David R. from Atlantic Highlands, NJ speaking on steps 1-12 at the NCCYPAA Young Peoples Conference in Raleigh, NC - September 2nd 2006

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David shares how he grew up in a broken and violent home, found alcohol at 14, and quickly spiraled into decades of destruction, losing jobs, relationships, and even his health—eventually ending up drinking mouthwash, homeless, and pronounced dead before being revived. His first attempt at AA failed when he coasted without working the steps, but after a relapse he met a sponsor who walked him through the Big Book and the program in depth, leading to a true spiritual awakening. Through completing amends, he reconciled family relationships, found long-lost relatives, and rebuilt his life. Today he works on Wall Street managing a computer department, earned his degree, is pursuing graduate studies, and lives with faith, service, and peace, emphasizing that AA’s promise of recovery comes through action, honesty, and reliance on God.

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Bill L. from Dunellen, NJ and Mike L. from West Orange, NJ speaking at a workshop titled "Maintaining Conscious Contact During the Holidays" in Albany, NY - December 6th 2002

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Barefoot Bill and Mike L. from New Jersey shared their journeys of discovering that simply not drinking was not enough—both described the misery of untreated alcoholism despite time sober, until they embraced the 12 steps and a spiritual solution that changed everything. They spoke of how alcoholism is more than a drinking problem—it’s a spiritual malady that requires growth, service, and ongoing conscious contact with God to maintain peace of mind and freedom. Through humor, fellowship, and quoting the Big Book, they emphasized that recovery is about living in the present, enlarging our spiritual lives, and helping others—not just avoiding alcohol. Their stories highlighted transformation from restless, self-centered lives into contentment, usefulness, and a deeper spiritual awakening.

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Jerry J. from Lake Whitney, TX doing the steps at the Space Coast Roundup 2005 in Melbourne Beach, FL - February 2005

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Jerry spoke with humor and humility about nearly losing everything to alcohol before finding lasting sobriety on January 1, 1973, through the grace of God and the steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. He shared stories from his Texas upbringing—like his bulldog Patches and the “cattle trucks” of life—to illustrate the insanity of alcoholism and the futility of trying to control it. A lawyer by trade, he admitted to hiding behind rationalizations, burning his bed from "smoking drunk", and ignoring doctors’ warnings until he was forced to face reality. In AA, he learned that recovery is not about willpower but about surrender—discovering the truth of powerlessness, the obsession of the mind, and the allergy of the body. Through Steps One, Two, and Three, Jerry found that selfishness and self-centeredness were at the root of his troubles, and that turning his will and life over to a Higher Power brought freedom, humility, and spiritual awakening. His message showed the transformation from denial and self-will into a life anchored in honesty, connection, and a daily walk with God.

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Desmond T. from New York, NY at North East Texas Area Fall Convention - September 21st 2002

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Desmond hid behind white shirts, ties, and miniature bottles—until the love of AA finally broke through his defenses. Despite early slips and arrogance, he kept coming back, drawn to the honesty and realness of the people, who welcomed him, carried him past bars, and showed him what surrender looked like. Over time, he discovered the power of meditation, the truth of powerlessness, and the daily reprieve found in service. From near death with bleeding ulcers to serving as a Grapevine trustee and later its leader, his life transformed from self-will and denial into one of humility, connection, and love. He closed by affirming that AA gave him not just sobriety, but the ability to live with presence, intention, and a heart open to God’s will and to others.

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Wes H. from Denver, CO speaking at the Colorado State CA Convention in Denver, CO - September 2006

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Wes shares his journey with humor and honesty, reflecting on his years lost to alcohol and drugs, and how ego and fear nearly destroyed him. From early music career highs to homelessness and despair, he confused temporary relief from drugs with real spirituality until the gift of recovery showed him a different path. Sobriety brought him teachers, deep spiritual experiences, and lessons on surrender, clarity, power, and walking in beauty. He spoke of marriage sustained by the Twelve Traditions, the danger of “too many years and not enough days,” and the daily reprieve found in service and connection. His story highlighted the transformation from loneliness and self-will to a life of balance, gratitude, and spiritual growth.

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Mike W. from Wilmington, NC speaking about steps 4, 5, 6 and 7 at the 25th Brazos Conference - October 19th 2002

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Mike shares his story with warmth and humor, grounding it in nearly five decades of sobriety since July 1970. He reflected on how love—not something to be earned, but freely given—became central to his recovery, alongside honesty and acceptance. Drawing from the Big Book and 12 & 12, he emphasized that the root problem is self—resentments, fear, and pride—and that the solution is surrendering to a loving Higher Power. He broke down steps four through seven, explaining how inventories, confession, and willingness lead to transformation, courage, and freedom. His message underscored that true change comes not from willpower but from reliance on God and fellowship, turning a life once ruled by fear and resentment into one of spiritual growth, connection, and joy.

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Peter M. from Union, NJ speaking about steps 1 to 7 at the Primary Purpose Group in Long Island, NY - August 3rd 2006

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Peter shared that simply putting down the drink is not recovery—true freedom comes from ongoing spiritual growth through the Steps. He warned against worshipping knowledge or intellect in AA, saying we must seek experience with the Big Book and God’s power, not just quotes and soundbites. He stressed the importance of continually revisiting the first nine steps, using 10 and 11 daily to smash ego, and remembering that alcoholism shows up in many forms if left untreated. His message was clear: recovery is about surrender, action, and relying on God, which transforms life from restless misery into peace and usefulness.

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Bart R. from Sedona, AZ speaking at the 68th Duluth roundup in Duluth, MN - September 22nd 2013

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From sneaking alcohol in grade school to repeated detentions and juvenile jails, Bart describes how alcohol ruled every decision—costing him freedom, trust, and dignity. Even as an adult, he tried jobs, relationships, and sheer willpower, but the craving always returned. What changed was finding the Big Book and a sponsor who walked him through the steps: learning about the physical craving, mental obsession, and spiritual malady gave him clarity on why he drank and what to do about it. He spoke of hitting a true bottom—not measured by arrests or losses, but by admitting deep inside that he was alcoholic. Through surrender, inventories, amends, and daily step work, he rebuilt his life: reconciling with family, finding freedom from rage through Step Ten, and even becoming a father active in service. Today he describes himself as a “recovered alcoholic,” living proof that with God, the steps, and service, anyone can move from despair to usefulness and joy.

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Mary L. from Great Falls, MT at Inland Empire AA Convention - October 21st 2001

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Mary shares a tender, funny, and fearless arc from lifelong fear and people-pleasing to deep recovery and service: sober since January 15, 1972, she survived blackouts, repeated treatments, and a six-month institution, then spent 14 more months in a women’s halfway house where she began living the Steps for real. She described learning to accept herself unconditionally (Step One), to act into faith before she felt it, and to let God—not self-will—be the change agent (Six–Seven). Her life’s biggest “wins” weren’t trophies but transformations: moving from resentment to forgiveness with her father, from crisis-seeking to quiet presence, from bulimia to healing during a dark night of the soul, and from isolation to love—marrying in sobriety and adopting four hard-to-place children with complex needs. Today she lives “one God, many faces; one day at a time,” staying active in two home groups, sponsoring, practicing gratitude and amends, and measuring success as the flow of love through her—proof that everything good came by saying yes to a spiritual way of life.

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James T. from Auburn, CA speaking at Sacramento Monthly Speaker meeting in Sacramento, CA - June 12th 2010

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James shares how his life shifted from loneliness, denial, and failed attempts to control drinking into a life of faith, service, and love. He described how, after years of believing he only had a “drinking problem,” he finally admitted he was alcoholic and began working the steps in earnest. His journey included moving from skepticism about God to taking action anyway, finding that willingness brought results. Along the way he found companionship, marriage, and family, learning to replace fault-finding with love and patience. Making amends and practicing gratitude brought healing in relationships, and he grew into service both at home and in the wider community. With decades of sobriety, he reflected on daily action as essential—likening recovery to walking up a down escalator—and shared how gratitude, forgiveness, and continued step work keep him free. Everything good in his life, he said, came from living this program one day at a time.

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Lindsay M. from Atlanta, GA speaking at the Fellowship of the Spirit in Conyers, GA - April 6th 2014

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Lindsay shares openly about her struggles with alcoholism from an early age, the chaos it caused, and the grace she found in AA. She emphasized repeated spiritual awakenings, setbacks, and the humility of knowing all willingness and strength come from her Higher Power. Her story underscored the reality of ongoing growth, the value of laughter, and the joy of carrying the message to others, closing with gratitude and excitement for the weekend of fellowship.

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Dhulkti B. from Navarre, FL speaking at the 17th Annual Southeast Louisiana Spring Roundup in Covington, LA - May 28th 2006

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Dhulkti shares a powerful testimony of transformation, tracing a life once marked by chaos, trauma, and deep brokenness into one of recovery and spiritual rebirth. She spoke of a childhood filled with fear, shame, and early exposure to alcohol, which led her into years of heavy drinking, drugs, violence, prostitution, arrests, and hospitalizations. Even after near-death experiences, she couldn’t stop on her own until, desperate and suicidal, she prayed for God’s help—and that prayer opened the door to Alcoholics Anonymous. Through AA, sponsorship, service, and the steps, she rebuilt her life: making amends, becoming a devoted mother, marrying in sobriety, and eventually sponsoring other women. Despite ongoing struggles, including trauma resurfacing later in sobriety, she leaned on her higher power, prayer, and community. Today, with over four decades sober, she describes herself as a “stand up spiritual warrior,” living with peace, purpose, and gratitude, and finding her greatest joy in helping others find the same light.

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Travis A. from Spruce Grove, Alberta speaking at the Lethbridge & Southern Alberta Roundup in Lethbridge, Alberta - April 9th 2010

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Travis shares his journey from a troubled youth and early alcoholism—marked by chaos, crime, treatment centers, and homelessness—to finding lasting sobriety at age 22 through the program of Alcoholics Anonymous. He spoke of the powerlessness he felt, the transformation that came from working the Steps, and how service, honesty, and a higher power gave his life meaning. In recovery, he rebuilt relationships with his parents and sister, married the love of his life, became a father, pursued his trade as a millwright, bought a home, traveled, and gave back through AA service and public information work. His story highlighted how faith, responsibility, and spiritual growth turned a life of hopelessness into one of family, purpose, and peace of mind.

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Scott M. from Fort Worth, TX and Matthew M. from Forth Worth, TX doing a Big Book Workshop at the 24 hour group in Fort Worth, TX - July 22nd 2006

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Scott & Matthew share how deeply the Big Book and the Doctor’s Opinion shaped their recovery since November 28, 1997. They reminded everyone that sobriety isn’t just about abstaining but about studying and applying the Big Book as a true textbook, not just a self-help read. They traced AA’s growth from a handful of members to millions worldwide, highlighting the role of Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob, and even moments like Bill’s phone calls at the Mayflower Hotel as acts of “willingness to go to any length.” Scott emphasized that the Doctor’s Opinion is the foundation of the first step—understanding the body’s allergy, the mind’s obsession, and the spirit’s malady—and warned that ignoring it leaves alcoholics at risk of drinking again. With energy and humility, he underscored that AA’s power lies in one alcoholic helping another, that traditions and unity came out of necessity, and that the book—not opinions—is the lifeline that turned a fledgling group of 100 into a global fellowship.

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Peter M. from Union, NJ speaking at the Primary Purpose Group in Lynbrook, NY - August 3rd 2006

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Peter shares his experience-driven walk through AA’s solution—emphasizing that sobriety built on spirit, not mere abstinence, is what truly restores life. He challenged “plug-in-the-jug” thinking, urging seekers to rework Steps 1–9 repeatedly, live in 10–11, and carry the message in 12, because only a spiritual awakening removes the obsession and heals the “page 52” misery. Drawing from his own hard road—multiple treatment centers, a June 23, 1988 turning point, and a home base at A Vision for You (Union, NJ)—he spotlighted practical action: sponsorship, rigorous inventory (including fear and sex ideals), amends, prayer/meditation, and immediate service. His core accomplishment is modeling “recovered” living—smashing ego, surrendering outcomes to God, and becoming a dependable guide at the door for newcomers—showing how a life once ruled by compulsion can be rebuilt into purpose, usefulness, and the sunlight of the Spirit

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Ralph W. from Los Angeles, CA sharing on the steps at the "Spiritual Progress rather than Spiritual Perfection" convention in Oslo, Norway - October 30th 2015

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Ralph describes arriving in AA in 1986 after his double life as a respected businessman by day and a destructive “vampire” by night collapsed, leaving him broken and powerless. Through treatment, meetings, and surrender, Ralph discovered that recovery is not about information but transformation—training his feet in action, finding humility, and learning to rely on a higher power rather than self-will. He spoke about the power of the steps, the importance of unity, service, and recovery, and the way AA turned his life from darkness into light, allowing him to stand as a whole man in his own skin. His journey reflects the enduring truth that healing comes from surrender, connection, and carrying the message to others.

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Jay S. from Redondo Beach, CA speaking at the 26th annual Tumbleweed Conference in Hobbs, NM - September 15th 2006

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Jay shares a life reclaimed: a 1979 sobriety date, decades free from the “front drink,” and a journey from blackout living and DUIs to spiritual action, amends, and service. He frames alcoholism as allergy + obsession + soul sickness—and recovery as complete abstinence, prayer/meditation, and working all 12 steps. Key wins: he stayed sober when the obsession lifted around 100 days, made hard amends, sponsored widely (“if God sends them, you can’t hurt them”), and helped family—supporting his father through illness with dignity and boundaries. He became a man who shows up: building community from Hermosa Beach meetings to Central America service trips, honoring Al-Anon family healing, and tapping empty chairs as a quiet daily “prayer.” His message is simple and urgent—“find God or die”—but inclusive: try the disciplines, notice the results, and let AA’s kitchen-table sponsorship raise the dead. The arc of his life proves that when we put AA first, everything else becomes first-class: love, family reconciliation, purposeful work, and the privilege of carrying a message that’s saving lives across the world tonight.

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Carl P. from Atlanta, GA speaking at the Fellowship of the Spirit in Conyers, GA - April 6th 2014

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Carl traces a restless childhood—constant moves, isolation, and a mind that never felt comfortable—into full-blown addiction where alcohol and cocaine became the only reliable relief and then the wrecking ball for every job, home, and relationship he touched. He shows how “white-knuckle” stints in treatment and halfway houses failed because mere sincerity and fellowship couldn’t overcome a body that craved and a mind that obsessed; the breakthrough came when he finally recognized the illness for what it was and became willing to take disciplined spiritual action even when it didn’t make sense. From there he leans into rigorous inventory, amends, daily practice, and a tight, accountability-heavy home group he helped found that cycles back through the work repeatedly and challenges the belief systems—especially about what it means to be a man—that once ran his life. The result: real freedom, deep friendships, useful service, and steady growth in health, career, and purpose. The life-importance message: pain can become power when you surrender, do the hard interior work, and stay in a community that demands honesty and action.

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John K. from Primary Purpose Group in Dallas, TX speaking at the SW Kansas AA Conference in Dodge City, KS - January 2008

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John shares his story of going from a straight-A, gifted athlete with everything on paper, to a hopeless alcoholic who cycled through jobs, relationships, treatment centers, and blackouts until Labor Day 1999, when he finally surrendered and found a sponsor who laid out the truth of the Big Book. He explains in his own words how Step 1 hit him when he saw he couldn’t not drink, Step 2 gave him hope that what worked for others might work for him, and Step 3 became real on his knees with a simple prayer asking God for willingness. He describes Step 4–5 as uncovering the “ugly truth” of selfishness and damage done, Steps 6–7 as the hard willingness to let go of those defects, and Steps 8–9 as making amends wherever possible. For him, Step 10 is daily action, Step 11 keeps him grounded in prayer and conscious contact, and Step 12 is not “work” but joy—helping other drunks, taking calls, driving guys to meetings, and carrying the message with urgency. Today he lives with purpose, sponsors “hard cases,” has restored family relationships, is engaged, and even brought his non-alcoholic mother into Big Book study. His message: gratitude is shown not by words but by action—staying close to God, thumping the Big Book, and helping the next alcoholic.

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Rick K. from Edmonton, Canada speaking at Parksville Rally in Parksville, British Columbia, Canada - June 14th 2008

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Rick shares a funny-raw arc from blackout drinking (early DUIs, a seizure, a marriage on the brink, dyslexia shame, and career chaos) to long-term sobriety (8/8/1985) built on service, sponsorship, and trusting God; he found purpose making coffee, stacking chairs, and “living like it might work,” then working the steps with a paint-salesman sponsor—especially Step 3 (decision with another person), Step 4–5 (honest inventory and full disclosure), Step 6–7 (trust God rather than white-knuckle self-change), Step 8–9 (amends—most powerfully to his still-drinking father), Step 11 (prayer/meditation to start the day sane), and Step 12 (“working with others” done with love, not lectures). He underscores AA as a participation sport—show up, help newcomers, and keep your spiritual condition ahead of the first drink—while highlighting grace in family life (an adoption returned with dignity, then the surprise birth of his son Luke) and gratitude for his parents, including healing old wounds. Key accomplishments and turning points include earning his Red Seal as a chef (even cooking for Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip), rebuilding his marriage, becoming a present father, and growing into a man who welcomes newcomers with a hand on the shoulder. The life-importance message: sobriety thrives on humility, honesty, and service—do the next right thing, trust God, and love people well.

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Joshua H. from Toronto, Canada speaking at the North Shore Roundup in Vancouver, Canada - April 12th 2009

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From early chaos—drinking at 10, homelessness, jail, psych wards, and years of relapse—Joshua reached a bottom at 19 where alcohol stopped working and only AA remained. Guided by sponsors, steps, and service, he found freedom in admitting powerlessness, seeking a higher power, and using his painful past to help others. Despite trauma, loss, and struggles with self-centeredness, Joshua built a life of sobriety marked by showing up for family, sponsoring others, and embracing love and community. His key accomplishments are long-term sobriety since 1995, rebuilding broken family ties, sponsoring countless alcoholics, and discovering that his greatest life achievement is simply being an active, loving member of AA—a place that finally felt like home

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Rick W. from Oxnard, CA speaking at the Old Town speakers meeting in La Jolla, CA - Oct 2010

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Rick W. from Oxnard shares a humorous, raw, and deeply grateful account of a life transformed by Alcoholics Anonymous: after early trauma, chaotic drinking, DUIs, accidents, and a low point at Camarillo State Hospital (lured first by coffee, cookies, and H&I Marlboros), he discovered AA, recognized his alcoholism, and—sober since July 1977—built a daily practice of meetings, service (from “best chair-putta-boy” to sponsor), and the Twelve Steps. He stresses what matters most: that AA works when we admit powerlessness, make a decision, do inventory, make amends, and keep helping others—turning pain into purpose, loneliness into fellowship, and fear into faith. His key accomplishments are enduring long-term sobriety, relentless meeting attendance, concrete service to his home group, rigorous step work, and active sponsorship—proof that a life once ruled by alcohol can become a life of dignity, usefulness, and spiritual growth.

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Tim T. from Brooklyn, OH speaking at the Edisto Roundup in Edisto, SC - April 13th-15th 2007

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Tim's share reflects pain transformed into purpose: the son of an alcoholic father who got sober in 1946, Tim grew up in chaos—cycling through step-parents, over 20 schools, jails, prisons, and failed marriages—before reaching his bottom on June 23, 1982, when loneliness and despair nearly consumed him. His early life was marked by running from responsibility and authority, endless trouble with the law, and broken relationships, yet Alcoholics Anonymous gave him the fellowship, sponsorship, and spiritual grounding he needed to rebuild. Through the steps, he found humility, forgiveness, and a faith that turned “have to” into “get to,” caring for his sick mother until her passing with love instead of resentment. Tim built a life rooted in service, marrying within AA, regaining dignity, and learning that sobriety is about living for others and trusting God’s will. His story embodies the real purpose of recovery—maximum service to God and those around us—and he leaves the reminder that amends and love must be lived today, not left for the funeral home.

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Kerry C. from Tannersville, PA speaking at the Windsor conference in Windsor, Ontario, Canada - July 25th 2010

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Kerry shares her journey of getting sober at 18, growing up fearful, insecure, and restless, and finding in AA both a spiritual solution and a true home. She described how the steps transformed her from a dishonest, angry, isolated girl into a woman of faith, service, and presence, with a marriage, four children, and deep ties to her fellowship. Through sponsorship, commitments, and daily spiritual practice, she’s learned to live free of crippling fear, see herself as worthy, and be an asset rather than a burden. Her message was clear: the gift of sobriety is not just abstinence, but a spiritual awakening that brings connection, freedom, and a life worth wanting.

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Don C. from Colorado Spring, CO speaking at the 4 Seasons Workshop at the 1st NM Indian AA Convention in Albuquerque, NM - April 1st 1994

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Don shares a deeply spiritual message blending Native tradition with recovery. He spoke of prophecies marking a new springtime for Indigenous people, a stirring where hidden gifts would surface and healers would emerge after walking hard personal roads. Drawing on the medicine wheel, he reframed the Twelve Steps as a circle of relationships—with Creator, self, others, and elders—urging that growth follows cycles of spring, summer, fall, and winter. He emphasized that mistakes are sacred teachers, part of the wide Red Road of life, and that healing means living in harmony with the unseen world where spirit and intent are always felt. His story reflects not just recovery from alcoholism since 1978, but a larger calling: to reconnect culture, honor trials as life school, and help bring healing circles to his people.

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Ralf S. from München, Germany speaking at the Men Among Men Group's first conference in Copenhagen, Denmark - August 8th 2009

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Ralf, a German mathematician, blends humor, intellect, and honesty. He described how childhood trauma left him people-pleasing and empty, and though he built success and wealth worldwide, he lived as an “empty suit,” disconnected from himself and relying on alcohol to survive. His drinking spiraled in Miami until even alcohol stopped working, leading him into AA where the obsession was lifted but where, for years, he lacked true step-based recovery. Returning to Germany, he found himself lost in meetings that didn’t work the steps, plagued by fear, emptiness, and loneliness despite outward success. Through long-distance sponsorship and finally working the steps in earnest, he learned the importance of fellowship, rigorous honesty, and unity in practicing the same program together. Today, he is not only sober but pursuing dreams he never dared admit—like becoming a comedian—living proof that sobriety allows space for courage, service, and possibility beyond fear.

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Kerry C. from Tannersville, PA speaking at Live At Pine Lake in Seattle, WA - May 2010

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Getting sober at just 18, Kerry spent her entire adult life learning to live through the 12 steps, guided by strong sponsors and a commitment to honesty. She recounted a chaotic childhood, early drinking, and destructive relationships, but also the miracle of willingness that brought her to AA. Kerry became known as a “big book thumper,” unapologetically teaching recovery straight from the first 164 pages, often making people uncomfortable with her blunt truth. Over the years, she built a sober life with her husband, raised children who never saw her drink, made powerful amends—including reconciling with her old principal which led her back to education—and carried the message to countless women. Her story is one of resilience, service, and spiritual awakening: turning brokenness and fear into integrity, family, education, and a life defined by practicing principles daily, no matter how uncomfortable.

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Valerie D. from Richmond, VA doing a workshop titled "The Spirit of the 12 Steps" in Santa Fe, NM - October 26th-28th 2007

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Valerie’s story is one of chaos transformed into purpose: raised in a violent alcoholic home, she always felt different and disconnected until her first drink at 14 gave her a false sense of belonging. From stealing toys as a child to juvenile detention, treatment centers, and years of bouncing in and out of AA, her life spiraled through lies, broken relationships, and repeated relapses. Even sober, she became dangerously sick—angry, manipulative, and spiritually bankrupt—until she hit a point of utter desperation. Guided by strong sponsors who challenged her denial and taught her to fully embrace the Big Book and the circle-and-triangle way of life, Valerie discovered service, honesty, and true reliance on God. Through humility, making amends, and learning not to fight everything and everyone, she grew into a woman capable of trust, integrity, and self-support. Today, with decades of sobriety since October 13, 1992, she shares her story to show that recovery is not about perfection but about transformation through surrender, service, and spiritual growth.

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Todd S. from Keene, NH speaking at Area 11 Soberfest in Bozrah, CT - June 5th 2015

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Growing up in a working-class family, Todd began drinking at 14 and eventually drank himself out of the Navy. His life spiraled into five DWIs across three states, countless arrests, and even a devastating crash after fleeing police. Yet the turning point came when, faced with his wreckage, he finally turned to AA, where the fellowship embraced him and mentors like Red guided him. Todd’s path wasn’t smooth—he relapsed after two years—but in 2006 he recommitted, found a sponsor, worked the steps, and began truly living in recovery. He’s since endured hardship—losing his father, his brother’s tragic death, jail time, bankruptcy—but through it all, he stayed sober by serving his group, sponsoring others, and embracing AA’s principles. His story shows the progression of alcoholism, the power of humility, and the life-saving gift of fellowship and faith.

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Gisli "Kort" K. from Minneapolis, MN speaking on the topic of "Working With Others" at The Firing Line Group of Alcoholics Anonymous in Saint Paul, MN - June 2008

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Kort shares how his sobriety, beginning in 1999, grew from despair into lasting recovery through working the Twelve Steps directly from the Big Book. He described failed early attempts to stay sober with routines like swimming and reading, until he embraced sponsorship and spiritual action that led to a profound shift in perspective. Over the years, he’s sponsored many men, learning to balance sincerity with boundaries, focusing not on rigid rules but on principles and genuine connection with God and others. His story highlighted humility, the dangers of arrogance in sponsorship, and the life-saving power of carrying the message—reminding us that recovery is not about prestige or perfection, but about staying sober by helping the next alcoholic.

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Vaughan Q. from Toronto, Ontario, Canada doing a 12 step seminar at St. Teresa's Church in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada - January 22nd 1994

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Vaughan shares his experience with humor and deeply moving accounts, blending his perspective as a Roman Catholic priest with his own recovery journey. He described how alcoholism left him walled off despite outward charm, and emphasized that the real gift of AA lies not just in fellowship but in the internalization of the 12 steps, which bring true freedom, peace, and joy. Drawing on decades of sobriety since 1965, he shared his own bottoming out, time in institutions, and eventual surrender that led to lasting recovery. With candor, he explained how recovery demands action, humility, and ego reduction, not just attendance at meetings or intellectual understanding. He reminded listeners that alcoholism is life and death, but also that the program offers measurable transformation—moving from guilt, shame, and isolation toward dignity, hope, and love. His story underscored the importance of personal responsibility, spiritual awakening, and the daily work of change.

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Steven V. from Honolulu, HI speaking at the Hawaii State Convention in Honolulu, HI - November 6th 2010

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Steven talks on the theme of responsibility by reflecting on his 24 years of sobriety since getting sober at age 22 in Honolulu. He described his early struggle with alcoholism—drinking heavily through high school and into his early 20s—until professional help brought him into AA, where he immediately felt a weight lift. His long journey emphasized two key responsibilities: carrying AA’s message of hope and recovery, and pursuing a daily relationship with a Higher Power. Through sponsors, service, and spiritual practice, he learned to “err on the side of compassion,” smile through adversity, and integrate all parts of his life under faith. He spoke of overcoming compartmentalization, surviving personal losses, and moving from grudging service to genuine service from the heart. Ultimately, Stephen found that sobriety is about expression through action—choosing compassion, living the steps, and trusting a loving universe—so he can be useful, grateful, and truly free.

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Tom I. from Southern Pines, NC speaking at the 22nd Annual Mens Fall Retreat in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada - September 17th-19th 2010

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Tom shares his story of redemption, walking into his first AA meeting in 1957 at just 24 years old. At first unable to identify, he slowly came alive through the steps, sponsorship, and service, transforming from a broken young man into one of dignity, integrity, and leadership. He went on to build a 39-year career in corrections—rising improbably from inmate to prison warden—while also helping countless alcoholics. Alongside his wife of 42 years, he raised two children who went on to professional success, and he emphasized that genuine recovery requires more than just not drinking—it’s about unity, service, and living fully in the spiritual dimension of life, where freedom and joy endure as long as we practice the principles.

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Bob D. from Las Vegas, NV speaking the topic of "Ending Loneliness using the 12 Traditions" at the Unity and Service conference in Concord, CA - August 19th 2017

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Bob D. from Las Vegas shares with raw honesty how his journey from a broken man in 1978 to nearly four decades of sobriety was shaped by stubborn resistance, painful relapses, and eventually deep surrender to AA’s principles. He highlights the critical role of action—showing up for his home group, honoring his sponsor, embracing service, and learning to apply both the Steps and the Traditions not only in meetings but in his personal life and business. Through humility, amends, and prioritizing unity over ego, Bob explains how the 12 Traditions became a path out of loneliness and into real connection, reminding us that sobriety is sustained not by abstinence alone but by living in service, brotherhood, and surrender to a higher power.

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Barefoot Bill L. from Westfield, NJ speaking on the topic of Help Others at the Westfield Big Book Workshop of the Spiritual Awakenings Group in Westfield, NJ - August 19th 2012

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Bill shares passionately about the importance of helping others in AA, emphasizing that true service flows only after trusting God and cleaning house. He highlighted how the Big Book repeatedly stresses being of maximum service, not just for relief but for transformation, and that sponsorship should guide people toward independence rather than dependence. Through personal stories—driving hours to work with sponsees, organizing conferences, sending daily inspirational emails, and preserving AA history—he showed how service has become his life. His message was clear: sobriety is not about half measures or complacency but about quick, deep work in the steps, full presence with others, and carrying the gift of awakening forward so both we and others may truly live free.

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Deandre M. from Lancaster, CA speaking in Simi Valley, CA - April 20th 2008

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Deandre shares his powerful recovery story, sober since May 29, 1991. Growing up in Watts, he found early escape in alcohol, which led to dishonesty, chaos, and self-destruction. Rehab introduced him to AA, where through painful resistance he began working the steps, especially the Fourth and Fifth, uncovering resentments, fears, and secrets that blocked him from connection. Guided by sponsors, he learned that amends meant change, not just apology, and that true sobriety requires ongoing commitment, not just looking good or “feeling better.” He warns that many relapse not at their lowest but when life improves, stressing the daily need for inventory, prayer, sponsorship, and service. Despite hardships, including family pain and personal struggles, he testifies that his life today is built on being properly armed with AA’s principles and carrying the message. His story highlights resilience, accountability, and the importance of staying grounded in the program to maintain long-term sobriety.

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Mike S. from Riverside, CA speaking at the 25th San Diego Spring Roundup in San Diego, CA - March 30th 2002

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Mike shares his experience & journey from chaos to recovery. Marked by alcoholism, drug use, and repeated relapses until surrendering to AA in 1980. Growing up in a turbulent alcoholic household, his drinking quickly spiraled into blackouts, violence, and despair, leaving him broken despite outward successes. His turning point came through a series of “coincidences” he later recognized as divine intervention, leading him into treatment, AA sponsorship, and disciplined service that transformed his life. Through step work, commitments, and faith, Mike rebuilt his family relationships, pursued law school, and ultimately became a district attorney—proof that honesty, surrender, and action could bring serenity and purpose. His story is one of resilience, showing how embracing humility, spiritual reliance, and service allowed him to move from pitiful demoralization to a life filled with meaning, responsibility, and hope.

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Dustin B. from Saint Paul, MN and Kelly B. from Saint Paul, MN doing a workshop on "Questions and Answers on Sponsorship" for Area 36, District 23 in St. Peter, MN - October 25th 2008

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Dustin and Kelly share a heartfelt story of recovery, rooted in gratitude, accountability, and the power of sponsorship. Dustin, after being dragged back by a state commitment, admits his early struggles with relapse, atheism, and anger, but found freedom by fully working the steps and learning through strong sponsorship that real change comes from action, honesty, and service. Kelly, sober since July 22, 2006, entered treatment homeless and broken, but discovered hope in the Big Book and later through powerful women sponsors who showed her love, discipline, and the full circle of AA’s three legacies. Together, they emphasize that sponsorship is not therapy or friendship alone, but one alcoholic showing another “the way out of the ditch” through lived example, accountability, and the 12 steps. Their lives today—with restored relationships, joy in service, and gratitude for God’s grace—stand as proof that what once was punishment has become privilege: they don’t have to do this work, they get to.

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Kenny L. from Houston, TX speaking at the Outpost's quarterly speaker event in Ingram, TX - March 2nd 2011

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Kenny shares a powerful story of transformation, beginning with chaos, constant moves, and early drinking that quickly spiraled into addiction, fights, drugs, and a double life between college and outlaw motorcycle clubs. Despite achieving outward success—an accounting degree, a CPA license, a family, and material stability—he remained restless, chasing fulfillment on “the next hill” and ultimately losing everything to alcoholism. After years of failed attempts in AA, relapses, and self-reliance, he finally surrendered through a desperate prayer, experiencing a spiritual awakening that lifted the obsession to drink. Embracing the steps fully, he learned humility, service, and honesty, making amends and finding peace even when stripped of everything. Sobriety allowed him to rebuild a meaningful life, become a sponsor, find joy in service, and even retire early to open a halfway house in Houston. His journey testifies that true freedom and purpose come not from managing life, but from surrendering to a higher power and helping others.

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Matt C. from Long Island, NY speaking at the Radiance group in Greensboro, NC - April 26th 2020

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Matt C. shares his journey from growing up in an Irish alcoholic family, experiencing childhood abuse, and starting drinking in high school, to finding lasting sobriety at age 19. Early on, he resisted being labeled an alcoholic, tried controlling his drinking, and faced legal trouble, but consequences never stopped him. Initially involved in AA without working the 12 steps, his recovery deepened after moving to North Carolina, where a sponsor guided him through the Big Book, steps, and service work.

He describes building a life with a wife and two children, buying the same house he almost lost to drinking, and actively showing love to his kids—breaking the cycle from his own upbringing. Over the years, he’s had to re-work the steps to address “spiritual plaque,” faced depression after his daughter’s birth, and recommitted to AA after drifting away. Today, he sponsors others, practices daily spiritual disciplines, and lives in gratitude for the transformation from a hopeless alcoholic to a loving father and useful member of society.

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Sigrún H. from Reykjavik, Iceland speaking at the Spirtual progress rather than spiritual perfection convention in Oslo, Norway - November 1st 2015

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Sigrún shares her journey from a wild, self-raised childhood in Iceland to a life rebuilt through AA, describing early alcohol and morphine abuse, years of untreated sobriety filled with rage and despair, and the breaking point that led her to seek sponsorship and fully work the 12 steps. She recounts confronting past trauma, making amends that risked her reputation, learning humility through daily practice, and transforming destructive impulses into service, humor, and connection. Through losses, parenting challenges, and life changes, she maintains a deep spiritual practice, attends multiple meetings weekly, sponsors actively, and lives in gratitude for a life that has expanded from a “field of destruction” to a “field of possibilities,” grounded in freedom, love, and helping others find recovery.

Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Arthur D. from Dallas, TX speaking at the Whiskey & Milk group in Dallas, TX - September 28th 2018

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Arthur D. shares a powerful journey from a chaotic, addictive life—marked by abandonment, crime,  and repeated failed attempts at sobriety—to a deep spiritual awakening grounded in trust and reliance on a Higher Power. Despite 11 years in AA without true freedom, his turning point came in a moment of utter defeat when he admitted he had no connection to God, began working with a sponsor, and later surrendered again—this time letting go of even the recovery process as his “power source” to seek a direct connection with that Power. Through intense self-examination, meditation, and removing inner blockages, he transformed from self-centered fear into someone guided by intuition and service. Today, retired and living in a place of spiritual dependence rather than self-will, Arthur’s purpose is to fully give away what he’s been given, offering hope that deep freedom is possible for anyone willing to let go and trust.

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Billy N. from Landing, NJ speaking about the traditions in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada - November 8th 2014

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Billy’s Workshop is a heartfelt journey through all 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, showing how each one shaped his transformation from a life controlled by alcoholism to one built on recovery, humility, and service. He shares raw experiences of hitting bottom, the loss of relationships, and the mental and physical toll of drinking, then highlights the turning point when he embraced the fellowship of AA, worked each step with honesty, and deepened his relationship with God. Through persistence, community, amends, and a commitment to helping others, Billy rebuilt trust, found purpose, and now lives each day with gratitude—proof that hope and change are possible.

Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Don M. from Louisville, KY speaking at One Page at a Time group's October Thing event in Moorhead, MN - October 5th 2019

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Don M., sober since April 9, 1981, shares his powerful transformation from a life of ego-driven self-obsession, professional success masking deep alcoholism, and repeated hospitalizations to decades of sobriety through divine intervention, following AA’s directions, and taking the 12 Steps as daily action. Growing up in Kentucky and becoming a successful criminal defense lawyer, his drinking and drug use escalated to devastating accidents, homelessness, and 18 stays in “asylums.” A turning point came when desperation pushed him to follow AA’s program despite disbelief, leading to restored relationships—especially with his daughter—and a renewed law career marked by ethics and service awards. His story emphasized that recovery is about consistent action over feelings or beliefs, living one step at a time, and letting God guide while serving others, resulting in a life richer than anything he could have imagined.

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Clint H. from Denver, CO speaking at the 51st Coastal Bend Jamboree in Corpus Christi, TX - January 21st 2005

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Clint H. speaks powerfully about his 38 years of sobriety, tracing his journey from a promising Marine Corps officer undone by alcoholism to a man transformed through AA’s fellowship and the Twelve Steps. He shares how repeated relapses, homelessness, failed marriages, and deep family wounds, including childhood trauma, marked his path before a bail bondsman’s unexpected act led him to the Glendale AA club, where he finally accepted he drank “no matter what.” That surrender opens the door to genuine recovery, law school, a meaningful legal career, and a renewed spiritual life. He emphasizes the miracle of sudden sobriety, the need for ongoing spiritual growth over power substitutes, and the healing of old relationships, including making amends to his mother. Even through later life challenges like cancer and loss of intimacy, Clint finds joy, purpose, and love by living in service to others, grounded in the principles that save his life.

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Sean A. from Vancouver, Canada speaking at West Edmonton Beef dinner in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada - June 11th 2008

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Sean shares his journey with honesty and humor, describing how drinking and drugs once consumed his life despite outward success in acting, real estate, and appearances of stability. After hitting bottom, he was 12-stepped into AA in 1974, where he found safety, identification, and a path through the steps that helped him rebuild from despair. He spoke about the power of amends, spiritual growth, and carrying the message, stressing that real recovery comes from one alcoholic helping another. With decades of sobriety, he has faced life’s ups and downs—divorce, health challenges, success and failure—yet remains deeply grateful for AA, a spiritual awakening, and the chance to live with peace, dignity, and purpose.

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Peter J. from Los Angeles, CA speaking at the Palisades Speaker Meeting in Palisades, CA - November 8th 2015

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With over three decades clean since January 8, 1982, Peter’s story traced his journey from a chaotic youth filled with addiction, car crashes, and jail time to becoming a man who prays daily, holds a deep love for his wife, discovered a long-lost daughter at 67, and continues to give back through service. His speech was a powerful reminder that no matter how far someone has fallen, a life of connection, laughter, and spiritual depth is possible when we show up, follow the steps, and stay willing to be transformed.

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Bobby C. from Philadelphia, PA speaking at the Edisto Roundup in Edisto, SC - April 13th-15th 2007

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Sober since June 2, 1988, Bobby recounts his chaotic rise and fall from a rowdy South Philly childhood to a reckless, blackout-drinking cop who spiraled after a line-of-duty shooting. His turning point came not in a blaze of glory, but in a moment of absolute collapse—a failed attempt to take his own life and a phone call sparked by a newspaper ad. From there, his life became a testament to the power of honesty, surrender, and service. Though he resisted AA’s message for years, Bobby eventually embraced sponsorship, worked the steps, and began helping others with the same intensity he once brought to destruction. Despite struggling with PTSD, violence, and arrogance in early sobriety, he learned to live the principles of the program—not just quote them. His life today reflects redemption through action: a man once filled with rage and fear now stays sober by helping others, facing his past, and showing up for his community with integrity. His story reminds us that recovery is possible—even for the most broken among us—and that staying sober is not just about not drinking, but about becoming someone worthy of the second chance.

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Cia F. from Los Angeles, CA speaking at the Brentwood Workshop in Los Angeles, CA - July 16th 2015

Audio gets better at around the 1 minute mark :) 

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 With a sobriety date of January 30, 1983, Cia speaks candidly about her chaotic pre-recovery life marked by anger, dysfunctional relationships, geographics, and spiritual claustrophobia. Her turning point came not through a thunderclap of spiritual lightning but through an unexpected moment of clarity and surrender—sparked by fear, a community service ad, and the strange relief of not feeling the obsession to drink. Through multiple relapses, she learned that her true issue wasn’t alcohol, but ego, resentment, and a self-centered spirit. In working the 12 steps—particularly after a second bottom in sobriety—Sia rebuilt her life, became deeply active in service, and grew into someone who sponsors others and lives with integrity. Her message is clear: recovery isn’t just possible—it’s miraculous, but only when done fully and honestly, one day and one surrender at a time.

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Forrest S. from Fort Lauderdale, FL speaking about step 1 at the Spiritual Awakening in Pompano Beach, FL - November 1st 2024

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Forrest’s journey is a raw, layered reflection of both the depths of addiction and the challenges of staying spiritually connected after years of sobriety. His first white chip came in 1992, leading to 19 years in Alcoholics Anonymous before a relapse in 2011. Unlike a stereotypical bottom, Forrest didn’t lose his job, home, or outward stability—he lost his inner peace. That spiritual bankruptcy, masked by career success and family life, was enough to lead him back to the drink. He jokes about picking a sponsor based on material things like a Porsche and a bleach-blonde girlfriend, only to find out the guy wasn’t even really an alcoholic. He talks candidly about his years in active addiction—crystal meth, days-long binges, blackouts, and a mindset where people became “resources” to help him keep the party going.

Even more striking is how he describes his relapse after 19 years: slow, subtle, justified by spiritual pride, academic knowledge of the Big Book, and the belief that he’d outgrown AA. He didn’t leave with a bang—he drifted, convincing himself that AA was just “spiritual kindergarten” and he was ready for “graduate-level” work through yoga and outside spirituality. But when he drank again, it took only one night for the old Forrest to return—force-feeding others alcohol, creating chaos, and ending up banned from a house. That moment of clarity, that “it’s time” voice in his head, returned stronger than ever. And unlike so many who don’t make it back, Forrest was lucky enough to land safely back in the rooms.

Now, with his second sobriety date of February 22, 2014, Forrest speaks from a place of deep earned wisdom. He continues to check in with the first step daily and emphasizes the danger of thinking he has any real power over his own sobriety. With a thimble-sized cup, as his sponsor puts it, Forrest keeps filling it with spiritual action—unity, service, recovery—and pouring it into others. His life today is one of grace and clarity, and his share is a powerful reminder that the path back to sanity starts with a gut-level surrender: “I can’t. God can.”

Music: Deep by KaizanBlu