The Recovery Show » Finding serenity through 12 step recovery in Al-Anon – a podcast

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... The post Recognizing Responsibility: Al-Anon’s Step 8 – 432 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 20 April 2025

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... The post Recovery and Creativity – 431 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2025

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... The post Mar-Anon: Help for Family and Friends of Cannabis Addicts – 430 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 13 March 2025

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... The post Grief and Relief – 429 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2025

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... The post Separating from Dysfunction – 428 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2025

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... The post When the Behavior is Too Much for Most of Us – 427 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2025

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.... The post Reflections on 2024 – 426 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 31 January 2025

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... The post Shortcomings and Self-Acceptance: Step 7 – 425 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 17 January 2025

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... The post Addiction’s Little Sister – 424 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 27 December 2024

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... The post Transformation Begins in Step Six – 423 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 17 December 2024

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.... The post Embracing Self-Love: A Recovery Journey – 422 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 11 December 2024

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... The post Step Five: A Journey Towards Personal Freedom – 421 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 29 November 2024

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... The post Path to Recovery: Embracing Step Four – 420 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 11 November 2024

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... The post Secular Healing: Working Step Three – 419 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 21 October 2024

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... The post Navigating Retirement with Recovery – 418 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 21 September 2024

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 similar... The post Creating a Personal Higher Power in Recovery – 417 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 9 September 2024

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... The post Letting Go and Trusting: Exploring Step Three – 416 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 1 September 2024

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... The post Finding Hope and Sanity: Exploring Step Two – 415 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 20 August 2024

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... The post Surviving Alex: A Mother’s Story of Love, Loss, and Addiction – 414 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 8 August 2024

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... The post Step One: Finding Strength in Surrender – 413 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 4 July 2024

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,... The post Breaking Through Denial: Honesty is Essential – 412 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 24 June 2024

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... The post Growth and Challenges in Al-Anon Service – 411 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 7 June 2024

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... The post Walking the Path to Recovery – Working the 12 Steps – 410 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2024

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... The post Finding Strength in Mutual Aid: Insights from Al-Anon’s Third Tradition – 409 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 2 April 2024

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... The post A Deep Dive into Sharing in Meetings – 408 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 12 March 2024

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.... The post Spencer T talk at 71st Greeley AA Stampede appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 1 March 2024

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... The post Listening to you – 406 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 11 February 2024

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... The post Working the Steps – 405 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 11 January 2024

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... The post Experience, Strength and Hope from the 2023 Al-Anon International Convention – 404 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 28 December 2023

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,... The post Inaction and Reaction: Navigating the Path to Meaningful Action – 403 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 8 December 2023

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... The post Finding Freedom from Gossip and Creating Positive Relationships in Recovery – 402 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 9 November 2023

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,... The post What is my Motive? appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 2 September 2023

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,... The post What is my Motive? – 401 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 2 September 2023

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... The post Milestones – 400 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 17 August 2023

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... The post Finding Al-Anon Lessons in Classic Novels — 399 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 28 June 2023

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,... The post What we learned in 2022 — 398 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 19 June 2023

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... The post From Wounded to Empowered: Misti B’s Path to Forgiveness — 397 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 24 May 2023

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... The post Boundaries Revisited – 396 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 29 March 2023

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... The post The Relationship between Mother and Son – 395 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 5 March 2023

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... The post People of Color in Recovery – Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging – 394 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 14 February 2023

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... The post Take What You Like and Leave the Rest — 393 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 31 January 2023

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... The post Step 12 – 392 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 18 January 2023

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... The post The power of stories – 391 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 4 January 2023

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... The post Gratitude 2022 – 390 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 21 November 2022

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 [email protected] with your... The post Four Primary Ideas – 389 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 2 November 2022

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,... The post Recovery in the TV/Film Industry – 388 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 26 September 2022

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... The post Co-Crazy – 387 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 7 September 2022

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... The post Loss and Grief – 386 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 19 August 2022

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... The post Worry Less — 385 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 27 July 2022

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... The post Leaning into Faith – 384 appeared first on The Recovery Show.

Transcribed - Published: 6 July 2022