Ep. 61 Susan Larkin | Alcohol in the Church: A Sobering Conversation
In this heartfelt conversation, Susan Larkin, fellow alcohol and life transformation coach, shares her journey of grappling with alcohol as a Christian woman. The discussion unfolds within the context of her Christian faith, shedding light on the complexities and challenges faced by individuals navigating the freedom from alcohol journey in Christian community.
As a Christian, Susan initially adhered to the belief that Christians don't drink. However, as life unfolded, social situations introduced alcohol, challenging her perception. This shift led to a hidden struggle with overdrinking and was exacerbated by the stigma associated with drinking in Christian communities.
Susan highlights her experience as a gray-area drinker, where she couldn’t relate to the traditional “alcoholic” but struggled with overdrinking, leading to a cycle of shame and hiding. She shares her experience seeking help within the Christian community, including confiding in her pastor and attending AA meetings.
Candidly recounting her attempt to control her alcohol intake by drawing a line on the bottle, Susan reflects on the frustration of constantly breaking self-imposed limits and the desire to be a “normal drinker.” She describes the moment she had a breakthrough related to her relationship to alcohol when she focused on how she wanted to feel – alive!
Susan shares her experiences during a vacation and a birthday, challenging common narratives about “data points” or what we refer to in our coaching as “growth points,” encouraging others not to discount their alcohol-free achievements.
Susan also reflects on a poignant moment when she felt God's kindness, understanding, and lack of judgment, transforming the guilt associated with overdrinking and illuminating the compassionate character of God.
Challenging the perception of alcohol as a “people problem,” Susan highlights its addictive nature and explores the need for an awakening in the church regarding alcohol-related discussions.
Our conversation with Susan serves as a powerful narrative of faith, struggle, and self-discovery, offering valuable insights for anyone navigating similar challenges within the intersection of alcohol use and Christianity.
You can learn more about Susan and the work she does here and you can find her over on the ‘gram @drinklesswithsusan.
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Christy, a former lawyer with a background in law, business, and politics, experienced radical renewal after choosing sobriety. Now a senior sobriety coach and author of Love Life Sober (Penguin Random House), she helps women renew their minds and rediscover joy through a powerful blend of faith, neuroscience, and practical tools.
Meade, a former pharmaceutical rep and stay-at-home mom, looked like she had it all together—but felt stuck in a nightly-ish wine habit. Once she realized the issue was less about drinking and more about thinking, everything changed. Now a senior certified coach and creator of the Change-Your-Thinking-to-Change-Your-Drinking method and The Missing P.E.A.C.E. framework, Meade helps women ditch shame, reclaim purpose, and live with peace and joy.
Together, we create loving, Spirit-led spaces where women can explore their relationship with alcohol, renew their minds, and pursue the freedom they were made for.
Christy lives in Surrey, England; Meade outside Atlanta. We're just two women who surrendered our wine glasses, found something far better in Jesus, and now have the joy of helping others do the same.
