I speak about addiction, recovery and change. Not from the sidelines — I've worked in addiction care for over fifteen years and I've been in recovery myself since 2006. Raw, honest, and without a room that nods politely and takes nothing home.
I'm David Ketteridge. I was addicted myself and I've been clean since 2006. Since then I've spent more than fifteen years in care, guiding hundreds of people — and built a centre where people work on their recovery.
That makes my story anything but theory. I know what it looks like from the inside, and from the other chair. Which is why people in the room recognise themselves, a colleague, or someone at home.
No vague stories, no ten tips on a slide. Just an hour that goes quiet — and afterwards people look at someone differently.
From a room of fifteen to a stage with a microphone. The story stays the same; the shape adapts.
I tailor every keynote to your audience. These are the four I’m asked for most.
Almost everyone waits for rock bottom: the moment it gets bad enough to act. That bottom does not exist — people simply sink further. On why waiting is so stubborn, and what actually sets something in motion.
Every organisation has someone who drinks, gambles or uses too much. Everyone senses it, nobody says it. On what you see, what you miss, and what you as an employer or manager can actually do — without stepping into the role of therapist.
The question I get most — from care professionals, partners and parents. On insisting without pushing, boundaries without ultimatums, and why shame feeds the pattern instead of breaking it.
My own story, told honestly: how it started, how long I lied to myself, and what finally tipped. Not a success story with a bow on it — but what it teaches you about change, in yourself and in others.
A few clips, so you know who will be standing in front of your group.
I read every request myself and reply within two working days with availability and a proposal. Prefer to email directly? welkom@davidketteridge.com