Howard L.

AA Recovery Interviews

Howard L.

  • William B. – Sober Since June 1999

William B. – Sober Since June 1999

Wednesday 10th December 2025

Discover William B.'s journey from street life to sobriety through AA's support. A story of resilience, community, and transformation.
 
Inspiring
Hopeful
Honest
Authentic
Compassionate

About this podcast

AA Recovery Interviews
Author:
Howard L.
Overview:
Categories:
Recovery with AA
Navigating Challenges in Recovery
Creative Recovery Journeys
Family Recovery from Addiction
Empowering Recovery Journeys
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From Streets to Sobriety: William B.'s Journey

Episode Overview

  • Early exposure to alcohol can have long-lasting effects.
  • A simple act of kindness can be transformative.
  • Engaging with AA literature can provide structure and hope.
  • Community support is crucial in overcoming addiction.
  • Service to others enriches personal recovery.
"I knew I had to do something about it. It was going to kill me."
What makes a recovery story truly inspiring? In this episode, William B. shares his remarkable journey from the streets of South London to sobriety through the support of Alcoholics Anonymous. Raised in a tumultuous environment, William's early life was marred by exposure to drugs and alcohol, leading him to find solace in drinking at the tender age of 11.
His candid account of life on the streets, battling mental health issues and alcoholism, paints a vivid picture of despair and resilience. At 19, William stumbled into an AA meeting, dishevelled and sceptical, yet a simple offer of tea from a kind stranger marked the beginning of his transformation. Despite feeling like an outsider, he immersed himself in the AA literature, finding solace and structure in the programme.
His journey wasn't without its challenges; he grappled with self-imposed isolation and an antisocial disposition. However, over time, the fellowship's embrace helped him lower his barriers and engage more deeply with others. William's story is not just about overcoming addiction but also about finding community and purpose within AA. His commitment to service and fellowship has made him a pillar in his community, both in-person and online.
As he reflects on his 23 years of sobriety, William offers a message of hope and redemption, illustrating that no matter how dire the circumstances, change is possible with the right support. This episode is a testament to the power of kindness, community, and the AA programme in transforming lives. So, grab your favourite brew and listen to William's incredible story of resilience and recovery. What can you learn from his journey?
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