Sometimes the most profound creative breakthroughs come not from what we add to our lives, but from what we courageously remove.
, author of "Sing the Body Politic," discovered this truth in her recent journey into sobriety—and the results speak for themselves.In this latest Clear Conversations episode, Jules shared how stepping away from alcohol didn't diminish her creative voice—it amplified it. Within her first week of sobriety, she received a crystal-clear download for what would become one of her most powerful essays: "Hey America, You're in an Abusive Relationship." The piece flowed out of her with an ease she attributes directly to her clear mind. As she puts it, "Had I not been sober, I may not have gotten the message. I may not have heard that title."
Jules brings a unique perspective to sobriety conversations—one that bridges the deeply personal with the urgently political. Her work demonstrates how individual healing and collective transformation are inseparable, and how creativity becomes both refuge and resistance in uncertain times.
Show Notes
[04:05] The Sign from the Universe
Jules shares her path into sobriety and early creative breakthroughs
Decided to explore sobriety approaching her 60th birthday
Connected the timing of Josh subscribing to her newsletter as a universal sign
Experienced immediate creative downloads, including her viral essay title
Recognized enhanced ability to "flow" creatively without substances
[06:22] The Spectrum of Sober Living
Exploring different approaches to sobriety and substance use
Discusses "Boulder Sober" culture (no alcohol, but other substances allowed)
Shares nuanced view on ceremonial marijuana use vs. dependency
Emphasizes sovereignty in choosing what serves your highest good
Highlights awareness of social media as potential addiction replacement
[10:49] The Spaciousness of Sobriety
How clarity creates room for deeper listening and authentic expression
Sobriety provides space to listen to subtle inner voices
Allows for genuine intimacy vs. "faux intimacy" of drinking culture
Creates capacity for deeper attunement to self and others
Opens possibilities for authentic self-expression without substances
[22:06] Discipline as Self-Love, Not Self-Punishment
Reframing healthy habits as acts of care rather than obligation
Discipline becomes expansive rather than restrictive
Fear transforms from something to escape into something to explore with curiosity
Physical practices (meditation, exercise, sleep) support creative flow
Each choice reinforces belief in your own capacity
[24:51] Courage in Conversation
Using vulnerability as a bridge to deeper connection
Practicing curiosity about uncomfortable emotions in real-time
Sharing internal experiences openly to create intimacy
Learning to stay present with difficult feelings rather than fleeing
Building capacity for harder conversations through self-awareness
[27:11] Politics Through the Heart
Transforming political discourse through values-based conversation
Moving away from fact-based arguments toward values-based discussions
Creating connection across political divides through personal experience sharing
Using sobriety skills to navigate polarized conversations
Refusing "preemptive autocratic obedience" by speaking truth
[32:00] Creative Outlets and Service
Jules' multifaceted approach to creative expression and impact
Instagram platform "The Heart of Relationship" for relationship coaching
Substack for political writing and truth-telling
Venus Matters business supporting women's intimate needs
Mentoring young girls through Girls Write Now program
Key Quotes
"Had I not been sober, I may not have gotten the message. I may not have heard that title. And I certainly would have had a much harder go of just getting in front of the computer and letting it flow." - Jules Cazedessus
"We are sovereign beings. We can actually center and give ourselves what the substance is providing the shortcut for." - Jules Cazedessus
"For me, every feeling is a messenger from God, really... There's this one little truth that once the emotion's been metabolized to some extent, and I've met it, then I get the message of it." - Jules Cazedessus
"To set a goal to not drink and then to be able to do it adds to that belief in yourself." - Jules Cazedessus
Resources Mentioned
Five Rhythms Dance (5rhythms.org) - Global movement healing practice
"Super Communicators" - Book on values-based conversation (interview available with Mel Robbins)
Girls Write Now - Mentorship organization for young female writers
Recovery practices: Morning altar/prayer practice, ecstatic dance, meditation
Where to Find Jules
Substack: Sing the Body Politic
Instagram: @theheartofrelationship
Business: Venus Matters
Want More Clarity?
Jules' journey beautifully illustrates what happens when we remove the barriers between ourselves and our deepest creative truth. If you're sensing that something might be holding back your greatest work—whether it's alcohol, other substances, or simply old patterns that no longer serve—you don't have to figure it out alone.
The Sober Creative Method™ is a 90-day journey designed specifically for creative professionals ready to unlock their full potential. Through this program, you'll discover what Jules found: that sobriety isn't limitation—it's the key to creating your most authentic, powerful work.
Ready to explore what's possible when you create from complete clarity?
Thank You
A heartfelt thank you
, , and to everyone who joined us live for this conversation. I’m very grateful for and her extraordinary wisdom and vulnerability. Your presence and engagement make these conversations possible.What's Next
The Sober Creative is more than a newsletter—it's a movement of professionals reclaiming their creativity by choosing clarity over coping.
✍️ Read the Essays: Stories and strategies for building a clear, creative, and intentional life
🎙️ Join Clear Conversations: Honest talks with creative professionals navigating the intersection of sobriety, self-discovery, and breakthrough work
💬 Curious about your next step? If you're sensing that something's holding you back, but you're not sure what—reach out. Coaching, community, or clarity—it all starts with a conversation.
✨ The Sober Creative Method™ is a 90-day journey to remove alcohol as the barrier to your greatest work.
Each step forward is an act of becoming who you're meant to be.
Thanks for walking this path with me.
Josh
