In this powerful conversation, Dave and Dante sit down with Clifford Stephan, founder of BoozeVacation.com, to talk about the journey of taking a "vacation" from drinking and how intentional breaks from alcohol can transform your faith, family life, health, and leadership.
Clifford shares his personal story, the moment he realized alcohol was holding him back, and why he built a community to help others explore life with less booze — or none at all. This episode encourages men to evaluate their habits, prioritize their spiritual and physical health, and lead their families with clarity and conviction.
Clifford's personal turning point and what inspired BoozeVacation.com
The difference between quitting drinking and taking a healthy break
Why alcohol has become so normalized in culture — and why men rarely talk about it
How a drinking "vacation" can improve sleep, energy, mood, and relationships
The spiritual implications of numbing, coping, and self-medicating
Rebuilding discipline and mental resilience
Being a better husband, father, and leader through sobriety or moderation
How community and accountability fuel long-term success
Clifford's practical steps for anyone wanting to start a 30-day break
What churches, men's ministries, and small groups can do better in this area
Identify if alcohol is filling a role that God should fill
Notice the patterns: stress drinking, weekend "reward" cycles, or emotional escape
Begin with a clear goal — "cut back," "take a break," or "quit"
Invite one trusted brother into the process for accountability
Replace old routines with healthier rhythms: exercise, prayer, hobbies, service
Track how your body, mind, and spiritual life respond during the break
Set boundaries around environments that trigger unhealthy habits
1 Corinthians 6:12 (ESV) – "All things are lawful for me," but not all things are helpful.
Ephesians 5:18 (ESV) – "Do not get drunk with wine… but be filled with the Spirit."
Proverbs 25:28 (ESV) – "A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls."
These verses guide men toward living with intentionality, discipline, and spiritual clarity.
Clifford is the founder of BoozeVacation.com, a platform designed to help individuals take meaningful breaks from alcohol through structured challenges, coaching, and community support. His mission is to empower people to rediscover their best selves and experience life without the haze and habits alcohol often brings.
Learn more at BoozeVacation.com.
