Shows
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 127 Jill Hutsko | The Lie of Moderation and the Freedom of ObedienceJoin the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community. In this honest and hope-filled conversation, Christy and Meade welcome Jill, a beloved member of the But Jesus Drank Wine leadership team, to share her powerful story of breaking free from alcohol and drawing closer to God. After ten years of trying to moderate her drinking, Jill was inspired by Christy’s sobriety story in the summer of 2023 and made the bold decision to stop drinking entirely. What followed was a journey of spiritual renewal, mental clarity, and deeper intimacy with God. Jil...2025-05-0542 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 126 Laura Smith | Brave Woman, Mighty God: Why God Power Girl PowerJoin the conversation in our community HERE! In this empowering episode, Christy and Meade welcome author and speaker Laura Smith for a rich conversation about her latest book, Brave Woman, Mighty God. Laura—now a 15-time published author—shares her heart behind the book’s message and reminds us that strength doesn’t come from “girl power” but from God power. Together, they explore the stories of bold biblical women like Mary Magdalene, Sarah, and others who did mighty things—not because they were fearless, but because they were faithful. Laura unpacks how faith invites us to overcome...2025-04-2849 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 125 Pastor David Walters | Is Drinking Alcohol A Sin?Join the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community. In this episode, Christy and Meade welcome back Pastor David Walters for an honest and theologically rich conversation on one of the most frequently asked questions among believers: Is drinking alcohol a sin? Together, they explore what the Bible actually says about alcohol—and just as importantly, why we ask the question in the first place. Is it about seeking permission? Wanting to avoid conviction? Or genuinely desiring to obey God? Pastor David helps unpack the heart behind the question, reminding us that...2025-04-2143 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 124 Kelsey Green | A Freedom Story from the Heart of Our Leadership TeamCome hang out with Kelsey, Christy, and Meade in our community, here: https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community We are so excited to share Kelsey Green’s testimony with you today. Kelsey is a beloved member of the But Jesus Drank Wine leadership team and someone who played a key role in laying the foundation of our community. In this episode, Kelsey shares her deeply personal journey of changing her relationship with alcohol and how her faith in Jesus Christ brought radical transformation to her life. She opens up about the hidden struggle behind her drinking, her ear...2025-04-1445 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 123 Chris Janssen | Grace Yourself: How to Show Up for the Sober Life You WantJoin the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community. Today, we sit down with Chris Janssen, MA, BCC, a board-certified results coach, author, and expert in performance and mindset. Chris shares her deeply personal journey with alcohol, from growing up in a non-drinking household to battling a secretive drinking habit in adulthood. She first got sober in 2007 but went back to alcohol during the pandemic, an experience that brought her to a deeper understanding of grace, community, and personal transformation. Chris discusses the themes of her book, Grace Yourself: How to Show Up f...2025-04-0740 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 122 Stephanie Ziebell | Radiant in Battle: Pursuing Sobriety Through FaithJoin the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community. Stephanie Ziebell shares her personal journey to sobriety and faith, highlighting the transformation that came when she embraced God's grace. A wife, mother of four, attorney, and Christian sobriety advocate, Stephanie knows what it’s like to wrestle with addiction and the internal conflict it brings. After years of struggling with alcohol, she found true freedom and now dedicates her life to helping others do the same. As the founder of Radiant in Battle, an Instagram community with nearly 40,000 followers, Stephanie provides faith-based encouragement and...2025-03-3141 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 121 Blake Roberts | More to the Story: Healing From Sex and Alcohol AddictionJoin the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community. In this episode, we sit down with Blake Roberts, a licensed therapist, writer, podcast host, and speaker based in Nashville, TN. Blake specializes in helping men heal attachment wounds, foster healthy relationships, and learn to trust again. If you're looking for ways to support your husband—or any loved one—who is struggling with addiction, this is a must-listen. Blake offers invaluable insights into the healing process, the power of community, and how to move from self-protection to real connection. Blake shares his p...2025-03-2451 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 120 Ali Kennedy | From Shame to Freedom, A Ministry Leader’s Sobriety StoryJoin the conversation in our community Here. In this heartfelt episode, ministry leader Ali Kennedy shares her deeply personal journey from struggling with alcohol to experiencing spiritual renewal and true freedom. Ali’s struggle with alcohol began in her early teenage years and continued through college, marriage, and motherhood. Despite being in ministry, she wrestled with feelings of shame and internal conflict around her drinking—hiding a battle she thought she should have already won. The turning point came when she confessed her struggles to close friends, a moment that sparked a journey of surrender, heali...2025-03-1757 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 119 Let Them… or Let HIM? A Biblical Take on Mel Robbins’ Viral Self-Help TheoryJOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE! Mel Robbins’ Let Them philosophy has taken the self-help world by storm. But is it really the key to peace and freedom? Or is there something deeper—something better—that God calls us to instead? In today’s episode, we break down where Let Them aligns with biblical wisdom… and where it misses the mark. Through real-life experiences and scriptural truths, we explore why true peace doesn’t come from just “letting them” but from fully surrendering to Him. We also share how embracing God’s guidance—not just detachment—was...2025-03-1044 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 118 Jo Hargreaves | Attachment Theory, Faith, and Rewiring the Brain for Emotional HealingThe Lent Fast Starts This Wednesday!!!! Get more information and join us here Today we welcome Jo Hargreaves, a pastor, psychotherapist, writer, and speaker, to explore the intersection of faith, therapy, and mental health. As the voice behind The Faith-Filled Therapist, Jo is passionate about integrating theology and therapy, scripture and neuroscience, and ensuring that God remains at the center of conversations about mental and emotional well-being. Jo shares powerful insights into attachment theory, nervous system regulation, and emotional resilience, explaining how our earliest experiences shape the way we connect with God and ot...2025-03-0338 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 117 Brandi Babb | The Power of Somatic Practice in Sobriety and BeyondJoin the Lent 40 Day Fast! More info right here! We start March 5th! Our friend Brandi Babb shares her powerful freedom-from-alcohol story—from her early days as a “good girl” who followed all the rules to confronting the painful realities of alcohol use disorder and the internal divide between her faith and her drinking. Brandi opens up about how her struggle with alcohol began at 21 and intensified after her father's passing. She reveals how alcohol slowly stole her sense of self, leading to a split life that masked deeper emotional wounds and feelings of shame. 2025-02-2454 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 116 Dr Lisa Stanton | Life Changing Lessons from RecoveryJoin the Lent 40 Day Fast! More info right here! We start March 5th! Content Warning:This episode references sensitive topics, including sexual assault and trauma. We recognize that these subjects may be difficult or triggering for some listeners. Please take care of yourself while listening. If you or someone you know is in need of support, please seek help from a trusted resource or helpline. Listener discretion is strongly advised. Today, we welcome Dr. Lisa Stanton to share her powerful testimony. Lisa opens up about her parents' amicable divorce left an emotional void she didn’t...2025-02-1749 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 115 Kori Leigh | From Rock Bottom to Redemption, Breaking Generational Patterns, and Rediscovering Who God Really IsJOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE! Disclaimer: This episode discusses topics including suicide and suicidal ideation, which may be distressing to some listeners. If you are experiencing emotional distress or feel unsafe, please know that help is available. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent support, call 911 (if in the United States) or your local emergency services immediately. For those in the United States, you can reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 (available 24 hours) or 1-800-273-8255. If you're located outside the United States, please consult your local crisis intervention resources or...2025-02-101h 01
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 114 Jon Seidl | Confessions of a Christian “Alcoholic”JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE! Christy chats with Jon Seidl, bestselling Christian author and founder of The Veritas Network, to discuss addiction, anxiety, and the road to true freedom. Jon has spent years in journalism, faith-based media, and nonprofit work with I Am Second, helping people tell their stories of transformation. But behind the scenes, he was silently battling anxiety, OCD, and alcohol dependency, even as he was a known Christian mental health advocate. Jon opens up about how cultural and personal pressures led him into alcohol dependency, despite his deep faith. He...2025-02-031h 02
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 113 Christy's Faith StoryJOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE! For some reason, sharing my alcohol story has always been easy for me. But today’s podcast episode has been 42 years in the making. I’ve never told this story before. Today, I want to tell you all about how I rediscovered Jesus. It’s a story of redemption, sobriety, and His unrelenting love that has shaped my life. This isn’t a story of religious perfection; it’s one of shame and brokenness and a profound reconnection with God that changed everything. Growing up, my mother’s unwavering C...2025-01-2739 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEP. 112 Meade's Faith StoryJOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE! Today Meade shares her deeply personal faith story. Through moments of vulnerability and profound honesty, Meade recounts her transformation from a life of struggles with alcohol to finding freedom and identity in her faith. Growing up, Meade believed that Jesus was only for the 'perfect,' which led her to distance herself from faith during her teenage and early adult years. Her story takes a pivotal turn as she describes a life-changing guided meditation session where she felt an undeniable encounter with Jesus. This experience sparked a journey of self-discovery...2025-01-2052 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp 111. Alisa Keeton | Beyond Resolutions: A Faith-Centered Approach to Fitness and WellnessJOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE! Before you set your New Year’s resolutions for diet and exercise, this is the podcast you need to hear. This week we are joined by Alisa Keeton, the visionary founder of Revelation Wellness, to reframe how we think about health, fitness, and faith. Alisa’s holistic approach goes beyond traditional diet and exercise goals, offering a deeper understanding of how physical wellness intersects with mental, emotional, and spiritual growth. Alisa shares her journey from being a traditional fitness coach to creating a nonprofit that equips people to embr...2025-01-1357 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 110 William Porter | The 8 Hurdles of Stopping DrinkingJOIN THE DRY JANUARY 40-DAY FAST HERE. Six weeks of coaching and community to kick-start your 2025 alcohol-free! Today we are joined by bestselling author William Porter, creator of Alcohol Explained, to break down the 8 Hurdles of Stopping Drinking. Drawing from his extensive research and personal experience, Porter offers invaluable advice for navigating the often-challenging path to sobriety. In this episode, we explore critical hurdles such as: Understanding and overcoming cravings Navigating social events without alcohol Developing effective coping mechanisms Finding joy and motivation through movement2025-01-0652 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 109 Letting Go of Moderation as the Goal and Embracing True FreedomJOIN THE DRY JANUARY 40-DAY FAST HERE. Six weeks of coaching and community to kick-start your 2025 alcohol-free! Today we welcome Lauren, a beloved member of our leadership team and a former coaching client of Christy’s who shares her inspiring journey to freedom from alcohol. Lauren reflects on her past struggles with moderation and the moment she decided to take alcohol off the table indefinitely. She explains how this decision was pivotal in gaining mental clarity, emotional peace, and a deeper with Jesus. Her honesty about the challenges of cultural norms and the une...2024-12-3047 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 108 Cheers to Change – Your Festive Guide to an Alcohol-Free ChristmasJOIN THE DRY JANUARY 40-DAY FAST HERE. Six weeks of coaching and community to kick-start your 2025 alcohol-free! Does Christmas Day have you feeling the pull of a mimosa at brunch, even though you’ve made it through the season without alcohol? Or perhaps you’ve been mindfully drinking and now feel drained, wishing to approach today differently but unsure how to begin. Wherever you are on this Christmas Day, we’re here to cheer you on with love and practical advice. In this episode, think of us as your supportive girlfriends showing...2024-12-2336 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 105 Karla Adkins | From Liver Cirrhosis to Lasting Confidence, True Connection, and Peace in JesusToday we welcome back Karla Adkins to share her inspiring journey of freedom from alcohol, faith, and transformation. Karla’s story is one of resilience and hope, offering a candid look at her struggles with alcohol, shame, and vulnerability—and how she found freedom through faith and sharing her inspiring story. Karla reflects on her initial reluctance to share her experiences with liver failure publicly. Hearing how her story touched others gave her the courage to keep sharing, creating a ripple effect of hope for women struggling to control their drinking. Karla dives deep into the c...2024-12-0254 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 104 Pastor David | Conquering Life's Temptations—Alcohol and BeyondToday, we welcome back Pastor David for his fifth appearance on the podcast! Pastor David shares his profound wisdom and practical advice on a topic that resonates with everyone: temptation. Whether it’s alcohol, unhealthy habits, or other areas of life, temptation is something we all face—but it’s not something we have to face alone. Pastor David starts by unpacking the critical distinction between temptation and sin, drawing from powerful biblical insights in the book of James and Jesus’ own experience in the wilderness. He emphasizes that temptation does not come from God and that it’s a d...2024-11-2558 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 100 100 Mondays Later | Our Top 10 Favorite Moments from 100 Episodes of BJDWJOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE! Pop the AF bubbly because today, we’re raising a glass to 100 amazing Mondays with But Jesus Drank Wine! We can hardly believe we’ve hit this milestone, and we couldn’t have done it without every single one of you tuning in, sharing, and growing with us week after week. This celebration is all about YOU, the community that’s made BJDW such a beautiful journey! In this centennial episode, we’re counting down our top 10 favorite moments, packed with unforgettable memories and game-changing conversations. From life-changing interviews that had us all...2024-10-2841 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 85 Christy Boulware | Nervous Breakthrough: Parenting Teens, Navigating Social Media and Finding Peace in ChaosFear 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 expl...2024-07-1546 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 81 Heather Creekmore | Overcoming Diet Culture: Journey to Self-AcceptanceJOIN 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 t...2024-06-1741 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 80 Michelle Myers | Finding Contentment in ChristJOIN 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...2024-06-1051 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 79 Christopher Cook | Healing What You Can’t EraseIn 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...2024-06-0351 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 75 Dr. Curt Thompson | Embracing Suffering, Building Hope: Where Neuroscience and the Bible IntersectJOIN 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 i...2024-05-0657 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 73 Melissa Spoelstra | Peace Amidst Chaos: Unpacking 'The Gospel of John'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...2024-04-2248 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 72 Toni Collier | Broken Crayons Still ColorJOIN 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...2024-04-1547 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 71 Celebrating Booze-Free Firsts: The Power of Presence & ConnectionJOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE 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 wit...2024-04-0833 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 70 Sharon Hodde Miller | Free of Me: Discovering Liberation from Self-PreoccupationJOIN 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 joyl...2024-04-0144 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 69 Drinking in Secret | Conversations on the Unseen Pour and Spiritual GrowthJOIN 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...2024-03-2536 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 68 The Bob Goff Effect: Tapping into a Spirit-Filled Life 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 equippe...2024-03-1844 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 67 Connections Beyond Cocktails: Nurturing Meaningful Friendships in an Alcohol-Free WorldJOIN 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 co...2024-03-1141 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 66 Kristen McAvoy | From Dual-Addiction to Sobriety: An Inspiring Freedom Journey 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...2024-03-0449 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 65 Faithful Transitions: Navigating Growth, Friendship, Faith and Sobriety in Community Pt. 2Join 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 li...2024-02-2625 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 64 Faithful Transitions: Navigating Growth, Friendship, Faith and Sobriety in CommunityJOIN 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...2024-02-1931 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 63 Challenging Conventional Beliefs of Alcoholism and BeyondIn 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 st...2024-02-1231 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 62 Retreat Recap: Nourishing Connections Beyond the BoozeRecently, 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...2024-02-0535 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 61 Susan Larkin | Alcohol in the Church: A Sobering ConversationIn 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 C...2024-01-2951 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 60 Redefining Self-care: Trading Superficial Practices For Restoration and Soul-careToday’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 sti...2024-01-2240 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 59 Millie Mackintosh | An Unfiltered Conversation on Sobriety and MotherhoodYou 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 o...2024-01-151h 02
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 56 Cheers to Change: A Festive Guide to an Alcohol-Free ChristmasDear 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 i...2023-12-2534 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 55 Pour Decisions: Navigating Alcohol In ModerationToday 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...2023-12-1848 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 54 Brittany Tonkavich | From Alcohol To AuthenticityIn 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...2023-12-1157 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 53 Karolina Rzadkowolska | Navigating the Festive Season with Confidence: A Sober Socializing Guide“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...2023-12-0449 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 52 Navigating Regret and Shame: Transformative Reflections on Past Drinking LivesIn 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 a...2023-11-2743 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 51 Pastor David | Realigning with Core Values: Finding Purpose Beyond the GlassHave 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...2023-11-2050 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 50 When Triggers Are Triggering: Strategies for Overcoming Sobriety's Unexpected HurdlesToday, 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...2023-11-1342 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 49 Erik Fredrickson | Recovering Reality: Freedom from the Torment of AddictionOur 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. 2023-11-0653 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 48 Drink Pink? Unmasking the Dark Side of Big Alcohol’s Breast Cancer CampaignsIn 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, in...2023-10-3039 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 47 Jenn Kautsch | Look Alive, Sis: From Wine O'Clock to Awake & AlignedOn 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' an...2023-10-2356 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 46 Are you really drinking because you're bored???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 bore...2023-10-1638 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 45 What's really behind the fear of 'forever' when quitting drinking?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 alco...2023-10-0945 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 44 Behind the Bottle: How Alcohol Hijacks Our Mental Health, Our Sleep, and Our Taste Buds with Special Guest William PorterOn 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. A...2023-10-0250 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 43 From Bottles to Breakthroughs: A Journey Through GriefIn 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 th...2023-09-2543 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 42 Embarking on a Spiritual Journey: Transforming My Alcohol-free Life, Part 2 with Jolene ParkWe 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...2023-09-1858 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 41 Jolene Park | Navigating Gray Area Drinking: The Importance of Nourishing Your Nervous SystemIn 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...2023-09-1150 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 40 Sobriety Through the Eyes of Our Kids: "More Funkos, Fewer Babysitters"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 ho...2023-09-0430 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 39 Breaking Society's Expectations: Alcohol is in the Way! Special Guest Dan J.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 find...2023-08-2847 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 38 Journeying Through the Early Days of Sobriety: Raw Insights from Meade’s JournalJourneying Through the Early Days of Sobriety: Raw Insights from Meade’s Journal Dive with us into this captivating episode, where we unearth the raw, unfiltered thoughts from Meade's journal during her initial alcohol-free days. From the undeniable fatigue prompting extra naps, to unexpected sugar cravings signaling our body's way of compensating, we highlight the significant markers indicating our bodies were on the path to healing. We also talk about how we got there, including how mindful drinking is a transformative tool that has the power to pave the way for lasting change. Whi...2023-08-2147 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 37 The Liberating Power of Sobriety: Finding Time, Peace and MoreJoin 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 t...2023-08-1456 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 36 From Drinking Buddies to Sobriety Advocates: Our Alcohol-Fueled Journey with Amy and Matt EdwardsIn 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 unders...2023-08-0743 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 35 Escaping the Prison of Your Own Mind: A Powerful Transformation Story with Performance and Leadership Coach, Jeff SalzensteinIn 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 befo...2023-07-3153 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 34 Alcohol-Free Hormonal Harmony: Regulating Blood Sugar and Navigating Perimenopause with Special Guest Dr Brooke SchellerDr. 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 i...2023-07-2451 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 33 Numbing the pain in infertility with booze and the party girl persona with special guest: Maureen BenkovichWith 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...2023-07-1743 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 32 What are 10 things we no longer have to spend money on, now that we’re alcohol-free?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...2023-07-1040 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 31 Exposed: The Dirty Side of "Clean" Wine with Veronica ValliJoin 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...2023-07-0345 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 30 Freedom From "Sobriety" Rules: Do I Have To Count Days?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...2023-06-2643 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 29 Alcohol and Parenting: How do I talk to my kids about alcohol? Special Guest: Annie GraceJune 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...2023-06-1948 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 28 Gray-Area Drinkers: The Telltale Signs You Might Be OneFrom 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...2023-06-1243 min"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 27 From Happy Hour to ICU: What happened after Karla Adkins found out she was in liver failure at 37?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 ge...2023-06-0552 min"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 26 How do I prepare for my first alcohol-free summer vacation?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 yo...2023-05-2947 min"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 25 What if your body was already ready for summer?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...2023-05-2241 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 24 What is shame and why are we talking about it? Special Guest Edition: Pastor DavidWe 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...2023-05-1548 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 23 What does freedom from alcohol look like for women’s ministry leader and former Miss USA, Kristen Dalton Wolfe?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...2023-05-0844 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 22 Do non-drinkers secretly judge people who drink alcohol?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...2023-05-0142 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 21 What is Lauren's freedom from alcohol story?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. 2023-04-2448 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 20 What is Ashley's freedom from alcohol story?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...2023-04-1750 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 19 What do I do about fear and anxiety? Special Guest Edition: Christy BoulwareWe 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? Wha...2023-04-1052 min"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 18 What's the big deal with mommy wine culture?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...2023-04-0347 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 17 How do I design a life full of fun and adventure (including visiting wine country) if I’m alcohol-free? Special Guest Edition: Martha WrightJoin 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...2023-03-2750 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 16 What does a freedom from alcohol coach do?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 t...2023-03-2052 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 15 What are the 10 best things about never having to drink again?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...2023-03-1346 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 14 What's Rachel's freedom from alcohol story?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 hop...2023-03-0643 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 13 Did Jesus drink wine or not? Special Guest Edition: Pastor DavidJoin 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 do...2023-02-2742 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 12 Am I an alcoholic?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...2023-02-2050 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 11 Why am I craving sugar? Special Guest Edition: The Sober Nutritionist, Teri PattersonJoin 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 Te...2023-02-1349 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 10 What do I do about an alcohol craving?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...2023-02-0649 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 9 What do I do if my hub still drinks? Special Guest Edition: Scott PinyardWe 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...2023-01-3045 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 8 How can I know I want nothing to do with alcohol but still drink?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 d...2023-01-2347 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 7 What do you mean by the “stories that kept you stuck?”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 ~2023-01-1649 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 6 What’s my mind got to do with alcohol?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...2023-01-0945 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 5 Does wine really help me connect?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...2023-01-0244 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 4 What do I tell my girlfriends if I’m not drinking?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 drin...2023-01-0243 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 3 Can 40th birthday celebrations really be fun without alcohol?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 lif...2023-01-0242 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 2 What’s Meade’s freedom from alcohol story?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 w...2023-01-0247 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckEp. 1 What’s Christy’s freedom from alcohol story?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...2023-01-0246 min
"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us StuckTrailer: But Jesus Drank WineJoin 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...2022-12-2101 min