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Women of Impact

Are You Addicted to Emotional Pain? 5 Steps to Stop the Spiral | Cheryl Burke (Fan Fav)

May 4, 2025
Cheryl Burke, a professional dancer and sobriety advocate, shares her transformative journey from battling addiction to embracing self-acceptance. She opens up about her experiences as a 'functioning alcoholic' and the deep-rooted childhood trauma that impacted her life. Topics like body dysmorphia, self-awareness, and rewriting personal narratives are discussed. Cheryl emphasizes the importance of healing, reminding listeners it's never too late to choose oneself and break free from destructive patterns.
35:02

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Cheryl Burke's journey reveals the profound impact of childhood trauma on self-worth and the necessity of confronting past pains for healing.
  • The importance of surrounding oneself with supportive relationships and engaging in open conversations about vulnerabilities is crucial for lasting recovery.

Deep dives

Overcoming Addiction and Shame

The speaker shares a personal journey of realizing the dangers of addiction, particularly to alcohol, which was initially used as a coping mechanism to quiet self-doubt and anxiety. Growing up in a tumultuous environment with an alcoholic father and experiencing trauma from a young age deeply affected their understanding of love and self-worth. The listener learns how substances can numb pain, but ultimately exacerbate a cycle of shame and guilt, particularly when faced with public scrutiny as a celebrity. This acknowledgment of the underlying issues surrounding addiction is pivotal as they discuss reclaiming their identity and navigating the pressure to conform to external expectations.

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