From Rock Bottom to God’s Restoration Gary Bauer concludes Al Kaysen’s testimony of addiction, a mother’s faithful prayers, and a life transformed by God’s grace. Can someone who has lost nearly everything find their way home again? On this edition of Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk, host Gary Bauer concludes his remarkable conversation with Al Kaysen, president and COO of Bud’s Best Cookies, about addiction, broken relationships, and the transforming power of Jesus Christ. After years of substance abuse and repeated attempts at rehabilitation, Al found himself isolated from his family, unemployed, and dangerously consumed by addiction. His testimony reveals how a family’s persistent love, difficult decisions, and unwavering prayers helped open the door to recovery. When Tough Love Becomes an Act of Faith Al describes the painful intervention that ultimately led to his arrest and 26 days in the Shelby County Jail. His parents, desperate to save their son’s life, had reached the point where protecting him meant allowing him to experience consequences they could no longer shield him from. One heartbreaking moment came when Al appeared in court and heard his father cry out upon seeing his condition. It was a picture of the devastation addiction had brought upon his entire family. The Moment Everything Changed Following his incarceration, Al entered a long-term rehabilitation program. While there, he learned that his young son had been placed in the temporary custody of a relative. That news became his turning point. Confronted with the pain his addiction had caused, Al fell to his knees and surrendered his life to God. His recovery required more than a single decision. Through extended treatment, accountability, and a renewed relationship with Christ, Al began rebuilding the life he had lost. A Prodigal Son Welcomed Home Gary and Al reflect on the biblical story of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15. When Al returned home, his father welcomed him back into the family business. Today, Al shares that he has maintained 21 years of sobriety, rebuilt relationships with his family, and found renewed purpose in his marriage and work. He also describes how the grace he received motivates him to offer employment and second chances to others rebuilding their lives after addiction. The Power of a Praying Family One of the most moving parts of Al’s story is his mother’s faithfulness. He recalls how she prayed for him so consistently that the carpet where she…
