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

You didn't go into your marriage looking for this conversation. But if you're here, something brought you. Maybe it's a feeling you can't quite name. Maybe it's a pattern you've been explaining away. Maybe you already know — and you just need someone to say it clearly. In this episode, Kristin sits down with Sarah McDugal — clarity coach, founder of Freedom Navigator and Wilderness to Wild, and a woman who has lived this story herself — to talk about what healthy actually looks like in a marriage, and how to recognize when what you're living in falls short of that. Sarah and Kristin cover: The three markers of a healthy relationship — being fearless, free, and uncontrollable — and what it means when those are missing A clear, workable definition of abuse that avoids both over-defining and under-defining it Why "is it bad enough?" is the wrong question — and what to ask instead How entrenched patterns of behavior become visible when you zoom out from the individual moments What it looks like to move from survival mode toward a more grounded, strategic approach A word for the men listening — why doing your own work (not controlling her response) is the only thing that transforms a marriage This episode is part one of a two-part conversation. Part two covers navigating family court when reconciliation is no longer possible. If you're a pastor, counselor, coach, or people helper: Sarah also has a provider toolkit with resources for the gap no one talks about — what to do when reconciliation is off the table. Link in the show notes. Take care of your nervous system as you listen. This is heavy. Walking while you listen is a good idea. Sarah McDugal Resources: 🔗 Freedom Navigator / Wilderness to Wild 🔗 Exposing the Playbook eBook to discover: The three biggest myths that can sabotage your case before it even starts. The 3-step strategy to anticipate their next move before they even make it. The exact tactics abusers use to manipulate the system—and how to fight back. Insider tips to protect your sanity and self-care while navigating family court. 🔗 High-Conflict Court Case Risk Index 🔗 Emotional Armor for Court and Co-parenting 🔗 Provider/Helper Toolkit — for pastors, coaches, and clinicians working with women when reconciliation is no longer possible 🔗 Co-Parent Behavior Profile Wizard 🔗 Free 15-min case consult for any protective parent - Click on services, then scroll down to book your call 🔗 Red Flags Videos Learn more about our programs: Living-truthLiving Truth, Women in the Battle, Men in the Battle | sex addiction 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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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