

Journey to the Sunnyside
Sunnyside
Journey to the Sunnyside is a top 1% podcast, reaching over 500,000 listeners every week. It’s your guide to exploring mindful living with alcohol—whether you're cutting back, moderating, or thinking about quitting.
While Sunnyside helps you reduce your drinking, this podcast goes further, diving into topics like mindful drinking, sober curiosity, moderation, and full sobriety. Through real stories, expert insights, and science-backed strategies, we help you find what actually works for your journey.
Hosted by Mike Hardenbrook, a #1 best-selling author and neuroscience enthusiast, the show is dedicated to helping people transform their relationship with alcohol—without shame, judgment, or rigid rules.
This podcast is brought to you by Sunnyside, the leading platform for mindful drinking. Want to take the next step in your journey? Head over to sunnyside.co for a free 15-day trial.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in our episodes do not necessarily represent those of Sunnyside. We’re committed to sharing diverse perspectives on health and wellness. If you’re concerned about your drinking, please consult a medical professional. Sunnyside, this podcast, and its guests are not necessarily medical providers and the content is not medical advice. We do not endorse drinking in any amount.
While Sunnyside helps you reduce your drinking, this podcast goes further, diving into topics like mindful drinking, sober curiosity, moderation, and full sobriety. Through real stories, expert insights, and science-backed strategies, we help you find what actually works for your journey.
Hosted by Mike Hardenbrook, a #1 best-selling author and neuroscience enthusiast, the show is dedicated to helping people transform their relationship with alcohol—without shame, judgment, or rigid rules.
This podcast is brought to you by Sunnyside, the leading platform for mindful drinking. Want to take the next step in your journey? Head over to sunnyside.co for a free 15-day trial.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in our episodes do not necessarily represent those of Sunnyside. We’re committed to sharing diverse perspectives on health and wellness. If you’re concerned about your drinking, please consult a medical professional. Sunnyside, this podcast, and its guests are not necessarily medical providers and the content is not medical advice. We do not endorse drinking in any amount.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 6, 2025 • 12min
Using Alcohol for Pain Relief? Here’s What You Should Know
If you’ve been reaching for a drink to take the edge off back pain, sore joints, or help you sleep through the night, you’re not alone. For many, alcohol feels like the only thing that works. But new research shows it may actually worsen pain over time. In this 10-Minute Monday, we unpack what’s really happening in your body—and better ways to find lasting relief.Want to drink less with no pressure to quit? Visit https://ctbk.co/4doo5dq for a free 15-day trial of Sunnyside.--Listen to Journey to the Sunnyside Podcast: https://bit.ly/4bxCqT3Subscribe to Sunnyside’s YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3zuoID4CONNECT WITH SUNNYSIDE:- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinsunnyside/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joinsunnyside/- Twitter: https://x.com/joinsunnyside- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joinsunnysideABOUT SUNNYSIDE: Sunnyside is the #1 alcohol moderation app that helps you drink less without any shame, guilt, or pressure to quit. Optimize your alcohol habits to achieve benefits like sleeping better, losing weight, feeling more energy, and saving money. We know that an all-or-nothing approach doesn’t work for everyone, so we focus on helping you set your own goals, celebrate small wins, and build a lasting system of accountability. As a result, 96.7% of our members see a big drop in their drinking after 90 days.Disclaimer: This podcast is not intended as medical advice, and the views of the guests may not represent the views of Sunnyside. If you’re concerned about your health or alcohol use, please consider seeking advice from a doctor.

Oct 2, 2025 • 34min
The Lie We Tell Ourselves About ‘Moderate’ Drinking w/ Molly Watts
We love to tell ourselves stories about alcohol: I only drink wine, so it’s fine. I need a drink to relax. At least I’m not like them. For Molly Watts — author, coach, and host of The Alcohol Minimalist podcast — those stories fueled decades of daily drinking, even while she told herself she was just a “moderate” drinker. In this episode, Molly shares how she broke free from the lies that kept her stuck, what the science really says about alcohol and anxiety, and how she built a peaceful, mindful relationship with drinking. If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking it’s not that bad, this conversation will hit home.Molly also offers group and one-on-one coaching. As a long-time partner and supporter of Sunnyside, we align closely with her approach and mission, and highly recommend her if you're looking for more personal help on your journey.Want to drink less with no pressure to quit? Visit https://ctbk.co/4doo5dq for a free 15-day trial of Sunnyside.--Listen to Journey to the Sunnyside Podcast: https://bit.ly/4bxCqT3Subscribe to Sunnyside’s YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3zuoID4CONNECT WITH SUNNYSIDE:- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinsunnyside/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joinsunnyside/- Twitter: https://x.com/joinsunnyside- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joinsunnysideABOUT SUNNYSIDE: Sunnyside is the #1 alcohol moderation app that helps you drink less without any shame, guilt, or pressure to quit. Optimize your alcohol habits to achieve benefits like sleeping better, losing weight, feeling more energy, and saving money. We know that an all-or-nothing approach doesn’t work for everyone, so we focus on helping you set your own goals, celebrate small wins, and build a lasting system of accountability. As a result, 96.7% of our members see a big drop in their drinking after 90 days.Disclaimer: This podcast is not intended as medical advice, and the views of the guests may not represent the views of Sunnyside. If you’re concerned about your health or alcohol use, please consider seeking advice from a doctor.

Sep 29, 2025 • 44min
Is Naltrexone right for you? Learn all about Sunnyside Med w/ Nick Allen , CEO of Sunnyside
In this engaging discussion, Nick Allen, Co-founder and CEO of Sunnyside, shares his vision of transforming alcohol health by blending medication with behavior-change programs. He explains the groundbreaking Sunnyside Med, featuring compounded naltrexone, which helps reduce cravings and support moderation. Nick emphasizes a proactive approach to alcohol management, breaking stigma and making medication accessible for those seeking healthier habits. Listeners will learn about the neuroscience behind habit loops and hear inspiring stories of people changing their relationship with alcohol.

Sep 25, 2025 • 21min
The Five Pillars That Help You Drink Less w/ Erica Mallery
We’re back with Erica Mallery, founder of Shameover and a coach who helps women transform their relationship with alcohol. In this second part of our conversation, Erica shares her five pillars for lasting change. You’ll learn how each step builds awareness, rewires habits, and helps you gain confidence in your choices. Erica also explains why harm reduction is more sustainable than all-or-nothing thinking, and how defining moderation for yourself can be the most freeing step of all.Want to drink less with no pressure to quit? Go to https://ctbk.co/4doo5dq for a free 15-day trial.--Listen to Journey to the Sunnyside Podcast: https://bit.ly/4bxCqT3Subscribe to Sunnyside’s YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3zuoID4CONNECT WITH SUNNYSIDE:- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinsunnyside/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joinsunnyside/- Twitter: https://x.com/joinsunnyside- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joinsunnysideABOUT SUNNYSIDE: Sunnyside is the #1 alcohol moderation app that helps you drink less without any shame, guilt, or pressure to quit. Optimize your alcohol habits to achieve benefits like sleeping better, losing weight, feeling more energy, and saving money. We know that an all-or-nothing approach doesn’t work for everyone, so we focus on helping you set your own goals, celebrate small wins, and build a lasting system of accountability. As a result, 96.7% of our members see a big drop in their drinking after 90 days.Disclaimer: This podcast is not intended as medical advice, and the views of the guests may not represent the views of Sunnyside. If you’re concerned about your health or alcohol use, please consider seeking advice from a doctor.

Sep 24, 2025 • 29min
The Subtle Signs It’s Time to Reevaluate Drinking w/ Erica Mallery
Today’s guest is Erica Mallery, founder of Shameover and a coach who helps women transform their relationship with alcohol. In this first part of our conversation, Erica shares the subtle signs that told her it was time to make a change — including the unforgettable moment when her toddler handed her a wine glass. You’ll learn why waiting for rock bottom can actually hold you back, how small habits like her gem-jar method can build momentum, and the role support systems play in making lasting change. And be sure to catch part two, where Erica walks us through her five pillars for lasting change.Want to drink less with no pressure to quit? Go to https://ctbk.co/4doo5dq for a free 15-day trial.--Listen to Journey to the Sunnyside Podcast: https://bit.ly/4bxCqT3Subscribe to Sunnyside’s YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3zuoID4CONNECT WITH SUNNYSIDE:- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinsunnyside/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joinsunnyside/- Twitter: https://x.com/joinsunnyside- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joinsunnysideABOUT SUNNYSIDE: Sunnyside is the #1 alcohol moderation app that helps you drink less without any shame, guilt, or pressure to quit. Optimize your alcohol habits to achieve benefits like sleeping better, losing weight, feeling more energy, and saving money. We know that an all-or-nothing approach doesn’t work for everyone, so we focus on helping you set your own goals, celebrate small wins, and build a lasting system of accountability. As a result, 96.7% of our members see a big drop in their drinking after 90 days.Disclaimer: This podcast is not intended as medical advice, and the views of the guests may not represent the views of Sunnyside. If you’re concerned about your health or alcohol use, please consider seeking advice from a doctor.

5 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 12min
4 Hidden Costs of Drinking Beyond the Hangover
Discover the unexpected costs of drinking that go beyond the typical hangover. Alcohol alters your mood and patience, affecting emotional stability for days. It can diminish creativity and decision-making, leading to a scarcity mindset. The discussion also highlights how drinking impacts connections with yourself and others. Tune in to explore these hidden effects and gain insight into the 'in-between' moments that reveal the true price of alcohol.

Sep 18, 2025 • 33min
What Is Somatic EMDR? How Trauma Gets Trapped in the Body w/ Sonal Kalra
In Part 2, I’m joined again by Sonal Kalra, founder of Connect Meditation and a trauma-informed mindfulness teacher who blends Eastern wisdom with modern neuroscience. She breaks down the basics of somatic healing and EMDR, explaining how trauma and stress live in the body—not just the mind. We talk about how the nervous system can stay stuck in survival mode, how somatic practices help restore a sense of safety, and why healing often starts with small, body-based tools. If you’ve ever felt reactive or overwhelmed without knowing why, this episode will help you understand what’s happening beneath the surface and how to begin shiftWant to drink less with no pressure to quit? Go to https://ctbk.co/4doo5dq for a free 15-day trial.--Listen to Journey to the Sunnyside Podcast: https://bit.ly/4bxCqT3Subscribe to Sunnyside’s YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3zuoID4CONNECT WITH SUNNYSIDE:- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinsunnyside/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joinsunnyside/- Twitter: https://x.com/joinsunnyside- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joinsunnysideABOUT SUNNYSIDE: Sunnyside is the #1 alcohol moderation app that helps you drink less without any shame, guilt, or pressure to quit. Optimize your alcohol habits to achieve benefits like sleeping better, losing weight, feeling more energy, and saving money. We know that an all-or-nothing approach doesn’t work for everyone, so we focus on helping you set your own goals, celebrate small wins, and build a lasting system of accountability. As a result, 96.7% of our members see a big drop in their drinking after 90 days.Disclaimer: This podcast is not intended as medical advice, and the views of the guests may not represent the views of Sunnyside. If you’re concerned about your health or alcohol use, please consider seeking advice from a doctor.

Sep 17, 2025 • 27min
Mindfulness for People Who Don’t Meditate w/ Sonal Kalra
Hey, it’s Mike. Today I’m joined by Sonal Kalra—founder of Connect Meditation and a teacher who blends Eastern wisdom with modern science. She grew up with meditation as part of everyday life in India, but it wasn’t until the stress of business school and corporate HR that she realized how powerful it really was. Now she teaches trauma-sensitive mindfulness to schools, companies, and communities—and what I love is how accessible she makes it. You don’t have to be spiritual or in crisis to get value from this. In this episode, you’ll learn how mindfulness can actually fit into your life—even if you’ve never meditated—and why slowing down might be the upgrade your nervous system’s been waiting for.Want to drink less with no pressure to quit? Go to https://ctbk.co/4doo5dq for a free 15-day trial.--Listen to Journey to the Sunnyside Podcast: https://bit.ly/4bxCqT3Subscribe to Sunnyside’s YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3zuoID4CONNECT WITH SUNNYSIDE:- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinsunnyside/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joinsunnyside/- Twitter: https://x.com/joinsunnyside- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joinsunnysideABOUT SUNNYSIDE: Sunnyside is the #1 alcohol moderation app that helps you drink less without any shame, guilt, or pressure to quit. Optimize your alcohol habits to achieve benefits like sleeping better, losing weight, feeling more energy, and saving money. We know that an all-or-nothing approach doesn’t work for everyone, so we focus on helping you set your own goals, celebrate small wins, and build a lasting system of accountability. As a result, 96.7% of our members see a big drop in their drinking after 90 days.Disclaimer: This podcast is not intended as medical advice, and the views of the guests may not represent the views of Sunnyside. If you’re concerned about your health or alcohol use, please consider seeking advice from a doctor.

Sep 15, 2025 • 13min
Why 3 p.m. Makes Drinking Harder (And How to Fix It)
Ever notice how cravings seem to sneak up in the late afternoon—right around 3 p.m.? That’s not just you, and it’s not random. It’s your body clock, blood sugar, and hydration all working against you at the same time. In this 10-Minute Monday, Mike breaks down the science behind the afternoon slump, why it makes alcohol more tempting, and the four simple moves that can stop it from hijacking your evening. Practical, science-backed, and easy enough to put into play today. Want to drink less with no pressure to quit? Go to https://ctbk.co/4doo5dq for a free 15-day trial.--Listen to Journey to the Sunnyside Podcast: https://bit.ly/4bxCqT3Subscribe to Sunnyside’s YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3zuoID4CONNECT WITH SUNNYSIDE:- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinsunnyside/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joinsunnyside/- Twitter: https://x.com/joinsunnyside- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joinsunnysideABOUT SUNNYSIDE: Sunnyside is the #1 alcohol moderation app that helps you drink less without any shame, guilt, or pressure to quit. Optimize your alcohol habits to achieve benefits like sleeping better, losing weight, feeling more energy, and saving money. We know that an all-or-nothing approach doesn’t work for everyone, so we focus on helping you set your own goals, celebrate small wins, and build a lasting system of accountability. As a result, 96.7% of our members see a big drop in their drinking after 90 days.Disclaimer: This podcast is not intended as medical advice, and the views of the guests may not represent the views of Sunnyside. If you’re concerned about your health or alcohol use, please consider seeking advice from a doctor.

Sep 11, 2025 • 28min
How High Performers Can Fuel Energy Without Burning Out w/ Rob Tracz
In Part 2 of my chat with performance coach Rob Tracz, we go from personal story to practical tools. Rob walks us through his JEEP Framework—how to fuel your body, clean up your inputs, and create an environment that actually supports your goals. We get into energy, resilience, alcohol, and why trying to “power through” usually backfires. If you’re done with the all-or-nothing approach and want to feel better while still performing at a high level—this one’s for you.Want to drink less with no pressure to quit? Go to https://ctbk.co/4doo5dq for a free 15-day trial.--Listen to Journey to the Sunnyside Podcast: https://bit.ly/4bxCqT3Subscribe to Sunnyside’s YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3zuoID4CONNECT WITH SUNNYSIDE:- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinsunnyside/- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joinsunnyside/- Twitter: https://x.com/joinsunnyside- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joinsunnysideABOUT SUNNYSIDE: Sunnyside is the #1 alcohol moderation app that helps you drink less without any shame, guilt, or pressure to quit. Optimize your alcohol habits to achieve benefits like sleeping better, losing weight, feeling more energy, and saving money. We know that an all-or-nothing approach doesn’t work for everyone, so we focus on helping you set your own goals, celebrate small wins, and build a lasting system of accountability. As a result, 96.7% of our members see a big drop in their drinking after 90 days.Disclaimer: This podcast is not intended as medical advice, and the views of the guests may not represent the views of Sunnyside. If you’re concerned about your health or alcohol use, please consider seeking advice from a doctor.