36. From Misdiagnosis to Mocktail Mastery: Mocktail Mo's Journey to Alcohol-Free Living

Send us Fan MailMeet Mo, aka "Mocktail Mo," whose journey to alcohol-free living began not with recovery, but with a medical mystery that took years to solve. After experiencing severe illness that doctors couldn't properly diagnose, Mo discovered she had developed alcohol intolerance - a condition that completely changed her relationship with drinking and ultimately led to her calling as a non-alcoholic beverage consultant.In this candid conversation, Mo shares how exclusion from traditional celebrations sparked her passion for creating inclusive drinking experiences, the surprising community she discovered in the alcohol-free space, and her mission to help restaurants and bars create thoughtful mocktail menus that go beyond "fancy soft drinks."Key Topics DiscussedMo's Medical JourneyYears of unexplained severe illness after drinkingMisdiagnosis and medical gaslightingThe friend who finally helped solve the mysteryUnderstanding alcohol intolerance vs. allergiesThe Birth of Mocktail MoMissing connection and celebration traditionsThe "wall of exclusion" that changed everythingLearning to respect different approaches to sobrietyWhy some people prefer club soda and limeThe Alcohol-Free IndustryCurrent state of restaurant mocktail offeringsThe difference between "fancy soft drinks" and true craft mocktailsWorking with establishments to improve their NA menusThe challenge of solving problems restaurants don't know they haveCommunity and ConnectionThe supportive alcohol-free communityA powerful story about finding alcohol-removed wine during her mother's final daysHow restaurants can provide emotional support through inclusive menusMemorable Quotes"I was put in this place by fate""A very big wall of exclusion popped up for me of no, no, this is not for you""You cannot impose what you want on everybody""It felt like someone had thrown out a lifesaver to me personally""If you're interested in it, there's a reason that you are interested in it"About Mo (Mocktail Mo)Mo is a non-alcoholic beverage consultant and mocktail expert who became alcohol-free due to alcohol intolerance. She works with restaurants and bars to create elevated non-alcoholic drink experiences and is passionate about ensuring everyone can participate in celebration and connection, regardless of their drinking status.Upcoming EventsFall Into You RetreatDate: October (one-day event)Location: ChicagoTime: Noon to 8 PMPartners: Heather Lowe (Ditch the Drink) and Kate Denage (Clarity Zero Proof)Includes: Arboretum hike, picnic lunch, workshops, mocktail demonstrations, dinner, and wellness activitiesRegistration: HEREResources MentionedAlcohol intolerance vs. alcohol allergyAsian flush syndromeAlcohol-removed wines and non-alcoholic beersDitched the DrinkClarity Zero ProofConnect with Mocktail MoWebsite - MocktailMo.comInstagram - @Mocktail.moYoutube - Zero = MoreSubstack - Mo's Mocktail DiariesConnect with AF Superpowers: Website  Instagram