”But Jesus Drank Wine” & Other Stories That Kept Us Stuck

Today, we are honored to welcome Caroline Beidler—an inspiring author, dedicated recovery advocate, and the visionary behind the Circle of Chairs Substack. Caroline shares her powerful story, taking us on a profound journey through her struggles with addiction and trauma, and revealing how she transformed these challenges into a beacon of hope for others on the path to healing and recovery.

 Caroline opens up about her powerful books, "Downstairs Church: Finding Hope in the Grit of Addiction and Trauma Recovery" and "You Are Not Your Trauma: Uproot Unhealthy Patterns, Heal the Family Tree," shedding light on her mission to lead women towards profound healing and lasting recovery. The conversation dives deep into the intricate link between trauma and addiction, exploring the often-overlooked impact of intergenerational trauma and how these deep-rooted issues can shape our lives.

Listeners will gain invaluable insights into the critical role of community, faith, and actionable daily rhythms in the recovery process. Caroline passionately advocates for greater understanding, compassion, and empathy towards those facing addiction, urging a shift away from judgment and stigma.

This episode is more than just a discussion—it's a heartfelt call to action. Caroline challenges each of us to reclaim our power, break free from the chains of trauma and addiction, and foster transformative change within ourselves and our communities.

You can purchase Caroline’s new book, "You Are Not Your Trauma: Uproot Unhealthy Patterns, Heal the Family Tree” here and you can follow her on instagram @carolinebeidler_official. You can also follow Caroline's substack, Circle of Chairs, here. 

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!

Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind Pre-order now and join us for 6 weeks of coaching through the book in our community.

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine

You can find this episode on YouTube HERE

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Today Anne Nicely shares her powerful journey from battling alcohol addiction to finding freedom and purpose through her faith in Jesus Christ. Anne candidly recounts her early experiences growing up in a small Kentucky town, where her father’s severe addiction deeply impacted her life. Despite vowing never to follow in his footsteps, Anne found herself caught in a cycle of binge drinking that left her overwhelmed with guilt, shame, and anxiety. 

She reflects on the pivotal moments that led her to surrender her life to Christ, the transformative power of vulnerability, and the role that sharing her struggles with others played in the freedom story. Anne emphasizes the importance of community and the necessity of being honest about one’s struggles, noting that it was through listening to the stories of others and immersing herself in the Word that she found the strength to quit drinking for good.

She shares how she initially kept her decision to quit drinking private, relying on podcasts and sermons to keep her grounded in her early days of sobriety. Anne’s testimony is a powerful reminder of God’s grace and the freedom that comes from fully surrendering to His will. You can follow Anne on instagram at @The_Bright_Eyed_Sober_Girl. 

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!

Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind Pre-order now and join us for 6 weeks of coaching through the book in our community.

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine

You can find this episode on YouTube HERE

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Today, we welcome Amy Betters-Midtvedt, author of the newly released You'll Make It (And They Will Too): Everything No One Talks About When You’re Parenting Teens. Amy brings a wealth of experience as a mother of five, ranging from ages twelve to twenty-two, and shares candid stories about the complexities of raising teenagers in today’s world.

Throughout the discussion, Amy offers insightful strategies for maintaining strong connections with teens, even when faced with challenging situations like mental health struggles or questioning their faith. She emphasizes the significance of curiosity, intentionality, and grace, while also sharing her personal journey through experiences such as guiding a child through an eating disorder and supporting another during bouts of anxiety.

Amy’s conversation is not just about surviving the teenage years but also thriving as a family. Her book, filled with wisdom, prayers, and actionable advice, is a must-read for any parent feeling overwhelmed or isolated in their journey.

Whether you’re grappling with how to communicate effectively with your teen, looking for ways to celebrate their unique qualities, or need reassurance that you’re not alone, this episode offers both comfort and practical tips for every parent’s toolkit.

You can get Amy’s book right here: You'll Make It (and They Will Too): Everything No One Talks About When You're Parenting Teens

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!

Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind Pre-order now and join us for 6 weeks of coaching through the book in our community.

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine

You can find this episode on YouTube HERE

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

In today’s episode, we’re diving into all the little and big ways that ditching alcohol has seriously boosted our confidence. We’re chatting about how those small things—like actually remembering to wash off your mascara or not forgetting to leave money from the tooth fairy—make us feel more self-assured and on top of our game. And we’re also getting into the bigger stuff, like setting boundaries and learning to be totally okay with the fact that we can’t control what others think of us. These changes have helped us feel clearer, stronger, and more like the women we’ve always wanted to be.

As we chat today, we’re highlighting how alcohol tricks us into thinking it’s boosting our confidence by lowering our inhibitions, but in reality, it’s just chipping away at our self-worth and making us second-guess ourselves. By living alcohol-free, we’ve stopped that cycle of doubt and started fully embracing our decisions with clarity and self-trust. It’s a whole new level of genuine confidence that doesn’t come with the regrets that alcohol often leaves behind. We know you all love our list-of-10 episodes, so we hope you enjoy this one! And don’t forget—you can always join the conversation in the BJDW community. We meet every week to talk about the episodes, share prayer requests, and just hang out as women who love Jesus (or are curious about Him) and are either living alcohol-free or looking to break free from it.

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine

You can find this episode on YouTube HERE

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery #grief #mindset #Godsplan #opportunities #feedingoursouls #choice #newneuralpathways #self-compassion #Jesus #freedom

 To connect with Em, visit her website, listen to her Go + Grow with Em Tyler podcast and follow her on IG and FB @helloemtyler

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery #grief #mindset #Godsplan #opportunities #feedingoursouls #choice #newneuralpathways #self-compassion #Jesus #freedom

In this inspiring episode, former New Age practitioner and author, Caroline Dooner, joins us for a third time (check out episodes #57 & 58 for her first two appearances with us) as she opens up about her incredible journey of healing and the profound shift in her perspective on life. She candidly discusses her previous belief that controlling and healing every aspect of her life was necessary, a mindset that ultimately became overwhelming and daunting. 

Caroline shares about a pivotal moment in her life—a significant dental health challenge—that led her to surrender to God's plan. This experience helped her realize that healing doesn't require perfection. Instead, it calls for trust and peace in the Lord. This newfound understanding brought a profound shift in her approach to healing and life.

Join us as we chat with Caroline about the difference between her work before and after her spiritual conversion, emphasizing how God's guidance now plays a central role in her life. She discusses her journey of embracing change, finding authenticity, and surrendering to God's plan. Caroline also shares how she has overcome internal chaos, navigated misunderstandings, and dealt with unpopularity by staying true to herself.

Throughout our conversation, Caroline highlights the importance of embracing nuance, asking questions, and finding joy in nature. She emphasizes the value of disconnecting from technology to reconnect with oneself and the world around us.

To connect with Caroline visit her website, follow her on IG @carolinedooner and check out her fascinating and hilarious substack, Problematic at carolinedooner.substack.com. And grab a copy of both of her books The F It Diet and Tired as F.

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

Get ready for an eye-opening discussion with Jessica Lahey, the acclaimed author of 'The Addiction Inoculation,' as we chat with her about the complex world of substance use among children and teenagers. Jessica tackles the pervasive myths and misconceptions head-on, illuminating the real facts parents need to know.

Discover why delaying the introduction of drugs and alcohol is crucial in lowering the risk of developing substance use disorders. Jessica shatters the all-too-common belief that 'everyone is doing it,' backing her arguments with solid evidence. She shares practical advice on how to have those tough but necessary conversations about the dangers of substance use, highlighting the critical role of understanding genetic risks.

This episode isn't just about debunking myths—it's about empowering parents with accurate information and strategies for proactive parenting in a culture that often normalizes dependency. Learn the importance of ongoing, open dialogues with your children, the impact of social media on youth drinking, and the effectiveness of prevention programs.

Join us for a conversation that emphasizes the power of informed, honest communication and the importance of modeling healthy behaviors to raise resilient, well-informed kids.

To learn more about Jessica and the work she does, visit her website  and follow her on IG/Threads @teacherlahey

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery #substanceuse #addiction #parenting #teenagers #myths #misconceptions #prevention #communication #youth #socialmedia

Fear and anxiety are rampant in our world, weighing us down and leading to profound physical consequences. Our misaligned priorities and superwoman tendencies often lead us to believe that hustle is honorable when it's actually harmful. For Christy Boulware, a severe panic and anxiety disorder diagnosis was the wake-up call she needed. 

Today, our conversation delves into the critical importance of community, discipleship, and faith in overcoming fear and anxiety while celebrating the audio release of Christy's powerful book, "Nervous Breakthrough: Finding Freedom from Fear and Anxiety in a World That Feeds It.” 

Together, we explore the impact of unresolved pain and the importance of identifying what we can and cannot control. We also chat about the challenges of parenting in the digital age, emphasizing the need for intentional communication with teenagers. By taking small actions, we can significantly impact our lives and live more intentionally in a technology-driven world.

Order Christy’s book, Nervous Breakthrough” (now also available on audible!) here. 

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

Hadley Sorensen, a mother of three, lifelong runner, and writer, shares her journey from social drinking to sobriety. Her book, The Dirty Truth on Social Drinking: “Everything in Moderation” and Other BS, debunks common myths about alcohol consumption and explores the concept of 'gray area drinking.' Hadley discusses the societal pressures that fueled her drinking habits, the challenges of quitting, and how her last hangover two and a half years ago marked the beginning of a new, beautiful life. She now uses her social media platform to inspire others to realize that anyone can quit drinking at any time, for any reason—no rock bottom required.

Hadley explores the profound impact of alcohol on personal and family life, the strategies to break free from dependency, and the importance of questioning societal norms around drinking. Her insights from the book offer a relatable perspective on sobriety, emphasizing the positive changes it brings, such as improved relationships and mental clarity. This heartfelt conversation sheds light on the struggles with alcohol and celebrates the victories of living a sober life, providing hope and motivation for those on a similar path.

To learn more about Hadley, visit her website, order her book and connect with her on IG @hadley_sorensen

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Wendy Speake ministers to women's hearts through her unique blend of storytelling and biblical life application. Wendy, author of multiple books including "The 40-Day Sugar Fast" and "The 40-Day Social Media Fast," shares her journey from hearing God's call at 18 to becoming a creative storyteller and Bible teacher. We chat about turning to God in times of struggle, the power of fasting, and the importance of replacing unhealthy desires with a deeper desire for God. We discuss how fasting can be a powerful tool for redirecting our focus toward God.

The conversation also highlights the concept of feasting on God's word, with Wendy sharing insights from her book, "The 40-Day Feast," which encourages listeners to deepen their relationship with God through intentional time in His word. She emphasizes that increasing our desire for spiritual nourishment and God's presence is more effective than simply trying to eliminate unhealthy desires. 

Wendy's approach, whether on stage or on the page, combines the power of God's word with personal testimony, meeting women in their common struggles and pointing them towards the transformative power of God's Word and the faithful nearness of His Holy Spirit. Tune in to hear Wendy's inspiring journey and gain valuable insights on turning your struggles into opportunities for spiritual growth and intimacy with God.

Check out Wendy’s Books here:

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

After a year of podcasting, we kept receiving requests for more ways to connect with our “readers.” We felt the Lord leading us to create a community where our listeners could engage with each other on a deeper level. Through our research, we realized there wasn't a dedicated community for Christian or Jesus-curious women on an alcohol-free journey. While there were many support groups for women quitting alcohol, none brought in our ultimate source of hope, Jesus. So, we founded a unique, women-only community to help women move beyond their struggles with alcohol, supported by faith and fellowship.

Our community has flourished beyond our expectations. With weekly connection calls, expert-led masterclasses, and a dedicated Bible study, we've built strong bonds with the women who join us each week to pray, love, and support each other. We've tried to convey the essence of this community in brief podcast snippets, but we felt it was time to dedicate an entire episode to our members. We invited them to share what this community means to them, expecting maybe a couple of responses. However, we were overwhelmed by the number of women who showed up and their heartfelt testimonials. If you're interested in joining our BJDW community, follow this link to connect with us : 

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!

Heather Creekmore joins us to delve into the intricate topic of body image and its profound impact on women, heightened by the pervasive influence of diet culture. Drawing from her personal journey, Heather shares her struggles with body image and how she found liberation from disordered eating patterns. She challenges the notion of exercise solely as a means for weight loss, advocating for joyful movement and finding pleasure in physical activity. Heather encourages listeners to adopt a more nuanced and intuitive approach to health, letting go of rigid black-and-white thinking to embrace holistic well-being.

In a vulnerable conversation with Christy and Meade, Heather further explores the pressures women face to conform to societal beauty standards, exacerbated by social media's influence. They discuss the importance of self-acceptance and the detrimental impact of media portrayal on young girls' body image. Heather shares insights from her books, 'Compared to Who?' and 'Aging Gratefully,' underscoring the significance of inner beauty and the freedom attained by shifting perspective. Tune in to gain valuable insights from Heather Creekmore's journey and her empowering perspective on body image, diet culture, and finding true freedom in Christ.

To learn more about Heather and the work she does you can find her at:

www.improvebodyimage.com and purchase her books here:

New body image workbook "40-Day Body Image Workbook" 

New book on aging "Aging Gratefully: A 30 Day Devotional on Aging" 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Order Christy’s New Book, Love Life Sober, here.

In this insightful episode, Michelle Myers, co-founder of She Works His Way, delves into the significance of community and finding contentment in Christ. Michelle emphasizes that work is not confined to a job title; rather, it encompasses anything a believer does that requires effort. She underscores the importance of unity and love among believers, advocating for seeking God first and finding rest in Him. Sharing her personal journey of learning to be content, Michelle encourages listeners to make Jesus the focal point of their lives.

Michelle also introduces a practical approach to self-assessment and well-being through regular check-ins in four key areas: spiritual, physical, emotional, and relational. She presents a simple evaluation tool using the colors red, yellow, and green to help individuals gauge their status in each area. By asking specific questions, we can gain valuable insights into our overall well-being and pinpoint areas needing attention. Michelle highlights the necessity of prioritizing spiritual health and its influence on other aspects of our lives, while also stressing the value of vulnerability and community support during these evaluations.

Key Takeaways ~

Redefining Work: Understanding work as any effort a believer undertakes, not just a job title.

Community and Unity: Emphasizing the need for unity, love, and mutual support among believers.

Finding Rest in God: Encouraging the practice of seeking God first and resting in His presence.

Contentment in Christ: Sharing personal experiences of learning to be content with Jesus as the focus.

Self-Assessment Tool: Introducing a simple red, yellow, and green evaluation method to monitor well-being.

Four Key Areas: Regularly checking in on spiritual, physical, emotional, and relational health.

Spiritual Health Priority: Highlighting the impact of spiritual well-being on other areas of life.

Vulnerability and Support: Emphasizing the importance of community and vulnerability in personal growth.

Discussion Questions:

1. How can redefining work change your perspective on daily tasks and responsibilities?

2. In what ways can you cultivate unity and love within your community of believers?

3. What practices help you seek God first and find rest in Him amidst a busy life?

4. How can you implement the red, yellow, and green evaluation tool in your daily routine?

5. What steps can you take to prioritize your spiritual health and its impact on other areas of your life?

6. How can vulnerability and community support play a role in your self-assessment journey?

Tune in to hear Michelle Myers' profound insights and practical advice on fostering contentment, unity, and holistic well-being in your life.

To learn more about Michelle and her work, you can connect with her at: sheworkshisway.com

patreon.com/sheworkshisway

facebook.com/sheworkshisway

instagram.com/sheworkhisway

You can find this episode on YouTube HERE

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

In today's episode, we're honored to host Christopher Cook, an author, coach, and pastor, who courageously shares his path of profound healing and transformation. His journey, shaped by the trauma of his mother's battle with cancer, her passing, and his own health diagnosis that deeply rattled him, offers profound insights into our capacity, through Christ, for resilience and renewal.

Christopher emphasizes the imperative of addressing the broken and crushed spirit, illuminating the path to heart transformation and renewal. He introduces us to the transformative SEED method—Secure, Examine, Expose, and Decide—a profound blueprint for renewing the mind and reclaiming one's inner peace and purpose.

Christopher highlights the significance of surrender as not merely capitulation, but a courageous act of yielding to a process of confrontation and metamorphosis. Anchoring ourselves to the vine, Jesus Christ, and daily surrendering to His divine guidance, Christopher underscores the profound power of fixing our focus on God as the compass guiding our journey of healing and restoration.

We also chat about the transformative power of vulnerability and community, inviting listeners to embrace daily actions and say yes to God's leading as they embark on their own journey of renewal. Ultimately, Christopher reminds us that the goal of transformation extends beyond personal happiness, aspiring instead to become agents of profound change and stewarding our lives for God's glory.

Come alongside us as we explore the transformative force of anchoring our gaze on God, guiding us toward healing from the marks of our past.

You can find Christopher Cook on Instagram @wintodaychris and buy his book, "Healing What You Can't Erase: Transform Your Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual Health from the Inside Out,” right here on Amazon. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Order Christy’s New Book, Love Life Sober, here.

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

You can find this episode HERE on YouTube

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

Today, we welcome the beautiful (inside and out) Brittany Estes, a renowned life coach, speaker, and author, to the podcast. In this captivating episode, Brittany shares her poignant journey of overcoming false narratives about worth and embracing a life of freedom and authenticity.

Brittany delves into the transformative power of identifying and challenging the lies we often internalize about ourselves. Drawing from her acclaimed book Flip the Script, she illuminates the profound impact of replacing negative self-talk with God's truth.

Brittany emphasizes the crucial role of parents in demonstrating healthy beliefs and behaviors for their children, stressing the significance of doing the inner work to liberate them from the chains of self-doubt and insecurity. From body image issues to the pervasive belief of not being enough, Brittany provides practical tools and invaluable insights to empower listeners to cultivate a positive, truth-filled mindset and embrace their inherent worth.

Join us as we explore the transformative power of gratitude, the importance of acknowledging the impact of our words and actions on others, and the liberating journey of flipping the script to embrace a life of freedom. Whether you're a parent striving to model healthy beliefs for your children or an individual yearning to break free from the chains of self-doubt, this episode provides a roadmap to reclaiming your truth and living a life filled with hope and truth.

You can find Brittany Estes on instagram at @jbrittanyestes and you can order “Flip The Script, Make Your Move From Broken To Brilliant” here.

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

You can find this episode HERE on YouTube

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

Allison Barber shares her profound journey to sobriety, shedding light on the complex evolution of her relationship with alcohol. Growing up as a rule follower, Allison felt the societal pressure to conform and fit in, leading her to question why she couldn't simply be a "normal drinker." However, amidst this struggle, she discovered the empowering truth that she had the freedom to choose – not only whether to drink or not, but also how to break free from the grip of alcohol's influence. This newfound agency went beyond the decision of whether to drink, empowering her to break free from alcohol's grip and take charge of her life. Through embracing personal responsibility, she transcended victimhood and paved her own path towards becoming the empowered woman she longed to be.

With introspection and faith as her compass, she found solace in the profound realization that God was redeeming her story, transforming her struggles into a source of strength and resilience. She encourages our listeners to understand how being an observer of one’s life can lead to empowerment and the ability to make small but meaningful changes. Allison offers so much hope to women who feel stuck by encouraging them to have the freedom to take personal responsibility and make change.

You can find out more about Allison here.

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

You can find this episode on YouTube HERE

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

Join us for a deeply moving episode as we welcome our dear friend Rina Bowring to the podcast. As a fellow alcohol-freedom coach, Rina brings a wealth of wisdom and vulnerability to our conversation, sharing her unique journey of overcoming alcohol addiction and postpartum rage.

Rina recounts her early struggles with alcohol, using it to feel liberated and accepted. However, as she transitioned into motherhood, her relationship with alcohol spiraled into a destructive cycle, prompting her to confront the harsh reality of her addiction. With unwavering determination, Rina embarked on a journey of self-discovery, navigating the turbulent waters of postpartum rage and finding peace and hope with Jesus in sobriety.

Rina underscores the transformative power of self-reflection and the importance of embracing vulnerability in the journey towards healing. She shares invaluable insights on the role of faith in finding solace and strength amidst trials and emphasizes the profound impact of choosing authenticity and connection in motherhood.

From the pitfalls of societal expectations to the liberating power of self-care, Rina's journey is a testament to the resilience we can access when we bring God along on this freedom journey.

Special note- Coach Rina will soon be offering a connection call in the community for anyone in Australia or surrounding timezones. For more information and to join us email [email protected] 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @butjesusdrankwine @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

You can find this episode HERE on YouTube

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery #rinabowring

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

In this episode, we are honored and humbled to present our conversation with psychiatrist, speaker and author Dr. Curt Thompson. Known around BJDW as, “the teacher Meade is most-likely to reference on the podcast for the depth and breadth of the impact his work has had on her life,” Curt, connects our intrinsic desire to be known with the need to tell truer stories about ourselves — showing us how to form deep relationships, discover meaning and live integrated creative lives.

Join us for a profound exploration of the intersection between neuroscience and the biblical narrative as we delve into the human experience of suffering and the formation of durable hope. Our discussion begins with a reflection on the importance of naming and understanding suffering. We delve into the complexities of the human experience, acknowledging the difficulties of receiving love and mercy amidst pain. Curt emphasizes the transformative power of community in navigating suffering, highlighting the need to bring our whole selves into relationships for healing and growth.

Curt sheds light on the limitations of control and the unpredictability of influence in relationships, offering insights into the connection between anxiety and the fear of isolation. He invites us into the significance of being present in the body, providing practical strategies for shifting from a mind-centered approach to an embodied experience, thus fostering deeper connections and resilience.

Our conversation continues into the role of anger in the healing process, emphasizing the importance of expressing and releasing this emotion constructively. Finally, Curt delves into the concept of forming durable hope through suffering, illuminating how our experiences shape our anticipation of the future and our capacity to embrace life's challenges with resilience and faith.

Through a rich tapestry of neuroscience and biblical wisdom, our chat with Curt offers profound insights into the human condition, inviting listeners to embrace vulnerability, cultivate resilience, and discover enduring hope amidst life's trials.

You can learn more about Dr. Curt Thompson at www.curtthompsonmd.com, follow him on instagram @curtthompsonmd and get his newest book: The Deepest Place: Suffering And The Formation Of Hope. To learn more about the incredible work of Curt’s non-profit, The Center for Being Known, and to learn more about joining a Confessional Community, go to https://www.thecbk.org/

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

YouTube: Dr. Curt Thompson

00:00 Introduction: Exploring Freedom from Alcohol

00:52 Special Guest: Dr. Curt Thompson's Impactful Journey

01:53 Discovering Personal Freedom and Transformation

06:30 The Interplay of Neuroscience and Faith

13:08 Understanding Suffering and Embracing Community

23:38 The Challenge of Receiving Love and Mercy

28:03 Exploring the Threshold of Change and Patient Care

29:20 Introducing the But Jesus Drank Wine Community

30:22 Diving Deep into Anxiety and Isolation

36:33 Embracing Embodiment and Physical Awareness

44:32 The Power of Durable Hope in Suffering

52:02 Closing Thoughts and Resources

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

We hear you, our dear readers, that our list episodes are among your favorites and they happen to be favorites of ours too. For today’s insightful conversation, we are diving deep into the transformative journey of living alcohol-free, sharing our lists of the ten invaluable lessons we wish we’d known in our first year of “sobriety.”

1. Friendship Shuffle: We candidly explore the challenges and blessings of reshaping friendships and social circles after embracing sobriety, highlighting the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals.

2. Temporary Nature of Cravings: We discuss the temporary nature of cravings and discomfort in the initial stages of sobriety, emphasizing that these feelings do pass and are worth enduring for the long-term benefits.

3. Embracing Emotions: We underscore the importance of allowing oneself to feel emotions fully, recognizing that numbing feelings with alcohol only delays true healing and growth.

4. Understanding Moderation: We share insights into the realization that even those who appear to moderate their alcohol consumption may be struggling internally, challenging common perceptions of moderation.

5. Heightened Awareness and Appreciation: We reflect on how sobriety brings about a heightened awareness and appreciation for life's simple joys, fostering a deeper connection with oneself and the world around them.

6. Impact on Children: We discuss the profound impact of our choices on our children, inspiring us to lead by example and prioritize health and well-being.

7. Absence of Desire: We discuss the eventual absence of desire for alcohol, highlighting the freedom and empowerment that come with breaking free from dependency.

8. Expanding Lives: We share how their lives have expanded and become more fulfilling without alcohol, embracing new opportunities and experiences with open arms.

9. Importance of Vulnerability and Connection: We emphasize the power of vulnerability and connection in the journey of sobriety, advocating for honest communication and support networks.

10. Navigating Relationships: We also touch on the challenges of navigating relationships with partners who still drink, offering insights on fostering understanding and compromise.

We hope to encourage you to approach sobriety with openness and curiosity, embracing the transformative possibilities of an alcohol-free life. Through our shared experiences and wisdom, we hope to inspire others to embark on their own journey towards a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle.

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

YouTube

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast: Exploring Freedom from Alcohol

01:08 Diving into the 10 Things I Wish I Knew in My First Year Alcohol-Free

02:10 The Friendship Shuffle: Navigating Relationships in Sobriety

06:44 Embracing the Challenges and Joys of Sobriety

10:35 The Transformative Power of Sobriety on Perception and Relationships

13:32 Moderation Myths and the Journey to True Freedom from Alcohol

18:20 Feeling More Alive: The Emotional Awakening of Sobriety

21:56 The Observant Eyes of Children: Learning and Growing Together

24:52 Embracing Vulnerability and Connection in Sobriety

26:01 The Surprising Space and Time Sobriety Unlocks

27:54 Expanding Your World Beyond Alcohol

31:38 The Transformative Power of Sobriety on Personal Growth

35:49 Navigating Relationships in Sobriety

37:50 Finding Ease and Joy in a Sober Life

40:41 The Struggle with Sobriety: A Path to Learning and Growth

45:43 Closing Thoughts: The Journey of Sobriety

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

We are thrilled to announce our very first BJDW Community book,  "The Gospel of John: Savoring the Peace of Jesus in a Chaotic World." To kick off this exciting venture, we've invited the brilliant author Melissa Spoelstra to join us on the podcast, where she shares her wisdom on how we can learn more about anchoring ourselves in peace amidst life's chaos.

Together, we explore the rich tapestry of John's gospel, delving into its profound significance and uncovering hidden treasures within its pages. We look closer at the transformative narrative of the wedding at Cana, where Jesus initiates His supernatural ministry. Melissa invites us to ponder the timeless wisdom encapsulated in Mary's poignant directive, "Do whatever He tells you," urging us to adopt a posture of obedience and trust in every aspect of our lives.

Melissa opens up about her own journey of falling in love with the Word of God and crafting insightful Bible studies that resonate with seekers of truth. With heartfelt authenticity, she underscores the importance of seeking intimacy with Jesus as the cornerstone of finding enduring peace, regardless of external circumstances or fleeting counterfeits. As we unpack the concept of peace as a person—Jesus Himself—Melissa offers practical strategies for slowing down, listening to God's voice, and savoring moments of intimacy with Him.

Join us as we share our personal reflections and strategies for cultivating peace in the midst of life's storms. From the significance of worship as a balm for worry to the transformative power of obedience and surrender, we pray this episode gives you hope and encouragement for navigating life's challenges with grace, resilience, and unwavering trust in the Prince of Peace.

You can learn more about Melissa’s ministry at melissaspoelstra.com, follow her on instagram @melissa.spoelstra, and get her Gospel of John study right HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

You can find this episode HERE on YouTube

00:00 Introduction: Unveiling the Journey to Sobriety and Faith

00:30 Meet Melissa Spoelstra: A Journey of Faith and Teaching

02:46 Melissa's Personal Journey: From Rural Texas to Theology and Beyond

07:55 Exploring the Stories That Keep Us Stuck

11:26 Finding Peace in Jesus: Insights from the Book of John

16:11 Savoring Intimacy with Jesus in Times of Pain

22:06 Practical Steps to Finding Peace and Combatting Nighttime Temptations

24:12 Introducing the But Jesus Drank Wine Community

25:31 Embracing Quiet and Intentionality

25:54 The Journey from Trying to Training

26:10 Finding Peace and Making Choices

27:42 The Power of Obedience and Its Impact

28:35 The Significance of Jesus's First Miracle

32:49 Personal Stories of Transformation

34:26 The Freedom Found in Obedience

35:26 The Essence of Worship and Its Effects

39:24 Exploring the Gospel of John

45:38 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE 

This week’s episode is a heart-to-heart with the inspiring Toni Collier, founder of Broken Crayons Still Color, a global women's organization dedicated to guiding individuals through brokenness toward healing and hope. Toni is a seasoned speaker, podcast host, and author who shares her profound insights on navigating life's challenges with grace and resilience.

In our chat, Toni gets real about the struggles we all face. She dives into the truth that hiding our pain only prolongs our healing journey, stressing the importance of opening up and finding support in our communities. Toni certainly doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff and even though we delve into brokenness, loss, and addiction in this episode, we felt incredibly uplifted and encouraged by Toni’s story and message. She shares how embracing gratitude and a posture of hope can transform our perspective and lead us closer to Christ. This episode will encourage you, dear listener, to embrace your brokenness and embrace the healing process by surrounding yourself with a supportive community that champions vulnerability and authenticity. 

We hope after you listen to this episode that you are reminded that no matter who you are or what you’ve been through, you can be restored and redeemed. That yes, even broken crayons, still color.

You can follow Toni on Instagram at @tonijcollier and buy her book, “Brave Enough to Be Broken” here and her children’s book, “Broken Crayons Still Color” here. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade 

You can find this episode HERE on YouTube

00:00 Welcome to Our Journey: Unveiling Freedom from Alcohol

00:34 Introducing Toni: From Brokenness to Beacon of Hope

01:14 Toni's Tale: A Journey Through Darkness to Divine Purpose

06:54 The Power of Broken Crayons: Transforming Pain into Purpose

12:11 Embracing Vulnerability: The Path to True Strength

15:06 Community and Healing: Leaving No Stone Unturned

20:09 The Healing Journey: Embracing Hope as Our Compass

23:16 Introducing the But Jesus Drank Wine Community

24:18 Exploring Gratitude and Grief

24:53 Navigating Divorce and Finding New Beginnings

26:18 The Coexistence of Grief and Gratitude

29:35 Confronting Alcohol Use in Times of Grief

30:27 The Journey to Sobriety and Self-Discovery

31:24 Embracing Community and Accountability

38:24 Living Intentionally Above the 50 Percent Line

39:59 God's Heart Towards Addiction and Recovery

43:04 Tiny Tina Town: Embracing a Replenishment Cycle

46:11 Closing Remarks and Community Engagement

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

In this episode we dive into the realm of alcohol-free experiences, sharing personal anecdotes and insights into navigating various social situations sans alcohol. We talk about the many milestone alcohol-free firsts, such as date nights, weddings, birthdays, sporting events, vacations, concerts, and theater/ballet performances.

We discuss the joys and benefits of alcohol-free date nights, highlighting enhanced connection and presence. We share our experiences attending weddings without alcohol, focusing on celebration and connection over intoxication. From intimate gatherings to extravagant parties, we explore the possibilities of enjoying birthdays without alcohol. Discovering the excitement of sports events without the influence of alcohol, we emphasize the camaraderie and energy of the experience. Exploring new destinations with a clear mind, we reflect on the beauty of alcohol-free vacations. Attendees of live music events can still have a blast without alcohol, as we discuss the electrifying atmosphere and memorable moments. Experiencing the magic of the arts without alcohol, we delve into the immersive nature of theater and ballet performances.

We also shift gears reflecting on what we’ve learned from many alcohol-free experiences, highlighting the cornerstone of healthy relationships: effective communication. We address the importance of listening and empathy in effective communication. We also explore the impact of body language and tone of voice on communication. We emphasize the significance of trust and rapport in fostering meaningful connections. And we talk through strategies for addressing conflicts through open and honest communication. All of which was made available to us as a gift of experiencing life free from booze.

This episode concludes with encouragement to explore alcohol-free experiences and prioritize effective communication in relationships. Tune in next time for more insightful discussions and practical tips on living a fulfilling, alcohol-free lifestyle.

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

You can find this episode HERE on YouTube

00:00 Welcome to Our Journey: Exploring Freedom from Alcohol

00:30 Diving into Alcohol-Free Firsts: Celebrations and Challenges

01:34 The Power of Proof of Progress (POP) in Sobriety

03:49 Navigating Social Situations Alcohol-Free: Date Nights to Weddings

08:00 Celebrating Milestones and Holidays Without Alcohol

16:17 Introducing the But Jesus Drank Wine Community

17:19 Exploring Alcohol-Free Vacations: A New Perspective

20:24 Experiencing Culture and Entertainment Sober: Concerts to Ballet

29:42 Reflecting on the Journey and Encouraging Curiosity

32:36 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

From the moment we cracked open the pages of her book, “Free Of Me, Why Life Is Better When It's Not About You,” we knew we needed Sharon Hodde Miller's wisdom on this pod, and we're incredibly grateful she accepted our invitation.

In a world saturated with the "me" mentality, Sharon shines a light on the pervasive impact of self-centeredness across every facet of our lives. It's a message that infiltrates our friendships, marriages, and even our faith, fracturing each in unique yet profound ways. Pursuing self-improvement often leaves us joyless, our souls diminished, trapped in the cycle of perpetual insecurity.

Sharon helps us unpack the intricacies of "image management," exposing its corrosive effect on relationships, where individuals are reduced to mere reflections of our own self-image. Through personal anecdotes and profound insights, she guides us through the labyrinth of toxic thought patterns, offering tangible strategies rooted in God's attributes for healing and restoration.

Sharon challenges us to shift our gaze away from ourselves, unveiling a path of profound healing and freedom in loving God and others. Together, we explore the delicate balance between self-care and self-neglect, emphasizing the inherent worth of embracing our identity as beloved daughters of God.

We also have a candid chat about the ebbs and flows of waiting seasons, urging us to embrace humility and openness to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. It's a journey that promises growth, refinement, and, ultimately, freedom from the suffocating grip of self-preoccupation. Join us as we embark on this transformative expedition towards a life liberated from the confines of self.

You can follow Sharon on Instagram at @sharonhmiller. 

Check our her books on Amazon: 

The Cost of Control by Sharon H. Miller

Free of Me by Sharon H. Miller

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

You can find this episode HERE on YouTube

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE 

Today, we delve into the complex dynamics of secret drinking, shedding light on the underlying desires for relief and connection in the face of life’s demands. Together we share our experiences of feeling constantly needed by others yet yearning for moments of solace and self-reconnection. Through our reflections, we highlight the transformative power of curiosity and self-compassion in navigating the journey toward freedom from hidden struggles.

Meade vulnerably shares her struggle with constantly feeling needed by others, highlighting the desire for moments of solace and self-reconnection amidst the demands of motherhood, marriage, and friendship. Through her journey, she uncovers the underlying desire for relief from the pressures of everyday life and the tension of always being in demand.

Christy echoes Meade's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the internal conflict and discomfort that often precede secret drinking. She shares personal experiences of navigating the urge to seek solace in alcohol, acknowledging the societal norms that sometimes trivialize or even glamorize such behavior. 

Together, we challenge the stigma surrounding secret drinking and offer compassionate insights into the complexities of seeking relief and connection in unhealthy ways.

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

You can find this episode on YouTube HERE 

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE 

Get ready for an incredible episode as we sit down with the one and only Bob Goff, a true inspiration in living life to the fullest. Bob, the adventurous soul behind “Love Does,” “Everybody Always,” and “Undistracted," joins us to share his wisdom on embracing the journey, dreaming big, and showing yourself some grace along the way. Get ready to be uplifted, inspired, and ready to tackle your dreams head-on!

In this heartfelt conversation, Bob encourages us to take that first step, even if we're not fully equipped. With personal anecdotes from his adventures, he emphasizes the importance of deep roots and understanding our unfulfilled needs. Bob's message of grace over self-accusation resonates deeply as he urges us to be kind to ourselves and extend that kindness to others, especially in unexpected places.

As we journey through navigating mistakes and challenges, Bob's practical wisdom shines through, offering a strategy for handling missteps and reminding us to focus on what comes next. From playful farm adventures to embracing childlike faith, Bob's stories inspire us to live with anticipation, curiosity, and resilience. His personal journey of leaving behind a successful legal career serves as a powerful reminder to break free from limitations and embrace change for a more purpose-driven life.

Connect with Bob on instagram @bobgoff and at bobgoff.com. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

YouTube: Bob Goff

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest Bob Goff

00:31 Bob Goff's Impact and Achievements

03:36 Exploring Freedom from Alcohol and Big Dreams

04:23 Bob Goff on Starting Journeys and Embracing the Unknown

12:42 Navigating Mistakes and Learning from Them

22:13 Creating a Supportive Community for Sobriety and Faith

23:36 The Joy of Play and Fun in Life

24:53 Embracing a Childlike Faith

26:18 The Power of Curiosity and Learning

29:16 Living Beyond Your Capabilities

33:59 Engaging Deeply with Life and Others

37:02 Being Present and Creative with Family

41:27 The Impact of Authentic Relationships

42:35 Looking Forward to New Learning Adventures

44:00 Closing Thoughts and Resources

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

Fresh off of Meade’s in-person Atlanta AF (alcohol-free) gals meet-up, we are talking all about the transformative power of meaningful connections. Providing avenues for support and camaraderie, both in-person meetups and online communities can foster meaningful connections. We discuss how prayer serves as a valuable tool in both finding and nurturing friendships, guiding individuals towards like-minded relationships and strengthening existing bonds. Being genuine and true to oneself is paramount in attracting compatible friends and cultivating deep, meaningful relationships.

We expand on the importance of seeking positive environments where feeling comfortable and uplifted facilitates the meeting of like-minded women and forges genuine connections. Intentionality is critical and being deliberate in how you spend your time and the activities you engage in can lead to opportunities for meeting new people and forming connections. Confidence and practice are essential in navigating the transition to an alcohol-free lifestyle and building new friendships, empowering you to engage authentically with others. 

Periodically reassessing and adjusting social circles allows for the cultivation of deeper, more meaningful friendships and fosters a supportive social network. More fulfilling relationships and a deeper sense of connection with close friends comes as a result of prioritizing authenticity over the size of your social circle as well as embracing vulnerability fostering trust and openness in relationships. And as always, embracing discomfort and embracing change are integral parts of personal growth, paving the way for meaningful connections and enriched experiences. Finally, drawing inspiration from Jesus' example in friendship, we stress the importance of surrendering to God's timing in cultivating authentic connections.

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

You can find this episode HERE on YouTube

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

Today’s episode is an inspiring and powerful story from Kristen McAvoy, sobriety influencer and founder of Sober Girl Tribe. From party girl days in college to Covid isolation struggles, Kristen opens up about her decade-long struggle with addiction to alcohol, later compounded by Xanax use. Her journey began in college, where she sought freedom and rebellion, slowly drifting away from her Christian faith, ultimately leading to excessive drinking to cope with social anxiety.

Despite facing consequences, Kristen's addiction continued into the corporate world, with a dangerous combination of alcohol and Xanax. She recounts the escalating severity of her addiction, reaching a point where she felt the need for the prescription drug to cope with debilitating anxiety.

Kristen shares a pivotal moment when her parents intervened, leading her to a rehab in Florida. Despite initial resistance, the experience became a turning point, and she eventually embraced sobriety. She emphasizes the crucial role of community in her recovery, citing the support of fellow recovering individuals and her strong faith.

What started as a simple instagram account, Sober Girl Tribe, designed to encourage and inspire others in the sobriety journey has evolved into a thriving online community where Kristen considers it a privilege to walk alongside those struggling with addiction, emphasizing the importance of reaching out for help, finding a supportive community, and practicing patience and self-compassion.

Today’s conversion serves as a testament to the transformative power of “recovery” in the freedom from alcohol journey and highlights the strength and resilience gained through navigating the path to sobriety. 

You can find Kristen and her adorable mini-goldendoodle Maggie over on the ‘gram @sobergirltribe

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

You can find this episode on YouTube HERE

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

Join Meade and Christy as they delve into the second part of their conversation centered on the importance of community with the launch of the But Jesus Drink Wine Community, exploring the intersection of faith, personal growth, and community support. From the challenges of outgrowing friendships to the impact of FOMO on social media, they offer insights on living intentionally and embracing change. Learn about the transformative power of Meade’s P.E.A.C.E. method and the importance of drawing near to God while engaging with others in meaningful dialogue. This episode is your guide to navigating life's transitions with grace and authenticity.

 Takeaways:

• Creating a community for Jesus-curious/Jesus followers and those on an alcohol-free journey is important for support and connection.

• Outgrowing friendships is a natural part of personal growth and should be celebrated.

• FOMO and comparison on social media can lead to feelings of lack and discontentment.

• It is important to explore other possibilities and challenge the shoulds in order to live with intentionality. Use Meade’s P.E.A.C.E. method (Pause, Exhale, Allow, Consider, Engage) to navigate emotional charges and discomfort.

• Consider other possibilities and don't assume what others think.

• Don't base actions on others' opinions.

• Allow yourself to feel and explore different perspectives.

• Living differently can be a superpower and lead to personal growth.

• Be the first to make a change and inspire others.

• Draw near to God and engage with the community.

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Find this episode on YouTube HERE!

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

Today we’re excited to announce the launch of the But Jesus Drink Wine Community, born from the heartfelt requests of our valued listeners highlighting the need for connection with those who are following Jesus/those who are curious about Jesus and those on an alcohol-free journey. This conversation centers around some of the hardest, yet most rewarding growth “we get to do” on the sobriety journey and the importance of doing it alongside those traveling similar paths.

In this conversation, we first address the complex feelings of fitting in and the discomfort of outgrowing friendships. We emphasize the need to acknowledge and celebrate personal growth and the process of pruning in friendships. We also discuss the impact of FOMO and comparison on social media and the importance of exploring other possibilities beyond the “shoulds” with social invitations. 

In this conversation, we’re also digging into how to navigate emotional charges and discomfort and Meade shares her tried-and-true P.E.A.C.E. method. We emphasize the need to consider other possibilities and not assume what others think. We also highlight the importance of not basing actions on others' opinions and allowing oneself to feel and explore different perspectives. The conversation explores the power of living differently and being the first to make a change. This episode concludes with a discussion on drawing near to God and engaging with the community.

Takeaways:

• Creating a community for Jesus-curious/Jesus followers and those on an alcohol-free journey is important for support and connection.

• Outgrowing friendships is a natural part of personal growth and should be celebrated.

• FOMO and comparison on social media can lead to feelings of lack and discontentment.

• It is important to explore other possibilities and challenge the shoulds in order to live with intentionality. Use Meade’s P.E.A.C.E. method (Pause, Exhale, Allow, Consider, Engage) to navigate emotional charges and discomfort.

• Consider other possibilities and don't assume what others think.

• Don't base actions on others' opinions.

• Allow yourself to feel and explore different perspectives.

• Living differently can be a superpower and lead to personal growth.

• Be the first to make a change and inspire others.

• Draw near to God and engage with the community.

Chapters:

1. Introduction and Announcement

2. Launching the But Jesus Drink Wine Community

3. Creating a Community for Jesus Followers and Jesus-Curious

4. Feeling Left Out and Fitting In

5. Growth and Pruning in Friendships

6. Acknowledging the Discomfort of Letting Go

7. Navigating FOMO and Comparison on Social Media

8. Challenging Shoulds and Invitations

9. Embracing Other Possibilities

10. Meade’s P.E.A.C.E. Method: Navigating Emotional Discomfort

11. Considering Different Perspectives

12. Liberating Yourself from Others' Opinions

13. Cultivating Curiosity and Allowance

14. Embracing Uncomfortable Spaces

15. Harnessing the Power of Living Differently

16. Leading Change and Inspiring Others

17. Questioning the Desire to Conform

18. Inside Out Transformation: Journeying toward Authenticity

19. Drawing Near to God in Community Engagement

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

You can find this episode on YouTube HERE

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

 #ChangingPerceptions #NoShame #AlcoholAndDrugs #SubjectiveLabels #getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

In today’s episode, we dive headfirst into a fiery discussion surrounding conventional beliefs about alcoholism. We boldly reject the notion that it's a disease, championing instead personal responsibility and an exploratory mindset as the keys to freedom from alcohol.

We challenge the widely-held belief that people genuinely enjoy the taste of alcohol, attributing it to nothing more than conditioning and desensitization. Additionally, we explore the daunting challenges of moderation and unpack the societal pressures that often accompany drinking habits.

Together, we shine a spotlight on the importance of embracing new approaches and taking deliberate steps to break free from the drinking cycle. Our message is clear: it's time to question societal norms and beliefs. Join us as we navigate this candid conversation and empower listeners to reclaim control over their lives.

JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

You can find this episode on YouTube HERE

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

14:11 Introduction

14:18 The Magical Third Door

14:26 Introducing the But Jesus Drank Wine Community

14:35 Join the Sisterhood

14:53 Exclusive Community Benefits

15:06 Guest Expert Sessions and Q&A's

15:15 Join Now

15:18 Closing Remarks

Recently, we were both blessed with opps to attend two different retreats. Meade was a participant in a retreat with her coach, Bob Goff, at The Oaks Center. Christy hosted a retreat for alcohol-free ladies in the Cotswolds. Today’s convo has us reflecting and sharing all the details of both retreat experiences, each with its unique charm and kicks off with us highlighting the beauty of our locations and the transformative power of being in like-minded communities.

Christy, recounting her retreat, emphasizes the magical atmosphere created by a group of women free from alcohol. She muses about the depth of connections formed in the absence of alcohol that leads to vulnerable and meaningful conversations. Christy, highlighting the emotional impact of bidding farewell to newfound friends, punctuates the importance of cultivating authentic connections. Other highlights include the gorgeous grounds and location; the activities – who knew pilates could create so much laughter; the delectable eats prepared by a private chef; and the overall value of being in-person, in community.

Meade shares her experience from her retreat led by Bob Goff, an influential Christian author, speaker and coach. She expresses the joy of attending a retreat without the responsibilities of hosting or leading, allowing her to be present and practice “following;” something that doesn't come easily to leaders yet is necessary, ultimately, to leading well. Further, she reflects on the value of surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals who share similar values and aspirations. Sharing other key takeaways from the retreat, Meade, highlights the value of:

• Being present and vulnerable

• Considering who and what we allow to influence us

• Dreaming big and setting intentions

• Curiosity

• Vulnerability

• Allowing others to love and care for you

Today’s convo centers on the experiences of two women on two different retreats with the common theme of connecting deeply when alcohol is not a part of the equation and it underscores the importance and transformative power of living aligned with how God created us to live – in community. 

The book Meade mentioned:

Seven Primal Questions 

The song Meade referenced:

Honey in the Rock by Brooke Ligertwood 

The Psalm referenced: Psalm 81

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

You can find this episode on YouTube:  HERE

00:01 Introduction to the Podcast

00:29 The Importance of Audio Quality in Podcasting

01:10 Podcast Goals and Aspirations

01:48 Recapping Recent Retreat Experiences

02:43 Christy's Retreat Experience

05:26 The Power of Connection in Alcohol-Free Environments

09:02 Mead's Retreat Experience

14:08 The Impact of Living Aligned with Your Values

15:21 The Power of Influence and Choosing Your Circle

18:09 Living Counter Culturally and Embracing Difference

19:48 The Shift in Perception and Living Authentically

20:11 The Power of Retreats and Community

20:43 The Joy of Shared Meals and New Friendships

21:15 The Struggles of Cooking and the Comfort of Familiarity

21:53 The Charm of Accents and the Beauty of Diversity

22:37 The Importance of Finding Your Tribe

25:57 The Value of Curiosity, Presence, and Vulnerability

28:19 The Power of Dreaming Big and Setting Intentions

30:19 The Importance of Allowing Others to Love and Care for You

33:18 The Joy of Music and the Power of Song

34:20 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

In this heartfelt conversation, Susan Larkin, fellow alcohol and life transformation coach, shares her journey of grappling with alcohol as a Christian woman. The discussion unfolds within the context of her Christian faith, shedding light on the complexities and challenges faced by individuals navigating the freedom from alcohol journey in Christian community.

As a Christian, Susan initially adhered to the belief that Christians don't drink. However, as life unfolded, social situations introduced alcohol, challenging her perception. This shift led to a hidden struggle with overdrinking and was exacerbated by the stigma associated with drinking in Christian communities.

Susan highlights her experience as a gray-area drinker, where she couldn’t relate to the traditional “alcoholic” but struggled with overdrinking, leading to a cycle of shame and hiding. She shares her experience seeking help within the Christian community, including confiding in her pastor and attending AA meetings. 

Candidly recounting her attempt to control her alcohol intake by drawing a line on the bottle, Susan reflects on the frustration of constantly breaking self-imposed limits and the desire to be a “normal drinker.” She describes the moment she had a breakthrough related to her relationship to alcohol when she focused on how she wanted to feel – alive! 

Susan shares her experiences during a vacation and a birthday, challenging common narratives about “data points” or what we refer to in our coaching as “growth points,” encouraging others not to discount their alcohol-free achievements.

Susan also reflects on a poignant moment when she felt God's kindness, understanding, and lack of judgment, transforming the guilt associated with overdrinking and illuminating the compassionate character of God. 

Challenging the perception of alcohol as a “people problem,” Susan highlights its addictive nature and explores the need for an awakening in the church regarding alcohol-related discussions. 

Our conversation with Susan serves as a powerful narrative of faith, struggle, and self-discovery, offering valuable insights for anyone navigating similar challenges within the intersection of alcohol use and Christianity.

You can learn more about Susan and the work she does here  and you can find her over on the ‘gram @drinklesswithsusan.

You can find this Episode on YouTube HERE

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Today’s episode has us saying no more pussy-footing around a chat about self-care, and has us diving into the common misconceptions of self-care, especially as it relates to the largely secular sober-verse. While the world, online influencers and brilliant marketers have us believing self-care is solely about indulging in luxurious activities and pampering ourselves, we are challenging this narrative and emphasizing the need to consider our future selves based on what truly nourishes and fills us up.

We highlight the importance of creating space for self-care and why it necessarily involves activities such as stillness, quiet, and rest. We also chat about why true self-care is only possible with soul-care as the foundation and how the nourishment of our souls through connecting with God in prayer and reading the Bible, is what truly allows us to show up ready to serve others.

We could’ve had a whole episode on rest as a crucial ingredient in self-care (and we’ll no doubt do a part 2 all about it) for now though, we invite you to explore what rest means to you and to consider ways to incorporate it into your routine.

This conversation underscores the necessity of reframing the cultural idea of self-care and then practicing it as a means to recharge, avoid burnout and live free from alcohol with Godly purpose and intention.

You can find this Episode on YouTube HERE

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

You probably recognize Millie Mackintosh as a model, a superstar influencer, or one of the beautiful faces from "Made in Chelsea." However, once you engage in a conversation with Millie, it becomes evident that her most cherished role is that of a mum. This heartwarming interview delves deep into Millie's journey to alcohol freedom, delivering a heartfelt message that will resonate profoundly with women everywhere.

Millie openly shares her history of a fractured relationship with alcohol, dating back to her early teens. As she grew older, the anxiety and hangovers worsened, exacerbated by the pressures of being in the public eye. The pivotal moment that made her realize the detrimental impact of alcohol on her mental health during a friend's hen party is a turning point in her story. Millie's willingness to confront her relationship with alcohol serves as an inspiring testament to her commitment to self-improvement and prioritizing her mental well-being.

Throughout the conversation, Millie emphasizes the paramount importance of prioritizing self-care and deliberately scheduling downtime. This practice has become instrumental in improving her mental health. Millie's candid discussion about her recent experiences with panic attacks serves as a poignant reminder to listen to our bodies and make self-care a non-negotiable priority.

Millie sheds light on her 15-month journey of living alcohol-free, which has allowed her to confront and process her emotions, bringing her closer to her true self. This transformation has enabled her to show up as the best mum she can be, embracing her role with authenticity and dedication.

You can find this Episode on YouTube HERE

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Today’s episode is part 2 of our powerful conversation with guest Caroline Dooner, a former New Age practitioner and author, who shares her profound journey from the depths of the New Age movement to the embrace of Christianity. She provides a candid exploration of her Catholic upbringing, initial misunderstandings of Jesus, and the allure of the New Age's promises of personal power. Caroline discusses the darker aspects of the New Age, including encounters with a shaman and the surprising link between New Age practices and dominatrix experiences.

Delve into the spiritual power and consequences of New Age practices, as Caroline narrates her experiences with energy work, chakra healing, and the unsettling encounters with the demonic. She emphasizes the importance of discernment and surrender to God's will in navigating the complex world of spiritual beliefs. This episode serves as a cautionary tale, shedding light on the potential pitfalls and deceptive allure of New Age ideologies.

Caroline's journey also touches upon her exploration of conspiracy theories, leading her to question her beliefs and seek a genuine connection with God. The episode concludes with her transformative decision to quit drinking, the challenges she faced in moderation, and the ultimate realization that sobriety was the path to true well-being.

Takeaways

• The New Age movement encompasses various beliefs and practices centered around seeking special knowledge about spirituality and the universe.

• The New Age often promotes a self-centered focus, where individuals believe they can manifest their desires and become their own gods.

• The New Age movement can be enticing due to its promises of personal power and freedom, but it can lead to spiritual confusion and a distorted understanding of God.

• Engaging in New Age practices can open doors to spiritual influences and have unintended consequences, highlighting the importance of discernment and surrender to God's will. New Age beliefs and practices can lead to spiritual oppression and demonic encounters.

• Energy work and chakra healing may provide temporary relief but can also open doors to negative spiritual influences.

• Questioning and researching different belief systems can lead to a deeper understanding of the truth.

• Surrendering to God and embracing faith can bring relief, peace, and protection from darkness. Quitting drinking can be a challenging process, but it can lead to significant physical and mental benefits.

• Trying to moderate drinking can often be more stressful and detrimental to one's well-being than not drinking at all.

• Overcoming social pressure to drink can be empowering and liberating.

• Making the decision to stop drinking can be a transformative experience.

Connect with Caroline at carolinedooner.com, carolinedooner.substack.com and over on instagram @carolinedooner. And grab a copy of both of her books The F It Diet and Tired as F!

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Join us for this powerful conversation over the next two episodes as our guest Caroline Dooner, a former New Age practitioner and author, shares her profound journey from the depths of the New Age movement to the embrace of Christianity. She provides a candid exploration of her Catholic upbringing, initial misunderstandings of Jesus, and the allure of the New Age's promises of personal power. Caroline discusses the darker aspects of the New Age, including encounters with a shaman and the surprising link between New Age practices and dominatrix experiences.

Delve into the spiritual power and consequences of New Age practices, as Caroline narrates her experiences with energy work, chakra healing, and the unsettling encounters with the demonic. She emphasizes the importance of discernment and surrender to God's will in navigating the complex world of spiritual beliefs. This episode serves as a cautionary tale, shedding light on the potential pitfalls and deceptive allure of New Age ideologies.

Caroline's journey also touches upon her exploration of conspiracy theories, leading her to question her beliefs and seek a genuine connection with God. The episode concludes with her transformative decision to quit drinking, the challenges she faced in moderation, and the ultimate realization that sobriety was the path to true well-being.

Takeaways

• The New Age movement encompasses various beliefs and practices centered around seeking special knowledge about spirituality and the universe.

• The New Age often promotes a self-centered focus, where individuals believe they can manifest their desires and become their own gods.

• The New Age movement can be enticing due to its promises of personal power and freedom, but it can lead to spiritual confusion and a distorted understanding of God.

• Engaging in New Age practices can open doors to spiritual influences and have unintended consequences, highlighting the importance of discernment and surrender to God's will. New Age beliefs and practices can lead to spiritual oppression and demonic encounters.

• Energy work and chakra healing may provide temporary relief but can also open doors to negative spiritual influences.

• Questioning and researching different belief systems can lead to a deeper understanding of the truth.

• Surrendering to God and embracing faith can bring relief, peace, and protection from darkness. Quitting drinking can be a challenging process, but it can lead to significant physical and mental benefits.

• Trying to moderate drinking can often be more stressful and detrimental to one's well-being than not drinking at all.

• Overcoming social pressure to drink can be empowering and liberating.

• Making the decision to stop drinking can be a transformative experience.

Join us again next week for the riveting conclusion of Caroline’s story and in the meantime you can connect with Caroline at carolinedooner.com, on instagram @carolinedooner and check out her fascinating and hilarious substack, Problematic at carolinedooner.substack.com. And grab a copy of both of her books The F It Diet and Tired as F.

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show

Dear Listener, Have you made it all the way through the Christmas season without alcohol and today – Christmas Day of all days – you are finding yourself entertaining thoughts of mimosas with Christmas brunch? Or maybe you have been mindfully drinking through this season and today you are exhausted and ready to try differently by not drinking, but don't know where to start? 

No matter the reason you are here, know that we’ve got you! Consider us your faithful girlfriends showing up for a Christmas Day pep talk so that you can do Christmas Day as you intend to; not as alcohol intends for you. 

Today’s festive episode offers practical tips for shifting expectations and finding joy in the present moment. We will guide you in reflecting on the progress you have made with your stuck-in-the-drinking-cycle “situation” (because we have heretofore banned the word “journey”) and we remind you to reflect on and celebrate the gifts you have experienced this far. Don’t skip this – it is critical to offering you forward movement if today, you are feeling stuck. 

We’re also offering an AF Christmas Day hack that will give you the relief that you are looking for without the headache and regret. We’re talking about the power of a firm decision eliminating the head noise that accompanies the should I/shouldn’t I thinking. And as always we are inviting you to use mindfulness and curiosity to truly understand how alcohol makes you feel, especially during the unique week between Christmas and New Year's.

This episode is sure to leave you feeling ready and excited to do Christmas Day differently so that this Christmas can mark your merriest Christmas yet! Stick around to the end for our fun chat about Boxing Day and for the exciting announcement about our plans – with YOU – in the new year! Wishing you all a very, Merry Christmas! 

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

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Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

YouTube: https://youtu.be/co5_nNqGdkU 

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #AFChristmas #MerryChristmas #AFholiday

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Today we’re engaging in an open conversation about the pursuit of moderation along the freedom from alcohol journey. From the inherent challenges of moderation to uncovering the underlying fears that often propel the desire for moderation, and the things to consider if moderation is your desire, we cover it all here today. 

But first, you won’t want to miss Christy's reflections from her fourth alcohol-free birthday weekend and Meade’s surprise revelations from an AFFT – alcohol-free first time – as a guest at a 100% booze-free Christmas party. Meade is well-seasoned at being a non-drinker at parties, but a party where no one is drinking?! That is a first!  

The convo continues with a deep dive into the concept of moderation. Is moderation possible? What is moderation exactly? How do we know if moderation is achieved? We explore all of these necessary questions where moderation is the goal. 

We also touch on the challenges of moderation due to alcohol's addictive nature. We tackle the underlying fears and conditioning that drive the desire for moderation. We stress the significance of tuning into the mental chatter to break free from conflicting thoughts about alcohol. We emphasize the importance of taking a mindful break from alcohol in order to understand its effects on our brains, bodies and minds in order to make informed decisions about moderation. 

Lastly, this may be a tough question to consider but as followers of Jesus we have to bring all the grace and all the truth, right? 

If moderation is something you’re wanting to achieve, is it possible that you want the change that comes from freedom from alcohol without having to actually change? 

If so, you’ll be relieved to hear that you are not alone and we’re offering our unique perspective on this one.  

As the conversation wraps up, stay tuned for an exciting January surprise, and mark your calendars for a special episode dropping on Christmas Day. This episode offers a thoughtful exploration of sobriety and moderation, providing valuable takeaways for those seeking to regain control of alcohol.

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

In today’s inspiring episode, we’re thrilled to share a heart-to-heart with Brittany Tonkavich, a former client of Christy’s. Her journey isn't just a story of sobriety; it's a raw, deep dive into finding herself amidst the unexpected turns in life.

Brittany kicks off with her life's mantra that struck a chord with us: "If it looks like the high life, it's probably the lie life." She opens up about her battle with alcohol, challenging the common belief that booze brings out our true selves. Her experiences paint a vivid picture of alcohol as a mask, hiding our authentic selves and leading her to seek truth and transparency in sobriety.

Brittany's courage in facing her innermost fears and embracing her true self is nothing short of inspiring. She reminds us that shedding our facades is where the real journey begins.

We touch on the importance of sharing such genuine stories, especially within the Christian community, to dismantle the stigmas around addiction and encourage empathy and understanding.

Brittany’s journey into sobriety is not just about abstaining from alcohol; it’s about the liberating journey of self-reclamation and the boundless freedom that follows.

For those keen to delve deeper into Brittany's thoughts and beautiful writing, we encourage you to visit her substack, “Somewhere By a Stream.” You can follow Britany on instagram @okthisismylifenow. 

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ou3wnp_j6gg 

“But what about all the parties?” Today we’re chatting all about the challenging but rewarding world of sober socializing during the festive Christmas season. We had the pleasure of hosting Karolina Rzadkowolska, an alcohol-free empowerment expert and bestselling author of “Euphoric: Ditch Alcohol and Gain a Happier, More Confident You.” 

Karolina’s expertise has helped thousands through her book and transformative programs, and her insights have graced numerous platforms, including the Huffington Post and the Goal Digger Podcast. 

Karolina shared her personal journey from college party enthusiast to a fulfilled, alcohol-free life. She spoke candidly about the initial challenges of socializing without alcohol, especially as a self-described introvert. Her experiences led her to discover a profound sense of confidence and purpose, transcending beyond the temporary allure of alcohol-induced charisma. Karolina's story illustrated that embracing sobriety doesn't mean losing one's social life but rather rediscovering genuine connections and joy.

This episode is packed with practical advice for navigating holiday parties and social gatherings while remaining alcohol-free. Karolina emphasizes the importance of reframing our approach to social events, viewing them as opportunities for personal growth and genuine interaction. 

She offers strategies for handling peer pressure and changing the narrative around alcohol, empowering listeners to see sobriety not as a limitation but as a superpower. 

The discussion extends beyond the holiday season, touching on the transformative power of living a purpose-driven, alcohol-free life. 

For a deeper dive into these empowering principles, don't forget to check out Karolina's book, “Euphoric: Ditch Alcohol and Gain a Happier, More Confident You,” available here. 

For more about her work, visit EuphoricAF.com.

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

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Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

YouTube: https://youtu.be/mmAbJOjzABY 

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/mpWOFG4sR6g 

In this episode, we are tackling a listener's question about dealing with the shame associated with looking back on past drinking experiences. We reflect on our own regrets from our drinking days and emphasize the importance of revisiting past regrets with curiosity and self-compassion. We both share how our relationship with Jesus transformed through forgiveness and grace.

We discuss the significance of acknowledging regrets, repentance, and seeking forgiveness. We chat about the role of faith in overcoming shame and regrets, and touch on the many biblical examples of individuals who made mistakes but were forgiven and used for greater purposes. Further we delve into the concept of repentance and its role in personal growth and transformation.

We also touch on the importance of bringing regrets into the light, allowing discomfort to inform personal growth, and finding freedom from alcohol to deepen our relationship with God. We chat about the impact of conditioning in a society that normalizes alcohol consumption and the freedom that comes from breaking free from such patterns.

We share our personal experiences related to the relief of “safety” after a night of drinking and  reflect on the impact of alcohol on the nervous system. And we highlight the neurological changes that occur when one brings regrets into the light and reframes them, creating new neural pathways. We also offer practical ways of meeting past regrets, such as praying for new vision, sharing regrets with trusted friends or professionals, and seeking support.

This episode underscores the transformative power of faith, self-compassion, and community in overcoming shame and regrets associated with past drinking experiences.

Episode 24 What is shame and why are we talking about it? With Pastor David 

Episode 51 Realigning with Core Values: Finding Purpose Beyond the Glass with Pastor Davi

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

YouTube: https://youtu.be/mmAbJOjzABY 

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Have you ever felt like you want to drink and not want to drink at the same time? Have you ever felt like wine is getting in the way of meaningful connections with the Lord, your hub, kids and others? And at the same time you feel like wine is the thing that’s connecting you to your hub, and girlfriends so you can’t imagine actually doing anything about the wine situation? These conflicting thoughts can be crazy-making for sure, but they’re not crazy! You are not crazy. And you are not alone.

This thinking kept us both stuck in the drinking cycle too. Until we discovered the real reason we had these conflicting thoughts; when we were drinking wine, what we said we valued wasn’t actually aligned with how we were showing up in our lives. This realization was uncomfortable, yes, and it was the necessary first step to hope and change.

What are our core values? Are they aligned with our actions? Why is that important? How do we even know what our core values are? And what do we do when we notice that our actions and behaviors are no longer aligned with them? For a thought-provoking conversation around these questions and so much more, we invited everybody’s favorite pastor, David, back to the studio to share his wisdom and guide us around the topic of core values and the importance of them when applied to different areas of our lives.

Pastor David shares his five core values related to faith, family, fitness, finances, and friendship. He elaborates on what these values mean to him and how he uses them as a guiding framework for making decisions and prioritizing different aspects of his life. He also talked about the significance of surrounding ourselves with friends and relationships that support personal growth and align with our core values.

This thoughtful and engaging conversation about core values, personal growth, and the importance of aligning our lives with our values, is a must-listen for anyone who has felt the rub and internal conflict of wanting to drink and not wanting to drink all at the same time. With David’s wisdom and our practical tips for change it is our hope that you will leave this episode feeling a renewed excitement for taking the time to slow down, look up and bring attention and intention to all that you do.

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

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#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. You can find this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/twtWWNFDPN8

Today, we’re chatting about understanding and managing triggers on the path to sobriety. Triggers, those little sparks that push us towards a drink, come in various forms, and today, we're unpacking them one by one.

We start with emotional triggers. From feelings of loneliness to grief, we explore how uplifting and challenging emotions can lead us to seek solace in a bottle of wine. Next, we tackle environmental triggers. We discuss how certain places, like a favorite restaurant, a sunny back patio, or even a concert, can reignite the urge to drink. We delve into strategies to navigate these settings without succumbing to old habits.

Then, we shift our focus to exposure triggers. Being around alcohol or in situations where drinking is the norm can be challenging. We discuss practical ways to handle these scenarios, ensuring they don't derail our progress.

Temporal triggers are up next. We delve into how specific times of the day, week, or year, like holidays or personal anniversaries, can be challenging. If you're worried about the upcoming Christmas season, this part of our podcast is especially for you.

Throughout our conversation, mindfulness emerges as a key theme. We emphasize the importance of being in tune with our body and emotions and how this awareness can be a powerful tool in managing triggers.

Whether you're just starting out or well into your journey, there's something here for everyone. Join us as we navigate the complexities of triggers together, one step at a time.

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

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Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

YouTube: https://youtu.be/vwkG81aEhO0 

Our friend and guest today, Erik Frederickson, is a fellow Jesus follower, coach and author of the newly-released and incredible book, “Recovering Reality: Freedom from the torment of addiction.” We invited Erik to join us on the pod because he, like us, believes that there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to freeing ourselves from the substances and everyday addictions that take up the space in our lives and in our hearts; the space that is only meant for the Lord. Erik generously shares his incredible journey of recovery from addiction and his path to faith in Jesus. 

Erik’s journey began in his teen years with a desire to fit in and at a time of rebellion against his religious upbringing. He shares how prescription pain-killers from a routine dental procedure greatly contributed to the early onset of addiction to drugs and alcohol and the years of arrests and unrest that followed.

What was Erik’s breaking point leading him to seek help and enter a treatment center, marking the beginning of his transformation journey? How did the loving-kindness of new friends influence him to be open to learning about Jesus? And how did a growing relationship with Jesus, the power of daily routines, morning meetings, and surrounding himself with a supportive community guide him on his recovery journey? 

Through his story, Erik, emphasizes that recovery is a process that involves creating new patterns of thinking and behavior. He also highlights the importance of not waiting for a "rock bottom" before seeking help and the value of educating oneself about addiction. We were delighted and inspired by our time with Erik and we hope his journey, highlighting the significance of seeking help, embracing spirituality, and being committed to personal growth in the recovery process, will bless and inspire you too. 

To learn more about Erik and the work he does visit his website here. You can find him at YouTube and instagram @recoveringreality and be sure to pick up a copy of his newly-released book here!

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

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Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

YouTube: https://youtu.be/oC_Vct17hDY

In this profoundly personal and enlightening episode, we welcome Sam, a former client of Christy, who shares her intimate journey with alcohol. Sam's story begins with her college years, where she transitioned from indifference to heavy drinking, trying to find her place in a new environment. Despite facing alcohol-related challenges, she managed to prioritize her studies and later ventured into the beverage marketing and business development sectors for Big Alcohol. 

Sam's professional life took a turn when she was exposed to the "pinkwashing" phenomenon in the alcohol industry. During Breast Cancer Awareness month, many brands, including her former company, would promote "Drink Pink", "A cocktail for a cause", and other similar campaigns. Bars would donate a percentage of their proceeds to organizations like Susan G Komen or other cancer research entities. While seemingly noble, these campaigns masked the fact that alcohol consumption is a significant risk factor for breast cancer.

Sam's personal connection to breast cancer, with her maternal grandmother and two aunts being survivors, made this revelation even more poignant. When she discussed the link between alcohol and breast cancer with her grandmother, an active volunteer with Susan G Komen, she was surprised. Her grandmother had no idea about the connection.

The episode sheds light on alarming statistics from Cancer Research UK, which states that around 1 in 10 breast cancer cases, or about 4,400 cases a year, are caused by alcohol. 

Through Sam's story, we underscore the importance of empowering women to know the risks of regular drinking and shed light on another dishonest and infuriating marketing tactic by Big Alcohol.

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

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Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

YouTube: https://youtu.be/GdftytJRu1s

On today’s episode, we're honored to chat with Jenn Kautsch, the inspiring founder of the SoberSis community. Jenn is a pivotal voice in the "Sober Curious" movement and the author of "Look Alive, Sis."

Her mission? To forge a judgment-free space where women can reassess their bond with alcohol. Jenn specializes in guiding those stuck in the "gray area" of drinking, steering them away from the mindless "wine o'clock" routine.

Today, we unearth Jenn's journey, notably how she sought solace from anxiety through drinking. Together, we unravel the evolution of the 'mommy wine culture' and confront the double-edged sword of drinking to feel yet desiring numbness.

Jenn elaborates on the transformative process she undertook to realign her mind, body, and spirit and how she now empowers other women to do the same. Addressing the pervasive 'mom guilt', we touch upon alcohol's illusionary promise of connection. We also touch on the undeniable power of a compelling 'why’ when starting a sobriety journey and how to find a supportive sober tribe.

To learn more about Jen and Sober Sis, click here.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

Find us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/52MNymLY3as

Today, we dive deep into a story we have heard numerous times from clients: “I drink because I’m bored.” And although we’re talking about boredom, this is not a boring episode. In fact, we couldn’t stop laughing all the way through.

We explore the concept of boredom and how idle time can be perceived as a gift, providing an opportunity for reflection and creativity. We discuss how moments of stillness can naturally morph into prayer time, creating a constant, meaningful conversation that enhances our relationship with Jesus. 

We also discuss the flipside of the boredom issue: drinking to make boring things bearable. We touch upon the societal and internal pressures, especially as mothers, to engage in activities (like PTA meetings) that might not be genuinely enjoyable or fulfilling. And how we thought alcohol helped us make the unbearable, bearable. 

A pivotal point in our discussion revolves around the stories we tell ourselves about what we "should" do and how these "shoulds" often stem from shame or external expectations. Meade coaches Christy through a role-play scenario, revealing how these internal narratives can be challenged and reshaped to align more authentically with our true desires and values. 

Our conversation also illuminates how stepping into an alcohol-free lifestyle can reveal activities that we don’t genuinely enjoy and how it frees up time for more what really matters. 

We end today’s episode with a tactic to embrace stillness and live more consciously. This episode is a deep dive into the relationship between boredom and drinking and a broader exploration of living intentionally and mindfully amidst societal pressures.

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

Youtube: https://youtu.be/hqx29ewKovE

The fear of ‘forever’ when quitting alcohol is a common concern for many when exploring sobriety. And it can be a significant barrier to even daring to look at our relationship to alcohol because of the long-formed belief from traditional quit-drinking spaces that say alcohol must be eliminated forever. But do we have to say forever? And what does ‘forever’ when it comes to quitting drinking even mean?

In this episode, we dig into this common concern and barrier, emphasizing that this journey is not as much about quitting alcohol as it is about changing the desire for alcohol. When we change our desire for alcohol first, not drinking then becomes effortless. 

So how do we tackle the ‘forever’ story?  Listen along as we discuss the importance of setting the goal around how we want to feel, rather than setting behavior-based or physical goals. And while new information about how alcohol affects our brains, bodies and lives is critical to transforming our relationship to alcohol, equally as important is how we take that info and apply it in our lives. 

We highlight the value of support and the experiential knowledge gained through this journey that allows us to really understand if alcohol is actually taking more from us than it’s giving us. We also discuss how the fear of failure is often what’s underneath our fear of saying forever and how developing a mindset of curiosity can help overcome it.

Ever wondered how long it takes to develop the confidence and empowerment as a non-drinker that allows us to naturally and effortlessly pass on the vino at girls’ night, vacation, or at the end of a long day? How does transformation along the sobriety journey parallel transformation in the spiritual journey?

This hope-filled conversation not only answers the FAQ do I have to say forever but also highlights how the sobriety journey is about so much more than quitting drinking, opening opportunities for self-discovery, intentional living, and a deeper relationship with ourselves and with God.

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

YouTube: https://youtu.be/olojNfJqou8

On the latest jam of "But Jesus Drank Wine," we're hanging out with the amazing William Porter - the genius behind 'Alcohol Explained' (and its sequel). William has a serious gift for taking all of the sciencey jargon about alcohol and making it relatable and easy to understand. 

We're diving deep into the nitty-gritty of how booze messes with our minds and bodies. Have you ever wondered why you're so zonked out after a night of drinking, even though you slept for 10 hours? William's got the scoop on how alcohol loves to party crash our REM sleep. And for all of us who've thought about giving alcohol the boot, we chat about how long it takes for our sleep to get back on track.

For anyone who's ever said, "But I actually LOVE the taste of wine!” we're breaking down how our tastebuds work and how, over time, we become conditioned to the taste. 

We also tackle how the "spiral of craving" makes our lives less enjoyable. To wrap things up, we touch upon the evolving landscape of sobriety and the booming 'sober curious' movement. William champions the idea that anyone can explore an alcohol-free lifestyle, regardless of how much they’re drinking. Join us for this illuminating conversation and gain a new perspective on alcohol's role in our lives.

To get your copy of Alcohol Explained and Alcohol Explained and learn more about William’s work, click here.

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery #alcoholexplained

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

In this episode, we dive into the intimate journey of coping with grief and numbing with alcohol. Christy talks about losing her mother and how breaking free from alcohol became essential to her healing process. 

We chat candidly about the numbing effects of alcohol, a substance that ultimately trapped Christy in a cycle of unprocessed grief. We talk about how sobriety can help offer the tools to sit with feelings and begin to process them. You'll hear personal revelations about how unaddressed grief can suffocate your emotional well-being, making the pain last longer. 

We'll explore the misguided notion that alcohol can "solve" emotional pain, discussing how ‘mornings after’ still bring the same heartache, now intensified by hangover headaches and a feeling of constant sedation.

Listen in as we affirm how confronting the dark corners of grief ultimately allows light, peace, and profound gratitude to re-enter our lives. 

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

We love having guests on the pod to share about their quitting drinking journeys and Jolene’s gray-area drinking story last week is powerful. Today’s story, equally powerful but unlike any other story we've shared before, is the second part of our conversation with our friend, functional nutritionist and gray-area drinking coach, Jolene Park. 

From growing up a self-described “pew warmer” in her family’s traditional Presbyterian church to a “spiritual but not religious” adult life, to then abandoning spirituality altogether and to more recently a pilgrimage to the Holy Land and a return to faith, Jolene’s spiritual journey has taken many twists and turns along the way.

Listen along to hear how an uninspired early church life and Jolene’s lifelong seeker personality made it easy to get behind the “feel-good” New Age thinking that dominates the sober and sober curious spaces. What finally led to Jolene’s spiritual awakening igniting her pilgrimage back to her Christian roots? How did a bad yoga experience play a big role in her journey? What do London’s cathedrals have to do with this conversation? How does “faith” look different now than it did from Jolene’s growing up years? How did a friend's comment about reading the bible put her on a trajectory to not just reading the bible cover to cover for the first time but actually devouring the bible? 

How did the teachings of C.S. Lewis, Dr. Curt Thompson and Alissa Childers inspire curiosity and help to transform her relationship with Jesus? What are the parallels between the freedom from the “New Age” and freedom from alcohol journeys?

We dive head first into this messy and beautiful topic and we hope it leaves you curious and hopeful for wherever you find yourself in your alcohol and/or spiritual transformation journeys!

You can learn more about Jolene, here:

https://grayareadrinkers.com/

https://healthydiscoveries.mykajabi.com/nourish

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

YouTube: https://youtu.be/4iOzB9q_l5Q

In this eye-opening episode, we're thrilled to sit down with Jolene Park, a leading authority on Gray Area Drinking. You may recognize her from her groundbreaking TED talk, which has garnered an astounding 400,000 views. Jolene isn't just a functional nutritionist and health coach; she's also a pioneer in helping people rewire their nervous systems post-drinking using her revolutionary NOURISH method. With nearly a decade of alcohol-free living and features in major outlets like NPR and Forbes, she's the real deal.

We dive deep into what it means to be a gray area drinker, exploring the support landscape that's evolved over the past 10 years. Jolene also guides us through the physiological steps necessary to reduce excessive alcohol consumption and curb those pesky cravings. Plus, don't miss her pro tips on nourishing your nervous system to avoid falling back into the drinking trap. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that could change the way you think about drinking and wellness!

You can learn more about Jolene, here:

https://grayareadrinkers.com/

https://healthydiscoveries.mykajabi.com/nourish

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

Join us for a heartwarming episode where we chat candidly with Meade’s son, Crawford (13) and Christy’s son, Carter (11), about the ripple effects of our decision to live alcohol-free. 

From their moms having more time to spend with them and how our sobriety has impacted their dads' drinking habits, our boys give us a window into how much kids really notice. 

Trust us, these young minds are aware of how sobriety has not only made us more present mothers but has also positively influenced the entire family dynamic. They even share how fewer babysitters and more quality time together have become the new norm. 

Tune in and enjoy this authentic conversation; it's a glimpse into the many, often unexpected, benefits of choosing an alcohol-free lifestyle through the eyes of our sweet boys. 

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Check out Carter's Comic Corner!

 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIVn9fwfw3n3DGHOkC9Q9kQ

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #mommywine #mommywineculture #mommywinetime

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and, therefore, do not give medical, psychological or professional advice, nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Our guest today, Dan Jablonski, an IT executive at a multinational energy company, joins the hopeful conversation around how freedom from alcohol leads to a life full of peace, joy and purpose. Dan dives into his personal journey to alcohol-free living, which was sparked by a significant life shift. He shares his unique perspective as the lone male in one of Meade’s coaching groups and shares about the obstacles and benefits of such a space. This discussion explores the importance of vulnerability in overcoming struggles with alcohol and how it’s not about finding solutions, but more about finding guidance and support through coaching and shared experiences with others.

Dan shares how his drinking really changed once he became a “grown up,” trading beer and wings for the Whole Foods-esque food and wine culture, following career success and moves to the Bay area and NYC. Dan discusses his struggle with alcohol-induced insomnia and how he found support by making weekly coaching calls a priority amid a busy corporate career schedule. This conversation emphasizes the radical honesty it takes to look at a troubled relationship with alcohol – particularly when there aren't any real outward detrimental effects to one’s life – and how that radical honesty is the most important and necessary step toward change. 

Guest Dan, who has been living alcohol-free for three years, reveals that men who are free from alcohol not only start aging in reverse, but also become the most interesting person in the room. He emphasizes the power of authentic conversations that emerge when one chooses not to drink. We are so grateful for Dan’s wisdom and insights from his personal journey to freedom from insomnia by ditching booze for good and offers encouragement to any listener (male or female!) and assures anyone on the sobriety journey that your life can positively change too, once you decide to let go of alcohol. 

Bonus! Check out Meade and Christy's instagrams for Dan's shocking before and after photos and the IRL data he collected about his sleep with and without booze. You have to see it to believe it! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE.

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #authenticliving #journeytosobriety #wineandotherstories #vulnerabilityinrecovery

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE.

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #marriageandrecovery #authenticliving

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

Join us today for an oldie but goodie fun chat as we explore our 10 favorite things about being free from alcohol. We knew things like better sleep, less brain fog and more hydrated skin were possible by “quitting drinking,” and those things would have been enough, but listen along to find out what unexpected gifts we have found from not just quitting drinking but from never having to drink alcohol again. 

How has freedom from alcohol changed our lives for the better and in what ways does it keep getting better? What does this chat have to do with FOMO and a case of the Mondays? And because we didn’t compare our lists ahead of time, what best things about freedom from alcohol made both of our lists and what were the surprise differences? Join us as we go through the 10 best things about never having to drink again!

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE.

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #marriageandrecovery #authenticliving

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

In this episode, we continue exploring personal stories of those who have been stuck in the over-drinking cycle. Special guests, Amy and Matt Edwards, co-hosts of the “Alcohol-Free Marriage and More” podcast, join us to discuss their journey to freedom from alcohol. They share their initial challenges transitioning from being ‘career drinkers’ to achieving an alcohol-free lifestyle. 

Matt delves into health problems related to alcohol use, noting benefits of sobriety such as weight loss and improved mental clarity. They discuss the importance of being a supportive partner during this transformation,highlighting the role of communication and understanding. 

Additionally, Amy and Matt explore fears about the impact of sobriety on relationships, encouraging listeners to give their spouses a chance during this transition period. 

Together we explore the significance of individual commitment to becoming the best version of oneself while maintaining hope and faith on the journey to alcohol freedom. Listen along for valuable insight and tips for wherever you find yourself on the freedom from alcohol journey and for a refreshing perspective on living an authentic, joyful and purposeful life. 

To learn more about Amy and Matt you can visit Amy’s website here. And be sure to check out their “Alcohol Free Marriage and More” podcast here.

 Connect with Meade and Christy HERE.

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity #marriageandrecovery #authenticliving

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

In this episode, Meade and Christy welcome Jeff Salzenstein, a former professional tennis player and now keynote speaker and performance and leadership coach. Jeff shares his journey through the highs and lows of being a professional athlete, overcoming adversity and his dedication to achieving optimal performance physically, mentally and emotionally. 

Not only does Jeff’s story highlight the power of limiting beliefs and how connecting to the mind and body are critical for overcoming obstacles and achieving goals, but also he shares his personal story related to alcohol, the effects it had on his life before alcohol freedom and the tragic effects alcohol had on his brother’s life. 

Hear how Jeff’s “golden child” persona masked the insecurities that initially led him to drink and how he finally found alcohol freedom. And hear why he says that freedom from alcohol is less about the duration of time and more about the depth of self-discovery involved. Also hear Jeff share his brother, Erik’s story and battle with drug and alcohol addiction, highlighting how you don’t have to be in actual prison to be imprisoned when it comes to the power of our minds. 

Jeff’s insights from his own life and through that of his brother’s, emphasize the prospects of change at any stage in life and how the pain endured contributes to personal growth and freedom. We are so grateful for Jeff’s vulnerable and generous sharing in this episode and for the inspiration we know it provides for anyone listening who is feeling stuck in the cycle of over-drinking. 

To learn more about Jeff and the work he does you can visit his website here. Check out his brother Erik’s powerful TEDtalk Why I Had to Go to Prison to Set Myself Free.

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

Dr. Brooke Scheller, DCN, CNS, is a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, author, and the founder of Functional Sobriety. In this episode, she joins us to discuss the importance of regulating blood sugar in early sobriety, the impact of alcohol on hormone production and the connection between perimenopause symptoms and alcohol consumption. 

Dr. Brooke's approach combines her expertise in nutrition and functional medicine to help individuals transform their relationship with alcohol and improve their overall well-being. Through her online community, the Functional Sobriety Network, and her programs, she has empowered people around the globe to make positive changes in their lives.

To learn more about Dr. Brooke Scheller and her work, visit her website at www.functionalsobriety.com. You can also follow her on Instagram @drbrookescheller for valuable insights and updates. Additionally, Dr. Brooke's book, "How to Eat to Change How You Drink," is available for pre-order. 

Don't miss this episode as Dr. Brooke Scheller shares her expertise in nutrition, functional medicine, and sobriety, providing valuable insights and practical advice for anyone looking to improve their health and transform their relationship with alcohol.

Pre-Order: How to Eat to Change How You Drink – https://a.co/d/6hjCXTE

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

With the brutal stats that 1 in 5 women in the U.S. struggle with infertility, there’s a good chance that you or someone you know, knows the struggle of wanting to be happy for your friends’ pregnancy news while simultaneously feeling the immense pain of recurrent pregnancy loss and infertility. Today’s guest is all too familiar with this heart-break and generously shares her story so that just one other woman can know she is not alone. 

Grab your tissues and a cup of tea and join us as fellow coach and friend, Maureen Benkovich, shares how turning to alcohol to ease social insecurity in her teen years created an opening for alcohol—as the “magical elixir” we’re conditioned to believe that it is—to take up a much bigger space in her life over many years. 

From using alcohol to celebrate achievements as a fitness competitor and to numbing the pain in infertility, hear how Maureen’s story highlights the detox-to-retox cycle that so many of us get stuck in. 

Also like so many of us, hear how Maureen did a really good job of looking like she had it altogether, while silently suffering from depression, anxiety, grief and loss. Afraid to burden anyone with her real suffering and turning to booze and “the party girl” identity for comfort that never lasts.

What was the painful prompt that led Maureen to finally do something about her relationship to alcohol? How did questioning her purpose and questioning God’s presence in her life, bring her to her knees and create a path to healing and freedom from alcohol? How did community and scripture play big roles in her journey? 

We hope that you will be as blessed by Maureen’s courage and beauty in this episode as we were while recording it. 

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

Join us today as we explore the financial benefits of alcohol-free living! Today we share our personal experiences and revelations about the incredible savings of embracing a life without alcohol.

Discover areas where we found newfound financial freedom, from bidding farewell to expenses like booze and taxi rides to surprising changes like saying goodbye to extra afternoon coffees and expensive under-eye creams. We dive into the perks of proper sleep, consistent workout routines, and a healthier immune system that reduces the need for vitamin supplements, melatonin, doctor visits, and all those painkillers.

Tune in to this enlightening episode and discover the many benefits—both financial and personal—of embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle.

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

Join us for a captivating episode featuring Veronica Valli, a true force in the world of sobriety and psychotherapy. With an impressive track record of 23 years of sobriety and 18 years of experience as a psychotherapist, Veronica is fiercely dedicated to unraveling the deceptive web surrounding alcohol, including the "clean wine" con. 

Prepare for an eye-opening conversation as we dive headfirst into the smoke and mirrors created by Big Alcohol as they attempt to infiltrate the wellness industry with their misleading claims of "healthier" alcohol. We expose some of the most egregious culprits behind these marketing scams, shining a light on Avaline, the brainchild of Cameron Diaz, which cunningly highlights its use of organic grapes and minimal additives. But that's not all – we also unveil the audacity of "Mom Water," a tantalizing fruit-infused vodka water that boasts zero carbonation, sugar, carbs, and gluten.

Together, we challenge the essence of labeling alcohol as "clean," even when it originates from organic grapes and lacks sugar. We ask, “Who truly benefits?" when women succumb to these marketing tactics. 

But that's not all – we explore the mental bandwidth that alcohol consumes in our lives. And we chat about how to recognise the signs when alcohol begins to occupy an excessive amount of headspace and how that keeps us living up to our full potential.

Curious to learn more about Veronica? Visit Soberful.com, and don't forget to grab a copy of her book, "Soberful: Uncover A Sustainable Fulfilling Life Free of Alcohol," available on Amazon. 

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

In today’s episode, we dive deep into counting consecutive days in sobriety. We invite you to join us as we challenge the belief that counting days is the sole measure of success when living alcohol-free. 

Together, we explore the power of data (or growth) points as valuable tools for self-reflection. By examining the thoughts and behaviors surrounding moments of vulnerability, we can identify triggers and circumstances to avoid in the future. Our ultimate goal is to help you design a life you love, free from the need to numb or escape. We believe that this journey is about progress, not perfection. Cultivating awareness and embracing learning opportunities is what it’s all about. 

Each step towards drinking less brings you one step closer to freedom. You're never back at day one; you are continuously moving forward on your path of self-discovery. Join us in this episode and embark on a journey of empowerment, where you'll learn to embrace your unique timeline and unlock the power of personal transformation.

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

June 19 - Ep. 29: How do I talk to my kids about alcohol? Special Guest: Annie Grace

We are so blessed to have our friend and mentor, Annie Grace, on this week's podcast. We asked our friends and clients the most poignant question on their minds right now to ask expert Annie, and the answer was clear. We, as moms, are desperate to learn more about how we talk to our kids about alcohol.

In this episode, Annie explains how our children want independence while we, as their mothers, are desperate for togetherness. We talk about balancing our desire to help support a better bond with our kids. We chat about how to learn to trust them and keep them talking.

We ask burning questions like, “How can we protect our children and give them their independence at the same time”? 

And how do we realize when our child is coming to us just because they want to talk and be heard, and how do we know they need our help, as their mothers, in solving a problem, and when can we know it’s okay to intervene for them?

Finally, we talk about how our own struggles with alcohol can help shape our conversations with our children about this topic and how overcoming and finding freedom can help us be the best possible examples for our kiddos.

You can learn more about Annie and all of her incredible work at ThisNakedMind.com. Annie also has written a book for children about alcohol called Buzz to Buzzkill: How Alcohol and Dopamine Hack Your Brain which is available on amazon here.

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Find this week's episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Xw2tJr1WoBA

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

From the outside looking in, is your life as glossy as a magazine cover? Sure, your drinking might not have caused a lost job, a broken marriage, or landed you in jail, but do you ever get that nagging whisper in your ear saying, "Maybe life would be better without the hangovers and hangxiety"?

In today’s episode, we unravel the mysteries of the alcohol use disorder spectrum and introduce you to the enigmatic 'gray area drinker.'

If you feel like the label suits you, great but if you feel more like Alice lost in Booze-land, fear not, we have a compass for you. Brace yourself for a set of thought-provoking questions that will put the spotlight on whether alcohol is truly serving you or not. 

So tune in, pour yourself a cup of curiosity, and let's dive into the world of 'gray area' drinking - where things are never just black and white!

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE.

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Our friend and fellow This Naked Mind coach, Karla Adkins dropped by the pod to tell us her incredible story of how drinking to cope with stress and anxiety wound her up in the hospital with a liver failure diagnosis. Karla talks about all the “jobs” that she gave alcohol and how in order to break free, she had to untangle her beliefs about whether alcohol was helping her or hurting her. 

Karla tells us about what living with alcohol-related liver disease looked like and how her one doctor played a pivotal role in helping her get curious about living life without it. 

Karla’s book, “And She Came Tumbling Down” is available on amazon here. You can also learn more about Karla at karlaadkins.com.

Thank you for listening! xx

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE.

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Who hasn't returned from a vacation declaring, "I need a vacation from my vacation!"? As the season of sunshine and sizzle looms on the horizon, one of our fab BJDW listeners nudged us for the inside scoop on navigating an alcohol-free summer.

In this episode, we're your trusty tour guides on your summer getaway, trekking with you from bustling airports to serene beaches, from airplane seats to hotel suites. We'll spill the secrets of how we guide our clients through these booze-soaked summer months.

We’ll let you in on the magic that unfolds when you set boundaries and manage expectations for a family summer getaway. Get ready to flip the script and make this summer the best chapter of your life. After all, if your past summers have been swimming in rosé, isn't it time to dip your toes into different waters?

If your holiday goals include coming home with your energy tank fully refueled and your spirit bursting with joy, then buckle up, dear listener! This episode is your passport to a revitalized and truly restorative summer vacation!

Thank you for listening! xx

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE.

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

What if your body was already ready for summer? 

What would it feel like to not treat your body as a project that needed to be somehow fixed or made smaller? As we head into the summer, what would it feel like to already feel summer-body ready? On today’s episode, we welcome fellow coach and sister in Christ, Jess Connolly, author of “Breaking Free from Body Shame, Dare To Reclaim What God Has Named Good.”

We chat about what happens when we treat our bodies as projects. Constantly meeting some cultural standard of beauty means focusing on our glory instead of God’s. It also means missing out on the abundance He has for us in the here and now when we strive to reach a certain weight or size. We talk about how we can make little shifts in our thinking to embrace the good bodies God has already given us.

We also give into the question, can you be free from body shame and also want to focus on your health? Or are the two at odds with each other? And where does rest play into our picture of health?

You can follow Jess Connolly on Instagram @jessaconnolly, @breakingfreefrombodyshame and @goandtellgals and order Breaking Free From Body Shame here.

Thank you for listening! xx

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. 

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

We talk a lot about the stories around alcohol that keep us stuck here on the pod. But what we haven’t covered much yet are the stories about ourselves that are driven by shame and contribute to our “stuck” with alcohol, other unhealthy habits, tendencies and everyday addictions. 

While there are tons of psychology-based resources on shame that can help us in our understanding of it, no conversation about shame is complete without the origin story of shame as told through the biblical narrative. 

Where does shame come from and what is it? How does it affect us in our everyday lives? How does it affect our relationship to alcohol? And what are some practical ways for rewiring our shame narratives to walk in freedom?

Just like we do by bringing awareness to our alcohol stories, if we courageously bring awareness to the stories we tell ourselves about ourselves we can journey to truth, freedom, and peace.

For this conversation, we invited everybody’s favorite guest, Pastor David, back to the pod to walk us through it. Shame by design is an uncomfortable subject to talk about because it is used as a means of turning us away from God and others. But we aren’t afraid of the uncomfortable convos here at the BJDW pod and we hope you will find hope in what we share today. We invite you to listen along and join us in the convo over on Instagram.

*Programming note - Christy received news of a family emergency in the middle of recording this episode and had to leave in the middle of recording. 

Thank you for listening! xx

Connect with Meade and Christy HERE.

Learn More about Coaching with Christy 

Learn More about Coaching with Meade

Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

We love connecting with women who are boldly and confidently living counter-culturally whether free from alcohol as a non-drinker or as followers of Jesus. Today’s guest, Kristen Dalton Wolfe, does both beautifully and it was such an honor to chat with her and hear her story.

Kristen is a mental health and life coach, motivational speaker, author, former Miss USA and leads a women's ministry called, She Gathers L.A. She’s also mom to three kiddos and lives in L.A. with her husband, Chris.

Listen along as Kristen shares how a vision and a plan to become Miss USA created a path for her in college that looked different than most — without alcohol. And then hear how (like so many of us) fitting in socially became an easy opening for alcohol to take up space in her life after achieving her goal of becoming Miss USA. 

Kristen shares how easily baby compromises can end up becoming bigger compromises. And she shares some of the stories that kept her stuck, such as, “I deserve wine because I’m such a good Christian” and, “Wine is fancy and elegant and helps me relax.” Find out what prompted Kristen to finally change her relationship with alcohol and what her life has looked like since. 

Finally, you won’t want to miss why Kristen says a vision and a plan are our greatest tools for living a life with intention and purpose. And be sure to catch today’s invitation for a tiny TINA (tiny new action). We loved this conversation with our beautiful new friend, Kristen, and hope that you will too!

You can connect with Kristen at kristendaltonwolfe.com and on Instagram @shegathersla, @kristenjdalton. Also be sure to grab her book The Sparkle Effect: Step into the Radiance of Your True Identity.

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Back when we were stuck in the over-drinking cycle we had all these ideas about what it would be like to be a non-drinker. Like, people who don’t drink are judging those who do. 

Turns out there are a lot of misconceptions about non-drinkers floating around that are not only not true but can be pointing to some underlying fears that may be keeping you stuck in the over-drinking cycle.

For today’s episode (just like we did in episode 15, What are the 10 best things about never having to drink again) we both came up with our lists of the most common misconceptions about non-drinkers and then we reviewed our lists live with each other in the pod studio. 

Listen along as we explore: do non-drinkers secretly judge their friends who drink? Are non-drinkers anti-alcohol evangelists? Do non-drinkers feel deprived when around others who drink? Are non-drinkers anti-social and boring?

Not only might the answers surprise you but you may find yourself having an exceptionally good time listening to this – we had an exceptionally good time recording this one! 

Did we leave any out? We’d love to hear from you if so. Holler at us on the 'gram or over in the But Jesus Drank Wine-free community!

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking 

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

This week we spoke with Christy’s client Lauren all about how freedom from alcohol does not have to mean declaring we’re not drinking “forever”, instead we get to choose the role we want alcohol to play in our lives. We have a choice! Lauren tells us how putting down the sober day counter and having an instrumental growth point played a huge role in getting back in the driver’s seat of wine. Lauren bravely shares how she came off anxiety medication when she put down the wine bottle and how this has transformed her life. 

We also discuss the difference between being physically dependent and emotionally dependent on alcohol and why it’s important. Lauren tells us that she realized that not drinking alcohol was actually the easy part, it was doing all the work surrounding her grief and anxiety where the work came in. 

We end another powerful chat with Lauren telling us her favourite thing in her sobriety toolkit that she simply can’t live without. You’re going to want to tune in for this meaningful conversation.

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

In this week’s episode, we speak to Christy’s former client, Ashley who shares her incredible life-changing freedom from alcohol story.

 Ashley talks about how an experience at eighteen years old in a nightclub changed the trajectory of her drinking. We chat about how these red-flag experiences can make us drink more to cope and how we need to teach our daughters the dangers of drinking. 

Then we do a deep dive into how drinking temporarily helped Ashley numb her anxiety, “as long as I knew I had alcohol, I knew I was safe from panic” and how she overturned this closely held belief. 

Ashley also bravely shares her experience in AA and why she sought out a coach to help her regain control of alcohol. This was an incredibly courageous share and we were so blessed to speak with her.

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

We had a beautiful chat with Christy Boulware, founder of Fearless Unite and author of Nervous Breakthrough, Finding Freedom from Fear and Anxiety in a World that Feeds it and we’re so excited to share it with you today. Hear how Christy’s painful and beautiful story has become her purpose and how she uses it to help others. 

How did she go from being a superwoman to staring at guns on her bedroom floor? How did a nervous breakdown lead to a breakthrough and what are the “aftershocks” of going through such a thing? What are “smoke alarms” and how do we recognize them? Why is the presence of fear not a sign of weak faith? 

Listen in as we talk about why exhaustion and hurry aren’t badges of honor despite our culture’s stories that say otherwise. And walk away with practical and spiritual strategies and tools for overcoming fear and anxiety. We were incredibly blessed by this conversation with our sister and friend, Christy, and we believe you’ll be blessed by it too!

To learn more about Christy and the work she does you can connect with her here and on instagram. Christy’s book Nervous Breakthrough is available now for pre-order and be sure to snag your free copy of the bonus chapter!  

   Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious, and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community, and holler over on Instagram. 

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Today’s episode is another spicy one where we both as former “wine moms” and presidents of the mommy wine club dive into the pervasiveness of this not-so-funny-anymore messaging. We explore the tricks that are used to perpetuate the mommy wine lies like “wine is necessary for surviving motherhood,” “it’s our reward for momming so hard” and “it’s ok to numb out around your kids as long as it’s with wine.” 

When did it become the norm to roll up to our kids’ soccer game or little league game with a wine tumbler roadie? When did it become the norm to decorate our kitchens with “I wine because they whine” tea towels? When did it become the norm to send birthday cards and gifs that say “champagne, the classy way for getting hammered” or “wine because kids?” And when did it become the norm to have 67k items for “wine moms” on etsy?! 

How is it that a drug that kills 3 million people a year, is the 3rd leading cause of preventable death in the U.S., is a class 1 carcinogen, increases our breast cancer risk significantly with regular use and is the same chemical substance that what we put in our gas tanks to drive our cars has become the common language of motherhood?  

And here’s the deal, by no means are we judging if this is you. We were right there all up in it several years ago having a good old time sharing the bottles, the memes and the laughs too. Don’t believe us? Check out all the props that Meade shares from her own collection that she’s hung on to over these last few years for this very moment! 

You won’t want to miss this episode as neither of us hold back from the big emotion that surrounds this topic. How does this affect our kids when we send them the message that we need a drug to survive being around them? 

We were duped by big alcohol y’all and the lies of the mommy wine culture. Are you being duped too? It's ok, you're in the right place.

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

Join us as we chat with our friend, Senior This Naked Mind coach Martha Wright about living a life full of fun, travel, pleasure, and adventure, all while living alcohol-free! 

For 20 years, Martha was soaked in the wine industry as she and her husband built a winery and French wine import company. Then in 2019, she found freedom from alcohol and started hosting alcohol experiments in her wine cellar! 

Martha believed that a “life without wine or champagne would be grey and have no sparkle” until she made the radical, counter-cultural choice to stop drinking. In this episode, she talks about how we can enjoy all the pleasures of life by planning for fun and utilizing our senses when we aren’t drinking. We also have a great conversation about what it truly means to be a great hostess. 

Martha talks about how taking a break from alcohol doesn't have to be heavy, it can be fun! And yes, it’s possible to go wine tasting even if you’re not drinking! We loved hearing about some of her incredible alcohol-free adventures, from visiting secret speakeasies in late-night Paris to visiting vineyards across Europe. 

If you’re wondering how to live an alcohol-free life to the fullest, this episode is for you. 

To learn more about Martha and the work she does you can connect with her here and on instagram. And be sure to check out her guide to all the things like AF beverage recs and more! Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

When it comes to finding freedom from alcohol, you’ve probably heard of AA and rehab, but did you know that there are coaches, like us, who can help you discover the life that you’re longing for, and finally put wine in the rearview?! 

In this episode we’re going to talk all about what exactly a freedom from alcohol coach does. We will talk about how coaching and therapy are different, and how they can work well either separately or in tandem. We also discuss what a “growth point” is and why you don’t need to be worried about slipping up when you’re in a coaching relationship with one of us. In fact, these instances can be valuably mined for data. 

We also talk about how important it is to have an experimental mindset. You don’t have to start a coaching relationship saying “forever’” as long as you’re ready to get curious about your drinking- that’s enough. In fact, you don’t even need to stop drinking when you start coaching if you’re not ready. I know, crazy, right? We’ll explain why. 

We also chat about the differences between group and 1:1 coaching, as well as the value of connection on this journey. We also answer the question, “how can I find the best coach for me?”

   Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with us. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Join Meade and Christy in this fun chat around just a few–10–of their favorite things about being free from alcohol. They knew things like better sleep, less brain fog, and more hydrated skin were possible by “quitting drinking” and those things would have been enough but listen along to find out what unexpected gifts they have found from not just quitting drinking but from never having to drink alcohol again. 

How has freedom from alcohol changed their lives for the better and in what ways does it keep getting better? What does this chat have to do with FOMO and a case of the Mondays? And because they didn’t compare lists ahead of time, what best things about freedom from alcohol made both of their lists and what were the surprise differences? This fun episode will have you chatting along with Meade and Christy as they share their lists of the 10 best things about never having to drink again.

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious, and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community, and holler over on Instagram. 

#getconnected #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking 

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological, or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Today’s conversation will not disappoint as Meade and Christy welcome Meade’s former client and dear friend, Rachel, to share her freedom from alcohol story. 

What did Rachel’s life look like back in 2020 when stuck in the drinking cycle? 

What stories were the hardest for her to untangle? 

What are the best things about living alcohol-free? 

What do her kids say about what is different now? 

We are incredibly grateful for Rachel’s courage and generosity in sharing and we hope you enjoy!

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

Resources mentioned in today’s episode:

Gungor "Beautiful Things"

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Join Meade and Christy in the studio today as they are thrilled to welcome Meade’s pastor, David Walters, to the pod to be the resident biblical scholar for answering one of the most common questions they receive: did Jesus drink wine or not? What does the Bible say about this and does it really matter? David will courageously tackle this question and many others like: What is the meaning of “take our thoughts captive” and how do we find the truth for the stories that keep us stuck? Why is the heart mentioned 800 times in the Bible and how does that relate to calling out the stories, the lies we believe? What is a false idol and what does that have to do with addiction? And what do kids and crossfit have to do with this conversation? 

Listen along as David so generously shares his vast spiritual and practical wisdom and applications to guide on the journey to freedom from alcohol or from anything that is taking up too much space in our lives. And be sure to listen to the end as you won’t want to miss this episode’s “tiny TINA.”  It might just be the most brilliant yet! 

We are so grateful for the time and wisdom that our guests so generously share with us. If you found what David shared to be valuable, would you help us in conveying our gratitude by letting him know over on instagram? @davidwalters24

   Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Have you ever wondered and maybe even googled, am I an alcoholic? If so, this is the episode for you! Join Meade and Christy for this super spicy episode where they don’t hold back their thoughts (and research!) around the “traditional” view of how folks become addicted to alcohol and how our societal conditioning around this actually kept Meade and Christy more stuck in the drinking cycle and made them less likely to do anything about it. 

In this spicy episode, they share the history of “alcoholism” and why the “disease” maybe isn’t a disease at all. They also explore how any of the labels we might give ourselves–alcoholic, sober, anxious and more–influence how we show up in the world and what we can do about them to find freedom and peace. Listen along to find out what this conversation has to do with skydiving and don’t miss the tiny new actions (tiny TINAs) you can take today to move one more step further out of stuck. Grounded in curiosity and critical thinking and in hopes of offering others empowerment in exploring their relationship to alcohol, this is a must-listen episode!

Scripture References ~ 

2 Corinthians 12:9

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

Resources mentioned in today’s episode:

Live in Grace, Walk in Love: A 365-Day Journey by Bob Goff

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Join Meade and Christy as they welcome their friend, Teri the Sober Nutritionist, to the pod to discuss another very common question among those on the alcohol-free living journey: why am I craving sugar and will these cravings last forever? Teri offers wisdom and guidance around what we can do about sugar cravings, why it’s not a bad thing to crave sugar and what that craving could really be signaling to us. Find out what is similar about sugar cravings and alcohol cravings (how story plays a big role in both) and how they are different. Why does Teri say that sugar is not the enemy, what is a “bliss point" and what’s that got to do with what we crave? Learn why and how resetting our palettes is a great practice for overall health and wellness.

Listen along as the gals discuss which they think is harder to find freedom from–alcohol or sugar? You won’t want to miss what Meade and Christy both share about their own complicated relationships to sugar, food and their bodies and how it contributed to being stuck in the drinking cycle. Lastly, you’ll walk away with the most important question we can ask ourselves that offers us so much toward liberation in any complicated relationship whether with alcohol, sugar, food (or with another human even)! Grab something to take notes with for this one and enjoy!

To learn more about Teri and the work she does you can connect with her here, on the The Sober Edge podcast and follow her on instagram @teri.thesobernutritionist 

   Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

Join Meade and Christy as they chat about all things alcohol cravings. Pulling from the thousands of hours of coaching they have done around this FAQ and with personal stories of what it looked like on their journeys, there’s something for everyone in this episode. 

They’ll answer questions like: What are cravings anyway? How are they different than urges? What should you do when you’re faced with one? And importantly–what not to do when you have one! Why are wine witch voices really like toddlers? And what to do to silence them. How can we prep for an alcohol craving and what do alcohol cravings really mean? And you won’t want to miss this week’s TINA (TIny New Action) to take one tiny step forward in growth! No matter where you are on your journey and no matter what habit or tendency you are wanting to change, this is a conversation for you! 

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

We at the BJDW pod love listener input for show topic ideas and we’re so happy to share today around the most popular topic request, what do I do if my hub still drinks? There’s no one better to join Meade and Christy in the studio to tackle this popular topic than their friend, mentor and former Head Coach of This Naked Mind, Scott Pinyard. Scott brings not only his insights from his own freedom from alcohol journey but the wisdom and guidance having coached thousands around this very topic. Plus it’s always nice to have a dude’s perspective, right?! 

They’ll explore questions like what do we do when starting this journey if our spouses aren’t joining us (a.k.a. they are still drinking) and what not to do! They’ll talk about the number one key to getting the support you need and what to do if that support isn’t available. They’ll dive into all the stories that kept Meade and Christy stuck and the ones they hear all the time like, he’s choosing the boys and beers over me, I can’t do this if my hub drinks, if I do this my marriage will fail, how will we connect if not over drinks? And as always they’ll leave you with their signature tiny TINA–a tiny new action you can take today if this is a place where you feel stuck. We hope you enjoy! 

To learn more about Scott and the work he does you can connect with him here!

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Join Meade and Christy for another rich conversation, another “meat and potatoes” episode, diving into the importance of understanding how our minds work and why it’s important for doing this work that we “get to do.” Listen in to discover why this work is about alcohol–and not alcohol– all at the same time and why changing our thinking is how we change our drinking. 

They’ll answer questions like: What is a stress response cycle (and why heading to the grocery when we’re hangry never turns out the way we intended). And what’s that got to do with drinking? Why can we “know” what to do in an alcohol urge and yet not have access to those tools that would help us in those moments? And they’ll explore what to try instead. They also explore why celebrating where you are–wherever that is–on your journey is important to creating new neural pathways and new habits. And don’t miss today’s TINA (TIny New Action) as a way for continuing the forward movement on this amazing journey! 

Scripture References ~

Ephesians 4:22-24 

What comes up for you as you read this? We invite you to reflect and journal about it.

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

Resources mentioned in today’s episode:

Burnout Book

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Join Meade and Christy as they continue chatting about why understanding our relationship to alcohol requires, first, that we understand our relationship to our minds. 

They’ll answer questions like: What are “stories?” Where do they come from? How do we uncover them if they’re unconscious? How do we change them? How do we think about our thinking? Why are we thinking about thinking if we want to change a behavior? And why willpower doesn’t work! What are some practical ways for digging into this heady (pun-intended!) topic?

Scripture References ~

Philippians 4:4

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

Resources mentioned in today’s episode:

Byron Katie

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Join Meade and Christy as they chat about why understanding our relationship to alcohol requires, first, that we understand our relationship to our minds. 

They’ll answer questions like: What do minds do? What is the difference between the conscious mind and the subconscious mind? What are “meanings” and what influences them? What is cognitive dissonance? What does it look like? Why is it so painful and what do we do about it? How do we bring awareness to thoughts and feelings? What does the Bible say about our minds? What is meditation? Are we allowed to meditate as Christians? And what’s any of this have to do with changing our drinking?! 

Scripture References ~

Romans 12:2 

Psalm 46:10

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

Resources mentioned in today’s episode:

Dr. Jud Brewer on "Everyday Addictions"

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Join Meade and Christy as they tackle this big topic that shows up as one of the most common stories that we tell ourselves about what alcohol “does for us.” They explore why it’s so hard to explore this story and why it feels really true for us. How did we come to believe this? What does connection with friends, husbands, kids and the Lord look like when free from alcohol and is it different than when in the drinking cycle? What were the hardest parts of trying to connect newly free from alcohol and what were some of the unexpected gifts? And how do we even begin to tackle this story when it feels so hard to imagine that it isn’t true? This is a not-to-miss conversation that will no doubt continue as an ongoing conversation for future episodes. 

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. 

Join Meade and Christy as they chat about one of the scariest and most frequently asked questions when taking a break from alcohol or newly stepping into freedom from alcohol life. What do I tell people? They explore things like what to do when someone offers you a drink and you’re not drinking. What to do when people question why you’re not drinking. And also and maybe more importantly what NOT to do learning from where Meade and Christy definitely got it wrong. They answer questions like, how long does it really take to become confident not drinking in social situations? Why do people even care that we’re not drinking and you’ll hear  why it has nothing to do with us. Not just speculatively but because they both in the past were the people who gave others a hard time for not drinking. They also discuss the importance of planning ahead for AFFTs (alcohol-free first times) and how tools like visualization and “cheesy” scavenger hunts can make all the difference between a good night out and a bad one. We hope you’ll enjoy this episode as much as they enjoyed recording it! 

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Join Meade and Christy as they have a super honest (and fun!) conversation about 40th birthdays, celebration, all things fun and how what they had always envisioned for their 40th birthdays wasn’t exactly what they ended up being. What was surprising to them as they did their birthdays differently and how does that relate to one of the greatest and most unexpected gifts of finding freedom from alcohol? They explore the influence of the unconscious expectations we have for birthdays and how relief from the pressure we feel to do it “big” (not just pertaining to birthdays but in life!) can be felt by asking a few simple questions. Listen in for the shocking admission they make related to their kids and how that is being used for good, now. And be sure not to miss why it’s totally ok to roll your eyes at what they talk about at the end! 

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

Resources mentioned in today’s episode:

You Keep Getting Better - Maverick City Music

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Join Meade and Christy for the second of two episodes where they each share what it looked like to be miserably stuck in the drinking cycle - back when they thought for sure they “must be alcoholics” - and learn all about how they found their way to freedom!

They answer all the burning questions they get asked on the reg: What did life as a “problem” drinker look like in general—and in the church? When and what was their “rock bottom?” What were the biggest fears they had in quitting drinking? How did their friends who drink receive the news that they didn’t drink anymore? How long did it take to find freedom from alcohol? What changed after they became AF - in their marriages, social circles, motherhood? What stayed the same? What have they found to be the best and worst parts of living, not just alcohol-free, but completely FREE from alcohol? There is a difference!!! 

While both Meade and Christy have shared their stories many times in many places and “knew” each other’s story, they hadn’t ever chatted about all the juicy details with each other choosing to save it all for the pod. We at the pod hope you’ll enjoy listening in as much as they enjoyed hearing each other’s stories live for the first time. 

There’s a lot packed into these episodes and yet they both were left with so many questions. Stay tuned for future episodes where they’ll go even deeper into all.the.things! 

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Join Meade and Christy over the next two episodes as they each share so openly what it looked like to be miserably stuck in the drinking cycle - back when they thought they “must be alcoholics” - and learn all about how they found their way to freedom! 

They’ll answer all the burning questions they get asked on the reg: What did life as a “problem” drinker look like in general—and in the church? When and what was their “rock bottom?” What were the biggest fears they had in quitting drinking? How did their friends who drink receive the news that they didn’t drink anymore? How long did it take to find freedom from alcohol? What changed after they became AF - in their marriages, social circles, motherhood? What stayed the same? What have they found to be the best and worst parts of living, not just alcohol-free, but completely FREE from alcohol? There is a difference!!! 

While both Meade and Christy have shared their stories many times, in many places, and “knew” each other’s story, they hadn’t ever chatted about all the juicy details with each other choosing to save it all for the pod. We at the pod hope you’ll enjoy listening in as much as they enjoyed hearing each other’s stories live for the first time!

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

Thank you for listening! xx

Our hope for you at the But Jesus Drank Wine pod is that you’ll walk away from these conversations feeling a little lighter, a little more curious and a whole lot more HOPE for finding freedom from alcohol–or whatever it is that is keeping you stuck in your B- life. Because Sister, YOU were created by our loving Father for so much more! 

We can do hard things infinitely longer as long as we don’t go it alone! Head over to www.butjesusdrankwine.com to get all the details on how to connect with Meade and Christy and others. Subscribe to the mailing list, join the BJDW community and holler over on Instagram. 

#sobriety #alcoholfree #soberliving #alcoholfreelife #thisnakedmind  #lovelifesober #imnotsoberimfree #getconnected  #grayareadrinking #grayareadrinking #butjesusdrankwine #staycurious #changeyourthinkingchangeyourdrinking #christianandsober #christianity

The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.

Join Meade and Christy, two retired-over-drinkers turned freedom-from-alcohol coaches, each week as they explore all of the stories that kept them stuck in the nightly over-drinking cycle, including but certainly not limited to "But Jesus drank wine?"

If you're looking for two Christian women who get real about how wine held them back and explore tricky questions about drinking (and beyond!) with grace, compassion, and zero judgment, this is the podcast for you.

  Connect with Meade and Christy HERE. Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy

And head over to our site for more information: https://www.butjesusdrankwine.com/