The Double Life: How a Functional Addict hit Rock-Bottom and found Hope with Dave Stewart

Humans of HOPE: Inspiring Stories with Kerrie Atherton

Dave Stewart is an accomplished author and a dedicated advocate for those affected by addiction and homelessness. With a professional background in corporate sales of underground power cables across Asia and Australia, Dave made a dramatic shift in his life when he left the corporate world in 2013 to work with the Wayside Chapel, a notable organization that supports vulnerable communities.

Currently, he works with The Nature Conservancy, focusing on land and water conservation. Dave, a man of Wiradjuri heritage, takes pride in his cultural identity, which deeply influences his work and perspective. Having battled with alcoholism and substance abuse for years, Dave has emerged as a voice of hope and resilience, sharing his story to guide others on their path to recovery. He has achieved long-term sobriety since May 7, 1998, and continues to inspire through his writing, including his autobiographical works and his novel "Pilgrim."

In this episode, Dave Stewart joins host Kerrie Atherton to share his journey through addiction, recovery, and personal growth. Dave candidly discusses his lifelong struggles with alcohol, its pervasive impact on Australian society, and the dangerous misconceptions surrounding binge drinking. He reflects on his own rock-bottom moments, including multiple stints in rehabilitation and the drastic measures he took to maintain his sobriety.

The conversation delves deeply into the emotional and psychological toll of addiction, the importance of personal recovery, and the ongoing battle against shame and low self-worth. Throughout the episode, Dave also emphasizes the significance of empathy, human connection, and the power of routine and self-care in sustaining a healthy, sober life.

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

Kerrie Atherton is an inspiring speaker and supporter of her community. 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/.

If you'd like to donate to the Kintsugi Heroes mission, head to https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/donate.

With thanks to:

Music: "Pilgrims" by Daniel Pratt

Editing & Production: Matthew Bliss ([e-mail])

General Support: Ian Westmoreland (https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au)