Turning Pain Into Purpose: Harrison James on Surviving Child Sexual Abuse and Making A Difference

Content warning: This episode contains discussions of child sexual abuse, domestic violence, mental health and suicide which some listeners may find distressing. Resources can be found below.

In this raw and real conversation, Harrison James joins Osher Gunsberg to tell his remarkable story of surviving years of child sexual abuse at the hands of his stepmother, overcoming unimaginable trauma, and transforming that pain into a mission that's creating lasting change within the justice system.

Harrison speaks candidly about the grooming and abuse he endured as a teenager, including fathering a child at just 15, only to have that same child ripped from his life, the devastating impact it had on his mental health, and the long road to healing. Together, they explore the many myths surrounding child sexual abuse continue that persist, particularly for male survivors, and why these conversations are essential if we are to better protect children and support victim survivors.

The discussion also shines a light on hope as Harrison shares how therapy, community, and practical tools such as writing unsent letters helped him reclaim his life. His advocacy has led to legislative reform across Australia, abolishing the use of good character references during sentencing for convicted offenders in multiple jurisdictions. It's an honest, confronting and deeply moving episode about resilience, recovery and purpose.

SUPPORT:
If this episode raises concerns for yourself or a loved one, help is available:

• 1800 RESPECT - 1800 737 732 or https://1800respect.org.au
• Lifeline - 13 11 14 or https://www.lifeline.org.au
• Beyond Blue - https://www.beyondblue.org.au

LINKS

• Harrison's book 'Transform Your Pain into Purpose' is out now
• Follow Harrison (@itsharrijames) on Instagram
• Sign up to the Better Than Yesterday newsletter
• Watch episodes of Better Than Yesterday on YouTube
• Watch full stories recorded live at Story Club on YouTube
• Get tickets for our next Story Club show
• Get Osher's latest books here
• Send a pic of what you're looking at to sendosheremail@gmail.com

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