In this episode, Kristi Tanner, a recovering alcoholic and founder of Sober Social, Wisconsin's first non-alcoholic bottle shop, shares her profoundly honest journey from addiction to empowerment. As a recovery advocate, speaker, Certified Recovery Coach, and community builder, Kristi has dedicated herself to bridging the gap between sobriety and society since becoming sober in 2019. Kristi and Mikie discuss how society's view on alcohol influences our relationships with drinking and explore innovative ways to connect socially without alcohol.

Key Topics:

• Kristi's personal experience with addiction, recovery, and jail time
• The societal pressure around alcohol and drinking culture
• How sobriety can bring confidence, freedom, and genuine connection
• The rise of sober-curious movements and non-alcoholic beverage options
• Building community through honesty and shared experiences
• Practical tips for exploring sobriety while maintaining an active social life
• The importance of owning one's story and removing shame
• The innovative concept of non-alcoholic bottle shops promoting inclusivity
• The impact of industry marketing on alcohol consumption

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Kristi Tanner and her story of recovery

02:18 - Sobriety as an ongoing journey, not a finish line

02:48 - The challenges of the early years of sobriety

03:37 - Using alcohol as a coping mechanism for emotional discomfort

04:56 - Society's glamorization of alcohol and its impact

06:36 - How to enjoy social life alcohol-free

07:12 - Connection as the real antidote to addiction

09:26 - Educating others and creating space for sober-curious individuals

11:53 - The societal embeddedness of alcohol in celebrations

13:16 - The influence of marketing and industry tactics

15:28 - The rise of non-alcoholic products and health warnings

17:02 - Personal reflections on high school drinking and cultural norms

19:18 - The significance of honesty and vulnerability in recovery journeys

24:02 - Opening the first non-alcoholic bottle shop in Wisconsin

26:16 - Making sobriety proud and accessible for everyone

30:32 - The power of community support and shared stories

32:22 - The importance of owning your story without shame

36:42 - Breaking free from destructive patterns and choices

41:30 - Living a full, confident life post-recovery

44:43 - Redefining societal perceptions of sobriety and drinking

50:54 - The impact of openly sharing struggles and wins

58:48 - Practical advice for sober-curious listeners

62:27 - Launching the first non-alcoholic bottle shop and community building

66:39 - Exploring functional beverages and mindful consumption

71:00 - Connecting over non-alcoholic options and the importance of inclusivity

73:09 - Wrap-up and invitation for future guests

Resources & Links:

Sober Curious by Ruby Warrington

This Naked Mind by Annie Grace

Quit Like a Woman by Holly Whitaker

Connect with Kristi Tanner:

Mocktail Mommy Instagram

Sober Social Website