Janet
Janet
Journalling in Recovery...with Patti Clark
Journalling in Recovery...with Patti Clark
Journalling in Recovery...with Patti Clark
Saturday 3rd May 2025
Explore Patti Clark's inspiring recovery journey and learn how journalling and connection can transform sobriety into a joyful lifestyle.
51 minutes
Inspiring
Honest
Supportive
Hopeful
Educational
About this podcast
Author:
Janet
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
Creative Recovery Journeys
Empowering Recovery Journeys
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
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Episodes:
269 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Finding Joy in Sobriety: Patti Clark's Journey
Episode Overview
- Patti Clark shares her journey from early alcohol use to sobriety.
- Journalling played a key role in her recovery process.
- Traditional 12-step programmes may not fit women's emotional needs.
- Finding a supportive community is crucial for lasting sobriety.
- Sobriety can be an upgrade, not a deprivation.
"I was quite arrogant and thought, I don't need this anyway. I'm all good."
This episode of Tribe Sober features the fascinating journey of Patti Clark, an author with a colourful past rooted in San Francisco's flower child era. Patti shares her story of beginning alcohol and drug use at a young age, influenced by her mother's own struggles with alcoholism. Despite the chaos, she managed to excel academically, attending Berkeley.
Her first attempt at sobriety came at 30, lasting 13 years before she tried moderating her drinking again – a decision she later realised was misguided. Patti's narrative is a candid reflection on the ups and downs of her recovery journey, highlighting the importance of finding the right support system. Her experience with AA meetings in New Zealand left her feeling disconnected, leading to another 13-year stretch of drinking.
It was the realisation of repeating her mother's patterns that drove her back to sobriety in 2014. A significant part of Patti's recovery was journalling, which she describes as a powerful tool for accessing inner feelings and fostering creativity. She emphasises the value of embracing discomfort in early sobriety, as it can lead to personal growth and finding joy and purpose in life.
The episode also touches on the limitations of traditional 12-step programmes for women, suggesting that emotional connection is crucial for avoiding relapse. Patti encourages listeners to find their tribe – a community that offers support and understanding throughout the recovery process. Patti's books, 'This Way Up' and 'Recovery Road Trip', offer insights into self-discovery and include journalling guides. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and connection in recovery.
Tune in to hear how you can turn sobriety into a lifestyle upgrade rather than a sacrifice.