Episodi

  • Godly Decision Making - Why Wisdom Begins with Time, Obedience, and Foundation
    Jan 19 2026

    Ep 73 - A Wisdom Series Conversation Inspired by the YouVersion Devotional "Choosing Wisdom for Men"

    In this episode of Say Goodbye and Imagine!, Rose Ann Forte continues her wisdom series with a thoughtful conversation on godly decision making, time, and spiritual foundation—topics that deeply resonate with women navigating relationships, leadership, family, and personal growth.

    Joined by writer and business leader Dan Snider, Rose Ann explores Choosing Wisdom for Men, a new five-day devotional now available on the YouVersion Bible App. While written specifically for men, this devotional powerfully impacted Rose Ann as a woman, offering biblical wisdom that applies to anyone seeking clarity, stability, and discernment in everyday decisions.

    Together, they reflect on Scripture passages that challenge us to slow down, trust God rather than our own understanding, and examine the foundation we're building our lives on. This episode speaks especially to women carrying layered responsibilities who desire to make wise, faith-centered decisions without rushing, striving, or relying on willpower alone.

    Rose Ann closes with three reflective questions to help listeners apply biblical wisdom to real-life choices in the week ahead.

    Scripture Referenced in This Episode

    • Psalm 90:12
    • Proverbs 3:5–6
    • Matthew 7:24–27

    Links:

    YouVersion Devotional: https://www.bible.com/en/reading-plans/65914

    Rose Ann Forte Resources: https://choosefreedom.today

    Books by Rose Ann Forte: https://choosefreedom.today/books

    Looking for more information? Check out Rose Ann's recent 12 part series on the core concepts of the Choose Freedom program starting with Core Concept 1 -
    https://choosefreedom.today/the-truth-about-temptation-breaking-free-with-faith-core-concept-1-of-the-choose-freedom-program/

    Quitting alcohol or any harmful substance isn't just about willpower—it's about preparation. Prepare to Quit is an invaluable resource for getting your mind, heart, and soul ready to win the battle against the psychological slavery you have been subject to.
    https://choosefreedom.today/books/prepare-to-quit/

    Breaking free from the psychological slavery of substance use can feel overwhelming when you try to do it alone. You may have tried to "start fresh" before, only to find yourself repeating the same patterns, feeling defeated by broken promises and failed attempts. But what if you had guidance, accountability, and spiritual encouragement to help you walk a new path?

    With the support of a licensed Choose Freedom® provider, you'll work through the 12 Core Concepts of transformation while being empowered by God's truth and the Holy Spirit. Whether in a one-on-one setting or a faith-based group, you will gain the tools to overcome obstacles, strengthen your mindset, and experience the freedom God has planned for you.
    https://choosefreedom.today/directory/

    #ChooseFreedom #GodlyDecisionMaking #BiblicalWisdom #ChristianLiving #FaithAndLife

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    21 min
  • The Wisdom of Not Walking Alone
    Jan 5 2026

    Ep 72 - As we begin a new year, many people quietly reflect on what they want to change—how they want to feel, who they want to become, and which habits no longer serve them. In this episode of Say Goodbye and Imagine, Rose Ann Forte continues the Wisdom Series by exploring why community plays a critical role in lasting change.

    Drawing from Acts 2:42, this episode examines how the early believers devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, shared meals, and prayer—and why faith was never meant to be practiced in isolation. Rose Ann shares personal stories from churches, Bible studies, mission trips, and small groups, highlighting how intentional community creates safety, accountability, and growth.

    The episode also addresses an important balance: Scripture calls us out of isolation, but not into reckless vulnerability. Discernment matters. Not every community is safe for every struggle, and wisdom requires listening to the Holy Spirit when deciding where and with whom to share.

    Whether you're rethinking your relationship with alcohol, other habits, or simply seeking greater clarity and support, this episode offers a grounded reminder: wisdom doesn't grow in isolation—it grows in community.

    Scripture referenced: Acts 2:42 (NLT)
    All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord's Supper), and to prayer.

    Looking for more information? Check out Rose Ann's recent 12 part series on the core concepts of the Choose Freedom program starting with Core Concept 1 -
    https://choosefreedom.today/the-truth-about-temptation-breaking-free-with-faith-core-concept-1-of-the-choose-freedom-program/

    Quitting alcohol or any harmful substance isn't just about willpower—it's about preparation. Prepare to Quit is an invaluable resource for getting your mind, heart, and soul ready to win the battle against the psychological slavery you have been subject to.
    https://choosefreedom.today/books/prepare-to-quit/

    Breaking free from the psychological slavery of substance use can feel overwhelming when you try to do it alone. You may have tried to "start fresh" before, only to find yourself repeating the same patterns, feeling defeated by broken promises and failed attempts. But what if you had guidance, accountability, and spiritual encouragement to help you walk a new path?

    With the support of a licensed Choose Freedom® provider, you'll work through the 12 Core Concepts of transformation while being empowered by God's truth and the Holy Spirit. Whether in a one-on-one setting or a faith-based group, you will gain the tools to overcome obstacles, strengthen your mindset, and experience the freedom God has planned for you.
    https://choosefreedom.today/directory/

    All resources mentioned -

    Choose Freedom® Program www.choosefreedom.today
    Work with a Choose Freedom® Coach www.choosefreedom.today/directory
    Say Goodbye and Imagine Podcast Archive www.choosefreedom.today/podcast

    #ChooseFreedom #ChoosingWisdom #GodlyWisdom #FaithInCommunity #ChristianGrowth



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    15 min
  • Compassion, Justice, and the Choices That Shape Generations
    Dec 22 2025
    Ep 71 - A wisdom devotional on God's nature, generational impact, and choosing obedience Episode Summary In this episode of Say Goodbye and Imagine, Rose Ann walks listeners through a powerful wisdom devotional rooted in Exodus 34:6–8, where God declares His own name and nature: compassionate, merciful, slow to anger, faithful — and just. This passage reveals a holy tension we often struggle to hold: God's unfailing love alongside real consequences for unrepentant sin. Rose Ann reflects on how Scripture repeatedly shows God patiently warning, inviting, and calling His people back — not to shame them, but to protect them and the generations that follow. She then connects Scripture with modern science, explaining how behavioral modeling, stress responses, epigenetics, and habit formation confirm what the Bible has always taught: our choices ripple outward. What we practice doesn't stop with us. The episode closes with reflective questions designed to help listeners consider patterns, obedience, and the legacy they are shaping — followed by a gentle reminder that support is available when these questions feel hard to resolve alone. Key Scripture Exodus 34:6–8 (NLT) The Lord passed in front of Moses, calling out, "Yahweh! The Lord! The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations. I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. But I do not excuse the guilty. I lay the sins of the parents upon their children and grandchildren; the entire family is affected— even children in the third and fourth generations." Moses immediately threw himself to the ground and worshiped. Topics discussed - God declaring His own name and characterCompassion, mercy, patience, and faithfulnessGod's justice and the purpose of consequencesGenerational impact of choices and behaviorsScience supporting biblical wisdom (epigenetics, modeling, stress response)Choosing obedience as generational stewardship Reflection Questions (from the episode) What behaviors, beliefs, or coping patterns are you currently modeling for others?Where might God be inviting you to choose obedience for the sake of those who come after you?What consequences of disobedience do you hope end with you? Choose Freedom Program: https://choosefreedom.today Explore Coaching: https://choosefreedom.today/directory Say Goodbye and Imagine Podcast: www.choosefreedom.today/podcast Books https://choosefreedom.today/books/the-plans-he-has-for-me/https://choosefreedom.today/books/transformed-by-his-promises/https://choosefreedom.today/books/prepare-to-quit/ #ChooseFreedom #SayGoodbyeAndImagine #GodlyWisdom #ChristianDevotional #BiblicalWisdom #FaithAndScience
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    17 min
  • When Life Gets Loud, Listen Closer
    Dec 8 2025

    Ep 70 - When life gets loud and when distractions multiply, emotions surge, routines slip, and pressures rise, our first instinct is usually to run faster, try harder, or grasp for control. But Jesus gives us a different invitation:

    "Pay close attention to what you hear…"
    —Mark 4:24–25 (NLT)

    In this episode, Rose Ann shares a deeply personal devotional about learning to listen closely to God in seasons of chaos and in seasons of comfort—when things were falling apart and when they seemed to be going well.

    She also opens up about the subtle drift that happens when we stop listening, the consequences of losing our spiritual focus, and the neuroscience that confirms what Jesus taught: what you repeatedly pay attention to will shape your entire life.

    If life feels loud right now, this episode is your reminder to listen closer.

    🧠 In This Episode, You'll Discover:

    • Why Jesus tied listening to understanding and wisdom
    • How early spiritual fire can fade when life returns to "normal"
    • The pattern of drifting from God after answered prayers — and how to break it
    • How volunteering, Bible studies, and community brought Rose Ann back into daily obedience
    • The science of attention: how your brain rewires itself based on what you focus on
    • Why God's Word quiets fear, anxiety, comparison, and the noise of the world
    • A wisdom-filled quote from Craig Groeschel:

    "Your life is always moving in the direction of your strongest thoughts."

    🔍 Key Verse

    Mark 4:24–25 (NLT)

    "Pay close attention to what you hear. The closer you listen, the more understanding you will be given…"

    💭 Reflection Questions

    1. Where has life felt "loud" lately—and whose voice have you been listening to most?
    2. What simple daily rhythm (Scripture, devotional time, prayer) could help you pay closer attention to God again?
    3. Could serving or joining a Bible study help anchor you in consistent community and spiritual growth?
    4. What are your strongest thoughts right now—and where are they leading your life?

    🙏 Closing Prayer

    Father, I desire to pay closer attention to your voice and your Word.
    I want to receive greater understanding and wisdom in my life.
    I commit to listening closely—every day.
    In Jesus' name, Amen.

    🕊 If This Episode Spoke to You…

    Rose Ann would love to hear from you.
    Send a short email to roseann@choosefreedom.today sharing how this devotional resonated with your heart and what kinds of wisdom topics you'd love to hear more about in future episodes.

    Remember to visit www.choosefreedom.today for more resources.

    #ChooseFreedom
    #SayGoodbyeAndImagine
    #GodlyWisdom
    #RenewYourMind
    #ChristianDevotional

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    18 min
  • The Moment Before You Lose Control
    Nov 24 2025

    In this episode of Say Goodbye and Imagine, Rose Ann transitions from the 12 Core Concepts into a brand-new exploration of godly wisdom—how Scripture guides our choices, shapes our mindset, and strengthens our self-control.

    Rose Ann shares the behind-the-scenes process of how her devotional writings begin: through daily Bible reading, reflection, and noticing what God highlights in His Word. Today's insight comes from Genesis 4:7, a passage where God gently warns Cain that sin is crouching at the door—but also affirms that Cain has the power to subdue it.

    This episode dives into:

    1. Why this moment in Genesis reveals a patient and loving God
    2. How unchecked emotions (like anger) open the door to life-interfering behaviors
    3. The Hebrew imagery of sin "crouching" like a predator
    4. How this connects to 1 Peter 5:8 and moments of temptation
    5. Why godly decision making begins with recognizing that the Holy Spirit empowers us to choose what is right
    6. How renewed neural pathways and spiritual self-control work together

    Rose Ann also shares her heart behind her next devotional project on godly wisdom and invites listeners to participate by sending the Scriptures that have shaped their own decision-making journey.

    She closes with a prayer from her devotional draft and a reminder that resources for substance or behavior struggles are available at www.choosefreedom.today.

    If this episode encourages you, reach out and let her know at RoseAnn@ChooseFreedom.today. Your encouragement helps guide the direction of this new series.

    #ChooseFreedom #GodlyWisdom #ChristianLiving #DailyDevotional #BiblicalWisdom
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    15 min
  • Mindset Protection: Winning the Daily Battle Within - Core Concept 12
    Nov 10 2025

    In the final episode of this 12-part series, Rose Ann Forte brings it all together with the powerful truth that we're not just facing a behavior challenge—we're fighting a spiritual battle. Drawing from Ephesians 6, this episode unpacks the Full Armor of God in practical, relatable ways and ties each piece of armor to the mindset shifts you've explored throughout the Core Concepts.

    You'll learn:

    • Why mindset is your greatest defense against relapse
    • How spiritual armor protects you in your most vulnerable moments
    • The real reason we keep going back to what hurts us—and how to stop
    • Why accountability is non-negotiable for lasting change
    • How to stand firm in your identity and step into freedom

    If you've walked through all 12 Core Concepts, you're not the same person you were at the start. You've been rewiring your brain, retraining your responses, and now it's time to protect what you've built.

    📖 Scripture Reference:

    "Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil."
    —Ephesians 6:11 (NLT)

    📚 Mentioned Resources:

    • The Plans He Has for Me
    • Prepare to Quit
    • Transformed by His Promises
    • Join the Choose Freedom Program

    🙌 If this series has blessed you:

    Please consider sharing the podcast with someone who needs encouragement. Also, take 30 seconds to leave a review for any of the devotionals on Amazon—your review helps others find freedom too.



    #MindsetTransformation
    #SpiritualWarfare
    #ChooseFreedom
    #FaithAndNeuroscience
    #ArmorOfGod

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    17 min
  • It's Addictive: The Neuroscience of Habit and the Hope of Renewal - Core Concept 11
    Oct 27 2025
    Why do we keep going back to the things we say we don't want to do? What if the problem isn't a moral failure—but a hijacked reward system in the brain? In this episode, Rose Ann Forte dives into the neuroscience behind addiction and why willpower alone isn't enough to break free. With biblical wisdom and brain-based understanding, she reveals the powerful biological process God designed—and how addictive substances or behaviors take advantage of it. If you've ever wondered "What happened to me? I used to be goal-oriented... joyful... motivated…"—this episode will help you make sense of that confusion, without shame. You'll learn: What dopamine is and how it works in normal vs. addictive habitsWhy addictive behaviors crowd out joy from everyday lifeWhat Scripture says about these destructive cycles (Proverbs 23:31–35, Ephesians 5:15–18, Romans 12:2, Galatians 5:1)Why renewing your mind is scientifically and spiritually possibleHow the Choose Freedom® Program and resources like Prepare to Quit can help you rewire your brain and reclaim your joy 📚 Mentioned in the Episode: Prepare to Quit book on Amazon »The Plans He Has for Me devotional »Join the private Facebook group for The Plans He Has For Me: click here » 💡 Don't forget to: Subscribe to this podcast Leave a review (honest, anonymous, short is fine!) on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, or wherever you listen or read Share this episode with someone stuck in the shame cycle—they need hope, not guilt Explore coaching or the Choose Freedom program to experience lasting change Featured Scriptures Proverbs 23:31–35 (NLT): "Don't gaze at the wine, seeing how red it is, how it sparkles in the cup, how smoothly it goes down. For in the end, it bites like a poisonous snake; it stings like a viper. You will see hallucinations, and you will say crazy things. You will stagger like a sailor tossed at sea, clinging to a swaying mast. And you will say, 'They hit me, but I didn't feel it. I didn't even know it when they beat me up. When will I wake up so I can look for another drink?'" Ephesians 5:15–18 (NLT): "So be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit." Romans 12:2 (NIV): "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will." Galatians 5:1 (NIV): "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." [00:02:32] - Starting the Core Concept 11: "It's Addictive" Discussion of the importance of understanding addiction, especially the biology behind it, and how that knowledge is freeing. [00:03:18] - Personal Story: Loss of Joy and Purpose Roseanne describes her own experience with alcohol, shame, and learning the science behind addiction. [00:03:49] - Biblical Perspective & Wisdom Shares scripture from Proverbs 23:31-35 about the dangers of alcohol, followed by Ephesians 5:15-18 on living wisely and avoiding drunkenness. [00:06:15] - Science of Addiction: Dopamine Explains dopamine's role in joy, motivation, and addiction; lists everyday activities that cause dopamine spikes ([00:07:01]). [00:08:06] - Dopamine and Connection Describes dopamine spikes from meaningful interactions and relationships. [00:08:50] - Dopamine Flood from Addictive Substances Details how addictive behaviors cause unnatural dopamine floods and the body's response, leading to fight-or-flight mode and impaired decision-making. [00:10:19] - Fight or Flight and Addiction Explains how the brain reacts when deprived of the addictive substance, and why willpower alone isn't enough ([00:11:19]). [00:12:08] - Loss of Joy from Everyday Activities Discusses how addiction steals joy from normal life and why awareness (not shame) brings healing. [00:13:02] - Changing Neural Pathways & Renewing Your Mind Talks about the potential for change and introduces Romans 12:2 on renewing the mind ([00:13:39]). [00:14:23] - Testing and Approving God's Will How a 12-week challenge allows listeners to "test" life without alcohol and choose a better path. [00:15:39] - Call to Action Encouraging listeners to keep learning, use resources like "Prepare to Quit," and stay aware of what addiction has cost them. [00:16:34] - Scripture for Freedom & the Choose Freedom Program Closing encouragement, highlighting Galatians 5:1 and the importance of living in freedom. [00:17:50] - Preview: Next Episode & Armor of God Roseanne previews the final core concept, using the full armor of God to protect freedom. #AddictionRecovery #RenewYourMind #ChristianSobriety #FreedomInChrist #ChooseFreedom
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    19 min
  • From Numb to Finding Purpose - Core Concept 10
    Oct 13 2025
    What happened to the person you used to be—the one who set goals, dreamed big, and believed they were made for more? In this episode of Say Goodbye and Imagine, Rose Ann Forte explores Core Concept 10: Finding Purpose—the pivotal moment when we begin to replace destructive habits with meaningful pursuits. This isn't about giving something up—it's about stepping into who God created you to be. Drawing from Scripture and real-life reflection, Rose Ann shares how purpose gets lost when we're numbing pain, and how we can reclaim it—one step at a time. Understanding Purpose Loss How substances and toxic behaviors cloud our sense of purpose and God-given giftsThe disconnection from who we were created to beMoving from goal-oriented confidence to feeling lost and frustrated The Lies We Believe Impact of unrealistic standards and comparison culturePressure to fit in rather than embrace our unique designHow pain and coping mechanisms (like drinking) deepen the disconnection from purpose Biblical Foundation Three key scriptures discussed: Jeremiah 29:11 - God's plans to prosper and give hopeEphesians 2:10 - Created for good works prepared in advanceRomans 12:2 - Transformed by the renewing of your mind This week, take time to reflect on the person you used to be and the dreams you've set aside. Ask yourself: "What did I use to love doing? What have I always wanted to try?" Whether it's picking up a musical instrument, exploring a career change through community college courses, or rediscovering hobbies like flower arranging, woodworking, or sports—start small but start somewhere. For parents, consider how you can be more present with your children and what lasting memories or values you want to instill in them. Remember, finding purpose isn't about grand gestures or immediate transformation; it's about following the instincts of who you were created to be and trusting that God will use these joy-filled pursuits in His kingdom. The key is to replace what you're removing with something that brings genuine fulfillment and aligns with your unique design. In the next episode, we'll dive into Core Concept 11: It's Addictive, where we'll explore the nature of addictive substances and behaviors and how understanding this reality can strengthen your resolve to stay free. Before then, if this podcast is serving you on your journey, please take a moment to like, rate, or review it on your favorite platform—your feedback helps others discover these life-changing concepts. Know someone who's stuck in a pattern they desperately want to break free from? Share this episode with them; sometimes one small act of encouragement can be the catalyst for transformation. And if you've read "The Plans He Has for Me: Prepare to Quit or Transform by His Promises," leaving an honest review (even just one or two sentences) can help guide others toward their path to freedom. Remember, you don't have to walk this journey alone—the Choose Freedom Program has licensed professionals ready to support you in any area where you feel stuck. Blessings until next time! Practical Application It's never too late (Rose Anne quit drinking at 60)God never removes His call on our lives until our last breathReplace toxic habits with dreams, visions, and joyful pursuitsExamples: learning an instrument, career change, community college courses, hobbies like flower arranging, woodworking, bowling, or golfingFor parents: finding purpose in raising godly children The Shift in Perspective It's not about stopping the behavior through willpowerIt's about turning away from destruction and toward your God-given giftsFocus on what brings joy and what you were created to do Action Steps Reflect on "I used to be so..." statementsIdentify dreams or activities you've always wanted to pursueStart doing something that brings you joyDon't pursue this journey alone - seek support Resources Mentioned Choose Freedom Program with licensed professionals - https://choosefreedom.today/directory/Book: "The Plans He Has for Me: Prepare to Quit or Transform by His Promises" - https://choosefreedom.today/books/ #FromNumbToPurpose #ChooseFreedom #FaithBasedRecovery #ChristianSobriety #FindingPurpose
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    15 min