Roundup Speakers

We are thrilled to announce an exceptional lineup of speakers for the 40th Anniversary Chicago Roundup this November. Each brings a powerful message of experience, strength, and hope, demonstrating the profound impact of recovery across our community. Here are the speakers who will be sharing their journeys with us:

Eric D. — New York, NY

Eric D. is a Texas native currently living and thriving in New York City. Sober since August 15, 2014, they credit LGBTQ+ AA meetings, roundups, and sober drag shows as vital, foundational elements of their recovery journey. Eric places a deep personal emphasis on progress over perfection throughout their life. They consistently strive to show up authentically for themselves and the fellowship, even during moments when they might not reflect a "perfect vision" of recovery.

Paulo A.G. — Los Angeles, CA

Paulo A.G. is a grateful member of Crystal Meth Anonymous with long-term sobriety. He is deeply active in the Los Angeles recovery community, having served as Entertainment Chair, Fundraising Chair, and Executive Secretary for the Los Angeles Crystal Meth Anonymous Convention Committee, alongside holding several current service positions in both AA and CMA. Carrying the message beyond the rooms, Paulo also coordinates with the Best in Drag Show, a fundraising event benefiting the Alliance for Housing and Healing to support HIV/AIDS services. Professionally, he serves as the Co-Founder of No Matter What Recovery, an LGBTQ+ affirming behavioral healthcare organization providing substance use and mental health treatment in Los Angeles, Chicago, and soon Austin, Texas, alongside his husband, Anthony. Of all his roles, the one he treasures most is simply "recovering addict."

Ritch C. — Palm Springs, CA

Ritch C. has 44 years in recovery and resides in Palm Springs, California, with his partner of 35 years, Kenny T. He brings over four decades of lived experience to his current work as an Interfaith Humanist Chaplain, supporting individuals and families navigating addiction, illness, grief, and existential distress. He holds a master’s degree in social sciences with a concentration in Spiritual Psychology, has completed four units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE), and possesses advanced training in palliative care chaplaincy. Prior to entering chaplaincy, Ritch spent more than 30 years as a media entrepreneur and television executive. Today, he and Kenny enjoy golf and the tranquility of desert life.