Podcasts about 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.

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

The hilarious and brilliant, Victoria Vanstone is back with a new book and new insights into the wild world of parenting... while sober.You will remember Vic from her previous episode and book, A Thousand Wasted Sundays (as brilliant and funny and relatable as her new book). In this episode, we went deep into our shared experiences of parenting, from guilt and shame, to the need for a separate identity and the year that Vic spent in active pursuit of becoming a better mum. That's just scratching the surface.For the reality fans, we also drew a sharp comparison to the thankless tasks of household duties and the interior crew on Below Deck. Where's our tip!?You can read all about Vic's year of experiments and exploration in her new book, Mumming: A year of trying (and failing) to be a better parent.Listen to her podcast if you have any thoughts or curiosities about a sober life at Sober Awkward. Find her on socials at @drunkmummysobermummy.Follow the show at @jana.firestone on Instagram and WATCH FULL EPS ON YOUTUBE at @thecuriouslifepodcast.Please make sure you're liked and subscribed, leave a rating, review on iTunes or Spotify and jump into the comments on YouTube!Thank you to the wonderful Sam Talbot who had to work his audio magic even harder with this ep, thanks to a technical failing on my part! A true audio engineering and production extraordinaire.

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.

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:

In this special episode of the Unhooked Podcast, I reshape a candid conversation from the Sober Awkward Podcast, featuring hosts Victoria Vanstone and Hamish Adams-Cairns. We discuss various forms of addiction, with a focus on porn addiction. Topics include the root causes of addiction, the role of shame, emotional pain, and what true recovery looks like. I also share insights from my personal journey, including my time as a monk in Myanmar and how mindfulness has played a crucial role in my recovery. This episode provides valuable information for anyone struggling with compulsive behaviors, offering relatable content for those facing challenges with addiction, whether it's alcohol, porn, food, or social media.

Ever wondered how alcohol brands make booze look like the ultimate ticket to happiness, success, and social belonging? This week on Sober Awkward, we're lifting the lid on the world of alcohol advertising with Anna Donaghey, a former London-based ad exec who spent years working on big-brand alcohol campaigns.Anna shares insider knowledge on how the industry uses behavioural science to lure people in—crafting campaigns that convince us alcohol is our friend, our reward, and even our identity. We'll uncover the sneaky tactics used to target mums with pink drinks, push the “work hard, play hard” mentality, and make us believe that a drink is the key to fitting in.Today, Anna spends her time working as an alcohol mindset coach and hosting of the Big Drink Rethink Podcast.And it's not all doom and gloom—Anna also believes things are changing. With the rise of the sober-curious movement, new regulations, and shifting social attitudes, the industry is being forced to evolve. So, is the booze bubble starting to burst?Join us as we unravel the glossy façade of alcohol marketing, expose the industry's biggest tricks, and explore whether the tides are finally turning for good.SHOW NOTESYou can connect with Anna through her website: www.thebeliefscoach.comor on social media where her Instagram handle is @bigdrinkrethinkAlternatively you can listen to her podcast 'The Big Drink Rethink' wherever you get your podcasts.

It's the episode you've all been waiting for…again!In this very special instalment of Sober Awkward, we sit down with none other than superstar DJ Norman Cook, aka Fatboy Slim.Recorded backstage at his Brisbane gig, just before he stepped out in front of thousands of fans, Norman opens up about his 14-year sobriety journey, the early days of The Big Beat Boutique, and that pivotal moment—when bringing Fatboy Slim home after a night out made him realise it was time to get help.Vic was lucky enough to see him live again just last night, and even though she was nervous, Norman was—as always—warm, open and welcoming. This conversation is packed with such wisdom, proof that you can still party hard, dance like mad, and live loud… without being wasted.Whether you're sober curious or 10 years in, this is one for the books. Huge love and thanks to Norman, Al and Andy Mac for making it all happen.Let's do it—press play and get inspired by one of the coolest sober legends around.Show Notes. Vic'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.

This week on Sober Awkward, we step outside the world of alcohol to explore another taboo topic—porn addiction. Hamish has a chat with one of the world's top Porn Addiction Recovery Experts - Jeremy Lipkowitz. Jeremy is an ex-porn addict who spends his life helping others. In this open and honest conversation, Jeremy shares stories from his struggles and shame, and offers an insight into the recovery involved in breaking free from this all-too-common but rarely discussed addiction.We dive into the parallels between porn and alcohol addiction, the impact on mental health and relationships, and the journey of finding freedom and self-acceptance.It's raw, real, and eye-opening—because sometimes the path to sobriety means looking beyond the bottle. Tune in for a bold and thought-provoking episode that shines a light on an important issue many people face in silence.One of the most fascinating episodes yet!Show Notes - About Jeremy - Jeremy Lipkowitz is a meditation teacher, men's coach, and digital habits expert who works with entrepreneurs, executives, and leaders. He is the founder of Unhooked Academy and host of the Unhooked Podcast, where he helps men break free from destructive habits and build a life of purpose, discipline, and fulfillment.Jeremy's journey into personal development began in his early twenties when he overcame porn addiction, shame, self-judgment, and depression through mindfulness meditation. This practice not only freed him from destructive behaviors but also connected him to a deeper sense of meaning and purpose.Jeremy's website: https://www.jeremylipkowitz.com/Jeremy's Instagram: @jeremylipkowitzVic'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.