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

The 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 others.  She breaks down the science behind emotional regulation and how rewiring our brains through intentional practices can lead to lasting healing. Key takeaways from this episode include: Attachment theory helps explain our emotional responses and relational patterns. Nervous system regulation is essential for mental and emotional well-being. Compassion—both for ourselves and others—can transform our relationships. Faith and neuroscience are not in conflict; they beautifully complement each other. Self-reflection and a deeper understanding of our emotional patterns can lead to spiritual and psychological healing. Jesus offers a loving presence that creates safety, healing, and wholeness. Jo also speaks on compassion fatigue, especially for women who are constantly pouring into others. She emphasizes the importance of creating space for restoration and self-care, so we can continue to show up fully in our relationships. If you’ve ever wondered how mental health and faith intersect or how neuroscience and scripture can work together for personal transformation, this conversation is for you. Jo’s wisdom, warmth, and faith-filled perspective offer a fresh take on healing—one that blends science, therapy, and the unshakable truth of God’s love. Connect with Jo Hargreaves: Jo Hargreaves Therapy: https://johargreavestherapy.com/ Instagram: @TheFaithFilledTherapist Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind  Learn More about Coaching with Christy Learn More about Coaching with Meade https://meadehollandshirley.com/   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE.   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join 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. By learning to slow down and tune into her bodily sensations, Brandi discovered a new way to manage cravings and identify long-standing patterns born from trauma and discomfort. This practice of "orienting" herself in the present moment allowed her to reclaim control and gain clarity. Now alcohol-free for over six years, Brandi has transitioned into somatic coaching, using her personal experience to help others bridge the gap between emotional awareness and physical healing. In this episode, we explore how physical reactions to past injuries can manifest in unexpected ways and how reconnecting with our bodies is key to breaking unhealthy cycles.  Brandi’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery isn’t about erasing our past—it’s about embracing it with awareness, compassion, and a commitment to growth. If you’re ready to dive into deeper emotional healing and learn practical tools for managing cravings and anxiety, this episode is a must-listen. Bonus: Interested in learning more from Brandi? She’ll be joining the BJDW community on March 18th to lead a masterclass on using somatic practices to break free from alcohol. Join us here: butjesusdrankwine.com/community. You can also learn more about Brandi’s work here.  Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind  Learn More about Coaching with Christy https://www.lovelifesober.co.uk/   Learn More about Coaching with Meade   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE.   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join 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 know how to process. On the outside, she appeared to have it all—private school, sports accolades, and academic success—but beneath the surface, she battled loneliness, perfectionism, and crippling social anxiety. Her struggle with alcohol began early, with an immediate pull toward problematic drinking, and was soon compounded by severe eating disorders. While excelling academically and professionally, she led a double life—outwardly achieving, inwardly unraveling. The weight of it all finally became unbearable during the pandemic, when she was faced with a choice: keep running or surrender. Lisa takes us through the moment she gave up control and turned back to faith, discovering a healing far deeper than she ever expected. She shares the daily practices that helped her break free from destructive cycles, the misconceptions about recovery she had to unlearn, and the profound peace that comes from living in alignment with God’s purpose. Her story is a testament to the fact that no one is too far gone, and that true healing—both physical and spiritual—is possible for anyone ready to surrender. If you've ever struggled with addiction, perfectionism, or feeling like you have to have it all together, this episode is for you. You can get Lisa's book "52 Life-Changing Lessons I Learned in Recovery: A Journey Towards Sobriety, Honesty, and Radical Forgiveness" right here. Join the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community.  Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind    Learn More about Coaching with Christy Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine You can find this episode on YouTube HERE.   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

JOIN 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 visit https://findahelpline.com for international hotline information. Your well-being matters, and you are not alone. Please consider seeking help from trusted friends, family, or mental health professionals if you need support. In this raw and vulnerable episode, Kori Leigh courageously shares her personal journey through addiction, recovery, and the rediscovery of faith. Kori’s story shatters the stereotypes of a dramatic "rock bottom"—revealing instead that her turning point was a quiet, insidious moment of clarity. Despite achieving outward success, she reached a point where the reality of an unmanageable relationship with alcohol became undeniable. Kori opens up about how childhood trauma and longstanding familial patterns contributed to her struggles with alcohol. Instead of remaining trapped in a cycle of self-destruction, she embarked on a transformative journey by embracing a 12-step program and turning to faith. Her commitment to sobriety has now spanned eight years, proving that freedom from alcohol is not about a single moment but about a continuous, intentional journey of healing. Reconnecting with God provided Kori with the courage to break generational cycles and embrace a life filled with hope and divine grace. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of faith, vulnerability, and self-examination, offering practical insights and heartfelt encouragement to anyone facing similar battles. Join us for an episode filled with honest reflections and uplifting encouragement as Kori Leigh’s journey reminds us that even in the darkest moments, there is a path to healing and a future filled with hope – and a sober life beyond our wildest dreams!  Join the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community.  Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind  Learn More about Coaching with Christy   Learn More about Coaching with Meade   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE.   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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 shares the moment he hit rock bottom, the role of therapy and spiritual surrender in his recovery, and the hard but necessary process of sanctification—how God refines us even through our failures. This episode also dives into the themes of Jon’s upcoming book, Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic: A Candid Conversation on Drinking, Addiction, and How to Break Free.  Jon doesn’t just explore the struggles—he offers practical, faith-filled solutions for those struggling with alcohol.  Resources Mentioned: The Veritas Daily: Jon’s daily faith-based inspiration at TheVeritasDaily.com Join the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community.  Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind  Learn More about Coaching with Christy   Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE.   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

JOIN 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 Christian faith was a constant in my life. She planted seeds of faith in my heart, even when I didn’t fully realize it. When I went to college and ventured into early adulthood, those roots of faith began to feel distant. Life’s demands and distractions pulled me away, and I drifted. Yet, I always felt a quiet, persistent call deep in my soul—a whisper that refused to let me go. In 2018, my world was upended. Losing my mom was a heartbreak I wasn’t prepared for. That loss brought me to my knees. In my grief, I found myself turning back to the Bible, searching for comfort, answers, and—if I’m honest—a way to understand myself again. I didn’t just read the words; I clung to them. Slowly, those seeds my mom had planted began to bloom. As I delved deeper into my faith, I wrestled with the tension between living in a performance-driven world and embracing the transformative power of grace. I’d spent so much of my life trying to prove myself—to be “good enough.” But God met me in the messiness of my real life. Here’s what I’ve come to know: being a Christian isn’t about rules or rituals. It’s about a deeply personal relationship with Jesus. It’s about freedom—the kind that heals your heart and fills your life with purpose. It’s about saying “yes” to grace when everything in you wants to cling to control. Sobriety has been a significant part of my faith journey. For me, giving up alcohol wasn’t just about breaking a habit; it was about stepping into a life of clarity and intentionality, free from the things that clouded my connection to God. If you’re navigating your own sobriety journey, wrestling with questions of faith, or simply searching for encouragement, know this: God’s grace is big enough for your doubts and your struggles. He has good plans and He can redeem your story, just like He did for me. Resources Mentioned: Why We Can Trust The Bible, Suzy Silk, Church of the City New York https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/church-of-the-city-new-york/id1245313998?i=1000652522766 The Gospel of John - Savoring the Peace of Jesus in a Chaotic World by Melissa Spoelstra https://a.co/d/7VgMw5Z Have you experienced a moment where faith changed everything? Join the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community.  Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind  Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine  You can find this episode on YouTube HERE.  The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

JOIN 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, sobriety, and spiritual growth. Meade speaks candidly about how aligning her faith journey with the responsibilities of daily life has been both challenging and rewarding. She highlights the importance of seeking guidance, diving into scripture, and building a supportive community to sustain her faith.  The episode delves into themes of shame, surrender, and the transformative power of worship music, showing how Meade’s journey has been a relational process with Jesus, filled with curiosity, courage, and reconnection. Whether you're on your own faith journey, navigating sobriety, or simply curious about the transformative power of grace, this episode offers hope and encouragement.  And to hear Meade's Freedom From Alcohol Story visit Episode 2 of the "But Jesus Drank Wine" Podcast here: Meade's Alcohol Story Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind    Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

JOIN 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 embrace their bodies as sacred vessels, loved by God. She challenges listeners to let go of cultural pressures and shift their health goals from superficial aesthetics to freedom, surrender, and alignment with God’s purpose. This conversation is filled with practical tips and inspiring insights, including: The power of walking, hydration, and movement for nervous system regulation. How breathwork and stillness can reconnect you with your body and soul. Redefining exercise as an act of worship, not a means of punishment or control. Alisa also opens up about overcoming struggles with eating disorders, alcohol, and the relentless pursuit of perfection, encouraging listeners to embrace grace and freedom in their health journeys. Whether you’re considering a fresh start for the new year or simply looking for a healthier mindset around wellness, this episode will inspire you to integrate faith and fitness in a way that’s life-giving and sustainable. Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind    Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

JOIN 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 movement Recognizing the impact of alcohol on ambition The discussion also touches on the psychological barriers to sobriety, including the idolization of alcohol, the concept of fading effect bias (where memories of drinking are romanticized over time), and how to reframe your mindset through gratitude and a realistic understanding of alcohol's effects. Porter emphasizes the importance of confidence and resilience as the final and often most significant hurdle, equipping listeners with strategies to build a sustainable, alcohol-free life. This episode is packed with practical advice, powerful truths, and hope for anyone striving to break free from alcohol’s grip. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or are further along the path, Porter's insights provide encouragement and clarity for overcoming these hurdles. JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!   Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind    Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

JOIN 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 unexpected blessings of sobriety offers a relatable and encouraging perspective for any gal on a similar path. Packed with insights, warmth, and festive spirit, this episode is a beautiful reminder of the peace and freedom that comes with letting go of what holds you back and embracing a faith-filled, alcohol-free life. JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!   Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind    Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.