Ever wonder why telling your story in recovery feels so powerful? It’s not just emotional—it's biological. In this solo episode, I talk about how storytelling activates empathy, builds emotional safety, and rewires your brain for change.

From mirror neurons to narrative psychology, learn why your messy truth is the medicine—and how sharing it might be the most powerful recovery tool you have.

Today I cover:

• Why “stories go where science can’t” (but neuroscience is catching up!)
• The magic and messiness of early AA storytelling circles
• How mirror neurons and narrative psychology help us change
• The link between relational safety, vulnerability, and brain rewiring
• Why your recovery story evolves—and why that matters
• How storytelling softens self-judgment and builds compassion
• The science behind why hearing one powerful story can change everything
• Why women especially thrive through shared emotional narratives

Resources Mentioned:

• Burnout by Emily & Amelia Nagoski
• We Are the Luckiest by Laura McKowen
• Research by Dan McAdams

Links: 

You can find Kate on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/katevitela/

Explore Kate’s blog: https://thesobercurator.com/category/sober-lifestyle/youve-been-selected/

Work with Kate: https://linktr.ee/KateVitela

Email Podcast: [email protected] 

Mentioned in this episode:

Gut Check: A Private Self-Inquiry Course