On a recent episode of the Sober Life Rocks podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Lauren Welch — a woman whose honest and relatable journey into sobriety has inspired thousands. Lauren’s story isn’t one of rock bottom or rehab. Instead, it’s about subtle realizations, personal transformation, and the power of curiosity. Her path into sobriety began quietly — like so many others — with a single decision to just pause.

Now, with nearly 800 days alcohol-free and the launch of her new project, The Sober Curious Society, Lauren is using her voice to support others who are questioning their relationship with alcohol. Whether you’re fully sober, thinking about taking a break, or simply curious about how life might feel without the evening glass of wine, Lauren’s story has something for you.

A “Normal” Start

Lauren’s early relationship with alcohol looked pretty typical. She drank socially in high school, continued into her twenties, and carried on through the years of dating, marriage, and new motherhood. Nights out turned into wine nights at home — a glass or two becoming three or four more often than she expected.

She described it as feeling “normal,” but something always felt slightly off. Even back in high school, Lauren noticed she might be drinking differently than others — whether in the amount, the frequency, or just how she felt afterward. But it wasn’t until years later that she began to truly question what alcohol was doing to her life.

The Turning Point

The moment everything shifted came unexpectedly. Lauren attended a wedding where tensions with someone she already didn’t get along with erupted into a full-blown argument. Fueled by alcohol and “liquid courage,” as she described it, the night ended in a screaming match that left her embarrassed and deeply unsettled the next morning.

That hangover wasn’t just physical — it was emotional. She realized that this version of herself wasn’t someone she wanted to be anymore. So she made a quiet decision: no drinking for a week. Just to reset. Just to clear her head.

What happened next surprised her.

One Week Turned Into Almost 800 Days

During that first alcohol-free week, Lauren noticed something: she felt better. Her sleep improved. She wasn’t waking up foggy or anxious. There was a kind of clarity she hadn’t expected — and certainly hadn’t realized she was missing.

One week became two. Two became a month. At the 30-day mark, she felt empowered enough to share her experience on social media. What she didn’t expect was the wave of response that followed.

Her inbox was flooded with messages — some from close friends, others from total strangers — all asking the same thing: How did you do it? What’s it like? Could I try this too?

It was then that Lauren realized something powerful: her quiet journey had resonance. There were countless people out there, just like her, wondering silently if life without alcohol might be better — but afraid to say it out loud.

The Birth of the Sober Curious Society

Lauren’s experience didn’t just spark her own transformation — it ignited a movement.

Out of the growing demand from people curious about sobriety, Lauren created the Sober Curious Society, a self-paced 30-day program designed for anyone who wants to explore life without alcohol — without making a dramatic proclamation or lifelong commitment. The program features:

• Daily video content with Lauren’s personal insights
• Journaling prompts to deepen self-awareness
• Educational resources about the mental and physical effects of alcohol
• A private, shame-free space to ask questions and reflect

It’s not about saying “I’ll never drink again.” It’s about saying, “What if I didn’t drink today?”

Whether you’re someone who wants to sleep better, think more clearly, or just feel more in control, the Sober Curious Society offers a gentle entry point.

What Does “Sober Curious” Really Mean?

During our conversation, Lauren was quick to clarify that “sober curious” isn’t a rigid label — it’s a mindset. For some, it means not drinking at professional events. For others, it might mean cutting back at home, taking on a 30-day challenge, or simply being more intentional about when and why they drink.

It’s fluid. It’s personal. And most importantly, it’s nonjudgmental.

“People who don’t have a problem with drinking usually don’t wonder if they have a problem with drinking.”

That statement resonated. If you’ve ever asked yourself Do I drink too much? or What would happen if I stopped?, you’re not alone — and you’re not broken. You’re just curious. And that curiosity could be the key to meaningful change.

The Power of Community

Beyond her course, Lauren is building a community. Her social media presence has become a hub for people exploring sobriety or just starting to dip their toes into the idea. Her tone is never preachy or holier-than-thou — instead, she’s warm, bubbly, and real.

That authenticity is what draws people in.

In a space that can often feel heavy or filled with extremes, Lauren brings a breath of fresh air. She’s a mom. A wife. A former wine lover who just decided to try something different — and ended up changing her life.

Looking Ahead: Amplify and Beyond

At the end of our podcast, Lauren shared her excitement about attending Amplify, a gathering of sober creators, advocates, and educators. For her, it’s a chance to meet others in the space, exchange ideas, and grow together.

This isn’t just about Lauren’s story anymore. It’s about a growing movement — a collective curiosity that’s gaining momentum every day. People are beginning to ask: What would life be like with more clarity? More energy? More presence?

And leaders like Lauren are making sure there are safe, supportive answers for those ready to explore.

Final Thoughts: Permission to Wonder

Lauren Welch didn’t set out to become a sobriety influencer. She just wanted to feel better. And in doing so, she gave herself permission to ask questions — and inspired others to do the same.

“If you’re looking at it, it might be something worth looking further at.”

So whether you’re just curious, thinking about a short break, or ready for something more long-term, Lauren’s story is proof that you don’t need a dramatic bottom to change your relationship with alcohol. All you need is a moment of curiosity — and the courage to follow where it leads.

Learn More

• Visit Sober Curious Society to learn more about Lauren’s 30-day program.
• Follow @LaurenWelch on Instagram for daily inspiration.
• Listen to her full interview on the Sober Life Rocks podcast — available on all major streaming platforms.

Your sober — or sober curious — life?
It absolutely rocks.

The post Episode 55: From Wine Nights to Sobriety: Lauren Welch’s Sober Curious Journey and the Rise of the Sober Curious Society first appeared on Sober Life Rocks.