Mishka Shubaly: From Dive Bars to Redemption
I was more afraid of my life than I was of my death, that I was okay with dying, but what really scared the shit out of me was living.
Mishka Shubaly has a story that's anything but ordinary. With an MFA in Fiction from Columbia University, Mishka found himself more drawn to the gritty life of dive bars and music tours than the academic world. Living out of a Toyota minivan, he toured relentlessly, sharing stages with bands like The Strokes and The Decemberists. But behind the scenes, Mishka was grappling with a severe addiction to drugs and alcohol.
In this episode of The SHAIR Recovery Podcast, Mishka opens up about his tumultuous journey from the depths of addiction to a life of sobriety and creativity. He shares how hitting rock bottom led him to confront his fears—not of dying, but of living. This turning point marked the beginning of his recovery, which he navigated without adhering to traditional step programs. Instead, Mishka focused on self-care and living in the moment.
Writing became a therapeutic outlet for him, resulting in bestselling Kindle Singles that candidly detail his struggles and triumphs. Music also played a pivotal role, providing him with a sense of purpose and connection. Mishka's approach to recovery is unique; he chose not to count the days of his sobriety, preferring to concentrate on rebuilding relationships and appreciating the present. His story is a testament to the power of self-discovery and the importance of sharing one's experiences.
If you're seeking inspiration on your own recovery journey, Mishka's candid and heartfelt narrative offers valuable insights and hope.