Mike L. from Indianapolis, IN speaking at the men's St. Benedict retreat in McKenzie Bridge, OR - March 3rd-5th 2006 Check out our new sober/AA inspired merch & support the channel 🧡 Sober Sunrise Merch Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Mike offers a deep, practical, and often humorous exploration of Step Three, showing how turning his will and life over to God wasn’t about a one-time emotional moment, but about a lifelong commitment to stop playing God, let go of old ideas, and follow spiritual direction through real action. He describes his early failures—treating God like a bellhop, being a “spiritual litterbug,” clutching old ideas like a monkey trapped by sweetmeats, and managing life with self-centered fear—and then explains how true surrender came when he backed his decision with inventory, amends, and daily willingness. His honesty about money, relationships, sex, resentment, and ego reveals how the Third Step reshaped his entire life: helping him become a better father, a respectful ex-husband, a responsible professional, a generous sponsor, and a man who contributes rather than takes. Mike shows that spiritual growth isn’t about gaining more—it’s about dropping the bricks we’ve been carrying so God can do what we cannot. His greatest accomplishment is learning to live as a steward of God’s power, free from the bondage of self, and grounded in service, humility, and real freedom. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Gail L. from Akron, OH speaking at the Swedish Serenity group's spring convention in Stockholm, Sweden - May 29th 2009 Check out our new sober/AA inspired merch & support the channel 🧡 Sober Sunrise Merch Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Gail shares a heartfelt and humorous journey of recovery, showing how one grateful alcoholic with a simple willingness to say “yes” became a guardian of AA’s history. Sober since 1978, she describes arriving in Akron, discovering the power of our early roots, and unexpectedly being asked to help start an archives—work that eventually led to preserving Dr. Bob’s home, safeguarding original materials, and ensuring the fellowship’s story would survive for future generations. Blending her love of history with service, she walks us through AA’s early struggles, the Oxford Group influence, the humble beginnings of the Big Book, and the many slender threads that kept this movement alive. Gail’s greatest accomplishment is helping protect the legacy that continues to guide millions toward sobriety, one day at a time. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

☀️🧡🦃Happy Thanksgiving, Sober Sunrise family. We’re deeply grateful for each of you—whether you’re sharing the message, showing up for recovery, or simply taking it one day at a time. Thank you for being part of our little fellowship🦃🧡☀️ Paul M. from Fargo, ND speaking at the Big Easy Group's 2nd anniversary in New Orleans, LA - April 23rd 2011 Check out our new sober/AA inspired merch & support the channel 🧡 Sober Sunrise Merch Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Paul shares his story, a life rebuilt through the grace of sobriety, sponsorship, and rigorous action. After years of street living, broken relationships, arrests, and trying every escape but recovery, he hit a devastating bottom when his drinking and rage shattered both his sanity and his family. In AA, he finally discovered he wasn’t broken beyond repair but alcoholic, and through the Steps he learned honesty, humility, discipline, and a daily reliance on a Higher Power. Paul rebuilt his life piece by piece: making amends, becoming present for his children, repairing old wounds, and learning how to live in the “here and now” instead of the noise in his head. Today he stands as a grateful husband, a devoted father, a steady sponsor, and a man deeply connected to God and service—proof that even the most chaotic life can become meaningful, balanced, and full of purpose. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Don C. from Colorado Springs, CO at River Roundup, Laughlin, NV - January 19th 2002 Check out our new sober/AA inspired merch & support the channel 🧡 Sober Sunrise Merch Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Don shares a powerful story of recovery that bridges the Twelve Steps with the spiritual teachings of his Mohican ancestors, showing how a man broken by alcohol, trauma, and cultural loss found healing through honesty, surrender, and connection. After crawling out of addiction’s “arena” with nothing left, he fully committed to AA, worked the Steps with discipline, returned to his cultural ceremonies, and discovered that the Steps themselves form a sacred circle of growth—east to south to west to north—guiding him back to the Creator and to himself. Today Don is a respected elder and a leader involved in community healing projects, helping others reconnect to culture, spirit, and sobriety. His journey reveals how the Steps, when treated as sacred, can bring a person from despair to deep spiritual purpose. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Chris G. from Austin, TX speaking at the Austin Citywide meeting in Austin, TX - September 15th 2012 Check out our new sober/AA inspired merch & support the channel 🧡 Sober Sunrise Merch Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Chris shares his 14-year sobriety journey, showing how a man who once sat with a syringe in one hand and a gun in the other transformed his entire life through rigorous step work, deep self-examination, and a willingness to take spiritual action even when terrified. He explains addiction as a progressive malady that began long before drugs, describes his descent through heroin, meth, homelessness, overdoses, and loss, and then details how he rebuilt everything through the mechanical, reproducible nature of the 12 Steps—learning inventory, humility, sponsorship, responsibility, and true freedom. Today he’s a dependable husband, spiritual partner, musician, worker, and son, living a big, meaningful life grounded in God and service. His story highlights that recovery is not about perfection but about daily spiritual fitness, disciplined action, and a willingness to grow beyond fear into the person he was always meant to become. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

🧡New Merch!☀️We finally got around to releasing our collection of light-hearted, recovery-inspired shirts and mugs. It's a fun way to share the message and support the channel! 🧡 Sober Sunrise Merch Jay K. from Greenville, SC speaking at Fellowship by the Sea in Myrtle Beach, SC - September 25th 2008 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Jay shares his journey from chaos to redemption, showing how a man shaped by childhood hurt, addiction, and years of destruction slowly rebuilt a meaningful life through AA, strong sponsorship, and an honest relationship with God. He overcame homelessness, violence, legal trouble, and family pain, yet through thorough work in the steps—not perfection, just willingness—he transformed into a dependable son, loving husband, present father, and steady example of recovery. His story highlights the life-changing truth that who we were is exactly what prepares us for who we can become, and his greatest accomplishment is the life he has recreated through sobriety, service, and love. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

🧡New Merch!☀️We finally got around to releasing our collection of light-hearted, recovery-inspired shirts and mugs. It's a fun way to share the message and support the channel! 🧡 Sober Sunrise Merch Peter G. from Raleigh, NC speaking at the 2005 Connecticut State Conference of Young People in AA in Southbury, CT - November 26th 2005 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Peter’s story is a powerful reminder of how alcoholism can strip a person down to nothing—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—yet still open the door to profound transformation when the gift of recovery is finally accepted. From a brilliant Yale student whose drinking spiraled into hospitals, arrests, and homelessness, to a man with over 25 years sober, a home group, a sponsor, a purpose, and the ability to help others, his journey shows how honesty, willingness, and the 12 steps can rebuild a life from the inside out. His accomplishments—returning to school, becoming a sponsor, traveling the world sober, and learning to live with true freedom—stand as living proof that this program works when nothing else can. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

🧡New Merch!☀️We finally got around to releasing our collection of light-hearted, recovery-inspired shirts and mugs. It's a fun way to share the message and support the channel! 🧡 Sober Sunrise Merch Bob L. from Glendale, CA speaking at the Old Town group in San Diego, CA - March 5th 1989 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Bob’s story is a powerful reminder of how dark alcoholism can get and how unimaginably bright life can become when honesty, humility, and willingness take over. He walks listeners through his descent from barroom bravado and endless blackout drunks to the rock-bottom moment in an abandoned car where fear of living became worse than fear of dying, and one desperate prayer opened the door to a new life. His greatest accomplishments aren’t flashy—they’re profound: rebuilding a shattered family, watching his daughter find sobriety, earning back the trust of his children, learning to laugh again, and becoming the kind of old-timer whose truth, structure, and compassion help newcomers survive. His message hits at the heart of AA’s purpose: newcomers are the lifeblood, old-timers are the heart, and the miracle happens when both sides meet with honesty, laughter, and a willingness to change. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

🧡New Merch!☀️We finally got around to releasing our collection of light-hearted, recovery-inspired shirts and mugs. It's a fun way to share the message and support the channel! 🧡 Sober Sunrise Merch Tom I. from Southern Pines, NC - speaking at the 22nd Annual Men's Fall Retreat in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada | September 17th-19th 2010 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Tom reflects on the strange transition from being the youngest AA member everywhere he went to now being “the oldest rat in the barn,” a role that carries both responsibility and humility. He emphasizes how deeply the Traditions have shaped his life—often more than the Steps—because they guide unity, relationships, and how we relate to the world. Through honest stories of anger, restraint, leadership, conflict, money, service, anonymity, and personal conscience, he shows how the Traditions protect groups and individuals from ego, gossip, power struggles, and misplaced motives. His biggest accomplishment is modeling what real spiritual maturity looks like: acting for the common welfare rather than himself, carrying the message across prisons, planes, states, and even to strangers in need, and demonstrating that AA’s strength lies not in rules but in humility, service, and the quiet grace of doing the next right thing. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

🧡New Merch!☀️We finally got around to releasing our collection of light-hearted, recovery-inspired shirts and mugs. It's a fun way to share the message and support the channel! 🧡 Sober Sunrise Merch Paul M. from Oceanside, NY speaking at the 60th Gopher State Roundup in Bloomington, MN - May 25th 2013 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Paul shares a heartfelt, hilarious, and deeply spiritual talk that traced his journey from chaotic drinking in Northern Ireland and Rockaway Beach to a life filled with purpose, freedom, and service through Alcoholics Anonymous. With humor that disarms and honesty that cuts straight to the heart, he described the pitiful and incomprehensible demoralization of alcoholism—the seizures, blackouts, self-destruction, and the painful truth that he could not stop drinking on his own—contrasted with the miracle he found in AA, where “we drink alone, but we stay sober together.” He honored the power of one alcoholic helping another, the lineage stretching back to Bill W. and Dr. Bob, and the gift of unity, service, and recovery that transformed him from a man living under the shadow of a whisky bottle into a sober father, husband, and servant of others. Paul reminded newcomers that AA is hope in human form, that the Steps are not suggestions but lifelines, and that the real miracle is getting your life, your purpose, and your spirit back—one day at a time. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

🧡New Merch!☀️We finally got around to releasing our collection of light-hearted, recovery-inspired shirts and mugs. It's a fun way to share the message and support the channel! 🧡 Sober Sunrise Merch Rick W. from Oxnard, CA speaking at the Youngs Peoples group San Diego, CA - June 6th 2006 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Rick W., sober since 1977, delivers a no-nonsense, hilarious, and action-oriented take on the 12 Steps, recounting his journey from entering a mental institution to get certified "paranoid schizophrenic" to becoming a passionate recovery advocate. He shares raw stories of his drinking, including filling his car with vomit and Boone's Farm wine, to illustrate that alcoholism is an obsession of the mind that nothing can overcome but immediate action. Rick rejects slow step studies, challenging newcomers to "Do It This Weekend," asserting that the Steps don't need to be perfect, they just need to be done to the best of one's ability. This talk emphasizes the urgency of spiritual work and the fundamental principle that "It doesn't take much of a man or a woman to make it in Alcoholics Anonymous, but it does take them all." Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

🧡New Merch!☀️We finally got around to releasing our collection of light-hearted, recovery-inspired shirts and mugs. It's a fun way to share the message and support the channel! 🧡 Sober Sunrise Merch Julie H. from Dallas, TX speaking at the 3rd Anniversary of Primary Purpose Group in Marietta, Ohio - March 10th 2012 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Julie shares how she spent 13 painful years “in the rooms but not in the book” before finally surrendering to the simple, precise directions in the Big Book that gave her permanent sobriety since 2003. From her West Virginia moonshine roots to drinking six tallboys at 15, to years of relapsing, misery, and baffling failure despite “trying,” Julie revealed that her real bottom wasn’t losing everything—it was realizing she couldn’t stop drinking no matter how good her life looked. Her talk exploded with passion as she exposed how meetings, coffee, opinions, and “decorating for the party” never solved her problem—because no one ever taught her about the allergy, the obsession, the real problem, or the actual directions in AA’s textbook. With humor and toughness, she described how sponsorship, inventory, amends, and especially working with other women gave her the spiritual experience she chased for years. Her message burned with urgency: meetings don’t get us sober—steps, action, and carrying the message do, and her fierce love for the newcomer, her family’s healing, and her gratitude for becoming “a small part of a great whole” showed how the Big Book transformed a desperate backyard drinker into a respected, joyful woman living shoulder-to-shoulder on AA’s firing line. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

🧡New Merch!☀️We finally got around to releasing our collection of light-hearted, recovery-inspired shirts and mugs. It's a fun way to share the message and support the channel! 🧡 Sober Sunrise Merch Hugh N. from Nashville, Tennessee speaking at Tennessee Conference of Young People in Alcoholics Anonymous in Memphis, TN - 2003 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Hugh describes growing up with a “hole in the soul,” living in fear and fantasy, losing control by age 16, and nearly dying during a blackout—yet that moment of utter defeat became the spark that opened him to AA. His story showed the life-changing power of unity and service, but also the deep transformation that only comes from actually working the Steps, not just talking about them. Through humility, sponsorship, daily discipline, and learning to stay on “his side of the God-line,” Hugh replaced self-will with a spiritual life that gave him peace, purpose, and love. Today he’s a sober husband, father, and steady member of AA—living proof that God’s timing is better than anything he ever planned, and that sobriety can turn a lost teenager into a grateful man with a family, a home, and a heart full of purpose. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Tom I. from Southern Pines, NC speaking on the topic of "Working with others" at Melon City Roundup in Muscatine, IL - September 28th 2001 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Tom delivers a wise, funny, and deeply spiritual talk on working with others, grounding everything in his belief that alcoholism is a killer illness and that the only real protection we have is service—what he calls AA’s “90/10 program,” where recovery is 10% gimme and 90% give (to the fellowship of AA). With stories ranging from suicidal newcomers to tuxedo-clad doctors, burned mattresses, police calls, and miracles born from simple willingness, Tom showed that helping others isn’t about expertise—it’s about love, action, and walking “with” people, not on them. He tied this to AA’s early history, reminding listeners that the fellowship was built by drunks who carried the message house to house, long before treatment centers or court mandates. He warned that attitudes, complacency, and detachment can quietly erode AA’s spirit and that unity, responsibility, and engagement with families and the community matter as much as step work. Above all, Tom emphasized that we need the newcomer as much as they need us, and that giving ourselves away—living that 90/10—creates the new and wonderful world AA promises. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Bart R. from Sedona, AZ speaking at the Big Book Serenity Breakfast in Minnetonka, MN - May 17th 2015 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com From drinking in fifth grade and cycling through juvenile prisons to wrecked marriages, dry misery, and the belief he’d never be able to live sober, Bart discovered AA only when he’d run out of options—and finally met a sponsor who patiently walked him through the Big Book line by line. Through rigorous honesty, powerful amends, and a daily practice of surrender, Bart rebuilt not only his life but the lives around him, becoming a devoted son, husband, father, and messenger of hope. His talk radiated grit, humor, and deep spiritual insight, proving that real recovery isn’t just abstinence but a complete transformation of heart—one that turns broken men into instruments of God’s love, carrying freedom to the next suffering alcoholic. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Keith L. from Wilmington, NC speaking at 25th Brazos Riverside Conference - October 19th 2002 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com With the rhythm of a storyteller and the humility of a man transformed, Keith traced his life from a small-town Irish Catholic boy who couldn’t feel love, through war, brilliance, and despair, to the miracle moment when God and AA pulled him from suicide into service. His story held laughter at every turn—from “Brother Skunk” to mutant rosary beads—yet beneath the humor was the ache of a man who longed for connection and finally found it through surrender. Through the Steps, his sponsor, and the fellowship, Keith rebuilt his life, made peace with his father, and became a son who could both love and be loved. His reflections on grace, family, and the sacred gift of giving love captured the spirit of the weekend’s theme: that the miracle of AA is not that we stop drinking, but that we finally learn how to receive and share love. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Mike C. from Escondido, CA speaking at the "Easy Does It Group" in Lemon Grove, CA - April 15th 2005 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com After years of chasing differences, hiding emotions, and trying to fix life on his own terms, he hit a bottom in sobriety—sitting under a meeting-room clock, weeping uncontrollably, convinced sobriety wasn’t working. That day, a man’s simple message of hope—“You can get better”—sparked a transformation that began with a phone call and a willingness to take direction. Through years of rigorous honesty, step work, and surrender, Mike rebuilt his life, restored his family, and found the deeper freedom beyond mere relief. With humor and conviction, he reminded listeners that the real gift of AA isn’t just not drinking—it’s permanent sobriety and a “contented life,” earned through humility, amends, and faith in a loving God. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Kelvin D. from West Fargo, ND speaking at the 60th Gopher State Roundup in Bloomington, MN - May 25th 2013 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Kelvin shares how a childhood filled with fear and abuse left him restless, disconnected, and searching for worth in alcohol, violence, and ego. From cutting himself to “let the demons out” to drinking Pine-Sol in desperation, Kelvin’s story showed the deadly grip of alcoholism and the miracle of grace that saved him. Through the Steps, sponsorship, and a second surrender, he learned that his real problem wasn’t alcohol—it was playing God. His talk, full of laughter, humility, and truth, revealed how AA repaired even the oldest wounds, teaching him to live as one of God’s kids—guided by faith, service, and love instead of fear and pride. “I get to remain here as one of God’s kids,” he said, capturing the essence of his powerful message: that through surrender, the broken become whole.   Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Kent L. from Wetumpka, AL speaking at the Mountain Top Roundup at Guntersville State Park in Guntersville, Alabama - May 16th 2008 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Kent’s story is a powerful testament to humility, growth, and redemption through Alcoholics Anonymous. From a disciplined Army life lost to alcoholism to rebuilding his integrity through service, honesty, and faith, Kent found purpose beyond his past failures. His journey—from being discharged, divorced, and directionless to earning a master’s degree, regaining his family’s trust, and living in gratitude—shows how surrendering to the program’s principles can turn despair into grace. Today, Kent stands as a man transformed by truth, service, and spiritual discipline, proof that recovery restores not just sobriety, but the soul itself. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Paul F. from Phoenix, AZ speaking at the North Scottsdale speaker meeting in Scottsdale, AZ - July 9th 2005 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Paul shares his transformation from a violent, hopeless addict facing 25 years in prison to a grateful man of faith and service through Alcoholics Anonymous. Sent to prison at 18 and lost in confusion for over a decade, Paul came to AA convinced it wouldn’t work for him—until a sponsor patiently guided him through the Big Book as a “cookbook,” showing him that recovery wasn’t about understanding but experiencing the Steps. Through surrender, fearless honesty, and action, he found freedom from obsession, made amends to those he’d harmed—including walking into a Taco Bell he once robbed—and discovered a loving God far removed from the punishing one of his youth. His talk blended hard-earned wisdom and humor, teaching that love is a discipline, sobriety is a responsibility, and service is the heartbeat of AA. With humility and gratitude, Paul stood as living proof that even the most broken life can be rebuilt into one of peace, purpose, and joy through God’s grace and the Twelve Steps. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Larry T. from Los Angeles, CA speaking about steps 8 and 9 at the Stateline Retreat in Primm, NV - December 9th - 12th 2010 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Larry shares his heartfelt account of redemption through Alcoholics Anonymous, tracing his transformation from a selfish, broken man into one living by grace, humility, and responsibility. With humor and brutal honesty, he painted his early years of pain—using and betraying those who loved him, destroying relationships, and drowning in guilt and shame—before being rescued by a one-eyed Scotsman who took him to his first AA meeting from a jail cell. After years of relapse, Larry finally surrendered in 1982, walking ten miles to an Alano Club to ask for help and beginning the long road of amends. Through the 12 Steps, he restored peace with his parents, reconciled with his sisters, made heartfelt amends to those he’d harmed, and rebuilt a loving relationship with his daughter. His message was simple but profound: that true recovery is not about getting anything, but giving everything; that the real miracle of AA is living responsibly, helping others, and carrying the light of God and Alcoholics Anonymous into every corner of life. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Scott B. from Jamestown, ND speaking at the Northern Plains Group in Fargo, ND - 2005 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Scott shares how a lost young man who “never was” became a devoted husband, father, and servant through the grace of God and Alcoholics Anonymous. Growing up without a father and feeling less than, Scott found in alcohol a brief illusion of belonging, but it quickly led him to blackouts, jail, and despair. Despite multiple failed attempts at recovery, one call from a fellow AA member changed everything, pulling him back into a fellowship that offered hope and purpose. Through sponsorship, the Steps, and the simple act of helping others, Scott rebuilt his life—earning a degree, building a business, and raising five children in faith and love. His talk radiated humility, humor, and gratitude, reminding everyone that true sobriety isn’t about perfection or status—it’s about service, honesty, and staying spiritually connected, one day at a time, so that the miracle of recovery continues to grow in others. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Tom I. from Southern Pines, NC speaking on the topic of "Working with others" in Budd Lake, NJ - January 4th 2003 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Tom shares his journey from tragedy, guilt, and imprisonment to grace, freedom, and service. After years of chaos, blackouts, and a fatal drunk-driving accident that led to his incarceration at age 24, Tom found AA inside the walls of Jackson State Prison in 1957 and experienced a spiritual awakening that transformed his life. Through the Big Book, the 12 Steps, and a prison AA group that became his home, he learned to live with humility, honesty, and purpose. Upon release, he rebuilt his life completely — regaining trust, rebuilding AA groups, and serving in corrections for 39 years, ultimately becoming a warden who carried the message back into prisons. With wit and deep gratitude, Tom reminded listeners that freedom isn’t about circumstances but spiritual condition, and that a life once marked by despair can become one of faith, usefulness, and joy — living proof that his higher power's grace can reach even the darkest cell. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Peter M. from Boca Raton, FL speaking at the Fontbonne Group in Hamilton, ON - September 3rd 2011 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Peter shares his spiritual journey of transformation, tracing his path from a tormented childhood and violent alcoholism to a life of stillness, service, and grace through Alcoholics Anonymous. After losing his mother to addiction, battling relentless self-hatred, and surviving seven treatment centers, Peter reached total surrender in a filthy hallway on June 23, 1988, when he begged God simply not to let him die. That prayer, answered through his father’s love and AA’s hand, became the beginning of a new life. Guided by the Big Book, the Steps, and his sponsors, Peter was lifted from fear and obsession into a life of spiritual consciousness—where thought yields to presence, and self-will to God’s will. Today, he lives to carry the message across the world, teaching that recovery is not about “just not drinking,” but about awakening to divine stillness, walking in humility, and serving others as living proof of God’s mercy. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Bill C. from Torrance, CA speaking about steps 6 and 7 at the Stateline Retreat in Primm, NV - December 9th - 12th 2010 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Bill reflects on growing up in an AA household, falling deep into addiction, and ultimately discovering humility, grace, and emotional maturity through the 12 Steps. Raised by devoted AA and Al-Anon parents, he rebelled into years of chaos, institutions, and isolation before his mother’s compassion brought him to recovery. His talk wove sharp humor with deep wisdom, exploring Steps Six and Seven as a lifelong process of growing up — learning self-awareness over self-obsession, intimacy over isolation, and service over ego. Through sponsorship, pain, and surrender, he discovered that true recovery isn’t just about abstinence but emotional connection, faith, and love in action. Now decades sober, Bill lives the full circle of healing—caring for his dying parents, sponsoring others, and maintaining a home filled with recovery and laughter—showing that giving love away isn’t how we keep it, but how we finally receive it. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Paul G. from Brookfield, OH speaking at the Spring Fling Conference in Eerie, PA - April 17th 2010 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Paul shares his deeply spiritual account of a life redeemed through Alcoholics Anonymous, tracing his path from a reckless San Francisco youth and hard-drinking biker to a grateful man of faith, service, and humility. Arrests, loss, and utter loneliness finally drove him into treatment, where a counselor’s challenge and an AA speaker’s message cracked his denial and gave him the first glimpse of hope. Though he nearly relapsed his first night out, one meeting and one handshake pulled him into the fellowship that saved his life. Guided by sponsors who taught that gratitude is action and that service is God’s work, he built a life of purpose—visiting newcomers, caring for aging parents, and helping countless others find recovery. Now more than three decades sober, Paul radiates humor, grace, and humility, proving that real freedom isn’t found in the bottle but in faith, love, and the daily act of showing up for God and others.  Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Karen G. from Los Angeles, CA speaking at Jackson's Mill 31st Fall Roundup in Jackson's Mill, WV - October 4th 2008 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Karen delivers a powerful, hilarious, and deeply moving account of redemption through Alcoholics Anonymous, sharing how she rose from the depths of alcoholic and professional ruin to a life of faith, service, and grace. Once a nurse who lost everything—her children, career, and dignity—Karen found herself on Skid Row in Lincoln, Nebraska, drinking Mad Dog and dying from liver disease before AA and divine intervention saved her life. Guided by her sponsor, Clancy, she rebuilt from nothing, regaining her nursing license, joining the Pacific Group, and learning true humility through daily surrender and action. Her storytelling blended raw honesty and humor—from falling into a grave to accidentally super-gluing her ex-husband—reminding all that laughter and grace coexist in recovery. Today, she stands as living proof that no fall is too far for God’s mercy and AA’s miracle, having turned a life of despair into one filled with love, healing, and unwavering gratitude for “God’s magnificent AA.” Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Steve D. from Rainbow, CA speaking at the Temecula water district meeting in Temecula, CA - 2011 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com For Steve, a life that began in chaos and tragedy and was redeemed through the grace of Alcoholics Anonymous. From a childhood steeped in alcoholism and instability to wild years in the Navy, overseas near-death experiences, broken marriages, homelessness, and jails, Steve’s life was a portrait of self-destruction. He told with humor how he “got run over by a drunk driver — himself,” and how years of denial and pride kept him trapped in despair. His turning point came in a desert rehab after decades of drinking and homelessness, where he asked God for help and slowly began to rebuild through the Steps, sponsorship, and service. Through hard amends, humble faith, and willingness, Steve went from sleeping in cemeteries and soup kitchens to building a beautiful sober life — a loving marriage, honest friendships, steady work, and peace. His message shone with gratitude and laughter, proving that no matter how far one falls, God and AA can turn even the most broken story into a miracle of hope, dignity, and love. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Chris S. from Bedminster, NJ speaking on the topic of "First Step freedom, the gift of desperation" at the Nosara Big Book Workshop in Nosara Playa Guiones, Costa Rica - March 24th 2012 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Chris shared a powerful and practical talk on the Gift of Desperation and Step One, breaking down the truth of alcoholism with humor, depth, and clarity. Through vivid stories from his youth and years of struggle, he showed how the phenomenon of craving and the obsession of the mind made alcohol both his relief and his destroyer. He described how restless, irritable, and discontented living—long before sobriety—was the true prison, and how alcohol temporarily quieted the storm that only spiritual recovery could truly heal. Chris emphasized that Step One is the foundation of all recovery: accurately identifying the problem, surrendering fully, and finding motivation born from desperation. With heartfelt urgency, he reminded everyone that understanding powerlessness and unmanageability is not an academic exercise but a matter of life and death. His message—equal parts wisdom and warning—ended with a call to all sponsors and seekers alike: treat the First Step as sacred work, for it is where hopelessness transforms into hope and where the spiritual journey of freedom truly begins. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Jay S. from Redondo Beach, CA speaking at the 16th annual Thailand Roundup in Pattaya, Thailand - February 26th 2011 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Jay shares his deeply spiritual and profoundly humorous journey through 46 years of sobriety, blending the truth of Alcoholics Anonymous with timeless wisdom about grace, humility, and purpose. From his early years of chaos, blackouts, and denial to a complete surrender in 1979, Jay’s story illustrated how God—or what he calls light, truth, and love—can transform even the most broken spirit. Guided by old-timers who taught him honesty, service, and laughter, he rebuilt his life from living in a car to raising a peaceful family free of violence and fear. He spoke of the true miracle of AA—not just abstinence, but resurrection—where ordinary people become instruments of healing, raising the spiritually dead through compassion and service. With humor, reverence, and gratitude, Jay reminded all that recovery is a divine adventure, where love and laughter are not just byproducts of grace, but the very language of God. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Robin & Fernando speaking at the Thunderbird Speaker Meeting 449 Club in Yuma, AZ - January 13th 2007 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Robin and Fernando shared a powerful and contrasting testimony of recovery, showing how the same disease wears many faces but is healed through one spiritual solution. Robin’s story spoke for countless women who drank in shame and secrecy—trying to stay “ladylike” while spiraling into blackout nights, broken homes, and despair. From sipping other people’s drinks at fifteen to waking up soaked in humiliation, she found redemption when someone at her first AA meeting handed her a cup of coffee and showed her love without judgment. Through the 12 Steps, sponsorship, and service, she rebuilt her life into one of stability, education, marriage, and gratitude. Her husband Fernando then shared the other side of the coin—born into addiction, gang culture, and violence, he drank from childhood and lived homeless and hopeless before finally surrendering to AA in 1998. Guided by his sponsor and the Big Book, he rebuilt his spirit through faith, honesty, and helping others. Together, Robin and Fernando radiate the miracle of Alcoholics Anonymous—a union of grace and grit, proving that no matter how deep the darkness, God can use even broken lives to carry light to others. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Kenny D. from Seattle, WA doing a 12-step spiritual retreat in Santa Fe, NM - December 9th 2006 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Kenny’s workshop talk beautifully captured the heart of Step Two and Step Three in Alcoholics Anonymous — the journey from limited faith to full surrender. Through humor, humility, and vivid storytelling, he explored how closed-mindedness “fetters” the spirit and how willingness opens doors we never imagined possible. Reflecting on his early sobriety, he shared stories of disbelief, skepticism, and grace — from doubting God’s presence to praying his way up a mountain in a broken car to make his Third Step. His message centered on open-minded faith: that recovery begins not with proof but with willingness, and that surrender is the act of letting go of everything we think we know. Guided by meditation and prayer, Kenny led others through the Third Step — not as a ritual, but as a decision to begin real change through Steps Four through Nine. His story reminds all that spiritual freedom comes when we release fear, self-will, and resentment — allowing the sunlight of the Spirit to finally shine through. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Mike L. from Indianapolis, IN speaking at the men's St. Benedict retreat in McKenzie Bridge, OR - March 3rd-5th 2006 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Mike shares his spiritually rich story of redemption, illustrating how the power of surrender, honesty, and divine grace transformed a life once dominated by fear, pride, and self-will. From his first drink at age twelve, Mike spent years chasing the false sense of peace alcohol gave him—through war, failed relationships, and near-total ruin—until he reached a point of spiritual bankruptcy, crawling on a bathroom floor and begging for help. Through the mercy of old friends and Alcoholics Anonymous, he found recovery, discovering that true healing came not from intellect or effort but from a relationship with God and the fellowship of AA. After years of sobriety, Mike’s faith was tested again through divorce, illness, and cancer, each time deepening his surrender and gratitude. His story embodies the essence of recovery: that no matter how far one falls, grace can restore purpose, integrity, and love, turning even pain into a pathway toward God and service to others. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Robi S. from Ventnor City, NJ speaking on the topic of sponsorship at an Acts of Recovery Conference in Haddonfield, NJ - October 12th 2013 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Robi shares a heartfelt and deeply spiritual story of transformation—how years of pain, fear, and self-loathing gave way to freedom once she surrendered completely to God through the program of Alcoholics Anonymous. After countless failed attempts to fill the emptiness inside with people, substances, and chaos, she found lasting peace through honest sponsorship and rigorous step work. Guided by a sponsor who told her the truth, Robi learned that recovery wasn’t about managing life—it was about being remade through spiritual action and service. She now lives a life filled with purpose, leading a thriving sponsorship family, helping women awaken to God’s love, and walking hand-in-hand with others in recovery. Her message shone with humor, humility, and hope, reminding all that the miracle of AA lies not in staying dry, but in living with grace, truth, and joyful service to others. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Kelvin D. from Fargo, ND speaking at the Salem Soberfest in Salem, OR - February 16th 2007 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Kelvin, from a life ruled by fear, anger, and self-will to one filled with faith, humility, and gratitude through Alcoholics Anonymous. Born with a deep sense of not belonging, he found temporary relief in alcohol, which led to violence, loss, and spiritual emptiness despite outward success and church upbringing. Even after years in AA, his pride and lack of connection to God left him angry and broken until a moment of complete surrender—when his family’s love and his own despair brought him to his knees. Through honest work with a sponsor, deep spiritual awakening, and service to others, Kelvin rebuilt his marriage, became a devoted father, and found real peace. His story is a testament that the true miracle of recovery isn’t just putting down the drink—it’s letting God fill the hole inside and discovering that faith with works brings a life of grace, joy, and purpose. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Part 1 of Don P. from Aurora, CO at the 6th Annual Big Book Weekend at Tanglewood in Camden, ME - June 14th 2003 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com During the weekend talks, Don shares with raw honesty and warmth how, after a lifetime of restless searching, prison sentences, and spiritual emptiness, he was given a second life through the power of awakening and Alcoholics Anonymous. Once a man broken by self-centeredness, fear, and the endless need to “catch an edge,” he found peace in surrender—learning that recovery wasn’t about just not drinking but about becoming conscious that “where I am, God is.” Through his humor, storytelling, and decades of spiritual growth, Joe showed that real sobriety is not coping—it’s transformation, a rebirth into meaning, connection, and joyful service. After thirty-five years sober, he spoke not as a lecturer but as a living example of what happens when a hopeless soul lets go of everything he thinks he knows and allows love, laughter, and purpose to guide the rest of his days. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

☀️🧡Happy Friday! We hope everyone has had a great week, and has a safe & relaxing weekend 🧡☀️ Jay P. from Myrtle Beach, SC speaking at the St. Cloud Roundup in St. Cloud, MN - May 14th 2005 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Jay shares an unforgettable journey of faith, humility, and freedom through Alcoholics Anonymous, showing how total surrender to the program and God’s grace turned a life of chaos into one of peace and purpose. From his early years of anger, lies, and self-centeredness, through years at sea, broken marriages, and criminal trouble, he discovered that the real disease wasn’t alcohol but a spirit cut off from God. Guided by his sponsor, he worked the Steps honestly—writing inventories, facing fears, making amends, and learning that “I can’t, He can, and I’ll let Him.” Sobriety brought reconciliation with his father, a loving marriage, and the power to face devastating loss with faith instead of fear. Now, decades sober, Jay lives in gratitude for the miracle that AA provided—a life rebuilt on honesty, love, and daily reliance on a Higher Power. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Jonathan S. from Austin, TX speaking on the topic of "Recovered versus Recovering" at the Nosara Big Book Workshop in Nosara Playa Guiones, Costa Rica - March 23rd 2012 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Jonathan shared a remarkable story of redemption, describing how years of failed attempts at sobriety finally gave way to true recovery when he surrendered fully to the Big Book’s program and God’s direction. After multiple treatments, the loss of his veterinary license, family, home, and self-respect, he entered a recovery center in Austin in 2008 and discovered that his problem was not alcohol itself but a lack of power. Working the 12 Steps honestly transformed his life—restoring his family, career, and serenity. He learned that recovery is not about avoiding a drink one day at a time but about living a spiritual way of life that removes the need for alcohol altogether. Today, Jonathan lives with humility and gratitude, serving others through sponsorship and teaching, his story proving that from complete collapse can come a life of purpose, peace, and grace. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

James T. from Auburn, CA speaking at the 39th Winter Conference in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada - February 1st 2013 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com James shares with humor, heart, and humility how Alcoholics Anonymous transformed his life from restless self-centeredness into peace, gratitude, and service. After quitting drinking but clinging to marijuana, he arrived at AA not yet convinced he belonged, until the warmth and love of the fellowship broke through his defenses. Guided by his sponsor, he faced his resentments, fears, and character defects, learning that alcoholism was not about alcohol—it was about his thinking, his ego, and his separation from God. Over decades of recovery, he became a devoted husband, stepfather, teacher, and sponsor, finding freedom through honesty, humility, and laughter. His talk reminded all that the real miracle of AA isn’t just not drinking—it’s waking up, changing from the inside, and learning to live with kindness, service, and spiritual growth one day at a time. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Part 1 - Kenny D. from Seattle, WA doing a 12-step spiritual retreat in Santa Fe, NM - December 8th 2006 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Kenny shares a deeply moving account of his descent into alcoholism and his eventual recovery, showing how grace and service replaced years of self-destruction. Born into chaos and addiction, he began drinking at twelve, quickly spiraled through violence, homelessness, and IV drug use, and nearly died in motel fires and dark alleys, spiritually and physically bankrupt. His mother’s love and prayers couldn’t reach him until, by what he calls divine intervention, AA members offered him detox and a chance at life. Through their generosity and the Big Book’s principles, he found freedom from obsession and the compulsion to drink, learning humility, gratitude, and purpose through sponsoring others. Now decades sober, Kenny lives with peace, family, and faith—proof that no matter how far one falls, a life once driven by despair can be transformed into one of service, healing, and spiritual connection. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Cindy M. from Dallas, TX speaking about the 12 step at the Primary Purpose Group in Dallas, TX - January 2009 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Cindy shares a powerful journey of recovery that began after years of denial, relapse, and self-deception, despite growing up in a loving, church-centered family untouched by alcohol. From her first drink at fifteen, she chased the feeling that alcohol gave her worth and confidence, leading to decades of chaos, broken marriages, and self-justification through therapy, religion, and intellect. Even after joining AA in 1982, she struggled for seventeen years before truly understanding the Big Book and surrendering to the truth of her powerlessness. Her turning point came in 1999, when she finally grasped the nature of the allergy and loss of choice, and in 2003, under her sponsor’s direction, she followed the steps with full honesty and willingness. Today, Cindy lives in gratitude as a recovered alcoholic, anchored by faith, humility, and the daily practice of carrying the message to others. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Chris S. from Bedminster, NJ speaking on the topic of "Evolution of the Big Book experience" at the Nosara Big Book Workshop in Nosara Playa Guiones, Costa Rica - March 23rd 2012 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Chris recounts moving from blackout drinking and violence to a Big Book–centered spiritual recovery, insisting that chronically sick alcoholics need thorough step work—not meetings alone—to stay sober. He spotlights a modern AA “renaissance” that treats the Big Book as a true textbook—doing inventories, amends, prayer/meditation, and sponsoring others—with far better outcomes than mere fellowship. Personally, Joe & Charlie and Joe Hawk workshops catalyzed his daily practice and service, leading to lasting sobriety and purpose; professionally, he’s served on a treatment-conference board, interviewed leading clinicians, and now helps spearhead a traveling Big Book study to reach the still-suffering with stronger medicine delivered humbly. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Don L. from Bellingham, WA speaking at 10th annual beef dinner of the Mystic Knights of Sobriety group in Edmonton, Canada - June 9th 2010 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Don’s story is a powerful testament to the transforming grace of Alcoholics Anonymous — from a life ruled by denial, destruction, and hopeless drinking to one anchored in faith, humility, and service. After years of rationalizing his pain and hurting those who loved him, he finally surrendered, found a sponsor who challenged him without compromise, and embraced the spiritual program of action. Through the steps, he learned that sobriety wasn’t just about not drinking but about giving back — becoming a man of purpose, gratitude, and love. Now decades sober, Don honors the gift of recovery by helping others, living in service, and remembering every day how far God and AA have brought him. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Kent L. from Montgomery, AL, USA speaking at the 5th Anniversary of the Happy Hour Group in Montgomery, AL - June 5th 2013 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com From a high-achieving yet fear-driven alcoholic whose drinking destroyed ambition, marriage, and career in the Army, to a man who embraced AA’s program of action, sponsorship, and daily spiritual disciplines to build a life of freedom and service. He rebuilt his education, earning degrees and a strong career with the Air Force, made peace with his past military shame through deployment service, and deepened his spiritual life through ongoing study and conscious contact with God. Today, Kent thrives in recovery by sponsoring others, practicing humility, and finding joy in service, proving that through AA and God’s grace, even a seemingly hopeless life can be reborn into purpose and inspiration. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Edie C. from Sacramento, CA at Sacramento Spring Fling, Sacramento, CA - February 18th 2000 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Edie shares her journey of survival and recovery, marked by a childhood of trauma, abandonment, and witnessing alcoholism destroy her mother and guardian. Despite being told she’d never succeed, she found Alcoholics Anonymous at 24, where fellowship, sponsorship, and service gradually healed her wounds. Through hard work, she transformed from a broken, angry young woman into a 16-year sober professional, becoming the first woman hired as an industrial inspector for California, later a superintendent at UC Davis, and a respected leader in diversity and service. Her story highlights forgiveness, resilience, and the miracle of AA—turning pain into purpose, brokenness into strength, and granting her “the keys to the kingdom.” Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

"Blind" Dave A. speaking at the 14th Annual Mouth of the Brazos Conference in Lake Jackson, TX - May 15th 2009 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com After decades of alcoholism, relapse, and failed attempts to quit on faith alone, Dave finally surrendered to Alcoholics Anonymous in 1998 and discovered that God could reach him through the fellowship and the Big Book. He described powerful spiritual experiences, including a fifth step that lifted a lifelong burden, moments where God intervened to keep him sober, and even being miraculously freed from a 40-year chewing tobacco addiction. By fully embracing service, meditation, and helping other alcoholics, he found that AA is not just about sobriety but a whole adventurous way of living—one filled with purpose, miracles, and a deep conscious relationship with God. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

David R. from Atlantic Highlands, NJ speaking on steps 1-12 at the NCCYPAA Young Peoples Conference in Raleigh, NC - September 2nd 2006 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com David shares how he grew up in a broken and violent home, found alcohol at 14, and quickly spiraled into decades of destruction, losing jobs, relationships, and even his health—eventually ending up drinking mouthwash, homeless, and pronounced dead before being revived. His first attempt at AA failed when he coasted without working the steps, but after a relapse he met a sponsor who walked him through the Big Book and the program in depth, leading to a true spiritual awakening. Through completing amends, he reconciled family relationships, found long-lost relatives, and rebuilt his life. Today he works on Wall Street managing a computer department, earned his degree, is pursuing graduate studies, and lives with faith, service, and peace, emphasizing that AA’s promise of recovery comes through action, honesty, and reliance on God. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Bill L. from Dunellen, NJ and Mike L. from West Orange, NJ speaking at a workshop titled "Maintaining Conscious Contact During the Holidays" in Albany, NY - December 6th 2002 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Barefoot Bill and Mike L. from New Jersey shared their journeys of discovering that simply not drinking was not enough—both described the misery of untreated alcoholism despite time sober, until they embraced the 12 steps and a spiritual solution that changed everything. They spoke of how alcoholism is more than a drinking problem—it’s a spiritual malady that requires growth, service, and ongoing conscious contact with God to maintain peace of mind and freedom. Through humor, fellowship, and quoting the Big Book, they emphasized that recovery is about living in the present, enlarging our spiritual lives, and helping others—not just avoiding alcohol. Their stories highlighted transformation from restless, self-centered lives into contentment, usefulness, and a deeper spiritual awakening. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Travis A. from Spruce Grove, Alberta speaking at the Lethbridge & Southern Alberta Roundup in Lethbridge, Alberta - April 9th 2010 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Travis shares his journey from a troubled youth and early alcoholism—marked by chaos, crime, treatment centers, and homelessness—to finding lasting sobriety at age 22 through the program of Alcoholics Anonymous. He spoke of the powerlessness he felt, the transformation that came from working the Steps, and how service, honesty, and a higher power gave his life meaning. In recovery, he rebuilt relationships with his parents and sister, married the love of his life, became a father, pursued his trade as a millwright, bought a home, traveled, and gave back through AA service and public information work. His story highlighted how faith, responsibility, and spiritual growth turned a life of hopelessness into one of family, purpose, and peace of mind. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Kerry C. from Tannersville, PA speaking at the Windsor conference in Windsor, Ontario, Canada - July 25th 2010 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Kerry shares her journey of getting sober at 18, growing up fearful, insecure, and restless, and finding in AA both a spiritual solution and a true home. She described how the steps transformed her from a dishonest, angry, isolated girl into a woman of faith, service, and presence, with a marriage, four children, and deep ties to her fellowship. Through sponsorship, commitments, and daily spiritual practice, she’s learned to live free of crippling fear, see herself as worthy, and be an asset rather than a burden. Her message was clear: the gift of sobriety is not just abstinence, but a spiritual awakening that brings connection, freedom, and a life worth wanting. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Barefoot Bill L. from Westfield, NJ speaking on the topic of Help Others at the Westfield Big Book Workshop of the Spiritual Awakenings Group in Westfield, NJ - August 19th 2012 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Bill shares passionately about the importance of helping others in AA, emphasizing that true service flows only after trusting God and cleaning house. He highlighted how the Big Book repeatedly stresses being of maximum service, not just for relief but for transformation, and that sponsorship should guide people toward independence rather than dependence. Through personal stories—driving hours to work with sponsees, organizing conferences, sending daily inspirational emails, and preserving AA history—he showed how service has become his life. His message was clear: sobriety is not about half measures or complacency but about quick, deep work in the steps, full presence with others, and carrying the gift of awakening forward so both we and others may truly live free. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Sean A. from Vancouver, Canada speaking at West Edmonton Beef dinner in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada - June 11th 2008 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Sean shares his journey with honesty and humor, describing how drinking and drugs once consumed his life despite outward success in acting, real estate, and appearances of stability. After hitting bottom, he was 12-stepped into AA in 1974, where he found safety, identification, and a path through the steps that helped him rebuild from despair. He spoke about the power of amends, spiritual growth, and carrying the message, stressing that real recovery comes from one alcoholic helping another. With decades of sobriety, he has faced life’s ups and downs—divorce, health challenges, success and failure—yet remains deeply grateful for AA, a spiritual awakening, and the chance to live with peace, dignity, and purpose. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Scott P. from Elyria, OH speaking at the North Ridgeville Sunday Night Men's group in North Ridgeville, OH - December 4th 2005 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Scott shares a raw and powerful account of his life shaped by alcoholism, beginning with early drinking, blackouts, and growing up in a family where dysfunction felt normal. His drinking escalated into broken relationships, jail time, and deep shame, until a DUI and moment of clarity pushed him to seek real help in AA. He described learning to surrender his ego, work the steps honestly, make amends, and rely on God and fellowship instead of willpower. Today, sobriety has given him peace, a renewed sense of self-worth, marriage to his best friend, and full custody of his son—proof that through honesty, spiritual growth, and service, life can be rebuilt with purpose and hope. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

John K. from Dallas, TX and Myers R. from Dallas, TX speaking on step 1 at the 2nd Annual Stay Sober For Keeps Workshop in Laguna Niguel, CA - January 21st 2012 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com John K. shares his experience of being a grateful recovered alcoholic (sober since 1999) and emphasizes how the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous is a textbook with precise instructions for recovery rather than just stories or opinions. He contrasts the old AA approach—rapidly taking newcomers through the Steps, focusing on the allergy, the mental obsession, and a spiritual solution—with today’s tendency toward endless discussion meetings and watered-down sponsorship. Using humor, vivid examples, and the “cake recipe” analogy, he drives home that alcoholism is not just about bad decisions or drama but a fatal disease requiring a textbook-guided program of action and spiritual experience. His main accomplishment is living and teaching this structured recovery, showing that half measures and vague fellowship aren’t enough; following the Big Book’s instructions exactly leads to lasting sobriety, sanity, and the ability to help others. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Tara R. from Sedona, AZ speaking at the Connect the Dots group in Las Vegas, NV - November 19th 2012 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Tara shares a powerful arc from early bullying and self-loathing to a first drink at 12 that “saved” her life but led to years of chaos, two marriages, and profound shame—then a turning point after her husband’s death when, despite 19 years dry, desperation nearly took her back out. Guided through the Big Book line-by-line, she experienced a true Third Step surrender, did fearless inventory and amends (including a life-freeing reconciliation with the woman from her first marriage), and discovered that the real problem was in her mind and the real solution was a daily relationship with God and service. Her key accomplishments include maintaining sobriety since August 24, 1986, transforming grief and jealousy into spiritual growth, becoming a devoted mother who made living amends, and sponsoring others with urgency and love. Life-importance takeaway: half measures are torture—when she stopped settling for “crumbs” and worked the Steps as written, she found the banquet of a useful, joyful life centered on God, community, and helping newcomers. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Audrey C. from Dallas, TX and Michael K. from Dallas, TX speaking on steps 1-3 at a sponsorship and 12 Step workshop in Dallas, TX - March 2011 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Audrey C. and Michael K. (seasoned Big Book teachers co-leading a Dallas 2011 workshop) share lived, long-term sobriety marked by heavy sponsorship and service, and they translate that experience into a crisp roadmap: Step One’s honest self-diagnosis (body “allergy” + mind “obsession”), Step Two’s practical hope in a Power greater than ourselves (because our real dilemma is lack of power), and Step Three’s decisive handoff from self-will to a new Director via the Third Step prayer—proved by action that launches 4–12, not by theory. Their core message is life-level, not lecture-level: put God first, serve others, and your life gets bigger than your problem; keep self at the center, and the problem stays bigger than your life. Their accomplishment is turning decades of recovery into a do-this-next method—sponsorship, inventory, amends, and daily service—that lets newcomers trade chaos for purpose and helps old-timers deepen freedom, usefulness, and love. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Jerry J. from Lake Whitney, TX doing the steps at the Space Coast Roundup 2005 in Melbourne Beach, FL - February 2005 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Jerry spoke with humor and humility about nearly losing everything to alcohol before finding lasting sobriety on January 1, 1973, through the grace of God and the steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. He shared stories from his Texas upbringing—like his bulldog Patches and the “cattle trucks” of life—to illustrate the insanity of alcoholism and the futility of trying to control it. A lawyer by trade, he admitted to hiding behind rationalizations, burning his bed from "smoking drunk", and ignoring doctors’ warnings until he was forced to face reality. In AA, he learned that recovery is not about willpower but about surrender—discovering the truth of powerlessness, the obsession of the mind, and the allergy of the body. Through Steps One, Two, and Three, Jerry found that selfishness and self-centeredness were at the root of his troubles, and that turning his will and life over to a Higher Power brought freedom, humility, and spiritual awakening. His message showed the transformation from denial and self-will into a life anchored in honesty, connection, and a daily walk with God. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Desmond T. from New York, NY at North East Texas Area Fall Convention - September 21st 2002 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Desmond hid behind white shirts, ties, and miniature bottles—until the love of AA finally broke through his defenses. Despite early slips and arrogance, he kept coming back, drawn to the honesty and realness of the people, who welcomed him, carried him past bars, and showed him what surrender looked like. Over time, he discovered the power of meditation, the truth of powerlessness, and the daily reprieve found in service. From near death with bleeding ulcers to serving as a Grapevine trustee and later its leader, his life transformed from self-will and denial into one of humility, connection, and love. He closed by affirming that AA gave him not just sobriety, but the ability to live with presence, intention, and a heart open to God’s will and to others. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Wes H. from Denver, CO speaking at the Colorado State CA Convention in Denver, CO - September 2006 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Wes shares his journey with humor and honesty, reflecting on his years lost to alcohol and drugs, and how ego and fear nearly destroyed him. From early music career highs to homelessness and despair, he confused temporary relief from drugs with real spirituality until the gift of recovery showed him a different path. Sobriety brought him teachers, deep spiritual experiences, and lessons on surrender, clarity, power, and walking in beauty. He spoke of marriage sustained by the Twelve Traditions, the danger of “too many years and not enough days,” and the daily reprieve found in service and connection. His story highlighted the transformation from loneliness and self-will to a life of balance, gratitude, and spiritual growth. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Mike W. from Wilmington, NC speaking about steps 4, 5, 6 and 7 at the 25th Brazos Conference - October 19th 2002 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Mike shares his story with warmth and humor, grounding it in nearly five decades of sobriety since July 1970. He reflected on how love—not something to be earned, but freely given—became central to his recovery, alongside honesty and acceptance. Drawing from the Big Book and 12 & 12, he emphasized that the root problem is self—resentments, fear, and pride—and that the solution is surrendering to a loving Higher Power. He broke down steps four through seven, explaining how inventories, confession, and willingness lead to transformation, courage, and freedom. His message underscored that true change comes not from willpower but from reliance on God and fellowship, turning a life once ruled by fear and resentment into one of spiritual growth, connection, and joy. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Peter M. from Union, NJ speaking about steps 1 to 7 at the Primary Purpose Group in Long Island, NY - August 3rd 2006 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Peter shared that simply putting down the drink is not recovery—true freedom comes from ongoing spiritual growth through the Steps. He warned against worshipping knowledge or intellect in AA, saying we must seek experience with the Big Book and God’s power, not just quotes and soundbites. He stressed the importance of continually revisiting the first nine steps, using 10 and 11 daily to smash ego, and remembering that alcoholism shows up in many forms if left untreated. His message was clear: recovery is about surrender, action, and relying on God, which transforms life from restless misery into peace and usefulness. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Bart R. from Sedona, AZ speaking at the 68th Duluth roundup in Duluth, MN - September 22nd 2013 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com From sneaking alcohol in grade school to repeated detentions and juvenile jails, Bart describes how alcohol ruled every decision—costing him freedom, trust, and dignity. Even as an adult, he tried jobs, relationships, and sheer willpower, but the craving always returned. What changed was finding the Big Book and a sponsor who walked him through the steps: learning about the physical craving, mental obsession, and spiritual malady gave him clarity on why he drank and what to do about it. He spoke of hitting a true bottom—not measured by arrests or losses, but by admitting deep inside that he was alcoholic. Through surrender, inventories, amends, and daily step work, he rebuilt his life: reconciling with family, finding freedom from rage through Step Ten, and even becoming a father active in service. Today he describes himself as a “recovered alcoholic,” living proof that with God, the steps, and service, anyone can move from despair to usefulness and joy. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Mary L. from Great Falls, MT at Inland Empire AA Convention - October 21st 2001 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Mary shares a tender, funny, and fearless arc from lifelong fear and people-pleasing to deep recovery and service: sober since January 15, 1972, she survived blackouts, repeated treatments, and a six-month institution, then spent 14 more months in a women’s halfway house where she began living the Steps for real. She described learning to accept herself unconditionally (Step One), to act into faith before she felt it, and to let God—not self-will—be the change agent (Six–Seven). Her life’s biggest “wins” weren’t trophies but transformations: moving from resentment to forgiveness with her father, from crisis-seeking to quiet presence, from bulimia to healing during a dark night of the soul, and from isolation to love—marrying in sobriety and adopting four hard-to-place children with complex needs. Today she lives “one God, many faces; one day at a time,” staying active in two home groups, sponsoring, practicing gratitude and amends, and measuring success as the flow of love through her—proof that everything good came by saying yes to a spiritual way of life. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

James T. from Auburn, CA speaking at Sacramento Monthly Speaker meeting in Sacramento, CA - June 12th 2010 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com James shares how his life shifted from loneliness, denial, and failed attempts to control drinking into a life of faith, service, and love. He described how, after years of believing he only had a “drinking problem,” he finally admitted he was alcoholic and began working the steps in earnest. His journey included moving from skepticism about God to taking action anyway, finding that willingness brought results. Along the way he found companionship, marriage, and family, learning to replace fault-finding with love and patience. Making amends and practicing gratitude brought healing in relationships, and he grew into service both at home and in the wider community. With decades of sobriety, he reflected on daily action as essential—likening recovery to walking up a down escalator—and shared how gratitude, forgiveness, and continued step work keep him free. Everything good in his life, he said, came from living this program one day at a time. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Lindsay M. from Atlanta, GA speaking at the Fellowship of the Spirit in Conyers, GA - April 6th 2014 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Lindsay shares openly about her struggles with alcoholism from an early age, the chaos it caused, and the grace she found in AA. She emphasized repeated spiritual awakenings, setbacks, and the humility of knowing all willingness and strength come from her Higher Power. Her story underscored the reality of ongoing growth, the value of laughter, and the joy of carrying the message to others, closing with gratitude and excitement for the weekend of fellowship. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Dhulkti B. from Navarre, FL speaking at the 17th Annual Southeast Louisiana Spring Roundup in Covington, LA - May 28th 2006 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Dhulkti shares a powerful testimony of transformation, tracing a life once marked by chaos, trauma, and deep brokenness into one of recovery and spiritual rebirth. She spoke of a childhood filled with fear, shame, and early exposure to alcohol, which led her into years of heavy drinking, drugs, violence, prostitution, arrests, and hospitalizations. Even after near-death experiences, she couldn’t stop on her own until, desperate and suicidal, she prayed for God’s help—and that prayer opened the door to Alcoholics Anonymous. Through AA, sponsorship, service, and the steps, she rebuilt her life: making amends, becoming a devoted mother, marrying in sobriety, and eventually sponsoring other women. Despite ongoing struggles, including trauma resurfacing later in sobriety, she leaned on her higher power, prayer, and community. Today, with over four decades sober, she describes herself as a “stand up spiritual warrior,” living with peace, purpose, and gratitude, and finding her greatest joy in helping others find the same light. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Scott M. from Fort Worth, TX and Matthew M. from Forth Worth, TX doing a Big Book Workshop at the 24 hour group in Fort Worth, TX - July 22nd 2006 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Scott & Matthew share how deeply the Big Book and the Doctor’s Opinion shaped their recovery since November 28, 1997. They reminded everyone that sobriety isn’t just about abstaining but about studying and applying the Big Book as a true textbook, not just a self-help read. They traced AA’s growth from a handful of members to millions worldwide, highlighting the role of Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob, and even moments like Bill’s phone calls at the Mayflower Hotel as acts of “willingness to go to any length.” Scott emphasized that the Doctor’s Opinion is the foundation of the first step—understanding the body’s allergy, the mind’s obsession, and the spirit’s malady—and warned that ignoring it leaves alcoholics at risk of drinking again. With energy and humility, he underscored that AA’s power lies in one alcoholic helping another, that traditions and unity came out of necessity, and that the book—not opinions—is the lifeline that turned a fledgling group of 100 into a global fellowship. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Peter M. from Union, NJ speaking at the Primary Purpose Group in Lynbrook, NY - August 3rd 2006 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Peter shares his experience-driven walk through AA’s solution—emphasizing that sobriety built on spirit, not mere abstinence, is what truly restores life. He challenged “plug-in-the-jug” thinking, urging seekers to rework Steps 1–9 repeatedly, live in 10–11, and carry the message in 12, because only a spiritual awakening removes the obsession and heals the “page 52” misery. Drawing from his own hard road—multiple treatment centers, a June 23, 1988 turning point, and a home base at A Vision for You (Union, NJ)—he spotlighted practical action: sponsorship, rigorous inventory (including fear and sex ideals), amends, prayer/meditation, and immediate service. His core accomplishment is modeling “recovered” living—smashing ego, surrendering outcomes to God, and becoming a dependable guide at the door for newcomers—showing how a life once ruled by compulsion can be rebuilt into purpose, usefulness, and the sunlight of the Spirit Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Ralph W. from Los Angeles, CA sharing on the steps at the "Spiritual Progress rather than Spiritual Perfection" convention in Oslo, Norway - October 30th 2015 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Ralph describes arriving in AA in 1986 after his double life as a respected businessman by day and a destructive “vampire” by night collapsed, leaving him broken and powerless. Through treatment, meetings, and surrender, Ralph discovered that recovery is not about information but transformation—training his feet in action, finding humility, and learning to rely on a higher power rather than self-will. He spoke about the power of the steps, the importance of unity, service, and recovery, and the way AA turned his life from darkness into light, allowing him to stand as a whole man in his own skin. His journey reflects the enduring truth that healing comes from surrender, connection, and carrying the message to others. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Jay S. from Redondo Beach, CA speaking at the 26th annual Tumbleweed Conference in Hobbs, NM - September 15th 2006 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Jay shares a life reclaimed: a 1979 sobriety date, decades free from the “front drink,” and a journey from blackout living and DUIs to spiritual action, amends, and service. He frames alcoholism as allergy + obsession + soul sickness—and recovery as complete abstinence, prayer/meditation, and working all 12 steps. Key wins: he stayed sober when the obsession lifted around 100 days, made hard amends, sponsored widely (“if God sends them, you can’t hurt them”), and helped family—supporting his father through illness with dignity and boundaries. He became a man who shows up: building community from Hermosa Beach meetings to Central America service trips, honoring Al-Anon family healing, and tapping empty chairs as a quiet daily “prayer.” His message is simple and urgent—“find God or die”—but inclusive: try the disciplines, notice the results, and let AA’s kitchen-table sponsorship raise the dead. The arc of his life proves that when we put AA first, everything else becomes first-class: love, family reconciliation, purposeful work, and the privilege of carrying a message that’s saving lives across the world tonight. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Carl P. from Atlanta, GA speaking at the Fellowship of the Spirit in Conyers, GA - April 6th 2014 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Carl traces a restless childhood—constant moves, isolation, and a mind that never felt comfortable—into full-blown addiction where alcohol and cocaine became the only reliable relief and then the wrecking ball for every job, home, and relationship he touched. He shows how “white-knuckle” stints in treatment and halfway houses failed because mere sincerity and fellowship couldn’t overcome a body that craved and a mind that obsessed; the breakthrough came when he finally recognized the illness for what it was and became willing to take disciplined spiritual action even when it didn’t make sense. From there he leans into rigorous inventory, amends, daily practice, and a tight, accountability-heavy home group he helped found that cycles back through the work repeatedly and challenges the belief systems—especially about what it means to be a man—that once ran his life. The result: real freedom, deep friendships, useful service, and steady growth in health, career, and purpose. The life-importance message: pain can become power when you surrender, do the hard interior work, and stay in a community that demands honesty and action. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

John K. from Primary Purpose Group in Dallas, TX speaking at the SW Kansas AA Conference in Dodge City, KS - January 2008 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com John shares his story of going from a straight-A, gifted athlete with everything on paper, to a hopeless alcoholic who cycled through jobs, relationships, treatment centers, and blackouts until Labor Day 1999, when he finally surrendered and found a sponsor who laid out the truth of the Big Book. He explains in his own words how Step 1 hit him when he saw he couldn’t not drink, Step 2 gave him hope that what worked for others might work for him, and Step 3 became real on his knees with a simple prayer asking God for willingness. He describes Step 4–5 as uncovering the “ugly truth” of selfishness and damage done, Steps 6–7 as the hard willingness to let go of those defects, and Steps 8–9 as making amends wherever possible. For him, Step 10 is daily action, Step 11 keeps him grounded in prayer and conscious contact, and Step 12 is not “work” but joy—helping other drunks, taking calls, driving guys to meetings, and carrying the message with urgency. Today he lives with purpose, sponsors “hard cases,” has restored family relationships, is engaged, and even brought his non-alcoholic mother into Big Book study. His message: gratitude is shown not by words but by action—staying close to God, thumping the Big Book, and helping the next alcoholic. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Rick K. from Edmonton, Canada speaking at Parksville Rally in Parksville, British Columbia, Canada - June 14th 2008 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Rick shares a funny-raw arc from blackout drinking (early DUIs, a seizure, a marriage on the brink, dyslexia shame, and career chaos) to long-term sobriety (8/8/1985) built on service, sponsorship, and trusting God; he found purpose making coffee, stacking chairs, and “living like it might work,” then working the steps with a paint-salesman sponsor—especially Step 3 (decision with another person), Step 4–5 (honest inventory and full disclosure), Step 6–7 (trust God rather than white-knuckle self-change), Step 8–9 (amends—most powerfully to his still-drinking father), Step 11 (prayer/meditation to start the day sane), and Step 12 (“working with others” done with love, not lectures). He underscores AA as a participation sport—show up, help newcomers, and keep your spiritual condition ahead of the first drink—while highlighting grace in family life (an adoption returned with dignity, then the surprise birth of his son Luke) and gratitude for his parents, including healing old wounds. Key accomplishments and turning points include earning his Red Seal as a chef (even cooking for Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip), rebuilding his marriage, becoming a present father, and growing into a man who welcomes newcomers with a hand on the shoulder. The life-importance message: sobriety thrives on humility, honesty, and service—do the next right thing, trust God, and love people well. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Joshua H. from Toronto, Canada speaking at the North Shore Roundup in Vancouver, Canada - April 12th 2009 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com From early chaos—drinking at 10, homelessness, jail, psych wards, and years of relapse—Joshua reached a bottom at 19 where alcohol stopped working and only AA remained. Guided by sponsors, steps, and service, he found freedom in admitting powerlessness, seeking a higher power, and using his painful past to help others. Despite trauma, loss, and struggles with self-centeredness, Joshua built a life of sobriety marked by showing up for family, sponsoring others, and embracing love and community. His key accomplishments are long-term sobriety since 1995, rebuilding broken family ties, sponsoring countless alcoholics, and discovering that his greatest life achievement is simply being an active, loving member of AA—a place that finally felt like home Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Rick W. from Oxnard, CA speaking at the Old Town speakers meeting in La Jolla, CA - Oct 2010 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Rick W. from Oxnard shares a humorous, raw, and deeply grateful account of a life transformed by Alcoholics Anonymous: after early trauma, chaotic drinking, DUIs, accidents, and a low point at Camarillo State Hospital (lured first by coffee, cookies, and H&I Marlboros), he discovered AA, recognized his alcoholism, and—sober since July 1977—built a daily practice of meetings, service (from “best chair-putta-boy” to sponsor), and the Twelve Steps. He stresses what matters most: that AA works when we admit powerlessness, make a decision, do inventory, make amends, and keep helping others—turning pain into purpose, loneliness into fellowship, and fear into faith. His key accomplishments are enduring long-term sobriety, relentless meeting attendance, concrete service to his home group, rigorous step work, and active sponsorship—proof that a life once ruled by alcohol can become a life of dignity, usefulness, and spiritual growth. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Tim T. from Brooklyn, OH speaking at the Edisto Roundup in Edisto, SC - April 13th-15th 2007 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Tim's share reflects pain transformed into purpose: the son of an alcoholic father who got sober in 1946, Tim grew up in chaos—cycling through step-parents, over 20 schools, jails, prisons, and failed marriages—before reaching his bottom on June 23, 1982, when loneliness and despair nearly consumed him. His early life was marked by running from responsibility and authority, endless trouble with the law, and broken relationships, yet Alcoholics Anonymous gave him the fellowship, sponsorship, and spiritual grounding he needed to rebuild. Through the steps, he found humility, forgiveness, and a faith that turned “have to” into “get to,” caring for his sick mother until her passing with love instead of resentment. Tim built a life rooted in service, marrying within AA, regaining dignity, and learning that sobriety is about living for others and trusting God’s will. His story embodies the real purpose of recovery—maximum service to God and those around us—and he leaves the reminder that amends and love must be lived today, not left for the funeral home. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Don C. from Colorado Spring, CO speaking at the 4 Seasons Workshop at the 1st NM Indian AA Convention in Albuquerque, NM - April 1st 1994 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Don shares a deeply spiritual message blending Native tradition with recovery. He spoke of prophecies marking a new springtime for Indigenous people, a stirring where hidden gifts would surface and healers would emerge after walking hard personal roads. Drawing on the medicine wheel, he reframed the Twelve Steps as a circle of relationships—with Creator, self, others, and elders—urging that growth follows cycles of spring, summer, fall, and winter. He emphasized that mistakes are sacred teachers, part of the wide Red Road of life, and that healing means living in harmony with the unseen world where spirit and intent are always felt. His story reflects not just recovery from alcoholism since 1978, but a larger calling: to reconnect culture, honor trials as life school, and help bring healing circles to his people. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Ralf S. from München, Germany speaking at the Men Among Men Group's first conference in Copenhagen, Denmark - August 8th 2009 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Ralf, a German mathematician, blends humor, intellect, and honesty. He described how childhood trauma left him people-pleasing and empty, and though he built success and wealth worldwide, he lived as an “empty suit,” disconnected from himself and relying on alcohol to survive. His drinking spiraled in Miami until even alcohol stopped working, leading him into AA where the obsession was lifted but where, for years, he lacked true step-based recovery. Returning to Germany, he found himself lost in meetings that didn’t work the steps, plagued by fear, emptiness, and loneliness despite outward success. Through long-distance sponsorship and finally working the steps in earnest, he learned the importance of fellowship, rigorous honesty, and unity in practicing the same program together. Today, he is not only sober but pursuing dreams he never dared admit—like becoming a comedian—living proof that sobriety allows space for courage, service, and possibility beyond fear. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Kerry C. from Tannersville, PA speaking at Live At Pine Lake in Seattle, WA - May 2010 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Getting sober at just 18, Kerry spent her entire adult life learning to live through the 12 steps, guided by strong sponsors and a commitment to honesty. She recounted a chaotic childhood, early drinking, and destructive relationships, but also the miracle of willingness that brought her to AA. Kerry became known as a “big book thumper,” unapologetically teaching recovery straight from the first 164 pages, often making people uncomfortable with her blunt truth. Over the years, she built a sober life with her husband, raised children who never saw her drink, made powerful amends—including reconciling with her old principal which led her back to education—and carried the message to countless women. Her story is one of resilience, service, and spiritual awakening: turning brokenness and fear into integrity, family, education, and a life defined by practicing principles daily, no matter how uncomfortable. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Valerie D. from Richmond, VA doing a workshop titled "The Spirit of the 12 Steps" in Santa Fe, NM - October 26th-28th 2007 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Valerie’s story is one of chaos transformed into purpose: raised in a violent alcoholic home, she always felt different and disconnected until her first drink at 14 gave her a false sense of belonging. From stealing toys as a child to juvenile detention, treatment centers, and years of bouncing in and out of AA, her life spiraled through lies, broken relationships, and repeated relapses. Even sober, she became dangerously sick—angry, manipulative, and spiritually bankrupt—until she hit a point of utter desperation. Guided by strong sponsors who challenged her denial and taught her to fully embrace the Big Book and the circle-and-triangle way of life, Valerie discovered service, honesty, and true reliance on God. Through humility, making amends, and learning not to fight everything and everyone, she grew into a woman capable of trust, integrity, and self-support. Today, with decades of sobriety since October 13, 1992, she shares her story to show that recovery is not about perfection but about transformation through surrender, service, and spiritual growth. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Todd S. from Keene, NH speaking at Area 11 Soberfest in Bozrah, CT - June 5th 2015 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Growing up in a working-class family, Todd began drinking at 14 and eventually drank himself out of the Navy. His life spiraled into five DWIs across three states, countless arrests, and even a devastating crash after fleeing police. Yet the turning point came when, faced with his wreckage, he finally turned to AA, where the fellowship embraced him and mentors like Red guided him. Todd’s path wasn’t smooth—he relapsed after two years—but in 2006 he recommitted, found a sponsor, worked the steps, and began truly living in recovery. He’s since endured hardship—losing his father, his brother’s tragic death, jail time, bankruptcy—but through it all, he stayed sober by serving his group, sponsoring others, and embracing AA’s principles. His story shows the progression of alcoholism, the power of humility, and the life-saving gift of fellowship and faith. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Gisli "Kort" K. from Minneapolis, MN speaking on the topic of "Working With Others" at The Firing Line Group of Alcoholics Anonymous in Saint Paul, MN - June 2008 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Kort shares how his sobriety, beginning in 1999, grew from despair into lasting recovery through working the Twelve Steps directly from the Big Book. He described failed early attempts to stay sober with routines like swimming and reading, until he embraced sponsorship and spiritual action that led to a profound shift in perspective. Over the years, he’s sponsored many men, learning to balance sincerity with boundaries, focusing not on rigid rules but on principles and genuine connection with God and others. His story highlighted humility, the dangers of arrogance in sponsorship, and the life-saving power of carrying the message—reminding us that recovery is not about prestige or perfection, but about staying sober by helping the next alcoholic. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Vaughan Q. from Toronto, Ontario, Canada doing a 12 step seminar at St. Teresa's Church in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada - January 22nd 1994 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Vaughan shares his experience with humor and deeply moving accounts, blending his perspective as a Roman Catholic priest with his own recovery journey. He described how alcoholism left him walled off despite outward charm, and emphasized that the real gift of AA lies not just in fellowship but in the internalization of the 12 steps, which bring true freedom, peace, and joy. Drawing on decades of sobriety since 1965, he shared his own bottoming out, time in institutions, and eventual surrender that led to lasting recovery. With candor, he explained how recovery demands action, humility, and ego reduction, not just attendance at meetings or intellectual understanding. He reminded listeners that alcoholism is life and death, but also that the program offers measurable transformation—moving from guilt, shame, and isolation toward dignity, hope, and love. His story underscored the importance of personal responsibility, spiritual awakening, and the daily work of change. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Steven V. from Honolulu, HI speaking at the Hawaii State Convention in Honolulu, HI - November 6th 2010 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Steven talks on the theme of responsibility by reflecting on his 24 years of sobriety since getting sober at age 22 in Honolulu. He described his early struggle with alcoholism—drinking heavily through high school and into his early 20s—until professional help brought him into AA, where he immediately felt a weight lift. His long journey emphasized two key responsibilities: carrying AA’s message of hope and recovery, and pursuing a daily relationship with a Higher Power. Through sponsors, service, and spiritual practice, he learned to “err on the side of compassion,” smile through adversity, and integrate all parts of his life under faith. He spoke of overcoming compartmentalization, surviving personal losses, and moving from grudging service to genuine service from the heart. Ultimately, Stephen found that sobriety is about expression through action—choosing compassion, living the steps, and trusting a loving universe—so he can be useful, grateful, and truly free. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Tom I. from Southern Pines, NC speaking at the 22nd Annual Mens Fall Retreat in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada - September 17th-19th 2010 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Tom shares his story of redemption, walking into his first AA meeting in 1957 at just 24 years old. At first unable to identify, he slowly came alive through the steps, sponsorship, and service, transforming from a broken young man into one of dignity, integrity, and leadership. He went on to build a 39-year career in corrections—rising improbably from inmate to prison warden—while also helping countless alcoholics. Alongside his wife of 42 years, he raised two children who went on to professional success, and he emphasized that genuine recovery requires more than just not drinking—it’s about unity, service, and living fully in the spiritual dimension of life, where freedom and joy endure as long as we practice the principles. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Bob D. from Las Vegas, NV speaking the topic of "Ending Loneliness using the 12 Traditions" at the Unity and Service conference in Concord, CA - August 19th 2017 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Bob D. from Las Vegas shares with raw honesty how his journey from a broken man in 1978 to nearly four decades of sobriety was shaped by stubborn resistance, painful relapses, and eventually deep surrender to AA’s principles. He highlights the critical role of action—showing up for his home group, honoring his sponsor, embracing service, and learning to apply both the Steps and the Traditions not only in meetings but in his personal life and business. Through humility, amends, and prioritizing unity over ego, Bob explains how the 12 Traditions became a path out of loneliness and into real connection, reminding us that sobriety is sustained not by abstinence alone but by living in service, brotherhood, and surrender to a higher power. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Deandre M. from Lancaster, CA speaking in Simi Valley, CA - April 20th 2008 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Deandre shares his powerful recovery story, sober since May 29, 1991. Growing up in Watts, he found early escape in alcohol, which led to dishonesty, chaos, and self-destruction. Rehab introduced him to AA, where through painful resistance he began working the steps, especially the Fourth and Fifth, uncovering resentments, fears, and secrets that blocked him from connection. Guided by sponsors, he learned that amends meant change, not just apology, and that true sobriety requires ongoing commitment, not just looking good or “feeling better.” He warns that many relapse not at their lowest but when life improves, stressing the daily need for inventory, prayer, sponsorship, and service. Despite hardships, including family pain and personal struggles, he testifies that his life today is built on being properly armed with AA’s principles and carrying the message. His story highlights resilience, accountability, and the importance of staying grounded in the program to maintain long-term sobriety. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Mike S. from Riverside, CA speaking at the 25th San Diego Spring Roundup in San Diego, CA - March 30th 2002 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Mike shares his experience & journey from chaos to recovery. Marked by alcoholism, drug use, and repeated relapses until surrendering to AA in 1980. Growing up in a turbulent alcoholic household, his drinking quickly spiraled into blackouts, violence, and despair, leaving him broken despite outward successes. His turning point came through a series of “coincidences” he later recognized as divine intervention, leading him into treatment, AA sponsorship, and disciplined service that transformed his life. Through step work, commitments, and faith, Mike rebuilt his family relationships, pursued law school, and ultimately became a district attorney—proof that honesty, surrender, and action could bring serenity and purpose. His story is one of resilience, showing how embracing humility, spiritual reliance, and service allowed him to move from pitiful demoralization to a life filled with meaning, responsibility, and hope. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Dustin B. from Saint Paul, MN and Kelly B. from Saint Paul, MN doing a workshop on "Questions and Answers on Sponsorship" for Area 36, District 23 in St. Peter, MN - October 25th 2008 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Dustin and Kelly share a heartfelt story of recovery, rooted in gratitude, accountability, and the power of sponsorship. Dustin, after being dragged back by a state commitment, admits his early struggles with relapse, atheism, and anger, but found freedom by fully working the steps and learning through strong sponsorship that real change comes from action, honesty, and service. Kelly, sober since July 22, 2006, entered treatment homeless and broken, but discovered hope in the Big Book and later through powerful women sponsors who showed her love, discipline, and the full circle of AA’s three legacies. Together, they emphasize that sponsorship is not therapy or friendship alone, but one alcoholic showing another “the way out of the ditch” through lived example, accountability, and the 12 steps. Their lives today—with restored relationships, joy in service, and gratitude for God’s grace—stand as proof that what once was punishment has become privilege: they don’t have to do this work, they get to. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Kenny L. from Houston, TX speaking at the Outpost's quarterly speaker event in Ingram, TX - March 2nd 2011 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Kenny shares a powerful story of transformation, beginning with chaos, constant moves, and early drinking that quickly spiraled into addiction, fights, drugs, and a double life between college and outlaw motorcycle clubs. Despite achieving outward success—an accounting degree, a CPA license, a family, and material stability—he remained restless, chasing fulfillment on “the next hill” and ultimately losing everything to alcoholism. After years of failed attempts in AA, relapses, and self-reliance, he finally surrendered through a desperate prayer, experiencing a spiritual awakening that lifted the obsession to drink. Embracing the steps fully, he learned humility, service, and honesty, making amends and finding peace even when stripped of everything. Sobriety allowed him to rebuild a meaningful life, become a sponsor, find joy in service, and even retire early to open a halfway house in Houston. His journey testifies that true freedom and purpose come not from managing life, but from surrendering to a higher power and helping others. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Matt C. from Long Island, NY speaking at the Radiance group in Greensboro, NC - April 26th 2020 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Matt C. shares his journey from growing up in an Irish alcoholic family, experiencing childhood abuse, and starting drinking in high school, to finding lasting sobriety at age 19. Early on, he resisted being labeled an alcoholic, tried controlling his drinking, and faced legal trouble, but consequences never stopped him. Initially involved in AA without working the 12 steps, his recovery deepened after moving to North Carolina, where a sponsor guided him through the Big Book, steps, and service work. He describes building a life with a wife and two children, buying the same house he almost lost to drinking, and actively showing love to his kids—breaking the cycle from his own upbringing. Over the years, he’s had to re-work the steps to address “spiritual plaque,” faced depression after his daughter’s birth, and recommitted to AA after drifting away. Today, he sponsors others, practices daily spiritual disciplines, and lives in gratitude for the transformation from a hopeless alcoholic to a loving father and useful member of society. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Sigrún H. from Reykjavik, Iceland speaking at the Spirtual progress rather than spiritual perfection convention in Oslo, Norway - November 1st 2015 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Sigrún shares her journey from a wild, self-raised childhood in Iceland to a life rebuilt through AA, describing early alcohol and morphine abuse, years of untreated sobriety filled with rage and despair, and the breaking point that led her to seek sponsorship and fully work the 12 steps. She recounts confronting past trauma, making amends that risked her reputation, learning humility through daily practice, and transforming destructive impulses into service, humor, and connection. Through losses, parenting challenges, and life changes, she maintains a deep spiritual practice, attends multiple meetings weekly, sponsors actively, and lives in gratitude for a life that has expanded from a “field of destruction” to a “field of possibilities,” grounded in freedom, love, and helping others find recovery. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Arthur D. from Dallas, TX speaking at the Whiskey & Milk group in Dallas, TX - September 28th 2018 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Arthur D. shares a powerful journey from a chaotic, addictive life—marked by abandonment, crime,  and repeated failed attempts at sobriety—to a deep spiritual awakening grounded in trust and reliance on a Higher Power. Despite 11 years in AA without true freedom, his turning point came in a moment of utter defeat when he admitted he had no connection to God, began working with a sponsor, and later surrendered again—this time letting go of even the recovery process as his “power source” to seek a direct connection with that Power. Through intense self-examination, meditation, and removing inner blockages, he transformed from self-centered fear into someone guided by intuition and service. Today, retired and living in a place of spiritual dependence rather than self-will, Arthur’s purpose is to fully give away what he’s been given, offering hope that deep freedom is possible for anyone willing to let go and trust. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Billy N. from Landing, NJ speaking about the traditions in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada - November 8th 2014 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Billy’s Workshop is a heartfelt journey through all 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, showing how each one shaped his transformation from a life controlled by alcoholism to one built on recovery, humility, and service. He shares raw experiences of hitting bottom, the loss of relationships, and the mental and physical toll of drinking, then highlights the turning point when he embraced the fellowship of AA, worked each step with honesty, and deepened his relationship with God. Through persistence, community, amends, and a commitment to helping others, Billy rebuilt trust, found purpose, and now lives each day with gratitude—proof that hope and change are possible. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Don M. from Louisville, KY speaking at One Page at a Time group's October Thing event in Moorhead, MN - October 5th 2019 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Don M., sober since April 9, 1981, shares his powerful transformation from a life of ego-driven self-obsession, professional success masking deep alcoholism, and repeated hospitalizations to decades of sobriety through divine intervention, following AA’s directions, and taking the 12 Steps as daily action. Growing up in Kentucky and becoming a successful criminal defense lawyer, his drinking and drug use escalated to devastating accidents, homelessness, and 18 stays in “asylums.” A turning point came when desperation pushed him to follow AA’s program despite disbelief, leading to restored relationships—especially with his daughter—and a renewed law career marked by ethics and service awards. His story emphasized that recovery is about consistent action over feelings or beliefs, living one step at a time, and letting God guide while serving others, resulting in a life richer than anything he could have imagined. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Clint H. from Denver, CO speaking at the 51st Coastal Bend Jamboree in Corpus Christi, TX - January 21st 2005 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Clint H. speaks powerfully about his 38 years of sobriety, tracing his journey from a promising Marine Corps officer undone by alcoholism to a man transformed through AA’s fellowship and the Twelve Steps. He shares how repeated relapses, homelessness, failed marriages, and deep family wounds, including childhood trauma, marked his path before a bail bondsman’s unexpected act led him to the Glendale AA club, where he finally accepted he drank “no matter what.” That surrender opens the door to genuine recovery, law school, a meaningful legal career, and a renewed spiritual life. He emphasizes the miracle of sudden sobriety, the need for ongoing spiritual growth over power substitutes, and the healing of old relationships, including making amends to his mother. Even through later life challenges like cancer and loss of intimacy, Clint finds joy, purpose, and love by living in service to others, grounded in the principles that save his life. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Peter J. from Los Angeles, CA speaking at the Palisades Speaker Meeting in Palisades, CA - November 8th 2015 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com With over three decades clean since January 8, 1982, Peter’s story traced his journey from a chaotic youth filled with addiction, car crashes, and jail time to becoming a man who prays daily, holds a deep love for his wife, discovered a long-lost daughter at 67, and continues to give back through service. His speech was a powerful reminder that no matter how far someone has fallen, a life of connection, laughter, and spiritual depth is possible when we show up, follow the steps, and stay willing to be transformed. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Bobby C. from Philadelphia, PA speaking at the Edisto Roundup in Edisto, SC - April 13th-15th 2007 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Sober since June 2, 1988, Bobby recounts his chaotic rise and fall from a rowdy South Philly childhood to a reckless, blackout-drinking cop who spiraled after a line-of-duty shooting. His turning point came not in a blaze of glory, but in a moment of absolute collapse—a failed attempt to take his own life and a phone call sparked by a newspaper ad. From there, his life became a testament to the power of honesty, surrender, and service. Though he resisted AA’s message for years, Bobby eventually embraced sponsorship, worked the steps, and began helping others with the same intensity he once brought to destruction. Despite struggling with PTSD, violence, and arrogance in early sobriety, he learned to live the principles of the program—not just quote them. His life today reflects redemption through action: a man once filled with rage and fear now stays sober by helping others, facing his past, and showing up for his community with integrity. His story reminds us that recovery is possible—even for the most broken among us—and that staying sober is not just about not drinking, but about becoming someone worthy of the second chance. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Cia F. from Los Angeles, CA speaking at the Brentwood Workshop in Los Angeles, CA - July 16th 2015 Audio gets better at around the 1 minute mark :)  Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com  With a sobriety date of January 30, 1983, Cia speaks candidly about her chaotic pre-recovery life marked by anger, dysfunctional relationships, geographics, and spiritual claustrophobia. Her turning point came not through a thunderclap of spiritual lightning but through an unexpected moment of clarity and surrender—sparked by fear, a community service ad, and the strange relief of not feeling the obsession to drink. Through multiple relapses, she learned that her true issue wasn’t alcohol, but ego, resentment, and a self-centered spirit. In working the 12 steps—particularly after a second bottom in sobriety—Sia rebuilt her life, became deeply active in service, and grew into someone who sponsors others and lives with integrity. Her message is clear: recovery isn’t just possible—it’s miraculous, but only when done fully and honestly, one day and one surrender at a time. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Forrest S. from Fort Lauderdale, FL speaking about step 1 at the Spiritual Awakening in Pompano Beach, FL - November 1st 2024 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Forrest’s journey is a raw, layered reflection of both the depths of addiction and the challenges of staying spiritually connected after years of sobriety. His first white chip came in 1992, leading to 19 years in Alcoholics Anonymous before a relapse in 2011. Unlike a stereotypical bottom, Forrest didn’t lose his job, home, or outward stability—he lost his inner peace. That spiritual bankruptcy, masked by career success and family life, was enough to lead him back to the drink. He jokes about picking a sponsor based on material things like a Porsche and a bleach-blonde girlfriend, only to find out the guy wasn’t even really an alcoholic. He talks candidly about his years in active addiction—crystal meth, days-long binges, blackouts, and a mindset where people became “resources” to help him keep the party going. Even more striking is how he describes his relapse after 19 years: slow, subtle, justified by spiritual pride, academic knowledge of the Big Book, and the belief that he’d outgrown AA. He didn’t leave with a bang—he drifted, convincing himself that AA was just “spiritual kindergarten” and he was ready for “graduate-level” work through yoga and outside spirituality. But when he drank again, it took only one night for the old Forrest to return—force-feeding others alcohol, creating chaos, and ending up banned from a house. That moment of clarity, that “it’s time” voice in his head, returned stronger than ever. And unlike so many who don’t make it back, Forrest was lucky enough to land safely back in the rooms. Now, with his second sobriety date of February 22, 2014, Forrest speaks from a place of deep earned wisdom. He continues to check in with the first step daily and emphasizes the danger of thinking he has any real power over his own sobriety. With a thimble-sized cup, as his sponsor puts it, Forrest keeps filling it with spiritual action—unity, service, recovery—and pouring it into others. His life today is one of grace and clarity, and his share is a powerful reminder that the path back to sanity starts with a gut-level surrender: “I can’t. God can.” Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Chris S. from Pottersville, NJ and Steve L. from Nashville, TN speaking at workshop entitled Upping your Game at the Wilson House in East Dorset, VT - August 21st 2021 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com In the powerful concluding sessions of their workshop at the Wilson House, Chris and Steve delved deeply into the spiritual heart of Steps 8 through 12, emphasizing how the willingness to make amends and the practice of daily spiritual disciplines like prayer, meditation, and self-examination can create lasting emotional freedom and transformation. Steve shared moving personal experiences—including confessing hidden past actions and confronting shame—highlighting that growth in understanding and effectiveness requires honest vulnerability, accountability, and trusted guidance. Chris reinforced the life-changing value of rigorous step work and the joy of living that comes from continuous application of spiritual principles and helping others, showing that sobriety is not just about abstinence but about active service and spiritual awakening. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Stephanie K. from Portland, ME speaking about step 2 at the Unity at the light convention in Martha’s Vineyard, MA - November 14th 2017 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Raised in an alcoholic household where dysfunction masqueraded as normalcy, Stephanie described how alcoholism blinded her from truth long before she ever drank. Her first experience with alcohol gave her what she called an "alcohol chakra awakening," making her feel beautiful, powerful, and seen — the sanity she thought she’d been missing. Despite rehabs, codependent relationships, and years of denial, she eventually came to AA not for herself, but to save someone else. And through a series of humbling moments, from falling in love with people who couldn’t love her back to watching her father die of cancer while she was newly sober, she slowly began to trust in a power greater than herself. Her story highlights how love, service, and guidance from other sober women helped her transform from a terrified, promiscuous girl masking pain with noise — to a deliberate, dignified woman grounded in truth and grace. Today, her faith, humor, and grit make her a spiritual warrior determined to give it all back. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Jason J. from Portland, OR speaking at the Pine Lake speaker meeting in Issaquah, WA - April 14th 2018 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Born into chaos and raised amid instability, Jason J. was the kind of wild, deeply troubled child who once stole the neighbor’s cat—three times. Despite his loving grandparents stepping in to give him safety, Jason’s descent into alcoholism, drug use, and criminal behavior spiraled until it landed him in prison, facing hard truths and broken relationships, including missing his grandmother’s funeral—the woman who always saw the good in him. Yet amid the wreckage, Jason found AA, a sponsor who demanded accountability, and a new life fueled by faith, humility, and service. Through countless challenges, including relapse, divorce, fatherhood struggles, and incarceration, Jason’s ultimate victory lies in becoming the man his grandmother always believed he could be. His legacy is a living amends: showing up, helping others, and honoring the grace he was given—day by day. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Tom B. from Avon Lake, OH speaking at the 19th Annual Tri State Roundup in Laughlin, NV - May 18th 2003 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Tom's story is a deeply human portrait of resilience, humility, and grace found through decades of sobriety. Sober since July 5, 1962, Tom shares his journey with unflinching honesty—painting a picture of a once-chaotic life marked by jail stints, blackouts, failed promises, and broken family trust. But through the rooms of AA, he found not just abstinence, but emotional and spiritual transformation. He emphasizes action over intellect, and service over self—rooting his recovery not in knowledge of the Big Book, but in doing what it says. His greatest victories lie not in wealth or status, but in the renewed love of his wife, the laughter of grandkids, and the pride of watching his children thrive. Tom’s story reminds us that sobriety isn’t just about stopping drinking—it’s about learning how to live, how to give, and how to be present for life’s quiet miracles. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Matthew M. from Gig Harbor, WA speaking at the Pine Lake speaker meeting in Issaquah, WA - April 8th 2017 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Matthew M. from Gig Harbor delivered a deeply moving and at times humorous account of his transformation through Alcoholics Anonymous, reflecting on over three decades of sobriety since May 16, 1993. Once a rock musician who had sunk into despair, addiction, and near-suicide, Matthew described his turning point—the raw, grace-filled moment he told his brother, “Of course I do,” when asked if he thought he had a drinking problem. From there, he recounted with honesty how AA, family, and unexpected grace helped rebuild his life: repairing relationships, embracing fatherhood, and later becoming a dedicated husband and caregiver after his wife’s stroke. With humor, humility, and spiritual clarity, Matthew emphasized that while everything may not be “all right,” doing the work of recovery makes it possible to face life with integrity, presence, and love. His story reminds us of the sacred power in telling the truth, taking action, and staying connected—no matter what. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Kathleen W. from Studio City, CA speaking at the Brentwood Beginners Workshop in Los Angeles, CA - October 2nd 2014 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Kathleen W. delivers a raw, humorous, and deeply moving account of her transformation from a court-ordered attendee to a woman celebrating 23 years of sobriety. Born into a laid-back surf culture in Santa Barbara, Kathleen turned to alcohol early to silence her inner critic and navigate a life of blackouts, shame, failed relationships, and professional disasters. Her bottom came when her acting career imploded and her husband overdosed—pushing her to finally seek real help. Reluctantly, she committed to a year of AA, only to discover connection, grace, and the power of the steps. Today, Kathleen lives a life beyond her wildest dreams with a husband, children, a meaningful spiritual practice, and a fierce dedication to service. Her story is a testament to how AA can rescue not just lives, but identities, restoring dignity, family, and love through honest work and daily spiritual maintenance. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Charlie P. from Austin, TX speaking at the South Bay men's retreat in Santa Barbara, CA - December 12th 2013 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Sober since March 22, 1985, Charlie shares his transformative AA journey with humor, vulnerability, and conviction, reflecting on how following the clear-cut directions of the Big Book—rather than just attending meetings—completely changed his life. After 17 years of sobriety, he hit a spiritual bottom despite staying dry, and rediscovered recovery by recommitting to the steps, deep sponsorship, and service. He emphasizes the importance of spiritual experience, identification with fellow alcoholics, and a full surrender to a Higher Power. From pawn shops and psych wards to purpose and peace, Charlie’s message is a testament to the power of real recovery through action, not just abstinence. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Chris S. from Pottersville, NJ and Steve L. from Nashville, TN speaking at workshop entitled Upping your Game at the Wilson House in East Dorset, VT - August 21st 2021 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com In part 2 of Chris S. and Steve L.'s workshop, the focus turns inward as they guide listeners through the deeply personal process of the 4th through 7th steps of recovery. Chris opens with raw self-reflection, sharing how his resentments, fear, and selfishness nearly pushed him out of AA entirely—until working the steps helped him see that his thinking and perception, not the world around him, were the root of his pain. Through humorous but vulnerable stories, he highlights how early sobriety was marked by turmoil, denial, and self-will run riot, until he embraced the 4th step's spiritual inventory. Steve builds on this, illuminating how resentment, fear, and dishonesty keep us blocked from connection with God and others. He emphasizes the freeing power of forgiveness and spiritual surrender, using vivid analogies (like NCIS-style “spiritual autopsies” and metaphorical yard sales) to show how self-examination, willingness, and humility make space for God to work in our lives. Both men stress that recovery is not about perfection, but about spiritual growth, one surrendered defect at a time.  Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Kip C. from Vista, CA speaking at the Paramount speakers group in Los Angeles, CA - September 12th 1999 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Kip C.'s story is a powerful testament to the redemptive possibilities found through surrender and spiritual recovery. From growing up in a turbulent home to smuggling drugs at 16, serving prison time in Mexico, and enduring the unbearable losses of his son and brother, Kip spiraled into chronic alcoholism, homelessness, and attempted suicide. Yet through a moment of grace, he surrendered fully to the program of Alcoholics Anonymous and found a sponsor who guided him through the steps with unwavering honesty. Over time, he rebuilt his life, became a dedicated father, made peace with his past, and gave back to others with deep compassion. His journey—filled with unimaginable lows and hard-won victories—shows that no matter how far someone has fallen, healing and purpose are possible through spiritual action, community, and an unshakable commitment to recovery. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Chris S. from Pottersville, NJ and Steve L. from Nashville, TN speaking at workshop entitled Upping your Game at the Wilson House in East Dorset, VT - August 21st 2021 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Chris and Steve's powerful weekend sessions at the Wilson House offer a heartfelt and often humorous exploration of Step One and Step Two of Alcoholics Anonymous. Chris shares the brutal honesty of his drinking history—escalating from chaotic party years to ten years of isolated blackout drinking—and how his eventual spiritual awakening came only after a painful relapse, when he was willing to do everything he once resisted: get a sponsor, join a home group, and work the steps thoroughly. Steve brings deep insight into the emotional and spiritual unmanageability of alcoholism—describing the painful self-consciousness, fear of disconnection, and ego-driven isolation that plagued him even before he drank. Together, they break down alcoholism not just as a physical craving and mental obsession, but as a spiritual illness rooted in selfishness, fear, and separation from God. Their message is clear: the AA solution isn’t intellectual—it's experiential, rooted in surrender, honest inventory, and a willingness to develop a conscious relationship with a higher power. Through humor, grit, and grace, both men paint a picture of redemption—a life of usefulness, freedom, and spiritual wholeness born not from trying harder, but from giving up and letting a power greater than themselves lead the way. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Don P. from Aurora, CO speaking at the Classic Opening of Thoughts convention in Billings, MT - January 16th 1990 Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com Diagnosed by institutions as a sociopath and psychopath, and cloaked in layers of denial, Don initially couldn't see that alcohol was the core problem—but AA members with clarity, compassion, and lived recovery helped guide him through the Twelve Steps. He experienced profound change: from a man afraid of both dying and living, to someone fit for service, able to sponsor others and walk hand-in-hand with God. Don emphasizes that sobriety isn’t for him—it’s for the next sick alcoholic—and he has lived his life carrying that message, healing relationships with his children and brother, and growing through painful challenges. His life exemplifies the AA promise: that through total surrender, rigorous honesty, and spiritual discipline, even the most broken lives can be transformed and used to heal others. Music: Deep by KaizanBlu