It's our first Bravo Sobriety Hot Take! In this episode of Sisters in Sobriety, we dive into the sober journey of Summer House's Carl Radke. From his initial decision to quit drinking to his Cali sober lifestyle, we're breaking down what his sobriety looks like today and the challenges of navigating it in the Bravo universe.
Carl has been open about his struggles with alcohol, but when Lindsay revealed he had been smoking weed and using psychedelics, many fans were surprised. What does Cali sober really mean? Is it sustainable? How does it impact relationships, especially when one partner drinks? We also explore how filming a reality show in a drinking-heavy environment can affect sobriety.
We talk about the personal and emotional aspects of Carl’s sobriety. We discuss the impact of his brother's passing, how that tragedy influenced his decision to quit drinking, and the complexities of familial addiction. We’ll explore the common experience of comparing our drinking to others' and the realization that addiction manifests in different ways.
Carl's journey has been filled with ups and downs, from his highly publicized breakup with Lindsay to his efforts to build a life that aligns with his sober values. How does he handle temptation? How does he navigate friendships and career moves while staying committed to his version of sobriety? His decision to open a sober-friendly sports bar is just one example of how he's reshaping the narrative around drinking culture.
This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.
Time-Stamped Highlights:
[00:01:00] Sonia introduces the Bravo Hot Topics in Sobriety series. [00:02:00] Carl Radke's sobriety journey—what we knew vs. what we just learned.
[00:03:26] The role of reality TV in his decision to get sober. [00:04:28] The heartbreaking loss of Carl’s brother and its impact on his sobriety.
[00:05:49] Comparing personal drinking habits to those struggling with addiction.
[00:07:40] The anger and resentment Carl felt toward his brother’s addiction. [00:09:23] Carl’s reflection on his past drinking habits and relationship struggles.
[00:10:14] The importance of a supportive environment in early sobriety. [00:11:52] What does Cali sober actually mean? How does it work for Carl? [00:13:20] The controversy around Carl taking psychedelics at a music festival.
[00:15:00] The challenges of sobriety in relationships—how Lindsay played a role.
[00:16:37] The emotional impact of having your sobriety questioned by a partner.
[00:17:48] How Summer House’s environment affects Carl’s sobriety. [00:19:20] Does he struggle with temptation on the show?
[00:19:46] Carl’s new sober ventures: nonalcoholic bar and Loverboy’s NA teas.
[00:20:29] The importance of creating sober-friendly spaces in drinking culture.
[00:21:00] The big question: Is Cali sober sustainable for Carl long-term? [00:21:24] Wrapping up—why Carl’s journey is an important conversation.
Links
💌 Sisters In Sobriety Substack – where the magic (and the mocktail recipes) happen
📸 Sisters In Sobriety Instagram
🌐 Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast
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