The Living Clean Podcast

Spotify Episode Description
On this episode of The Living Clean Podcast, we sit down with Jim H., one of the earliest members of Narcotics Anonymous in the Philadelphia area. Jim shares what it was like in the early days of recovery in the late 1960s and early 1970s, including getting clean on June 6, 1974 — a date that would ultimately change the course of his life.
Jim talks about being what he calls the fifth member of NA in Philadelphia around 1971, going back out for several years, and then finding his way back to recovery in 1974. From there, his story becomes deeply connected to the growth of Narcotics Anonymous itself. He helped start meetings throughout the Philadelphia area and carried the message internationally to places like Iceland and Copenhagen during a time when NA was still finding its footing around the world.
This episode is filled with personal history, hard-earned experience, humor, honesty, and a firsthand look at what recovery looked like before there were meeting lists, literature everywhere, or established fellowships in many cities. Jim’s story is a reminder that recovery survives because addicts continue carrying the message one person at a time.

In this episode of The Living Clean Podcast, Francis sits down with Bryant S. for a deep dive into a pivotal era in the history of Narcotics Anonymous. Bryant got clean in July 1981 during the closing years of the Literature Movement that helped produce the Narcotics Anonymous, and he shares firsthand memories from one of the most transformative periods in NA history.
Bryant recounts his experiences at the legendary Rising Sun Club House and his involvement with the Atlanta Literature Committee during the years leading up to and following the publication of the Basic Text. The conversation explores the energy, passion, and controversy surrounding the early literature conferences, including Bryant’s attendance at the 6th World Literature Conference and two Mid-South Regional Service Conferences.
He also reflects on what was presented at the 9th World Literature Conference at the Bucks County Farmhouse, including collaborative work connected to the Youth and Recovery IP. Along the way, Bryant shares personal stories about service, fellowship politics, spiritual growth, and the dedication many members had toward carrying the NA message to addicts still suffering.
The episode also takes a deeply personal turn as Bryant speaks openly about complacency in recovery, his relapse, and the difficult road back to Narcotics Anonymous. His story is one of humility, perseverance, and the enduring power of recovery and fellowship.
This episode is packed with living history, personal experience, and hard-earned wisdom from someone who witnessed—and participated in—some of the most important moments in early NA literature development.

What makes us love Narcotics Anonymous so deeply? In this episode of The Living Clean Podcast, Mason and Francis sit down for a heartfelt conversation about the many reasons NA continues to mean so much to us.
We share personal stories, memorable experiences, and those small moments that often say the most—moments of connection, laughter, growth, service, friendship, and recovery. From meetings that changed our lives to the people who helped shape our journey, we reflect on the things that make NA more than just a program—it’s a way of life and a worldwide fellowship built on hope.
This episode is a celebration of gratitude, recovery, and the countless blessings we’ve found through Narcotics Anonymous. Whether you’re brand new or have decades clean, we hope this conversation reminds you why we keep coming back.
We Love NA.

History of Missouri Narcotics Anonymous Panel
In this special episode of The Living Clean Podcast, we sit down with longtime members from across Missouri and the surrounding region to explore the rich and often untold history of early Narcotics Anonymous in the Midwest.
Joining us for this panel discussion are Kimmy S. from Kansas City, MO; Rick P. from Carthage, MO; Eddie P. from Kansas City, KS; Roger F. from Mexico, MO; Jeff B. from Kansas City, MO; Bob D. from St. Louis, MO; and Barb O. from Kansas City, MO.
Together, we trace the beginnings of NA in Missouri, including the earliest meetings in St. Louis, Joplin, and Kansas City. Rick P. shares memories surrounding the formation of the Fifth Tradition Group in Joplin—recognized as the oldest registered NA meeting in Missouri. The panel reflects on the challenges of carrying the message in the late 1970s and early 1980s, when meetings were scarce and literature was limited.
We also discuss the growth of the fellowship throughout the state, the development of early area and regional service structures, the separation from the Mid-America Region, and the eventual formation of the Show Me Region. The conversation highlights the spirit of unity, persistence, and service that helped build NA across Missouri.
This episode is an important oral history conversation featuring members who helped carry the NA message when the fellowship was still finding its footing across the Midwest.
Recovery is alive in Missouri—and this episode helps tell the story of how it began.

This week on the Living Clean Podcast, we continue our walk through the Twelve Steps with one of the most powerful and freeing steps in recovery.
Our consistent panel returns — Archer, Pete, and Douglas — and we’re joined by two special guests, Janine E. and Christina T., for an honest discussion on Step Five and what it truly means to let go of secrecy, shame, and the weight we have carried for far too long.
We talk about the fear that can come before this step, the courage it takes to be fully honest, and the relief that often follows when we finally share the truth with God, ourselves, and another human being. We also explore trust, vulnerability, humility, and how Step Five helps break the isolation that keeps many of us stuck.
This step is not about punishment. It is about freedom, healing, and no longer living alone inside our own mind.
If you’ve ever struggled with guilt, fear, or telling the truth about your past, this episode is for you.
Do yourself a favor and listen.