Conversations on Creativity and Balance with Allison and Julie
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Conversations on Creativity and Balance with Allison and Julie

In this cozy and candid episode, Rachel is joined by writer Julie—author of Like a Normal Person—and Allison, creator of the Dare to Be newsletter. Together, they dive into the realities of sober creativity, from writing memoirs and navigating vulnerability to finding joy in kitchen gadgets and everyday rituals. It’s an honest, uplifting look at what it means to share your story and stay grounded while living—and creating—in sobriety.

Thank you to Allison Deraney and Julie Fontes for gracing Sober Banter with your insights, wisdom, and hope. Please visit their newsletters; they’re wonderful writers with even more valuable content to share in their weekly publications! 

Click this link for DARE TO BE by Allison Deraney
Click this link for Like a Normal Person by Julie Fontes

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  • (00:00) - Introduction and Ice Breakers
  • (02:14) - Being a Sober Creator
  • (05:39) - social media and similar platforms
  • (09:32) - Imposter syndrome in sobriety
  • (13:17) - High-bottom drunks
  • (19:55) - Sober Travels & Dry January
  • (22:51) - Marrying your drinking buddy
  • (26:58) - Graffitied books
  • (30:35) - Evolving
  • (38:18) - Transparency comes at a price.
  • (44:54) - Fainting Goats
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Episode Video

Creators and Guests

Allison Deraney
Guest
Allison Deraney
"Mom of two, wife, attorney in MA paving her new path towards sober living - finding a brighter life without the booze and regrets"
Julie Fontes
Guest
Julie Fontes
"Author of “Like a Normal Person: A Memoir About Not Drinking.” Lover of cats, repeating mistakes, synchronized dance routines, and hot soup on a cold day."