• Why We Wait for Pain to Change: The Story of Manasseh
    Apr 13 2026
    Ep 79 - Why do we wait until life falls apart before we finally change? In this episode, Rose Ann Forte explores the powerful story of Manasseh in 2 Chronicles 33—a king whose life was marked by extreme rebellion, yet ultimately transformed through repentance. Despite repeated warnings from God, Manasseh ignored truth until severe consequences forced him to see clearly. This episode unpacks the deeper pattern behind that behavior. From both a biblical and neuroscience perspective, repeated actions become automatic, making it difficult to change even when we know better. Often, it takes pain to interrupt those patterns and create awareness. But what if you didn't have to wait for the "brick wall"? This episode challenges you to recognize early warning signs, interrupt destructive patterns sooner, and respond to God before consequences take hold. No matter how far you've gone, restoration is always available—but the decision to turn can happen today. Key Takeaways We often don't change when we hear truth—we change when pain gets our attentionManasseh ignored God's warnings until consequences forced awarenessRepeated behaviors become automatic in the brain, making patterns hard to breakPain interrupts patterns—but awareness can interrupt them earlierYou don't have to wait for a "rock bottom" moment to changeGod responds to a repentant heart with mercy and restorationEarly awareness and intentional response create a pathway to freedom Faith and Neuroscience Insight The brain becomes efficient at whatever we repeatedly do. Over time, behaviors—whether helpful or harmful—become automatic. Even when we know something isn't right, that knowledge alone may not be strong enough to interrupt the pattern. Pain often becomes the interrupter. But awareness can be trained before consequences occur—creating space to choose differently without needing a crisis moment. Reflection Questions Where in your life have you been continuing a pattern you already know is not aligned with what God is asking of you?What are the early signals—thoughts, feelings, or behaviors—that show up before that pattern takes over?What would it look like for you to respond differently this time, not waiting for consequences, but choosing to turn now? Recommended Resources and Links Choose Freedom Program and Resources https://www.choosefreedom.today Prepare to Quit: Finding the Keys to a Spirit-Filled Life Beyond Alcohol https://amzn.to/3EuGTvm The Plans He Has for Me Devotional https://amzn.to/42Y3E40 Transformed by His Promises Devotionalhttps://amzn.to/3Qwh8QJ Related Episode: Forgiveness of Self (Core Concept 7, September 1, 2025) Suggested Scripture 2 Chronicles 33:12–13 (NLT) 2 Chronicles 33:6 2 Chronicles 33:9 Romans 12:2 John 8:34 Connect and Next Steps If this episode encouraged you: Follow the podcast so you don't miss upcoming episodes Share this episode with someone who may need it Leave a review of the podcast or one of the books you've read—this helps others discover a path to freedom Rose Ann Forte is an international best-selling author, addiction and behavioral habits specialist, and the creator of the Choose Freedom® framework. She is the co-author of Transformed by His Promises, a faith-based devotional integrating biblical wisdom and neuroscience to help individuals break free from life-interfering thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Her body of work focuses on preparation, renewal of the mind, and compassionate, practical pathways to lasting change without shame or performance-based faith. #ChooseFreedom #ChristianPodcast #RenewYourMind #FaithAndScience #BreakThePattern #BiblicalWisdom #PersonalGrowth #FreedomInChrist #AddictionRecovery #MindRenewal
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    14 mins
  • Made in God's Image: Reclaiming Authority Over Life-Interfering Behaviors
    Mar 30 2026

    Ep 78 - In this special episode of Say Goodbye and Imagine, Certified Choose Freedom Coach Anthony Covington steps in to share a powerful reflection on identity, authority, and transformation through God's Word. Rooted in Genesis 1, the episode explores what it truly means to be created in the image of God and how life-interfering behaviors can distort that identity, leaving us feeling stuck, defeated, and out of alignment.

    Anthony walks listeners through the deeper meaning of dominion and authority, reframing it as God-given agency. When we allow substances, habits, or distractions to take control, we move out of position and experience the consequences of that misalignment. But through daily engagement with Scripture and intentional practice, we can return to the identity God originally gave us.

    Drawing from passages like Genesis 1:26–31, Ephesians 2:10, 1 Peter 1:6–7, and James 1:22–24, this episode highlights the importance of not just hearing God's Word, but living it. The Transformed by His Promises devotional becomes a practical tool for renewing the mind, reinforcing truth, and creating new patterns that align with both biblical wisdom and how the brain forms habits over time.

    If you've ever felt like you're saying the right things but not living them, this episode offers a clear path forward. You'll be challenged to reflect on who you are, what you truly want, and how practicing truth daily can lead to lasting transformation. Listen in and begin stepping back into the life God designed for you.

    Rooted in Genesis 1, this episode explores:

    • What it means to be created in the image of God
    • How life-interfering behaviors pull us out of position
    • Why practicing Scripture daily leads to real transformation
    • The connection between biblical truth and rewiring the mind

    Anthony shares how engaging with Scripture is not just reading words, but entering into relationship with God, and how that relationship restores identity, purpose, and direction.

    Scriptures Referenced

    • Genesis 1:26–31
    • Ephesians 2:10
    • 1 Peter 1:6–7
    • James 1:22–24

    Key Takeaway

    The problem isn't just behavior. It's position. When we return to who God says we are, our lives begin to align with how He designed us to live.

    Resources & Next Steps

    • Website: https://choosefreedom.today
    • Transformed by His Promises Devotional
    • Work with a Choose Freedom Coach

    Enjoying the Podcast?

    Follow Say Goodbye and Imagine and leave a review of Rose Ann's books on Amazon to help others find freedom.

    Rose Ann Forte is an international best-selling author, addiction and behavioral habits specialist, and the creator of the Choose Freedom® framework. She is the co-author of Transformed by His Promises, a faith-based devotional integrating biblical wisdom and neuroscience to help individuals break free from life-interfering thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Her body of work focuses on preparation, renewal of the mind, and compassionate, practical pathways to lasting change without shame or performance-based faith.

    #ChooseFreedom
    #ChristianPodcast
    #RenewYourMind
    #FaithBasedRecovery
    #IdentityInChrist

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    21 mins
  • Life Has Direction: Are You Paying Attention to Where You're Going?
    Mar 16 2026

    Life always has direction. The real question is not whether we are moving — the question is whether we are paying attention to where we are going.

    In this episode of the Say Goodbye and Imagine Podcast, Rose Ann Forte explores wisdom from Proverbs 4:25–27, a passage that speaks directly to the direction of our lives and the awareness we need to stay on the path God has for us.

    Most people do not wake up one day and intentionally choose a destructive path. Instead, we slowly drift away from God's direction through distraction, habits, and small compromises that seem harmless in the moment.

    Rose Ann shares a personal story about a recent season of physical setbacks — from a hernia emergency to surgery, recovery, back pain, and COVID — and how keeping her focus on God changed how she responded to adversity. Instead of falling into discouragement or self-defeating thoughts, she chose perseverance and trust in God's plan.

    This conversation explores the connection between spiritual awareness, the condition of our heart, and the direction of our life.

    Rose Ann also explains how Scripture aligns with neuroscience. The thoughts and behaviors we repeat form neural pathways that influence the choices we make and the direction we take.

    You will also hear how the Armor of God connects to this concept — the belt of truth guiding the mind and the breastplate of righteousness protecting the heart.

    Stay until the end for three reflection questions and a prayer designed to help you examine the direction your life is heading this week.

    Scripture in This Episode

    Proverbs 4:25–27

    "Let your eyes look straight ahead;
    fix your gaze directly before you.
    Give careful thought to the paths for your feet
    and be steadfast in all your ways.
    Do not turn to the right or the left;
    keep your foot from evil."

    Related passage discussed:

    Proverbs 4:23
    "Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life."

    Resources Mentioned

    Choose Freedom Program
    https://choosefreedom.today

    Books by Rose Ann Forte

    Transformed by His Promises
    https://amzn.to/4cGgA41

    The Plans He Has for Me
    https://amzn.to/42Y3E40

    Prepare to Quit: Finding the Keys to a Spirit-Filled Life Beyond Alcohol
    https://amzn.to/3EuGTvm

    Rose Ann Forte is an international best-selling author, addiction and behavioral habits specialist, and the creator of the Choose Freedom® framework. She is the co-author of Transformed by His Promises, a faith-based devotional integrating biblical wisdom and neuroscience to help individuals break free from life-interfering thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Her body of work focuses on preparation, renewal of the mind, and compassionate, practical pathways to lasting change without shame or performance-based faith.

    #ChooseFreedom
    #ChristianMindset
    #BiblicalWisdom
    #FaithAndNeuroscience
    #ChristianPersonalGrowth

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    16 mins
  • Why Good Intentions Fail: A Biblical and Neuroscience Perspective on Galatians 5
    Mar 2 2026

    Ep 76 - We all feel it. That internal tug-of-war between what we want in the moment and what we know is right.

    In today's episode, Rose Ann explores Galatians 5:17–18 and the internal battle between the sinful nature and the Spirit. Why are good intentions often not enough? Why does willpower fail us? And what does it actually mean to live Spirit-led instead of self-reliant?

    Drawing from her own journey of choosing sobriety and renewal, Rose Ann unpacks:

    • The difference between willpower and Spirit-led transformation
    • How repeated behaviors create neural pathways that feel like truth
    • Why dopamine-driven relief can slowly form psychological slavery
    • The connection between John 8:34 and modern neuroscience
    • How Romans 12:2 reveals the process of testing and renewing the mind

    This episode will help you recognize where you may be choosing short-term relief over long-term alignment—and how to begin forming new pathways rooted in obedience, wisdom, and grace.

    Scripture Covered

    • Galatians 5:17–18
    • Psalm 51:5
    • John 8:34
    • Romans 12:2

    Key Takeaways

    • The internal battle is normal. Awareness removes shame.
    • Relief is not the same as righteousness.
    • Repeated behaviors shape the brain and reinforce patterns.
    • Transformation requires testing, not just trying harder.
    • Spirit-led living changes desire, not just behavior.

    Reflection Questions

    1. Where do you feel the internal battle between personal relief and Spirit-led righteousness?
    2. What behavior have you repeated that now feels normal but may be pulling you out of alignment?
    3. What would it look like this week to pause and ask the Holy Spirit before responding to stress or triggers?

    Resources Mentioned

    • Transformed by His Promises
    • The Plans He Has for Me
    • Prepare to Quit
    • The Choose Freedom® Program
      ➜ choosefreedom.today/self-study

    Rose Ann Forte is an international best-selling author, addiction and behavioral habits specialist, and the creator of the Choose Freedom® framework. She is the co-author of Transformed by His Promises, a faith-based devotional integrating biblical wisdom and neuroscience to help individuals break free from life-interfering thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Her body of work focuses on preparation, renewal of the mind, and compassionate, practical pathways to lasting change without shame or performance-based faith.

    #ChooseFreedom
    #OvercomingTemptation
    #RenewYourMind
    #SpiritLedLife
    #ChristianGrowth

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    16 mins
  • The Danger of Thinking We Know Better - Trusting God Over Our Own Judgment
    Feb 16 2026

    In this episode of Say Goodbye and Imagine!, Rose Ann Forte explores 1 Samuel 15:22 and the powerful confrontation between obedience and self-justification. When King Saul adjusted God's instruction to fit what "appealed to him," he revealed a pattern that is still common today — redefining wisdom according to our own desires.

    This episode examines:

    • Selective obedience
    • Rationalization and self-deception
    • The danger of trusting personal judgment over God's instruction
    • How modern culture normalizes compromise
    • The neuroscience behind self-preservation and justification

    Rose Ann connects biblical wisdom with brain science, explaining how cognitive dissonance and reward-seeking pathways influence our decisions — and how obedience restores clarity and peace.

    The episode concludes with three reflection questions and a prayer designed to help listeners examine where they may be trusting themselves more than God.

    Scripture Referenced:
    1 Samuel 15:22–24
    1 Samuel 15:9
    Ephesians 2:2

    • https://www.choosefreedom.today
    • Link to Choose Freedom Program page
    • Amazon links for:
      • The Plans He Has for Me: https://amzn.to/4aRxKdy
      • Prepare to Quit: https://amzn.to/4bVIR6m
      • Transformed by His Promises: https://amzn.to/4rirDoj

    #ChooseFreedom #GodlyDecisionMaking #BiblicalWisdom #ChristianLiving #FaithAndLife

    Rose Ann Forte is an international best-selling author, addiction and behavioral habits specialist, and the creator of the Choose Freedom® framework. She is the co-author of Transformed by His Promises, a faith-based devotional integrating biblical wisdom and neuroscience to help individuals break free from life-interfering thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Her body of work focuses on preparation, renewal of the mind, and compassionate, practical pathways to lasting change without shame or performance-based faith.

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    14 mins
  • The Treasure of God's Wisdom - Receiving the Wisdom God Freely Gives
    Feb 2 2026

    Ep 74 - In this episode of Say Goodbye and Imagine!, Rose Ann Forte continues the Wisdom series with a reflection on Proverbs 2:6–7 (NLT), a passage that reminds us that wisdom is not earned through experience or effort—it is granted by God.

    Rose Ann walks listeners through a devotional reflection on why so many of us admire biblical wisdom yet struggle to access it when making real-life decisions. She explores how wisdom comes directly from God's Word, how listening for His voice requires intentional pause, and why integrity activates the protection Scripture promises.

    This episode invites listeners to rethink obedience—not as control, but as a desire to live free from unnecessary consequences—and to see wisdom as a treasure God longs to give. Rose Ann closes with three reflection questions and a prayer designed to help listeners slow down, listen, and walk forward with confidence and peace.

    Scripture Referenced:

    • Proverbs 2:6–7 (NLT)
    • Ephesians 2:2 (NLT)

    Key Themes:

    • Wisdom as a gift, not an achievement
    • Truth, integrity, and discernment
    • Accessing God's wisdom through Scripture and listening
    • Protection that comes from walking in truth
    • Freedom from repeated consequences

    Resources Mentioned:

    • Books: The Plans He Has for Me, Prepare to Quit, Transformed by His Promises www.choosefreedom.today/books
    • Coaching and resources: https://www.choosefreedom.today

    Rose Ann Forte is an international best-selling author, addiction and behavioral habits specialist, and the creator of the Choose Freedom® framework. She is the co-author of Transformed by His Promises, a faith-based devotional integrating biblical wisdom and neuroscience to help individuals break free from life-interfering thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Her body of work focuses on preparation, renewal of the mind, and compassionate, practical pathways to lasting change without shame or performance-based faith.

    #ChooseFreedom #GodlyDecisionMaking #BiblicalWisdom #ChristianLiving #FaithAndLife

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    15 mins
  • 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 Snyder, 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 90:12Proverbs 3:5–6Matthew 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 Rose Ann Forte is an international best-selling author, addiction and behavioral habits specialist, and the creator of the Choose Freedom® framework. She is the co-author of Transformed by His Promises, a faith-based devotional integrating biblical wisdom and neuroscience to help individuals break free from life-interfering thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Her body of work focuses on preparation, renewal of the mind, and compassionate, practical pathways to lasting change without shame or performance-based faith.
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    21 mins
  • 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



    Show more Show less
    15 mins