SOBRIETY IN THE CITY - EVENTS

Rock 2 Freedom Benefit Concert: Music, Mocktails & Mission

If you’re a sober music lover (or just a fan of epic rock shows with heart), clear your calendar for Saturday, October 18, 2025. The Rock 2 Freedom Benefit Concert at the iconic Hollywood Palladium is bringing together powerhouse artists, In-N-Out Burger’s legendary Cookout Trucks and a community dedicated to breaking chains — literally and figuratively.

This isn’t just another night out. It’s a high-voltage evening where rock and recovery collide to support the Slave 2 Nothing Foundation, a nonprofit on a mission to free people from being enslaved to any person or substance.

#ADDTOCART

Seeing Clearly Has Never Looked This Good

If you’ve been following my sober style journey, you already know I love a bold accessory moment. Sunglasses, eyeglasses — they’re not just vision tools, they’re statements. That’s why I’m obsessed with GlassesShop — an online destination that’s rewriting the rules on how we see (and show up in) the world.

Whether you’re a bookworm, a boardroom boss, or a brunch-loving bestie, the right eyewear can completely change your vibe. GlassesShop makes it easy (and affordable) to curate your own eyewear wardrobe without sacrificing style.

#ADDICTION FICTION

27 Addiction Fiction Books We’ve Reviewed

Addiction fiction isn’t just about substance use disorders; it’s about people — their choices, their pain, and their growth. At The Sober Curator, we review books that illuminate the dark corners and unexpected beauty of life on the edge. And now, as cool, hipster-style reading events with no phones or tech are popping up across the country — think candlelit book clubs, silent reading parties and unplugged literary gatherings — addiction fiction is finding a whole new audience. These events give readers the chance to slow down, connect in person and experience powerful stories together, away from screens.

SOBER CURATOR PODCAST

The Clean Play Podcast with Anne Skriba and Chris Marshall

This episode is a not-to-miss conversation for anyone curious about how lessons from sports can enrich recovery. Hosted by Alysse Bryson, this dynamic episode welcomes Chris Marshall, founder of Sans Bar, and former college basketball athlete and coach Anne Skriba, co-hosts of the “Clean Play Podcast.” Together, they offer profound insights and genuinely motivating stories about the overlap between athletic devotion, community and living a meaningful sober life. 

SOBERSCOPES

SoberScopes: The Horoscope for Sober Souls

October 1–15, 2025

"The world is shaking — stay rooted in what is real."

Let's not sugarcoat it — 2025 has been a wild ride, and October isn't letting up. This is a season of reckoning, revolution and recalibration. We're in the final 90 days of a turbulent year, and everything we've been moving toward — upheaval, endings, new beginnings and fated do-overs — is now playing out in real time.

WELLNESS AS A WAY OF LIFE

Functional Movement: The Key to Lifelong Strength and Flexibility 

As we age, maintaining a balance between strength and flexibility becomes increasingly important for our overall well-being. Functional movement is a concept I love because it is so doable and it bridges the gap between these two physical attributes, helping us move with greater ease and resilience. But what exactly is functional movement, and why should it be a cornerstone of your wellness routine?   

#WEDORECOVER

Sober Celeb of the Week: Quest Love

Yes, Questlove, whose real name is Ahmir Thompson, is sober and has discussed his journey to sobriety. While the specific details of his recovery and decision to embrace a sober lifestyle are not fully detailed, he is recognized as someone who has overcome addiction, as he is quoted discussing his path to recovery on Acast. 

For anyone struggling, know that help is available: 📞 1-800-662-HELP (SAMHSA Helpline).

WHAT A TRIP!

How to Stay Sober While Traveling 

Staying sober on the road isn’t about gritting your teeth and hoping for the best. It’s not a constant stream of “no thanks” until the trip’s over. It’s about knowing the kind of headspace you want to be in and making calls that protect that. 

When I quit drinking, travel made it easier. I got away from the routines and places that used to pull me back in. I wasn’t surrounded by the same people doing the same things. I was somewhere new, and I could build different habits. It was like I had a new lease without people being disappointed they weren’t in the company of “old” Ryan.

CLASSY PROBLEMS

Classy Problems: Competition vs. Contribution

I wanted to win.
To prove myself.
To stand out.
To get what I’d earned.
I called it ambition.
It was comparison.
The loop of competing for worth
instead of contributing from it.
Focused on outcomes.
Validation.
A scoreboard only I could see and
somehow couldn’t win.
Competition narrows the lens.
Who’s ahead.
What’s mine.
What’s next.
Contribution expands the lens.

SPIRITUAL SUBSTANCE + POP CULTURE

“The Bear” Character Analysis: How Birth Order and Family Roles Shape Addiction Genetics

A deeper dive into why Mikey became the addict, Sugar became the people-pleaser, and Carmy became the workaholic — and what this reveals about genetic expression in your family.

#ADDTOCART

Sober October Gift Guide 2025

Sober October isn’t just a trend — it’s a full-on glow-up for your mind, body and vibe. Whether you’re in it for the month, the milestone or a lifetime of booze-free brilliance, you deserve more than just a pat on the back. You deserve presents. Enter our Sober October Gift Guide 2025: a hand-picked lineup of cheeky, chic and downright delightful finds that celebrate the joy of living alcohol-free. These aren’t your grandma’s “congrats” gifts — they’re playful, stylish and perfect for anyone living their best sober life.