April is Alcohol Awareness Month—a national observance dedicated to increasing awareness around the dangers of alcohol misuse and promoting paths to recovery.
At Positive Recovery MD, we’re committed to exploring these conversations with empathy, science, and hope. In honor of this important month, we’re highlighting four recent podcast episodes that tackle addiction from multiple angles: community, health, advocacy, and the need for inclusive sober spaces.
Whether you’re in recovery, supporting a loved one, or simply want to better understand how alcohol impacts our lives, these episodes are powerful reminders that recovery is possible—and that no one has to walk the path alone.
Recovery Advocacy: Taking Action That Matters with Sherri Layton
Advocates play a vital role in shaping the future of addiction recovery—helping people access care, reducing stigma, and influencing meaningful policy change. In this episode, longtime recovery advocate Sherri Layton shares how a single voice can have a lasting impact.
Drawing from her extensive work in the recovery field, Sherri discusses the importance of creating pathways to support and resources for those in need. Her insights show that advocacy isn’t just about legislation—it’s about connection, education, and meeting people where they are.
Why this matters:
Sherri reminds us that recovery is not just an individual experience—it’s a community-wide effort. Through advocacy, Sherri and George Joseph share various ways we can expand access to care and empower more people to seek help without shame. Whether you’re listening to this episode in supporting loved ones throughout Alcohol Awareness Month in April, National Recovery Month in September, and all the moments in between, know that your awareness and compassion make a meaningful difference.
Sans Bar: Creating Experiences That Foster True Connection with Chris Marshall
For many people, alcohol is seen as a social necessity—from weddings to networking events. But what happens when you remove alcohol from the equation? Chris Marshall, founder of Sans Bar—the first non-alcoholic bar in North America—has the answer.
In this episode, Chris and Julie DeNofa explore what it means to connect without alcohol and why sober social spaces are essential for those in recovery and the sober-curious community. Sans Bar is more than just a place—it’s a movement that proves joy, inclusion, and celebration don’t require alcohol.
Chris shares how his work as a substance use counselor inspired him to create alcohol-free environments and how Sans Bar has since grown into a national network of pop-up events that prioritize presence and authenticity.
Why this matters:
Feeling isolated in traditional drinking environments is a common challenge for those navigating life after treatment. Sans Bar is changing that narrative—redefining fun and friendship without alcohol. This is a great episode to listen to to stay inspired throughout Alcohol Awareness Month and a great resource if you’re looking for alternative community events to attend!
Alcohol’s Negative Impact on Sleep and Gut Health with Dr. Harold Minkowitz
In this eye-opening episode, board-certified anesthesiologist and clinical researcher Dr. Harold Minkowitz discusses the wide-reaching effects of alcohol on the brain, sleep, and gut health. He and Dr. Powers explore how even moderate alcohol use can interfere with memory, clarity, immune function, and overall longevity.
Dr. Minkowitz outlines three major ways alcohol negatively impacts the body—through brain fog and impaired cognitive function, sleep disruption (particularly REM sleep), and a weakened gut microbiome, which is critical for digestion and immunity.
The episode also introduces four core pillars for living a long, healthy life without alcohol: quality sleep, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and strong, supportive relationships.
Why this matters:
Alcohol’s negative health effects often fly under the radar. Dr. Minkowitz provides a compelling case for why going alcohol-free can dramatically improve both physical and mental well-being—and offers actionable tips for building a healthier lifestyle.
Creating Community for Individuals in Active Recovery, the Sober Curious, and Allies with Brett Bagley
Building community is one of the most powerful tools in recovery, and Brett Bagley is proof of that. As a Regional Marketing Specialist for The Phoenix, a national sober-active community, Brett helped grow the Houston chapter to over 3,000 members in under a year.
In this inspiring episode, Brett shares how creating accessible, alcohol-free spaces helped thousands of people feel seen, supported, and included. She and Dr. Powers also dive into important themes such as vulnerability, boundaries, inclusive language, and how to move past shame.
Brett’s personal and professional experiences illustrate the importance of celebrating our shared humanity while honoring individual journeys.
Why this matters:
Connection is a critical component of long-term recovery. Brett’s story illustrates how building inclusive, compassionate communities can help people not only recover—but thrive.
Alcohol Awareness Month and the Power of Conversation
These four episodes reflect the heart of Alcohol Awareness Month: education, empowerment, and hope. Whether it’s learning how alcohol affects the body, exploring new ways to socialize, or hearing from leaders on the frontlines of recovery advocacy, each conversation brings something meaningful to the table.
Through our podcast, Positive Recovery MD, we’re honored to share these stories and insights with listeners from all walks of life. If you or someone you love is impacted by alcohol, know that healing is possible—and support is just a listen away.
Subscribe to Positive Recovery MD on your favorite podcast platform to explore more episodes like these, and join us in spreading awareness this April and beyond.