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Writer's pictureAnthony Alvarado

A Year of Healing, Growth, and Impact: Rediscovering Purpose

Updated: Nov 18

It’s been nearly a year since my last personal blog, and wow—what a year it’s been. Life has challenged me, stretched me, and reminded me why I do what I do. From becoming a new dad to speaking to thousands of students, capturing untold stories, and diving into self-care, this year has been all about growth, creativity, and connection.



I’ve been busy building, healing, and stepping into new opportunities with confidence and purpose. Here’s a look at what’s been keeping me inspired—and what’s next.


Healing and Showing Up


This year, I’ve embraced a healing journey that’s been long overdue. Between yoga, stretching, breathwork, meditation, working out, and prioritizing good sleep, I’ve committed to showing up for myself in ways I hadn’t before.



These practices have taught me how to let go of what’s beyond my control and embrace what’s possible. They’ve grounded me during big transitions—whether navigating fatherhood or moving on from professional projects—and helped me stay confident even in moments of doubt.


Speaking to Over 14,000 Students


Standing in front of over 14,000 students this past year, from one coast to another, has been a humbling reminder of why I do this work. Talking about mental health, addiction recovery, and the power of owning your story isn’t just a job—it’s my passion. Vulnerability creates connection, and those connections change lives.



One moment stands out: A student came up to me after a presentation and said, “I didn’t think my story mattered until today.” That’s why I share my own struggles—to remind others they’re not alone and that their voice holds the power to inspire change.


Capturing Stories and Celebrating Wins


Photography has been a big part of my creative journey this year. From working with nonprofits like Day by Day to capturing community events and portraits, I’ve used my lens to tell stories that need to be seen.



One of my favorite projects was highlighting the “small wins” of individuals reintegrating into the community. It’s a reminder that progress—no matter how small—is always worth celebrating. Photography continues to be a way for me to connect with people and amplify their resilience.




Making Moves and Moving On


This past year, I had the privilege of helping build a real estate brokerage from the ground up and co-hosting It’s Your Neighbor, a podcast dedicated to amplifying stories of resilience and community. At the brokerage, I focused on creating impactful marketing strategies, training programs, and branding initiatives that empowered realtors to connect authentically with their clients. It was rewarding to see a vision come to life, driving growth and building relationships that went beyond business.



Through It’s Your Neighbor, I explored the power of storytelling—shining a light on local expertise, community voices, and real conversations that brought people closer together. It reminded me again how stories can inspire action and create lasting connections, making an impact not just on individuals but across entire communities.


I’m proud of the strides we made, from establishing a trusted brand to building platforms for authentic connection. But, like all work, this chapter has run its course (real estate market is tough right now). I’m grateful for the lessons, relationships, and creativity it sparked, and I’m carrying that energy forward into new opportunities that align even more with my purpose. Bigger things are on the horizon, and I’m ready to step into them.


RISE TOGETHER: Expanding the Mission


One of the biggest milestones this year is the upcoming opening of RISE TOGETHER’s new office in 2025. This space will be a hub for education, empowerment, and connection—a place where we’ll continue to inspire communities and create meaningful change.


This year alone, we’ve reached over 1,500 students through speaking tours, launched follow-up programs like the 21-day health challenge, and deepened partnerships with organizations making a real impact. RISE TOGETHER continues to grow, and I couldn’t be prouder of what’s next.



Lessons Learned


This year has taught me some invaluable lessons:


  1. Heal to Lead: Self-care is the foundation for showing up fully in every area of life.

  2. Celebrate Small Wins: Progress doesn’t need to be huge to be meaningful.

  3. Lead with Vulnerability: Sharing your story creates space for others to share theirs.

  4. Trust the Process: Let go of what you can’t control and lean into the opportunities ahead.

  5. Stay Curious: Creativity and connection come from being open to what’s possible.


Looking Ahead


This year has been one of rediscovery, creativity, and big moves. As I look to the future, I’m embracing the opportunities ahead—whether it’s national speaking and training engagements, my photography, new projects with RISE TOGETHER, or continuing to tell stories that matter.


Want to stay connected? Here’s how:

To everyone who’s been part of this journey—thank you. Your support and belief in this mission fuel everything I do. Let’s keep growing, creating, and making an impact together. Here’s to what’s next!

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