Join us for an unflinching, powerful conversation with Kerrie Atherton as she shares her extraordinary journey through trauma, addiction, and recovery—and how she now helps others rewrite their stories. From teenage substance abuse and a near-death experience to decades of sobriety, Kerrie opens up about the real roots of addiction, the healing power of vulnerability, and the freedom that comes from breaking through shame.
In this episode, you’ll learn what it really takes to build lasting recovery, why environment and accountability are key to transformation, and how to replace destructive coping mechanisms with purpose-driven living.
Watch the full episode to hear Kerrie’s raw insights and compassionate strategies for lasting personal change, emotional healing, and hope.
About our guest:
Kerrie Atherton is a speaker, counselor, author, and founder of Empower Life Solutions and Stories of HOPE Australia. After overcoming decades of trauma, addiction, and adversity, Kerrie now dedicates her life to helping others find freedom and meaning beyond their pain. Through public speaking, mentoring, and her best-selling books, she empowers people from all walks of life to heal from the inside out and share their story with courage and pride.
Follow Our Guest:
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/stories_of_hope_aus/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/kerrie.atherton.9/
Website – https://empowerlifesolutions.com.au
Website – https://storiesofhope.com.au
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https://www.instagram.com/sharewithsteve/
Episode Highlights:
00:00 - Episode Trailer
00:26 - Why environment plays a crucial role in recovery
01:10 - Replacing negative habits with healthier coping mechanisms
02:20 - How journaling builds emotional clarity and resilience
03:47 - The impact of fear and worry—and how to shift out of it
05:15 - Kerrie’s story: trauma, addiction, and hitting rock bottom
07:10 - The moment she chose life over death
08:31 - What surrender and acceptance really look like in recovery
09:19 - How Kerrie rebuilt her life with structure and purpose
10:38 - The myth of moderation and truth about alcoholism
12:13 - Digital addictions: gambling, gaming, and porn
13:47 - Common myths and misunderstandings about addiction
16:01 - The “Four Ls” to identify if alcohol is affecting your life
17:40 - Why shame keeps people from seeking help
19:19 - Practical advice for anyone struggling today
20:19 - Addiction is a sickness, not a weakness
20:59 - The deeper trauma that often drives addiction
Episode Highlights:
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