The Sober Sense Podcast

Relationships In Recovery (feat. Special Guest)

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 02:00:00 -0800

Dating, relationships, romance... these are tough anyone to navigate. But for those of us in recovery, there can be extra layers of discomfort, confusion, and vulnerability.

In this episode, you'll hear a relationship success story where a recovering addict and a "normie" (the special guest) found each other at the right time in both their lives. They share their experiences dating in recovery, and offer some advice for anyone looking for that special someone.

Each episode of The Sober Sense Podcast is presented ad-free by the Rule 62 Foundation; a nonprofit empowering people to live happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives in addiction recovery through sober living scholarships, recovery guidance, and sober social events.

If you're struggling with addiction, know someone who is, or want to make a donation, visit www.R62foundation.org for details.

Recovery Success Factors

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 02:00:00 -0700

Each person's recovery journey is unique. What works for some people may not work for others, and there's no character profile to predict who will stick with it and who won't.

However, those who achieve long-term sobriety tend to share common traits and practices - and that's not a coincidence.

In this episode, the guys discuss recovery success factors. Things that have worked for them, and what they've seen working for other people.

No matter where you are along your recovery journey, there's always something new to learn about this topic.

Paying It Forward

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 02:00:00 -0700

In recovery, many of us want to pay it forward by supporting others along their journeys. But, what can we do and where do we start?

We're joined by our good friend, Lou Duilen, who went from being a self-described "junkie" to helping thousands of people achieve sobriety. In this episode, he walks us through how that happened - and what it took to get there.

To hear more about Lou, check out his previous episode, "Lou's Story":

Season 2, Episode 7.

Getting Back to Work: Finding stability, structure, and purpose after treatment

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0700

After leaving treatment, finding a job is an important step toward rebuilding our lives. But it can feel overwhelming, there are barriers to overcome, and moving too fast can be risky.

In this episode, the guys share personal stories, practical tips, and honest insights about how to navigate getting back to work while staying focused on recovery.

Relapse Prevention: Tips That Helped Us Stay Sober

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0700

Relapse is a common experience in addiction recovery. But that doesn't mean it's inevitable. In this episode, the guys open up about their early recovery experiences, triggers they tried to avoid, and strategies that helped them stay sober. They also share practical relapse prevention tactics, discussing what's worked for them and where they had to adjust course along the way.

Whether you're just starting your recovery journey or looking to strengthen your sober foundation, these insights might offer a helpful perspective - or a new tool for your toolkit.

Remember, you're not in this alone.

Lake Powell 2024

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0700

Coming to you live from our 2024 Lake Powell Sober Adventure, the guys discuss the power and importance of creating memorable experiences and finding happiness in recovery.

Todd's Sweet 16

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Celebrating 16 years of sobriety, Todd shares some lessons, advice, and wisdom based on his experiences over that time.

Upcoming Event: Time is running out to sign up for our FREE sober adventure at Lake Powell! We'll be spending three nights out on the lake camping, riding jet skis, boating around the canyon, and celebrating life in recovery.

When: October 7-10, 2024
Where: Lake Powell (Page, AZ)
Cost: FREE

For details and registration, visit: www.R62foundation.org/events

Crisis of Faith

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Having belief, faith, and trust in a higher power isn't a linear path. Like anything else in life, there can be highs and lows.

In this episode, Brent shares about having a "crisis of faith" and asks for guidance on how to navigate the process of reconnecting with the higher power of his understanding.

Special Guest: Lou D.

Gaining Freedom

Mon, 27 May 2024 02:00:00 -0700

"I had a new freedom today, the freedom to be me. I have the freedom to be the best me I have ever been."

In this episode, the guys discuss how sobriety gave them the freedom to pursue a life beyond their wildest dreams.

Change & Growth

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Change is part of life and growth... but it's not easy.

The guys discuss navigating change in early recovery, getting a sponsor, and how acceptance is a key factor in spiritual growth.

Ego and Self-Will

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 02:00:00 -0800

After reading the daily reflection for March 3, 2024, the guys discuss how ego and self-will fed their addiction and delusion. On the flip side, being of service was the path to self-esteem and healthy pride.

Holiday Advice

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 02:00:00 -0800

We asked ChatGPT for tips on how to stay sober during the holidays. In this episode, the guys go through the list and share their own advice on how to navigate this often difficult time of year.

Lessons Learned at Lake Powell

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 02:00:00 -0700

Part of the Rule 62 Foundation's mission is to cultivate a sober community and host sober social events. But it's about more than having fun and letting loose. It's about growing as individuals, gaining life experience, and evolving into the best possible version of ourselves.

In this episode, the guys reflect on meaningful moments and lessons learned while out at the 2023 Lake Powell Sober Adventure.

Lou's Story

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 02:00:00 -0700

In this special episode, we're joined by Lou - our good friend and fellow Rule 62 Foundation board member. Hear Lou's addiction recovery story which took him from nightly blackouts to running his family's business and raising a family.

Family Impact

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 02:00:00 -0700

Throughout our addiction and recovery journeys, our families have their own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Many of which never come to light unless we are proactive in asking about them.

In this episode, we discuss the importance and value of giving family members a voice to share what it has been like for them. By seeking out and listening to realities beyond our awareness - the good, the bad, and the ugly - it's a chance to continue the healing process; both individually and together as a family unit.

Meeting Makers

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 02:00:00 -0700

As the saying goes, "Meeting makers make it."

While there are a variety of ways to achieve and maintain long-term sobriety, the Rule 62 Foundation was created as a result of 12-step program successes. Our founders and beneficiaries are active in their 12-step programs, and A.A./N.A. meetings continue to play a vital role in their addiction recovery journeys.

In this episode, the guys discuss how 12-step meetings and have laid the groundwork and paved the way to a happier, healthier, and more productive life.

Stigma

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 02:00:00 -0700

According to a global study by the World Health Organization, illicit drug addiction is the #1 most stigmatized condition - and #4 is alcoholism.

In this episode, the guys discuss ways each of us can fight the stigma of addiction through our day-to-day behaviors and person-to-person interactions.

Making Amends

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 03:00:00 -0800

Making amends is a big part of the recovery journey. So, the guys discuss their experiences with Step 9 and share tips for how to approach this important process.

Also, the Rule 62 Foundation's Annual Lake Powell Adventure dates are set! Join us from October 1-7, 2023 on this epic trip which has houseboats, jetskis, wake boarding, bonfires, fireworks, amazing food, and more. If you can get yourself out to the lake, the rest is free!

Space is limited, so sign up online to get yourself on the contact list and be among the first to know when registration opens. Visit the "Events" tab on our website, www.R62foundation.org, and submit the form.

Hope to see you there!

Sponsorship

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 03:00:00 -0800

Sponsorship is a cornerstone of Alcoholics Anonymous and 12 Step recovery programs. But asking someone to be your sponsor is never easy. And being a sponsor can be a heavy responsibility.

In this episode, Todd and Brent share some tips and advice for navigating the world of sponsorship and getting the most from your sponsor-sponsee relationships.

Social Life

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 03:00:00 -0800

Being social in sobriety isn't always easy. So, the guys share tips and suggestions for navigating social situations, handling peer pressure, and protecting sobriety.

What We Need

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 02:00:00 -0800

Featuring our special guest, Andrew.

Daily Reflection: What We Need - Each Other - "For years, whenever I reflected on Tradition Three ("The only requirement for A.A. membership is a desire to stop drinking"), I thought it valuable only to newcomers. It was their guarantee that no one could bar them from A.A. Today I feel enduring gratitude for the spiritual development the Tradition has brought me. I don't seek out people obviously different from myself. Tradition Three, concentrating on the one way I am similar to others, brought me to know and help every kind of alcoholic, just as they have helped me. Charlotte, the atheist, showed me higher standards of ethics and honor; Clay, of another race, taught me patience; Winslow, who is gay, led me by example into true compassion; Young Megan says that seeing me at meetings, sober thirty years, keeps her coming back. Tradition Three insured that we would get what we need — each other."

Brent's Story

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 02:00:00 -0800

Brent shares his story from being a self-isolating alcoholic to finding recovery through the support of friends, family, and others in the recovery community.

Note: This episode was pre-recorded and involves outdated discussion about the MLB playoffs. Sadly, the Padres have been eliminated however Brent is emotionally stable and looking forward to next season.

Todd's Story

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 02:00:00 -0700

The Rule 62 Foundation president and co-founder, Todd A., shares his recovery journey. From 30 days in a coma to living a life beyond his wildest dreams, this is an episode you don't want to miss.

Live From Lake Powell

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0700

Coming to you live from Lake Powell! Todd and Brent, sitting on the top deck of a houseboat, discuss the importance of having fun and finding fulfillment in sobriety.

Join us next year for this unforgettable sober adventure; October 1-7, 2023.

Spots are limited, so contact us if you're interested in receiving more event information: info@R62foundation.org

Rule62 Foundation

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 02:00:00 -0700

In this special episode, Todd and Brent share the story of how Rule62 Foundation was born, its mission today, and their plans for the future.

Getting Involved

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 02:00:00 -0700

Featuring our special guest Dakota from The Phoenix.

Daily Reflection: Getting Involved - "I understand that service is a vital part of recovery but I often wonder, "What can I do?" Simply start with what I have today! I look around to see where there is a need. Are the ashtrays full? Do I have hands and feet to empty them? Suddenly I'm involved! The best speaker may make the worst coffee; the member who's best with newcomers may be unable to read; the one willing to clean up may make a mess of the bank account—yet every one of these people and jobs is essential to an active group. The miracle of service is this: when I use what I have, I find there is more available to me than I realized before."

Having Fun

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 02:00:00 -0700

Daily Reflection: Having Fun Yet? - "When my own house is in order, I find the different parts of my life are more manageable. Stripped from the guilt and remorse that cloaked my drinking years, I am free to assume my proper role in the universe, but this condition requires maintenance. I should stop and ask myself, Am I having fun yet? If I find answering that question difficult or painful, perhaps I'm taking myself too seriously—and finding it difficult to admit that I've strayed from my practice of working the program to keep my house in order. I think the pain I experience is one way my Higher Power has to get my attention, coaxing me to take stock of my performance. The slight time and effort it takes to work the program—a spot-check inventory, for example, or the making of amends, whatever is appropriate — are well worth the effort."

Keep It Simple

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 02:00:00 -0700

Daily Reflection: Let's Keep It Simple - "After years of sobriety I occasionally ask myself, Can it be this simple? Then, at meetings, I see former cynics and skeptics who have walked the A.A. path out of hell by packaging their lives, without alcohol, into twenty-four hour segments, during which they practice a few principles to the best of their individual abilities. And then I know again that, while it isn't always easy, if I keep it simple, it works."

We Pause

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 02:00:00 -0700

Daily Reflection: We pause... and ask. - "Today I humbly ask my Higher Power for the grace to find the space between my impulse and my action; to let flow a cooling breeze when I would respond with heat; to interrupt fierceness with gentle peace; to accept the moment which allows judgment to become discernment; to defer to silence when my tongue would rush to attack or defend.

I promise to watch for every opportunity to turn toward my Higher Power for guidance. I know where this power is: it resides within me, as clear as a mountain brook, hidden in the hills—it is the unsuspected Inner Resource.

I thank my Higher Power for this world of light and truth I see when I allow it to direct my vision. I trust it today and hope it trusts me to make all effort to find the right thought or action today."

Faith

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 02:00:00 -0700

Daily Reflection: Round-the-Clock Faith - "The essence of my spirituality, and my sobriety, rests on a round-the-clock faith in a Higher Power. I need to remember and rely on the God of my understanding as I pursue all of my daily activities. How comforting for me is the concept that God works in and through people. As I pause in my day, do I recall specific concrete examples of God's presence? Am I amazed and uplifted by the number of times this power is evident? I am overwhelmed with gratitude for my God's presence in my life of recovery. Without this omnipotent force in my every activity, I would again fall into the depths of my disease—and death."

A special thanks to Adam for joining us! Check out this article he wrote about his recovery journey: https://medium.com/@AThompson99/the-addicts-rebirth-6d0aaa71e31c

Would a drink help?

Mon, 23 May 2022 02:00:00 -0700

Daily Reflection: Would a drink help? - "When I was still drinking, I couldn't respond to any of life's situations the way other, more healthy, people could. The smallest incident triggered a state of mind that believed I had to have a drink to numb my feelings. But the numbing did not improve the situation, so I sought further escape in the bottle. Today I must be aware of my alcoholism. I cannot afford to believe that I have gained control of my drinking — or again I will think I have gained control of my life. Such a feeling of control is fatal to my recovery."

A special thanks to Sammy for being our guest! Keep doing you're thing and making people laugh. You're helping a lot of people get through hard times, and we appreciate you sharing your recovery journey.

Happiness

Mon, 09 May 2022 02:00:00 -0700

Daily Reflection: Happiness Comes Quietly - "The simplicity of the A.A. program teaches me that happiness isn't something I can 'demand.' It comes upon me quietly, while I serve others. In offering my hand to the newcomer or to someone who has relapsed, I find that my own sobriety has been recharged with indescribable gratitude and happiness."

Hitting Bottom

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 02:00:00 -0700

Daily Reflection: Hitting Bottom - "Hitting bottom opened my mind and I became willing to try something different. What I tried was A.A. My new life in the Fellowship was a little like learning how to ride a bike for the first time: A.A. became my training wheels and my supporting hand. It's not that I wanted the help so much at the time; I simply did not want to hurt like that again. My desire to avoid hitting bottom again was more powerful than my desire to drink. In the beginning that was what kept me sober. But after a while I found myself working the Steps to the best of my ability. I soon realized that my attitudes and actions were changing—if ever so slightly. One Day at a Time, I became comfortable with myself, and others, and my hurting started to heal. Thank God for the training wheels and supporting hand that I choose to call Alcoholics Anonymous."

No Regrets

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 11:00:00 -0700

Daily Reflection: No Regrets - "Once I became sober, I began to see how wasteful my life had been and I experienced overwhelming guilt and feelings of regret. The program's Fourth and Fifth Steps assisted me enormously in healing those troubling regrets. I learned that my self-centeredness and dishonesty stemmed largely from my drinking and that I drank because I was an alcoholic. Now I see how even my most distasteful past experiences can turn to gold because, as a sober alcoholic, I can share them to help my fellow alcoholics, particularly newcomers. Sober for several years in A.A., I no longer regret the past; I am simply grateful to be conscious of God's love and of the help I can give to others in the Fellowship."

Overnight

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 02:00:00 -0700

Daily Reflection: It Doesn't Happen Overnight - "The most common alcoholic fantasy seems to be: 'If I just don't drink, everything will be all right.' Once the fog cleared for me, I say - for the first time - the mess my life had become. I had family, work, financial and legal problems; I was hung up on old religious ideas; there were sides of my character to which I was inclined to stay blind because they easily could have convinced me that I was hopeless and pushed me toward escape again. The Big Book guided me in resolving all of my problems. But it didn't happen overnight - and certainly not automatically - with no effort on my part. I need always to recognize God's mercy and blessings that shine through any problem I have to face."

Circumstance

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 02:00:00 -0700

Daily Reflection: Accepting Our Present Circumstances - "When I am having a difficult time accepting people, places or events, I turn to this passage and it relieves me of many an underlying fear regarding others, or situations life presents me. The thought allows me to be human and not perfect, and to regain my peace of mind."

This episode is in loving memory of Elvis, Todd's dog and best friend of 14 years, who transitioned to the next phase of existence March 20, 2022. While he will be sorely missed, we know is romping around with God... happy and at peace.

100%

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 08:00:00 -0700

Daily Reflection: "The 100% Step" - Long before I was able to obtain sobriety in A.A., I knew without a doubt that alcohol was killing me, yet even with this knowledge, I was unable to stop drinking. So, when faced with Step One, I found it easy to admit that I lacked the power to not drink. But was my life unmanageable? Never! Five months after coming into A.A., I was drinking again and wondered why.

Later on, back in A.A. and smarting from my wounds, I learned that Step One is the only Step that can be taken 100%. And that the only way to take it 100% is to take 100% of the Step. That was many twenty-four hours ago and I haven't had to take Step One again.

United

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 02:00:00 -0700

Daily Reflection: "United We Stand" - I came to Alcoholics Anonymous because I was no longer able to control my drinking. It was either my wife's complaining about my drinking, or maybe the sheriff forced me to go to A.A. meetings, or perhaps I knew, deep down inside, that I couldn't drink like others, but I was unwilling to admit it because the alternative terrified me. Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women united against a common, fatal disease. Each one of our lives is linked to every other, much like the survivors on a life raft at sea. If we all work together, we can get safely to shore.

Providence

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 02:00:00 -0800

Daily Reflection: "An Act of Providence" - My act of Providence, (a manifestation of divine care and direction), came as I experienced the total bankruptcy of active alcoholism - everything meaningful in my life was gone. I telephoned Alcoholics Anonymous and, from that instant, my life has never been the same. When I reflect on that very special moment, I know that God was working in my life long before I was able to acknowledge and accept spiritual concepts. The glass was put down through this one act of Providence and my journey into sobriety began. My life continues to unfold with divine care and direction. Step One, in which I admitted I was powerless over alcohol, that my life had become unmanageable, takes on more meaning for me—one day at a time—in the life-saving, life-giving Fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Choice

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 02:00:00 -0800

Daily Reflection: "Do I have a choice?" - My powerlessness over alcohol does not cease when I quit drinking. In sobriety I still have no choice - I can't drink. The choice I do have is to puck up and use the 'kit of spiritual tools.' When I do that, my Higher Power relieves me of my lack of choice - and keeps me sober one more day. If I could choose not to pick up a drink today, where then would be my need for A.A. or a Higher Power?

Turning Point

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 08:00:00 -0800

Daily Reflection: "At the Turning Point" - Every day I stand at turning points. My thoughts and actions can propel me toward growth or turn me down the road to old habits and to booze. Sometimes turning points are beginnings, as when I decide to start praising instead of condemning someone. Or when I begin to ask for help instead of going it alone. At other times turning points are endings, such as when I see clearly the need to stop festering resentments or crippling self-seeking. Many shortcomings tempt me daily; therefore, I also have daily opportunities to become aware of them. In one form or another, many of my character defects appear daily: self-condemnation, anger, running away, being prideful, wanting to get even, or acting out of grandiosity.

Attempting half measures to eliminate these defects merely paralyzes my efforts to change. It is only when I ask God for help, with complete abandon, that I become willing - and able - to change.

Surrender

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 06:00:00 -0800

Daily Reflection: "The Victory of Surrender" - We perceive that only through utter defeat are we able to take our first steps toward liberation and strength. Our admissions of personal powerlessness finally turn out to be firm bedrock upon which happy and purposeful lives may be built.

Acceptance

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 12:00:00 -0800

Daily Reflection: "Total Acceptance" - He cannot picture life without alcohol. Some day he will be unable to imagine life either with alcohol or without it. Then he will know loneliness such as few do. He will be at the jumping-off place. He will wish for the end.

Beginning

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0800

Daily Reflection: "Begin where you are." - We feel that elimination of our drinking is but a beginning. A much more important demonstration of our principles lies before us in our respective homes, occupations, and affairs.

Powerless

Sun, 02 Jan 2022 11:00:00 -0800

Daily Reflection: "Powerless" - It is no coincidence that the very first Step mentions powerlessness: An admission of personal powerlessness over alcohol is a cornerstone of the foundation of recovery. I've learned that I do not have the power and control I once thought I had.

The Foundation

Sun, 02 Jan 2022 11:00:00 -0800

Daily Reflection: "First, the foundation." - Practicing the A.A. program is like building a house. First I had to pour a big, thick concrete slab on which to erect the house; that, to me, was the equivalent of stopping drinking.