What happens when a Christian mother's deepest fears about addiction come true not just once, but twice? Dawn Ward author of "From Guilt to Grace: Hope and Healing for Christian Moms of Addicted Children," never imagined she'd write a book, yet her personal journey through her sons' addictions transformed not just her approach to parenting but her entire relationship with God. If you're walking the heartbreaking path of loving someone struggling with addiction, Dawn's story offers both practical...
Jun 08, 2025•48 min•Season 6Ep. 66
Kelly's story begins with a sixteen-year-old girl wearing baggy clothes to hide her pregnancy, setting the stage for a decades-long journey through trauma, addiction, and ultimately profound spiritual healing. What makes Kelly's testimony so powerful is her raw honesty about the darkest moments and the lasting power of recovery rooted in faith. What will you find in your own life when you stop numbing your pain and cast your cares on the Lord? Kelly's story offers hope that freedom awaits on the...
May 18, 2025•37 min•Season 6Ep. 65
Ever felt isolated in your struggles and wondered where to turn for hope and redemption? Join us on the She Surrenders podcast as we sit down with Sierra, a truly inspiring guest who has triumphed over addiction. Sierra shares her compelling story of moving from a place of shame and secrecy to finding liberation through faith-based recovery. Her candid revelations about living a double life and the challenges faced by Christian women in recovery offer a profound insight into the stigma around ad...
Feb 23, 2025•36 min•Season 6Ep. 64
What if the cycle of addiction in a family could be broken through the power of faith and community? Join us as we sit down with Amy Broglin, who shares her compelling journey from witnessing addiction in her family to finding solace and purpose in sobriety. Through Amy's story, we shine a spotlight on the often-hidden anguish faced by families battling addiction and explore the immense potential for healing and breaking generational cycles through faith and surrender. With poignant reflections ...
Dec 08, 2024•28 min•Season 6Ep. 63
In this episode, Steve Kelly, shares his experience with childhood trauma, battles with addiction and mental health, and ongoing redemption through Jesus Christ. Steve's story is filled with hope, encouragement, and perspective that only recovery can bring - including how his struggle with alcohol has become a blessing that he can use to help others in their recovery journey. - Steve Kelly is a 42-year radio veteran who currently serves as morning show host on WOOD Radio. About the She Surrender...
Nov 24, 2024•30 min•Season 6Ep. 62
What if a vivid dream could change not just your life, but the lives of countless women and children? That's exactly what happened to Susan Binkley, the founder of Blue Monarch. Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Susan as she shares her inspiring journey from a dream in 1995 to the creation of Blue Monarch in 2003. Despite having no experience in recovery work, Susan overcame her initial reluctance. Her unwavering obedience, faith, and determination led her to build a sanctuary that has r...
Nov 10, 2024•28 min•Season 6Ep. 61
Madison Daniels joins us to share a profound and personal story that might just resonate with you or someone you know. Madison opens up about her early encounters with alcohol, from her high school days of experimentation to the unrestrained party lifestyle she embraced in college. She candidly recounts how alcohol became her go-to for fitting in and coping with life's ups and downs, never recognizing it as a problem. Her journey is a testament to the struggles many face in recognizing and admit...
Oct 27, 2024•31 min•Season 6Ep. 60
Welcome back to Season SIX; I can hardly believe it! I am so happy to be back, and I have some fantastic and inspiring guests for you this season. We are starting with Christy Osborne. Can I tell you, I just love this girl? We’ve gotten to know each other over the last few weeks, and I hope to continue. I know you will, too, after hearing her story and what she is up to these days! Moving from sunny Los Angeles to the quaint countryside of Surrey, UK, Christy embarked on a transformative journey...
Sep 23, 2024•36 min•Season 6Ep. 59
Imagine having the courage to change your relationship with alcohol and discovering the profound impact of accountability in that journey. On the Joyful Surrender podcast, I sit down with Lynne, Christina, Tarrah, and Kali to share personal experiences and insight into the importance of recognizing unhealthy habits and finding a supportive community. Our conversation highlights the significance of supportive friends who understand the journey, the need to plan ahead to avoid temptations, and the...
Jul 21, 2024•27 min•Season 5Ep. 58
Ever wondered how much more vibrant your summer could be without the haze of alcohol? Join us on this special episode of the She Surrenders podcast, where we explore the joys of a sober summer alongside our amazing guests from Joyful Surrender. They share their heartfelt stories and insights on trading chaotic, regret-filled days for enriching, memorable moments. Through laughter and camaraderie, we discuss the importance of having a plan, setting realistic expectations, and embracing the clarit...
Jul 07, 2024•50 min•Season 5Ep. 57
What happens when you surrender your addiction to God and a Community that is doing the same thing? In this episode of the She Surrenders podcast, women from the Joyful Surrender group share their deeply personal paths to recovery, illustrating the profound impact of faith and community. These heartfelt narratives underscore the critical importance of connection and faith-based support in overcoming addiction. We delve into the feelings of shame and isolation that accompany addiction and how dis...
Jun 23, 2024•50 min•Season 5Ep. 56
When Juliana Page shared her powerful testimony of overcoming addiction through faith-based recovery, it felt like a beacon of hope was lit within our hearts. Her story, one of surrender to a higher power and the subsequent healing transformation illustrates the often ignored intricacies of addiction—the self-sabotage and the escape from our deep-seated issues of codependency and a troubled upbringing. This episode journeys with Juliana as she reflects on her path of self-awareness, spirituality...
Apr 28, 2024•42 min•Season 5Ep. 55
I'm all by myself for a special episode here today as you will be the first to hear the Audible Recording of the soon-to-be-released, all-new, Sober Cycle-Pedaling My Way Through Recovery One Day At a Time . As the soft hum of bicycle wheels on pavement echoes through my memories, I welcome you to an episode that pedals through the gritty terrain of recovery. Embark with me, Sherry, as I vulnerably unearth Chapter 1 of the newly revised edition of "Sober Cycle." You will hear the fear in my voic...
Apr 14, 2024•17 min•Season 5Ep. 54
When Ericka first confided her struggle with alcohol with a small group gathered in her church basement, she shared her addiction bravely and honestly. Her voice beckons us to walk alongside her as she navigates sobriety through the lens of her faith as a Christian woman. Today, we're honored to share the microphone with Ericka, who gives a raw and truthful account of her path from high school warning signs to the pressures of social drinking that escalated into motherhood. It's not just about t...
Mar 31, 2024•41 min•Season 5Ep. 53
When the person you love becomes a stranger consumed in the grip of addiction, the world can feel upside down. Deb's bravery shines as she recounts her experience of supporting her husband, a pastor, through his harrowing battle with prescription pain medication dependency. Our conversation delves into the heart of a marriage tested by the silent war of addiction, offering a compassionate perspective on a struggle that is far more common than many dare to admit. Deb's journey, marked by resilien...
Mar 17, 2024•52 min•Season 5Ep. 52
New York Times best-selling author Karen Ehman shares her deeply personal narrative of growing up with an alcoholic father. Her courage in exposing the raw emotions of her childhood not only touches the heart but also opens the door to understanding the complexity of addiction's impact on families. Within these revelations lie powerful lessons of forgiveness and the indomitable strength found in surrendering to God those things we cannot change in those we love. As Karen's story unfolds, we prob...
Mar 04, 2024•32 min•Season 5Ep. 51
Picture yourself in the shoes of a man who has lost his brother to suicide and succumbed to the depths of alcohol addiction. That's the raw and heart-wrenching journey of our guest, Jared Zimmerman, whose courage led him to ultimate recovery. Today's podcast with Jared Zimmerman will impact you no matter who you are. Both Jared and his wife’s family are what we affectionally call a “grove family.” That means that both of their families went to school with ours at the little country school called...
Dec 03, 2023•47 min•Season 5Ep. 51
A decade can drastically change a life – especially when it's a decade of triumph over addiction. Join me as I celebrate this significant milestone and share the transformation I've gone through these last ten years, from battling alcoholism to becoming a warrior in the Lord’s army. In this Joyful Surrender meeting, I commemorate the miracles, the challenges, and the triumphs that punctuate these past 10 years and give God the glory for every single one. I share my testimony here with you and th...
Nov 12, 2023•44 min•Season 5Ep. 50
In this episode, Paulette Kengg shares with us her recovery story. Her spiral into alcohol addiction came as a surprise to her but like most of us who find ourselves in its grip, we are already in trouble. Paulette shares how she found her way out and why God gets the glory. . Paulette has written a book Spirit Led Sobriety and we discuss her book with some of my friends from Joyful Surrender on the podcast as well. Paulette Kengg is a Christian wife, mother, and grandmother. She enjoys writing,...
Oct 15, 2023•37 min•Season 5Ep. 49
We are back for Part II of Stephanie's inspiring journey. Today, we delve into life in recovery and the invaluable lessons Stephanie has gleaned from her own experiences. Leading her to wisdom and insights that are shaping the foundations of Selah House Recovery. "Adderall addiction is a real and challenging issue that affects many individuals. Let's shed light on this issue to raise awareness and provide support. If you or someone you know is struggling, know that help is available. Recovery is...
Oct 08, 2023•22 min•Season 5Ep. 48
This podcast, while being one of the hardest ones I've ever done as far as getting through it without letting my emotions get the best of me, was also the podcast where I was pinching myself that this was happening. Steph is sharing her story, and I have the privilege of sitting here at the table with her while she shares. I don't care who you are; this is never an easy assignment, and I say assignment because that is what it is. God handed it out, and completing it is up to you. I recall that f...
Oct 01, 2023•27 min•Season 5Ep. 47
Kristen McAvoy is a little over two years sober from a dual addiction to Xanax and alcohol. Her story of how close she came to losing everything and how she fought back will inspire you. Using substances for years to cope with her anxiety, she has found freedom in recovery and faith in God. "Sobriety lets me be the best big sister, daughter, girlfriend, and new puppy mom to my mini Goldendoodle." Kristen is recovering out loud on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sobergirltribe/ Look her up...
Jul 02, 2023•34 min•Season 4Ep. 46
Kristen McAvoy is a little over two years sober from a dual addiction to Xanax and alcohol. Her story of how close she came to losing everything and how she fought back will inspire you. Using substances for years to cope with her anxiety, she has found freedom in recovery and faith in God. "Sobriety lets me be the best big sister, daughter, girlfriend, and new puppy mom to my mini Goldendoodle." Kristen is recovering out loud on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sobergirltribe/ Look her up...
Jun 25, 2023•31 min•Season 4Ep. 45
Trisha Fenimore is an award-winning writer, speaker, and poet. Her book Pray For Them: The True Story of a Racist White Christian Called to Black Seminary is a memoir about her descent into a life of atheism, addiction, racism, and hate, as well as the inspiring salvation she found through the gospel of Jesus Christ. She is a fascinating young woman with a lot, and I mean ALOT, to share. That's why we are back for part II; there is more to the story, and I am so excited for you to hear it here. ...
Jun 11, 2023•34 min•Season 4Ep. 44
Trisha Fenimore is an award-winning writer, speaker, and poet. Her book Pray For Them: The True Story of a Racist White Christian Called to Black Seminary is a memoir about her descent into a life of atheism, addiction, racism, and hate, as well as the inspiring salvation she found through the gospel of Jesus Christ. She is a fascinating young woman with a lot, and I mean ALOT, to share. Trigger alert for Tears, Laughter, and Applause; You will be beautifully moved by all three. And this is only...
Jun 04, 2023•34 min•Season 4Ep. 43
Continuing our conversation with Kali and Michelle about Trauma, we discuss the tools we rely on in part II. This episode has many things for you to fill up, and I've included the links below. Do you have a question for the ladies or me? We would love to answer it; email me at sherry@shesurrenders.com, and we will get back to you! Podcasts mentioned: https://pastorrick.com/listen-online/recovering-from-traumatic-experiences-part-1/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-healing-trauma-podcast...
Apr 02, 2023•38 min•Season 4Ep. 42
I'm not too fond of labels and decided that the Trauma label did not apply to me long ago. That decision came from a place of not understanding what Trauma really is. I thought it was only something that happened to you that met one or more of the following criteria: it happened when you were a child it was tragic you lost someone you loved (I handled that a long time ago 🙄) you watched someone you love suffer We are so quick to disregard what we don't think applies to us, so I tuned out a lot ...
Mar 26, 2023•36 min•Season 4Ep. 41
My friend Janet joins me today on the podcast and starts by reading you her letter. Her breaking up with alcohol letter is impacting, raw, honest, and from her heart. Janet's relationship with alcohol has been long and complicated, and it was time to end this unhealthy love affair with booze. How is she doing it? Listen to her share her heart with you and where she finds strength and joy in this new way of living. Thank you, Janet, for your bravery and willingness to share your story in the hope...
Mar 18, 2023•30 min•Season 4Ep. 40
Meet Carrie, A Wife, Mom, Grandma, Child of God, and a woman who fights daily to stay in Recovery from alcohol. She is a member of our Joyful Surrender Community, and she is embracing it and encouraging all of us along the way! She will share with you what she has learned this past year and the journey that brought her here. Grab a tissue; we dive in pretty deep! I know you will love listening to her as much as I do. Thank you, Carrie, for being brave and using your story to empower someone else...
Dec 24, 2022•41 min•Season 3Ep. 39
Today, on the podcast, we are having an important conversation about addiction and how there are some new tools in therapy you may not be familiar with. Our youngest daughter Olivia is a Masters's Level Therapist who recently became certified in ART therapy. ART stands for Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and you will hear me stumble over those big words in the podcast. I know you will not only enjoy our conversation as she shares what ART is all about and her personal experience with it (Fear of...
Dec 12, 2022•27 min•Season 3Ep. 38
