In this conversation, Chad and Joe B. discuss their experiences with addiction and recovery. They talk about the challenges of living a sober life and the lack of guidance and support after getting sober. Joe B. shares his journey of getting sober and how he struggled with finding his identity and fitting in. They also discuss their experiences with drugs and the impact it had on their lives. Joe B. talks about his passion for photography and how it became his artistic voice. The conversation highlights the importance of finding purpose and support in recovery. Joe B shares his journey of alcoholism and recovery, highlighting the moments of chaos and self-destruction that led him to seek help. He describes his experiences of moving from place to place, getting married, and hiding his drinking. Joe B emphasizes the importance of surrendering and seeking support from others in recovery. Joe B concludes by discussing the joy and fulfillment he finds in helping others on their own recovery journeys.

Keywords

addiction, recovery, sober life, guidance, support, identity, fitting in, drugs, photography, purpose, alcoholism, recovery, surrender, support, sponsor, 12 steps, transformation, joy, fulfillment

Takeaways

• The recovery industry provides tools and information for recognizing addiction and seeking help, but there is a lack of guidance and support for living a sober life.

• Getting sober is just the first step, and many people struggle with finding their identity and purpose after getting sober.

• Drugs and alcohol can provide a temporary escape and a sense of belonging, but they ultimately lead to more problems and hinder personal growth.

• Finding a passion or creative outlet can be a powerful tool in recovery and help individuals find their voice and purpose.

• Having a supportive community and seeking professional help are crucial for long-term recovery and maintaining a sober life. Alcoholism can lead to a life of chaos and self-destruction.

• Surrendering and seeking support from others in recovery is crucial for finding lasting sobriety.

• Helping others on their recovery journeys brings joy and fulfillment.

Sound Bites

• "Once you get through rehab, you're like, okay, here you go. Go get him, tiger. And you're like, well, what the fuck am I doing now? Like, I don't have my shit together."

• "I just thought that I normalized and rationalized the way that I drank and used drugs to the point where it's like, everybody does this. They just don't talk about it."

• "I have to stay in the moment. I have to stay present. I have to stay in the middle of the herd."

• "I'm not this scheming, felonious dick that is not present for my relationships that cheats and lies even when the truth is good enough."

• "Getting outside of yourself and doing something for somebody else every day is really important. Just do something for somebody else each day. Get outside of yourself. You'll find that life has more meaning than you ever thought that it did."