Episode Description

What happens when you’ve done “everything right” in recovery — and it still isn’t enough? In this deeply honest conversation, Dr. Sarah sits down with author Patti Clark to explore long-term sobriety, relapse after 13 years, emotional bottoms, motherhood shame, loneliness, and the quiet moments that can pull us back into addiction. Patti shares the raw truth behind her relapse, the power of connection, and why recovery is about becoming whole — not perfect.

Takeaways

• Why relapse often begins long before the drink

• How loneliness can become an emotional bottom

• The hidden shame many mothers carry in addiction and recovery

• Why connection — not discipline — sustains sobriety

• How creativity and writing can support emotional healing

Key Timestamps

• 01:00 Patti’s recovery origin story and family alcoholism

• 11:00Loneliness, disconnection, and leaving meetings

• 13:00Relapsing after 13 years sober

• 18:00Motherhood, shame, and hidden drinking

• 24:00Emotional bottoms and forgiveness

• 37:00Writing The Recovery Road Trip and “now what?” recovery

Notable Resources & Guest Links

• The Recovery Road Trip by Patti Clark

• Website: https://pattyclark.org

• TikTok: @recoveringwoman

• Instagram/Facebook: Patti Clark, Author

If this episode resonated, subscribe, rate, and review Leaving CrazyTown — and share it with someone navigating recovery, relapse, or emotional burnout.

Leaving CrazyTown is a raw, real-talk podcast hosted by Finn and Dr. Sarah Michaud, two recovering addicts turned relatable guides on the wild ride of codependency healing. Each episode dives deep into the chaos of dysfunctional relationships, identity loss, and emotional recovery—with humor, honesty, and hope. Subscribe and buckle up—we’re leaving CrazyTown.