Mocktails with Marina
Welcome to "Mocktails with Marina," a podcast where Marina, a multi-passionate entrepreneur and innovator, shares her journey and insights into the burgeoning world of zero-proof living and mixology. Marina's story, from a service industry professional to a thriving business owner, offers a unique blend of personal experience, entrepreneurial spirit, and creative mixology. Dive into episodes filled with inspiring tales, practical business management strategies, and innovative ideas in non-alcoholic beverage solutions. Marina's businesses, 'Functional Flow' and 'The Modern Mocktail,' serve as case studies in transforming passion into profitable ventures. Whether discussing the nuances of zero-proof mixology, navigating health codes, maximizing business efficiency, or fostering a positive work culture, this podcast is a treasure trove for aspiring entrepreneurs, event planners, and anyone interested in a sober lifestyle. Marina's eclectic background in theoretical mathematics, r, food and bev service, and nightlife entertainment adds a unique flavor to each episode, blending technical know-how with real-world experience. From her journey to sobriety to her success in increasing revenue and operational efficiency in the kava industry, Marina's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to make thoughtful, intentional choices in both life and business. Tune in to "Mocktails with Marina" for a blend of free content, expert advice, and inspiring stories, all aimed at helping you achieve abundance without alcohol in both your personal and professional life.
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why most people quit, and what I'd do differently if I were starting today
12/16/2025
why most people quit, and what I'd do differently if I were starting today
Most people don’t quit because they fail, but they fail because progress doesn’t look the way they expected. In this milestone Episode 100 of Mocktails with Marina, Marina reflects on what it actually takes to stay in the game (in podcasting, business, and the non-alcoholic industry) when motivation fades and results aren’t linear. This episode blends strategy, personal perspective, and industry call-outs to unpack: Why most founders burn out or disappear The biggest myths about consistency, visibility, and growth What Marina would do differently if she were starting over today Why systems matter more than talent or hustle How podcasting became her most effective evergreen client acquisition strategy Whether this is your first episode or you’ve been listening from the beginning, this conversation is designed to meet you where you are and challenge you to decide what staying power really looks like. 🎧 New listeners: Go explore the first 99 episodes for a deep library of free, real-world insight. 🔥 Longtime listeners: If you’re ready to stop circling the same challenges, this may be your moment to take action and step into deeper support. Marina also shares why she’ll be pausing new episodes for a few months in early 2026 and what’s coming next after returning with fresh data, case studies, and real-world experience. for more information
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Dept in a Box Series: Menu & Product Management
11/26/2025
Dept in a Box Series: Menu & Product Management
In today’s episode of Mocktails With Marina, we’re closing out the Department in a Box™ Series with one of the most important and most overlooked pillars of a profitable non-alcoholic business: Menu & Product Management. Whether you run a kava bar, non-alcoholic bar, bottle shop, kombucha taproom, sober lounge, or functional beverage café, your menu is not just a list of drinks. It’s a financial engine. A marketing strategy. And the #1 driver of your customer experience and business profitability. Inside this episode, you’ll learn: 🔸 Why your menu needs its own “department” Most business owners rely on vibes, taste, and creativity but without a system, you lose money on COGS, vendor errors, ingredient waste, and inconsistent pricing. We break down the difference between a hobby menu and a high-performing menu strategy. 🔸 How to centralize products, ingredients & suppliers You’ll hear how to build one Notion-based product catalog that tracks ingredients, vendors, seasonals, costs, margins, substitutions, and pricing decisions so you can update your menu in minutes instead of reinventing the wheel every quarter. 🔸 The secret to profitable seasonal menus No more guessing, running out of ingredients, or launching specials that secretly drain your margins. Learn the workflow real non-alc bars use to cost drinks, approve recipes, and roll out seasonal updates with confidence. 🔸 Pricing strategy you can trust We talk about margin tracking, cost formulas, COGS transparency, and how to make pricing decisions based on actual data not emotion or fear of customer backlash. 🔸 The exact workflow for menu updates From recipe approval to staff training to POS updates, you’ll hear the full 360° process that makes menu changes smooth, consistent, and stress-free. This episode is perfect for anyone managing non-alcoholic menus, kava drink menus, botanical beverage offerings, sober bars, NA bottle shops, and wellness cafés who wants to keep their menu fresh, cost-effective, and fully optimized. 🔗 Want the templates, workflows, and full backend system? Grab the Menu & Product Management Box™ (part of the Department in a Box™ Series) to get the exact Notion dashboards, costing calculators, vendor trackers, and seasonal planning systems I build for my private clients:
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Dept in a Box Series: Event Planning & Management
11/25/2025
Dept in a Box Series: Event Planning & Management
In this episode of Mocktails with Marina, we dive into one of the most powerful and misunderstood growth engines in the non-alcoholic industry: Event Planning & Event Management. If you run a non-alc bar, kava bar, bottle shop, sober lounge, or third space, you already know that events drive everything: foot traffic, community-building, customer retention, brand visibility, and revenue spikes. But most business owners treat events like last-minute ideas instead of what they really are: a core department inside your business. In Part 5 of the Department in a Box™ Series, Marina breaks down: why events must function as an internal department, not a chaotic side project the three pillars of an effective event system: Planning, Management, and Debriefing the most common mistakes businesses make when hosting events (and why they keep happening) how to reduce stress, eliminate last-minute scrambling, and turn events into predictable revenue drivers the templates, SOPs, timelines, checklists, and systems behind high-performing event programs how the right structures can help you scale community events, vendor activations, tastings, pop-ups, sober meetups, live music, workshops, menu launches, and more If you want the plug-and-play tools Marina uses with top NA bars and kava bars across the country, grab The Event Planner Box™, which includes ready-to-use event workflows, run-of-show templates, vendor coordination guides, permit checklists, marketing rollout calendars, Notion event databases, and full department SOPs. 🎁 Get instant access to The Event Planner Box™: This episode is essential for any founder or operator who wants to host smoother events, drive consistent traffic, and build a real community around their business without burning out.
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Dept in a Box Series: Employee Manuals & SOPs
11/24/2025
Dept in a Box Series: Employee Manuals & SOPs
In today’s episode, we’re diving into the department most founders avoid until it becomes a problem: Employee Manuals + SOPs, the backbone of consistency, culture, and operational sanity inside any non-alcoholic bar, bottle shop, or third place. If you’ve ever felt like you’re repeating yourself every day, constantly correcting the same issues, or carrying the entire business in your head, this episode will be a breath of relief. We break down why your manual isn’t just a “rules document,” but your team’s source of clarity, empowerment, and protection. And we talk about how SOPs go far beyond checklists; they create accountability, reduce training time, and stabilize the customer experience no matter who’s on shift. Inside this episode, you’ll learn: Why “chill vibes” still require structure What a great employee manual actually includes How SOPs remove friction from your leadership The hidden staff retention benefits of clarity The difference between policies, expectations, and step-by-step procedures The real reason things fall apart when you’re not there If you’re ready to stop running your business on oral tradition and start building a team that’s confident, consistent, and self-sufficient, this is the department that will change everything. Get instant access to The Employee Manual + SOPs Box™ here: (The same templates and frameworks we use with clients to build professional, plug-and-play manuals and procedures.)
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Dept in a Box Series: Interviewing, Hiring, and Onboarding
11/20/2025
Dept in a Box Series: Interviewing, Hiring, and Onboarding
In today’s episode, we’re breaking down one of the most important (and most misunderstood) departments in every non-alc bar, bottle shop, or third space: Interviewing, Hiring & Onboarding. Most owners treat hiring like an emergency. A scramble. A reaction. But the truth is if you don’t build this department as a system, your business will always feel unstable. Inside this episode, we look at: • Why hiring is a department, not a task • How to interview for values, not just resumes • The standards that determine the quality of every hire • The onboarding mistakes that cost businesses thousands • What a real onboarding system looks like • How this department reduces turnover, protects culture, and stabilizes growth If you want the templates, the interview scripts, the hiring rubrics, and the complete onboarding system we use with clients, you can get The Hiring & Onboarding Box here: This is Part 3 of the Department in a Box Series.
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Dept in a Box Series: Marketing
11/19/2025
Dept in a Box Series: Marketing
In today’s episode, we’re diving into the second installment of the Department in a Box Series™ and this time, we’re talking about the department that keeps your non-alc bar, bottle shop, or third space alive: your Marketing Department. This episode isn’t a tutorial on content creation or how to run ads. It’s a high-level breakdown of why marketing must function as a real department inside your business, not as random posts, rushed flyers, or last-minute “I guess I should say something today” content. We explore: Why marketing is your 24/7 reputation system How a consistent marketing engine positions you as a leader (not a noise-maker) Why education-driven marketing is essential in the non-alc world What most founders get wrong when they “do” marketing The difference between chaotic posting vs structured brand storytelling How a marketing department builds trust, demand, and community over time If you’ve ever felt like you’re reinventing the wheel every time you sit down to market your business, this episode will give you clarity on what’s missing and what becomes possible once you have an actual system. To get the full set of templates, frameworks, SOPs, and marketing structures mentioned in this episode, check out The Marketing Department in a Box™ here: Let’s build your departments one by one, so you can finally work like the business you’re trying to become.
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Dept in a Box Series: Project Management & To Do's
11/18/2025
Dept in a Box Series: Project Management & To Do's
In today’s episode, we kick off a six-part series designed to walk you through the core departments every non-alc bar, bottle shop, or third space needs in order to function smoothly. This first installment focuses on the importance of Project Management & To-Do’s. NOT the mechanics of setting up systems, but the deeper reason this department determines whether your business operates with clarity or chaos. You’ll learn why project management is the foundation of a sustainable, scalable company… why most founders struggle without it… how forgotten tasks quietly erode momentum… and why you can’t grow a business you’re still running from memory. If you want the templates, Notion dashboards, and full plug-and-play system that goes with this episode, get instant access to The Project Management Box here:
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Questions from Founders: "How Do I Keep the Sunday Scaries Out of My Business?"
10/27/2025
Questions from Founders: "How Do I Keep the Sunday Scaries Out of My Business?"
If you left the 9-to-5 to feel free but find yourself more stressed than ever on Sunday nights, this episode is for you. In this week’s Mocktails with Marina, we’re unpacking the real reason entrepreneurs experience the “Sunday Scaries” (and why it has nothing to do with laziness or discipline). You’ll learn how structure is the antidote to anxiety, and how to design a rhythm that actually supports your life instead of draining it. Marina shares her personal story of breaking the weekend work cycle and building systems that let her rest without guilt. She walks you through six practical strategies to reset your week: from the Friday Close Ritual to the Sunday Power Hour, all tailored for founders, creators, and business owners in the non-alcoholic, kava, and functional beverage space. You didn’t quit your job to become your own worst boss. You left to feel peace, purpose, and possibility and it starts with how you end your week. 👉 Learn how to build a business that doesn’t make you dread Mondays. Connect: Effortless Operations:
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realities of the non-linear path to stability and profitability
10/21/2025
realities of the non-linear path to stability and profitability
Everyone wants the secret to success but the truth is, there isn’t one. In this episode of Mocktails with Marina, we’re getting brutally honest about what it actually takes to reach long-term stability and profitability as a non-alcoholic business owner. From balancing your nervous system to facing rejection head-on, Marina breaks down the five principles that separate sustainable founders from burnout-prone dreamers. Forget the 30-day success hacks and “10K in a month” formulas; this is about the real work: emotional regulation, consistency, community, and courage. Whether you’re running a kava bar, bottle shop, non-alc beverage brand, or consulting business, this conversation will help you reframe what progress truly looks like and remind you that the path to profit is never linear but always worth it. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why “linear growth” is a myth (and what sustainable progress really looks like) The 5 habits of long-term stability in business How to recognize your “glass ceiling” moment and break through it The mindset shift that turns chaos into calm and burnout into balance Why most businesses fail within 3–5 years and how to design yours to last If you’re building a functional solo or family business in the non-alcoholic industry (bar, bottle shop, beverage brand, or coaching company) and want personalized guidance, visit to start the conversation. Because sustainability isn’t about sprinting; it’s about learning how to build a business that breathes with you.
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Questions from Founders: "How do I build a $1M/year non-alcoholic bar?"
10/13/2025
Questions from Founders: "How do I build a $1M/year non-alcoholic bar?"
In this episode of Mocktails with Marina, host Marina Castillo breaks down what it really takes to build and maintain a million-dollar-a-year non-alcoholic bar. Spoiler: it’s not about your menu but it IS about your people, systems, and culture. Marina reveals the five most common reasons bars plateau before hitting seven figures, including leadership imbalance, burnout, lack of systems, and disconnection from community. She shares how successful founders balance human touch with technology, and why treating your team like gold will always outperform another rebrand or menu revamp. If you’ve ever wondered how to scale your sober space sustainably — whether you run a kava bar, functional beverage lounge, or zero-proof bottle shop — this episode will show you how to evolve from a local hangout to a lifestyle brand that breaks sales records and builds real loyalty. 💡 In this episode: The difference between $500k bars and $1M+ bars How leadership imbalance quietly sabotages your success Why “culture debt” costs more than turnover The role of tech in building scalable systems (without killing vibe) What it means to become a one-stop lifestyle hub Want personalized guidance for your bar or brand? 👉 Visit to get tailored recommendations from Marina and her team. Listen if you’re a: Non-alcoholic or kava bar owner Beverage founder or operator Community-driven entrepreneur Functional mixologist or sober space visionary
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case study: arizona's thriving non-alcoholic scene
10/06/2025
case study: arizona's thriving non-alcoholic scene
In this episode, Marina breaks down one of the fastest-growing non-alcoholic markets in the country: Arizona. With over twenty kava bars, bottle shops, and functional beverage spaces now thriving across the state, Arizona has quietly become a blueprint for how to build nightlife rooted in connection instead of intoxication. You’ll learn what makes this ecosystem so successful, from its collaborative founders and lean operational strategies to the cultural and economic shifts fueling community-based nightlife. Marina also shares insights from behind the scenes of her work in Arizona’s non-alc industry and reveals what founders can learn from the state’s rise as a non-alc powerhouse. If you’re hearing this live, don’t miss Bula Boss LIVE this November: a two-day, multi-city Arizona experience for beverage founders and sober-curious leaders ready to see this movement up close. Details and tickets at
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Questions from Founders: "How much do I need to show up online?"
09/30/2025
Questions from Founders: "How much do I need to show up online?"
As a non-alcoholic business owner, how much do you really need to be online to succeed? In this episode of Mocktails with Marina, I break down exactly how I built two podcasts that have generated over $100,000 in revenue ALONE without ever having more than 6,000 followers on social media. I’ll walk you through my simple content strategy: a weekly audio-only podcast, one evergreen paid ad that’s been running for nearly two years, and a consistent newsletter that ties it all together. You’ll learn why consistency matters more than virality, how to decide what “showing up” looks like for you, and why different business seasons require different levels of online presence. Whether you love creating daily content or you’d rather build a system that runs while you’re offline, this episode will give you permission to design your business around your lifestyle, not someone else’s algorithm. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why you don’t need to be online 24/7 to grow your non-alc business How my podcast-first strategy attracts 100% of my clients The role evergreen ads play in creating a stable flow of leads How to adapt your online presence based on the season you’re in Why lifestyle richness > hustle culture, especially for long-term sustainability Tune in to find your balance between visibility and freedom and discover just how little you actually need to be online to thrive in the non-alc space. Join the newsletter: www.marinamars.com/contact
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holiday season planning (oct-jan) for non-alc entrepreneurs
09/22/2025
holiday season planning (oct-jan) for non-alc entrepreneurs
Welcome back to Mocktails with Marina! In this episode, Marina breaks down how non-alcoholic business owners, kava bar operators, and sober entrepreneurs can strategically plan for the holiday season from October through January. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by seasonal chaos, scrambling to launch in two weeks, or struggling to capture momentum from big seasons like Dry January, this episode is your wake-up call. Marina shares: October: Why it’s your set-up month and the danger of rushing launches without a 30-day lead time. November: How to lean into gratitude and loyalty instead of getting lost in Black Friday noise. December: The importance of curated clarity; less is more when your customers are overbooked. January: Why it’s the ultimate launchpad for non-alc businesses and how to be ready before the ball drops. Seasons of growth & rest: How reflection and note-taking are the hidden keys to sustainable success. This is a problem-aware episode designed to help you see where you might be getting stuck. And if you want the holistic solutions from operations systems to sales strategies to event planning, that’s exactly what Marina and her team are here to help with. Whether you’re running a kava bar, launching a non-alc brand, or growing a sober community space, this episode will help you navigate the holiday season with confidence, clarity, and calm. Listen in and learn how to stop scrambling, start planning, and finally feel in control of your busiest season. Email: Learn more:
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You're Invited! The 7 Day Seasonal Rest for Non-Alc Founders + Operators
09/15/2025
You're Invited! The 7 Day Seasonal Rest for Non-Alc Founders + Operators
🍂 Clear Your Mind. Reclaim Your Energy. Reset Your Business. This week’s episode is an invitation into the 7-Day Fall Reset Challenge: a powerful seasonal reset designed for founders and operators in the non-alcoholic beverage space. Whether you’re dreaming of opening a kava bar, building a bottle shop, or launching a functional beverage brand, it’s easy to get buried under regulations, trends, and endless to-do lists. This reset is your chance to stop spinning and start leading. Inside the challenge, you’ll: Clear out mental clutter and distractions. Reclaim your energy and focus. Audit your connections and protect your vision. Build your strategy on rock instead of sand. Step into the season with clarity and momentum. The Accountability Booster When you submit your daily reflections, you’ll be on your way to unlocking $500 worth of FREE one-on-one consultation sessions with Marina of The Modern Mocktail. Complete all 7 days. Submit your reflections. Become a Modern Mocktail client. We’ll send you a compiled copy of your answers plus a tailored program recommendation based on your goals and you’ll receive your $500 bonus once you’re onboarded. Sign up here:
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avoiding wolves in the non-alcoholic industry
09/08/2025
avoiding wolves in the non-alcoholic industry
The non-alcoholic beverage industry is booming; kava bars, sober curious lounges, functional beverage brands, and alcohol-free bottle shops are popping up everywhere. But with rapid growth comes hidden threats: wolves in sheep’s clothing. In this episode of Mocktails with Marina, host Marina Castillo exposes 11 wolves in the non-alc industry that every founder, operator, and sober entrepreneur needs to recognize. From bar owners who exploit staff with “family” language, to distributors demanding exclusivity, to brands lying about functional ingredients or selling expired products, Marina calls out the wolf tactics that weaken our movement. You’ll hear: Why late paychecks + owner draws are a major red flag How sloppy serving practices ruin entire regional markets The dangers of expired kava, kratom, and functional blends How “functional” brands use wellness language while sneaking in endocrine disruptors The truth about exclusivity deals, non-compete clauses, and industry lobbyists Why predatory mentors demanding equity aren’t guides — they’re wolves in disguise This episode is both a warning and a rallying cry. Because the non-alcoholic space is fragile and worth protecting. 👉 This is just the beginning of the Wolves series. Follow Marina on Instagram to catch the full set of reels and future updates. If you’re building in the non-alcoholic, sober curious, or functional beverage world, this episode is a must-listen.
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BTS: Navigating pregnancy as full time business owners without day jobs
09/01/2025
BTS: Navigating pregnancy as full time business owners without day jobs
In this behind-the-scenes episode of Mocktails with Marina, host Marina Castillo gets real about what it looks like to navigate pregnancy as a full-time entrepreneur with no day job, no safety net, and no “Plan B.” Marina shares her journey of leaving her last job without savings, getting slammed with a $9k vet bill, and spending the next year building a sustainable business with her husband. She dives into the practical strategies that allowed them to prepare for pregnancy with confidence—like eliminating non-essential expenses, mastering tax strategy as a lifestyle, and building business systems that make maternity and paternity leave seamless for clients. This episode is part personal story, part roadmap for anyone wondering how to balance business ownership and parenthood without relying on traditional jobs. Marina opens up about why entrepreneurship actually feels safer than a 9–5 when daycare costs and family values are factored in, and how they’re setting their kids up for generational wealth with both a business and a 401k before they even turn 18. If you’re an entrepreneur, sober creative, or non-alcoholic industry founder who’s thinking about starting a family or simply looking for inspiration on how to build a life that aligns with your values this conversation will give you both perspective and practical takeaways.
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You're Invited! Bula Boss LIVE 2025
08/25/2025
You're Invited! Bula Boss LIVE 2025
In this episode of Mocktails with Marina, Marina Castillo shares an exciting invitation to Bula Boss Live 2025, a two-day, in-person business bootcamp and Arizona tour designed for non-alcoholic beverage founders, kava bar owners, bottle shop entrepreneurs, and sober community builders. Taking place November 3–4, 2025, Bula Boss Live blends hands-on strategy sessions with real-world field research inside some of Arizona’s most innovative non-alc lounges. Marina walks you through why this experience isn’t just another event — it’s a transformation. You’ll discover how to identify the wow factor of successful non-alcoholic businesses, refine your unique brand delivery, increase nightly tab sizes with upsell strategies, design more profitable menus, and spot market gaps waiting for your vision. Whether you join in person or follow along with a digital access pass, Bula Boss Live will give you the clarity, connections, and confidence to scale your non-alc business in 2025. With options ranging from community access to a full VIP Founder Experience, this is your chance to stop second-guessing and start leading. If you’ve been searching for your people in the non-alcoholic, kava, or sober entrepreneurship movement, this episode shows you why Arizona in November is where you need to be. ✨ Grab your ticket at
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Interview with Vanessa Royle, Founder of Tilden
08/18/2025
Interview with Vanessa Royle, Founder of Tilden
In today’s episode of Mocktails with Marina, we sit down with Vanessa Royle, founder of Tilden, a brand that’s changing the non-alcoholic cocktail game with one key philosophy: flavor comes first. Vanessa shares her deeply personal journey of going alcohol-free during the early days of the pandemic and how that shift revealed a massive gap in the beverage space—especially for people who are pregnant, on medications like SSRIs, or simply craving something complex without the crash. From launching Tilden as a class project during business school to crafting each bottle with culinary-grade ingredients like Lapsang Souchong, Sichuan pepper, and American oak, Vanessa breaks down what it takes to make a truly adult non-alc drink. We talk about: Why non-alcoholic doesn’t mean non-decadent Navigating the space as a sober consumer in a cocktail world The behind-the-scenes process of flavor development, including sourcing, testing, and iteration Tilden’s mission to offer inclusivity without compromise The rising consumer demand for adult NA drinks that don’t rely on adaptogens How Tilden is designing with bars, restaurants, and pregnant folks in mind If you're tired of sugary mocktails, overwhelmed by buzzword-heavy bottles, or simply looking for a drink that delivers the entire cocktail experience minus the alcohol, this one’s for you. Tune in now and meet the team behind one of the most thoughtfully crafted, pregnancy-friendly, and flavor-forward NA brands on the market. Get 20% off your first Tilden order at Follow Vanessa on Instagram: Questions? Send us an email:
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Interview with David Lund: Founder of Drømme
08/11/2025
Interview with David Lund: Founder of Drømme
In this episode of Mocktails with Marina, we sit down with David Lund, the founder of Drømme, a premium non-alcoholic beverage brand that's reshaping how we relax, connect, and celebrate without alcohol. If you’ve been curious about functional alcohol alternatives, botanical spirits, or how to create a wellness-focused drink that actually tastes good, this episode is for you. We explore the origin of Drømme; from the Scandinavian-inspired name to the founder’s personal motivation for launching a non-alc beverage company. David shares what makes Drømme different from other zero-proof drinks on the market, including its unique use of functional ingredients, dreamy branding, and the science behind the feel-good effects. Whether you're a sober-curious consumer, wellness enthusiast, kava bar owner, bottle shop buyer, or non-alc entrepreneur looking for inspiration, this episode is a must-listen. David breaks down what it means to build a beverage that’s not just a substitute for alcohol but a category of its own. Topics Covered: Why David Lund started Drømme The meaning behind the brand name Functional botanicals used in non-alcoholic spirits How Drømme stands out in the non-alc and adaptogen drink market Tips for launching a beverage brand with intention The future of mindful drinking and alcohol-free nightlife Resources Mentioned: Visit: Follow: Questions? Send them to hello@marinamars.com
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Interview with Rachelle Robinett: writer, herbalist, and life-long naturalist
08/04/2025
Interview with Rachelle Robinett: writer, herbalist, and life-long naturalist
In this episode of Mocktails with Marina, I sit down with herbalist, educator, and author Rachelle Robinett to explore the world of modern herbalism and how plants can transform your health, mindset, and daily routines without the overwhelm. Whether you're a wellness beginner, sober-curious, or diving deeper into functional ingredients, this episode is a must-listen. We talk about how herbs for anxiety, digestion, sleep, and focus can be seamlessly integrated into your lifestyle, how to cut through the noise of the wellness industry, and why intentional routines, like making tea, can be just as nourishing as the herbs themselves. Rachelle shares practical, science-backed tips from her new book, NATURALLY: The Herbalist’s Guide to Health and Transformation, and offers insights on simplifying your wellness journey through the power of adaptogens, nootropics, nervines, and more. We also dig into the emotional side of plant medicine, the value of starting small, and why reconnecting with nature is key to sustainable self-care in today’s fast-paced world. Whether you're building a non-alcoholic lifestyle, experimenting with functional botanicals, or just curious about the healing power of herbs, this episode delivers clarity, calm, and serious plant wisdom. Grab Rachelle’s new book: Follow Rachelle on IG: Questions? Email hello@marinamars.com
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drink money: a bev sales masterclass
07/28/2025
drink money: a bev sales masterclass
In this power-packed episode of Mocktails with Marina, we’re dropping the full audio recording of last week’s Drink Money Masterclass: a tactical, no-fluff training designed for beverage brand founders, kavatenders, sales reps, and affiliate marketers in the non-alcoholic and functional beverage industry. Whether you're selling RTDs, tinctures, kava, or adaptogenic blends, this masterclass covers the foundational sales psychology, pitch strategy, and customer communication skills you must master to move product, build trust, and generate revenue without relying on alcohol as a crutch. Learn how to position your functional or non-alc beverage as an experience, not just a drink. Discover what really converts in tasting rooms, behind the bar, or via affiliate marketing, and walk away with actionable steps you can implement today to increase visibility and sales. This isn't a general sales pep talk, it's a niche-specific sales blueprint for a new wave of beverage entrepreneurs rewriting the rules. 🎧 Hit play to learn how to sell beverages that heal, not numb. Watch the full video here: Send me questions:
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Interview with Abbie Romanul: Founder of Raising the Bar
07/21/2025
Interview with Abbie Romanul: Founder of Raising the Bar
In this episode of Mocktails with Marina, we sit down with Abbie Romanul, founder of , the zero-proof cocktail kit subscription that's become a staple for mindful drinkers, sober-curious folks, and wellness-forward hosts across the U.S. Abbie shares her deeply personal journey—from quietly deciding to stop drinking after one too many mornings filled with shame and exhaustion, to realizing how few options existed for those who still craved the ritual, flavor, and experience of a great cocktail without the alcohol. That moment sparked the idea for Raising the Bar, a brand now known for curating monthly boxes packed with premium non-alcoholic spirits, mixers, bar tools, and mixologist-crafted recipes. We talk about the realities of building a non-alcoholic business as a mom of three (including while pregnant during a pandemic!), how she balances creativity with logistics, and what it really takes to scale a purpose-driven CPG brand in the functional beverage industry. Abbie also reflects on the unexpected emotional challenges of sobriety, the deeper meaning of celebration, and how Raising the Bar customers—from liver cancer patients to cocktail enthusiasts—are using her kits to feel included, intentional, and connected. Whether you're looking for zero-proof drink ideas, exploring non-alcoholic business models, or just want a peek behind the scenes of building a thoughtful, scalable brand—this episode will hit home. Explore Raising the Bar: Follow @weareraisingthebar on Instagram Start your own non-alc business:
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Interview with Sarah Kate: founder of Some Good Clean Fun, North America’s most-read site dedicated to non-alcoholic drinks
07/14/2025
Interview with Sarah Kate: founder of Some Good Clean Fun, North America’s most-read site dedicated to non-alcoholic drinks
In this powerful episode of Mocktails with Marina, host Marina Castillo sits down with Sarah Kiriliuk, the founder of and sober lifestyle advocate behind the popular Instagram account @somegoodcleanfun. With her PR and media background and deeply personal journey through perimenopause, motherhood, and midlife transformation, Sarah shares how she went from wine-filled nights to becoming a trusted voice in the non-alcoholic beverage movement. Together, Marina and Sarah explore the roots of mommy wine culture, the layered experience of midlife women navigating sobriety, and the health and hormonal shifts that make alcohol feel increasingly misaligned. They talk about the psychology of alcohol marketing, the rise of non-alcoholic alternatives, and the way community (and lack thereof) shapes sober curiosity, especially for Gen Xers and Xennials. Sarah also opens up about how Some Good Clean Fun evolved from DIY shrubs in her kitchen to a growing platform on Substack helping women discover the art of mindful drinking, one mocktail at a time. She shares vulnerable stories about parenting, breaking habits, and what “clean fun” really means when you’ve stripped away the numbing agents and finally come home to yourself. If you're a sober-curious woman, non-alc brand founder, or simply someone wondering what’s next after ditching booze, this episode offers emotional honesty, industry insight, and an invitation to rewrite the story of what celebration and presence can look like in your 40s and beyond. 👉 Want to connect with Sarah or check out her latest writing? Find her on Substack at Follow her on Instagram: Visit her website: 🎧 Tune in now to hear the full conversation and discover why Some Good Clean Fun is more than a brand, it’s a movement.
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Interview with Lila Volkas: NA Mixologist, Nutritionist & Team Building Facilitator
07/07/2025
Interview with Lila Volkas: NA Mixologist, Nutritionist & Team Building Facilitator
In this episode of Mocktails with Marina, host Marina Castillo sits down with Lila Volkas (non-alcoholic beverage educator, holistic nutritionist) to explore the powerful intersection of mindful drinking, functional mixology, and plant-based wellness education. Together, they dive deep into Lila’s journey from health challenges to herbal healing, her love for DIY elixirs and alcohol-free mixology, and how she now leads corporate team-building workshops that transform even the most skeptical whiskey drinkers into curious NA converts. Whether you’re a sober-curious consumer, a non-alcoholic bar or bottle shop owner, or a functional beverage entrepreneur, this episode is a must-listen. You’ll learn how to create inclusive wellness experiences, use everyday kitchen ingredients like apple cider vinegar and citrus peels to elevate your drinks, and shift the narrative around celebration and community without alcohol. We also discuss the rise of adaptogens, kava, herbalism in modern mixology, and how to empower your audience (or customers) with ingredient education and intentional storytelling. Lila shares her tips on making NA fun, inclusive, and healing, from her early days as a spin instructor and kombucha workshop leader to now leading high-impact beverage education courses all over the country. 🔗 Want to learn more or start creating your own beverage movement? Visit or check the episode description for links. 🎓 For mixologists, facilitators, and brands: Grab our Ultimate Non-Alc Menu Kit to learn how to communicate your NA menus →
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visibility is a nervous system game
06/30/2025
visibility is a nervous system game
In this powerful episode of Mocktails with Marina, we explore why visibility in business isn't just about being seen, it's about being regulated. Whether you're building a non-alcoholic brand, launching your first product, or leading a team in the kava and sober-curious space, the ability to show up authentically and consistently is a nervous system skill, not just a strategy. Marina dives deep into: Why true leadership starts with emotional neutrality How to train your nervous system to hold greater levels of success, visibility, and team responsibility What it really means to be seen in alignment without oversharing Why being misunderstood is a gift (and how to turn it into a new SOP) How entrepreneurs in the non-alc, wellness, and CPG industries can scale sustainably by becoming the type of leader people trust, not just follow This is a must-listen for founders ready to grow their business while staying rooted in integrity, especially in the rapidly evolving functional beverage and non-alcoholic lifestyle sectors. 👀 Ready to get visible and operationally sound? Download the : your Notion-powered roadmap to systematize growth, scale your impact, and regulate your rise: www.marinamars.com/product-page/effortless-operations-starter-guide
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RESOURCE DROP: The Effortless Operations Starter Pack
06/30/2025
RESOURCE DROP: The Effortless Operations Starter Pack
Is your backend blocking your breakthrough? In this episode of Mocktails with Marina, we dive into the chaotic, often-overlooked world of operations and uncover why so many non-alcoholic business owners, kava bar founders, and sober entrepreneurs feel stuck, even when everything looks good on the surface. If you’re juggling endless to-do lists, answering the same team questions over and over, or feeling like growth means more chaos instead of more ease… this one’s for you. We break down: The 4 Founder Archetypes that drive your ops behavior The real cost of messy systems (burnout, bottlenecks, profit drag) The 3 Pillars of Effortless Operations (Visibility, Systems, Culture) How to shift from reactive to regenerative workflows Practical ways to get your backend organized without hiring a huge team This episode introduces my new Effortless Operations Starter Guide, a done-for-you Notion toolkit for non-alc bar owners, bottle shops, and functional beverage brands ready to clean up the chaos and scale with clarity. Whether you're launching your first product or managing a team, this is your roadmap to smoother systems, happier teams, and sustainable growth. 👉 The guide is here:
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RESOURCE DROP: The Ultimate Non-Alc Menu Creation Guide
06/16/2025
RESOURCE DROP: The Ultimate Non-Alc Menu Creation Guide
Struggling to price your drinks? Wondering why your non-alc menu isn’t selling? In this episode of Mocktails with Marina, we’re walking you through the exact system used by top-performing sober bars and beverage entrepreneurs to create intentional, profitable, and scalable drink menus. Marina shares horror stories from behind the scenes of bad menus, then introduces the Ultimate Non-Alc Menu Creation Guide: a plug-and-play system for bars, bottle shops, kava lounges, and wellness founders. Learn how to: • Price your drinks using real beverage math • Track ingredient costs with ease • Build drink menus that are balanced and reorderable • Train your team to sell with confidence • Design with herbs, elements, and storytelling Whether you’re launching your first drink lineup or refreshing your seasonal offerings, this guide is your new best friend. Grab the full kit for just $77. Download the guide here:
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RESOURCE DROP: The Non-Alc Business Jumpstart Kit
06/09/2025
RESOURCE DROP: The Non-Alc Business Jumpstart Kit
Ready to finally take your non-alcoholic business idea seriously? In this episode, Marina shares the story behind the creation of the Non-Alc Business Jumpstart Kit—a powerful, done-for-you toolkit designed for aspiring founders of non-alcoholic bars, bottle shops, and beverage brands. If you’ve been stuck in research mode, overwhelmed by where to begin, or unsure how to price, plan, and launch your concept—this is the resource built for this exact moment. Whether you're creating a sober space, developing a functional beverage line, or stepping into the wellness drink industry, this episode offers clarity, inspiration, and an invitation to act. You’ll learn: — Why most non-alc entrepreneurs stall out before they even begin — What makes this space different from traditional beverage startups — How the Jumpstart Kit helps you skip 100+ hours of guessing — Why $77 might be the smartest investment you’ll make this year This is the blueprint you wish you had when you started. For non-alcoholic beverage startups, kava bar owners, sober entrepreneurs, functional mocktail creators, and future-ready wellness brands—this is your call to action. Download the Non-Alc Business Jumpstart Kit now:
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the hill we’ll die on: how business owners can change the world (kava & NA edition)
06/02/2025
the hill we’ll die on: how business owners can change the world (kava & NA edition)
If you care about the future of kava, you need to hear this. In this powerful episode, I pull back the curtain on our advocacy work with both the Global and Arizona Kava Coalitions; covering everything from health department misunderstandings to national misinformation about kava’s safety. We talk real policy, industry protection, and how owning a kava business is the most effective tool for creating long-term change. You’ll learn: • How kava bar owners are uniting to prevent what happened to hemp from happening to kava • Why being a business owner gives you more power in public policy than just being passionate • What the Kava Coalition is doing globally to protect growers, products, and cultural roots • And why this is a hill we’re willing to die on Grab your free copy of the Top Tips for Kava Bars guide: It’s a must-have for anyone running, or dreaming of running, a kava bar. Ready to turn your passion into real impact? Check out Bula Boss, the ultimate program for non-alc founders ready to lead this industry with clarity and strategy: Let’s raise the bar together!
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the drunk monopoly: why the world is rigged against non-alc (and how to win anyways)
05/26/2025
the drunk monopoly: why the world is rigged against non-alc (and how to win anyways)
The non-alcoholic space is booming—but make no mistake, the game is still rigged. In this episode, Marina exposes the power structures keeping non-alc brands stuck on the sidelines and what it really takes to win. We unpack how the alcohol industry controls distribution, funding, and even social norms—while quietly investing in non-alc products to keep control. You’ll learn the psychology behind why drink culture is so hard to break—and how non-alc brands can use that exact psychology to build something magnetic. Whether you're building a bottle shop, launching a beverage, or just tired of being underestimated, this episode will give you the fire (and strategy) to play bigger. This is your permission slip to disrupt. Ready to make waves? Bula Boss is officially open. 🎯 Join the movement:
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