Julie R. – Sober 7 Years

About this episode

Julie R. shares her journey of struggling with alcohol and her path to sobriety, including a relapse and a return to recovery.

Like many I’ve had the privilege to interview, today’s guest, Julie R., took her first drink at 14 and felt immediate relief from fear, sadness, and anxiety at home. Her early binge drinking didn’t stand out much in high school or college, but it quietly laid the groundwork for deeper struggles with alcohol and cocaine. Though she began to suspect alcohol was part of the problem, quitting wasn’t yet on her radar. In a twist, it was her husband who took her to treatment just six months into their unhappy marriage . He insisted that she get well. At rehab, Julie was introduced to Alcoholics Anonymous and the 12 Steps—meetings, sponsorship, the Big Book, and a growing openness to a Higher Power. With sincerity and willingness, she embraced the work and built a strong foundation in sobriety. But as the years passed and life improved, her connection to the program slowly faded. Nearing six years sober, she drifted—and eventually drank again. What followed was a turning point. Julie’s return to sobriety is honest, humbling, and deeply hopeful—a clear reminder that this program works when we work it. I think you’ll find her story both inspiring and encouraging. If you’ve found meaning…

People in this episode

Host: Howard L.

Guest: Julie R.

Topics covered

• sobriety
• alcoholism
• recovery
• personal story
• 12 Steps
• mental health

Keywords

• sober
• recovery
• Alcoholics Anonymous
• 12 Steps
• personal growth
• mental health
• addiction
• inspiration

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Alcoholics Anonymous

Books & works: Alcoholics Anonymous: The Story of How More Than One Hundred Men Have Recovered From Alcoholism

More episodes of AA Recovery Interviews with Howard L.

• C.T. – Sober 37 Years · May 6, 2026 · 1h 18m
• April T. – Sober Since March 2019 (Encore Episode) · April 25, 2026
• Rudy T. – Sober 27 Years · April 8, 2026 · 1h 27m
• Craig S. – Sober 4 Years · March 11, 2026
• Amy B. – Sober Since October 2018 (Encore Episode) · March 6, 2026 · 1h 4m
• Kirkland V. – Sober Since February 2005 (Encore Episode) · February 26, 2026 · 1h 10m