97 Years of Sobriety: Stories of Hope and Recovery
Episode Overview
The physical, emotional, and social effects of alcohol misuse. Recognising the signs of drinking too much. Humorous yet poignant stories from Billy's and Joel's pasts. The importance of breaking the stigma surrounding alcoholism. Steps towards achieving long-term recovery.
Recovery does work, especially after you hear their stories.
In this episode of The Empty Chair, Cole Caffrey sits down with Billy and Joel to shed light on Alcohol Awareness Month. The conversation dives into the impact of alcohol misuse on individuals and families, touching on the physical, emotional, and social consequences. With a combined 97 years of sobriety, these three men share their incredible journeys from addiction to recovery, offering hope and insight to those struggling with alcohol dependency.
Billy and Joel recount their experiences with alcohol and other substances, painting a vivid picture of their past struggles. Billy's story begins at the age of 14 when he first turned to alcohol. His journey takes listeners through the highs and lows of addiction, including a memorable stint in Vietnam where he resorted to smoking ping pong balls to get high.
Joel's tale is equally compelling, detailing his roller coaster ride with alcohol that started at age 13 and lasted 31 years. His father's dying wish for him to get his life together became the turning point that led him to sobriety. The episode also tackles the stigma surrounding alcoholism and the importance of breaking it. Cole, Billy, and Joel discuss how to recognise if you might have a drinking problem and the steps you can take towards recovery.
Their candid stories are filled with moments of humour and raw honesty, making for an engaging and thought-provoking listen. If you're looking for inspiration and practical advice on overcoming alcohol addiction, this episode is a must-listen. The heartfelt conversations remind us that recovery is possible and that support is available for those willing to seek it. So, grab a seat and join Cole, Billy, and Joel as they share their powerful stories of hope and healing.