Two Big Questions - Let's Be Honest About The Twelve StepsTwo Big Questions - Let's Be Honest About The Twelve Steps
The Hope Recovery Podcast
Greg Schmalhofer and Pedro share a brief, faith-centred conversation about why the Twelve Steps succeed or fail and how honesty and readiness shape recovery. The chat highlights God’s role in each step and stresses that the programme only works when it is genuinely worked.
2:14•1 Nov 2026
Two Big Questions About the Twelve Steps and Honest Recovery
Episode Overview
- The Twelve Steps are viewed as touching every part of everyday life, from waking to sleeping.
- Pedro believes "God is in every step," making the programme spiritually grounded.
- The steps are described as "everyday steps" that must be actively applied, not just understood intellectually.
- Pedro suggests the Twelve Steps fail for some people because they are "not ready" and do not truly want recovery.
- The core message is that the programme works when honestly and consistently worked: "It works if you work it."
“"It works if you work it."”
What drives someone to seek a life without alcohol? This short "pop-up" chat on The Hope Recovery Podcast gives a punchy, faith-focused take on the Twelve Steps and why they seem to click for some people and miss the mark for others. Recorded at Recovery Day Lancaster 2026, Greg Schmalhofer talks with Pedro, who speaks plainly about why the Twelve Steps have helped many.
For Pedro, the core is spiritual: "God is in every step." He sees the programme as touching "every part of everyday life" – from waking up, to going to sleep, and even "while you're sleeping." If you like recovery conversations that connect daily routines with faith, you'll feel at home here. Pedro stresses that the steps are "everyday steps" meant to be lived rather than just read.
The idea is simple but challenging: "Every part is a step of your life." The episode keeps circling back to this mix of practical action and trust in God as the foundation for change. Greg then asks the awkward question: why don't the Twelve Steps help everyone? Pedro doesn’t sugar-coat his answer. He says that when someone says the steps don’t work, "that's because they don't want it.
They're not ready." In his view, the issue isn’t the programme but readiness and honesty about wanting recovery. The memorable line that sums it up: "It works if you work it." You’ll get a brief, direct conversation that’s ideal if you’re curious about how faith and the Twelve Steps fit together, or if you’re questioning your own level of honesty and readiness for change.
It’s a reminder that, as Greg closes, "there is always hope with God." If you’re wondering whether you’re truly ready to work your recovery, this episode might be a good place to start reflecting.
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