Turning Pain into Purpose: CJ Mutti’s Sober Story
The Beginning of the Journey
CJ Mutti’s relationship with alcohol was born out of familiarity as she grew up in a home where alcohol abuse was all too common. With this blind spot in place, she spent years not recognizing that her own problem drinking was spiraling out of control. Drinking daily (always to get drunk), her habits were hidden deep beneath layers of shame. Her self-esteem was gradually eroded by the deception and the comparison to the toxic behaviors she saw in her parents and family members.
“It’s really hard to see your own reflection when it’s blurred by what you’ve normalized for so long,” Mutti reflects.
The Catalyst for Change
The loss of her brother Tommy, at just 37 years old, was a defining moment. His death, fully related to his alcoholism, shattered her world and made her confront her own relationship with alcohol head-on. But she wasn’t ready to get clean; instead, she sank deeper into the performative comfort of the bottle.
For seven years following her brother’s passing, Mutti’s drinking intensified. Although, it wasns’t for fun any more. Instead, it developed into a necessary form of self-destruction and escape. She found herself isolated, stuck in a cycle of drinking alone, crying and feeling numb.
Then came the COVID-19 pandemic, which for Mutti, only magnified her struggles. At home, in solitude, she drank more and more, until she contracted COVID in November 2023. The illness and recovery were brutal, and through the physical aches and fatigue, Mutti realized she simply couldn’t keep doing this to herself.
“That last night at the Bills game, looking at the field through blurry eyes, I knew, I just knew, I couldn’t keep living this way,” Mutti recalls. “The regret hit me like a tidal wave, and I finally listened to that quiet inner voice saying, ‘It’s time to stop.’”
Facing Challenges with Resilience
Admittedly, the initial weeks were tough. Mutti grappled with major doubts. “I’m not an alcoholic, like my parents or brother,” she repeated to herself.
She thought she was just taking a break, a pause, rather than quitting entirely. She also felt bored—drinking had been her hobby; her social crutch.
Finding community was difficult at first, especially since she didn't relate to traditional 12-step programs. Instead, Mutti turned to experimenting with non-alcoholic beers, which became her lifeline, giving her comfort and confidence. But sourcing these drinks was a struggle—visiting multiple stores was exhausting.
“That’s when I realized I needed to do something myself,” Muttis said. “That’s when I started my own non-alcoholic bottle shop. Creating Dry Humor changed everything for me.”
Dry Humor is a premier non-alcoholic bottle shop located in Easthampton, Massachusetts, serving an impressive collection of non-alc beer, alcohol-removed wine, alcohol-free cocktails and spirit alternatives. At Mutti’s direction, Dry Humor is on a mission to create a vibrant, welcoming space where people of all backgrounds—drinkers, non-drinkers, curious explorers—can discover that life without alcohol isn’t just possible, it’s radiant, meaningful, and deeply worth embracing. How perfect is that?
Key Breakthroughs and Self-Discovery
One of Mutti’s most profound turning points along her sobriety journey was returning to Al-Anon meetings. Al-Anon is an international mutual aid organization for people who have been negatively impacted by another person's alcoholism.
Hearing others’ stories, sharing her own feelings, and confronting unresolved childhood trauma helped Mutti see her patterns more clearly. She realized that her behaviors weren’t about weakness, but rather about the complex biology of addiction and the positive reinforcement found in social settings.
“Understanding that alcohol is designed to be addictive—by culture, by nature—was a huge relief,” she explains. “It helped me stop blaming myself and start fighting for myself.”
The Power of Support and Love
Mutti praises her wife, Ashley, as her greatest support. Ashley’s unwavering love, patience and encouragement have been an anchor, and her belief in Mutti’s strength and transformation reminds her daily that she is capable of living a full, sober life.
“Ashley’s support made all the difference,”* CJ says. *“She’s been my rock through everything, and because of her, I feel confident and proud of the woman I’m becoming.”
Strategies That Keep Her Moving Forward
One day at a time. Like for many alcoholics in recovery, this mantra has been Mutti’s saving grace. She recognizes that addiction isn’t about personal weakness but rooted in biology and societal influence. Her understanding fuels her resilience.
Non-alcoholic beverages, especially her custom collection, have become her secret weapon. They allow her to enjoy rituals and social settings without deprivation, helping her navigate holidays, celebrations, and everyday life.
“Knowing I have non-alcoholic options in my fridge gives me power,”* CJ says. *“It’s like a shield against old triggers.”
A Life Transformed
Since choosing sobriety, Mutti’s world has expanded in ways she never imagined. She launched Dry Humor, turning her personal challenge into a business that not only supports her sobriety but creates a community where others find refuge and connection. Through this venture, she’s built a space that celebrates being alcohol-free and empowers others to embrace a healthier lifestyle.
Her daily life is richer, filled with purpose, connection, and authenticity. She actively seeks out opportunities to give back and influence her community positively, from serving on local cultural boards to connecting with like-minded individuals online.
“Sobriety isn’t just about stopping drinking,” Mutti said. “It’s about rediscovering myself, rebuilding my confidence, and creating a life that’s true to who I am, free from shame, and full of possibility.”
Her relationships have deepened, and her self-worth has soared.
“Every day I wake up grateful,” she shares. “Grateful for the lessons, for my strength, and for the people who have supported me along the way.”
Words of Courage and Hope
Mutti’s journey is a testament to resilience, healing, and the power of community. Her advice to others considering sobriety is simple: Listen to your inner voice. Trust that you are stronger than your struggles. And remember, you’re not alone. Support is out there, waiting to help lift you up.
“If you’re questioning your relationship with alcohol or any other substance, do not be afraid of change,” she said. “Sometimes, the hardest decisions lead to the most beautiful transformations.”
A Final Reflection
For Mutti, her story is an ongoing work in progress. Every day she chooses herself, her health, and her happiness. She hopes her journey inspires others to see that even past pain and trauma can be transformed into purpose and connection.
When life feels overwhelming, she reminds herself: “You are capable of more than you know, and it’s never too late to create the life you deserve.”
Reach out to CJ Mutti @dry_humor_bottle_shop on instagram, or shoot her an email at info@dryhumor-shop.com. Interested in learning more about Dry Humor? Check out their website: www.dryhumor-shop.com.
