Life Beyond AA: Honest Insights on Safe Recovery Podcast
It's about meeting the person where they're at and trying to reduce the harm.
What happens when you decide to leave AA? Monica Richardson, the insightful host of Safe Recovery, dives into this very question. This episode features a live, unfiltered conversation about the experiences of those who have stepped away from the traditional 12-step program. Monica is joined by guest stop13stepinaa, and together they explore a variety of alternative healing methods for alcohol dependency and drug overuse.
Listeners are invited to reflect on their own journeys as the episode touches on the diverse reasons people find themselves in AA—whether coerced by courts, encouraged by family, or seeking help on their own. The discussion is raw and non-judgmental, providing a real look at the potential pitfalls of AA culture, including predatory behavior in meetings.
Monica and her guest discuss several empowering alternatives to AA, such as SMART Recovery, SOS, HAMS Harm Reduction, Moderation Management, LifeRing, Women for Sobriety (WFS), and The Sinclair Method. They emphasize the importance of meeting individuals where they are and reducing harm rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all solution. One standout moment in the episode is the acknowledgment that there are multiple pathways to recovery.
Whether it’s through reading a good book like 'Recover!' or finding a non-12-step addiction therapist, the options are plentiful and varied. This episode is perfect for anyone questioning their place in AA or seeking alternative ways to heal. It’s a candid, eye-opening conversation that challenges the status quo and offers practical advice for those on their journey to recovery.