#4 Anthony Alvarado: Founder of Rise Together, Empowering Change Through Authentic Storytelling

In this episode, Anthony shares his experience, strength, and hope as a man with 16 years in addiction recovery. He’s dedicated his life to traveling around the country to talk to young people about mental health, addiction recovery, and the power of owning your story. On May 17th, 2020, Anthony lost his 17 year old son Gavyn, to an accidental drug overdose. He shares his pain through grief and loss of losing a child as well as his commitment to carrying out his mission in Gavyn’s honor. Just three months ago, Anthony, his fiance Nadine, and their 21 month old son Aidyn, moved form Wisconsin to Florida to fulfill some of their life long dreams and a desire to continue evolving. He wants everyone to know:* You’re not alone.* You’re allowed to ask for help.* You matter.Anthony Alvarado is a speaker, coach, and founder who has spent over a decade helping people feel seen, heard, and empowered to lead change. As the co-founder of RISE TOGETHER, his youth-driven work has reached over 300,000 students and adults across 25+ states — combining peer-led education, storytelling, and research to spark real impact. Through his coaching and facilitation work, Anthony helps leaders, creatives, and changemakers reconnect with their purpose, release burnout, and reset the story they're living in. Whether on stage or in small group circles, his mission remains the same: to create spaces where healing, leadership, and hope can grow.https://www.anthonyalvarado.com/https://weallrisetogether.org/about-us/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kelleykitley.substack.com