James Fye: From Teenage Drinker to AA Leader and Mentor
There's been a lot of ups and there's been a lot of downs. You've come so far, and for me to sound like you know, say I'm proud of you, sounds kind of strange, but I'm proud of you and I think you need to give yourself some credit too, because you've got to reflect a little on yourself.
Imagine starting your drinking journey at just 12 years old. That was James Fye's reality, hanging out with college students at the University of Kentucky. Fast forward nearly a decade into sobriety, and James is now not only sober but also leading an AA meeting specifically for cigar-smokers and managing a detox center in Ohio.
In this episode of 'Your Voices of Hope with Michelle Beyer', James opens up about his tumultuous path to sobriety and the lessons he's learned along the way. He shares candid stories about his early struggles with alcohol, his challenges in nursing school and firefighting, and the pivotal moments that led him to seek help. One of the standout aspects of James' story is his innovative approach to AA meetings.
By creating a space for cigar-smokers, he’s addressing a niche that often feels left out of traditional recovery settings. James also talks about the evolving landscape of addiction recovery, particularly how Zoom meetings have transformed the way people connect and support each other. Throughout the interview, Michelle Beyer offers a compassionate platform for James to reflect on his journey and his ongoing efforts to help others.
His mantra, 'If we're stagnant, that's not a good thing', encapsulates his philosophy of continuous growth and self-improvement. This episode isn't just about James' past; it's a testament to the power of resilience and the impact one person can have on a community. Whether you're on your own path to sobriety or supporting someone who is, James' story is a powerful reminder that change is possible, and support is always available.