The Creative Sober

What happens when creativity, identity, and recovery begin to intersect?In this episode of The Creative Sober Podcast, Mei sits down with alt hip-hop artist JHenry for a conversation about identity, creativity, and the personal work that unfolds through sobriety.JHenry shares how music has become a space for honest expression and self-discovery. As a gay artist working within hip hop, he reflects on navigating identity while building a creative path that feels authentic to who he is.The conversation also moves into his experience with anorexia and how that journey is closely tied to living alcohol-free for more than six years. Through recovery, JHenry speaks about learning to understand himself more deeply and how that awareness now shapes both his life and his music.This episode is a thoughtful reflection on vulnerability, creative expression, and the courage it takes to live openly as an artist in recovery.This conversation closes Season 5 Interviews of The Creative Sober.J.HenryInstagram: @thee.jhenryMusic and more: www.theejhenry.comFollow The Creative SoberInstagram: @thecreativesoberSubscribe, share, and help us amplify creative voices in recovery.JHenryThe Creative Sober

What does it look like to stay sober in spaces built around hip-hop music?In this episode of The Creative Sober Podcast, Mei sits down with national touring hip-hop artist and motivational speaker Coaster to talk about carving out a recovery path that is fully his own.After a life-altering drinking and driving accident in his early twenties, Coaster made the decision to rebuild his life through music. Today, he celebrates over a decade of sobriety. While many people find strength through 12-Step programs, Coaster chose a different approach that aligned more closely with his personal journey.For him, healing happened on stage.Touring nationally, performing at festivals, and sharing stages with major artists, including Afroman, Coaster continues to show up sober in environments where substances are often part of the culture. His presence alone challenges assumptions.This conversation explores what it means to define recovery for yourself, to speak openly about sobriety over time, and to transform a traumatic turning point into connection and impact.CoasterInstagram: @coaster_509Music and more: https://www.coasterclique.com/The Creative SoberInstagram: @thecreativesoberSubscribe, share, and help us amplify creative voices in recovery.

In this episode of The Creative Sober Podcast, Mei sits down with multidisciplinary artist and writer Jenni Meckelvaney for a conversation shaped by recovery, creativity, and personal transformation.Jenni reflects on her experiences with addiction, rediscovering her voice through writing, and the role community plays in healing. Together, they explore how creativity and recovery influence one another, the importance of vulnerability in storytelling, and what it means to trust transition as life evolves.The conversation also moves into body awareness, holistic healing practices, and Jenni’s emerging path toward becoming a doula, highlighting how listening to intuition and honoring personal change can open unexpected doors.This episode is a grounded reflection on rebuilding, self-trust, and the power of telling your own story.

Music Compilation Vol. 3 features original music and spoken word from sober artists highlighted in Season 5 of The Creative Sober. This episode opens the final stretch of the season, offering space to listen before diving deeper into the conversations ahead.Tracklist:​Coaster — Intro, At the Top​Kensho Kuma — Serenity Prayer​Jenni Meckelvaney — Spoken Word, “One Night in Vegas”​JHenry — Intro, Moments (Moonlight Version)Thank you to the artists who shared their work for this compilation. Your creativity continues to reflect the power of sober expression and community care.

Betty Guadagno shares her journey from generational addiction and trauma to a spiritual awakening in recovery. We talk about worthiness, community, and reclaiming creativity in sobriety. Her story is powerful, raw, and full of hope. In this special episode of The Creative Sober, Mei is joined by storyteller and recovery advocate Betty Guadagno. Betty shares her raw and powerful journey from growing up in generational cycles of addiction and trauma, to surviving an overdose that became a spiritual awakening, and how she has rebuilt her life in recovery.Together, Mei and Betty explore:​Breaking free from generational addiction patterns​The overdose that became the turning point in her life​Reclaiming creativity without substances​The role of community and connection in healing​Lessons she’s carrying forward while writing her first book✨ This conversation is about worthiness, resilience, and the courage to reclaim your story.🎧 Listen now and connect with Betty at buddhabetty.com

Bill Taylor, Director of Music Programs & Strategy at The Phoenix, shares his powerful journey of recovery within the music industry. He discusses the unique challenges musicians face, the vital role of community support, and how music can be a transformative healing tool. Bill emphasizes creating safe spaces at festivals, shifting self-talk, and the importance of organizations like The Phoenix in providing accessible resources.Key Takeaways:Community support is crucial for long-term sobriety.Music can be a powerful catalyst for healing and creativity in recovery.Asking for help is a transformative step, and supporting others is essential.Shifting self-talk and embracing spirituality can significantly impact recovery.The Phoenix offers vital resources and safe spaces for individuals seeking support.Cultural shifts within the music industry are necessary to prioritize well-being.Learn more about The Phoenix:https://thephoenix.org/

Episode Summary:We chat with Bonnie Rue, a talented artist and creative director at Austin's Original Apothecary. Bonnie shares her inspiring recovery journey and how sobriety has fueled her creativity. We discuss the power of nutrition and herbs in early recovery, the importance of overcoming perfectionism, and the benefits of mindfulness and kindness in the creative process. We also explore the role of community, holistic wellness, and self-care in maintaining sobriety.Key Takeaways:​​~ Sobriety can enhance creativity and personal growth.​​~ Nutrition and herbs can support early recovery.​​~ Overcoming perfectionism is key to unlocking creativity.​​~ Mindfulness and kindness are essential tools for navigating the creative process.​​~ Community and self-care are vital for maintaining sobriety.​​~ Holistic wellness can bring balance and purpose to life.​About Bonnie Rue:Bonnie Rue is a talented artist and creative director passionate about holistic wellness. She is the inspiration for Savoring Sobriety, a holistic approach to food and tea to support those in early recovery. Bonnie's work at Austin's Original Apothecary combines her love of plants, creativity, and community.Connect with Bonnie Rue:​Instagram​Website

We dive deep into the inspiring journey of Kady's a vibrant pop artist from Austin, Texas. Kady shares her personal experiences of surviving an abusive relationship, finding her purpose in music, and embracing sobriety. Her story is a testament to the power of creativity and resilience in overcoming adversity.Discover:​The Power of Music as Therapy: Kady discusses how music has been a crucial tool for her emotional healing and self-expression.​Speaking Your Truth: She emphasizes the importance of being honest and authentic in your art, even when it's difficult.​Creating a Safe Space: Kady uses her platform to support LGBTQ+ causes and create a welcoming environment for all.​Diversity and Self-Expression: Her unique fashion sense and diverse musical style reflect her belief in embracing individuality and self-expression.​Finding Inspiration in Sobriety: Kady shares how sobriety has positively influenced her creativity and music.​Staying True to Yourself: She encourages artists to be brave, stay true to their authentic selves, and never give up on their dreams. About Kady Rain:Kady is a talented pop artist known for her catchy melodies, vibrant energy, and diverse musical style. She has performed at prestigious festivals like ACL Festival and has received critical acclaim for her music and music videos. Her songs often explore themes of self-expression, resilience, and finding one's voice.Connect with Kady Rain Williams:​Instagram​Website

*This episode contains discussions of suicide and mental health challenges that some listeners may find triggering. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please seek professional help immediately. You can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. In this episode, Host, Mei McIntosh shares her journey of being alcohol-free for five years and the challenges she faced over the past year, including a big move, health challenges, and the loss of a beloved pet. She discusses the importance of self-care, alternative medicine, and setting boundaries. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Five Years Sober Milestone 06:29 The Big Move and Adjusting to a New Environment 08:22 Mental Health Struggles and the Journey to Healing 11:35 Exploring Alternative Medicine: Ketamine-Assisted Therapy 15:28 Health Challenges: Cancer Scare and Loss of a Pet 21:21 Lessons in Self-Care, Boundaries, and Cherishing Life

Struggling to balance partying and your art? Could ditching the scene unlock your creative potential? J9 shares their inspiring pre-pandemic sobriety choice, piloting adventures, and music debut "Pleasure & Pain" – a taste of their album "Colt 45." Discover how transformation fuels their '90s-infused sound. Listen now!Connect with J9: ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Official Website⁠🎧 Listen to Previous Episodes: Immerse yourself in more transformative tales of sobriety and creativity by exploring our ⁠⁠⁠past episodes⁠⁠⁠. Produced by: Mei McIntosh and Joel Swift Join Our Podcast Community: Dive deeper into the world of sobriety and creativity, and connect with like-minded souls at our online community: ⁠⁠⁠www.thecreativesober.com⁠⁠.