Sober Boozers Club

Has the explosion of alcohol-free options actually narrowed our choices? That's the provocative question at the heart of my conversation with Andy Mee, founder of The Alcohol-Free Drinks Company and a passionate advocate for quality non-alcoholic beverages.

Four years ago, Andy was knocking on doors trying to convince pubs and restaurants they needed even a single alcohol-free option. Today, the landscape has transformed dramatically - but not necessarily for the better. While most venues now stock alcohol-free drinks, they're increasingly dominated by "blue label" products from industry giants, pushing innovative independent producers to the sidelines.

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Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of your favorite alcohol-free craft beers? In this enlightening conversation with Richard Gray (aka Zumo Juice), we pull back the curtain on an industry that's rapidly evolving from afterthought to innovation leader.

Richard takes us through his journey as a graphic designer working with pioneering breweries like Mash Gang, sharing insider stories that will change how you view what's in your glass. From exploding cans and experimental ingredients to the delicate art of balancing hop profiles without alcohol, his perspective reveals the extraordinary creativity driving today's alcohol-free revolution.
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Bridging the Atlantic in pursuit of great alcohol-free beer, this episode brings together two passionate advocates from the growing global NA beer community. We're joined by NA Brewskey, essentially "the American version of me," as our host puts it—though notably younger and with superior social media skills!

NA Brewskey shares his surprisingly recent journey into non-alcoholic beer, having only started in February 2023 after just five years of drinking craft beer. What makes his story compelling is how he maintained his identity as "the craft beer guy" by discovering the growing world of non-alcoholic options. "When I st...

The world of alcohol-free beer has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past year, evolving from niche curiosity to craft revolution. In this conversation with Martin Dixon (Alcohol-Free World), we explore the extraordinary developments redefining zero-alcohol brewing and drinking culture.

We dive deep into the UK craft beer scene, where pioneers like Mash Gang have revolutionized brewing techniques for alcohol-free IPAs. Their willingness to share knowledge rather than guard brewing secrets has accelerated innovation throughout the industry, creating a rising tide that lifts all brewers. The result? A market flooded with exceptional hazy IPAs that would have...

What happens when everything you've built your identity around suddenly feels hollow? Richard Casement faced this question after 20 years in the drinks industry when he realized alcohol wasn't serving him anymore – personally or professionally.

Richard's transformation began as a simple six-month break from drinking to train for a triathlon. But something unexpected happened: he felt better, thought clearer, and couldn't find a good reason to go back to alcohol. The only problem? His dream job selling premium spirits brands now felt completely misaligned with his values.

This clash sparked a profound journey that led Richard to...

What does it take to create the best alcohol-free beer in the country? Sam Ray of We Can Be Friends brewery joins Ben Gibbs to reveal the passion, craftsmanship, and unexpected journey behind his remarkable beer range that's winning over even the most dedicated craft beer enthusiasts.

"I'd turn around every month and you'd be doing something amazing for the scene," Sam tells Ben, highlighting the mutual respect between these two champions of alcohol-free culture. Their conversation dives deep into Sam's meticulous brewing process, including his insistence on fresh hops, premium ingredients, and gold-standard pasteurization that sets...

Discover the fascinating craft of alcohol-free brewing with Hamish McClellan, brewer at Barsham Brewery in North Norfolk. This engaging conversation takes you deep into the world of zero-proof beer creation, revealing why the best alcohol-free options aren't mere substitutes but masterpieces in their own right.

Hamish shares his journey from hospitality worker to passionate brewer, explaining how he found his calling through experimentation and self-education. When he joined Barsham, he came with a clear vision: to create an exceptional alcohol-free beer that would stand proudly alongside their traditional range. The result, "Stacked AF," has been winning over...

The craft beer world is smaller than you think – that's what I discovered when chatting with my first-ever American guest, Tyler McMahon (aka Reducaholic). Tyler has made it his mission to map every venue across the United States serving quality alcohol-free beer, creating an invaluable resource for the sober curious and non-drinkers alike.

Our conversation quickly revealed fascinating contrasts between UK and US alcohol-free beer cultures. While Athletic Brewing might offer disappointing supermarket options in Britain, they're brewing hundreds of innovative styles stateside that never cross the Atlantic. Meanwhile, Tom Holland's Bero beer generates buzz on both co...

What began as a small family-run off-license in 1979 has become an award-winning institution at the forefront of Birmingham's craft beer revolution. Join host Ben Gibbs as he sits down with Krishan and Tim from Stirchley Wines and Spirits to uncover the fascinating story behind one of the UK's most respected bottle shops.

Their journey weaves through decades of beer evolution—from introducing exotic international brews to Birmingham in the early 90s, championing the British craft beer movement with early adoption of BrewDog and Thornbridge, to now leading the charge in the alcohol-free beer revolution with nearly 50 different op...

What happens when a seasoned beverage industry veteran decides to revolutionize the alcohol-free cider market? In this fascinating conversation, John Logue, founder of Chance Clean Cider, takes us behind the scenes of creating what might be the most authentic British alcohol-free cider on the market.

Having cut his teeth at industry giants like Diageo, Rekorderlig, BrewDog, and Lucky Saint, John identified a glaring gap in the non-alcoholic space. While beer, spirits, and wine had seen quality alcohol-free alternatives emerge, cider – the UK's third largest drinks category – remained woefully underrepresented. Drawing on his extensive experience, John embarked on a th...

What happens when an accountant develops a passion for alcohol-free craft beer? In this candid conversation, Ben Gibbs sits down with Roger Tattersall, former CFO and co-owner of Mash Gang, to explore the unexpected journey that took him from corporate finance to revolutionizing the alcohol-free beer industry.

The story begins with socks – yes, actual socks – and unfolds into one of the most remarkable success stories in the burgeoning world of alcohol-free beverages. Roger shares how a simple purchase led to joining the tight-knit "family" at Mash Gang, where he helped transform a fledgling startup into a brand that...

When Sonja Mitchell couldn't find good alcohol-free beer during Dry January 2018, she did what any frustrated craft beer lover might dream of doing – she started Scotland's first dedicated alcohol-free brewery. Jump Ship Brewing was born from that frustration, and has since collected numerous awards for their innovative, flavor-packed beers.

In this captivating conversation, Sonja pulls back the curtain on the fascinating world of alcohol-free brewing, revealing why it's anything but simple. "The whole process is just a lot more finickety," she explains, detailing the unique challenges of creating complex flavors without alcohol's natural preservative properties. Her description of...

What happens when a sober beer enthusiast sits down with two craft beer podcasters? A fascinating exploration of beer culture that bridges the divide between traditional and alcohol-free brewing worlds.

In this candid conversation, Ben welcomes Dave and Dave (yes, both of them!) from the Daft About Craft podcast to discuss their parallel journeys through the beer landscape. While the Daves share their evolution from casual lager drinkers to craft beer aficionados, Ben opens up about how the same craft beer explosion during lockdown revealed his struggles with alcohol. The contrast between these experiences creates a powerful...

Ever wondered if a staunch traditional beer enthusiast could pivot to championing alcohol-free brews? Join us as we welcome James Beard award-winning writer and Sunday Brunch's renowned beer expert Mark Dredge, who shares his fascinating journey from the world of traditional beers to becoming a passionate advocate for alcohol-free options. Mark enthusiastically showcases standout examples like "We Could Be Friends," Mash Gang, Fierce, and Williams Brothers, illuminating how the quality and variety of these beers have improved remarkably. His insights provide a fresh perspective on enjoying the beer experience without the downsides of alcohol.

Throughout our conversation...

Ever wondered if you could rebuild your life in your 40s without relying on alcohol? Join us for a heartfelt chat with Michael Sarooud, also known as Happy Without the Hooch, as he candidly shares his journey through early sobriety. We laugh and learn about weight gain, the struggle for a healthier lifestyle, and overcoming the physical and emotional hurdles of quitting alcohol. Michael's multiple attempts at moderation over a decade and the pivotal moment that led him to a sober life offer both insight and inspiration.

We also navigate the complex relationship with alcohol and the...

What does it take to brew a hit alcohol-free beer in Australia? Trent from Mash Gang Australia joins us to share the journey behind their latest creation, Beach Goon, and its entry in the Australian Independent Brewing Awards. We have a laugh over Australian stereotypes, especially the infamous Foster's beer, and chat about the charm of shandies and Radlers. Trent opens up about his path into alcohol-free brewing, ignited during the lockdowns of 2020, and his adventures with these unique beverages worldwide.

Brewing beer in Australia comes with its own set of challenges, from vast distances to unpredictable...

What if you could redefine your social life while prioritizing your well-being? Join us as we chat with Roger Warner, the visionary co-founder of Only With Love, a unique well-being brewery in East Sussex. Roger, alongside his partner Steve, is pioneering a movement focused on low and no-alcohol beverages, with their popular Juicy AF pale ales leading the charge. This episode delves into their inspiring mission to rejuvenate over 200 community venues across the UK within the next decade. Roger shares their personal journey towards health-conscious brewing practices, offering an insightful look into the future of alcohol-free craft beer.
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As I sat with my friend Pearl—a stand-up comedian with a knack for turning life's lemons into comedic lemonade—we peeled back layers of our sobriety journeys. She revealed the complexities of living alcohol-free within the creative arts, a world often drenched in the temptation of excess. From the initial utility of non-alcoholic beverages in her early days of sobriety to her ultimate ability to leave them behind, Pearl's candid stories offer both insight and amusement. Our chatter wandered through the quirks of human behavior, from guessing strangers' crisp preferences to the head-scratching irony of pastry names across bord...

Sail with us into the spirited waters of low and no alcohol beer, as I, Ben, alongside Rob of Below Brew Co, chart the course from the brand's initial conception to its sea-inspired rebranding. Discover how a trademark hiccup led to a quest for international recognition, sparking creativity and a thirst for new horizons in the burgeoning realm of non-alcoholic brews. We'll regale you with tales from Below Brew Co's journey, detailing the swift rise from side project to a full-fledged business with its own dedicated team, all the while maintaining a firm grasp on their nautical roots and...

Have you ever raised a glass at a celebration, only to wish there was a non-alcoholic option that didn't feel like an afterthought? Andy Mee, founder of the Alcohol-Free Drinks Company, joins us to share how his personal journey to sobriety led to a business that's transforming the landscape of social drinking. We traverse the burgeoning world of non-alcoholic beers that dare to stand toe-to-toe with their boozy brethren, offering a new realm of inclusivity within drink menus everywhere. Toast to this enlightening conversation that uncovers the heartening shift in societal norms, where choosing not to drink is not...

When Shell Regini, the heart and soul behind the 'We Recover Loudly' podcast, pulls up a chair, you know you're in for an unfiltered trek down the road to sobriety. Together, we unravel the tapestry of challenges and laughter that stitches together our sober lives, musing over everything from the physical comedy of a broken toe to the stark revelations that come with mental and physical health awareness. Our candid banter traverses the unexpected, often humorous, side of life post-addiction—like agonizing over coffee choices and embracing tranquility amid the erstwhile chaos.

Have you ever wondered what it...

Discover the unexpected joys of alcohol-free beer as I, Ben, sit down with Sam Ray, the mastermind behind New Kids on the Block, We Can Be Friends, and uncover the vibrant world of non-alcoholic brews. Sam's dedication and inventive approach have led to creations that rival their alcoholic counterparts in complexity and taste, challenging the very notion of what a non-alcoholic beer can be. From discussing the economic implications of crafting these beverages to the cultural shifts in perception, this episode promises to enlighten both the beer connoisseur and the curious listener.

Sam and I navigate the...

Navigating the lively world of non-alcoholic brews, I'm Ben, your companion and chief enthusiast at the Sober Boozers Club podcast. This episode is a toast to the curious and the committed, as we're joined by the inspiring Martin Dixon of Alcohol-Free World. We swap stories about our discovery of alcohol-free beer, with Martin sharing how a Dry January blossomed into an unanticipated but welcome lifestyle. Whether you're sober-curious or have been on this journey for miles, our candid chat promises to resonate, celebrating the alcohol-free beer industry's role in fostering inclusion and community.

Raise your glasses—filled with th...

When laughter and lessons collide, you get a unique peek behind the curtain of the low and no alcohol beverage industry with my guest, Jordan from Mash Gang. This week on the Sober Boozers Club podcast, we share candid tales from the trenches of business, revealing the often-overlooked chaos of delivery mishaps and the delicate dance of balancing cost against quality packaging. Jordan's wisdom illuminates the hidden costs that shock consumers and the importance of sturdy containers in protecting our precious cargo – all with a dose of humor over the absurdities of their trade.
 
 Navigating the choppy wate...

When life handed Alex Loveday, co founder of Mash Gang, a spinal stroke at 17, he didn't just learn to walk again—he sprinted into the world of entrepreneurship with a mission to brew up change. Our conversation peels back the layers of Alex's story, revealing how passions for skateboarding and heavy metal fueled the unique spirit of the Mash Gang brand. We navigate the often unseen difficulties in running a business with such a small number of people, the camaraderie that sustains this, and the tenacity it takes to carve out a niche in the non-alcoholic brewing industry during a gl...

Ever found yourself at a crossroads where the bottle you once considered a friend became your fiercest foe? That's the story of my life I've unfolded in the safe haven of the Sober Boozers Club. With Greg and Jay, we pull back the curtain on a narrative of addiction, the havoc it wreaked on my life and relationships, and the journey towards sobriety that began on a pivotal January day in 2022. This intimate chat isn't just about the low moments; it's a celebration of the clarity and personal growth found in the wake of putting down the glass.
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