Special Guest: Kristy Bell

Part 1 of 2. Once caught in the throes of a severe addiction that spanned over two decades, Kristy Bell found herself living a double life—attending church and fulfilling family roles while battling a hidden world of substance abuse. Her narrative takes us through the dark alleys of manipulation, despair, and near-death experiences, all while maintaining a facade of normalcy.

Despite a loving upbringing and a seemingly perfect childhood, Kristy's life spiraled as she sought acceptance in the wrong places. From experimenting with substances in her teenage years to a full-blown addiction that led her to homelessness and separation from her children, her journey is both harrowing and enlightening.

This episode is a reminder that no matter how lost one may feel, there is always a path to redemption. Stay tuned for a sneak peek into the continuation of Kristy's journey in part two, where the story unfolds in even more profound ways.

Special Guest: Ruben and Mahogany Stephens

Ruben and Mahogany Stephens share their powerful journey through addiction and recovery. Ruben opens up about his early drug use at 13, a basketball injury that led to opioid addiction, and a life-altering overdose in 2022. Mahogany provides her perspective, highlighting the importance of support and compassion. Together, they discuss the impact of faith and daily practices that sustain their sobriety.

Special Guest: Coby Hartley

Special Guest: Hannah Strazsheim

Hannah shares her powerful journey through addiction and recovery, reflecting on her chaotic upbringing and the impact of her parents' substance use. (Her mother, Jennifer, was a previous guest on the Jesus Loves Addicts – Episode 19.) Hannah's story is a great reminder to listeners that recovery is possible and that they are not alone. If you or a loved one needs help, reach out to the Home of Grace by calling 833-55-GRACE or visiting homeofgrace.org.

Leave your 30-second testimony at JesusLovesAddicts.com

Special Guest: Steven Barnes

Steven shares his powerful journey through addiction and recovery, emphasizing the importance of hope, community, and resilience. He recounts his initial success in life, thriving in his career and personal endeavors. However, his struggles with alcohol and crack cocaine led to a downward spiral, resulting in moments of despair and ultimately leaving him homeless. Despite hitting rock bottom, Steven found the transformative power of faith and support. His story highlights the significance of humility and the need for ongoing accountability in recovery. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Reach out for help and support from Home of Grace by calling 833-55-GRACE or visiting homeofgrace.org. Healing and hope are always within reach.

Special Guest: Kathryn Beatty

In this heartfelt episode of "Jesus Loves Addicts," Kathryn shares her powerful journey through addiction and recovery, detailing her struggles with substance and relationship addiction, prison time, and the impact on her family. She emphasizes the importance of honesty, surrender, and faith in overcoming addiction. The co-hosts discuss the stigmas surrounding addiction, the non-linear nature of recovery, and the necessity of compassion and understanding. Kathryn's story is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of recovery, offering hope and encouragement to listeners navigating their own paths to healing.

Special Guest: Kathryn Beatty

In part one of a two-part episode, Kathryn Beatty bravely shares her journey through addiction and recovery, offering hope and understanding to those in similar battles. Kathryn recounts her upbringing in a loving family, yet she struggled with feelings of inadequacy, leading to a 20-year struggle with drug addiction. She speaks candidly about the impact of her parents' divorce, her early rebelliousness, and the toxic relationships that followed. Despite numerous relapses and a near-fatal car accident, Kathryn's story is one of resilience and faith. The episode emphasizes the importance of discussing recovery's challenges and rewards, encouraging listeners to seek support and understanding.

Special Guest: Angela & BJ Broussard

Angela's battle with addiction was a silent but destructive storm. Hear from Angela Broussard and her husband BJ from Lafayette, LA as they discuss the challenges they faced in the throws of addiction.

The Jesus Loves Addicts Podcast will resume with Season 2 on September 30! In the meantime, catch up on previous episodes or leave us a voicemail at jesuslovesaddicts.com.

Special Guest: Emily Ellsworth

Emily, a self-published author, shares a heartfelt story of loss, resilience, and emotional healing after her mother’s addiction. Her narrative is a powerful testament to faith, forgiveness, and the possibility of healing from childhood trauma.

Check out Emily’s book "Hey Mommy" on Amazon

Leave your 30-second testimony at JesusLovesAddicts.com

Special Guest: Josh Bassett

Josh's story begins with a turbulent childhood marked by abuse and neglect, leading to a life of substance abuse, violence, and run-ins with the law. However, with faith, support, and a spiritual awakening, he found redemption in recovery.

Leave your 30-second testimony at JesusLovesAddicts.com