Keys to the Kingdom: Chris E.’s Path Through Love, Loss, and Recovery

Once standing with an ax in his hand and hate in his heart… today, he stands with a broken heart and hope in his soul.

🎙️In this emotional episode of The Cup of Joe Show, Chris E. shares his powerful journey from fear, addiction, and violence to faith, healing, and heartbreaking loss. Born in England and now a proud U.S. citizen, Chris has been sober since June 2, 2016—but not without walking through fire.

He shares about the night he threatened his beloved wife Janet with an ax during an alcoholic rage—a rock bottom that led him to the 12 Steps and a new spiritual life. As the two of them built a life in recovery through AA and Al-anon, tragedy struck: in late 2024, Janet lost her life in a car accident. Through tears and truth, Chris shares how his recovery community and faith are helping him navigate grief while staying sober.

To close, Chris offers his moving recitation of “The Keys to the Kingdom,” a passage that has become his hallmark in AA meetings—and a beacon of hope for others.

👉 For those in recovery, those who love someone in recovery, and anyone seeking the courage to heal—this story will stay with you.

The Cup of Joe Show explores the journey of recovery from alcohol and drug addiction—one story, one conversation, and one step at a time. New Episode Every Thursday at Noon.