Episodes
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Position of Neutrality: Celebrating Freedom and Liberation in Step 12 AA Celebrating Freedom Acknowledging Experiences in Meetings
Join Joe McDonald as he celebrates the freedom and liberation experienced by individuals on their recovery journey, as outlined in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe highlights the importance of being free inside before being able to live free outside, sharing the powerful stories of those who...
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Position of Neutrality: Growing in Understanding and Knowing When to Give in Step 12 AA Unlocking Growth Understanding and Effectiveness Explained!
Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the importance of growing in understanding and effectiveness in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe emphasizes that it’s not just about the act of giving, but knowing when and how to give. He shares that we can only understand the right moments to give when we...
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Position of Neutrality: Bright Ideas and Distractions in Step 12 AA Jim's Relapse A Wild Escape from the Office!
Join Joe McDonald as he shares a relatable story about getting distracted by a “bright idea,” as outlined in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe recounts the story of a man who, after having a few words with his boss, got the idea to head out into the woods where car buyers that don’t come to...
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Position of Neutrality: The Hopeless Feature of Alcoholism in Step 12 AA The HARSH Truth About Alcoholism's Consequences
Join Joe McDonald as he addresses the harsh reality of alcoholism’s end result in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains the “hopeless feature of the malady,” which always ends in death, insanity, or institutionalization. Sometimes, it can include a combination of these outcomes. Joe...
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Position of Neutrality: From Waste to Purpose in Step 12 AA Transform Your Pain Into Purpose Through Recovery!
Join Joe McDonald as he discusses how the past, once seen as wasteful or shameful, can be transformed into something infinitely valuable, as outlined in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that many of us have felt burdened by our pasts, but through recovery, we start to see how those...
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Position of Neutrality: Unexpected Encounters and the Power of Giving in Step 12 AA Unexpected Kindness The $8 Encounter at the Mall
Join Joe McDonald as he shares a powerful and unexpected encounter while walking through a mall, as told in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe recalls a woman who came directly to him, asking for exactly $8—the exact amount he had in his wallet at the time. Joe reflects on the moment…
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Position of Neutrality: Sharing Your Story Without Moralizing in Step 12 AA Using Humor to Transform Recovery Conversations!
Join Joe McDonald as he discusses how to share your story in Alcoholics Anonymous without moralizing, as outlined in Step 12. Joe explains that when someone is not communicative, we should give them a sketch of our drinking career up to the time we quit, but without getting into the details of…
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Position of Neutrality: Humility, Healing, and Listening to the Spirit in Step 12 AA A Humbling Encounter That Changed My Perspective Forever
Join Joe McDonald as he shares a moving story about an encounter that humbled him in his recovery journey, as outlined in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe recounts how a man approached him with tears streaming down his face, sharing his struggles and why he couldn’t leave his situation. Moved...
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Position of Neutrality: The Value of Service and Honest Connection in Step 12 AA Unlocking Spiritual Awakening Through Service in Recovery
Join Joe McDonald as he explains the importance of service commitments and genuine connection in Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe shares how meetings before or after the main session are often the best times to really get to know someone. During the meeting, people tend to present the version of...
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Position of Neutrality: The Importance of Approach in Step 12 AA How Your Approach Shapes Responses in Conversations
Join Joe McDonald as he reflects on the importance of approach when carrying the message of recovery, as outlined in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe shares that how we approach others determines the response we receive, a lesson learned from those who come from prison yards. He emphasizes…
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Position of Neutrality: Finding the Power to Walk Through in Step 12 AA Overcoming Addiction My Journey to Recovery and Hope
Join Joe McDonald as he talks about the challenges of staying in recovery when the memory of suffering isn’t enough to stop us from launching out again, as outlined in Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that the two things that keep us trapped are the fading memory of suffering and the inability…
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Position of Neutrality: Walking in Redemption and Offering It to Others in Step 12 AA Awaken Your Spirit Step 12 to Empower Others!
Join Joe McDonald as he dives into Step 12, emphasizing the importance of carrying the message to others and walking in redemption, as outlined in Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that after experiencing a spiritual awakening through the steps, our job is not just to claim redemption, but to…
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Position of Neutrality: Walking the Path of Spiritual Progress in Step 12 AA Encountering Angels Faith vs Fear in Spiritual Progress
Join Joe McDonald as he clarifies a common misconception about spiritual progress in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that the Big Book isn’t talking about theology, but about a conscious, sensory relationship with the power that animates us. This is about feeling and sharing that...
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Position of Neutrality: Straightening Out the Past in Step 12 AA How Sharing My Addiction Journey Changed My Life Forever
Join Joe McDonald as he delves into the importance of making a self-appraisal and straightening out the past in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe emphasizes that credibility comes from having made a self-appraisal yourself, rather than just telling others what to do. He explains that while we...
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Position of Neutrality: Understanding Faith and Alcoholism in Step 12 AA The Hidden Truth About Alcoholism Revealed!
Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the importance of walking in faith and understanding alcoholism as a fatal illness in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that both faith and recovery require us to believe in things we cannot see, which is why improving our consciousness is essential.…
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Position of Neutrality: Consulting the Spirit and Giving with Intention in Step 12 AA Unlocking Spirit Guidance for Life's Challenges
Join Joe McDonald as he reflects on the importance of consulting the Spirit when deciding how and when to give, as taught in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe emphasizes that it’s not about assuming the outcome of our giving, but about our motive and the respect we show. He reminds us that...
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Position of Neutrality: A Story of Humility and Redemption in Step 12 AA Jim's DOWNFALL From Entrepreneur to Alcoholism
Join Joe McDonald as he shares the story of Jim, a man who didn’t start drinking until his thirties but quickly lost his business due to alcohol. Jim, once an entrepreneur, found himself taking a job at the car dealership he used to own, a humbling experience. Joe reflects on how Jim’s agitation...
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Position of Neutrality: Speaking Life and Burning the Message Into Consciousness in Step 12 AA Are We Entertaining Angels In Disguise?
Join Joe McDonald as he shares a powerful story of encountering someone who asked for exactly $8, reminding us that sometimes we’re entertaining angels without even knowing it. Joe explains that when the Big Book talks about burning the idea of recovery into consciousness, it’s about speaking…
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Position of Neutrality: A Lesson in Giving from Step 12 AA A Humbling Encounter at a Rest Stop Judgment vs Charity
Join Joe McDonald as he shares a heartfelt story about an unexpected encounter at a rest stop. While initially laughing at the sight of a beat-up trailer with a “Just Married” sign, Joe’s experience took a turn. He realized that the people inside were struggling, and despite his initial reaction,...
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Position of Neutrality: Celebrating Freedom and Milestones in Step 12 AA John's 33 Year Journey to Freedom Celebration!
Join Joe McDonald as he celebrates a special milestone in the recovery community at New Freedom. Joe shares the story of John, who, after serving a life sentence, has been stepped down from house arrest to general parole for the first time in 33 years. Joe emphasizes the importance of these...
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Position of Neutrality: Sharing Your Experience in Step 12 AA Overcoming Obstacles in Seeking Support My Journey
Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the importance of sharing personal experiences in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that while some doctors, ministers, or hospitals may be hesitant to assist, those who truly know you and recognize your redemption will call upon you to help others.…
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Position of Neutrality: The Mental Condition Behind the First Drink in Step 12 AA How Mental Health Challenges Our Willpower and Sobriety
Join Joe McDonald as he shares insights on the mental condition surrounding the first drink, as discussed in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe emphasizes that this “queer mental condition” prevents normal functioning of willpower. He shares how even with clean time, a tough week can bring the...
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Position of Neutrality: Understanding the Power of Conversation in Step 12 AA The Truth About Letting Off Steam and Drinking Control
Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the delicate balance of conversation when helping others in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that sometimes, we want to let off steam, but doing so can lead to significant consequences. He highlights the importance of not labeling someone as an...
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Position of Neutrality: Humility and Helping Others in Step 12 AA Unlocking Recovery Start Conversations that Transform Lives
Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the practical approach to helping others in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains how most of us meet people in recovery settings, through family members, or by simply being asked for help. He emphasizes the importance of engaging in general conversation...
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Position of Neutrality: The Power of Intensive Work in Step 12 AA Intensive Work With Alcoholics The Key to Lasting Sobriety!
Join Joe McDonald as he emphasizes the importance of intensive work with others in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that practical experience shows nothing will ensure immunity from drinking more than this intensive work with fellow alcoholics. He highlights the promise and the...
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Position of Neutrality: Opening in Prayer and Recognizing Our Power in Step 12 AA Unlocking Our Potential Through Prayer and Gratitude
Join Captain Lee as he opens the meeting with a powerful prayer, giving praise and thanks for the victories in recovery. This prayer acknowledges that all glory belongs to our Higher Power, reminding us that without divine guidance, we are nothing. Captain Lee offers thanks for the lives...
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Position of Neutrality: The Lesson of the Good Samaritan in Step 12 AA Embrace Kindness Be Your Own Good Samaritan!
Join Joe McDonald as he shares the powerful lesson of the Good Samaritan, relating it to Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that the Good Samaritan, although unlikely and even forbidden to help, could not walk past his brother who was beaten by the side of the road. Instead, he…
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Position of Neutrality: Embracing Your Calling in Step 12 AA Unlock Your TRUE Value The New Freedom Awakening
Join Joe McDonald as he shares the powerful message that everyone in recovery has a calling, as outlined in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe emphasizes that if you’re in New Freedom, you are called to deliver this message to thousands of people, reminding them of their infinite value—despite...
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Position of Neutrality: Experiencing the Power of Truth in Step 12 AA Feeling Truth The Power of Perception in Recovery
Join Joe McDonald as he reflects on the powerful experience of seeing the world differently through recovery, as outlined in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe asks, why do the authors say “this is an experience you must not miss” instead of “a sight”? He explains that when we begin to see…
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Position of Neutrality: Embracing the Promises of Step 12 AA Daily Kindness The Key to Recovery Success!
Join Joe McDonald as he delves into the promises of Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous, where helping others becomes the foundation stone of recovery. Joe explains that a simple kind act every now and then is not enough—being of service may require great sacrifices, including the loss of sleep,...
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Position of Neutrality: Understanding the Spirit of Recovery in Step 12 AA How Alcohol Takes Control A Personal Journey
Join Joe McDonald as he shares insights into the spiritual journey of recovery in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that, much like addiction takes over when we feed it, recovery begins to take control when we put the spirit of recovery inside us. This spirit once sought to devour us,...
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Position of Neutrality: Living in a New World Through Step 12 AA Transform Your Life by Following a Higher Power!
Join Joe McDonald as he reflects on the promise of living in a new and wonderful world by following the dictates of a Higher Power, as outlined in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe asks participants to recall moments when their external circumstances—such as prison, homelessness, or...
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Position of Neutrality: The Power of Prayer and Meditation in Step 12 AA Unlocking Spiritual Power Prayer, Humility, and Empowerment
Join Joe McDonald as he explains why prayer and meditation are essential in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe shares that when we speak to the divine within us, we receive answers through intuitive thoughts or decisions. He emphasizes that we won’t take these actions unless we know it’s real....
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Position of Neutrality: The Progression of Recovery and Awakening in Step 12 AA The POWER of Recovery Friendship and Fellowship Transform Lives
Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the progressive nature of recovery and spiritual awakening in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that, just as addiction is progressive, so is recovery. He reflects on the powerful experience of watching people recover, seeing them help others, and...
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Position of Neutrality: Embracing Responsibility and Service in Step 12 AA Empowerment Over Dependency The Key to Recovery!
Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the importance of taking personal responsibility in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains how in environments like prison, choices are taken away, leading people to feel powerless. However, in recovery, we learn that we matter, and our choices are...
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Position of Neutrality: Understanding the Power of Prayer in Steps 10 & 11 AA Unlocking the Power of Prayer and Reflection in Life
Join Joe McDonald as he explores the importance of prayer and the proper attitude to have when approaching it, as outlined in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe emphasizes that prayer works if we have the right attitude and are willing to work at it. He asks what the proper attitude is,...
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Position of Neutrality: The Importance of Service in Step 12 AA Confronting Your Inner Battle Choose Life Over Addiction
Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the critical role of service in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that within each of us, there is a voice that wants us to live and another that wants us to die. The voice that has led us to destruction is the reason we find ourselves in recovery.…
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Position of Neutrality: Opening in Prayer and Inviting Spiritual Presence in Steps 10 & 11 AA Unlocking Spiritual Power A Unique Meeting Experience!
Join Chaplain Lee as he opens the session with a powerful prayer, inviting the presence of the Holy Spirit to guide the meeting. The room is filled with gratitude and a request for divine clarity and power. This session reminds us of the importance of connecting with our Higher Power and allowing...
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Position of Neutrality: Using Spiritual Tools in Steps 10 & 11 AA Unlocking Spiritual Growth Tools for Change and Forgiveness!
Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the importance of using spiritual tools in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe reflects on how early in the program, Ebby shared a set of spiritual tools with Bill, emphasizing that we must pick them up willingly and consciously. Joe explains that to…
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Position of Neutrality: Seeking Inspiration in Moments of Indecision in Steps 10 & 11 AA Overcoming Indecision Seek Inspiration and Guidance!
Join Joe McDonald as he shares practical wisdom on facing indecision, as outlined in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that it’s common to face moments of uncertainty, whether you’re new to the program or have been walking the path for years. On days when we don’t know which...
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Position of Neutrality: Overcoming Fear and Financial Insecurity in Steps 10 & 11 AA Conquer Your Fears and Embrace Financial Freedom!
Join Joe McDonald as he explores the process of outgrowing fear and overcoming financial insecurity through Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe shares a powerful insight—that we don’t simply escape financial insecurity by stopping bad behaviors, but by living through challenges, taking...
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Position of Neutrality: Learning to Trust Spiritual Direction in Steps 10 & 11 AA Harnessing Faith and Intuition for Better Decisions
Join Joe McDonald as he explores the concept of faith and trusting in spiritual direction, as outlined in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe uses the analogy of a quarterback throwing a ball to where you need to be, not where you are, to demonstrate the exercise of faith. He explains…
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Position of Neutrality: Starting the Day with Spiritual Guidance in Steps 10 & 11 AA Why You NEED a Plan Divine Guidance Matters!
Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the importance of starting each day with a plan and spiritual guidance, as outlined in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that while plans can change, asking God to direct our thinking helps us face the day with less surprise and more clarity.…
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Position of Neutrality: Embracing the Past and Finding Serenity in Steps 10 & 11 AA Understanding Addiction Finding Peace in the Past
Join Joe McDonald as he reflects on the promise of not regretting the past nor wishing to shut the door on it, as outlined in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that through recovery, we learn that our addiction was not a curse but a calling—our worst experiences can now be…
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Position of Neutrality: Praying for Guidance in Steps 10 & 11 AA Transform Obstacles into Opportunities with Prayer and Meditation
Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the importance of prayer and meditation in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous, focusing on seeking guidance rather than just relief. Joe explains that, during meditation, we ask for the power to navigate through circumstances rather than for circumstances to...
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Position of Neutrality: Awakening to Spiritual Awareness in Steps 10 & 11 AA Unlock Your Mind Daily Reflection for Divine Guidance
Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the importance of spiritual awareness upon awakening, as outlined in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that by starting our day with conscious reflection and prayer, we can use our mental faculties with confidence, knowing they are working for...
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Position of Neutrality: Embracing Spiritual Direction in Steps 10 & 11 AA Unlocking Your Purpose for Spiritual Awakening
Join Joe McDonald as he reflects on the importance of spiritual direction and surrender in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that we must constantly remind ourselves that even the most disturbing situations are meant for our benefit. Whether we are here for ourselves or to…
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Position of Neutrality: Finding and Maintaining Spiritual Power in Steps 10 & 11 AA Unlocking Your Inner Power The Journey Within
Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the importance of spiritual power in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that the transformation we experience in recovery is not about religious dogma or theories—it’s about finding the power within us. He emphasizes that as long as we stay in...
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Position of Neutrality: Overcoming Fear in Steps 10 & 11 AA Conquer Your Fears From Jumpy to Confident!
Join Joe McDonald as he reflects on the journey of overcoming fear through working Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe shares how, in the beginning, newcomers may feel uneasy about how outward and open people are in meetings, but as they continue participating, they gradually overcome...
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Position of Neutrality: Walking in Faith and Service in Steps 10 & 11 AA Faith in Action Transform Doubt into Service!
Join Joe McDonald as he delves into the concept of faith in action through Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe explains that faith is demonstrated through acts of service, often without us even realizing we are in service to others. For those who are naturally skeptical, the continued...
About this show
PON is a study of the manner of living suggested by the founders of AA which was recorded in the book: Alcoholics Anonymous: The Story of how Many Thousands of Men and Women Have Recovered From Alcoholism.
Hosted by
Joe McDonald
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