Effective sponsorship has been the key to success in Lee's AA Program. Though sponsorship is often discussed, the role Lee's sponsor has played throughout Lee’s sobriety is especially illuminating in a way I wish every AA newcomer could see.  From the time they first met and throughout the careful working of the 12 steps, to the point when Lee started sponsoring others, the importance of having a sponsor and being a sponsor has been demonstrated by both men. Of particular note is the gift of time and attention that his sponsor unselfishly gave Lee, even in the midst of building his business and raising children. Hearing Lee describe it, it’s clear that both he and his sponsor not only embraced the concept of working with others but found the vital activity of sponsorship itself highly enriching to them and the lives of others. What’s more, it’s evident that Lee has applied this same dedication to the rest of his program and life.

With over 8 years of sobriety and still under 30 years of age, Lee’s captivating story provides lots of hope for younger AAs and a meaningful reminder of the basic elements of the Program that are so necessary to staying sober.  To me, “Keep it simple” is a mantra that could be easily applied to Lee’s daily program. As you listen to this AA Recovery Interviews podcast, I think you’ll agree and find the next hour most enjoyable. So, welcome to my AA brother and friend, Lee H.

[This is an encore of Episode 23, originally released April 22, 2021].

If you’ve enjoyed my AA Recovery Interviews series, have a listen to Lost Stories of the Big Book, 30 Original Stories Missing from the 3rd and 4th Editions of Alcoholics Anonymous. It’s an engaging audiobook I narrated to bring these stories to life for AA members who’ve never seen them. These timeless testimonials were originally cut to make room for newer stories in the 3rd and 4th Editions. But their vitally important messages of hope are as meaningful today as when they were first published. Many listeners will hear these stories for the first time. Lost Stories of the Big Book is available on Audible, Amazon, and iTunes. It’s also available as a Kindle book and in Paperback from Amazon if you’d like to read along with the audio.

I also invite you to check out my latest audio book, “Alcoholics Anonymous: The Story of How More Than One Hundred Men Have Recovered From Alcoholism”. This is the word-for-word, cover-to-cover reading of the First Edition of the Big Book, published in 1939. It’s a comfortable, meaningful, and engaging way to listen to the Big Book anytime, anyplace. Have a free listen at Audible, i-Tunes, or Amazon.