Get to a Better Place and Be a hero

Get to a Better Place and Be a hero

What drives someone to seek a life without alcohol, anxiety, or the weight of past mistakes? In "Get to a Better Place and Be a Hero," Stephen Arterburn talks frankly about how real change starts today, not tomorrow, and why recovery is about who you're becoming, not just what you're giving up.

Drawing on decades of experience with the 12 steps and biblical principles, Steve lays out seven practical moves to get to a "place called better." You'll hear him stress the need to "give up whatever it is that you've been doing that hasn't worked," then slow down long enough to face the reality of your story, past and present.

He urges folks to stop going it alone, highlighting the value of groups, counsellors, and trusted people who can help you see what you can't see about yourself. There’s a strong focus on opening up about secrets, taking responsibility, and forgiving those who’ve caused hurt—without pretending what they did was okay. Steve explains that forgiving "is freeing myself" so you can stop reacting to old pain and start responding in healthier ways today.

In the second half, the conversation shifts to becoming a "hero" in recovery. Drawing on his book "The Soul of a Hero" with Dave Stoop and a quote from Henri Nouwen, Steve argues that feeling ill-equipped doesn’t disqualify anyone. Using Gideon’s story, he shows how an anxious, reluctant person can still do courageous things when they trust that God is resourcing them.

The tone is honest, practical, and gently humorous, with lines like "Inspiration without perspiration leaves us in desperation" reminding you that feeling inspired is only the start—action is where change happens. If you’ve ever wondered whether your pain could be turned into purpose, this episode might be the nudge you need to take one small step toward a better life and a braver version of yourself.