Kathryn Burgum: Breaking Stigma and Championing Recovery
Episode Overview
Kathryn Burgum shares her personal journey of recovery and advocacy, highlighting the transformative power of eliminating shame and stigma associated with addiction. She discusses the impact of initiatives such as Recovery Reinvented and emphasizes the importance of storytelling in breaking the silence around addiction. Kathryn's unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusivity in advocacy reflects her dedication to making a profound impact on the national stage. Her message of hope and support resonates with anyone facing similar struggles, emphasizing the power of reaching out for help and never giving up on the journey to recovery. The conversation captures the essence of resilience, empathy, and the transformative potential of sharing one's story to inspire change.
My message is really just don't ever give up hope. Reach out for resources as you never know where your life can be, and it can be 100% better.
Imagine staying silent about a major part of your life for fifteen years. That's what Kathryn Burgum, the First Lady of North Dakota, did with her recovery journey. In this episode of 'Let's Talk Addiction & Recovery', host William C. Moyers sits down with Kathryn to discuss how she turned her silence into a powerful voice for change. After meeting William at an event, she realized the simplest yet most profound solution to ending stigma: talking about it.
Kathryn's candid conversation reveals her personal battles and the steps she's taken to lead with both heart and head. She dives into her work with Recovery Reinvented, an initiative that aims to reshape public perception and policy around addiction. Her story is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the transformative power of sharing one's truth.
Whether you're on your own recovery journey or supporting someone who is, Kathryn's message offers a beacon of hope and a reminder that no one has to walk this path alone.