Welcome to Episode 2 of Breakfast with an Alcoholic, Season Three: A New Beginning? No one has really nailed what this enterprise ought to be called, but that’s ok. In Episode One, we discussed the role of the Big Book in our recovery and assigned some homework, which was to read Chapter One of the Big Book, “Bill’s Story,” all sixteen pages of it:
In this episode, we go through Bill’s Story in more detail, and we find aspects of the story that mirror our own.1
It was finally seeing that Bill’s Story was just like my story that opened the door for me to finally get sober. We discuss all that and more, including a failed coup attempt by the sponsees during the Alcoholic Lightning Round.2 For background, you might want to watch this first:
According to the trusty AI-bot that helps me edit the podcast,
This conversation delves into the profound struggles of alcoholism, the journey towards recovery, and the pivotal moments that lead to transformation. The speakers reflect on personal experiences, the importance of connection, and the role of spirituality in overcoming addiction. They discuss the significance of willingness to change and the design for living that supports sobriety, drawing parallels to the foundational stories of Alcoholics Anonymous.
How can you not already be listening? Also, Daniel and
: Were you aware we said all that?And here are some take-aways from our conversation (courtesy of my personal alco-bot or drunk-bot?)—although wouldn’t you rather listen?3:
Takeaways
Self-knowledge is not the answer to addiction.
Despair and loneliness can be overwhelming in addiction.
Connection with others can lead to transformative experiences.
The concept of a higher power can be personalized.
Willingness to change is crucial for recovery.
Sobriety is a journey, not a destination.
The importance of sharing experiences in recovery.
Fear can be a temporary motivator for sobriety.4
A design for living can help navigate life's challenges.
The journey to sobriety often involves setbacks and learning.
Vanilla is a legitimate flavor; not the absence of flavor.5
If you’re looking for a copy of the Big Book, it’s available online and I might also recommend this if you’re not quite sure that you should be reading/listening to this stuff or not:
Pour yourself a cup of coffee and join us.
Do you know how much it would cost to hear this kind of stuff in rehab? Oh, by the way, are you a paid subscriber?
The first game show, by alcoholics, for alcoholics.
I get pushy this time of year.
Food is an excellent long-term motivator.
I threw this last one in myself, just to see if you were paying attention. But wait, who’s in charge of the footnotes?
Breakfast with an Alcoholic: Episode 2