Dan Burda: Sipping Stories of Strength & Self Discovery | EP1

Dan Burda: Sipping Stories of Strength & Self Discovery | EP1

What drives someone to seek a life without alcohol? Mocktails Or Messy kicks off with an energetic chat between hosts Ryan Frankowski and Kelly Mizgorski and their guest, Pittsburgh salon owner Dan Burda of Studio Raw Elite. The trio sip both a classic Black Russian and a non-alcoholic version, showing how cocktails and mocktails can both hold space at the same table, whether you're embracing Dry January, postpartum, pregnant, or simply taking a break from booze.

You'll hear Dan talk about his early introduction to drinking, how a Black Russian used to be his go-to for easing social anxiety, and how Ryan mixes a "strike vanilla not vodka" alternative to recreate the ritual without the alcohol. There’s plenty of humour around getting "mocktail or messy", but underneath the laughs sits a genuine interest in making social spaces more inclusive for anyone choosing not to drink.

Beyond the glasses, Dan shares raw stories of growing up with a veteran father who faced mental illness, surviving bankruptcy, rebuilding after his salon literally burned down, and losing his partner Ron. He explains how his career in hairdressing and his work with organ donation charities became reasons to keep going instead of giving up. His philosophy is simple: "Get involved," build community, and let each hardship fuel the next chapter.

The conversation ranges from sexuality and self-acceptance to real estate, exercise, grief, and the importance of laughing through pain. Through it all, mocktails are treated as a valid, sometimes healthier-feeling choice, while those who still drink are approached without judgement. If you're curious how someone can stay true to themselves, grow a business, and honour both drinkers and non-drinkers at the same party, this episode might be the nudge you need to rethink what’s in your glass – and why.