Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton

WARNING: This episode directly addresses the event, nature and effects of suicide.

In this episode of Stories of Hope Worldwide, I have the privilege of sitting down with the beautiful and incredibly brave Tes Cruz. Tes is sharing her story publicly for the very first time, and it is one that touched me deeply.

Tes takes us back to her childhood, growing up in an environment of domestic violence, and then to the heartbreaking day in 2012 when she lost her husband Emmanuel to suicide. She speaks so openly about the ripple effect his death had—not only on her as a wife but on their daughter, their relationships, and in the years that followed.

What I love about Tes’s story is that even through unimaginable pain, she has found strength in herself and her faith, and a renewed sense of purpose. Today she uses her journey to advocate for mental health and to remind others, especially men, that their families need them here and that there is always another way forward.

This is a powerful and tender conversation filled with messages of healing and hope. Tes’s words will encourage anyone who has been touched by suicide or who is struggling in silence.

If you or someone you love is doing it tough right now, please reach out. There is help, and there is hope.

📞 Lifeline: 13 11 14

📞 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

🌐 Black Dog Institute: blackdoginstitute.org.au

You are not alone, and your life matters.

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Thank you for listening to Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton.

Kerrie Atherton is an Inspiring Speaker, Professional Counsellor and Mental Health Coach. To find out more about "Stories of Hope: Worldwide", head to https://storiesofhope.com.au/.

Purchase books in the "Stories of Hope" series, written by Kerrie: https://storiesofhope.com.au/product/stories-of-hope-australia-books/.

With thanks to:

Music: "Pilgrims" by Daniel Pratt (artlist.io)

Editing & Production: Matthew Bliss ([email protected])

Mentioned in this episode:

Kerrie Atherton Offers Counselling Sessions to Support You

If the topics discussed in this episode resonate with you and you'd like to talk to someone, Kerrie Atherton is available for counselling sessions. Click the link to book a session with Kerrie today.

Book a Session with Kerrie Today

This week on Stories of Hope: Worldwide, I sit down with Zac Jones—a young man whose life changed in an instant the night he got behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol and drugs. That decision led to a devastating car crash, leaving four of his friends critically injured and Zac facing the consequences in jail for two and a half years.

In this deeply honest conversation, Zac shares what led him to that point: early struggles with bullying, addiction, and the spiral of shame that followed the crash. But this is not just a story of tragedy. It’s a story of ownership, growth, and transformation. From the hardest of places, Zac found purpose. Today, he’s using his voice to speak truth to young people, hoping to stop others from walking the same path.

We talk about addiction, emotional growth, accountability, and the power of self-forgiveness. Zac’s raw vulnerability is a powerful reminder that while our past may shape us, it doesn’t have to define us.

If you’ve ever believed that it’s too late to change, this conversation will shift something in you.

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Thank you for listening to Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton.

Kerrie Atherton is an Inspiring Speaker, Professional Counsellor and Mental Health Coach. To find out more about "Stories of Hope: Worldwide", head to https://storiesofhope.com.au/.

Purchase books in the "Stories of Hope" series, written by Kerrie: https://storiesofhope.com.au/product/stories-of-hope-australia-books/.

With thanks to:

Music: "Pilgrims" by Daniel Pratt (artlist.io)

Editing & Production: Matthew Bliss ([email protected])

Mentioned in this episode:

Kerrie Atherton Offers Counselling Sessions to Support You

If the topics discussed in this episode resonate with you and you'd like to talk to someone, Kerrie Atherton is available for counselling sessions. Click the link to book a session with Kerrie today.

Book a Session with Kerrie Today

In this incredibly raw and powerful episode, I sit down with Danny Lloyd: a man who has walked through unimaginable pain and turned it into purpose. Danny shares openly about growing up without a father, struggling with addiction, and the devastating loss of his best friend Sarah, whose murder became a pivotal moment in his life.

What struck me most about Danny is his unwavering commitment to healing—not just for himself, but for others. From standing on the edge of self-destruction, to standing on top of Mount Kilimanjaro, scattering Sarah’s ashes and finding his ‘why’, Danny’s journey is one of courage, service, and legacy. He speaks with such conviction about breaking the stigma of addiction, the power of specificity in recovery, and how the world needs to give back with a bit of kindness.

Danny went from being a broken man with a meth addiction to leading one of the most successful non-clinical recovery programs in Australia. He's now pushing even harder to leave a legacy of generosity, support and hope for those who follow in his footsteps.

Thank you, Danny, for your honesty, heart, and unshakable hope.

***

Thank you for listening to Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton.

Kerrie Atherton is an Inspiring Speaker, Professional Counsellor and Mental Health Coach. To find out more about "Stories of Hope: Worldwide", head to https://storiesofhope.com.au/.

Purchase books in the "Stories of Hope" series, written by Kerrie: https://storiesofhope.com.au/product/stories-of-hope-australia-books/.

With thanks to:

Music: "Pilgrims" by Daniel Pratt (artlist.io)

Editing & Production: Matthew Bliss ([email protected])

Mentioned in this episode:

Kerrie Atherton Offers Counselling Sessions to Support You

If the topics discussed in this episode resonate with you and you'd like to talk to someone, Kerrie Atherton is available for counselling sessions. Click the link to book a session with Kerrie today.

Book a Session with Kerrie Today

In this deeply moving episode, I sit down with Jo Mason: an extraordinary woman whose life was once marked by fear, isolation and trauma behind closed doors. To the outside world, she was a successful marketing director and a loving mum but privately, she was surviving an abusive relationship that stripped her of her confidence, safety, and sense of self.

Jo bravely shares how she found the courage to leave, the grief and relief that followed, and the slow, courageous steps she took to rebuild her life with her young son. She speaks so powerfully about the warning signs of DV, the devastating impact it can have on your work and mental health, and why no one should ever have to go through it alone.

Today, Jo is the founder of WorkHaven and the lead advocate for the Brisbane Domestic Violence Service. She’s not just surviving—she’s changing the system and helping workplaces across the country better support those impacted by domestic violence.

If you or someone you know is impacted by domestic or family violence, please reach out to 1800RESPECT or a local support service. There is hope and help available.

***

Thank you for listening to Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton.

Kerrie Atherton is an Inspiring Speaker, Professional Counsellor and Mental Health Coach. To find out more about "Stories of Hope: Worldwide", head to https://storiesofhope.com.au/.

Purchase books in the "Stories of Hope" series, written by Kerrie: https://storiesofhope.com.au/product/stories-of-hope-australia-books/.

With thanks to:

Music: "Pilgrims" by Daniel Pratt (artlist.io)

Editing & Production: Matthew Bliss ([email protected])

Mentioned in this episode:

Kerrie Atherton Offers Counselling Sessions to Support You

If the topics discussed in this episode resonate with you and you'd like to talk to someone, Kerrie Atherton is available for counselling sessions. Click the link to book a session with Kerrie today.

Book a Session with Kerrie Today

Some people fear mental health wards. Others carry trauma from being there. But for many, they’ve been a place of safety, healing, and hope. In this deeply moving conversation, I speak with Rhys Kirk, an occupational therapist and clinician who has worked on both long-term and acute psychiatric units, and whose heart for people absolutely shines through.

Rhys and I talk about what it’s really like behind those locked doors. He shares so honestly about the individuals he works with: people who’ve faced immense trauma, addiction, homelessness, and lifelong mental illness. He sees them not as diagnoses, but as humans deserving of dignity, purpose, and hope.

We also talk about compassion fatigue, self-care, and why it’s so important to know your own early warning signs. Rhys reminds us that recovery might not always be easy, but it is possible. And sometimes all it takes is someone sitting beside you, saying “I’m here.”

***

Thank you for listening to Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton.

Kerrie Atherton is an Inspiring Speaker, Professional Counsellor and Mental Health Coach. To find out more about "Stories of Hope: Worldwide", head to https://storiesofhope.com.au/.

Purchase books in the "Stories of Hope" series, written by Kerrie: https://storiesofhope.com.au/product/stories-of-hope-australia-books/.

With thanks to:

Music: "Pilgrims" by Daniel Pratt (artlist.io)

Editing & Production: Matthew Bliss ([email protected])

Mentioned in this episode:

Kerrie Atherton Offers Counselling Sessions to Support You

If the topics discussed in this episode resonate with you and you'd like to talk to someone, Kerrie Atherton is available for counselling sessions. Click the link to book a session with Kerrie today.

Book a Session with Kerrie Today

In this raw and courageous conversation, I speak with Paul Beardmore—a father, advocate, and speaker who has walked through unimaginable grief and injustice, yet continues to stand strong in hope.

Paul shares the harrowing story of being separated from his children, including the trauma of his son Lane’s life-altering brain injury (an incident Paul believes was never properly investigated), and the heartbreaking murder of his stepdaughter, for which no one has been held accountable to this day.

Through it all, Paul has fought tirelessly: for truth, for connection and, most of all, for his children. In this episode, we talk about parental alienation, the failings of the justice system, and the hidden toll these experiences take on fathers, families, and children. But we also talk about healing—how Paul has found strength through Lane’s resilient spirit, the power of a smile, the importance of support networks, and why hope is still the anchor he clings to.

This is a story of heartbreak, but also of incredible endurance. Paul’s message will touch your heart and offer a lifeline to anyone walking through their own battle right now.

***

Thank you for listening to Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton.

Kerrie Atherton is an Inspiring Speaker, Professional Counsellor and Mental Health Coach. To find out more about "Stories of Hope: Worldwide", head to https://storiesofhope.com.au/.

Purchase books in the "Stories of Hope" series, written by Kerrie: https://storiesofhope.com.au/product/stories-of-hope-australia-books/.

With thanks to:

Music: "Pilgrims" by Daniel Pratt (artlist.io)

Editing & Production: Matthew Bliss ([email protected])

Mentioned in this episode:

Kerrie Atherton Offers Counselling Sessions to Support You

If the topics discussed in this episode resonate with you and you'd like to talk to someone, Kerrie Atherton is available for counselling sessions. Click the link to book a session with Kerrie today.

Book a Session with Kerrie Today

In this deeply moving episode, I speak with Jen Hamer—an inspiring young woman who battled a life-threatening eating disorder from the age of 12. Jen opens up about the core beliefs that drove her illness, the pivotal moment she chose recovery over death, and the ongoing journey of healing and rediscovery.

Now completing a PhD focused on eating disorders in athletes and preparing to publish her first book Goodbye Anna, Jen is using her lived experience to spark change, foster understanding, and bring hope to others still in the struggle.

This conversation is a raw and powerful reminder that recovery is possible—and that your body is not your enemy, but your home. Whether you're facing your own challenges or supporting someone who is, Jen’s courage and wisdom will stay with you long after you listen.

Buy Jen's Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Goodbye-Anna-Jennifer-Ellen-Hamer-ebook/dp/B09PT6H3JQ

Check out Jen's Website: https://jenhamer.weebly.com/

***

Thank you for listening to Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton.

Kerrie Atherton is an Inspiring Speaker, Professional Counsellor and Mental Health Coach. To find out more about "Stories of Hope: Worldwide", head to https://storiesofhope.com.au/.

Purchase books in the "Stories of Hope" series, written by Kerrie: https://storiesofhope.com.au/product/stories-of-hope-australia-books/.

With thanks to:

Music: "Pilgrims" by Daniel Pratt (artlist.io)

Editing & Production: Matthew Bliss ([email protected])

Mentioned in this episode:

Kerrie Atherton Offers Counselling Sessions to Support You

If the topics discussed in this episode resonate with you and you'd like to talk to someone, Kerrie Atherton is available for counselling sessions. Click the link to book a session with Kerrie today.

Book a Session with Kerrie Today

AJ Williams grew up in public housing, surrounded by addiction, violence, and fear. By the age of 14, he was forced to leave home, carrying the weight of trauma no child should have to bear. But in this heartfelt and inspiring conversation, AJ shares how he found the courage to rise—not only building a successful business in the wellness space, but also becoming the kind of father, leader, and man he never had as a role model.

Kerrie Atherton sits down with AJ to talk about breaking generational cycles, discovering self-worth, and creating spaces—both physical and emotional—where people can begin to heal. From the power of sport and safe relationships to the moment he finally told his story publicly, AJ’s journey is a reminder that we are not defined by where we came from, but by the hope we choose to carry forward.

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s possible to rewrite your story, this episode will speak directly to your heart.

***

Thank you for listening to Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton.

Kerrie Atherton is an Inspiring Speaker, Professional Counsellor and Mental Health Coach. To find out more about "Stories of Hope: Worldwide", head to https://storiesofhope.com.au/.

Purchase books in the "Stories of Hope" series, written by Kerrie: https://storiesofhope.com.au/product/stories-of-hope-australia-books/.

With thanks to:

Music: "Pilgrims" by Daniel Pratt (artlist.io)

Editing & Production: Matthew Bliss ([email protected])

Mentioned in this episode:

Kerrie Atherton Offers Counselling Sessions to Support You

If the topics discussed in this episode resonate with you and you'd like to talk to someone, Kerrie Atherton is available for counselling sessions. Click the link to book a session with Kerrie today.

Book a Session with Kerrie Today

In this profoundly moving episode, Kerrie Atherton sits down with Danny Shannon—recovery coach, founder of Encapsulator, and a man who has defied the odds. After 17 years in the grip of heroin addiction, homelessness, prison, and nearly 50 attempts at rehab, Danny made one courageous decision on Christmas Day 2009 that changed his life forever.

Together, Kerrie and Danny explore the emotional and physical toll of addiction, the pain carried by Danny’s loved ones, and the confronting journey of early recovery. But at the heart of this conversation is a message of hope—of what’s possible when we keep showing up, even when everything feels broken.

Danny shares openly about his “rock-bottom” moments, the power of community, and how serving others became the cornerstone of his healing. His voice is one of lived experience, compassion, and transformation—and his mantra, “Don’t leave before the miracle happens,” is a powerful reminder that healing is always possible.

Whether you’re in recovery, supporting a loved one, or just needing a reminder that change can happen, this episode will meet you where you are with truth, courage, and hope.

***

Thank you for listening to Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton.

Kerrie Atherton is an Inspiring Speaker, Professional Counsellor and Mental Health Coach. To find out more about "Stories of Hope: Worldwide", head to https://storiesofhope.com.au/.

Purchase books in the "Stories of Hope" series, written by Kerrie: https://storiesofhope.com.au/product/stories-of-hope-australia-books/.

With thanks to:

Music: "Pilgrims" by Daniel Pratt (artlist.io)

Editing & Production: Matthew Bliss ([email protected])

Mentioned in this episode:

Kerrie Atherton Offers Counselling Sessions to Support You

If the topics discussed in this episode resonate with you and you'd like to talk to someone, Kerrie Atherton is available for counselling sessions. Click the link to book a session with Kerrie today.

Book a Session with Kerrie Today

Imagine the heartbreak of having your children kidnapped and taken overseas by an abusive ex-partner—and not knowing if you’ll ever see them again.

In this powerful episode, Kerrie Atherton speaks with Lizbeth Meredith, whose two young daughters were abducted and taken to Greece in an act of calculated violence and control. For two agonising years, Lizbeth fought tirelessly to bring them home, navigating broken systems, international borders, and unimaginable emotional pain.

But this is not just a story of loss—it’s a story of hope. Lizbeth shares how she rebuilt her life, how she found healing, and how the same strength that carried her through the darkest times has now become a beacon for others. With raw honesty and quiet courage, she reflects on forgiveness, resilience, and the unexpected beauty that can grow from devastation.

Watch the film inspired by Lizbeth’s Story:

“Stolen by their Father” (2022)

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Thank you for listening to Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton.

Kerrie Atherton is an Inspiring Speaker, Professional Counsellor and Mental Health Coach. To find out more about "Stories of Hope: Worldwide", head to https://storiesofhope.com.au/.

Purchase books in the "Stories of Hope" series, written by Kerrie: https://storiesofhope.com.au/product/stories-of-hope-australia-books/.

With thanks to:

Music: "Pilgrims" by Daniel Pratt (artlist.io)

Editing & Production: Matthew Bliss ([email protected])

Mentioned in this episode:

Kerrie Atherton Offers Counselling Sessions to Support You

If the topics discussed in this episode resonate with you and you'd like to talk to someone, Kerrie Atherton is available for counselling sessions. Click the link to book a session with Kerrie today.

Book a Session with Kerrie Today