No. 8 - Shea Gomez, The No Booze Babe

What’s your occupation?
I am an NYC tour guide! I work for a tv/movie tour company where I give
Gossip Girl tours. I also audition for Broadway shows and do voiceover
work.

What are your hobbies?
I am a singer, I love to workout, dance, write handwritten cards, and try
new booze-free beverages.

What’s a quote you live by? 
She turned her can’ts into cans and her dreams into plans.

 What’s your favorite way to celebrate?
I love to go out dancing! Live music fills my soul with such joy!

What inspired your recovery journey?
I was inspired to cut alcohol out of my life by realizing that alcohol was
not allowing me to be the best version of myself. I got sober initially by
reaching out to a friend who was public about his sober journey, turning
to the sober community on Instagram and reading This Naked Mind by
Annie Grace.

What’s the typical response people have when you
tell them you don’t drink?
People usually respond by saying something about their own drinking
habits. Whether that’s “Oh, I could never do that” or “I have questioned
my relationship with alcohol too.”

What’s the most unique thing someone has said to
you after you told them you don’t drink?
One time I ordered a virgin bloody mary at a bar and the bartender
scoffed and said, “So you just want tomato juice?” and I said “Exactly”
with a confident smirk. I love this life that I have chosen and I am proud
that alcohol doesn’t hold the power anymore.

How has your life changed since your decision to go
alcohol-free?
My life has completely changed for the better since getting sober. My
confidence has grown, I’m happier, I am a better friend, daughter, sister, and partner...I am my true self all the time and that is super empowering!

What’s your go-to celebration drinks when you're able to make it yourself?
I love grabbing a Heineken 0.0 or popping some Gruvi non-alcoholic
prosecco!

What do you drink at social gatherings? 
At social gatherings, I like to bring my own drinks! I have found that you
can’t always depend on there being non-alcoholic options for you. I
bring my own booze-free bevs to the party! It’s a fun conversation
starter and people love to try them! I love bringing kombucha or a
NA beer or wine!

How do you feel when you can’t find a drink you like?
When I can’t find a mocktail or other NA beverage, I am happy to make due
with good ole water on the rocks :) Staying hydrated is never overrated!