Sober and Unashamed: Bizarre at the Boathouse, Part 1
Sober and Unashamed: Bizarre at the Boathouse, Part 1

Untoxicated Podcast

New from Sober and Unashamed: “Bizarre at the Boathouse, Part 1” - We have published hundreds of essays on alcoholism, recovery, sex and intimacy, underlying issues, growth and progress. Maybe you love to read, but just don’t seem to find the time.

EngagingHumorousInsightfulAuthenticReflective

7:34•9 Oct 2025

RSS Feed

About this podcast

Untoxicated Podcast

Matt & Sheri Salis

Sheri and Matt Salis just wanted a normal life – normal marriage, normal careers, a normal house and happy kids. Instead, they lived a life of lies and terror as they struggled with Matt’s alcoholism. While their experience sounds rare, with over 15 millions problem drinkers in America, their alcoholic marriage was all too normal. Matt has been writing about their experiences in alcoholism and recovery for years. On the Untoxicated Podcast, Sheri and Matt talk about it, too. No subjects are off limits as the couple discusses the trauma of active addiction, the pain of early recovery, the destruction and rebuilding of trust, and the impact on their intimate relationship. If you love an alcoholic, the disease will terrorize your relationship. We hope you’ll listen and find healing in our shared stories. For more support from Sheri and Matt, check out their Echoes of Recovery program providing connection and healing for the loved ones of alcoholics.

Sobriety ToolkitSuccess StoriesFamily RecoveryRelationshipsUnderstanding Addiction

Episodes: 386

View Podcast Visit External Site

Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!

Sober Reflections: A Night at the Boathouse

Episode Overview

Reflects on societal norms through a humorous lens.
Discusses the impact of social media on teen mental health.
Highlights the importance of genuine connections.
Explores cultural rituals like homecoming dances.
Offers insights into parenting challenges in today's world.

“"We humans do a lot of strange things. As I rested a shoulder on the boathouse, this one moved up my list of cultural norms worth a second thought."”

What drives someone to seek a life without alcohol? Matt and Sheri Salis take you on a journey through their experiences with alcoholism in the latest episode of the Untoxicated Podcast. In 'Sober and Unashamed: Bizarre at the Boathouse, Part 1,' Matt shares an audio version of his latest essay, capturing the peculiarities of a homecoming dance at the historic boathouse in Wash Park, Denver.

With humour and candidness, he reflects on societal norms, teenage rituals, and the subtle pressures of parenting in a world dominated by social media. The episode paints a vivid picture of the cultural oddities surrounding events like homecoming, where the focus on appearances often overshadows genuine connections. Matt's observations offer a unique lens on how these rituals impact mental health, particularly for teens grappling with self-image in an era of constant digital scrutiny.

As he leans on the boathouse, pondering life's little absurdities, Matt invites listeners to consider the importance of authenticity over superficial displays. This episode is not just about the quirks of teenage dances but also about finding moments of genuine connection amidst life's chaos. It's a reminder that sometimes, all it takes is a simple gesture—like sharing a pack of gum—to bring comfort and connection.

So, if you're ready for an engaging narrative filled with wit and wisdom, this episode is one to catch. What does your homecoming dance story say about you?

PreviousEp316 – Partner Abuse with Lundy Bancroft

NextEp317 – Sex is Not an Entitlement