PSR Podcast

In this episode, I have back on the program Carl Thomas to dig into the recovery journey from pornography and sexual addiction. Carl shares his personal story and emphasizes the importance of community and addressing mental and emotional health. 

We discuss how recovery goes beyond just stopping harmful behaviors or behavioral sobriety and involves understanding and healing deeper emotional wounds. Carl highlights the stigma around mental health and the need for a holistic approach to recovery. He also provides resources for those seeking support. This episode aims to offer hope and guidance to anyone navigating similar challenges or interested in the recovery process.

To learn more about Carl and the Live Free Ministries resources, visit LiveFreeCommunity.org.

Topics Covered in this Episode:

• Recovery from pornography and sexual addiction
• Importance of community in the recovery process
• Personal journey and background of the speaker
• Holistic approach to mental and emotional health in recovery
• Addressing underlying emotional and mental health issues
• The stigma surrounding mental health and seeking help
• The interconnectedness of various aspects of life in recovery
• Coping mechanisms and their relation to addiction
• Encouragement for ongoing growth and development in recovery
• Resources and support available for individuals seeking recovery

More Resources:

• XXXChurch.com
• Gateway to Freedom 3-day Intensive for Men
• Grace-Based Recovery Online Study Groups

Related Podcasts:

• The Power of Community
• When Shame Gets Real
• Real Stories of Recovery and Hope

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In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Macomber to explore the emotional and psychological impact of parental infidelity on adult children. Melissa shares her personal story of discovering her mother's affair at 13 and the ensuing family dynamics. Now, as a therapist, she highlights the lack of resources for adult children dealing with such betrayal and emphasizes the importance of addressing trust issues and healing – no matter how long it has been since the parental infidelity took place. 

We discuss the broader implications of infidelity on family relationships and the unique challenges faced by children at all stages of growing up. Melissa offers valuable insights and resources for those navigating this difficult journey.

To learn more about Melissa and her research, visit MelissaMacomber.com.

Topics Covered in this Episode:

• Emotional and psychological impact of parental infidelity on adult children
• Personal experiences of discovering a parent's affair
• Family dynamics and their evolution post-infidelity
• Lack of resources and support for adult children dealing with parental betrayal
• Patterns of infidelity in adult relationships stemming from childhood experiences
• The importance of addressing feelings of betrayal and trust issues
• The role of boundaries in the healing process for adult children
• Distinction between forgiveness and rebuilding trust
• Challenges faced by adult children in navigating their parents' conflicts
• The significance of sharing personal stories and seeking therapy for healing

More Resources:

• Help for Adult Children (of any age)
• Help for Therapists
• Ten Research-Based Facts about Parent-Infidelity

Related Podcasts:

• Why Do We Cheat?
• Talking to Your Kids About Sex (Podcast Bundle)
• Rebuilding Your Marriage After Betrayal (Podcast Bundle)

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Today we have back with us Dr. Jennifer Degler, a renowned specialist in sexual health, and we delve into the often-overlooked issue of painful sex. Dr. Degler brings her wealth of expertise to the table, shedding light on the prevalence and emotional impact of sexual pain, especially among women.

We explore various conditions that explain certain kinds pain during sex and how to address them. She also highlights the emotional toll painful sex can take, noting that "many women suffer in silence, feeling isolated and ashamed, which only exacerbates the problem."

Throughout our discussion, Dr. Degler underscores the significance of still pursuing intimacy in relationships despite these challenges. She explains, "Intimacy is not just about physical connection; it's about emotional closeness and understanding.” She offers hope and practical advice, encouraging couples to seek professional help and create safe spaces for expressing emotions. 

To learn more about Dr. Degler and her resources, visit JenniferDegler.com.

Topics Covered in this Episode:

• Discussion of painful sex, particularly from women's perspectives.
• Prevalence of sexual pain disorders among women.
• Emotional and psychological implications of sexual pain.
• Stigma and shame associated with painful sex.
• The impact of societal expectations on women's sexual experiences.
• Importance of open communication in addressing sexual health issues.
• Exploration of various conditions causing sexual pain, such as vaginismus.
• The role of sexual intimacy in fostering emotional bonds within relationships.
• The significance of grieving lost intimacy and processing emotions together.
• Encouragement for seeking professional help and resources for sexual health.

More Resources:

• Sex Life Resources from Dr. Degler
• What to Do When Sex is Painful
• Worry and Anxiety Management Techniques

Related Podcasts:

• How to Make Sex Pleasurable and Fun Again
• God, Sex, and Your Marriage
• What are Your Sexpectations?

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In today’s episode, we have Wendy Crane with us to talk about her new book, "The Scandal of Virginia Grey." Wendy opens up about her personal journey through infidelity, her 20-year marriage to Reese that didn’t start out like a fairytale, and the healing process that followed. She shares the emotional experience of writing her book, which allowed her to confront past traumas and find redemption. 

We discuss the importance of forgiveness, especially Wendy's unique relationship with Reese's ex-wife. Wendy hopes her story offers hope and understanding to others in similar situations, emphasizing that healing and transformation are always possible.

To get the book and learn about coaching services, visit TheSilentAddiction.com.

Topics Covered in this Episode:

• Wendy Crane's personal journey and experiences with infidelity
• The emotional process of writing her book, "The Scandal of Virginia Grey"
• Themes of healing and redemption in relationships
• The significance of forgiveness, particularly in blended families
• The allegorical nature of Wendy's book and its connection to her life
• The impact of revisiting painful memories during the writing process
• The concept of confession as a means of healing
• Target audiences for the book, including those in similar situations and readers interested in redemption stories
• The importance of self-forgiveness and compassion towards others
• Messages of hope and transformation in the face of adversity

More Resources:

• The Scandal of Virginia Grey book
• Basics Webinar for Wives
• Wives Care Groups for Betrayal Trauma Healing

Related Podcasts:

• Life and Hope After Divorce: Reese and Sharon's Story
• Dealing with Divorce, Betrayal Trauma, and Hope
• New Course: 40 Days of Healing for Wives

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In this episode, I chat with Norma Q-Brown, our Family Care director, about preparing parents for spring break, especially regarding their children's online behavior and conversations about sexuality. 

Norma provides practical strategies for parents to foster a safe environment for open dialogue, ensuring meaningful conversations about online safety and appropriate behavior – and not just over spring break. We discuss the importance of ongoing communication, setting clear expectations, and addressing idleness. We emphasize the value of empathy, vulnerability, and guiding children through their spiritual journeys, both in everyday life as well as times, like spring break, when schedules and routines are disrupted. 

For everything we discussed in today’s episode, visit Bebroken.org/springbreaksuccess.

Topics Covered in this Episode:

• Preparing parents for spring break and its challenges.
• Managing children's online behavior during unstructured time.
• Importance of ongoing communication about sexuality between parents and children.
• Strategies for setting clear expectations and boundaries.
• Addressing idleness and its impact on children's behavior.
• Encouraging productive activities and family engagement during breaks.
• Importance of pre-spring break, during spring break, and post-spring break conversations.
• Discussing online safety and appropriate behavior with children.
• Sharing personal experiences to foster connection and trust.
• Encouraging a biblical worldview and open dialogue about curiosity and sexuality.

More Resources:

• Critical Conversation Free Webinar
• 7 Tips to Help You Address Sexual Issues with Your Kids
• A Family Game Plan for Discussing Porn (online course)

Related Podcasts:

• Teaching Healthy Tech Habits to Your Kids (Podcast Bundle)
• Talking to Your Kids About Sex (Podcast Bundle)
• A Family Game Plan for Responding to Porn

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In today’s episode, Dr. Stephen Cervantes and I explore the importance of self-awareness in relationships, especially for husbands. We discuss how men can enhance their relationships by recognizing their interaction patterns and understanding their own emotional state and that of their wife’s. 

Stephen emphasizes the value of men engaging with their wives through simple acts like sharing daily thoughts and curiosity, which can foster meaningful dialogue. We also touch on the challenges of communication, the impact of self-absorption, and the importance of processing disappointment with God first. Ultimately, the episode offers practical tools for men to nurture deeper connections with their wives.

For daily insights from Stephen, visit DoctorMarriage.org

Topics Covered in this Episode:

• Importance of self-awareness in relationships, especially for husbands.
• Recognizing patterns in interactions with partners.
• The significance of understanding one's own thoughts and feelings.
• Observing and responding to the emotional states of partners.
• Challenges of communication between men and women.
• The impact of sharing ideas and fostering dialogue in relationships.
• The role of self-absorption and its effects on communication.
• The necessity of processing disappointments with God before addressing them with a partner.
• The influence of tone and demeanor on partner perceptions during discussions.
• Strategies for creating a supportive and understanding relationship dynamic.

More Resources:

• Recognizing Patterns
• 40 Days of Training for Your Soul (free download)
• 40 Days to Oneness (marriage devotional)

Related Podcasts:

• Emotional Growth for Men Podcast Bundle
• Dealing with Conflict in Marriage Podcast Bundle
• Understanding Emotionally Detached Men

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In today’s episode, our guest is author and speaker Melinda Patrick. She transparently shares about her journey as a mother navigating her daughter's revelation of same-sex attraction. Melinda opens up about her initial reaction, driven by a desire to "fix" her daughter, and how this response strained their relationship. 

She shares the struggles, shame, and guilt she faced, and the redemptive work God has done in their lives over time, even though they are very much in the “messy middle” of the journey. Melinda emphasizes the importance of love, listening, and understanding, offering valuable insights for parents in similar situations. Her story is a testament to the power of compassion and faith in overcoming challenges.

To learn more about Melinda and her resources, visit MelindaPatrick.org.

Topics Covered in this Episode:

• Melinda Patrick's journey as a mother dealing with her daughter's same-sex attraction revelation.
• Initial reactions of parents when faced with their child's professed LGBTQ identity.
• The impact of a "fix it" mentality on parent-child relationships.
• Feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation experienced by parents.
• The importance of love, listening, and understanding in difficult family situations.
• The role of faith and spiritual growth in navigating personal struggles.
• The significance of authentic faith and modeling forgiveness in relationships.
• Common pitfalls for parents, such as the urge to control or manipulate situations.
• The power of prayer and seeking God's guidance in parenting.
• Resources for parents, including Melinda's book and podcast focused on supporting LGBTQ-identifying children.

More Resources:

• The Daring Rescue* book
• The Bridge Between Us podcast with Melinda Patrick
• HisWonderfulWorks.com

Related Podcasts:

• Can the Church Be a Safe Place for Healing and Transformation?
• How to Support Without Endorsing
• Loving Your LGBTQ-Identified Child with Grace and Truth

*This is an affiliate link. Be Broken may earn a commission on qualifying purchases.

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In today’s episode, our guest is Noah Filipiak, a pastor, author, and podcaster who is passionate about applying the reality of the gospel to the real struggles and challenges of life, especially struggles with porn and sexual brokenness. Noah opens up about his personal struggles with pornography addiction, which began in his teenage years despite growing up in a Christian home. He shares how vulnerability, community, and a deeper relationship with Christ were key to his recovery. 

We discuss the importance of addressing these issues of sexual brokenness openly within the church and fostering supportive communities. A big part of the conversation is helping men understand what the true bullseye is for recovery from unwanted sexual behaviors. Noah emphasizes that true healing comes from understanding one's identity in Christ, not just behavior modification. The good news is that there is hope for truly overcoming any unwanted sexual behaviors through the power of God’s grace and vulnerable community.

To learn more about Noah and his resources, visit BeyondtheBattle.net.

Topics Covered in this Episode:

• Men's sexual integrity journeys
• Personal experiences with pornography addiction
• Challenges faced growing up in a Christian environment
• The role of vulnerability and community in recovery
• The impact of marriage on sexual desires and relationships
• Understanding identity in Christ as a foundation for healing
• The importance of addressing sexual integrity within the church
• Overcoming shame and fear of vulnerability in discussions
• The significance of community support in the recovery process
• Practical steps for engaging in deeper transformation and discipleship

More Resources:

• Beyond the Battle Online Groups
• Needed Navigation Teen Guide
• Gateway to Freedom 3-Day Intensive for Men

Related Podcasts:

• Porn Addiction Recovery for Men Podcast Bundle
• Recovery Discovery 002: Identity
• How Can Recovery Lead to a New Growth Mission?

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In this episode, Stephen Cervantes and I dive into the ongoing struggles of emotional disconnection in marriage, sparked by one man’s agonizing question: How does a man live a good life while feeling alone and disconnect in his marriage? 

We explore the pain of feeling isolated from a spouse and the importance of personal growth, faith, and community support. 

Stephen shares wisdom on enduring suffering, finding joy beyond one’s spouse, and the necessity of a supportive network. We emphasize that personal transformation often happens through discomfort and that God's presence provides comfort and guidance. This episode is a hopeful reminder that growth and resilience can lead to deeper connections and fulfillment, even in challenging times.

For daily insights from Stephen, visit DoctorMarriage.org.

Topics Covered in this Episode:

• Emotional disconnection in marriage
• Personal growth through discomfort and suffering
• The role of faith in navigating relationship challenges
• Importance of community support and accountability
• Strategies for coping with loneliness and isolation
• Transforming perspectives on love and relationships
• Finding contentment and peace in solitude
• Engaging in practices that foster connection with God
• The significance of ongoing dialogue with God
• Encouragement to take actionable steps toward personal transformation

More Resources:

• God is Growing You
• Is Grace Really Enough?
• Dealing with Conflict - Marriage Podcast Bundle

Related Podcasts:

• What Can Stunt Your Emotional Growth Mission?
• Living More than a Love Story
• Grieving to Grow a Great Marriage

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In this episode, our guest is Casey Allison, an expert in supporting mothers through betrayal trauma. Casey, a mother of nine, shares her personal journey of navigating betrayal in her marriage and its impact on her family. 

She emphasizes the importance of healing for both mothers and their children, and the need for safety, support, and faith during these challenging times. Casey’s candid reflections on anger, authenticity, and revisiting her faith offer valuable insights and encouragement. She invites listeners to engage in support, reminding us that healing is possible through Christ and connection.

To learn more about Casey and her coaching resources, visit ComeAwakeCoach.org.

Topics Covered in this Episode:

• Mothering through betrayal trauma
• Personal experiences of a mother of nine dealing with betrayal
• Impact of betrayal on family dynamics
• Importance of healing for mothers and children
• Emotional complexities of motherhood in the context of betrayal
• Need for safety and healthy boundaries
• Communication strategies with children during difficult times
• Navigating anger and authenticity in motherhood
• Revisiting faith and theological beliefs during struggles
• Offering hope and support for mothers facing betrayal trauma

More Resources:

• Wives Care Online Groups
• 40 Days of Healing for Wives Online Course
• Come Awake Support Groups

Related Podcasts:

• Betrayal Trauma Healing Podcast Bundle
• Identifying and Meeting Needs in a Betrayed Wife
• Emotional Transformation Therapy for Betrayed Wives

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