The Story You Never See on TV: A News Anchor's Recovery that Changed Everything | Thalia Hayden (S3 E10)
This episode of The FEW Podcast features an in-depth conversation with a longtime broadcast journalist and author who shares her journey through television news, addiction recovery, and personal reinvention. The discussion traces her path from early ambitions in journalism and formative newsroom experiences to building a successful on-air career in local news. She opens up about navigating childhood instability, confidence challenges, and the pressure of maintaining a public persona while privately struggling with alcohol and prescription drug addiction. Her recovery journey, supported by therapy, community, and accountability, became a turning point both personally and professionally.
The episode also explores the motivation behind writing a bestselling memoir that pulls back the curtain on life in media, addressing trauma, sobriety, and the realities women face in journalism. Additional topics include parenting, balancing career and family, community-focused reporting, and a powerful family health crisis that tested resilience and perspective. Listeners will gain insight into addiction recovery, women’s empowerment, broadcast journalism careers, and the importance of authenticity, mental health support, and community connection. The conversation closes with encouragement around financial literacy, confidence building, and upcoming opportunities for women to learn, connect, and grow through the Confidence Summit.
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