Ep. 18: Starting Over WITHOUT Alcohol

Summary:

In this episode of Starting Over Life 2.0 with God, Tom sits down with Kari Schwear, founder of GrayTonic, to unpack the often-overlooked space between social drinking and alcoholism—what she calls “gray area drinking.”

Kari shares her personal journey of breaking free from that gray zone, how her faith reignited in the process, and why it’s crucial to get honest with ourselves if we want true transformation. Together, they explore how to start over without alcohol, how to build a support system rooted in truth, and how God meets us in the middle of our mess with clarity, purpose, and healing.

What You’ll Learn:

• What gray area drinking is and how it affects far more people than we realize
• How honesty and self-awareness are key to lasting transformation
• Why addressing the deeper “gray areas” of life—marriage, faith, health, purpose—is critical
• How community, boundaries, and prayer help support a sober and faith-filled life
• Practical tools like Kari's SABER method and the “Engines and Anchors” exercise

Why You Should Listen:

If you’ve struggled with drinking—or know someone who has—but don’t quite relate to the label “alcoholic,” this episode is for you. Kerry shares how God used her gray area drinking as a catalyst for purpose and calling. You’ll learn how to reframe the role of alcohol in your life, how to rebuild your identity, and how faith, honesty, and community can become your lifelines when starting over. It’s a powerful conversation full of grace, truth, and hope for real change.

Episode Matters:

Many people wrestle silently in the space between social drinking and dependence, unsure of where they stand or how to move forward. This episode brings light to that hidden struggle and equips listeners with faith-based insights and tools to break free.

More than just giving something up, Kerry’s story is about discovering what you’re truly meant for—and letting God reshape your life from the inside out.

Kari Schwear Contact Info:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karischwear/

Website: https://www.graytonic.com/

If today’s episode encouraged you, take the next step by visiting www.newlifewithgodpodcast.com. There, you’ll find additional resources and tools to help you navigate life’s challenges and rebuild with faith and purpose.

Share this episode with someone who may need a reminder that they’re not alone. Let’s inspire hope and show that with God’s grace, even the most broken seasons can lead to a beautiful new beginning.

If you'd like a copy of Tom's book "Starting Over: Life 2.0 With God', visit www.thestartingoverbook.com.

Do you want to know God and receive Jesus as Savior? His death paid the price for your sins. Put your trust in Him with a simple prayer of faith HERE.