Creativity in Sobriety: Leo S on Being a Creative Sober and Uncomfortable WorkCreativity in Sobriety: Leo S on Being a Creative Sober and Uncomfortable Work
gAy A: A Queer Sober Podcast
Leo S shares his 35-year journey of sobriety and creativity in music on 'gAy A: A Queer Sober Podcast'.
41:24•28 Mar 2024
Leo S: Crafting Sobriety and Music on gAy A Podcast
Episode Overview
- Explore Leo S's 35-year sobriety journey intertwined with a successful music career
- Discover the importance of process and craft in creative pursuits
- Understand the challenges and rewards of untangling sex and addiction
- Learn about the power of doing uncomfortable work in recovery and creativity
- Reflect on the personal growth and artistic perseverance shared in the episode
“Process is really, really important to creating art. Craft manifests itself in different ways for different people. But for me, craft is knowing things like... Writing a joke, the joke is in the setup, not the payoff.”
How does one balance a successful music career while staying sober for 35 years? In this episode of 'gAy A: A Queer Sober Podcast', host Steve Martin-Bennet, also known as Sober Steve, brings you a heartfelt conversation with the talented Leo S. This isn't just about sobriety; it's about how creativity and recovery can beautifully intertwine. Steve kicks things off by sharing his own milestone—1026 days of continuous sobriety—and the approval of his workshop on overcoming shame and trauma.
But the spotlight quickly shifts to Leo, whose story is a testament to resilience and artistic perseverance. Leo opens up about his struggles with alcohol dependency and anxiety, shedding light on the challenges he's faced in both his personal life and music career. He delves into tough topics like navigating uncomfortable conversations about race in creative work and the importance of forgiveness and compassion in sobriety.
Through his journey, Leo reveals how giving back to the community has been a cornerstone of his recovery. This episode isn't just for those in the LGBTQ+ community; it's for anyone seeking inspiration on how to blend creativity with the ongoing journey of staying sober. Tune in for a conversation that's as enlightening as it is inspiring.

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