

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

Nov 17, 2025 • 11min
The Emotional Levels Behind Why You Drink
Explore the deep emotional drivers behind drinking, from shame and anxiety to anger and pride. Discover how these feelings dictate our choices and often lead to regret. Learn about Hawkins' Map of Consciousness, which reveals that shifting to higher emotional states like courage and love can radically change your relationship with alcohol. Instead of viewing drinking as a flaw, see it as a mirror of your emotional altitude. This fresh perspective can empower you to modify your habits without pressure.

Nov 13, 2025 • 54min
Real Stories from Sunnyside Med - Using Medication to Quiet the Voice w/Ian Andersen
Today we're continuing the conversation around Sunnyside Med - I’m joined again by co-founder Ian Andersen to talk about what’s new, his own personal experience taking medication, and what members are actually seeing in the real world. We get honest about what the typical experience looks like — the wins, the challenges, and even the side effects — so if you’ve ever thought about getting a little extra help to quiet that voice that says just one more, this is a conversation worth hearing.Learn more about Sunnyside Med at https://www.joinsunnysidemed.com.Want to drink less with no pressure to quit? Visit https://ctbk.co/4doo5dq for a free 15-day trial of the Sunnyside digital app.--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.

Nov 10, 2025 • 12min
The False Summit: When One Is Never Enough — Part 1
I used to say, “I don’t want a beer — I want a six-pack.” It always got a laugh, but underneath that joke was something real: one never felt like enough. In this episode, I unpack why we keep chasing that next drink even after the good feeling has already arrived—and how learning to spot that moment can completely shift your relationship with alcohol.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.

Nov 6, 2025 • 52min
How One Mom Cut Her Drinking in Half with Sunnyside w/ Ada Avdic
Today I’m talking with Ada Avdic — a full-time content creator, mom, and beauty expert who thought she didn’t really drink all that much. But once she started tracking with Sunnyside, she realized she was drinking more than she thought — and that small changes could make a big difference. In this episode, Ada shares how she cut her drinking in half, rethought corporate and “mommy-wine” culture, and found real balance — without giving up the glass completely.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.

Nov 3, 2025 • 11min
9 Ways to Enjoy the Holidays Without Losing Control
The holidays can test even the strongest intentions — parties, family, travel, and constant pressure to drink or “let loose.” In this 10-Minute Monday, Mike shares 9 ways to stay balanced, protect your peace, and actually enjoy the season. You’ll learn how to plan ahead, handle tough moments, and start the new year proud of how you showed up — clear, confident, and in control.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 30, 2025 • 24min
How Parents Can Show Up When Alcohol Enters the Picture w/ Joanna Lilley
Once you understand what drinking looks like through a young person’s eyes, the next question is… what can you actually do as a parent? These years can feel like walking a tightrope — you want to guide and protect them, but you also don’t want to push them away. In this episode, I talk with therapeutic consultant Joanna Lilly about how parents can build trust early, respond instead of react, and set real boundaries without closing the door on connection. She shares what she sees most often from families — the fears, the common missteps, and the small shifts that make a big difference. If you want to support your teen or young adult without losing that connection, this conversation will help you approach it with more calm and clarity.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 29, 2025 • 31min
Why Teens Really Start Drinking w/ Joanna Lilley
For most young people, their first drink isn’t about getting drunk — it’s about feeling like they belong. When we see it through that lens, the whole conversation changes. In this episode, I talk with therapeutic consultant Joanna Lilly about what’s really driving early drinking — identity, belonging, and pressure to fit in. We talk about how experimentation can start early, what signs can signal something more serious, and why giving young people realistic options, like a simple 90-day pause, can open the door to change. If you’re a parent or someone who cares about a teen or young adult, this conversation will help you see the world through their eyes.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 27, 2025 • 11min
Could a Daily Pill Help You Drink Less? Let's Chat About Naltrexone
Today I’m sharing something that more people should know about… but most still don’t. It’s called naltrexone — a prescription medication that can actually help reduce how rewarding alcohol feels. That “buzz” or dopamine spike? This blunts it, making it easier to drink less without relying on willpower alone.In this episode, I’ll walk you through:What naltrexone does in your brainWhy it’s not about quitting, but changing your relationship with alcoholAnd how it fits into our newest offering at Sunnyside — Sunnyside MedThis is the first time we’re offering medical support alongside behavior change. And while naltrexone isn’t a magic pill, when combined with planning, tracking, and coaching, it can be a powerful tool for making moderation easier and more sustainable.If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t want to drink tonight”… and then poured one anyway, this might be worth exploring.You can learn more at https://www.joinsunnysidemed.com. Sunnyside Med provides access to naltrexone via a compounded medication (Naltrexone 50mg + B6 5mg). As always, none of this is medical advice — just information to help you stay curious on your path.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.

Oct 23, 2025 • 24min
Behind the Zero Proof Boom w/ Sean Goldsmith
Welcome back to Journey to the Sunnyside! If you listened to Part One, we talked about the cultural shift behind the rise of NA drinks. In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the business side. Sean Goldsmith, co-founder of The Zero Proof, shares how he went from blogging about the movement to running one of the largest online NA retailers in the country — with more than 500 SKUs, national distribution, and their own brands. We get into early grind stories, raising capital at the right moment, how they decide which products make the cut, and why 93% of their customers still drink alcohol. This is a great look at what it takes to build a brand inside a movement. Let’s dive in.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 22, 2025 • 25min
Why NA Drinks Are Winning the Culture War w/ Sean Goldsmith
Hey everyone, welcome back to Journey to the Sunnyside. Today’s conversation is a fun one — because it’s not just about drinking less, it’s about what’s happening around us. Gallup just reported record-low drinking rates in the U.S., and you can feel this cultural shift everywhere — from grocery aisles to restaurant menus. To unpack what’s going on, I sat down with Sean Goldsmith, co-founder of The Zero Proof — one of the biggest players in the non-alcoholic beverage space. We get into how this movement grew from a niche to a cultural wave, why retailers and distributors are jumping in, and why NA drinks are becoming their own category — not just a replacement. Let’s get into it.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.


