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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Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/thestevehodgson/

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: