Richmond is Sober-Curious: How Jody Sidle Reimagined Drinking Culture with Point 5 #020

Got thoughts? Throw them at us by sending a text hereVisit Point 5 at 3435 West Cary St, Richmond, VApoint5rva.comIn this guest interview, we sit down with Jody Sidle — founder and driving force behind Point 5 in Carytown (Richmond, VA) — to talk about the sober-curious wave reshaping how Richmond goes out. 2 books we mentioned in conversation:• Drunk: How We Sipped, Danced, and Stumbled Our Way to Civilization: ⁠https://amzn.to/48XY5pU⁠• Alcohol Explained by William Porter: ⁠https://amzn.to/3JIHuMuPoint 5 is Richmond’s first non-alcoholic bottle shop located right here in Carytown. Driven by her own journey into an alcohol-free lifestyle, Jody launched Point 5 to create an inviting space for everyone: including those who are sober, sober-curious, or simply interested in discovering high-quality alternative and unique beverages. At Point 5, Jody and Lewis; Point 5’s Manager - curate a smart selection of non-alcoholic spirits, functional and nootropic drinks, canned beers and wines, as well as gluten-free and dairy-free options that reflect modern taste and lifestyle.  Their vision extends beyond retail: They believe that the ritual of gathering, pouring a drink, and being social doesn’t have to be defined by alcohol. Their mission with Point 5 is to normalize alternative drinking culture, encourage inclusivity, and support expanded choice within Richmond’s diverse community.Jody opens up about quitting alcohol and rebuilding the nighttime ritual without the hangover, then walks us through real NA options with bite and “mouthfeel” that still feel like an adult drink (Amethyst, Little Saints, reishi/lion’s mane, and nootropic/adaptogen–driven beverages, and more).    We get tactical: why bars and restaurants should stock serious NA programs (margins, tips, inclusivity), how this changes spend, and what’s happening inside corporate/events where mid-day “old fashioneds” are now zero-proof—and everyone can drive home.    Jody also previews Point 5’s growth: two franchises in New Jersey, Williamsburg on deck, and how she protects local radius so every franchise owner wins. We close with an open invitation to explore — not as an identity or lifetime pledge, but as a low-pressure experiment you can start today.And if you’re NA-curious, try asking for Amethyst or Little Saints next time you’re out — Richmond’s already making room at the bar.  Support the showGet more info about our studio here.This podcast is produced by Vera House — a creative club and premium media studio based in Richmond, Virginia. Our studio exists to champion local brands, creative expression, rva culture, and produce high-impact content for founders, makers, and modern businesses.Follow the movement:instagram.com/verahouse.coyoutube.com/@verahousepodverahouse.coHosted by Myke Metzger & Perri Young:instagram.com/mykemetzgerinstagram.com/planetperri