E229: Can You Have Fun Without Drinking? Yes—Here’s How Artwork

Sober Friends

The Sober Friends Podcast: Two Guys Talking Recovery

Matt and Steve have been sober for over a decade each. They still don't have it all figured out.

This is a podcast about recovery - AA recovery specifically - but it's not your sponsor's recovery podcast. It's two friends talking through the stuff that actually matters:

What do you DO when you're not drinking? How do you handle control issues 15 years in? Why does calling someone in recovery feel so goddamn hard? What happens when you remove alcohol but don't replace it with anything? And seriously, do you miss drinking or do you just miss the relief?

Every week Matt and Steve work through these questions together - sometimes they have answers, sometimes they're figuring it out in real time, and sometimes they just need to talk it out like you do with a friend who gets it.

If you're in recovery, thinking about recovery, or just trying to figure out how to live without alcohol as your coping mechanism - welcome. Grab some coffee. Let's talk.

Topics: Alcoholics Anonymous, 12-step recovery, sobriety, addiction, relapse, service work, early recovery, staying sober, and everything in between.

Matt and Steve work AA programs but speak only for themselves. This show isn't affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous.

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Sober Friends

E229: Can You Have Fun Without Drinking? Yes—Here’s How

May 27, 2025

0:00 | 30:18

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In this episode of the Sober Friends Podcast, we’re diving into what it really takes to stay sober during the summer—starting with Memorial Day weekend. From cookouts and weddings to long weekends and family parties, the warm-weather season brings all kinds of drinking triggers. Matt, Steve, and John share personal stories and practical strategies for navigating these challenges alcohol-free.

Whether you’re newly sober or have a few summers under your belt, this conversation covers:

Why early sobriety and social events can feel overwhelming
How to make a plan and stick to it
The power of “No” and the importance of exit strategies
How sponsors and sober friends help you stay grounded
Reframing fun: finding joy without alcohol
Where to find sober support during the holidays (yes, meetings still happen!)

This one’s for anyone worried about staying sober when everyone else is reaching for a drink. Spoiler: it’s totally doable—and you’re not alone.

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