Father Bill W.
Father Bill W.
Dr. Bob & The Good Oldtimers: The Original Program Takes Shape
Dr. Bob & The Good Oldtimers: The Original Program Takes Shape
Dr. Bob & The Good Oldtimers: The Original Program Takes Shape
Saturday 3rd August 2024
Explore Dr. Bob's influence on AA's early days with Father Bill W. and Matt D., uncovering how the original programme took shape.
61 minutes
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Get the buttons here!The Roots of AA: Dr. Bob's Impact and Early Recovery Efforts
Episode Overview
- Dr. Bob's personal approach involved family members and employers.
- Early recovery efforts included hospitalisation and frequent visits.
- The 'Four Absolutes' were central to the original programme.
- Spouses played a significant role in initiating recovery.
- Trial and error were key in shaping AA's foundational principles.
If you're allergic to strawberries, you don't eat them, do you? That's what I'm trying to get over to these guys, that they're actually drinking poison because their system just won't handle it.
Father Bill W. invites you on a fascinating journey through the early days of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in this episode. Joined by Matt D., a recovery archivist from All Addicts Anonymous, they dive into the formative chapters of AA's history, focusing on the lesser-known co-founder, Dr. Bob. The discussion is centred around the book 'Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers', particularly Chapters 9, 10, and 11, which outline how the original AA programme began to take shape.
You'll hear about the crucial role spouses played in the early recovery process, often starting with an interview with the alcoholic's wife to gather background information. Dr. Bob's approach was very hands-on and personal, involving frequent hospital visits and direct communication with family members and employers to better understand and help the alcoholic. The episode also touches on the 'Four Absolutes'—honesty, purity, unselfishness, and love—that were integral to the early programme. Matt D.
shares anecdotes and insights that bring to life the trials and triumphs of these early pioneers, making it clear that their work was born out of desperation but also immense love and hope. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the roots of AA and how its foundational principles were developed through real-life experiences and trial and error.
Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual and practical aspects of early recovery efforts.