Moving Forward After Relapse, Part TwoMoving Forward After Relapse, Part Two
Emotional Sobriety: The Next Step in Recovery
Thom’s Nutshell: Rigorous honesty begins at home. Joe C. joins us to discuss the ways relapse is experienced by the loved ones of the relapser, and how we can think about these distressing events differently. The universe isn’t guided by structure and order alone. There’s chaos as well. We have influence, but not control, and with emotional sobriety we can more clearly see that distinction. Thank you for listening to our podcast. Our music is provided by the great southern artist Jefferson Ross. Learn more about Jefferson at jeffersonross.com Visit our website: www.emotionalsobriety.info Follow us on social media: Instagram: thomrutledge2 Joe C. Twitter: @Rebellion_Dogs Learn more about Joe C., Secular AA and Rebellion Dogs here: https://rebelliondogspublishing.com Friendly Circle Berlin workshops: https://friendlycircleberlin.org/events Allen’s book, 12 Essential Insights for Emotional Sobriety: https://www.amazon.com/12-Essential-Insights-Emotional-Sobriety/dp/1955415129/ Join Allen & Thom at our Thursday night, 7pm PST Zoom meeting on Emotional Sobriety and the Steps (login information below): https://zoom.us/j/330149513 Password: 375986 For our ongoing workshop video series on Emotional Sobriety and the 12 Steps, visit our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHEM2-kqLkfp3I4c0jy-X-g Also, please join our “Emotional Sobriety and Recovery” FB Group at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/120450976662519 We’d love to stay in touch in between meetings. We appreciate feedback! Contact Patrick, our producer, at pndirective4@gmail.com for any questions or comments.
29:47•16 Mar 2026
Embracing Chaos: Emotional Sobriety After Relapse
Episode Overview
- Emotional sobriety involves accepting both order and chaos in life.
- Relapse affects not only the individual but also their loved ones.
- Influence is possible in recovery, but control is often an illusion.
- Rigorous honesty is essential for personal growth and recovery.
- Relapse is a part of the recovery journey, not its end.
“"Rigorous honesty begins at home."”
What emotional and inspiring tales of recovery are out there? In this episode of 'Emotional Sobriety: The Next Step in Recovery,' Thom Rutledge and Dr. Allen Berger tackle the challenging topic of relapse and how it affects not just the individual, but also their loved ones. Joined by guest Joe C., they explore the often chaotic universe of addiction recovery, emphasising the difference between influence and control.
Thom's nutshell of 'rigorous honesty begins at home' sets the tone for a candid discussion about self-awareness and acceptance. Joe C. shares his experiences with the emotional turmoil that relapse can bring to families, highlighting the importance of maintaining a supportive presence rather than attempting to control outcomes.
This episode dives into the concept of emotional sobriety, where listeners are encouraged to embrace both the order and chaos of life, accepting that while we may influence situations, control is often an illusion. The conversation is peppered with light-hearted moments and personal anecdotes that bring humour to a serious subject, making it relatable and engaging. Listeners are left with a powerful message: relapse isn't the end of the story, but rather a part of the recovery journey.
As you reflect on these insights, consider how you might apply them in your own life or support someone else on their path to sobriety.
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