Tonja Myles: From Despair to Purpose
Episode Overview
Tonja Myles' transformation from addiction to activism. The importance of mental health and community support. Spiritual guidance as a tool for recovery. Overcoming personal trauma and finding purpose. Encouragement for others to seek healing and redemption.
Healing is your birthright because I hate addiction. It still kills and destroys, and what it does to families is horrific.
In this compelling episode of 'Sober on Purpose', Tanya Gioia hosts an in-depth conversation with Tonja Myles, a woman whose life story is a testament to resilience, healing, and purposeful living. Tonja, an ordained minister, community activist, certified peer support specialist, and veteran, shares her extraordinary journey from the depths of addiction to becoming a beacon of hope for those struggling with similar challenges.
Tonja Myles brings a unique perspective with her lived experiences as an addict, suicide survivor, and victim of childhood sexual abuse. Her book, 'From the Crack House to the White House', encapsulates her transformation and is soon to be adapted into a movie. Tonja's narrative is not just about personal victory but also about how she leverages her experiences to advocate for systemic changes that support mental wellness and community rehabilitation.
The episode dives into Tonja’s dedication to mental health, addressing the crisis with empathy and understanding by providing resources for families and individuals affected by addiction. Her ministry, grounded in Matthew 6:33, underscores the importance of seeking spiritual guidance alongside practical support. Tonja's story is one of hope and redemption, encouraging listeners to embrace healing as their birthright. She emphasizes the importance of being 'sober on purpose', not just for personal gain but to fulfill one's divine purpose.
Tonja underscores the significance of choosing resources that aid recovery rather than temporary escapes like addiction. Listeners are invited to connect with Tonja Myles through her online platforms and explore her book, gaining insights into how they can embark on their own paths of healing and purpose. The discussion concludes with a call to action for self-care, as Tonja herself continues to champion mental health and recovery, showing up even when life presents challenges.