In this episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren is joined by Darran Zenger, a licensed clinical social worker at Cirque Lodge, a residential treatment center for substance use and addiction. Together, they discuss Step 2 of the 12-Step Program: Coming to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.

Darran shares his personal recovery journey, including his struggles with addiction, his experience with Usher syndrome, and how embracing faith and community support transformed his life. The conversation highlights the importance of spirituality (distinct from religion), the dangers of isolation, and how addiction impacts not just individuals but their entire family system. They also discuss the role of humility in recovery and how learning to surrender control can lead to true healing.

Bill and Darran also explore how having a higher power—whether it be God, nature, or even a support group—can help individuals overcome addiction and navigate life’s challenges. They emphasize that recovery is an ongoing process requiring daily self-awareness, accountability, and connection with others.

The episode concludes with an invitation to continue the conversation in the next episode, where they will dive into Step 3: Turning our will and our lives over to the care of a higher power as we understand it.

Chapter Markers

00:00 – Opening & Guest Introduction

01:22 – Darran’s Role at Cirque Lodge & Family Support in Recovery

02:10 – Step 2: A Power Greater Than Ourselves

03:09 – Darran’s Personal Journey to Recovery

06:12 – The Role of Spiritual Connection in Healing

09:14 – The Importance of Reaching Out for Support

12:46 – The Ego and the Challenge of Surrender

14:28 – Trusting the Process and Letting Go of Control

19:20 – Understanding Higher Power & Self-Will

21:16 – Living with Usher Syndrome & Navigating Blindness

27:32 – Adapting to Life’s Challenges & Overcoming Isolation

31:35 – Family Dynamics & Codependency in Addiction

36:11 – Spirituality vs. Religion in Recovery

37:42 – Resources for Recovery & How to Access the Big Book

38:44 – Closing & Contact Information

Resources Mentioned

The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous – Available in audio format through the Talking Book Library

Everything AA App – A resource containing the Big Book, daily meditations, and recovery tools

Feedback & Contact Information

📞 Hotline: (720) 712-8856

📧 Email: [email protected]

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