Like all good discoveries, I found Al's NA Beer on Instagram. The logo, the white can, it all beckoned to be drank in a dive bar. Learning more about the founder Alban, a European who worked in music and nightlife I discovered our passion for the dive bar and the feeling of finding quiet and resolve in yourself. Alban's alcohol-free lifestyle began similarly to mine, it was a pause met with an inventory of the self and how living life without it would ultimately be better in every way except for...
Dec 15, 2021•41 min•Transcript available on Metacast My friend Ru sent me a message that said "Hey dude. I don't know this guy personally but he's THE pizza guy on the beach in Queens" about Sean so I was immediately intrigued. I sent a message soon after and immediately connected with Sean's positivity. Join us for this uplifting chat about sobriety within the industry, how being kind to yourself will lead to kindness elsewhere, and find out what Sean's favorite slice and sip combo is. Born and raised in Rockaway Beach, NY Sean Aiken has recently...
Nov 17, 2021•38 min•Transcript available on Metacast I spent a couple of years on the Columbus comedy circuit as a stand-up before I discovered my love for performing video and sketch comedy (which find their way into my life in small doses these days.) While in this scene I learned of Sumukh. His mild-mannered delivery drew me in, and he quickly became one of my local favorites. He always carried an air of distinction and charm; he struck me as the level-headed deeper thinking comedian in a room full of cheap beer-pounding knuckleheads. Since lea...
Nov 03, 2021•46 min•Transcript available on Metacast I was so excited to learn of Becca and to hear more about what she was doing in the n/a distilling world. She has such a compelling story, and an energy for the future that I found inviting and intriguing. Becca brought an intentionality toward bartender communication efforts to the conversation that was fascinating and respectful toward those pouring and those enjoying. In this conversation we chat about Becca's own journey with sobriety, the changes she'd like to see made in the way we order n...
Oct 20, 2021•48 min•Transcript available on Metacast Nick entered my life through marriage. He became my cousin through that, but through the changes we were both applying to our lives he became my brother. Nick is a symbol of strength both mentally and physically for myself, for others, and for his family. I'm thrilled that he was able to take the time to tell his story and to unravel some of the tools he uses to set himself up for success. He strives to be a little bit better each day, and his enthusiasm for crushing goals makes me want to be be...
Oct 07, 2021•40 min•Transcript available on Metacast I learned of Yellowbird Foodshed at the beginning of lockdown when I went from cooking maybe twice a week to cooking 2-3 times a day. Their local features and respect they show toward Ohio farmers was intriguing enough to bring me in, and the quality and focus on food changed the way I eat. When I learned of the owner, Benji, his sobriety story and focus on wellness was something that really resonated with me. His outlook on self-improvement was one of the conversations that reignited my own pas...
Sep 22, 2021•54 min•Transcript available on Metacast I learned of Jenn through our mutual friend and previous No Proof guest Heidi B. Since following her on social media, and even participating in her weekly Happier Hour, I learned of one of the strongest people I've ever met. In this episode, we chat about coaching, physical fitness, and how you can't fully achieve your goals unless you stop to listen to yourself. Jenn Linck, owner of SoberFIT Wellness, LLC, is a certified personal trainer, healthy habit coach, and nutrition strategist who ...
Sep 08, 2021•34 min•Transcript available on Metacast For the twentieth episode of No Proof, I am joined by Nick Hogan and Michael Toscano to chat about brand work. A commitment and position within the restaurant industry that has, in my experience, drawn the most jeers. I've heard more often than not that being a face of a brand cannot be done as a sober person. Nick and Michael are shining examples that it is possible, and it can be done well. Nick represents Angel's Envy, and until recently, Michael represented Woodford Reserve. In this episode,...
Aug 25, 2021•50 min•Transcript available on Metacast I have been lucky enough to call Megan Leigh Barnard a friend for over a decade now. She's a talented photographer who has captured many transitions/characters/ and times in my life. When I received the text that she was considering getting sober I couldn't reply fast enough. This is a caring, special, and wonderful conversation between two friends as I learn what it took for her to make the decision to stop being and what she's discovered along the way. Thank you for your time, your passion, an...
Aug 11, 2021•43 min•Ep 19•Transcript available on Metacast My chat with Heidi was a thrilling look into how sobriety is taken into account in a relationship. We chat about what it takes to focus on yourself to become Relationship Ready. "Relationship Ready is a candid and unabashedly human portrayal of my journey from broken to better and in it, I provide an outline for other women to embark on their own journeys. It’s a must-read for any woman out there who wants more." -Heidi Your path of sobriety will often include others, and talking to people...
Jul 28, 2021•40 min•Transcript available on Metacast Chatting with Hailey was a great reminder of what we get to keep when we give up alcohol. We chatted about the worrisome moments of wondering what you're going to lose when you quit drinking, and how we flipped the script to be about what we get to keep. Hailey talks about being a party girl at heart, and her closet full of costume, and how none of that high energy, fun, igniting personality was tied to alcohol. Hailey is fun all on her own and gets to be every day. Thank you for the reminder Ha...
Jul 14, 2021•35 min•Ep 17•Transcript available on Metacast My chat with Kate(@cascadiacowgirl)was rich and fulfilling. Her career in the industry has spanned many roles pathways and cities. Her lifestyle changed from NYC to Seattle and in this conversation, we talk about those changes that impacted her life, and the decisions she made to get to where she is now. It was so nice to hear of the intention of place, and presence that she places herself in. Over and over I find in these conversations that those that are placed in a hospitality role bring care...
Jun 30, 2021•44 min•Ep 16•Transcript available on Metacast Chatting with Bjorn was as refreshing and effervescent as seeing the drinks he posts on his Instagram. (@kingbjornce) A common theme I come across in these conversations is the pause that those in the industry face when they make the decision to become sober in hospitality. Learning a little bit more about the mindset, and the pathway of thinking about what it means to turn and face the industry instead of cutting and running further amplifies the importance of being a beacon for those having si...
Jun 16, 2021•44 min•Ep 15•Transcript available on Metacast I was excited to chat with Jim because his excitement and knowledge of wine were used to set the discipline in himself for becoming sober. As the owner of Ça Va in Kansas City, Jim is surrounded by wine yet has found a way to continue sharing in his passion without partaking. Founded in 2016, the mission of Ben's Friends is to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to anyone who struggles with substance abuse or addiction. By coming together, starting a dialogue, and acknowledging that ...
Jun 02, 2021•46 min•Transcript available on Metacast Chef Philip Speer has a background of awards, dishes, and accolades that span his lengthy tenure in the kitchen, but it is what he does in the streets of Austin, TX that really inspires me. The Comedor Run Club named after his restaurant is reinventing the way the industry can look at time spent together, the post-shift, and the pre-shift. Pumping out the miles has brought his team closer together and even attracts the attention of runners both in and out of the industry from around the country....
May 19, 2021•42 min•Transcript available on Metacast I've known Andy Smith for some time due to us both working in restaurants in Columbus. In the time that I've gotten to know Andy, I've discovered how lucky we are to have him in our city. In this frank, heavy, curse-ridden conversation we chat about working programs, going it alone, and how to access help along the way. Andy founded the Columbus chapter of Ben's Friends and is always available. https://www.bensfriendshope.com andy@sobrietyshaken.com
May 05, 2021•47 min•Transcript available on Metacast I came across an article written by Lucie via Tracksmith x METER about her track to sobriety and the importance of running. I was quickly inspired by the strength applied to running, the mental toughness it takes to navigate the past self while running with the present, and the compassion she displayed for herself. In this episode, Lucie and I chat about the difference between running to your future self and running away from the old self. I appreciate Lucie sharing her story with me, and I hope...
Apr 21, 2021•38 min•Transcript available on Metacast Michael Toscano was my first guest. Since our first recording, I've learned a lot more about putting together a podcast, and the two of us have learned a lot more about our sobriety. Join me as we catch each other up on our growth, as well as our stumbling blocks. Thanks for spending time with me Michael, looking forward to the next time. Reach out to Michael via Instagram @themichaeltoscano
Apr 07, 2021•39 min•Ep 11•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, I have a conversation with Rachel DelRocco Terrazas, who has just recently celebrated one year of sobriety. Through her story I was able to relive some of my more difficult moments as we chat about what outgrowing your old self can feel like. I thank Rachel for spending time with me to tell her story and congratulate her just the same.
Mar 24, 2021•44 min•Ep 10•Transcript available on Metacast I'm joined in this episode by Alex Langille by way of the U.K. who I met after he had listened to my conversation with Jack McGarry. It was a pleasure chatting with Alex who is currently re-embarking on a journey of obtaining his Master's in Clinical Psychology, reading, and running in the English countryside. This conversation was a first for No Proof as after extensive meditations, and the use of therapy; Alex has been able to integrate alcohol back into his lifestyle with intention. It is my ...
Mar 10, 2021•44 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, I'm joined by Jack McGarry from his bar the Dead Rabbit in New York City. As an avid runner himself, we chat about how running helped to develop discipline and a learning mind. Jack chats about his story of sobriety and recovery as we both look back on the clarity we've gained during our journey. Mentioned in this episode is Atomic Habits by James Clear and I Swear I'll Make It Up To You by Mishka Shubaly.
Feb 10, 2021•33 min•Transcript available on Metacast For this episode, I had a conversation with Laura Lashley, the National Education Manager for Seedlip. Seedlip was the first non-alcoholic distillate I found, and I've been enjoying it ever since! We chat about Dry January, how to continue those efforts beyond the month, and the state of the restaurant industry as far as consumption is concerned. For recipes, and up to date happenings with the seedlip brand make sure to follow Laura, and the brand accounts on Instagram. Laura: @liquid_lash Seedl...
Jan 27, 2021•36 min•Transcript available on Metacast As part of a special Mindfulness Matters episode presented by Perrier, I have a chat with my friend Brandon Bir who is the director of sustainability for Crimson Cup here in Columbus, Oh. We talk about sobriety, the importance of coffee to a community, and options for Dry January.
Jan 13, 2021•38 min•Transcript available on Metacast After completing her 300hr Yoga Teacher Training, I chat with Ashley about the importance of the self, focusing on your breath, and how discovering yourself can lead to many more enlightening revelations. This episode focuses on the physicality of sobriety, and what moving your body and listening to yourself can uncover.
Dec 30, 2020•40 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, I have a fun and lively conversation with Nick and Shannon of Mover & Shaker. Their pins, shirts, and barware can be found wherever there's a bartender making delicious drinks. The two of them have navigated bar management, brand ambassadorship, and the day to day dealings of owning a business all while sober, listen along to hear their story.
Dec 16, 2020•45 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, I share a phone call with Josh Harris of San Francisco. We discuss his path of sobriety, the leader of the industry he's become since then, and his advice for someone looking to take that first step. Josh is a titan of the industry, and it was my privilege to speak with him.
Dec 02, 2020•40 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, I share a phone call with Michael Toscano, a husband, and brand ambassador who is now 14 months sober. We talk about our experiences in the industry, and how the fast paced world behind the bar offers little chances to stop and reflect.
Nov 17, 2020•32 min•Transcript available on Metacast No-Proof: A path into mindfulness, sobriety, and health by someone navigating their own journey. There’s No-Proof like the present.
Sep 17, 2020•57 sec•Transcript available on Metacast 
