In this episode of Jesus Loves Addicts, Hal and Lisa Selby share the powerful story of Hal’s deliverance from 27 years of bondage to homosexuality and how the couple navigated confession, forgiveness, and restoration. They discuss Hal’s upbringing, early abuse, the spiritual and emotional factors that contributed to his struggle, and the moment he repented and was transformed. Lisa recounts the shock, the immediate call to forgive, and the long road of healing supported by prayer, counseling, accountability, and community. The Selbys explain practical steps for recovery, the role of the church in offering both truth and compassion, and their ministry Refuge 461 which supports people and families impacted by unwanted same-sex attraction. Expect candid testimony, biblical perspective on sin and sanctification, and encouragement for those struggling or supporting a loved one.

In this episode of Jesus Loves Addicts, Katie shares her raw and powerful story of addiction, loss, and redemption. After 20 years of substance abuse, criminal consequences, and fractured relationships, Katie recounts the trauma of homelessness, jail, and the desperation that led her to treatment. Through a faith-based recovery program, reconciling conversations, and the pursuit of God, she finds sobriety, healing, and restoration with her husband and family.Topics covered include the escalation from stimulants to opioids, the dangers of prescription pain medication and fentanyl, the cycle of relapse, and the complexities of relationships in early recovery. Guests and contributors include Katie, program staff from the faith-based treatment center, and supportive family members whose interventions helped catalyze change. Key moments: rock bottom on the streets, the pivotal decision to enter treatment, a spiritual turning point in rehab, rebuilding trust with family, and returning to ministry and Bible college.Listeners can expect a candid conversation about the challenges and rewards of recovery, the importance of community and faith, and practical hope for those feeling unseen or stuck. This episode emphasizes that while addiction can isolate and dehumanize, redemption is possible, and you are not alone.

In this emotional two-part episode of Jesus Loves Addicts, host Paul sits down with Katie Foster Gerhart to hear her harrowing life story — from a traumatic childhood with alcoholic parents and early responsibilities as the 'family protector' to two decades of substance abuse. Katie recounts pivotal moments including a near-fatal car crash, arrests, painful medical issues, multiple rehabs, and the escalation from recreational drinking to cocaine, opioids, crack, and injection drug use.They cover how trauma, family dynamics, and failed safe havens like rehab and fellow sufferers shaped her addiction, the manipulations and enabling from loved ones, and the devastating consequences she witnessed in friends who overdosed. Katie also shares her experience of surrendering to Christ in 2022, the challenges and rewards of recovery, and her mission to help those who feel unseen find freedom through faith. Expect candid conversations about stigma, failure, hope, and the complex path toward restoration.

In this episode John Carriere jr. joins the Jesus Loves Addicts podcast to tell his raw, honest story: growing up chasing sports and success, spiraling into drugs and drug-dealing in college, and the devastating turning point after his mother’s terminal diagnosis and death in 2007. He describes ordering pills online, seizures, arrests, and living in chaos before hitting rock bottom. John shares the life-changing encounter at the Home of Grace that led to his conversion, a powerful chapel moment of forgiveness, and a complete turnaround. Now roughly 18 years into recovery, he discusses the rewards and challenges of sobriety, how faith overcame addiction, and the ongoing fight against stigma. Topics covered include identity and the “American dream,” deception of success, the opioid and pill crisis, family and grief, recovery realities, and the role of Christ and community in transformation. Listeners will also hear about John’s ministry work—leading the Refinery Mission (formerly Lighthouse Mission)—and practical encouragement and resources for anyone affected by addiction.

In this episode Jeff York, founder and executive director of Joseph's Home, shares his raw and honest journey from a violent, drug‑addicted past to more than two decades of recovery and ministry. He recounts childhood struggles with dyslexia and bullying, early drug use and extreme violence, a federal indictment, and the moments of surrender that turned his life around.Jeff discusses the turning points — a surprising Bible study at 17, a near‑suicidal low, probation and years of white‑knuckled sobriety, Celebrate Recovery and the discipleship model that reshaped him. He explains how Joseph's Home began in his own living room and grew into a faith‑based transitional program partnering with Home of Grace to provide community, accountability, and practical support for men and women in early recovery.Expect candid reflections on the rewards and challenges of recovery, fighting stigma, the role of Christ and community in overcoming addiction, and Jeff’s vision for expanding transitional care (including support for couples and women). This episode offers hope for anyone who feels they’ve gone too far — a testimony that transformation is possible and sustained by faith, relationships, and steady discipleship.

In this intense, deeply personal episode Julie tells her story of addiction, loss, and faith. She recounts years of drug use with her partner, arrests, overdoses, and the devastating moment she found him after he took his own life while she was tending their baby.Julie describes relapses, multiple treatment stints, time in jail and psychiatric holds, and the trauma of being estranged from family and losing custody. She shares the turning point where church, Scripture and a Christ-centered program (Home of Grace) changed her life, leading to lasting sobriety and a new purpose helping others in recovery.Topics covered include opioid and meth addiction, domestic violence, pregnancy and parenting under addiction, suicide, the 12-step principles alongside Christian faith, and practical hope through treatment and community. Listeners can expect candid reflection, hard truths about relapse and recovery, and a testimony of surrender, redemption and service in recovery.

Part one of a two-part conversation with guest Julie Schouest and host Paul from Jesus Loves Addicts. Julie rawly recounts a childhood marked by divorce, conflicting parental expectations, shame and feeling unseen — and how those wounds steered her into early substance use, risky relationships, and escalating drug use through adolescence and young adulthood. The episode covers early experimentation (inhalants, alcohol, marijuana, synthetic cannabinoids, pills), boundary and authority issues, school expulsion, sex as a way to be remembered, the introduction to meth and other hard drugs, relationship dynamics, legal trouble, and job loss. Paul and Julie examine the roots of addiction: seeking approval, the pull of familiarity, and how loose or harsh boundaries shaped her path. Julie also opens up about recovery and faith — her turn toward Christ, the role of faith-based recovery (including the Home of Grace), and practical takeaways about stigma, grace, and hope. Expect an honest, unfiltered story of failure and redemption aimed at listeners looking for understanding, encouragement, and real talk about recovery.

In this episode Kristyn Simmons shares her raw, candid story: a happy childhood shadowed by family addiction, a decade-long battle with opiates, violent relationships, jail and loss, and a horrific 2021 car accident that shattered her face and changed everything. Kristyn talks about sinking into IV opiate use, losing custody of her children, hitting rock bottom, and the long recovery process with the Home of Grace, including surgeries, counseling, and rebuilding relationships with her mother and children. Hosts Paula and Kathryn discuss themes of family as a factor in addiction, the rewards and challenges of recovery, the role of faith and Christ in healing, and practical turning points like changing one’s environment, forgiveness, and community support. Listeners can expect an honest, hope-filled conversation about relapse, resilience, and reclaiming life.

Host interviews Kayla, who shares growing up in an addicted home with an absent, struggling father and a faithful mother, the instability of homelessness, and the cycle of rehab and jail. She recounts how God met her in childhood, her transformative years in a 24/7 prayer room, and the long process of grieving, healing, and learning to set healthy boundaries.Topics include addiction’s impact on family dynamics, shame and imposter syndrome, forgiveness toward an imperfect parent, vulnerability in friendships and marriage, parenting after trauma, and finding purpose in faith and intentional recovery. Listeners will hear practical takeaways about boundaries, grieving lost childhoods, and the power of God’s grace.

In this roundtable episode of Jesus Loves Addicts, hosts and recovery leaders Kathryn, Ross, and Paul unpack relationships in early recovery—examining the rewards, the dangers, and the faith-centered wisdom needed to navigate them. Topics include why waiting (often a year or more) matters, how attraction and sex can function like a drug, codependency and “fixer/fixee” dynamics, the influence of Hollywood myths, and practical steps for accountability, boundaries, and spiritual growth. Listeners will hear honest experiences, biblical perspective on covenant and commitment, and key takeaways for building healthier platonic and romantic relationships while seeking Christ-centered recovery.

Join us for a compelling episode of "Jesus Loves Addicts," featuring the heartfelt and inspiring journey of Shane and Shelly Martin, a couple who overcame years of addiction through the power of faith. In this episode, Shane and Shelly candidly share their personal battles with addiction, from nicotine, pornography, and alcoholism to overcoming PTSD. Despite facing significant challenges, their faith in Christ led them to find redemption, reconnect with their true selves, and contribute positively to their community. Find out how their powerful story of recovery unfolded, how they started a successful recovery program at Connect Fellowship in Long Beach, Mississippi, and how they're now dedicating their lives to helping others on their journey to healing. Shane and Shelly's story is a testament to resilience, the importance of community, and the transformative power of love and grace. Tune in to hear how this incredible couple found strength in their faith and each other, and their mission to break addiction's stigma while spreading hope to those still struggling.

In this heartfelt episode of Jesus Loves Addicts, we dive deep into the transformative journey of David Herrington. Once lost to cocaine and crack addiction, David shares his experiences of living on the streets, serving time in prison, and the turning points that led him to find hope and renewal through Jesus Christ. Joining this conversation is Pastor Brandon Rogers, who plays a pivotal role in David's new life, showcasing the power of community and faith in healing one's soul. Listeners will explore David’s early life in Alabama, his struggles with substance abuse, and the spiral that led to a decade behind bars. But more importantly, we hear the profound story of redemption as David narrates how Christ turned his world upside down, guiding him towards a path of service in the ministry, where he now aids others trapped in addiction's grasp. Pastor Brandon sheds light on the workings of the community-based ministry at Anchor and the collective effort in supporting recovery journeys. This episode is a testament to love, resilience, and the unyielding grace found within the embrace of faith.

In this gripping episode of Jesus Loves Addicts, we continue with part two of Joseph Deason's powerful story of addiction, redemption, and faith. Joseph recounts his tumultuous journey through drug addiction, starting from experimenting with substances in his teenage years to battling with severe meth addiction. He shares candid insights into his life experiences, including a traumatic car accident, encounters with the law, and losing loved ones.The episode explores the dark places addiction can take a person, but also highlights the transformative power of faith and recovery. Key points include the impact of family dynamics, experiences with various rehabilitation attempts, and the ultimate decision to choose a path centered around God.Listeners are encouraged to hear the raw and sincere conversation about overcoming addiction, the challenge of societal stigmas, and finding salvation through Christ. It's a story of resilience and hope, emphasizing that despite the darkest times, recovery and redemption are possible through faith and a supportive community.

In this compelling episode, the hosts of Jesus Loves Addicts dive deep into the tumultuous early life of Joseph Deason. Growing up amidst chaos, from witnessing tumultuous family dynamics to exposure to addiction at a young age, Joseph shares candid memories and pivotal moments that shaped his path. This is the first part of a two-part series exploring Joseph's journey from a troubled childhood to a redemptive embrace of faith. Join the conversation as Joseph and the hosts discuss the hurdles of growing up in a dysfunctional family, the allure of chaos, and the first encounters with substances that would later lead to addiction. Joseph's story is not just one of struggle but of resilience and transformation, as he ultimately finds stability and purpose through faith and the support of a caring community.

In this powerful episode of "Jesus Loves Addicts," join host Kathryn and co-host Ross as they welcome special guest Jaclyn Herman. Jaclyn, wife of Pastor Victor Herman and mother to six, opens up about her tumultuous journey from a seemingly idyllic childhood to battling addiction and finding salvation in Christ. Born in South Florida, Jaclyn's life took a drastic turn after her parents' unexpected and traumatic divorce, leading her down a path of substance abuse and legal troubles. As she candidly recalls her experiences, Jaclyn shares intimate details of her struggle with addiction, the devastating impact it had on her family, and her eventual arrest on federal charges. Yet, amidst the darkness, Jaclyn experienced a profound spiritual awakening while incarcerated, discovering the transformative power of God's grace and forgiveness. Listen as Jaclyn recounts her journey of redemption, from joining Bible study classes in prison to being introduced to the Christian recovery program at the Home of Grace. Through faith, prayer, and the support of a loving community, Jaclyn rebuilt her life, ultimately accepting her calling to ministry alongside her husband. This episode offers hope and encouragement to anyone facing their own battles with addiction or seeking a deeper relationship with God. Jaclyn's story is a testament to the possibility of new beginnings and the unwavering love that Christ offers to us all.

In this compelling episode of "Jesus Loves Addicts," we delve into the life of Victor Herman, a pastor with a past that mirrors many tales of struggle and redemption. Growing up in an environment of addiction and violence, Victor embraced a life of hedonism and found himself facing the harsh realities of Alabama State Prison. Victor takes us through his journey from being a "God-hating libertine" to experiencing a transformative encounter with Jesus during his time in prison. He opens up about his tumultuous childhood, surrounded by substance abuse and broken relationships, and how it shaped his early years. This episode explores the powerful themes of redemption, the challenge of overcoming stigmas, and the profound impact of divine intervention. Victor shares how his life took a pivotal turn through a series of life-altering experiences, including his conversion to Christianity and how it eventually led him to meet his wife and find his purpose as a pastor. Join us as we celebrate this story of hope, transformation, and the unconditional love of Christ that continues to guide Victor's path and inspire those around him. Whether you're struggling with addiction, seeking redemption, or curious about the journey to faith, this episode offers powerful insights and inspiration.

In this moving episode of 'Jesus Loves Addicts,' we dive into Heather Engels' powerful story of overcoming addiction and finding redemption through faith. Heather, now 42, shares her journey from a chaotic childhood filled with strict religious expectations and turbulent family dynamics to a life of addiction that spanned over 15 years.Heather recounts her experiences growing up with an abusive father and a struggling mother, navigating the instability between different households, and the early seeds of faith planted by her grandmother. She reflects on relationships marred by substance abuse and the search for love in the wrong places, all while striving for perfection and grappling with shame.The episode delves into Heather's turning point and journey to sobriety, highlighting her time at the Home of Grace, a faith-based recovery program. Heather shares how the power of community and faith brought her healing and led her to a loving family and a supportive church community in Pascagoula, Mississippi.Join us as Heather courageously shares her story of transformation, the challenges of recovery, and how Christ overcame her weaknesses, offering hope and encouragement to those battling addiction.

In this compelling episode, hosts Paul and Tasha Ridley delve into a deeply personal narrative of overcoming addiction through faith in Christ. Following up on the first part of Bo and Tasha Ridley's story, this episode continues to unravel the challenges of addiction and the power of redemption.Bo and Tasha courageously share their individual struggles with addiction, stemming from trauma and leading to substance abuse and multiple arrests. Their candid discussion covers their darkest moments, including living in the woods, experiencing family loss, and battling depression. They reveal how faith and love became pivotal in their recovery journey.The Ridleys' story is not just about the battle with drugs but also about finding identity and purpose through an intimate relationship with God. As they navigate through life's valleys, they discuss the transformative power of God's love, the importance of transparency, and the continuous fight for healing and recovery.Whether you're struggling with addiction, know someone who is, or simply want to be inspired by a story of hope and perseverance, this episode offers a heartfelt exploration of the challenges and triumphs faced by those overcoming addiction.

In this episode of "Jesus Loves Addicts," hosts Paul welcomes extraordinary guests Bo and Tasha Ridley, a devoted husband and wife duo with a powerful testimony of faith and recovery. Join us as they share their personal journeys through the battles against addiction and trauma, underpinned by their relentless faith and love in Christ. Bo, a devoted man in recovery, contemplates his upbringing and shares the trials he faced, including the struggle of dealing with his father's alcoholism while trying to step out of his own cycle of addiction. He reflects on the spiritual awakening that led him to seek a Christ-centric life, overcoming numerous setbacks. Tasha offers an unfiltered look into her past, marked by the struggles to heal from traumatic experiences and how she found solace in faith, using her journey to empower others as a beacon of hope in her role at a faith-based transition home in Alabama. Together, the Ridleys open up about the challenges and rewards of a Christ-centered recovery, aiming to dispel stigmas surrounding addiction, highlighting the transformative power of redemptive grace. Listen in to discover how their love for each other and their faith has been fundamental in overcoming their past and paving a new path forward as they inspire hope, community, and recovery.

In this emotionally charged episode of Jesus Loves Addicts, host dives into the heart of codependency, family struggles, and recovery with special guest Amanda Graham. Through her candid storytelling, Amanda opens up about her life intertwined with addiction, not as an addict herself, but as someone who loves an addict. Amanda recounts her early years balancing life between two contrasting households and how this shaped her perception of "normal." She bravely discusses the toxic relationships she encountered, leading up to a tumultuous partnership filled with deceit and heartbreak. Her narrative sheds light on the overlooked struggles of those impacted by an addict's choices. The conversation explores the stigmas surrounding addiction, the resilience needed to break free from codependent cycles, and the power of forgiveness. Amanda’s journey is a testament to finding strength and voice amidst chaos, providing a platform for those who share similar experiences to feel seen and heard. Tune in to hear how Amanda, supported by her faith, navigated the rocky terrain of cohabiting with addiction and the ultimate path to healing and self-discovery. This episode is a poignant reminder of the unseen battles faced by families and loved ones, advocating for open dialogue and societal understanding of addiction and recovery.