Ever thought, “I’m stressed—I need a drink”? In this episode, Rose Ann Forte explores how just one thought can lead to a pattern you promised to break. Learn how to take every thought captive, as Scripture instructs (2 Corinthians 10:5), and redirect it toward God’s truth.

This episode combines biblical insight, neuroscience, and practical tools to help you replace toxic thoughts, rewire your brain, and build spiritual and emotional strength. Plus, discover how Psalm 77 perfectly illustrates a real-time shift from despair to hope.

✨ It’s time to transform your thoughts—and your life.

00:00 Introduction to the Series
01:33 Core Concept 3: Capture Your Thoughts
02:43 Scriptural Foundations
03:30 Scientific Insights on Thought Control
09:12 Practical Applications and Examples
11:33 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

🔗 Want to go deeper?

Explore the Choose Freedom Program and access devotionals, coaching, and free resources at:
www.choosefreedom.today

Read more about willpower and changing your thoughts - https://choosefreedom.today/is-willpower-enough/

📖 Key Verses:

• 2 Corinthians 10:5
• 1 Timothy 4:15
• Psalm 77

If this conversation encouraged you or gave you something to think about, I'd love it if you take a moment to follow the show, leave a rating or review or even share it with a friend. Your support helps to say Goodbye and Imagine podcast reach more people who are ready to take that next step towards freedom and possibility.

Rose Ann's new book "Prepare to Quit" is a concise read designed to assist in the contemplation stage of quitting alcohol. It aims to guide readers through the decision-making process, helping them weigh the costs and benefits of change. It's available now https://choosefreedom.today/prepare-to-quit/

#TakeEveryThoughtCaptive
#ChristianMindset
#FaithBasedRecovery
#RenewYourMind

Ep 58 - This powerful mindset shift, "I get to" - can transform the way you approach your substance-free journey. Unlike the resistance created by the phrase 'I have to,' adopting a 'I get to' mindset promotes excitement and openness to the positive changes ahead. The host shares her personal struggle with alcohol abuse and how reframing her efforts as opportunities led to significant improvements in her health, relationships, and overall well-being.

Supported by biblical scriptures and practical exercises, this episode encourages viewers to calculate the true cost of their habits and envision the possibilities of a better life without them. Listeners are invited to take the 12-week challenge and employ gratitude and positive intelligence practices to build a brighter future.

00:00 Introduction and Recap
01:25 Core Concept Two: The Power of 'I Get To'
02:53 Personal Transformation Journey
06:47 Scriptural Insights on Choice and Freedom
09:56 Calculating the True Cost and Future Vision
12:14 Cravings, Triggers, and Gratitude
14:28 Conclusion and Next Steps

Want to go deeper? Check out the Daily Devotional, the Choose Freedom program, or connect with a certified coach for more support. Visit www.choosefreedom.today for more info!

Rose Ann’s new book “Prepare to Quit” is a concise read designed to assist in the contemplation stage of quitting alcohol. It aims to guide readers through the decision-making process, helping them weigh the costs and benefits of change. It’s available now https://choosefreedom.today/prepare-to-quit/

👍 Like, subscribe, and share if this episode encouraged you!

Find Choose Freedom, The Plans He Has For Me, and Say Goodbye and Imagine across the web. Rose Ann Forte is working on even more support for anyone who finds themselves wanting to separate from unhealthy ways of life, including, but not limited to, sugar, food, drugs, alcohol, gambling, and other habits you yourself have deemed inconducive to your desired way of life. That's the core of Say Goodbye and Imagine. Imagine what your life will be like once you've said Goodbye to the habits that held you back.

Find accompanying content and free resources on our blog!

We've been deemed a top 10% podcast in January 2025 per iHeartRadio.

#ChooseFreedom #SubstanceFreeJourney #FaithBasedRecovery #ChristianRecovery

Ep 57 - Rose Ann kicks off a series exploring the 12 core concepts of the Choose Freedom program, starting with "The Truth About Temptation." If you’ve ever struggled with breaking old habits or felt shame around temptation, this episode is for you. Rose Ann breaks down what temptation really means, why it’s not a sin, and how you can use faith and practical tools to overcome it.

Key Takeaways:

• Temptation is not a sin—feeling tempted is normal, and even Jesus experienced it.
• Shame doesn’t solve the problem; awareness and understanding do.
• The enemy’s strategy often starts with confusion and doubt, as seen in the story of Adam and Eve.
• Our brains create automatic patterns, making it easy to fall back into old habits.
• You can break free by anchoring yourself in scripture, practicing saying “not an option,” and relying on the Holy Spirit rather than just willpower.

Scripture References Mentioned:

• Matthew 4 – Jesus is tempted in the wilderness.
• Genesis 2:16 – God’s instruction to Adam about the tree of knowledge.
• Genesis 3:1-2 – The serpent’s temptation and Eve’s response.
• 1 Peter 5:8 – “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion…”
• 1 Timothy 4:15 – “Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress.”
• Galatians 5:1 – “It is for freedom that Christ set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.”

Want to go deeper? Check out the Daily Devotional, the Choose Freedom program, or connect with a certified coach for more support. Visit www.choosefreedom.today for more info!

Rose Ann’s new book “Prepare to Quit” is a concise read designed to assist in the contemplation stage of quitting alcohol. It aims to guide readers through the decision-making process, helping them weigh the costs and benefits of change. It’s available now https://choosefreedom.today/prepare-to-quit/

👍 Like, subscribe, and share if this episode encouraged you!

Ep 56 - I'm taking a short break from new episodes this month, but I did not want to leave you without something powerful to listen to. Over the past two years, I've had the honor of speaking with some truly incredible guests, and one of those conversations continues to stand out for its deep impact.

Tracy is a 54-year-old nurse who has been alcohol-free for nearly two and a half years and over that time, her transformation has been incredible. She bravely opened up about her decades-long struggle with alcohol, how it affected every area of her life, and her inspiring journey to living alcohol-free. Tracy’s honesty about the ups and downs, and how she ultimately reconnected with her faith, is nothing short of powerful.

Here are 3 key takeaways for anyone considering change:

🔹 Alcohol-Free Doesn’t Mean Lonely
Tracy shared that her drinking was rooted in loneliness and the desire for connection. She realized that alcohol actually further disconnected her from her loved ones—and rediscovered true connection after giving it up.

🔹 Role Models Matter (Across Generations)
Her biggest motivation? Being a role model for her grandkids. Tracy wanted to break the cycle and show by example that life can be joyful and meaningful without alcohol.

🔹 Professional Wisdom: Health Impacts Are Real
As a nurse, Tracy witnessed the physical toll of alcohol on her patients—including heart disease, diabetes, and liver failure—which fueled her decision to make a change.

If you’re curious about living alcohol-free or know someone who is, Tracy’s story is a testament to hope, resilience, and the possibility of transformation at any stage of life. 💛

00:00 Inspiring Alcohol-Free Journey
05:00 First Alcohol Encounter: Childhood Memories
07:28 Life-Changing Accident at 18
11:35 "Isolation from Trauma and Loss"
15:17 Generational Alcohol-Free Advocacy
20:03 Alcohol's Link to Cancer Awareness
22:10 Absent Presence in Relationships
25:19 Alcohol Abuse and Community Challenges
27:52 Discovering God's Presence & Healing
32:13 Faith, Forgiveness, and Positive Impact
36:40 "Seek Alcohol-Free Support Now"
37:55 Program Experience Inspires Faith-Based Solution

If this conversation encouraged you or gave you something to think about, I'd love it if you take a moment to follow the show, leave a rating or review or even share it with a friend. Your support helps to say Goodbye and Imagine podcast reach more people who are ready to take that next step towards freedom and possibility.

Rose Ann's new book "Prepare to Quit" is a concise read designed to assist in the contemplation stage of quitting alcohol. It aims to guide readers through the decision-making process, helping them weigh the costs and benefits of change. It's available now https://choosefreedom.today/prepare-to-quit/

I'm taking a short break from new episodes this month, but I did not want to leave you without something powerful to listen to. Over the past two years, I've had the honor of speaking with some truly incredible guests, and one of those conversations continues to stand out for its deep impact.

So today I'm bringing back one of our most listened to episodes, and that's my conversation with Kevin Schouweiler. Kevin was actually my personal coach when I first committed to putting alcohol aside, and he has played an immense role in helping me build the mindset that fuels the work that I do today.

In this episode, we dive into the neurolinguistic programming, the power of language, and how small shifts in the words we use, like moving from I have to, to I get to, can open doors to transformation.

This conversation is packed with wisdom and insight, practical takeaways and encouragement to see yourself through a new lens. So whether it's your first time hearing it or you're revisiting it with fresh ears, I know you'll walk away inspired.

If this conversation encouraged you or gave you something to think about, I'd love it if you take a moment to follow the show, leave a rating or review or even share it with a friend. Your support helps to say Goodbye and Imagine podcast reach more people who are ready to take that next step towards freedom and possibility.

Today, we're going to share some profound insights into the transformative power of language and choice, and their impact on personal growth and development. Kevin put together a short video training for listeners of this episode on how you can identify outcomes or results you've wanted, but can't seem to realize it in your life.

Click the link here https://kev.coach - to access Coach Kevin's free NLP training.

03:16 The Impact of Neuro Linguistic Programming
07:15 The Power and Influence of Language
09:05 Practical Application of Neuro Linguistic Programming
16:26 The Power of 'I Get To' and Choice
26:04 Using Language to Overcome Bad Habits
27:49 The Pitfalls of Negative Thinking
27:59 Envisioning a Better Future Self
36:35 Understanding the Mind's Resistance to Change
41:48 Shifting from Victimhood to Empowerment
44:57 The Journey of Personal Transformation

NLP stands for Neuro Linguistic Programming and it's a system of alternative therapy intended to educate people in self awareness and effective communication, and to model and change the patterns of mental and emotional behavior.

Rose Ann's new book "Prepare to Quit" is a concise read designed to assist in the contemplation stage of quitting alcohol. It aims to guide readers through the decision-making process, helping them weigh the costs and benefits of change. It's available now https://choosefreedom.today/prepare-to-quit/

Key Takeaways

- Stages of Change Model as a Blueprint**: The Trans-theoretical Model (TTM) of change provides a scientific blueprint for understanding and guiding personal transformation.
- Integrating Faith with Behavioral Change**: Blending psychological insights with spiritual beliefs can enhance personal growth and resilience.
- Relapse as Part of the Journey**: Relapse or reengagement is not the end, but a part of the change proce

Timestamp Summary
0:00 Understanding the Stages of Change with Dr. David Jenkins
4:00 Embracing Change and Divine Guidance in Personal Growth
9:00 The Action Phase in the Change Process
17:00 Creating Healthy Ecosystems Through Strategic Growth and Management
19:00 Stages of Change and Overcoming Relapse in Addiction Recovery
29:00 Embracing Grace and Overcoming Shame in Spiritual Battles

Hebrews 4:16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

Mentioned Resources -
Stages of Change model
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yy3OFfjmJE754AJoE08bMhuwUR2OAJdN/view?usp=sharing

DiClemente, C. C. (2018). Addiction and change: How addictions develop and addicted people recover (2nd ed.). Guilford Publications. ISBN-13: 978-1462533237 and the link for Amazon is https://amzn.to/4jg8Fua

Miller, W., & Rollnick, S. (2013). Motivational interviewing: Helping people change (3rd ed.). New York, NY: Guilford. ISBN: 860-1401252917 and the link for Amazon is https://amzn.to/3XOccHU

Rose Ann's new book "Prepare to Quit" is a concise read designed to assist in the contemplation stage of quitting alcohol. It aims to guide readers through the decision-making process, helping them weigh the costs and benefits of change. It's available now https://choosefreedom.today/prepare-to-quit/

This week's guest, Dr. Jenkins, is Professor of Psychology and Clinical Director of the Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology program in the Department of Psychology at Liberty University. He previously served as Professor of Counseling in the Department of Counselor Education and Family Studies. He has served as Clinical Director of the International Board of Christian Counselors of the American Association of Christian Counselors and is on the Executive Board of the Society for Christian Psychology. Dr. Jenkins also served on the Executive Draft Committee for the 2014 and 2022 updates to the AACC’s Code of Ethics for Christian Counselors.

With over 30 years of clinical experience, Dr. Jenkins specializes in the integration of Christian faith and clinical practice. He has worked extensively with addictive, mood, and anxiety disorders in the context of individual, marital, group, and family therapy. Dr. Jenkins has provided education, consultation, supervision, and training for a variety of churches, ministries, and professionals. He is also an author and speaker at conferences, seminars, and retreats.

Ep 53 - Quitting alcohol is embarking on a transformative journey. It requires more than just a desire to change and requires navigating the stages of change and creating a pathway to lasting transformation.

In this episode, you'll hear from Dr. David Jenkins, a returning guest and an experienced clinical psychologist with over 30 years in the field. Dr. Jenkins has dedicated his career to understanding how individuals change, especially those dealing with addictions. His expertise helps us explore the trans-theoretical model of change, a process that is essential in guiding those ready to alter their relationship with alcohol.

Here’s what you can expect:

Stages Explained: From pre-contemplation to preparation, understand where you are in your change journey.

Real-Life Case Studies: Hear about others who have navigated these waters, providing relatable and actionable insights.

Tools for Change: Discover practical strategies like the importance confidence ruler to aid your decision-making process.

Timestamp Summary
0:00 Understanding Stages of Change in Quitting Alcohol
5:00 Understanding the Trans Theoretical Model of Change
14:00 Understanding Denial and Pre-Contemplation in Behavior Change
18:00 Stages of Change and Personal Responsibility in Transformation
30:00 Preparing for New Experiences Like Horseback Riding
32:00 Preparing for Change: Commitment, Planning, and Self-Reflection

Referenced Materials -

DiClemente, C. C. (2018). Addiction and change: How addictions develop and addicted people recover (2nd ed.). Guilford Publications. ISBN-13: 978-1462533237 and the link for Amazon is https://amzn.to/4jg8Fua

Miller, W., & Rollnick, S. (2013). Motivational interviewing: Helping people change (3rd ed.). New York, NY: Guilford. ISBN: 860-1401252917 and the link for Amazon is https://amzn.to/3XOccHU

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sb1W2YMZU85Tii9f7S2OI4mYf-nP3vMG/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XwyDvKyrDq0KmWB1TdTHkSY2evnIx21s/view?usp=sharing

Rose Ann's new book "Prepare to Quit" is a concise read designed to assist in the contemplation stage of quitting alcohol. It aims to guide readers through the decision-making process, helping them weigh the costs and benefits of change. It's available now https://choosefreedom.today/prepare-to-quit/

This week's guest, Dr. Jenkins, is Professor of Psychology and Clinical Director of the Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology program in the Department of Psychology at Liberty University. He previously served as Professor of Counseling in the Department of Counselor Education and Family Studies. He has served as Clinical Director of the International Board of Christian Counselors of the American Association of Christian Counselors and is on the Executive Board of the Society for Christian Psychology. Dr. Jenkins also served on the Executive Draft Committee for the 2014 and 2022 updates to the AACC’s Code of Ethics for Christian Counselors.

With over 30 years of clinical experience, Dr. Jenkins specializes in the integration of Christian faith and clinical practice. He has worked extensively with addictive, mood, and anxiety disorders in the context of individual, marital, group, and family therapy. Dr. Jenkins has provided education, consultation, supervision, and training for a variety of churches, ministries, and professionals. He is also an author and speaker at conferences, seminars, and retreats.

This week's guest Steve shares his story of vulnerability, strength, and change, his narrative reminds us of the power that lies in faith, community, and self-growth.

Steve and Rose Ann, both having embarked on a pivotal lifestyle change together, brought to light the transformative power of quitting drinking. They shared how a common struggle turned into a beautiful source of connection and support, allowing them to reclaim their lives and step away from the shame that once engulfed them.

Here's what you can expect from this episode:

1. Overcoming Personal Battles: Steve opens up about his journey—from the silent battles with alcohol to the pivotal moment of truth with his wife that set him on a new path.

2. The Power of Community: Learn how a supportive online community and a genuine, shared moment of vulnerability with Rose Ann became a turning point in Steve's life.

3. Embracing Authenticity: Discover how both Rose Ann and Steve moved past the internal voice that once questioned, "But, if you really knew me…" to a place of acceptance and confidence.

4. Inspiration and Hope: This narrative is a testament to the possibility of change and the hope that comes with finding strength in vulnerability and the support of others.

We invite you to listen and be inspired by Steve's story—a beautiful reminder that we're not alone in our journeys toward healing and authenticity.

Two are better than one . . . . If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. Ecclesiastes 4:9–10

0:00 A Journey of Sobriety, Connection, and Retirement Reflections
5:00 A Journey of Alcohol, Weight Loss, and Self-Discovery
10:00 Overcoming Alcoholism Through Support and Self-Realization
22:00 A Life-Changing Journey Through Covid and Personal Growth
26:00 Finding Strength and Community in Sobriety Journey
36:00 The Power of Community and Vulnerability in Personal Growth

Find Choose Freedom, The Plans He Has For Me, and Say Goodbye and Imagine across the web. Rose Ann Forte is working on even more support for anyone who finds themselves wanting to separate from unhealthy ways of life, including, but not limited to, sugar, food, drugs, alcohol, gambling, and other habits you yourself have deemed inconducive to your desired way of life. That's the core of Say Goodbye and Imagine. Imagine what your life will be like once you've said Goodbye to the habits that held you back.

Find accompanying content and free resources on our blog!

We've been deemed a top 10% podcast in January 2025 per iHeartRadio.