More Life with Carl Radke - Southern Hospitality’s Maddi Reese on Dating on Reality TV & DJing Sober

Episode Date: April 7, 2026

Carl is joined by Maddi Reese, DJ and star of Bravo’s Southern Hospitality, for an honest conversation about sobriety, reality TV, and the mutual respect they share. Maddi opens up about getting sob...er at 16, building a career in nightlife without drinking, and why confrontation is essential to protecting her recovery. They bond over past experiences with alcohol and cocaine, what it’s like to feel everything while sober on camera, and navigating relationships under public pressure. From breaking family cycles to finding euphoria through music, Maddi shares her journey with anxiety, resentment, and building an authentic life 12 years into sobriety. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Starting point is 00:00:00 On his podcast, Chasing Life, I'm Dr. Sanjay Gupta. CNN's chief medical correspondent brings you the secrets of the happiest and healthiest people on the planet so that you can live your best life. Are some people just born happier than others? And what might they be doing that the rest of us aren't? Follow Chasing Life with Dr. Sanjay Gupta on Apple, Spotify, IHeard podcasts, Amazon Music, or wherever you get your podcasts. Susan Galbraith was a housewife in Mayfield, Kentucky. But after a murder in town, Susan took it upon herself to find witnesses who could point to a killer. She thought she was going to be a hero. But that's not what happened.
Starting point is 00:00:43 The lies, a lot of lies. What were Susan's real motives? She wasn't in it to help them find the killer. Why then did the cops take her seriously? It was known that she was getting funds from them. Susan's son is wrestling with his mother's legacy to this day. I mean, my mom was, I used the word diabolical. And perhaps the biggest question of all is, did she help convict an innocent man?
Starting point is 00:01:07 I do feel like that they got the wrong people. From Sony Music Entertainment and Message Heard, this is My Mother's Lies, available now on The Binge. Search for it wherever you get your podcast to start listening today. Subscribers to The Binge can listen to all episodes all at once, add free. Hey guys, I'm Carl Radke and welcome to more life. Today's show, we've got Maddie Reese. She's a DJ. She's a cast member on Southern Hospitality on Bravo.
Starting point is 00:01:40 She's sober. We love her. We're excited to dive in. We're going to be here in Soft Bar in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Hope you guys check us out. Maddie Reese, welcome to More Life. Thanks for coming in. All the way from Charleston, South Carolina.
Starting point is 00:01:59 I'm so excited to be here. I really appreciate you. I don't want to upset any of my other guests, but out of everybody that I've had a chance to talk to, you are one of the ones that I've known for a few years now, but I've never actually felt like you and I've just, like, chopped it up and talked about some of these things I hope to talk about today, which, you know, sobriety, being on reality TV, your DJ career, maybe a little about Joe. Because I have a funny story about Joe when he first reached out to me about the show of Southern
Starting point is 00:02:24 Hospitality. Oh, my gosh. He texted me and Kyle Cook because he's friends with the guy named Everett, who's our friend from Charleston. I live in Charleston. And it's a group text, and it's like, Hey, boys, like, I'm going to be on some show. And you guys want to come into Republic and pitch lover boy on camera for a scene? Because we're like, we're going to be maybe carrying your brand. I was like, look at the text. I was like, wow, this guy's got a lot of balls. He's a salesman.
Starting point is 00:02:50 What show is this? But anyway, I've just been amazed to see you and your journey rising into the Bravo world. Yes. Season four now of Southern Hospitality? Yes, season four. Wow. Yes. And I've always thought it was amazing that even you've given mental health and
Starting point is 00:03:04 and recovery of platform. Thanks. And the amount of people that you've helped by sharing your story and your experience is amazing. Thanks. Well, I feel like, I mean, I think you can relate to this as part of staying sober is helping other people and service and trying to like share your story loudly so other people can share and feel confident and all that.
Starting point is 00:03:22 Yeah, that's step 12. It's like my dad has challenged me a lot in the last few years. Like use your powers for good. You know, and we're in this unique position on TV that not everybody gets to, you know, share some of these different ups and downs, and I feel like we need authenticity. We need vulnerability. So to be able to kind of be that way and then help others, like, it's a beautiful thing. And I know you're helping people too. A lot of young women out there that. I've always been very enthusiastic about my sobriety. I love that. Because one, I do it for accountability.
Starting point is 00:03:54 Like the more people I tell and share, the more, you know, people are going to hold me accountable. If I, you know, let's say in a weird situation, order a drink or something. Sure. But also, just because I want to be someone that people can come to or talk to about it or, you know, other people can talk to me. And I feel like I receive help or give help. And it's just amazing the amount of people that I've, like, reached out. And I'm sure you have a similar experience. I mean, tons and tons of messages. And I'm curious, like, I wrote a book, not to make this about me. But the big reason. I read it. I read the book. Yeah. It was amazing. Thank you. Yes. I appreciate it. Joe sent me a really cute picture of you holding the book. And I was like,
Starting point is 00:04:30 Maddie's read the book. I'm a big reader. It's not a long read. That's how you know. I wrote it. But really proud of what the book was. But it's been really beautiful to put out, I wanted to put my story out there. And I wanted to ask you something that I'm curious about, which is you've been on Bravo now, four seasons or your fourth season is just going now. Do you feel like the Bravo audience actually knows you? It's interesting because in your perspective, the Bravo viewers saw both sides.
Starting point is 00:04:56 They saw you when you were drinking and then saw you sober and watched you grow through that process. I came onto the show sober. so God, if they knew me before. But I don't think, like, you did such a good job when I first started watching your show. Yeah, you work at a club. Yes, you're DJing. Yeah.
Starting point is 00:05:11 I didn't notice that you weren't. Like, I didn't clock that. I feel like people think that I'm drunk sometimes. And I'm like, no, but I feel like I had a lot of practice. And I didn't start working in nightlife until I had, like, multiple years sober. So I felt like I had a lot of practice. I had a lot of experience with it. But I also love music.
Starting point is 00:05:31 That's always been my vice. Yeah, watching Bravo, I don't think that, I'm sure you can relate. They know like a sliver of you, but not the whole thing. And even I've shared my sobriety, but it's not like I've ever gotten into depth about my story or details. Do you wish they gave you a chance to do more of that? Yeah, and I'm sure you feel the same way. Like even the things that I read in your book, I had no idea. Like Kyle Cook was like, dude, I didn't know some of this stuff.
Starting point is 00:05:55 And he's my best friend, you know? Yeah. I think it goes to show sometimes when someone's going through shit, you don't fully know everything. even the best friends or family, the people closest to you. Those are sometimes the hardest people to talk to about. Yeah, 100%. And even mental health, too, like, you never know who's struggling. And like mental health is a huge part of my recovery.
Starting point is 00:06:15 Of course. I feel like I was always a more depressed and anxious kid. And honestly, my first time ever drinking. I was going to get into that. Can you talk to us about, I think you started a young age. Yeah. No, I got sober when I was 16. and I went to rehabs.
Starting point is 00:06:32 I was kind of in behavioral health centers, things like that before I ever got sober. But I was in sixth grade when I had my first drink. Where were you? I was on a travel softball team. So I was drinking with the girls there. And honestly, it was kind of my idea too. Yeah.
Starting point is 00:06:51 Wow. Is one of the girls just bring a beer from like home? Oh, yeah. We would like steal it out of the garage. Yeah. first drink. Like, this is good. I love it. Well, yeah. That's what, like, with my mental health, I remember having that first drink and being like my anxiety and depression was just like, there's nothing better. Yeah, and it really,
Starting point is 00:07:15 really numbed that for me. And it give you confidence, too? Yeah. I mean, when I drank, I thought I was cooler, funnier, hotter, all the things, you know? And I feel like it's so empowering now, being sober, having that confidence and thinking that I'm cool or funny or giving myself, you know, positive affirmations sober because I thought I, at a point, I needed alcohol or substances to make me feel cooler or confident or prettier or funnier or cooler even. Like it was more the mental health stuff. Like I was privately dealing with depression and anxiety and I talked to therapists. I tried different medications, all the things, and nothing worked for me like alcohol did.
Starting point is 00:07:59 So that's where I started is just, and even like in my DJ career, people, I get anxiety sometimes leading up to the performance. Once I'm up there, I'm fine, but it's like the anticipation. And I've asked a lot of DJs like, oh, how do you get through that? And they're like, oh, I just take a shot. And I'm like, all right, well, that's not an option for me. But like, I understand what they mean, like that relief that kind of comes from like that one. And in time, obviously, I learned that it's just, it's a delusion. It's just kind of all in my head.
Starting point is 00:08:25 And, you know, I can be confident and pretty. and funny and all these things without that. And that's what's truly empowering. It almost makes you more strong and more empowered is when you aren't. And the strength that you get from being diligent and consistent and accountable and being honest, it's a different way to look at it, but it actually works. I mean, I've benefited from it tremendously. Yes.
Starting point is 00:08:50 I was supposed to ask you at the beginning of this, because this is my podcast called More Life. Is there a saying that Maddie Reese embodies, like in your day-to-day, mantra. Oh my gosh. I feel like I have so many. I feel like you've got something. I feel like right now I keep saying we're blessed, not stressed. I like that kind of thing because I feel like I've been dealing with a lot of anxiety recently. So I've been kind of just saying that or you know, I'm not anxious. I'm excited and saying I'm blessed not stress is my version of that. I actually say blessed and busy and sometimes stress. But blessed is a good way to like disarm. I mean, I appreciate you're being honest about your anxiety. I've had maybe a month ago, just couldn't shake this massive
Starting point is 00:09:33 anxiousness about the future of my career or my family life. My mom and my parents are getting older. How do you overcome, like on a day-to-day level, like some of that anxiety you experience? I think anxiety is even harder, the older you get because the more, you know, life and things are going on. Yeah, you have responsibilities. Life happens. Your health, your family, your friends. Yeah, your parents are getting older, all the things. Do you call people when you're feeling super anxious? Yes. Yes. But I have to call the right people. You know what I mean? Some people make you more anxious. Way more anxious. Yes. Or they feel a fire in you. Yes. And that's why sponsorship is so important to me. The sponsors are bad. So you still have a sponsor?
Starting point is 00:10:09 Yes. And she humbles me. For sure. Shout out the sponsors. Yes. My guy Joe Shrank. Yes. I filmed with my sponsor. And I loved that they showed that just how important that is. It's huge. But also, if I filmed that scene with anyone else, they would. have given me the opposite advice. Sure. But I look up to her and I listen to her and she's always an unbiased opinion that also to me, like, she tends to nail it on the head, especially about me because obviously she knows me well.
Starting point is 00:10:39 I've done an inventory with her and all of those things. You have a moment on Southern Hospitality. Maybe you film a, you know, at Republic one night. Do you call your sponsor? I mean, obviously I can call her anytime I want. Yeah. But I feel like you don't use her in that capacity. I mean, I can.
Starting point is 00:10:54 But I feel like I've worked at Republic for. nine years now. It's kind of like my safe place of anything. Is this the longest job you've ever had? Yes. Oh yeah. Snaps to that. Yes. One of the benefits. But I feel like if anything, that's a safe place for me and like my home, like the people that actually work there, like not the ones on the show, like are like family to me. Yeah. So they all understand. Yes. And they've all been very, very a part of my journey. I think that's half the battle with, I mean, I can relate to that with just Summerhouse and our cast and your, you know, Southern Hospitality cast. People ask me all the time, how do you do the show without drinking?
Starting point is 00:11:29 And I'm like, well, I've very supportive friends. And guess what? When they saw that I raised my hand, it was like, I'm not drinking and getting help. They were all like. Thank God. Because that was a nightmare. They also saw the other side of it. Yes.
Starting point is 00:11:42 So for me, a lot of this whole more life mindset really comes down to consistency. It's not about being perfect. It's about stacking small wins, which is getting a run in, showing up to the gym, staying on top of my routine and making sure what I'm putting in my body, actually supports all of that. And I'll be honest, supplements used to be one of those things where I didn't really know what to trust. It's a pretty low regulation space,
Starting point is 00:12:05 and there's a lot of products out there that don't fully tell you what's inside. And that's a big reason why I've been using Momentus. They built their whole brand around what they call the Momentus Standard, which is basically about doing things the right way, not the easy way. And for me, that just gives me some peace of mind.
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Starting point is 00:13:54 can contain us. With the support of export development Canada's market insights and financial solutions, you can turn obstacles into opportunities, discover new markets, and keep our nation front and center on the global stage. The world needs more Canada. Together, let's give it to them. Visit edc.ca to learn more. So can you talk to me about like just that, maybe that last month or two of when you drank and used and then having to actually get sober? Yeah. You know, did you have a lot of pressure from family? Or was it this a feeling that you had on your own that you needed to get sober?
Starting point is 00:14:30 Yeah. I think for me in my past couple months and leading up to my sobriety, I was super defeated. I was just like drained, like drinking and doing drugs wasn't fun anymore. It wasn't like filling my cup or fulfilling anymore to the point where I was just defeated. It seemed like more of a chore than it did fun kind of thing. And if you don't mind me asking what you were drinking, did you do coke? Yeah, I have the same. drug or choice is you. Mine was coke and alcohol. Appreciate you. Pounder.
Starting point is 00:14:59 I mean, I think we have a lot of similarities, and I've met so many people in the program and in the community. But like, as soon as you start talking, it's like you kind of think we're on the same, and a lot of times they are. Yes. Like the cocaine and alcohol story is pretty prominent in A.A. Adderall. You know, I connect very well with people like that because we're like in the same. I did like everything under the sun, but I loved alcohol and I loved cocaine. So with you, like that last month was just miserable, defeated.
Starting point is 00:15:27 Yeah, I was just super defeated. And at that point, I went to multiple treatment centers and institutions and things like that. Was that by the guise of your parents or did you want to? My parents. I got alcohol poisoning and was in the hospital. And there was like, you have to either take a drug and alcohol classes or go to treatment. So it was almost like a non-negotiable. And a lot of it was obviously pushed by my parents at first.
Starting point is 00:15:52 and then I took years but got tricked into it. And I'm so grateful that I did. But yeah, at first it was really driven by my parents. So that's another thing about the program. It's so important that you want it for yourself. And even though if you want to be tricked into it at a point, like you have to be ready for it almost because I really did abuse it for a couple years. I blamed my parents for throwing me in there.
Starting point is 00:16:16 And you build resentment, I'm sure. And then the moment I would get back out, I was doing exactly what I was doing before. honestly worse. I learned a lot about different drugs. I met more bad influences, things like that, where I wasn't taking it seriously and I wasn't ready, even though my parents were trying to, you know, force me to be ready. Totally. But without that journey, I wouldn't have gotten to the destination, which was ultimately sobriety and recovery, which I'm so grateful for. And I'm so grateful for my parents for stepping in. There's a lot of people that I know that their parents are, you know. It's hard. Yeah. My parents, I mean, for my family,
Starting point is 00:16:52 Like my parents didn't know what to do because my brother was using, he was stealing, he was getting in trouble. But we operated from a place of like call the police. Or like my mom called the police on my brother at one point because of drugs in the house where other parents might have kept it secretive, dealt with it just inside the home. But then at times we would send him to facilities if we could afford it or try to get him support. And then what would happen is he come right back out in the same thing. So the efforts we were putting in seemed like it only made it worse. and like we were enabling. Yep.
Starting point is 00:17:22 And I think you said something really powerful. And a friend of mine and who I adore, they were talking about like, they really didn't get sober until they were like ready. They went to rehab after rehab after rehab after rehab. And every time right back to the, and if not worse, because they were meeting people in those rooms that are very similar. Yeah. But also maybe not ready either.
Starting point is 00:17:43 Yeah. We weren't working a program. We were talking about like, oh, what drugs did you do? Like, how do we get drugs in here? How do we break out of this? Yeah. Should we start like sniffing pain? Like we were very like toxic and I wasn't working a program and wanting to work a program.
Starting point is 00:17:59 And I think that's where I came out worse on the other end of it where, you know, I wasn't ready for it. And then the final time I got sober, it was almost like my parents came to me. And they were like, listen, we're on strike like three or four with, you know, the treatments and everything like that. Like we're defeated as well. Like do you want it? do you not. And I, you know, took some time and I thought about it and I ended up going to them and it was the most vulnerable I've ever been with my parents, especially at that age ever, where I just broke down and was like, I want it, I'm defeated. I'm exhausted of this cycle.
Starting point is 00:18:36 And my family didn't really like being around me. My friends didn't really like being around me. I was kind of manipulative and con artisty. And like even you were like your family called the cops on your brother. My parents called the cops on me before. And when the cops would come, I'd be like, they're crazy. I need to be emancipated. They're delusional. I don't do drugs. I don't drink. And the cop would be like, figure out your shit. Yeah, like, what am I? Yes. Like, go to family counseling, like, or whatever it is. And the cop would leave. And my parents would be like, you manipulative. Like, you know, so I was very, you know, at the time I was using. So it was obviously my character defects were very selfish.
Starting point is 00:19:18 manipulative, only thinking about what I want and myself and how do I get more? How do I get out of the situation? And yeah, I definitely put my parents through it. Through how? I mean, you draw upon, I would imagine, those rehabs and some of those treatments in your current sober life. I mean, you've been sober 12 years. Well, I get 12 years April. Okay, come out on 12. Yes. Yes, I'm coming up. One day at a time. Yes. God willing. Yeah. Got to make sure you say that. And the more time I get sober, sometimes you forget where you came from and how bad and hard it was. And so it's important for me to remind myself daily as well. Yep.
Starting point is 00:19:52 Where I came from and why I'm sober. I think even when you first get sober sometimes, like you, I was high and mighty, very like I got it all figured out. And I treated some of my closest friends, some of them on Summerhouse at times with like a judgment. And like, oh, you're just fighting because you're fucked up right now. And like I had to learn just to kind of take a step back, clean up my side of the street. But what they drink doesn't bother me. Like it shouldn't really.
Starting point is 00:20:18 I mean, but it took me some time to kind of step back and be less judgmental, less high and mighty. That will slip back sometimes where like, I think I'm God and I know what's right and I know exactly what you should be doing and I can fix you and all these things, which is just like I constantly have to like remind myself that, you know, I'm not God and I have to pray and turn it over. Pray. Yeah. And the higher power piece was something really profound for me in recovery was, you know, I use my brother as a higher power. And I know. for some folks, God is a component of recovery programs that are a little harder. I was very religious growing up and I kind of had a moment where I stepped back from the church.
Starting point is 00:20:57 But having those, the God, higher power was so important in that process. Yeah. It's like you said. I'm not the center of your own understanding. Yes. So it could be your brother. I knew one of my good friends, her higher power was Jimmy Hendricks. You know?
Starting point is 00:21:13 What year of your recovery program or going to AA was the hardest for you? I'll say my second year. First year was kind of easy in a weird way. The second year was harder because life would still happen. Career, girlfriend, whatever's going on, you have to face all of that stuff sober. Yeah. And those emotions and those feelings, for me at least in that second year, were like very loud. And finding a way to like navigate that was hard.
Starting point is 00:21:38 Yeah. And I don't know if you felt that at all or do you still have those days where life happens and it's like, fuck. It's just hard to deal with. Yeah. And even like doing an inventory, in an inventory you write down your resentments, your sexual conduct, and your fears. You should see my legal pad from when I first got sober. My list was insane. But yeah, with the fears part of an inventory, writing all that stuff down, those things scared me about my recovery. Like, oh, when my grandfather dies, well, I survived that. He was my closest relative.
Starting point is 00:22:12 And I was like, am I going to survive that? Am I going to survive moving? away from Charlotte where I got sober and my support system was. Am I going to, you know, I had a lot of fears. And to see myself walk through those fears and stay sober has been amazing. And those are the things that really, really scared me. But there was times even like when I moved from Charlotte where I got sober and my support system was and I moved to Charleston and I went to, I moved to Charleston to go to college Charleston. And I ended up working at Republic because I needed money while I was in college.
Starting point is 00:22:44 And I was scared to move to a different city. sober without a support system. And I think Charleston has a reputation of a drinking hospitality city. And I was super, super scared. And I'm not going to lie. Was your family nervous for you too? No. You were the most scared.
Starting point is 00:22:59 They were ready to ship you off. Yes. They were like, go to college girl. Like, figure your shit out. Yes. Not in Charlotte. Yes. Versus I was very, very scared.
Starting point is 00:23:08 And how do I rebuild a support system? How to, and there wasn't as big of a young people community in Charleston. Well, that's what I was going to say. I mean, the fact that you got sober at such a young age. and I meet young people in meetings all the time, and I'm like, you are the most important. Yeah, our old timers, we love them. Yes.
Starting point is 00:23:21 I can't imagine getting sober at 17, 18. I didn't start really drinking until 19, 18, really. Yes. It blows me in. I think it's so important for you to talk about this because there's so many young women out there that I know probably feel like you have or doing what you're doing when you were younger
Starting point is 00:23:37 and you don't know how to deal with it. No, totally. But going to college sober? Yeah. People go to college to get drunk. I know, I know. You said your second year was your hardest. I would say for me it was probably like five, six, seven because I wasn't going to meetings how I should have been.
Starting point is 00:23:55 And I wasn't working a program how I should have been. And honestly, even I hit 10 years sobriety two years ago. And I cried the whole day because I was like, I feel like I'm not connected to the program. I feel like I'm not doing what I need to do. And I recently went back through the steps last. last March after our reunion, which was really, really hard on me. And I went back to going to meetings almost multiple times a week, went back to the steps with my sponsor and all of that. So honestly, like I said, sometimes it gets hard when you forget where you came from, the longer,
Starting point is 00:24:30 sober you get. And I think that's where I've struggled with my accountability of where I'm at in my program. Totally. Yeah. I appreciate you saying that because I feel like that's something I've experienced a few times. And, you know, my five years now is like, I'm not doing enough. I'm not connected to the program as much as I should. You know, you and I are in a pretty unique position. Public eye. Is there enough we're doing publicly? You know, is there more I could be doing with my social media? Is there more I could do on TikTok? And that's why it's amazing you're doing this podcast. Well, this is like a way to like have these amazing conversations, but I don't want it to be all about me because I'm not a doctor. And sometimes I felt like there's that perception
Starting point is 00:25:06 of when you get sober. And I view you as like this person up here, but you're just like everybody else. Yeah. And I'm not. I know, but that's like how I view. I put people on pedestals in sobriety because I'm like, Maddie's 12 years sober. She's doing all this stuff. She's DJing all the time. She works at a fucking nightclub. And she's sober.
Starting point is 00:25:23 Like, I just look at other people and I always compare. And I'm like, she's doing more. I think the same thing about you though. I think that's also just the nature of our disease. Well, I'm glad we could talk about it. At least we're both feeling. I have had other sober friends who feel similar. Yeah.
Starting point is 00:25:34 And even like my sponsor has, you know, I don't think time sober is even like a reflection of the program you work. Like my sponsor has eight years sober, which is, you know, I have 12. And I do not think your time sober is, has anything to do with that. Like, you know what I mean? But I understand the putting on the pedestal thing because I think that's a character defect that a lot of people, you know, do and struggle with. Like, I think the same things about you. Like, the fact that you can go out to the Hamptons, which is also a drinking place.
Starting point is 00:26:03 And I see you out at appearances and bars and all of these things. And the fact that you can do that is incredible and so empowering. But I feel like that's how we all kind of not egg each other on, but you kind of see what other people are doing. You gain confidence from others doing. You know, I've seen you DJ Strawberry Moon in Miami, which we went to a few weeks after. I was there all, you know, at a pool party during the day. And it was fun. But then I'm like, Maddie comes and DJs this sober.
Starting point is 00:26:29 Like, you got this. Yeah. Like, it'll be fun. No, but if you didn't know I was sober, you'd be watching me at Strawberry Moon being like, oh, that girl is on something. Well, let's talk about that. I'm actually going to talk about that. In your sobriety, honor. reality show, you're still having fun. You're still a human being. You still have emotions. You've had that
Starting point is 00:26:48 moment where you've done something, maybe you've danced, partied, or whatever, people think you're on substances. How do you navigate that? Because it's like, there's a moment on this season of Summerhouse. I get into a big fight with Kyle. Okay, can I tell you? I was so excited to talk to you about this. I'm so glad you brought this up. Well, sober people can be dicks too. Yeah, but also sober people are like feeling their feelings 100% where it's not like we're numbing them or we can just go get drunk over it and move on. Like, we are, like, reliving and feeling these feelings. And it's strong and intense.
Starting point is 00:27:19 And I'm with you. I was, like, so excited to talk about this because I feel like I always get comments and stuff that's like, oh, she's got to be using again. Like, she relapsed because she's, like, that's, and that hurts. Yeah, because of how I'm acting or I'm behaving. Yeah. When it's like, what, sober people are supposed to just be perfect and, like, not have feelings when, if anything, we're feeling feelings even more.
Starting point is 00:27:38 And also, like, even our patience. is not... The rope is this long. Really? Really? So I'm so glad you brought that up because the comments and even like when I'm DJing and I'm up there and I'm... Yeah, I've seen you dance. You've gotten up on top of your decks and like partied and dance. But guess what? That's like we like to dance too. Just because I'm sober doesn't mean I want to get dressed up anymore.
Starting point is 00:28:00 Yes. And go out and have a fun... Like I actually, not like fuck around dancing, but like I like dance like foolishly and fun because I'm sober. Yeah. And I like that. But then you've seen. see someone, they look at you and they're like, is he on drugs? Because he's acting weird. I'm like, no, I'm actually the best version of myself. And it's genuine happiness. And I love
Starting point is 00:28:19 dancing. I love dancing so much. So talk to me about like DJing sober. I love seeing this more and more, but you see John Summit is sober. I mean, Diplo talks about not really drinking during his performances. Lane 8 doesn't really drink. A lot of great DJs aren't. No, I feel like they end up on that route. Right. And it seems. Do you think it helps the music? Do you think it's a function of just that environment they're in. I can't imagine, like, those DJs doing two to three shows a weekend, and they're just partying, and it never ends. Like, I loved even when, like, John Summit spoke up about that
Starting point is 00:28:51 and even spoke up about how hard it was to perform. Because, like I said, a lot of DJs, when I ask for their advice about the anxiety and the performance anxiety, they're like, oh, I just take a shot, and then I'm like, woo, and I don't care. And I was always like, well, shit, that's not going to work for me. That doesn't work for you. Yeah. So do you have like a ritual before you go on?
Starting point is 00:29:12 Yeah, I'm not going to lie to you. I take beta blockers. They have saved my life. I have some friends that use beta blockers and it's changed their life. Yes. So they do a lot of public speaking and change. I've never been good at public speaking and that stuff. I love it.
Starting point is 00:29:24 So I don't need to be there. I'm ready for it. Yes. And I don't know if you remember like when we were at up front and I was talking to you about it. And you were like, oh, I don't really, I don't really get like that. And I'm like, no, but like I feel like even going out on a crowd. And we weren't public speaking or anything like that.
Starting point is 00:29:38 But going on a stage. at Rockefeller's. We were a Radio City Music Hall. Which was a big deal. Yes, in a full packed house. That was packed. It was... I got...
Starting point is 00:29:46 You're right. There was a little nerve-wracking. I was so nervous. I was like, oh my gosh. And we didn't even have any speaking lines. It was just like wave and dance a little bit. I know, but I remember coming up to you being like, oh my gosh, like the people were here with are like drinking and having the best time ever.
Starting point is 00:30:01 But like, how are you doing? Because I'm nervous and it's a full stadium. But once I'm out there, I'm always fine. It's just I'll get in my head. Yeah. It's just like that little window. of the nerves. Do you get like sweaty palms? And my heart rate goes up and I will get like chest pains. And I think that's where the beta blocker step in. So if I am starting to get amped up,
Starting point is 00:30:19 the chest pain and the heart rate goes down where I can like walk through it in my head and calm myself down. And that was, you know, another thing about just my mental health and stuff was learning tools to learn how to talk to myself and to calm myself down or, you know, walk away. And that's another thing with reality TV. There's not a lot of opportunities. to walk away. Usually they're like... Let's talk about that. Confront. Confront. That literally is my next question.
Starting point is 00:30:45 Like, all the conflict. And you mentioned, I mean, I've watched Southern Hospitality. I love your show. Big fans of a lot of your friends. You guys get into it. Yeah. And like, you guys have some gnarly fights. Watching the fights sober from home can be like, oh.
Starting point is 00:31:00 It's a little like, because I know you guys. And I'm like, this feels intense. For you, sober, feeling those feelings. How do you like navigate that conflict? Yeah. Because you can't walk away, like you said. And if you walk away, it always becomes a bigger thing. I've walked away from probably a couple scenes in my day.
Starting point is 00:31:15 I don't know. I feel like you're damned if you do. You're damned if you're a dull kind of thing. You can't win. And sometimes you're really feeling that feeling like I know what you're talking about. I sometimes will just, I need a minute. I will remove myself from the party or the bar and go outside and just get fresh air and just try to cool off and just like get my feelings back to like a and then go back into the environment. But sometimes I need the break.
Starting point is 00:31:36 Yeah. But you can't walk away. Or you feel like you can't on reality too. Yeah. Even like it's so funny. You see this season, I first episode of our season, I come in and I'm like, fuck everyone, fuck all of you. I have so much resentment and I have so much anger.
Starting point is 00:31:51 Sorry to laugh. And I know. I appreciate a meltdown. Yeah. Yeah. All the die. Are you serious? Like I'm still human and I feel my feeling.
Starting point is 00:31:59 But do you like after that moment that like after I had this fight with Kyle, in the moment like an hour after I felt really bad about myself. I beat myself up on my asshole. this is going to look terrible. Have you had those feelings? Yeah, that's what I was saying. Like, even this season, I come in, fuck you, blah, blah, blah, everything.
Starting point is 00:32:14 Next episode, I talk to my sponsor. 20 minutes later, I can go talk to everyone and be like, hey, I'm sorry. I felt like this. Like, I can have like an appropriate, more adult, like, level-headed conversation. But you kind of watch it this season, like, play out. Like, I'm so angry.
Starting point is 00:32:29 Then I talk to my sponsor. And then I have some time. And then I can have, like, real appropriate conversations. But I also just, like I hate being gaslit and I hate someone telling me like trying to change my reality, especially being sober. And that's where things sometimes upsets me so much because it's like all of you are drinking and drunk and blacked out and you can't remember ABCD and you go home and you think
Starting point is 00:32:58 everything's fine and moved on because you get to numb your feelings and I don't and I remember everything clearly and don't try to gaslight me or alter my reality kind of thing. And I think that's what also, like, sometimes fuels my fire a lot. You have such a clear memory of what occurred. And I've also felt like this, too, is sometimes when we're filming, yeah, people are drinking, partying. Great, have fun. Like, I like being, I don't have any desire to drink, really. Yeah.
Starting point is 00:33:22 Yeah. Also, I think drunk people are, like, entertaining. Like, I don't have a problem with it. I'm like, yeah, I'm here for it. Yes. But what I think sometimes happens is the next day, the morning after, there's still anxiety. They're probably, the sleep wasn't as quality. so they're ornery and anxious, then you get that energy.
Starting point is 00:33:40 You wake up the next morning and be like, wow, that last night was fucked up. They said some crazy shit. But then maybe you approached that person the next morning, and they're anxious and off because of the night before. And you still don't get on the same playing field because they're always kind of coming from that anxious post-partying. So I've always felt like sometimes landing some conversations just because of the environment you're in is it always just presents a challenge for someone who's sober. And I know like, you know, I probably don't call my sponsor before some of the conflict that I've had, which I probably should. Yeah. I'll turn on my meditation app.
Starting point is 00:34:13 I use calm. And I'll turn that on. And they show me every once in my bedroom with it on, like in the morning. Yes. But if I do those things and get myself set up, I can generally deal with anything that comes that way. But sometimes when people are fighting like crazy, it's hard. But I've learned a lot over the last five years, like it's scary the fights. Because in the past, when I got into crazy fights, I was drunk.
Starting point is 00:34:35 Coke and I was like flip out angry. So I like go back to the PTSD. I think a big part of growth for me at least has been realizing when I need to level up the kind of support that I'm getting. Like it's one thing to have routines and good habits, but it's another to really understand what's going on with your mental health and take action on it. And that's why I want to talk about tachiatry. Taucaiatry is a 100% online psychiatry practice that connects you with licensed psychiatrists who provide comprehensive evaluations, diagnosis, and ongoing medication management for a range of mental health conditions and more. This isn't a quick chat or a surface level check-in.
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Starting point is 00:36:30 close to you. His contact connects Ontario at 1-866-531-2,600 to speak to an advisor, free of charge. BetMGM operates pursuant to an operating agreement with Eye Gaming Ontario. Soccer fans, your chance to witness history is here. You can win tickets to the FIFA World Cup 2026 final thanks to Visa. All it takes is a BMO Visa credit card to enter. Sign up and enter at bemo.com slash contest. Contest rules apply. I sometimes struggle to say how I feel, like really tell someone I love or a friend to deliver, like, maybe more tough love or an opinion about something without that strength of, like, a couple drinks and a line of Coke. Because in the past, I could drink a bottle of wine and do a line and I'd be ready to tell anybody. Yeah, you love them.
Starting point is 00:37:20 And it gave me so much confidence. And I've struggled, I think, in the last, maybe this past season with navigating someone I care about trying to tell them how I feel without it feeling so loud and intense like I have. in the past. Have you had that challenge with that? Yeah, I definitely feel like, you know, like I said, you feel your feelings 100%. You're not numbing them at all. So you definitely feel them. But when it comes to like my anger or my resentments, I have a really, really hard time communicating that vulnerably and not like from my feelings. Yes. I'll communicate it from a place of resentment. Yeah. When it comes from the resentment and the feelings, it's anger, it's loud. It maybe can be disrespectful. And I feel that exact same.
Starting point is 00:38:02 same way. And that's something that plays out on this season of Summerhouse for me. It was like a couple different times where I really wanted to say like just and it wasn't, I just didn't want to hurt the other person. I'm a people pleaser. And those are my like big character defect. But I've seen myself do it and I'm trying to like not be that way. And it's been like really interesting to like be honest about that. And it's like sometimes I almost, I've had this old voice in my head and be like, oh, if you just had a couple drinks and a bag of Coke, you'd be perfect. You could literally tell that person what you needed to say. Were you confrontational when you were drinking and yeah definitely i like i just loved it around my mouth i love
Starting point is 00:38:37 debating and like talking shit yeah now was i like in my head talking shit no but it was i thought i was just like locker room with the boys but i would i mean walking down the sidewalk in new york i would like chirping people i'd chirp people just say shit okay okay um i feel like reality tv i wasn't confrontational like to avoid confrontation i would just get drunk or i would would use or do some drugs so I wouldn't have to confront my issues or deal with it. Yes. So I can just like avoid it. When I became sober, I became extremely confrontational due to like working the steps
Starting point is 00:39:13 and like having resentments and then making amends and then making living amends and having to confront people that I don't want to and say things I don't want to say kind of thing. You know, even back to what you were saying about the show and the feelings and everything like that. Like when I have a resentment, it's hard for me not to feel those things. and then I have to go make amends anyways. And then at that point, it's like I probably could have just avoided that. But at the same time, like, it's really, really, really hard, especially being sober. And I think a lot of people on the internet think that it should be easy because you're sober.
Starting point is 00:39:48 And I just hate that. That's like the biggest. Yeah, it's like a misconception, I think, probably. Like the biggest one. Have you had any, like, breaking points while filming, like moments where you're just like, I mean, you mentioned the reunion. I know it was maybe this past year or the year before, were those moments where, you were like, I don't know if I can do this. You ever had that?
Starting point is 00:40:05 Yeah, I think that all the time. And that's probably natural. Yeah, I think that's. If you ask like 100 Bravo talent, what they felt at times, it's like that, such an intense feeling. Yeah. But give yourself grace. Yeah.
Starting point is 00:40:16 Okay, back to the confrontation thing with the resentment thing. Did your sponsor ever tell you, like, if you have a resentment with someone, you confront them and you work it out and you talk it out? Depending on the situation. And if it was an ex-girlfriend, probably not. No, exactly. With the immense. Obviously, there was people.
Starting point is 00:40:29 She was like, no. And yes. Of course. but if there's some people, because the resentment really was, it was building up in me and making me anxious and depressed and angry. That other person wasn't thinking about me at all. I know. It was more for me than it was for them.
Starting point is 00:40:43 To a degree. Yeah. So I think that's why even on the show I tend to be very confrontational because if I have a resentment, like I can't hold on to that where I will get drunk. So I have to face it and be like, this is my deal. What's yours? Like, you know, and sometimes it's hard not to get rowed up. And like I said, then I have to like make amends.
Starting point is 00:41:00 But yeah, I feel like I'm extremely confrontational in my sobriety because when I have a resentment, that's where my sobriety is in harm's way. Because I get angry. I want to drink over it, all the things. So I become very confrontational. And sometimes I think on the show people will be like, whoa, because I can be very confrontational. You're a human being. But like we just said, it's more about me than it is about them. Because I can't hold on to this.
Starting point is 00:41:28 Totally. You need to release it. And you need to like let go of it. Yeah. And work it out and move it on. And it's crazy with my confrontations, the amount of friendships I've been able to save, jobs, all these things from having the confidence to be like, hey, you think this, I think this. Let's work this out. Talk to people and see how you feel like.
Starting point is 00:41:46 This actually is my next question. Like your friendships. When I first got sober, some of those party friends, it changed. And like that was for the better. You probably, you know, a lot of the friends you're still friends with now didn't ever see old Maddie. but you are navigating their relationship with alcohol, their relationship with substances. How has that been with friends of yours? Like, I'm just going to point blank.
Starting point is 00:42:06 Do you have friends that still drink a lot and do Coke? Oh, yeah. I do too. But it's like I don't have any desire. I don't care. Yeah, I don't care. What I tell them is test your shit. Yeah.
Starting point is 00:42:16 But there has been some friends where I just have, it just lost the connection because of the fact that I'm sober. Totally. How have you navigated that? Totally. I mean, in the industry, I work in, it's obviously everywhere. and, you know, a lot of my friends do it, but I don't have a desire to it. I have a really solid step one, and I understand that I don't react to alcohol and cocaine like they do. Like, my life would spiral, and I know that.
Starting point is 00:42:43 So it's not even a question or a thought. Yeah, but do you have friends that you think have a problem? Totally. And I do too. And I feel like I – But do you ever – They're on their own journey, and it's not my job to be God and tell them who they are. their inventory and all of that. I try to do the same thing. That's for their own. But if they want to
Starting point is 00:43:03 call you or ever ask, you're there. Yeah. I just try to sit back from a side of like, hey, if that's what's best for you, do it. Yeah. I think they know. It's hard, though. It's hard. No, it's hard because I also like, I don't know, I feel like I've had friends that are also, you know, I look at and they're very close to jail institution or death. And that's what the big book tells you that the end result of addiction, the disease leads to is jail institution or death. And it's really hard not to sometimes want to jump in and like shake them and fix them. But like I said, like I'm not God. I'm not going to, you know, make them realize this.
Starting point is 00:43:37 They have to realize it on their own. And that's a really, really hard pill to swallow. And, you know, I've definitely struggled with that or had guilt about it. Because there's like I could have done more or something. Yeah. I mean, I have some friends that have, you know, they made comments to me about some of their thoughts about their drinking at times. but it's really on them to want to desire to get the support or help. It also took us years to get.
Starting point is 00:44:04 Well, that's, okay, I want to talk to that really quickly. The path to get sober. From the moment you realize you had a problem, like in your head, maybe not your family, but like you were like, I'm doing this a little bit differently until the time you got sober. How long was that? It was like two and a half years. Okay, same.
Starting point is 00:44:19 Yeah. From like 2018, 2019, I knew I drank and did cocaine very differently. At least I thought. Time I fully. got sober was January of 2021. So it was like about two and a half years of this moderation. I'm getting sober maybe. And then, you know, I had all these little rules and tricks. Yeah, and then you try to control it. Yeah, like, I mean, people are like, oh, if Carl had a sip, he's going to like go off the deep end, maybe not right that moment. Yeah, no. But if that sip turns into a full glass,
Starting point is 00:44:45 and then it turns into a bag and it turns into a bender and then it turns into all the other things. Yeah, give me a month. Like I'll be right back out there. Oh my God. I just love that you're talking about this stuff because it's so relatable to me. Yes. And your story has always been so relatable to me, like the moment you reached out to me and you were like one of the first people on Bravo too reach out to me. Because you're young and you're, I think for women especially, like, it's so important that we have these stories of overcoming difficult things that are relating to substance or mental health or alcohol. And like the more we talk about these things, especially for the women. I've seen the impact Amanda has had on women with her depression. I've seen the impact Sierra has had
Starting point is 00:45:24 on women with her depression and anxiety and just being a black woman on reality TV. I care a lot about them. They're like, they're people I love dearly, but they've not only helped themselves and gotten themselves into this amazing, like there's so much more of who they are. They're confident. They're happier. They're doing what they should. All these blessings have come their way and they're helping women at the same time.
Starting point is 00:45:45 And I feel like you're doing the same, especially with talking about alcohol, mental health, substances. It's hard to be open about it, especially on the Bravo world. I mean, you know, it's hard because there's the shame and the guilt. But once you kind of turn that over, there's been so much beauty on the other side. So I've always tried to take my position of being in the Bravo sphere seriously with connecting with other people that are sober. Whether it's Captain Sandy, whether it's you, whether it's some other fans of the Bravo sphere like Chrissy Teigen. I love being able to connect the dots because we're all part of this kind of weird little family.
Starting point is 00:46:19 I want to talk about you mentioned accountability and amends. Talk to me about like, do you make amends to Joe? Ever? Yeah. You do? Yeah. But also Joe is someone that has gone through his phase with like drinking and and substances and all that. I mean, being with someone in a relationship is so important their acceptance and their support. Yeah. And I feel like there was times I'd be like, you drink too much, blah, blah, blah, blah, this stuff.
Starting point is 00:46:43 And then, you know, I realize, well, Maddie, he's got to realize this on his own. And he ultimately kind of did and he did like dry December, January and February. By the way, I don't want to blow up his spot. I mean, I talked to Joe a lot. And, like, he told me he was maybe taking a little bit of a break and he was feeling really, really good. Yeah, yeah, yeah. And it made me so, like, just over text. I was like, yeah, Joe.
Starting point is 00:47:02 Yeah, I know, I know. And I had nothing to do with that. But it sounded like the sentiment around it was not necessarily to be like this superhero boyfriend to you or support you. It's really was looking out for himself. But what the result is, is he shows up for you more intentionally. He's more of who the Joe that we all love is. Yes, yes. And that's the gift that it is.
Starting point is 00:47:24 Like he's doing what's best for him, but it turns into a gift for you. And vice versa. Not only for him and his realization of his relationship with alcohol and substances. Well, you've probably been a mirror into him that he wasn't maybe fully. Like, I think a lot of people that start dating someone who's sober, it's like instantly this like mirror back into their own life about maybe their relationship with substances. And so I just love you and Joe's relationship. And I think it's been amazing to see him be so supportive of your career and just everything you're doing.
Starting point is 00:47:52 filming with Joe, you know, at times, I'm sure it's not easy. Like, has there been moments where you've struggled with navigating, like, it's being in a relationship on TV's hard. Yeah. And navigating some of this, like, the resentments or the communication breakdowns. How's that been? If anything, like, I'm just so scared of, like, the reality TV curse of, oh, you're in a relationship on reality TV. It's going to end. I actually got interviewed about this recently, and I said, I don't think it's a real thing. You don't think it's a real thing? Like, here we are. Summerhouse has multiple couples that have never, that didn't make it.
Starting point is 00:48:24 I don't know any couples that have made it. I feel like housewives, there's got to be like an iconic housewife husband couple that I'm not thinking about that has survived. I mean, Joe and Melissa have been around for a bit. Oh, true. Marge. I mean, some of the New Jersey's except for Teresa sadly, but. But like New Jersey, I feel like the men and the women are cast members versus like.
Starting point is 00:48:43 Yeah, you're right. Like two main cast members in a relationship on a show. I don't, it's really hard. Yeah. I mean, I think the challenge, and I've lived it. firsthand with my relationships, but also seen it with Kyle and Amanda. I've seen it maybe with you and Joe, is like you're forced to have these tough conversations about your relationship that sometimes you're not ready for. Yeah. Or that maybe you've never discussed. Well, that too.
Starting point is 00:49:03 And I would you say that some of the filming with Joe has maybe been helpful for the relationship because it forces you to have. Oh, I always think filming is kind of like therapy in a way. Yeah. But at the same time, I do feel like they do put a pressure on things of like when you're getting married. Why aren't you having kids? And I'm like, what, I'm a child? Like, what do you mean? Yeah, we just started dating last year. Yeah, it's like, oh my gosh.
Starting point is 00:49:28 And they do put that like pressure on things. And, you know, we'll have hard conversations about like moving in or marriage or things like that. So you guys don't live together yet. No. But I'm not asking. We're working on it. We're working on it. Like, we both live in places where we live at our friends' houses that they bought.
Starting point is 00:49:45 So rent's really cheap. So, and we can like, there's no lease. So we can leave whenever we want. So we're both saving up our money. money to like buy a house and we would live together. I'm pretty sure I'm buying the house and then he'll make him pay rent because we're not married. You know what I mean? And that's the only reason why. But is Joe ever gone to an AA meeting with you? No, he hasn't like a slate on him. And he wants to. Maybe I'll take him the one of mine sometime. Oh my gosh. I've always said to friends of mine like
Starting point is 00:50:11 I've got a comment recently about some of the conversations I'm having here. And one thing that gets forgotten about is the family and the parents and the siblings with dealing with addiction. and mental health issues. The siblings and the parents, like, it's hard on them. And I think Al-Anon is such an incredible community. Oh, my gosh. I've been to Al-Anon. I've been to Al-Anon.
Starting point is 00:50:31 Like what we were talking about earlier about the friends and having friends and family and when I want to control and shake them and fix them, I hit an Al-Anon meeting. Because it helps you learn how to detach and not enable, but help work on yourself. Yeah, so understand things about addiction and mental illness. There's a lot of education that takes place
Starting point is 00:50:50 where I spent a period of my life thinking my brother was an asshole and just stole from me. But he had a disease and suffering and all those things. And once you go to Al-Anon, you understand there's a lot of other men and women who have loved ones or couples or married situations where they have someone who's really struggling. But you learned how they've navigated things. Totally. And I think sometimes it's even when you go and you don't realize you'll find something without even knowing you need it.
Starting point is 00:51:18 No, that's beautiful. And I highly recommend Al-Anon. So I'm glad you've had experience there. It's just beautiful because everybody's like in a better position now as a family because I got sober. Same. I feel like I've helped this generational chain almost. And I've had more family members get sober after I did. I want to hug you right now.
Starting point is 00:51:36 It's like a beautiful thing. No, it is. The generational thing, it strikes a part with me big time. No, same. And I feel like even for me and I don't want to start crying, but even breaking that generational chain is really important to me. And I feel like I have those tough conversations with Joe this season. of like how important that is for me, just because how I was raised and my parents, you know,
Starting point is 00:51:56 were extremely changed and different after, you know, me. And I have a younger sister, right? They raised my sister completely different. And my sister goes to Allen on. And it's just a beautiful, beautiful thing. And she's so successful. And does she look up to you and your, like, sobriety and your career? She does now, which is a gift.
Starting point is 00:52:15 But growing up, obviously it was, it was hell. And like, I don't know. everything that you have been through, I think it's like so beautiful that you have shared that and I'm so sorry for what you've gone through. And I just, what you said has helped me and I'm sure it's helped so many others. Thank you. No, I'm sorry to get you emotional. But you mentioned the generational thing. And like, you know, family and at the end of day, like when my brother passed, you know, when I went to his funeral, like I was reminded so hardcore of like life is fragile. And I've been to AA meetings where you've met someone and then two months later that same meeting, he's not there anymore.
Starting point is 00:52:54 And he's not coming back anymore because he's no longer here. You see that and it's so powerful because it reminded me what do I leave behind? What's my legacy here? And it's my family. It's the people that are in my community. And what do I stand for? Who am I? I take it very seriously to be able to help others and try to be in a position to use our powers for good and to be able to break a family cycle.
Starting point is 00:53:18 and be in a position to help other people also while breaking the family cycle is like, it's the best thing ever. So I know you're making a lot of impact. But I feel like I can be doing more. Always, but that's that imposter feeling. I feel sometimes like I'm like, why am I getting credit for all this? You know, I didn't do shit kind of feeling. Yeah.
Starting point is 00:53:34 But I think that's just our sick and twisted minds. That's our disease. That's our disease. Something I think about a lot is like not trying to future trip, you know. And I think that might also the fear I get scared, you know, is this going to all succeed. Am I going to build a career? Am I going to get married? Am I going to have a family?
Starting point is 00:53:49 I get caught up into the future. I think that's annoying thing about reality TV too is they are like, let's talk about the future. And it's like, okay, I hope you know I don't. I think one day at a time. Yes. Yes. So you're asking me if I'm going to get married or all these things
Starting point is 00:54:04 or if I'm going to have kids anytime soon. Like I don't know. I want to. I couldn't tell you what I had for breakfast this morning and I am thinking about what I'm eating later for dinner. Like I am not there. I got a question for that I wanted to ask. And I know we've, I mean, this has been an incredible conversation.
Starting point is 00:54:20 I think I adore you. I think you're so impressive and everything you've done. And especially living that out on the show. And I know it's really relatable to me to see what you're doing. But I know other people that watch Southern Hospitality. You shed a light on such an important thing that I think is needed to be talked about on TV. Like we are force fed a lot of the partying and you can still have fun and party and be dynamic and conflict and be sober. And I love that you do that.
Starting point is 00:54:47 And I think people need to see more of that. So anytime you want to come to the Hamptons with Joe and party it up with us, doors are open. If you can give anybody advice that follows you or anybody that wants to be like Maddie Reese and her sobriety story, like what would be one piece of advice you might give? It's about the journey, not the destination. Yeah. And, you know, we're all on this journey.
Starting point is 00:55:08 And I feel like, you know, it's okay if you're not perfect or, you know, it's not linear because nothing in life is. And I don't know, I feel like not being afraid to ask for help, to be vulnerable with the people around you and be honest, is something that completely changed my life. Being honest, open-minded, and willing, and putting action into the things that, you know, I want is something that's super important.
Starting point is 00:55:34 It's almost like manifestation in a way and how important that is. We talk about manifestation here a lot. Some of my guests, I think, do you, what are you manifesting right now? I'm telling you mine, which is dancing with the stars. Oh, really? Manifesting. Oh, my God. You'd be so good.
Starting point is 00:55:47 I'd vote for you. I'd vote for you. So what do you got? What are you manifesting? Oh, my gosh. I am manifesting. I want to be an artist in the sense of like, I understand I'm a DJ. I'm on reality TV.
Starting point is 00:56:00 People come and see me. And I have two songs out, but I want to be like an artist. I want to put music out there and have an impact on people. And I want to be able to travel internationally. And I manifest that stuff a lot. And more travel. More travel. More life. And more DJ. Yes. All right. I'm going to wrap this up. We've got a couple last questions.
Starting point is 00:56:22 What parts of you feel most authentic right now? My relationships right now feel, is that an okay answer? I feel like you and Joe have it a very authentic, very sweet, but supportive relationship. And I think why I think you guys are going to go longer distance than most is because I feel like you've got a strong foundation that was friendship. Before. Which I love the friend. I mean, I am someone who's did the friendship. But, you know, I think the timing of you and Joe's connection where you're out in your sobriety and how he's also evolving. I mean, I see nothing but positive vibes for you guys down the line.
Starting point is 00:56:55 I know, hopefully. I love seeing. I'm manifesting that. Yeah. Okay. So you want to get married? I do. I want a family.
Starting point is 00:57:00 I want to get married. I think I just would love like a mini me. I don't know. Do you feel that way? I want a mini me. Yeah, right? I want to get married. I want to have a family.
Starting point is 00:57:09 I really do. Yeah. But, yeah, the wedding part of it, yeah, I mean, whatever she wants. But I feel no pressure. about it in the sense of like it'll come when it come and it's meant to be. The last question for you is what is giving you more life right now? I think music always gives me more life. I just think music in general.
Starting point is 00:57:24 Like I think a lot of 70s music too just like cures my soul. Like I think I a little bit have more of an older soul where I love like, I don't know. I love music from like the 60s, 70s, 80s. And I don't know. I think sober people, I've come to love music more than ever since I've gotten sober. because I, like, really enjoy the actual art of it and the lyrics and, like, listening to older music from when I was younger. My parents, it's, like, nostalgic in a way, and it brings, like, a deeper feeling. Yeah, music for me almost gives me the same feelings that, like, the euphoric part of my using did, like, the drinking and the drugs part where it's, like, I really feel connected to music.
Starting point is 00:58:04 And I feel like I'll get this, like, euphoria-freeing light thing, even when I'm, like, diving in the lyrics and the sounds and all of those things. and like I used to go to concerts and get drunk and I didn't remember them. Like everyone did. I would go to concerts and be in the bathroom doing Coke all the time. So I didn't see half of the performance. Literally. And I didn't remember. Yes.
Starting point is 00:58:24 And the fact that I go to concerts now and I remember everything, even like small details and I'm so like dialed in. It's my favorite activity. And I know it's harder for people new in recovery because there is a lot of drinking going on there. But it's something that has been an outlet for me where music, It's all about the music for me. So music gives me more life always.
Starting point is 00:58:45 I love it. Thank you for coming in. It's been a pleasure to talk to you. Seriously, I'm so impressed by you. Yes. Thank you for all that you do for Bravo. Thank you all that you do for Charleston and for the sober community, mental health community, all the above.
Starting point is 00:58:56 So I wish you nothing but success and best of luck with everything. And we'll see you tonight at Soft Bar for a DJ series. Yes. Shout out to Joe for also being the best boyfriend ever. Oh, my gosh. I've been communicating with him also through through to you. But I love Joe. So a big fan of him.
Starting point is 00:59:11 Congratulations with everything and what you do here is a gift. And it's such a blessing and I really look up to you for that. And I wish we could do this all the time. Like, I relate to you the most. This is just the beginning. So I would love to have you on another time. And then I'll be down in Charleston at some point. So maybe we can link up there.
Starting point is 00:59:27 Yes. I have been to Republic a few times. Yes. It's fun. Okay. I will say I'm filming the reunion on my 12 years. Yeah, on my birthday. Amazing.
Starting point is 00:59:35 And on my sober birthday. And I'm like, maybe I'll hit you up to go to a meeting because I don't. I've got a couple good ones. There's a few in Manhattan that I love. Yeah. Well, I'll hit you up because I have a couple good meetings. On my birthday, I want to go celebrate. Yes, Madurice.
Starting point is 00:59:48 You're awesome. I love you. Thanks for coming in. Thank you. Check us out next time here again in Brooklyn at Softbar, here at More Life. Thank you guys for tuning in. We'll see you next time. More Life is produced by Annie Siegel and executive produced by Adam Reynolds and Denham Pictures.
Starting point is 01:00:19 This episode was directed by Annie Siegel, edited by Mike U.R.T. And recorded at Soft Bar Studios in Brooklyn, New York. More Life is a production of Sony music entertainment. From Sony, our executive producers are Chris Skinner and Joanna Clay. Original music by Function Adams. Set designed by Michael Ignacio. Publicity by Caitlin Healy. Additional support from Abby Sharp.
Starting point is 01:00:43 Special thanks to Allison Shano and Joanna Orland. New episodes drop every Tuesday. We'll see you next time. Frozen lasagna, medium power, 15 minutes. Sounds like, OJN. Joe time. Let's play. Feel the fun with Play-O-Joe, the online casino with all the latest slot and live casino games. What you win is yours to keep with no wagering requirements, instant payouts, and no minimum
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