Pure Desire Podcast

In this episode, Debby Flanagan shares valuable insight into what comes after the first year of recovery—a season often marked by both growth and new challenges. As the initial intensity of group begins to settle, many wonder: What’s next? Debby offers guidance on how to discern the right next step—whether it’s repeating a group, starting a new workbook, or stepping into leadership. She unpacks what it means to have a long-term vision for recovery while remaining grounded in the present moment. You’ll hear about the shifting dynamics of recovery in Year 2 and beyond, the potential for plateau, and how to reignite momentum when things feel stale. Debby also emphasizes the ongoing importance of community, intentional relationships, and practical ways to keep your recovery work fresh and meaningful. Whether you're stepping into your second year or helping someone else navigate theirs, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you stay committed, energized, and hopeful for the road ahead.Resources:Full Episode on YouTubeJoin A Group! GET STARTEDFree eBook: 7 Keys To Understanding Betrayal TraumaFree eBook: 5 Steps to Freedom From PornSchedule Your Free 15-Minute Counseling ConsultationJoin A Pure Desire Online Group SOCIALSFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on X (Twitter)

In this insightful episode, Tyler Chinchen unpacks the importance of knowing when group alone isn’t enough—and how seeking additional support can actually deepen the healing process. While recovery groups offer connection, structure, and hope, some seasons call for more personalized help.Tyler shares the key signs that someone might benefit from working with a counselor, coach, spiritual director, or mentor—and breaks down the unique role each plays in the journey toward freedom. We also explore how to avoid becoming overly dependent on advice and instead take ownership of our healing. If you’ve ever felt ashamed or unsure about needing “extra help,” this conversation brings clarity, encouragement, and a fresh perspective.Tyler also offers guidance for group leaders and members on how to support others in taking that next step, with compassion and healthy boundaries. Resources:Join A GroupFree 15 Minute Consultation  GET STARTEDFree eBook: 7 Keys To Understanding Betrayal TraumaFree eBook: 5 Steps to Freedom From PornSchedule Your Free 15-Minute Counseling ConsultationJoin A Pure Desire Online Group SOCIALSFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on X (Twitter)

Dive into the emotional rollercoaster of group recovery, where healing isn't just a straight line. Ashley Jameson shares insightful stories that highlight the importance of perseverance through ups and downs. Feel the power of community support as participants navigate the complexities of emotional intimacy and the challenges of comparison. Discover practical tips to stay engaged during tough moments, reinforcing that honesty and consistency are key. Remember, you're not alone on this journey—growth is possible, even in the face of adversity.

In this episode of our series, The Ideal Group Member, Rich Moore joins us to talk about what it really means to “start group well”—and why those first few weeks can make all the difference in the healing journey. He unpacks the key mindsets and attitudes that help set the tone for lasting growth, along with common mistakes to avoid when beginning a Pure Desire group. From the importance of consistency to the challenge of building trust with strangers, Rich offers practical wisdom for both new members and seasoned leaders. Whether you’re feeling excited, nervous, or skeptical about group, this conversation will give you clarity, confidence, and hope for what’s ahead. You’ll also hear how leaders and existing members can create a safe, supportive environment where true healing can begin.Resources:Join A Group! GET STARTEDFree eBook: 7 Keys To Understanding Betrayal TraumaFree eBook: 5 Steps to Freedom From PornSchedule Your Free 15-Minute Counseling ConsultationJoin A Pure Desire Online Group SOCIALSFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on X (Twitter)

Harry Flanagan, a clinician and certified pastoral sex addiction professional with decades of experience, joins co-host John Begaman to discuss the importance of a spiritual growth plan in recovery. They delve into how emotional connections and community support can facilitate healing. Topics include the stages of spiritual growth, confronting emotional barriers, and understanding attachment styles. The conversation emphasizes the significance of relationships over routines, sharing practical tools to move forward along one’s spiritual journey.

In this episode of the Foundations of Freedom series, Heather Kolb joins us as we dive deep into the battlefield of the mind—where true healing begins. From a neuroscience perspective, we explore how the brain processes sexual brokenness and trauma, and why understanding this is key to lasting transformation. Many people believe they’re just “wired this way,” but what if you could actually retrain your brain? Heather unpacks the difference between wiring and training, how shame keeps us stuck, and why triggers and relapse are often rooted in brain function—not failure. With practical tools and powerful insights, she offers hope and direction for anyone feeling overwhelmed by their thought life. If you've ever wondered whether freedom is out of reach, this episode will remind you that your mind is not your enemy—it’s the starting place for breakthrough. GET STARTEDFree eBook: 7 Keys To Understanding Betrayal TraumaFree eBook: 5 Steps to Freedom From PornSchedule Your Free 15-Minute Counseling ConsultationJoin A Pure Desire Online Group SOCIALSFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on X (Twitter)

In this insightful discussion, Stuart Blade, a seasoned men's group leader at Pure Desire Ministries and former small groups pastor, unpacks the real essence of establishing sobriety. He emphasizes that lasting change goes beyond mere abstinence—it's about cultivating a new identity and life. Stuart shares strategies for navigating early recovery hurdles, building trust, and the delicate balance of grace and discipline. With practical advice and compassionate insights, he encourages listeners to embrace self-compassion and intentional choices on their journey to healing.

Kelly Johnston, the Women’s Groups Lead at Pure Desire, offers her wisdom on the healing journey and the power of surrendering to the process. She discusses the importance of trust and vulnerability while navigating the emotional fears that accompany recovery. Kelly emphasizes embracing the messiness of healing and the significance of community support in overcoming obstacles. With practical steps and a hopeful message, she encourages listeners to lean into God’s timing and commit to the slow, intentional journey toward freedom.

In this episode, we are joined by Sam Jolman. He is the author of, The Sex Talk You Never Got: Reclaiming the Heart of Masculine Sexuality, and an expert in the field of sexual health and addiction recovery. Today we’re going to dive deep into the complexities of pornography use, compulsive sexual behavior, and the path to healing. Sam shares insights into how these behaviors can become addictive, offering a compassionate look at what it means to face down these struggles. Together, we explore how early relational wounds impact sexuality and intimacy, and how understanding one's full story of sexual development can be key in breaking unhealthy patterns.We reflect on the gaps and misconceptions many people face in their understanding of sex, intimacy, and emotional connection. This conversation offers a roadmap for reshaping one’s view of sexuality and building healthier relationships with self and others.Whether you're seeking to understand your own journey or support someone else through theirs, this episode provides practical steps and a hopeful perspective on rewriting your internal narrative around sex and intimacy.Resources:Register For The 2025 Summit Now!Sam's Website GET STARTEDFree eBook: 7 Keys To Understanding Betrayal TraumaFree eBook: 5 Steps to Freedom From PornSchedule Your Free 15-Minute Counseling ConsultationJoin A Pure Desire Online Group SOCIALSFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on X (Twitter)

In this powerful kickoff to our Foundations of Freedom series, we sit down with John Begeman to explore why breaking free from denial is the critical first step in the healing journey. Often masked as a form of protection, denial can quietly keep us stuck—especially in the face of sexual brokenness or betrayal trauma. John unpacks the subtle ways people remain unaware of their pain and the emotional and spiritual toll it takes over time. He shares how radical honesty, guided by grace, can pave the way to freedom, even when facing truth feels overwhelming. You'll hear practical insights on recognizing denial, supporting loved ones who may be stuck, and pushing through the discomfort that often comes with self-awareness. John also offers a moving real-life story of transformation—proof that healing is possible when we choose truth over illusion. GET STARTEDFree eBook: 7 Keys To Understanding Betrayal TraumaFree eBook: 5 Steps to Freedom From PornSchedule Your Free 15-Minute Counseling ConsultationJoin A Pure Desire Online Group SOCIALSFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on X (Twitter)