CAL Chat

SEE the full trailer video about the CAL Chat podcast at: https://youtube.com/@CALChatPodcast. For any questions about the show, contact me by using the form at:  https://CALChatBlog.com/about.  LOOK MOM!  I'M BEING SOCIAL...

In Part 6 of 6 (of Episode 1 from "CAL Chat - Deep Dive"), Evelyn and I talk about the next “field trip” for the Delegates to the World Service Office in 2023.  To wrap up this episode, she offers some parting words to anyone that isn't quite sure about standing for service. Show-referenced links from Al-Anon's website: Al-Anon's mobile app: https://al-anon.org/mobileapp  Archive of all the World Service Conference Summaries: https://al-anon.org/for-members/world-service-conference-wsc/world-service-conference-archive  Additional links mentioned: Stepping Stones website:  https://www.steppingstones.org  1961 Timeline:  https://worldhistoryproject.org/1961  QUOTABLE MOMENT FROM EVELYN: "We are all clueless about something in life, because we are all humans." LITERATURE MENTIONED & RELATED EPISODES: "Courage to Change"  –  Episode 3: part 4 of 4,   Episode 5: part 3 of 4,   Episode 9: part 1 of 4,   Episode 9: part 2 of 4,   Episode 13: part 1 of 11,  &  Episode 13: part 7 of 11  "First Steps - Al-Anon 35 Years of Beginnings" OTHER WAYS TO EXPLORE & CELEBRATE AL-ANON / ALATEEN LITERATURE:  Visit my "CAL Chat" blog -  www.calchatblog.com  Instagram -  www.instagram.com/​CALChatFan1  Pinterest -  www.pinterest.com/​CALChatFan  Twitter -  www.twitter.com/​CALChatFan  "CAL Chat" website -  www.calchatpodcast.com 

In Part 5 of 6 (of Episode 1 from "CAL Chat - Deep Dive"), we focus on the Delegates' “field trip” to Stepping Stones, the home of Al-Anon's co-founder Lois W.  Evelyn describes how the World Service Office was involved and how it felt to go back to the 2022 World Service Conference the very same day. Show-referenced links from the Stepping Stones' website: "Homecoming" video:  https://www.steppingstones.org  List of books in Lois and Bill W.'s library:  https://www.steppingstones.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/List_of_Books_at_Stepping_Stones.pdf  QUOTABLE MOMENT FROM EVELYN: "It is a museum, but it is a house!" LITERATURE MENTIONED & RELATED EPISODES: "Lois Remembers" "2022 World Service Conference Summary" OTHER WAYS TO EXPLORE & CELEBRATE AL-ANON / ALATEEN LITERATURE:  Visit my "CAL Chat" blog -  www.calchatblog.com  Instagram -  www.instagram.com/​CALChatFan1  Pinterest -  www.pinterest.com/​CALChatFan  Twitter -  www.twitter.com/​CALChatFan  "CAL Chat" website -  www.calchatpodcast.com 

Continuing the discussion about the "1961 World Service Conference Summary" (P-46) in Part 4 of 6 (of Episode 1 from "CAL Chat - Deep Dive"), I explain how I time traveled as research for this particular show.  Evelyn talks about what moved her spiritually and reveals a surprise about the 2022 Conference. QUOTABLE MOMENT FROM EVELYN: "...the whole Conference is a spiritual meeting!" LITERATURE MENTIONED & RELATED EPISODES: "The Forum" (magazine)  –  Episode 5: part 4 of 4,   Episode 6: part 1 of 4,   Episode 6: part 2 of 4,   Episode 7: part 4 of 5,   Episode 10: part 2 of 4,   Episode 12: part 4 of 5,  &  Episode 12: part 5 of 5  "First Steps - Al-Anon 35 Years of Beginnings" "Many Voices, One Journey"  –  Episode 10: part 4 of 4,    Episode 11: part 3 of 4,  &  Episode 13: part 4 of 11   "1961 World Service Conference Summary" "2022 World Service Conference Summary" OTHER WAYS TO EXPLORE & CELEBRATE AL-ANON / ALATEEN LITERATURE:  Visit my "CAL Chat" blog -  www.calchatblog.com  Instagram -  www.instagram.com/​CALChatFan1  Pinterest -  www.pinterest.com/​CALChatFan  Twitter -  www.twitter.com/​CALChatFan  "CAL Chat" website -  www.calchatpodcast.com 

In Part 3 of 6 (of Episode 1 from "CAL Chat - Deep Dive"), we begin to explore the "1961 World Service Conference Summary" (P-46) and what Evelyn identified with from back then that is still happening in 2022.  We discuss why the 2021 and 2022 Conferences were historic and what may lie in Al-Anon's future 60 years from now. Show-referenced links from Al-Anon's website: Online version of the new "2022 World Service Conference Summary": https://al-anon.org/pdf/P46-2022-web.pdf  Archive of all the World Service Conference Summaries: https://al-anon.org/for-members/world-service-conference-wsc/world-service-conference-archive  QUOTABLE MOMENT FROM EVELYN: "...we'll survive the most difficult circumstances because of the way the founders of Al-Anon were thinking." LITERATURE MENTIONED & RELATED EPISODES: "The Forum" (magazine)  –  Episode 5: part 4 of 4,   Episode 6: part 1 of 4,   Episode 6: part 2 of 4,   Episode 7: part 4 of 5,   Episode 10: part 2 of 4,   Episode 12: part 4 of 5,  &  Episode 12: part 5 of 5  "Al-Anon/Alateen Service Manual 2022-2025" "1961 World Service Conference Summary" "2021 World Service Conference Summary" "2022 World Service Conference Summary" OTHER WAYS TO EXPLORE & CELEBRATE AL-ANON / ALATEEN LITERATURE:  Visit my "CAL Chat" blog -  www.calchatblog.com  Instagram -  www.instagram.com/​CALChatFan1  Pinterest -  www.pinterest.com/​CALChatFan  Twitter -  www.twitter.com/​CALChatFan  "CAL Chat" website -  www.calchatpodcast.com 

In Part 2 of 6 (of Episode 1 from "CAL Chat - Deep Dive"), Evelyn describes what she discovered about her Area Delegate position that she didn't know about before she stood for it, how humor can be a spiritual principle when breaking down expectations, and what she would like Al-Anon and Alateen members to know about her position as a Delegate.  We also cover how the WSC (World Service Conference) is different from the WSO (World Service Office). Show-referenced links from Al-Anon's website: Online version of the new "Al-Anon/Alateen Service Manual 2022-2025":  https://al-anon.org/pdf/P2427.pdf  A brief timeline of Al‑Anon's history:  https://al-anon.org/for-members/wso/archives/al-anon-timeline  Frequently asked questions about Al‑Anon's history:  https://al-anon.org/for-members/wso/archives/faq-al-anons-history  QUOTABLE MOMENT FROM EVELYN: "Language should not be a barrier to put your name as a Delegate... overcoming that fear is part of our recovery." LITERATURE MENTIONED & RELATED EPISODES: "Hope For Today"  –  Episode 9: part 2 of 4  &  Episode 13: part 7 of 11  "Al-Anon/Alateen Service Manual 2022-2025" OTHER WAYS TO EXPLORE & CELEBRATE AL-ANON / ALATEEN LITERATURE:  Visit my "CAL Chat" blog -  www.calchatblog.com  Instagram -  www.instagram.com/​CALChatFan1  Pinterest -  www.pinterest.com/​CALChatFan  Twitter -  www.twitter.com/​CALChatFan  "CAL Chat" website -  www.calchatpodcast.com 

What really goes on at an Al-Anon World Service Conference (WSC)?  How is the WSC different than the WSO?  What's it like for a Delegate to visit Stepping Stones, the house of Al-Anon's co-founder?  Welcome to the very first "CAL Chat - Deep Dive" episode!  This spin-off show is where we take a closer look at Al-Anon and Alateen Conference Approved Literature.  This episode is in 6 parts and in Part 1, before we dive into the "1961 World Service Conference Summary" (P-46) - which was Al-Anon's first Conference - I introduce Evelyn, an Area Delegate, that has currently attended two Conferences.  She compares the experience attending one virtually (in 2021) and in person (in 2022), and how she feels like a Millennial in a Senior's body.  I share about my first interaction with the greater Al-Anon organization when I received a “cease and desist” letter. To see all the World Service Conference Summaries on Al-Anon's website, visit:  https://al-anon.org/for-members/world-service-conference-wsc/world-service-conference-archive  QUOTABLE MOMENT FROM EVELYN: "I knew that I have to follow something in order to have what I saw in other people." LITERATURE MENTIONED & RELATED EPISODES: "1961 World Service Conference Summary" "1967 World Service Conference Summary" OTHER WAYS TO EXPLORE & CELEBRATE AL-ANON / ALATEEN LITERATURE:  Visit my "CAL Chat" blog -  www.calchatblog.com  Instagram -  www.instagram.com/​CALChatFan1  Pinterest -  www.pinterest.com/​CALChatFan  Twitter -  www.twitter.com/​CALChatFan  "CAL Chat" website -  www.calchatpodcast.com 

Diane wraps up the conversation in Episode 13's last part (#11), about the beauty that springs from the book "How Al-Anon Works" (B-32), community-building, and doing outreach/Twelfth Step work.  She delivers an emotional "Last Words'' section which leads to an exchange of heartfelt gratitude and I reveal the reason why I'll keep doing this podcast for the rest of my life.

Diane mentions (in part 10 of 11 from Episode 13), how this podcast inspires her to try something new (like the audiobook version of "How Al-Anon Works" (eA-22)) and always reminds her that she has choices.  She explains how the vision motto "Dream Big" applies to the long-term outreach project she's working on, more virtual recovery avenues we want to explore (especially for outreach purposes), and how a pandemic is similar to recovery.   QUOTABLE MOMENT FROM DIANE: "...our experiences lift us up and not hold us down."  LITERATURE MENTIONED & RELATED EPISODES: "How Al-Anon Works" (audiobook)  –  Episode 6: part 3 of 4  "How Al-Anon Works"  –  Episode 1: part 1 of 2,   Episode 6: part 3 of 4,   Episode 10: part 1 of 4,   Episode 10: part 2 of 4,   Episode 11: part 2 of 4,  &  Episode 12: part 2 of 5  "How Al-Anon Works" (electronic book)  –  Episode 6: part 3 of 4  "As We Understood"  –  Episode 6: part 1 of 4,   Episode 6: part 2 of 4,  &  Episode 10: part 2 of 4  OTHER WAYS TO EXPLORE & CELEBRATE AL-ANON / ALATEEN LITERATURE:  Visit my "CAL Chat" blog -  www.calchatblog.com  Instagram -  www.instagram.com/​CALChatFan1  Pinterest -  www.pinterest.com/​CALChatFan  Twitter -  www.twitter.com/​CALChatFan  "CAL Chat" website -  www.calchatpodcast.com 

I compare the audiobook of "How Al-Anon Works" (eA-22) to the print version (B-32) in Episode 13's part 9 of 11.  A moving story about suicide, Chapter 27's "Finding Reasons To Live," is highlighted because of what it taught me about expectations when listening to the audiobook version.  The show wraps with an update given on all Al-Anon audiobooks available.  Lastly, for the 2009 World Service Conference Summary, click this link  www.al-anon.org/pdf/P46_​2009_web.pdf  to check out page 14 that is mentioned in this show. QUOTABLE MOMENT FROM THE SHOW: "...with the audiobook, my heart was more involved with the listening."  LITERATURE MENTIONED & RELATED EPISODES: "How Al-Anon Works" (audiobook)  –  Episode 6: part 3 of 4  "How Al-Anon Works"  –  Episode 1: part 1 of 2,   Episode 6: part 3 of 4,   Episode 10: part 1 of 4,   Episode 10: part 2 of 4,   Episode 11: part 2 of 4,  &  Episode 12: part 2 of 5  "From Survival To Recovery"  –  Episode 4: part 1 of 2,   Episode 4: part 2 of 2,   Episode 11: part 1 of 4,   Episode 11: part 3 of 4,  &  Episode 11: part 4 of 4  "Courage to Change" (audiobook)  –  Episode 3: part 4 of 4  &  Episode 9: part 2 of 4  "One Day at a Time" (audiobook) "Opening Our Hearts, Transforming Our Losses" (audiobook) "2009 World Service Conference Summary"   OTHER WAYS TO EXPLORE & CELEBRATE AL-ANON / ALATEEN LITERATURE:  Visit my "CAL Chat" blog -  www.calchatblog.com  Instagram -  www.instagram.com/​CALChatFan1  Pinterest -  www.pinterest.com/​CALChatFan  Twitter -  www.twitter.com/​CALChatFan  "CAL Chat" website -  www.calchatpodcast.com 

In Episode 13's part 8 of 11, Diane and I discuss the importance of libraries and how doing outreach is not a duty but a privilege.  And she reminds me why I need to go back and listen to my own podcast!  Click here for a video of the hardcover version of "How Al-Anon Works" (B-22) that was accepted into a local library.  Also, at this podcast show's website,  www.calchatpodcast.com,  I've attached *bonus content* so you can see a screenshot image of the library's unique summary of the book and try to locate where they got the description from.  Can you find it?  Happy hunting!

In part 7 of 11 (of Episode 13), Diane lists all the Spanish versions of books (such as "How Al-Anon Works" (SB-32)) that she has also included in the public outreach project.  We talk about cross-germination and unintended ripples outreach can sometimes have.  Lastly, at this podcast show's website,  www.calchatpodcast.com,  I've attached *bonus content* so you can see the final complete breakdown of Al-Anon and Alateen materials in the outreach project gift basket. QUOTABLE MOMENT FROM DIANE: "You don't have to get rid of all your worldly goods... to learn how to be kind.  Get involved in Al-Anon service and you'll watch it, you'll see it, you'll feel it..."  LITERATURE MENTIONED & RELATED EPISODES: "How Al-Anon Works"  –  Episode 1: part 1 of 2,   Episode 6: part 3 of 4,   Episode 10: part 1 of 4,   Episode 10: part 2 of 4,   Episode 11: part 2 of 4,  &  Episode 12: part 2 of 5  "How Al-Anon Works" (Spanish) / "Cómo ayuda Al-Anon" "From Survival To Recovery"  –  Episode 4: part 1 of 2,   Episode 4: part 2 of 2,   Episode 11: part 1 of 4,   Episode 11: part 3 of 4,  &  Episode 11: part 4 of 4  "From Survival To Recovery" (Spanish) / "De la supervivencia a la recuperación" "Hope For Today"  –  Episode 9: part 2 of 4  "Hope For Today" (Spanish) / "Esperanza para hoy" "Courage to Change"  –  Episode 3: part 4 of 4,   Episode 5: part 3 of 4,   Episode 9: part 1 of 4,  &  Episode 9: part 2 of 4  "Courage to Change" (Spanish) / "Valor para cambiar" "Just For Today" (bookmark)  –  Episode 1: part 2 of 2,   Episode 10: part 3 of 4,   Episode 10: part 4 of 4,  &  Episode 12: part 4 of 5  "Just For Tonight" (bookmark)  –  Episode 12: part 4 of 5  &  Episode 12: part 5 of 5 

Diane details (in part 6 of 11 from Episode 13), how she uses "How Al-Anon Works" (B-32) for outreach in a broader sense - especially in an extensive relationship-building project that just started.  Find out how outreach is like mining gold!   QUOTABLE MOMENT FROM DIANE: "...having this book available makes a big difference because anybody can pick it up... It's not too deep and it's not too scary."  LITERATURE MENTIONED & RELATED EPISODES: "From Survival To Recovery"  –  Episode 4: part 1 of 2,   Episode 4: part 2 of 2,   Episode 11: part 1 of 4,   Episode 11: part 3 of 4,  &  Episode 11: part 4 of 4  "How Al-Anon Works"  –  Episode 1: part 1 of 2,   Episode 6: part 3 of 4,   Episode 10: part 1 of 4,   Episode 10: part 2 of 4,   Episode 11: part 2 of 4,  &  Episode 12: part 2 of 5  "How Al-Anon Works" (Spanish) / "Cómo ayuda Al-Anon" "Just For Today" (bookmark)  –  Episode 1: part 2 of 2,   Episode 10: part 3 of 4,   Episode 10: part 4 of 4,  &  Episode 12: part 4 of 5  "Just For Tonight" (bookmark)  –  Episode 12: part 4 of 5  &  Episode 12: part 5 of 5  OTHER WAYS TO EXPLORE & CELEBRATE AL-ANON / ALATEEN LITERATURE:  Visit my "CAL Chat" blog -  www.calchatblog.com  Instagram -  www.instagram.com/​CALChatFan1  Pinterest -  www.pinterest.com/​CALChatFan  Twitter -  www.twitter.com/​CALChatFan  "CAL Chat" website -  www.calchatpodcast.com 

In Episode 13's part 5 of 11, Diane's favorite book to use for outreach is the softcover version of "How Al-Anon Works" (B-32) and she points out how intimate individual outreach can still be done in an electronic (telephone/chat) or virtual (video) meeting.  We reminisce about the days when we hauled Al-Anon books around in our cars. QUOTABLE MOMENT FROM DIANE: "Somewhere in these pages, folks will possibly see themselves."  LITERATURE MENTIONED & RELATED EPISODES: "How Al-Anon Works"  –  Episode 1: part 1 of 2,   Episode 6: part 3 of 4,   Episode 10: part 1 of 4,   Episode 10: part 2 of 4,   Episode 11: part 2 of 4,  &  Episode 12: part 2 of 5  "How Al-Anon Works" (audiobook)  –  Episode 6: part 3 of 4  "How Al-Anon Works" (electronic book)  –  Episode 6: part 3 of 4   2021 CAL Catalog    "2018 World Service Conference Summary"  –  Episode 12: part 4 of 5  &  Episode 12: part 5 of 5  OTHER WAYS TO EXPLORE & CELEBRATE AL-ANON / ALATEEN LITERATURE:  Visit my "CAL Chat" blog -  www.calchatblog.com  Instagram -  www.instagram.com/​CALChatFan1  Pinterest -  www.pinterest.com/​CALChatFan  Twitter -  www.twitter.com/​CALChatFan  "CAL Chat" website -  www.calchatpodcast.com 

In part 4 of 11 (of Episode 13), Diane and I keep the discussion going about the book "From Survival To Recovery" (B-21) focusing primarily on the chapter "Untangling Confusion" from page 269 (or 270 depending on the book's edition), the infamous "Promises" section from page 267 (or 269 in the first edition) and the book's very last chapter on page 287 which leads to an idea for a possible workshop!  To find a virtual Al-Anon book study group, visit www.al-anon.org/al-anon-meetings/electronic-meetings and you can type into the search bar the term: “book,” or “literature,” or the particular book's title that you'd like to study.  Additionally, at this podcast show's website,  www.calchatpodcast.com,  I've attached *bonus content* so you can see an image of the "From Survival To Recovery" special bookmark/order form! QUOTABLE MOMENT FROM DIANE: "...there's no predicting anything."  LITERATURE MENTIONED & RELATED EPISODES: "From Survival To Recovery"  –  Episode 4: part 1 of 2,   Episode 4: part 2 of 2,   Episode 11: part 1 of 4,   Episode 11: part 3 of 4,  &  Episode 11: part 4 of 4  "How Al-Anon Works"  –  Episode 1: part 1 of 2,   Episode 6: part 3 of 4,   Episode 10: part 1 of 4,   Episode 10: part 2 of 4,   Episode 11: part 2 of 4,  &  Episode 12: part 2 of 5  "Many Voices, One Journey"  –  Episode 10: part 4 of 4  &  Episode 11: part 3 of 4  OTHER WAYS TO EXPLORE & CELEBRATE AL-ANON / ALATEEN LITERATURE:  Visit my "CAL Chat" blog -  www.calchatblog.com  Instagram -  www.instagram.com/​CALChatFan1  Pinterest -  www.pinterest.com/​CALChatFan  Twitter -  www.twitter.com/​CALChatFan  "CAL Chat" website -  www.calchatpodcast.com 

The conversation continues with Diane (in part 3 of 11 from Episode 13), about  "From Survival To Recovery" (B-21) which she feels is one of the most relevant books during the Covid-19 pandemic.  She talks about what she does after climbing a high recovery mountain and we discuss one of the benefits of the pandemic with regards to literature.  To find a virtual Al-Anon book study group, visit  www.al-anon.org/al-anon-meetings/electronic-meetings  and you can type into the search bar the term: “book,” or “literature,” or the particular book's title that you'd like to study.  Last but not least, at this podcast show's website,  www.calchatpodcast.com,  I've attached *bonus content* so you can see an image  (or click here for a video)  of Diane's Al-Anon bookshelf mentioned in this part of the episode! QUOTABLE MOMENT FROM DIANE: "...we don't have to go out and grow a new tree!"  LITERATURE MENTIONED & RELATED EPISODES: "From Survival To Recovery"  –  Episode 4: part 1 of 2,   Episode 4: part 2 of 2,   Episode 11: part 1 of 4,   Episode 11: part 3 of 4,  &  Episode 11: part 4 of 4  OTHER WAYS TO EXPLORE & CELEBRATE AL-ANON / ALATEEN LITERATURE:  Visit my "CAL Chat" blog -  www.calchatblog.com  Instagram -  www.instagram.com/​CALChatFan1  Pinterest -  www.pinterest.com/​CALChatFan  Twitter -  www.twitter.com/​CALChatFan  "CAL Chat" website -  www.calchatpodcast.com 

In Episode 13's part 2 of 11, Diane describes how cycles of violence and "predictable darkness" affected her while growing up in an alcoholic home.  We touch on the story "Authorities Frightened Me" from page 253 (or 255 depending on the book's edition) in "From Survival To Recovery" (B-21) and Chapter 5 ("Becoming Aware" on page 21) from "How Al-Anon Works" (B-32).  Lastly, I learn how a book can be a picture frame! QUOTABLE MOMENT FROM DIANE: "This book was a part of the freedom to tell the truth."  LITERATURE MENTIONED & RELATED EPISODES: "From Survival To Recovery"  –  Episode 4: part 1 of 2,   Episode 4: part 2 of 2,   Episode 11: part 1 of 4,   Episode 11: part 3 of 4,  &  Episode 11: part 4 of 4  "How Al-Anon Works"  –  Episode 1: part 1 of 2,   Episode 6: part 3 of 4,   Episode 10: part 1 of 4,   Episode 10: part 2 of 4,   Episode 11: part 2 of 4,  &  Episode 12: part 2 of 5  OTHER WAYS TO EXPLORE & CELEBRATE AL-ANON / ALATEEN LITERATURE:  Visit my "CAL Chat" blog -  www.calchatblog.com  Instagram -  www.instagram.com/​CALChatFan1  Pinterest -  www.pinterest.com/​CALChatFan  Twitter -  www.twitter.com/​CALChatFan  "CAL Chat" website -  www.calchatpodcast.com 

How is a pandemic similar to recovery?  What audiobooks are available from Al-Anon?  Can a book also be a picture frame?  In part 1 of 11 (of Episode 13), Diane explains why the title of the book "From Survival To Recovery" (B-21) is so appropriate, how it helped her tell her own personal story and experience authentic joyfulness in her life.  Also, find out why we can't use highlighters when reading Al-Anon books!  Lastly, at this podcast show's website,  www.calchatpodcast.com,  I've attached *bonus content* so you can see an image of the two versions of "From Survival To Recovery" mentioned in this part of the episode! QUOTABLE MOMENT FROM DIANE: "This book helped me to be seen..."  LITERATURE MENTIONED & RELATED EPISODES: "From Survival To Recovery"  –  Episode 4: part 1 of 2,   Episode 4: part 2 of 2,   Episode 11: part 1 of 4,   Episode 11: part 3 of 4,  &  Episode 11: part 4 of 4  "Courage to Change"  –  Episode 3: part 4 of 4,   Episode 5: part 3 of 4,   Episode 9: part 1 of 4,  &  Episode 9: part 2 of 4  OTHER WAYS TO EXPLORE & CELEBRATE AL-ANON / ALATEEN LITERATURE:  Visit my "CAL Chat" blog -  www.calchatblog.com  Instagram -  www.instagram.com/​CALChatFan1  Pinterest -  www.pinterest.com/​CALChatFan  Twitter -  www.twitter.com/​CALChatFan  "CAL Chat" website -  www.calchatpodcast.com 

Terry Anne highlights new upcoming Al-Anon literature in part 5 of 5 of Episode 12 & explains how the slogan chosen for the 2018 World Service Conference applies to her own personal life.  To submit your suggestion for your favorite Forum article that you’d like to see in the new upcoming book, email it to: wso@al-anon.org – in the subject line, be sure to use the working title “The Forum Book” & they’ll also need to know the title, month, & year in which the article appeared in the magazine.  Visit this podcast’s website, www.calchat.libsyn.com, to download & print out a PDF form if you’d like to send in your suggestions by regular mail.  Lastly, to submit your sharing for the new Daily Reader visit www.al-anon.org/for-members/members-resources/literature/literature-resources & click on the blue button that says “Send Your Sharing.”

In part 4 of 5 (of Episode 12), Terry Anne’s pick for her favorite outreach piece of literature is the bookmark “Just For Today” (M-12) & we talk about how it helps puts the focus on ourselves, not the alcoholic.  Then we pull out our “2018 World Service Conference Summary” (P-46) to dive into page 51 regarding the new upcoming bookmark “Just For Tonight” that originally came from the August 2016 edition of The Forum magazine.  To download the free “2018 World Service Conference Summary” so you can see page 51, visit: www.al-anon.org/for-members/world-service-conference-wsc.

Terry Anne (in part 3 of 5 of Episode 12) sums up the new book “Intimacy in Alcoholic Relationships” (B-33) in 3 words!  I reveal my favorite sections from pages 18-19 & the story of loss on page 118 that still stays with me.

In part 2 of 5 (of Episode 12), Terry Anne elaborates on communication from Chapter 3 of the brand new book “Intimacy in Alcoholic Relationships” (B-33).  She explains how she has used this book in her personal life in recognizing & moving through old behaviors.  We also discuss how labels & biases can hinder intimacy & that this book is an example of our evolving Al-Anon program.          

Terry Anne shares, in part 1 of 5 of Episode 12, about the brand new book “Intimacy in Alcoholic Relationships” (B-33) that came out in 2018 at Al-Anon’s 6th International Convention.  We discuss the workshop she once gave on the topic of sex, the different types of intimacy covered, & my strange experience with this book.  

Susan & I talk about different ways (in part 4 of 4 of Episode 11) to use the book “From Survival To Recovery” (B-21) for outreach purposes — including raffle baskets!  We also explore how one can contribute to Al-Anon other than putting money in the Seventh Tradition basket.  She singles out the section "Steps to the Future" from page 255 (or 257 depending on the book's edition) & we remember what it was like growing up in an alcoholic home.  Lastly, we look forward to the brand new book that will be debuting at the international convention in 2018!    

In part 3 of 4 (of Episode 11), Susan's pick for her favorite outreach piece of literature is the book “From Survival To Recovery” (B-21) because she grew up in an alcoholic home.  She highlights the chapter "Picking Up The Tools" on page 107.  We also talk about why 1994 was a good year for Conference Approved Literature (CAL) & how this book marked a turning point for Al-Anon.   

I ask Susan a question in part 2 of 4 (of Episode 11) from page 23 of the booklet “When I Got Busy, I Got Better” (P-78).  She explains helping vs enabling, we discuss a quote from page 2, how we could use the second half of the book in a meeting, & the difference between being grateful & thankful.  A NOTE OF CAUTION: this is the first episode to include EXPLICIT language, so proceed accordingly!     

Susan shares, in part 1 of 4 of Episode 11, about how the booklet “When I Got Busy, I Got Better” (P-78) impacted her life.  We discuss the different types of fear in Chapter One, how service keeps us from isolating, & that we're so glad there's no performance review in service work!   

In part 4 of 4 (of Episode 10), Wendy shares what she is hoping for with a new change for the upcoming “2017 World Service Conference Summary” (P-46) due in August & what sets this item apart from the rest of the literature in the CAL Catalog (S-15).  She also reveals a unique location to leave the “Just For Today” bookmark (M-12) that is too high of a risky spot for me.  Discover what is on the second “Just For Today” bookmark (M-13) & what one word on the wallet card version (M-11) is hidden in our literature!          

The bookmark, “Just For Today” (M-12), is Wendy’s favorite piece of outreach literature in part 3 of 4 of Episode 10.  We talk about the current conversation at Al-Anon’s headquarters, the World Service Office, regarding the recommendation to remove the PRAYER FOR TODAY section.  Using pages 57 – 60 of the “2016 World Service Conference Summary” (P-46), we explore the CAL process to remove, edit, or replace the prayer.  Wendy shares about the interaction between the Literature Committee & the World Service Conference & how it’s important to not be afraid to have uncomfortable discussions that affect literature decisions.    

The conversation with Wendy continues about slogans in part 2 of 4 (of Episode 10) from “How Al-Anon Works” (B-22 for hardcover, B-32 for softcover).  We focus on “Let Go & Let God” (especially the importance of faith in the 2nd half) & how a specific physical token can be used as a reminder to put this slogan into action!  I give recommendations on other CAL pieces to reference for a deeper dive into the slogans & lastly, find out why I consider slogans are similar to jewels.         

Wendy shares, in part 1 of 4 of Episode 10, about using the slogans from Chapter 9 of “How Al-Anon Works” (B-22 for hardcover, B-32 for softcover) as stepping stones to serenity & how serenity can eventually become a guiding force in our lives for making decisions.  We also look closer at “Let it Begin With Me” as not just something that we say at the end of an Al-Anon meeting or having to do with outreach.  

Pat explains in Episode 9's last part, (#4), that of all the things she has tried, how Al-Anon is the only thing that truly helped.  We discuss ways to enhance the “Al-Anon Faces Alcoholism 2017” magazine while using it for outreach purposes & she wraps up with a “Last Words” section about amends & Step Nine.    

In part 3 of 4 (of Episode 9), Pat highlights sections from her favorite outreach piece of literature, the new “Al-Anon Faces Alcoholism 2017” magazine.  Discover two things that were done on this edition that were a “first” in this magazine’s history.  We remember back to how we felt coming into our very first Al-Anon meeting & how desperation can be a gift!  

The conversation continues in Episode 9’s second part with Pat & her favorite page 199 (July 17th) from the daily reader “Courage To Change” (B-16).  We explore more components that contribute to making it in recovery, which slogans have helped us out along the way, & how reading the literature can show that we’ve changed.  Also find out a few fun facts about “Courage To Change”!  

In part 1 of 4 of Episode 9, Pat shares how one particular sentence from page 199 (July 17th) from the daily reader “Courage To Change” (B-16) impacted her life.  She breaks down some of the major components that are involved in her recovery, how this reading ties into the second part of Step One, & which roles she identifies with from the pamphlet “Alcoholism, A-Merry-Go-Round Named Denial” (P-3).  

In part 3 of 3 (of Episode 8), Alateen members share what they would like to say to Al-Anon members, & they directly address the teenager that is living with alcoholism that hasn’t been to an Alateen meeting yet.  They explain how Alateen is like a family environment & that they don’t bite!  The show wraps up with a unique “Last Words” section from a couple of Alateen group sponsors, where they cover the importance of hearing from Alateen members, how the Seventh Tradition is practiced from an Alateen perspective, the unexpected benefits of doing Alateen service, & how participating in this podcast is similar to doing a gratitude list!

The conversation continues in Episode 8’s second part with three more Alateen members talking about their favorite parts from “Courage To Be Me” (B-23), page 8 from the booklet “Alateen Talks Back On: Detachment” (P-73), & pages 268-269 (September 24th & 25th) from the daily reader “Living Today In Alateen” (B-26).  They highlight a letter written to a parent, how they struggle with expectations of love, & how a member can eventually resemble the image on page 269 from “Living Today In Alateen”.  Also find out what message is repeated several times in “Courage To Be Me” & how it’s like a warm reminder!       

In part 1 of 3 of this very special Episode 8, four Alateen members share what they like best about Alateen literature – specifically the “Alateen Talk” newsletter (no item #), “Courage To Be Me” (B-23), page 26 (January 26th) from the daily reader “Alateen – A Day At A Time” (B-10), & pages 25-26 from the “Al-Anon/Alateen Service Manual” (P-24/27).  They talk about a favorite Step, what Tradition One means, & some powerful characteristics that can define someone affected by alcoholism.     

In part 5 of 5 (of Episode 7), the conversation continues with Mark about Alateen outreach to Alcoholics Anonymous & how service has helped his program.  He shares what moved him emotionally at his first Area Assembly meeting & how it was similar to a Newcomer meeting!  I also give out the website addresses to find this book online as well as where you can view Al-Anon’s two TV public service announcements.  Before wrapping up, Mark explains how being powerless & being hopeless are not the same thing!

Mark’s favorite piece of literature to use for outreach purposes is the service tool “Best of Public Outreach” (P-90) in Episode 7’s part 4 of 5.  He shares how public outreach is what first got him into service in Al-Anon & calls out a “Getting Started” part on page 7, as well as pages 12-19 for several lists of outreach ideas.  He also explains how the workbook helped with a big outreach project he was involved with that was done in honor of Al-Anon’s founder, Lois Wilson, & how projects don’t need to be big to be effective.  Lastly, we discuss what it’s like to talk to people that are not familiar with the Al-Anon program.         

In part 3 of 5 (of Episode 7) find out what two words I discovered are inter-related after creating an index for “Reaching For Personal Freedom” (P-92).  Mark talks about how he used to be before he came in the program & explores what I call a “big ticket item!”

Freedom is specifically discussed with Mark in part 2 of 5 (of Episode 7) from the workbook “Reaching For Personal Freedom” (P-92).  He compares this book to other Al-Anon workbooks, explains how it differs, & I reveal a surprise…  I’ve created an index for this book!  (It can be downloaded as *bonus content* at the show's webpage www.calchat.libsyn.com.)  Also, find out what patterns I learned about the Legacies from creating an index!   

In part 1 of 5 of Episode 7, Mark shares how he used the workbook “Reaching For Personal Freedom” (P-92) in studying the Steps, Traditions, & Concepts horizontally.  He also highlights how a section on page 12 led to a spiritual awakening for him.            

In part 4 of 4 (of Episode 6), the conversation continues with Nancy about her favorite Alateen literature & how being an AMIAS (Al-Anon Member Involved In Alateen Service) is her way of giving back.  She explains the requirements to become an Alateen Group Sponsor & shares an innovative way an Alateen Group Representative used the words in the index of “Alateen—A Day At A Time” (B-10).  At the show's webpage www.calchat.libsyn.com I've attached a PDF document as *bonus content* that you can download to use the list of words.                             

Nancy’s pick of literature to use for outreach purposes is “How Al-Anon Works” (B-22 for hardcover, B-32 for softcover, eB-22 for the electronic version, & eA-22 for the audiobook version) in Episode 6’s part 3 of 4.  She highlights the slogan “Think” (page 71), “Lois’ Story” (pages 152-155), & how interesting it is to get the Al-Anon founder’s point of view on the Twelve Steps (pages 155-160).  We also talk about participating in a Meeting on Wheels & doing outreach at facilities using just the pages 14 & 15.

Find out, in part 2 of 4 (of Episode 6), what “As We Understood” (B-11) was the first Conference Approved book to do in Al-Anon’s history.  We talk about misconceptions about the book & the goal of learning something every day no matter how small.  Nancy shares how important choices are, dealing with change, & she answers one of the toughest questions I’ve asked so far!     

In part 1 of 4 of Episode 6, Nancy talks about her favorite book “As We Understood” (B-11) & shares how its positive uplifting take on our program has kept her using it.  In particular, we discuss two prayers on pages 213 & 214 & how this book is different than a daily reader.  We explore the spiritual (non-religious) nature of the program, what a Higher Power can be, & a possible new slogan!     

In part 4 of 4 (of Episode 5), the conversation continues with Theresa about other Conference Approved Literature that is available for parents & how CAL is not like other self-help/recovery literature.  Lastly, find out why her favorite outreach piece, “Parents of Alcoholics” (R-18), may not be around much longer!

Theresa’s favorite piece of literature to use for outreach purposes is the reprint “Parents of Alcoholics” (R-18) in Episode 5’s part 3 of 4.  It’s only 12 pages, but so powerful!  She shares the moment she hit her “bottom” & what brought her into the Al-Anon program.  We also talk about being able to differentiate between helping versus enabling & what is one thing a parent can definitely do for their alcoholic child.

Chapter 13 from the book “Discovering Choices” (B-30) is the focus in part 2 of 4 (of Episode 5) where Theresa breaks down how service work (& especially the Concepts 4, 5, & 10) helped her grow in all areas of her life.  She explains the benefits of having a Service Sponsor, how we’re never alone, & addresses the fear behind willingness.  The conversation moves into the importance of failure & discover a new way to look at the cover of the book!

In part 1 of 4 of Episode 5, Theresa focuses on chapters 1 & 9 from one of her favorite books “Discovering Choices” (B-30) & shares how, after coming in the Al-Anon program, reading the literature can start the recovery process.  We also talk about the benefits of belonging to a CAL study group, setting different types of boundaries, how we use our nose & knees in recovery, & detaching without using a hatchet!