Your biblically based and clinically informed approach to breaking free from compulsive sexual behavior and healing from betrayal.
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Welcome to a NorthPoint Counseling Perspective, a podcast that addresses the intricate tapestry of individual, marriage, parenting, addictive sexual behavior, and betrayal partner trauma.
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Sex Afflictions & Porn Addictions with Craig Perra (sex addiction, porn addiction, sexual health)
Craig Perra
The world's #1 podcast on sex addiction & porn addiction. As seen on LifeTime TV, A&E, Steve Harvey & Katie Couric - dedicated to healthy sexuality and great living by former sex addict, porn addict, drug addict executive/attorney, founder of The Mindful Habit® System Coach Craig Perra. Raw stories about his slow descent into the depths of sex addiction hell, coupled with a science-based, evolved approach to healing from sex and porn addiction will change your life and set you free from the ...
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The Light Inside is a knowledge-driven peer-to-peer educational community for change-leaders, featuring intellectually curious academics and trauma-informed therapists dedicated to transforming unresolved psychological data into actionable wisdom. We believe that deep psychological insight unlocks personal transformation—helping you reintegrate unconscious patterns and step into a life of clarity, purpose, and emotional agility. Through our content, we uncover how hidden primary and secondar ...
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411 - Jay Stringer on Mental Health, Healing, & Transformation
1:05:50
1:05:50
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1:05:50In this episode, we delve deep into the intersection of mental health, trauma, and unwanted sexual behavior, exploring how our past experiences shape our present struggles. Our guest, Jay Stringer, shares powerful insights into the connection between unresolved wounds and their impact on mental health, offering practical guidance on how to approach…
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Therapist Calls Out the Broken Mental Health System | Coaching vs Therapy, Porn, & Dopamine Loops
44:29
44:29
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44:29“Most therapists and coaches suck.” That’s how licensed psychotherapist and mental performance coach Vincent Infante opens this powerful episode of Sex Afflictions & Porn Addictions. In this no-holds-barred conversation with Craig Perra, founder of The Mindful Habit, you’ll hear two men who’ve been through hell, done the work, and now help others n…
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Send us a text In this episode of NorthPoint Counseling Perspective, host John Sternfels—a National Board-Certified Counselor, marriage therapist, and author—explores the power and purpose of a Couples' Weekly Check-In. This intentional practice can be a game-changer for couples looking to deepen connection, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional …
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410 - Social Media, Porn, & Mental Health w/ Ben Bennett
1:06:48
1:06:48
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1:06:48In this episode, we dig into the intersection of pornography use, social media, and mental health, exploring how these modern influences are shaping our perceptions of intimacy, relationships, and self-worth. We discuss how most people's journey with porn typically begins, early signs that it’s negatively affecting mental health, and how social med…
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Episode 18: Therapeutic Marital Healing Separation Agreement
12:11
12:11
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12:11Send us a text In this compelling episode, counselor and author John Sternfels explores the Therapeutic Marital Healing Separation Agreement—a structured, intentional approach to marital separation that prioritizes healing, emotional safety, and personal responsibility. Designed specifically for couples in crisis who desire clarity, growth, and the…
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409 - The Church, Mental Health, & Healing w/ Dr. Carol Tanksley
58:30
58:30
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58:30In this episode, we explore the intersection of faith and mental health with Dr. Carol Tanksley who has dedicated their life to helping others heal from fear, anxiety, grief, and more. We’ll talk about the Church’s role in addressing mental health struggles, unpack common misconceptions Christians hold about anxiety, depression, and other mental he…
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Sex & Porn Addiction: Why All-or-Nothing Recovery Fails (And What Works Instead
22:21
22:21
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22:21If you've ever promised yourself "never again"—only to fall back into the same compulsive patterns—this episode is for you. In this raw and powerful lesson, Craig Perra, founder of The Mindful Habit System, exposes why the traditional all-or-nothing, abstinence-only model for treating sex and porn addiction keeps men stuck in shame and failure. Dra…
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408 - Resurrecting Biblical Sexuality
1:11:18
1:11:18
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1:11:18In this episode, we dive into the topic of biblical sexuality with Rodney Wright. We discuss his passion for addressing this often-overlooked issue and why the conversation around biblical sexuality is “dead” in many churches today. Exploring beyond the simple “sex is for marriage” approach, we discuss how we can recover a more holistic, biblical u…
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Understanding What Causes Porn Addiction and How to Overcome It: 9 Minutes
9:18
9:18
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9:18In this short 9 minute episode, Craig Perra, the founder of the Mindful Habit System, explores 'what causes porn addiction' and offers insights into its biological, psychological, cultural, and behavioral roots. Drawing from over a decade of experience, Craig discusses how men are trained to use porn as a coping mechanism for unmet needs, poor copi…
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407 - Resurrecting a View of Sexual and Single
1:10:51
1:10:51
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1:10:51In this episode, we dig into the often overlooked intersection of singleness and sexuality, exploring how we can resurrect a healthier, more holistic view of both. We discuss the importance of stewarding sexual desire with integrity, especially in a culture that promotes instant gratification and casual relationships. Our guests share their persona…
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What Is Sex Addiction: 3 Signs and Symptoms, and Steps to Recovery (11 minutes)
10:56
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10:56What is Sex Addiction?: 3 Signs & Symptoms, and Mission Critical Steps to Recovery In this video, Craig Perra, founder of the Mindful Habit System, delves into the complexities of sex addiction and its signs and symptoms. He explains what sex addiction is, its controversial diagnosis, and how it differs from frequent sexual behavior. Craig also off…
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Description In this raw and vulnerable episode, Mike and Megan Ramirez share their powerful journey of rediscovering hope and redemption in their marriage after hitting rock bottom. They take us back to the moment of discovery, revealing how a devastating truth almost ended it all. Through heartache, denial, and moments of deep despair, they walk u…
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405 - Resurrection From a Life of Fear and Anxiety w/ Dr. Curt Thompson
52:07
52:07
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52:07In today’s episode, we sit down with Dr. Curt Thompson to explore the complex relationship between anxiety, trauma, and the stories we tell ourselves. We discuss how feelings of anxiety and aloneness are intertwined, how trauma affects the brain, and the powerful role of secure relationships and community in healing. Dr. Thompson also shares practi…
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How to Stop Porn Addiction – 5 Essential Steps That Actually Work (15 minute episode)
9:37
9:37
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9:37How do you stop porn addiction—for good? Most men never stop their porn addiction, and it’s not because they’re weak. It’s because they’re using outdated tools to fight a deeply wired, incredibly difficult problem. In this video, Craig Perra—world-renowned coach and founder of The Mindful Habit System—shares the 5 essential steps that have helped t…
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Creative Thinking: How Embracing Dumb Ideas Empowers Adaptive Problem-Solving
1:12:22
1:12:22
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1:12:22What if the key to innovation lies in embracing the absurd? In this episode, we sit down with David Carson, creator of Dumbify, to explore how “thinking dumber” can unlock powerful creative breakthroughs. Challenging conventional notions of identity and intelligence, we examine how embracing the fear of looking foolish fosters curiosity, adaptabili…
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404 - Resurrecting Sexual Health in the Church w/ Andrew Rothrock
1:05:21
1:05:21
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1:05:21In this impactful episode, we sit down with Pastor Andrew Rothrock of Riverbend Church in Bend, Oregon, to explore what it means to create a church culture that actively supports sexual health and healing. Riverbend is setting a powerful example by making recovery from compulsive sexual behavior and betrayal trauma a visible and valued part of thei…
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The Real Reason You Can’t Beat Sex & Porn Addiction (And What to Do Instead): Systems
42:20
42:20
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42:20You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems. That quote from Atomic Habits by James Clear changed my life—and in this episode, I’m going to show you why it needs to change yours. If you’re struggling with sex and porn addiction, or supporting someone who is, you’re likely overwhelmed, stuck, and maybe even hope…
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Resentment Will Destroy You: A Must-Listen for Men Struggling w Sex & Porn Addiction
38:34
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38:34Resentment is silently fueling your addiction and sabotaging your recovery—and most men don’t even know it’s happening. In this powerful episode of Sex Afflictions & Porn Addictions, Craig Perra, world-renowned coach and creator of The Mindful Habit System, exposes the hidden force that keeps men stuck in cycles of shame, secrecy, and sabotage: res…
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In this powerful episode, we sit down with Jasmine Marino, Founder and Director of Jasmine Grace Outreach, to discuss their life-changing work helping survivors escape sex trafficking and begin their recovery journey. From providing tailored recovery support groups to offering essential mentoring and coaching, Jasmine Grace Outreach goes above and …
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Episode 17: The Therapeutic Disclosure Process: A Path to Healing and Trust
31:53
31:53
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31:53Send us a text Hosted by John Sternfels, The Therapeutic Disclosure Process: A Path to Healing and Trust is a podcast dedicated to guiding individuals and couples through the complexities of therapeutic disclosure after relational betrayal. As a National Board-Certified Counselor (NCC) and the owner of NorthPoint Professional Counseling Inc., John …
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402 - How Pornography Fuels a Culture of Abuse w/ NCOSE VP of Research, Lisa Thompson
57:53
57:53
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57:53In this eye-opening episode, we’re joined by Lisa Thompson, Vice President of the National Center on Sexual Exploitation’s Research Institute. We delve into the complex and often misunderstood connection between pornography and sexual exploitation. We explore how the consumption of porn fuels industries that profit from human trafficking and exploi…
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401 - What No One Tells You About The Sex Industry
59:59
59:59
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59:59In this eye-opening episode, we dig into the complexities of the adult entertainment industry, shedding light on the personal stories often hidden behind its glitzy façade. Rey Jordan, a counselor with experience working with individuals in the industry, shares her insights on the real-life struggles that lead people to seek counseling and the trau…
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Episode 16: SEX: Secular, Relativistic-Cultural, or Biblical? Sex Across Perspectives
28:53
28:53
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28:53Send us a text Sex. It’s everywhere—on our screens, in our culture, and shaping how we think about relationships, identity, and intimacy. But with so many competing voices—secular ideologies, cultural relativism, and biblical truth—how do we separate fact from fiction? In this eye-opening episode, counselor and author John Sternfels explores his up…
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400 - Celebrating 400 Episodes w/ Listener Q&A
1:05:24
1:05:24
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1:05:24Today we’re celebrating episode 400 of the Pure Desire Podcast! So we did things a little differently. We talk through the most memorable episodes, the most surprising guests, and Nick’s most unique opening song. We also share a couple testimonies from listeners personally impacted by the podcast. Then, we mix things up by doing a listener’s Q&A. W…
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Send us a text In this episode, counselor and author, John Sternfels will dive into the complex and often misunderstood topic of codependency in marriage. Many couples struggle with unhealthy relational patterns where one partner becomes overly reliant on the other for emotional validation, self-worth, or decision-making. This imbalance can lead to…
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From Wounds to Wisdom: Healing, Forgiveness, and Healthy Boundaries with Barbie Moreno
45:42
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45:42In this powerful episode of Sex Afflictions & Porn Addictions, Craig Perra sits down with Barbie Moreno, founder of From Wounds to Wisdom, to explore the deep connection between childhood trauma, unhealthy coping mechanisms, and the path to healing. This conversation isn't just for men struggling with compulsive sexual behavior but also for their b…
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399 - Reintegrating Sex After Betrayal
1:05:46
1:05:46
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1:05:46In this episode, we tackle the challenging yet crucial topic of reintegrating sex into a marriage after betrayal. Rebecca Vander Meer and Traci Wright, two Pure Desire Clinicians, share why this is such a struggle for many couples and the common mistakes that can hinder progress. From rushing the process to overlooking emotional intimacy, we explor…
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Reframing Pathology: Navigating the Journey of Healing Unresolved Psychological Material
1:03:36
1:03:36
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1:03:36In this episode of The Light Inside, I, Jeffrey Besecker, delve into the intricate relationship between our behaviors, emotional patterns, and the unresolved traumas that shape our lives. We explore the concept of pathology—not as a label of dysfunction, but as a way to better understand how our past experiences influence our present actions and em…
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Episode 14: DOWNLOAD For Parents: Sex, Social Media, and Secrets
20:47
20:47
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20:47Send us a text In this episode, counselor and author, John Sternfels introduces his new book, "DOWNLOAD For Parents." DOWNLOAD is a crucial guide for today’s parents navigating the digital world with their children. Technology has transformed how our kids interact, learn, and socialize. Still, it has also introduced new challenges—exposure to harmf…
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398 - Rebuilding Marital Trust w/ Matthew & Joanna Raabsmith
54:09
54:09
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54:09In this episode, we delve into the emotional journey of couples healing from betrayal. We’re joined by Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith, relationship experts and authors, who share insights from their work on the Intimacy Pyramid—a framework designed to help couples rebuild trust, connection, and intimacy after a betrayal. We explore the different stag…
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Reclaiming Menopause: Breaking Free from Stigma and Embracing Transformation
1:07:38
1:07:38
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1:07:38In this episode of The Light Inside, host Jeffrey Besecker delves into the often-stigmatized topic of menopause, exploring how cultural narratives have historically framed it as a decline rather than a natural and empowering transition. Guest, Amita Sharma discusses the importance of breaking free from limiting belief systems and societal scripts t…
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397 - The Deep Rooted Marriage w/ Dr. Dan Allender
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52:23
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52:23In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Dan Allender, renowned author and counselor, to discuss the themes of his latest book: The Deep-Rooted Marriage: Cultivating Intimacy, Healing, and Delight. Dan shares the inspiration behind writing it and offers powerful insights into strengthening marriages. We explore key questions such as: What does it mean…
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Navigating Nice Guy Syndrome: Overcoming Emotional Dependency and Avoidance
1:11:07
1:11:07
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1:11:07In this episode of The LightInside, host Jeffrey Besecker delves into the concept of conditional self-worth and its impact on our relationships. He examines the subconscious and unconscious patterns that contribute to the "nice guy syndrome," exploring how early attachment wounds and covert social contracts shape our behaviors. The discussion highl…
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396 - Rupture & Repair: Strengthening the Parent-Child Bond w/ Dr. Jake Porter
1:11:09
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1:11:09In this episode, we dive deep into the transformative concept of "rupture and repair" in parenting with expert Dr. Jake Porter. As a featured expert in the Parent Training Course, he unpacks the crucial role this process plays in building stronger, more resilient relationships between parents and children. We explore what happens when emotional rup…
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Faith, Porn Addiction, and Hope: Interview with Sathiya Sam, Founder of Deep Clean
53:06
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53:06In this episode of Sex Afflictions & Porn Addictions, we sit down with Sathiya Sam, the Founder of the DeepClean porn addiction treatment program. Sathiya shares his inspiring journey, rooted in his Christian faith, and offers potent insights into overcoming addiction, rebuilding trust, and living a life of integrity. Discover practical and faith-b…
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Rewiring Pain Perception: Emotional and Somatic Strategies for Relief
41:11
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41:11In this episode of The Light Inside, host Jeffrey Biesecker delves into the complex relationship between chronic pain and emotional regulation with guest Butch Phelps. They discuss how subconscious and unconscious behavioral patterns, such as avoidance and emotional suppression, can reinforce pain cycles and affect the nervous system. The conversat…
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395 - Parenting In A Digital Age w/ Kristen Jenson
1:03:02
1:03:02
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1:03:02In this episode, we tackle one of the most pressing concerns for parents today: protecting children from the dangers of pornography. Kristen Jenson, author of Good Pictures, Bad Pictures, shares her inspiration behind writing the book and her mission to help parents guide their young children through the complexities of online content in a way that…
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Progress Over Perfection: Kinesthetic Mastery and Emotional Regulation
1:12:34
1:12:34
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1:12:34Podcast Episode Summary: The Light Inside Host: Jeffrey Besecker Guest: Patrick Boylan, Actor, Musician, and Musical Educator In this episode of The Light Inside, we explore the concept of mastery through the lens of learning to play an instrument, specifically the piano. Our guest, Patrick Boylan, shares his journey from a traditional piano studen…
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394 - Educating Parents On Biblical Sexual Health
1:10:27
1:10:27
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1:10:27Join us as we explore the intersection of faith and sexual health education, with expert insights from Dr. Glen Maiden on how to approach teaching children about sex from a biblical perspective. As a biblical sexual health educator, Dr. Glen shares how to approach this sensitive topic with children in a way that honors faith-based values while prom…
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Why Quitting Porn Might Be Bad for You? (seriously!!!!)
44:38
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44:38Did you know that quitting porn can make your life significantly worse? You need to know why!!! In this eye-opening episode, Craig Perra, world-renowned coach and creator of The Mindful Habit System, explains the hidden dangers of quitting porn and why simply stopping isn’t the solution. Drawing on years of experience helping men overcome porn addi…
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393 - Training Parents For Conversations About Sex
1:03:48
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1:03:48In today’s episode, we dive deep into one of the most important—and often most uncomfortable—topics for parents: talking with your kids about sex. We’re joined by Rodney and Traci Wright, authors of How to Talk With Your Kids About Sex and the primary speakers in Pure Desire’s new Parent Training Course. We tackle key issues like how to address our…
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Is Porn and Technology Really Rotting Your Brain? (8 min. mini-podcast)
7:36
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7:36Sex and Porn Addiction: Brain Rotting Effects and Recovery Tips - 8 min. long In this eye-opening video, Craig Perra dives deep into the effects of sex and porn addiction on the brain. Discover groundbreaking research on how technology can lead to brain rot and what you can do to fight back. Learn practical tips for overcoming addiction and reclaim…
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392 - She Deserves Better w/ Sheila Wray Gregoire
1:05:59
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1:05:59Navigating healthy relationships with teens can feel overwhelming, especially in a culture full of conflicting messages about identity and sexuality. In this episode, we explore how to raise kids with a biblically grounded and holistic view of sexuality. Drawing from Sheila Wray Gregoire's new book, She Deserves Better, this conversation offers pra…
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Overcoming Sex and Porn Addiction: Proven Strategies for 2025
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20:47Welcome to my New Year's 2025 podcast! In this episode, we discuss the three levels of change necessary for overcoming sex and porn addiction. Learn actionable steps to achieve long-term success and hear my best advice on transforming habits from my 13 years of experience with the Mindful Habit System. Don't miss out on this insightful journey to b…
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Happy New Year’s Eve! In this special year-end episode, host Nick Stumbo and guest co-host Heather Kolb dive into the value of self-reflection as we close out one year and prepare for the next. Whether you’re in the middle of a recovery journey, pursuing personal growth, or simply looking for practical ways to start the new year with purpose, this …
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390 - Navigating Relational Stress During The Holidays
58:12
58:12
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58:12Resources: Full Episode on Youtube Unwanted by Jay Stringer GET STARTED Free eBook: 7 Keys To Understanding Betrayal Trauma Free eBook: 5 Steps to Freedom From Porn Schedule Your Free 15-Minute Counseling Consultation Join A Pure Desire Online Group SOCIALS Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram Follow us on X (Twitter)…
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AI Critique of the Traditional Sex Addiction Treatment Model
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16:15This is entirely a nonhuman conversation generated by Notebook.LM AI. I don't plan on doing this often but I (Craig Perra) was blown away by the summary interview created based upon a video that I created a year ago. WOW. AI is coming fast. Join us on a deep-dive exploration into the compelling work of Craig Perra and his critique of the traditiona…
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Sex Addiction, Depression, Anxiety + The Holidays .. and my almost slip and dark hole
25:38
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25:38Navigating Depression and Anxiety During the Holidays | Mindful Habit Podcast Join Craig Perra, founder of the Mindful Habit System, as he discusses the challenging emotions that arise during the holiday season, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. In this deeply personal episode, Craig shares his own struggles and recent losses an…
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389 - Parents, Porn, and the Church w/ Sam Black (Part 8/8)
59:50
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59:50Sam Black, the author of The Healing Church: What Churches Get Wrong About Pornography and How to Fix It and the Director of Recovery Education at Covenant Eyes, joins the podcast today to wrap up an 8-part deep dive into the new data on pornography use, its impact on relationships, mental health, and the Church. Together, Nick, Ashley, and Sam exp…
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388 - Rebuilding Trust Together w/ Dr. Barbara Steffens (Part 7/8)
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1:01:56According to Beyond the Porn Phenomenon, women are 3x more likely to say porn use of a partner makes them feel that their spouse doesn’t care about them. Dr. Barbara Steffens helps break down why porn use connects so acutely to the relationship for women, shares advice you would give to create change, and why pornography use by one spouse is not a …
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