Father Bill W.

Willing to Be Willing pt.2 02.07.2026 22min

Steps 3 and 11 frame the vision for a wholly new way of life. It’s one lived, not under the direction of the ego but under the guidance and direction of a Power greater than ourselves. But the ego still has a role to play and that’s through the right use of the will. The purpose of the will is: TO BE WILLING!In this series, Fr. Bill explores a talk delivered by Quaker mystic Thomas R. Kelly. It’s titled HOLY OBEDIENCE. There’s a free pdf link in the show notes below. It’s also one of several essays found in Kelly’s book A Testament of Devotion. It makes for great reading in a morning Quiet Time. But a word of caution. Read it slowly; it’s a lot of truth for a poor ego to swallow all at once!Show notes:Holy Obedience by Thomas R. Kellyhttps://quaker.org/legacy/pamphlets/wpl1939a.html A Testament of Devotion by Thomas R. Kelly with an Introduction by Richard J. Foster

Willing to be Willing 24.06.2026 26min

Steps 3 and 11 frame the vision for a wholly new way of life. It’s one lived, not under the direction of the ego but under the guidance and direction of a Power greater than ourselves. But the ego has a role to play and that’s through the right use of the will. The purpose of the will is: TO BE WILLING!In this series, Fr. Bill explores an essay by Quaker mystic Thomas R. Kelly titled HOLY OBEDIENCE. There’s a free pdf link in the show notes below. It’s also one of several articles found in Kelly’s book A Testament of Devotion. It makes for great reading in a morning Quiet Time. But a word of caution. Read it slowly; it’s a lot for a poor ego to swallow all at once!Show notes:Holy Obedience by Thomas R. Kellyhttps://quaker.org/legacy/pamphlets/wpl1939a.htmlA Testament of Devotion by Thomas R. Kelly with an Introduction by Richard J. Foster

The Last Three Steps: When the Juice Runs Dry 16.06.2026 20min

In the episode Fr. Bill shares some experience and advice for keeping the 12-Step program simple and alive. If you’re a long-term listener, you probably won’t find much new here, but hopefully hearing the simple recovery message in simple language can start the recovery juices flowing again.Show notes: The Will of God and a Man’s Life Work by Henry B. Wright The Power of Two Way Prayer

How to Start a Two Way Prayer Group 08.06.2026 27min

We all know the saying, “You have to give it away to keep it.” That idea may be especially true of the practice of Two Way Prayer. Listening for God’s guidance was at the center of the transformative practices of the Oxford Group, and those of us who have been fortunate enough to rediscover it have a responsibility to share it with others. One way of passing it on may be starting a Two Way Prayer Group.In this episode, Fr. Bill shares his experience in doing this. Even if you’re not ready to start a group of your own, you’ll probably find the information helpful. But if you are willing to take the leap of faith it requires to start a group, you’ll find it indispensable.Show notes:A suggested meeting format. (attached)The Power of Two Way Prayer by Father Bill W.TWP Workshop/Video twowayprayer.org

Henrietta Seiberling - The Woman Behind the AA Curtain 01.06.2026 48min

Most in recovery know that Henrietta was the woman who answered a phone call from Bill Wilson and put him in touch with Dr. Bob; but there’s a whole lot more to her story than that. In this episode Fr. Bill interviews Julie Frye who served for ten years as curator of the Seiberling mansion and gatehouse and knows more about Henrietta than most anyone alive. As Founder’s Day approaches, come learn more about this amazing woman and the critical role she played in the birth of Alcoholics Anonymous.Show Notes:PowerPoint Presentation of Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens with Julie FryeAnne Smith’s JournalThe Cleveland Symphony Orchestrahttps://www.clevelandorchestra.com/

A Footnote on Experience vs Awakening 26.05.2026 9min

In this short episode, Fr. Bill reflects on a brief recording of Bill Wilson’s unsuccessful attempts to return to the original 12 Step wording of “spiritual experience” over “spiritual awakening.” He also comments on Fr. Dowling’s words to the 20th Anniversary Gathering of AA in St. Louis where he said, “Istill weep that the elders of the movement have dropped the word ‘experience’ for ‘awakening.’” No need to weep, but it’s good information to know.Show notes:Father Ed by Dawn Eden GoldsteinBill Wilson's recorded commentary on "Experience"

Father Ed Dowling: Bill W's Spiritual Sponsor 18.05.2026 52min

Throughout his life, Father Ed was attracted to those who suffered - and since AA describes itself as “a program of attraction,” there’s little wonder this Jesuit priest was drawn to 12-Step members from the Program’s earliest days. In 1940, Dowling saw a troubled man recover from the depths of alcoholic despair and soon after witnessing this miracle he traveled to New York to meet AA’s co-founder, Bill Wilson. He wanted to learn how AA worked.Thus began a spiritual friendship between two men that continued throughout Fr. Ed’s life. Bill later wrote of Ed, “He became just about the closest friend I shall ever have - and my spiritual advisor, too. He took me through some of my rough going, which, without his counsel and love, I might never have survived.”Fr. Bill interviews Dawn Eden Goldstein, author of a new and much needed biography of Father Ed. Her book is a “must read” for those interested in AA history and will prove a valuable study guide for anyone wanting to discover the love of God that lies at the heart of every genuine 12-Step recovery. Show notes:Father Ed by Dawn Eden GoldsteinDawn Eden contact: https://dawneden.blogspot.com/"...and Bill described this in front of Father Ed atthe AA Comes of Age Conference in St Louis in 1955, you can hear Bill'sintroduction and Father Ed's address on YouTube."https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQYhXb4eNEUwww.twowayprayer.org

Love Leads Us Home 11.05.2026 43min

This series address what some of us in recovery refer to as “the God problem.” Does God exist? Does God really care about us humans – and maybe more honestly and specifically, does God care about me and mine?People have been asking these questions for as long as we’ve been on this earth but for us “real” alcoholics and addicts whose lives depend on finding a spiritual solution to our addiction death sentence, it’s more than a matter of speculation.People have been asking these questions for as long as we’ve been on this earth but for us “real” alcoholics and addicts whose lives depend on finding a spiritual solution to our addiction death sentence, it’s more than a matter of speculation.In this episode Bill and Fr. James explore the final two chapters of John Caputo’s book What to Believe? Chapters focus on the Nature of Real Love and How It Relates Us to God.Show notes:John Caputo’s book What to Believe?

What in God's Name? 04.05.2026 45min

This series address what some of us in recovery refer to as “the God problem.” Does God exist? Does God really care about us humans – and maybe more honestly and specifically, does God care about me and mine? People have been asking these questions for as long as we’ve been on this earth but for us “real” alcoholics and addicts whose lives depend on finding a spiritual solution to our addiction death sentence, it’s more than a matter of speculation. People have been asking these questions for as long as we’ve been on this earth but for us “real” alcoholics and addicts whose lives depend on finding a spiritual solution to our addiction death sentence, it’s more than a matter of speculation. In this episode Bill and Fr. James explore the next two chapters of John Caputo’s book What to Believe? Chapters focus on “What is going on in God’s name” and “Whether or not God will have been may be up to us.” Two more easy lessons!Show notes:John Caputo’s book What to Believe?

Let Go Absolutely - For Real??? 27.04.2026 49min

This series address what some of us in recovery refer to as “the God problem.” Does God exist? Does God really care about us humans – and maybe more honestly and specifically, does God care about me and mine? People have been asking these questions for as long as we’ve been on this earth but for us “real” alcoholics and addicts whose lives depend on finding a spiritual solution to our addiction death sentence, it’s more than a matter of speculation. People have been asking these questions for as long as we’ve been on this earth but for us “real” alcoholics and addicts whose lives depend on finding a spiritual solution to our addiction death sentence, it’s more than a matter of speculation. In this episode Bill and Fr. James explore the next two chapters of John Caputo’s book What to Believe? The chapters focus on “the Event,” what’s really going on in the name of God. Caputo says, “this is what to believe, what we really can and do believe, regardless of whether we ‘believe in God.’”Show notes:John Caputo’s book What to Believe?

God Is Ohhh So Close 20.04.2026 45min

This series addresses what some of us in recovery refer to as “the God problem.” Does God exist? Does God really care about us humans – and maybe more honestly and specifically, does God care about me and mine?People have been asking these questions for as long as we’ve been on this earth but for us “real” alcoholics and addicts whose lives depend on finding a spiritual solution to our addiction death sentence, it’s more than a matter of speculation.In this episode Bill and Fr. James explore the next two chapters of John Caputo’s book What to Believe? The chapters focus on the roles of mysticism and Jesus within radical theology.Show notes:John Caputo’s book, What to Believe?Tillich’s Sermon on Acceptance:www.wedgeblade.net/files/archives_assets/20810.pdfRecommended books on Jesus:1.) John Dominic Crossan’s, Jesus: A Revolutionary Biography2.) Marcus J. Borg’s, Jesus: Uncovering the Life, Teachings, and Relevance of a Religious RevolutionaryRecommended books on physics:1.) The Tao of Physics by Fritjof Capra2.) The Dancing Wuli Masters by Gary ZukavResources for Two Way Prayer: www.twowayprayer.org

Pantheism & Prayer 13.04.2026 45min

This series addresses what some of us in recovery refer to as “the God problem.” Does God exist? Does God really care about us humans – and maybe more honestly and specifically, does God care about me and mine?People have been asking these questions for as long as we’ve been on this earth but for us “real” alcoholics and addicts whose lives depend on finding a spiritual solution to our addiction death sentence, it’s more than a matter of speculation.In this episode Bill and Fr. James explore the next two chapters of John Caputo’s book What to Believe? – Twelve Brief Lessons in Radical Theology. The chapters are titled: Pantheism, That’s Horrible! … & … Do Radical Theologians Pray?

Let Go... Then Hang on Tight 06.04.2026 50min

This series address what some of us in recovery refer to as “the God problem.” Does God exist? Does God really care about us humans – and maybe more honestly and specifically, does God care about me and mine?People have been asking these questions for as long as we’ve been on this earth but for us “real” alcoholics and addicts whose lives depend on finding a spiritual solution to our addiction death sentence, it’s more than a matter of mere speculation.In this episode Fr. Bill is joined by Fr. James R., a recovering Episcopal priest from Central Florida. Together they explore the first two chapters of John Caputo’s book titled: What to Believe? – Twelve Brief Lessons in Radical Theology. The chapters are “God” Does Not Exist & Bridge-Builders and Ground-Diggers.

Let Go of God to Find God 30.03.2026 31min

This series address what some of us in recovery refer to as “the God problem.” Does God exist? Does God really care about us – and maybe more honestly and specifically, does God care about me and mine?People have been asking these questions for as long as human beings have been on this earth but for us “real” alcoholics and addicts whose lives depend on finding a spiritual solution to our addiction death sentence, it’s more than a matter of speculation.In this episode Fr. Bill is joined by Fr. James R., a recovering Episcopal priest from Central Florida. Together they explore a recent book by John D. Caputo titled: What to Believe? – Twelve Brief Lessons in Radical Theology.Show notes:John D. Caputo: What to Believe? – Twelve Brief Lessons in Radical Theology

Start With The Big Book 24.03.2026 32min

This series address what some of us in recovery refer to as “the God problem.” Does God exist? Does God really care about us – and maybe more honestly and specifically, does God care about me and mine? People have been asking these questions for as long as human beings have been on this earth but for us “real” alcoholics and addicts whose lives depend on finding a spiritual solution to our addiction death sentence, it’s more than a matter of speculation. In this episode Fr. Bill explores the chapter in the Big Book titled: We Agnostics. In it, Bill Wilson makes every effort to welcome believers and non-believers alike to a spiritual recovery approach. Here he opens the door as wide as possible. Future episodes will explore other books and writers opening inner doors still wider for addicts and alcoholics struggling with “the God problem.”Bill Wilson on Spiritual ExperienceHonest to God by Bishop John A.T. RobinsonMore importantly: What to Believe: Twelve Brief Lessons in Radical Theology by John Caputo

God As We Don't Understand God 18.03.2026 29min

This series address what some of us in recovery refer to as “the God problem.” In episode 1 "Bill Wilson's Spiritual Experiences" we explore: Does God exist? Does God really care about us – and maybe more honestly and specifically, does God care about me and mine?People have been asking these questions for as long as human beings have been on this earth but for us “real” alcoholics and addicts whose lives depend on finding a spiritual solution to our addiction death sentence, it’s more than a matter of speculation.Bill Wilson was one of those men in such desperate need. In this episode Fr. Bill traces some of the lesser-known events that preceded Bill Wilson’s famous “White Light” experience in detox. Through these encounters the door of Bill’s mind and heart can be seen opening to a divine, healing Presence that would soon bring about his release from addiction. Future episodes will attempt to open inner doors for addicts and alcoholics struggling with the spiritual approach used in 12-Step recovery.Show notes:Bill W. My First 40 Yearshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/1568383738/ref=sr_aod_dp_img

Quiet Time & Two Way Prayer 07.03.2026 27min

Two Way Prayer is part of a longer morning prayer practice. In this episode Fr. Bill details what that time might involve and how Two Way Prayer fits into it.Show notes:Good Morning by Dick B.https://www.amazon.com/Good-Morning-Quiet-Watch-Meditation/dp/1885803222A Book of Psalms by Stephen MitchellThe Three Scripture Readings AA’s Co-Founder Dr. Bob Considered Essential

Twelve Step in Three Words 17.02.2026 27min

Dr. Bob begged Bill Wilson to “keep it simple.” In that same spirit, the Oxford Group often compacted their program of change down to three short words: CONNECTION – CORRECTION – DIRECTION. In this bonus episode Fr. Bill reviews the 12-Steps in light of these, giving listeners a simpler understanding of the “change” we need to undergo for recovery. Show notes: Jean Brown pamphlet

The Addicted Brain 10.02.2026 55min

Why do alcoholics and drug addicts find it so hard to quit and stay quit? Is addiction really a disease? And if it is, how’s it best treated?It’s been over a hundred years since Dr. William Silkworth formulated his “allergy theory” that appeared in the Big Book. Since then, science has learned a whole lot more about both the physical and psychological dimensions underlying addiction. In this episode Fr. Bill interviews addictionologist Doctor Nicole T. Labor, DO, author of The Addictoholic Deconstructed. Her book provides the general reader and those in recovery with a much-needed primer on the brain chemistry that underlies addiction. Dr. Labor shares her story of recovery and her passion for helping both addicts and family members recover. You’ll find her knowledgeable, dedicated, and pretty damned funny. Her book is available in the show notes below. Show notes:The Addictoholic Deconstructed by Nicole T. Labor, DO, BCFP,BCABAM, FASAMDr. Labor’s website and contact information: https://www.theaddictsdoc.com/

What's a Spiritual Experience? 02.02.2026 39min

When setting off on any journey, it’s best to know your intended destination in advance. On the 12th Step journey, to use the Big Book’s original wording, that means following the 12 Steps to arrive at a transformational spiritual experience - one powerful enough to overcome addiction. Of course, the wording of the 12th Step was soon changed to “a spiritual awakening” not wanting to scare newcomers away. But when Bill Wilson tried changing it back to the original, AA wouldn’t let him.This single episode describes the “psychic change” the Steps are intended to bring about using three quotes to describe the experience. First, a definition that originated with William James in his Varieties of Religious Experience; second, the description contained in the Big Book; and finally, a helpful quote from Jungian author Robert A. Johnson’s book Transformation. These quotes are contained in a handout found in the show notes.Show notes: What Is a Psychic Change or Spiritual ExperienceQuantum Change by Professor William MillerTransformation by Robert A. JohnsonJung’s Answer to Job https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Answer_to_Job