by Kerrie Atherton | Aug 11, 2025 | Mental Health, Podcasts, Stories of Hope
Tes Cruz’s world was shattered when she lost her husband—a devastating loss that brought grief, isolation, and overwhelming pain. In the depths of her struggle, she faced the crushing weight of mental health challenges that many experience but few speak about openly. Yet from this heartbreak, Tes discovered her mission: to become a voice and an advocate for mental health.
In this deeply moving episode of Stories of Hope – Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton, Tes shares her personal journey of grief and the process of rebuilding life after loss. She opens up about the stigma around mental health, especially in the wake of tragedy, and why she chose to transform her suffering into service.
Tes now dedicates her life to helping others who are navigating mental health struggles. By speaking publicly and advocating for change, she shines a light on the importance of awareness, compassion, and accessible support. Her courage not only honors her late husband but also inspires countless others to seek help and know they are not alone.
Her story demonstrates the power of turning pain into purpose. Tes Cruz reminds us that even in the darkest moments, hope can be reborn—not by ignoring grief, but by allowing it to fuel a mission of healing.
This episode is a tribute to resilience and the human capacity to rise from loss with renewed determination to help others find the light.
by Kerrie Atherton | Jul 14, 2025 | Addiction, Podcasts, Stories of Hope
Danny Lloyd’s life once revolved around addiction, chaos, and despair. Like so many caught in the grip of substance abuse, he fought silently against a powerful force that threatened to consume everything he loved. Yet his story did not end in destruction—it became a journey of resilience, service, and hope.
In this inspiring episode of Stories of Hope – Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton, Danny shares openly about his battles with addiction and the turning point that set him on a new course. Through honesty, vulnerability, and determination, he rebuilt his life brick by brick, discovering along the way that recovery is not only about leaving substances behind—it is about creating meaning, purpose, and connection.
Danny has since dedicated himself to selfless service, supporting others who walk the difficult road of recovery. His story reveals that healing is amplified when we turn outward, becoming a source of encouragement for those still struggling. By embracing this mission, Danny calls himself a “Soldier of Hope,” a reminder that every victory in recovery can ripple outward and inspire change.
This episode shows us that addiction does not have the final word. With courage, honesty, and the will to serve others, new life is possible. Danny Lloyd’s story is a beacon for all who need to know that no matter how deep the darkness, there is always a way forward.
by Kerrie Atherton | Nov 4, 2024 | Mental Health, Podcasts, Stories of Hope
For generations, men have often been taught to stay silent about their struggles, carrying heavy burdens in isolation. Mike McCarthy knows this reality too well. In this compelling episode of Stories of Hope – Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton, he shares his journey of confronting stigma, speaking openly, and building spaces where men can find strength in vulnerability.
Mike’s story shines a light on the hidden battles men face—depression, anxiety, and the crushing expectation to “tough it out.” By daring to break his silence, he discovered that openness is not weakness but courage in action. His honesty invites other men to step beyond outdated cultural norms and find freedom in telling their truth.
Throughout the conversation, Mike explains how speaking up reshaped his relationships and his own mental wellbeing. He also shares the importance of community and safe spaces where men can support one another without judgment. His message is simple yet powerful: silence keeps us trapped, while honesty and connection open the door to healing.
This episode stands as both testimony and call to action. Men everywhere are reminded that they do not have to fight their battles alone. By sharing his story, Mike McCarthy helps dismantle stigma and inspires a movement toward healthier, more open conversations around men’s mental health.
by joshua@joshuatberglan.com | Oct 28, 2024 | lived experience, Podcasts, Stories of Hope
In 2015, Nepal was struck by one of the most devastating earthquakes in its history, leaving destruction, loss, and trauma in its wake. Among the survivors was Michelle McFadyen, whose life was forever changed by that harrowing experience. What began as an adventure became a fight for survival and a story of resilience that continues to inspire today.
In this heartfelt episode of Stories of Hope – Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton, Michelle shares her vivid account of the disaster and its aftermath. She describes the chaos and fear of those moments, the loss she witnessed, and the courage it took to push forward in such overwhelming circumstances. Through her words, listeners gain an intimate view of how trauma can alter one’s perspective on life.
But Michelle’s story is not only about survival—it is about transformation. Emerging from tragedy, she found a deeper appreciation for connection, gratitude, and the strength of the human spirit. Her resilience demonstrates how even the darkest moments can spark growth, empathy, and renewed purpose.
This episode is a powerful reminder that while natural disasters can devastate communities and lives, they also reveal extraordinary human strength. Michelle’s journey invites us to reflect on our own ability to endure hardship and to discover the light that can be found even in the rubble.
by Kerrie Atherton | Oct 21, 2024 | Mental Health, Podcasts, Stories of Hope
Tim Hickey’s journey through the music industry is marked by incredible highs and devastating lows. As a talented musician navigating a fast-paced, pressure-filled environment, Tim faced the often-hidden toll that the industry can take on mental health. Behind the bright lights and constant performances lay a world of emotional strain, isolation, and the pressure to maintain a perfect image.
In this inspiring episode of Stories of Hope – Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton, Tim shares openly about his battles with mental health. He describes the challenges of trying to remain resilient in an environment that rarely pauses for recovery or reflection. His story reveals how the industry’s demands can magnify vulnerability, making it difficult to find balance between passion and wellbeing.
Yet within the hardship lies resilience. Tim chose to speak out and embrace strategies that helped him manage his mental health. He leaned on supportive communities, sought professional guidance, and rebuilt routines that allowed him to thrive without sacrificing his love for music. His journey illustrates that hope can flourish even in the most competitive and challenging environments.
This episode is a reminder to musicians, creatives, and anyone living under high expectations that mental health matters more than appearances. Tim Hickey’s courage to tell his story is an invitation for others to speak up, seek help, and believe that recovery is possible. By sharing both the struggles and the victories, he shows how vulnerability can become strength and how openness can inspire others to find freedom.
