Dr. Robb Kelly's story is one of the most powerful transformations ever shared on The Life Shift Podcast. Once a successful musician who lost everything to addiction, he found himself homeless on the streets of Manchester — until one moment changed everything.
Today, Dr. Kelly is a recovery expert and founder of the Robb Kelly Recovery Group, helping thousands of people heal from addiction, trauma, and self-sabotage. In this episode, he opens up about the night he nearly gave up, the stranger who saved his life, and the faith and science that guided his recovery.
This conversation will remind you that it's never too late to change your life, to forgive yourself, and to become perfectly imperfect.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- Why childhood trauma is the hidden root of addiction
- How surrender can open the door to transformation
- The real meaning of "perfectly imperfect" recovery
- How small acts of kindness can ripple out and save lives
- Why identity is at the heart of healing
Guest Bio:
Dr. Robb Kelly, PhD, is a sought-after recovery expert who treats the causes of addiction rather than the symptoms. He has appeared on The Doctors and Good Morning Texas, and his work has been featured in research on mental health stigma at Harvard's McLean Hospital. He is the CEO of the Robb Kelly Recovery Group and author of Daddy, Daddy Please Stop Drinking.
Guest Links:
Website: https://robbkelly.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drrobbkelly
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrRobbKelly
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drrobbkelly
Podcast: Breaking Through Addiction
Dr Robb Kelly recovery, addiction and trauma, healing from alcoholism, surrender and hope, overcoming shame, mental health recovery, kindness and connection, identity and healing, The Life Shift Podcast
Timestamps
00:00 The night everything changed
08:00 Early signs of trauma and addiction
15:00 The moment of surrender
22:00 Losing identity and finding purpose
33:00 The power of forgiveness
44:00 Small acts of kindness that save lives
50:00 Reuniting with his daughter and granddaughter
55:00 A message to anyone who feels lost
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Rob recounts a harrowing moment from his past, revealing the destructive grip of his **alcoholism** that led to a violent confrontation. This raw account illustrates the severe impact a **drinking problem** can have, not only on an individual but also on their closest **relationships**. It’s a stark reminder of the depths of **addiction** and the potential for **violence** when struggling with substance use.
