Content Warning: This episode includes discussions of drug use, incarceration, and references to methamphetamine. Listener discretion is advised.

John's story is a gritty, honest account of addiction, survival, and the long road toward healing. Growing up surrounded by loss and instability, drugs became his escape. In and out of jails and correctional institutions, he learned to serve—but never how to receive. Now, he's walking the difficult path of community, trying to accept the love of others and the grace of Jesus. In this episode, John shares how service work grounds him, how therapy opened his eyes, and how forgiveness and safe people have shaped his new life. His advice? Don’t let the world get you down—find the pinhole of light and reach for it.

Pastor Brenda Mason Young shares her powerful journey through the hardships of leadership, personal loss, and letting go. From a childhood affirmation that sparked her calling to navigating grief, illness, and retiring with dreams unfulfilled, she speaks honestly about resilience, grace, and trusting God when nothing goes as planned. A beautiful reminder that even when life wears us down, we are still worthy and full of purpose.

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Author of:

• Poppy’s Work Glove
• Good Enough for God
• Grace and Truth

Last Message as Senior Pastor

Stand Your Ground - Keep Shooting // The Last Arrow

Connect via email

brendamasonyoung@gmail.com

In Part 2 of Danielle’s story, we pick up in the back of a cop car—literally. From getting her mugshot taken to walking into her first AA meeting, Danielle opens up about the early, awkward, and life-changing days of sobriety. She shares how one friend's gentle nudge gave her permission to try recovery her own way, and why finding a “safe” place and people was everything.

We talk about what safety really looks like in early recovery, the lies our minds tell us when we stay silent, and the healing that happens when we speak the heavy stuff out loud. Danielle also shares how she met her sponsor, found her footing in her home group, and why she told everybody she was sober—including the bartender.

This episode is a reminder that healing happens in community, and sometimes the tiniest bit of hope is enough to walk through the door.

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Suicide Hotline #988

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