A single act of kindness can change a kid’s entire trajectory, and Rich Dunning proves it. We sit down with International Book Award winner Rich Dunning for a raw, deeply human conversation about childhood trauma, domestic violence, homelessness, and what it takes to keep showing up for life when you’re carrying fear in your body. From the unforgettable “hat” moment with a caring teacher to the mentors who planted steady, hopeful seeds, Rich shares how dignity and safety can appear in the smallest windows and still leave a lifelong mark.
Then we follow the story into adulthood, where outward success in a high-pressure career hides a private battle with alcohol addiction. Rich breaks down what alcohol gave him at first, how it escalated into blackout drinking, and the terrifying rock-bottom moment that led to surrender, sobriety, and a long, real healing process. We talk Alcoholics Anonymous, rehab, therapy, the 12 steps, and why “the steps completed me” isn’t a slogan, it’s a way of living.
We also make space for the people who love the alcoholic, including the role of Al-Anon, rebuilding trust in marriage, and setting firm boundaries with abusive family members when forgiveness isn’t simple. Rich closes with the mission behind his memoir Silence Was My First Language and the First Language Foundation, created to turn pain into purpose for teens and young adults facing hunger, homelessness, violence, grooming, and addiction. If this conversation helps you, subscribe, share it with someone who needs hope, and leave a review so more people can find it.
