Choosing to Live: Michael Allison on Facing the Past and Embracing the Future

What if the memory that saved your life came from a letter you almost forgot?

Michael Allison’s life has been anything but easy. From childhood abuse to combat in Iraq, the grief of loss to the silence of survival, Michael carried the weight of a thousand lifetimes before reaching a breaking point. Standing on a Florida bridge, he made a decision that would change everything.

In this powerful conversation, Michael shares how he:

• Faced the grief, guilt, and trauma he spent years avoiding
• Reclaimed his voice after decades of silence and survival
• Chose to stay – and turned that moment into purpose, service, and leadership

Michael’s story is a reminder that even in our darkest hour, something beautiful can still begin.

Your next chapter might be one decision away.

Michael W. Allison is a U.S. Marine Combat Veteran, Purple Heart recipient, TEDx speaker, best-selling author, and resilience coach who has transformed adversity into impact. After surviving a devastating VBIED car bomb attack in Iraq and navigating the aftermath of PTSD, TBI, and deep personal hardship, Michael reached a breaking point – but chose to stay. That decision became the foundation for his healing.

Now, as the Founder and CEO of The Adversity Academy, Michael empowers individuals and organizations to embrace resilience, rewire their mindset, and lead with purpose. His UN-Leadership and Break The Bottle – 3-D methodologies challenge conventional leadership paradigms and inspire growth through accountability, transformation, and mental strength. Michael has been featured by Microsoft, NBC, TEDx, ESPN, and VFW Magazine and speaks globally on personal reinvention, resilience, and overcoming limiting beliefs.

Listen to Michael’s story and rediscover what it means to stay, heal, and lead with heart.

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The Life Shift Podcast shares real, honest conversations about the pivotal moments that transform lives. Host Matt Gilhooly invites guests to explore the life-changing events, unexpected challenges, and personal awakenings that have shaped who they are today. 

Through candid storytelling, listeners discover powerful journeys of identity, resilience, grief, healing, and growth. If you’re drawn to personal growth stories, inspired by how people rebuild after loss, or fascinated by the quiet moments that spark profound change, The Life Shift offers heartfelt insight and inspiration. New episodes every Tuesday.

Listen in and find connection in the stories that make us who we are.

For more information, please visit: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com