You want to stop drinking, but words like “alcoholic,” “sober,” or “in recovery” just don't feel like you. Do you have to use them?

Matt and Dave join Julie and Steve for an honest (and sometimes spicy) conversation about how we describe our drinking and our decision to stop. We explore why a label can help one person recognize they need help while making someone else feel ashamed, boxed in, or like they don't belong.

We don’t all use the same words - or agree on what they mean. From “functional alcoholic” to “sober curious,” we share the experiences behind our opinions and how our language has changed over time.

In this episode: • How “functional alcoholic” can become a reason to keep drinking • Why some people embrace the alcoholic label and others resist it • Whether you have to identify as “in recovery” forever • The different meanings we attach to “sober” and “alcohol-free” • Counting days, drinking again, and whether progress gets erased • Finding connection and useful support even when the language doesn’t fit

If you’ve ever thought, “I just want to stop drinking - do I have to call myself something?” this conversation makes room for you.

Join our free Monday night community Talk with people navigating life without alcohol. No required labels or religious framework. Find meeting details and the link at https://noalcoholneeded.net.

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