The Recovery Show » Finding serenity through 12 step recovery in Al-Anon – a podcast
12-step recovery for those of us who love alcoholics or addicts. We share our experience, strength, and hope as we use the principles of the Al-Anon program in our lives. We talk openly and honestly about the problems and challenges as we face alcoholism and addiction in our friends and relatives. We share the tools and solutions we have found that let us live a life that is serene, happy, and free, even when the alcoholic or addict is still drinking or using.
Episodes
Healing and Hope: Michele’s Path to Recovery – 460
Michele’s story is a testament to resilience, transformation, and finding hope in the midst of chaos. Recovering in Al-Anon, Michele has navigated a tumultuous past and emerged empowered with wisdom and a renewed sense of self. Discovering Al-Anon Michele’s journey began 41 years ago when, at a critical juncture in her life, she stepped into...
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Our Purpose: Recovering Together – 459
Spencer and Julie explore the impacts of Al-Anon’s Tradition Five, highlighting its central purpose: to help the families of alcoholics by practicing the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) themselves. We share our experiences of the transformative power of love within the Al-Anon program, and explore personal growth, self-love, and compassion towards alcoholic relatives. Understanding...
Live and Let Live: Personal and Group Autonomy – 458
In Al-Anon, Tradition Four underscores the importance of autonomy while acknowledging the necessity of considering the community’s welfare. Spencer and Marylou explore some of the intricacies of this tradition, sharing their personal experiences and insights. The Autonomy of Meetings The essence of Tradition Four is in allowing each group the freedom to conduct its meetings...
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Welcome to Recovery: Tradition 3 – 457
Tradition Three is a foundational tenet that emphasizes inclusivity and self-identification as pathways to recovery. Spencer and Ester reflect on the meanings and implications of Tradition Three, highlighting its role in fostering a supportive environment for those affected by the family disease of alcoholism. The Essence of Tradition Three Tradition Three states: “The relatives of...
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Crosstalk – 456
In this comprehensive discussion, Spencer and Mary look at crosstalk in the context of recovery meetings. Drawing from both personal experiences and a variety of listener contributions, they explore how crosstalk is interpreted, its impact, and how it is managed in different recovery communities. Defining Crosstalk The conversation begins with Spencer sharing the definition of...
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A Fellowship of Equals: Tradition Two – 455
In an exploration of Al-Anon’s second tradition, Spencer and Michele engage in a thoughtful discussion about the principles and personal growth experienced through this tradition. Tradition Two states, “For our group purpose, there is but one authority—a loving God as He may express Himself in our group conscience. Our leaders are but trusted servants; they...
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Sponsorship: Building Trust and Growing – 454
Sponsorship is a fundamental aspect of many recovery programs, providing growth and support for both sponsors and sponsees. This episode explores our experiences of sponsorship, drawing from the personal journeys of Spencer, Patrick, and other contributors who share their experiences within the Al-Anon community. Sponsorship in recovery programs, particularly Al-Anon, is a deeply personal yet...
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Emotional Sobriety – 453
Emotional sobriety is a state of emotional balance and self-awareness. According to Samantha Jo and Spencer, emotional sobriety involves intentional living, gratitude, self-love, and setting healthy boundaries. Their conversation explores the nuances of this journey, drawing connections from literature and personal experiences, both in Al-Anon and ACA (Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctiona
Estrangement: Your Voices – 452
This episode is a continuation of episode 450, Estrangement: Strength and Hope. We hear more experience, strength, and hope from Patrick, Marylou, Marcy, Raquel, Kelly, David, Susan, Anne, and Heather. Insight Timer meditations Eric has created an Insight Timer group titled Al-Anon 11th Step. It includes estrangement meditations as well as many others like letting...
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What’s in a Name? Group naming in Al-Anon – 451
What’s in a (Al-Anon group) name? Spencer and Mary discuss how societal shifts and policy updates affect group naming, drawing insights from their personal experiences and Al-Anon’s rich history. Al-Anon has grappled with group naming policies since the 1970s, striving to balance the need for an inviting atmosphere with the principles of the organization. The...
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Estrangement: Strength and Hope – 450
Estrangement is a challenging experience, affecting countless families across the globe. Eric and Spencer’s conversation takes us through personal experiences, shared wisdom, and practical advice gathered from both program literature and external resources like AI. Estrangement affects nearly 27% of adults, highlighting its prevalence and the silent suffering it brings. We will look at its...
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Embracing Growth: Dropping Life’s Rocks – 449
Spencer and Kathy delve into a concept derived from the book “Drop the Rock.” The metaphor suggests that our shortcomings or character defects are like rocks weighing us down. We explore how dropping these rocks can lead to a freer, lighter life. Learning from Stories An impactful story from the book highlights how defects may...
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Healthy Boundaries Create Internal Safety – 448
Barb and Spencer explore the vital topic of boundaries in depth, offering insights into how establishing and maintaining boundaries can significantly impact one’s emotional well-being. Barb, a boundaries coach, shared personal experiences and wisdom gained from her own recovery journey, shedding light on how boundaries play a critical role in understanding oneself and improving relationships
Patience and Acceptance when Life is “In Session” – 447
Spencer and Kathy delve into the essential themes of patience and acceptance, exploring how these virtues can empower us to navigate life’s most challenging periods. Our conversation highlights personal experiences and insights as we are actively working through trials with the assistance of our recovery programs.  We start with a reading from Melody Beattie’s “The...
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Navigating Grief in Recovery – 446
Grieving is a profoundly personal journey, and when intertwined with recovery from addiction, the process can be both complex and enlightening. Spencer talks with Cliff, whose journey through grief and recovery offers insights into the healing process. Spencer and Cliff explored how the tools and principles of recovery can aid in navigating grief. Opening with...
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Navigating Uncertainty – 445
Life is full of uncertainties, and each of us deals with them in our unique ways. Spencer and Ester delve into how we deal with uncertainty and life’s inevitable limbo states. Our conversation centers around using Al-Anon tools and principles to navigate uncertainty.  Living in Uncertainty Ester shares her experience of living in various types...
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Unity and Healing in Al-Anon Traditions – 444
Spencer and Patrick explore Al-Anon’s 12 Traditions through reading and discussion. We reflect on how these guidelines support personal growth and unity within the meetings. We read from the beginning of Chapter 16 from the book “How Al-Anon Works”, looking at the Traditions in general, and Tradition One in particular. Understanding the Twelve Traditions The...
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Workaholism and Recovery – 443
Spencer and Tom explore the complexities of workaholism and its impact on personal and professional lives. Our conversation includes not only our personal experiences but also the intertwining nature of various recovery programs, offering a comprehensive guide for those on a similar journey. Understanding Workaholism and Recovery Programs Tom, a long-time member of both Workaholics...
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50 Years of 12-Step Recovery – 442
In the half-century since she began her journey into 12-step recovery on May 15th, 1972, Adrienne S. has navigated a path of immense personal growth and healing. Her commitment to sobriety and the principles of the 12 Steps have not only transformed her life but inspired her to share her experience, strength, and hope with...
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Transforming Dating Patterns in Recovery – 441
Brenda W. shares her experiences, focusing on how the effects of being an adult child of an alcoholic shaped her past relationships. She candidly describes how her upbringing led her to choose romantic partners who were not self-sufficient, as she subconsciously believed she had to be needed to feel valued. Through Al-Anon and a journey...
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Recovering Couples Anonymous: Healing a relationship – 440
The journey of recovery is unique for each individual and couple. In this episode, we explore the 12 step program of Recovering Couples Anonymous (RCA).  Recovery in Al-Anon and RCA Valerie begins by sharing her past, which is marked by a failed first marriage filled with addiction and legal challenges. Her journey into recovery began...
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Step 12: A Journey into Spiritual Awareness – 439
Spencer and Eric explore Step 12, “Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to others, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.” We follow the reading on the step from the book How Al-Anon Works for Families and Friends of Alcoholics, interleaving it...
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Embracing Spiritual Growth Through Step 11 – 438
Step 11 of the 12-step recovery program suggests that we can improve our conscious contact with a higher power through prayer and meditation. Spencer and Sara share personal insights and experiences that highlight the transformative power of this step as part of our spiritual growth in recovery. Understanding Step 11 Our conversation is structured by...
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Is Al-Anon Really for Men? A conversation – 437
In the latest episode of The Recovery Show, host Spencer and guest Patrick B delve into the question, “Is Al-Anon really for men?” Both men are Al-Anon members, yet they wonder why the program largely features a predominantly female membership. The episode was recorded aboard a cruise ship following the AA International Convention, where Spencer...
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Embracing Our Humanity: Practicing Step 10 – 436
We are all human, and as such, are imperfect. Step 10 challenges us to recognize when we are imperfect, and to make amends when necessary. Nancy reflects on a recent experience that challenged her long-standing beliefs and provided a profound learning moment. She begins by recounting an incident that occurred while her son was visiting...
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Lifelong Growth Through Step 10
In 12-step recovery, Step 10 offers a framework for continuous improvement by encouraging individuals to take personal inventory and make amends when necessary. This step signifies the transition from initial recovery to an ongoing, lifelong commitment to spiritual renewal and growth. Understanding Step 10 Spencer and Pat engage in a thoughtful discussion. We recognize that...
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Healing Through Amends: Step Nine – 434
We explore Step Nine: Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.. Marylou and Spencer have walked this path, and we share our personal experiences and insights. Heather also contributes her story, offering a poignant example of navigating amends with integrity. Understanding Step Nine Spencer...
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Participation is a Key to Harmony and Growth – 433
In this exploration of Al-Anon’s Concept Four, “Participation is the key to harmony,” Spencer and Sara look at how they participate in personal, group, and professional interactions. This concept, which consists of only five words, may initially seem simplistic, but we find depth when we relate it to our own experiences and explore its practical...
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Recognizing Responsibility: Al-Anon’s Step 8 – 432
In the journey of recovery, Step Eight is a pivotal stage where individuals courageously face the consequences of their past actions and begin the path towards healing. This step involves making a list of all persons we have harmed and becoming willing to make amends to them all. Through the narratives and reflections provided by...
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Recovery and Creativity – 431
We dive into the creative journeys of Karen B and Katie P, two singer-songwriters whose paths have been shaped by their experiences in recovery programs such as Al-Anon and ACA (Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families). In their stories, they share how personal recovery has enriched and informed their artistic expression, providing a platform...
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Mar-Anon: Help for Family and Friends of Cannabis Addicts – 430
In a world where substance use and addiction take numerous forms, support groups tailored to specific needs are invaluable. Mar-Anon is one such group providing support to those affected by cannabis use disorder in their loved ones. Inspired by the Al-Anon program, Mar-Anon offers a space for families and friends to find connection and understanding...
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Grief and Relief – 429
Grief is an inevitable and multifaceted part of life that can touch us in many ways, far beyond the loss of a loved one. In this episode, we explore how the principles and tools of recovery can help us find relief from grief by accepting change, embracing emotional growth, and connecting deeply with others. Understanding...
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Separating from Dysfunction – 428
Heather relates her experience growing up in dysfunction, and her journey to recovery through therapy, Al-Anon and ACA (Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families). Understanding Family Dysfunction Many of us have grown up in environments marked by dysfunction, often without realizing the full extent until adulthood. Heather’s story reveals the toxic atmosphere she was...
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When the Behavior is Too Much for Most of Us – 427
Spencer and Misti, with listener contributions, explore a challenging topic for those who have loved ones grappling with addiction: cutting or limiting contact. We hare personal stories and insights about creating and respecting boundaries to protect our emotional well-being. Whether it’s temporary, permanent, or situational, the act of establishing boundaries with friends or family members.
Reflections on 2024 – 426
At the beginning of a new year, I like to take some time to reflect on the past year, and to set some intentions for the new year. (Please note: intentions are not resolutions!) This year, I took these questions from another email group I’m a member of, and asked you to reflect on them....
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Shortcomings and Self-Acceptance: Step 7 – 425
In our ongoing journey through the 12 Steps of Al Anon, we arrive at Step 7, which encourages us to humbly ask our Higher Power to remove our shortcomings. While succinct in its wording, this step is profound in its demands and implications. It challenges us to embrace humility, not as humiliation, but as self-acceptance...
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Addiction’s Little Sister – 424
In the whirlwind of life’s trials, how can we turn tragedy into comedy? This question is at the heart of Liz C’s journey as she navigates her role as “Addiction’s Little Sister.” Her story, a tapestry woven with laughter, resilience, and hope, offers a unique perspective on finding light amidst darkness. Liz’s story begins in...
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Transformation Begins in Step Six – 423
In the journey of recovery, reaching Step Sixmarks a pivotal moment of transformation. This step, as we examine in our recent conversation between Spencer and Ufasaha Y, asks us to become “entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.” It holds a promise of change through surrender and faith, allowing us to...
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Embracing Self-Love: A Recovery Journey – 422
Today, Shannon and Spencer dig deep into the question, how do we learn and grow to love ourselves? In the pursuit of learning to love ourselves, we may have faced emotional challenges and societal pressures that obscure our self-worth. We might begin by reflecting on childhood experiences that shaped our perceptions and beliefs about ourselves....
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Step Five: A Journey Towards Personal Freedom – 421
In our shared journey through the twelve steps, Step Five is an essential turning point towards self-awareness and personal freedom. This step—admitting to God, ourselves, and another human being the exact nature of our wrongs—offers us an opportunity to break free from the self-imposed chains of shame and secrecy. As we work this Step, we...
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Path to Recovery: Embracing Step Four – 420
Our recovery journey requires courage and self-reflection, especially when we encounter Step 4: “Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.” Eric and Spencer relate our experiences, insights, and the profound transformation that accompanies Step 4, as described in the reading from the book “How Al Anon Works.” Taking a moral inventory may seem...
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Secular Healing: Working Step Three – 419
Approaching the Twelve Steps from a secular viewpoint can present challenges, particularly with Step Three, which traditionally involves turning one’s will and life over to the care of God. Spencer and Marilyn explore how we have navigated these waters while remaining respectful to their own beliefs as atheists or agnostics. Founding a Secular Al Anon...
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Navigating Retirement with Recovery – 418
Retirement can be an exciting yet challenging phase of life. It brings forward new experiences and demands a blend of anticipation and adaptation. The principles and tools garnered through our journeys of recovery can play a pivotal role in navigating these changes. Mary H. shares insights into her retirement process and how recovery has helped...
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Creating a Personal Higher Power in Recovery – 417
Recovery can challenge us to transform our spiritual and religious understandings and underpinnings. For many, especially those emerging from rigid religious backgrounds, rediscovering or reimagining one’s higher power becomes a transformative step. In this episode, Sara delves into her personal journey of redefining her higher power, lending an inspiring narrative to those struggling with s
Letting Go and Trusting: Exploring Step Three – 416
Step Three states: “Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.” We’ll be delving into this step, discussing its essence and sharing personal experiences. Step Three comes after acknowledging the hope for a saner life (Step Two). This step is about making a...
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Finding Hope and Sanity: Exploring Step Two – 415
Spencer opens the discussion by reiterating Step Two: “[We] came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.” Bruce notes that their discussion is a reflection of their personal experiences.. Personal Narratives of Insanity and Restoration Both Spencer and Bruce share their personal stories, highlighting their past struggles and how...
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Surviving Alex: A Mother’s Story of Love, Loss, and Addiction – 414
I had the privilege of speaking with Pat R., the author of the heartfelt and powerful book “Surviving Alex: A Mother’s Story of Love, Loss, and Addiction.” This story may resonate with you if you are grappling with the complex combination of mental illness and addiction. A Mother’s Heartfelt Journey Pat’s journey began with her...
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Step One: Finding Strength in Surrender – 413
Spencer and Nora explore Step One of Al-Anon, which is about admitting powerlessness over alcohol and recognizing the unmanageability in one’s life. They read from the book ‘How Al-Anon Works’ and discuss how their lives have been impacted by others’ alcoholism. Both hosts share personal anecdotes on their journey to accepting their lack of control...
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Breaking Through Denial: Honesty is Essential – 412
In conversation with Barb W, we dive into the vital role honesty plays in the journey of recovery, particularly in accepting and working the first step. The Challenge of Honesty We kick off the discussion with Barb reflecting on the necessity of honesty in recovery. Honesty often starts with acknowledging our own denial and deceit,...
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Growth and Challenges in Al-Anon Service – 411
Being a leader in Al-Anon is fundamentally different from traditional notions of leadership. As we highlight in our discussion, Al-Anon leaders are guided by humility and enthusiasm rather than authority and control. This approach is rooted in Tradition Two, which states, “Our leaders are but trusted servants; they do not govern.” Understanding this principle is...
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Walking the Path to Recovery – Working the 12 Steps – 410
Host Spencer and guest Ashley delve into the transformative power of the 12 steps in the Al-Anon program. We revisit the 12 steps and explore their impact on our personal growth and healing. We read and reflect on passages from chapter 8, “Twelve Steps”, in the book How Al-Anon Works, sharing our own experiences and...
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Finding Strength in Mutual Aid: Insights from Al-Anon’s Third Tradition – 409
Al Anon’s Tradition 3 emphasizes the gathering of relatives of alcoholics for mutual aid, forming an Al Anon family group rooted in shared experiences and support. Spencer elaborates on how this mutual aid creates a safe space where individuals facing the impact of addiction can find solace and understanding. The only requirement for membership is...
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A Deep Dive into Sharing in Meetings – 408
We find value in the shared experiences, wisdom, and support expressed in Al-Anon meetings. Sharing in meetings plays a crucial role in bolstering recovery, assisting in healing, and fostering a sense of community among attendees. However, we may hear instructions and conventions that seem challenging to adhere to at times. Why do we share? Sharing...
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Spencer T talk at 71st Greeley AA Stampede
In February, 2023, Spencer gave a talk at the 71st Greeley AA Stampede. This is that talk. Readings and Links The Greeley AA Stampede is an annual AA conference with Al-Anon participation. Find out more at their website. A listener asked about finding “speaker tapes” online. Two sources are XA Speakers and Recovery Radio Network....
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Listening to you – 406
Listen to the experience, strength and hope, questions, and fears of 30-ish listeners of The Recovery Show. Hear from members on topics such as these: Here are few moments that you might connect with: Sue wrote, “While listening to Debra C. share on your podcast, I realized she was telling my story. I took away...
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Working the Steps – 405
The 12 steps are indispensable in the journey towards healing. They can spark enlightenment, foster growth, and propel personal transformation. In this episode, Spencer, Karen, and other contributors explore several approaches to working the 12 steps. Acknowledging Variety and Personalizing the Process 12-step recovery does not have a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. Members apply the steps to...
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Experience, Strength and Hope from the 2023 Al-Anon International Convention – 404
Did you attend the 2023 Al-Anon International Convention? If you didn’t, have you wondered what it was like? In this episode, Heather, Racheal, and Spencer share our expectations of the convention, what happened at the convention, what we learned, and what we are bringing home. Contact the show You can leave a voicemail at 734-707-8795...
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Inaction and Reaction: Navigating the Path to Meaningful Action – 403
In our lives, we often find ourselves faced with situations that require us to make decisions. We have a choice to either react impulsively or take a moment to consider our actions. This interplay between inaction and reaction can shed light on how we navigate life’s complexities. Let’s delve deeper into the concepts of inaction,...
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Finding Freedom from Gossip and Creating Positive Relationships in Recovery – 402
What is gossip? How is it harmful to my recovery? Spencer and Laurel discuss gossip and how it can hinder our path to recovery. We share our personal experiences, elaborating on how we used to perceive gossip and how this perception has changed. We lay emphasis on the power of silence, restraining oneself from engaging...
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What is my Motive? – 401
At a recent meeting, the topic was Step 11. I most often share about my difficulties in creating a regular program of prayer and meditation. But at this meeting, I picked the second part of the step “Praying only for knowledge of God’s will…” The question that I face when I consider that phrase is,...
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Milestones – 400
Reaching and recognizing significant milestones is an integral part of the recovery process. Celebrating these moments of progress might include acknowledging the ability to set personal boundaries, letting go of blame, or embracing presence in the current moment. These victories, regardless of how small, contribute significantly to personal growth and healing, reinforcing the transformative power
Finding Al-Anon Lessons in Classic Novels — 399
I noticed how different people in the story respond to the drinking in different ways. It leapt off the page to me, not only because I recognized stories that I could have heard in the rooms, but also my own perception of their reactions. – Frances Step into the pages of classic literature and discover...
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What we learned in 2022 — 398
What valuable lesson did you learn in 2022? Our answers include: Upcoming topics Coming up is our 400th episode. Eric suggested the topic of milestones for that “milestone” episode. What can you identify as significant events or turning points in your travels on the road to recovery? Have you experienced such things as a breakthrough,...
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From Wounded to Empowered: Misti B’s Path to Forgiveness — 397
Misti’s journey of self-discovery and forgiveness takes her through the depths of her family’s addiction and abuse. Just as she begins to find inner peace, a shocking revelation forces her to confront the past and leaves her questioning everything she thought she knew. Will she find the courage to continue her journey towards healing and...
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Boundaries Revisited – 396
It’s been a while since we talked about boundaries. Barb N brings her own perspective and experience to this conversation. Barb hit a co-dependent bottom at the age of 52, although at that time she had never heard of the word co-dependent! She was trying to help out a homeless man, and invited him to...
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The Relationship between Mother and Son – 395
How is the relationship between a mother and her son affected by alcholism and addiction? Join us as Amy shares her experience, strength, and hope (and particularly hope), as we explore how her relationship with her son was affected by his alcoholism and addiction. She says “I do wanna clarify, you know, I’m gonna use...
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People of Color in Recovery – Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging – 394
Mary is an Al-Anon member who is Korean. She brings her experience as a person of color in the rooms of recovery to the podcast. Our conversation touches on all the points below, plus more. Readings and Links We read from Courage to Change page 61, March 1st, and from Many Voices, One Journey, Al-Anon’s...
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Take What You Like and Leave the Rest — 393
If you’ve been to a few meetings, you’ve probably heard us say, “Take what you like and leave the rest.” Why do we say this? What does it mean to you? One place this sentence appears is in the Suggested Al-Anon Closing, which starts, In closing, I would like to say that the opinions expressed...
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Step 12 – 392
The only promise in the 12 steps is contained in Step 12. It promises that if we work these steps, that we will have a spiritual awakening. Then it asks us to then carry the message, and practice the principles of recovery in all our affairs. Step 12 is really composed of 3 parts. Let’s...
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The power of stories – 391
We all have stories. In Al-Anon we tell our stories to each other. Why do we do this?  Our suggested welcome suggests that “we say what is in our minds and hearts, for this is how we help one another in Al-Anon/Alateen.” In fact the full paragraph emphasizes the importance of sharing our stories Anonymity...
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Gratitude 2022 – 390
What are you grateful for today? I asked that question of some listeners. 16 of you responded with shares, which I have compiled here. Many of you expressed gratitude for recovery, for Al-Anon and other 12 step programs, and for the changes in your lives that have come about. You are grateful for the people...
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Four Primary Ideas – 389
What are the four primary ideas? How have they been active in my recovery?. Readings and Links We read from the 2022–2025 Al-Anon Alateen Service Manual, p. 20, “Four Primary Ideas” Upcoming topics You can contribute to our annual gratitude episode. What are you grateful for today? Please call us at 734-707-8795 or email feedback@therecovery.show with your...
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Recovery in the TV/Film Industry – 388
Lisa H is using her recovery tools as she is working in the TV and film industry. My stereotype, at least, of this industry is that it is full of “dysfunctional” situations and people. Lisa came to Al-Anon when her therapist told her that although there was likely no alcoholism in her family of origin,...
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Co-Crazy – 387
Are you co-crazy? How can we recover from the state of codependent craziness? Sarah M joined us to talk about her journey of recovery from what she calls “co-crazy”. Her book is titled Co-Crazy: One Psychologist’s Recovery from Codependency and Addiction: A memoir & roadmap to freedom. Sarah says My path into recovery began when...
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Loss and Grief – 386
I recently was asked to lead at an online meeting. This is what I said about loss and grief. Then, I asked some of you to share your responses, and you did! Spencer on Loss and Grief Thank you, Jo. thank you for inviting me. I have some gratitude that today is a holiday in...
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Worry Less — 385
Does your mind automatically tune into the worry-and-fear channel? Are you suffering from worry about your loved ones? What tools have you found to help escape from constant worrying? Gigi joins Spencer to talk about strategies and tools to worry less. We started with some of her story of codependence and worry. She identifies “whispered...
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Leaning into Faith – 384
How have you found faith, and how has it helped you let go of fear? Kathy joins Spencer to dig into these questions and to share some recent experiences that prompted this topic. Our conversation touched on and was inspired by these topics: Fear and old behavior Fear of the G-O-D word How believe in...
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Laurel S — Alcoholism Ended her Marriage — 383
Laurel’s story begins: My wife was 6 years sober when we met – but not in program. “AA doesn’t work for me”. She remained sober another 6 years. After our first baby and a big move for my career (that put her closer to her family) she decided she “wanted to try drinking again. I...
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Remembrance — 382
How do you remember the loved ones you have lost? How do you measure their lives? When my grandfather died, my father wrote a thoughtful, personal remembrance of him. At that time, I thought “I’d never be able to do that!” Because of the work I have done in recovery, I can do that. The...
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Acceptance is a Gift of Recovery – 381
How is acceptance a gift of recovery for me? In March, 2021, I gave a talk at an online conference. I tried to follow this outline. What is acceptance?  What is it not?  Not “giving up” Not saying “this is ok” Recognizing reality How do I use acceptance? Not “crying against the night” Opening possibilities...
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