In this deeply emotional and inspiring episode of Sober Is Dope, Pop Buchanan welcomes Lee Lybarger and his son Richard “Rick” Lybarger, known professionally as Wisdom Won, for a powerful father-and-son dialogue on recovery, forgiveness, and spiritual rebirth.
Lee, now more than ten years sober, reflects on his Navy background, his career in finance, and the long struggle with addiction that estranged him from his family for decades. With humility and remorse, he describes how he rebuilt his life through calisthenics, disciplined breathwork, and Hermetic meditation, discovering that true healing lies in consistent spiritual practice, not just abstinence.
Rick, a certified breathwork coach and spiritual teacher with Wisdom Won Coaching & Energy Healing, shares how he transformed his pain into compassion. Through forgiveness and empathy, he helped reconnect the family and guide his father toward peace. Together, they embody how sobriety can evolve into spirituality, and how love can close even the widest gaps of time and pain.
This conversation is about second chances, inner discipline, and the alchemy of forgiveness. It shows that healing is possible at any age and that redemption can ripple through generations.
Contacts
Website(s): https://WisdomWon.com
https://Empowered-Man.com
Instagram: @wisdomwon
This Episode is Sponsored by Kava Haven
SOBER IS DOPE × KAVA HAVEN ✨ All the buzz, none of the booze ✨ Get 15% OFF your first order http://kavahaven.com/dope
Happy Labor Day
In this special Labor Day episode presented by Kava Haven, Pop Buchanan reflects on the journey of 2025 and shares an inspiring vision for the months ahead. He discusses the launch of Sober Brain Publishing and his new book Sober Brain Reset, which offers insights on healing the brain after addiction and unlocking the power of neuroplasticity. Pop also closes out his impactful Sober Mixology campaign and introduces his upcoming work Zero Proof Culture, exploring how non alcoholic beverages empower recovery and support a healthier lifestyle. Listeners will gain practical tips for brain health, learn about the growth of the Sober is Dope Foundation, and hear what is ahead as we move into the final stretch of the year and prepare for 2026.
How To Heal The Brain After Addiction Book
Early Access
SBR: https://soberisdope.mysamcart.com/the-sober-brain-reset/#
HTHTB:
https://soberisdope.mysamcart.com/heal-the-brain-after-addiction/#
Zero Proof Culture
https://soberisdope.mysamcart.com/zero-proof-culture/
Drunk and Depressed
https://soberisdope.mysamcart.com/drunk-and-depressed/#
Sober Mixology: The Art of Enjoying Nonalcoholic Life
In this special episode of Sober Is Dope, I explore the exciting world of Sober Mixology, sharing the best nonalcoholic and alcohol-free beverages that help you unwind, stay social, and enjoy life without drinking.
This episode is sponsored by Kava Haven, one of my favorite nonalcoholic spirits with refreshing hints of lemon and ginger. Whether you are sober curious, living a health-conscious lifestyle, or in long-term recovery, you will discover how to level up your nights out, self-care routines, and celebrations without alcohol.
Better Sleep and Energy – Wake up refreshed without hangovers.
Mental Clarity and Focus – Stay sharp and creative.
Emotional Balance – Reduce anxiety and mood swings.
Health and Longevity – Protect your liver, heart, and immune system.
Fitness and Weight Friendly – Lower calories and no empty sugar spikes.
Confidence in Social Settings – Enjoy the night without impairment.
Supports Recovery and Sober Curiosity – Build a lifestyle of freedom and wellness.
Benefits of Going Nonalcoholic
After losing her husband in March 2020, Nicky Wake transformed her personal journey through grief, loss, and alcohol-free reinvention into a mission to help others find love and connection. On Sober is Dope, Nicky shares how she created platforms like Chapter 2 Dating (for widows and widowers ready for love), SoberLove (a dating app for those choosing alcohol-free relationships), and WidowsFire, which explores intimacy and desire after bereavement. Nicky’s story is a powerful testament to how we can turn pain into purpose and build meaningful connections, even after unimaginable loss.
Highlights
Facing grief head-on and rebuilding a life after loss
Why sobriety became a turning point on her healing journey
Launching multiple platforms to help others find love and connection
Coping with loneliness and the stigma around grief and dating
How Nicky continues to inspire others through advocacy and community
Known to more than a million followers as the Crappy Childhood Fairy, Anna Runkle has spent 30 years helping people heal symptoms of childhood trauma and break free from isolation. In this episode, Anna shares her personal story, her groundbreaking techniques for regulating the nervous system, and lessons from her upcoming book, CONNECTABILITY: Heal the Hidden Ways You Isolate, Find Your People, and Feel (At Last) Like You Belong. We discuss how disconnection often stems from early trauma, why so many people struggle with relationships, and daily strategies for building secure, lifelong connections.
Highlights
• Understanding how early trauma affects adult relationships
• Identifying and overcoming “covert avoidance”
• Daily nervous system regulation tools that change lives
• How to repair trust, set boundaries, and build confidence
• Ending isolation and developing deep, meaningful relationships
Chris LaCorata, founder of Graasi Organic Barley Water, joins Sober is Dope to share how he built the first certified organic barley water brand in the United States with a mission rooted in wellness and sustainability. In this episode, we dive into Graasi’s clean-label, plant-based approach to hydration, its immune-boosting benefits, and how it became the official hydration sponsor of Borroka 3, a high-intensity MMA event. Chris talks about his journey as a veteran of American manufacturing, the importance of supporting rural communities, and how daily hydration and immune support can transform mental and physical health.
Highlights
Graasi’s health-forward mission and American-made roots
Vitamins C, D, and Zinc for immune support without added sugar
Why hydration matters for the brain and nervous system
Lessons from building a sustainable wellness brand
The connection between mindful hydration and recovery
In this powerful episode of the Sober is Dope Podcast, host POP Buchanan sits down with Kate Vitela, RN, Certified Addiction and Mental Health Nurse, founder of Rewired Sober, and a passionate sobriety coach helping people rebuild their lives from the inside out.
Kate shares her deep medical knowledge and lived experience to break down how alcohol affects the brain and nervous system, how to heal dopamine pathways, and how neuroplasticity can be your greatest ally in long-term recovery.
You will learn:
How dopamine dysfunction plays a role in addiction and recovery
What alcohol really does to the brain and nervous system
Why your brain can heal — and how neuroplasticity works
Tools for rewiring the brain in early recovery
The story and mission behind Rewired Sober, Kate's transformative podcast and coaching practice
🎧 Listen to Kate’s Podcast: Rewired Sober
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rewired-sober/id1781739552
📲 Follow Kate on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/katevitela
In this profound episode of the Sober is Dope podcast, we welcome nationally recognized grief and trauma expert Dr. Jennifer R. Levin, PhD, LMFT, FT to explore the complex emotional terrain of sudden and unexpected loss. Whether it’s a suicide, overdose, accident, or sudden medical event, the aftermath of traumatic death can derail even the strongest among us.
Dr. Levin is a Fellow in Thanatology, the highest distinction in the field of death, dying, and bereavement brings over 30 years of clinical expertise to this critical conversation. Together, we unpack the distinctions between traumatic grief, PTSD, and post-traumatic growth (PTG), and how these challenges intersect with sobriety and addiction recovery.
From coping with “grief attacks” to rebuilding a sense of emotional safety, Dr. Levin shares actionable strategies for those navigating overwhelming grief, as well as for those supporting them.
🆕 About the Book:Dr. Levin’s new book, The Traumatic Loss Workbook: Powerful Skills for Navigating the Grief Caused by a Sudden or Unexpected Death, drops on July 1, 2025 (New Harbinger Publications).
This compassionate and practical guide offers tools based on CBT, mindfulness, and narrative therapy, and is an essential resource for those facing grief, as well as the professionals who serve them.
🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How sudden or traumatic loss differs from "normal" grief
What to say (and avoid) when someone dies suddenly
The unique challenges of grief in sobriety and recovery
How trauma shows up in the body and brain after loss
Tools to stabilize, find meaning, and move forward after trauma
Strategies for dealing with grief in the workplace
Why we often feel “unsafe in the world” after sudden death — and how to reclaim that safety
Understanding “grief attacks” and how to cope in the moment
Insights into Dr. Levin’s proprietary workplace grief response model
The concept of being “untethered” — and how to reconnect with life after loss
📘 Grab the Book:
The Traumatic Loss Workbook
Available July 1, 2025, wherever books are sold.
Publisher: New Harbinger Publications
Grab Book Here: ( https://traumaticgriefsolutions.com/the-traumatic-loss-workbook )
📞 Connect with Dr. Jennifer Levin:
💻 Website: https://www.TraumaticGriefSolutions.com
🎙 Podcast: Untethered: Healing the Pain From a Sudden Death
💬 Book 1-on-1 sessions or speaking engagements:
https://DrJenniferRLevin.OnlinePressKit247.com
📧 Media Inquiries: Michelle Tennant, Publicist – Michelle@WasabiPublicity.com
In this groundbreaking episode of Sober is Dope, we sit down with Dr. David Clarke, President of the Association for the Treatment of Neuroplastic Symptoms (ATNS), to uncover how unresolved trauma and deep stress can literally rewire the brain to create chronic pain, illness, and suffering.
Dr. Clarke shares how Neuroplastic Recovery Therapy (NRT) is helping thousands find relief — outperforming Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in clinical studies — and offers hope for people in recovery who are still battling invisible illnesses like fibromyalgia, migraines, IBS, and more.
If you or someone you love is sober, but still suffering from chronic pain or fatigue with no clear diagnosis, this episode is a must-listen.
⸻
🔥 What You’ll Learn:
• What neuroplastic symptoms are and why the brain is often the root of chronic pain
• How adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can lead to lifelong illness
• Why traditional medicine is failing millions
• How NRT works — and why it’s changing lives
• The powerful mind-body connection in addiction recovery
⸻
🧠 Learn More + Resources:
Dr. David Clarke
President, Association for the Treatment of Neuroplastic Symptoms (ATNS)
🌐 Website: Symptomatic.Me
📢 Media Kit: davidclarke.onlinepresskit247.com
📧 Media Contact: Michelle Tennant — michelle@wasabipublicity.com | 828-749-3200
📚 Therapy Resources + Annual Conference Info Available on Website
⸻
💬 Connect With Us:
🔗 Sober is Dope | Hosted by POP Buchanan
📱 IG: @soberisdope
📧 soberisdope@gmail.com
🎤 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube
In this powerful episode of the Sober is Dope podcast, host POP Buchanan dives deep into one of the most overlooked threats to recovery, stress. Stress isn't just uncomfortable; it’s a silent killer that can derail your sobriety, disrupt your mental health, and cloud your spiritual vision. But the good news? You have the tools to fight back and win.
POP shares game-changing insights on how managing stress is the key to long-term clean and sober success. From embracing a higher power to reclaiming your inner peace through meditation, prayer, and smart supplementation, this episode is your blueprint for holistic healing.
Key highlights include:
Why prioritizing self-love and self-care isn’t selfish, it’s survival.
The power of cutting toxic people out of your life to protect your peace.
How pampering yourself and finding joy in creativity can help soothe the soul.
The importance of patience on the healing journey and knowing when to seek help from a mental health professional.
POP's tips for smart nutrition and using your diet as a weapon against anxiety and depression.
This episode isn’t just motivation, it’s a movement. Tune in to learn how to build a sober lifestyle that’s not just about avoiding relapse, but about thriving with peace, power, and purpose.
📘 Transform Your Life with Sober is Dope
🌟 Begin your journey to healing, freedom, and lasting sobriety with two powerful guides from Sober is Dope:
Sober is Dope Book — A daily companion filled with over 365 affirmations and prayers to help you stay motivated, grounded, and spiritually strong in your recovery journey. https://www.amazon.com/Sober-Dope-Affirmations-Attracting-Happiness-ebook/dp/B0BTHWDLYR
Sober New Year's Book — 100 powerful resolutions to kickstart a clean slate, stay focused, and take control of your life—any time of year. https://www.amazon.com/Sober-New-Years-Resolutions-Clean/dp/1734679867
🎙️ Tune into the Sober is Dope Podcast on Spotify — featuring recovery stories, motivation, spiritual empowerment, and practical tools for anyone battling addiction or maintaining sobriety. https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/soberisdope/
✨ Whether you're starting over or staying strong, these resources are your daily dose of faith, focus, and empowerment.
Start today. Stay sober. Stay dope.
Let 2025 be the year you embrace your truth and honor your recovery journey. POP Buchanan tackles how to avoid falling into the traps of FOMO and social media comparisons while offering heartfelt advice for staying loyal to yourself. A fun and inspiring message to kick off the New Year with clarity and confidence.
In this Thanksgiving episode of Sober is Dope, host POP Buchanan dives into the power of gratitude and self-care during the holiday season. With heartfelt reflections and practical advice, POP speaks directly to the recovery community, emphasizing the importance of staying grounded in gratitude and practicing self-love to protect your sobriety.
This episode also offers essential tips for navigating a sober Thanksgiving, whether managing family dynamics, handling triggers, or finding joy in the holiday spirit without alcohol. Plus, POP shares exclusive insights from his new book, Sober New Year's, to inspire you to embrace the season with clarity, resilience, and hope.
Tune in for a meaningful conversation that will leave you feeling empowered, supported, and ready to celebrate Thanksgiving the sober way.
🎉 In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Sober is Dope, host POP Buchanan welcomes special guest Jana Jack as she celebrates her 1st Sobriety Anniversary (11/23/2024). Jana opens up about her inspiring journey of healing and transformation after facing life-altering grief, divorce, and mental health struggles. She shares how she rebuilt her life by embracing community, therapy, AA, yoga, journaling, saunas, weightlifting, and podcasts like Sober is Dope.
Jana’s story is a testament to the power of choosing yourself, trusting God, and leaving the past behind to embrace a fresh, purpose-driven beginning. This episode is dedicated to her late father, whose love inspires her. 🌟
Tune in for a raw, honest, and uplifting conversation that will motivate you to thrive in recovery, no matter where you are on your journey.
Are you struggling to maintain sobriety? You’re not alone. In this episode, POP Buchanan dives deep into what it takes to reinforce your commitment to sobriety. Learn how prioritizing self-love and self-care can be the foundation you need to overcome challenges and find peace in your sober journey. Packed with practical advice and encouragement, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who feels that their sobriety is being tested.
Holiday Survival Guide: Staying Sober + Unboxing Pop Buchanan’s
The holidays can be tough for staying sober, but Sober is Dope is here to help! Pop Buchanan shares valuable insights on how to enjoy the season without compromising sobriety. Plus, we’re unboxing his inspiring new release, Sober New Year’s—perfect for anyone committed to a fresh start.
Sober New Year’s Paperback Book Amazon https://a.co/d/bCDt0xX
#sober #soberbook #quitlit
In this episode of the Sober is Dope podcast, we dive into the power of faith in yourself and how sobriety can unlock your ultimate dreams. Host POP Buchanan shares insights from his personal journey, including a reading from the Sober is Dope book. We also get an exciting sneak peek into his upcoming book, Sober New Year’s: How to Use New Year’s Resolutions to Stay Clean and Sober. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about building faith, pursuing goals, and staying aligned with your purpose through sobriety.
After a 3-month hiatus to complete my new book Sober New Year’s, relaunch my music, and manage my health challenges with MCS and Hyperosmia, I’m excited to be back! In this special episode of Sober is Dope, we set the tone for 2025 as the Year of Renewal. This conversation is for everyone—whether you’re in the darkness of addiction, thriving in recovery, or somewhere in between.
We explore mental health, how to get ahead of holiday stress, and the importance of self-love—embracing both the old and new you without judgment. I’ll share insights on extending forgiveness and practicing radical love, acceptance, and hope. Life is too short not to prioritize your well-being! Discover how committing to your personal recovery journey now can unlock your greatness and help you find your “why” today. Let's grow together, one day at a time!
In this episode of the Sober is Dope podcast, POP Buchanan shares his inspiring journey of losing 40 pounds to achieve better health. Facing a rare condition called Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, POP was motivated to become as healthy as possible. He reversed pre-diabetes, addressed low testosterone, and shed excess weight through practical tips and life hacks that accelerated his progress.
Many in recovery struggle with weight gain, which can lead to depression, low self-esteem, and a potential relapse into addiction. Foods like junk food, processed foods, sugars, and fats can be addictive, hijacking the brain's dopamine reward centers and triggering addictive behaviors.
Join POP Buchanan as he briefly discusses his weight loss journey, offering insights and strategies to help others in recovery achieve their health goals.
