God Took Me to Las Vegas

Episode 204 Interview with Jewels, author of “The Making of a Woman” Jewels is an award-winning author, speaker, and bodybuilder and hope to inspire others to push forward, no matter the challenges. Jewels describes herself as a woman who has lived two lives in one lifetime. The first part was a life of childhood abuse and trauma which grew into the full-blown disease of alcoholism. Her life was out of control, and she says, “I was circling the drain”. The second part is life today and how she urgently worked through her past and now has a wonderful life as a result. But her story is not your average girl gest sober story. She didn’t just get sober; she truly created a life of authenticity and confidence. Her story is about removing the expectations and the dogma of society, instead of being guided by love and empathy. Some may call her life risky, unethical, and totally against the norm, but she sees it otherwise. She’s in a very loving and open-minded marriage. She has been sexually liberated as a result of her childhood trauma and just placed 3rd at the national level at the NPC (National Physique Committee) North American Championships. “The Making of a Woman” is the compelling autobiography of a dynamic female who refused to bow down to the circumstances of her birth. With a prevailing sense of self and survival, Jewels fought a hardscrabble war against the forces and people that populated her life in a way that often crushes others. Purchase her book here: https://themakingofawoman.com/purchase Her email is: Jewels@TheMakingofaWoman.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jewelsthemakingofawoman Twitter: https://twitter.com/makingofjewels Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jewelsthemakingofawoman YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCvmtpgWqE33CwRZl83R6Vg acourageousrecovery.com

Welcome to today's episode, where we dive into a remarkable journey of personal growth, redemption, and professional success. The focus is on Randy Mortensen's transformative story as detailed in his compelling memoir, "God Took Me to Las Vegas...To Get Sober." The narrative is not just about overcoming the clutches of addiction in the heart of a city known for its vices but also about the profound impact this journey had on his personal and professional life. Randy's story begins with a life seemingly consumed by addiction, a path that led him to the vibrant yet challenging environment of Las Vegas. It was here, against all odds, that he found the strength and faith to turn his life around. His memoir provides a raw and honest look at the struggles faced on the road to recovery, but it's also a testament to the incredible power of determination, faith, and the human spirit's capacity to change. But Randy's journey didn't just transform him personally. It also had a significant impact on his professional life and business ventures. From the brink of despair, Randy emerged not only as a man reborn but as a business leader driven by newfound clarity, integrity, and a deep commitment to his values. His story is a powerful reminder that personal growth can fuel professional success, transforming challenges into opportunities and setbacks into stepping stones. Join us as we explore Randy Mortensen's inspiring journey, highlighting the key moments of personal growth that led to professional achievements and the lessons we can all take from his experience. Whether you're seeking motivation in your own path to recovery or looking for insights into turning personal challenges into professional triumphs, Randy's story offers profound lessons in resilience, faith, and the art of transformation. Purchase the book here: https://godtookmetolasvegas.com/ acourageousrecovery.com

Episode 201 – Gerry Wagner interview, with the theme of “What Is Love?” Gerry Wagner is on a mission of “Spreading LOVE to those who may feel unloved”. He recently claimed 32 years of being clean and sober. Gerry lives in Central Pennsylvania, he serves as the Vice President of Business Development for a global HVAC company and hosts the podcast “Tosot Time” where he hosts a wide array of guests. He interviews TV personalities, HVAC industry experts, and NASCAR race car drivers. One year ago, he noticed a sign along the road with this question, “What is love?” That sign inspired thought and introspection within him. He realized that his love for his wife is different from his love for his friends, and the love he had for his mother. It was clear that love in every form is incredibly strong and meaningful, but each is unique at the same time. Sadly, his biological father was an evil, brutal presence that destroyed his mother’s life and deserves no further mention or description. It’s where the absence of self-love is rooted in Gerry’s life. He quotes in an online post, “Imagine if you will, if you can, waking up every morning loathing, hating the blood that runs through your own veins.” Defining love is something Gerry still struggles with, but he can define the absence of love and he doesn't want anyone to ever struggle with that sort of encounter, the absence of love, whether for a moment or a lifetime. In this episode, Gerry shares about his weakest moments 15 months ago, he never thought about drinking and drugging and admits he would have rather put a gun to his head, as that would have been more merciful to himself and those around him. Instead, he leaned on his family members to get through the most difficult 72 hours he has experienced in the past couple of decades. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-wagner-1b154228/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/tosot-bathica/ Podcast: Tosot Time https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mp4rd7qgiys acourageousrecovery.com

Episode 200 – Richard Grahn, is a producer, screenwriter, author, and a coach Richard was born and grew up in California, the youngest of six children in the family, before relocating to Eastern Tennessee. During one of the darkest times of his life, he told God, “I don’t care if I go to Hell, you either kill me or do something in my life.” The next day, he was arrested for misdemeanor possession of methamphetamines. But today, he now has over 22 years clean from Methamphetamines. While in that life of darkness and pain, he witnessed violence, manipulation, desperation, and a ton of ugliness. His forthcoming movie, “Escape to Normal” is a Christian film but not your typical mainstream Christian film. While growing up he was always taught in Church that the world is our mission field, not the choir. Yet, Richard believes that many Christian films in this era are for the choir and today he feels that creative storytellers are called to share the gospel outside of the building. “Escape To Normal” will have a worldly look and feel to it. Most of the script is written from Richard’s real life and it speaks about his experiences on the streets, and the movie has a Christ-filled message of hope, identity, and second chances. With a focus on becoming a new creation, similar to how he has grown from a time of homelessness, violence, and drug abuse. Since giving his life to Christ and getting clean from Methamphetamines, he’s seeking to help people find their true identity and their mission in life. More about the work Richard is doing can be found at various locations online: Website: https://www.escapetonormal.com Fundraising site: https://www.givesendgo.com/escapetonormal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/445450010276355/members Twitter: https://twitter.com/NormalEscapeto Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sirrichardg acourageousrecovery.com

This is an episode with Randy Mortensen as a guest on Back to God Radio. acourageousrecovery.com

Aimee Eddy is a survivor! She's a survivor of mental illness, bullying, breast cancer, and abuse. One of her quotes touts the "Light of Recovery", she said, "Climb out of the dark hole and into the light. Dance, rejoice and stand within the light of recovery from mental illness and breast cancer." Aimee is an author, a motivational speaker, and a coach. She's a 2-year survivor from breast cancer. And is married to the love of her life. The goals she recommends for the person who's seeking to be a survivor are: 1) Choose someone to confide in about what is going on inside you. 2) Find a good therapist you feel comfortable with. 3) Find a psychiatrist that is good and knows medications well. 4) Get rid of unhealthy relationships. 5) Build a good support system. 6) Know your limits and maintain them. 7) Make it a priority to fight every day to reach the light. Her email is: aimeeegross@gmail.com More information is on her website: https://aimeeeddygross.wordpress.com/ acourageousrecovery.com acourageousrecovery.com

Episode 198 Interview with Coach David Greer Coach David is a life-long sailor, an author, a speaker, an entrepreneurial coach, and an alcoholic who has been in recovery since January of 2009. His mission is to take his thirty-five years of entrepreneurial experience and share it with others, in order to accelerate their success. He is passionate about sharing his experience, strength, and hope. In the midst of his corporate career, an extraordinary life coach came into David’s life. After working together for 18-months, David admitted to the coach that he had a problem with alcohol. The coach then tutored him to attend his initial 12-step recovery meeting. As a life-long sailor, David relates his personal experiences – in business and in life to the challenges of growing a business. While you can beat your way against the wind, successful entrepreneurs learn to harness their efforts to seamlessly blow them in the direction they want to go. In David’s book, “Wind In Your Sails”, the reader is challenged to spend one hour reading the book in order to gain three ideas that will accelerate their business in the next 90-days. In his spare time, David enjoys the beauty, water, and mountains of the Vancouver area, while taking occasional adventure breaks with his wife, Karalee. David and Karalee are committed to their three children, spending time supporting them in the many and varied activities they are involved with, including skiing together as a family in Whistler, BC. Website: https://coachdjgreer.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachdjgreer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgreer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachdjgreer/ acourageousrecovery.com

Episode 197 – Coach Chrystal, a mentor to women seeking an alcohol-free lifestyle Chrystal is based in San Antonio, Texas and she’s dedicated to working as an alcohol-free coach specializing in guiding women through the transition to a sober lifestyle. With a passion for empowering individuals, she helps women not only embrace sobriety but also discover and step into their true purpose. Through her coaching, Chrystal fosters positive transformations and supports her clients on their journey to fulfilling alcohol-free lives. She often touts that “Jesus Saved Me!” When giving her testimony, Chrystal shares that alcohol was her best friend until it was her worst enemy. For years she used alcohol to celebrate or drown her sorrows. She thought her habits around alcohol were okay since she wasn’t drinking daily. It was okay until God led her to leave the relationship she had been in for almost ten years. At this point, she was already trying to moderate, taking breaks, switching from whiskey to wine, etc. but the days sober became less and less, and for the first time she felt like she was losing control. So, she mentions that she listened to what God was saying and reached out for mentorship and support. While the journey hasn’t been easy, it’s been the best decision in her life aside from deciding to follow Jesus. He has made Chrystal’s mess into a message, ministry, and resource for those struggling in this area. She has been able to mentor women across the states who are willing to make the switch to an alcohol-free lifestyle and listen to the Holy Spirit leading. You hear on this episode, Chrystal touting that “Jesus saved me, and he’s called me to share this message with you too. He’s called me to be a vessel and a tool to help you break through this toxic cycle. Please know you’re not alone and I’m here when you’re willing and ready to take the leap. Your purpose goes beyond the bottle and the relationship and today is the perfect day to start embracing the new.” You can connect with Chrystal via the following links: Her website: https://msha.ke/chrystal.cuellar Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrystal.cuellar Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/236895490772641/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chrystal.cuellar Email: cuellarchrystal@gmail.com Phone Number: (210) 912-3738 acourageousrecovery.com

Episode 196 – Interview with Jim Noone, He Believes in Sobriety Through Action James (Jim) Noone, was born and raised in Bronx, New York, he has traveled to 43 states and four continents. Jim prides himself in being a storyteller, and a musician, and excels in relating to many different cultures around the globe. He now resides in New Orleans but will be relocating to the Denver, Colorado metro in the coming months. Growing up he favored radical politics and radical artistic expressions, including an affinity for punk rock and other youth subcultures. Today, he no longer considers himself a radical, but Jim admits to definitely having an edge and a dark sense of humor. Late last year, he celebrated 27 years of sober and clean time. Before pursuing sobriety, he was an alcoholic and addict (speed, barbituates, & weed), along with tendencies to lapse into other compulsive behaviors like gambling and pornography. Jim worked the 12 Steps through and through, and today he believes that sobriety is achieved through action. He’s quick to point out that whatever your beliefs are, faith-based or otherwise, it doesn’t really matter as long as your beliefs lead you to the right actions. The challenges come about when your thinking leads you down a path of being close-minded or prejudiced or selfish – if that’s the case you shouldn’t expect positive outcomes. Jim is involved in the employer/employee and labor relations profession. One of his memorable quotes is, “That which does not kill me merely postpones the inevitable.” acourageousrecovery.com

Episode 195– Gerry Wagner interview, with the theme of “What Is Love?” Gerry Wagner is on a mission of “Spreading LOVE to those who may feel unloved”. He recently claimed 32 years of being clean and sober. Gerry lives in Central Pennsylvania, he serves as the Vice President of Business Development for a global HVAC company and hosts the podcast “Tosot Time” where he hosts a wide array of guests. He interviews TV personalities, HVAC industry experts, and NASCAR race car drivers. One year ago, he noticed a sign along the road with this question, “What is love?” That sign inspired thought and introspection within him. He realized that his love for his wife is different from his love for his friends, and the love he had for his mother. It was clear that love in every form is incredibly strong and meaningful, but each is unique at the same time. Sadly, his biological father was an evil, brutal presence that destroyed his mother’s life and deserves no further mention or description. It’s where the absence of self-love is rooted in Gerry’s life. He quotes in an online post, “Imagine if you will, if you can, waking up every morning loathing, hating the blood that runs through your own veins.” Defining love is something Gerry still struggles with, but he can define the absence of love and he doesn't want anyone to ever struggle with that sort of encounter, the absence of love, whether for a moment or a lifetime. In this episode, Gerry shares about his weakest moments 15 months ago, he never thought about drinking and drugging and admits he would have rather put a gun to his head, as that would have been more merciful to himself and those around him. Instead, he leaned on his family members to get through the most difficult 72 hours he has experienced in the past couple of decades. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerry-wagner-1b154228/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/tosot-bathica/ Podcast: Tosot Time https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mp4rd7qgiys acourageousrecovery.com

EPISODE 194 – NATE, GOD REWARDED HIS BELIEFS Nate Maliscke (his nickname and stage name is Nate Crash) started Break Dancing in 2012 and he was able to take his passion global. Nate grew up in Western North Dakota, his parents divorced when he was very young, and along with his two younger sisters, they ultimately ended up in the foster care system. As he was finishing art school, he was able to leverage a hobby and his passion, while traveling to ten foreign countries in dance competitions and stage performances. He has competed in some of the largest breaking events in the world: Outbreak Europe, Silverback Open Championships, and Freestyle Session. He has traveled and performed in widely varied countries with Break Free Ministries and IMPACT Spain, performing at large-scale stadium events to small charity events. Nate has performed at various Twin Cities (Minneapolis/St. Paul) theaters including the Cowles Center, the Barbara Barker Center and the Ordway. He was able to spread light to others through his gift of dance. Nate’s faith grew exponentially at age 15, while in his desperation he called out to God. His faith journey expanded following that experience and God showed him a miracle when his father’s cancer was healed. Shortly thereafter, his mother surrendered her life to the Lord, as she sought solutions to her brokenness and angst. Today, his one sister is a West Point grad, and the other sister is currently a student at the University of Honolulu. Now, Nate is a Dad to a miracle baby and has been married to his wife for four years. He’s involved in the non-profit sector, striving to bring sustainable earth homes to the United States, and works with the University of Minnesota IT Department. Website for his art work is: https://www.natecrashstudio.com His Instagram is: https://www.instagram.com/natecrash.studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nathan.maliscke acourageousrecovery.com

Step 7 is really all about Humility! Humility is often defined as freedom from the pride or arrogance that has been holding you back. The characteristics of humility typically include some of the following: being situationally aware, making difficult decisions with ease, putting others first, speak your mind in a new way, and taking the time to say “Thank You”. How do you humbly ask God to remove your shortcomings? I would like to recommend that you write out a prayer for each shortcoming that you desire to have removed. And then, simply ask God to make you ready to have it removed. Some in recovery will say that Step 7 was very important in their recovery because it requires you to actively participate in your recovery and you are also expected to be responsible for all the things you do. Some will make the mistake of thinking that asking God to remove your defects means that you take a step backwards and assume a passive role while God does all the work. That’s not true! Step 7 really requires you to move from a position of “willingness” to an action of “asking God to remove your shortcomings”. This step is one of the shortest in terms of wording and is perhaps the least discussed in recovery groups, but it is perhaps the most potent of the twelve steps. It embodies the miracle of transformation as we turn over to God our broken, defective personalities in order that He might mold them into healthy, effective instruments of His will. So what does it mean to humbly ask God to remove your shortcomings? It’s not simply reading a list of shortcomings to God. It is honestly bringing your admission of self-effort, your trembling fear, your shackles of doubt, your debilitating shame, and admitting these things to God. God is pleased with your honesty. God is drawn to your vulnerability. God moves mountains for the broken-hearted. Humility means admitting all of these things and, like the man who came to Jesus asking for his son to be healed in Mark 9, you say, “I believe; Help my unbelief! acourageousrecovery.com

Episode 192 – Tom Wolf, Recovery Advocate Tom Wolf, a Recovery Advocate, resides in the San Francisco Metro in Northern California. He is in recovery from Heroin and Fentanyl addiction, he spent six months being homeless on the unsafe streets of the Tenderloin neighborhood and recently celebrated five years of being clean and sober. He was arrested 6 times for holding drugs for street-level drug dealers and other offenses and eventually went to jail for 3 months before going to a 6-month inpatient treatment program where he found recovery. Now, 5 years clean and sober, Tom is a Recovery Advocate calling for changes to the radical approach drug policy has taken. Tom was able to overcome his compulsive and destructive behaviors when he was held accountable. Following three months in jail, he was allowed to complete a six-month residential treatment program at The Salvation Army and then began attending 12-step programs and continues to attend those meetings on a regular basis. As a reward for his sobriety, he has recently founded The Pacific Alliance For Prevention And Recovery (PAPR). A 501c3 based in the San Francisco Bay Area with a goal of creating a response to the ongoing overdose crisis that is rooted in recovery, prevention, and education. Today, Tom is focused on bringing more recovery Solutions to San Francisco and influencing drug policy in California and eventually the United States PAPR has joined forces with FDPS (Foundation for Drug Policy Solutions) to lead West Coast Initiatives to change the way we look at the ongoing drug crisis by providing evidence-based solutions that begin with expanding drug treatment, reasonable approaches to interdiction of illicit drugs, and recovery education. Social Media and Email: https://twitter.com/Twolfrecovery www.gooddrugpolicy.org/PAPR twolffamily@gmail.com acourageousrecovery.com

Episode 191 – Interview with Rob Lohman, he’s on a mission “To Help Restore Hope, Identity, and Purpose to the Addicted Rob helps people suffering from substance abuse to find freedom from addiction and incarceration. On this episode he shares a powerful testimony – he’s been through the ringer and keeps bouncing back. His rap sheet includes alcohol, drug addiction, gambling, along with sex and porn. Rob is an author, a public speaker, he engages in Professional Interventions and Recovery Coaching and is the host of two podcasts. Rob’s drinking began at age 14, leading to some very dark times in his life. The climax of his drinking happened on June 7, 2001, with a suicide attempt that was interrupted by his compassionate dog – Jake. In year eleven of his sobriety journey, Rob had an emotional nervous breakdown which led to a thirteen-year prison sentence, to which he was released in 10.5 months to a halfway house where he started to rebuild his life, along with his two children and wife who decided to remain married to Rob after the breakdown. You will hear him tout that his deep roots of his Christian Faith took him through the storms and helped overcome so many obstacles. His website is: www.LiftedFromTheRut.com Podcast links are: www.BeyondTheBarsRadio.com and www.AddictionFreedomAndFaith.com Twitter: @RobLohman acourageousrecovery.com

Episode 190– Dr. Rosemarie Downer Dr. Rosemarie Downer is a dedicated follower of Christ who aspires to having the closest relationship with Christ possible. Her service in the body of Christ primarily involves teaching and preaching. She also spent well over 30 years serving in youth ministries. Other focus areas in her ministry include women and single adults. As well, she often ministers on issues that address emotional healing and well-being. ​ She is the founder and former President of BRYDGES (Building Responsible Youth by Delivering Genuine Enrichment Services), over which she functioned as the President for 15 years − 2001 through 2016. She is a published author of The Self-Scarred Church and several parenting handbooks. ​ Dr. Downer served at The U.S. Department of Agriculture as a social science researcher for 20 years and as an adjunct professor at Bowie State University for 24 years. She is now retired from both positions and is currently a private consultant doing grant writing and research and evaluation. In addition, she is doing what she dreamed of doing for years, and that is to write books to edify the body of Christ. ​ The pivotal scripture verse for her ministry is 3John 2 – “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” Her most favorite Bible verse is Philippians 1:6: “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Her favorite Bible character is Moses because he had the relationship with Abba Father that she so very deeply desires. Moses was able to talk to God the Father face-to-face and without riddle because of the close relationship he had with Him. That is her desire! acourageousrecovery.com

Episode 189 – My Word for 2024 is “EMPOWERED” The Webster definition of empowered is: having the knowledge, confidence, means, or ability to do things or make decisions for oneself. Not sure how many years ago it was but a business coach of mine strongly encouraged me to have a new “word to live by” each year. Thus, my word for 2022 is “Empowered”! If we’re going to live like the Lifestyle Champion that God placed within each of us, then it’s important to learn how to live according to the victory of the promises of God. A key verse that highlights the invitation of Jesus is found in Mark 1:17, Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” You and I are invited! Everything pertaining to life and godliness, to wholeness and holiness, comes down to hearing this invitation. Not just a once-upon-a-time invitation commonly called justification or being saved, but the every-day-every-moment invitations which are the call of the Spirit for our sanctification. Our responsibility is to listen for the call of Jesus to “Follow Me” and then respond with integrity. The promise of being discipled is a promise that you never again have to do life by yourself. Jesus is inviting you to do life with Him, for eternity, which, oh by the way, includes every day of this life. Are you hearing God’s invitations in your everyday life to follow Him and become like Him in everything you do? The results are guaranteed for all who accept the invitation. Jesus promised, “I will make you become fishers of people.” In other words, Jesus is promising that God, through the Holy Spirit, will not only conform you to His Image, but also have you partake in His divine purposes. You are invited! You are Empowered!!! acourageousrecovery.com

Episode 188 – Interview with Sean Robinson, author of “Going Dry” In his book, “Going Dry: My Path to Overcoming Habitual Drinking” – Sean talks about how examples set for him during his childhood led him to believe that he had it all figured out by the time he could legally drink. Residing in the Canadian Province of Ontario, he was legally allowed to purchase and drink alcohol at the age of nineteen. Sean Robinson works in the construction industry and has volunteered with the local fire department since his late teens – he’s now thirty-eight years old, so serving others has definitely always been on his heart. In his early days of drinking, he developed a lifestyle and routine around drinking, and that allowed him to feel like he was living up to the standards of expectations he and others in his family had set for him. Those behaviors continued for almost 20 years and that lifestyle was compounded by the pandemic. Two years ago, he found himself in a dark and confusing place, finally reaching the point of knowing something needed to change. But he also soon realized that “change” was going to be much harder than expected. Quoting Sean, “I had a toxic relationship with alcohol”. He was able to work through his own program of changing habits and routines but ultimately his overriding goal was to become a positive example for his children, by changing his attitudes and beliefs about living a positive life. You can purchase his book on all the major outlets, a few are listed here: https://www.amazon.com/Going-Dry-Overcoming-Habitual-Drinking/dp/1778181732 https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/going-dry-sean-robinson/1142120844 Or you can also purchase the book on his personal website: https://seanrobinson.ca You can connect with him via email at: mail@seanrobinson.ca acourageousrecovery.com

Episode 187– Testimony by Rich A. Rich grew up in Florida and went on to get a degree in accounting from Clemson University and then obtained a law degree from the University of Florida College of Law. Things were going very well and one of his friends described him and his work in the following way: I have known Rich for many years. His work and knowledge is excellent. I am an entrepreneur by nature and Rich knows how to get a deal closed. He is honest and integrity is his strength. He has been my business partner and trusted confidant in numerous business arrangements and Rich is a man of integrity and knowledge who could be of advantage to anyone associated with him. But then things changed when he was arrested for a DUI and there were also charges for possession of cocaine and drug paraphernalia. He was found guilty of misconduct by the Florida State Bar with a short suspension of his law license. Sadly, there were subsequent charges brought against him as his poor choices continued, ultimately leading to him losing his law license. As you’ll hear in his powerful testimony, Rich has now cleaned up his life and touts how he has combined his skills and personal endeavors in matters of real estate property and business acquisition, along with business development. He’s grateful to have learned to balance his professional life with his personal, social, and civic lives. Rich touts having realized the profound importance of giving himself in communion and fellowship with others, and the community and society as a whole. He touts having a strong belief in civic and charitable duty. And while admitting that he’s not attained anything near perfection when it comes to balance in his life, he continues to strive for progress, rather than perfection. Rich has been fortunate to have raised three wonderful daughters, each of whom is marking her course and contributing to what makes this world a better place to live. And those daughters have blessed him with grandchildren, so he’s even more eager to be looking forward to experiencing amazing possibilities with the next generation. acourageousrecovery.com

Episode 186 – Step 9, Forgiveness and Grace, with Randy Mortensen Step 9 We made direct amends to such people whenever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others. Two scriptures are referenced with this step, the first is from Matthew 5:23-24 from the Life Recovery Bible is: “So if you are presenting a sacrifice at the altar in the Temple and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, leave your sacrifice there at the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God.” And the second is found in Luke 6:31 in the Life Recovery Bible: Do to others as you would like them to do to you. The three core principles of Step 9 include: If you’re looking for daily words of encouragement, please join our Facebook group titled, “God Took Me to Las Vegas…..to Get Sober” The link to join that group is: https://www.facebook.com/groups/godtookmetolasvegastogetsober acourageousrecovery.com

Episode 185 – Interview with Shā Sparks, Chief Excitement Officer Today, Shā Sparks resides on the Space Coast of Florida and is the CEO (Chief Excitement Officer) of Sparks of Fire International. She is on a mission to help leaders reignite their F.I.R.E. to take fearless action and to be intentional in their communications while acknowledging their own resiliency, and sparking excitement in their lives and businesses. Growing up with a father who was unwillingly drafted into the Army to serve time in Korea, Shā inherited her father's "I don't have a choice" mindset. Later in life, she realized she did have a choice and overcame abuse, addiction, depression, anger, low self-worth, being a bully, and being bullied. She started drinking at a young age. The first time being drunk came about at age 11. That was followed by suicidal thoughts at the age of twelve, and then she started drinking daily around age 15. Sadly, she was then issued a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) ticket at the age of sixteen. But her real-life change began to take place when she made the decision to stop drinking at twenty-four years of age and she’s been sober ever since. Shā overcame her challenges through prayer, journaling, and via her relationship with God. Today, she has proactively changed that fear-based phrase "I don't have a choice" into a determination to inspire others to make fearless choices. Her mission is to have a positive impact on humanity. Shā is a Certified Fearless Living Coach and a trainer. She is a Master Practioner of NLP, MER, and Hypnosis, as well as the host of “the Shā Sparks Show podcast, the author of “how to Get Your Voice Back”, and the Co-Founder of the FIRESTARTERS Book Project. Her online connections are: Website: www.shasparks.com Podcast: www.theshasparksshow.com https://www.instagram.com/theshasparks https://www.facebook.com/iamshasparks www.linkedin.com/in/sha-sparks acourageousrecovery.com