The Merry-Go-RoundThe Merry-Go-Round
Emotional Sobriety: The Next Step in Recovery
Joe, Thom, and Patrick talk Marcus Aurelius, read a daily reflection from Joe’s “Beyond Belief,” and consider the uncomfortable necessity of staying in the center of the herd. We also talk about making a difference and keeping the candle of hope burning during our particularly brutal and unjust time. Joe’s “Beyond Belief” book: https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Belief-reflection-nonbelievers-freethinkers/dp/0988115700 See last week guest Michael Harney’s play, “Danny Boy” still showing in Los Angeles: https://www.onstage411.com/newsite/show/play_info.asp?show_id=7432 Patrick’s “Outside Issues” podcast, about the intersection of recovery and social justice: https://www.youtube.com/@outsideissuespodcast https://pod.link/1826305552 Learn more about Joe C., Secular AA and Rebellion Dogs here: https://rebelliondogspublishing.com Follow us on social media. Podcast Twitter: @EmSobrietyPod Instagram: thomrutledge2 Joe C. Twitter: @Rebellion_Dogs Friendly Circle Berlin Workshop Group meets every Monday @ 7:30pm (Berlin), 6:30pm (Ireland & UK), 1:30pm EST, 10:30am PST Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5505019905 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.
43:12•12 Oct 2025
Finding Balance on the Sobriety Merry-Go-Round
Episode Overview
- Staying in the centre of your recovery community can prevent relapse.
- Building a network is crucial for long-term sobriety.
- Service roles can help integrate individuals into their community.
- Personal responsibility is key to emotional sobriety.
- Balancing spontaneity and structure aids recovery.
“"Sobriety is like a merry-go-round. It's easy to stay on when you're in the middle."”
Curious about how others navigate their sobriety journey? In this episode of 'Emotional Sobriety: The Next Step in Recovery,' you'll find a blend of humour and wisdom as hosts Thom Rutledge and Dr. Allen Berger, alongside guest Joe C., explore the importance of staying centred in recovery. They dive into the metaphor of sobriety as a merry-go-round, emphasising the significance of being in the middle rather than the edge to avoid falling off.
The discussion takes an entertaining turn with references to Marcus Aurelius and the joys and challenges of social connections in recovery. The episode doesn't shy away from addressing the reality of social dynamics within recovery communities. With anecdotes about making phone calls and breaking the ice with fellow members, listeners are reminded of the value of community support.
Joe C.'s reflections from his book 'Beyond Belief' add depth to the conversation, highlighting the necessity of reaching out and building networks to enhance one's recovery journey. Throughout the episode, there's a playful exchange about personal experiences and the importance of service in recovery. By embracing both the challenges and the camaraderie that come with being part of a recovery group, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own paths.
The episode leaves you pondering: How can you step into the centre of your own merry-go-round and embrace the support around you?
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