About this episode

Jason and Shelley Martinkus discuss navigating triggers and traumas in relationships affected by addiction.

In today’s episode, Jason and Shelley Martinkus join us for their first podcast conversation to share their insights on navigating the ongoing challenges of healing in relationships impacted by addiction. They discuss how betrayed spouses can communicate triggers effectively, and how recovering addicts can receive this feedback without defensiveness. The conversation addresses common frustrations, such as differing paces of healing, lingering trauma, and the temptation to pressure a spouse to “get over it,” offering practical strategies for patience, perspective, and mutual support. Jason and Shelley also explore how couples can handle unexpected triggers—from new life events to routine situations—and provide tools for repairing trauma together, even in later stages of recovery. Listeners will learn ways to encourage one-sided healing, nurture empathy, and maintain connection while respecting individual boundaries. You’ll gain actionable guidance for cultivating resilience, understanding, and relational growth throughout the long journey of recovery.

People in this episode

Guests: Jason Martinkus, Shelley Martinkus

Topics covered

• healing in relationships
• addiction recovery
• communication
• triggers
• trauma
• empathy
• support

Keywords

• healing
• addiction
• communication
• triggers
• trauma
• empathy
• support
• recovery
• relationships

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Pure Desire Ministries

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