Duke Rumely: Crafting Joyful, Sober Experiences with Sober AF Entertainment
But this life without alcohol, it's the only thing that kind of worked and made things fun and kind of taught me how to loosen up.
What happens when the party stops being fun? For Duke Rumely, it marked the beginning of a transformative journey. In this episode of 'The Jaywalker Podcast', Duke, the founder of Sober AF Entertainment, opens up about his personal battle with alcohol and drug addiction and how it inspired him to create a nonprofit dedicated to offering safe, enjoyable spaces for those in recovery. Duke's story is both raw and uplifting.
He recounts the moments when he realized that his substance use was no longer about fun but had become a crutch. Fearing for his own life and the future of his son, who was also struggling with addiction, Duke sought out a supportive community that could help him reclaim his life. This sense of community became a cornerstone in his recovery and spurred him to establish Sober AF Entertainment. Sober AF Entertainment is not just an organization; it's a movement.
Duke discusses how the nonprofit organizes events at places typically associated with heavy drinking—concerts, sports games, festivals—but with a twist: they’re completely sober. These events provide a sanctuary for those in recovery to enjoy themselves without the pressure or presence of alcohol and drugs. Education is another pillar of Duke's mission. He emphasizes the importance of spreading awareness about the dangers of substance abuse and demonstrating that fun doesn't need to be fueled by alcohol or drugs.
By promoting sober fun, Sober AF Entertainment aims to shift societal norms and offer healthier alternatives for entertainment. Looking ahead, Duke shares his ambitious plans to expand Sober AF Entertainment's reach. He talks about leveraging social media to build a larger community and the ongoing need for funding to support their growing number of events. Tune in to hear Duke's inspiring tale of resilience and hope.
His journey from addiction to creating joyful, sober experiences serves as a beacon for anyone seeking a fulfilling life in recovery.