Live from the Grand Tetons – Sobriety, Fly Fishing, and Finding Richness in Life (Ep. 24)


“Sobriety has given me richness in my life. I spent a summer in Alaska. A buddy and I drove up to Alaska and worked up in Alaska for a summer. And we were drinking the entire time. The road trip up there and then when we got there, we quickly found someone that would sell us pot and I was drunk and stoned pretty much the entire summer. I saw some really cool stuff, but I didn’t live that stuff. I wasn’t super present in the moments and so I regret a lot of that because I missed out on the richness of what a trip like that could give. And when I think about that kind of trip, versus we’re doing now over the course of a week. The richness in the conversations that we have in the car, the things that we talk about, the time we share together, the things we see, the experiences we have, all of those things are so much more real and rich for me because I’m not numb while I’m going through it.”

– Reid Auger

“There’s a reason why programs are, 30 days, 60 days. Those first 30 – 60 days are tough. There’s a lot of loss. The gains don’t feel that awesome. But you just have to focus on the next five minutes, next hour, the next day, whatever. And then the gains start to pick up.”

– Ed Beck

Summary

This week, Ed and Reid meet at the base of the Grand Tetons to discuss a topic close to their hearts: sobriety. After recounting their wonderful trip to NW Wyoming, they dive into their sobriety journeys and what it has brought to their lives. They share personal experiences with addiction, the challenges and triumphs of maintaining sobriety, and the role supportive communities and hobbies like fly fishing have played in their journeys. As they express, no two sobriety journeys are the same. The conversation provides a thoughtful and candid exploration of the complexities of addiction and the diverse paths to achieving and maintaining a sober lifestyle.

If this is something you are navigating, know that GFW is here to tell you that you are not alone. Don’t be a stranger and drop us a line.

Takeaways

  • Sobriety can provide richness, emotional awareness, and the ability to build meaningful relationships and a fulfilling life.
  • The journey to sobriety is different for everyone, and finding the right support system and coping mechanisms is crucial.
  • Changing one’s environment and hobbies can significantly aid the recovery process.
  • Mentorship and modeling from others who have successfully navigated sobriety can be invaluable.
  • Letting go of control and focusing on the present moment are ongoing challenges in maintaining sobriety.
  • Discovering and immersing oneself in outdoor activities like fly fishing can provide a sense of purpose, humility, and serenity.
  • Addictive personalities can lead to finding new passions and hobbies to replace harmful behaviors.
  • Maintaining sobriety is a lifelong journey, but the rewards and personal transformations can be profound.
  • The Guys Fishing Weekend community is a supportive resource for those struggling with addiction or seeking to connect with others in recovery.

Links Noted in the Show:

Yellowstone National Park (Website | Map)

Grand Teton National Park (Website | Maps)

Cutthroat Fly Shop (Dubois, WY) (Website | Instagram)

Two Rivers Fishing Company (Website | Instagram)

Alcoholics Anonymous (Website)


The Guys Fishing Weekly is a podcast dedicated to the camaraderie of men through fishing. Hosted by Ed and Reid, it’s where men gather to share not just the thrill of the catch but the deeper connections forged on the water. Each episode dives into stories, tips, and interviews that celebrate the bonds between fishermen. From tales of early morning casts to arguing about the size of the one that got away, it’s a space for men to connect over shared passions and experiences. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting, here’s where you find your crew, united by the love of fishing.

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