From Breaking News to Breaking Free: Beth McDonough’s Recovery Journey from Alcohol

Addiction Talk

Veteran crime reporter Beth McDonough built a career on relentless pursuit—until life hit hard. After her mother’s sudden passing, a breakup, and her father’s emergency heart surgery, alcohol became her coping mechanism. Two DUIs and a lost dream job later, Beth faced a choice: go home or go to treatment. She chose recovery.
Now 16 years sober and the author of Standby, Beth shares a raw, unflinching conversation about losing everything—and rebuilding with honesty, humility, and hope. If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol, this story offers practical insight and proof that long-term recovery is possible.
In this interview, Beth discusses:
How high-achiever “grit” can hide a growing alcohol problem
The breaking point that led her to treatment
Early sobriety: shame, repair, and rebuilding trust
Tools that sustain long-term recovery (community, routine, service)
Writing Standby and turning pain into purpose
About Beth:
Beth McDonough is a former crime reporter and the author of Standby, a memoir about addiction, loss, and the everyday work of recovery.

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