Explore every episode of the podcast Unashamed Unafraid
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| EP 128: Keeping it Real with Rhoda | 01 Oct 2024 | 00:44:59 | |
In this episode we invite Rhoda, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and seasoned podcaster to discuss critical aspects of couples therapy and relationships. Rhoda shares her extensive experience in the mental health field, emphasizing the importance of hard conversations, self-honesty, and long-term thinking for relationship recovery—especially in the context of addiction. She provides actionable advice for both partners struggling with difficult subjects like relapse disclosure and managing criticism. Rhoda also highlights the role of mutual empowerment and authentic communication in rebuilding trust and fostering a more substantial connection. Essential tips for recognizing and changing negative narratives in relationships are discussed, making this episode a valuable resource for couples navigating complex emotional landscapes. Listen to Rhoda's podcast: https://www.therapyideas.net/podcast/
| |||
| EP 127: The Therapy Brothers | 17 Sep 2024 | 00:41:34 | |
*This is a reposted episode from The Therapy Brothers Podcast* therapybros.com In this special episode, Steve is interviewed by Tyler and Brannon Patrick, hosts of the Therapy Brothers Podcast. Steve shares his powerful and raw personal journey of addiction, recovery, and the reclamation of his own heart. He opens up about his struggles with addiction while in prominent church roles and the pivotal moments of grace that guided him towards healing. Steve emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, acceptance, and the support of a masculine brotherhood in overcoming personal demons and living a life aligned with one's true values. The discussion dives deep into the concept of 'godly masculinity' and how men can harness their inherent strengths in a positive and purposeful way.
| |||
| EP 118: Making Repair with Marc Pimsler | 16 Jul 2024 | 00:56:30 | |
We’re thrilled to welcome Marc Pimsler back for another episode! Marc, a lover of God, is a therapist, seeker, and a teacher with the heart of a student. He's in long-term recovery and he's here to talk about making repair. Whether we refer to it as making repair, making amends, setting things right, or repairing relationships, there are ineffective or even harmful ways to approach it. Marc shows up with authenticity and passion to advocate for an effective approach. He begins by defining Addiction, Responsibility, and Accountability in a way that brings clarity to the discussion. We explore the reasons behind making repair, the work that must be done first, how to recognize unhealthy expectations, and strategies for navigating the process. You can reach Marc via email at mvp@mvp-consulting.net or find him on Instagram @mpimsler and Facebook. If this episode resonates with you, or if you know someone who needs a reminder of God’s open arms, please share the link to this episode with them. At Unashamed Unafraid, we are here to spread the words of hope and healing through Jesus Christ.
| |||
| Ep 30: Jason's Story | 24 Apr 2020 | 00:58:30 | |
Our own Darth Vader of audio, Jason, sits down with Steve and James to talk about his pornography addiction and how he found recovery through honesty and vulnerability. Recognizing that he couldn’t win this fight on his own, Jason learned to truly surrender. His relationship with God has been deepened and strengthened. He now is filled with peace, love, and joy. If this story touches your life or you know it will touch someone's life, please consider sharing this with them. | |||
| Ep 29: Q and A with Autumn | 17 Apr 2020 | 01:03:30 | |
The UU Crew sits down with Autumn (Chris’ wife) and answers three questions from anonymous sources. The first question is extremely difficult to get through, so be careful if listening around impressionable little minds. It is a very difficult question. The others are not as heavy | |||
| Ep 26: Hope And Healing Support with Michelle | 27 Feb 2020 | 01:03:56 | |
Steve and James sit down with the owner/administrator of the website hopeandhealingsupport.com. While running a website to bring people to Christ, she found that her website was being inundated with questions about addiction and recovery for the betrayed. So she started the website hopeandhealinglds.com. Her website has information for women affected by the sexual addiction of a loved one. We greatly appreciate Michelle sharing her heart with us. | |||
| Ep 25: Anonymous Questions Answered with Dr. Skinner | 21 Feb 2020 | 00:40:50 | |
Jason and Steve sit down and talk with Dr. Skinner about anonymous questions that UnashamedUnafraid (UU) have received. He talks to them about how there is recovery, and a saving grace through recovery, from any type of addiction. The addict must give up something to get their life back. It also involves true connection to others. At UU, we believe an addict can only do it through our Savior Jesus Christ and his infinite Atonement. | |||
| Ep 24: John and Amy Harrison | 07 Feb 2020 | 01:17:31 | |
John and Amy sit down with Steve and CT to talk about their personal stories. They share how they met, how they have worked through recovery, and how Christ has used their struggles to bring them closer together. They are an amazing couple. We at Unashamed appreciate John and Amy for allowing us to share their story. If this affects you and you know others who might be struggling, please consider sharing this with them. We are here, Unashamed and Unafraid to share stories about addiction recovery, and redemption through Jesus Christ. | |||
| Ep 23: Moore on Shame with Dr Adam Moore | 24 Jan 2020 | 01:06:52 | |
Dr. Moore started his practice in marriage and family therapy in St. George, Utah. He quickly realized there was a problem in families with sexual addiction and betrayal trauma. Dr. Moore decided to specialize in assisting families in these types of issues. He now has several practices throughout Utah and Nevada. He also has a two year waiting list, so he is obviously very good at what he does. Besides talking about how successful Dr. Moore is, Steve and Jason sit down to talk to him about shame. Dr. Moore talks about shame prone families. He also talks about shame and denial work together. Dr. Moore then dives into the roadblocks that we have for true recovery, and this is only during the first twenty minutes. So pull up a chair and listen to this episode. We here at Unashamed Unafraid are so thankful for professionals like Dr. Moore who is willing to speak about these topics with us and our listeners. We hope that you will share this episode with those you love. Everyone will benefit from this episode. Please share it on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. If you haven’t subscribed yet, please subscribe and tell your friends. | |||
| Ep 22: Unashamed for the New Year | 09 Jan 2020 | 00:52:07 | |
What a year! 2019 saw a lot of changes for UnashamedUnafraid. The UnashamedUnafraid (UU) Crew is so excited for 2020. This episode is a special tribute to the hard work and dedication of the UU Crew. For more information on the crew, please visit the Our Team page at UnashamedUnafraid.com. So what is going to be discussed in this special episode? The UU Crew sit down and talk about the podcast becoming what it is today. They discuss how it all started and how everyone came to be a part of the Crew. In early 2019, Chris “The Hulk of Hope” and Steve “Rapper Host” made it a goal to record and publish 10 men’s stories. The Crew also talks about which episode was their favorite and what to expect for the blog and podcast in 2020. Please read the blog post or listen in on the podcast platform of your choice and review us on iTunes. From the Crew at UnashamedUnafraid, we wish you a very Happy New Year. May this year be the year for you to become and remain Unashamed and Unafraid through the hope and healing of Christ Jesus. If you have been blessed by this message and want to inspire others, please share this message on social media, subscribe to our podcast, and review us on iTunes. UnashamedUnafraid can be heard on any major podcast station. Thank you for your participation this year and for years to come. God Bless You, UU Crew | |||
| Ep 21: Q & A Answers: Boundaries with Addicts and is God Part of Recovery? | 27 Dec 2019 | 01:08:03 | |
Merry Christmas! Here is a special episode where all of the players in Unashamed Unafraid (UU) come together and answer listeners’ anonymous questions. We really appreciate all of the people who have tuned in this year. We have something special coming in the year to come but this won’t be discussed in this episode. What will be discussed in this episode is the questions from anonymous listeners like you. | |||
| Ep 20: Matt’s Story - By Surrendering He Received Redemption | 14 Dec 2019 | 01:14:57 | |
Steve and Jason sit down with an amazing man named Matt. Matt was on EP 18: Intro to 12 Step & ARP Meetings and explained a little bit of his story with the group. This time, he gets to talk all about his story. He opens up about his rocky childhood due to misguided views on what real connection should be. He also talks about how his parents were not safe. He talks about his relationships now and what has changed. He finishes by talking about what recovery means to him and his family. | |||
| EP 117: Live Unashamed- Reaching Out, What Does it Mean? | 09 Jul 2024 | 00:22:15 | |
Alcoholics Anonymous' Dr. Bob's response to Bill Wilson after he complained that no one showed up for a meeting he spent the day organizing— "But you didn't drink today" — speaks volumes. In this episode, Steve, James, and Chris recognize the challenges of forming real connections and a supportive community while providing uplifting advice. Tune in for insightful truths like these: Everyone fears rejection, and introverts face extra hurdles, but there are ways to overcome them. Each connection made is a victory against isolation, and reaching out pulls us out of our negotiations with our addiction.
| |||
| Ep 19: Heart of A Woman Retreat: Personal Experiences | 28 Nov 2019 | 00:52:51 | |
Kristi, Mindy, and Keshia sit down with James and Steve and talk about the Heart of a Woman Retreat. They discuss what their lives are like right now, what their apprehensions were before going to the retreat, talk about what they learned there, what they would tell someone about the retreat, and who might be on the fence about going. The women are extremely open and vulnerable about their experiences and is an episode that will make you laugh and cry in the same breath. If this affects you and you know others who might be struggling, please consider sharing this with them because we are here Unashamed and Unafraid to share stories about addiction, recovery, and redemption through Jesus Christ. | |||
| EP 18: Intro to 12 Step & ARP Meetings | 07 Nov 2019 | 01:02:47 | |
Jason, Matt, Randy, and Steve sit down and talk about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints’ (LDS) ARP. This is a version of the AA 12 step program created by Bill W. The difference between the two versions is that the LDS Church focuses on the relationship that a person has with Jesus Christ. This episode focuses on what ARP is, what it is not, and how it can help the addict. ARP is a great start on the road to recovery. Listen in to learn about the healing and help Jason and Matt have received through the ARP program and how Randy talks about having the ability to choose the road to recovery. If this affects you and you know others who might be struggling, please consider sharing this with them because we are here unashamed and unafraid to share stories about addiction, recovery, and redemption through Jesus Christ. | |||
| Ep 17: Theron Recovery Story - A Story of Healing and Redemption | 25 Oct 2019 | 01:08:41 | |
Theron’s story is one of deep tragedy and amazing healing. Despite all he experienced, he has gained an intimate relationship with God. Although Theron is still working on this recovery, the way he talks about his marriage and his new relationship with God is truly inspiring. Sharing stories that are unashamed and unafraid is our mission. However, this means they are usually raw, real and authentic. DISCLAIMER: Theron’s story has some traumatic experiences he faced in his childhood, so be forewarned. | |||
| Ep 16: Anonymous Questions Answered: Bipolar, Dailies, & Shame | 11 Oct 2019 | 00:57:08 | |
For our 7th Anonymous Questions episode, we brought back a favorite guest Todd Olson, LCSW. Todd is one of the founders of LifeSTAR and practices here in Utah. He will address three questions we received. The first one is about dealing with sexual addiction while having bipolar disorder. The second one is about dailies and what they are. The third one is about shame. Shame is such a big topic that we will be covering that in a future podcast. As always we commend the courage of our anonymous question-askers for being willing to reach out and be vulnerable. | |||
| Ep 15: Our Best Recovery Resource: The Warrior Heart Retreat | 26 Sep 2019 | 00:50:07 | |
We have been extremely excited about promoting A Warrior Heart Retreat. What is it? You will have to listen to understand what it is and what it is not. If you want to know more about the accommodations and other questions you might have, please listen to this episode (click here) we did before. But before they get into the podcast, they have announced that an anonymous donor has donated a full free scholarship to the retreat (that’s $445)! To enter the giveaway you must: 1- Follow us on FaceBook and Instagram (@unashamedunafraid) 2-Tag 5 friends on the episode post 3- e-mail James@unashamedunafraid.com a brief e-mail about why you want to be considered. The podcast has four guests who share their experience at the retreat Aaron, Mike “Blake”, Mike, and Sway. | |||
| Ep 14: The Story of Us: Richard & Becky's Recovery Story | 12 Sep 2019 | 01:14:48 | |
Richard and Becky's story is an amazing story of honesty, creating boundaries, finding God, and ultimately the path of healing and hope. Richard does a great job of talking about how he has found acceptance with God even though he’s not perfect. Becky shares how she has been able to support Richard while creating boundaries and safety for her own healing. | |||
| Ep 13: Sway and Rachel’s Recovery Story | 23 Aug 2019 | 01:21:27 | |
In this episode, we had the privilege of interviewing Sway & Rachel. We discuss how his addiction started, how it eventually spiraled out of control and how it impacted their lives. God brought redemption into their lives through getting caught, an amazing therapist, and their children. Rachel explains how solid boundaries brought safety for her and their marriage. They give us the straight talk on how difficult the path of recovery can be but how it truly is worth it. We know you can find hope in their story of courage, grit, and redemption. We also announce the winner of the Heart of a Woman retreat giveaway! | |||
| Ep 12: Heal Betrayal Trauma: The Heart of a Woman Retreat | 09 Aug 2019 | 01:04:10 | |
At Unashamed Unafraid we know the women go through a lot. The Heart of a Woman Retreat can be a powerful tool to help women heal. This year we decided to give back in our small way by sponsoring one woman to go on the retreat this year. Find out how below! Heart of a Woman is a retreat produced by women for women. It is a three-day event starting on a Thursday and ending on a Saturday. It is held in Wanship, Utah (near Park City, Utah). The retreat is unlike anything you have ever experienced.t is the women’s version of the Warrior Heart Retreat for men. | |||
| Ep 11: Anonymous Questions Answered: Resentment | 25 Jul 2019 | 00:53:46 | |
How much courage does it take to send us an open question like this? I want to commend our anonymous question submitter for such great courage! Your question is likely a question many have. We hope this helps and we want you to know that you are also helping others by submitting your question. In this episode, we address a question which is centered around resentment. Resentment is a stumbling block in recovery we all have to face. But it isn’t insurmountable. It can be overcome. Steve, James and his wife Kristy talk about their personal experiences with and opinions about resentment, forgiveness, self-compassion, validation, and more. If you have an anonymous question, please submit it to us at chris@unashamedunafraid.com. | |||
| Ep 10: Paul's Recovery Story | 11 Jul 2019 | 01:14:27 | |
At UnashamedUnafraid we know this is a very sensitive and tough situation to be talking about. You may have a very visceral reaction to listening to this podcast. We hope you walk away considering just how far-reaching Christ’s atonement really is and know that no matter who you are or what you’ve done there is always hope for redemption. Paul's story of addiction includes becoming a registered offender but is an amazing story of the redemption we all are looking for. | |||
| EP 116: Christian and Kelle's Story | 02 Jul 2024 | 00:53:23 | |
Christian was born the middle of eight children and felt that he had to act out to get noticed. In his early adolescence he experimented with opiates, alcohol, a cigarette, and sex. Kelle met Christian during their senior year of High School, the two started dating, and were quickly married after he returned home from his LDS mission. A few years and a motorcycle accident later, Christian went through a steady progression of painkillers, alcohol, gambling, and adultery. He became unable to hold down a job and disappeared for long stretches of time, Kelle and their four children unsure of when or if he would show up next. Christian and Kelle’s story is a testament to the fact that there is always a way back, that no soul is over and done, at least not so long as we are willing to open ourselves even a little to the light that is cracking its way into our hearts.
| |||
| Ep 9: Anonymous Questions Answered No. 5 | 03 May 2019 | 01:27:05 | |
We have had some great questions submitted. I again want to commend those who had the courage to reach out and be vulnerable. Truly a great example of being Unashamed and Unafraid! We had a great group to answer these questions. I was joined by Sherie Christensen, MFT along with James and Kristy who shared their recovery story with us last year. Questions in this episode deal with how to do disclosure, support a struggling spouse, and how to get long distance resources. | |||
| Ep 8: Dave's Recovery Story | 06 Mar 2019 | 01:27:01 | |
I first heard Dave’s story in 2014 and it was amazing. I apologize that this episode is so long, but his story is amazing. I just couldn’t edit anything out. I hope you take the chance to listen to his whole story—there is so much open and wisdom to gain from Dave’s journey through drug and sexual addiction and his awesome recovery. | |||
| Ep 7: Our Invitation to Be Unashamed & Unafraid | 22 Feb 2019 | 00:46:37 | |
It has been 3 years since I first launched UnashamedUnafraid and it has been amazing. We have shared a lot of insights, stories, and hope and have had so much shared back with us. It is amazing how God finds us in the most dark and hopeless moments. Starting our fourth year Chris and I would like again invite any men struggling with sexual addiction to be unashamed and unafraid. | |||
| Ep 6: Anonymous Questions Answered No. 4 | 27 Dec 2018 | 00:39:57 | |
In this episode we have only one question, but it’s a good one and one that I can very much relate to. The question in this episode focuses on serving in church leadership while struggling ,and how to get help. My guest for this post is Josh Whitney, a pastor at the Rock Church in Draper, Utah. He has found his way through those struggles and has some great perspective for those who walk this line of personal struggle and leadership. | |||
| Ep 5: Betrayal Trauma Resource: The Heart of a Woman Retreat | 10 Aug 2018 | 00:52:17 | |
Last year I posted about my top-secret recovery resource: The Wild at Heart Retreat. This retreat is a game changer! I hope that you have taken the chance to listen to my post with Dorothy Maryon, CMHC about Betrayal Trauma and understanding our wife’s experience. Our wives get put through the ringer with our addiction and recovery and it’s not their fault. If only there was a top secret resource for their healing too…turns out there is! For this podcast I sat down with the founder and two members of the prayer team for the Heart of a Woman Retreat, the sister retreat to Wild at Heart for men. Here they describe the retreat. I strongly encourage you to listen to this one and feel the spirit of the experience this retreat can be for the women in our lives. To the women: you deserve this. To the men: show this to your woman and let her know you’re sorry for hurting her, you support her finding healing and recovery, and you are more than happy to take the kids for a weekend. Battle for her heart men! Here is a way you can! | |||
| Ep 4: James and Kristy's Recovery Story | 18 Jul 2018 | 00:57:27 | |
It’s time for another couple’s journey through all the difficulty that addiction is and finding hope and healing. James and Kristy took 14 years to finally start their real journey with God, but it was worth it. As you read and listen I hope that there are parts of their story that resonate and that you can relate to. Their story is a great example of becoming unashamed about who they are and the mistakes they’ve made and unafraid of really connecting with God and seeing the life He has for them. | |||
| Ep 3: Anonymous Questions Answered No. 3 | 10 May 2018 | 00:22:27 | |
We are back with our third edition of answering anonymous questions. I want to give large props to those who submit these questions. Also, so sorry it took us so long to get this one out! I hope our answers are helpful. To answer this episodes question I was able to catch up with Brian Murdock, LCMHC of Brian Murdock Counseling. Brian has been in the mental health field since 1992. In private practice, he currently works with sexual addiction and traumas connected to those addictions. | |||
| Ep 2: Anonymous Questions Answered No. 2 | 15 Mar 2018 | 00:32:50 | |
We are back with our second edition of answering anonymous questions. I want to give large props to those who submitted these questions. I hope our answers are helpful. This Episode I sat down with both Chris and Todd Olson, LCSW, one of the Co-Founders of LifeSTAR, to help answer these questions. | |||
| EP 115: Live Unashamed- Navigating the Influence of Digital Media | 25 Jun 2024 | 00:20:44 | |
Just as we establish clear boundaries in our relationships with other people, we must also set boundaries in our relationship with digital media, especially when we consider that media use is the "most undiagnosed addiction behavior by a mile." It consumes massive chunks of our time on its own, and can lure the recovering porn addict back into full-blown relapse. Hear the Unashamed Unafraid team speak to all of these points, as well as how parents play a crucial role in modeling healthy media habits for their children, how women especially are hurt by social media's brutal comparison game, and how being constantly plugged in blocks us from "finding God in silence."
| |||
| EP 114: Equine Therapy with Julie Forbes | 18 Jun 2024 | 00:43:18 | |
Julie Forbes is a healer of souls. In this episode, we discuss her practice of helping people heal through spiritual connection with and in the presence of horses - Equine Assisted Learning. She has worked professionally in this field for over a decade in the St. George, Utah area. Julie shares the success she has witnessed in her work with troubled teens and addicts, asserting that no matter what we believe about ourselves, we can find a way to face our 'Soul Hurt,' release our false beliefs, and emerge renewed and healed. Join us as Julie describes how she became involved with Equine Assisted Learning, what the experience entails, and how God manifests through it. We believe you'll find her unique perspective on healing, the definition of addiction, and the promise of lasting recovery refreshing. You can contact Julie by email, julie@julieforbes.net, her website Dragonfly Soul, Facebook, and Instagram.
| |||
| EP 113: Live Unashamed- Recovering vs. Recovered | 11 Jun 2024 | 00:21:09 | |
"I absolutely know with every fiber of my being that [God] loves me for who I am." Recovery is not a one-size-fits-all process. Each person may define their recovery journey in terms of what resonates with them personally. Recovery is as much about self-awareness and growth as it is about overcoming addiction and the journey from “recovering” to “recovered” lies in our faith in God and His Son Jesus Christ that healing is not only possible for others, but we each too are worthy to receive it and can start living a fulfilling life unburdened by addiction.
| |||
| EP 112: Empathy with David Thompson | 04 Jun 2024 | 00:40:50 | |
David Thompson is a marriage and family therapist, a certified sex addiction therapist, and half of the Two Therapists Talking podcast. In today’s episode he is invited to share whatever message “lights him up,” and he chooses to speak on the tremendous power of empathy. He even states that “empathy is the key that unlocks every door.” Of particular usefulness is David’s step-by-step guide for how to listen to a loved one with complete empathy. Empathy is impossible while still in shame, and he speaks to the need of separating who we are from what we have done. He shares the process by which he proves to each of his clients their inherent worth, allowing them to finally live unashamed.
| |||
| EP 111: Live Unashamed- Strategies for Breaking Addictive Patterns | 28 May 2024 | 00:21:34 | |
If porn is a paycheck and I’m getting $200 a week and you tell me to just stop - the math doesn’t add up because I’m broke. You have to give them hope - “what if I give you $500 a week in recovery.” And that $500 is hope. This episode uncovers the understanding of unconditional love from God in talking with others and seeking God. Brother and Sisterhood, good 12 Step programs, bootcamps, etc. is what provides the larger payoff of a life in peace from the insanity cycle of acting out.
| |||
| EP 110: Matt and Natalie's Story | 21 May 2024 | 00:59:50 | |
Matt and Natalie were high school sweethearts, but unknown by her, Matt had been struggling with pornography since he was a boy. His struggles continued through high school and a church mission, and into their marriage, but he had never shared any of this with his parents, church leaders, or with Natalie. After their first year of marriage, she opened up to him about a childhood of sexual abuse, and Matt began a very slow process of disclosure to her… a process that lasted the next twelve years. He lived with intense feelings of shame and felt as though he was “nothing.” After thirteen difficult years of marriage, and some months of separation, Matt was given the choice of divorce or in-house treatment at Desert Solace, in St. George, Utah. He chose Desert Solace. Those ninety days changed his relationship with himself, with God, and with his wife. He brought a new energy to their marriage as they began a journey of real and lasting recovery. Matt and Natalie’s story is a reminder of the possibility of transformation, real change, and renewed connection possible in recovery. We are reminded that there are no accidents, and everything in their journey has brought them to where they are now: coaches working with others who are facing the same struggles as they did. You can find them at truthrisingcoaching.com.
| |||
| EP 109: Live Unashamed- Paper beats rock, rock beats scissors, nature beats addiction | 14 May 2024 | 00:22:05 | |
Changing our state is a good practice when dealing with life’s stressful events – but getting outside and connecting to nature resets our minds. Chris, Steve, and James share what works best for them from hiking, sitting by a fire, or getting on a boat to help reset their state of mind. The episode ends with a challenge to get outdoors and dive into nature. When you are done, go back to your car and get your phone and email a picture to chris@unashamedunafraid.com.
| |||
| EP 126: Q&A with Josh | 10 Sep 2024 | 00:50:12 | |
In this episode hosts Steven and James are joined by their friend Josh. They answer questions sent in by Josh and in doing so, they dive into a personal and candid discussion about recovery, touching on themes such as discipleship, shame, and the concept of being 'broken.' The conversation includes a deep dive into what it means to be 'recovered' versus 'in recovery,' the significance of self-care in a spiritual context, and the powerful idea that brokenness can lead to greater strength and beauty through divine grace.
| |||
| EP 108: Jacob and Trichelle's Story | 07 May 2024 | 00:48:15 | |
Jacob and Trichelle, married for 32 years, both serve on the staff of Desert Solace, a pornography and sexual addiction treatment facility in St. George, Utah. In this episode, they recount their transformative journey from what they once described as 'soul sucking' to something they now see as 'beautiful'. Jacob's addiction overshadowed the first 26 years of their marriage but was difficult to identify as it oscillated between sex and workaholism. Their marriage teetered on the edge. Feeling unredeemable, both, at different points, reached their ultimate breaking points. In time, they both emerged from the darkness and today, help others through similar struggles. This episode delves into the couples’ heart-wrenching but ultimately redemptive story. Discover how they achieved what seemed impossible and continue to persevere today. Hear why they call God their best friend. Learn about Desert Solace and the impactful work Jacob and Trichelle now do there. Gain access to tools, resources, inspiration, and possibly a reframing of your own journey.
| |||
| EP 107: Live Unashamed- Higher Power | 30 Apr 2024 | 00:20:33 | |
In this episode, Steve, James, and guest Kurt Francom explore the role of a higher power in addiction recovery. Recognizing the diversity of perspectives surrounding this topic, the trio transcends conventional definitions, offering insights grounded in their collective experience. The conversation touches on crucial themes, including wounds, surrender, identity, healing, and happiness. If you've ever pondered the complexities of this subject, you'll enjoy this thought-provoking and spirited discussion.
| |||
| EP 106: Live Unashamed- Is Long Term Sobriety Possible? | 23 Apr 2024 | 00:21:49 | |
Chris discusses his 15 years of sobriety and how it is defined with the group. Rather than a focus on abstinence from lust and acting out, recovery is a new way of life we walk with Christ. They also discuss the analogy of a marathon runner who trips up on mile 24 and how he doesn’t have to restart the race, he gets up and keeps on running. What is your story in recovery? How have you defined reality and, more importantly, how do you define living a life with Christ in true hope and recovery? Share with Chris@unashamedunafraid.com, James@unashamedunafraid.com, and Steven@unashamedunafraid.com.
| |||
| EP 105: Brian and Alicia's Story | 16 Apr 2024 | 00:44:26 | |
“When you are at rock bottom, you are super hard on yourself and you are just going to keep going further down - but when you finally have hope - you see the light and desire to keep going.” Brian and Alicia met in middle school, served missions for their church and got married. On returning home from South Africa, Brian got a smartphone and quickly found out how slippery a slope pornography is. He used it to medicate the negative emotions in life and got to the point where he couldn’t ground out as “normal” during the day without pornography. Upon disclosure, Alicia began a journey of getting to know who God is. Together they began attending a couples recovery meeting and repairing their relationship. As they reached out to each other and to others, they saw there is hope in recovery and that recovery is possible.
| |||
| EP 104: Live Unashamed- Addiction vs. Behavior | 09 Apr 2024 | 00:21:33 | |
Recognizing that we have behaviors that are detrimental to both ourselves and others brings up some important questions. We wonder whether these actions classify as addictions, transient behaviors, or merely bad habits. More questions come up when we find that we can't easily stop the behavior. In this episode, we explore the reasons we even ask the questions. We contemplate the significance of the societal labels associated with such behaviors, the underlying factors contributing to our actions, and whether seeking help is necessary.
| |||
| EP 103: Bryce's Story | 02 Apr 2024 | 00:46:37 | |
Today, Bryce is known among his friends as genuinely happy, and capable of putting an entire room at ease upon entering it. But it was only a few years ago that he reached out for help from the edge of despair. He had hit rock bottom in a lifestyle of porn and sex that was wreaking havoc in his life. Breaking free from shame and his destructive habits proved to be a challenging journey, but supportive individuals entered his life and guided him into therapy and helped him develop a community of friends with whom he could share his challenges. In this episode, find out how Bryce's mother came to his rescue, the role God played in his recovery and how his newfound support network helped him navigate difficult changes, including the termination of a tumultuous romantic relationship. The episode ends with a compelling segment titled 'Advice from Bryce' and a surprise phone call.
| |||
| EP 102: Live Unashamed- Music in Recovery | 26 Mar 2024 | 00:21:13 | |
“Music can give me empathy like nobody around me can.” Join us in a shorter 20-minute episode as Steven, James, and Chris share how music has helped them see God differently. Not just Christian music, but anything that uplifts, inspires, takes you to a sad place, or otherwise moves you into a place of reflection and learning. Music is an amplifier of emotion which provides clarity and the opportunity to evaluate where we are in a moment of time - or to take us back to a moment of time. Often music can also be a way to numb out, get angry, and act out. Join us in the journey of exploring how music plays a part (or maybe doesn’t play a part) in your life. Steven ends with an invitation - pick music that makes you really uncomfortable because it pricks a particular emotion and read the lyrics, sing it out loud, and see what happens. Leave a comment below with your experience or email Steven, James, or Chris directly.
| |||
| EP 101: Kaylawnni's Story | 19 Mar 2024 | 00:45:25 | |
At the age of 9, Kaylawnni began a challenging journey with sexual compulsion. Her struggle is marked by confusion and damaged self-confidence. A lyric from her favorite song boldly highlights the cause, "The devil lies, and twists the truth." She always assumed she'd take her secrets to the grave, but then, a close friend bravely disclosed his own battles, inspiring her to start her path to recovery.
In this bold and unashamed episode, Kaylawnni shares her insights and advice, highlighting the availability of help. Today, with God playing a significant role in her life, Kaylawnni reflects on her past with kindness and offers encouragement to those facing similar struggles. Do you have a story you are willing to share? Email our Podcast Executive Director Jeremy at jeremy@unashamedunafraid.com. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @UnashamedUnafraid and subscribe to our Youtube channel @UnashamedUnafraidPod | |||
| EP 100: Live Unashamed- What Resources Have Worked Best for You in Recovery? | 12 Mar 2024 | 00:22:53 | |
"That was a moment for me that changed the trajectory of my life, my recovery; changed the connection with my wife, changed how I saw my kids; changed so much of me and who I was…" -Chris In this short ‘Live Unashamed’ episode, Steve, James and Chris discuss resources that make a difference and how to find them. Good resources can initiate breakthroughs and sustain recovery, but they must have qualities that work for you like giving hope, helping with emotions and encouraging accountability and connection with others and with God. Steve encourages us to apply the “Fail Cheap and Fail Fast” principle to our search for resources and ends with an invitation to leave a comment about resources that have worked for you. Do you have a story you are willing to share? Email our Podcast Executive Director Jeremy at jeremy@unashamedunafraid.com. | |||
| EP 99: Is God Disappointed in Me? ft. Kurt Francom | 05 Mar 2024 | 00:45:45 | |
Kurt Francom, the Executive Director and Host of 'Leading Saints', returns to discuss the concepts behind his recently released book, "Is God Disappointed in me? Removing Shame from the Gospel of Grace." This episode explores the inspiration behind the book, drawing on Francom's experiences within the Unashamed Unafraid and Warrior Heart Boot Camp communities. The book's title resonates with those of us navigating journeys marked by brokenness. Satan whispers that God is ashamed and that He surely can't love us. These lies are exposed through reflection on the nature of God and His commandments. We ask whether God's love and patience flow through adjustable faucets contingent on our performance, or as constant, raging waterfalls. In tackling these and other questions, this episode contributes valuable insights to the process of recovery. Do you have a story you are willing to share? Email our Podcast Executive Director Jeremy at jeremy@unashamedunafraid.com. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @UnashamedUnafraid and subscribe to our Youtube channel @UnashamedUnafraidPod. | |||