I featured in the latest episode of Drop The Needle's podcast, released today.

The utterly charming Olivia "Liv" Pennelle (the writer, cook, and addiction recovery activist behind Liv's Recovery Kitchen) visits the show to talk about the importance of resiliency. Artists include Mogli, Sigur Rós, Fleetwood Mac and Haley Heynderickx.

Resilience In Recovery

The podcast format is based around a theme of your choosing. I chose the topic of resilience because that has been the most prevalent trait in my life recently. These last two years have been the hardest of my recovery: my brother killed himself, I packed up my life and moved to the US (with just two suitcases), and I began a new life. I moved to Portland, OR, without a home to go to, with no job, and knowing just two people that I'd met online. As if that wasn't enough of an undertaking, I also decided to start a business as a freelance writer.

It's now 20 months later and I've displayed a depth of resilience I didn't know I had. While I've never felt so free, I've also never faced as many challenges. I've had serious health issues — including the discovery of complex PTSD — and I reached a depth of burnout I didn't know was even possible. Yet here I am. I got back up, dusted myself off, and carried on. I've carved out a life for myself in Portland. I made some great friendships, created a home, and developed a thriving business. I've also supported myself despite the financial insecurity of a new business.

I guess my resilience has shown me what I'm capable of. If I can get through these challenges, the possibilities are endless.

You can listen to the podcast here. I'd love to hear your thoughts.