Dry Waffle | Let's Talk Sobriety

Ep 11 – From Pints to Pull-Ups: A Mother & Daughter Sobriety Journey 💪🍷If you’ve ever thought “am I too far gone?” or “am I too old to change?”—this one’s for you. Spoiler: you’re not.This week, we’re joined by Polly and Bre—a powerhouse mother and daughter duo who’ve ditched booze, transformed their lives, and built something pretty bloody inspiring.We chat about everything from whisky at 14 to running 10Ks and starting new careers, and how choosing sobriety (at 30 and 57) completely reshaped their health, their identity, and their relationship. It’s emotional, empowering, and full of laugh-out-loud moments too.Episode Show NotesTopic of the Week: From Pints to Pull-Ups – The Mother & Daughter Sobriety JourneyIn this episode, we sit down with the wonderful Polly & Bre, a mother and daughter who went sober at totally different stages in life—but inspired and supported each other the whole way through.We talk through:How Brie gave up alcohol at 30 and inspired her mum to followPolly’s decision to quit at 57—and how it changed her health, mindset, and careerThe myths around alcohol and “functioning” in your career or as a parentGoing from wine o’clock to weight training, coaching, and real confidenceHow their relationship blossomed when alcohol left the chatThe different pressures across generations—and how they found common ground through sobrietyThis isn’t just about cutting out drinking—it’s about growth, connection, healing, and real change at any age.⭐ Key TakeawaysYou’re never too old—or too stuck—to make a change. Polly’s sobriety at 57 turned her life around.Sobriety shifts your identity. It’s scary, but it opens the door to who you actually are.Your reasons matter. Whether it’s health, energy, parenting, or purpose—your why is powerful.Relationships deepen when booze is off the table. Polly and Brie’s bond is proof.It’s okay to stop before things fall apart. You don’t need to hit rock bottom to want more.⭐ Get in touchPollyInstagram @sobercoachpollyWebsite: www.sobercoachpolly.comSober Summer starts June 1st 2025: Substack - A letter to my daughterBreBre Moves Instagram Ascend Coaching Ascend Community FB GroupFlow & Flourish RetreatDry Waffle InstagramTikTokSpotifyYouTubeSubscribe to newsletter

Episode 10 Summary 🎙️🧇 Ep 10 –“Dad, Are You an Alcoholic?” — The Wake-Up Call That Changed Everything with Luke JonesDouble digits, baby! And to mark the milestone, we’re joined by our first ever official Zoom guest — Luke Jones.Luke is a sober mindset coach on a mission to help men (especially dads) break free from booze and reconnect with the life they actually want to live. We chat about the slow creep of drinking habits, the moment his young son asked, “Dad, are you an alcoholic?” and how mindset work gave him the tools to flip the script on his whole life.This episode is packed with real talk on identity, coping mechanisms, parenting sober, and why you don’t need to hit ‘rock bottom’ to realise alcohol just isn’t serving you anymore.📝 Episode Show NotesIn Episode 10, we chat with Luke Jones, a mindset and sobriety coach with a brilliant story and a heart-led mission. He shares how his drinking habits shifted from social to self-soothing, what finally sparked his decision to go sober, and how he now supports other men—especially dads—on the same path.Expect: The power of mindset work in sobrietyHow being a parent changes the gameFrom social pints to secret pre-drinks—recognising the subtle shiftThat terrifying but necessary conversation with his sonThe joy (and clarity) of sober rugby games and darts nightsThe huge identity shift that happens when you take booze out of your lifeAnd of course, some classic Bobby & Betty waffle about turning 30-something, creative outlets, and keeping each other (mostly) sane.🧠 Key TakeawaysYou don’t have to hit rock bottom to stop drinking. Luke’s story proves that real change can come from moments of clarity, not collapse.Mindset is everything. Doing the inner work helped Luke build resilience and reframe his relationship with alcohol.Sobriety gives you a new identity—but that shift can feel scary. Especially when your old one was built around booze.Your kids see more than you think. And sometimes, they’re the ones who say the thing that changes everything.You’re allowed to want more. More presence, more energy, more pride in yourself—and yes, more darts without hangovers.

🎙️ Episode 9 SummaryEp 9 – The Pros and Cons of SobrietyThis week, Bobby and Betty get real about life on the sober side. No sugar-coating, no preachy stuff—just an honest, messy, and hilarious dive into what’s actually good, bad, and awkward about not drinking. From sharper mornings to awkward social moments, we spill the tea on what sobriety has done for our heads, bodies, and our relationship (hello, healing... and a potato being thrown) over the last 9 months. Whether you're sober-curious or many months deep, this one's for you.📝 Episode Show NotesEpisode Title: The Pros & Cons of Sobriety Hosts: Bobby & BettyEpisode Length: 52 minutesIn this episode, we chat all about the pros and cons of sobriety—how it’s helped us grow individually and as a couple, and what we still find tough. Expect laughs, honesty, and some good ol' DryWaffle reflection. We cover:The unexpected perks (like remembering what we said last night 🙃)The tough bits (why do all social events feel like a drinking test?!)How sobriety brought us closer… and why that’s not always comfortableIdentity, purpose, and dealing with feelings instead of drowning them🔸 Whether you’re here for the sober chat or just along for the ride, thanks for tuning in. We’re not experts—we’re just figuring it out with you.💬 Got a sober pro or con you wanna share? DM us @drywafflepodcast⭐ Key TakeawaysIn this episode, we reflect on our nine-month sobriety journey, highlighting both challenges and benefits.Clarity is a superpower: Being sober helps you show up as your real self—with energy, intention, and way less regret.Sobriety brings connection—but it’s not always easy: We’ve grown closer, but we’ve also had to face harder truths about ourselves and each other without the numbing buffer of booze.Social situations can be weird at first: From navigating parties to explaining why you're not drinking, it’s a journey—and sometimes an awkward one.You’re forced to feel… and that’s actually good: Emotions, triggers, and past patterns all come up when you’re sober—but feeling them is what brings healing.Not drinking doesn’t mean missing out—it means making room: We’ve discovered new hobbies, deeper conversations, and yes, earlier bedtimes.

🎙️ Episode 8 SummaryEp 8 – What our friends REALLY think about us going sober 🍷➡️💛This week, we’re joined by two of our best mates, Leah and Leanne, for a proper heart-to-heart on how sobriety changes friendships, social lives, and your entire sense of self.From wild teen parties and WKD-fuelled memories to awkward transitions and fearing you’re “not the fun one” anymore—we’re getting real about what it’s like to show up differently in relationships after going sober.It’s honest, it’s nostalgic, it’s a little bit chaotic—and it’s full of the stuff we all think about when we start shifting the role alcohol plays in our lives.📝 Episode Show NotesIn this episode, we welcome two very special guests—our longtime mates—to explore:How we all started drinking as teens (and how intense it actually was)The fear of becoming “boring” or “less fun” when you stop drinkingThe panic of seeing yourself tagged in drunken videos the next dayNavigating karaoke, parties, and gigs when you’re newly soberHow to talk to mates about going sober (and why it feels like a big deal)How true friendships evolve—and sometimes deepen—when the booze goes🧠 Key TakeawaysSobriety can trigger a full identity shift. If drinking was tied to your confidence, social skills, or even self-worth, removing it brings all that up.You don’t need a big ‘rock bottom’ to go sober. You’re allowed to simply want more for yourself.The right friends stick around. And they’ll walk the new path with you—even if it means swapping tequila for tea.It’s okay to miss your ‘party self’. But that version of you wasn’t better—just different. And the current you is just as worthy of a good time.You’re still fun, you’re still valuable, and you still belong. Even without the vodka.

🎙️ Episode 9 SummaryEp 7 – Sober Celebrations: Betty's Birthday Special 🎉🍰It’s Betty’s birthday! 🥳 But this year, things are looking a little different. No boozy brunches, no hungover regrets—just good vibes, great company, and a whole lot of reflection on what it means to celebrate sober.In this episode, we chat about how we’re rewriting old habits, embracing new traditions, and proving that fun doesn’t have to come with a side of tequila. From planning birthday treats to fighting the urge to do what we've always done, this one’s all about joy, intention, and celebrating the wins—big and small—without a drink in hand.📝 Episode Show NotesIt’s a birthday special on DryWaffle! 🎂 In this episode, Bobby & Betty dive into what it means to celebrate milestones while sober. We explore:How Betty planned her first sober birthdayLetting go of old traditions that revolved around alcoholCreating new, meaningful rituals (think fresh air, good food, and actual memories)How to handle the FOMO when you see others still partying the old wayWhy sober joy is quieter, deeper, and actually… betterIf you’re figuring out how to do life without alcohol—especially the big, celebratory moments—this one’s packed with encouragement, ideas, and honest chat.🧠 Key TakeawaysSober birthdays hit different—in the best way. You actually remember them, and you wake up feeling proud.Celebrating doesn’t have to mean drinking—it can mean connection, calm, adventure, or just doing something that makes you feel good.You’re allowed to outgrow old traditions. Just because you used to go hard on your birthday doesn’t mean you have to now.Get creative with your joy. Nature walks, cheese boards, board games, spa days, solo cinema trips—whatever feels like you.Talk it through. If you’re struggling with changing how you celebrate, speak it out. You’re not boring, you’re brave.Companies mentioned in this episode: Sober Girl Society Hinterland Wholesome Junkies Grand Pacific CatbellsWray Castle

Episode 6 Summary Ep. 6: Sobriety in Society: Is the Stigma Changing? Sobriety is becoming more mainstream, but is it really accepted? In this episode, we dive into the evolving role of alcohol in society—how Gen Z's are drinking less, why bars are catering more to the sober crowd, and whether the stigma around not drinking still exists.We also get personal about the challenges of long-term sobriety, how we navigate social pressures, and why some people still react like you’ve just told them you eat soup with a fork when you say, “I don’t drink.”Whether you're sober, sober-curious, or just wondering why booze is still such a big deal, this one’s for you.Episode Show Notes ✨Ep. 6: Sobriety in Society – Is the Stigma Changing?🎙️ In this episode, we chat about:Is sobriety becoming more socially acceptable?The shift in drinking habits—why Gen Z is drinking lessThe awkward “Wait… you don’t drink?” reactionsAre alcohol-free options making sober nights out better?The pressure to explain why you’re not drinking (and should you have to?)Could alcohol go the way of cigarettes?💌 Join the conversation! Tell us—have you noticed attitudes toward sobriety changing? Drop a comment or message us on Instagram!Key Takeaways from Ep. 6 – Sobriety in Society 💡✅ Sobriety is more accepted, but stigma still exists. More bars are catering to non-drinkers, but people still expect you to justify your choice.✅ Gen Z is drinking way less than older generations. The shift toward health, social media’s influence, and changing cultural norms are playing a big role.✅ Explaining your sobriety shouldn’t be a thing. If you say you don’t drink, why do people act like you just told them you hate puppies?✅ Alcohol-free drinks are improving, but there’s still work to do. Great for some, but if you don’t like beer, options can be limited.✅ Dry January & sober curiosity are shifting the culture. More people are experimenting with breaks from alcohol, making non-drinking feel less weird.✅ Sobriety isn’t about restriction—it’s about freedom. It’s not about what you’re giving up, but about what you gain.If you loved this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, follow us on socials, and share with a mate who needs to hear this! 💛

Episode 5 Summary Ep. 5: Dating & Relationships in Sobriety ExploredNavigating relationships is tricky enough, but throw sobriety into the mix, and things can get real interesting. In this episode, we dive into how going sober impacted our relationship—from dating in the early days to navigating one partner quitting drinking first. We talk about the challenges, the shifts in our social life, and the surprising ways sobriety has actually strengthened our connection. Whether you're in a sober relationship, dating someone who drinks, or just figuring it all out—this one’s for you.Episode Show Notes ✨Episode 5: Dating & Relationships in Sobriety ExploredIn this episode, we chat about:💛 How we met (spoiler: it took two swipes)🍷 One of us had no plans to quit drinking—so how did we end up here?🥂 What it’s like dating sober vs. dating while drinking💬 The tough conversations we had along the way🔄 How sobriety changed our relationship (for the better)🔥 The unexpected benefits of being in a sober relationship🎭 Navigating FOMO, social shifts, and changing habits togetherRelationships and sobriety can be a wild mix, but they don’t have to be a dealbreaker. Whether you're considering sobriety, already on the journey, or navigating a relationship where one of you drinks and the other doesn’t—there’s something in here for you.💌 Join the conversation: Follow us on social, subscribe, and let us know your experiences with dating & relationships in sobriety!Key Takeaways from Ep. 5 – Dating & Relationships in Sobriety Explored Navigating different drinking habits in a relationship is HARD. If one person is quitting and the other isn’t, it can feel like a big shift—but open conversations make all the difference.Social lives will change, but that’s not always a bad thing. We swapped chaotic nights out for deeper connection, clearer communication, and way better mornings.Trust levels go through the roof. No more ‘Where the hell are they?’ moments—when you’re both sober, you know exactly what (and who) you’re coming home to.It’s normal to grieve the ‘fun’ drinking days—but don’t get stuck there. The beer garden nostalgia is real, but so is the reality of hangovers, regret, and exhaustion.If you’re questioning alcohol’s role in your relationship, listen to that voice. Change is scary, but if something isn’t serving you anymore, it’s okay to reevaluate.Sober sex? Way better. No floppy sausage. No questionable decisions. Just good, clear-headed connection (with zero regrets).Sobriety gives you consistency. No more unpredictable behavior, bad decisions, or personality changes after a few too many—just you, fully present, every day.You don’t have to quit together, but support is everything. If your partner isn’t on the same path, mutual respect and understanding are key. And if they’re not supportive? That’s worth looking at.At the end of the day, relationships evolve—sober or not. But choosing what’s best for you will always be the right move. 💛

Episode 4 Summary Ep. 4:Socialising Sober - easier said than done, right? Socialising without alcohol—easier said than done, right? In this episode, we get real about the awkwardness, the anxiety, and the unexpected wins of learning to navigate social life sober. From game nights and long walks to live music and deep chats, we’re figuring out what actually makes us happy (spoiler: it’s not standing in a bar for seven hours).We also tackle the big questions—do we need to “fake” extroversion? How do we push ourselves without forcing it? And are we actually boring now? (Hint: no.)So, whether you're thriving in your sober social life or still working out what the hell to do with your hands at a party, this one’s for you. No judgment, no pressure—just real talk, proper laughs, and a reminder that you get to make your own rules. 💪✨Discussed in today's episodedrywaffle << subscribe to our newsletter now! Macclesfield Forest - our walk on All TrailsThe Monastry, Manchester.January Butler as CelineTraitors board game Takeaways:Socialising sober is a whole new game. It’s not just about swapping cocktails for mocktails—it’s about figuring out what actually makes you happy (and it turns out, bars aren’t that fun without booze).Not all socialising is created equal. Some people love big nights out, others prefer deep one-on-one chats. Know what you enjoy and stop forcing yourself into situations that don’t suit you.Alcohol used to be a social crutch. For introverts like Bobby, drinking made it easier to be outgoing. But was that really him? Sober socialising means facing those inner demons and finding confidence without liquid courage.Find what actually brings you joy. Live music? Walks in nature? Board games with mates? Once you take alcohol out of the equation, you start discovering the things you genuinely love.FOMO isn’t real—if you’re not enjoying it, you’re not missing out. Staying out all night when you'd rather be in bed? Not the vibe. Do what feels right for you.You’re not boring, you’re just evolving. Society makes us think alcohol = fun, but the reality is, you can have just as much of a laugh (if not more) without it.Push yourself, but don’t force it. If you want to do something but feel nervous—go for it. But if it’s draining you, don’t be afraid to step away.The best convos happen sober. No shouting over loud music, no forgetting what was said, just proper deep chats where you actually connect with people.Your social life, your rules. Whether it’s a 15k walk, a Celine Dion tribute gig, or a two-hour coffee catch-up—if it makes you happy, that’s all that matters.At the end of the day, sobriety isn’t about restriction—it’s about freedom to choose what truly works for you. 💪✨

Episode 3 Summary Ep. 3: From Binge Drinking to Sobriety: Our First Six MonthsIn this episode, we reflect on our first six months of sobriety—the challenges, triumphs, and everything in between. From emotional ups and downs to deep self-discovery, we dive into the tough but transformative journey of early sobriety.If you're sober-curious, exploring sobriety, or on a similar path, we hope this episode helps you feel seen and supported. You’re fighting for a better, healthier future—keep going, you got this! 💪☕Takeaways:The decision to pursue sobriety was motivated by the recognition that alcohol no longer served a constructive role in our lives. The initial months of sobriety presented numerous challenges. We have discovered that the journey to sobriety involves not only abstaining from alcohol but also confronting underlying emotional and psychological issues. Engaging in self-reflection and developing new coping mechanisms have been essential to our progress in sobriety. As we continue our sober journey, we aim to inspire others by illustrating that it is possible to enjoy life without alcohol. Links referenced in this episode: drywaffle.com

Episode 2 Summary Ep. 2: Did we just get TRIGGERED? Understanding Emotional Responses in SobrietyTriggers, those sneaky little uncomfortable moments that creep up on you, where the urge to revert to drinking becomes rampant... For episode two, we're here to tell the tale of our trigger week from hell. From meeting the in laws to spotty insecurities. Inappropriate table flatulence to social anxiety antics. It's time to waffle. Takeaways: The decision to embrace sobriety stemmed from years of negative experiences related to alcohol consumption. Acknowledging triggers is vital in maintaining sobriety and navigating emotional challenges without alcohol. Engaging in alternative activities can provide enjoyment and fulfilment without the need for alcohol, facilitating social interactions. This episode emphasises the importance of accountability and support from friends during the sober journey. A significant aspect of sobriety is learning to cope with discomfort and emotional situations without resorting to drinking. The speakers highlight the transformative experience of enjoying life more fully while being sober, despite the challenges faced.

Episode 1 Summary Ep. 1: Welcome to Dry Waffle - Who We Are & Why We Went Sober 🎙️☕Welcome to the very first episode of Dry Waffle! In this episode, we (Bobby & Betty) introduce ourselves, share a bit about our background, and dive into why we made the decision to go sober on August 5th, 2024. After years of wild nights, messy mornings, and all the chaos in between, we realised alcohol wasn’t serving the life we wanted to build.We talk about how it all started, the ups, the downs, and everything in between—how sobriety has challenged us so far and why we’re sharing this journey with you. Whether you’re sober, sober-curious, or just figuring things out, we hope this podcast feels like a warm, judgment-free chat with mates.So, grab a brew, get comfy, and let’s waffle! ☕✨Links referenced in this episode:drywaffle.comTakeaways: Bobby and Betty decided to become sober after years of binge drinking and bad decisions. The podcast aims to provide a judgment-free space for those exploring sobriety or curious about it. They emphasize that sobriety doesn't require being at rock bottom to start the journey. Both hosts share their personal struggles with alcohol and how it affected their lives. They aim to keep themselves accountable through the podcast and engage with listeners' stories. The couple's journey includes learning better coping mechanisms and understanding their past drinking behaviors.