The Living Clean Podcast

Francis and Rowan return for a second panel discussion exploring the Arizona Narcotics Anonymous history book, As the Journey Began. This episode shifts from the stories in the book to the work of preserving them for future generations.
Together they discuss how technology has transformed NA archiving, from scanning old newsletters and photographs to organizing digital collections and safeguarding decades of fellowship history. The conversation explores the advantages and challenges of digital storage, graphic design, file management, and the importance of creating archives that can be accessed by future trusted servants.
Whether you're an NA history enthusiast, an archivist, a trusted servant, or simply curious about how our fellowship's story is preserved, this episode offers practical insights and thoughtful discussion about carrying our history forward in the digital age.
Recovery's message is carried one addict to another—but our history reminds us how we got here. Join Francis and Rowan as they continue the conversation on preserving the legacy of Narcotics Anonymous, one archive at a time.
If you are looking for the Arizona NA History book it can be found on Amazon: https://a.co/d/02FfBePZ

Every piece of NA history begins with someone who cared enough to preserve it.
In this episode, Francis sits down with members of the committee behind As the Journey Began, the Arizona Narcotics Anonymous history book. Together, they share the inspiring story of how a dedicated group of trusted servants spent years collecting memories, interviewing members, preserving photographs, verifying facts, and assembling the rich history of Narcotics Anonymous in Arizona.
The conversation explores the challenges and rewards of documenting a fellowship built on anonymity, the importance of preserving our collective experience for future generations, and the countless volunteers whose contributions made this remarkable project possible.
Whether you're passionate about NA history, involved in service, or simply curious about how fellowship history is preserved, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most significant regional history projects in Narcotics Anonymous.
Join us for an engaging discussion about fellowship, perseverance, and why remembering where we've been helps guide where we're going.
"We don't preserve history to live in the past—we preserve it so the message of recovery continues to inspire those who have yet to arrive."
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WP0j60LPV6Tab--3sc4OkPZAPfwszWGm/view?usp=sharing

What happens when a story from the Narcotics Anonymous Basic Text comes to life?
Mason, Francis, and Jasmine B. sit down with Lucia C., whose recovery story, "A Brazilian Full of It," appears in the Basic Text. Lucia shares an honest and inspiring conversation about the road that led her to recovery—from traveling the world as a professional dancer during her addiction to finding a new way of life through Narcotics Anonymous.
Lucia reflects on the experiences that shaped her journey, the lessons she learned along the way, and what it means to have her story included in NA literature. She also brings listeners up to date on her life today, sharing how recovery continues to transform her relationships, purpose, and outlook.
The conversation also explores the growth of Narcotics Anonymous in Brazil, highlighting the unique cultural differences within the fellowship while celebrating the universal message that recovery is possible for any addict, regardless of language, culture, or geography.

What does it take to help a fellowship grow from the inside out?
In this episode of The Living Clean Podcast, Francis is joined by Kristin D. from St. Louis, Missouri, Brawnyn B. from Berkeley, California, and Travis M. from Chico, California, for an engaging conversation about Fellowship Development in Narcotics Anonymous.
Together, they explore this exciting and evolving area of NA Public Relations, discussing how Fellowship Development strengthens local communities, supports struggling meetings, encourages unity, and helps carry the message of recovery to addicts who still suffer. The conversation highlights practical ways members can build healthier, more connected NA communities through service, mentorship, collaboration, and shared experience.
Whether you're new to Fellowship Development or already involved in service, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and real-world examples of how members are helping NA grow from within—one meeting, one community, and one addict at a time.
Recovery grows when we work together. Join us for a conversation about service, connection, and the future of Narcotics Anonymous.

Francis sits down with Mel Helman for a very special conversation, recorded on July 16, 2026—one month before Mel’s passing.
Mel got clean on October 7, 1968, in Southern California and was a personal friend of Jimmy K., one of the founding members of Narcotics Anonymous. His life in recovery gave him a unique connection to the early days of the fellowship and to the people who helped shape NA into what it is today.
Mel specifically asked that The Living Clean Podcast release this episode on the day he recovered.
We are honored to fulfill that request.
This conversation is more than an interview about NA history. It is Mel sharing his experience, memories, and perspective near the end of his life—a final opportunity to carry the message that had been such an important part of his journey since 1968.
We are grateful to Mel for trusting us with his voice and his story.
We hope you enjoy Mel Helman’s parting message.