Back to What Works

Back to What Works

What can we learn from those who have battled addiction? In "Back to What Works", Alcoholics Alive! brings Shank and Wayne together to close Season 16 with a straight-talking, down‑to‑earth chat about what actually helps alcoholics get sober and stay that way. Rather than chasing the latest trend or overcomplicating recovery, they keep coming back to basics: living Alcoholics Anonymous as a daily way of life.

You’ll hear them talk about keeping the programme simple, focusing on what works, and sticking with it even when life gets messy. Their style is relaxed, sometimes funny, and very honest, making it easy to relate whether you’re brand new to AA or have been around for years.

A highlight of the episode is their "Meeting Shrapnel" segment, where they unpack three familiar sayings that many people in recovery will recognise: "Come all the way in and sit all the way down," "We're just two liars sorting out the truth," and "ODAT – One Day at a Time." These phrases capture the heart of their message: commit fully, be honest about your past, and stay grounded in the present.

The conversation is geared towards people who want practical AA experience rather than theory. Shank and Wayne share what has helped them maintain freedom from alcohol, along with the humour and humility that keep recovery from getting too heavy. For anyone wondering if AA can still work for them, this episode points back to the core principles and practices that have supported countless sober lives.

If you’re curious about how keeping it simple can make recovery more sustainable, this season finale might be just the nudge you need to look at what really works for you.