

Journey to the Sunnyside
Sunnyside
Journey to the Sunnyside" is a top 2% podcast, reaching over 400,000 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

Dec 30, 2024 • 7min
10-Minute Mondays: Is Alcohol Part of Your Identity?
Have you ever wondered if alcohol is tied to how you see yourself? Maybe it’s part of being the life of the party, feeling fun, or finding a way to relax. In this episode, I explore how alcohol can shape our identity and why stepping back—whether it’s cutting back or taking a break—can feel like such a big shift. I’ll share why those qualities you value most, like being fun or outgoing, are already within you, and how rediscovering them without alcohol can lead to a more authentic, confident version of yourself. Let’s uncover what’s really driving your spark.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.

Dec 26, 2024 • 38min
Why 75 Million Are Participating in Dry or Dryish January w/ Sunnyside Co-Founder Ian Andersen
Hey, welcome back to Journey to the Sunnyside! Today, I’m hanging out with Ian Andersen, co-founder of Sunnyside, and we’re talking about something big—why over 75 million people are jumping into Dry or Dryish January this year. We’ll dig into what’s driving this movement, some surprising stats, and why taking a break from alcohol—even if it’s just cutting back—can have a massive impact. Ian’s also sharing how Sunnyside’s Dryish January Challenge makes it easier than ever to reset without all the pressure of going fully dry. So, whether you’re thinking about making a change or just curious about what it’s all about, stick around. Let’s get into it!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.

Dec 23, 2024 • 7min
10-Minute Mondays: Reflect, Reset, and Set Intentions for Mindful Drinking
As we step into the new year, I’m taking a moment to reflect on the past year—the wins, the challenges, and everything in between. In this episode, I’ll share how self-compassion and curiosity can help us learn from our mistakes, set realistic goals, and create a plan for long-term mindful drinking and personal improvement. Whether you’re looking to drink more mindfully, set ambitious goals, or simply approach the new year with a fresh mindset, this is about celebrating progress, not perfection. Let’s start this year with intention, balance, and kindness toward ourselves.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.

Dec 19, 2024 • 23min
Breaking the Cycle of Family Trauma and Emotional Triggers w/ Susan Keller
Welcome back to Journey to the Sunnyside! Today, we’re picking up where we left off with Susan Keller, author of Mostly Sober: A Love Story and a Road Trip. In the last episode, we dove into her personal journey with mindful drinking, and today we’re taking it a step further. We’re going to dig into the emotional side of things—how family trauma and emotional triggers play a role in drinking habits, not just for Susan but also for her protagonist, Annie Marks. For those of you who are new here, Mostly Sober is about Annie’s journey as she tries to navigate the emotional impact of childhood trauma while working on her relationship with alcohol. The book is a mix of fiction, autobiography, and self-help, and it offers a fresh perspective on reducing drinking without the pressure to quit entirely. Let’s get into it with Susan!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.

Dec 18, 2024 • 24min
Mindful Drinking and the Power of Small Changes w/ Susan Keller
Hey there and welcome back to journey to the sunny side. I'm your host Mike Hardenbrook. We're excited to bring you a heartfelt conversation with Susan Keller. She's the author of Mostly Sober: A love story and a road trip. Susan's journey with mindful drinking as well as the personal experiences that shaped her book, offer a lot of depth in wisdom.Now, quick note, before we dive in this episode is a little different than our usual actionable style, Susan brings a wealth of life experiences and stories. And while the conversation is more reflective and narrative. There's so much value that she shares with us 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.

Dec 16, 2024 • 10min
10-Minute Mondays: Sleep, Alcohol, and Breaking the Cycle
Have you ever leaned on alcohol to help you sleep, only to wake up feeling groggy—or worse, tossing and turning all night when you don’t drink? I’ve been there, and in this 10-Minute Monday episode, I’m sharing my personal story of breaking that cycle. I’ll explain why alcohol disrupts your sleep and share practical tips to help you enjoy a couple of drinks mindfully without sacrificing rest. From setting cutoff times to creating a sleep-friendly environment, I’ll give you the tools to reclaim your nights and feel better in the morning. Let’s get started!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.

Dec 12, 2024 • 30min
Navigating Mom Health, Alcohol, and Stigmas w/ Haley Roos
Welcome to part two of our conversation with Haley Roos. Haley is a fat-loss coach, wellness advocate, and the creator of Redefined Mamma. After experiencing the life-altering challenges of postpartum insomnia, she took charge of her health and redefined what wellness looks like for moms. Now, she’s helping women across the globe prioritize their health and happiness, while breaking down the stigmas around postpartum struggles and alcohol. In this segment, we’ll explore her personal journey, how alcohol factored in, and the lessons she’s sharing with moms everywhere. Let’s dive back in!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.

Dec 11, 2024 • 26min
Haley’s Journey to Healthier Habits with Sunnyside w/ Hailey Roos
Today, I’m excited to welcome Haley Roos to the Sunnyside Podcast. Haley is a certified fat-loss coach and the founder of Redefined Mamma, where she’s made it her mission to help busy moms create sustainable habits, prioritize their health, and feel confident in their bodies. She’s also a dedicated Sunnyside member, using the app as part of her own journey toward mindful health. In this segment, we’ll talk about her experience with Sunnyside, the changes she’s seen, and how she’s inspiring others to do the same.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.

Dec 9, 2024 • 9min
10-Minute Mondays: Handling Holiday Drinking Triggers
The holidays can be a minefield of drinking triggers, from stress to social pressure and everything in between. In this 10-minute episode, I’m talking about how to recognize those triggers and take back control so you can enjoy the season on your terms. Whether it’s navigating parties, family gatherings, or holiday traditions, I’ve got tips to help you stay mindful and in charge. Let’s make this holiday season a time to celebrate—not a time for regrets.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.

Dec 5, 2024 • 24min
Creating Alcohol-Free Spaces w/ Sam Bail
Welcome back to another episode of Journey to the Sunnyside! Today, we’re digging into alcohol-free spaces. I’m joined by Sam Bail, the founder of Third Place Bar, who’s been leading the charge in New York City by creating these really cool, alcohol-free events where people can connect without the pressure to drink. Sam’s got some amazing insights on what it takes to build these kinds of spaces, the challenges she faced, and even tips for how you can get started if this is something you’re interested in for your own community. 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.comjoinsunnyside/- 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.