Spirit of Recovery

What Character Defects?

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Today’s episode is titled, “What Defects of Character?” We are going to talk about the importance of being willing to acknowledge our shortcomings, thinking here of course of Step 6, and our question for you is, “What is one shortcoming or character flaw that you realized you had and what was it like to finally see it and own it?”

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Trust the Process

Tue, 21 May 2024 07:00:00 -0000

For many of us, when in early addiction recovery we are not inclined to trust others or other peoples' ideas of how things should be done. But once we make the commitment to clean and sober living, we have an opportunity to learn and trust a recovery process that has worked for many others. We get to decide if it will work for us. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on learning to trust the process of recovery on the way to a life that is happy, joyous and free.

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The Next Right Thing

Tue, 07 May 2024 07:00:00 -0000

When we get into addiction recovery, we learn to be mindful of our actions. We hear the phrase, “Do the next right thing,” which sounds like a great idea, but what does that actually mean? How are we supposed to know what the next right thing is anyway? Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on moving from aimlessness to freedom by doing the “next right thing.”

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It Works If You Work It

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Many gifts of addiction recovery come to us when we are willing to work for them. Part of that work is facing the wreckage of our past. To do so we must combine right intention with the guidance of a trusted advisor in order to get real results. We must “do the work”—but how do we go about doing this work? Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on finding our way from complacency to freedom through the willingness to do the work.

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Divine Guidance in Your Recovery

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0000

When we first get into recovery, we learn we need a Higher Power in order to grow and change. But once we have found something that works for us (even temporarily) we must learn how to rely on and be guided by this Power. And in doing so, we find we can live with a new confidence. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope in learning to trust our Higher Power in all things.

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A New Way to Be

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0000

As we grow through our addiction recovery journey, we often come face to face with old habits that are hard to break! Fortunately, once we are a few steps down the recovery path we become willing to make new choices that support our new--and much better!--way of living. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on letting go of old habits and opening the door to a whole new way of being.

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Lighten the Load

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0000

One thing we need in order to grow in our recovery is to walk our path with principled honesty. This can be more challenging than it sounds at first! But if we are willing to show up and do the work, we can drop the heavy load we have been carrying and enjoy a lightness of being that will transform our lives. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on lightening the load through the power and practice of truth with integrity.

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The Courage to Grow

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0000

It takes courage and integrity to walk an addiction recovery path. If we persist, we will come to know ourselves as the spiritual beings we truly are, but first we must trek through the wreckage of our past. In order to move into the Light, we must face our Shadow. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on finding a path through the Shadow to the Light.

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Trusting God

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Many of us in addiction recovery can affirm that we've never let go of anything that didn't have claw marks on it! Even when we were, in essence, clinging to a sinking ship! But we eventually find that when we become willing to try a new way, our lives begin to change. When we can truly “Let Go” and allow a higher power to provide guidance and direction, our lives begin to become amazing. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on learning how to let go, trust a Higher Power and build a wonderful new life.

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Finding Peace through Faith

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0000

In early recovery, the prospect of living a life filled with peace and joy may appear distant and unattainable. However, there is a path to such a life. The journey begins with disentangling ourselves from the chaos of a life without direction by placing our trust in a Higher Power. And in doing so we begin to unlock the gateway to sanity and hope. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on creating a life of genuine peace and joy by coming to believe in a Higher Power.

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New Beginnings

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Did you ever feel like life would be so much better if you could just wipe the slate clean and start over? Well, you can do just that! In fact you can start over any time you decide. Our Higher Power gives us the ability to leave behind that which no longer serves us and move ahead in a new and better way. A new beginning! Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on energizing your life by starting over, anytime.

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A New State of Consciousness

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0000

From the Daily Reflection for Dec 5, 2023: “He has been granted a gift which amounts to a new state of consciousness and being.” TWELVE STEPS AND TWELVE TRADITIONS, p. 107. Many of us in A.A. puzzle over what is a spiritual awakening. I tended to look for a miracle, something dramatic and earth-shattering. But what usually happens is that a sense of well-being, a feeling of peace.

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Gratitude and Recovery

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0000

In honor of Thanksgiving and the upcoming holiday season, we’re here today to talk about the role gratitude has played in our addiction recoveries and in our lives. We want to share our experience, strength and hope on how a thankful mindset has been a game-changer on the road to recovery as well as in life.

Please email us and let us know what gratitude has done for you. SpiritOfRecoveryUnity@gmail.com

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A Safety Net

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0000

A SAFETY NET - From the Daily Reflections entry for November 18, 2023. “Occasionally. . . . We are seized with a rebellion so sickening that we simply won't pray. When these things happen we should not think too ill of ourselves. We should simply resume prayer as soon as we can, doing what we know to be good for us.” TWELVE STEPS AND TWELVE TRADITIONS, p. 105 Sometimes I scream, stomp my feet, and turn my back on my Higher Power. Then my disease tells me that I am a failure, and that if I stay angry I'll surely get drunk. In those moments of self-will it's as if I've slipped over a cliff and am hanging by one hand. The above passage is my safety net, in that it urges me to try some new behavior, such as being kind and patient with myself. It assures me that my Higher Power will wait until I am willing once again to risk letting go, to land in the net, and to pray.

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Let Go, Let God

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0000

When I "Let Go and Let God," I think more clearly and wisely. Without having to think about it, I quickly let go of things that cause me immediate pain and discomfort. Because I find it hard to let go of the kind of worrisome thoughts and attitudes that cause me immense anguish, all I need do during those times is allow God, as I understand Him, to release them for me, and then and there, I let go of the thoughts, memories and attitudes that are troubling me. When I receive help from God, as I understand Him, I can live my life one day at a time and handle whatever challenges come my way. Only then can I live a life of victory over alcohol, in comfortable sobriety.

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A Daily Tune Up

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 07:00:00 -0000

From the Daily Reflection on October 17: A Daily Tune Up - “Every day is a day when we must carry the vision of God's will into all of our activities.” ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p. 85 How do I maintain my spiritual condition? For me it's quite simple: on a daily basis I ask my Higher Power to grant me the gift of sobriety for that day! I have talked to many alcoholics who have gone back to drinking and I always ask them: "Did you pray for sobriety the day you took your first drink?" Not one of them said yes. As I practice Step Ten and try to keep my house in order on a daily basis, I have the knowledge that if I ask for a daily reprieve, it will be granted. So let’s talk about step 11, about maintaining our spiritual condition, and about staying in touch and in tune with our Higher Power each and every day.

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Serenity After the Storm

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 07:00:00 -0000

“Someone who knew what he was talking about once remarked that pain was the touchstone of all spiritual progress. How heartily we A.A.'s can agree with him. . . .” Twelve steps and twelve traditions, pp. 93-94 When on the roller coaster of emotional turmoil, I remember that growth is often painful. My evolution in the A.A. program has taught me that I must experience the inner change, however painful, that eventually guides me from selfishness to selflessness. If I am to have serenity, I must STEP my way past emotional turmoil and its subsequent hangover, and be grateful for continuing spiritual progress.

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HP as Guide

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 07:00:00 -0000

From the Daily Reflection - September 20 - “See to it that your relationship with Him is right, and great events will come to pass for you and countless others. This is the Great Fact for us.” (ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p. 164) Having a right relationship with God seemed to be an impossible order. My chaotic past had left me filled with guilt and remorse and I wondered how this "God business" could work. A.A. told me that I must turn my will and my life over to the care of God, as I understand Him. With nowhere else to turn, I went down on my knees and cried, "God, I can't do this. Please help me!" It was when I admitted my powerlessness that a glimmer of light began to touch my soul, and then a willingness emerged to let God control my life. With Him as my guide, great events began to happen, and I found the beginning of sobriety.”

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My Side of the Street

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 07:00:00 -0000

We were talking recently about the recovery concept of “keeping my side of the street clean” and wanted to explore it here on the podcast. We’ll start by sharing this from the Big Book, p 77-78: “We are there to sweep off our side of the street, realizing that nothing worthwhile can be accomplished until we do so, never trying to tell him what he should do. His faults are not discussed. We stick to our own." And from the Daily Reflection for Sept 7, 2023: “I made amends to my dad soon after I quit drinking. My words fell on deaf ears since I had blamed him for my troubles. Several months later I made amends to my dad again. This time I wrote a letter in which I did not blame him nor mention his faults. It worked, and at last I understood! My side of the street is all that I'm responsible for and — thanks to God and A.A. — it's clean for today.” So let’s talk about keeping our side of the street clean!

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Anonymity

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Drawing from the Daily Reflection on anonymity, “We are sure that humility, expressed by anonymity, is the greatest safeguard that Alcoholics Anonymous can ever have.” And from the 12 and 12, p. 187, “Since there are no rules in A.A. I place myself where I want to be, and so I choose anonymity. I want my God to use me, humbly, as one of His tools in this program. Sacrifice is the art of giving of myself freely, allowing humility to replace my ego. With sobriety, I suppress that urge to cry out to the world, "I am a member of A.A." and I experience inner joy and peace. I let people see the changes in me and hope they will ask what happened to me. I place the principles of spirituality ahead of judging, fault-finding, and criticism. I want love and caring in my group, so I can grow. So let’s talk about anonymity!

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Living the Truth We Know

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Living the Truth We Know - In a recent Daily Reflection we read, "The spiritual life is not a theory. We have to live it." And from the Big Book: “When new in the program, I couldn't comprehend living the spiritual aspect of the program, but now that I'm sober, I can't comprehend living without it. Spirituality was what I had been seeking. God, as I understand Him, has given me answers to the whys that kept me drinking for twenty years. By living a spiritual life, by asking God for help, I have learned to love, care for and feel compassion for all my fellow men, and to feel joy in a world where, before, I felt only fear.” ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p. 83.

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The Gift of Surrender

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 07:00:00 -0000

From a Daily Reflection reading: “I am learning to let go and let God, to have a mind that is open and a heart that is willing to receive God's grace in all my affairs; in this way I can experience the peace and freedom that come as a result of surrender. It has been proven that an act of surrender, originating in desperation and defeat, can grow into an ongoing act of faith, and that faith means freedom and victory.” Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope about the peace and freedom that results from surrender.

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One Day at a Time

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 07:00:00 -0000

"One Day at a Time" is one of the phrases we hear a lot in recovery circles. It means first and foremost that we must focus on the present. We can’t see or predict the future, and we can’t control what happens in the world at large. But we can learn to choose our own actions, right here and now. In fact, our own actions are just about the only thing we can exert influence over! And even though it takes time and practice, we can learn to live in the present moment, to live one day or even one moment at a time. And when we do, life gets so much easier. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on living our lives one day at a time.

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When the Going Gets Rough

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 07:00:00 -0000

When we get in recovery, we find a set of spiritual principles that help us get sober and stay sober. But we also hear that we should “practice these principles in all our affairs.” What does it mean--or what does it look like--to apply recovery principles to our lives outside of our particular addiction? We have heard it said, “I got into recovery to get sober, but what I learned is how to live.” Today we want to share our experience, strength, and hope on using spiritual principles to navigate tough times, regardless of what they may be.

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Carry the Message

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 07:00:00 -0000

In addiction recovery, we learn that we need to make and maintain conscious contact with our Higher Power for guidance, but we don't stop there. We continue on to learn how to be of service to others by carrying the message of recovery to any who seeks it. Today we want to share our experience, strength, and hope on learning to be of service as a natural outcome of spiritual awakening.

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You Gotta Know When to Hold 'Em

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 07:00:00 -0000

As the old song tells us, sometimes we need to hold onto things and sometimes we need to let go. Many of us in addiction recovery have held onto some things way too long! Learning how to rely on a Higher Power for guidance helps us know what to let go of, and when. And what to hold on to and build upon. Today we want to share our experience, strength, and hope on “when to hold ‘em” and “when to fold ‘em” on the path to freedom.

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Trust the Process

Tue, 23 May 2023 07:00:00 -0000

For many of us, when in early addiction recovery we are not inclined to trust others or other peoples' ideas of how things should be done. But once we make the commitment to clean and sober living, we have an opportunity to learn and trust a recovery process that has worked for many others. We get to decide if it will work for us. Today we want to share our experience, strength, and hope on learning to trust the process of recovery on the way to a life that is happy, joyous and free.

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It Works If You Work It

Tue, 09 May 2023 07:00:00 -0000

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The Next Right Thing

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 07:00:00 -0000

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Gratitude is a Powerful Practice

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Gratitude could well be the single most powerful spiritual practice for transforming our consciousness. We can literally take a bad day and "begin again" by bringing to mind that which we are grateful for. And although gratitude is not a magic bullet, it's an integral part of an addiction recovery journey. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on the spiritual practice of gratitude.

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Divine Guidance

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0000

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A New Way to Be

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0000

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Lighten the Load

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0000

One thing we need in order to grow in our recovery is to walk our path with principled honesty. This can be more challenging than it sounds at first! But if we are willing to show up and do the work, we can drop the heavy load we have been carrying and enjoy a lightness of being that will transform our lives. Today we want to share our experience, strength, and hope on lightening the load through the power and practice of truth with integrity.

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The Courage to Grow

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0000

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Trusting God Step 3

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0000

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We Came to Believe

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 23:45:00 -0000

When we are in early recovery, the idea of a life of peace and joy seems very far away. The good news is that we can get there! But first we must extricate ourselves from the disarray of an undirected life. We can then learn to trust a Higher Power, thus opening the door to sanity and hope. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on moving from disarray to genuine peace and joy by coming to believe in a Higher Power.

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A Clean Slate

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0000

Did you ever feel like life would be so much better if you could just wipe the slate clean and start over? Well, you can do just that! In fact you can start over any time you decide. Our Higher Power gives us the ability to leave behind that which no longer serves us and move ahead in a new and better way. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on energizing your life by starting over, anytime.

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Give It Away To Keep It

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 08:00:00 -0000

When we answer the call to assist another alcoholic or addict on their recovery path, we do so with generosity and gratitude. We do not pay our sponsors or expect payment from our sponsees. Recovery must be free from commerce if we are to be successful. Yes, there may be medical professionals involved in our recovery at first, and we certainly "render unto Caesar" as appropriate at that time. But we do not buy or sell recovery. We give freely and receive freely in gratitude. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on giving and receiving freely, and the joys that accompany it.

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Only We Can Do Our Inner Work

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Nobody else is responsible for our sobriety. We are the ones who direct, live and own our own sober experience. In this sense we are "fully self supporting" just as the 7th Tradition guides our recovery groups to be. But in active addiction we often tried to put our responsibilities onto others. "If work wasn't so stressful, I wouldn't drink so much." Well, excuses like this will never keep us sober, so we learn to be true to our own selves, and to be self supporting in our sobriety. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on owning our sobriety, one day at a time.

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Avoiding Pitfalls on the Path

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0000

The lure of prestige has been the downfall of many on the recovery journey. We can get to feeling so good about ourselves that we fall into that old trap of wanting to be seen as the “number one man or woman” in the eyes of others. How can we remain true to our purpose and avoid the trap of pride? Can we practice humility without feeling humiliated? Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on staying in integrity on the recovery journey and avoiding the desire to look good doing it.

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Staying in Balance - The Fifth Tradition

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0000

The Fifth Tradition tells us that, “Each group has but one primary purpose – to carry its message to the alcoholic/addict who still suffers.” When we first get into recovery, we learn we need to focus on ourselves in order to heal and grow. But, we quickly find that being of service to others is an essential part of our own healing. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on balancing self and other in a healthy way as an ongoing part of a successful recovery journey.

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Commitment to Success

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Nobody has ever stopped drinking or drugging if they didn’t want to. The motivation and commitment to get clean and sober is essential for success. Even though those of us walking a recovery path know that this alone is not enough, we also know it is foundational for living a life of freedom. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on finding and sustaining the motivation and commitment to sober living

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There's Power in the Group

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0000

It has been said that nobody can do our inner work for us, but we cannot do it alone. This is one of the paradoxes of addiction recovery! We need the company of others on the recovery path in order to truly thrive. This can be challenging to many who are new to addiction recovery because we can be used to doing things “our way”! After all, our was was the best way, right? Well maybe... But if we are willing to become “one of the bunch,” we will discover the group to be a profound healing influence. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on finding a path to freedom and peace through the power of community.

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You Gotta Know When to Hold 'Em

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0000

As the old song tells us, you got to "know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em." For those of us on a recovery journey, we have learned that sometimes we need to hold onto things and sometimes we need to let things go. Fortunately for us in addiction recovery, we make a spiritual practice of taking personal inventory as a way of life. We discern what to hold on to and what to let go of. If we find we are wrong about something, we let it go, we promptly admit it. If we persevere in this practice, we find a meaningful purpose in life. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on “when to hold ‘em” and “when to fold ‘em” on the path to purposeful living.

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Trust the Process

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0000

For many of us, when in early addiction recovery we are not inclined to trust others or other peoples' ideas of how things should be done. We are often used to OUR way of doing things and can find it difficult to consider a new approach. But, once we make the commitment to clean and sober living, we have an opportunity to learn and trust a recovery process that has worked for many others. We get to decide if it will work for us. (And fortunately, we have a whole community of support to do it in!) Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on learning to trust the process of recovery on the way to a life that is happy, joyous, and free.

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First Things First

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0000

When we get into addiction recovery, we learn to be mindful of our actions. We work to see more clearly the things we do, and to make better decisions about our actions. One thing we hear a lot in recovery circles that is essential in this work is the phrase, “Do the next right thing.” Now, this sounds like a great idea, but what does that actually mean? How are we supposed to know what the next right thing is anyway? The short answer is: check in with your Higher Power. But that can be easier said than done, right? Well, today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on moving from aimlessness to freedom by doing the “next right thing.”

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It Works If You Work It

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Many gifts of addiction recovery come to us when we are willing to work for them. We often hear those who have been around for a while saying things like, “It works if you work it.” And part of that work is facing the wreckage of our past. To do so we must combine right intention with the guidance of a trusted advisor in order to get real results. We must “do the work”—but how do we go about doing this work? How do we know what to do? Or when? How do we know if we are avoiding the work that will lead us to freedom, but don’t realize it? Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on finding our way from complacency to freedom through the willingness to do the work.

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Trusting Your Inner Guidance

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0000

When we first get into recovery, we learn we need a Higher Power in order to grow and change. Some of us are put off by all the “God talk” that we are encountering, but that’s before we really learn what it means to find a Higher Power of our own understanding. It’s the “of our own understanding” part that is critically important. But once we have found something that works for us (even temporarily) we must learn how to rely on and be guided by this Power. And in doing so, we find we can live with a new confidence. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on learning to trust our Higher Power in all things.

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A New Way to Be

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 07:00:00 -0000

As we grow through our addiction recovery journey, we often come face to face with old habits that are hard to break! And we’re guessing you have had that same experience, most if not all of us have! But fortunately, once we are a few steps down the recovery path we become willing to make new choices that support our new--and much better!--way of living. As we do the work of walking a recovery path, we begin to let go of that which no longer serves us, and take up new ways of being that bring hope and light into our lives. In this episode, we share our experience, strength and hope on letting go of old habits and opening the door to a whole new way of being.

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Courage to Change

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 07:00:00 -0000

It takes courage and integrity to walk an addiction recovery path. If we persist, we will come to know ourselves as the spiritual beings we truly are. But before we get to that wondrous discovery, we must trek through the wreckage of our past. As we say in the rooms, "If you walked 10 miles into the woods, you gotta walk 10 miles out of the woods." In order to move into the Light, we must face our Shadow. Fortunately we have a program of recovery that works, and we have each other to walk with us along the way. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on finding a path through the Shadow to the Light.

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Trusting God

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Many of us in addiction recovery can affirm that we've never let go of anything that didn't have claw marks on it! Even when we were, in essence, clinging to a sinking ship! But we eventually find that we become willing to try a new way, our lives begin to change. When we can truly “Let Go” and allow a higher power to provide guidance and direction, our lives begin to become amazing. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on learning how to let go, trust a Higher Power and build a wonderful new life.

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Came to Believe

Sat, 04 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Early on in our recovery journey, the idea of a life of peace and joy might seem impossible. The good news is that we can live such a life! But first we must learn to trust a Higher Power so we can start to move away from the disarray of an undirected life, opening the door to sanity and hope. The program of recovery gives us tools we can take up and use in our daily lives that assist us as we find our way to a Higher Power that works for us. “God as we understand him,” as we read in the Big Book. Today we want to share our experience, strength and hope on coming to believe in a Higher Power.

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Spirit of Recovery-A New Beginning

Thu, 19 May 2022 16:00:00 -0000

At any point on our recovery journey we have the option to begin again. We can call, “time out” and get a “do over!” Go back to basics! Our Higher Power gives us the ability to leave behind that which no longer serves us and move ahead with a clean slate. And as we do, it can be helpful to refocus ourselves on recovery Step 1. It’s been said Step 1 is the only step we need to get 100% right. What does that mean for us today? And how can a new beginning support us on our journey? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength and hope on energizing your life with a fresh start.

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Trust and Confidence

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 02:00:00 -0000

Has your trust ever been shattered? Have you ever felt betrayed by an authority figure? Many of us in recovery will say yes to those questions, but do we want to spend the rest of our lives in distrust and fear? No, so how do we regain trust if we have lost confidence in another? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on regaining trust in our higher power and in others around us.

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Carry the Message

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 02:00:00 -0000

In addiction recovery, we learn that we need to make “conscious contact” with a higher power, but we don’t stop there. We continue and learn how to be of service to others by carrying the message of recovery to any who seek it. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on learning to be of service as a natural outcome of spiritual awakening.

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You’ve Got to Know When to Hold ‘Em

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 02:00:00 -0000

As the old song tells us, sometimes we need to hold on to things and sometimes we need to let go. Fortunately for us in addiction recovery, we make a spiritual practice of taking personal inventory as a way of life. If we find we are wrong, we promptly admit it, and if we persevere in this practice, we find a meaningful purpose in life. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share “when to hold ‘em” and “when to fold ‘em” on the path to purposeful living.

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Trust the Process

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0000

Early in addiction recovery, many of us are not inclined to trust others or other people’s ideas of how things should be done. But once we make the commitment to clean and sober living, we have an opportunity to learn and trust a recovery process that has worked for many others. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on learning to trust the process of recovery on the way to a life that is happy, joyous, and free.

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First Things First

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0000

When we get into addiction recovery, we learn to be mindful of our actions. “Do the next right thing” sounds like a great idea, but what does that actually mean? How are we supposed to know what the next right thing is? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on moving from aimlessness to freedom by doing the next right thing.

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Drop the Rock

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 04:00:00 -0000

One thing we need in order to grow in our recovery is to walk our path with principled honesty. This can be more challenging than it sounds at first! But if we are willing to show up and do the work, we can drop the heavy load we have been carrying and enjoy a lightness of being that will transform our lives. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on lightening the load through the power and practice of truth with integrity.

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Courage to Change

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0000

It takes courage and integrity to walk an addiction recovery path. If we persist, we will come to know ourselves as the spiritual beings we truly are, but first we must trek through the wreckage of our past. In order to move into the light, we must face our shadow. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on finding a path through the shadow to the light.

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We Came to Believe

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0000

When we are in early recovery, the idea of a life of peace and joy seems very far away. The good news is that we can get there! But first we must extricate ourselves from the disarray of an undirected life. We can then learn to trust a higher power, thus opening the door to sanity and hope. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on moving from disarray to genuine peace and joy through coming to believe in a higher power.

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A Fresh Start

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0000

Did you ever feel like life would be so much better if you could just have a do-over? Well, you can do just that! In fact you can start over anytime you decide. Our higher power gives us the ability to leave behind that which no longer serves us and move ahead with a clean slate. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on energizing your life with a fresh start.

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A Life of Purpose

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 04:00:00 -0000

Many of us enter addiction recovery with an excess of energy, not always knowing what to do with it. We can exhaust ourselves overcommitting, trying to make up for lost time, or just generally running ourselves ragged. This has been called “frantic sobriety.” Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on using our recovery energy to create a life of purpose, right here and right now, one day at a time.

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A Vision of Hope

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 04:00:00 -0000

For many of us in addiction recovery, life can seem hopeless, especially in the beginning. After all, we chose to deal with our life difficulties with a behavior or substance meant to numb the pain. Take that away and life can certainly feel hopeless. But we hold a vision of hope, and we find a wonderful new life on the other side of addiction—one that we would not trade for anything. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on holding a vision for hope and finding our way through the tough times.

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Imagine That!

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 04:00:00 -0000

When we first get into addiction recovery, it can be hard to imagine a life without a drink or a drug. It may seem like our life is over and we’ll never have fun again. But nothing could be further from the truth! We soon begin to learn that there is a new way of being in the world that is far better than our old habits. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on moving from a dull existence to the life you want to live through the spiritual power of imagination.

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Don’t Quit Before the Miracle

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 04:00:00 -0000

How many times have we found ourselves doing the same things over and over again and expecting different results? We enter recovery and learn a new way of thinking and being in the world—and yet the same old thought habits can still drive us crazy. What’s going on? How do we change this? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on breaking old patterns of thought and discovering new levels of freedom, happiness, and joy.

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Taking Action!

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 04:00:00 -0000

“If you want what we have, you have to do what we did.” 12-step addiction recovery is a program of action based on spiritual principles. The ideas are nice, and anyone can read the steps and see that perhaps they make sense, but nothing happens if we don’t take action. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on putting spiritual principles to work through a program of action and the amazing changes that take place as a result.

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God as We Understand God

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 02:00:00 -0000

For some of us new to recovery, the whole “God thing” can be a real barrier. We may be carrying old ideas of God that don’t make sense to us. We may not realize that we don’t need to accept someone else’s understanding of God; we can find our own. In fact, we don’t even have to use the word “God” if we don't want to! Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on making peace with the whole “God thing” on our own terms.

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A Way Out

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 02:00:00 -0000

Many of us in active addiction were not looking for a way out of our way of living. But then things got really bad, and we became willing to find a new path forward. We moved from complacently accepting our addiction to actively seeking to move beyond it. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on forging a new path forward with hope, commitment, and focus.

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Confident Living

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 02:00:00 -0000

Many of us in addiction recovery are all too familiar with the feeling of fear. Fear of the future, fear of change, fear of pain—you can probably add to the list. The good news is that in recovery, we can learn to manage and transform our fear, moving instead into a life rooted in faith. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on moving from fear to faith using the power of release.

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From Chaos to Peace

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 02:00:00 -0000

When we first get clean and sober, it is not unusual to feel like the whole world has been turned upside down. It can feel like chaos has taken over our lives! Fortunately, if we are willing to do the work, the recovery journey includes the gift of balance and peace. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on moving from chaos to peace using the power of order.

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School of Hard Knocks

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 02:00:00 -0000

Murphy’s Law seems operable in the life of many addicts and alcoholics: whatever can go wrong, will go wrong. Beaten into submission by the school of hard knocks, we wonder, “Do we have to learn everything the hard way? I don’t understand why this always happens!” Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on learning to unlock a new way of experiencing life—a life of grace and ease—through the spiritual power of understanding.

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We Admitted We Were Powerless

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 02:00:00 -0000

Twelve-step wisdom teaches that we are powerless—powerless over our addiction. But does that mean we are powerless over everything? Certainly over the behavior or substance that brought us into recovery, but what about the rest of life? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on practical ways you can move from powerlessness to balanced living through the spiritual power of dominion.

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The Wisdom to Know the Difference

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 02:00:00 -0000

The “Serenity Prayer” tells us to be open to Wisdom so we can discern what is ours to do—and what is not. Many of us in recovery have experienced the results of questionable decisions we have made—sometimes repeatedly! Fortunately, we grew tired of living that way. But how do we move away from bad decisions, bad relationships, and bad situations? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on practical ways we can do just that and experience new levels of joy and freedom in our lives.

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Advancing Confidently

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 02:00:00 -0000

“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams!” This sounds like great advice though many of us begin the recovery journey feeling quite the opposite: stuck and limited. Sometimes even after years of being clean and sober, we can find ourselves feeling aimless. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on practical ways you can find your true purpose in life and advance confidently toward making it a reality!

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What We Were Like

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 02:00:00 -0000

Here on Spirit of Recovery, we approach each week’s topic asking the same questions: What was it like? What happened? What is it like now? Today we want to share with you the answers to those questions for each of us in our own recovery journey. What’s our story? Well, today we aim to share our experience, strength, and hope on the experience of our own recovery. What we were like, what happened, and what we are like now.

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Into Action!

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 02:00:00 -0000

When we take action in our lives, powerful and positive changes begin to happen. In fact, action is essential to addiction recovery and spiritual growth. In Scripture we read, “Faith without works is dead,” and many of us have experienced apathy and detachment when we don’t “move our feet” on the recovery path. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on learning how to take effective action and building a vibrant life.

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Conscious Contact

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 02:00:00 -0000

Am I alone in the universe? I’m supposed to pray, but how and for what, and to whom? I prayed as a child with seemingly no results. What’s different now? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on finding effective ways to make conscious contact with God as you understand God and seeing concrete, positive results in your life.

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Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 02:00:00 -0000

It has been said that if we change our thoughts, we change our lives. And if we direct our thoughts with integrity, our lives come together beautifully. We can move from negativity to hope and joy by making just such a shift. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on learning how the power of our thoughts can lead us to hope and a new experience of joy in our lives.

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Our True Identity

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 02:00:00 -0000

When we first get clean and sober, we may be overwhelmed by a sense of lost identity. Who am I if I don't drink, use, or fix others? The recovery journey offers an opportunity to heal this dismay and grow into an entirely new sense of ourselves. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on finding out who we really are and how our new identity can bring deep meaning to our lives and our life’s work.

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The God Thing

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 02:00:00 -0000

Early in recovery, many of us find ourselves confronted with “the God thing,” even if we felt we had settled that question for ourselves long ago! But sobriety can bring with it a nagging feeling that maybe there’s more to life than just flesh and circumstances. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on finding a power greater than ourselves that can help us move from questioning to faith.

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Opinions? Yeah, We Have Those

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 02:00:00 -0000

There are so many questions in the world, and many times we have opinions on all of them! We may even find ourselves tied up in knots over conflicting ideas that really have very little to do with our daily lives. How do we regain our serenity? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on the value of maintaining a neutral stance.

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Everyone Matters

Wed, 26 May 2021 02:00:00 -0000

One of the unique aspects of the way recovery communities operate is that there are no bosses. The group manages and serves the group. No one is any more or less important than anyone else. For recovery to work, the playing field must be genuinely level. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on being “one of the bunch” and learning to see all people as equally valuable.

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Give Freely, Receive Freely

Wed, 19 May 2021 02:00:00 -0000

When we answer the call to assist another alcoholic or addict on their recovery path, we do so with generosity and gratitude. We do not pay our sponsors or expect payment. We give freely and receive freely in gratitude. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on giving and receiving freely, and the joys that accompany it.

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To Thine Own Self Be True

Wed, 12 May 2021 02:00:00 -0000

Nobody else is responsible for our sobriety. We are the ones who direct, live, and own our own sober experience. But in active addiction, we often try to put our responsibilities onto others: “If work weren’t so stressful, I wouldn’t drink so much.” Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on owning our sobriety, one day at a time.

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Snares Along the Path

Wed, 05 May 2021 02:00:00 -0000

The lure of prestige has been the downfall of many on the recovery journey. Can we practice humility without feeling humiliated? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on staying in integrity on the recovery journey and avoiding the desire to look good doing it.

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Commitment to Success

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 02:00:00 -0000

Nobody has ever stopped drinking or drugging if they didn’t want to. The motivation and commitment to get clean and sober is essential for success. Even though we know this alone is not enough, we also know it is foundational for living a life of freedom. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on finding and sustaining the motivation and commitment to sober living.

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We’re in This Together

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 02:00:00 -0000

It has been said that nobody can do our inner work for us, but we cannot do it alone. We need the company of others on the recovery path in order to truly thrive. This can be challenging because we can be used to doing things our way! But if we are willing to become one of the bunch, we will discover the group to be a profound healing influence. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on finding a path to freedom and peace through the power of community.

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Carry the Message

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 02:00:00 -0000

In addiction recovery, we learn that we need to make “conscious contact” with a higher power, but we don’t stop there. We continue to learn how to be of service to others by carrying the message of recovery to any who seek it. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on learning to be of service as a natural outcome of spiritual awakening.

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Hold ‘Em or Fold ‘Em?

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 02:00:00 -0000

As the old song tells us, sometimes we need to hold on to things and sometimes we need to let go. Fortunately for us in addiction recovery, we make a spiritual practice of taking personal inventory as a way of life. If we find we are wrong, we promptly admit it. If we persevere in this practice, we find a meaningful purpose in life. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share “when to hold ‘em” and “when to fold ‘em” on the path to purposeful living.

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Trust the Process

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0000

When in early addiction recovery, many of us are not inclined to trust others or other people’s ideas of how things should be done. But once we make the commitment to clean and sober living, we have an opportunity to learn and trust a recovery process that has worked for many others. We get to decide if it will work for us. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on learning to trust the process of recovery on the way to a life that is happy, joyous, and free.

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One Thing at a Time

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0000

When we get into addiction recovery, we learn to be mindful of our actions. We hear the phrase, “Do the next right thing,” but how are we supposed to know what the next right thing is? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on moving from aimlessness to freedom by doing the “next right thing.”

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Doing the Work

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 04:00:00 -0000

Many gifts of addiction recovery come to us when we are willing to work for them. Part of that work is facing the wreckage of our past. To do so we must combine right intention with the guidance of a trusted advisor in order to get real results. We must “do the work”—but how do we go about doing this work? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on finding our way from complacency to freedom through the willingness to do the work.

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New Possibilities

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 04:00:00 -0000

As we grow through our addiction recovery journey, we often come face-to-face with old habits that are hard to break! Fortunately, once we are a few steps down the recovery path, we become willing to make new choices that support our new way of living. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on letting go of old habits and opening the door to a whole new way of being.

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Drop the Rock

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 04:00:00 -0000

One thing we need in order to grow in our recovery is to walk our path with principled honesty. This can be more challenging than it sounds at first! But if we are willing to show up and do the work, we can drop the heavy load we have been carrying and enjoy a lightness of being that will transform our lives. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on lightening the load through the power and practice of truth with integrity.

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Digging in the Dirt

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0000

It takes courage and integrity to walk an addiction recovery path. If we persist, we will come to know ourselves as the spiritual beings we truly are, but first we must trek through the wreckage of our past. In order to move into the light, we must face our shadow. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on finding a path through the shadow to the light.

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Let Go, Let God

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0000

Many of us in addiction recovery can affirm that we’ve never let go of anything that didn’t have claw marks on it! But we eventually find that when we become willing to try a new way, our lives begin to change. When we can truly let go and allow a higher power to provide guidance and direction, our lives begin to become amazing. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on learning how to let go, trust a higher power, and build a wonderful new life.

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Came to Believe

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0000

When we are in early recovery, the idea of a life of peace and joy seems very far away. The good news is that we can get there! But first we must extricate ourselves from the disarray of an undirected life. We can then learn to trust a higher power, thus opening the door to sanity and hope. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on moving from disarray to genuine peace and joy through coming to believe in a higher power.

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Can I Get a Mulligan?

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0000

Did you ever feel like life would be so much better if you could just have a do-over? You can and you can start over at any time. Our higher power gives us the ability to leave behind that which no longer serves us and move ahead with a clean slate. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on energizing your life with a fresh start.

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A Vision of Hope

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 04:00:00 -0000

For many of us in addiction recovery, life can seem hopeless, especially in the beginning. After all, we chose to deal with our life difficulties with a behavior or substance meant to numb the pain. Take that away and, yes, life can certainly feel hopeless. But we hold a vision of hope, and we find a wonderful new life on the other side of addiction, one that we would not trade for anything. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on holding a vision for hope and finding our way through the tough times.

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Taking Action!

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 04:00:00 -0000

If you want what we have, you have to do what we did. 12-step addiction recovery is a program of action based on spiritual principles. The ideas are nice, and anyone can read the steps and see that perhaps they “make sense,” but nothing happens if we don’t take action. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on putting spiritual principles to work through a program of action, and the amazing changes that take place as a result.

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How Recovery Works

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 04:00:00 -0000

“Rarely have we seen a person fail who has thoroughly followed our path.” Thus opens the chapter in the Big Book titled “How It Works.” Although the book goes on to describe the 12 steps in some detail, what might it all look like if we zoom out a bit and talk about “how it works” in a broad sense? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on working a successful 12-step program and the wonderful things that happen when we do.

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God as We Understand God

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 04:00:00 -0000

For some of us new to recovery, the whole “God thing” can be a real barrier. We may be carrying old ideas of God that don’t make sense to us. We may not realize that we don’t need to accept someone else’s understanding of God—we can find our own. In fact, we don’t even have to use the word “God” if we don’t want to! Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on making peace with the whole “God thing” on our own terms.

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A Way Out

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 04:00:00 -0000

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A Life Worth Living

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 04:00:00 -0000

In addiction, many of us became down, even perhaps deeply depressed. Now that we’re in recovery, how can we create a new life of vitality and purpose? A life that repairs body and soul and becomes truly satisfying? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on creating a new life in recovery, a life worth living!

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Confident Living!

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 02:00:00 -0000

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A Life of Purpose

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 02:00:00 -0000

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From Chaos to Peace

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 02:00:00 -0000

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The Will to Heal

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 02:00:00 -0000

When we were in active addiction, sometimes we made bad decisions. Our minds were fogged, but we didn't know it. Our thinking was warped, but it made perfect sense to us! Once we had been on a recovery journey for a while, we began to get our minds back, and our ability to make sound decisions improved. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on moving from bad decisions to wisdom using the power of will.

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School of Hard Knocks

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 02:00:00 -0000

Murphy’s Law seems operable in the life of many addicts—whatever can go wrong will go wrong. Beaten into submission by the school of hard knocks, we wonder, Do we have to learn everything the hard way? I don't understand why this always happens! Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on learning to unlock a new way of experiencing life through the spiritual power of understanding.

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Imagine That!

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 02:00:00 -0000

When we first get into addiction recovery, it can be hard to imagine a life without a drink or a drug. It may seem like our life is over and we'll never have fun again. But nothing could be further from the truth! We soon begin to learn that there is a new way of being in the world that is far better than our old habits. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on moving from a dull existence to the life you want to live through the spiritual power of imagination.

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We Admitted We Were Powerless

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 02:00:00 -0000

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The Wisdom to Know the Difference

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 02:00:00 -0000

The "Serenity Prayer" tells us to be open to wisdom so we can discern what is ours to do—and what is not. Many of us in recovery have experienced the results of questionable decisions we have made, sometimes even made repeatedly! Fortunately, we grew tired of living that way. But how do we move away from bad decisions, bad relationships, and bad situations? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on practical ways we can do just that and experience new levels of joy and freedom in our lives.

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Don't Quit Before the Miracle

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 02:00:00 -0000

How many times have we found ourselves doing the same things repeatedly and expecting different results? We enter recovery and learn a new way of thinking and being in the world—and yet the same old thought habits can still drive us crazy. What’s going on? How do we change this? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on breaking old patterns of thought and discovering new levels of freedom, happiness, and joy.

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Advancing Confidently

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 02:00:00 -0000

"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams!" This sounds like great advice though many of us begin the recovery journey feeling quite the opposite: stuck and limited. Sometimes even after years of being clean and sober, we can find ourselves feeling aimless. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on practical ways you can find your true purpose in life and advance confidently toward making it a reality!

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Into Action!

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 02:00:00 -0000

When we take action in our lives, powerful and positive changes begin to happen. In fact, action is essential to addiction recovery and spiritual growth. In Scripture, we read, "Faith without works is dead," and many of us have experienced apathy and detachment when we don't move our feet on the recovery path. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on learning how to take effective action and building a vibrant life.

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Into Action!

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 02:00:00 -0000

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Conscious Contact

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 02:00:00 -0000

Am I alone in the universe? I'm supposed to pray, but how, for what, and to whom? I prayed as a child with seemingly no results—what's different now? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on finding effective ways to understand and make conscious contact with God, and seeing concrete, positive results in your life.

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Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 02:00:00 -0000

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Our True Identity

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 02:00:00 -0000

When we first get clean and sober, we may be overwhelmed by a sense of lost identity. Who am I if I don't drink, use, or fix others? The recovery journey offers an opportunity to heal this dismay and grow into an entirely new sense of ourselves. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on finding out who we really are, and how our new identity can bring deep meaning to our lives and our life’s work.

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What About This Whole God Thing Anyway?

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 02:00:00 -0000

Does God exist or not? Many of us denied the existence of God—after all, how could my life be like this if there were a God? But then again, perhaps we've had a nagging feeling that there’s more to life than just flesh and circumstances. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on finding an understanding of a power greater than ourselves that can help us move from questioning to faith.

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Growing in Spirit

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 02:00:00 -0000

Anonymity is a central tenet of 12-step recovery. Many who are new don't want people to know they are in recovery, which is totally understandable. But as we grow in spirit, anonymity becomes far more than a simple desire not to be known. We realize that anonymity is, in fact, humility at work in our lives. With it we can move from fear to serenity. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on growing in spirit through a deepening relationship with anonymity.

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Shout It from the Mountaintops!

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 02:00:00 -0000

When we first get clean and sober, we may be tempted to broadcast our newfound life to everyone around us, to shout it from the mountaintops. But as we persist on our recovery path, we learn that a quiet approach is often better. We learn to let our example be the message rather than trying to promote our new way of living to others. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on living the principle of attraction rather than promotion in our lives.

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The Trap of Entanglements

Wed, 27 May 2020 02:00:00 -0000

Nothing will rob us of our sobriety faster than getting wrapped up in what someone else is or isn't doing, what other people should or should not be doing. Just as our recovery groups avoid public controversy, we as individuals need to keep our eyes on our own yoga mats, so to speak. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope in avoiding outside entanglements and focusing on recovery.

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Give Freely, Receive Freely

Wed, 13 May 2020 02:00:00 -0000

When we answer the call to assist another alcoholic or addict on their recovery path, we do so with generosity and gratitude. We do not pay our sponsors or expect payment from our sponsees. Recovery must be free from commerce if we are to be successful. Yes, there may be medical professionals involved in our recovery at first, and we certainly "render unto Caesar" as appropriate at that time. But we do not buy or sell recovery. We give freely and receive freely in gratitude. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope in giving and receiving freely and the joys that accompany it.

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To Thine Own Self Be True

Wed, 06 May 2020 02:00:00 -0000

Nobody else is responsible for our sobriety. We are the ones who direct, live, and own our sober experience. In this sense, we are "fully self-supporting" just as the seventh tradition guides our recovery groups to be. But in active addiction, we often tried to put our responsibilities onto others. "If work weren't so stressful, I wouldn't drink so much." Excuses like this will never keep us sober, so we learn to be true to our own selves and to be self-supporting in our sobriety. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope on owning our sobriety, one day at a time.

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Snares Along the Path

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 02:00:00 -0000

The lure of prestige has been the downfall of many on the recovery journey. We can get to feeling so good about ourselves that we fall into that old trap of wanting to be seen as the number one man or woman in the eyes of others. How can we remain true to our purpose and avoid the trap of pride? Can we practice humility without feeling humiliated? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope in staying in integrity on the recovery journey and avoiding the desire to look good doing it.

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Balancing Self and Others

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 02:00:00 -0000

The fifth tradition of AA tells us, “Each group has but one primary purpose—to carry its message to the alcoholic (addict) who still suffers.” When we first get into recovery, we learn we need to focus on ourselves in order to heal and grow. However, we quickly find that being of service to others is an essential part of our own healing. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope in balancing self and others in a healthy way as an ongoing part of a successful recovery journey.

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Focus on Recovery

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 02:00:00 -0000

When we first get clean and sober, we quickly learn that success requires a strong focus on walking the recovery path. There are many potential distractions and excuses that can derail us. It is all too easy to get stuck in the weeds rather than move ahead unencumbered. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope in staying focused on recovery in a world of distractions.

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Commitment to Success

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 02:00:00 -0000

Nobody has ever stopped drinking or drugging if they didn’t want to. The motivation and commitment to get clean and sober are essential for success. Even though those of us walking a recovery path know that this alone is not enough, we also know it is foundational for living a life of freedom. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share their experience, strength, and hope in finding and sustaining the motivation and commitment to sober living.

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The Power of Community

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 02:00:00 -0000

It has been said that nobody can do our inner work for us, but we cannot do it alone. We need the company of others on the recovery path in order to truly thrive. This can be challenging to many who are new to addiction recovery because we can be used to doing things our way only! But if we are willing to become one of the bunch, we will discover that the group has a profound influence on our healing. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share a path to freedom and peace through the power of community.

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God Awareness

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 02:00:00 -0000

In addiction recovery, we learn that not only do we need a higher power in our lives, but we need to make conscious contact with that power. For many who are new to a spiritual way of living, this can feel like an insurmountable task! What if I don’t believe in God? And even if I do, how is it possible to be in contact with God consciously? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share a path to peace through prayer and the experience of God in their lives.

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You Got to Know When to Hold ‘em

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 02:00:00 -0000

As the old song tells us, sometimes we need to hold on to things and sometimes we need to let go. Fortunately for us in addiction recovery, we make a spiritual practice of taking personal inventory as a way of life. If we find we are wrong, we promptly admit it. If we persevere in this practice, we find true freedom. Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they share “when to hold ‘em” and “when to fold ‘em” on the path to clean living.

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The Next Right Thing

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 04:00:00 -0000

Sure, we want to do the next right thing, but what is it? When we get into addiction recovery, we learn to be mindful of our actions. We hear, “Do the next right thing,” and that seems like a really good idea! But what does that mean exactly? Join Rev. Dan and Rev. Michelle as they explore finding and acting on the next right thing as a way of life that leads to joy and happiness.

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Working for a New Freedom

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 04:00:00 -0000

Many gifts of addiction recovery come to us when we are willing to work for them. We must “do the work”—but how do we go about doing this work? Join Rev. Dan and a special guest cohost as they share how the power of love has helped them find their way from complacency to freedom—and how it can help you find your way, too.

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Finding Spiritual Guidance

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 04:00:00 -0000

When we first get into recovery, we learn we need a higher power in order to grow and change. But once we have found something that works for us (even temporarily), we must learn how to rely on and be guided by this power. Join Rev. Dan and a special guest cohost as they share their experience in finding and learning to trust a higher power in all things.

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Preparing for New Possibilities

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 04:00:00 -0000

As we grow through our addiction recovery journey, we often come face-to-face with old habits that are hard to break! How can we let go of our old ways and open the door to a new way of being? Join Rev. Dan and a special guest cohost as they walk with you into your new life.

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The Light of a New Day

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 04:00:00 -0000

It takes integrity to walk the path of addiction recovery. We must move forward with principled honesty, which may not be easy given our often not-so-pretty pasts! But if we are willing to show up and get real, we can do it—and grow in Spirit along the way. Join Rev. Dan and a special guest cohost as they illuminate a path through the shadow into the light of a new day.

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The Courage to Change

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 04:00:00 -0000

It takes courage to walk an addiction recovery path. We are moving toward a new freedom and a new happiness, but to get there we must walk through the wreckage of our past. Listen to Rev. Dan as he shares how to find and use courage to face the past and walk from misery to happiness.

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A New Path to Freedom

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 04:00:00 -0000

When we become willing to try a new way of living, a path to freedom opens up. This path is rooted in faith. When we can truly “Let Go and Let God,” we are well on our way to a new life. Discover with Rev. Dan how to let go, trust a higher power, and walk the path to freedom.

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A New Hope

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 04:00:00 -0000

New beginnings bring hope into our lives. While there is work to be done, the good news is that we don’t have to do it alone. We come to believe in a presence and a power greater than our addiction to provide the direction we need. Learn with Rev. Dan how to find the power to change and a new hope in your life.

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Live the Truth You Know!

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 04:00:00 -0000

In the beginning of recovery, all we know is don't drink/use and go to meetings. However, for many of us, this new information and way of living can rapidly become overwhelming. How do we keep it simple and yet still practice these principles in all our affairs? Join Rev. Lonnie Vanderslice and Rev. Dan Beckett as they share the way to the recovery path that’s just right for you.

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Why Do We Need Spiritual Community?

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 04:00:00 -0000

Fellowship, or spiritual community, is a necessary part of recovery. However, many may wonder why they should go to meetings, why can't they just go to church, and what to do if they belong to another community of faith. Join Rev. Lonnie Vanderslice and Rev. Dan Beckett to learn about the power of community and how it fits best into your recovery journey.

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Trust God, Clean House, and Help Others?

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 04:00:00 -0000

Codependency is an insidious condition that can sabotage our efforts to help others. How can we help others in a healthy way? How can we maintain our own recovery and truly be helpful to others? Join Rev. Lonnie Vanderslice and Rev. Dan Beckett as they share the path to healthy helping.

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Thankful for? Thankful to? Thankful That?

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 04:00:00 -0000

What is gratitude? We are told an attitude of gratitude will go a long way toward smoothing out the bumps in the road of recovery. How do we find gratitude? Join Rev. Lonnie Vanderslice and Rev. Dan Beckett as they share their path to gratitude and joy.

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Closer Than the Air That We Breathe!

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 04:00:00 -0000

"God as I understand God" is the wide spiritual doorway through which we enter recovery. How do you understand the workings of this mysterious thing called God? Join Rev. Lonnie Vanderslice and Rev. Dan Beckett for an exploration of methods for attaining conscious contact and connection to a guiding force in your life.

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How's That Working for You?

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 04:00:00 -0000

Insanity has been defined as doing the same thing repeatedly but expecting different results. This applies to thinking patterns as well. Join Rev. Lonnie Vanderslice and Rev. Dan Beckett for practical suggestions for identifying and controlling these patterns in our lives.

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Time Takes Time—and Work!

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 02:00:00 -0000

A group of famous psychiatrists noted that addicts are often childish and grandiose, which are both egoic manifestations that cause untold misery to the afflicted. Join Rev. Lonnie Vanderslice and Rev. Dan Beckett for a deep dive into emotional and spiritual growth and the joys it brings.

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Life on Life's Terms

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery can be challenging! Yet we have the ability to persevere, no matter what life gives us. Join Rev. Lonnie Vanderslice and Rev. Dan Beckett as they share tools and spiritual principles that keep our feet on the path to recovery.

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Are you Mindless or Mindfull?

Wed, 16 Oct 2019 02:00:00 -0000

Most recovering addicts can attest to the effects of the racing mind. Once we get clean and sober, it seems our brain is attacking us with millions of disquieting and uncomfortable thoughts. How do we get control? Join Rev. Lonnie Vanderslice and Rev. Dan Beckett as they share what worked for them.

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The Hideous Four Horsemen

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 02:00:00 -0000

Terror, bewilderment, frustration, and despair are known in recovery circles as “the hideous four horsemen.” It is a common condition when moving from active addiction into a life of recovery. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share spiritual tools and what worked for them to banish these horsemen from their lives.

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What Does Respect Mean?

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 02:00:00 -0000

Respect is often demanded, and we are told it has to be earned. It is closely tied with esteem of self and others. With our jaded histories, how do we learn respect for others as well as self-respect? Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share their experiences with this perplexing concept and the peace they found along the way.

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We Don’t Shoot Our Wounded

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 02:00:00 -0000

Our very active inner critic berates us for every little perceived mistake we make once in recovery. We try very hard and yet seem to miss the mark fairly often. We see others fail and try again. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share tips and principles that led them from condemnation to compassion.

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Can We Talk?

Wed, 11 Sep 2019 02:00:00 -0000

The question “Can we talk?” strikes fear into the hearts of many a person. In active addiction, it usually meant someone was displeased with us. Arguments, emotional upsets, and bad behavior often followed. In recovery, we learn to use spiritual principles to engage in healthy dialogue. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share their experience, strength, and hope in learning how to connect in meaningful ways.

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Who Made Me the Teacher?

Wed, 04 Sep 2019 02:00:00 -0000

Sometimes it seems that there is only one right way—our way. We get immensely uncomfortable when jarred out of our comfort zone by exploring a new way of being, trying someone else’s suggestions. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share the journey from reliance only on self to joy in community and self.

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How Do We Know What’s Real?

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 02:00:00 -0000

Active addicts live in a world of “make believe.” Our minds become confused to the point where we can’t tell the true from the false. Once we enter recovery, we break the denial, confront and begin to change our “reality.” Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share their journey from hopelessness to a new reality.

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Terminal Uniqueness: A Fatal Flaw

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 02:00:00 -0000

On one hand, we are told we are unique and special, individualized expressions of God. On the other hand, we addicts are often told we have a big ego, to get over ourselves, and quit playing God! Who are we, really? How do we become right-sized? Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share what worked for them in balancing individual uniqueness with humility and service.

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What’s Your Motive?

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 02:00:00 -0000

We interact with our fellow humans on this journey of life, in a multitude of ways, for a variety of reasons. On the spiritual path, we ask ourselves: Why do we do what we do? What’s in it for us? Who are we trying to please, impress, or persuade? Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share how they learned to be in integrity with and honest about motives while still being true to personal aspirations and goals.

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Keep Coming Back

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 02:00:00 -0000

Holidays are hard. With so much family drama and personal pain, how can a person get through it all without losing sanity and sobriety? If the temptations were too great, now what? Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share their experience, strength, and hope about meeting the challenge of difficult holiday gatherings clean and sober.

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I Can See Clearly Now!

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 02:00:00 -0000

Long-term addiction has a way of befuddling our minds and obscuring our clarity on many levels. Fortunately, we can regain our faculties and clear our thinking as we walk the path of recovery. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share how they moved from bewilderment to clarity of mind and purpose using simple spiritual principles in recovery.

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Hidden Talents, Skills, and Abilities

Wed, 29 May 2019 02:00:00 -0000

In active addition we often used our skills and abilities to serve our own needs and addictions! But in recovery we have the opportunity to learn to use our gifts in service of others. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share how they moved from using skills and abilities in service of self to using them in service to the world, finding joy and freedom along the way.

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But I Can Do It Better!

Wed, 22 May 2019 02:00:00 -0000

One way self-centeredness shows up in addicts and alcoholics is in the attitude that says, "I'll just do it myself!" We have not been adept at allowing others to participate with us in our lives. In recovery we learn to be an equal partner, which allows us to work well with others. No longer do we feel the need to do everything our way by ourselves! Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they explore how they learned to share the burdens of life with others and find community and peace along the way.

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What Is Balance?

Wed, 08 May 2019 02:00:00 -0000

For those of us with serious addictions, the word balance has been defined as "the middle point we go flying past on the way from one extreme to the other." How true that has been for so many of us! But in recovery we learn the power and wisdom found in balance. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share how they moved from being at "one extreme or the other" to a life of peace through spiritual balance.

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Me! Me! Me!

Wed, 01 May 2019 02:00:00 -0000

All people deserve to be heard and valued. Addiction says “me first” and “I’m more important!” In recovery, we learn to live harmoniously in community and take our rightful place as “one of the bunch.” Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share the path from placing self above others to a life of joyful community using the spiritual principle of consideration.

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Boundaries Are Not Walls

Wed, 24 Apr 2019 02:00:00 -0000

In active addiction many of us put ourselves first in unhealthy ways, often seeing our needs as more important than the needs of others. While self-care is important, we often went too far. In recovery we learn that we are equal with all people, no better and no worse. We learn to balance our needs with the needs of others in a healthy way. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share how to cocreate a life of harmony with others using the spiritual strategy of boundaries.

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Trust an Addict?

Wed, 17 Apr 2019 02:00:00 -0000

Addiction has a way of eroding confidence. In active addiction, although our intentions may have been good, we were often unable to follow through on commitments. Fortunately, we regained the ability to be trustworthy and to learn to trust others. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share how they moved from dropping the ball to being a reliable partner through the spiritual principle of trust.

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What’s on Your Conscience?

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 02:00:00 -0000

Before we got into recovery, many things took a backseat to feeding our addictions. We may have neglected family and friends, done poorly at work, and ignored our health. But in recovery we realize that it's essential to listen to that inner voice of conscience and to do the next right thing. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share how they moved from backward priorities to a life of joy using the spiritual principle of inner guidance.

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Principles Before Personalities

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 02:00:00 -0000

"We are known by the company we keep," says one well-worn adage. But do each of those folks in that group reflect your values? Or do you not quite "fit the mold" and sometimes seem to step out of the box when explaining the group to others? Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share how to stay out of personality and live in principle.

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Who Speaks for You?

Wed, 27 Mar 2019 02:00:00 -0000

Perhaps all of us have, at one time or another, been hurt by unfounded gossip. Another has chosen to speak for us, inappropriately. How do we avoid this triangulation, inauthentic relationships, and boundary violations? Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan to learn how to maintain serenity using the spiritual principle of personal anonymity.

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Opinions? We All Have Them!

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 02:00:00 -0000

There are so many questions in the world, and many times we have opinions on all of them! We may find ourselves tied up in knots regarding conflicting ideas that have little impact on our daily lives. How do we regain our serenity? Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share the value of maintaining a neutral stance.

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Are You a Control Freak?

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 02:00:00 -0000

Sometimes when we enter a new situation or engage a new group, we are not quite sure how we fit in. Sometimes we offer suggestions before we know what is going on. At other times, we may think, If they would just do it my way, it would be okay. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share how to be a valued member of a group without alienating others.

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Spiritual Community

Wed, 06 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0000

Loneliness is rampant in our society today. We spend hours on email, text, and social media, perhaps in front of a television or other screen. Although we interact all day long, we don't feel "connected." Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share how to ease that loneliness and become truly present for people in your life.

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Responsible? Who? Me?

Wed, 27 Feb 2019 04:00:00 -0000

Often in our active addiction, we expected other people to pick up the slack for us. Call in sick for us, go to the store for us, lie and “cover” for us, and pretend everything is fine ... the list goes on. But in recovery we learn that we as individuals need to take responsibility for ourselves and be fully self-supporting, just like our recovery groups. While it's fine and healthy to be interdependent, it's not healthy to be overdependent or codependent. How can we learn to carry our own weight and still be part of the group? Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share how to stand on our own two feet and be one of the bunch at the same time.

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Spread Too Thin?

Wed, 20 Feb 2019 04:00:00 -0000

In our busy society, we often find our attention scattered among many competing activities. We are so used to being busy that we have a name for it: multitasking. But in recovery we learn the importance and the power of focus. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they explore the essential skill of staying on task with our recovery.

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Carry the Message, Not the Mess!

Wed, 13 Feb 2019 04:00:00 -0000

When we were in active addiction we had a singleness of purpose in our lives: feeding our addiction. But now that we are in recovery, we have a different focus and purpose: helping others. Yes, we work to maintain our own sobriety, but bigger than that is our desire to carry the message to those who still suffer. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share how to stay on purpose and the value of service to others.

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The Benign Anarchy

Wed, 06 Feb 2019 04:00:00 -0000

As we move ahead on our recovery journey, we learn many new ways to balance our lives. Just as each of us needs to learn balance, so must our recovery groups find balance. Each group can do as it sees fit, but it also has a duty to the recovery community in general. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they talk about balancing the individual with the group, the good of each one, and the good of the people.

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When the Door Opens, Walk Through It!

Wed, 30 Jan 2019 04:00:00 -0000

Have you ever encountered a group or club where other people decided whether it was okay for you to join in and be a part of it or not? Well, we find in addiction recovery that it's just the opposite! Nobody can tell us whether we belong or not, only we can. As we walk our recovery path we see that this has important implications for our journey. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they talk about the power of the decision to belong and the power that inclusion brings us in recovery.

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Betrayed! Now What?

Wed, 23 Jan 2019 04:00:00 -0000

Has your trust ever been shattered? Have you ever felt betrayed by an authority figure? Many of us in recovery will say yes to those questions. But do we want to spend the rest of our lives in distrust and fear? No, we do not! So, then, how do we regain trust if we have lost confidence in another? Join Revs. and Dan as they share the path to regaining trust in our higher power and in others around us.

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All for One!

Wed, 16 Jan 2019 04:00:00 -0000

Most people who have suffered from the disease of addiction will describe their experience of life as “standing on the outside looking in.” The spiritual principle of Unity changes us—we rise above our selfishness and come together for the good of the whole. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they share about the journey from separation to community and the power of the group!

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Today, a Clean Start

Wed, 09 Jan 2019 04:00:00 -0000

Did you ever wish you could just start over? Well, good news! You can! In fact, you can start over anytime you decide to. Our higher power gives us the ability to leave behind that which no longer serves us and move ahead with a clean slate. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they discuss how to energize your life with a fresh start.

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A God-Connected Life

Wed, 12 Dec 2018 04:00:00 -0000

When we begin our recovery journey, we learn that we need a higher power in order to get clean and sober. Later, we realize we need this same power in order to stay clean and sober! But just how do we create and maintain conscious contact with our higher power? And what do we do with those experiences anyway? Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as we share how to lead a God-connected life, a divinely guided life of joy and freedom.

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Know Thyself

Wed, 05 Dec 2018 04:00:00 -0000

“Know thyself,” says the ancient Greek wisdom. And for those of us in addiction recovery, doing so may well be a matter of life and death! Fortunately for us, Step 10 teaches us to make self-examination a regular part of our day-to-day lives. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as we share how self-knowledge can bring freedom and joy to your recovery journey, just as it has for us and many others.

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Finding Your Way

Wed, 21 Nov 2018 04:00:00 -0000

Those of us in recovery know that even the best of intentions is often not enough. When it comes to repairing the wreckage of our past, we must combine right intention with guidance and wise action in order to get results. But just how do we go about doing that? We’ve turned over a new leaf, so how do we make things right? Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as we share how Spirit has helped us find our way through, and can help you find your way too.

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Growing Pains

Wed, 14 Nov 2018 04:00:00 -0000

While in addiction recovery, it is not uncommon to learn that some of our unhelpful behaviors and thought patterns seem to be set in concrete! Fortunately, once we are a few steps down the recovery path we become prepared to make different choices. But how do we let go of our old ways and move into a new life of freedom and joy? Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as we walk with you into your new life, sharing our real-world experience, strength, and hope as we go.

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From the Shadow Into the Light

Wed, 07 Nov 2018 04:00:00 -0000

It takes courage and integrity to walk an addiction recovery path. Those who have come out of the nightmare of substance abuse know there is a lot of work to be done. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as we illuminate a path through the Shadow into the Light, sharing our own experience, strength, and hope as we go.

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Turn It Over/Let Go, Let God

Wed, 31 Oct 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Many of us in recovery will hold on to old ideas until the pain and confusion pushes us to a point of willingness. I’ve heard it said that we never let anything go that didn't have claw marks on it! However, when we become willing to try a new way, our lives begin to change. When we can truly “let go” and allow a higher power to provide guidance and direction, our lives begin to become amazing. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan to learn how to let go, trust a higher power, and build the life that you have dreamed of.

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Came to Believe

Wed, 24 Oct 2018 02:00:00 -0000

We can live lives of peace, comfort, and joy, although that may seem far off when we are in early recovery. We must first extricate ourselves from the confusion, disarray, and insanity of an undirected life. Learn to trust a Presence and Power that brings sanity and hope. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan to learn how to move from disarray to genuine peace, comfort, and joy in your life.

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Walk Your Talk/Into Action

Wed, 17 Oct 2018 02:00:00 -0000

When we take action in our lives, powerful and positive changes begin to happen. In fact, action is essential to addiction recovery and spiritual growth. Our recovery literature states, "There is action and more action,” and in Scripture we read that, "Faith without works is dead." Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan to learn how to take effective action and build a life you love.

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What You Think About Grows

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Unity minister and author Rev. Eric Butterworth was fond of saying, "Change your thoughts, change your life." When we bring our mental powers to bear on a topic, one thought feeds another and our lives change. If we direct our thoughts with integrity, our lives come together beautifully. Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan to learn how you can use the power of your thoughts to support health, prosperity, love, and joy in your life.

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Conscious Connection

Wed, 03 Oct 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Revs. Lonnie and Dan explore effective ways to make conscious contact with God as you understand God, and to see concrete, positive results in your life. Am I alone in the universe? I'm supposed to pray, but how and for what, and to whom? I prayed as a child with seemingly no results. What's different now?

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Who Do You Think You Are?

Wed, 26 Sep 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan to find out who you really are and how your new identity can bring deep meaning to your life and your life’s work. Our former lives in addiction left us feeling at best like bad actors and at worst like monsters. The recovery journey offers an opportunity to grow into an entirely new sense of ourselves.

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Got God?

Wed, 19 Sep 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Revs. Lonnie and Dan help you find your way to an understanding of God that truly works and can guide you on your recovery journey. Does God exist or not? Many of us denied the existence—after all, how could your life be like this if there is a God? Then again, perhaps you've had a nagging feeling that there’s more to all this than just flesh and circumstances.

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A Life Worth Living

Wed, 12 Sep 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Revs. Lonnie and Dan explore how to create a life of vitality and purpose—a life worth living! In addiction many of us became down, even perhaps deeply depressed. Now that we’re in recovery, how can we create a new life that repairs body and soul and becomes truly satisfying?

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One Day at a Time

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Revs. Lonnie and Dan explain how to use your excess energy to create a life that works—right here and now—one day at a time. We enter recovery with an excess of energy, not always knowing where to put it. We can exhaust ourselves by overcommitting and trying to make up for lost time.

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Who? Me? Powerless?

Wed, 29 Aug 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Twelve-step wisdom teaches that we are powerless over our addiction. However, does that mean we are powerless over everything? Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan as they explore ways you can live according to a higher power, yet not lose your personal power in the process.

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School of Hard Knocks

Wed, 22 Aug 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Learn to unlock a new way of experiencing life as Revs. Lonnie Vanderslice and Dan Beckett share practical tools and insights. Murphy’s Law seems operable in the life of many addicts—whatever can go wrong, will go wrong. Beaten into submission by the school of hard knocks, we wonder if we have to learn everything the hard way. Spiritual science says, “No!”

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The Wisdom to Know the Difference

Wed, 15 Aug 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Many of us in recovery have experienced the results of questionable decisions—even some we’ve made repeatedly. How do we move away from these seemingly bad decisions, bad relationships, and bad situations? Revs. Lonnie and Dan share practical ways you can do just that and experience new levels of joy and freedom in your life.

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Love and Tolerance Is Our Code

Wed, 08 Aug 2018 02:00:00 -0000

The Beatles said, “All you need is love.” Is that true for everything? Recovery literature says love and tolerance is our code. Love means different things to different people. How can this relate to our individual recovery process? Join Revs. Lonnie and Dan to find out!

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First Things First

Wed, 01 Aug 2018 02:00:00 -0000

It’s a common experience when getting clean and sober to find your life in some degree of chaos. If you’re feeling topsy-turvy, you’re not alone! Tune in for ways to bring more peace and order into your life while you are on the path to recovery.

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Advancing Confidently!

Wed, 25 Jul 2018 02:00:00 -0000

A quotation of Henry David Thoreau is often paraphrased as "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams." Many of us begin the recovery journey feeling stuck and limited. And sometimes even after years of clean and sober time, we can find ourselves feeling aimless. Rev. Lonnie and Rev. Dan share practical ways you can rekindle your dreams and advance confidently toward making them realities!

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Power of Release

Wed, 18 Jul 2018 02:00:00 -0000

How do we get from fear to faith? Fear keeps us stuck. Fear of the future, fear of change, fear of pain. Join us this week as Rev. Lonnie and Rev. Dan share steps to learning the essential skill of letting go. In recovery we learn that fear is future-based and of the imagination—so what? A popular 12-step program slogan is “Let go and let God,” but how do we get from fear to faith? Tune in for real-life strategies today!

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Don’t Stop Before the Miracle!

Wed, 11 Jul 2018 02:00:00 -0000

How many times have we found ourselves doing the same things over and over again, expecting different results? Some call this the definition of insanity, but it is driven by thought habits—the habits of thinking we formed in childhood, many times as a survival mechanism. We enter recovery and learn a new way of thinking and being in the world—and yet the same old thought habits can still drive us crazy. What’s going on? How do we change this? Join us this week as Rev. Lonnie and Rev. Dan share how to break old patterns of thought and discover new levels of freedom, happiness, and joy in our lives.

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Follow the Call

Wed, 04 Jul 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Our guest this week shares her journey through a childhood and adolescence confused by relocation, changing family dynamics, and new family religious traditions. Living on the beach in California, supporting four daughters—living the dream, right? It all came crashing down with an arrest and rehab. Karla L. shares her story of faith and courage that led her out of the darkness of addiction to become an addictions counselor, a youth and family director, and finally to answer the call to ministry.

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Is Recovery Stupid, Boring, and Glum?

Wed, 20 Jun 2018 02:00:00 -0000

When we give up our addictions, we often lose our coping mechanism. What we handled with a drink or drugs just doesn’t work anymore. Sometimes we feel a big gaping hole, a void in our lives as we try to find a new path. Recovery doesn’t have to be boring and lifeless. Rev. Lonnie Vanderslice and special guest Rev. Dan Beckett explain how to breathe new life into your recovery through the power of imagination. Join the show with your question or comment at 816-251-3555.

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Why Can't I Just Stop? What Happened to My Willpower?

Wed, 13 Jun 2018 02:00:00 -0000

We tried really hard, but could not stop. Recovery literature states, “Our whole trouble had been the misuse of willpower.” Could that be true? Join us this week as we explore the many facets of the power of will.

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The Double Life

Wed, 06 Jun 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Her family was looking good on the outside, but things were crazy on the inside. Isn’t every family like this? Is it just mine? Join us as Trish B. shares her journey to wholeness.

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Signature: Artists and Musicians in Recovery

Wed, 30 May 2018 02:00:00 -0000

This show brings awareness to a growing movement to celebrate those in the creative arts who have made the decision to live a life that is happy, joyous, and free of addictive substances. Artists and musicians typically have an elevated exposure to addictive substances while on the job. Signature™, an extravaganza for artists and musicians in recovery, is an event that featured dozens of recovering individuals, highlighting art and music in a free concert and art exhibition, thus proving the words of 12-step program cofounder Bill W.: “Assuming we are spiritually fit, we can do all sorts of things alcoholics are not supposed to do.” Join us as Signature founder Betty Dicken shares her passion about celebrating art and music produced by recovering individuals.

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Rocketed in to the Fourth Dimension

Wed, 23 May 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Join our host for a rousing discussion about development of spiritual consciousness throughout the recovery process. You will have an opportunity to call in with questions and comments! What is the fourth dimension of which Bill Wilson and Charles Fillmore speak? Are they talking about the same thing? How can we tell if our consciousness is progressing?

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Where Is God, Anyway?

Wed, 09 May 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Sober, but suffering in isolation, our special guest knew she had to find the right community to feel connected to God. Join us as she shares her continuing spiritual evolution through Unity, two 12-step groups, Yoga, Buddhism, and yes, even (especially) her work as a hospice nurse.

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Integrity

Wed, 02 May 2018 02:00:00 -0000

He thought he was just a helpful kind of guy, working with people in recovery, until one day someone asked him, “When are you going to get into recovery? You are an enabler!” With no active addict in his life, could this be true? Join our host as we hear Tom P. share his spiritual journey of recovery.

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Recovering Our Divinity—Through Service

Wed, 25 Apr 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Church was the sanctuary from a violent alcoholic home. With a strong church background, while he really wanted to believe—something wasn’t quite right. Stuck for years in his own addiction, after 12-step recovery, our special guest Charles P. found peace through service, to God, to country, and to fellow humankind when he discovered Unity.

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Emotionally Depleted, Addicted to Drama, Powerless Over Life?

Wed, 18 Apr 2018 02:00:00 -0000

The bottom fell out when her perfect family fell apart. Alcoholism in the family set the stage for addiction to drama and emotional enmeshment. Feeling victimized was a normal reaction to unexpected life changes. Raised Catholic, she had to “fire” her concept of God. Join us as our special guest shares her journey back from her “crucifixion experience” to a faith that works as she recovered her personal power.

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The Bedevilments—A Solution

Wed, 11 Apr 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Special guest Rev. Barry Vennard, who has 41 years in recovery, was propelled into that personal transformation by the catalyst of challenging life circumstances. Since that time he has authored a guide (Stepping Through the Narrow Gate) to lead others into making the most of the challenges of life. Join us as he shares his personal spiritual journey and transformative evolution.

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The Courage to Change

Wed, 04 Apr 2018 02:00:00 -0000

How do you know you are “done” when everyone around you is comfortable? What do you do when your childhood faith walk reinforces the shame and guilt of a family mired in addiction? What happens when you hit the end of your rope? Join us as this week’s guest, Rev. Karen Tudor shares her journey of courage.

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That's Nice, But Does It Work?

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 02:00:00 -0000

A lifetime of apathy to spiritual traditions left our special guest agnostic and disconnected. Even after finding spiritual principles at a local Unity church that resonated with him, Dan B. still felt something was missing. After discovering spiritual prosperity teachings, he received the wake-up call that led him to 12-step recovery. Join us to learn how our special guest came to a faith that works.

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Feeling Stuck? Is This All There Is?

Wed, 14 Mar 2018 02:00:00 -0000

Sometimes we get “stuck” on our journey. What once offered us so much hope has gone “flat”—or worse, crawling out of our skin—leaving us wondering, “Is this all there is?” Where do we find the motivation to keep going? On today's episode, special guest Michael B. shares how he escaped the trap of “stupid, boring, and glum” and found his life’s calling.

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No Pink Cloud Here? Keeping It Real

Wed, 07 Mar 2018 04:00:00 -0000

Faith in “something” is the bedrock of recovery. It may be faith in a group (12 Step or church), a set of principles, a mentor or sponsor, or a concept of a higher power. Kelly Isola is a person in long-term recovery from substance abuse and has coupled her keen understanding of recovery principles, spiritual principles, and personal healing to form an unshakable basis for life. “Life happens”—and creates new understandings as we live our experience. On today's episode, join Lonnie and Kelly as they explore the different experiences of faith Kelly has walked in her 29-year journey of recovery and hope.

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Spirit of Recovery—Grateful!

Wed, 28 Feb 2018 04:00:00 -0000

Gratitude is the superhighway to spiritual growth. Spirit of Recovery host Anna Shouse is in long-term recovery from the family aspect of the disease of addiction. She shares how gratitude has motivated her to find ever more fully her relationship with God and herself. Anna also shares in this, her final Spirit of Recovery program as host, how Spirit of Recovery started and her gratitude for and memories of the amazing guests who have so generously shared their lives throughout the past seven years. Lonnie Vanderslice, the upcoming new host of Spirit of Recovery, will interview Anna.

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Carrying the Message, Living Recovery

Wed, 21 Feb 2018 04:00:00 -0000

Our commitment to life-affirming fulfillment of our God-given calling is the real gift of recovery. We carry the message of recovery by living in wholeness ourselves. That requires us to pursue the truth of our lives wherever it may take us. Special guest Rev. Lonnie Vanderslice, M.Div., a person in long-term recovery, is the founder of Unity of Spirit, cofounder and executive director of The Sewing Labs, providing job skills to women who have been marginalized and blocked from the work force, and coowner of the mission based business Weave Gotcha Covered! Lonnie shares how fully living her own recovery has propelled her into carrying the message in a variety of ways. Lonnie will become the new Spirit of Recovery host starting March 6.

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Recovery = Progress, Not Perfection

Wed, 14 Feb 2018 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery issues us the invitation to open up to our human vulnerabilities. We get to give up our ironclad defenses and live from the spiritual light within us. Special guest Marilyn Davis shares how this works in her life, why vulnerability is the key to recovery, and how it challenges us. Marilyn is a recovery curriculum author who advocates for and writes to the addicted population.

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Recovery + Joy = Inspired Living

Wed, 07 Feb 2018 04:00:00 -0000

Long-term recovery invites us into creativity, connection, and joy. Special guest Sandy McKinney, Unity minister celebrating more thsn 43 years of recovery, has a passion for women’s empowerment, social justice, community healing, and interfaith community.

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Nourishment for the Heart and Soul

Wed, 31 Jan 2018 04:00:00 -0000

Food addiction is a serious disease—and there is hope and help for recovery. Special guest Kay D. is in long-term recovery from the disease of food addiction and is a self-described “Unitic.”

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It's Called Life!

Wed, 24 Jan 2018 04:00:00 -0000

What’s the point of recovery? Richard C. blogs to describe how his life has evolved throughout the past four decades while participating in a 12-step program. Richard shares how recovery continues to invite him into the joy of living.

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Communities—Where Recovery Comes Together

Wed, 17 Jan 2018 04:00:00 -0000

Communities for Recovery is dedicated to supporting long-term recovery. Special guests Robin Peyson, executive director, and Peggy Robinson, family program coordinator, share how community-based support makes a difference.

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2018—Making It New For You!

Wed, 10 Jan 2018 04:00:00 -0000

What makes a new year new? Our action to bring something new to it. Join host Anna Shouse and special guest Chris Shea, author and addiction counselor, as they discuss looking outside of ourselves with the willingness to see with fresh eyes.

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We Are One in Spirit, We Are Community

Wed, 06 Dec 2017 04:00:00 -0000

The more we realize we are one in Spirit, the stronger our recovery and the more fully we can bless others. Special guest Grandmother Mary Lyons, Ojibwe Elder, Grandmothers Council Member, and member of Women of Wellbriety International, shares wisdom teachings on the spiritual oneness of all people. Grandmother Mary is Niiah-Nibi-Ikwe “Second Water Woman,” Elder of Mitigwakk-Daywaygus-Giwstashskad “Water Drum Circle,” senior member of the “Top Hat Medicine Dress/Long Skirt Society,” spiritual advisor, storyteller, and wisdom teacher.

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Students in Recovery—Vital Members of the College Community

Wed, 22 Nov 2017 04:00:00 -0000

What’s it like to be a student working to maintain quality sobriety within a college campus party culture? Challenging! Special guest Sierra Castedo, director of the Center for Students in Recovery at UT-Austin, shares how CSR provides a safe space and supportive community for students in recovery or seeking recovery from addiction. CSR demonstrates that recovery works and can be part of a genuine college experience.

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Keeping It Positive!

Wed, 25 Oct 2017 02:00:00 -0000

Positive psychology focuses on principles and practices that keep us grounded in appreciation of the good in ourselves and in our lives. Special guest David Houke, LMSW, LCDC, director of programs at Austin Recovery, shares how this positive approach empowers long-term recovery. With 26 years’ experience as a clinician and as a person in long-term recovery, David brings a wealth of experience in supporting individuals and the recovery community. Dedicated to helping clients embrace change, David is unequivocal when it comes to his philosophy on treatment. “I believe that 100 percent of the people who seek treatment can stay sober,” he says. “I do not believe that relapse is a requirement.”

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Joy and Gratitude

Wed, 11 Oct 2017 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery changes our lives. Before recovery, special guest Jacquelyn Woodroffe had been a successful professional singer, published songwriter, and musician for many years. Her resume included being a recording artist for Capitol Records and a couple of indie labels. In a difficult divorce, she lost all her music—and turned her life around. Coming into recovery and into the spiritual principles of Unity, Jacquelyn let go of how it had been. She kept writing music, recording, and singing—but a very different kind of music! Jacquelyn, a person in long-term recovery, is the music director of Unity Way Church in Vista, California. She shares her music and what makes her life today full of joy and gratitude.

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Listening for God—The Practice of Step 11

Wed, 04 Oct 2017 02:00:00 -0000

Why practice Step 11? Because it grows your relationship with spiritual power—and that’s what recovery is all about. Conscious contact with our higher power gives us direction, guidance, love, and peace. Special guest, author and Unity minister Allen Liles, shares the profound, loving bond he developed with his higher power when life circumstances brought him to a renewed commitment to daily time in the Silence with God. Allen claims no special relationship with God. He believes that each of us can access the holy presence by becoming open and receptive to sitting with God in meditation on a regular basis. Allen’s book about this experience is titled Sitting With God: Meditating for God’s Divine Guidance.

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Trust HP and You’ll Get Where You Need to Be!

Wed, 27 Sep 2017 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery is not always a straight path. Spiritual growth is a spiral touching into our spiritual core and then reaching out into our human experience, always bringing the two together. Our higher power keeps us growing—we just need to stay willing and open. Special guest Rev. Paul Fitzsimons, a person in long-term recovery, shares how his life quest for spiritual fulfillment led to recovery and a life of spiritual service. Paul is the recently ordained spiritual leader of Unity Fellowship Church in Williamsburg, Virginia. He is a retired U.S. Army civilian, having returned to work for the Army in training and audiovisual engineering following 9/11.

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Recovery and Creativity—Living From the Inside Out

Wed, 13 Sep 2017 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery and creativity demand that we have a connection with our inner life. Yes, many people do create even when they are in active addiction or active enabling of a loved one’s addictive behavior. Yet something shifts when we get into recovery. We learn to walk through the darkness rather than camp out in it. We come out on the other side into a new experience of light. Special guest Leonard Buschel, CADCA, publisher, and substance abuse counselor, is the founder of Writers in Treatment, the Reel Recovery Film Festival, and Recovery/Addiction eBulletin. He shares what it means to find the divine connection.

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We’re All One—Really

Wed, 06 Sep 2017 02:00:00 -0000

Spiritually, we are all sisters and brothers. Recovery invites us to act like it! When we stop fearing other people and start communicating with them, life gets a lot more fun. Special guest Greg Tamblyn has pondered this invitation through music and laughter for many years. An award-winning speaker-humorist-singer-songwriter for more than 20 years, Greg combines outstanding audience rapport with an irreverent sense of humor. He captivates audiences with a wealth of powerful material about the relationship of lifestyle, music, and laughter to effectiveness and wellness. Greg shares his music and original perspectives on how we get out of fear and into connection. Be prepared to laugh, cry, and just plain enjoy.

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Relax on Impact—Empowering Lasting Change

Wed, 30 Aug 2017 02:00:00 -0000

We are spiritual beings having a human experience. Trying to navigate that paradox can sometimes feel like we are heading for a big crash! Therapist and author Jill Haire has created a supportive guide to living our spiritual values in our human expression. Her program “Relax on Impact” guides and supports 12-step recovery and relationship communication. “Inner children” and teachable adults will discover the solid connection between body, mind, and spirit. She offers emotional literacy and communication skills that support dimensional 12-step recovery and psychotherapy to process family-of-origin issues.

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Two Way Prayer—An 11-Step Tool Rediscovered

Wed, 02 Aug 2017 02:00:00 -0000

A.A. pioneers used Two Way Prayer as a daily practice—in fact, they considered it more essential for recovery than attendance at meetings. By listening each morning and following their guidance, these women and men entered into a new and transforming relationship with their God. Grounded in this practice, they achieved recovery rates far higher than today’s. Throughout the years, Two Way Prayer was gradually lost as a component of contemporary 12-step programs. Special guest Father Bill W., an episcopal priest, shares how Two Way Prayer works, how it has been adapted to a more contemporary form, and the promising results of a recent study. Father Bill is a person in long-term recovery from alcohol addiction since 1972. He is the former chair of recovery ministries for the Episcopal Diocese of Texas, a recovery and family therapist, and retired president and CEO of Austin Recovery. Learn more at twowayprayer.org and friendsofdrbob.org.

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Recovery High Schools—What Every Recovering Teen Deserves

Wed, 26 Jul 2017 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery from a substance use disorder is challenging for anyone—but even more so for teens. They face the regular pressures of moving from childhood into adulthood, while also learning how to stay clean and sober. Rev. Anna Shouse is joined by Julie McElrath, LMSW, LCDC, who is the executive director of University High School in Austin, Texas, a school dedicated to supporting teens in recovery from drug and alcohol dependency. Julie and a student currently enrolled in UHS share what a recovery high school is and how it supports students’ abilities to fulfill their personal and academic potential. Learn more at uhighschool.com.

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Forgiveness—Is It Worth It? Yes!

Wed, 19 Jul 2017 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery happens as we know that although we may have the disease of addiction or the family disease of enabling, the disease does not have us. This is what special guest Bill Worth told his doctor 28 years ago when he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Spiritual principles of recovery and healing apply, no matter what the concern. Bill shares his personal story in his latest book Outwitting Multiple Sclerosis: How Forgiveness Helped Me Heal My Brain by Changing My Mind. How did he change his mind? By intentionally making forgiveness of himself and others his healing path. Bill spent almost 30 years as a newspaper journalist in Ohio and Hawaii. He then became a Unity minister, retiring from active ministry in 2009 to devote the “third half” of his life to writing inspirational fiction and nonfiction.

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Singing the Song of Your Heart

Wed, 12 Jul 2017 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery invites us to discover and sing the song of our heart. Since it has the power to uncover truths that lay deep within our heart, music is an essential part of our recovery tool kit. Special guest Alan Peterson, New Thought singer/songwriter, poet, speaker, activist, and life coach, made a courageous decision many years ago to sing the song of his creative heart. It changed his life. With his playful, positive, and sometimes rebellious approach, Alan shares some of the songs of his heart and how music calls us into healing, creativity, and joyful awakened living.

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Spirit-Mind-Body—The Unity Focus on Healing

Wed, 21 Jun 2017 02:00:00 -0000

Making conscious connections with wholeness and well-being is the key to healing and recovery. Self-awareness, self-responsibility, prayer, and meditation are the building blocks of those connections. Twelve-step programs, influenced in part by Unity and other New Thought approaches, make powerful use of these methods. Special guest Mark Hicks, founder of truthunity.net, a place for the study, practice, and sharing of classic Unity teachings, is steeped in the understanding of Unity healing methods and how they have influenced the recovery movement. He shares Unity healing principles, how they were developed, and how to put them to use in recovery and beyond. Mark provides live classes, online audio, and video streaming of many great Unity teachers and pioneers. The site also offers novel ways to study Unity classic teachings through hyperlinking and multimedia.

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Loving Yourself Is a Spiritual Action

Wed, 07 Jun 2017 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery means a whole new way of learning to love yourself. Addiction or enabling someone’s addiction makes us fearful and selfish. And that’s very different from being self-loving! Special guest Chris Shea, M.A., CRAT, CAC-AD, addiction counselor, campus minister, life coach, nationally recognized speaker, and author, shares what loving yourself means and why it is a powerful spiritual action. Chris shows how psychology and spirituality work together to create self-respect and self-valuing that add up to healthy self-love. Chris’s personal and professional philosophy focuses on two basic concepts that bring self-awareness and inner peace: keeping our thoughts on the present moment and practicing some form of daily meditation.

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Free From Hate, Free to Live, Free to Help

Wed, 31 May 2017 02:00:00 -0000

Entering recovery from alcoholism started a powerful transformation for special guest Scott Shepherd. By taking a long, honest look at himself ,he began to move from racist to active nonracist. As a very misguided, unhappy young person trying to escape the pain of family alcoholism, Scott chose a life of racism. Even though he didn’t really feel the racist things he preached, Scott wanted to belong, to fit in, to be part of a family. Today Scott is grateful to be free of what had trapped him. He is on a mission of education and self-education with the hope of helping prevent other people, mainly younger people, from falling victim to the racist recruitment traps and tactics used by racist organizations. Scott shares how recovery transformed his life and how he helps others.

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Surrender and Service—Practices for Recovery

Wed, 17 May 2017 02:00:00 -0000

Practice doesn’t necessarily make perfect—but spiritual practices make whole! Loosening our grip on how we think things “ought” to be frees us to surrender into love and wisdom. Taking action through service to others is the joyful “rent” we pay for expanding recovery. Special guest Margaret Flick, a person in long-term recovery and a Unity minister, believes that prayer, gratitude, compassion, and an open and receptive mind are prime ingredients for a heart-centered, thoughtful, peaceful, and joyful life. Rev. Margaret is the minister of Unity of Santa Rosa and a 2010 graduate of the Unity Institute® and Seminary Master of Divinity program. Rev. Margaret volunteers for the Lake County Hospice bereavement program and is a frequent guest speaker. Learn more about her ministry at unityofsantarosa.com.

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Let It Shine!

Wed, 10 May 2017 02:00:00 -0000

Every person is God’s light in human form. Recovery is about discovering it, uncovering it, and letting it shine! Special guest Joanna Gabriel is a survivor of classism, sexism, and racism. She has overcome cancer, mental health issues, and two rocky marriages. Rev. Joanna is a retired Unity minister, a hospital and hospice chaplain, a powerful singer, and an inspiring songwriter. Happier and emotionally healthier at age 71 than she has ever been, she shares how living her life on a spiritual basis has given her the strength, love, and wisdom to let her life shine.

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The 12-Step Path of Wisdom

Wed, 03 May 2017 02:00:00 -0000

There’s more to recovery than staying sober and clean or free of obsession with another person. The 12 steps of recovery are a wisdom path to spiritual living. Special guest Rev. Dr. Jane Galloway is a person in long-term recovery, an ordained minister, and a highly successful stage and screen actor. Her book The Gateways: The Wisdom of 12-Step Spirituality presents the 12 steps squarely in the context of 21st-century spirituality with breadth, skill, sensitivity, and practical actions. These ideas help readers of any faith (or of none) experience profound spiritual awakening. Rev. Dr. Galloway shares her perspective on a new way of working the 12 steps that incorporates the full spectrum of spiritual practices available to us today.

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Choosing to Live a Life of Joy

Wed, 22 Mar 2017 02:00:00 -0000

Even in long-term recovery, life can throw us curveballs. How can we use our spiritual recovery tools to face life with faith in joy? Special guest Ray Nelson, Unity minister and person in long-term recovery, was diagnosed in 2014 with end-stage kidney disease. While living with a chronic disease can be difficult, he has found that a full, happy, and joy-filled life is all about making choices. Ray shares how he chooses to see his condition as a gift—an opportunity to live life to the fullest—and as a way to help others do the same. A 2011 graduate of Unity Institute® and Seminary and an ordained Unity minister, Rev. Ray is the senior minister at Unity of Louisville, Kentucky. He is a member of the National Speakers Association and has spoken at Unity churches and to community groups throughout the Midwest and Great Lakes' regions. Ray is an alternate member of the Great Lakes Unity Regional Board and on the Board of Directors for the House of Ruth, a social service agency serving HIV/AIDS homeless men and woman in Louisville, Kentucky.

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No One Is Alone

Wed, 15 Mar 2017 02:00:00 -0000

One out of every five people struggles with mental illness. Too often, it can feel like a dark secret that isolates those suffering from it. Ignoring it is not an option. As friends and family members, we want to help but don’t know how. If we ourselves are experiencing mental illness, we want to find the way to healing. Special guest Felicia Johnson is the author of the best-selling novel Her, a story of endurance, survival, and finding hope from within. She is also a speaker, child abuse survivor, and mental health advocate with more than 10 years' experience in the mental health field. Johnson is committed to reducing the stigma and isolation of mental illness through community education, youth advocacy, and supporting families.

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Recovery—Active and Engaged!

Wed, 08 Mar 2017 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery gets us out of self-centeredness and into living. We are freed and strengthened to participate fully in our communities. Special guest Sandy McKinney, Unity minister celebrating more than 42 years of recovery, has a passion for social justice and interfaith community. She shares how recovery supports and motivates her active engagement in leadership to create a healthier, just, inclusive world. Having run a successful political campaign, Sandra represents District 2 of the Eau Claire, Wisconsin, County Board Supervisors. She also serves as the interfaith chaplain for the Luginbill Children’s Foundation. Recently retired from 15 years as senior minister of Unity Christ Center of Eau Claire, she also participates in Joining Our Neighbors Advancing Hope (JONAH) interfaith communities and It Can Be Done Africa—a project bringing clean water to the villages of Uru in Tanzania.

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Free to Love—Resetting the Patterns That Keep Us Lonely

Wed, 22 Feb 2017 04:00:00 -0000

A lot of what we learned about love relationships we learned in our family or circumstances of origin. Recovery makes it possible to learn new ways of relating. With awareness and commitment, we can recover our sense of self and our ability to develop truly loving, fulfilling relationships. Special guest John Herald Lee is an international best-selling author and speaker and one of the founding members of the men's movement. He shares how men and women can clarify and dismantle counterproductive dynamics of male-female relationships in a nonshaming, nonblaming way. John’s latest book is Breaking the Mother-Son Dynamic: Resetting the Patterns of a Man’s Life and Loves. Also, on March 24, in Austin, Texas, John will be the keynote speaker at the ninth annual It Happens to Boys Conference, the premiere conference addressing the effects and healing tools for male survivors of sexual abuse, their partners, and families. Learn more at creativechangeconferences.com and johnleebooks.com.

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We Are Willing to Grow Along Spiritual Lines

Wed, 15 Feb 2017 04:00:00 -0000

What does it mean to grow spiritually—and by the way, how do you do it? Recovery pioneers, the early members of Alcoholics Anonymous, wondered the same thing. Burned by traditional religion, they sought new ways to understand spirituality. One of their guides was Emmet Fox’s Sermon on the Mount. Special guest Roxanne Graves, a person in long-term recovery of 31 years and a Unity minister, shares how the wisdom from this profound book gives fresh, powerful insights for recovering people today. Rev. Roxanne serves as associate minister at Christ Church Unity in Orlando, Florida. She facilitates a spiritual education program that serves Unity students, both nationally and internationally. She also mentors ministerial students and congregants as they travel along their individual spiritual journeys.

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Fear of Economic Insecurity Will Leave Us

Wed, 08 Feb 2017 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery makes it possible for us to focus our minds and hearts on constructive living—and that means losing our fear of economic insecurity. There’s no magic formula for “getting rich,” yet there are spiritual attitudes that open us to financial partnership with our higher power. Security and fulfillment of our divine purpose are the results. Special guest Greg Barrette shares spiritual approaches to abundance that bring us into a reassuring, closer relationship with our higher power. Greg has been practicing spiritual principles for most of his life, and has known and learned from many authentic spiritual teachers. He was born and raised in Unity and has been a Unity minister for 35 years. Formerly the director of the International Youth of Unity, he served as first vice president of the International New Thought Alliance, was elected president of four Unity regions, and has led some of our most successful churches. His audio CD, The Gift of Healing/Sleeping, is the Unity all-time best-seller. Greg is currently senior minister of Unity Northwest Church in Des Plaines, Illinois.

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Limiting Beliefs? You Don’t Need Them!

Wed, 01 Feb 2017 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery opens the door for us to grow into who we truly are—to express our innate talents and potential. To fulfill that potential, we are called to face up to and release old limiting beliefs about ourselves. Special guest Greg Franklin, a leader in business and a spiritual teacher, shares how incorporating spiritual principles into his daily life has led him to business success surpassing his expectations. A graduate of Morehouse College and two-time class president, Greg is currently enrolled in ministerial studies at the Hillside International Truth Center under the leadership of Bishop Dr. Barbara Lewis King. Greg studied at Unity and has served on the board of Unity Palo Alto Community Church. With the volatile race relationships in our country, Greg, as an African American man, has as his mission to show up as the face of love, bringing spirituality to people of all colors, gender identifications, and sexual orientations.

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Keep It Simple, Sweetie!

Wed, 18 Jan 2017 04:00:00 -0000

Simplicity is the key to serenity. When life gets complicated, take a breath, let go, and let order into your day. Without the frenzy you will have plenty of power to create a fulfilling day. Special guest Peggy K. is a family member affected by the disease of addiction. She is in her own long-term recovery as a family member. She is a Unity minister, committed to her own spiritual growth and to facilitating the spiritual growth of others. Peggy shares spiritual insights and practices that ground us in serenity.

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Tapping Into the Healing Power of Art

Wed, 11 Jan 2017 04:00:00 -0000

Art is a powerful tool for self-expression, creating an avenue for feelings, intuition, and insight. Tapping into the healing power of art does not require “talent,” but simply a willingness to open to your inner life. Engaging in art can support strong, long-term recovery. Special guest Robin M. Gilliam has been in long-term recovery since February 6, 1991. She climbed her way out of the hole of the desperation of addiction and domestic violence to become a CPA, artist, and author. Her novel Gift of Desperation is a provocative story of hope and inspiration wound around Robin’s real artwork. Robin’s Recovery Art Studio offers many resources. She shares her journey and the ways art powerfully supports recovery.

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Inner Light for the Holidays, With Lonnie Vanderslice

Wed, 21 Dec 2016 04:00:00 -0000

Winter holidays are an invitation to find the light inside us. We don‘t have to get caught up in shopping frenzies, emotionally charged memories, family tensions, or gloomy weather. Keeping our focus on our spiritual program, self-care, and supportive connections nourishes and turns up the love light inside. Special guest Lonnie Vanderslice shares how her commitment to recovery principles and Unity wisdom keeps her inner light strong and glowing. Lonnie, an ordained Unity minister and a person in long-term recovery, is the senior minister at Unity of Spirit, bringing together the spiritual principles of recovery and Unity. She is also the co-owner and vice president of Weave Gotcha Covered, a “100 Jobs” program participant. Learn more about Lonnie’s work at unityofspirit.org and in "Beyond the Walls" and "Thrice Blessed."

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Angel Power, Angel Love

Wed, 14 Dec 2016 04:00:00 -0000

Angels come in many forms—as deep intuition, as caring people, and sometimes as welcome yet unexpected visitors! Being receptive to our higher power’s love and guidance in whatever form it comes is a rich gift of recovery. Special Guest Billye Jones is an author, a licensed Unity teacher, and a family member with more than 40 years' experience living a program of family recovery. She shares from her deep experience with angels in all forms. She is the author of The Essence of Loving and Angel Power, Angel Love, and coauthor of Women Pioneers in 12 Step Recovery. From her rich immersion in spiritual writing, study, living, and service, and the fulfillment that is possible for families, Billye brings inspiration and hope.

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Gratitude and Grace, With Melinda Wood Allen

Wed, 07 Dec 2016 04:00:00 -0000

Gratitude opens our awareness to the awesome abundance of goodness. Gratitude makes room for Spirit’s action in our lives and creates space for grace. Special guest Rev. Melinda Wood Allen shares her life-changing encounters with gratitude and grace, and her powerful original music. Melinda is a spiritual speaker, teacher, workshop facilitator, and award-winning singer/songwriter with more than 29 years' experience in New Thought ministries. She combines her knowledge of spiritual principles with her love of music to present moving programs that can be life-changing. She speaks in Unity and CSL churches and community centers across the country as well as in prisons and to addiction recovery groups. Melinda completed her ministerial studies at One Spirit Interfaith Seminary and was ordained in June 2016.

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Have Recovery, Will Travel—Hope for Ex-Pats and Other Intrepid Travelers

Wed, 30 Nov 2016 04:00:00 -0000

With commitment and hard work, you can take your recovery with you wherever you travel or live. Even when you live in a country where there is little or no recovery community, you can still work the principles, maintain freedom from addictive behaviors, and grow. Special guest Kay D., a Unity student in long-term recovery from the serious disease of food addiction, has traveled the world, remained abstinent, and developed her spiritual life. Kay shares how she has kept the principles of recovery with her. She has made a conscious decision to tap into Unity principles while overseas, even though she had no face-to-face contact with Unity communities.

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Project Sanctuary Brings Hope

Wed, 23 Nov 2016 04:00:00 -0000

Military service takes a big toll on both the service members and their families. Project Sanctuary helps military families reconnect with each other and with their communities. Through a program of professionally led therapeutic retreats, this nonprofit organization “takes military families from battle ready to family ready.” Designed from feedback from the families themselves, Project Sanctuary helps them heal together and build skills to thrive and establish hope. Guest Scott Lee, MA, LPC, is the Lead Counselor and an ardent supporter of the work Project Sanctuary does with military families and PTSD. Scott has been working as an independent contractor with Project Sanctuary since 2011. He has master’s degrees in marriage and family therapy (MFT) and Counseling. Learn more at projectsanctuary.us.

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Finding Spirit Within the Everyday

Wed, 26 Oct 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Finding Spirit within everyday experiences is what creates recovery. By being grounded in gratitude, love, and joy in life’s simplicity, we are energized to keep growing. Special guest Rev. Laurie Durgan, spiritual director at Caron Renaissance Treatment Center and associate minister at Unity of Delray Beach, Florida, as well as a person in long-term recovery, shares how she supports recovering people in making their personal connection with Spirit in their everyday lives.

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Sharing Helps Addicts in Recovery—the SHAIR Podcast

Wed, 19 Oct 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery podcasts are a powerful, easy-to-access resource. They bring experience, strength, and hope through inspiring personal stories, practical wisdom, and new insights. Special guest Omar is the host and founder of the SHAIR Podcast, and a person in long-term recovery. His passion for recovery and podcasting came together to create SHAIR. Omar’s weekly interviews with recovering alcoholics and addicts reach out around the world and touch lives. The stories of success make a positive impact on SHAIR’s listeners—and on Omar and his interviewee.

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The Yoga of Recovery—Y12SR

Wed, 05 Oct 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Yoga, an ancient spiritual practice that integrates body, mind, and spirit, supports deep healing in recovery. Y12SR—Yoga of 12-Step Recovery was developed to “heal the issues that live in the tissues.” Special guest Gloria Uridel, a registered yoga teacher with the Yoga Alliance, a certified Y12SR yoga instructor, and a person in long-term recovery, has taught yoga since 2000. She shares why yoga is a part of her personal recovery journey and how the Y12SR group he leads enhances all who participate.

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Generation Found! Igniting a Youth Recovery Revolution

Wed, 28 Sep 2016 02:00:00 -0000

One of the largest cities in America, Houston, Texas, decided that continuing to bury and lock up its young people was not an option. A wide spectrum of community leaders came together to build the world’s largest peer-driven youth and family recovery network. The new film Generation Found takes a look at how it works. Special guest Mario Diurno, outreach coordinator for Generation Found and a person in long-term recovery, shares how a community can come together to intervene early and provide a real and tested long-term alternative to the “War on Drugs.”

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Spirituality That Nurtures Children—Including the Child Within

Wed, 21 Sep 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Religious, cultural, and spiritual beliefs and faith communities can be a great source of comfort, strength, and inspiration for young people and adults. Unfortunately, religion can also carry an unrecognized shadow side, resulting in the harmful misuse of power. Oftentimes people in recovery must heal painful childhood experiences with religion in order to develop a genuinely nurturing spiritual life. Special guest Janet Heimlich is the founder of the Child-Friendly Faith Project, which partners with faith communities in their efforts to ensure that religious and cultural teachings and practices are nurturing for children and do not cause harm. Janet is an award-winning journalist and the author of Breaking Their Will: Shedding Light on Religious Child Maltreatment. She shares what child-friendly faith is and why it matters.

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Music That Heals the Soul

Wed, 14 Sep 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Music is a natural expression of our deepest self. Finding the music in our own soul helps us heal and moves us into new connections with ourselves and others. Spcial guest Kathy Moser, an award-winning professional musician in long-term recovery, gives recovery performances and songwriting workshops for recovering people. Her workshops are not only fun—they develop practical recovery skills. Kathy has presented at The Meadows, Rutgers’ Summer Institute, Caron Texas, Father Martin’s Ashley, Alina Lodge, Gosnold on Cape Cod, and many more. She shares her newest recovery music and what is happening in her exciting creative work with recovering people. Learn more about Kathy’s work at sonicbids.com/band/musicforrecovery.

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To Be Yourself Takes Courage!

Wed, 07 Sep 2016 02:00:00 -0000

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you into something else is the greatest accomplishment,” wrote Ralph Waldo Emerson. It takes great courage to take a stand with yourself—quieting old voices that would tell you that who you are is just not enough. Special guest Brent Uzell, licensed Unity teacher and spiritual leader, shares how authentic spirituality gives us the strength to live from our center. He discusses how shame can short-circuit that process. Brent tells how we can engage in healing shame by recognizing it and developing skills to create a nourishing relationship with ourselves and other people. Brent has been active in spiritual leadership for many years, has studied, lived, and taught the value of self-love, and creates bridges across faith and cultural differences.

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Singing Spirit

Wed, 31 Aug 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery means reclaiming that in us which is precious—our wholeness. It is about so much more than stopping the use of a substance, a behavior, or a distorted focus on another person’s problems. Recovery means finding our spirit and letting it sing! Special guest Anji Kat is an award-winning inspirational singer/songwriter and motivational speaker with more than 20 years' experience in health, wellness, yoga, and the arts. She weaves together these elements with insightful life lessons and divine inspiration to craft songs and messages that lead others to the wisdom and power within. Anji shares her inspiring music and how she lets her spirit sing.

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A Thousand Screaming Monkeys

Wed, 24 Aug 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery happens as we honestly share our lives. Special guest Kevin Hart writes, “If someone would have told me that someday I’d write a book sharing what it is like to be an alcoholic and drug addict, fully disclosing all my shortcomings in a very candid way, I probably would have laughed and downed another drink. But, that is just what has been done. Why? The real answer: I am not sure. Nonetheless, it took years to complete A Thousand Screaming Monkeys. It was written for all who seek a better way to live.” Kevin is a person in long-term recovery, an author, publisher, Unity student, and active in bringing the message of recovery to those who are incarcerated. He shares his true story and what has happened in his life since he began asking, “Can I allow myself to go beyond the smaller problems of life and be guided in a more fulfilling way than trying to control situations and outcomes?”

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Healing From Within

Wed, 17 Aug 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery comes from within. Of course, we engage the support of mentors and resources—yet ultimately recovery from addiction comes from the willingness to shift our internal attitudes and outer behaviors. Recovery is our Higher Power’s invitation to love ourselves more fully. The same is true of recovery from other diseases. Special guest Richard C., a person in long-term recovery since 1974, is a Unity student and teacher of tai chi and chi qong, blogger, and spiritual retreat leader. Richard is a student of internationally-renowned expert Kevin Chen, Ph.D., an associate professor in the Center for Integrative Medicine and Department of Psychiatry at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Dr. Chen investigates the use of Chinese energy therapy for treating osteoarthritis, addiction, and cancer. Richard shares how the principles of self-care learned in addiction recovery are also the foundation of healing from cancer.

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It Takes a Village— How Connection Supports Long-Term Recovery

Wed, 10 Aug 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Long-term recovery does not happen in a vacuum. Individuals make connections with themselves, higher spiritual values, other recovering people, and with healthy lifestyle actions more readily within a larger recovery affirmative environment. Communities that understand addiction, that have supportive norms, laws, ethics, and social and employment supports, are essential. Special guest David Houke, LMSW, LCDC, director of programs at Austin Recovery, shares how connections with self, spiritual values, other people, and in communities create the context for long-term recovery. With 25 years’ experience as a clinician and as a person in long-term recovery, David brings a wealth of experience in supporting individuals and the recovery community. Dedicated to helping clients embrace change, David is unequivocal when it comes to his philosophy on treatment. “I believe that 100 percent of the people who seek treatment can stay sober,” he says. “I do not believe that relapse is a requirement.” Learn more about David’s work at austinrecovery.org.

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The Gift of a Broken Wing

Wed, 03 Aug 2016 02:00:00 -0000

In recovery what was broken becomes our greatest gift. We realize that true strength is within us and in the genuine supportive connections we make with other people. Guest Davis S. is a person in long-term recovery from serious addiction to prescription opioid pain medication. He shares his journey to sustained recovery and how his amazing encounter with a monarch butterfly brought him the courage to embrace his life. At age 50, following a suggestion made by his treatment program counselor, he returned to graduate school and obtained two master’s degrees in counseling. He is now employed as a drug and alcohol counselor to bring some hope to those who suffer from addiction.

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A Life With Hope—Recovery Through Marijuana Anonymous

Wed, 20 Jul 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Marijuana Anonymous is a fellowship of people who share experience, strength, and hope that they may solve their common problem and help others recover from marijuana addiction. Based in the 12 Steps adapted from Alcoholics Anonymous, the MA program supports growth through a spiritual housecleaning. This cultivates self-awareness, a growing relationship with one’s higher power, and freedom from fear. Rick, an MA member in long-term recovery, shares his experience of addiction to marijuana and the process and gifts of his recovery. Learn more about the MA program at marijuana-anonymous.org.

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Success-Full or Stress-Full? A Fresh Look at Success

Wed, 15 Jun 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Being in recovery opens us to a new understanding of success. We realize that comparing ourselves to others while striving to meet unrealistic outer demands robs us of peace of mind and self-worth. It can even derail our recovery. Special guest Chris Shea, M.A., CRAT, CAC-AD, addiction counselor, campus minister, life coach, nationally recognized speaker and author, shares what happens when we shift from an outer definition of success to one defined by our own values. Chris’ personal and professional philosophy focuses on two basic concepts that bring self-awareness and inner peace: keeping our thoughts on the present moment, and practicing some form of daily meditation.

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Music to Our Ears—Life-Saving Mental Health Services for the Music Industry

Wed, 08 Jun 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Musicians deal with intensified stress—exposure to public evaluation, extended time away from family, nonstable income, and constant pressure to creative excellence. When a young Austin musician lost his battle with depression in 1995, his grieving father and friends galvanized Austin’s close-knit music community to create a unique organization offering mental health services to local musicians. The SIMS Foundation continues to provide affordable lifesaving services to musicians and their families when they need them most. Special guest Jennifer Vocelka, assistant clinical director of SIMS, shares how this organization works and how it is supported by a broad cross-section of the community in the "Live Music Capital of the World."

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Finding Your Spirit Without Losing Your Mind

Wed, 01 Jun 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Do you have to give up your intellect, intelligence, and rational thinking processes in order to live a spiritual life? Not so, says special guest Gudjon Bergmann. Actually living authentic spirituality demands that you explore and honor all of these aspects of yourself. Nonfiction author and novelist Gudjon Bergmann has a varied background. Prolific and industrious writer, professional speaker, mindful yoga teacher, devoted father, meditation practitioner, integral philosopher, loving husband, avid reader, instigator of dialogues, and a nature aficionado are all terms that describe this Icelandic-born United States citizen. Not content with presenting one-size-fits-all solutions, Gudjon promotes nuanced approaches to personal development and emphasizes self-reliance. His debut novel, The Meditating Psychiatrist Who Tried to Kill Himself, is now available.

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Overeaters Anonymous: 12-Step Recovery From Compulsive Eating

Wed, 25 May 2016 02:00:00 -0000

The Overeaters Anonymous program offers physical, emotional, and spiritual recovery for those who suffer from compulsive eating—which can show up as many different patterns of food behavior. The concept of abstinence, rather than dieting, is the basis of O.A.’s 12-step program—a set of principles that promote constructive inner change. O.A. is open to anyone who has a desire to stop eating compulsively. Special guest Jill T., a member of O.A., shares her own personal journey to recovery.

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Addicted to Love? There Is a Solution

Wed, 18 May 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Addiction is a disease—not a disgrace. Current research strongly suggests that sexual or “love” addiction not only exists, but in fact manifests in the brain and in behavior in very similar ways to other recognized forms of addiction like alcoholism. Special guest Bridget Wilson, founder of Solutions Auckland, specializes in treating people with sex and love addiction. She shares what this addiction is and how one can recover. Bridget studied at the prestigious Hazelden Graduate School of Addiction Studies in Minnesota and is registered with the New Zealand Addiction Practitioners' Association. She is the author of the novel Addicted to Love, an inside, thought-provoking look at sex and love addiction.

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When Spirit Calls, Just Say Yes!

Wed, 11 May 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Spirituality enters our life always through unexpected means. Often we wake up because we met a difficulty we cannot surmount through our usual external methods. What seemed like a failure turns out to be the opening for God’s call. Special guest Don Seiler, Unity spiritual leader and a person in long-term recovery, shares how he said yes, and why he keeps saying it. Rev. Seiler is a United States Army veteran pilot and has been a commercial pilot, a strength coach in the National Football League, corporate wellness consultant, hospital executive, an addictions counselor, and IT administrator. He serves as the spiritual leader of Unity of North Houston and is on the path to ordination as a Unity minister in the Field Licensing Program. Learn more about Rev. Seiler and read his blog at unitynorthhouston.org/.

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The Soldier’s Heart Model of Transformation

Wed, 04 May 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Special guest Edward Tick, Ph.D., cofounder with his wife Kate Dalstedt, M.A., of Soldier’s Heart and author of War and the Soul, has worked with veterans for more than 30 years. He coleads powerful healing workshops for military veterans, family members, and healing professionals. These experiences integrate psychological, spiritual, and relational approaches that address the whole person and the fabric of the larger community. Dr. Tick also coleads journeys of healing and reconciliation to Vietnam and Greece. He shares how the power of spiritual healing helps veterans recover and rebuild a transformed sense of self, shrink trauma, and restore wounded dimensions of soul and world. Dr. Tick presented a post-traumatic stress disorder healing workshop at Unity Village on March 16. Learn more about his work at soldiersheart.net.

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Families Hurt, Families Can Heal—The Power of the Soldier’s Heart Military Families Project

Wed, 27 Apr 2016 02:00:00 -0000

“They also serve who only stand and wait.” War creates trauma, wounding not only soldiers themselves, but also their families and communities. Both substance and process addictions are commonly part of the pain. The Soldier’s Heart model of healing, developed by special guest Kate Dahlstedt, M.A., and Edward Tick, Ph.D., is a spiritual, holistic, and community-based healing approach for veterans, families, and communities. Kate shares how this powerful recovery process helps families heal. Kate has a master’s degree in clinical psychology as well as postgraduate certification from the Hartford Family Institute and is a published writer. She founded Soldier’s Heart with her husband and partner Dr. Edward Tick after his book, War and the Soul, was published in 2005. Kate directs the Soldier’s Heart Military Families Project and Athena’s Shield for Women Project. Learn more about her work at soldiersheart.net.

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What Matters Most

Wed, 20 Apr 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery opens the door to what matters most—living fearlessly and authentically, connecting with our soul, and engaging spirituality from connection with our full spectrum self. Special guest Rudy England shares his experience of the richness that comes from engaging with the Jungian concepts of shadow, wholeness, and soul. An ordained Unity minister, Rudy is an accomplished writer and speaker, and teaches classes on a variety of topics including spirituality, religion, ethics, and legislation. He has been a business trial attorney, political campaign manager, political media and campaign strategist, church minister, and radio station manager. Rudy is the chief of staff of Rep. Doug Miller of Texas and director and general counsel for the House Committee on Special Purpose Districts at the Texas House of Representatives. He teaches contract law in the Paralegal Certificate Program at the University of Texas at Austin Center for Professional Education. Rudy chairs the State Bar of Texas Public Affairs Committee and is president of the Capitol of Texas Rotary Club.

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Spirituality and Vitality—Making the Connection

Wed, 06 Apr 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery opens the door to energy, vitality, and creativity—in other words, to our spiritual life. Special guest Melinda Wood Allen, singer/songwriter/actress/choral director, shares her music and how she finds the connection between her vitality and her spirituality. Melinda considers recovery principles a vital spiritual path, right along with Unity and New Thought. She sings in Unity and other New Thought churches and shares her music with a variety of recovery groups. Melinda is an accomplished artist who performs in many genres, from musical theatre to classical to jazz to gospel to folk. She has appeared with Fort Worth Opera, Southwestern Opera Theatre, toured widely with the Fort Worth Symphony's Best of Broadway series, and joined the Texas tour of the Michael Martin Murphy Band, singing country music (and yodeling), and regularly performs at Dallas-Fort Worth musical theater venues.

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Are You Doing What You Came Here to Do? Time to Get With It!

Wed, 30 Mar 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Every one of us has a spiritual purpose. Willingness to fulfill it dissolves that old feeling of uselessness and self-pity. All that we learned in the midst of addictive disease prepares us, in recovery, to give from spiritual depth and meaning. Special guest Marilyn Davis shares her story of finding her purpose and where it has led her. She is a recovery curriculum author who advocates for and writes to the addicted population. Marilyn opened and ran an award-winning women’s recovery home for 21 years. She created the TIERS process, focusing on empowerment through healthy choices and constructive relationships. Marilyn recently celebrated 27 years of abstinence-based recovery. Her book Finding North: A Woman's Journey From Addict 2 Advocate will be published in 2016. Marilyn blogs at fromaddict2advocate.blogspot.com and twodropsofinkat.wordpress.com, which was named one of the 100 best sites for writers in 2016. Learn more about TIERS at tiersrecovery.net.

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Dare to Live From Your True Self

Wed, 23 Mar 2016 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery gives us the opportunity to live our real lives—from the inside out. There is a lot to learn—and unlearn—as we grow into and become our true selves. As we do, we discover that our life is filled with untold joy and meaning. Special guest Sandra Felt, LCSW, is the author of Beyond the Good Girl Jail: When You Dare to Live From Your True Self. A grateful recovering “good girl” herself, Sandra shares how any of us—women and men—can find and identify our true sense of self, become at home with ourselves, and rebuild our lives from our authentic center. Sandra shares helpful, concrete examples from her personal life, client stories from her more than 30 years of private practice treating courageous survivors of trauma and neglect, and through her original poetry. She is a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work and a Certified Trauma-Informed Practitioner, and trains therapists at national conferences. Sandra also loves hikes in the foothills of the Rockies and playing bluegrass bass.

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From Surviving to Thriving—Releasing Shame, Healing Trauma

Wed, 24 Feb 2016 04:00:00 -0000

Research indicates that people who have the disease of addiction have experienced higher rates of childhood or adolescent trauma than the general population. The ability to live with joy and fulfillment and maintain long-term recovery grows when old traumas are faced and healed. Special guest Marilyn Van Derbur is the author of Miss America By Day—first-place winner of the prestigious Writer’s Digest Award as the "Most Inspirational Book" published in 2003, and a passionately effective advocate for the prevention of and recovery from childhood sexual abuse. Her exceptionally successful career began with being crowned Miss America 1958 and blossomed as a highly sought-after motivational speaker selected as “Outstanding Woman Speaker in America.” Marilyn’s life took a radical turn in 1991 when she came forward publicly as an incest survivor, an action that opened the door for tens of thousands of sexual abuse survivors to begin their healing. She shares why and how healing the wounds of abuse opens the way to fulfilled living.

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Creating Your Life From Source

Wed, 17 Feb 2016 04:00:00 -0000

Active addiction robs our ability to create the life we are meant to live. In recovery we reconnect with our innate spiritual power of creativity. By learning to use our minds, emotions, and actions constructively, we live fully and well. Special guest Greg Barrette shares practical spiritual principles and actions that help us create the lives we want to live. Greg has been practicing spiritual principles for most of his life; he has known and learned from many authentic spiritual teachers. He was born and raised in Unity and has been a Unity minister for 34 years. Formerly the director of the International Youth of Unity, he served as first vice president of the International New Thought Alliance, was elected president of four Unity regions, and has led some of our most successful churches. His audio CD, The Gift of Healing/Sleeping, is the Unity all-time best-seller. Greg is currently senior minister of Unity Northwest Church in Des Plaines, Illinois.

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The Dance of Recovery

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery is a dance—we flow with changes, learning to keep our balance and partner with others. We learn to dance with life on life’s terms by putting into practice powerful spiritual tools that are open and available for everyone. Special guest Lonnie Vanderslice shares how her combination of recovery and Unity wisdom puts lots of tools in her tool kit, and how her committed use of them keeps her dancing with life! Lonnie, ordained Unity minister and a person in long-term recovery, is the senior minister at Unity of Spirit, bringing together the spiritual principles of recovery and Unity. She is also the co-owner and vice president of Weave Gotcha Covered, a 100 Jobs program participant.

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Bill W. and Dr. Bob—The Play That Speaks the Language of the Heart

Wed, 03 Feb 2016 04:00:00 -0000

The founding of Alcoholics Anonymous touches everyone—whether familiar with the disease of addiction or not. The experience of the cofounders and their wives speaks to the universal experience of human suffering and the spiritual growth that comes from finding a way through. The play Bill W. and Dr. Bob, cowritten by Steve Bergman and Janet Surrey, touches audiences with its message that people can indeed change their destiny. Special guest Steve Bergman shares what has happened since Bill W. and Dr. Bob debuted off Broadway in 2007. It is currently on an international bilingual—English and Spanish—tour. Steve Bergman is a novelist, essayist, playwright, and activist. A graduate of Harvard College and Medical School, and Oxford as a Rhodes scholar, he was on the Harvard faculty for 35 years. A world-renowned speaker, Steve Bergman is known for his humor and gift for inspiring audiences. Learn more about the play and about Steve Bergman at billwanddrbob.com and samuelshem.com.

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Circles of Strength—Awakening to a Unity of WE

Wed, 27 Jan 2016 04:00:00 -0000

Human beings are created connected—to ourselves, our higher power, and each other. If we lose awareness of our unity, our spirit sleeps within us and we become isolated, lonely, and susceptible to addiction and other problems. As we learn to walk in the WE, our spirit wakes up! This is one of the beautiful gifts of recovery. Special guest Grandmother Mary Lyons, Ojibwe Elder, Grandmothers Council member, and member of Women of Wellbriety, International, shares wisdom teachings on reclaiming our connection to the WE. Grandmother Mary is Niiah-Nibi-Ikwe “Second Water Woman,” Elder of Mitigwakk-Daywaygus-Giwstashskad “Water Drum Circle,” senior member of the “Top Hat Medicine Dress/Long Skirt Society,” spiritual advisor, storyteller, and wisdom teacher.

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Relationship Detox: Healthy Relationships in Recovery

Wed, 20 Jan 2016 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery brings the opportunity to learn new perspectives, new skills, and to engage deeply in healing old emotional wounds and patterns. This means healthy, uplifting relationships are not only possible—they are probable. Special guest Mark Sanders, LCSW, CADC, shares how to detox from old destructive patterns and build new, positive ways of relating. Mark is an international speaker in the behavioral health field whose presentations have reached thousands throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, and the Caribbean Islands. He is coauthor of Recovery Management with William White and Ernie Kurtz and author of Relationship Detox: How to Have Healthy Relationships in Recovery. He is the editor of Substance Use Disorders in African American Communities: Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery, and author of Counseling Chemically Dependent African American Women. He has had two stories published in the New York Times best-selling book series Chicken Soup for the Soul. He is also a lecturer at the University of Chicago. Learn more about his work a onthemarkconsulting25.com.

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Faith Makes You Strong

Wed, 13 Jan 2016 04:00:00 -0000

Faith in the probability of good makes us strong and keeps us growing. No obstacle has the power to stop us when we are willing to turn on our faith. Special guest Rev. Leslie Wilson is a person in long-term recovery who radiates faith and shines with joy. Her powerful spirit lifts up everyone around her and keeps opening new doors for her in recovery. Rev. Leslie is the associate minister at God Land Unity Church in Detroit, Michigan, and a member of the staff of the Unity Urban Ministerial School.

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The Wellbriety Movement—Culturally Based Healing Through Native American Values

Wed, 16 Dec 2015 04:00:00 -0000

The grassroots wellbriety movement is grounded in the healing power of Native American cultural values. Through recovery trainings and support groups that incorporate the teachings of the Medicine Wheel, the Cycle of Life, and the Four Laws of Change, the White Bison organization supports indigenous communities in reestablishing strong foundations for well-being. Special guest J. Carlos Rivera, CADC-II, ICADC, executive director of White Bison, Inc., shares what makes the wellbriety approach so successful and how it is expanding into urban Indian communities. Carlos is an enrolled tribal member with the Sherwood Valley Band of Pomo Indians from Northern California. He has experience in the substance abuse field as well as participation as a board member for the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency State Committee in California, appointed by Governor Jerry Brown. Carlos has been a trainer for the Wellbriety Training Institute since 2010 and Keeper of the International Wellbriety Drum since 2012. Learn more at whitebison.org.

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The Power of Recovery

Wed, 09 Dec 2015 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery is not an end—it is a beginning. Recovery opens the door to ever-deepening spiritual growth. Life still happens. What’s different is that we meet it with an attitude of gratitude, grace, and openness. Special guest Bob A. has continued to experience the power of recovery in the one-and-a-half years since he shared his amazing journey with us on Spirit of Recovery. Bob shares how spiritually facing changes he didn’t really want has led to abundance of love and rich experiences he never imagined. Bob is a former colleague and a current friend who amongst other things is in recovery, has a heart for helping others, and is always open to a new adventure. Bob tells me he has never been so happy in his life and is grateful God woke him up this morning, woke him up sober, and woke him up next to his amazing wife JoAnn.

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God Is Never Late

Wed, 25 Nov 2015 04:00:00 -0000

Ever worry that you won’t have enough—time, money, energy, sanity (you name it!) to make it through? Recovery invites us to let go of fretting and fussing and make conscious contact with a loving, gracious Power greater than ourselves. And, one day at a time with gratitude, learn to trust and live in relationship with that Power. Special guest Greg Barrette shares from his great wealth of practicing spiritual principles for most of his life and his years of knowing and learning from many authentic spiritual teachers. Greg was born and raised in Unity and has been a Unity minister for 34 years. Formerly the director of the International Youth of Unity, he served as first vice president of the International New Thought Alliance, was elected president of four Unity regions, and has led some of our most successful churches. His audio CD, The Gift of Healing/Sleeping, is the Unity all-time best-seller. Greg is currently senior minister of Unity Northwest Church in Des Plaines, Illinois.

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Mind Full or Mindful? The Benefits of Awareness

Wed, 18 Nov 2015 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery thrives as we awaken to the present moment. Being aware of our breath, physical senses, and the activity in our mind leads to greater acceptance of ourselves, space to process our experience, and to make wise choices. Special guest Therissa Libby, Ph.D., assistant professor and coordinator of the Alcohol and Drug Counseling M.S. Program at Metropolitan State University, shares the research behind why and how mindfulness practice is so important to long-term recovery. Professor Libby, a neuroscientist, addictions counselor, recovery advocate, and researcher, has authored numerous publications on the neurobiological mechanisms of addictive drugs, making this complex topic easy to understand.

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Choosing to Change

Wed, 11 Nov 2015 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery means change—and not just the initial change of letting go of a substance or behavior. Recovery means change as a way of life as we continually choose to live from integrity and wholeness, shedding old ideas in the process. Special guest Marilyn Davis is a recovery curriculum author who advocates for and writes to the addicted population. She opened and ran an award-winning women’s recovery home for 21 years. Marilyn created the TIERS process, focusing on empowerment through healthy choices and constructive relationships. She recently celebrated 27 years of abstinence-based recovery. Marilyn’s book Finding North: A Woman's Journey From Addict to Advocate will be published in 2016.

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Becoming Who We’re Meant To Be

Wed, 04 Nov 2015 04:00:00 -0000

Our life’s divine purpose becomes our daily reality as we let go of addiction and embrace our deep identity. The journey is arduous, yet help is all along the way. Special guest LaBet Pritchard, a person in long-term recovery and a mind-body fitness instructor, developed a yoga and 12-step program she teaches at recovery centers and retreats in western North Carolina. Her experience with mindfulness practice, humor as the best medicine, a spiritual "12 After 12" program, and a passionate belief in miracles make for a serendipitous synchronicity in her life. LaBet shares how she lives her journey to becoming who she always envisioned she would be.

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Writing for Your Life

Wed, 28 Oct 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Get out of your head and into your life. Writing practices are a powerful way to move energy from swirling chaos and confusion to clarity, serenity, and constructive action. Special guest Mark Dennis Anderson is the creator and director of Writing in Recovery, a workshop/lecture series and online resource designed to show how writing practices can benefit any program of recovery. Mark combines his personal recovery experience with his background in writing instruction. Anderson has an Master of Fine Arts degree from Hamline University where he studied poetry, creative nonfiction, and writing instruction. He currently teaches writing at Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minnesota.

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Making the Connection—Spirituality and the Family, With Billye J.

Wed, 07 Oct 2015 02:00:00 -0000

When families are affected by active addiction, they lose their sense of connection with spiritual power. Chaos and anxiety cast a cloud over the family, and problems mount. Recovery for families means taking the focus off the person with addiction and placing it on oneself. Family members learn that they do have power—spiritual power to change their lives whether the member with addiction recovers or not. Special guest Billye J. is a family member with more than 40 years' experience living a program of family recovery. She shares from her rich immersion in spiritual study, living, and service, the fulfillment that is possible for families.

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Miracles Happen—When You Take the Steps

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 02:00:00 -0000

We cooperate in creating our miracles—as we take the steps, a higher power brings the results. Special guest Royce Sherrick, a person in long-term recovery, is the director of The Step House, LLC, a one-year program that focuses on troubled men who have lost their sense of themselves in alcohol and other substance abuse. Spiritual healing, growth, and self-worth are encouraged through working a 12-step program and being a responsible member of a residential community. Royce shares how his experiences help him support others to create their miracles on the road to recovery. Learn more about The Step House at thestephouse.org.

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May I Sit With You? A Simple Approach to Meditation

Wed, 23 Sep 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Conscious contact with life-giving power is the essence of recovery. It’s the only thing that can replace the pull of the addictive process—whether the addiction is to substances or behaviors. The 11th Step of the 12-Step wisdom path clearly calls us to what may seem daunting—the practice of prayer and meditation. Our special guest, author Tom Catton, in long-term recovery since 1971 and a meditator since 1966, explains a simple, effective approach he uses and shares with people around the world. His book May I Sit With You? A Simple Approach to Meditation is now available. Tom is also the author of The Mindful Addict.

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Spirituality and Creativity—the Divine Connection

Wed, 16 Sep 2015 02:00:00 -0000

All people seek to connect with the energy that takes us from the mundane to the Divine. On our way, we may, as Carl Jung wrote, “knock at the wrong address.” Those who make their living as writers, actors, artists, and all of us, as we seek to express creatively, find that recovery shows us the way to the “right address”—our true connection with spirituality. Special guest Leonard Buschel, CADCA, publisher and substance abuse counselor, is the founder of Writers in Treatment, the Reel Recovery Film Festival, and Recovery/Addiction eBulletin. He shares what it means to find the divine connection. Learn more about Leonard’s work at writersintreatment.org.

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The Spirituality of Connection

Wed, 09 Sep 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Addiction is a disease of disconnection.Recovery means establishing authentic, life-giving connections with oneself, one’s higher power, and other people. One of the greatest gifts of recovery is realizing that extending ourselves to others opens the channel for immense good to come to us. Connection is always a two-way street. As we give, so we receive. Special guest Roger Temme, M.Div., is the outreach director for the Care Communities in Austin, Texas, a nonprofit that creates volunteer teams to help those facing HIV/AIDS or cancer alone. Addiction can frequently be a complicating factor. A former member of a Catholic religious community and priest for many years, Roger shares his profound understanding and experience with the essential element of human connection in an authentic spiritual life. Learn more about Roger’s work at thecarecommunities.org.

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Opening the Door to Spirit

Wed, 26 Aug 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Finding a connection to higher values is essential to recovery. Whether we call those values God, Spirit, Nature, Beauty, Order, or any other name doesn’t matter. What does matter is that we make an opening for a life-giving connection that is beyond the level of fear and mere scrambling. Special guest Rev. Laurie Durgan, spiritual director at Caron Renaissance Treatment Center and associate minister at Unity of Delray Beach, as well as a person in long-term recovery, shares how she supports people entering recovery in making that connection with creativity, gentleness, and clarity. Learn more about her work at caron.org/locations/renaissance and unityofdelraybeach.org/youth.html.

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The Value of Spiritual Struggles

Wed, 19 Aug 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Finding a relationship with a Power greater than ourselves is no easy matter. We may have old, negative experiences with religion that jump up to haunt us just at those moments when we are becoming more open and vulnerable. We are not doomed, however. With persistence, willingness to explore, openness to the constructive experiences of others in recovery, and the courage to listen to the loving voice within us, we can find and build that most important of all relationships. Special guest Kenny B. is a person who has done just that. With several years working in recovery, he shares how his struggles lead him to a beautiful connection with his Higher Power.

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“Recovery Means Enlarging Your Spiritual Life”—Brendan P.

Wed, 29 Jul 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Joyful long-term recovery happens when we choose over and over again to enlarge our spiritual life. We just cannot afford to pull up a rock and have a seat—even when life gets really tough! Special guest Brendan P. is a person in long-term recovery with 20 years of continuous sobriety and is also a stage 4 cancer stem cell transplant survivor. He attributes these overcomings to finally realizing who he is through a potent combination of the 12 steps and Unity teachings. Brendan shares how he has been able to recognize the amazing synchronicity and meaningful coincidences that have and continue to transpire in his life. Brendan is an All-American gymnast and Guinness World Records holder.

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A Power Greater Than Myself

Wed, 15 Jul 2015 02:00:00 -0000

What does it mean to trust a power greater than ourselves? Is it possible that spiritual power can work miracles in our lives? Special guest C.J. is passionate about his experiences with the God of his understanding. With 29 years of continuous sobriety, C.J. credits his recovery from addiction to the 12-step program and a power greater than himself. He believes spiritual power helped him do what he did. He did not do it by himself. And he believes this is possible for everyone. C.J. is a storyteller, an avid fisherman, and a newspaper columnist.

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The Power of Spirituality

Wed, 08 Jul 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Spiritual development is the power that propels recovery. Special guest Pat McGuire, a professional in the recovery field since 1970, grounds all her work in a deep awareness of spirituality. Pat has worked nationally and internationally to train counselors and develop programs for addiction treatment, including programs dealing with co-occurring issues of eating disorders, sexuality issues, and family dysfunction, and is a pioneer in addressing women’s addiction issues. She shares why and how spirituality is key in the maintenance of long-term sobriety. Learn more about Pat’s work at treatmentandrecoverysystems.com.

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The Tried and True and What’s New—Recovery in the 21st Century

Wed, 24 Jun 2015 02:00:00 -0000

From significant advances in brain science to the reaffirmation of the healing power of support networks, 21st-century approaches to recovery have much to offer. Special guest Scott McMillan, principal at Recovery Systems Institute, shares how the treatment and recovery fields are evolving in policy and practice, and what this means for individuals and families seeking recovery. Scott has created and operated successful addiction treatment programs for more than 30 years, his pioneering work in the treatment of addictions as chronic disorders having influenced many organizations. He has coauthored seven books and numerous articles and provided training to government, higher education, and the private sector. Scott has also assisted many families in successful intervention with loved ones. His personal goal is to help programs achieve the best clinical outcomes in the most cost-effective manner. Learn more about Scott’s work at treatmentandrecoverysystems.com.

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Reflections on "Days of Wine and Roses"

Wed, 17 Jun 2015 02:00:00 -0000

The 1962 movie Days of Wine and Roses played an important part in the growing awareness of alcoholism as a disease and the availability of Alcoholics Anonymous. It’s portrayal of a young couple, whose love for each other dramatically spiraled down into an obsession with alcohol, revealed the depths of despair as well as the possibility of recovery. The movie was adapted from the original 1958 Playhouse 90 TV drama by leading playwright, screenwriter, and novelist J.P. Miller. Special guest Monty Miller, son of the late J.P. Miller, shares the story behind the story and how Days of Wine and Roses has impacted the modern recovery movement. Learn more at thedaysofwineandroses.com.

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Passion and Persistence = Power to Flourish

Wed, 03 Jun 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Want the power to flourish in recovery—to be yourself, fulfill your deepest purpose? Find your alignment with your innate spiritual power through engaging in life with passion and persisting even—and especially-- when the going gets rough. Special guest Richard C., a person in long-term recovery since 1974, shares how, by continuing to live his recovery, he has found fulfillment in his calling and relationships he didn’t know was possible. Richard is a Unity student and teacher of tai chi and Chi Qong, blogger, and spiritual retreat leader. Read his blog at istheremorethanthesteps.blogspot.com.

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Sober Summer—Teens Staying Connected to Recovery

Wed, 27 May 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Summer is a high-risk time for teens in early recovery. Staying connected to healthy action is the key to continued sobriety. Sober Summer, a program sponsored by Teen and Family Services (TAFS), provides peer, social, and recovery activities for teens. And it works! Special guest George Youngblood, LCDC, ADCIII, NCACI, CCS, founder and CEO of TAFS, counselor, and author with many years of innovative approaches to teen recovery, shares how Sober Summer and the TAFS model work. Learn more at teenandfamilyservices.org.

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Practicing the Presence

Wed, 20 May 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Our whole perspective on life changes when we wake up to the Presence of Spirit. We shift from fearful self-centered survival mode to peace and graciousness toward ourselves and all people. Special guest Scott L., a person in long-term recovery, shares how his life moved from addiction and incarceration to a deep commitment to spiritual practice.

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Recovery Is for Families

Wed, 13 May 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Addiction affects every member of a family—from the adult spouse or partner to the youngest child—even the family pet! Recovery, with the hope, healing, and help it brings, is for families. Transforming family relationships by using the tools of recovery gives each person dignity, self-respect, and new possibilities for a fulfilling life. Special guest Elizabeth Devine, M.Ed., LPC-S, director of treatment services at The Council on Recovery, Austin, Texas, shares practical perspectives on how family recovery creates healthy living for each person. She has extensive experience working with children and families in the area of recovery from family violence, substance abuse, grief, and LGBT issues. Learn more about her work at austinrecovery.org.

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Shatterproof—Ending the Stigma of Addiction

Wed, 06 May 2015 02:00:00 -0000

The disease of addiction is just that—a disease. The developing recovery advocacy movement is making strides in bringing addiction out of the shadows, reducing stigma, encouraging effective prevention and treatment, and community and family support resources. Special guest Holly Jespersen, communications manager for Shatterproof, a national organization committed to those goals, shares the power of moving from shattered to shatterproof. Visit shatterproof.org to learn more—and find out about the Shatterproof Challenge, rappelling events taking place across the United States to shine the light on addiction prevention and recovery.

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Spirituality Times Two—Living Unity and Recovery

Wed, 29 Apr 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Commitment to recovery leads us to find ourselves spiritually. While there are universal spiritual values, we each live them in a totally unique way. Special guest Roxanne Graves, a person in long-term recovery of 30 years, and a soon-to-be licensed Unity minister, shares her spiritual path and how she lives her unique combination of Unity and recovery principles.

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The Power of Music

Wed, 08 Apr 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Music has the power to heal—to bring us through tears of identification with human suffering into the joy of deepened living. Special guest, singer and songwriter Sandra Knight, shares with us how making music is a part of her spiritual growth and how she uses music to bring light into the world. Her song “There Is A Hope” was written and recorded a few months after September 11, 2001, and has just been entered in to the Songs for Peace Contest—a worldwide platform for the transformative power and beauty of music. Learn about Sandra’s work at www.sandraknight.net and www.facebook.com at Song Writer Sandra Knight.

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Women in Recovery—Growing Through Long-Term Sobriety

Wed, 01 Apr 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Continuing to grow emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually enriches long-term sobriety. Inviting challenge rather than settling for comfortableness generates the joy that attracts others to recovery. One woman in long-term sobriety, Joyce E. first engaged recovery as a family member and through that came to face her own addiction. Her willingness to develop herself on ever-deeper levels brings her happiness and freedom, gave her great effectiveness as a school counselor, and is a light in her family and community. She shares what keeps her growing.

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Families and Communities Together—Creating Resources for Recovery

Wed, 25 Mar 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Communities and families are learning new ways to create resources for recovery. Science has verified that addiction is a brain disease and impairs the ability to make good decisions. When an individual is in the throes of addiction, the actions of the family and community are key to supporting that person getting effective treatment and hopefully entering long-term recovery. Special guest Sharon Blair lost her daughter Jennifer to a drug overdose in 2009. She made a commitment at that time to advocate for effective community action and laws that support recovery. Learn about Sharon’s work at www.thejenniferact.com.

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Overcoming Passivity—Living Life to the Fullest

Wed, 18 Mar 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery opens the door to living the life we have always aspired to—the one we cherish as an expression of our deepest, truest self. Making this our reality means facing passivity—the attitude that holds us hostage to old ways of doing things—and finding solutions leading to creativity and real fulfillment. Special guest John Lee is a pioneer in the fields of self-help, anger, codependency, creativity, recovery, relationships, and men's issues. He is a prolific best-selling author, personal life coach, consultant, poet, teacher, and humorist. John shares ideas from his latest book, The Half-Lived Life: Overcoming Passivity and Rediscovering Your Authentic Self—explaining how passivity affects people in and out of recovery, and how moving out of passivity improves and deepens all our relationships. Learn about John’s work at www.johnleebooks.com.

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Young People in Recovery—Creating Recovery-Ready Communities

Wed, 11 Mar 2015 02:00:00 -0000

Young people in or seeking recovery face strong cultural headwinds. Young People in Recovery (YPR), a grassroots advocacy organization, is focused on creating a national network of young people in recovery. Special guest Justin Luke Riley, president and CEO and a founding member of YPR, is 27 years old and has been in long-term recovery for seven years. As a natural leader and gifted public speaker, Justin has been featured in USA TODAY and MTV-Act for his involvement in youth leadership and community engagement, including serving on the executive board for Faces and Voices of Recovery. Justin shares how YPR empowers young people to take charge of their futures through advocacy for improved access to treatment, educational resources, employment opportunities, and secure, quality housing. To learn more about YPR, visit www.youngpeopleinrecovery.org.

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Our Amazing Brain—the Physiology of Recovery

Wed, 04 Mar 2015 04:00:00 -0000

The human brain and body are amazingly sensitive and resilient. Recovery opens the pathway to physiological health and well-being by supporting a new perspective on living and new behaviors that sustain it. Special guest Pete Katz, B.A., LCDC, ADC Level III Diplomate, ICADC, is a nationally recognized addiction counselor and educator in addiction theory and pharmacology, human brain and body health, personal growth, addiction and culture, addiction prevention, and the inventor of a patented AOD assessment process. He shares the impact of addiction and recovery on the brain, and how developing new responses to common cultural messages can support recovery.

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Putting Spirit Into Action

Wed, 25 Feb 2015 04:00:00 -0000

Spirit is the power that moves us from defeat into lives of purpose. Learning to put spiritual principles into practical action creates needed changes in recovery. Special guest Lonnie Vanderslice shares how her ministry empowers recovering homeless women by providing practical applications of Unity and recovery principles. Lonnie, a third-year student in the M.Div. program at Unity Institute® and Seminary, and a person in long-term recovery, co-owns Weave Gotcha Covered, a “100 Jobs” program participant. Learn how Lonnie integrates ministry with practical job skills in a recent front-page Kansas City Star feature at http://www.kansascity.com/news/business/workplace/article9524453.html.

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Yoga and the 12 Steps—Lifeboat and Launching Pad

Wed, 11 Feb 2015 04:00:00 -0000

Our desire to live deeply calls us to heal deeply. Special guest Nikki Myers shares what moved her to develop Yoga of 12-Step Recovery (Y12SR) and how it works to provide a rich and powerful framework for ongoing recovery. Guided by its theme, ‘The Issues Live in the Tissues,” Y12SR meetings are now available all over the country and the curriculum is quickly becoming a feature of addiction recovery treatment centers. Nikki is an accomplished yoga therapist, teacher, and somatic experiencing practitioner. She is the founder of CITYOGA School of Yoga and Health in Indianapolis, Indiana. From her personal struggles with addiction, Nikki is quick to tell the world, “The 12-step program and Yoga saved my life—one is my lifeboat, the other my launching pad.” Learn more about Nikki’s work at www.y12sr.com.

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Finding Freedom, Finding Trust

Wed, 04 Feb 2015 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery is a continuous process of opening ourselves to deeper healing and greater freedom. We find freedom by healing the hurts that have, in our best effort at self-protection, kept us hiding out from life. Special guest Richard C., a person in long-term recovery since 1974, shares how, by continuing to live his recovery, he has found a trust of people and life he didn’t know was possible. Richard is a Unity student and teacher of tai chi and chi qong, blogger, and spiritual retreat leader. Read his blog at www.istheremorethanthesteps.blogspot.com/.

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Entering the New Year With Intention

Wed, 28 Jan 2015 04:00:00 -0000

Entering the new year with spiritual intention rather than unrealistic expectations is the key to deepening recovery. As we focus on discovering our wholeness, we find our year holds delightful surprises. Special guest Chris Shea, M.A., CRAT, CAC-AD, is an addiction counselor, campus minister, trainer, and author. He shares how shifting from expectations to intention brings powerful growth in recovery. Learn more about Chris’ work and read his blog at www.lifesjourneyblog.com.

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Go For It!

Wed, 14 Jan 2015 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery is about fulfilling our life’s purpose—finding freedom from the chains of addictive behavior so we can soar! Special guest Alan Peterson, New Thought singer/songwriter, poet, and life coach, believes we can follow our calling of our heart and soul—and even that we must. Alan shares his life experiences in going for it and his music and poetry. Learn about Alan’s work at www.alanpetersonmusic.com.

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The Creative Power of Prayer

Wed, 17 Dec 2014 04:00:00 -0000

Prayer empowers us to live creatively and constructively. It consciously connects us with our Higher Power and strengthens our sense of self, self-worth, and meaning. Through prayer we fulfill our calling to participate abundantly in life. Special guest Rev. Terry Lund shares why prayer is such a powerful practice, and useful methods for expanding our prayer life. Rev. Terry was born into the New Thought movement and was raised with Unity principles. She graduated from Unity School of Religious Studies in 1989 and was ordained a Unity minister in 1990. She has ministered in Billings, Montana, and El Paso, Texas. Prior to becoming minister at Unity of Las Cruces in 2004, Terry served for nine years as the chair of the Prayer Studies Department of Unity School of Religious Studies. She has also served as an addiction counselor.

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Connecting With My Higher Power

Wed, 10 Dec 2014 04:00:00 -0000

Connecting with a constructive, helpful power that is greater than what harms us, is essential to recovery. If we have old ideas or hurtful experiences that block out that connection, what can we do? Special guest Marie Krebs, M.S., licensed professional counselor, licensed chemical dependency counselor, certified sexual recovery therapist, has extensive experience supporting people in recovery as they develop a relationship with a helpful higher power. The Texas Association of Addiction Professionals, Dallas chapter, recognized Marie as the 2014 Counselor of the Year.

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Carrying the Message With Music

Wed, 03 Dec 2014 04:00:00 -0000

Music inspires, bringing hope to the healing heart. Special guest singer/songwriter Sonia Lee’s passion is singing for people in recovery. Herself a person in long-term recovery, she carries the positive message of strength and faith she has found on the sometimes rocky path of her personal journey. Sonia shares her music and recovery experiences with audiences at treatment centers, conferences, spiritual retreats, churches, festivals, and intimate house concerts. She also gives interactive music therapy workshops for recovering people. Sonia tells how and why she carries the recovery message with music. Learn more about Sonia’s music and work at www.sonialee.net.

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Sexual Health and Recovery—Making the Connection

Wed, 26 Nov 2014 04:00:00 -0000

Addressing sexual health is an important component of recovery. Common sexuality issues, when not resolved, can make people more vulnerable to substance abuse and relapse. Special guest Dr. Raven James, author of Sexuality and Addiction: Making Connections, Enhancing Recovery, shares practical ways people who have been impacted by negative sexual experiences, or attitudes, can heal and strengthen their recovery. Dr. James is a sexologist and associate professor in the Master of Health Sciences in Addictions Studies program at Governors State University. Her extensive experience as a researcher and a clinical practitioner centers on women, HIV prevention, and LGBT issues. Learn more about her work at www.drraven.net.

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Hope for the Children—Breaking the Cycle

Wed, 12 Nov 2014 04:00:00 -0000

When children with a family history of addiction are supported with knowledge, nurture, and coping skills, they are less likely to develop an addiction themselves. And they have the foundation to live productive, fulfilling lives and create healthy families. Camp Mariposa, developed and funded in part by the nonprofit Moyer Foundation, are places where children transform from hopelessness to possibility. Special guests Brian Maus, M.A., LMFT, Camp Mariposa program director, and Jeanette Altman, family educator supervisor of Healthy Families/Healthy Children at Jewish Family and Children’s Service, and director of Camp Mariposa Florida, share the powerful difference it makes when children are given solid support. Learn more about their work at www.moyerfoundation.org.

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Spirituality: It's Good for Your Brain

Wed, 05 Nov 2014 04:00:00 -0000

Spirituality is not only good for your attitude, brain imaging research shows it is also good for your brain. Additional scientific research indicates that our overall health is positively impacted by active and regular spiritual practice. Bill Starr, D.Min., CDP, MAC, has served as chaplain at the Sundown M Ranch addiction treatment facility in Selah, Washington, since 1998. He is a frequent presenter at statewide conferences focusing on spirituality, trauma, grief recovery, and listening skills. Bill shares the 4 P’s of spirituality and how spirituality makes such a positive difference in recovery. Learn more about Bill’s work at www.sundown.org.

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Embracing Step 11 Through "A Simple Approach to Meditation"

Wed, 29 Oct 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Daily meditation forms the foundation for continuous spiritual growth. Too often, recovering people feel intimidated by misguided images of what meditation is and how to practice it. Special guest Tom Catton, in long-term recovery since 1971 and a meditator since 1966, explains a simple, effective approach he uses and shares with people around the world. His book, May I Sit With You: A Simple Approach to Meditation, is near publication. Tom is the author of The Mindful Addict. Read more about his work at www.amazon.com/Mindful-Addict-Memoir-Awakening-Spirit/dp/0981848273 by Central Recovery Press.

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Spirituality of Connectedness

Wed, 15 Oct 2014 02:00:00 -0000

The essence of recovery is moving out of isolation into connection with oneself, a Higher Power, and other people—joining in the community of life. Special guest Chris Shea, M.A., CRAT, CAC-AD, is an addiction counselor, campus minister, trainer, and author. He shares how a holistic approach, using the psychological method of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy from a spiritual perspective, leads to self-awareness and connection. Learn more about Chris’s work at www.lifesjourneyblog.com, www.facebook.com/lifesjourneyblog, and www.twitter.com/lifejourneyblog.

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Music Celebrates Recovery

Wed, 08 Oct 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Music reaches the depths of our soul and guides us in self-discovery. Creating music, hearing music, moving to music—all expand us and show what is possible for our lives. Special guest Kathy Moser shares her passion for music and recovery and the gifts that come from creating your own songs. Kathy is a nationally touring songwriter, performer, teacher, and social artist, bringing positive change to the world through music. Her songwriting workshops for recovering people are not only fun—they develop practical recovery skills. Hear Kathy’s Wings Over Water—Creativity in Recovery, Mondays, 8 p.m. EST, at www.coaradio.com and visit www.kathymoser.com.

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Recovery—The Community Connection

Wed, 24 Sep 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery is not really an individual matter—well, it is and it isn’t. We alone can do it, but we cannot do it alone. Beyond recovery support groups and professional treatment is the climate in the broader community. Special guest Robert Miles has worked with communities as a recovery treatment and prevention professional and legislative advocate for 25 years and is currently a Board member of the Texas Recovers Rally for Recovery. Robert shares what makes a community recovery supportive rather than hostile, and describes how recovering people can be visible while still honoring the tradition of anonymity.

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Building Pride—Recovery in the LGBTQ Community

Wed, 10 Sep 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Members of the LGBTQ Community face unique challenges in recovery. Societal attitudes have for too long burdened this community with isolation, shame, and confusion. LGBTQ people are claiming the right to supportive, understanding resources that build the foundation for long-term recovery. Special guest Lisa Hinson, LCDC, shares why addressing issues such as self-esteem, healthy sexuality, sober relationships, coming out in recovery, high-risk factors of using, and spirituality—is essential. Lisa is a Certified ARISE Interventionist and Certified Offender Educator with more than 15 years’ experience in the substance abuse and mental health fields. She is Immediate Past President of the Texas Association of Addiction Professionals and is currently a Clinical Representative for Starlite Recovery Center.

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Overcoming Barriers to Recovery in the Latino Community

Wed, 03 Sep 2014 02:00:00 -0000

More than 53 million people, 17 percent of the population in the United States, identify themselves as Latino. Cultural, language, and clinical factors often throw up barriers to treatment and recovery. Changes in attitude and policy, the recruitment of bilingual-bicultural recovery professionals, and the expansion of culturally aware recovery peer support are essential. Special guest Eliana Livoni-Schippel, LCDC, born in Peru, has provided bilingual-bicultural professional recovery services for 27 years. She shares how culturally aware treatment and support groups can support long-term recovery in the Latino community.

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The Purple Bandana and Other “Coincidences”

Wed, 27 Aug 2014 02:00:00 -0000

You may have heard that coincidences are miracles where God is too busy to take a bow. Our Higher Power is always bringing us to places where we can bless others and be blessed by them. Special guest Rick Bingham, LCDC, an ordained minister, shares the “coincidence” that started him giving away purple bandanas. Rick has more than 35 years' experience as a professional in the recovery field and is a speaker, trainer, and acupuncture detox specialist. He has led many spiritually oriented wilderness treks and is a major contributor to Two Miles or Twenty Minutes. Rick’s motto is—walk slow, climb high, pray often.

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The Crucible of Change

Wed, 20 Aug 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Change calls us to enter the crucible. Facing what is most painful and difficult allows us to find our true strength. We don’t go alone, for the power of spirituality is our guide and companion. Dr. Ken McGill, minister, licensed marriage and family therapist, and author, shares how deep transformation happens when we courageously encounter the psychological facts of our lives in the loving presence of Spirit. Learn more about Dr. McGill’s work and his new book Cultivating Love at www.drkenmcgill.com.

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The Spiritual Meaning of Money

Wed, 06 Aug 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Is it possible to connect money with our deepest spiritual values? It is. In fact, making the connection between our money and our spirituality is essential. Sooner or later, recovery calls us to face money—what it means to us and how we use it. Special guest Samuel Schaal, M.Div., RLP©, is a Unitarian Universalist transition minister, registered life planner, and specialist in stewardship/money and spirit. He shares how to unite the very practical world of money management with self-care, healthy boundaries, and positive participation in life.

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The Spirituality of Change

Wed, 30 Jul 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Every person carries within them the potential for well-being and constructive living. Activating that potential requires change—in how we see ourselves, what we think, and what we do. What creates the willingness to change? How do we sustain positive change? And what part does our spirituality play? Guest Scott Breedlove, trainer for addiction counseling professionals and soon returning to the Missouri Substance Abuse Professional Credentialing Board as assistant director/development manager shares what works to help people change.

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Teens and Families in Recovery

Wed, 23 Jul 2014 02:00:00 -0000

What can happen for a teen when the whole family gets involved in recovery? An increased possibility for fulfillment and success. Special guest Cindy Putney, Parent and Community Liaison for TAFS of Austin, shares how an Alternative Peer Group model focusing on practical solutions, positive socializing, healthy family involvement, and spiritual values adds up to strong support for recovering teens. Learn more at www.teenandfamilyservices.org.

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Constructive Thoughts, Constructive Actions = Productive Living

Wed, 16 Jul 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Living in peace with others and self-confidence in ourselves takes courage—and focus. With practice we can learn not to give in to anger and fear. In their place we see new options and develop enduring strength to act with self-control and self-respect. And that’s the key to productive living. Special guest Fred Wright, after a successful career in advertising, became a Unity minister and has served churches in Kansas City, Puerto Rico, Idaho, and Ohio. Rev. Fred is a student of neuropsychiatrist Dr. Abraham Low’s work. Developed in the 1930s, it is known as the first Cognitive Behavioral Training (CBT) system. Recovery International carries on this work today through a peer-to-peer self-help approach. Learn more at www.lowselfhelpsystems.org.

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Linking to Life

Wed, 09 Jul 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Acceptance of the power of addiction—to substances or to behaviors—is where freedom begins. From that point, our sacred task is self-awareness, discovering embedded emotions and stances that link us to addiction. And then, we move forward with our innate spiritual power to strengthen and create links to life and permanent recovery. Special guest George DuWors, MSW, LICSW, BCD, specializes in relapse prevention. His books White Knuckles and Wishful Thinking, and Getting It: Building Motivation From Relapse, provide a practical, experiential approach connected to 12-Step recovery principles. George is a psychosomatic therapist, author, and trainer focusing on supporting long-term sobriety and relapse prevention. Learn more about his work at www.motivationformaintenance.com and www.gettingitworkbook.com.

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Journey to Wholeness

Wed, 25 Jun 2014 02:00:00 -0000

It is not what happens to us, but what happens through us, that makes us whole. No matter how harsh our experiences have been, our Higher Power can guide us into joy. Special guest Joann M. is a remarkable woman. Her deep commitment to her spiritual calling kept her on the demanding path to self-worth and wholeness. Joann shares how her own recovery led her to create Journey to Wholeness—New Wings, Chasing the Joy, a nonprofit ministry for women rising out of tough circumstances.

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Commitment—It’s Not a Four-Letter Word!

Wed, 18 Jun 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Want your life to change? Deep commitment to spiritual development is required. Far from chaining us to unwanted loads, committing to our spiritual life frees us in ways we never thought possible. Special guest Mark Hicks, spiritual leader and founder and developer of Truth Unity, shares his passion for active engagement in inner transformation. Truth Unity is a ministry grounded in the great classic metaphysical teachings. It encourages the study and practice of Unity principles, and actively fosters discipleship formation in Unity. Learn more at www.truthunity.net.

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Spirituality Alive

Wed, 04 Jun 2014 02:00:00 -0000

What is spirituality? Is it believing certain ideas? Engaging in specific practices? Belonging to a particular group? Feeling positive emotions? Having extraordinary experiences? Special guest Rudy England defines spirituality as none of the above. He sees spirituality as an inside job—engaging our true self so that we live a full-spectrum life. An attorney and ordained minister, Rudy participates in law, politics, teaching, writing, and speaking about spirituality, religion, ethics, and legislation. His award-winning, monthly eblog on spirituality is found at www.rudyengland.com.

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Working It With Grace, With Bob A.

Wed, 21 May 2014 02:00:00 -0000

What do you do when the bottom drops out of your life—and you have years of good, deep recovery? You let go into the enormity of God’s love and grace. Through the prayers and uplift of an inspired faith community, with countless friends cheering him forward, and his own boundless trust in God, guest Bob A. is celebrating a birthday this week that his medical doctors told him he would not live to see. Bob is a former colleague and a current friend who amongst other things is in recovery, has a heart for helping others, and is always open to a new adventure. Bob tells me he has never been so happy in his life and is grateful God woke him up this morning, woke him up sober, and woke him up next to his amazing wife JoAnn.

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Freedom From the Inside Out: Recovering From Food Addiction

Wed, 14 May 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Is obesity the result of laziness and lack of willpower? NO! Obesity is combination of poor habits; biochemical, nutritional, and hormonal dysfunction; and misinformation and denial. Recovering from an eating disorder is much like recovery from any addiction—except that the person with an eating disorder faces their substance countless times every day. Guest Stephanie Bernstein, M.S.W., shares how focusing on inner wellness frees her for successful living. Stephanie is a health and wellness consultant and a person in recovery from food addiction. She is committed to dispelling the stigma associated with eating disorders. Learn more about Stephanie’s work at www.alwayspeaceofmind.com.

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It’s All Good—Even (Especially) if It’s Uncomfortable! With Guest Guy Lynch

Wed, 07 May 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Spiritual growth should mean that we never have to deal with emotions again, right? WRONG! Emotions are a powerful gift from our Higher Power. Authentic spirituality invites us to embrace and learn from them—even (and especially) when they make us uncomfortable. Guest Guy Lynch shares how facing the facts of our lives, including our emotional reactions, is essential to spiritual growth. Guy is a Unity minister dedicated to sharing the inclusive message of God's love for all people and the spiritual principles that turned his own life from defeat to success and happiness. He is currently the minister of Unity of Beaverton, president and founder of THE ASSOCIATION OF PRACTICAL CHRISTIANS, and host of The Practical Christian radio program broadcast nationally online. Learn more about Guy’s work: www.practicalchristians.org and on Facebook and www.unityofbeaverton.org.

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The Twelve Steps—A Mindful Approach to Life

Wed, 30 Apr 2014 02:00:00 -0000

What brings us into the present moment more than acceptance and surrender? These values that lie at the heart of 12-Step programs are also central to spiritual practices of mindfulness. Actions like staying out of results, using the slogans, conscious contact with constructive spiritual power, and sponsorship—mainstays of a program of recovery—naturally develop a mindful approach to living. Special guest George DuWors, MSW, LICSW, BCD, shares how the 12 Steps, developed in the 1930s, cultivate mindfulness in many direct and practical ways. George is a psychosomatic therapist, author, and trainer focusing on supporting long-term sobriety and relapse prevention. Learn more about his work at www.motivationformaintenance.com.

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Forgiveness: The Foundation of Spiritual Recovery

Wed, 23 Apr 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Forgive? Forget it! If we think forgiveness means giving a free pass to someone who has hurt us, who needs it? Fortunately, that’s NOT what forgiveness is all about. Guest Mahala, Unity spiritual leader and person in long-term recovery, shares the real meaning of forgiveness and how it sets us free to enjoy life and fulfill the deepest callings of our heart.

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Be Still and Know

Wed, 02 Apr 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Can we ever know ourselves completely? Probably not. Yet living recovery means we are continually willing to discover the goodness that lies within us. And that we are willing to acknowledge, thank, and release old ways that once protected us, but now block us. Prayer and meditation are the foundations of self-discovery. Special guest Richard C., a person in long-term recovery since 1974, shares how he uses these and other recovery practices to continually expand self-awareness and his ability to make a contribution to life. Richard is a Unity student and teacher of tai chi and chi qong, blogger, and spiritual retreat leader. Read his blog at http://istheremorethanthesteps.blogspot.com/.

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Deeply Fed—Opening to the Presence

Wed, 26 Mar 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery calls us to find our Source of spiritual food. Strengthening our relationship with that Source brings immense love, comfort, and wisdom into our lives. As we feel the reassurance of our Higher Power’s deep and very practical presence, we have the courage to grow. Special guest, author Allen Liles, shares the profound, loving bond he developed when life circumstances brought him to a renewed commitment to spending daily time in the Silence with God. Allen’s book about this experience is Sitting With God—Meditating for God’s Divine Guidance, www.westbowpress.com.

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Keep It Simple: Meditation for Recovering People, With Tom Catton

Wed, 19 Mar 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Too often recovering people shy away from meditation suggested in the 11th Step. But meditation is for everyone—no need to be a “spiritual expert.” Guest Tom Catton, in long-term recovery since 1971 and a meditator since 1966, is the author of The Mindful Addict and the soon-to-be-published May I Sit With You: A Simple Approach to Meditation. Tom’s daily practice encourages him to stay awake and be present for his life, “which is enough, which is everything.” Tom shares simple down-to-earth approaches to meditation for people in recovery. Read more about Tom’s work.

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Getting on Track With Life

Wed, 12 Mar 2014 02:00:00 -0000

Getting on track with life when addiction has derailed it is possible—if those affected are open to support. No one walks out of addiction alone—not the addicted person, not the person’s family and friends. The power of compassionate, experienced help opens the spiritual door of recovery. Guest Tommy Blass, recovery coach and intervention specialist, shares how addicted individuals and their families can get back into constructive living. Tommy explains what intervention is and isn’t and how recovery coaching helps build constructive living. Learn more about Tommy’s work at www.northernbridgescoaching.com.

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Keeping It Green—Spiritual Growth in Long-Term Recovery

Wed, 05 Mar 2014 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery is so much more than stopping destructive behaviors. It’s about living from a spiritual basis—recognizing that we are part of the human community—called to integrity, constructive participation, and ongoing progress. What keeps us green and growing throughout the years? Special guest Maureen, with 28 years in recovery, is a true soul adventurer. She has navigated some tricky passages with grace by staying close to her spiritual programs and her friends, by continuing professional development, and engaging in meaningful service. Her humor and wisdom always lights up the room.

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Tales From the Center of the Herd

Wed, 26 Feb 2014 04:00:00 -0000

What if you could spend four years interviewing long-timers in recovery? Special guest Arthur Messenger did just that. The result is Tales From the Center of the Herd, a collection of 18 stories that are honest, funny, wise, and tell it like it is. They reveal the power of human connection through spiritual community to make right lives that had been going so wrong. Arthur shares what he learned from these incredible people and gems from their stories. Tales From the Center of the Herd was named December 2013 Book of the Month by “In The Rooms—A Global Recovery Community.” Arthur is also the author of Living the 12 Steps of Recovery - One Day at a Time and essays, interviews, poetry, and an award-winning play. Learn more about his work at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Living-the-12-Steps-of-Recovery-One-Day-at-a-Time/114891618573347.

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Connecting to the Wholeness Within

Wed, 12 Feb 2014 04:00:00 -0000

We are innately whole—naturally equipped with the inner resources to live with meaning and joy. Physical or emotional trauma, however, thwarts access to our well-being. Recovery frees us to clear neurological links to old hurts and connect to our wholeness. My special guest, Teresa Guajardo, M.A., mind-body connection therapist specializing in trauma recovery and LGBT issues, shares how people in addiction recovery can build strong inner pathways to healing. Learn more about Teresa’s work at www.connections-mindbody.com.

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Baby Boomers in Recovery

Wed, 29 Jan 2014 04:00:00 -0000

How do you talk with a beloved older family member when it is becoming obvious that addiction is an issue? This dilemma is becoming more and more common. Aging body metabolism, availability of prescription medications, and use of illegal drugs all add up to a huge increase in addiction in adults over 50. Guest Brenda Iliff, executive director of Hazelden Naples, shares what makes older adults vulnerable to addiction, what types of recovery approaches are most helpful, and how families can support recovery. With a background in gerontology, chemical dependency, and counseling, Brenda has more than 20 years as an active treatment professional and presents nationally on the impact of addiction on older adults. Learn more about Brenda’s work at www.Hazelden.org.

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Feeding Our Soul

Wed, 22 Jan 2014 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery is about learning to feed our soul rather than an addiction. Living spiritually brings us into an ever more nurturing relationship with our Higher Power and ever more fulfilling expression of our authentic self. Guest Wendy B., in long-term recovery from substance addiction, found that her quest for wholeness in recovery led her to address disordered eating and the lure of the “rat race.” Wendy shares the gifts she has gained from a commitment to full recovery and how she lives spiritual principles.

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The Healing Power of Music

Wed, 15 Jan 2014 04:00:00 -0000

Music is medicine—a profound way of finding our natural healing rhythms. Music is an emotional, physical, and spiritual path that takes us within for deep self-discovery of our ability to affect our own well-being. Special guest Janalea Hoffman is a pioneer in the field of Music Therapy. A musician, author, and speaker, she helps real people with real issues—including recovery from addiction—through her progressive company called Rhythmic Medicine. Janalea shares how we can add music as a key part of recovery wellness. Learn about Janalea’s work at www.rhythmicmedicine.com.

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Spirituality for the Holidays—Celebrating the Return of Light

Wed, 18 Dec 2013 04:00:00 -0000

At the winter solstice, the longest night of the year gives way to the return of the light. What a parallel with recovery—discovering the light within us and learning to let it shine. And it’s no accident that the several religious holidays celebrated at this time of year feature light. Special guest Guy Lynch shares the deep spirituality of this precious time of year and how we can take simple actions that create real joy. Guy is a Unity minister dedicated to sharing the inclusive message of God's love for all people and the spiritual principles that turned his own life from defeat to success and happiness. He is the minister of Unity of Beaverton, Oregon, and host of The Practical Christian, an Internet radio program. Learn more about Guy’s work at practicalchristians.org and unityofbeaverton.org.

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Following Paths to Healing

Wed, 11 Dec 2013 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery doesn’t mean the damage never happened—it means it no longer rules our lives. Indigenous communities across the continent and world are creating powerful paths to healing as they expand the understanding of addiction and recovery to include acknowledging wounds from the intergenerational trauma of oppression and genocide. Key to recovery is remembering the wisdom within indigenous teachings and traditions—and, that spirituality is woven into their every aspect. Special guest Anna Hansen, M.A., is a psychotherapist and owner of Future Focus Counseling and Consulting, lead facilitator, former executive director of the National Association for Native American Children of Alcoholics, and member of the Sechelt Nation. She shares how addressing trauma as a collective culture and as individuals within a culture of healing is key to deep recovery. Learn more at www.historicaltrauma.com.

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Creativity Is Our Birthright

Wed, 04 Dec 2013 04:00:00 -0000

Creativity is the essence of every person—our spiritual birthright. But negative messages, lack of acknowledgment, and fears can block the flow of our gifts. Guests Faith and Dennis, members of Artists Recovering Through the Twelve Steps, share how people reach their creative potential through supportive fellowship and belief in each other’s gifts and dreams. They will explain 5 Alive as bottom-line sobriety that begins with a humble daily action to pick up one’s creativity, “one day at a time.” Learn more at www.artsanonymous.org.

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Your Life Matters: That's the Message of Recovery Café

Wed, 27 Nov 2013 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery happens in the context of supportive community. But what if you are on the streets? What are your chances for long-term recovery? Recovery Café and its School for Recovery, utilizing an alternative therapeutic community model, is a refuge of healing, learning, spiritual growth, and transformation. It supports people seeking a life free from drugs, alcohol, and other destructive behaviors. Recovery Cafe is committed to the principle that every person is precious, worthy of love, and deserving of opportunities to fulfill their potential. Two guests, Killian Noe, founding director and pastoral counselor, and a Recovery Café member share the power of the Recovery Café experience. Learn more at www.recoverycafe.org.

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Noticing the Glass Is Half Full: The Power of Gratitude

Wed, 20 Nov 2013 04:00:00 -0000

Gratitude is the spiritual practice of noticing the good that is in our lives. Making even a small shift in our focus fills us with power to go forward. Guest Sandy McKinney, Unity minister with many years of recovery and a passion for social justice and interfaith community, shares practical spiritual principles and practices that foster a grateful heart.

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Setting the Stage for Recovery

Wed, 13 Nov 2013 04:00:00 -0000

Seeing ourselves in other peoples’ stories is the connection that fosters awareness of the disease of addiction and the hope for recovery—in family members and those with substance or behavioral addictions. Special guest Lynn Bratley, M.Ed., is the founder and artistic director of Improbable Players, a company of actors in long-term recovery that educates the public about addiction and recovery through dramatic performances and theater workshops. Lynn shares the positive impact this work has in high schools, on adult audiences, and on the actors themselves. Learn more about Lynn’s work at www.improbableplayers.org

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The Power of the Anonymous People

Wed, 06 Nov 2013 04:00:00 -0000

More than 23 million Americans are living in long-term recovery from the disease of addiction. The powerful, positive, spiritual, social, and economic impact on families, communities, and the workplace is impressive. Documentary filmmaker Greg Williams shares how he decided to bring this reality into view through his new film The Anonymous People that opened in New York City on September 17. Learn more about Greg and the movie at www.theanonymouspeople.com

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Got Higher Power? Making That Life-Giving Connection

Wed, 30 Oct 2013 02:00:00 -0000

One of the greatest gifts—and greatest struggles—of recovery is consciously connecting with life-giving power. Old ideas about spirituality and painful disappointments must be faced. Special guest John James, MBA, MA, ICADC, has many years as a recovery counselor and is the Chemical Dependency Program Supervisor at Hazelden Naples. John shares how he helps clients find new ways of looking at the concept of a higher power, making it real, and putting that power to use for their personal recovery. Visit www.hazelden.org to learn more about John’s work.

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Women in Recovery: Building a Life of Freedom and Meaning

Wed, 23 Oct 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Women in recovery reclaim the dreams that were lost to addiction. Focus on self-care, emotional balance, healthy boundaries, and empowering spirituality support a life of fulfillment and connection. My special guest, Brenda Iliff, M.A., shares what keeps women growing in recovery. An active treatment professional for more than 20 years, Brenda serves as executive director of Hazelden Naples, and was the first clinical director of the Hazelden Women's Recovery Center. Brenda, author of A Woman’s Guide to Recovery, presents nationally on the topic of the impact of addiction on women and older adults. Learn more about Brenda’s work at www.Hazelden.org.

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Neuroscience and Spirituality Team Up for Sobriety—Huh?!

Wed, 16 Oct 2013 02:00:00 -0000

The Alcoholics Anonymous founders got it right. Although neuroscience was nowhere sophisticated enough in the 1930s to verify it, Dr. Silkworth, Bill Wilson’s physician, described alcoholism quite accurately as “an allergy of the body coupled with an obsession of the mind.” Special guest Steve Castleman found that becoming a neuroscience geek helped him grasp that he really did have a biological brain disease. That knowledge relieved him of the shame and stigma that he hadn’t previously been able to shake. And, skeptical though he was, he found that science also validated the spirituality of the 12-Step solution. Learn more about Steve’s integration of neuroscience and spirituality at www.addictscience.com.

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Looking for God? Embrace Your Humanness!

Wed, 09 Oct 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Where’s God? In the very midst of our lives. Recovery invites us to get real. And spirituality is about learning to love ourselves even in the most messy, painful, and confusing experiences—not by pretending to “be perfect,” or “too spiritual to hurt.” Special guest Greg Barrette shares how accepting the facts of our psychological makeup, balanced with larger spiritual understanding, opens us to the delightfully surprising Presence of God. Greg was raised in Unity and is a Unity minister and author. He is known for his deep commitment to transformative spirituality through the integration of emotional and spiritual healing. Among other titles, Greg authored the CD Breaking Free Fom Unhealthy Relationship Patterns.

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Putting a Face and Voice on Recovery

Wed, 25 Sep 2013 02:00:00 -0000

More than 23 million Americans in the U.S. are in recovery. Every person—both those with the disease of substance/behavioral addictions and family members—is testament to the reality that recovery works. It is documented that quality of life goes up dramatically for individuals, families, and society. Special guest Pat Taylor, executive director of Faces and Voices of Recovery—www.facesandvoicesofrecovery.org—shares why it is so important that society sees the powerful, constructive impact of recovery. And she discusses the many September events held in celebration of Recovery Month—www.recoverymonth.gov.

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Celebrating the Power of Recovery With "Bill W. and Dr. Bob"

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 02:00:00 -0000

The founding of Alcoholics Anonymous touches everyone—whether familiar with the disease of addiction or not. The experience of the cofounders and their wives speaks to the universal experience of human suffering and the spiritual growth that comes from finding a way through. My special guest, playwright and psychologist Janet Surrey, shares why she and her husband Samuel Shem wrote the powerful play Bill W. and Dr. Bob, and how it touches audiences around the globe with its message that people can indeed change their destiny. Learn about this nonprofit off-Broadway play presented by Hazelden Foundation—with all proceeds donated to fund youth recovery and education efforts—at www.billwanddrbob.com.

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Finding Your Voice—Recovering Your Authentic Self

Wed, 11 Sep 2013 02:00:00 -0000

How do we express our wholeness with power and authenticity? By finding our own true voice. Addiction affects everyone with it and around it by silencing that voice and stifling self-expression. Special guest Scott Farrell shares how voice and energy work is spiritual work, and can open up our vitality and creativity to engage us fully in our lives. Scott, founder of Harmonic Oasis—www.harmonicoasis.com—explores empowerment through creative expression, both professionally and personally. His career has spanned being music director and featured singer for the largest producer of staged revue shows in the world to New Thought music ministry to master voice coach to energy, voice, and sound healing practitioner.

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Sitting With God

Wed, 04 Sep 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Would you like to feel with ever greater deep certainty that your Higher Power is a real, loving, and active Presence in your life? That experience is absolutely available to everyone—“The Realm of Spirit is broad, roomy, all inclusive; never exclusive or forbidding to those who earnestly seek.” The 11th Step of the 12-Step program invites us to seek awareness of God’s power in our lives through prayer and meditation. Guest and author Allen Liles shares the personal bond he developed and the loving guidance he received when life circumstances brought him to a renewed commitment to spending time in the silence. His book about this experience is Sitting With God: Meditating for God’s Divine Guidance, www.westbowpress.com.

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You Can Only Keep What You Give Away

Wed, 21 Aug 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Why do recovery programs make such a big deal about being of service? When we share what works for us with others, it of course extends the hand of fellowship. But even more foundational than that, we build our realization that we have worth and value—we are a part of living—the feelings of uselessness and self-pity slip away. Guest Lennis Baugh, Unity minister and recovery counselor, is all about service. He shares what he learns from it, how it supports the recovery community, and how it expands his own understanding of the spirituality of recovery.

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Spirit Moves!

Wed, 14 Aug 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Moving into recovery means moving into conscious relationship with our innate spirituality. And that means we are going to change! We see ourselves with new eyes and realize we have the ability to create good. Guest Renee Leboa is copastor of the Spiritual Living Center of Charlotte and a dynamic, humorous, and down-to-earth speaker and New Thought teacher, leader, and musician. Her openness about her past inspires all who hear her. Rev. Renee specializes in working with those with addictions using the Twelve Steps and the Science of Mind Philosophy. She is very passionate about her most spoken statement, “If I can transform my life by using the principle of the Universe, so can you.”

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Where Did They Ever Get the Idea You Don’t Have to Be Religious to Find God?

Wed, 07 Aug 2013 02:00:00 -0000

When desperation met up with nondogmatic spirituality, the 12-Step program was born. The founders of what became Alcoholics Anonymous drew from many religious resources, searching for wisdom that would help those suffering from the deadly disease of addiction make conscious contact with healing, regenerative spiritual power. One of those resources was the New Thought movement, of which Unity is a part. Special guest Jon Miller is the writer and producer of the new documentary What Is New Thought? runner-up in the River City Film Festival 2013 Independent Feature. Learn more about Jon’s work at www.NewThoughtMovie.com and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jawZwKIvSpg.

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Come Apart Awhile: The Power of Spiritual Retreats

Wed, 31 Jul 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Taking time away to gather with others walking a spiritual growth path deepens recovery. A few days of putting the focus on reflection, prayer, and sharing in a nurturing environment can “love us forward” in new ways. Guest Richard C., recovering person, Unity student, and teacher of tai chi and chi qong, shares how his full circle journey from retreat attender to retreat leader empowers his life.

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It's All About Living!

Wed, 24 Jul 2013 02:00:00 -0000

We recover so we can live life instead of sleepwalking through it. Developing our talents and interests is an important part of finding what we can pack into the stream of living. It’s how we participate in life. Guest Alan Smith, with many years of recovery, discusses how songwriting and music-making bring joy to his life and engage him in creative participation. He shares his deeply moving recovery song, “Still Need Love,” and “No Use Waitin’ for Jesus,” a lighthearted look at personal responsibility. Hear Alan’s music at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-dJ1cGMIos and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10dwG9yfleQ.

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Recovery Top 10

Wed, 17 Jul 2013 02:00:00 -0000

What happens when we live in recovery? We get stronger, wiser, and in deeper contact with our Higher Power, who loves us. When we become aware of how we are changing and growing, those qualities soar. Special guest Allen Liles, Unity minister, shares the 10 best gifts he’s received in recovery and invites us to make our own list.

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Enlarging Our Spiritual Understanding—Prayer and the Creative Process

Wed, 03 Jul 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Is prayer just an “extra frill” that takes time out of our busy day and prevents us from getting the important things done? Or is prayer a way of determining what really is important and opening us to the power to accomplish that in creative living? Special guest Terry Lund is a Unity minister and former Chair of the Prayer Department in the Unity ministerial school. Raised in a New Thought household, Terry has lived the power of prayer and the metaphysical understanding of the creative process all her life. She shares how prayer is the foundation for creative living and gives practical approaches to a rich prayer life.

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The Spirituality of Being Human

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Bill Wilson almost died of his alcoholism, but a series of opportune events led instead to his sobriety and the creation of the worldwide fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous. Bill was a reluctant hero quite aware of his failings. Because of his powerful thirst for wholeness, he found a door to an authentic spirituality that fully embraces the human condition. Guests Kevin Hanlon and Dan Carracino wrote, directed, and produced the new documentary Bill W., which includes never before seen archival footage. They share how making this film impacted their lives and what they learned from Bill’s life. Visit www.page124.com to learn more about Kevin and Dan’s work.

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Say "Yes" to the Good Stuff

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 02:00:00 -0000

One of the biggest tasks of recovery—and possibly the hardest—is learning to accept the good stuff! Guest Debbie Strand, host of the online radio show Sober in the City has experienced the amazing power of God at work in her life. Debbie shares her story and how she reaches out with honesty and courage to help others create a life of sobriety and dignified living. Learn more about Debbie’s work at www.soberinthecity.com.

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Strong Relationships—The Work Begins With You

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Two halves don’t make a whole—at least as far as relationships are concerned. A strong sense of self, emotionally and spiritually, is the foundation of strong relationships. Special guest Greg Barrette shares how focusing on self-love and practicing daily contact with your loving Higher Power is the key to life-giving relationships in your personal life and your work life. Greg was born and raised in Unity and is a Unity minister and author. Greg is known for his deep commitment to transformative spirituality through the integration of emotional and spiritual healing. He is our all-time best-selling media author, and among other titles, he authored the CD Breaking Free From Unhealthy Relationship Patterns.

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No Shame on You

Wed, 29 May 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Everybody has experienced that persistent feeling that who they are is defective, flawed, not enough. What everybody may not know is that this feeling has a name—toxic shame—and that it doesn’t have to rule our lives. We can move beyond it. Special guest Brent Uzell, licensed Unity teacher and spiritual leader active in creating bridges across faith and cultural differences, shares how to recognize shame, begin the healing process, and develop skills to create a nourishing relationship with ourselves and other people.

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Relationships as a Spiritual Practice

Wed, 22 May 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Creating harmony in relationships is no easy task. It takes self-awareness, skill, and maturity. Yikes! There is hope—help can be found by applying the 12 Traditions of recovery programs as a way to heal and enrich all relationships. Special guests Ken S. and Sherry G-S. apply the Traditions to their own relationship and host a monthly recovery meeting focused on relationships as a spiritual practice.

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Recovery—A Hero’s Journey

Wed, 15 May 2013 02:00:00 -0000

A hero is a remarkably brave person—one who has shown great courage or strength of character. How does recovery rouse defeated, helpless people—those with the disease of addiction as well as the family and friends who love them—to mature into heroes? Special guest Rev. Jack Abel, M.Div., MBA, director of Spiritual Care at Caron Foundation, shares how traditional stories of the hero’s journey can serve as a guide to the recovery process. These stories alert us to obstacles, inspire us to notice the help available along the way, and remind us of the power that comes with staying on the path.

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Growing Up All Over Again

Wed, 08 May 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Childhood in a family affected by the disease of addiction (and all that goes with it) is intense and painful. When adults who have had this experience undertake the challenge of exploring and healing how they were impacted, they create a deeply rich opportunity for spiritual development. And they are often surprised to discover their immense, innate strength. Special guest Carol Browne shares what it takes to grow up all over again. Carol has been a substance abuse counselor for more than 30 years, working to help people advance and enhance their recoveries. Her focus is on helping clients take the healthiest and best possible care of themselves, freeing them to live more fulfilling and joyful lives. Learn more about Carol’s work at www.carolbrowneabetterway.com.

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Hand in Hand With the Spirit of the Universe

Wed, 01 May 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Addiction and enabling addiction saps life of its power. Recovery happens as we connect with constructive, creative power that is greater than the addiction. Does it matter what we name that power or how we find it? Special guest Dale Worley is a Unity Minister, recovering person, singer-songwriter, and co-host of the powerful Unity Online Radio program Music Speaks Louder Than Words. Dale shares thought-provoking ideas on the concept of a Higher Power as well as his original music on this theme.

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12 Keys to Recovering Your Soul

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Addiction can show up in many guises. As we discover that we are one with constructive, creative spiritual power, addictions fall away and we begin to heal at the level of soul. More and more, we experience ourselves as people of worth and value with the ability to fulfill our deepest aspirations. Special guest Ester Nicholson, author, Agape International-licensed spiritual therapist, motivational speaker, inspirational recording artist, and recovering person with 25 years of sobriety, shares how she discovers the power of her true self. Ester is the author of Soul Recovery: 12 Keys to Healing Addiction … and 12 Steps for the Rest of Us—A Path to Wholeness, Serenity, and Success. Read more about Ester’s work at www.esternicholson.com.

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What Do We Owe Our Kids?

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 02:00:00 -0000

We all want the best for kids. What can help them navigate this complex world and grow up to lead lives that express health, love, and caring? Good things happen when parents, churches, schools, and communities ensure that young people have good information and self-care skills in the areas of substance abuse, dating violence, bullying, and suicide prevention. Marty Harding and Sue Thomas, directors at Hazelden Publishing, discuss what effective prevention is, how it works, and how adults in recovery play an essential role in young people’s lives.

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“Visions”—A Powerful Play About Recovery

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 02:00:00 -0000

In 1991 Bob L. used the short breaks on his job in an automotive plant to start writing down the images of addiction and recovery running in his head. He had no way of knowing that by 2013, Visions, a 90-minute play with a volunteer cast and staff on a shoestring budget, would have reached 30,000 people with a message of hope and won numerous awards. Special guests Bob L. and Visions cast members discuss the play and what it is like to use the dramatic arts to share the message of recovery.

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Grace, Mercy, and Transformation—The Healing Power of Steps 6 and 7

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Active addiction, whether we are the "afflicted" or the "affected," brings us face-to-face with the rawest places within us. Recovery means accepting that this is a grace-full, mercy-full universe and that cooperation with a loving Higher Power can heal us at depth. Special guest Bob A. shares from a wealth of experience on the power of Steps 6 and 7 of the 12 Steps of Recovery.

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The Transforming Power of Recovery

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Choosing recovery means that in each moment we turn ourselves toward life, not death. We take action to come alive to our feelings, our experiences, and our creative capacities. We take time to nurture our relationship with the Divine Power of the universe and learn to express it. We choose to resurrect our life on a daily basis! Sandi McKinney, Unity minister with many years of recovery, shares how a spiritual understanding of resurrection empowers our lives.

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How to Be a Happy Heretic

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 02:00:00 -0000

In recovery, many people realize the old idea they held of a Higher Power just doesn’t work. Oftentimes, that thinking must be turned on its head. Pelagius, a fourth-century monk who didn’t believe in original sin, and Rumi, an ecstatic 13th-century Sufi poet, offer amazingly fresh ideas that can lead to a more intimate, powerful, and happy relationship with Spirit. Special guest Rev. Leo Booth, Unity minister and internationally acclaimed author and lecturer, shares seven spiritual insights for healing religious codependency. Learn more about his new book The Happy Heretic at www.fatherleo.com.

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Living Spirituality—Developing Your Unique Relationship With Your Higher Power

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Coming into recovery means that spirituality must be lived—a Higher Power is no longer just a theoretical proposition. That spiritual relationship comes through listening to others’ experiences, following suggestions, reading—and most of all, through personal effort to communicate with a great Goodness that is beyond understanding. My special guest, Mary, who has more than three decades of quality recovery, shares how she continues to explore and develop her unique relationship with a Power Greater than herself.

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Loving Life to the Fullest

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0000

The disease of addiction can be a fast road to despair and ruin—or an astounding gift of grace. Tom Catton, child of the '60s, and author of The Mindful Addict: A Memoir of the Awakening of a Spirit, shares how more than 40 years in recovery has opened him to an adventurous life grounded in saying “yes” to Spirit’s leading. Tom journeys within through a committed meditation practice, and journeys without, meeting spiritual teachers and being of service across the world. Read more at http://www.centralrecoverypress.com/tom-catton.

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Young, Joyous, and Free

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0000

Young people in recovery are making waves—of energy, optimism, and commitment to long-term sobriety. They are leading the way in building support for sustained high quality of life and constructive participation in society—and they express authentic spirituality. Guest Sarah Nerad, a young person in long-term recovery since 2007, a founding member of Young People in Recovery, and cofounder of PTR Associates shares the great gifts young people are bringing to the recovery community. Learn more at www.youngpeopleinrecovery.org and www.ptrassociates.com.

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Songs of the Heart

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0000

Creativity is a powerful spiritual connection. Tapping into our innate creative Source smoothes the changes faced in recovery, speaks of Higher Power’s Presence, and connects to life. Singer/songwriter Doe Marasa tells how she reclaimed her childhood love of music and uses it to build bridges into full living. She will share several of her songs, sure to touch the heart!

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Sound Track for Recovery

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0000

A sound track makes the recovery journey a little easier and a lot more joyful. Music by and for recovering people is a celebration and a road map. Guest Kathy Moser shares her passion for music and recovery and the gifts that come from creating your own songs. Kathy is a nationally touring songwriter, performer, teacher, and social artist, bringing positive change to the world through music. Her songwriting workshops for recovering people are not only fun—they develop practical recovery skills. Learn more about Kathy’s work at www.kathymoser.com.

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The Wellbriety Movement: Native American Wisdom for Intergenerational Healing

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0000

The Wellbriety Movement grounds recovery in the Native American values of family, community, unity across generations, spirituality, and ceremony. Bringing these values to bear in intergenerational healing creates powerful well-being in Native American communities. Don Coyhis, founder and president of White Bison, and member of the Mohican Nation, tells how a vision led him into a new depth of living and his commitment to bring healing to Native American communities. Don is a recipient of the 2009 Purpose Prize given to Social Innovators over 60 who use their passion and experience to take on society’s biggest challenges. Visit www.whitebison.org to learn more about the Wellbriety Movement.

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Your Best Therapist Might Just Be a Real Dog!

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0000

Animals can’t be fooled—they tune in at the nonverbal level. That makes animal-assisted therapy a powerful tool to help all kinds of people get out of their heads and into their hearts. Guest Carol Browne and her Golden Retriever Elbie are members of The Hairy Angel Foundation, Inc,™ a charitable foundation in Sedona, Arizona, that raises Golden Retrievers to be service dogs for autistic children. Elbie participates in Carol’s counseling practice providing affection, empathy, and a very special energy. Carol has been a substance abuse counselor for more than 30 years, working to help people advance and enhance their recoveries. Her focus is on helping clients take the healthiest and best possible care of themselves, freeing them to live more fulfilling and joyful lives. Learn more about Carol’s work at www.carolbrowneabetterway.com.

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Christmas—A Recovery Story

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0000

The Christmas story, a celebration of spiritual birth, speaks in a special way to people in recovery. It is the story of the journey from darkness to light, from despair to hope, from bondage to freedom, and the joy of a whole new way of living. Special guest Allen Liles, Unity minister, shares the metaphysical spiritual interpretation of the Christmas story and the unique way it informs recovery.

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Home for the Holidays? Serenity Is Possible!

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0000

Holidays are an emotionally charged time—old family tapes blare. Whether we’re celebrating the holidays alone, with friends, or with family, our expectations that we must have the “perfect” holiday can ambush us. But we have powerful recovery tools. Special guest Sherry Gaugler-Stewart, Family and Spiritual Development Coordinator at The Retreat Family Program, Wayzata, Minnesota, shares how planning ahead emotionally and spiritually can set us up for serenity! Learn more about Sherry’s work at http://www.theretreat.org/family-program.php.

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Repairing the Soul: How We Recover From Moral Injury

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0000

Moral injury results from having to make difficult moral choices under extreme conditions, witnessing immoral acts, or behaving in ways that deeply challenge moral conscience and values. It calls for deep recovery of one’s sense of goodness and value. It calls for repairing the soul. Special guests Rita Nakashima Brock, Ph.D., and Col. Herman Keizer, retired army chaplain, codirectors of the Soul Repair Center at Brite Divinity School, discuss the profound importance of soul repair for war veterans and the essential role spiritual communities play. Dr. Brock is coauthor of Soul Repair: Recovering From Moral Injury After War. Visit www.brite.tcu.edu.

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You’re Not Alone—Peer to Peer Recovery Support

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 04:00:00 -0000

Peer to peer support, in addition to what is found in 12 Step fellowships, promotes high-level wellness, reduces relapse, and heals the soul. Getting connected with others living a recovery lifestyle creates a whole new world. Joe Powell, the executive director and a founding member of the Association of Persons Affected by Addiction, and a board member of Faces and Voices of Recovery, is a pioneer in championing peer-driven, peer-led recovery support. He shares how peer to peer programs work and how they create a network of strength for people in recovery. Learn more about Joe’s work at www.apaarecovery.org.

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Leo Booth—The Power of Gratitude

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 04:00:00 -0000

Gratitude gets us focused on what is working well in our lives and in the world. Gratitude gets us out of fear and into love, out of the “if only’s” and into the “I can’s.” Gratitude energizes us—getting us off the sidelines and into life. With his characteristic wit and keen observations, Rev. Leo Booth shares his insights into the power of gratitude. Rev. Booth is a Unity minister and internationally acclaimed author, lecturer and trainer on all aspects of spirituality and recovery. Learn more about his work at www.fatherleo.com.

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Nourished by Spirit

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 04:00:00 -0000

Eating disorders have devastating consequences for health, relationships and even finances. Recovery opens the way to deep nourishment—to receiving spiritual food that brings life, health and a loving life. Guest Heidi Voet Smith shares how as a young woman she contended with a long-time eating disorder and overcame it through devotion to a 12-step program. She has an abundance of inspiration, hope and practical steps to discuss. Heidi, a licensed professional counselor, is the clinical director at Burning Tree Recovery Ranch (www.burningtree.com), where she also co-created and co-facilitates the Family Program Workshop. She has been featured on A&E’s Intervention as well as the upcoming National Geographic series How Drugs Work, and blogs for Addiction Professional magazine.

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Journey to the Center of the Self

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Spirituality is about waking up to yourself at ever deeper levels—and discovering that you are connected to a loving, nurturing Power. Awakening means willingness to face and resolve the hurts and defenses that keep you asleep, so you can encourage your precious, creative self. Special guest Carol Browne shares what it takes to find and nurture your authentic self. Carol has been a substance abuse counselor for more than 30 years, working to help people advance and enhance their recoveries. Her focus is on helping clients take the healthiest and best possible care of themselves, freeing them to live more fulfilling and joyful lives. Carol also uses service dogs in her work with clients. These dogs are trained to work with autistic children. Learn more about Carol’s work at www.carolbrowneabetterway.com.

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Coming Full Cirlce: Bringing the Gifts of Recovery Back to the Community

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 02:00:00 -0000

The New Recovery Advocacy Movement works to remove the cultural stigma attached to addiction and recovery. It opens doors for recovering people—those with the disease of addiction and family members—to share the gifts of wisdom, resilience and awareness with the larger community. Not only does this benefit the community, it brings those affected by addiction truly back home. Guest Bill White is a senior research consultant at Chestnut Health Systems/Lighthouse Institute and has served as a volunteer consultant to Faces and Voices of Recovery since its inception. He holds an M.A. in Addiction Studies, has worked in the addictions field since 1969, counseling, training, and writing. Bill has authored or co-authored numerous articles and books, including Let's Go Make Some History: Chronicles of the New Addition Recovery Advocacy Movement. Learn more at www.williamwhitepapers.com.

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Who I Am Is Good Enough!

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 02:00:00 -0000

The word recover means to regain, reclaim, retrieve or revive something of value that has been lost. In active addiction or obsession, what is lost is our sense of self—of our own goodness and connection to our spiritual nature. Guest Doug Bottorff, author of Native Soul: Unlocking Your Life’s Potential shares how no matter what we have done, we cannot diminish our spiritual identity—it is whole and complete. And he explains what brings us to deep awareness of our spiritual essence.

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Spiritual Depth—What the Early AA’s Knew and Why It Matters to Us Today

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 02:00:00 -0000

The 12-Step Program grew out of desperation—men and women were dying from their thirst for alcohol. Their “gift of despair” made them willing to search for a life-giving drink—a relationship with a Power Greater than themselves. Early AA’s were remarkable for their dedication to their direct relationship with Spirit. It was that which brought them sobriety and healing. Guest Dick B. is a recovering person, speaker, counselor and the author of more than 46 published titles on the history and spiritual roots—including New Thought teachings—of Alcoholics Anonymous. He hosts The A.A. History Show on www.take12radio.com and weekly interviews on www.ChristianRecoveryRadio.com. Visit www.dickb.com to learn more.

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Recovery: Soul Work Required—Fr. Bill W.

Wed, 03 Oct 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery requires venturing deep inside ourselves to find and touch our soul. Only then can our sense of self shift from fear-based survival to life-giving relationship with a loving Higher Power. Mystics from all spiritual paths have described this journey as an intense descent into death as the false self breaks apart. The journey is completed as the true self—the spiritual soul, is revealed and life in profound fullness is born. Guest Fr. Bill W., celebrates 40 years of recovery and is Chair of Recovery Ministries for the Episcopal Diocese of Texas. He places emphasis on prayer, meditation, and Quiet Time. Fr. Bill is a recovery and family therapist and recently retired as the President and CEO of Austin Recovery. He writes a monthly column for Recovery Today, a publication of the Institute of Chemical Dependency Studies.

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Recovery From "The Hidden Addiction": Pathological Gambling

Wed, 19 Sep 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Pathological gambling has devastating effects on finances, families, communities and lives. It can be even more thoroughly destructive than substance addictions. Problem gambling often goes unrecognized and hides as “just recreation.” Guest Denise Quirk, LMFT, clinical director and CEO of the nonprofit Reno Problem Gambling Center, will share the difference between responsible and pathological gambling, the signs of pathological gambling, early intervention strategies, and treatment processes for problem gamblers and their families. Visit www.renopgc.org to learn more.

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Recovering Sacred Sexuality

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 02:00:00 -0000

We humans tend to go to extremes where sex is concerned—our culture has swung from Victorian prohibitions to overexposure and exploitation. Understanding sexuality as a God-given power that is good, not to be used lightly or selfishly, nor to be hidden from in shame or fear, is an essential aspect of full recovery. Special guest Dr. Robert Hemfelt, psychotherapist specializing in relationships, addictive disorders and spiritual recovery, author, and professor, joins us to discuss what sacred sexuality is. He will explain how we can re-embrace and cherish our sexuality as a means of healing addictive dynamics and toxic shame. Read about Dr. Hemfelt’s work at www.lifeworkscc.com.

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Honesty: The Foundation of Spiritual Living

Wed, 05 Sep 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Everyone caught up in the tornado of addiction is living in dishonesty. Insides don’t match outsides; actions don’t match words. Even our interpretations of facts are unreliable. The spiritual life of recovery invites us into radical honesty. Guest Arthur Messenger, author of Living the 12 Steps of Recovery, shares about the importance of honesty and what he’s learned about it from the history of the 12 Step program and from in-depth conversations with longtimers. Read more about Arthur’s work at www.livingtwelvestepsrecovery.com.

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Empowering Teens in Recovery: How Twelve-Step Programs and Recovering Adults Can Help

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Teens with the disease of addiction need support and plenty of it. However, teens are not little adults. Twelve-Step programs, originally developed for adults, can be immensely helpful to teens—if they are adapted to the particular needs of adolescents. Supporting teens to see how recovery can empower them and connecting them with safe adult mentors open life-giving doors. Our guest is Dr. Steven Jaffe, M.D., professor emeritus of psychiatry at Emory University, and clinical professor of psychiatry at Morehouse School of Medicine, in Atlanta. Dr. Jaffe has spent the past 25 years working to modify Twelve-Step programs to make them developmentally meaningful for teens. He is the author of the Adolescent Substance Abuse Intervention Workbook: Taking a First Step (5 Pack) and The Step Workbook for Adolescent Chemical Dependency.

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Healthy Spirituality: One Foot in Earth, the Other in Heaven

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Spiritual transformation is the gateway out of addiction and into constructive living. Authentic spirituality requires that we experience the Divine mystery while also “chopping wood and carrying water.” Special guest Dr. Robert Hemfelt, psychotherapist specializing in relationships and addictive disorders, author and professor, joins us again this week. He shares additional insights about the difference between religious addiction and healthy spirituality, and how recovering people can develop a grounded spiritual life. Read about Dr. Hemfelt’s work at www.lifeworkscc.com.

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Religious Addiction or Healthy Spirituality? How to Tell the Difference

Wed, 01 Aug 2012 02:00:00 -0000

How do you know if your spiritual path is opening you to an authentic experience of God’s presence or entwining you in an addictive cycle of dependence? Healthy spirituality leads us into greater love for ourselves and respectful connection with others. Religious addiction, however, traps us in absolutist thinking and ever-growing dependence on a person or institution. Special guest Dr. Robert Hemfelt, psychotherapist specializing in relationships and addictive disorders, author and professor, discusses how to tell the difference, how to disengage from an addictive religious situation, and how to develop life-giving spirituality. Read about Dr. Hemfelt’s work at www.lifeworkscc.com.

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Music Medicine for Recovery

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Music is naturally healing, living in us as the everyday rhythms of heartbeat and breath and the tones in our voice. Music-making, enjoyed playfully without the pressure to perform or entertain, is a profound way to facilitate well-being and connect with the joy of life. And that‘s what recovery is all about. Guest Christine Stevens, MSW, MA, MT-BC, author of Music Medicine: The Science and Spirit of Healing Yourself With Sound, founder of UpBeat Drum Circles, and music therapist, is committed to drumming and music-making as a way of achieving change in individuals, teams and communities. Her programs are aimed at creating a musically accessible culture, where musical expression is seen as a tool for personal transformation and development. Christine has facilitated drumming circles across the United States and the world, most notably bringing this healing modality to people who have been traumatized by wars and weather disasters.

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What Families Need to Know About Getting a Life

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Human beings are deeply connected to each other. We long for the best for those we love—but we can’t give it to them. We want their well-being—but we can’t force them to do the right things. Paradoxically, the wisest way to love others is to keep the focus on ourselves. Specializing in working with those who chronically relapse and their families, guest Heidi Voet Smith shares how essential it is that families look to their own recovery and shares practical ways they can do that. Heidi, a Licensed Professional Counselor, is the clinical director at Burning Tree Recovery Ranch (www.burningtree.com), where she also co-created and co-facilitates the Family Program Workshop. She has been featured in A&E’s Intervention as well as the upcoming National Geographic series “How Drugs Work,” and blogs for Addiction Professional magazine.

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Finding Our Sense of Self

Wed, 11 Jul 2012 02:00:00 -0000

What is that feeling of profound emptiness lurking underneath active addiction and over focus on others? It’s the sense of self gone missing. Our sense of self is that authentic voice within that draws us into fulfilled living based on self-awareness and self-respect. Even if we missed developing that as children, in recovery, we have a second chance. Guest Sandra Felt, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with many years of experience with clients in recovery from addiction and childhood trauma, shares profound and practical insights on how adults can go back through missed opportunities to find and develop a solid sense of self.

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What Women Know About Recovery

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery is the same for men and women—or is it? Addiction affects women differently in some ways. And while the foundation of recovery is the same, when treatment and recovery address women's unique needs, their well-being blossoms. Guest Beverly B. shares about her own long-term recovery and her work as a board member of a women's treatment facility that has a great track record of supporting women and their families. Visit www.nexusrecovery.org to learn about a unique program for women.

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What It Takes to Be Young and Sober

Wed, 20 Jun 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Young adults are naturally resilient and have the ability to get their lives on track. But in a culture that glorifies addictive behavior as a rite of passage, it is difficult to create the supportive, sober peer community essential for long-term recovery. Exciting cutting-edge treatment programs, coupled with aftercare in an innovative Collegiate Recovery Community, give new hope for young adults. Daniel Krasner, Clinical Solutions Provider of The Ranch at Dove Tree, shares how a unique partnership with the Center for the Study of Addiction and Recovery at Texas Tech University is opening new doors. Visit http://www.depts.ttu.edu/hs/csa/ and www.ranchatdovetree.com to learn more about recovery support for young adults.

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Hungering for Spirit

Wed, 06 Jun 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Are people pushed into recovery by overwhelmingly negative life circumstances—or are they drawn by their spiritual hunger? Are these the same thing? Guest Deanna Lowell, treatment center chaplain, discusses the spirituality of recovery, what draws us in and what it takes to keep growing. Rev. Lowell has years of rich experience in companioning recovering people as they deepen their spiritual walk.

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Treating the Whole Person: Breaking the Relapse Cycle

Wed, 30 May 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Maintaining long-term recovery is so much more than just not using. It requires a spiritually awakened life based in accountability, responsibility and consistency. Treatment that blends 12 Step spiritual principles with evidence-based medical and psychological approaches can help break the relapse cycle. Guest Michael Smith, director of multimedia marketing at Burning Tree, a long-term residential treatment program, shares what it takes to create a fulfilling, sober life.

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When the Problem Just Won’t Go Away

Wed, 23 May 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Spiritual health is a vital component of mental and physical health. When we find ourselves stuck with chronic problems, we may need to dig deep to find what’s blocking our connection with a loving spiritual power. Past trauma, negative messages or spiritual neglect may be blocking the sunlight of the Spirit. My guest this week, Dr. Leslie Ahlers, a physician who has experience in addiction medicine, chronic illness and hospice care, shares how the body-mind-spirit connection is the key to full well-being. Learn more about Dr. Ahlers at www.truepeacenow.com.

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21st Century Recovery

Wed, 16 May 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Advances in neurobiology, psychology, medicine and even electronics—through the creation of social media—offer new approaches to recovery. Do these spell the end of 12-Step programs? My guest this week, Dr. Dan Frigo, dean of Hazelden Graduate School of Addiction Studies, discusses how new methods integrated with the 12-Step model create the possibility of higher quality long-term sobriety, and how counselors are trained for the 21st century. Visit www.hazelden.org/web/public/education.page to learn more about Dr. Frigo.

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The Fullness of Spirit

Wed, 09 May 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Full mental health means spiritual health. Healthy spirituality is being in touch with a love that cares about you and is bigger than whatever has harmed you. Becoming conscious of the fullness of Spirit is the key to constructive participation in life.

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When in Doubt, Focus Out

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 02:00:00 -0000

The beauty of recovery is that we find we are not terminally unique. There are others like us today, and those who have gone before us, who light our way. We alone can do it, but we cannot do it alone. Guest Ray Nelson, Unity minister with 17 years living a recovery program, shares how seeking ways to serve others is the surest way to find solutions when he is struggling. His favorite saying is, "When in doubt, focus out."

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Second Chances

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery is all about second chances. The brittle outer shell cracks open to reveal real life inside. It’s a lot like resurrection. Rev. Mark Fuss shares what happens when what breaks apart becomes the joy of what’s breaking through.

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Connecting With Life

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Spiritual growth calls us to participate fully in life. Recovery gives us the energy and clarity to connect productively. Guest Nell Hurley, executive director of the Minnesota Recovery Connection, shares how a united commitment to peer-to-peer support, public education and advocacy offers recovering people a way to give back, strengthen their own recovery, and support others who are seeking recovery—and make a powerful impact in their local communities. Learn more about Nell’s work at www.minnesotarecovery.org.

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Living In-Depth

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 02:00:00 -0000

What happens when you pursue the spiritual path with all you've got? A life that works! Join me and my guest as we discuss what it means to want spiritual growth so much that you're willing to go to any lengths.

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Stepping Up to Spiritual Growth

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 04:00:00 -0000

What’s so powerful about the Twelve Steps, and how do they mesh with other forms of spiritual practice? First published in 1939 in the book Alcoholics Anonymous: The Big Book, the Steps offer practical actions that lead to spiritual awakening. They work, not only for people recovering from the disease of alcoholism, but for anyone with “the human condition.” When incorporated as a way of life, the Steps bring continual spiritual growth. Family member Beth A. tells how she keeps her long-term recovery vitalized by making the Steps a priority.

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Falling Apart—Or Coming Together?

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 04:00:00 -0000

When outer circumstances fall apart, it’s often a sign that our inner life is coming together. Change is unsettling, but our own spiritual self has called it forth because we are ready for a larger life. Chris Castaldi, a longtime member of the recovery community, started her college program with a burning interest in the change process. In the midst of creating her capstone project, she found herself not just writing about change—but living it! Chris shares what she’s learning about change—and why she now calls it transformation.

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Reclaim Your Life!

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 04:00:00 -0000

Who wants to interact with a God who is negative, judgmental, cold and uncaring? Probably nobody! Guest Ron Scott shares how he came to understand his Higher Power in a completely new way. Through an amazingly simple and effective process that his minister shared with him years ago, Ron has come to know God as a loving Divine Friend. This close relationship has led to a fulfilling, abundant, love-filled life. Ron is a Unity minister, recovering person, and author. In his book, Making Life Work for You: A Jesus Approach, he tells in practical ways how trusting God helps us reclaim our lives. Learn more about Ron at http://slctroy.com.

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For the Love of Children: Celebrating Children of Alcoholics Week

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:00:00 -0000

Many thousands of children have received the help they need to recover from the pain and loss of growing up in a family impacted by the disease of addiction. When children get help, they can grow up with a sense of self-respect, a connection to positive spirituality, and the ability to participate constructively in life. Guest Jerry Moe is vice president and national director of Children’s Programs at the Betty Ford Center and an internationally active trainer, author and lecturer. Jerry is known for his insightful, joyful and clear advocacy for children. Learn more about Jerry’s innovative programs at www.bettyfordcenter.org.

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New Concepts for Womens' Recovery and Spirituality

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 04:00:00 -0000

What helps women fully recover—finding freedom from addiction and meaningful spirituality? Recovery services that respond to the realities of womens' lives—that understand the need to address trauma, empowerment, and self-worth issues. Guest Carol Ackley, executive director of River Ridge Treatment Center in Minnesota, and a pioneer in implementing womens' recovery services, shares the transformation that happens with gender-responsive services. Carol blogs about womens' treatment issues on the Addiction Professional website, www.addictionpro.com.

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How to Recover From "Stinking Thinking," and Other Things You've Been Afraid to Ask!

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 04:00:00 -0000

The most fundamental addiction is the addiction to our own defenses—our patterns of thinking and living. "Stinking Thinking" keeps us running on the hamster wheel of fear. And it keeps us at odds with just about everybody. Guest Richard Rohr, prolific author, speaker and founding director of the Center for Action and Contemplation in Albuquerque, New Mexico, shares his thoughts on detaching from this universal addiction and living a meaningful life in the midst of an addicted world. Learn more about Richard at www.cacradicalgrace.org.

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Powerless? Powerful? Or Both?

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 04:00:00 -0000

Where do we find the power to live constructively? We strive to find it by achieving and doing. But that has its limits. My guest, Rev. Dennis, shares how the powerlessness of Step 1 of the 12 Steps leads to connecting with our inner spiritual Twelve Powers—and how, when grounded in spiritual power, we can create meaningful lives.

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Let’s Get Real!

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 04:00:00 -0000

Active addiction or obsession with another robs us of the ability to live in reality. Spiritual growth in recovery allows us to see life clearly, powers our thinking with wisdom, and motivates our actions from love. Guest Jerry J., who has more than 30 years experience working a program of recovery, shares how spirituality gets us into reality.

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What Was, What Is

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 04:00:00 -0000

What Was, What Is—the Foundation for What Will Be—Taking a look at how we responded to life in 2011 is a great way to appreciate our growth. It also gives us guidance from our Higher Power for what new directions we can choose to take in 2012. My 12-Step guest shares practical ways to use our past to springboard into our future.

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2012—The Year of Compassion

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 04:00:00 -0000

Compassion for ourselves and others paves the way for authentic fulfillment. Compassion invites us to reach into our depths and call into action powerful values. It leads us to actions we might never have considered. Multi award-winning independent singer-songwriters, wisdom teachers and compassionate spiritual guides Jan Garrett and J.D. Martin share with us through their music and in conversation what it takes to live from our souls. Learn more about them at www.garrett-martin.com.

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Finding the Spirit of Christmas

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 04:00:00 -0000

The Christmas story is a powerful one for recovering people. It’s a story of possibility, of hope and of promise. It’s filled with spiritual awakenings, surrender and faith. It shows how trusting God, even when the path seems nonsensical and out of the mainstream, leads to an amazingly good outcome. Pat Williamson, a Unity minister deeply committed to living and teaching spiritual principles, and with 25 years of personal recovery, shares the powerful recovery message of the Christmas story. Read more about Pat at www.unitychristchurch.org.

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Creating a Calm, Connected Christmas

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 04:00:00 -0000

Is it possible to actually enjoy the holidays!? To have peaceful celebrations with family and friends? Yes, it is—if we choose serenity first. Counselor Nancy Little, Ph.D., gives practical spiritual techniques to release behavior patterns that block holiday joy. She shows how to create new ways of seeing and being so we feel calm and connected to God, ourselves and our loved ones.

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It's Good to Have a Laugh—at Ourselves!

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 04:00:00 -0000

Seeing ourselves through the lens of humor helps us put life in perspective. Our goofy quirks are what make us human—and okay, they are also what get us into trouble. When we have a laugh—at ourselves—we see that we are indeed simply a human among humans. And that means there is definitely hope. Singer/songwriter and humorist Greg Tamblyn shares his music and original perspectives on the ego-in-denial, beer commercials, terminal seriousness, love-sickness and recovery karma. Read more about Greg at www.gregtamblyn.com.

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If It’s Not in My Day, It’s Not in My Life

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 04:00:00 -0000

Talk, talk, talk—will get you nowhere. Our lives get better when we actually live our spirituality. Guest and author Arthur Messenger helps us put the power of Spirit into action each day. His book Living the 12 Steps of Recovery wakes up a new sense of what is possible in recovery. Find out more about Arthur at www.livingtwelvestepsrecovery.com.

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Relief or Recovery? The Twelve Steps as a Wisdom Path

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 04:00:00 -0000

The Twelve Steps are a wisdom path that holds principles in common with numerous spiritual philosophies, including New Thought. They appeal to a wide variety of people, many of whom would never practice a religion. Fully embraced, the Twelve Steps lead to a life well-lived. Guest Fred Holmquist, director of The Lodge Program at the Hazelden Renewal Center, has worked in addiction services for 32 years and has a gift for translating recovery principles into practical everyday living. He is a student of New Thought history and philosophy.

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Seeing From the Soul

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 04:00:00 -0000

Living with energy and creativity demands that we see with clear eyes. It isn’t always easy to face what we find inside us and around us. Singer/songwriter David Roth has a gift for grasping the plain truth and showing it to us with courage, love and grace. David shares why he writes about gratitude, transformation, societal justice, diversity, relationships and peace and what it all has to do with claiming your authentic life. Hear David's music at www.davidrothmusic.com.

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Sought Through Prayer and Meditation

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Daily contact with our Higher Power is necessary for high-quality living. It opens us to deeper understanding of ourselves and the strength to grow from challenges. Guest Paul Tyman is a seasoned leader of silent meditation retreats for recovering people. He discusses how 60 years of conscious contact continues to expand his life and shares practical tips on developing a daily prayer practice.

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Getting Unstuck

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery means finding the authentic self that has been buried for far too long. Psychodrama and other experiential approaches offer creative ways to get unstuck. These powerful methods help recovering people release blocks and go forward to develop healthy lifestyles and productive relationships. Guest Julie Patrick, a psychotherapist experienced in addictions recovery and a nationally certified psychodrama practitioner, shares how facing the past can make a constructive present and future. Read more about Julie at www.twodramaqueens.com.

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The Wisdom of the Horse—Equine-Assisted Therapy for Addiction Recovery

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Trust, boundaries and respect are key aspects of recovery. With a little help from a horse, people can learn these important life lessons. Guest Lynn Moore, addiction counselor, certified equine therapist, and founder of Acres for Life, shares how the wisdom of the horse helps people heal. Read more about Lynn at www.acresforlife.com.

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Spiritual Recovery: A Turning Point for Families

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Addiction wreaks havoc with family relationships. Trust, security and hope fly out the window. However, families can find a way out of the chaos by working their own program of spiritual recovery. Guest Ellie Hyatt, director of Family and Spiritual Recovery at The Retreat in Wayzata, Minnesota, shares what it takes for families to heal.

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Spirituality: What's the Big Deal?

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Spirituality is the foundation of solid recovery—but it can seem so abstract. What does spirituality really mean? How do you know if you’ve got it? Are there specific things you can do to live more spiritually? Guest Val Roney, veteran addictions counselor and facilitator of the Spirituality Group in a women’s residential treatment center, gives practical tips on growing your spiritual life in recovery. Read more about Val at www.valroneycounseling.com.

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The Loving Heart of Spirit

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 02:00:00 -0000

The depths of the heart can only be found through healing the soul. Special guest Rev. Allen Liles shares how spiritual honesty opens the door to profound love.

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Brain Wisdom: Your Higher Power Speaking

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Current research shows that our brain has a lot to do with how we experience our spirituality. No wonder active addiction, a disease of brain chemistry, makes it nearly impossible to feel connected to Spirit and spiritual values. Ongoing brain healing is a big part of recovery. Unity minister Steve Maynard, author of the weekly Transformative Living Center e-series, "Your Evolving Brain," offers a surprisingly positive perspective.

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What Matters Most

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery brings us face-to-face with what matters most—the gift of life and our connections to other people. Musician, songwriter, author and speaker Dennis Warner touches the lives of adults and young people with messages of self-acceptance and unity. His Beads on One String Project, an anti-bullying program, has reached more than 100,000 children. Dennis shares his music and tells us what motivates him to help people focus on what matters most.

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Recovery as Pilgrimage: Coming Home

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Guest Nic K., recovering person and addictions counselor, talked with us from Assisi, Italy, on October 5, 2010, about his pilgrimage to the sacred sites of Europe and the Middle East. He went on a profound inner journey as he met himself through people, places and new situations. Nic is back in the United States and will talk about how his pilgrimage has touched him and transformed his recovery.

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The Healing Spirit: Recovery and Posttraumatic Stress

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 02:00:00 -0000

When posttraumatic stress and addiction both impact a person, full recovery means addressing both. Dennis S., recovering person and Unity minister, shares how he engages the healing power of Spirit to create deep recovery and an engaged, joyful life.

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Bridges of Spirit

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Guest Bob Dicken shares how he builds trust and connections between treatment professionals, recovering people and the world of religion and spirituality. When these three communities come together in their common spiritual bond, recovering people receive powerful support.

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Growing in Spirit, Opening the Heart

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Spiritual growth takes focus, perseverance and willingness to keep opening the heart. Listening to one’s Higher Power and taking action on guidance is essential. Being of service is a given. Standing still is not an option. Recovering person Paul A. shares how he combines recovery and Unity principles to keep growing.

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The Metaphysics of the 12 Steps

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Were the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous metaphysicians, evangelical Christians, both, or neither? Desperate for freedom from a terrible disease, they forged a spirituality that defies description—but who cares? It works. Mark S., licensed chemical dependency counselor, dual diagnosis treatment specialist, and student of New Thought, shares the healing power of living the 12 Steps from a metaphysical perspective.

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Gifts From the Dark

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Feeling as if he were trapped in a dark tunnel in which both ends were sealed off, with a sign on the door that read "No Exit," is how guest Douglas Bloch describes his experience with debilitating depression. Determined to find a way through, he combined spirituality, the love of friends, nutrition and therapy. Douglas, author of 10 books, including Listening to Your Inner Voice, shares the gifts he’s gotten from the dark and his program of recovery from depression.

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Dancing With Spirit

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Dance puts the pieces of ourselves into motion, so those pieces can reform and we can heal. It stirs up the energy that connects us to life. Dance is a powerful recovery practice that moves us to fully embody who we are. Guest Liz T., student and teacher of dance as a spiritual and physical practice, shares how she dances with Spirit.

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Healing Blessings: A Parent’s Story

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 02:00:00 -0000

There is no such thing as a wasted life—even when that life ends tragically. Kathleen Wilson, author of Child of Mine: Spiritual Healing From My Child’s Drug Addiction, shares how she walked through profound pain to find love and meaning.

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Hope for Families

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 02:00:00 -0000

When family members of those with the disease of addiction seek spiritual growth, their lives improve whether or not their loved one is in recovery. Serenity replaces worry, compassion replaces condemnation, and joy returns. Guest Magdalena E. tells how living spiritually has graced her life with peace and amazing opportunities.

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Triple Winners

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Spiritual growth really takes off when deep healing is the focus. Working two recovery programs and living Unity principles opens doors to a rich and full life. Guest Jeffrey D. shares why he chooses to be a triple winner and how he walks that path.

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Renew Your Spirit: The Gift of a 12-Step Retreat Center

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 02:00:00 -0000

How wonderful it is to spend a few days free from the daily routine to concentrate on life-sustaining spiritual resources. The Renewal Center of the South (RCS) is a nonprofit retreat center for members of any 12-Step Fellowship that provides just such an opportunity. RCS director Jesse Sell tells how following spiritual principles built this wonderful place and how it enriches lives.

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Science and Spirituality: What Researchers Have to Say

Wed, 25 May 2011 02:00:00 -0000

For years scientists have been studying what makes programs like AA work. Currently they are focusing on how spirituality fosters recovery. Researcher Dr. Val Slaymaker shares why scientists are so interested in spirituality, how they study it, and the surprising things they are finding out.

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Loving It All

Wed, 18 May 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Being in recovery doesn’t mean we live happily ever after—it means we have the resources to meet life as it comes. Wisdom is embracing the hard times as well as the good. And we find that love is accepting people exactly as they are. Guest Jenny L., longtime recovering family member, shares how she learns to love it all.

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The Yoga of Recovery

Wed, 11 May 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Addiction is a disease of separation. Yoga is an ancient practice that unites what has been pulled apart— mentally, physically, relationally and spiritually. Yoga teacher Julie Wright integrates yoga and the 12 Steps of Recovery, creating a powerful tool that brings balance and an added dimension of well-being to people recovering from all types of addiction.

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Journey to the Mystic Heart

Wed, 04 May 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery is a wisdom path that leads us deep into our spiritual selves. Desperation unexpectedly opens the door to natural mysticism. Doe A. has plumbed the depths of self, both psychologically and spiritually. In this episode, she shares the rich truths she has discovered in her own mystic heart.

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The Recovery Church: Community of Hope

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 02:00:00 -0000

The Recovery Church is a unique community that draws from two powerful spiritual traditions—the 12-step program and Christianity—seeking to embody the spirit of God without creating boundaries for its expression. Rev. Dr. Jo Campe shares how this ministry provides nurturing spiritual community for people in search of growth, healing and recovery.

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Coming Home to the Power Within You

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 02:00:00 -0000

The circumstances of our lives hold us down until we find the spiritual power within us. Guest Paul Wedding, author of If You Only Knew What You Already Know was homeless, jobless, and powerless over the disease of addiction. Eight years ago on April 19, 2003, he had a profound spiritual experience that set him on a path of recovery, service and fulfillment of his soul purpose.

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Legacy of Love

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Families affected by addiction can break the chain of pain and choose to create a legacy of love. Janet L. tells how life can be different when multiple family members enter recovery.

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Reset to Love

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery means learning to love again—or maybe for the first time. Healing the past, learning to respect self and others, having the courage to give and receive—these are the tools that build good relationships. Guest Richard C., recovering person and blogger, shares his quest to reset to love.

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Treating the Spirit

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Spirituality is a powerful change agent. Treatment program director Tony Krall believes it is the key component in recovery. Only spirituality creates a lasting positive shift in relationships—all the way from family dynamics to productive political involvement.

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Give It All You've Got

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 02:00:00 -0000

Does being in recovery mean that you have to forever define yourself as "sick?" What does well-being look like? Guest Kevin F. explores the paradoxes of being a recovering person.

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The Family Afterwards

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 04:00:00 -0000

Special guest Billye, author, speaker and spiritual teacher, shares the wisdom of 40 years of family recovery. By putting her serenity first, she was able to detach with love during the active alcoholism in her family. Now with many years of living with family sobriety, she generously speaks about how the tools of recovery keep transforming her life.

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The Power of Conscious Contact

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 04:00:00 -0000

Improving conscious contact with spiritual power as we understand it is the foundation of recovery. But how do we do it? There are as many ways as there are people. Guest Charles G. shares his deep commitment to and enthusiasm for his relationship to God. He tells us why that connection is so important, what it means to his recovery, how he gets through the dark nights of the soul, and how he keeps that spiritual relationship growing in the midst of a very busy life.

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A Woman's Heart

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 04:00:00 -0000

Women in recovery have a unique kind of courage. In this episode, guest Sandra M. talks about those special challenges and the rich rewards that come from facing them.

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Love Opens the Door to Life

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 04:00:00 -0000

The disease of addiction shuts the door to full living, while the genuine welcoming love found in recovery opens the door to all the good we can hold. For Unity minister and recovering person Joe S., life is rich today. Join us as Joe shares how love brought him into recovery and keeps guiding him with the wisdom of the heart.

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Recovering a Spirituality of Wholeness, With Bishop John Shelby Spong

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 04:00:00 -0000

To recover means to get back something previously lost, to reclaim what is useful, to find the essence of who we are, and connect that with life around us. Bishop John Shelby Spong is a visionary thinker who articulates a spirituality of wholeness—one that engages life in ways that express integrity, love and equality. He opens doors to powerful new ways of understanding and relating with Spirit’s presence—ways that deepen and broaden recovery. Bishop Spong, whose books have sold more than a million copies, was bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark for 24 years before his retirement in 2001. He is a visiting lecturer at universities and churches and has made extensive media appearances. Bishop Spong also writes the weekly e-column “A New Christianity for a New World.“

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Being the Person I’m Meant to Be

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery is all about finding and expressing your talents, love, and creativity—being of service by being you. Guest Gracie Vandiver shares how she does just that. In addition to conversation, we’ll hear music from Gracie’s Trail of Light CD. Gracie is a songwriter, singer, founder of Sunlight of the Spirit Music, host of SoberCafe Podcast, and winner of a New Thought Music Posi Award and two Entertainment Industries Council PRISM awards for supporting recovery through media.

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Spiritual Principles in Action

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 04:00:00 -0000

Addiction creates the dead end of fear and “no choice.” Recovery creates the opening to love and constructive options. What’s the catalyst for this transformation? Putting spiritual principles into practical action—every day. Guest Chad W., professional addictions counselor and a person in long-term recovery, knows what it takes and tells it like it is.

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Looking for God in All the Right Places

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 04:00:00 -0000

How we view God matters! My guest Lee L., a recovering family member, is a gutsy lady who has never been content with a secondhand God. A forward thinker who dares to let her spirituality keep evolving, Lee has lots to say about looking for and finding a Higher Power.

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So You Think the 12 Steps Are Enough?!

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery is a launching pad to life—not a place to hide out. The disease of addiction isolates us. Recovery gives us the courage to connect. My guest Richard Curtis believes the true purpose of the 12 Steps is the fulfillment of our spiritual potential—which includes paying it forward in love and service.

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Families: What’s Love Got to Do With It?

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 04:00:00 -0000

Families—you gotta love ‘em! Or do you? Better yet—how do you, especially at the holidays! Spirit of Recovery guest Dr. Fran Williams, clinician and educator, knows a thing or two about love—what it is and what it isn’t. She helps recovering people create healthier, more authentic and caring family relationships. Fran’s wisdom, delivered with warmth and humor, opens the doors of the heart.

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“Recovery on the Go” With Jeff K.

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 04:00:00 -0000

Recovery changes everything—or does it? Jeff K. is a busy guy. He was that way before recovery, and he’s still that way today. Some of his many roles are consultant to nonprofits, vocal artist, actor, artistic director of a musical theater company, music director, auctioneer extraordinaire, businessman and politician. And in the midst of all that, he puts recovery first—including being of service. Tune in this week to find out how he does it—and discover what does and doesn’t change with recovery.

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The Doorway to Recovery

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 04:00:00 -0000

Good happens when we put Spirit into action—or when Spirit puts us into action! Guest Mark Burchell’s focus was getting his business back on track, but God had other plans. In 2003, Mark opened his first transitional home, where people could live and share recovery in a sober environment. This was the beginning of “The Doorway to Recovery,” a program that supports recovering people rebuilding their lives. Join us as we discuss how Spirit moves us to do the things that make a real difference.

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Living Recovery, With Jody K.

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 04:00:00 -0000

The philosophy of recovery for today’s guest, Jody K., is “If you work it, it’s work. If you live it, it’s life.” Living recovery means a dynamic family life based in communication, accountability, respect and love. Living recovery means knowing that “pain healed becomes the power and grace to help others.” Join me for a lively conversation with Jody K.—a joyful spirit with 27 years of living recovery.

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12 Steps to Revolutionary, Evolutionary Spirituality

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 04:00:00 -0000

What if human self-centeredness is not “bad” but rather an earlier stage of development? What if humans are now evolving into our next stage—oneness, the ability to live Divine Love? Can the12 Steps, traditionally associated with addiction recovery, be used by anyone as an evolutionary path to love? Join me and my guest Barry Vennard, Unity minister and author of Stepping Through the Narrow Gate: Personal Transformation Through Evolutionary Spirituality as we discuss the possibilities.

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Holy Body, Wholly Well

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 02:00:00 -0000

Does recovery from addiction include taking good care of your brain? Today’s scientific research validates what founders of the modern recovery movement knew through observation—the disease of addiction has a strong physical component. My guest Dr. Suka Chapel, director of ARISE Treatment Center, combines nutritional therapy, energy work, and lifestyle changes with traditional 12-step and psychological counseling for a holistic treatment approach. Join us for a stimulating discussion of how supporting brain health facilitates spiritual growth and behavioral change.

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Choosing Serenity: Family Members in Recovery

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 02:00:00 -0000

Everyone who cares about a person with the disease of addiction is affected by it. Addiction impacts the person’s family, friends, workplace and yes—even their spiritual community. It is a disease of relationships where chaos reigns and conscious contact with Spirit is squeezed out. Join me and special guest Unity minister Peggy K., who for the past 34 years has worked her own powerful program of recovery as a family member. She’ll tell us her story of choosing serenity over turmoil and share her wisdom about what makes a positive difference for our loved ones who have addiction—whether they are in recovery or not.

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Walk in Dry Places—Learning to Live!

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 02:00:00 -0000

Recovery is so much more than sobriety alone or coping with a loved one’s addictive disease. That’s where it begins—but ultimately recovery is about learning to live! My guest today is Mel B., a recovering alcoholic with over 60 years of sobriety and a lifelong student of metaphysics and spirituality. Mel wrote the meditation book Walk in Dry Places to help recovering people learn to live life on life’s terms—in other words to actually become happy, joyous and free. The recovery life is a life worth living—well! Join me and Mel B. as we explore how to make it through life’s challenges into positive, high-quality living. You can learn more about Mel’s book at www.walkindryplaces.com.

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Practicing These Principles: Metaphysics and the 12 Steps, With Albert W., a Unity Minister and Recovering Person

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 02:00:00 -0000

A spiritual awakening that leads to continuing spiritual growth is the purpose of the 12 Steps. Integrating 12-Step principles with a personal spiritual path can increase our ability “to practice these principles in all our affairs.” My guest Albert W., longtime recovering person and Unity minister, will discuss how metaphysical spiritual principles deepen his recovery and his ministry. He’ll also share with us the challenges and triumphs he has met along the way.

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Recovery as Pilgrimage: Making the Inner and Outer Journey

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 02:00:00 -0000

Most people enter recovery out of sheer desperation—ready to try something, anything, to stop their downhill slide. Few realize in the beginning that they are opening their lives to so much more than putting the brakes on destruction. Coming into recovery is setting feet, heart, mind and soul on the path of pilgrimage—a journey to a holy place within one’s own life. Anna’s guest Nic K., addictions counselor, recovering person, and lover of life, will be talking with us from Assisi, Italy. He is on a very special inner and outer pilgrimage, traveling to sacred places in Europe and the Middle East. Nic will be sharing with us the fascinating people he has met, the heart-deepening service he has been able to give, and the new depths of spiritual growth he is discovering.

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Spirituality: The Heart of Recovery

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 02:00:00 -0000

We take for granted that recovery and spiritual growth are one and the same. But that wasn’t always the case. How did spirituality and recovery get intertwined? And how did Unity and other New Thought ideas become part of the mix? Anna and her guest “Dennis the Minister” explore how this strong spiritual foundation benefits recovering people today.

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