally pay attention. Thanks for your time, Jackie. Jackie Mantey is a writer and artist who lives in Chicago. One month into sobriety, Jackie began a visual art practice that includes hand embroidery on found and historical photographs. Six years later, she's still sober and still making embroidery art, which she exhibits around Chicago and sells in her online shop. 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