In this powerful conversation with former Times picture editor
, we explore the profound connection between sobriety, mindfulness, and authentic creativity. Paul shares his journey from rock bottom to creative rebirth, revealing how eight years of sobriety transformed not just his photography, but his entire relationship with the world around him.Paul's story is a testament to how clarity of mind can unlock artistic potential that substances often mask. From lying in pouring rain to commune with ferns to finding joy in moments others might overlook, his approach to photography has become a spiritual practice—one that prioritizes presence over perfection and inner validation over external acclaim.
Show Notes
[00:02:00] From High-Pressure Job to Complete Breakdown
Paul's identity became completely tied to his high-pressure role at The Times
After burning out and taking time off, he realized he actually hated his job
After leaving his position in 2011, he lost his sense of self and spiraled into depression and alcoholism
"I would go to the supermarket and buy food for my son and wine for me... and that went on for three or four years"
[00:10:00] The Turning Point
A conversation with his parents revealed his son had been putting him to bed when he was too drunk
March 21st, eight years ago, became his sobriety date – he stopped drinking and went straight to AA
The journey wasn't easy but completely changed his outlook on who he is
"I'm not now a spectator. I actively take part. I own my mistakes."
[00:14:00] Mindfulness as a Path to Recovery and Creativity
Paul threw himself into various projects and practices to avoid distraction
Incorporated breath exercises, mindful meditation, and journaling into daily life
These practices, often dismissed as "woo-woo," became powerful tools for transformation
Living mindfully created vulnerability that allowed for more authentic creative expression
[00:22:00] A New Approach to Creative Process
Abandoned detailed research and planning in favor of being open to what's present
"The more you prepare, the more you plan, the more disappointed you are when it doesn't work out"
Works with whatever conditions are present rather than wishing for "perfect" situations
Follows a simple process: silence, photograph, gratitude
[00:28:00] The Power of Silence with Subjects
Sits in silence with subjects to hear what they're trying to communicate
Most creatives miss this because their ego and desires are "too loud"
When reviewing photos taken this way, he can see more of himself in them
This approach creates work that resonates more deeply with viewers who are open to it
[00:30:00] Breaking Free from Comparison Culture
Modern life forces us into constant comparison in all aspects of life
Social media has created competition for validation that pushes creators to copy others
Finding freedom from comparison came directly from sobriety
Now focuses on supporting others rather than ranking himself against them
Key Quotes
"If you don't like yourself, how can you create any work that is meaningfully authentic and expressive about how you feel about your place in the world?" - Paul Sanders
"For me, the open, authentic Paul is a sober, happy Paul. And finding moments of beauty in the most random, random of places... I don't mind [if people don't like my work] because I found a key that unlocked happiness within me." - Paul Sanders
"It's only by sitting in silence with your subject can you hear what the subject is trying to communicate." - Paul Sanders
"I am 100% now in love with my life. And I can say that over the last eight to 10 years, that journey from absolutely hating everything about my life... to now being in love with my life and every aspect of it, even the bad days." - Paul Sanders
"The path of a recovering addict, there has to be a playfulness within it to allow you to find joy in yourself." - Paul Sanders
Resources Mentioned
Mindfulness Practices: Daily meditation, journaling, breath exercises
Discover Still: Paul's platform for mindful photography education
Retreats: Paul's nature-based photography experiences
Where to Find Paul
Website: Discover Still
Instagram: @discoverstill
Courses & Retreats: Visit his website for information on his mindful photography workshops and luxury retreats
Thank You
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us live for this conversation, and to
for his extraordinary openness and wisdom. Your presence and engagement make these conversations possible.What's Next
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Each step forward is an act of creative rebellion.
Thanks for walking this path with me.
Josh
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