The ESSAY Podcast

In this inspiring episode of The Essay Podcast, hosts Bill R. and Kawy W. welcome Kelly L. from Florida, USA, for a heartfelt conversation on the theme "Made a Decision: Giving Our Lives to God."
Kelly explores what it truly means to turn her will and her life over to the care of God. Together, she reflects on the challenges of surrendering control, learning to trust a Higher Power, and discovering the freedom that comes from letting go of self-will.
Guest: Kelly L. — Florida, USAHosts: Bill R. and Kawy W.Theme: Made a Decision — Giving Our Lives to God
 

In this special collaboration episode of The Essay Podcast and the Sex Drunks Podcast, we bring you a conversation recorded live at the Denver International SA Convention.
Following a brief introduction by hosts Bill R. and Kawy W., Pasha, Jonathan, and Laura embark on a detour-packed ride, discussing ESSAY’s theme, "Raising Our Hands: Healthy Sharing in Meetings." Together, they explore the purpose of sharing in recovery meetings and the balance between honesty, vulnerability, and consideration for others.
Filled with practical wisdom, personal experience, and a lot of laughter, this unique collaborative episode offers valuable insights for anyone seeking to grow in recovery and make meetings a place of healing and hope.
Guests: Pasha, Jonathan, and LauraHosts: Bill R. and Kawy W. (Introduction)Special Collaboration: 
The Essay Podcast:
https://essay-podcast.podbean.com/ 
 & Sex Drunks Podcast:
https://sexdrunks.podbean.com/e/raise-your-hand—or-don-t/ 
 

In this inspiring episode of The Essay Podcast, hosts Bill R., Kawy W., and Laura W. welcome Shim for a powerful conversation on The Three Legacies—the spiritual foundation of recovery: Recovery, Unity, and Service. These legacies are embodied in the Twelve Steps, Twelve Traditions, and Twelve Concepts, which together guide individuals and fellowships toward lasting freedom and purpose.
Throughout the episode, Shim shares his personal testimony, illustrating how each of these legacies has shaped his recovery journey. His story offers a moving witness to the transformative power of working the Steps, embracing fellowship, and giving back through service.
Whether you are new to recovery or have been walking this path for years, this episode is a beautiful reminder that true healing happens not only through personal growth but also through unity with others and a life of service.

In this encouraging episode of The Essay Podcast, hosts Bill R. and Kawy W. are joined by Susie B. from Idaho, USA, to explore the theme of positive sobriety.
Together, they reflect on the reality that it’s possible to be sober from acting out, yet still feel stuck, disconnected, or unhappy. Susie shares her experience of moving beyond mere abstinence into a fuller, more joyful way of living—one marked by growth, connection, and true freedom.
This episode is a powerful reminder that recovery is not just about what we leave behind, but about the life we step into.

In this important episode of The Essay Podcast, hosts Bill R. and Kawy W. are joined by Jack H. to explore the theme: “A caution is advised.”
Taken from a reading in the White Book, this phrase refers to the guidance given to newcomers in recovery—not to disclose details of their sexual past to a partner without first discussing it with a sponsor or their group. Jack shares personal reflections on why this caution exists, how premature disclosure can be harmful, and how discernment, humility, and support play vital roles in walking the path of recovery with integrity.
This conversation offers clarity and compassion for those navigating honesty, boundaries, and healing in relationships.
 

In this candid and thought-provoking episode of The Essay Podcast, hosts Bill R. and Kawy W. sit down with Vince G. from Canada to explore the transformative power of rigorous honesty—not just with others, but with ourselves.
Together, they unpack what it really means to live an honest life in recovery: confronting denial, owning our stories, and practicing vulnerability with grace. Vince shares hard-won insights and experiences that reveal how truth-telling, though often uncomfortable, is ultimately freeing.
This episode invites listeners to reflect on the courage it takes to face ourselves—and the peace that follows.

In this powerful episode of The Essay Podcast, guest host Ilona B. joins Bill R. for a vulnerable and deeply moving conversation with Arpita S. from India. Together, they unpack the emotional weight of fear, guilt, and shame—and how these inner struggles can hold us back in recovery.
Arpita shares her personal experience navigating grief, regret, and self-doubt, and how spiritual tools and community have helped her break free from the chains of the past. From cultural nuance to universal truths, this episode offers hope and healing for anyone working to reclaim their self-worth.
A must-listen for those seeking courage on the road to freedom.

In this uplifting episode of The ESSAY Podcast, hosts Kawy W. and Bill R. sit down with Yvone L. from British Columbia, Canada, to explore what it means to live a full and joyful life—without a romantic partner.
With warmth and wisdom, Yvone shares his journey of embracing singleness in recovery, finding contentment, connection, and freedom along the way. Together, they reflect on the myths, challenges, and surprising blessings of walking the path solo—and thriving.
This episode is a celebration of self-worth, spiritual growth, and the unexpected joy of being happily single.

In this heartfelt episode of The Essay Podcast, hosts Kawy W and Bill R are joined by Ilona B. from Prince Edward Island, Canada, for an honest conversation about grieving in recovery. Together, they explore the complex emotions surrounding the loss of loved ones and the quiet heartbreak of grieving relationships that change or end.
Ilona shares her personal experience with loss and the tools that have helped her navigate sorrow while staying grounded in recovery. Whether you're facing a recent loss or processing old wounds, this episode offers comfort, connection, and hope.
Be sure to visit essay.sa.org for the latest articles from the ESSAY magazine.
 

In this episode of The ESSAY Podcast, hosts Kawy W. and Bill R. dive deep into the wisdom behind Rule 62: Don’t take yourself too damn seriously. Joining the conversation are two special guests from opposite sides of the globe—Matan from Israel and Kevin from California—who share their personal journeys of learning to let go, laugh at themselves, and embrace humility.
From cultural perspectives to life’s unexpected twists, this episode is a reminder that sometimes the best way forward is with a little less ego and a lot more laughter.
Be sure to visit essay.sa.org for the latest articles from the ESSAY magazine.