Caldwell Tidicue: Entertainment, New York Sobriety, and Following Through

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#76: This week on the podcast we welcomed a Caldwell (he/him/she/her), an extraordinary entertainer whose talents include music, comedy, acting, reality television, and podcasting. Now 15 years into active recovery, Caldwell reflects on his experience getting sober at the age of 22 after his arrival in New York City. When asked about the role of recovery in his work, he says it's a big part of his attraction to sobriety. Most of Caldwell's professional career as an entertainer and performer has been as a sober person, even in "places of debauchery." And for him, the role of recovery in his work is highly important and exciting, as he can show others that it is possible to work in entertainment while navigating sobriety and recovery.
Check out the episode to learn more about Caldwell, also known as Bob the Drag Queen, including:
- His experience starting out as a drag queen with his sober friends, and how they were each other's safe spaces in the clubs.
- Recognizing that all his experiences have come together to influence who he is today, including sobriety, working in nightlife, and moving across the country.
- The phrase "let us love you until you learn to love yourself," and why this was crucial to hear in the beginning.
- How living in New York City taught him to present a much more authentic version of himself to folks and no longer focus on people pleasing.
- Learning how to show up and become a reliable person. Following through on his word has been a pillar of his life in recovery.
- Being of importance, by helping to clean up and host meetings, and reflecting on how this kept him sober for a long time.
To hear more from Caldwell, check out his podcast Sibling Rivalry and follow him on Instagram @bobthedragqueen
If you are in New York City and interested in attending meetings, Caldwell invites you to check out New York Inter-Group.

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If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health or substance use related crisis, the following resources can provide immediate help.*
If you are experiencing a medical/mental health emergency, dial 911.

• Dial 988 for the SAMSHA Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Available 24/7
• Text “HOME” to 741-741 for the NAMI Crisis Text Line. Available 24/7
• Dial 1-800-622-2255 to connect with a nearby treatment center & community resources through NCADD Hope Line. Available 24/7
• Call/text 1-844-326-5400 for The GSCA CARES Warm Line. Answered by Certified Addiction Recovery Empowerment Specialists with lived experience of SUD. Available any day of the year, 8:30am-11pm EST

*Note: The resources listed are provided for informational purposes only. This list is not comprehensive and does not constitute an endorsement by The Phoenix or the Rise Recover

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