Genuine Life Recovery with Jodie Stevens

Shattered Masks: Finding True Self in the Midst of Addiction and Codependency (Episode 111)

Shattered Masks: Finding True Self in the Midst of Addiction and Codependency (Episode 111)

Embark on a transformative journey with me as I delve into the intricate layers of identity in this episode. Navigating through the challenges of addiction and codependency, we explore the profound concept of self-discovery. Drawing wisdom from "The Gift of Being Yourself" by David Banner, we uncover the transformative power that lies in truly knowing oneself and God.

Through transparent introspection, I share my experiences of shedding the false self—the mask we wear to seek approval—and embracing the authentic self. Join me in the exploration of Ephesians 2 and John Calvin's insights, where true wisdom unfolds in understanding God and oneself. In this narrative, we confront the harsh truth crucial for healing: the struggle for redemption and the impact of external factors on our identity.

This podcast is an exploration of acknowledging personal worth, dismantling self-sufficiency, and confronting the pervasive fear of rejection rooted in shame. Ultimately, it's a testament to the enduring hope found in God's redemptive love, guiding us towards genuine self-identity in Christ.

 

Pathways to Healing: Unveiling Celebrate Recovery (Episode 110)

Pathways to Healing: Unveiling Celebrate Recovery (Episode 110)

I'm joined by my lifelong friend Lisa Weiss Williams as we discuss Celebrate Recovery and its impact on Lisa's life. Join us as we pull back the curtains on our own experiences, sharing raw moments of transformation. From the wild landscapes of Alaska to the heart of our own recoveries, we're diving into the power of programs like Celebrate Recovery. Tune in for insights into the transformative power of this program and how it provides a Christ-centered approach to healing. 

My Husband’s Journey Through Addiction, Recovery, and Personal Growth: A Story of Surrender and Self-Discovery (Episode 109)

My Husband's Journey Through Addiction, Recovery, and Personal Growth: A Story of Surrender and Self-Discovery (Episode 109)

My husband's life journey encompassed a battle with alcohol addiction, prompting severe health complications and a quest for sustained sobriety. Facing immense health issues at 325 pounds in his early thirties, he encountered numerous hurdles and began his journey to sobriety amidst despair and declining health.

Early Struggles and Recognition of Addiction

His tryst with alcohol began at the young age of 14, signaling an early onset of problematic drinking behavior. Throughout his teenage years, the consequences of his drinking were profound, and signs of alcoholism emerged early. Despite the evident struggle, achieving sobriety seemed like an insurmountable task, leading to multiple failed attempts.

Nature vs. Nurture: Unraveling the Roots of Addiction

His story delves into the complexity of addiction, exploring the interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental influences. Understanding the impact of his upbringing, personal experiences, and the amalgamation of nature and nurture were pivotal in comprehending the depth of his substance abuse struggle.

The Journey to Sobriety: Surrender and Self-Reflection

For my husband, the turning point was surrender – a critical moment that ignited change. Acknowledging the need for transformation, he reflected on the destructive patterns in his life, striving for a deeper understanding of his addiction's root causes. Taking responsibility for personal growth became a fundamental step in his journey.

Recovery Tools and Coping Mechanisms

Throughout his journey, my husband discovered the significance of recovery tools, spiritual growth, self-reflection, and gratitude in maintaining sobriety. Consistent efforts in these areas became cornerstones in his sustained recovery.

Challenges Along the Way

Recently, a necessary surgery and prescribed pain medication shook his decades-long sobriety, triggering unexpected cravings. Despite the temptation, his steadfast commitment to sobriety and his coping mechanisms enabled him to resist further use. This experience highlighted the enduring challenges of addiction, even after years of sobriety.

Conclusion: Perseverance and Continuous Growth

His journey depicts the ongoing battle against addiction, emphasizing the significance of resilience, continual self-improvement, and the power of choice in maintaining sobriety. The voyage toward overcoming addiction is portrayed as an enduring process, comprising surrender, self-reflection, and perpetual spiritual and personal growth.

Victim to Victorious-Escaping Violence, Learning Self-Defense (Episode 108)

Victim to Victorious-Escaping Violence, Learning Self-Defense (Episode 108)

Robin Padilla with Damsel in Defense shares her story of surviving domestic violence as a child and escaping an abusive marriage. Learn the impact of childhood trauma in adulthood; character traits of someone capable of domestic violence; the cycle of abuse; mental vs physical self-defense, and what perpetrators look for in a victim. Plus, Robin will share (and demonstrate) safety/self-defense tools for women for general protection or for those trying to escape a violent relationship. Learn about protection products or how to become a safety educator at DefendableMe.com.

What is Acceptance in Recovery and How do we Do it? (Episode 107)

What is Acceptance in Recovery and How do we Do it? (Episode 107)

In this episode we are talking about acceptance. What does it mean to practice acceptance? What are we actually supposed to accept and why? And... why is acceptance so important in the recovery process?

Learn four huge components of acceptance:

1. Asking for help

2. Forgiveness

3. Living with things we can’t change

4. Surrendering to God

I will share real life examples from my own life as I had to learn to practice acceptance throughout my sobriety and difficult times. 

Rahab, Rediscovering the God who Saves Me (Episode 106)

Rahab, Rediscovering the God who Saves Me (Episode 106) Rahab was a prostitute who ended up in the lineage of Jesus Christ. No matter how far you have fallen, God can redeem, restore, and transform your life. In this episode I'm joined by Shadia Hrichi  who is a bible teacher, speaker, and author of the new study Rahab, Rediscovering the God who Saves Me. In this episode we compare our own stories with the story of Rahab and invite you to do the same. We also discuss the difference between salvation, redemption and sanctification; and how we balance grace and truth based on God's Word. AND you can WIN Shadia's latest bible study Rahab, Rediscovering the God who Saves Me this month ONLY! Enter by clicking on the link below!   https://kingsumo.com/g/mbmw1n/exclusive-rahab-media-tour-giveaway

Why Meaning and Purpose is the Root of Life & Recovery (Episode 105)

Why Meaning and Purpose is the Root of Life & Recovery (Episode 105)

We are in a massive mental health crisis in America, and facing an even worse addiction and opioid epidemic. In addition to being addicted, so many others are drifting through life sad, depressed, hopeless and lacking meaning and purpose in their lives. In this episode we dive into why, and how discovering our higher calling is so vital in the recovery process and how it helps nurture our lives. Learn about some important people who have made a huge impact in our world through finding meaning and purpose, even during horrific pain and tragedy and how it saved their lives. Find out how this concept is cultivated in recovery; and how faith in God and the good news of the gospel takes this idea to an entirely different level, one of eternal perspective.

Shame, Addiction, and Deceit to Radiant Redemption with Tanya Jurecki (Episode 104)

Shame, Addiction, and Deceit to Radiant Redemption with Tanya Jurecki (Episode 104)

Tanya was not only lost in her addiction, she was living a life of lies and deceit to hide her shame and feelings of inadequacy. In this episode Tanya gets REAL about her past! She shares what it took to get sober and HONEST about her life and recovery. Tanya also reveals the family dynamics that led to her addictive behaviors and the underlying mental and emotional challenges. Learn about the importance of community and how Tanya found new coping strategies and recovery techniques. Today Tanya is a wife, mom, and woman in recovery who has turned her own struggles with addiction into a powerful mission to bring hope and healing to others. Click here to find out more about her program Radiant Redemption.