Matt J
Matt J
Decoding the Big Book - Hank Parkhurst, AA's Forgotten Man and To Employers
Decoding the Big Book - Hank Parkhurst, AA's Forgotten Man and To Employers
Decoding the Big Book - Hank Parkhurst, AA's Forgotten Man and To Employers
Friday 22nd December 2023
Uncover Hank Parkhurst's pivotal yet forgotten role in AA's Big Book with Matt, John, and Steve on Sober Friends.
Explicit
42 minutes
Informative
Inspiring
Empowering
Compassionate
Historical
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Author:
Matt J
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Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Financial Health in Recovery
Creative Recovery Journeys
Navigating Challenges in Recovery
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Get the buttons here!Hank Parkhurst: The Overlooked Architect of AA's Big Book
Episode Overview
- Hank Parkhurst played a critical role in the writing and promotion of the Big Book, shaping the foundation of Alcoholics Anonymous.
- His chapter 'To Employers' reflects a compassionate and pragmatic approach to addressing alcoholism in the workplace, showcasing his business acumen.
- The episode sheds light on Hank's significant contributions, challenging the widely held belief of Bill Wilson as the sole author of the Big Book.
- Listeners gain insight into AA's early days and the historical context of alcoholism, deepening their understanding of the organization's roots.
- Exploring the relevance of Hank Parkhurst's vision for addressing alcoholism in corporations provides valuable insights for modern-day challenges.
Hank Parkhurst's role was critical during the writing of the book. Without Hank's ideas, enthusiasm, drive, and push that he constantly gave Bill Wilson during the writing and promotional period, it would be impossible to guess if AA would be the program that it is today.
Ever wondered who else had a hand in writing the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous besides Bill Wilson? In this episode of Sober Friends, Matt, John, and Steve take you on a fascinating journey through the lesser-known history of AA, spotlighting Hank Parkhurst.
Often overshadowed by Bill Wilson, Hank played a crucial role in the creation of the Big Book, particularly the chapter 'To Employers.' Despite his significant contributions, Hank's story has been largely forgotten due to his tragic relapse into alcoholism shortly after the book's publication. With insights from historian William Schaberg and host Matt, this episode uncovers the complexities of Hank's life—a successful businessman with a visionary approach to tackling alcoholism in the workplace.
His chapter 'To Employers' not only reflects his business savvy but also his compassionate stance on rehabilitation for alcoholic employees. If you're curious about the hidden figures in AA's history or looking for fresh perspectives on addiction recovery, this episode offers a compelling blend of historical intrigue and practical insights. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in the roots of AA and the untold stories that shaped its foundational text.