In this profoundly moving episode of Midlife Catalyst, Amanda Younts sits down with Emily Williams Kelley—an assistant principal, mother, and woman in long-term recovery—for an honest and vulnerable conversation about what it takes to keep showing up when no one is watching.
Emily shares how the sudden loss of her father in 2002 pushed her deeper into alcoholism, and how, after years of struggle and multiple rock bottoms, she began her journey to sobriety on April 21, 2009. From there, life continued to test her resolve: her brother’s cancer diagnosis and passing, her mother’s battle with breast cancer, and the emotional weight of leading through personal heartbreak.
One story, in particular, lingers—about the early days of recovery when she would deliberately drive in the center lane to avoid passing liquor stores. That simple, quiet act captures so much of what leadership and healing actually look like: the smallest decisions, made with great integrity, when no one else is watching.
Together, we explore:
The real cost of grief and the long shadow it can cast on our lives
A few key takeaways:
You don’t have to be perfect to be a powerful leader—you just have to keep showing up
Sobriety isn’t one big decision, but a thousand small ones made with intention
Real integrity is quiet—it happens in moments no one sees but you
Support, faith, and community are essential to healing and staying grounded
Leading with your whole heart—especially when life is messy—is a radical act of courage
Whether you're navigating your own recovery, grieving the loss of someone you love, or simply trying to lead with more heart and honesty, Emily’s story is a powerful reminder that integrity isn’t a performance—it’s a practice.
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