AA Podcast
AA Podcast
ESH: Otto M
ESH: Otto M
ESH: Otto M
Monday 14th April 2025
Otto M shares his gripping story of resilience and transformation at the 43rd Annual Hawaii Convention in 2004.
77 minutes
Honest
Raw
Inspiring
Hopeful
Compassionate
About this podcast
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AA Podcast
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Categories:
Recovery with AA
Creative Recovery Journeys
Empowering Recovery Journeys
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
Family Recovery from Addiction
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Get the buttons here!Otto M's Journey: From Chaos to Clarity
Episode Overview
- Growing up in a chaotic and violent household
- Experiences and trauma from the Vietnam War
- Struggles with alcohol and medication dependency
- Finding support and community in AA
- Rebuilding relationships with family through honesty and accountability
I never saw myself as an alcoholic. I just saw myself as a person with a lot of problems.
Otto M's story, shared at the 43rd Annual Hawaii Convention in 2004, is a gripping tale of resilience and transformation. Growing up in a tumultuous household, Otto's childhood was marked by violence, alcoholism, and chaos. His father, a police officer, and his mother had a volatile relationship, often resulting in physical altercations that Otto witnessed firsthand.
Despite the turbulent environment, Otto excelled in school and was seen as a friendly and successful student, masking the pain and dysfunction of his home life. Otto's struggles with alcohol began early, influenced by a family culture where drinking was not only accepted but encouraged. His journey took him through college, the military, and into the depths of addiction.
The Vietnam War left him physically and emotionally scarred, leading to a reliance on alcohol and medication to cope with chronic pain and PTSD. Otto's candid recounting of his experiences in Vietnam is both harrowing and heartfelt, highlighting the long-lasting impact of war on veterans. In his recovery journey, Otto found solace and support in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). He speaks passionately about the importance of the AA community and the steps he took to rebuild his life.
His story is a testament to the power of honesty, accountability, and the support of fellow AA members. Otto's reflections on making amends and repairing relationships with his family, particularly his daughter Holly, are touching and inspiring. This episode is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible, even in the face of immense challenges. Otto's story is filled with moments of humour, raw honesty, and hope.
Whether you're struggling with addiction or supporting someone who is, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement. Why not take a moment to listen to Otto's journey? His story might just be the inspiration you need.