Tout Est PossibleTout Est Possible
Emotional Sobriety: The Next Step in Recovery
Today’s Nutshell Wisdom: The big difference between passing judgment and exercising judgment: One focuses attention on something I do not control. The other focuses on precisely what I do control. Today we’re back to the serenity prayer and describing what emotional sobriety’s “discovery of new possibilities” could practically mean. 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 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.
22:53•12 Jan 2026
Emotional Sobriety: Embracing New Possibilities
Episode Overview
- Focus on what you can control to gain emotional freedom.
- Emotional maturity involves differentiating between influence and control.
- Self-esteem grows when you claim your desires without fear.
- Emotional sobriety can lead to discovering new possibilities.
- Being a role model helps children discover their own identities.
“"Emotional freedom happens when we are safe."”
In this engaging episode of "Emotional Sobriety: The Next Step in Recovery," Thom Rutledge and Dr. Allen Berger explore the intriguing concept of emotional sobriety and how it can lead to new possibilities in recovery. Drawing inspiration from Bill Wilson's insights, they discuss the power of exercising judgment over passing judgment, focusing on what we can control rather than what we can't. This simple yet profound shift in perspective can unlock a sense of freedom and self-discovery.
The hosts delve into personal anecdotes, highlighting how emotional maturity plays a crucial role in recovery. They discuss how differentiating between what we can influence and what we can't is vital for emotional growth. As Thom shares his experiences as a father, he emphasises the importance of being a role model and helping children discover their own identities without imposing judgment. Listeners are treated to a lively discussion about the potential of emotional sobriety to transform one's life.
The episode also touches on the importance of self-esteem and the ability to claim one's desires and preferences without fear. Through their candid conversations, Thom and Allen offer a fresh perspective on recovery, encouraging listeners to embrace emotional freedom and explore new possibilities. Curious about how emotional sobriety can enhance your recovery journey? Tune in to hear more about how focusing on what you can control might just open up a world of new opportunities.

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