Anniversary Reflections: Vacations, Triggers, and the MAT vs. 12 Step Debate
I don't think it has to be within the structure of alcoholics anonymous.
It's been a year since Mike and Nat started sharing their recovery journey on 'Recovery in the Middle Ages', and they're celebrating this milestone with an episode packed with insights and humor. Fresh off a trip from the land of endless Margaritas, Nat dives into the challenges of staying sober on vacation. From tempting triggers to unexpected cravings, they break down the hurdles that can trip up even the most steadfast in their recovery journey. But that's just the beginning.
The heart of this episode tackles a hot-button issue: the clash between Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) and traditional 12 Step Dogma. Mike shares a fiery debate he had on Facebook with some AA purists who believe that using medication to aid sobriety disqualifies someone from being truly sober. Mike and Nat don’t shy away from this controversy, instead, they advocate for a more inclusive view of recovery that embraces all paths to sobriety.
Their conversation isn't just limited to serious topics; they sprinkle in light-hearted segments like the 'Week in Weird', featuring stories about ancient dragons, and 'Recovery in the News', discussing bizarre headlines like the International House of Pancreatitis serving booze with pancakes. This episode is a rollercoaster of emotions and topics, making it a must-listen for anyone navigating their own recovery or supporting someone who is.
Whether you're curious about alternative recovery methods or just need a good laugh, Mike and Nat's anniversary show offers both in spades.