Genuine Life Recovery with Jodie Stevens

Breaking Free: Sex, Love, and Addiction: A Real Talk on Healing and Hope (Episode 157)

Breaking Free: Sex, Love, and Addiction: A Real Talk on Healing and Hope (Episode 157)

Why do people become addicted to sex and love? Is it really just about physical desire, or is there something deeper? In this powerful episode, we speak with therapist Mike Vaughn, a leading expert on sex addiction recovery, to uncover the underlying issues behind these struggles. We discuss how trauma plays a major role in all forms of addiction, why shame keeps people silent, and how the world’s distortion of sex has led to unhealthy cycles of addiction. We also explore the deep emotional and relational wounds that often drive people toward sex and love addiction as a way to self-soothe or seek connection. Additionally, we address an important but often overlooked reality: women struggle with sexual addiction, too, yet many feel too ashamed to seek help. But there is hope. Recovery is possible, and healing begins with truth, grace, and a biblical understanding of sex as a gift from God. Whether you’re battling addiction, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about the topic, this episode offers real talk, biblical wisdom, and practical steps toward freedom.

Freedom from Same-Sex Attraction & Meth Addiction with Patrick Quezada (Episode 156)

Freedom from Same-Sex Attraction & Meth Addiction with Patrick Quezada (Episode 156)

Raised in an environment of brokenness and rejection, Patrick Quezada turned to addiction and the pursuit of an identity that left him empty. After years of battling same-sex attraction and crystal meth addiction, his struggles were compounded by the trauma of being sexually exploited by a pastor—an experience that deepened his wounds and highlighted the painful misunderstandings surrounding abuse and identity within church culture. But after a radical encounter with God, Patrick found true healing, freedom, and purpose. In this episode, we explore his powerful testimony, the impact of generational strongholds, and how the Serenity Prayer offers wisdom for  overcoming addiction, identity struggles, and deep spiritual wounds.

Patrick shares how faith transformed his life and how he now helps others find freedom. To learn more about his story, check out his book Open My Encrypted Heart, available at openmyencryptedheart.com. 

RADIO RECOVERY REDEMPTION (Episode 155)

Tune into this episode previously recorded live. I'm joined by my former morning radio co-host, Charlee Simons, as we dive into our wild journeys in the radio industry, our struggles with addiction, and how God completely turned our lives around. We’re talking about loss, faith, and redemption—and of course, sharing plenty of laughs along the way. And if you ever listened to us on the radio, you already know… you never know what Charlee is going to say! Stick around, join the conversation, and let’s get real about recovery and faith! Charlee Simons is a radio host and also hosts several podcast including Do Not Talk on Rumble and YouTube

Goodbye 9-to-5, Hello Serenity: Lisa Williams on Grief, God, and Letting Go (Episode 154)

Are you stuck on a life path that feels more like a rut than a road to joy? In this inspirational episode of the Serenity Series on Genuine Life Recovery, I reconnects with my childhood friend Lisa Williams to explore how the Serenity Prayer can help us face life’s twists and turns with courage and grace.

Lisa shares her incredible journey of walking away from a 23-year corporate career—a decision fueled by the heartbreak of losing her mother and best friend in less than a year. But what seemed like chaos at first turned into a divine invitation for transformation. Through grief, career upheaval, and soul-deep healing, Lisa discovered the beauty of trusting God with the unknown.

From redefining success beyond the 9-to-5 grind to finding comfort in programs like Celebrate Recovery, Lisa’s story is a testament to God’s ability to bring purpose from pain. If you’re navigating loss, burnout, or a major crossroads, this conversation will give you the hope and courage to embrace your God-led adventure!

A Will to Live: The Chad Gaines Story (Episode 153)

A Will to Live: The Chad Gaines Story  (Episode 153)

What would you do if your darkest secrets were suddenly exposed? In this gripping episode, we dive deep into the life of Chad Gaines—a man who lived through unimaginable trauma, addiction, and self-destruction but refused to let his story end in tragedy. From abuse and bullying to surviving multiple suicide attempts, Chad’s journey is raw, real, and unforgettable.

His story is so powerful, Angel Studios is making a movie about it called Pocket of Hope. —and after hearing this episode, you’ll understand why. Chad takes us behind the scenes of his unrelenting fight for survival, the moments that brought him to the brink, and how he found the courage to rise above it all.

This episode doesn’t shy away from the hard truths, addressing topics like mental health, the aftermath of abuse, and the dangerous allure of addiction. It's not just a conversation; it’s a testament to human resilience and the will to fight for a better life.

⚠ Trigger Warning: This episode includes graphic discussions of suicide, abuse, and self-harm, which may be difficult for some listeners. Please listen with care.

Join us as we uncover the layers of Chad’s story and explore the deep scars—and incredible redemption—that define his journey. His raw honesty might just change the way you view survival, hope, and healing.

Don’t miss “A Will to Survive: The Chad Gaines Story.” Tune in now for one of the most powerful stories you’ll hear this year. Read Chad's book and find out about the movie here: https://www.gaineschad.com/

Learning to Let Go: Finding Peace When Life Doesn’t Match the Dream (Episode 152)

Have you ever looked at your life and thought, This isn’t how it was supposed to be? Maybe your plans unraveled, your dreams shifted, addiction has left your life in pieces, recovery isn’t unfolding the way you imagined, or life’s unexpected challenges left you feeling lost. On this episode of the Genuine Life Recovery Podcast, part of our Serenity Series, I’m joined by Lisa Tannert—a speaker, writer, and recovery advocate with over 20 years of sobriety. Together, we unpack the heart of the Serenity Prayer and explore how its powerful message of acceptance and trust can transform the way we handle life’s detours.

Lisa shares her personal journey of finding peace in the midst of disappointment and fear, offering practical ways to lean on God’s wisdom when life doesn’t go according to plan. Whether you’re managing a broken relationship, a missed opportunity, or a season of uncertainty, this conversation will encourage you to let go of control, embrace God’s plan, and discover serenity in the chaos.

If you’ve ever wondered how to find peace when life feels off course, this episode is for you. Tune in and take the first step toward acceptance, faith, and healing.

Living the Serenity Prayer: Meaning, Power, and Everyday Application (Episode 151)

Living the Serenity Prayer: Meaning, Power, and Everyday Application (Episode 151)

Join me, Jodie Stevens, and my husband, Aaron, as we kick off the Serenity Series on the Genuine Life Recovery Podcast. In this powerful first episode, we dive into the meaning behind the Serenity Prayer, read the entire prayer, and explore its practical application in everyday life. We share the intimate story of our own journey toward serenity, discussing how we’ve navigated life’s challenges, built trust, and found healing together. If you’re looking for hope, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of the Serenity Prayer’s impact on recovery, this episode is for you.

Spilling the Tea with Marva Dupree: Healing Trauma & Restoring Wounded Faith (Episode 150)

Spilling the Tea with Marva Dupree: Healing Trauma & Restoring Wounded Faith  (Episode 150)

You guessed it, to celebrate 150 episodes, we Spill the Tea! I'm joined by Marva E'lane Dupree who is a mom, worship leader, coach, author, and speaker. Marva reveals her personal journey of healing from childhood trauma and finding her way back to deeper faith and living from her true center. Growing up as a pastor’s kid, Marva shares how early hurts, church expectations, and trauma left a lasting impact on her self-worth. She talks openly about the “false self” that many trauma survivors put on as a way to protect themselves and how reconnecting with God’s love helped her finally let go and embrace who she really is. Marva also offers insights on how faith communities can be safer, more welcoming places for those working through pain. This episode is a hopeful reminder that wherever you’re at in life, healing and transformation are possible. (And don't miss Marva sing a beautiful song at the end). Find out more about Marva and her work at MarvaElane.com and get a copy of her book Spilling the Tea here.