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

Have you ever looked in the mirror and felt stuck with your own body—in a similar way you’ve felt stuck with alcohol?That exhausting push-pull. The promises. The shame. The “why do I keep doing this?” on repeat. If that sounds familiar, this conversation is for you. For the woman who’s tried willpower, plans, promises, and prayers—yet still feels stuck in the cycle of body image battles, emotional eating, and quiet self-criticism. Friend, you are not alone. And you are not broken. Leanne joins us to share her powerful story of moving from food addiction and shame to true healing—rooted in both neuroscience and the unshakable love of God. What once felt like a personal failure of discipline became a holy revelation: real change happens when we understand our nervous system, renew our minds, and invite God into the process with us. In this episode, we talk honestly about how self-image shapes our choices, why “knowing better” isn’t the same as healing, and how faith and neuroscience beautifully work together to bring lasting freedom. Just like with alcohol, you’ll hear how the breakthrough didn’t come from trying harder—but from partnering with God differently. You’ll also hear how Leanne learned to separate who she is from what she struggled with—and how that shift opened the door to peace, empowerment, and a new identity grounded in Christ. If you’ve ever wondered why you keep doing the very thing you swore you wouldn’t—whether with food, alcohol, or anything else—this episode will remind you: you’re not failing—you’re in formation. And God isn’t standing at a distance. He’s right in the middle of your becoming. 📘 What You’ll Learn in This Episode How Leanne’s journey began with years of wrestling with food, shame, and body image Why understanding your nervous system can change everything about emotional eating The role of free will—and why God invites us into transformation rather than forcing it Why self-image work is essential for lasting change How neuroscience helps explain the patterns behind our behaviors Why healing requires both head knowledge and heart alignment The freedom that comes from separating your identity from your struggles How God’s unconditional love becomes the foundation for real self-acceptance Why true transformation is always a partnership between you and God 💡 Mind–Body Renewal Practices to Try This Week Speak one truth about your identity in Christ every morning Pause and breathe when a craving hits and ask: “What is my nervous system needing right now?” Replace negative self-talk with: “This is who I was. This is who I’m becoming.” Invite God into your healing with a simple daily prayer: “Renew my mind, Lord.” Keep a small journal of “behavioral wins” to train your brain to notice progress Practice mirror gratitude—thank God for one part of your body each day 💌 Links & Resources You can learn more about Leanne's work at LeanneEllington.com and StresslessEating.comor follow Leanne on instagram @leanneellington. 🤝 Join our community: https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community 📖 Order your copy of Love Life Sober: A 40 Day Alcohol Fast to Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health, and Renew Your Mind https://amzn.to/42l7z9C 📲 Connect on Instagram: @butjesusdrankwine 🎥 Watch on YouTube: Come hang out with us 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. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

​​This week, we’re leaning into the season of Thanksgiving, and talking about how gratitude really does change everything. 🦃✨ We all know we “should” be grateful, but when life feels heavy, the kids are loud, or your to-do list is a mile long… does gratitude actually help? (Spoiler: yes! And science agrees with what Scripture said all along!) In this conversation, we unpack how gratitude is not just a feel-good exercise, it’s a spiritual and neurological reset that can lower stress, boost dopamine and serotonin, and literally rewire your brain for joy. You’ll hear how our own sober Thanksgivings shifted from chaotic to peaceful, why slowing down is the secret to rewiring your mind, and how gratitude becomes the bridge from striving to worship. Whether you’re early in your alcohol-free exodus or simply craving more peace this holiday season, this episode will help you pause, breathe, and remember: You don’t need more wine to feel joy—you need more wonder. 📘 What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why gratitude is literally the antidote to anxiety (Philippians 4:6–8) The neuroscience behind how thankfulness rewires your brain for peace How alcohol trains your brain for “fast relief” and gratitude retrains it for lasting joy Practical ways to slow down, stay present, and practice gratitude daily Why gratitude transforms your relationship with God, and everyone else 💡 Tiny Tina Gratitude Practices Say “thank you, Lord for ___” at every stoplight this week 🚦 Write (or voice note) 3 things you’re grateful for before bed Practice breath prayer: Jesus in. Me out. Share one “proof of progress” in the community—big or small Turn up Gratitude by Brandon Lake or Goodness of God and worship it out 🎶 Memorize Philippians 4:6–8 to anchor your thoughts in truth Look in the mirror and thank God for who you’re becoming 💌 Links & Resources Join The January 2026 40-Day Alcohol Fast! https://butjesusdrankwine.myflodesk.com/januaryfast 📖 Books Mentioned: A Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp The Keeping Company Gratitude Journal Love Life Sober: A 40 Day Alcohol Fast to Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health, and Renew Your Mind Breath as Prayer By Jennifer Tucker. 🎧 Worship Songs Mentioned: Gratitude — Brandon Lake Goodness of God — Jenn Johnson 🤝 Join our community: https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community 📖 Order your copy of Love Life Sober: A 40 Day Alcohol Fast to Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health, and Renew Your Mind https://amzn.to/42l7z9C 📲 Connect on Instagram: @butjesusdrankwine 🎥 Watch on YouTube: Come hang out with us 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. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week’s episode is a little different. We’re pulling back the curtain on one of our BJDW Community Masterclasses, the kind of deep, beautiful, heart-level conversations we host each month with special guests to encourage our community gals on the journey to freedom. We’re joined by Sharon Hodde Miller, author of Free of Me and Gazing at God, to unpack the root of insecurity, and why we often feel insecure when we’re standing on something shaky. Sharon shares how our culture has taught us to treat insecurity by focusing more on ourselves… when the real freedom comes from shifting our gaze to God. She talks about why self-focus is exhausting, what true biblical self-denial looks like (hint: it’s not self-rejection), and how to spot when we’ve made something about us that was never meant to be. If you’ve ever found yourself striving for validation, wrestling with comparison, or feeling “not enough” in your faith, parenting, or purpose, this conversation is going to offer you so much encouragement!. 🙌 💡What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why you sometimes feel insecure because you’re standing on something insecure The two causes of insecurity and why self-focus is often the hidden one What the Bible really says when people bring their insecurities to God The difference between self-denial and self-rejection (and why it matters) How “self-focus” often masks pain or unhealed wounds What to do when insecurity or comparison starts spiraling How to gently re-center your gaze on God instead of yourself 💌 Links & Resources: Join The January 2026 40-Day Alcohol Fast! https://butjesusdrankwine.myflodesk.com/januaryfast Books by Sharon Hodde Miller: Free of Me: Why Life Is Better When It’s Not About YouGazing at God: Discovering the Freedom of a God-Centered Life Sharon’s First Podcast With Us: Free of Me: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/but-jesus-drank-wine-other-stories-that-kept-us-stuck/id1661252590?i=1000651035959 🤝 Join our community: https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community 📖 Order your copy of Love Life Sober: A 40 Day Alcohol Fast to Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health, and Renew Your Mind https://amzn.to/42l7z9C 📲 Connect on Instagram: @butjesusdrankwine 🎥 Watch on YouTube: Come hang out with us 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. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever wondered why traditional recovery works for some people—but didn’t quite fit for you? This week, we’re pulling back the curtain with our friend and BJDW team member Heather whose journey to freedom started inside a rehab program that followed a 12-step model…and ended in a deeper, Jesus-led transformation. Heather opens up about what she learned, what didn’t resonate, and how she found freedom—not just sobriety—through faith, community, and truth. If you’ve ever felt out of place in traditional recovery, or wrestled with words like powerless and alcoholic, this conversation is going to set something free inside you. 📘 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The parts of traditional recovery that helped Heather build early sobriety. The moments she knew she needed “something more” than meetings. Why labeling herself “powerless” didn’t align with her identity in Christ. How she integrated her faith into a secular recovery space—and what changed when she stopped compartmentalizing. The difference between sobriety and freedom (and why one without the other still feels stuck). The emotional sobriety piece that’s often missing in traditional models. How Jesus met her in unexpected places—from rehab groups to backyard birthday parties. Why community, not control, is what actually sustains transformation. 💌 Links & Resources: Join The January 2026 40-Day Alcohol Fast! https://butjesusdrankwine.myflodesk.com/januaryfast Previous Episodes Mentioned: Heather D’s First Episode: From High-Achieving to Healing, Heather Dillion’s Story God Doesn’t Call You An Alcoholic, He Calls You His Beloved Daughter 🤝 Join our community: https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community 📖 Order your copy of Love Life Sober: A 40 Day Alcohol Fast to Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health, and Renew Your Mind https://amzn.to/42l7z9C 📲 Connect on Instagram: @butjesusdrankwine 🎥 Watch on YouTube: Come hang out with us 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. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today we’re joined by one of the world’s leading experts on teen drinking and prevention—Professor Rob Turrisi, a Penn State researcher whose 35+ years of work have shaped national programs through MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) and schools across the U.S. In this important and hope-filled conversation, Professor Turrisi unpacks why teens start drinking, what actually works when it comes to prevention, and how parents can foster healthy, connected relationships that reduce risk and build trust. If you’re a parent, mentor, teacher, or anyone who cares about the next generation, this episode offers both science and a compassionate look at what helps, what doesn’t, and how small, everyday actions can have lifelong impact. 📘 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why even “just a sip” matters more than you might think The number one thing parents can do to reduce harm to their teenagers How to discourage drinking without creating rebellion or shame The surprising truth about “supervised drinking” and why it backfires How early drinking affects brain development, liver health, and long-term outcomes The real statistics behind college drinking—and the 75 lives lost every weekend in the U.S. How to talk to your kids about peer pressure and what to say when they say “everyone’s doing it” The five parenting practices that build resilience and connection: positive communication, modeling, gratitude, creating a welcoming environment, and shared decision-making Why delaying alcohol use is one of the greatest gifts we can give our teens 💌 Links & Resources: 🤝 Join our community: https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community 📖 Order your copy of Love Life Sober: A 40 Day Alcohol Fast to Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health, and Renew Your Mind https://amzn.to/42l7z9C 📲 Connect on Instagram: @butjesusdrankwine 🎥 Watch on YouTube: Come hang out with us 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. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today’s episode is one of those that reminds us why we do this! We’re joined by our beloved community member Margie, who shares her breathtaking story of redemption — a story marked by God’s fingerprints in every moment, from early struggles with alcohol to the steady unfolding of peace, purpose, and true freedom in Christ. What began decades ago as a quiet search for belonging became a story of divine pursuit — one where God never stopped showing up, even when shame, anxiety, and vodka tried to take the lead. Margie opens up about the hard years, the miracle moments, and the countless little ways God met her — sometimes in spilled drinks, sometimes in worship songs, and always in love. Whether you’re still in the messy middle or walking in freedom, this conversation will help you start spotting God’s fingerprints in your own story, because He’s closer than you think. 📘 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Margie’s lifelong relationship with alcohol began and how God patiently rewrote her story. The difference between striving for control and surrendering to grace. How worship, Scripture, and the BJDW community helped her break the cycle of shame and isolation. Why vulnerability is the bridge between stuck and free. What it really means to trust God’s timing. How to look for God’s way out, even when you miss it, and return to gratitude the next day. The freedom that comes when shame no longer silences your story. 💡 Tiny Tina Tip:If you’re praying for God to help you in temptation — look for His fingerprints.They might show up in small interruptions, a worship lyric, or a gentle nudge from someone who loves you. Even if you miss them in the moment, thank Him the next day. He’s always faithful. 💌 Links & Resources: 🤝 Join our community: https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community 📖 Order your copy of Love Life Sober: A 40 Day Alcohol Fast to Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health, and Renew Your Mind 📲 Connect on Instagram: @butjesusdrankwine 🎥 Watch on YouTube: Come hang out with us there! 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. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We’re celebrating something special today, Amber’s one-year alcohol-free anniversary! 🩷 Amber is not only a beloved member of our But Jesus Drank Wine community, she’s also part of our leadership team, guiding women toward freedom with compassion, wisdom, and grace. In this heartfelt and hope-filled conversation, Amber shares her powerful story, from binge drinking and endless moderation “rules” to finding peace, purpose, and freedom through Christ. She opens up about the fears she had around her marriage, motherhood, and social life… and how God met her in every single one of them. Whether you’re just beginning to question your relationship with alcohol or already walking your own exodus, Amber’s story will remind you that you’re not alone, and surrender is where freedom begins. 📘 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The exhausting cycle of guilt, shame, and 3 a.m. wake-ups (and what finally broke it). Why moderation rules don’t work — even for disciplined women — and what does. How faith-based support and community transformed her healing journey. The fear of losing her marriage, and how God made it even stronger without alcohol. What it’s like to celebrate big milestones (like your 40th birthday!) sober and joy-filled. How planning ahead helped her stay grounded at parties, vacations, and social events. How her anxiety and prayer life completely changed when alcohol left the picture. What freedom looks like in marriage, motherhood, and everyday joy. 💌 Links & Resources: 🤝 Join our community: https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community 📖 Order your copy of Love Life Sober: A 40 Day Alcohol Fast to Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health, and Renew Your Mind 📲 Connect on Instagram: @butjesusdrankwine 🎥 Watch on YouTube: Come hang out with us there! 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. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What if God already knows your every thought—and still loves you? In this Scripture meditation on Psalm 139:1–4, we begin our Fully Known, Fully Loved series with a reflection on God’s deep, intimate knowledge of us. Using the Lectio Divina method, we’ll gently meditate on the reality that God knows every word before we speak it, every move before we make it—and none of that scares Him away. In a world obsessed with self-discovery, these verses remind us of something even more powerful: Before we try to figure ourselves out… God already knows. And His love is unwavering. In this guided Christian meditation, you’ll be invited to:• Reflect on what it means to be fully known by God• Consider how God sees and understands you with perfect love• Rest in the truth that His knowledge of you is not threatening—but comforting 📓 Download your FREE companion journal for the Fully Known, Fully Loved series https://jodieniznik.myflodesk.com/fullyloved This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Entire Meditation Text:Psalm 139:1–6 (NLT)1 O LORD, you have examined my heartand know everything about me.2 You know when I sit down or stand up.You know my thoughts even when I’m far away.3 You see me when I traveland when I rest at home.You know everything I do.4 You know what I am going to sayeven before I say it, LORD.5 You go before me and follow me.You place your hand of blessing on my head.6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,too great for me to understand! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We’re thrilled to welcome our new friend Jodie Niznik to the studio today! Jodie is the host of So Much More, a Scripture meditation podcast that helps women slow down, create space to listen to God, and move biblical truth from head knowledge to heart transformation. In this conversation, Jodie shares how Scripture meditation has become a lifeline for women who feel stuck in doing all the things, and why creating space to simply be with Jesus is often the missing piece for those breaking free from alcohol, people-pleasing, or performance. Whether you’re just curious about taking a break from alcohol, walking your own exodus, or longing to deepen your relationship with Jesus, this episode will encourage you to slow down, listen, and start small. 📘 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why head knowledge isn’t enough, and how Scripture meditation moves truth from your mind to your heart and hands. The difference between Eastern “empty your mind” meditation and biblical “fill your mind” meditation. The brain science behind creating new grooves for peace instead of spirals of anxiety and craving. How to begin (even if you’re busy or intimidated!) with just five minutes a day. Why slowing down is essential for real transformation, and simple ways to start. How to help your kids recognize God’s voice and discern His leading. A sneak peek at the practices Jodie will teach live inside our community this October. 💌 Links & Resources: 🗓️ Join Jodie’s Live Masterclass in the BJDW Community — October 21, 2025Learn and practice breath prayer, Lectio Divina, and the Examen with Jodie in real time by joining us inside the BJDW Community. 🎧 Listen to Jodie’s Podcast — So Much MoreA weekly Scripture meditation podcast designed to help you slow down and experience God’s peace. 📖 Order your copy of Love Life Sober: A 40 Day Alcohol Fast to Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health, and Renew Your Mind 📲 Connect on Instagram: @butjesusdrankwine 🎥 Watch on YouTube: Come hang out with us 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. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Whether you’re asking “Do I drink to slow down?” or “How do I build healthier rhythms without adding more to-do lists,” this episode is practical, encouraging, and full of real-life examples that’ll give you ideas you can try this week. We’re back with Lauren, this time digging into pace, rhythms, and how busyness intertwined with drinking and why alcohol felt like the only “off” switch 📘 What you’ll learn in this episode Lauren’s personal story: the fall that stopped her in her tracks, the cascade of overwhelm that followed, and how pace contributed to her drinking. Why hurry is spiritually dangerous, and how hurry and sin produce the same effect: cutting us off from God, others, and our own souls. The subtle trap: “I drink to slow down” — why it feels helpful in the moment and why it actually fuels worse sleep, anxiety, and overwhelm. Practical rhythm wins: Morning prayer + journaling, needlepoint Sabbath-ish screen breaks, shifting chores off Sundays, and asking “What can I offload?” The myth of productivity-as-worth: why busyness can be an avoidance strategy and how to start disentangling worth from to-do lists. Real hope for “boredom” fears: boredom at first is normal — it’s not the same as peace — and the horizon of meaningful, non-alcoholic rest gets easier with practice. Lauren’s other episodes: Lauren’s Freedom From Alcohol Beginning Story Letting Go of Moderation As The Goal Resources Mentioned: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally Healthy and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World by John Mark Comer 🤝 Join our community: https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community 📖 Order your copy of Love Life Sober: A 40 Day Alcohol Fast to Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health, and Renew Your Mind 📲 Instagram: @butjesusdrankwine 🎥 We’re on YouTube too—come hang out!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. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.