Sober Awkward

Should sobriety be earned rather than prescribed?This week Vic and Hamish tackle the hype around Ozempic, the so-called miracle jab that claims to melt away kilos and even dampen alcohol cravings.It sounds tempting, right? But is it really the answer, or just another shiny shortcut that sidesteps the real work sobriety demands - you know, the uncomfortable, icky but rewarding bits like sitting with cravings, unravelling old habits, and actually dealing with what drove us to drink in the first place?They dig into the science, side effects, and sketchy unknowns, questioning whether reducing cravings with a drug is the same as actual long-term recovery. Along the way they share their own experiences, from resisting “easy fixes” to why the messy, imperfect slog of sobriety might be the most empowering path of all.Oh, and there is also a rather long monologue at the start of this episode about constipation.Expect a mix of laughs, some chat about odd bodily functions, a rather annoying Oscar level speech, and a shark teeth story.

Welcome to our new weekly shortened episodes - Sober Stories!After the overwhelming response to a recent writing competition during which we asked you to share your JOURNEYS to sobriety (the good, the bad and the ugly!), we felt compelled to take things a step further.We asked, you wrote, and now we're sharing the incredible, hilarious, and heartwarming stories you sent us. Get ready to be inspired by your fellow listeners, one story at a time!Happy Saturday, y'all.Sober Awkward Tools and LinksJoin Cuppa – our alcohol-free communityA kind, no-pressure space to connect with others navigating sobrietywww.cuppa.communityRead Vic's memoir – A Thousand Wasted SundaysA brutally honest and hilarious look at booze, motherhood, and self-discoveryhttps://amzn.asia/d/fanNMhaBook a one-on-one session with VicWriting mentorship, sobriety support, or just a good old chathttps://www.soberawkward.com/storeExplore the full podcast archiveCatch up on all the messy, funny, honest episodes of Sober Awkwardhttps://open.spotify.com/show/4qXlSc9lDGStYLeYIjrWPH?si=ece6e75ae4f041f9Follow us on InstagramBehind-the-scenes chaos, awkward moments, and sober inspo@soberawkwardThanks for listening. Your support means everything. Whether you've been here since day one or this is your first toe-dip into the awkward, we're so glad you found us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, Hame is joined by Bethany Clarke, who shares her personal and devastating story to raise global awareness about the dangers of methanol poisoning. In November 2024, Bethany and her best friend, Simone White, were traveling in Laos when they were unknowingly served a deadly substance in free shots at their hostel. Simone, along with six other tourists, tragically lost their lives.This powerful conversation explores the deceitful and deadly nature of methanol poisoning, which is being regularly used as a cheap alternative to alcohol worldwide. Bethany explains how methanol can mimic a severe hangover, making it incredibly difficult to detect in time. She also discusses the journey of grief and her tireless campaign to prevent such a tragedy from happening to others.Bethany is determined to see a change. She details the progress of her campaign, which has already garnered significant media attention and political support, and outlines what's next, including a push for new travel warnings and school curriculum changes. This is a story of profound loss, but also of incredible resilience and a commitment to creating a legacy of awareness for her best friend.

It's Vic here, popping on just before my daughter's school show to give you my top responses for when someone asks why you're not drinking.Now, you don't have to explain yourself to anyone, your sobriety is yours alone, but every now and then some overly curious (or just plain annoying) person will give you a nudge and demand an answer.So here are ten solid, funny, and totally valid responses to shut down the interrogation, change the subject, or make them laugh so hard they forget they asked.Happy Saturday, y'all.Sober Awkward Tools and LinksJoin Cuppa – our alcohol-free communityA kind, no-pressure space to connect with others navigating sobrietywww.cuppa.communityRead Vic's memoir – A Thousand Wasted SundaysA brutally honest and hilarious look at booze, motherhood, and self-discoveryhttps://amzn.asia/d/fanNMhaBook a one-on-one session with VicWriting mentorship, sobriety support, or just a good old chathttps://www.soberawkward.com/storeExplore the full podcast archiveCatch up on all the messy, funny, honest episodes of Sober Awkwardhttps://open.spotify.com/show/4qXlSc9lDGStYLeYIjrWPH?si=ece6e75ae4f041f9Follow us on InstagramBehind-the-scenes chaos, awkward moments, and sober inspo@soberawkwardThanks for listening. Your support means everything. Whether you've been here since day one or this is your first toe-dip into the awkward, we're so glad you found us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When you stop drinking, you don't just put down the glass, you're also left holding one big awkward question: Who even am I without booze?In this funny, honest, and slightly petty episode of Sober Awkward, Vic and Hamish talk about how figuring out your personal values can be the secret weapon in staying sober long-term.Knowing what you stand for gives you something to come back to when things get wobbly. It helps you set boundaries, say no to the stuff that doesn't serve you anymore, and build a life that actually feels like yours...not the one your drunk self stumbled into.If you've ever felt lost in sobriety, unsure what's next, or tempted to slip back into old habits, this episode will help you see why getting clear on your values is not just self-help fluff. It's how you stop feeling like you're giving something up and start feeling like you're stepping into the person you were always meant to be.Because staying sober isn't about willpower... it's about alignment.And your values are where that starts.(Oh and we talk about sticking potatoes in car exhausts and other nefarious, drunken debauchery!)

It is one of the questions we get asked most frequently, one of the biggest challenges to anyone in their early sobriety and one of the most important skills to perfect if you want to avoid slipping-up.How do we socialise without booze? What do we say/do with our hands/handle drunk people/dance/kiss/flirt/be idiots etc. Sound familiar?Not only is this one of our favourite topics but it is also one that we feel confident in sharing a fool proof list of Top 10 tips. These have been tried and tested over and over again are a great way to get you prepped for this wild old ride called sober socialising!Sober Awkward Tools and LinksJoin Cuppa – our alcohol-free communityA kind, no-pressure space to connect with others navigating sobrietywww.cuppa.communityRead Vic's memoir – A Thousand Wasted SundaysA brutally honest and hilarious look at booze, motherhood, and self-discoveryhttps://amzn.asia/d/fanNMhaBook a one-on-one session with VicWriting mentorship, sobriety support, or just a good old chathttps://www.soberawkward.com/storeExplore the full podcast archiveCatch up on all the messy, funny, honest episodes of Sober Awkwardhttps://open.spotify.com/show/4qXlSc9lDGStYLeYIjrWPH?si=ece6e75ae4f041f9Follow us on InstagramBehind-the-scenes chaos, awkward moments, and sober inspo@soberawkwardThanks for listening. Your support means everything. Whether you've been here since day one or this is your first toe-dip into the awkward, we're so glad you found us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Vic and Hamish tackle that great cultural institution of the pub. From sticky carpets to soggy beer mats, dodgy jukeboxes to landlords with rosy cheeks and probably a drinking problem, pubs have been our second homes and our downfall.But what happens when you go sober and suddenly the cosiness is replaced by awkwardness. When everyone is shouting rounds and you're quietly clutching your sparkling water. When a QR code replaces the bartender and you're asked for a tip before your sad chickpea salad even arrives.We reminisce about our boozy pub days, debate whether the death of the shout is actually good news, and share our best tips for surviving pubs when you're not drinking without feeling like a stingy boring weirdo.If you've ever wondered how to navigate mates, rounds and the smell of stale beer without falling back into old habits this one's for you. Grab your pint of milk and a bag of pickled onion Monster Munch and join us for some awkward honesty. Whose round is it anyway???Cheers!

Vic's glasses are broken, her pancakes are drowned in maple syrup, and she's hopped on the mic to share a list that might just hit a little too close to home. In this episode of Sober Awkward Top Tens, she dives into the classic clues that your relationship with booze might be more messy than manageable.From texting your ex at 11.47 pm to developing suspicious rashes after red wine, from guilt shopping for detox teas to waking up with kebab receipts in your bra, this one is full of laughs, honesty, and lived experience.Vic isn't here to diagnose. She's here to share the warning signs she missed, the excuses she made, and the moments she now sees for what they were.If you're listening to a sober podcast wondering if you're drinking too much, well… you probably already know the answer.So grab a fancy soda, avoid texting your ex, and come feel seen in the most awkward and brilliant way possible.Sober Awkward Tools and LinksJoin Cuppa – our alcohol-free communityA kind, no-pressure space to connect with others navigating sobrietywww.cuppa.communityRead Vic's memoir – A Thousand Wasted SundaysA brutally honest and hilarious look at booze, motherhood, and self-discoveryhttps://amzn.asia/d/fanNMhaBook a one-on-one session with VicWriting mentorship, sobriety support, or just a good old chathttps://www.soberawkward.com/storeExplore the full podcast archiveCatch up on all the messy, funny, honest episodes of Sober Awkwardhttps://open.spotify.com/show/4qXlSc9lDGStYLeYIjrWPH?si=ece6e75ae4f041f9Follow us on InstagramBehind-the-scenes chaos, awkward moments, and sober inspo@soberawkwardThanks for listening. Your support means everything. Whether you've been here since day one or this is your first toe-dip into the awkward, we're so glad you found us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Sober Awkward, Vic is flying solo. Hamish is off cleaning up family related vomit, and Vic is croaky-voiced and a bit rattled after being told to keep her legs shut in the comments section of a UK Newspaper. Note to self… never read the comments.But onto more important things. In the lead up to National Recovery Month in September, we're diving into all the different types of support out there for people who are questioning their drinking. Today we are digging into the big one. Alcoholics Anonymous.Vic shares her own experience of attending an AA meeting, clears up a few common misconceptions, including what a “dry drunk” really means. She also chats with Sal, a long-time AA member who answers the questions you've always wanted to ask but maybe felt too awkward to.What actually happens in those meetings? Do you have to call yourself an alcoholic? Is it all religion and guilt? And most importantly, is it the right path for you?With honest questions from the Sober Awkward and Cuppa community and plenty of myth-busting along the way, this episode lifts the lid on the sometimes secretive, often misunderstood world of AA.Whether you end up there or not, this is about curiosity, ditching shame and knowing that whatever path you take, you deserve support.https://aa.org.au/contact-aahttps://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/find-a-meeting/

Hame is a strong believer in the power of positive mindset. So are you going to look at your early sobriety as being littered with difficult obstacles and potential banana-slips? Or is it instead an opportunity to overcome a series of challenges. In this Top 10 episode, we invite you to attack these challenges head on. Be pro active and don't let them arrive into your life unexpectedly. Go seeking! Get out of your comfort zone and tick them off one by one.Just wait until you see you see what it does to your confidence and your belief at what is possible in a life free of alcohol.Enjoy!Sober Awkward Tools and LinksJoin Cuppa – our alcohol-free communityA kind, no-pressure space to connect with others navigating sobrietywww.cuppa.communityRead Vic's memoir – A Thousand Wasted SundaysA brutally honest and hilarious look at booze, motherhood, and self-discoveryhttps://amzn.asia/d/fanNMhaBook a one-on-one session with VicWriting mentorship, sobriety support, or just a good old chathttps://www.soberawkward.com/storeExplore the full podcast archiveCatch up on all the messy, funny, honest episodes of Sober Awkwardhttps://open.spotify.com/show/4qXlSc9lDGStYLeYIjrWPH?si=ece6e75ae4f041f9Follow us on InstagramBehind-the-scenes chaos, awkward moments, and sober inspo@soberawkwardThanks for listening. Your support means everything. Whether you've been here since day one or this is your first toe-dip into the awkward, we're so glad you found us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When you picture rehab, what comes to mind?A gloomy old building with flickering lights and someone yelling down the corridor? Maybe a slightly dishevelled Hollywood celeb getting wheeled into group therapy?Yeah… us too. We imagined something scary, shame-filled, and full of awkward meetings where you have to open up in front of strangers while sitting in a plastic chair.But is it really like that? In this episode, we're unpacking all the outdated ideas we had about rehab and exploring what options are actually out there for people struggling with Alcohol Use Disorder.We're joined by Dr Chris Davis, founder of Clean Slate Clinic, who's here to tell us about a very different kind of recovery — one you can do from your own home, in your trackies, without a hint of shame. We talk about how modern rehab can be discreet, flexible, and tailored to real life, and why the traditional image of recovery might be stopping people from getting the help they need.And yes, we do go slightly off track with a conversation about peacocks. Obviously.If you've ever wondered what real rehab looks like and how it could look for you...Tune in, get comfy, and let's find out.

When life gets overwhelming and your brain whispers “a cold beer would fix this,” is it really a craving… or just a memory from the old you?This week, Vic dives headfirst into the wonderfully chaotic world of those bloody annoying cravings — or as she now calls them, ghostly flashbacks from her rosé-soaked past. In this bite size episode, Vic shares her own awkward evolution, from life and soul of the party to calm-ish, crime-drama-watching, Scrabble-playing sober warrior and reframes what cravings actually are.Then, it's time for the countdown:A Top of the Pops–style list (minus the glitter and synth) of the Top Ten Best Ways to Deal With Alcohol Cravings.From star-fishing on the floor to telling your cravings to politely piss off, this episode is packed with honest advice, sharp one-liners, and some very questionable references to injured swamp donkeys.So pop on your headphones, put the kettle on, and remember: cravings aren't commands. They're just echoes of a past self and you don't have to dance to that tune anymore.Enjoy!Sober Awkward Tools and LinksJoin Cuppa – our alcohol-free communityA kind, no-pressure space to connect with others navigating sobrietywww.cuppa.communityRead Vic's memoir – A Thousand Wasted SundaysA brutally honest and hilarious look at booze, motherhood, and self-discoveryhttps://amzn.asia/d/fanNMhaBook a one-on-one session with VicWriting mentorship, sobriety support, or just a good old chathttps://www.soberawkward.com/storeExplore the full podcast archiveCatch up on all the messy, funny, honest episodes of Sober Awkwardhttps://open.spotify.com/show/4qXlSc9lDGStYLeYIjrWPH?si=ece6e75ae4f041f9Follow us on InstagramBehind-the-scenes chaos, awkward moments, and sober inspo@soberawkwardThanks for listening. Your support means everything. Whether you've been here since day one or this is your first toe-dip into the awkward, we're so glad you found us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever poured yourself a drink while a tiny voice in your head whispered “Maybe I need help,” only to shrug, ignore it, and top up your glass anyway? Maybe you secretly want to quit or at least cut back, but you do not feel like a “proper alcoholic,” so you keep muddling along, unsure where to start. You are curious about life without booze, but the idea of asking for help feels awkward, confusing and a little bit terrifying. Who do you even tell? Where do you turn?If that sounds familiar, congratulations, you have already taken the first step just by thinking about it. Welcome to the wonderfully weird world of sobriety, where curiosity counts as progress and even the smallest whisper that something has to change matters.This August on Sober Awkward we are exploring the messy, life changing transition from drinking to sober living. We are talking about the tools that can help, the places you can turn to for support and how to navigate those uncomfortable conversations with the people who matter.Today's episode is about that first scary leap — admitting out loud that booze is not working and telling someone you are ready to make a change. Vic shares the very un‑Instagrammable moment she finally said the words and Hamish, true to form, takes a detour through his exes before circling back to the point. Together they share how speaking it into the world can be the moment everything begins to shift.

Welcome back to the second Sober Awkward Top Ten! episode where you will be joined by Hame and his top 10 hacks/short-cuts/secrets - whatever you want to call them! These are the 10 smallest changes that we have seen have the biggest effect on thousands of peoples sobriety.Take them, steal them, copy them and let us know if they help you too!It's honest, it's funny, and it might just make you feel a little bit more normal.Perfect for a walk, a cuppa, or hiding in the pantry from your children.Sober Awkward Tools and LinksJoin Cuppa – our alcohol-free communityA kind, no-pressure space to connect with others navigating sobrietywww.cuppa.communityRead Vic's memoir – A Thousand Wasted SundaysA brutally honest and hilarious look at booze, motherhood, and self-discoveryhttps://amzn.asia/d/fanNMhaBook a one-on-one session with VicWriting mentorship, sobriety support, or just a good old chathttps://www.soberawkward.com/storeExplore the full podcast archiveCatch up on all the messy, funny, honest episodes of Sober Awkwardhttps://open.spotify.com/show/4qXlSc9lDGStYLeYIjrWPH?si=ece6e75ae4f041f9Follow us on InstagramBehind-the-scenes chaos, awkward moments, and sober inspo@soberawkwardThanks for listening. Your support means everything. Whether you've been here since day one or this is your first toe-dip into the awkward, we're so glad you found us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Does being sober make you an HSP, or are HSPs just more likely to drink in the first place? It's the ultimate chicken-or-the-wine-glass scenario.In this emotionally flammable episode, Vic and Hamish dive headfirst into the weird world of the Highly Sensitive Person – a personality trait that affects 15–20% of people and, as it turns out, possibly 100% of sober awkward podcast hosts.Are you the kind of person who cries at Bluey, avoids loud pubs, or needs a lie down after a trip to IKEA? Do you feel the vibes of a room before you've even taken your coat off? Do toilet paper adverts make you weep? Then you mightjust be one of us.Vic realises she's been diagnosed with just about everything but scurvy, and Hamish confesses his secret talent for emotional sponge-mode. Together, they unpack what it means to feel everything, all the time, especially once the numbing power of booze is removed.Expect:– Tangents about crying in supermarkets– The healing power of chocolate pretzels– A touching tale of being lost in the Himalayas– And a surprisingly heartwarming conclusion about how being sensitive might actually be your secret superpowerSo, are we all just too sensitive, or finally learning how to feel?And is sobriety turning us into HSPs… or just helping us discover we always were?Plug in, get comfy, and let the awkward feelings commence.

Welcome to the very first Sober Awkward Top Ten! In this short, sharp, slightly angry at the council episode, Vic shares ten gloriously unexpected things that happen when you give up the booze. From crying at dog food ads to waking up at 5am on purpose, these are the strange little perks, quirks, and emotional sucker punches that come with sober life.It's honest, it's funny, and it might just make you feel a little bit more normal.Perfect for a walk, a cuppa, or hiding in the pantry from your children.Sober Awkward Tools and LinksJoin Cuppa – our alcohol-free communityA kind, no-pressure space to connect with others navigating sobrietywww.cuppa.communityRead Vic's memoir – A Thousand Wasted SundaysA brutally honest and hilarious look at booze, motherhood, and self-discoveryhttps://amzn.asia/d/fanNMhaBook a one-on-one session with VicWriting mentorship, sobriety support, or just a good old chathttps://www.soberawkward.com/storeExplore the full podcast archiveCatch up on all the messy, funny, honest episodes of Sober Awkwardhttps://open.spotify.com/show/4qXlSc9lDGStYLeYIjrWPH?si=ece6e75ae4f041f9Follow us on InstagramBehind-the-scenes chaos, awkward moments, and sober inspo@soberawkwardThanks for listening. Your support means everything. Whether you've been here since day one or this is your first toe-dip into the awkward, we're so glad you found us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast, Hame is joined by broadcaster, author, mum, podcaster, and all-round Aussie icon — Yumi Stynes.Now nine years sober, Yumi shares the full arc of her relationship with alcohol: from growing up in Swan Hill and nervously sipping booze as a teen, to navigating grief after the loss of her dad, and working in the booze-fuelled world of music television during her time at Channel V.We also touch on post-natal depression, shame as an unexpected motivator, the myth of “cool”, and some frankly hilarious (and horrifying) stories from the wild days of drinking. Oh, and yes, that kiss with Robbie Williams that changed the course of her life and career!Yumi's honesty and insight shine throughout this conversation, and she reminds us that the best drugs of all are free, legal, and available daily, and no, we're not talking about pills, powders or pints.Her decades-long career in the public eye has grown and evolved alongside her sobriety, and she credits her current creative energy to leaving alcohol behind.Yumi is a dream guest, raw, wise, funny, and we hope you get as much from this episode as we did.

This sober thingymijig is not about why you stop drinking - It's all about why you started in the first place!It's a croaky episode today. Vic sounds like a frog after a week in bed but pushes through to join Hamish in asking a big question. Instead of always being asked why they gave up booze, they flip the script and try to figure out why they started drinking in the first place.Was it just about trying to fit in, copying older kids, or chasing confidence in a bottle? Or was there something deeper going on that neither of them understood at the time? They both go back to their teenage years to try and pinpoint the moment it all began, and reflect on how those early choices shaped the way their drinking developed later in life.To help them understand what it's really like to grow up in an alcohol-free house, Vic invites on a very special guest - her own teenage son George. He offers an honest perspective on booze, having an alcohol free house, why talking about it openly makes a difference and what could entice him to take his first drink.This episode is funny, thoughtful and a little emotional. It's about looking back at where it all started and realising that maybe the most important question isn't why you stopped drinking, but why you ever felt you needed to start.

This week, Hame sits down with one of Britain's most beloved voices on mental health and addiction — the brilliant, wonderful, and hilarious Bryony Gordon.A bestselling author, journalist, and mental health champion, Bryony's career exploded with the release of Mad Girl in 2016, her raw and relatable account of life with OCD. Off the back of its success, she made headlines as the first person to interview Prince Harry about his mental health.But behind the scenes, as her public profile soared, so too did her battle with addiction.Now approaching 8 years sober (August 27th!), Bryony opens up about how she turned her life around — with the help of friends, family, rehab, and running. She and Hame also discover some weirdly uncanny similarities, adding a touch of unexpected hilarity to this deeply honest conversation.We're beyond thrilled to welcome Bryony to the podcast. Her story is inspiring, unfiltered, and not to be missed.

Thinking of taking a month off booze? You're in the right place. In this lively, awkward, and surprisingly educational episode, Vic and Hamish dive deep into what actually happens to your body when you stop drinking for 30 days. From liver repair and glowing skin to remembering your Netflix password, this is your full-body audit — with stats, science, and saddle chafing.We talk about the first five days (spoiler: there's bloat, fog, and sudden urges to take up badminton), the weeks that follow, and the ripple effects that might just change your life. It's funny, it's honest, and for some unknown reason, Vic says the phrase “pussy hair.” Yes, we're horrified too. Very un-British. There's also a moment where we consider ponies' private parts. It's informative stuff... we promise.So whether you're curious, already on the sober pony, or just here for the inappropriate metaphors, this episode will give you everything you need to know about going alcohol-free — and maybe, just maybe, staying that way.The Month of Nope? Dried July? Mocktail Month? Whatever you call it, let's just go with “30 Days of Nope” and crack on. Oh, and don't forget, if you need some extra support head to www.soberawkward.com and download 'The Guide' today. It's Vic and Hame's 30 day sober guide. Everything you need to get through this month with a smile on your face and a spring in your step! This episode is proudly sponsored by www.cleanslateclinic.comWithdraw Safely from Alcohol from the Comfort of Your Home

Did someone say Judy?In this episode, Vic and Hamish come to a shocking realisation: they may have caught imposter syndrome. Since going sober, they've been flooded with kind messages, heartfelt emails, and praise from listeners who say Sober Awkward has changed, or even saved, their lives. But here's the awkward bit… they can't quite seem to absorb any of it.Vic thinks it's a weird form of staying humble (and maybe a sprinkle of self-loathing), while Hamish wonders if it's just his British manners kicking in “No no, YOU'RE amazing, please, I insist, I'll go last.”They also ask the big question, is it possible we still don't fully know who we are without alcohol? That maybe some of the self-doubt is just leakage from our drinking days, when we didn't care about validation, purpose or identity, we just cared about where the next drink was coming from.Together, they break down what imposter syndrome actually is, why it seems to show up in sobriety, and how it's sneakily shaping the way they see themselves. And because it wouldn't be Sober Awkward without things getting weird, there's a cringe-worthy rap battle of compliments that nearly ends in a sick bucket…Oh, and seriously, who the hell is Judy???Tune in for laughs, awkward truths, and maybe even a smidge of self-acceptance.#sobriety #impostersyndrome #awkwardlysober #soberidentity #britishawkwardness #soberpodcast #soberawkward #selfworth #nicetiesandnausea #whothehellisjudy

This week, Vic and Hamish dive headfirst into one of the most common and dangerously convincing excuses in the drinking world:“I'm not alcoholic enough to stop.”It's the idea that if you haven't hit rock bottom, you haven't earned your sober stripes. That unless you're swigging whiskey at 10am or shouting at a toaster in a wine-stained dressing gown, your drinking “isn't that bad.”In this episode, Vic and Hame finally get to be the experts—sharing their own experiences of going sober before things totally fell apart. They explore why people cling to this excuse, the outdated stereotype of what an “alcoholic” looks like, and how the stigma, denial, fear of change, and cultural acceptance of booze all play a part in keeping people stuck.There's also some fascinating research, a bit of self-deprecating truth telling, and yes—a shame-prevention schemes, and an Australian slang battle that proves even ChatGPT might be an alcoholic.By the end of this one, you'll be asking:– Do I really have to wait until everything breaks to make a change?– What if I just skip the crash and start feeling better now?Packed with laughs, science, stories, and serious wake-up calls, this is the episode for anyone who's ever said:“I'm not that bad.”

Have you ever been conned? Or are we being conned all the time… and it's only after a few years of sobriety that the fog lifts and the truth comes into focus?In this episode, we're taking on the big guns — yep, we're questioning everything. From government booze taxes and sneaky advertising tactics to ingrained drinking culture and societal pressure. Is alcohol just one big con sold to us from birth? And if so… is sobriety actually a quiet rebellion?Yes - we are taking the blame of the end user today and pointing our fingers at the people in charge of selling us all a massive lie. It's deep, it's awkward, and of course, in the most Sober Awkward way, not as serious as it was supposed to be. Somewhere between thigh gaps and Vic's imaginary OnlyFans page, things take a very weird turn. All we're going to say is: sandpaper. You'll have to listen to find out.Tune in as we dig into the system that told us we needed a drink — and why choosing not to might just be the most rebellious thing you'll ever do.Show NotesVic's book is out! Go and get yourself a copy whilst you can...Buy Here on Audible and Ebookand please give a review at www.goodreads.comJOIN PATREON! and buy us a Cuppa so we can keep being awkward!https://www.patreon.com/user?u=81897291www.cuppa.community – The Free Social Network for the Sober and Sober Curious - Sober Events – Therapy – Sobriety Courses – Sober Groups and loads more.@soberawkward @drunkmummysobermummy@cuppa.community @hamishadamscairns @patreon @spotifyIf you are struggling with your relationship with alcohol please reach out to your local doctor, a therapist, AA Group or just chat to a close friend. Don't feel shame, just get the help you deserve. Contact us! If you have a topic you'd like us to cover then please email us -vicandhamish@soberawkward.comSign up to our 30 Day Sober Tour Guide at www.soberawkward.com#soberawkward #soberawkwardpodcast #drunkmummysobermummy #cuppa.community #sober #sobermom #sobermummy #sobriety #soberaf #sobermovement #sobercurious #alcoholfree #mummybloggers #writersofinsta #soberfamily #greyareadrinking #addiction #soberissexy #soberwomen #sobermomtribe #sobrietyrocks #soberlifestyle #alcoholfreelife #wedorecover #sobernation #mumblog #mentalhealth #motherhood #wineoclock #sobermums #selfcare #womeninrecovery #sobercommunity #soberdads #1000sundays Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sobriety Capital – Gathering Your Tools for the Road AheadThis week on Sober Awkward, we're diving into a big, juicy topic: Sobriety Capital. What is it, why does it matter, and how do you build it?Sobriety capital is all about what you put in place to create a long, strong, and sustainable sober life. It's the combination of your living situation, finances, emotional support, inner resources, and practical tools—the foundations that help you weather the wobbles and keep moving forward.We're thrilled to welcome the amazing Jean McCarthy, who pops in to explain what sobriety capital is and why it's a game-changer when you're ditching the drink.Vic and Hamish then unpack what they had in place (spoiler: not a lot), what they wished they'd had, and what they slowly added to their sober toolkits over time. There's also a surprising amount of chat about ducks, geese, and other random bird-related metaphors.It's a longer episode, but if you're wondering how to prepare yourself for sober success, this one's a must. Grab a cuppa, fluff your feathers, and get ready to build your sobriety nest.

This week, Hame's been thinking about death.(Not in a “quick, someone check on him” kind of way — more in a “what does it all mean?” kind of way.)One of the biggest reasons people shy away from sobriety is that niggling fear of missing out. But what exactly are we so afraid of missing? The dance floors? The chaos? The… hangovers?In this episode, we're asking a deeper question — is it possible that sobriety actually helps us get more out of life, not less?We take inspiration from Bronnie Ware, a former palliative care nurse who captured the most common regrets of the dying in her powerful book. It got us thinking: when we get to the end, what really matters? And how does alcohol — or the lack of it — fit into the picture?Turns out, there might be more to YOLO than bottomless brunches and vodka Red Bulls. This episode is part existential musing, part life pep talk… with the usual awkward laughs and emotional detours along the way.Come for the mortality crisis, stay for the realisation that sober life might just be the fullest life of all.Show NotesSign up to our 30 Day Sober Tour Guide at www.soberawkward.comVic's book is out! Go and get yourself a copy whilst you can...https://a.co/d/3HBqf8TJOIN PATREON! and buy us a Cuppa so we can keep being awkward!https://www.patreon.com/user?u=81897291www.cuppa.community – The Free Social Network for the Sober and Sober Curious - Sober Events – Therapy – Sobriety Courses – Sober Groups and loads more.@soberawkward @drunkmummysobermummy@cuppa.community @hamishadamscairns @patreon @spotifyIf you are struggling with your relationship with alcohol please reach out to your local doctor, a therapist, AA Group or just chat to a close friend. Don't feel shame, just get the help you deserve. Contact us! If you have a topic you'd like us to cover then please email us -vicandhamish@soberawkward.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Hamish sits down with the incredible Davinia Taylor—former Hollyoaks actress turned sober hero and health warrior. In this eye-opening conversation, Davinia shares her journey from alcohol-fuelled chaos to reclaiming her health through sobriety and metabolic science.She opens up about battling postnatal depression, understanding dopamine-driven alcohol-seeking behaviours, and why peri-menopause can make quitting booze even trickier. Davinia also reveals the power of tracking your cycle, advocating for your own health, and why you should demand more from your doctor—especially when it comes to blood tests and hormonal balance.Plus, we explore how technology is revolutionising women's health, from wearable trackers to apps that decode hormonal shifts, helping women understand their bodies like never before.And here's something you might not have considered—could a little bit of testosterone be the missing piece for women's health? Davinia unpacks why this often-overlooked hormone can be a game-changer for energy, confidence, and overall well-being.If you're feeling sober but stuck in a flat mood, struggling with motivation, or just not feeling quite right, this episode has the answers. It might not be your willpower or mindset—it could all be down to your gut.In this insightful episode Davinia explains how what you eat, how you move, and the way you support your metabolic health can be the key to rewiring your brain for long-term happiness and balance.It's an episode packed with science, sass, and serious inspiration—don't miss it!Show NotesDavinia's Instagram is @daviniataylorFind out more about her company Will Powders at will powders.comwww.soberawkward.comVic's book is out! Go and get yourself a copy whilst you can...https://a.co/d/3HBqf8TJOIN PATREON! and buy us a Cuppa so we can keep being awkward!https://www.patreon.com/user?u=81897291www.cuppa.community – The Free Social Network for the Sober and Sober Curious - Sober Events – Therapy – Sobriety Courses – Sober Groups and loads more.@soberawkward @drunkmummysobermummy@cuppa.community @hamishadamscairns @patreon @spotifyIf you are struggling with your relationship with alcohol please reach out to your local doctor, a therapist, AA Group or just chat to a close friend. Don't feel shame, just get the help you deserve. Contact us! If you have a topic you'd like us to cover then please email us -vicandhamish@soberawkward.comSign up to our 30 Day Sober Tour Guide at www.soberawkward.com#SoberAwkward#SoberStory#SobrietyJourney#InspiringSobriety#SoberAt57#AlcoholFreeLiving#TraumaHealing#SoberDating#SoberCurious#QuitAlcohol#SelfDiscovery#SoberTransformation#BreakingTheStigma#NoMoreShame#SoberAndStrong#SoberInspiration#MentalHealthMatters#AlcoholFreeLife#HealingJourney#SoberMotivation#LifeWithoutAlcohol#EmpoweredSobriety#SoberWomen#SoberUK#SoberCommunity#SoberGrowth#SobrietySupport#AlcoholFreeJourney#SoberFreedom Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WARNING: Please do not listen to this episode whilst eating!Gut Health is something that we hear a lot about but understand very little of (well we don't anyway!).How does are drinking affect our guts and how important is to our overall health?More importantly, can we undo all the harm we have done to our bodies during decades of boozing?! AND, how good is sobriety for our guts?We are looking at this week's episode as the perfect introduction to next week's MEGA guest Davinia Taylor. She knows more on this subject than anyone we know so just thought we would wet your palate first!Show Noteswww.soberawkward.comVic's book is out! Go and get yourself a copy whilst you can...https://a.co/d/3HBqf8TJOIN PATREON! and buy us a Cuppa so we can keep being awkward!https://www.patreon.com/user?u=81897291www.cuppa.community – The Free Social Network for the Sober and Sober Curious - Sober Events – Therapy – Sobriety Courses – Sober Groups and loads more.@soberawkward @drunkmummysobermummy@cuppa.community @hamishadamscairns @patreon @spotifyIf you are struggling with your relationship with alcohol please reach out to your local doctor, a therapist, AA Group or just chat to a close friend. Don't feel shame, just get the help you deserve. Contact us! If you have a topic you'd like us to cover then please email us -vicandhamish@soberawkward.comSign up to our 30 Day Sober Tour Guide at www.soberawkward.com#SoberAwkward#UlrikaJonsson#SoberStory#SobrietyJourney#InspiringSobriety#SoberAt57#AlcoholFreeLiving#TraumaHealing#SoberDating#SoberCurious#QuitAlcohol#SelfDiscovery#SoberTransformation#BreakingTheStigma#NoMoreShame#SoberAndStrong#SoberInspiration#MentalHealthMatters#AlcoholFreeLife#HealingJourney#SoberMotivation#LifeWithoutAlcohol#EmpoweredSobriety#SoberWomen#SoberUK#SoberCommunity#SoberGrowth#SobrietySupport#AlcoholFreeJourney#SoberFreedom Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode of Sober Awkward, the tables are turned as Hamish interviews Vic about her brand new book Mumming: A Year of Trying (and Failing) to be a Better Parent.They dive into the chaotic reality of parenting without booze, why Vic felt compelled to write about her loud, messy, very human experience of motherhood, and how the pressure to ‘get it right' can leave mums feeling like they're the only ones stuffing it up.They chat about why talking honestly about failure, whether it's with alcohol or with parenting, can be the thing that sets us free. Vic shares why having a calm, patient husband (aka Poor John) helps her stay somewhat balanced, and Hamish reflects on why all of Vic's writing seems to circle back to one powerful thing: radical honesty.Come for the laughs, stay for the reassurance — Need to feel like all those drinking and parenting fails were just what made you evolve? Well, you're in the right place!and don't forget to grab your copy of Mumming here:

April 29th is National Fentanyl Awareness Day and the importance of this cannot be underestimated. We don't mean to frighten you but here are the facts...Fentanyl is the leading cause of death for Americans ages 18 to 45 with one death occurring every 7 minutes because of it. If you think that this doesn't affect you, then you might be shocked to hear that 7 out of 10 powders and pills sold on the streets today contain fentanyl. It is 30 to 50 times more potent than heroin and 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. In short it has entirely changed the drug (and rehab) landscape in the US and beyond.In order to give this topic the attention it deserves, Hame invited addiction expert and the 'King of Rehab' Richard Taite in for a chat. Not only has Richard helped over 10,000 families through his rehab facilities but he is also at the forefront of the Fentanyl epidemic.This conversation ranges from what needs to be done from a personal and political perspective to combat this to what elements make for a long standing and succesful sobriety. It is not just a conversation about fentanyl - it is a conversation about recovery, self-worth and hope.SHOW NOTESYou can find Richard through his podcast 'We're Out of Time wherever you get your podcasts.His Instagram is @richardtaiteofficial and you can find out more information about his treatment centre by visiting carraratreatment.comSign up to our 30 Day Sober Tour Guide at www.soberawkward.comVic's book is out! Go and get yourself a copy whilst you can...Buy Here on Audible and Ebookand please give a review at www.goodreads.comJOIN PATREON! and buy us a Cuppa so we can keep being awkward!https://www.patreon.com/user?u=81897291www.cuppa.community – The Free Social Network for the Sober and Sober Curious - Sober Events – Therapy – Sobriety Courses – Sober Groups and loads more.@soberawkward @drunkmummysobermummy@cuppa.community @hamishadamscairns @patreon @spotifyIf you are struggling with your relationship with alcohol please reach out to your local doctor, a therapist, AA Group or just chat to a close friend. Don't feel shame, just get the help you deserve. Contact us! If you have a topic you'd like us to cover then please email us -vicandhamish@soberawkward.com#soberawkward #soberawkwardpodcast #drunkmummysobermummy #cuppa.community #sober #sobermom #sobermummy #sobriety Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.