Welcome to Cali Sober and Other Medical gobbledygook

The podcast dedicated to exploring the intricacies of alcohol addiction and recovery through the lens of science, history, and personal growth. Whether you're navigating the 12 Steps, curious about the concept of being "Cali Sober," or seeking practical tips for alcohol recovery, you've found your new favorite spoken-word resource.

An Illness Like No Other

Alcohol addiction isn’t just a personal struggle—it’s a medical condition that profoundly affects everyone around the individual. Drawing inspiration from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, we examine why addiction is classified as a disease, a perspective supported by decades of scientific research. Addiction rewires our brain patterns, creating triggers that make it difficult—if not impossible—to quit without help. As the Merriam-Webster dictionary defines, a disease is an "abnormal condition...that impairs normal functioning," and alcohol addiction fits this definition perfectly.

Science Meets Recovery

From the groundbreaking insights of The Doctor's Opinion to modern-day medical advancements, this podcast dives deep into why science plays a crucial role in understanding and treating addiction. We’ll discuss how treatments like Suboxone and Naltrexone compare to traditional abstinence-only approaches and whether rapid detox programs deliver on their promises.

The Evolution of Alcohol Recovery

How did we view alcoholics in the past compared to today? Drawing from poignant quotes like the "Hampshire Grenadier" epitaph, we trace the history of alcohol addiction treatment. From the castor-oil-fueled Belladonna Cure at New York’s Towns Hospital to the modern concept of being "Cali Sober" (abstaining from alcohol while using cannabis), we analyze the efficacy of these methods and their cultural significance.

Geographic Rehab: Myth or Miracle?

Is relocating for recovery just running away, or does it offer a clean slate? You should evaluate the pros and cons of whether a move to a new state or city is really going to fix the problem.

Real Talk on Sobriety Support

Sobriety looks different for everyone. Whether you're sticking with abstinence, exploring support medications like Naltrexone, or curious about emerging trends like "Cali Sober," this podcast unpacks it all. No judgment—just a space to explore what works best for your recovery journey.

Why Listen to Cali Sober and Other Medical Gobbledygook?

Our mission is to provide actionable insights for anyone seeking help with alcohol addiction. Each episode is packed with practical tips, historical context, and relatable anecdotes to empower you on your recovery journey. Whether you're a recovering alcoholic, a loved one looking for support, or simply curious about the science behind addiction, our podcast offers something for everyone.

Keywords You’ll Find Here

Alcohol recovery, addiction help, 12 Steps, Big Book, AA recovery, spoken word, hearing impaired, alcohol anonymous, alcohol addiction, abstinence support, recovery science, Cali Sober, Belladonna treatment, Suboxone, Naltrexone, rapid detox, rehab programs, and more!

Subscribe to Cali Sober and Other Medical Gobbledygook today and join a growing community committed to overcoming addiction and embracing a life of recovery. Let’s navigate this journey together!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New School Alkies: Modern Insights into Alcohol Recovery and Addiction Help

Welcome to New School Alkies, a fresh take on alcohol recovery, the Big Book, and navigating life after addiction this new generation of alcoholics.

If you’ve ever wondered what recovery is really like—or if you’re just here because of a court-mandated visit—this podcast

is packed with relatable moments, practical advice, and insights into the world of alcohol addiction recovery.

Whether you're a newcomer to AA, someone seeking support for a loved one, or curious about modern 12-step culture,

this podcast will provide value, clarity, and maybe even a laugh.

Affordable Care Act (ACA: passed in 2010

'The ACA requires insurance plans to cover substance use disorder treatment, including rehab, as an essential health benefit. This includes coverage for inpatient and outpatient rehab, as well as psychotherapy and counseling.'

Not Your Grandpa’s AA: A New Era of Recovery

Forget the outdated image of AA meetings being somber gatherings of older folks. Today’s Alcoholics Anonymous is a diverse, dynamic space where people of all ages and backgrounds come together. We’ll tackle some modern-day topics like 13th stepping (dating in recovery), meeting etiquette, and why it’s important to create a safe and respectful environment for everyone. Wondering why you can’t date the guy from rehab? We’ve got answers—and they might save you a world of trouble.

Cult Member or Just Passing Thru?

Are you here to stay, or just visiting on a DUI? You might think we’re crazy for giving up the so-called “good times” of drinking, but stick around—we’ve got a perspective that might surprise you. Alcohol recovery isn’t about loss; it’s about rediscovering life.

Drunks vs. Heavy Drinkers: Which One Are You?

Have you ever said, “I’m not a drunk, I just like to party”? You're not alone. In this section, we’ll dive into the difference between a heavy drinker and someone struggling with alcohol addiction. Understanding where you stand is a crucial first step in recovery.

Don’t Stalk the Newcomer: Meeting Safety 101

Why is that guy creeping on me at the meeting? It’s a valid question. Meeting safety is a critical yet often overlooked topic in recovery spaces. This segment explores how to foster a secure, supportive atmosphere and why respecting boundaries is essential for everyone’s healing journey.

Coins: More Than Just Tokens

Sobriety coins are more than just shiny keepsakes—they’re powerful symbols of recovery and growth. Whether you're earning your first coin or celebrating years of sobriety, these milestones matter. Learn why they’re an important part of AA culture and how they can inspire gratitude and motivation.

Gratitude Month vs. Your Anniversary: Why It Matters

Struggling with gratitude? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Gratitude is a cornerstone of recovery, but it takes practice. We’ll explore why cultivating a mindset of thankfulness is crucial, not just on your sobriety anniversary, but every day of your journey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Things to Know About an AA Meeting, Part II - More Meeting Info

New to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and curious about what happens at a meeting? This meeting podcast, part II is meant as continuing guide for individuals seeking recovery from alcohol addiction. Whether you're exploring the Big Book only meetings or want to learn about Meeting etiquette while navigating the different types of meetings, this podcast will hopefully help you on your journey.

Through personal stories, expert interviews, and practical advice, this podcast aims to demystify the AA experience and offer encouragement for those seeking a sober life. It’s a supportive resource for anyone curious about what to expect, from the welcoming community to the transformative tools AA provides for recovery.

Breaking Down Flow of most meetings

Open

Topic

discussion or speaker

closing

Routine in AA

zip code AA

Are you stuck in routines like always sharing the same thing, sitting in the same spot, or reading the same passage, going to the same meetings?

We encourage flexibility and openness to enhance personal growth in recovery.

Decoding Common AA Sayings

that do sayings like HALT (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired),

KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid), or "Fake It ‘Til You Make It" really mean?

Unpack the wisdom behind these phrases and how they can support your sobriety journey.

Essential Meeting Etiquette

- Silence Your Phone: Stay focused and present during the meeting.

- Avoid Cross Talk: Listen actively to others and refrain from interrupting.

- Respect the Space: Keep meeting venues clean and litter-free.

Listening and Sharing

Did someone already say what you wanted to share? That’s okay — consider highlighting your clean date and passing instead.

Can You Refer to Other Shares?

Yes, but with mindfulness! This section highlights the balance between sharing and respecting the lead speaker’s role.

Everyone wants me to volunteer for GSR, why?

Because most of us already did it, and it was a grind.

But it is a great learning experience for the AA way and is an important way to do service

Alcohol addiction recovery is a personal and collective journey. This video is designed to offer tips, foster understanding, and help you navigate AA meetings with confidence. From first timers to long-time members, these insights aim to deepen your recovery experience.

Keywords for Recovery Success

This video is perfect for individuals seeking resources related to:

12 Steps, addiction, recovery, alcohol addiction, alcohol recovery, spoken word, hearing, hearing impaired, Big Book, Alcoholics Anonymous, AA recovery, recovering alcoholic, and addiction podcasts.

Stay tuned, and take the next step toward a healthier, sober life! Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more alcohol recovery tips and insights!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Things to Know About an AA Meeting: A Guide for Alcohol Recovery and Addiction Help , Part I

Are you new to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or curious about attending an AA meeting?

This podcast is a guide for individuals seeking recovery from alcohol addiction. Whether you're exploring the Big Book, learning about AA traditions,

or navigating the different types of meetings, this podcast will provide valuable insights to help you on your journey.

AA Meeting Safety

AA meeting safety and respectful for others is paramount. We are there for recovery and no one should be made to feel unsafe or threatened before, during or after a meeting.

Yellow safety card, in GSR packet.

Types of AA Meetings

Confused about meeting formats? We’ll break it all down:

- Open Meetings: Accessible to everyone, including non-alcoholics.

- Closed Meetings: Exclusively for those in recovery.

- Speaker Meetings: Featuring full leads, mini leads, and multi-mini leads with or without discussions.

- Men’s/Women’s Meetings: Gender-specific spaces fostering comfort and openness.

Big Book vs. Gratitude Meetings

Explore the differences between Big Book meetings, which focus on the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions, and Gratitude meetings, which may highlight Grapevine stories or daily reflections. Both formats play a vital role in maintaining sobriety and fostering connection.

Alcohol addiction recovery is a personal and collective journey. This video is designed to offer tips, foster understanding, and help you navigate AA meetings with confidence. From first-timers to long-time members, these insights aim to deepen your recovery experience.

Keywords for Recovery Success

This video is perfect for individuals seeking resources related to:

12 Steps, addiction, recovery, alcohol addiction, alcohol recovery, spoken word, hearing, hearing impaired, Big Book, Alcoholics Anonymous, AA recovery, recovering alcoholic, and addiction podcasts.

Stay tuned, and take the next step toward a healthier, sober life!

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more alcohol recovery tips and insights!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sponsors for Dummies; Finding the Right Sponsor in Alcohol Recovery

AA Tips for Addiction Help | Alcohol Recovery Journey | 12 Steps & Big Book Insights

Are you navigating the journey of alcohol recovery and wondering, “How do I find a sponsor?” or “What does a sponsor do?” Welcome to "Sponsors for Dummies", your comprehensive guide to understanding and finding the right sponsor in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Whether you’re a newcomer to AA, stuck on the 12 Steps, or just curious about the role of a sponsor, this video has got you covered. Packed with actionable advice, real-world tips, and insights into the AA Big Book, this video is a must-watch for anyone seeking help with addiction recovery.

Help! I Don’t Have a Sponsor

- Discover how to identify potential sponsors at meetings.

- Learn why it's polite to approach someone before or after a meeting rather than during.

- Understand regional differences: In some AA groups, sponsors may be assigned, while in others, it might take more effort.

Can You Have a Sponsor of the Opposite Sex?

- Explore the common practice of same-sex sponsorship and why it's preferred.

- Learn about temporary opposite-sex sponsors when same-sex options aren't available.

What Should You Expect from a Sponsor?

- A sponsor will guide you through the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous.

- They will respect your personal boundaries and never ask you to engage in illegal or unethical behavior.

- Sponsors are mentors, not lenders or therapists, but they can become trusted confidants.

What Does Your Sponsor Expect from You?

- Be open, honest, and committed to the recovery process.

- Keep regular communication through calls or texts and attend scheduled meetings with your sponsor.

- Be willing to embrace their guidance while working toward sobriety.

What Is a Temporary Sponsor?

- A "temp sponsor" ensures you complete the critical first three steps of the AA program while you search for a long-term sponsor.

You Got a Sponsor—Now What?

- Be prepared to read the Big Book and possibly other recovery literature.

- You may be encouraged to pray, take a moral inventory, and engage in deep self-reflection.

- A sponsor will guide, not judge, your recovery journey.

What Is a Grand Sponsor?

- Meet the mentor behind your mentor: your sponsor’s sponsor. This lineage can be a source of additional guidance.

Help! My Sponsor Passed Away

- Losing a sponsor can be tough, but don’t panic. Revisit the steps for finding a sponsor and move forward in your recovery.

How to Fire Your Sponsor

- Changing sponsors isn’t a high school breakup—it’s growth. Learn how to gracefully transition to a new sponsor while maintaining your sobriety goals.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your recovery or want to better understand sponsorship in AA, hit play and start transforming your life today. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more recovery-focused content!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to this deep dive into Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Sobriety Chips and Coins, their colors, meanings, and the inspiring milestones they represent. Whether you're starting your journey to recovery, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about AA traditions, this video unpacks the symbolic power of sobriety tokens.

What are AA Chips and Coins?

AA sobriety chips and coins are far more than just trinkets; they are heartfelt reminders of commitment, perseverance, and resilience on the path to recovery. These tokens are often given at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings to celebrate milestones, commemorate achievements, and encourage individuals to stay sober.

Each chip color represents a specific milestone in recovery, acting as a tangible marker of progress. While these chips are not officially part of the AA program, they are widely embraced by many groups worldwide. From aluminum coins to plastic chips and even metal key tags, these tokens come in various forms but share the same purpose: to inspire and remind individuals of their sobriety journey. Some areas celebrate a sub-set of months based on the amount of clean time. Some areas have chips for every month during the first year. In the case of 12 coins being provided there is some color overlap.

Also, some areas celebrate your coin on your anniversary, other areas do them for the month all at once and may have a cake or pastries. And some areas expect that you do a mini lead if it is an annual anniversary. Every area varies.

AA Chip Colors & Meanings:

1. White/Silver (24 Hours):

Known as the "surrender chip," this is typically the first chip given in AA. It symbolizes a fresh start, marking 24 hours of sobriety or a renewed commitment to a sober lifestyle. This token represents hope and serves as a daily reminder to take recovery one day at a time.

2. Red: This chip signifies 30 days or one month of sobriety. It embodies passion, determination, and the strength required to keep moving forward.

3. Gold: Given for 60 days or two months of sobriety, this chip symbolizes the bright future ahead, filled with hope and positivity.

4. Green: Marking 90 days or three months, this chip represents growth, renewal, and the beginning of profound changes in one’s life.

5. Purple: Often associated with deeper commitment, this chip represents four months of sobriety and the evolving journey of recovery.

6. Dark Blue: A significant milestone, the six-month chip signifies trust and confidence, celebrating half a year of sobriety.

7. Bronze: The bronze chip celebrates one full year of sobriety and is a testament to ongoing dedication and perseverance.

One year & Beyond: Bronze medallions are often used to mark annual sobriety anniversaries, continuing the tradition of honoring recovery milestones.

Historical Roots of AA Chips

The origin of sobriety chips dates back to Sister Ignatia in Akron, a devoted nun who supported early members of AA by passing out coins to mark their progress. This heartfelt tradition has since evolved into a globally recognized practice.

Why These Tokens Matter

Sobriety chips serve as powerful symbols of accountability and self-affirmation. Many recovering alcoholics find strength and encouragement in these small tokens, carrying them as a daily reminder of their hard-earned sobriety and commitment to the 12 Steps program.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I'm Going to a Meeting! Now What? | Alcohol Recovery Journey | 12 Steps & Big Book Insights

Are you taking your first steps toward recovery and wondering what to expect when you walk into a meeting? In this podcast,

we’re diving deep into what it’s like to attend an Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meeting for the first time. Whether you’re looking for alcohol recovery tips, insights on addiction, or support on your journey, this is the guide you need to feel prepared and confident.

From understanding why you're there to what happens next, this video is designed for anyone exploring recovery from alcohol addiction. If you're hearing about 12 Steps and the Big Book for the first time, or if you’ve heard stories about Alcoholics Anonymous and aren’t sure what’s real, this video will help clarify your questions.

Here’s What We Cover in This Video:

- How to Find a Meeting: Whether you're using apps, websites, or personal recommendations, learn the best ways to locate a meeting that suits your schedule and needs.

- Why Are You There?: Maybe you’re curious, fulfilling a legal obligation, not sure what to expect, or you truly want help. Whatever your reason, we’ll discuss what it means to show up and take that first step.

- Should You Take Someone With You?: Navigating the decision to bring a friend or go solo can set the tone for your experience.

- Why Are They Laughing?: Meetings aren’t like what you see on TV. Learn why members often find humor and joy in their recovery.

- Meeting People: What happens when someone offers their phone number or asks if you have "the app"? Discover why building connections is a key part of the process.

- Should You Speak at the Meeting?: Do you need to share your story right away? Or can you just listen? We explain what’s expected (spoiler: you don’t *have* to talk).

- Feeling Blind-Sided after?: It’s not uncommon to leave your first meeting feeling surprised or unsure. We’ll unpack what to do if the experience isn’t what you expected.

- Your Next Steps: Where do you go from here? Learn how to stay connected, explore the Big Book, and start working through the 12 Steps of recovery.

### Keywords to Help You Find Us:

12 Steps, Addiction, Recovery, Alcohol Addiction, Alcohol Recovery, Big Book, Alcoholics Anonymous, AA Recovery, Recovering Alcoholic, Sobriety Tips, Meeting Expectations, First AA Meeting, Recovery Journey, Addiction Podcast, Hearing Impaired, Spoken Word Recovery

Recovery is a journey, and every step matters. Whether you’re stepping into a meeting for legal reasons, curiosity, or a sincere desire for change, this video will help you understand what to expect and how to make the most of the experience.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this podcast with anyone who might need guidance on their recovery journey. Together, we can navigate the path toward sobriety and healing.

#alcoholicsAnonymous, #BigBook, #AddictionRecovery

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

'In my day it was 5 miles uphill, both ways, barefoot thru the snow' , said by all old people

In many Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) groups, differences in approach and philosophy between older and younger members can create contrasting dynamics.

Older members often have decades of sobriety and a deep-rooted connection to traditional AA practices. They may emphasize strict adherence to the original principles outlined in The Big Book, such as rigorous step work, reliance on a sponsor, and commitment to service within the fellowship. This commitment can sometimes be perceived as controlling or rigid, especially by younger members who might prefer a more flexible, individualized approach to recovery.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.