Unashamed Unafraid

Join us as we dive deep into the intricate connections between trauma and addiction. In this episode, James, Sam, and Chris discuss their personal experiences with trauma work, its impact on recovery, and how identifying and addressing underlying trauma can help in overcoming compulsive behaviors. This insightful conversation sheds light on the importance of understanding emotional needs, the process of healing, and the journey to living a more balanced and fulfilling life. Don't miss out on these powerful stories and the valuable lessons learned along the way.Follow us on social media! Instagram, Facebook & TikTokSubscribe to our YouTubeCheck out our recommended resourcesWant to rep the message? Shop our MERCH!  For more inspiration, read our blogDo you have a story you are willing to share? Send us an email! contact@unashamedunafraid.com

Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith are clinicians, speakers, and authors of the book Building True Intimacy: Creating a Connection that Stands the Test of Time. They have over 20 years of combined experience in counseling, coaching, and guiding couples toward healing and transformation. Their mission is to help couples navigate the complexities of relational challenges, particularly in the aftermath of sexual addiction and betrayal trauma, fostering deep restoration and growth. Sam and Chris interview Matthew and Joanna about their 12-year journey from personal crisis to professional careers helping couples recover from addiction and betrayal. The couple recounts their early struggles, how addiction and infidelity impacted their marriage, and the pivotal moments that set them on a path to recovery. They discuss the development of their intimacy framework, 'The Intimacy Pyramid,' which guides couples from honesty to a deeply connected relationship. The dialogue underscores the role of faith, the importance of mutual honesty and trust, and the hard work necessary for relational healing. *To connect with Matthew & Joanna, visit raabsmithteam.comFollow us on social media! Instagram, Facebook & TikTokSubscribe to our YouTubeCheck out our recommended resourcesWant to rep the message? Shop our MERCH!  For more inspiration, read our blogDo you have a story you are willing to share? Send us an email! contact@unashamedunafraid.com00:00 Introduction and Welcome01:03 Meet Matthew and Joanna01:20 The Journey of Recovery02:14 Early Marriage Struggles04:28 The Turning Point06:12 Confession and Recovery07:25 Faith and Ministry Challenges16:04 Building Honesty and Safety21:59 Building Trust in Relationships22:47 The Role of Vulnerability25:00 Achieving Intimacy26:31 The Journey of Healing29:20 Steps to Rebuild Trust37:48 The Importance of Self-Regulation39:57 Resources and Support for Couples

In this episode, James, Chris and Sam discuss the transformative power of hope in overcoming addiction. They share personal stories of hitting rock bottom due to pornography addiction and codependent relationships, and how these low points led to pivotal changes in their journey to recovery. Emphasis is placed on the importance of finding a hopeful vision for a better life, engaging in genuine self-reflection, and relying on supportive resources and faith. The episode encourages listeners to see their potential for change and recovery, emphasizing that transformative identity shifts are key to overcoming addiction and finding true healing.Follow us on social media! Instagram, Facebook & TikTokSubscribe to our YouTubeCheck out our recommended resourcesWant to rep the message? Shop our MERCH!  For more inspiration, read our blogDo you have a story you are willing to share? Send us an email! contact@unashamedunafraid.com

In this heartfelt episode of 'Unashamed Unafraid,' hosts Sam and James sit down with Ryan and Kelce to discuss their deeply personal journey through pornography addiction and the trials it brought into their marriage. Ryan recounts his early exposure to pornography, the secrecy around his addiction, and the turning point that led to his decision to seek recovery. Kelce shares her initial shock, her decision to stay, and their joint path toward healing. Together, they highlight the key tools and support systems, including church programs and therapy, that have helped them rebuild trust and create deeper intimacy. Their story is a testament to the power of vulnerability, communication, and the unyielding support they found in each other and their faith. Join us for a powerful conversation about overcoming addiction and fostering genuine connections.Follow us on social media! Instagram, Facebook & TikTokSubscribe to our YouTubeCheck out our recommended resourcesWant to rep the message? Shop our MERCH!  For more inspiration, read our blogDo you have a story you are willing to share? Send us an email! contact@unashamedunafraid.com00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:57 Meet Ryan and Kelce01:28 Ryan's Early Exposure to Pornography02:04 Kelce's Perspective and Early Marriage02:34 Communication Challenges in Marriage04:13 Ryan's Struggle with Addiction13:41 The Turning Point: D-Day17:46 The Unexpected Bombshell18:22 Kelce's Emotional Response20:22 Finding Support and Guidance21:45 The Role of Addiction Recovery Programs24:27 Navigating Recovery Together29:17 Tools and Skills for Managing Emotions33:22 Final Reflections and Hope

Join Sam, Chris, and James as they candidly discuss the concept of 'negotiating with your addiction.' They dive into personal stories and practical strategies for maintaining strict boundaries to foster long-term recovery. Topics include recognizing subtle forms of addiction, setting and respecting personal boundaries, and the significance of building a track record of sobriety. Learn the secret to overcoming compulsive behaviors and play it through to manage addiction effectively.Follow us on social media! Instagram, Facebook & TikTokSubscribe to our YouTubeCheck out our recommended resourcesWant to rep the message? Shop our MERCH!  For more inspiration, read our blogDo you have a story you are willing to share? Send us an email! contact@unashamedunafraid.com

In this episode of Unashamed Unafraid, Dr. Heidi Hastings, a marriage and sex researcher with a PhD, discusses her research focused on religious women and the impact of their husband's pornography use on their sexuality and spirituality. Through her studies, which include Christian, Jewish, and Muslim women, Dr. Hastings identifies five stages of betrayal trauma: innocence, crisis, aftermath, healing, and transformation. She explains how these stages align with identity development theories and shares key insights on how betrayed women navigate these stages, the importance of female support, and how individuals can heal and transform through understanding and redefining their identity. The episode also touches on how religious leaders can better support betrayed women and provides advice for parents on empowering their daughters. Dr. Hastings emphasizes the eventual deepening of trust and relationship with Jesus Christ as a pivotal element in the healing journey.*To connect with Heidi visit, drheidihastings.com, follow her on Social Media @Marriage.IQ.Follow us on social media! Instagram, Facebook & TikTokSubscribe to our YouTubeCheck out our recommended resourcesWant to rep the message? Shop our MERCH!  For more inspiration, read our blogDo you have a story you are willing to share? Send us an email! contact@unashamedunafraid.com

In this episode of 'Live Unashamed,' hosts Chris, Sam, and Liam dive into the complexities of dating while struggling with addiction, especially pornography. They share personal anecdotes and strategies on when and how to disclose these struggles to potential partners. The conversation touches on why it's important to be transparent before exclusive dating, the complications of living a double life, and the necessity of seeking validation from God rather than a partner. The hosts emphasize the significance of honesty, recovery, and personal worth in navigating relationships.Follow us on social media! Instagram, Facebook & TikTokSubscribe to our YouTubeCheck out our recommended resourcesWant to rep the message? Shop our MERCH!  For more inspiration, read our blogDo you have a story you are willing to share? Send us an email! contact@unashamedunafraid.com

Join us in this powerful episode where Johnny and Emily candidly share their journey through the devastating impacts of porn addiction on their marriage. From Johnny's early struggles with pornography to the heart-wrenching moments of disclosure, and finally to their inspiring recovery, they discuss how faith, honesty, and community support brought them closer to each other and to God. Tune in for an emotional and raw conversation filled with valuable insights and hope for anyone battling similar struggles.Johnny and Emily have been married since 1987 and have 3 adult children and 5 grandchildren. After the first 31 years, Johnny’s infidelity fueled by pornography came to light and their marriage was shattered into dust. With God’s help, they both decided to stay married, and embarked on a journey of healing and restoration.*Ways to connect with Johnny & Emily:Podcast Beyond Broken Vows PodcastWebsite beyondbrokenvows.comEmail support@beyondbrokenvows.comNewsletter sign up - insider.beyondbrokenvows.comFollow us on social media! Instagram, Facebook & TikTokSubscribe to our YouTubeCheck out our recommended resourcesWant to rep the message? Shop our MERCH!  For more inspiration, read our blogDo you have a story you are willing to share? Send us an email! contact@unashamedunafraid.com

In this episode, Chris and Sam engage in a deep conversation about overcoming abusive self-talk and shame. They share personal experiences and strategies to combat feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth, emphasizing the importance of changing one's identity and finding validation through a relationship with God. They discuss the impact of shame messages from childhood and how true behavior change stems from identity change. The episode also highlights how important it is to let go of negative self-perceptions and embrace the love and support offered by God and loved ones.Follow us on social media! Instagram, Facebook & TikTokSubscribe to our YouTubeCheck out our recommended resourcesWant to rep the message? Shop our MERCH!  For more inspiration, read our blogDo you have a story you are willing to share? Send us an email! contact@unashamedunafraid.com

In this heartfelt episode, Matt and Tracy share their deeply personal journey of battling and overcoming pornography addiction. From early encounters with pornography and the challenges of maintaining secrecy, Matt opens up about his struggles and the impact on his faith and marriage. Tracy provides insight into her emotional turmoil and the steps she took towards her own healing. Together, they discuss the turning points in their healing process, the role of faith, and the tools that helped them rebuild their relationship and lives. Their story is a testament to the power of love, faith, and the courage to seek help.Follow us on social media! Instagram, Facebook & TikTokSubscribe to our YouTubeCheck out our recommended resourcesWant to rep the message? Shop our MERCH!  For more inspiration, read our blogDo you have a story you are willing to share? Send us an email! contact@unashamedunafraid.com