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Breaking Free: How Mind Renewal Transformed Brenda Kennison’s Life

2/20/2025

 
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Have you ever felt stuck in toxic thinking, addiction, or perfectionism? In my latest interview on the Choose 2 Think Inspirational Podcast, I had the privilege of speaking with Brenda Kennison, the founder of Day 1 of Sobriety and a Certified Neurocycle Facilitator. Brenda’s journey from depression, addiction, and self-doubt to peace, freedom, and intimacy with God is nothing short of remarkable.
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In this conversation, we explored how renewing the mind and rewiring toxic thought patterns helped her overcome alcoholism, perfectionism, and rejection. If you've ever struggled with mental health battles, anxiety, or unhealthy coping mechanisms, Brenda’s story will inspire you to take captive every thought and step into the abundant life God has for you.
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​A Life Spiraling Out of Control

​Brenda openly shared how her life once felt unmanageable. She searched for her identity in all the wrong places, striving to be something she wasn’t sure she could be. This led to internal battles with depression and anxiety—until she found herself using alcohol as a way to cope.
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“It started real subtle, real small… a glass of wine with friends, then a glass at night just to decompress from work. And then, before I knew it, things became out of control. I knew it, but I didn’t know how to get it back into control.”
Her story is one many can relate to—turning to temporary comforts in an effort to numb deep wounds. But as Brenda discovered, true healing doesn't come from avoiding pain; it comes from renewing the mind with truth.

​The Power of Thought Life: Love vs. Fear Chemicals

One of the most fascinating insights Brenda shared was how our bodies produce only two types of chemicals:
  • Love-based chemicals (dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin)
  • Fear-based chemicals (cortisol, adrenaline)
These two cannot exist in the body at the same time. This means that when we are caught in fear, anxiety, or stress, our brains literally cannot produce peace, joy, or clarity. The key to shifting from fear to love? Taking every thought captive. “It’s almost like a train track. You have to switch the track in your mind to stop the flood of stress chemicals and activate peace.”
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Brenda’s journey toward sobriety and healing was not just about breaking an addiction—it was about breaking toxic thought patterns and choosing to think in alignment with God’s truth.
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Faith + Neuroscience: A Biblical Approach to Mind Renewal

One of the most powerful moments in our conversation was when Brenda explained that God has wired our brains for renewal (Romans 12:2). Through both biblical truth and neuroscience, we can rewire our thinking and overcome the lies that keep us bound.

She now helps others do the same through her "Made for More" small group coaching workshop, where she equips individuals to:
✅ Break free from toxic mindsets
✅ Discover their identity, worth, and purpose
✅ Develop healthier thought patterns for lasting transformation
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If you’re struggling with anxiety, addiction, perfectionism, or self-doubt, Brenda’s story is proof that freedom is possible.

"You Will Outlast This"—A Message of Hope

Healing doesn’t always come instantly. Sometimes, we pray, worship, and surrender, but peace still feels distant. Brenda’s encouragement? “It won’t last. But I will outlast it.”
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No matter what storm you’re facing, you are made for more. Your thoughts don’t have to control you. You can break free, renew your mind, and step into the peace, joy, and purpose God has for you.

​🎧 Listen to or Watch the Full Interview!

If Brenda’s story encouraged you, share this post with someone who needs a breakthrough today! And if you’re ready to start your own journey of mind renewal, check out her Day 1 of Sobriety ministry: www.day1ofsobriety.org.


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