Books, Podcasts, and Resources That Helped Me Get Sober
In early sobriety you will probably find that you can’t stop thinking about drinking. The “Quit Lit” genre is dedicated to exploring and celebrating life without alcohol. Reading these books is fantastic motivation and really helps people on their sobriety journey.
Each book offers a unique perspective on sobriety. Blending personal stories with insights that can resonate with anyone curious about or navigating life without alcohol.
BOOKS
This Naked Mind by Annie Grace
Annie Grace uses a scientific yet compassionate approach to examine the hold that alcohol has on our lives. Through exploring the psychology and social aspects of drinking, she dismantles common misconceptions and helps readers to take back control of their drinking habits. This book has practical strategies and insights that help readers to break free from the clutches of alcohol.
Girl Walks Out of a Bar by Lisa F. Smith
Girl Walks Out of a Bar explores Smith’s formative years, her decade of alcohol and drug abuse, divorce, and her road to recovery. In her gritty, unfiltered, candid memoir, Lisa chronicles her high-powered legal career, descent into addiction, and ultimate journey to recovery. Both raw and inspiring.
“The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober” by Catherine Gray
Catherine Grey has become a leader in the Quit Lit Movement. This book is a relatable memoir of her own struggles with alcohol. At times uplifting and often humorous, Grey challenges the misconceptions about sobriety. The perfect blend of personal anecdotes and science exploring why giving up alcohol can be surprisingly freeing.
The Sober Diaries by Claire Pooley
With humour and vulnerability, Pooley recounts her first year of sobriety. This book is a relatable, diary-style narrative that covers the ups and downs of life without alcohol.
Blackout: Remembering the Things I Drank to Forget by Sarah Hepola
A darkly funny exploration of Hepola’s experience with blackouts and the way alcohol controlled her life. It’s an honest look at memory, identity, and reclaiming control.
The Sober Diaries by Clare Pooley
With humour and vulnerability, Pooley recounts her first year of sobriety. This book is a relatable, diary-style narrative that covers the ups and downs of life without alcohol.
Alcohol Explained by William Porter
A straightforward, science-based analysis of alcohol’s effects on the brain and body. The insights are practical and accessible, especially for those questioning their relationship with drinking.
We Are the Luckiest: The Surprising Magic of a Sober Life by Laura McKowen
A heartfelt memoir about how her journey to sobriety allowed her to rebuild a meaningful, authentic life. Laura offers insights into how breaking free from addiction can lead to self-discovery.
Quit Like a Woman: The Radical Choice to Not Drink in a Culture Obsessed with Alcohol by Holly Whitaker
Combining personal experience with social critique, Holly examines the cultural forces that fuel addiction, particularly for women. It’s a refreshing, empowering book that helps readers to rethink sobriety and the alcohol industry’s influence.
Kick the Drink… Easily! by Jason Vale
Jason Vale, known for his motivational writing on health and wellness, brings a fresh perspective to sobriety in Kick the Drink… Easily! Vale uses a unique, almost hypnotic approach to reframe the reader’s views on drinking, deconstructing common myths and societal norms that often reinforce alcohol consumption.
The Sober Lush: A Hedonist’s Guide to Living a Decadent, Adventurous, Soulful Life—Alcohol-Free by Amanda Eyre Ward and Jardine Libaire
The Sober Lush is a celebration of pleasure, creativity, and adventure in sobriety. Ward and Libaire offer a fresh, glamorous take on the sober lifestyle, focusing on rediscovering joy and indulgence without alcohol. For readers who worry that giving up alcohol means giving up fun, The Sober Lush offers a compelling alternative vision of living boldly and richly. It’s an inspiring and creative guide, perfect for those looking to infuse their alcohol-free journey with a sense of wonder and playfulness.
The Alcohol Experiment: A 30-Day, Alcohol-Free Challenge to Interrupt Your Habits and Help You Take Control by Annie Grace
The 30-day challenge designed to give readers the space to examine their drinking habits and the impact of alcohol on their lives. The interactive book is filled with daily reflections and exercises to encourage readers to explore the reasons behind their drinking, shifting the focus from willpower to curiosity and understanding.
Recovery: Freedom from Our Addictions by Russell Brand
Russell Brand draws from his personal experience with addiction and recovery, blending humor and honesty. The book reinterprets the 12-step program in Brand’s unique, accessible style. It’s an inspiring guide for those looking to transform their lives and find freedom from addiction.
A Happier Hour by Rebecca Weller
Rebecca Weller recounts her experiences with social drinking and the decision to quit. Her story is relatable for anyone who struggles with alcohol in social settings. Weller’s journey highlights the emotional and mental clarity that can emerge from sobriety.
Sober Stick Figure by Amber Tozer
Amber Tozer tells her story of addiction and recovery through a mix of humour and simple illustrations. Her approach is light hearted but also deeply personal, showing the often-unseen struggles of sobriety. The book is a unique, visually engaging take on addiction and recovery
The Recovering: Intoxication and Its Aftermath by Leslie Jamison
Jamison examines the cultural allure of addiction and the challenges of staying sober. The book blends memoir with cultural criticism, offering a layered perspective on sobriety. Jamison’s writing is rich and introspective, appealing to those interested in a deeper look at addiction.
Beautiful Boy by David Sheff
David Sheff shares the harrowing story of his son’s addiction and the impact it had on their family. This memoir captures the complexities of loving someone struggling with addiction. It’s a powerful, heart-wrenching read that offers hope and understanding for families affected by addiction.
Rewired: A Bold New Approach to Addiction and Recovery by Erica Spiegelman
Spiegelman introduces a holistic approach to recovery, focusing on self-discovery and positive change. Her strategies emphasize mental health, self-care, and empowerment. The book offers tools to build a balanced, alcohol-free life, appealing to those interested in self-improvement.
PODCASTS
Here’s a list of some of the best sober podcasts that offer support, inspiration, and community for people on their sobriety journey or anyone curious about alcohol-free living:
Sober Curious Podcast (Hosted by Ruby Warrington)
Ruby Warrington, author of Sober Curious, hosts a podcast exploring the sober-curious movement. She interviews thought leaders, experts, and everyday people who’ve changed their drinking habits.
If you’re questioning your relationship with alcohol or considering cutting back without necessarily committing to full sobriety, this podcast provides an open, non-judgmental space
Recovery Elevator (Hosted by Paul Churchill)
Paul Churchill shares his personal journey of recovery from alcohol addiction and interviews with others who have found freedom from drinking.
The podcast offers inspiration, community, and tips for those recovering from alcohol addiction, with a focus on wellness, mental health, and personal growth.
The Soberful Podcast (Hosted by Veronica Valli & Chip Somers)
Hosted by addiction therapist Veronica Valli and Chip Somers, Soberful offers a deep dive into sobriety, addiction recovery, and emotional well-being.
The hosts bring years of professional experience, providing valuable insights for long-term sobriety while also discussing self-care, mental health, and relationships.
Home Podcast (Hosted by Holly Whitaker & Laura McKowen) [Archived]
Although no longer active, Home Podcast features a wealth of archived episodes where Holly Whitaker (author of Quit Like a Woman) and Laura McKowen discuss sobriety,
Even in its archived form, this podcast remains a powerful resource for those in early sobriety, with vulnerable and raw conversations about mental health and recovery.
The Bubble Hour (Hosted by Jean McCarthy)
The Bubble Hour is hosted by Jean McCarthy, who offers compassionate and insightful conversations about sobriety, recovery, and overcoming addiction.
The show features guests who share their stories of overcoming addiction, providing relatable content for listeners at every stage of their recovery.
One for the Road (Hosted by Sober Dave)
Hosted by “Sober Dave,” this podcast offers interviews with individuals from all walks of life who have embraced sobriety, sharing their experiences and tips for maintaining a sober lifestyle.
It’s full of relatable, down-to-earth conversations with people who have transformed their lives by quitting alcohol.
Alcohol-Free Life (Hosted by Janey Lee Grace)
In this podcast, wellness expert Janey Lee Grace covers all things related to living an alcohol-free life, from health and nutrition to mental well-being.
It offers a holistic approach to sobriety, focusing not only on quitting alcohol but also on enhancing overall wellness and mindfulness.
How I Quit Alcohol (Hosted by Danni Carr)
Australian singer-songwriter Danni Carr shares her personal story and interviews others who have successfully quit alcohol, with a focus on healing and personal growth.
Danni’s heartfelt conversations with guests offer inspiration for those who want to explore an alcohol-free life and overcome the mental challenges of addiction.
Take a Break from Drinking (Hosted by Rachel Hart)
Life coach Rachel Hart hosts this podcast to help listeners reframe their relationship with alcohol and explore their reasons for drinking.
It’s a great podcast for anyone interested in the psychology of drinking and wanting practical strategies to take control of their drinking habits.
A Sober Girls Guide Podcast (Hosted by Jessica Jeboult)
Hosted by Jessica Jeboult, this podcast focuses on women’s sobriety, sharing stories of women who have ditched alcohol and embraced self-care, mindfulness, and wellness.
It’s an empowering space for women seeking to build confidence and self-love through sobriety, with practical advice and support.
Huberman Lab (Hosted by Dr. Andrew Huberman)
In his podcast episode on alcohol, Dr. Andrew Huberman explains the wide-ranging effects of alcohol on the brain and body, even at low consumption levels. He discusses how alcohol disrupts brain function, affects hormone balance, and increases inflammation, contributing to stress and health risks like cancer. Huberman also delves into genetic factors influencing alcohol dependency and provides science-based insights to help listeners make informed decisions about drinking.
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