The Living Truth Podcast - Freedom From Unwanted Sexual Behavior, Hope & Healing For the Betrayed

In this quiet space between the holidays—or whenever your heart finally slows down enough to feel—Kristin offers a calming, Christ-centered invitation to breathe again.   If you’re navigating the devastation of sexual betrayal, the shame of unwanted sexual behavior, or the disorienting waves of grief that erupt long after the crisis, this episode will meet you with compassion and truth.   You’ll be guided through: - Simple breathwork to settle your overwhelmed nervous system - Gentle questions to help you reconnect with your body and your needs - Biblical reminders of God’s nearness to the brokenhearted - A powerful visualization to help you encounter Jesus in a place of peace - Hope for the year ahead—not in perfection, but in His faithful presence   This is not a “try harder” message. It’s a place to take off the mask, slow down, and remember that you are held by a God who sees, knows, and loves you.   If you’re a betrayed partner seeking clarity and support, you’re invited to join Kristin’s free 5-day experience, Operation Restoration. https://living-truth.kit.com/operation-restoration   If you’re a man struggling with unwanted sexual behavior, new resources are coming soon through Men in the Battle®. https://www.living-truth.org/joinmib   Wherever you find yourself today, you’re not alone—there is hope and healing for you.   🎧 Listen to the full podcast here: https://livingtruth61.podbean.com/e/hope-in-the-new-year/?token=0c3af86fc4f46ca3a1c4844894454bce   📖 Learn more about our programs: https://living-truth.org   The Living Truth Podcast; Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal.   #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery #MenInTheBattle #WomenInTheBattle #LivingTruth #BetrayalTraumaHealing #ChristianHealingJourney #UnwantedSexualBehavior #HopeAfterBetrayal #GodIsNear #HealingInChrist #ChristianPodcast #HealingFromTrauma #GroundingPractice #NewYearHope #YouAreNotAlone #KristinCary #BreathworkForTrauma #SpiritualHealing #JesusMeetsYouHere #MenInTheBattle #WomenInTheBattle #LivingTruth

What does true sobriety look like for those battling sex and pornography addiction—and how does recovery move beyond the addict to bring healing to their partners? In this episode, Michael sits down with Tim Stein, co-author of Finding the Way Through: A Workbook for Sex and Pornography Addiction to explore a new framework for recovery. Together, they unpack the workbook’s definition of sobriety, the critical shift from addict thinking to recovery thinking, and the importance of “partner betrayal sensitivity.” With practical tools, raw honesty, and hope for transformation, this conversation equips both addicts and their loved ones with a roadmap for lasting change.   Order Finding the Way Through: A Workbook for Sex and Pornography Addiction - Sobriety, Recovery, & Partner Betrayal Sensitivity: https://a.co/d/1uaAb0F   📖 Learn more about our programs: https://living-truth.org   The Living Truth Podcast; Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal.   #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery #MenInTheBattle #WomenInTheBattle #LivingTruth

Let's explore the often-overlooked connection between spiritual warfare & mental health. In this episode, Kristin and Dr. Natalie Atwell—counselor, educator, and long-time advocate for trauma survivors— shine light on the unseen battles many believers face, especially those carrying deep childhood wounds, walking through betrayal trauma, or struggling with destructive sexual patterns.   Dr. Atwell shares the sobering rise she’s seen in her practice of clients entangled in darkness—through trauma, pornography, and even human trafficking—and how these openings can fuel emotional chaos, compulsive behavior, and distorted thinking. She also offers compelling insight into how lies planted in childhood can become spiritual footholds in adulthood… and how Jesus meets us right in those places with truth, power, and freedom.   You’ll hear: Why spiritual warfare can masquerade as mental-health symptoms How trauma makes us vulnerable to lies—and how those lies can be broken The subtle ways the enemy gains influence through culture, coping strategies, and popular practices How deliverance, counseling, and trauma-informed care work together What hope looks like for betrayed partners who feel crushed under the enemy’s attempts to steal, kill, and destroy Why God’s heart is fiercely protective of the vulnerable—and how He restores what darkness tried to ruin   Whether you’re battling unwanted sexual behavior, healing from betrayal, or simply trying to understand the spiritual dynamics beneath today’s struggles, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and deep encouragement.   Jesus is stronger than every force that comes against you—and even in the ashes, He is already rebuilding.   Links to Dr. Natalie Atwell's Resources:   Mental Warrior Website > Dr. Atwell's Personal Instagram > Mental Warrior Instagram > Natalie Atwell Counseling Instagram > Mental Warrior Facebook > Link to Purchase Natalie's Book >   Get $50 off Dr. Natalie's Mental Warrior Course 📖 Learn more about our programs: https://living-truth.org   The Living Truth Podcast; Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal.   #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery #MenInTheBattle #WomenInTheBattle #LivingTruth #SpiritualWarfare #FaithAndMentalHealth #BetrayalTrauma #TraumaAndSpirituality #UnwantedSexualBehavior #SexualAddictionRecovery #FreedomInChrist #ChristianCounseling #EmotionalHealing #HumanTraffickingAwareness #PornAddictionRecovery

The holidays can stir up overwhelming waves of grief and confusion. The music, the smells, the traditions — they bring back joyful memories and painful reminders of betrayal, leaving many women asking: “What was ever real?”   Learn how to recognize the power and purpose of your anger, the “bargaining” stage of grief, and create safe space to process painful memories. Know that your grief isn’t a setback — it’s a sign of deeper healing.   Grief Questions Kristin mentions in this episode:   Set a reasonable goal to regularly process your grief (for example, 10 minutes a day, 5 days a week). Journal out your responses to one question each day, Close your grief processing time with a gratitude list. Pay attention to ways that you see and experience gifts and beauty and enjoy them for a moment.    What do I miss? What am I angry about? What am I learning? What do I need now?   📖 Learn more about our programs: https://living-truth.org   The Living Truth Podcast; Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal.   #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery #BetrayalRecovery #HolidaysHurt

The holidays are supposed to be filled with joy and celebration — but after sexual betrayal, they can feel unbearable. In Part 1 of this special series, Michael interviews Kristin about her raw story of her first holiday season after discovery and the first steps betrayed partners need to survive:  prioritizing safety, stabilization, boundaries, and connection.   If you’re in the early days of betrayal trauma, this episode will remind you that survival is enough — and that you are not alone.   Need more support and hope? JOIN Kristin for her free 5 day experience:  Holiday Survival Strategies from November 17-21:  https://living-truth.kit.com/holiday-survival-strategies   Kristin's Private Facebook Group:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/970477406321487 📖 Learn more about our programs: https://living-truth.org The Living Truth Podcast; Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal.   #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery #BetrayalRecovery #HolidaysHurt

In this episode of the Living Truth Podcast, Kristin sits down with Michael to unpack the Men in the Battle (MIB) Battle Plan — a practical framework for men pursuing lasting freedom from unwanted sexual behavior.   They explore why relationships are the backbone of recovery, how marriage and spiritual connection anchor lasting change, and the role of education, journaling, and mentoring in shaping a man’s heart. Michael also shares why self-care isn’t optional and how simple daily practices can make the difference between relapse and resilience.   Whether you’re on your own recovery journey, walking with someone who is, or simply want to understand how men can experience real transformation, this conversation will give you hope, direction, and practical steps to begin your own Battle Plan.   Get your PDF copy of the MIB Battle Plan here:  https://living-truth.kit.com/battleplan   📖 Learn more about our programs: https://living-truth.org The Living Truth Podcast; Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal.   #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery #BattlePlan

Your words shape your world. In this episode, Steve Backlund unpacks why renewing your mind and speaking truth over yourself is the key to breaking cycles of defeat. We talk about choosing joy in tough seasons, pushing past the awkwardness of declarations, and replacing lies with God’s truth. If you’ve ever felt stuck or hopeless, this conversation will help you move forward with faith, joy, and fresh hope.   You can find Steve's resources at: https://www.ignitinghope.com/ https://www.ignitinghopeacademy.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@IgnitingHopeMinistries    📖 Learn more about our programs: https://living-truth.org   The Living Truth Podcast; Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal. #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery #TalkToYourself

What does it really mean to be a “healthy sinner?” In this eye-opening interview, counselor and author Leslie Vernick helps us unpack the difference between normal struggles and destructive patterns of abuse. Through powerful stories—including a surprising moment in a dressing room and her unforgettable “termites in the basement” analogy—Leslie gives us a fresh perspective on what health and unhealth look like in relationships. We explore how to recognize abuse, when it’s time to seek help or get out, and what it looks like to pursue emotional, spiritual, and relational wholeness as a follower of Christ. This episode is a lifeline for anyone who feels stuck in an unhealthy relationship and wants clarity, courage, and hope.   You can find more of Leslie's resources at https://leslievernick.com. 📖 Learn more about our programs: https://living-truth.org   The Living Truth Podcast; Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal. #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery #MenInTheBattle #WomenInTheBattle #LivingTruth #HealthySinners

If you’re facing divorce after betrayal—especially from a partner who refuses to change—this conversation is for you.   In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Kim Hansen Petroni, an APSATS coach who specializes in high-conflict divorce. Kim brings not only professional expertise but also lived experience to this tender and complex topic. As the founder of Not a Casserole Widow®, she equips women to move forward with confidence, clarity, and grace. Kim shares essential steps to prepare yourself for a safe and empowered exit—legally, financially, emotionally, and spiritually. Whether you're in the early stages of divorce or actively navigating this path, you'll find practical tools and soul-deep encouragement to help you make wise, well-supported decisions, assured that God is with you through it all.   📥 Free Resources from Kim: – A downloadable PDF with must-ask questions for your attorney: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1czoDTdTgCjsAxV_SK__7-TPmkhChX4o4/view?usp=sharing 🔗 Learn more about Kim’s work: www.notacasserolewidow.com Mediation Seminar: https://coachinghope4u.as.me/schedule/e0039b4a/appointment/82730551/calendar/6383562 📘 Order her book: Not a Casserole Widow®: Navigating Betrayal Trauma and Divorce with Strength & Strategy (Amazon link: https://a.co/d/f6JDK1g)   📖 Learn more about our programs: https://living-truth.org   The Living Truth Podcast; Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal.   #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #NavigatingDivorce

Most men never received a healthy, honest conversation about sexuality. Instead, we were handed silence, shame, or surface-level advice. In this powerful conversation, therapist and author Sam Jolman unpacks the deeper story behind male sexuality—and why reclaiming it requires more than just behavior management.   Whether you're walking through recovery, mentoring other men, or asking hard questions about your identity and healing, this episode will meet you where you are and call you deeper.   We discuss: Why white-knuckling your way through recovery doesn't work How father wounds and emotional neglect shape sexual behavior What it means to reclaim the heart of your God-given masculinity The vital role of sexual blessing, initiation, and community This is the sex talk you never got—but it’s the one you need. 👉 Resources + Links: Sam's website: SamJolman.com Connect with our ministry: Living-Truth.org   The Living Truth Podcast; Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal.   #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery #MenInTheBattle #WomenInTheBattle #LivingTruth #SexTalk

Have you ever wondered what it takes to truly be free from problematic sexual behavior? Have you been trying to stop for years, only to go back to it again and again, feeling more shame and discouragement and wondering why you can’t stop? In this podcast, Michael shares the “5 Keys to Freedom” answering these questions and providing you with a proven method to achieve lasting freedom. Info mentioned in this podcast: Click here to register for MIB.  For coach recommendations for men who struggle, email Support+MIB@Living-Truth.org. The Living Truth Podcast; Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal. #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery #MenInTheBattle #LivingTruth

When your world falls apart after discovering sexual betrayal, how do you even begin to put the pieces back together?   In this powerful episode, Kristin Cary is joined by trauma-informed coach and Women in the Battle® facilitator Isabel Williams, who shares her deeply personal journey from devastation to post-traumatic growth. Izzy opens up about her initial resistance to group support, the chaos of early trauma, and the turning point that helped her begin to heal—creating structure.   Together, they explore: Why structure is essential in the aftermath of discovery How to identify safe people to confide in Why trauma-informed support (not generic marriage counseling) is critical The dangers of spiritually misinformed advice What real self-care looks like (hint: it’s not bubble baths) How childhood trauma patterns resurface in crisis—and how to start rewriting them Izzy’s story is a testament to what’s possible when we receive the right kind of support and reconnect with our God-given voice and strength. Whether you’re newly navigating betrayal or further down the road, this episode will offer practical insight, encouragement, and hope.   Enrollment for Women in the Battle® & Men in the Battle® opens August 11th! If you’re ready to stop surviving and start healing, now’s the time to take your next right step. Learn more at living-truth.org.   👉 Connect with Izzy: http://Brighthopecoaching.com   📖 Learn more about our programs: https://living-truth.org   The Living Truth Podcast; Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal.   #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery #MenInTheBattle #WomenInTheBattle #LivingTruth #HealingAfterBetrayal #StructureAfterBetrayal #CreateStructure

In this powerful episode, Michael sits down with Alan Fadling, author of An Unhurried Life: Following Jesus’ Rhythms of Work and Rest. Alan reveals how a hurried life not only drains our energy but fuels the compulsions and false comforts that drive addiction. Together, Michael and Alan unpack how hurry acts as self-avoidance—and how slowing down to the pace of Jesus leads to healing, clarity, and deeper intimacy with God. If you're burned out, stuck in unwanted behaviors, or overwhelmed by life’s demands, this conversation points to a better way: a life rooted in grace, rest, and authentic spiritual formation.   To explore Alan's work further, visit his website: https://www.unhurriedliving.com/   📖 Learn more about our programs: https://living-truth.org   The Living Truth Podcast: Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues behind porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal—and the path to lasting freedom.   #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery #MenInTheBattle #WomenInTheBattle #LivingTruth #AnUnhurriedLife #SlowDown

Life as we know it is shattered when sexual betrayal is exposed in our primary relationship. The pain is profound—for both the betrayed and the one struggling with unwanted sexual behavior. Nothing remains the same, and the aftermath brings intense emotional and spiritual turmoil that calls for compassionate, trauma-informed care.   Kristin continues the conversation with Molly LaCroix on how our “internal family” may respond to the chaos and grief following betrayal. If you're unfamiliar with the concept of the Internal Family System (IFS), be sure to listen to the previous episode with Molly LaCroix, LMFT, where she gently introduces this powerful framework and how it helps us understand and befriend the parts of ourselves that are hurting.   To explore Molly’s work further—including her books and free resources—visit her website:  https://mollylacroix.com/   📖 Learn more about our programs: https://living-truth.org   The Living Truth Podcast; Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal.   #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery #InternalFamilySystems #IFS #PartnerBetrayal #MenInTheBattle #WomenInTheBattle #LivingTruth

We are born with innate qualities that reflect the image of God. As an adaptive response to adversity, we develop protective parts that block true connection with God, ourselves, and others. These protective parts can show up through perfectionism, blame, judgment, and other constrained attitudes and actions. Though we may not like them, these parts of us need our loving awareness and attunement.   In this episode, Kristin sits down with Molly LaCroix, LMFT, to explore how to recognize and gently befriend your internal family through the lens of Internal Family Systems (IFS). This is a grace-filled invitation to begin healing the inner chaos with compassion and curiosity. This conversation continues in the next episode: The Chaos Inside – How Betrayal and Unwanted Sexual Behavior Impact Your Internal Family System with Molly LaCroix.   Learn more about Molly's work, including her books and free resources by visiting her website: https://mollylacroix.com/   📖 Learn more about our programs: https://living-truth.org   The Living Truth Podcast Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal.   #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery #InternalFamilySystem

Recovering from sexual betrayal can indeed be a messy and complicated journey, filled with emotional ups and downs, but it's incredibly reassuring to know that there's a proven path forward. Understanding this process is crucial for everyone involved, whether you're a couple in recovery, someone helping others through this difficult time, or if you're single or divorced and dealing with the aftermath. Carol Sheets is a true pioneer in the field of helping couples heal from the devastating effects of sexual betrayal, which can include both infidelity and sexual addiction. In this insightful episode, Carol and Michael engage in a deep discussion about her new book, "Helping Couples Heal From Infidelity and Find Love Again," and they explore various important aspects of the recovery process. They delve into the impact of betrayal trauma on the brain, providing valuable insights into how it affects individuals. Additionally, they explain Carol's ERCEM model and AVR, offering a framework for understanding the healing process. Furthermore, they discuss the differences between infidelity and other forms of sexual addiction, as well as the best ways to address these complex issues, providing guidance and hope for those on the path to recovery.   For more resources and to order Carol's new book, visit: sexhelpwithcarolthecoach.com sanopress.com 📺 Watch the full podcast video here: https://youtu.be/FaKeTDtwBrI 📖 Learn more about our programs: https://living-truth.org   The Living Truth Podcast: Conversations that illuminate deeper issues, unlocking healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal.   #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery #BetrayalTrauma #RelationshipHealing #EmotionalSafety #TraumaInformedHealing #LivingTruth #WomenInTheBattle #MenInTheBattle

There is hope for your marriage after betrayal! In this episode, Kristin continues her interview with Stacey Smith, the Chief Clinical Officer of Daring Ventures. After sexual secrets are revealed, there must be a period of repair and amends where the betrayed partner's need for safety is the relational priority. But with humility, hard work, and deepening attunement over time, we can learn to build a new relationship rooted in secure attachment and better than it ever was before. You'll learn principles of secure functioning in marriage & how self protection sabotages connection with your spouse. Using principles of the Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy, Stacey brings her expertise as both a CSAT & an APSATs trained clinician to this episode. Learn more about her at https://www.daringventures.com/stacey/   📖 Learn more about our programs: https://living-truth.org   The Living Truth Podcast Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal. #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery

There is hope for your marriage after betrayal! In this episode Kristin interviews Stacey Smith, the Chief Clinical Officer of Daring Ventures. After sexual secrets are revealed, there must be a period of repair and amends where the betrayed partner's need for safety is the relational priority. But with humility, hard work, and deepening attunement over time, we can learn to build a new relationship rooted in secure attachment and better than it ever was before. You'll learn principles of secure functioning in marriage & how self protection sabotages connection with your spouse. Using principles of the Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy, Stacey brings her expertise as both a CSAT & an APSATs trained clinician to this episode. Learn more about her at https://www.daringventures.com/stacey/   📖 Learn more about our programs: https://living-truth.org   The Living Truth Podcast Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal.   #LivingTruthPodcast #ChristianRecovery #FaithAndHealing #AddictionRecovery

Resentment is a major factor in the root cause of relapse of any addictive behavior. It's almost always relationally driven and can be quite elusive. What are the ingredients and framework of resentment? Why do we tend to harbor it, and what can be done about it? Listen in as Michael discusses this incredibly important topic with author and coach Matthew Raabsmith. Matthew is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) through the ICF and a Restoration Coach, serving clients nationwide via telehealth. With over 15 years of experience as a pastoral leader and counselor, he has coached individuals, couples, and teams, specializing in addiction recovery, betrayal trauma, relationship health, leadership development, and professional growth.   Link to Matthew’s website: raabsmithteam.com/free    The Living Truth Podcast contains conversations that shed light on the deeper issues beneath porn addiction, sex addiction, & help for those enduring the devastation of sexual betrayal this causes.

In this episode, Kristin interviews Dr Debi Silber, founder of the Post Betrayal Transformation Institute. Dr. Debi shares her 3 groundbreaking discoveries about the impact of betrayal and the 5 crucial stages of recovery post betrayal. If you continue to struggle despite your betrayal experiences occurring years ago, you may be stuck in stage 3, with mindsets that steal your joy and rob you of your full potential to rebuild a life of purpose and growth. There can be so much more healing for you if you're willing to lean in and move forward. Join Kristin & Dr. Debi in this life giving conversation. Learn more about Dr. Debi Silber's work here: https://thepbtinstitute.co. The Living Truth Podcast; Conversations that shed light on the deeper issues that unlock healing from porn addiction, sex addiction, and sexual betrayal.