This episode closes out Season 2 of Sober as Fck* and marks the end of 2025 with a curated compilation of the most impactful moments from every Season 2 episode.
This recap brings together honest conversations centered on sobriety, mental health, recovery, relationships, identity, boundaries, fitness, and personal growth. These moments reflect the vulnerability, truth, and real-life experiences that defined Season 2.
In this episode:
• Highlights from every Season 2 guest
• Conversations about sobriety and mental health
• Lessons learned, patterns broken, and growth achieved
• The importance of community, connection, and accountability
• A reflection on the themes that shaped Season 2 and 2025
We extend our sincere thanks to every guest who trusted us with their story and every listener who supported Season 2 by listening, sharing, and showing up. Your support is the reason this podcast continues.
Season 2 was about progress over perfection, choosing honesty, and doing the work. We are grateful to everyone who made this season meaningful.
From vineyard manager to marathon runner, Tim Taylor shares his powerful journey of stepping away from alcohol and stepping into purpose.
In this episode, Tim opens up about working in the alcohol industry, choosing sobriety, and how that decision transformed his mental health, discipline, and identity. What started as a personal commitment has grown into a public mission: running one marathon every month while raising money and awareness for Alcohol Change UK, an organization working to challenge alcohol culture and support healthier relationships with drinking.
This conversation goes beyond sobriety. We dive into resilience, radical accountability, and how physical endurance can become a powerful tool for mental and emotional growth. Tim shares what it really takes to stay consistent, redefine success, and turn personal change into meaningful community impact.
In this episode, we cover:
Life after alcohol and rebuilding identity
Mental toughness, discipline, and consistency
Endurance sports as a tool for mental health
Challenging alcohol culture and social norms
Turning personal growth into real-world impact
Tim is actively fundraising to support Alcohol Change UK. Every donation helps fund education, awareness, and support for people questioning their relationship with alcohol.
Support Tim’s fundraiser:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/tim-taylor-1
This episode is for the sober-curious, newly sober, long-term sober, and anyone rethinking their relationship with alcohol and looking for proof that change is possible.
In this powerful episode of Sober as F*ck, Ryan and Jess sit down with Abby Calabrese to unpack her journey to an alcohol-free life after years of struggling with drinking and the quiet pressure of mommy wine culture.
Abby shares what it was like growing up with an alcoholic parent, how normalized drinking shaped her identity as a mother, and why early sobriety forced her to confront self-worth, resilience, and emotional honesty. The conversation dives into the realities of getting sober in a culture that glorifies alcohol, the discomfort of early recovery, and the role community, gratitude, and self-love play in lasting change.
This episode challenges the myth that sobriety means losing fun, connection, or joy—and instead reframes it as a path to clarity, confidence, and genuine fulfillment. If you’re sober, sober-curious, questioning your relationship with alcohol, or navigating mental health and personal growth, this conversation will hit home.
Sobriety and living alcohol-free
Mommy wine culture and its hidden impact
Early sobriety and emotional resilience
Self-love, gratitude, and mindset shifts
Mental health and personal growth
The importance of community in recovery
“I didn’t like myself.”
“I can handle it.”
“Sobriety didn’t take my life away—it gave it back.”
00:00 – Introduction and milestones
05:09 – Abby’s sobriety journey
17:06 – The impact of mommy wine culture
29:45 – Navigating early sobriety
41:49 – Building resilience and self-love
49:16 – Purpose, balance, and what’s next
Key Topics CoveredNotable QuotesChapters
Sobriety and living alcohol-free
Mommy wine culture and its hidden impact
Early sobriety and emotional resilience
Self-love, gratitude, and mindset shifts
Mental health and personal growth
The importance of community in recovery
“I didn’t like myself.”
“I can handle it.”
“Sobriety didn’t take my life away—it gave it back.”
00:00 – Introduction and milestones
05:09 – Abby’s sobriety journey
17:06 – The impact of mommy wine culture
29:45 – Navigating early sobriety
41:49 – Building resilience and self-love
49:16 – Purpose, balance, and what’s next
In this powerful episode of Sober as F*ck, Ryan and Jess sit down with Krista Martinez, a resilient mother, domestic-violence survivor, and the creator of the lifestyle brand Always Improving. Krista opens up about her raw and remarkable journey through addiction, recovery, self-worth, mental health, and the fight to rebuild her life from the ground up.
Krista shares the truth behind her early relationship with alcohol, the trauma of surviving abusive relationships, and the devastating health consequences that nearly took everything from her—including a battle with pancreatitis. She speaks candidly about relapse, shame, and the complicated role motherhood played in reshaping her identity and purpose.
Her story is a masterclass in resilience, personal growth, and reclaiming self-worth after years of addiction and domestic violence. Krista emphasizes how reconnecting with a higher power anchored her recovery, and how vulnerability became her strongest tool for healing.
Today, Krista channels her pain into purpose through her brand Always Improving, inspiring others in sobriety and reminding us that recovery isn’t a destination—it’s a lifestyle.
If you’re navigating addiction, healing from trauma, rebuilding your confidence, or redefining your identity in sobriety, this episode hits hard in all the right ways.
Feeling pressured to drink in high school shaped the early stages of Krista’s addiction.
She survived domestic violence and carried deep wounds into adulthood.
Her drinking escalated to serious medical issues, including pancreatitis.
Recovery requires developing a personal relationship with a higher power.
Motherhood shifted Krista’s motivation for long-term sobriety.
Relapse is not failure—it's data and an opportunity to rebuild.
Self-worth is foundational when breaking cycles of abuse.
Turning her story into a lifestyle brand helped her reclaim her power.
Vulnerability is essential in recovery, connection, and personal growth.
Healing is not linear—it's a continuous journey of choosing yourself.
“I am a domestic violence survivor.”
“I was so connected to that design.”
“I think you should write a book.”
00:00 Intro & Guest Welcome
03:04 Early Drinking & Fitting In
05:58 Abusive Relationships & Lasting Impact
09:51 Beginning the Sobriety Journey
14:45 Relapse & Consequences
19:00 Rebuilding Strength After Setbacks
24:04 Faith, Higher Power & Recovery
28:02 Healing, Mental Health & Growth
31:57 Supporting the Next Generation
34:09 Final Reflections
36:31 Understanding Self-Worth
40:59 Recognizing the Cycle of Abuse
42:52 Healthy Relationships After Trauma
48:53 Creating a Lifestyle Brand in Recovery
52:29 Resilience, Reinvention & Transformation
01:01:18 Finding Humor in the Darkness
Major TakeawaysSuggested TitlesFeatured QuotesChapters
Feeling pressured to drink in high school shaped the early stages of Krista’s addiction.
She survived domestic violence and carried deep wounds into adulthood.
Her drinking escalated to serious medical issues, including pancreatitis.
Recovery requires developing a personal relationship with a higher power.
Motherhood shifted Krista’s motivation for long-term sobriety.
Relapse is not failure—it's data and an opportunity to rebuild.
Self-worth is foundational when breaking cycles of abuse.
Turning her story into a lifestyle brand helped her reclaim her power.
Vulnerability is essential in recovery, connection, and personal growth.
Healing is not linear. It's a continuous journey of choosing yourself.
Keywords
sobriety, recovery, addiction, memoir, personal growth, community support, resilience, mental health, alcohol, transformation
Summary
In this engaging conversation, Beth McDonough shares her remarkable journey from a successful career in TV news to facing the consequences of her addiction. After two DUIs, she found herself in jail, which marked the beginning of her path to recovery. Beth discusses the challenges she faced, the importance of community support, and the lessons learned along the way. Her story emphasizes the power of vulnerability, the significance of sharing experiences, and how sobriety can transform lives. With humor and honesty, Beth inspires others to embrace their journeys and find strength in their struggles. TakeawaysBeth's journey in TV news spanned 30 years, covering major events. She faced two DUIs that led to her realization of her addiction. The importance of community support in recovery is emphasized.Beth's first book, 'Stand By', details her fall and recovery journey. She learned to replace drinking with healthier activities. Sobriety is viewed as a superpower that can transform lives. Beth's experiences in jail provided valuable lessons about addiction. The role of vulnerability in sharing one's story is crucial. Recovery is a process that moves at its own pace. Beth's journey highlights the importance of accountability and self-reflection.
Sound bites
"I was given a hug by the judge."
"Sobriety can become your superpower."
"I had to dig deep to get my life back."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
02:58 Beth's Journey in TV News
06:03 The Fall: DUIs and Consequences
09:09 The Road to Recovery
12:01 Building a New Life
14:53 The Role of Community in Recovery
17:59 Lessons Learned and Moving Forward
21:01 The Power of Sharing Stories
24:10 Final Thoughts and Future Plans
SummaryIn this episode, Ryan and Jess welcome Ashley Kalar-Miller, who shares her inspiring journey of sobriety and personal growth. Ashley discusses her turning point that led her to quit drinking, the impact of sobriety on her relationships, and how she navigated life after making this significant change. She also reflects on her professional growth, the importance of community support, and her future aspirations. The conversation is filled with humor, insights, and a hilarious drunken story that highlights the challenges and triumphs of living a sober life.Takeaways:Ashley had a turning point on a Tuesday when she was hungover.She realized she was sick of her own behavior and wanted to change.Surrounding herself with the right people was crucial for her sobriety.Ashley’s relationships changed significantly after she quit drinking.She found clarity and authenticity in her life post-sobriety.Her professional life improved after she left the service industry.Ashley emphasizes the importance of community and support in recovery.She is excited about trying new experiences and adventures.Telling her story has empowered her and others around her.Ashley’s humorous drunken story illustrates the chaos of her past. Sound bites"I thought I was doing great.""I can stand up for myself.""I peed my pants in a onesie."Chapters00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview03:01 Guest Introduction: Ashley Kalar-Miller06:02 Ashley’s Journey to Sobriety08:59 Reflections on Rock Bottom Moments12:08 Changing Relationships and Social Circles14:57 Impact on Personal Relationships17:59 Professional Growth and Career Changes21:02 Financial Transformation Post-Sobriety24:09 Authenticity and Genuine Connections26:47 Family Dynamics and Childhood Influences30:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts31:24 The Birth of a Retreat32:49 Rediscovering Emotions33:44 Navigating Social Situations Sober38:18 Future Aspirations and Growth43:03 A Hilarious Vegas Story
This special episode is a heartfelt tribute to Peter Baylis, who recently passed away from Glioblastoma. It compiles his previous appearances on the podcast, celebrating his life, his contributions to the recovery community, and his enduring spirit.Keywords:Peter Baylis, tribute, Glioblastoma, recovery community, remembranceTakeaways:Peter Baylis was a beloved member of the recovery community.His positive spirit and humor touched many lives.Peter's dedication to helping others was unwavering.He was known for his musical talent and love for singing.Peter's journey with sobriety inspired many.His legacy continues to impact those who knew him.Peter's philosophy of living in the moment was profound.He was a proud Canadian and a passionate hockey fan.Peter's courage in facing his illness was remarkable.His message of 'Peace, Love, and Unity' resonates with all.Sound bites:Peter Baylis was a beloved member.His spirit and humor touched many.Peter's dedication was unwavering.Known for his musical talent.Peter's journey inspired many.His legacy continues to impact.Living in the moment was profound.A proud Canadian and hockey fan.Courage in facing illness.'Peace, Love, and Unity' resonates.Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction and Tribute to Peter00:00:00 Peter's Impact on the Recovery Community00:00:01 Musical Talents and Personal Stories00:00:02 Philosophy and Life Lessons00:00:03 Legacy and Final Thoughts
Keywordssober, recovery, alcohol, community, music, parenting, acting, sobriety, Coaster, podcastSummaryIn this episode of 'Sober As F*ck', hosts Jess and Ryan welcome Coaster, a hip hop artist and motivational speaker with nearly 11 years of sobriety. Coaster shares his journey with alcohol, including early drinking experiences, a life-changing accident, and the importance of community in recovery. He discusses how sobriety has influenced his music and art, the challenges of being a new parent, and the evolving culture around alcohol consumption. Coaster also delves into his recent foray into acting and the supportive role his wife plays in his life. The conversation is filled with humor, insights, and a reminder that everyone’s recovery journey is unique.TakeawaysCoaster started drinking at a very young age, which normalized alcohol in his life.A life-changing accident made him reconsider his relationship with alcohol.Sobriety is a personal journey, and there are many paths to recovery.Community support is crucial in maintaining sobriety.Coaster's music and art have evolved significantly since becoming sober.Parenthood has brought new challenges and joys to Coaster's life.The alcohol culture is shifting, with more options for non-drinkers.Acting has opened new creative avenues for Coaster.Coaster's wife plays a vital role in his creative process and support system.Humor and laughter are essential in navigating recovery.Sound bites"No one is alone.""I didn't have a rock bottom.""I had to hit the drawing board."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Coaster's Journey01:26 The Impact of Alcohol on Coaster's Life04:46 Finding Sobriety and Building Community10:09 The Evolution of Coaster's Music and Artistry15:54 Parenthood and Balancing Dreams20:06 Shifts in Alcohol Culture and Non-Alcoholic Options28:21 Exploring Non-Alcoholic Options31:57 Diving into Acting38:00 The Role of Relationships in Sobriety41:54 Touring and Future Projects46:00 Funny Stories from the Past
Summary
In this episode of Sober As F*ck, hosts Jess and Ryan welcome Alex and Alison, a couple who met in recovery and have been sober for 17 and 15 years, respectively. They share their individual journeys to sobriety, the challenges they faced, and how their backgrounds influenced their addiction. The conversation delves into the importance of community, the impact of relationships in recovery, and the couple's new venture, Recovery Beans, a coffee business aimed at supporting mental health and addiction recovery. Their stories highlight the power of resilience and the importance of finding joy and connection in sobriety.
Takeaways
Recovery is a personal journey that varies for everyone.
Community support is crucial in the recovery process.
It's important to address underlying issues driving addiction.
Sobriety can feel like a second chance at life.
Relationships in recovery require boundaries and individual growth.
Finding joy in sobriety can come from new ventures.
The stigma around addiction affects how stories are perceived.
Mindset shifts are essential for lasting recovery.
Humor can be a powerful tool in dealing with heavy topics.
Sharing personal stories can help others feel less alone.
Trigger Warning: This podcast may include discussions on sensitive topics, including but not limited to addiction, mental health, and personal struggles. Listener discretion is advised.
In this compelling episode of Jess & Ryan's podcast, discover Desiree Coz's transformative journey from addiction to advocacy. Desiree candidly discusses her battle with alcohol, the life-changing impact of community support, and her path to becoming a mental health advocate. Learn how she overcame a DUI and embraced sobriety, finding joy and purpose along the way. This episode is packed with insights on resilience, self-awareness, and the ongoing journey of recovery. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that highlights the power of community and personal growth. Tune in now!
Trigger Warning:This podcast contains open, honest, and unfiltered conversations. Topics may include, but are not limited to, addiction, substance use, mental health, trauma, grief, abuse, suicide, self-harm, eating disorders, body image, relationships, sex, gender, identity, discrimination, violence, and other potentially sensitive or distressing issues. Listener discretion is strongly advised. Please take care of yourself, and if you find any topic triggering, feel free to skip or step away.Join us for an inspiring conversation with Lindsay Elsten, a trailblazer in the sober community. Lindsay shares her journey to sobriety, the challenges she faced, and the transformative power of community. Discover how she's creating inclusive spaces with Daisy's NA Bar and Bottle Shop, and learn about her unique approach to sobriety that embraces diversity and personal growth. Whether you're sober curious or on your own journey, Lindsay's story offers hope and insight. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on redefining relationships with alcohol and finding freedom in sobriety.
Trigger Warning: In this episode, we talk openly about addiction, sobriety, mental health struggles, trauma, relationships, grief, and recovery. These conversations are real, raw, and may be difficult for some listeners. Please listen at your own pace and step away if needed.
In this heartfelt episode of "Sober As F*ck," Jess marks a significant milestone of 500 days sober. Together with Ryan, they explore the ups and downs of sobriety, discussing how to navigate holidays, celebrate personal victories, and maintain mental health. They share candid stories about their own experiences, including the challenges of staying sober during festive seasons and the importance of having a supportive community. Jess and Ryan also touch on the nuances of relationships, therapy, and the fine line between support and enabling. Whether you're on your own journey to sobriety or supporting a loved one, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement.
Trigger Warning: This podcast contains open, honest, and unfiltered conversations. Topics may include, but are not limited to, addiction, substance use, mental health, trauma, grief, abuse, suicide, self-harm, eating disorders, body image, relationships, sex, gender, identity, discrimination, violence, and other potentially sensitive or distressing issues. Listener discretion is strongly advised. Please take care of yourself, and if you find any topic triggering, feel free to skip or step away.
In this episode, we sit down with Cullie Poseria, a trailblazer in the sober community, to discuss her inspiring journey to sobriety and the creation of her innovative non-alcoholic bar, Bar Nun. Cullie shares her personal experiences with alcohol, the challenges she faced, and how she found a new path that led to improved health and well-being. Discover how Bar Nun is more than just a bar, it's a community space that celebrates wellness, arts, and connection, offering a welcoming environment for those seeking a mindful lifestyle. Join us as we explore the growing movement of sober spaces and the impact they have on individuals and communities alike.
Trigger Warning:This podcast contains open and honest conversations about sensitive subjects, which may include, but are not limited to, substance use, addiction, recovery, mental health challenges, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, loss, abuse, eating disorders, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, relationship struggles, violence, and other potentially triggering experiences.
Join us in this heartfelt episode as we sit down with Christa Camarillo, a beacon of hope and resilience in the journey to sobriety. Christa shares her personal story of overcoming addiction, the challenges she faced, and the transformative power of community and self-discovery. Dive deep into the nuances of gray area drinking, the importance of mental health, and the steps Christa took to reclaim her life. Whether you're on a similar path or supporting someone who is, this episode offers invaluable insights and inspiration.
Trigger Warning: This episode of "Sober as F*ck" discusses sensitive topics including alcoholism, addiction, mental health struggles, and generational trauma. Listener discretion is advised.
In this compelling episode, hosts Ryan and Jess welcome Christopher Huber, a dedicated advocate for sobriety and creator of the "Craving Crushers" program. Christopher shares his transformative journey from struggling with alcohol during the pandemic to embracing a life of sobriety. He opens up about the challenges of overcoming generational alcoholism, the pivotal role of spirituality in his recovery, and the development of his 15-day program designed to help others manage cravings and triggers. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with personal insights, practical tools, and a touch of humor as Christopher recounts his college days and the lessons learned along the way. Don't miss this episode that promises to resonate with anyone on a path to self-discovery and healing.
Trigger Warning: This episode discusses sensitive topics including addiction, substance abuse, self-harm, eating disorders, and grief. Please prioritize your mental well-being and listen with care.
Join Jess and Ryan on the "Sober as F*ck" podcast as they welcome special guest Susanne Warye. Susanne, a celebrated author and host of "The Sober Mom Life" podcast, shares her journey of sobriety, motherhood, and the transformative power of community. With five and a half years of sobriety under her belt, Susanne opens up about her experiences, the challenges of mommy wine culture, and the inspiration behind her upcoming book, "The Sober Shift." Tune in for an honest and heartfelt conversation that explores the depths of personal growth and resilience. Don't miss this empowering episode!
Trigger Warning:This content may discuss sensitive topics including but not limited to: addiction, sobriety, substance use, mental health, depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, eating disorders, body image, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, grief, loss, relationships, sexuality, identity, discrimination, and other potentially distressing experiences. Viewer/listener discretion is advised. Please take care of yourself while engaging with this material.
In this heartfelt episode of "Sober As F*ck," Jess and Ryan delve into the complex journey of sobriety, exploring the emotional challenges and profound reflections that accompany it. They candidly discuss the grief of letting go of past identities and the struggle of redefining social connections. Through personal anecdotes and insightful conversations, they highlight the importance of community, self-care, and the courage to face the unknown. Tune in for an honest and inspiring discussion that reminds us all that healing is a journey, not a destination.
Trigger Warning:This podcast contains open, honest, and unfiltered conversations. Topics may include, but are not limited to, addiction, substance use, mental health, trauma, grief, abuse, suicide, self-harm, eating disorders, body image, relationships, sex, gender, identity, discrimination, violence, and other potentially sensitive or distressing issues. Listener discretion is strongly advised. Please take care of yourself, and if you find any topic triggering, feel free to skip or step away.
Join us for an inspiring episode with Chris Sicke, author of "Sobriety Confidential," as he shares his journey of recovery and the profound impact of storytelling. Chris opens up about his struggles with addiction, the pivotal moments that led to his sobriety, and the unconventional path he took through the 12-step program. Discover how Chris's experiences and insights can offer hope and guidance to those facing similar challenges. Tune in to hear about the power of community, the importance of vulnerability, and the transformative nature of sharing one's story.
Trigger Warning:This podcast contains open, honest, and unfiltered conversations. Topics may include, but are not limited to, addiction, substance use, mental health, trauma, grief, abuse, suicide, self-harm, eating disorders, body image, relationships, sex, gender, identity, discrimination, violence, and other potentially sensitive or distressing issues. Listener discretion is strongly advised. Please take care of yourself, and if you find any topic triggering, feel free to skip or step away.In this compelling episode of "Dane & Sober," we dive deep into the transformative journey of Dane Coleman, an author who turned his life around through sobriety. Discover how Dane's experiences led him to write "Life in Cheap Mode," a book that not only chronicles his path to sobriety but also offers a unique perspective on living life to the fullest without alcohol. Join us as we explore the challenges, triumphs, and insights that come with embracing a sober lifestyle. Whether you're on a similar journey or simply curious, this episode promises to inspire and enlighten.
Trigger Warning:
This episode contains open and honest discussions that may include sensitive topics such as substance use, addiction, recovery, mental health challenges, trauma, abuse, relationships, loss, self-harm, eating disorders, and other potentially triggering content. Listener discretion is advised.
Join us for an inspiring episode as we explore the remarkable journey of Samantha Landry, founder of See Fit Living. Samantha opens up about her battle with addiction and how she transformed her life through resilience and determination. From her athletic beginnings to overcoming personal challenges, she shares how she built a thriving business in health and wellness. Discover how Samantha turned her passion for fitness and recovery into a mission to help others achieve their best selves. Tune in for insights on resilience, entrepreneurship, and the power of holistic health.