July 30, 2025

From Rock Bottom to Redemption: John Boyle’s Journey Through Trauma, Addiction, and Faith

22 minutes

In this powerful episode of the Covenant Eyes Podcast, host Karen Potter welcomes John Boyle, author of Appalachian Kid, to share his remarkable testimony of overcoming childhood trauma, addiction, and ultimately finding healing through faith and mentorship.

John opens up about growing up in a violent home in rural West Virginia, his lifelong battle with undiagnosed PTSD, and the decades-long struggle with alcohol that nearly took his life. He recounts the turning point — a lifeline offered during a chance conversation at a bar — and the spiritual awakening that led him to sobriety, Harvard Business School, and a new mission to help others find hope.

Through his story, listeners will discover:
✅ The true meaning of biblical hope as "confident expectation"
✅ How mentorship and community saved his life
✅ Why we must rise again after being knocked down
✅ The power of faith in recovery and finding purpose after addiction

John also discusses his nonprofit involvement with Building Hope, which combats bullying in Appalachian high schools, and how the students he mentored gave him new perspective on his own life story.

John's website: https://www.appalachiankid.com/
John's book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJ8H8GRM/ref=sr_1_1?crid=WIMU8S7S1V0O&keywords=john+boyle+appalachian+kid&qid=1695063468&sprefix=john+boyle+appala%2Caps%2C108&sr=8-1

🎧 Whether you’re battling addiction, walking alongside someone who is, or seeking inspiration to turn your life around, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.