Paul Beardmore: A Father’s Fight for Truth, Justice & Connection
Paul Beardmore’s journey is marked by unimaginable loss and unwavering strength. In this deeply affecting conversation, he opens up about being separated from his children, enduring the trauma of his son Lane’s brain injury, and the unresolved murder of his stepdaughter. Through it all, he remains a beacon of hope, love, and fierce advocacy for justice.
Goodbye Anna: Jen Hamer’s Journey from Eating Disorder to Empowerment
This conversation is more than a story—it’s a roadmap through pain and back to self-worth. Jen reminds us that healing isn’t about going back to who you were, but stepping into who you’re becoming. Her courage will resonate with anyone facing disordered eating, and her wisdom lingers long after the final word is spoken.
How AJ Williams Broke the Cycle of Trauma to become a Wellness Entrepreneur
At just 12 years old, Jen Hamer began battling a life-threatening eating disorder. Years of silent suffering gave way to recovery, resilience, and a powerful mission. Now a PhD candidate and upcoming author, Jen shares how she turned pain into purpose—and why your body, no matter its past, can become your home again.
Don’t Leave Before The Miracle Happens: How Danny Shannon Overcame Addiction
With raw vulnerability, Danny and Kerrie explore addiction’s ripple effects on loved ones and self-worth. Danny’s mantra, “Don’t leave before the miracle happens,” threads this powerful conversation—a call to stay, to fight, and to believe in change. This episode is a reminder that the darkest moments often lead to the brightest awakenings.
Stolen but not Lost: How Lizbeth Meredith Escaped her Abuser and Saved her Children
Lizbeth’s story is not just about survival—it’s about transformation. From trauma to advocacy, she now shines a light on coercive control and the realities of parental abduction. Through writing, speaking, and supporting other survivors, Lizbeth proves that the human spirit is unbreakable—and that love and determination can overcome even the greatest loss.
From Nightclub Bouncer to Ballet Braider: Breaking Parenting Norms with Michael Ray
In a culture that undervalues fathers, Michael Ray is rewriting the narrative. From courtrooms to classrooms, he advocates for equal parenting and emotional presence. His journey reminds us that strength isn’t about being hard—it’s about showing up, staying open, and becoming the safe place you once needed.
Former NRL Star’s Addiction and the Hope from Seeking Help
Addiction nearly cost Liam Knight everything. But through honest reflection and support, he rebuilt his life—choosing sobriety, healing, and purpose. In this conversation, he confronts stigma, challenges toxic masculinity, and redefines strength as emotional honesty. His story proves that redemption isn’t just possible—it’s powerful.
Overcoming PTSD with Vulnerability and Winning at the Invictus Games with Ben Farinazzio
For over a decade, Ben Farinazzo suffered in silence, masking trauma with stoicism. A life-changing accident shattered that facade and ignited a path toward mental health recovery. From hospitalization to Invictus glory, Ben’s story is a powerful reminder that resilience is born from our most vulnerable moments.
Surviving the Bataclan Terrorist Attack & Finding Hope – Ferry Zandvliet
Ferry Zandvliet survived the 2015 Bataclan terrorist attack in Paris. In this episode, he shares his journey through PTSD and how he rebuilt his life after trauma. His story reveals the power of therapy, connection, and courage in turning pain into purpose and stands as a testament to hope after unimaginable tragedy.
The Double Life: From Functional Addict to Hope – Dave Stewart
Dave Stewart once lived a double life as a functional addict, hiding his struggles behind a polished exterior. In this episode, he shares how hitting rock bottom forced him to confront the truth and seek real change. His recovery story is a testament to courage, honesty, and the hope that emerges when life is rebuilt on authenticity.
Testimonials
“Stories of Hope is one of the best community events on the Sunshine Coast, it’s monthly gathering at The Sands Tavern Maroochydore is free and it brings the local community together in a safe environment where people get to share their stories of hope such as overcoming tragedy, family loss, addiction, mental illness, overcoming serious injury or sickness to name a few.
The host/creator of Stories of Hope Kerrie Atherton does an amazing job, do yourself a favour and come to the next event.”
I’m so glad I was introduced to Stories of Hope and last night was so inspirational to hear two different stories of resilience and hope. I’m sure everyone who attended went home with a message of hope and understanding that no matter how difficult life can get for us, there is always hope we can hang onto. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of it.
The message that “you are not alone” is a cry from Kerrie Atherton’s heart. By hearing the stories, one can feel secure in the knowledge that there are others out there who have overcome challenging circumstances. A marvellous divinely inspired imitative that ignites hope and courage to press on in life. Potentially life changing!”
“I first went to Stories of HOPE in March 2017 after coming through a serious illness. It was so good to feel a part of something so special – ordinary people sharing extraordinary life experiences & how they overcame the difficulties they faced. It is wonderful to see how the event has grown in the last year, the stories are inspiring & connect people on so many levels.
It truly shows what happens when someone finds their passion & purpose in life through their own suffering. Awesome 
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