Progress, Not Perfection: Kristi Tanner's Journey from Addiction to Empowerment

In this episode, Kristi Tanner, a recovering alcoholic and founder of Sober Social, Wisconsin's first non-alcoholic bottle shop, shares her profoundly honest journey from addiction to empowerment. As a recovery advocate, speaker, Certified Recovery Coach, and community builder, Kristi has dedicated herself to bridging the gap between sobriety and society since becoming sober in 2019. Kristi and Mikie discuss how society's view on alcohol influences our relationships with drinking and explore innovative ways to connect socially without alcohol.Key Topics:Kristi's personal experience with addiction, recovery, and jail timeThe societal pressure around alcohol and drinking cultureHow sobriety can bring confidence, freedom, and genuine connectionThe rise of sober-curious movements and non-alcoholic beverage optionsBuilding community through honesty and shared experiencesPractical tips for exploring sobriety while maintaining an active social lifeThe importance of owning one's story and removing shameThe innovative concept of non-alcoholic bottle shops promoting inclusivityThe impact of industry marketing on alcohol consumptionTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Kristi Tanner and her story of recovery02:18 - Sobriety as an ongoing journey, not a finish line02:48 - The challenges of the early years of sobriety03:37 - Using alcohol as a coping mechanism for emotional discomfort04:56 - Society's glamorization of alcohol and its impact06:36 - How to enjoy social life alcohol-free07:12 - Connection as the real antidote to addiction09:26 - Educating others and creating space for sober-curious individuals11:53 - The societal embeddedness of alcohol in celebrations13:16 - The influence of marketing and industry tactics15:28 - The rise of non-alcoholic products and health warnings17:02 - Personal reflections on high school drinking and cultural norms19:18 - The significance of honesty and vulnerability in recovery journeys24:02 - Opening the first non-alcoholic bottle shop in Wisconsin26:16 - Making sobriety proud and accessible for everyone30:32 - The power of community support and shared stories32:22 - The importance of owning your story without shame36:42 - Breaking free from destructive patterns and choices41:30 - Living a full, confident life post-recovery44:43 - Redefining societal perceptions of sobriety and drinking50:54 - The impact of openly sharing struggles and wins58:48 - Practical advice for sober-curious listeners62:27 - Launching the first non-alcoholic bottle shop and community building66:39 - Exploring functional beverages and mindful consumption71:00 - Connecting over non-alcoholic options and the importance of inclusivity73:09 - Wrap-up and invitation for future guestsResources & Links:Sober Curious by Ruby WarringtonThis Naked Mind by Annie GraceQuit Like a Woman by Holly WhitakerConnect with Kristi Tanner:Mocktail Mommy InstagramSober Social Website