Arlina Allen

The One Day At A Time Recovery Podcast

Arlina Allen

  • 404 Healing After Tragic Loss Addiction and Public Shame

404 Healing After Tragic Loss Addiction and Public Shame

Wednesday 12th November 2025

Ashley Jo's journey from tragic loss and addiction to healing and sobriety is a powerful tale of resilience and hope.
Explicit
64 minutes
Inspiring
Honest
Hopeful
Healing
Compassionate

About this podcast

The One Day At A Time Recovery Podcast
Author:
Arlina Allen
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Family Recovery from Addiction
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
Creative Recovery Journeys
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Links:
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From Tragedy to Triumph: Ashley Jo's Story of Healing

Episode Overview

  • Grief can coexist with relief when a loved one passes.
  • Shame and secrecy can fuel addiction.
  • Self-forgiveness is crucial for healing.
  • Community support plays a vital role in recovery.
  • Sobriety can bring unexpected joy and freedom.
"Your best life is not that far away."
Ever wondered what it takes to turn unimaginable grief into a story of redemption? Meet Ashley Jo, whose life was shattered by the tragic loss of her young son, a crumbling marriage, and the depths of addiction. In this episode of The One Day At A Time Recovery Podcast, Ashley shares her journey from the lowest points of despair to finding solace in sobriety and faith.
Her candid conversation with host Arlina Allen uncovers the painful realities of grieving a child while battling public shame and addiction. Ashley talks about the devastating diagnosis of her son and the overwhelming relief mixed with sorrow she felt upon his passing. Her story is a testament to the destructive power of secrecy and shame in fueling addiction, as well as the liberating force of self-forgiveness.
With raw honesty, she recounts her "exit affair," a misguided attempt to escape a toxic marriage, and how it led to public humiliation and further isolation. The episode doesn't shy away from the darkest moments, including Ashley's attempts at suicide and her eventual realisation that there was more to life than the pain she was experiencing. Through therapy, community support, and a steadfast commitment to healing, Ashley found a way to rebuild her life.
Her story is a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with addiction or shame, proving that healing is possible, even after the most tragic losses. Ashley’s narrative is one of resilience, showing that it’s possible to dance in the kitchen with your kids again, laugh out loud, and find joy in sobriety.
Her journey is a powerful reminder that while you may be closer to tipping the scales towards healing than you think, it takes courage and perseverance to get there. So, can you forgive yourself for your mistakes? Ashley Jo's story might just inspire you to find out.
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