by Kerrie Atherton | Dec 1, 2025 | Depression, Mental Health, Podcasts, Stories of Hope
In this second part of my conversation with former undercover cop Todd Maguire, we go deeper into the double life he led as “Donny”: the persona he created to escape the unbearable grief after Karen’s suicide.
Todd takes us inside the hidden world of drugs, bikie clubs and constant danger, and shares honestly about the death wish that followed him into every risky situation. Behind the cool exterior was a broken young man who secretly hoped he wouldn’t make it home, because staying alive felt harder than the thought of dying.
Todd also opens up about the heavy cost of that life – the nightmares, PTSD, anger, isolation and the impact on his relationship with Peter, who would later become his wife. A powerful turning point came when he talked a man off a cliff and was suddenly confronted with the ripple effect of suicide and the pain it leaves behind.
Today, Todd is a husband, dad, coach and author, using his story to bring hope and understanding to others. If you or someone you love has been touched by suicide, depression or trauma, I truly believe Todd’s story will speak straight to your heart. He is a living example that even after deep loss, danger and despair, hope and purpose are still possible.
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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 (https://www.mbpod.com)
by Kerrie Atherton | Nov 17, 2025 | Addiction, Depression, Mental Health, Podcasts
In this first part of my conversation with Todd McGuire, we go back to what seemed like a pretty ordinary Aussie life. Todd grew up a Brisbane boy who loved his footy, his family and the freedom of riding his bike from sunup to sundown. He never set out to be a cop, and he certainly never imagined his life would one day be divided into before 2000 and after 2000.
Todd shares how he found his way from hospitality into the police force, and then into a relationship with Karen – the woman he describes as absolutely mesmerising – and the special bond he formed with her little boy. He speaks honestly about their unexpected pregnancy, the decision to terminate, and the quiet guilt and questions that followed.
Then Todd takes us to New Year’s Day 2000, when he came home from night shift and later walked downstairs to find that Karen had taken her own life. What he describes from that moment on is raw and heartbreaking – the shock, the trauma, the black dog of depression, and feeling like his own life had ended that day too.
This episode is tender and confronting, but it’s also an important part of Todd’s bigger story. In Part 2, we’ll meet “Donnie”, the undercover cop he became to escape his pain, and we’ll talk about how he slowly began to find hope again. If you’re walking through grief or feeling lost in the darkness, I want you to know as you listen: you are not alone, and there is always hope.
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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 (https://www.mbpod.com)
by Kerrie Atherton | Oct 20, 2025 | Depression, Mental Health, Podcasts, Stories of Hope, Thoughts, vulnerability
The story of Steve Hodgson burnout recovery mental health first aid coach is a powerful reminder that even when life feels impossible, healing and renewal are possible. Once a top real estate agent, husband, and father of five, Steve’s success masked a hidden struggle with exhaustion, stress, and identity loss. The constant pressure of workaholism, community expectations, and family responsibility eventually drove him into deep burnout. His story shows how courage, honesty, and the willingness to let go can transform the darkest of times.
Childhood and Early Dreams
Raised in a family built on service and care, Steve’s parents instilled in him the value of helping others. That calling guided him into business and community leadership, where he was admired for his work ethic and generosity. But beneath the surface, the endless demands and the need to be everything to everyone began taking their toll.
Burnout and Breakdown
By 2018, Steve was overwhelmed. His memory faltered, his energy collapsed, and his health suffered. Despite doctor’s visits and trial medications, nothing seemed to bring relief. As he battled depression, anxiety, and chronic fatigue, Steve wrestled with identity loss: without his career, who was he? The breakdown challenged everything he thought he knew about himself and forced him to confront the hidden cost of saying “yes” to everyone else while saying “no” to his own wellbeing.
Turning Point and Recovery
Through honesty, support, and the difficult choice to step back from real estate, Steve found the space to rebuild. Therapy, lifestyle changes, and eventually the right medication gave him the strength to heal. Most importantly, he discovered the power of presence, gratitude, and connection. By learning to slow down, to say “no” when needed, and to prioritise his health, Steve turned burnout into breakthrough.
A New Life of Purpose
Today, the story of Steve Hodgson burnout recovery mental health first aid coach is a beacon of hope. No longer defined by titles or performance, Steve lives with authenticity and balance. He now works as a coach, podcaster, and certified mental health first aid trainer, helping others recognise the signs of burnout, build resilience, and find recovery. His passion is simple but profound: to remind people that they are not alone, and that healing is always possible.
Why His Story Matters
Steve’s journey speaks to anyone who has ever felt trapped by work, identity, or the pressure to keep going no matter the cost. His voice is a call for men and women alike to step off the treadmill, to seek help, and to believe that life after burnout can be rich with meaning, joy, and connection.
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by Kerrie Atherton | Oct 6, 2025 | Counselling, Mental Health, Podcasts, Stories of Hope, Teenagers, Thoughts
The story of Leeson Timms toxic masculinity loneliness young men mental health Man Cave hope is a powerful reminder of why connection and compassion matter. At just 22, Leeson has already faced the deep struggles of isolation, harmful online influence, and despair. Yet through courage, community, and the love of those who stood by him, he now works to create safe spaces where boys can speak honestly, break down stigma, and discover healthier ways of being.
Childhood and Struggles
Leeson grew up with a strong role model in his father, who taught him the importance of respect for women and accountability. But when COVID struck during his final years of school, his world changed dramatically. With basketball and friendships taken away, long hours online began to shape his identity. Loneliness and disconnection deepened, and the devastating loss of a friend to suicide left him broken and questioning everything. Leeson did what so many young men do—he told the world he was “fine,” while inside he was struggling to survive.
Breaking Point and Healing
In the midst of grief and suicidal thoughts, one person gave Leeson permission to feel and the courage to keep going. That simple act of compassion became life-saving, showing him the power of connection and reminding him that emotions are not weakness. Over time, Leeson realised the importance of role models and healthy community. Instead of listening to toxic narratives online, he began to seek meaning in helping others and opening conversations that too often stay hidden.
The Man Cave and a New Vision
Today, Leeson works with The Man Cave, a preventative mental health charity creating safe, transformative spaces for teenage boys in schools. Through storytelling, rites of passage, and authentic conversation, The Man Cave helps boys break free from limiting stereotypes, embrace emotional awareness, and step into healthier versions of manhood. Leeson has already worked with thousands of boys, reminding them that they don’t need to have it all together—they just need to start talking.
Why His Story Matters
The story of Leeson Timms toxic masculinity loneliness young men mental health Man Cave hope shows how one young man turned his pain into purpose. By sharing openly about grief, online influences, and redefining success, Leeson offers parents, teachers, and young people a message of hope. His life proves that even in a world of toxic pressures, a different path is possible when we choose compassion, curiosity, and connection.
by Kerrie Atherton | Sep 22, 2025 | Counselling, Family, Mental Health, Podcasts, Stories of Hope
The Story of Tim Smith: Resilience, Survival, and Hope
The story of Tim Smith resilience prison survival suicide loss recovery hope is a powerful reminder that even the deepest wounds can be transformed into strength. From a small-town boy in Queensland to life overseas, drug smuggling, incarceration in the United States, the devastating loss of his brother to suicide, and the struggle of starting again, Tim’s journey is as heartbreaking as it is inspiring. His story shows us that resilience and hope can emerge even from the darkest chapters.
Childhood and Struggles
Tim grew up in central Queensland, where he faced bullying, dyslexia, and the painful weight of feeling like he didn’t belong. As a young man, he set out in search of adventure and found himself caught up in the underworld of drug smuggling. His risky choices led to prison in the U.S., where he not only endured isolation but also received the devastating news of his mother’s death while behind bars.
Prison and Profound Loss
Prison was not just about confinement—it became a crucible where Tim faced unimaginable grief. Returning to Australia, he discovered his brother had taken his own life while he was away. Layer upon layer of loss and trauma weighed heavily, leaving Tim battling despair and suicidal thoughts of his own. Yet even in this pain, moments of connection, honesty, and shared humanity gave him glimpses of light.
Recovery and Turning Points
Tim’s healing didn’t come overnight. He sought help, leaned into counselling, and found an unexpected lifeline in the love of his dogs. Their companionship gave him a reason to get up each morning, to walk, and to reconnect with the world around him. He slowly began to rebuild, one step at a time, proving that Tim Smith resilience prison survival suicide loss recovery hope is more than a phrase—it is his lived reality.
Why His Story Matters
Today, Tim speaks with candour and courage about mental health, suicide loss, and the importance of kindness. He reminds us to be good to ourselves and to each other, and that even small acts of compassion can make a world of difference. His story is not just about surviving trauma—it’s about choosing to live with purpose and to spread hope wherever we can.
by Kerrie Atherton | Aug 25, 2025 | Mental Health, Podcasts, Stories of Hope
The story of Dinesh Palipana Disability Resilience is a powerful reminder that life after loss is possible. After a car accident left him a quadriplegic, Dinesh faced depression, loss of identity, and overwhelming obstacles. His recovery journey shows how resilience, hope, and purpose can grow even after tragedy.
The Accident and Struggle
In one life-changing moment, Dinesh went from medical student to spinal cord injury survivor. His physical challenges were immense, but the emotional toll was even greater. Depression and despair threatened to derail his future. Yet his decision to keep going began a journey that redefined what resilience means.
The Return to Medicine
Despite the odds, Dinesh returned to medical school. He became Queensland’s first quadriplegic medical intern. His achievements prove that disability does not limit ability. His resilience and determination turned what seemed impossible into reality.
Advocacy and Disability Rights
Today, Dinesh is a doctor, advocate, and speaker. He campaigns for disability rights, champions mental health awareness, and inspires global audiences. His leadership demonstrates that resilience transforms personal struggle into collective hope.
Why His Story Matters
Dinesh Palipana Disability Resilience is not just about overcoming injury. It is about reshaping society’s view of disability and inspiring others to believe in their own strength. His voice echoes a vital truth: freedom after loss is possible when we choose courage.
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