Emotional Sobriety & Creativity with Michael J. HarneyEmotional Sobriety & Creativity with Michael J. Harney
Emotional Sobriety: The Next Step in Recovery
Actor, writer and director Michael J. Harney (NYPD Blue, Deadwood, True Detective) joins Thom and Allen to talk about his evolving spirituality and journey to recovery, his experience directing his new play “Danny Boy,” his friendship with the legendary David Milch, and how emotional sobriety has shown up for him over the years in his relationships with others and his Muse. See Michael’s play, “Danny Boy” now showing in Los Angeles: https://www.onstage411.com/newsite/show/play_info.asp?show_id=7432 Follow us on social media. Podcast Twitter: @EmSobrietyPod Instagram: thomrutledge2 Joe C. Twitter: @Rebellion_Dogs Patrick’s “Outside Issues” podcast, about the intersection of recovery and social justice: https://www.youtube.com/@outsideissuespodcast https://pod.link/1826305552 Friendly Circle Berlin Workshop Group meets every Monday @ 7:30pm (Berlin), 6:30pm (Ireland & UK), 1:30pm EST, 10:30am PST Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5505019905 Allen’s book, 12 Essential Insights for Emotional Sobriety: https://www.amazon.com/12-Essential-Insights-Emotional-Sobriety/dp/1955415129/ Join Allen & Thom at our Thursday night, 7pm PST Zoom meeting on Emotional Sobriety and the Steps (login information below): https://zoom.us/j/330149513 Password: 375986 For our ongoing workshop video series on Emotional Sobriety and the 12 Steps, visit our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHEM2-kqLkfp3I4c0jy-X-g Also, please join our “Emotional Sobriety and Recovery” FB Group at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/120450976662519 We’d love to stay in touch in between meetings. We appreciate feedback! Contact Patrick, our producer, at pndirective4@gmail.com for any questions or comments.
40:13•3 Oct 2025
Emotional Sobriety & Creativity with Michael J. Harney
Episode Overview
- Emotional sobriety involves achieving autonomy by letting go of unhealthy dependencies.
- Creative pursuits like playwriting can be integral to the recovery process.
- Meaningful relationships play a crucial role in maintaining emotional sobriety.
- Spirituality can provide significant support in the journey to recovery.
- Authenticity in relationships helps navigate personal limitations.
“"Cutting those strings is what emotional sobriety is. It's about finding a way to achieve that autonomy in our lives."”
Get ready to be moved by real-life accounts of emotional sobriety and creativity in this episode featuring the multi-talented Michael J. Harney. Best known for his roles in 'NYPD Blue' and 'Deadwood,' Harney shares his personal journey towards recovery and spiritual growth with hosts Thom Rutledge and Dr. Allen Berger. As he opens up about his experiences, Harney offers listeners a glimpse into his evolving spirituality and how emotional sobriety has played a crucial role in his life and relationships.
In a heartfelt conversation, Harney delves into his creative process, discussing his latest venture as a playwright with 'Danny Boy,' now showing in Los Angeles. He also reflects on the impact of his friendship with legendary writer David Milch on his creative journey, recounting anecdotes that are both humorous and poignant. This episode is not just about Harney's personal stories; it provides broader insights into the concept of emotional sobriety, a term coined by Bill Wilson, co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Thom Rutledge and Dr. Allen Berger explore how emotional autonomy can be achieved by understanding and letting go of unhealthy dependencies. Whether you're curious about the interplay between creativity and recovery or seeking inspiration for your own journey, this episode offers an engaging blend of personal stories and expert perspectives. So, what can we learn from those who have battled addiction and found their creative spark? Tune in to find out!
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