Episode description

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 maybe going to bed earlier. I was happy to learn that Alban is also a runner, and I look forward to the day that we can run in Central Park, and crack an Al's after.

Alban spent almost 20 years working in the Arts & Music industries in London and New York. It included a stint as Art Ambassador for Absolut Vodka, one of the world's largest spirit companies. A few years ago, he decided to see what life could be without drinking and he hasn't looked back. This led him to launch AL's; a classic American non-alcoholic craft beer to enjoy all of life's social and celebratory moments without alcohol.

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 substance abuse cannot be overcome by isolation and willpower alone, Ben's Friends hopes to write a new chapter in the lives of food and beverage professionals across the country.

To order my n/a enamel pin from Mover & Shaker, head to tinyurl.com/4fm6r9v6