Michelle Smith’s addiction recovery story begins in a picture-perfect life unraveling under the weight of grief, trauma, and alcoholism. From a high-functioning career to child protective services, she shares how sobriety, 12-step recovery, and community brought her back—and how she now helps high-achieving women reclaim their lives. A must-listen mental health & addiction recovery story.

Explore addiction treatment options: https://recovery.com

Connect with Michelle: https://recoveryisthenewblack.com/, https://www.instagram.com/recoveryisthenewblack/, https://www.tiktok.com/@recoveryisthenewblack
00:00 Introduction to Recovery Cast
00:33 Meet Michelle Smith: Advocate and Author
01:50 Michelle's Journey to Sobriety
03:44 Childhood Influences and Family Secrets
05:49 Rock Bottom and Turning Points
09:15 The Path to Recovery
13:19 The Role of Community and Support
20:31 Journaling and Self-Reflection
24:07 Sharing Stories and Building Connections
27:08 The Harms of Alcohol
28:10 Facing Reality and Seeking Clarity
28:43 The Importance of Community in Recovery
29:32 The Journey of Recovery
31:41 Finding the Right Treatment
35:03 Maintaining Sobriety and Self-Love
36:51 Sharing the Recovery Journey
38:33 Humor and Joy in Recovery
40:33 Recovery is the New Black
48:17 Final Thoughts and Resources