Cake Eater

De: Carl Radke

Narrado por: Carl Radke

For fans of raw celebrity memoirs, Bravo Summer House star Carl Radke gives listeners a look into his unfiltered journey of recovery, resilience and transformation.

“In Cake Eater, Carl Radke invites us into a deeply personal journey through loss, growth, and finding hope again. It’s an honest, heartfelt reminder that healing takes time and self-compassion, but it’s within reach.”—Lori Gottlieb, Bestselling author of Maybe You Should Talk To Someone and New York Times "Ask The Therapist" columnist

Sober Carl isn’t fun—or is he?

Carl Radke’s path from reality TV’s party-loving star to a life centered around recovery has been anything but straightforward. Famous for his role on Summer House, Carl’s journey in the spotlight has forced him to confront personal battles under public scrutiny. Beyond the cameras, he’s faced struggles with addiction, the weight of toxic masculinity, the heartbreaking loss of his brother and a quest to find real joy in a world that equates fun with alcohol.

In this candid memoir, Carl opens up about a side of his life few have seen. With unfiltered honesty, he takes listeners through the highs and lows, from career shifts and family dynamics to finding peace in his recovery. Each chapter dives into the hard-earned lessons he’s gathered, proving that life can be fulfilling—even without a drink. His story shows that fun and authenticity aren’t only compatible with sobriety; they can thrive because of it.

Whether processing grief, navigating sober relationships or confronting the public’s perceptions, Carl’s journey is one of resilience, growth and self-discovery. Through vulnerability and humor, Carl redefines “fun,” reminding listeners that the most meaningful transformations come from within. This memoir is a must-hear for anyone seeking the courage to redefine their own path.

©2025 Carl Radke (P)2025 Audible, Inc.

A Vulnerable, Necessary Story of Recovery

I am so happy that Carl told his story and for all that he is doing and has done for the sober community. I devoured this book in a single day. It is perfectly paced and digestible in a way that makes it hard to put down.

As a non-drinker myself, it is always inspiring to hear others journey to the other side of addiction. What I really admired about his story is that he is incredibly intentional in how he frames his own path as well as the steps that helped *him* on his individual journey. Carl makes it clear that there is not one road to saving your life. He never preaches AA or says that it is the only way to sobriety. He even mentions that his bar doesn't just exist for sober people. ALL are welcome.

There are varying degrees to alcohol usage and not everyone needs to be sober. I really liked that he made that point and never once bashes other people for their own paths - including the Summer House. One of the hardest truths about addiction for some is the realization that other people don't struggle in the same way as they do - even if they party the same amount.

Carl also mentioned that Soft Bar doesn't use the term 'mocktails' - he is not living in a space of 'mocking' alcohol or lusting after what it was in his life anymore. He is living intentionally, freely, and in his own truth. It may seem small, but it is little details like this that I found really fascinating. What a beautiful sentiment! Nothing is being mocked - this is simply different.

With each chapter is is so apparent that he has taken accountability for his past and doesn't shy away from any detail. Summer House fans will be happy to hear behind the scenes info and what it is like having your life filmed - especially on the worst day of your life during the Covid pandemic. It is surreal to hear what he was going through during the period of time before he got sober, and his honesty is inspiring. The loss of his brother is something no one should have to endure at such a young age, and it is profoundly moving to hear him speak of what that horrific tragedy taught him about empathy. He shares things he only learned about his brother after he passed, and once again his honesty and vulnerability will no doubt help others who may be going through a similar situation and still have time. The lesson that comes from realizing people only share parts of themselves with us, even family. Life is nuanced and gray and vibrant, and his appreciation for those things today helped my own perspective,

Carl didn't write this book to save face or finally tell his side of the story in a self centered way to make excuses for the past - something a lot of memoirs tend to do. He seems to have told his story to make it easier for others to find their own way towards self discovery and redemption.

He said something that really stood out to me about being sober - 'some days you sprint, some days you crawl, but you are always working towards the same goal one day at a time' It stopped me in my tracks on my hike because it is just SO very true.

Carl's vulnerability and bravery is something not a lot of people are able to do on the worlds biggest stage. I hope he continues to write, to live his truth, and know that he is doing more for sobriety culture than he will ever know.

Well done, Mr. Radke. No one path, just progress

Authenticity

Gave me chills multiple times. The strength it takes to open up about his journey to inspire others, is admirable.

real and raw

carl did an amazing job capturing his story in the most real & raw way. i’ve been a summerhouse fan forever & didn’t realize how deep his story ran.

So Relatable and Comforting❤️

First I have to say THANK YOU Carl for being so helpful, vulnerable and understanding. I know it’s not easy to do that and you not only do it with kindness to yourself but to others as well who are experiencing similar issues. That means more than you can ever imagine. This book had me tearing up many times for different reasons. Many of those reasons being so personally relevant to me. This book helped me to feel better about my own personal journeys in life. Especially this very fresh and very new path I currently find myself on. This book is raw and real and that’s so important to others who need a guiding hand in life. I love that he narrated it too. That makes it even better because his honesty, his sincerity and the beauty of his soul shines through his every word. Again I can’t say thank you enough for your amazing work❤️

So good!

I wish it was longer! Loved the story and vulnerability. It was a great listen.