Kevin Hourigan's Addiction Recovery Story: From the Priesthood to Purpose Through Recovery
In Episode 4 of The Real Story, host Michael Silverman sits down with Kevin Hourigan for an honest conversation about addiction, faith, resilience, and the life-changing power of recovery.
Kevin's journey is one of extraordinary transformation. Raised in a loving family with dreams of becoming a Catholic priest, he never imagined addiction would alter the course of his life. After years of struggling with alcohol use, the loss of his path to the priesthood, an HIV diagnosis, and a near-fatal battle with addiction, Kevin found hope in recovery and dedicated his life to helping others do the same.
Today, nearly two decades sober, Kevin shares how faith, service, and community helped him rebuild his life and why he believes recovery is possible for everyone.
About This Episode
Addiction doesn't discriminate.
Kevin Hourigan's story reminds us that substance use disorders can affect anyone, regardless of their upbringing, education, career aspirations, or faith. Despite growing up in a supportive home and pursuing a calling to the priesthood, Kevin struggled with fear, isolation, and alcoholism that gradually progressed over many years.
During this powerful conversation, Kevin reflects on the challenges that shaped his life, including losing his opportunity to become a priest, living with HIV for more than three decades, surviving a near-fatal medical crisis, and ultimately finding lasting recovery.
Now celebrating nearly 20 years of sobriety, Kevin serves others through his work at Mike's Place, helping individuals in early recovery discover that healing is possible one day at a time. His story is a testament to perseverance, faith, and the belief that no life is beyond hope.
Guest Speaker: Kevin Hourigan
Title: Residential Manager | Mike's Place
Kevin Hourigan is a recovery advocate and Residential Manager at Mike's Place, where he supports individuals navigating early recovery from substance use disorders. After surviving decades of addiction, living with HIV, and overcoming a life-threatening medical crisis, Kevin has dedicated his life to helping others build meaningful, lasting recovery.
Approaching 20 years clean and sober, Kevin combines lived experience with compassion, faith, and service to mentor those beginning their recovery journey. His work reflects his belief that addiction is an illness—not a moral failure—and that every person deserves the opportunity to heal, rebuild relationships, and discover purpose beyond addiction.
Watch the Full Episode
A Memorable Moment from the Episode
Kevin challenges one of the biggest misconceptions surrounding addiction by reminding viewers that substance use disorder is an illness, not a character flaw. Through his own experiences, he explains why compassion, education, and treatment are far more effective than shame or judgment when helping someone begin recovery.
— Kevin Hourigan
After surviving addiction, HIV, and a near-death experience, Kevin's life stands as a testament to the power of recovery. His message is simple but profound: no matter how difficult life may seem today, healing is possible with support, faith, and a willingness to accept help.