RRP Episode 88 – Phoenix G: From Childhood Pain to Purpose in Recovery
Presenters: Peter and ColetteLength: 1 hour, 1 minute
Summary:
In this deeply honest conversation, Peter and Colette sit down with Phoenix G., whose recovery story spans six decades of struggle, reflection, and redemption. Phoenix shares his earliest memories of alcohol use at just three years old, the physical punishment he endured growing up, and the emotional isolation that followed him into adulthood. Despite the pain, his story turns toward hope — through the fellowship of AA, the Lunch Bunch meetings, and the spiritual awakening that comes from showing up, doing service, and learning to live with honesty.
Phoenix reminds us that it’s never too late to heal. At sixty-three, he’s built a sober life grounded in humility, humor, and gratitude — from serving as a meeting secretary to sponsoring others and finding strength through community.
“Every time I show up, I stay sober one more day. That’s the miracle.” — Phoenix G.
Episode Highlights (with time codes):
- [00:04:48] Phoenix shares how he found the Lunch Bunch and the recovery community that became his family.
- [00:06:26] His earliest memory of alcohol at age three — “It doesn’t take much to get a three-year-old drunk.”
- [00:07:00] Recalling the physical abuse he experienced as a child and how it shaped his fears.
- [00:19:50] Phoenix reflects on maintaining sobriety and setting boundaries to protect it.
- [00:20:13] How ending a marriage became a necessary step to preserve his recovery.
- [00:40:14] The role of service — from showing up to secretary duties at multiple meetings.
- [00:45:24] What he’s learned from sponsorship, relapse, and the power of connection.
- [01:00:57] Julie returns for closing remarks, highlighting gratitude and continued community support.
Links to Websites Discussed:
Quote:
“Every time I show up, I stay sober one more day. That’s the miracle.” — Phoenix G.
Listen & Learn More:
🎧 Listen to Episode 88📝 Read the Blog Post
Hashtags & Mentions:
#RealRecoveryPodcast #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryJourney #AA #12StepRecovery #SobrietyStories #HealingInRecovery #ResilienceAndHope #CommunitySupport #LunchBunch @RealRecoveryPodcast
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