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

JOIN 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 up for a festive pep talk, helping you align your day with your intentions—not what alcohol might dictate. Together, we’ll guide you through tools and strategies to help you celebrate this Christmas Day your way: Practical Tips for a Joyful, Alcohol-Free Holiday Shift expectations and embrace the present moment. Reflect on the progress you’ve made (yes, even the small wins count!) and celebrate the meaningful gifts of your alcohol-free lifestyle. Learn the power of a firm decision to eliminate the mental tug-of-war of “Should I or shouldn’t I?” Your AF Christmas Hack Discover how to create a sense of relief and joy without the headache or regret alcohol often brings. We’ll explore the transformative power of mindfulness and curiosity to understand how alcohol truly makes you feel—especially during the week between Christmas and New Year’s. This festive episode is packed with encouragement, humor, and actionable insights to help you make this Christmas your most memorable—and merriest—one yet. 🎁 Wishing you all the joy, peace, and love of the season. You’ve got this! Note this episode originally aired on December 25 2024.    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 are joined by the inspiring Anna Mathur, a renowned mental health advocate, bestselling author, and host of The Therapy Edit podcast, which has amassed over 3 million downloads. Anna is passionate about making therapy accessible to everyone and delivers life-changing insights through her Instagram, books, and substack, The Frazzled Mums Club. The episode also highlights Anna’s journey toward an alcohol-free life and how her faith has been a transformative anchor throughout her mental health journey. She shares how embracing vulnerability and addressing her fears has unlocked greater clarity and joy in her life. Anna offers relatable wisdom on facing fears like people-pleasing, mourning friendships that no longer serve us, and accepting the uncomfortable truth that not everyone will like you. These topics resonate deeply with anyone who has felt the sting of rejection or the weight of unrealistic expectations, especially on an alcohol-free journey.  Anna’s advice is grounded in her personal experiences and unique approach to mental health, offering practical tools for managing anxiety, overcoming overwhelm, and fostering deeper self-acceptance. Whether you’re struggling with people-pleasing or simply want to hear an extremely relatable journey of ditching alcohol sprinkled with tons of mental health wisdom, this episode is for you.  Follow Anna on Instagram @annamathur. Grab her new book, The Uncomfortable Truth: Change Your Life by Taming 10 of Your Greatest Fears, for more of her brilliant insights, and follow her substack here. ​​https://annamathur.substack.com/ JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!   Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind Pre-order now and join us for 6 weeks of coaching through the book in our community.   Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   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 explore the joy and clarity of life without alcohol, sharing personal stories and tips for thriving in alcohol-free social settings. From milestone moments to everyday experiences, we uncover how this lifestyle enhances connection and presence. What You’ll Discover: Alcohol-Free Milestones Made Memorable Date Nights: Strengthen your connection with your partner in meaningful ways. Weddings & Birthdays: Celebrate without intoxication—just pure connection and joy. Sporting Events & Concerts: Embrace the energy and excitement of these events with a clear head. Vacations & Theater Performances: Experience the world and the arts like never before. Building Healthier Relationships Through Better Communication Why listening and empathy are key to deeper relationships. How body language, tone, and trust create stronger connections. Tips for resolving conflicts with honesty and respect. Living alcohol-free isn’t just about skipping drinks—it’s about being fully present for life’s moments and building richer connections with others.   Life without alcohol opens the door to unforgettable experiences and deeper relationships. Start exploring the possibilities today! Note: This episode originally aired on April 8, 2024.   JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!   Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind Pre-order now and join us for 6 weeks of coaching through the book in our community.   Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today 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 challenges of confronting shame, the healing power of vulnerability, and the transformation that comes from building a personal relationship with Jesus. She recounts her battle with liver failure and cirrhosis, her wake-up call to surrender her life to God, and the profound shift from seeing faith as a religion to experiencing it as an intimate relationship.  Together, Christy, Meade, and Karla explore the misconceptions surrounding sobriety and the subtle but dangerous grip alcohol can have on our lives. Karla emphasizes the importance of understanding its impact—not just on our bodies but on our relationships and spiritual health. Karla’s testimony highlights how vulnerability can lead to healing—not just for the person sharing, but for everyone who hears it. She encourages listeners to view fear as an opportunity for growth and to take the leap toward freedom, no matter how uncertain the path may seem. Her gratitude for the chance to share her journey shines through, offering a beacon of hope for anyone facing their own struggle with alcohol. Today’s episode is a reminder that no struggle is too great, and no story is too small to make an impact. Listen to Karla’s first episode with us, here.  Get Karla’s book, “And She Came Tumbling Down” here.   JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE! https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community Get Christy's Book:  Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind http://lovelifesober40dayfast.com   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.

Today, 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 distortion of our God-given desires. By understanding the roots of temptation, we can gain clarity and strength to overcome it. The conversation delves into the three primary categories of temptation and how they show up in our lives. Pastor David sheds light on how these challenges often stem from a deeper longing for connection and belonging and how recognizing these underlying desires can be the first step toward freedom. Throughout the episode, Pastor David and the hosts offer actionable strategies for conquering temptation. From fleeing tempting situations to using Scripture as a weapon against cravings, the discussion provides you with a roadmap for navigating moments of weakness. One powerful takeaway is the importance of speaking God’s word aloud—reminding ourselves of His promises and His provision for a way out when we feel overwhelmed. Pastor David offers a message of hope and encouragement, emphasizing that true freedom is found in understanding our identity in God. Whether you’re struggling with addiction or simply seeking guidance for daily challenges, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and spiritual tools to help you live a life rooted in faith. If you’ve ever wrestled with temptation and wondered how to break free, this conversation will leave you inspired and equipped to take the next step.   Other Pastor David Episodes:  Episode 13: Did Jesus Drink Wine Or Not?  Episode 24: What is Shame?  Episode 51: Realigning with Core Values Episode 96: What does the Bible say about Moderation? Episode 104: Conquering Life’s Temptations   JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!   Get Christy's Book:  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.

We are unbelievably honored to chat with Dr. Lee Warren—a renowned neurosurgeon, Iraq war veteran, acclaimed author, and speaker—to explore the powerful ways neuroscience and Scripture intersect to bring hope and healing. Dr. Warren’s story is a remarkable journey through intense personal challenges, including the heartbreaking loss of his son, Mitch, and his experiences serving in Iraq, all of which have shaped his perspective on resilience, faith, and personal transformation. Dr. Warren shares insights from his best-selling books, "I've Seen the End of You" and "Hope is the First Dose," offering a window into his unique approach to overcoming trauma. In this episode, he unpacks the principles behind what he calls “self-brain surgery” or self-directed neuroplasticity—explaining how our minds can be actively reprogrammed to transform thought patterns, heal from pain, and unlock profound spiritual growth. Together, we dive into his "treatment plan" for navigating life’s inevitable hardships and discuss the life-changing role of hope and supportive communities in the healing process. Dr. Warren also answers pressing questions from our community, including how alcohol impacts the brain and negatively affects our physical and mental health.  Tune in for an episode that will leave you with a renewed perspective on resilience, a deeper understanding of your brain’s potential, and practical tools to face life’s toughest moments with courage and faith. Get Dr Warren’s new book, “Hope is the first Dose” here.  Subscribe to Dr Warren’s substack, “Self-Brain Surgery” here.    JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!   Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind Pre-order now and join us for 6 weeks of coaching through the book in our community.   Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today we’re diving deep into why Jesus was our missing piece (peace) in the journey to true freedom from alcohol and why self-help alone can only take us so far.  We share openly about our own paths, recounting how we once sought relief and connection in alcohol but ultimately found it empty and unfulfilling. Over time, we realized that no amount of worldly solutions could fill the void we were trying to soothe. Instead, we discovered that true peace, joy, and connection come from surrendering to Jesus. Through Him, we found freedom from the shame, anxiety, and constant searching that once defined our lives. We’re not talking about religious rules or dogma here; we’re talking about a personal relationship that transforms everything. We encourage listeners to start where they are, even if they’re unsure of their faith, and to explore what a journey with Jesus might look like. Whether through reading the Bible, opening up in prayer, or simply having an honest conversation with God, we believe there’s incredible power in inviting Jesus into freedom from alcohol.  Join us as we share the personal stories and transformative experiences that have shown us why Jesus is truly the missing peace. We hope this conversation brings hope, encouragement, and the gentle nudge to explore a path to peace, not in isolation, but in the arms of a Savior who loves us fully. JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!   Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind -order now and join us for 6 weeks of coaching through the book in our community.   Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We’re thrilled to introduce our friend Ericka Andersen—a freelance writer, mom of two, lover of Jesus, and passionate sobriety advocate from Indianapolis. Ericka’s story is one of incredible resilience: a journey from the grips of alcohol addiction to celebrating over four years of sobriety, all while staying deeply rooted in her faith. In this episode, we dive into her unique perspective on addiction, faith, and self-discovery—a conversation that’s both eye-opening and beautifully relatable. Ericka opens up about her journey, sharing her early experiences with alcohol and the complicated generational ties that shaped her relationship with drinking. From the pressures of high school and college parties to the “work hard, play hard” culture as a young professional in Washington, DC, she explains how she found herself in a cycle that seemed normal but left her feeling deeply conflicted. Even while meeting every marker of outward success, Ericka quietly struggled, constantly questioning her drinking habits, the strain they placed on her spiritual life, and the toll on her well-being. She also discusses the strength she found in supportive communities and the importance of creating safe spaces for honest conversations about alcohol and faith. With the holiday season around the corner, Ericka offers heartfelt advice for anyone wrestling with sobriety during a time full of social gatherings and expectations. From staying grounded in faith to embracing community support, her message is a reminder that freedom from alcohol isn’t just possible—it can lead to a fuller, more joyous life. You can connect with Ericka on Instagram at @ericka_andersen or visit her website at sobrietycurious.com for more insights and resources on living alcohol-free. Tune in for this inspiring conversation that promises to bring hope, clarity, and encouragement to anyone on the journey toward sobriety.   JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!   Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind Order now and join us in the community.    Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

JOIN 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 in awe to the down-to-earth, laugh-out-loud moments that remind us why we do this every Monday, we’re giving you a front-row seat to the best of BJDW. Of course, this milestone wouldn’t be complete without a massive shoutout to the BJDW community. Your stories, support, and genuine connection have truly become the heartbeat of this podcast. We’re so grateful for the inspiring conversations you bring to our online space, for your encouragement, and for every DM, comment, and share that reminds us we’re all in this together. This episode is our way of saying THANK YOU for being on this ride with us and for helping us grow into something far bigger than we ever imagined. So whether you’ve been with us since day one or just joined the BJDW family, this episode is a celebration of everything we’ve built together. It’s proof that real, honest conversations, a supportive community, and a whole lot of laughter can truly change lives—ours included. Here’s to the next 100 episodes and beyond! 🎉 Episodes We Revisit in This Celebration: Pastor David – Episodes 13, 24, 52 and 96 William Porter – Episode 44 Dr. Curt Thompson – Episode 75 Bob Goff – Episode 68 Transforming Our Podcast into a Community – Episode 82 Jess Connolly – Episode 25 Christy Boulware – Episodes 19 and 85 Karla Adkins – Episode 27   Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind Pre-order now and join us for 6 weeks of coaching through the book in our community.   Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today we are joined by the amazing Dupe Witherick, the powerhouse behind Thrive Alcohol Free, and author of “Cocktail of Clarity.” Dupe opens up about her personal and professional transformation, sharing how she made alcohol a non-factor in her life and how she's now on a mission to help women break free from the societal pressure to drink. Dupe’s story is so relatable—she spent over 20 years in the corporate world, navigating the challenges and booze-filled culture that came with it. But during the pandemic, something shifted. She embarked on a 21-day alcohol break inspired by her church’s fast, and that simple break became the start of a life-changing journey.  Dupe shares some of the real, practical steps that helped her thrive without alcohol—like how she fell in love with non-alcoholic drinks that don’t feel like a compromise, and how reconnecting with hobbies brought more fulfillment into her life. Plus, she’s not just talking about the emotional and mental benefits—Dupe gets real about the physical changes, too. From better sleep to clearer skin, there’s a whole world of well-being that comes with saying goodbye to alcohol. Get ready for an episode packed with actionable takeaways, from tips on how to approach alcohol-free living to insights on how to rediscover your passions and live a more vibrant life. Whether you’re just beginning to question your relationship with alcohol or you’re deep into your journey, Dupe’s story is bound to resonate with you.  Check out Dupe’s “30 Passions and Hobbies: Ideas to Make Alcohol Insignificant’ here.  You can learn more about Dupe at thrivealcoholfree.com.  JOIN THE BJDW COMMUNITY HERE!   Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind Pre-order now and join us for 6 weeks of coaching through the book in our community.   Learn More about Coaching with Christy  Learn More about Coaching with Meade   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.