In this episode, I speak with Erica Anderson, a writer, teacher, and thought leader, about her journey with alcohol and recovery. We discuss the societal pressures surrounding addiction, especially for women in Christian communities, and the need for open dialogue.

Erica shares insights from her upcoming book, Freely Sober: Rethinking Alcohol Through the Lens of Faith, advocating for a nuanced understanding of alcohol use. She also offers practical advice for aspiring writers on resilience and the publishing process. Our conversation emphasizes the importance of authentic storytelling and fostering supportive communities around addiction and faith.

About Ericka Andersen

Ericka Andersen is a freelance writer, podcast host and owner of Pitch and Publish Writing Company. She is the author of "Reason to Return: Why Women Need the Church & the Church Needs Women" and "Leaving Cloud 9: The True Story of a Life Resurrected From the Ashes of Poverty, Trauma and Mental Illness."

She has been published multiple times in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, the Washington Post and more. Ericka is a weekly columnist at WORLD Magazine and a freelance reporter for Christianity Today.

Prior to freelancing, Ericka worked for National Review Magazine, the Heritage Foundation and in communications for the U.S. Congress on Capitol Hill. She attended Indiana University and lives in Indianapolis, Indiana, with her husband and two children.

Click here for the transcript

Chapters

0:03 Introduction to Self-Brain Surgery

2:34 The Importance of Listening

9:17 Upcoming Guests and Their Controversies

14:59 Meet Erica Anderson

16:23 Erica's Journey with Alcohol

26:10 The Role of Community in Recovery

32:42 The Unique Struggles of Christian Women

34:37 Writing Career and Its Evolution

37:41 Pitch and Publish: Helping Aspiring Writers

43:25 Final Encouragement for the Sober Curious

Resources and Links