Recovery Rocks

For years, Anna was convinced she couldn't write without cocaine. Lisa was convinced she'd eventually write the Great American Novel from a bar stool. Neither plan worked out particularly well.

This week, they talk about what it's like to create without drugs or alcohol, the myths artists tell themselves about substances and creativity, and why sober writing is infinitely better—even if it feels terrifying at first.

There are stories about disastrous writing habits, terrible first drafts, writing classes, famous authors, the beeping computer that nearly drove Anna insane and the surprising realization that inspiration sticks around long after the drugs are gone.

Plus: a spirited debate about neighbors who only want to chat when you're already late.

What is Recovery Rocks?

Ever wonder what it's like to go on your first sober date? Or survive a wedding without liquid courage? How about dancing stone-cold sober or dealing with your first breakup without wine?

If so, you're in luck because you can join bestselling authors and longtime sober friends Lisa Smith and Anna David as they talk to guests—and each other—about addiction and recovery, including all the “firsts” that come with sober living. From awkward to amazing, cringe-worthy to surprisingly poignant, they’re discussing what it’s like to experience life without substances.

Lisa is the author of the award-winning memoir Girl Walks Out of a Bar, while Anna wrote Party Girl, a comic novel about addiction and recovery in the vein of Rachel's Holiday and Postcards From the Edge. Together, they explore the real-life moments behind the kinds of stories that shape how people understand recovery.

Whether you're newly sober, sober-curious or just want to hear some honest stories about recovery, Recovery Rocks is here for all of it.

Because as it turns out, when you can remember everything that happened, life gets a lot more interesting.

New episodes weekly. Real stories, real recovery, real talk.