Afleveringen
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John K. from Dallas, TX speaking at the Eastside Group in Fort Worth, TX - February 2006
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In Part 1, John K. delivers a powerful and direct message about recovery, sharing his journey of repeated relapses, failed attempts to control his drinking, and ultimate surrender to the AA program. Speaking at the Eastside Group, he emphasizes the necessity of following the Big Book precisely, rejecting half-measures, and fully conceding to alcoholism’s grip. After years of unsuccessful attempts at sobriety, he finally reached a breaking point in 1999, realizing he was powerless and on the brink of destruction. Guided by a firm sponsor, John learned that recovery requires more than just attending meetings—it demands rigorous honesty, precise action, and complete commitment to the 12 Steps. His message is clear: for real alcoholics, anything short of full surrender and spiritual action is a death sentence. With humor, intensity, and conviction, he calls on newcomers to stop trying to outthink their disease and instead embrace the solution that has worked for thousands.
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Mary T. from Espanola, NM, Donna D. from Aurora, CO, Catharine D. from San Angelo, TX and Aaron M. from Chayenne, WY speaking on the topic of Step 2 at the Fellowship of the Spirit convention in Copper Mountain, CO - June 27th 2013
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Mary T. shared her journey of coming to believe in a higher power, rooted in a life-changing experience with her daughter's illness and later reinforced through AA. Donna M. initially struggled with the idea of insanity in Step Two but found faith by witnessing the strength of others in the program, realizing she was loved and supported. Catherine D. recounted her transformation from self-reliance and despair to discovering a loving higher power that brought her out of darkness. Aaron, after years of skepticism and resistance, found willingness through desperation, leading him to embrace spiritual help and ultimately experience a profound return to sanity. Each speaker highlighted the transformative power of faith, willingness, and community in their recovery.
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Jay S. from Redondo Beach, CA speaking at the "Living Fearlessly Men's retreat" in Estes Park, CO - April 18th 2008
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In Part 4 of the men's retreat, Jay and his wife Adele explore the themes of perception, love, relationships, and the transformative power of meditation. Adele shares a deeply personal realization about how she had never truly seen Jay for who he was, but rather through the lens of her own expectations, judgments, and stories. Through years of meditation and spiritual practice, she found peace and clarity, allowing her to love him fully without the need for change. Jay then shifts the focus to relationships in sobriety, discussing his conscious approach to dating after divorce, the importance of integrity in intimate relationships, and the profound trust-building process he and Adele cultivated before marriage. He highlights the role of meditation, patience, and mutual support in fostering deep connections, contrasting it with the impulsive and often destructive patterns of relationships in active addiction.
Jay also shares his experiences with spiritual awakenings, emphasizing the difference between sudden, profound moments of clarity and the more gradual, educational variety of spiritual development. He recounts his own encounter with an overwhelming presence of love and knowledge, reinforcing that such experiences are available to anyone willing to seek and remain open. Tying it all together, he challenges attendees to embrace meditation, deepen their faith through action, and recognize their role in carrying the message of recovery. The retreat closes with a powerful call to live with purpose, reminding each man that they are destined to change lives through their sobriety. The final moments are spent in five minutes of shared silence, reinforcing the weekend’s theme of deep spiritual connection.
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Deandre M. from Lancaster, CA speaking in Ventura, CA - April 4th 2008
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DeAndre shares his powerful journey from the streets of Watts to long-term sobriety in Alcoholics Anonymous, blending humor, raw honesty, and deep insights into the nature of alcoholism and recovery. He recounts his early struggles with denial, manipulation, and self-destruction, leading to a moment of surrender at a rehab facility. Through the guidance of a tough but transformative sponsor, he learned not only how to stay sober but also how to live a life of service and spiritual growth. DeAndre emphasizes the importance of long-term sobriety, commitment to the steps, and resisting complacency, urging newcomers to embrace the process fully. His message is clear—true recovery comes from humility, action, and a willingness to serve others in the fellowship.
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Jay S. from Redondo Beach, CA speaking at the "Living Fearlessly Men's retreat" in Estes Park, CO - April 18th 2008
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In Part 3, Jay delivers a powerful message on forgiveness, transformation, and the deep impact of unresolved resentments. Through his wife Adele’s moving story about writing a long-overdue letter of forgiveness, Jay highlights how clinging to past wounds can silently consume us, and how true healing only happens when we release the narratives we've built around our pain. He shares his own journey of confronting and ultimately forgiving his father, illustrating how Alcoholics Anonymous provides the tools to show up, make amends, and face even the most difficult moments—whether it’s reconciliation, loss, or the responsibility of being present at life’s end. Jay’s experience witnessing his father’s passing on the anniversary of his own sobriety serves as a profound reminder that everything is unfolding as it should, and that true peace comes when we surrender control and embrace grace. This session challenges the men at the retreat to let go of their deepest resentments, making space for healing by symbolically writing names down and committing to forgiveness.
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Mike S. from Denver, CO and David M. from Palm Springs, CA speaking about steps 8 and 9 at the Fellowship of the Spirit in Conyers, GA - April 7th 2014
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Mike & David delve into the critical steps of making amends in Alcoholics Anonymous, focusing on Steps 8 and 9. Mike shares his journey of initially doubting the existence of God but ultimately finding faith through the amends process. He emphasizes that true change happens when we become willing to take responsibility for our past actions without excuses, writing out detailed amends to prevent self-justification. He recounts life-altering experiences, including turning himself in for old warrants and making amends to dangerous figures from his past, proving that either the program works or it doesn’t. The discussion highlights the importance of making amends with an open heart, not as a selfish act to clear one's conscience but as a means to restore relationships and integrity. Stories of financial amends, amends to deceased loved ones, and the profound realization that most people don’t even remember the harms we agonize over further illustrate the ego-deflation required for deep spiritual growth. The takeaway is clear: the amends process isn’t about protecting ourselves; it’s about stepping into the world fearlessly, knowing that honesty, responsibility, and faith will guide the way.
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Jay S. from Redondo Beach, CA speaking at the "Living Fearlessly Men's retreat" in Estes Park, CO - April 18th 2008
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In Part 2 of this men's retreat, Jay dives deeper into the emotional and spiritual challenges of sobriety, focusing on topics like chronic pain, depression, and the stigma surrounding medication in Alcoholics Anonymous. Through his wife's powerful writings and personal experiences, he explores the complexities of suffering and the importance of responding with love, kindness, and patience. Jay also addresses the role of Al-Anon and other 12-step fellowships in supporting not just alcoholics but those struggling with other compulsions, emphasizing that true recovery is about spiritual growth and self-awareness. He discusses the importance of establishing a spiritual practice within the home, sharing how he and his wife meditate together to create a foundation of peace and connection. As always, Jay delivers his message with humor, humility, and wisdom, reminding the men at the retreat that true transformation happens through community, faith, and consistent action.
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Valerie D. from Richmond, VA speaking at the 60th annual Texas State AA Convention in Dallas, TX - August 20th 2005
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Valerie D. shares her powerful journey through alcoholism and recovery, highlighting her struggles with feeling different, early drinking, and eventual immersion into Alcoholics Anonymous. She details her initial resistance to AA, relapses, and eventual surrender, crediting strong sponsorship and deep engagement with the steps for saving her life. Through making amends, practicing daily spiritual principles, and committing to service in her home group, Valerie finds the fellowship and purpose she had always sought. Her story is one of transformation—moving from deception, instability, and self-will to a life of accountability, connection, and faith in a higher power.
Music: Deep by KaizanBlu
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Jay S. from Redondo Beach, CA speaking at the "Living Fearlessly Men's retreat" in Estes Park, CO - April 18th 2008
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With decades of sobriety, Jay is known for his deep understanding of AA’s spiritual principles and his engaging storytelling. In Part 1 of this retreat, Jay shares his insights on the importance of AA literature, the spiritual journey of recovery, and the significance of community in maintaining sobriety. He references historical AA figures like Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob, and Carl Jung, highlighting the spiritual awakening necessary for lasting recovery. With humor and wisdom, he challenges attendees to engage in self-examination, prayer, and step work, emphasizing the role of personal accountability in spiritual growth. Throughout his talk, Jay’s experience, strength, and hope shine through as he encourages men to deepen their commitment to AA principles and create a supportive, safe space for one another.
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Yisrael C. from Jerusalem, Isreal speaking at the Hamilton Archives Breakfast in Toronto, Canada - April 15th 2018
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Yisrael shares his heartfelt journey in Alcoholics Anonymous, blending humor, wisdom, and deep gratitude for the fellowship that saved his life. Reflecting on his transformation from a troubled teenager in Philadelphia to a sober, spiritual man living in Jerusalem, he highlights the importance of AA traditions, sponsorship, and service. Through personal anecdotes, he emphasizes the power of human connection, the necessity of humility, and the reality of alcoholism’s devastating grip. His message is clear: sobriety is a daily reprieve, rooted in action and shared experience, and every member of AA plays a role in keeping the message alive for those still struggling.
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Linda R. from Indianapolis, IN doing a workshop titled "A Day In The Big Book" in Charlottesville, VA - April 9th 2005
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In parts 4 and 5 of Linda’s "A Day in the Big Book", she shares deeply personal experiences about love, loss, and spiritual growth through the lens of Alcoholics Anonymous. She reflects on being fully present with her father during his final months with cancer, overcoming self-centered fears, and embracing the profound lessons of service and surrender. Linda also recounts the transformative relationship with her late husband Richard, navigating his illness and death with grace and newfound intimacy that transcended physicality. Through step work and inventory, she highlights the freedom found in amends, the discipline of daily spiritual practice, and the realization that sobriety is not just a personal gift but a channel for God's love to others. She closes with a meditation, guiding others to detach from ego, fear, and even their own personalities, to recognize their true essence as God's creation. Her journey exemplifies the promises of AA—living in a new and wonderful world, no matter the circumstances.
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Linda R. from Indianapolis, IN doing a workshop titled "A Day In The Big Book" in Charlottesville, VA - April 9th 2005
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In Part 3 of A "Day in the Big Book", Linda shares how the journey of making amends and following spiritual principles opened her life in ways she could never have planned. She reflects on the 9th Step promises and the profound impact of direct amends, including a powerful moment of healing with her father. Through personal stories, like her struggles with financial dishonesty and the unexpected blessings that came from choosing integrity over comfort, she illustrates how self-will and fear often keep us from experiencing the true gifts of sobriety. Linda emphasizes that following God's will isn't about knowing the full plan—it's about trusting each step and being open to the unexpected, whether that means moving into her sister’s home or showing up for her father’s final months. Her journey is a testament to the promise that, no matter the circumstances, a new and wonderful world awaits those who walk in faith.
Music: Deep by KaizanBlu
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John K. from Dallas, TX speaking at the Eastside Group in Fort Worth, TX - February 2006
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John K. shares his experience, strength, and hope, emphasizing that real gratitude is shown through action—by carrying the message to others. After years of failed attempts to stay sober, he finally surrendered in 1999, realizing he was completely powerless over alcohol. Through a strong sponsor and the Big Book’s precise instructions, he worked the steps, starting with a deep understanding of his hopelessness in Step 1. Step 2 gave him the hope that a power greater than himself could restore him, and Step 3 marked a true turning point—fully committing to take action. With rigorous Step 4 and 5 work, he uncovered the truth about his selfishness, self-centered fears, and delusions, leading to a complete psychic change. Today, John emphasizes that the steps are not theoretical but practical tools for living. By sponsoring others, he continues to stay close to God and remain free from alcohol, experiencing the profound joy of seeing new men and women recover.
Music: Deep by KaizanBlu
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Linda R. from Indianapolis, IN doing a workshop titled "A Day In The Big Book" in Charlottesville, VA - April 9th 2005
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In Part 2 of "A Day in the Big Book", Linda continues her deep dive into the steps, bringing warmth and clarity to the often-misunderstood process of surrender and faith. She breaks down Step 3 with humor and honesty, sharing how she struggled to grasp the concept of turning her will and life over to a higher power. Instead of needing to fully understand God, she realizes she only has to make a decision—one that allows her to stop managing every detail of life and begin trusting in something greater. Linda illustrates this shift with real-life moments, from a simple household frustration to a health scare, showing how applying these principles can transform fear into faith. She also unpacks Step 4, guiding listeners through inventory with practical examples, reminding them that it's not about discovering who they are but shedding the false self they've built. Her reflections highlight how the steps don’t just stop at getting sober—they offer a path to real freedom, emotional peace, and a life of spiritual connection.
Music: Deep by KaizanBlu
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Rick K. from Edmonton, Alberta speaking at the Edmonton Winter Roundup in Edmonton, Alberta - February 16th 2008
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Rick shares his journey from a chaotic, alcohol-filled upbringing to a life of sobriety, guided by the steps of AA. Drinking was always central—bringing both excitement and destruction. Despite a loving marriage and career as a chef, his drinking spiraled into blackouts, DUIs, and broken trust, ultimately leading to separation from his wife, Joanne. Hitting rock bottom, physically ill and unable to stop, he found himself in AA, initially resistant but eventually embracing the steps. Working with a strong sponsor, Rick took Step 3 seriously, closed the back door to drinking, and found freedom through rigorous Step 4 and 5 work. Making amends, especially with his dying father, brought deep healing. Through AA’s guidance, he rebuilt his marriage, adopted a son, and later, miraculously, welcomed a biological son. A cancer scare tested his faith, but the program’s tools helped him find peace. Now, with decades of sobriety, Rick emphasizes the power of service, fellowship, and working the steps to build a life beyond his wildest dreams.
Music: Deep by KaizanBlu
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Linda R. from Indianopolis, IN doing a workshop titled "A Day In The Big Book" in Charlottesville, VA - April 9th 2005
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In Part 1 of "A Day in the Big Book", Linda shares her deeply personal journey through the first two steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, bringing to life the raw, transformative power of surrender. She describes how, for years, she convinced herself she didn’t have a drinking problem—until she woke up one morning knowing she was dying inside. With honesty and warmth, she talks about the desperation that led her to her knees and how she found hope in the pages of the Big Book. Linda explains how her sponsor guided her through Step One, helping her see that her life had always been unmanageable, even when it looked good from the outside. In Step Two, she wrestles with doubt, realizing that while she believed in God, she wasn’t sure He believed in her. Through the guidance of AA and the willingness to set aside old ideas, she begins to open up to the possibility of a power greater than herself, setting the stage for the spiritual awakening to come.
Music: Deep by KaizanBlu
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Peter M. from Boca Raton, FL speaking at the All Our Affairs group in Toronto, Canada - July 7th 2012
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Peter M. shares a powerful, raw, and deeply spiritual account of his journey through alcoholism, recovery, and transformation. Growing up in a turbulent household in Brooklyn, losing his mother to addiction, and experiencing repeated relapses and homelessness, Peter vividly describes the pain, shame, and destruction that alcoholism brings into his life. After multiple treatment centers and failed attempts at sobriety, he finally reaches a point of total surrender on June 23, 1988, when he cries out to God for help. Through the guidance of a sponsor, deep work in the Twelve Steps, and a complete shift in perspective, he finds a life of purpose and service. Today, he embodies the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous, emphasizing the necessity of spiritual awakening, rigorous honesty, and living a life centered on God-consciousness. His journey is a testament to the power of recovery, reminding others that the path to healing requires surrender, action, and a commitment to carrying the message of hope to those still suffering.
Music: Deep by KaizanBlu
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Adell S. from Sedona, AZ speaking at the 48th Annual Big Deep South Convention in New Orleans, LA - June 18th 2016
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Born into a chaotic and violent household, Adell S. struggled with hypersensitivity and a desperate need to escape, which led her to alcohol and later to bulimia. Despite early delusions and denial, she found her way into AA, where she was struck sober in 1989 and has remained so for over three decades. She openly discussed the trauma she endured, including childhood abuse, and how she initially believed she was irreparably broken. Through rigorous step work, sponsorship, and deep spiritual practice, she found healing, forgiveness, and a renewed sense of self-worth. Today, Adele passionately advocates for recovery through rigorous honesty, service, and meditation, urging others to embrace the 12 Steps not just as a means to stop drinking, but as a path to profound inner peace and spiritual awakening.
Music: Deep by KaizanBlu
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Bud M. from Huntington, CA speaking at the Paramount Speaker Group in Paramount CA - May 2nd 1999
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Bud M. shares about his turbulent life of crime, addiction, and multiple stints in jail. Raised in a home where alcohol played a central role, he found drinking at a young age, quickly discovering its ability to mask fear and insecurity. His life spiraled into crime, reform school, and prison, leading him to believe he was beyond help. It wasn’t until a judge identified his alcoholism and he read the AA Big Book while serving time that he began to reconsider his path. After leaving jail in 1953, he called AA, found a sponsor, and committed to the program. Over time, he built a stable life, a successful career, and a loving family, staying sober for decades. Through AA, he not only transformed himself but also helped countless others by sharing his experience, strength, and hope.
Music: Deep by KaizanBlu
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Brooke C. from Sheridan, WY speaking at the New Horizons group in Bend, OR - October 13th 2021
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Brooke C. shares the life-changing importance of a home group in AA, describing how belonging to a single, committed fellowship provides not only a structured environment for service and decision-making but also essential support, accountability, and personal growth in recovery. Her journey—from early sobriety struggles and finding her place through group conscience meetings to embracing the responsibilities that come with being an active member—highlights her key accomplishments in transforming isolation into a robust network of caring relationships. This experience has been central to her spiritual development and ongoing success in sobriety, proving that a strong home group is both a sanctuary and a catalyst for lasting change.
Music: Deep by KaizanBlu
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