Genuine Life Recovery with Jodie Stevens

From Overdose to Encounter: How Jesus Met a Heroin Addict at IHOP – Adam Vibe Gunton’s Recovery Story (Ep. 180) After years of heroin addiction, homelessness, and a near-fatal overdose caught on camera, Adam Vibe Gunton was out of options—until a supernatural encounter in an IHOP changed everything. In this episode of Genuine Life Recovery, I talk with Adam about his dramatic journey from despair to purpose, his powerful vision of Jesus, and how that moment set him free from addiction for good. Adam now leads Recovered on Purpose, a national movement helping others share their stories, eliminate shame, and find lasting hope through faith and recovery. This raw and redemptive conversation dives deep into fentanyl’s deadly grip, the broken treatment system, and how God’s grace can reach anyone—no matter how far they’ve fallen. About Adam’s Work: Through Recovered on Purpose, Adam and his team provide a free 50-state resource guide for people seeking addiction treatment—especially those on or eligible for Medicaid. His for-profit agency, Behavioral Health Partners, helps ethical, mission-driven treatment centers grow and serve clients with excellence. Adam is also a partner in Radix Recovery, opening 68 new detox beds to help people begin their healing journey.  

Recovery, Relationships, & Real Life with Josh and Heidi (Ep. 179) In this special episode of Genuine Life Recovery, I’m hanging out with my husband, Aaron, as we co-host an honest conversation with Josh and Heidi Case from The Sober Buzz Podcast. Since Aaron and I have been married in sobriety for nearly two decades, it was powerful to talk with another couple navigating marriage, recovery, and real life. Josh and Heidi’s story is full of every emotion—roller-coaster highs and crushing lows. We talk about the pain of relapse, the lies we tell ourselves in addiction, and what it looks like to keep rebuilding even when everything seems broken. Heidi shares about her 18-year misdiagnosis with bipolar disorder, the devastating side effects of unnecessary treatments, and how her true healing began when she finally stepped away from the medications that masked her pain. Josh opens up about spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on rehab, trying geographical moves to escape his problems, and the breaking point that finally led him to lasting sobriety.  Together we laugh, reflect, and talk about codependency, family dynamics, and the surprising joy of marriage in recovery. 👉 Learn more about Josh and Heidi at sober.buzz and check out their podcasts Sober.Buzz: Spreading the Good Buzz and Swarm Up.

Recovery isn’t always a straight line—and sometimes, real healing happens in the gray space between sickness and full recovery. In this episode of Genuine Life Recovery, we jump in with journalist, professor, and author Mallary Tenore Tarpley, whose powerful memoir Slip explores her journey through anorexia, binge eating, and the lifelong process of reclaiming health and identity. Mallary opens up about losing her mother at a young age, how grief and control fueled her eating disorder, and why she now embraces what she calls the “middle place” in recovery—where slips and setbacks are not failures, but part of the healing process. Together, we discuss the overlap between eating disorders and addiction, the importance of vulnerability, and the daily practices that can help move us toward more recovery—even when it’s messy.  Learn more about Mallary’s work, her book Slip, and her ongoing advocacy for those in recovery at mallarytenoretarpley.com

From Binge to Balance: Food Addiction Recovery for High Achievers (Ep 177) “Are you hustling your way to success… with a side of secret snacks?” In this episode of Genuine Life Recovery, we dive into the surprising truth about food addiction—especially in the world of busy entrepreneurs. Is it really just about overeating, or is something deeper at play? Licensed therapist Jennifer Schrappe joins me to unpack: The difference between a sweet tooth and a true addiction  How stress, dopamine, and those late-night hustle sessions fuel compulsive eating Why high-achievers are so prone to emotional eating during launches, deadlines, and financial stress Practical ways to break the shame cycle and build a healthier relationship with food—without sacrificing your goals We also explore the connection between food, mental health, and faith—because your body isn’t a stress dumpster; it’s part of your calling. If you’ve ever told yourself, “I’m just too busy to eat right,” this episode is for you.

Not a Caretaker? You Might Still Be Codependent (Ep. 176) Are you codependent — but not in the way everyone talks about? Most people think codependency is only about caretaking, rescuing, and sacrificing yourself to meet everyone else’s needs. And yes, that’s one form — but it’s not the only one. For me, codependency showed up in my career, performance, and need for approval. My identity rose and fell with ratings, audience feedback, and what people thought of me. If the show was a hit, I felt worthy. If the phones were silent or the criticism loud, I felt like a failure. In this video, we explore hidden forms of codependency — not just the fixer or caretaker, but the performer, the people-pleaser, the overachiever. You’ll discover: How codependency can show up in parenting, ministry, volunteering, and the workplace Why our self-worth often gets tied to others’ expectations or achievements The connection between codependency, perfectionism, and people-pleasing The psychological roots of codependency — from low self-esteem to attachment wounds How faith and biblical truth can break the cycle of performance-based identity Whether your codependency comes from childhood trauma, dysfunctional family dynamics, or a lifetime of chasing approval, this episode will help you see that God’s love isn’t performance-based. Galatians 6 reminds us to carry our own load, not live someone else’s life — and to stop finding our worth in what we produce or how much we please others.     If you’ve been over-performing, over-pleasing, or over-sacrificing just to feel “enough,” it’s time to let that go. You are already loved. Already worthy. Already enough — in Him

If You Keep Relapsing, It Might Be an Identity Issue (Part 5 Ep. 175) In this episode, we explore how identity is at the heart of recovery. It’s not just about resisting the next drink or behavior—it’s about confronting the deep, often hidden beliefs you hold about who you are. And many of us, especially in early sobriety, don’t realize we’ve been living from a false self shaped by trauma, shame, and survival. We unpack the core idea from Gabor Maté—that our two basic human needs are authenticity and attachment, and how many of us traded our authenticity to be loved. That trade-off, often made in childhood, can leave us fractured and unaware of who we really are. Recovery is where that false identity begins to crack—and where God begins to reveal the true self He created. You’ll hear teachings and insights woven from my own personal story plus: Henri Nouwen on belovedness and the lies we believe David Benner on discovering your identity in Christ—not in what you do or how others see you Dallas Willard on spiritual formation and surrender Peter Scazzero on the “Wall” and the dark night of the soul Eugene Peterson on obedience and calling in hidden seasons All rooted in the truth of 2 Corinthians 5:17—“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation…” This episode will help you recognize the old patterns and labels trying to keep you stuck, and invite you to begin walking in your true name, your God-given identity, and your purpose in sobriety. 

Restore Relationships, Make Amends, & Set Healthy Boundaries in Recovery (Part 4 Ep. 174) Have you ever wondered how to rebuild broken relationships after addiction? In this video, we dive deep into the emotional and spiritual steps of making amends, restoring trust, and setting healthy boundaries — all through the lens of biblical wisdom. We'll cover: ✅ The damage addiction causes in relationships — and why amends matter (Steps 8 & 9) ✅ How biblical forgiveness and reconciliation work (Colossians 3:13) ✅ The crucial difference between forgiveness and reconciliation ✅ How resentment and negative emotions can fuel relapse ✅ Setting healthy, biblical boundaries (Proverbs 4:23) ✅ Practical steps for making amends with wisdom and godly counsel If you're in recovery, starting over, or just longing for healing in your relationships, this video is packed with real talk, encouragement, and actionable tools to help you move forward — stronger and more rooted in Christ. 🔔 Subscribe for more biblical recovery and mental health content! 📢 Like, share, and watch the extended live version next for deeper insight.

How to Manage My Emotions Without Numbing Out | Biblical + Clinical Tools For Early Sobriety Welcome to Part 3 of our 5-part series, Challenges in Early Sobriety. In this episode, we delve into the emotional complexities that often surface during the early stages of recovery. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by emotions like guilt, shame, anger, or fear—and found yourself reaching for numbing behaviors—this conversation is for you. We explore how unprocessed trauma and grief can manifest physically, leading to issues like chronic stress, digestive problems, or even autoimmune conditions. Drawing from both biblical wisdom and clinical strategies, we discuss practical tools to help you face these emotions head-on. From understanding the psychosomatic connections between mind and body to integrating faith-based practices, we aim to provide a holistic approach to emotional healing. Whether you're navigating early sobriety yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers insights to help you move from emotional overwhelm to resilience and peace. Key Topics Covered: Emotional challenges in early recovery The impact of unprocessed trauma on physical health Biblical perspectives on emotional healing Clinical tools for managing intense emotions The mind-body connection in sobriety Resources Mentioned: Romans 12:2 – Renewing the mind through scripture Support groups and therapy options for emotional management Don't miss the upcoming episodes in our series, where we'll explore relationships in recovery, finding purpose post-addiction, and building a fulfilling sober life. Subscribe now to continue your journey toward healing.

Overcoming Temptation & Triggers | Leaning into Faith in Early Sobriety | Part 2 | Ep. 172 (Previously Aired Live) Christian Sobriety Series | Recovery Tools for Triggers, Cravings & Temptation Early sobriety is one of the hardest roads you’ll ever walk—and if you’re in it right now, you know exactly how it feels. The temptation to drink or use again can sneak up like a storm cloud: one emotional trigger, one bad day, one old memory—and suddenly, you’re white-knuckling your way through cravings, shame, and overwhelm. But what if you didn’t have to fight this battle alone? What if you had practical tools—and spiritual power? This episode is Week 2 of our 5-week live series: “Faith-Based & Therapeutic Tools to Resist the Urge to Drink or Use in Early Sobriety.” We’re going beyond surface-level advice and digging into the real reasons why you feel triggered, tempted, and emotionally raw in early recovery—and how God, His Word, and real-world recovery strategies can give you strength to keep going.  ▶️ In this episode • Why temptation and emotional triggers hit so hard in early sobriety • How to resist the urge to drink without relying on willpower alone • What cravings and withdrawals are really trying to tell you • Biblical truth and clinical insights that bring comfort, clarity, and courage • How to build a God-centered support system that truly helps • Practical tools for when you feel overwhelmed and close to relapse You’ll also learn how past trauma, emotional invalidation, PTSD, and childhood experiences fuel addiction—and how Jesus wants to step into those very places and bring healing, not just sobriety. 📖 Featured Scriptures: • 1 Corinthians 10:13 – “God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear…” • Psalm 107:13–14 – “He brought them out of darkness… and broke away their chains.” • Isaiah 61 – “To comfort those who mourn… to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes…” • Ecclesiastes 4:12 – “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” This isn’t just about staying clean—it’s about becoming whole. 👥 Whether you're watching live or catching the replay, join the community by subscribing and sharing l so you never miss a session in this series. Let’s talk about putting God in the driver’s seat—and finally stop letting temptation take the wheel.

How Do I Make the Decision to Change | Early Sobriety Part 1 (Ep. 171)  Breaking free from addiction begins with one crucial choice: surrender. But let's be honest—letting go of control is one of the toughest challenges in early sobriety. Don't miss this 5 part series addressing some of the biggest challenges in early sobriety and how to overcome them. In this conversation, we’ll dive into the struggles of surrendering to God, the key to lasting addiction recovery, and how to push through fear and doubt when everything in you wants to hold on. Together, we’ll explore how trusting God, letting go, and embracing faith can guide us toward healing. Recovery is possible, and you're not alone in this journey.   #RecoveryJourney #FaithOverFear #HopeAndHealing #JesusHeals #RecoveryCommunity #TrustTheProcess #LiveYourBestLife #PowerOfSurrender #BreakingChains #SoberLiving

Not all addiction treatment programs are created equal—and sometimes, ending up in the wrong one can set your recovery back. In this episode, we break down how counselors and treatment professionals use the ASAM Criteria to assess your needs and recommend the right level of care. From detox to outpatient to trauma-informed residential programs, we’ll explore what goes into determining the best fit. You’ll learn what to ask, how to advocate for yourself or a loved one, and why understanding the six dimensions of the ASAM assessment can be a game-changer. If you’ve ever wondered why treatment didn’t work—or how to make sure it does next time—this video is for you.  

Mastering Emotions: The Secret Curve No One Teaches You (Episode 169)  Have you ever felt overwhelmed and emotionally numb — like you can’t name what you’re feeling, let alone express it? Maybe you've relapsed or shut down and thought, “What’s wrong with me?” The truth is, it’s not about willpower — it’s about emotional literacy. In this powerful episode, we unpack the hidden emotional roots of relapse, addiction, and disconnection. You’ll learn why so many of us were never taught how to feel, and how that disconnect plays a huge role in mental health and recovery. 🎯 What you'll learn: The connection between alexithymia and addiction The 7 core emotions and how to identify them Why childhood emotional neglect can lead to emotional shut down A biblical perspective on healing through emotions Tools to feel again — and recover from the inside out Whether you’re in recovery, love someone who is, or want to grow emotionally and spiritually — this episode is for you. ✨ Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes on mental health, faith, and real-life recovery. #WhyWeRelapse, #LearnToFeelAgain, #Alexithymia, #EmotionalRelapse, #AddictionTriggers, #HowToFeelAgain, #EmotionalNumbness, #BiblicalHealing, #RecoveryPodcast, #MentalHealthPodcast, #RelapsePrevention, #7CoreEmotions, #EmotionalGrowth, #EmotionalLiteracy, #HealingChildhoodWounds #ChristianRecovery

In this unique dual podcast episode, I, Jodie Stevens and Craig Perra interview each other! We dive deep into our different—but strikingly similar—addiction stories. I share my journey through alcoholism and codependency, while Craig, founder of TheMindfulHabit.com, opens up about his recovery from sex, porn, and digital addiction. Together, we explore how all addictions—regardless of the substance or behavior—often stem from the same emotional roots: shame, fear, disconnection, and trauma. With raw honesty, humor, and heart, we unpack our stories and recovery journeys to show how healing is possible, and why connection, not perfection, is the real goal. Craig Perra is a world-renowned coach who helps people break free from sex, porn, and digital addictions. A former addict himself, Craig hit rock bottom over a decade ago—losing his job and nearly losing his family. That crisis became the catalyst for something powerful: The Mindful Habit® System—a alternative to traditional recovery programs. His work has been featured on The Steve Harvey Show, A&E’s Digital Addiction, The Katie Couric Show, Good Day Sacramento, and more.

In this episode of Genuine Life Recovery, I'm joined by fellow dyslexic and storyteller Juliet Hahn for a real, honest conversation about our personal journeys with dyslexia, anxiety, and the mental health challenges that shaped our lives. We explore how learning differences can deeply affect self-esteem, emotional health, and—in my case—lead to struggles with addiction. Together, we unpack the often-overlooked connection between dyslexia, addiction, anxiety, and menta health; as well as the critical importance of early support and understanding, especially for kids. This episode sheds light on how dyslexia influences identity and mental wellness, the unique gifts that come with neurodivergence, and the role faith and community play in recovery. Whether you're navigating these challenges yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers encouragement, perspective, and practical tools for the journey. Juliet Hahn is an inspirational podcast host and keynote speaker. Visit her website here! 

What happens when a promising young rapper from Philly spirals into full-blown addiction? Brian Storm went from smoking weed as a teen to surviving overdoses, homelessness, and the kind of darkness most don’t make it out of. This is his raw, real, and redemptive story. In this episode: 🔹 Heroin, crime, and near-death experiences 🔹 The trauma behind his addiction 🔹 Why music and faith helped him heal 🔹 And YES—Brian ends the podcast with a powerful freestyle 🎤🔥 Whether you're recovering, know someone who is, or just want a mind-blowing, true redemption story—this one hits deep. 📘 Based on his book The Struggle 🎧 Listen, Watch, and SUBSCRIBE for more powerful recovery stories 👇 Drop a comment if this story moved you, and help us reach more people by liking and sharing.   #AddictionRecovery,#HeroinAddict,#HomelessToHope,#OvercomingAddiction,#MentalHealthMatters,#RecoveryIsPossible,#SubstanceAbuseAwareness,#SoberLife,#AddictsInRecovery,#RecoveryCommunity,#FaithAndRecovery,#DrugAddictionHelp,#RockBottomStory,#RapperTestimony,#FromAddictToArtist,#MusicAndRecovery,#RedemptionStory,#RealLifeTestimony,#PhillyRapper,#GritAndGrace,#TrueStory,#InspiringStories,#PodcastInterview,#YouTubePodcast,#MustWatch,#PowerfulTestimony,#RealTalk,#SurvivorStory,#YouTubeRecovery

In this episode of Genuine Life Recovery, we dive into an incredible redemption story of faith-based recovery, resilience, and healing. My guest, Tom J. LaGrave Jr., is a former Navy SEAL, clinical social worker, and a man who has walked the difficult path of addiction recovery. Once lost in addiction, Tom found hope, healing, and purpose, and now he’s committed to helping young people rise above their struggles and transform their lives. What we cover in this episode: Overcoming Addiction & Rebuilding Life – Tom’s personal journey through recovery from addiction and his mission to help others break the cycle. The Crisis Facing Today’s Youth – Why young people are struggling more than ever and how youth mentorship can make a difference. The Power of Rites of Passage – How structured challenges, responsibility, and biblical wisdom can build resilience and mental toughness. Tom LaGrave is living proof that no one is beyond redemption. A former Navy SEAL whose military career was cut short due to addiction, he fought his way back, found recovery, and committed his life to helping others heal from trauma. With over 35 years of experience in mental health and youth mentorship, he now works to guide the next generation through life’s toughest transitions. Tune in now to hear a story of hope, healing, and faith-based recovery. Check out Tom's book Special Welfare . Social Warfare -Adolescence to Adulthood-A Guidebook   #RecoveryJourney #HealingAndHope #RiseAbove #BreakTheCycle #GenuineLifeRecovery

Join us for an inspiring episode as I, your host Jodie Stevens, sit down with Stanley Cup Champion Brent Sopel to delve into our shared experiences with dyslexia and addiction recovery. Diagnosed with dyslexia only after his daughter's diagnosis, Brent reflects on his undiagnosed struggles during his youth, the coping mechanisms he developed, and how these challenges intertwined with his battle against addiction. We explore how dyslexia shaped his exceptional "hockey brain," offering him a distinctive edge on the ice. Brent also shares his mission through the Brent Sopel Foundation, aiming to support and empower individuals with learning disabilities. This conversation sheds light on the profound connection between learning disabilities and mental health, emphasizing resilience, self-acceptance, and the transformative power of advocacy.   

Grief can break you, or it can lead you to a new path. In this episode, Amy Sazama shares her deeply personal journey through unimaginable loss of the death of her mother, the murder of her twin brother, and the generational trauma that shaped her struggles with addiction. She opens up about how grief impacted her mental health, how she turned to substances to cope, and what finally led her to sobriety. We’ll also explore the healing power of fitness, kindness, and finding purpose, and how small shifts can lead to life-changing transformation. Whether you’ve faced loss, addiction, or mental health struggles, this conversation will leave you with hope, resilience, and practical tools for healing. Connect with Amy and pick up a copy of her book Fleetwood Dreams: Climbing a Mountain after a Landslide  

What happens when you quit drinking, only to find yourself hooked on sugar? Mike Collins knows this struggle all too well. After overcoming alcohol addiction, he realized that sugar was becoming his new crutch—triggering the same cravings, mood swings, and withdrawals. Now, after 30 years of living sugar-free, he’s on a mission to help others break the cycle. In this episode of Genuine Life Recovery, Mike shares his journey from substance addiction to discovering the hidden dangers of sugar dependency. We explore how sugar affects the brain like a drug, why so many in recovery turn to sweets, and how to break free from the addiction swap. Mike also dives into the role of faith in healing, how the Serenity Prayer helped him surrender his cravings, and practical steps to quit sugar for good. If you’ve ever reached for candy instead of a drink, felt powerless over sugar cravings, or just want to understand how addiction works on a deeper level—this episode is for you! Tune in for eye-opening insights, recovery wisdom, and the tools you need to take control of your health and freedom. Click HERE to find out about Mike's program and get the FREE book THE LAST RESORT SUGAR DETOX GUIDE

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.