Sober Cast: An (unofficial) Alcoholics Anonymous Podcast AA ESH: Don L.
Nov 4, 2025
Don L., a longtime member of Alcoholics Anonymous with 19 years of sobriety, shares his heartfelt journey at a beef dinner for the Mystic Knights of Sobriety. He contrasts the misconceptions of having a drinking problem with the reality of alcoholism. Don discusses the importance of sponsorship, step work, and daily prayers, explaining how self-knowledge transformed his recovery. Through anecdotes, he reflects on the dangers of rationalization and highlights the communal spirit of AA as a place of love and service, urging members to discover and share their unique gifts.
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First Drunk: Relief And No Pain
- He recounts his first drunk: Old English 800 with friends, emotional connection, and a fall into scrub oak.
- That first intoxication taught him alcohol removed pain and produced relief he chased thereafter.
Childhood Story Rewritten By Steps
- Don describes losing a job, playing victim, and the childhood story he used to solicit sympathy.
- After working the steps he rewrote that narrative and recognized his mother's sacrifices.
Bottom: Jail, Theft, And Surrender
- Don recounts stealing a brother's car, warrants, and confrontation leading to despair and suicidal wishes.
- He describes passing blood, mooching off family, and surrendering without understanding alcoholism.
