Episode 40: After the Silver Lining

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EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

EPISODE OVERVIEW

Drew Althoff is a musician and songwriter, an aspiring middle school teacher, and a committed partner. Recently embarking on his journey with kidney disease, he’s learning how to integrate kidney failure into his life while finding unwavering support and joy through his relationship with his partner. Drew and I sit down for an intimate discussion on balancing the body and spirit and the impact illness has on couples, as well as how he channels his illness into creative energy through music and songwriting.

Breaking his journey down into distinctive eras, Drew shares his unique perspective on embracing “the shadow” and how your spirit can keep you balanced when you’re struggling. He shows candid vulnerability as he discusses his upcoming transplant, emphasizes the importance of community and relationships, and offers insight into how he humanizes his illness through humor.

Drew’s story of adjusting to a new life with chronic illness and learning to fight for happiness resonates throughout our discussion, and his steadfast determination to be authentic is moving. I hope you find this interview as moving as I did.

“ThE honeymoon period is over, but I can still access that excitement for life if I work for it.” — Drew Althoff

Highlights

During our discussion, Drew opens up about how his connection with nature and how his partner helps him tap into the excitement of life and find aliveness despite disease. Drew’s practical yet hilarious outlook helps him connect with his online community and he sheds light on the power of not always looking for the silver lining.

A few of my favorite moments during our discussion include:

Navigating the eras of chronic illness

Indulging in isolation

Communication between body and spirit

Finding aliveness and joy through relationships

Finding community through common illnesses

The relief & disappointment in reserving your energy

Harnessing experiences with illness to create art

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TINY MASSIVE

Drew’s band
www.tinymassive.net

HOST

www.laurenselfridgetherapy.com
Lauren Selfridge, Associate Marriage + Family Therapist

MUSIC EDITOR

www.lilymakessound.com
Lily Sloane, composer / audio producer / sound maker

SOUND TECHNICIAN

www.tristanbrand.com
Tristan Brand Productions

transcript + SHOW NOTES WRITER

www.latashadoylewrites.com
Latasha Doyle, content + copy specialist

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