The case for starting over as a writer

“Stories are illuminating, comforting, infuriating, eye-opening—and can be in any medium. Once you find a lane, it’s unnerving to leave. It’s cozy to stay where you’re valued, where office politics are familiar and job titles validating. But if you feel a little pull toward fiction or poetry, musicals, or podcasts, I say: Swerve towards the new. Discomfort fuels creativity, and gives you fresh eyes on your most meaningful work.”

-- Kara Cutruzzula, writer, excerpt from "An editor learns a new narrative form: writing musicals" (Nieman Storyboard)

Shifting the narrative around drinking at journalism events

Editor’s Note: The National Press Club Journalism Institute is committed to providing journalists resources and connections that support their personal and professional lives. In 2025, we are collaborating with several groups, including the Journalists Recovery Network, to widen those networks of support.

By Megan Luther, independent journalist

My last drink was at a journalism conference…in New Orleans. It wasn’t my most embarrassing performance, but I had a good time, and I’m pretty sure I got a ride from an unregulated taxi. 

I found journalism conferences electric. I learned new skills, networked (at the bar), met up with old friends (at the bar), and welcomed the reprieve from caring for my two young children. 

But five years ago, I realized I was tired of trying to control my drinking and ready to change. The morning after I came home from the New Orleans conference, I went to my first recovery meeting.

There’s been a shift in drinking habits among younger generations. A 2023 Gallup survey found that around 60% of those over 40, like me, drank. But those under age 35 who say they drink dropped 10 percentage points in two decades —from 72% to 62%.

This month, Investigative Reporters & Editors offered a popular evening game room with puzzles and board games at their data conference in Minneapolis. Notably, a third of the conference attendees were students.

IRE started offering a game room last spring. 

“We had been hearing from members about wanting an evening activity that decenters alcohol and it just seemed like an easy decision once we realized we could make it work logistically,” said Lauren Grandestaff, IRE’s director of content. 

Last year I joined the advisory committee of Journalists Recovery Network — a group designed to educate, empower, and support journalists in recovery by connecting them with a community and offering resources. 

We are also here for journalism organizations, like IRE and newsrooms wanting to support the well-being of staff and members. If you are struggling with substances, please know there are several of us in journalism. It’s helpful to talk to someone who understands the demands of our jobs, the instability of our industry and the relief of an evening cocktail that numbs it all. 

Reach out anytime. It’s completely confidential.